JONATHAN VS NATIONAL ASSEMBLY: Supreme Court halts constitution review

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62401

**

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

FIDELITY AGM From left: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nnamdi Okonkwo; Chairman, Board of Directors, Fidelity Bank Plc, Chief Christopher Ezeh and Company Secretary, Ezinwa Unuigboje at the bank's 27th AGM in Lagos, yesterday.

Why I'll fight graft, insecurity, unemployment 9 — BUHARI

JONATHAN VS NATIONAL ASSEMBLY:

Supreme Court halts constitution review

By Dapo Akinrefon, Charles Kumolu, Ikechukwu Nnochiri & Gbenga Oke

•Orders NASS to maintain status quo till June 8 •Sagay: I'm puzzled; Ngige: NASS overreached itself

A

BUJA—THE Supreme Court, yesterday, threw a spanner into proposed plans by the National Assembly to override the President’s veto on amendments to the constitution achieved by the assembly and Continues on Page 5

Fuel crisis to end in days, DPR, NNPC, PPMC assure 8

Mr & Mrs

INDONESIA BUSINESS GATHERING—From left, Mr.Fred Odueme, AGM (Brands), Vanguard Media Ltd; Amb. Harry Purwanto of Republic of Indonesia; Prince Segun Oniru, Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development; Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, General Manager\Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard Media Ltd and Mr. Victor Gotevbe, Admin Manager, Vanguard Media Ltd, at the Indonesia Business Gathering held at the Eko Hotel, Victoria Island Lagos. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

COLUMNISTS: BUHARI GOVT: Eyeing Lagos template to solve power crisis Pull-out inside C M Y K

Multi-party system and the Nigerian factor Cecil Rhodes: Colonising in a democratic African minds •P.19 environment •P.29

2ND NIGER BRIDGE:

Jonathan deceived Ndigbo — Ohanaeze 52

2 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015—3

C M Y K

4 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 —5

POCKET CARTOON

VISIT: From left: CEO, MTN Group, Mr. Sifiso Dabengwa; Chairman, MTN Nigeria, Dr. Paschal Dozie; President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (retd); Chairman, MTN Group, Mr. Phuthuma Nhlekho; Director, MTN Nigeria, Col Sani Bello (retd); CEO, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Michael Ikpoki; and Director, MTN Nigeria, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode; when the MTN Group visited the President-elect at Defence House, in Abuja.

Supreme Court halts constitution review Continues from Page 1 endorsed by the state houses of assembly.

In a ruling, a sevenman panel of justices of the apex court, led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Mahmud Mohammed, ordered the lawmakers to maintain status quo on the matter until June 18.

The ruling by the Supreme Court follows reservations by the legislators on the president’s veto of the alterations in which he said the National Assembly overreached itself in the alterations.

The Senate had in

B

response to the President’s action demanded that the President return the original bill including the signature page on it. The Senate move was in response to assertions by the lawmakers that the President had actually signed the bill but reversed himself subsequently.

While Prof. Itse Sagay, SAN, expressed bewilderment over the ruling, another senior lawyer, Emeka Ngige, SAN, and a former lawmaker, Dr. Junaid Mohammmed faulted the National Assembly for overreaching itself in

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

E more aware of how to take charge of your life experiences …listen to your inner voice— Take Heart Quotes Listening to your inner voice takes practice to hear your true desires. Your passion will often come as a whisper or chance event that reminds you of what’s important and what makes you happy. Have you ever been thinking about a friend when the phone rings? “I was just thinking about you!” you exclaim.

“What a coincidence!”

The word, coincidence, means that two events happen at the same time, like your thinking about your friend and your friend’s call. When this happens, it is never an accident. Your friend and you are connected in ways that your eyes, ears, nose, skin and tongue cannot show you but that your intuition did.

Have you ever had a feeling you shouldn’t do something and then done it anyway? “I knew I shouldn’t have trusted him/her,“ you say. That is right. Your intuition told you, but you wanted so much to trust that you ignored it.

Multisensory perception and intuition are the same thing, but multisensory perception is a more accurate name. Most people think that intuition is a hunch that occurs now and then, but it is more that that. It is a very sophisticated system that allows you to know more than you can with your five senses.

As we become more and more intuitive—and we all are—we encounter different kinds of experiences.

Be aware of how to take control of your life. Listen to your inner voice.

the proposed amendments.

President Jonathan had through the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN, prayed the Supreme Court to issue an order of interlocutory injunction against both chambers of the National Assembly.

Stop NASS from taking further steps — AGF He urged the court to stop the federal lawmakers from taking any step towards passing the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Fourth Alteration) Act, 2015, into law, until hearing and final determination of the suit.

The suit was filed pursuant to Order 3, Rule 14 of the Supreme Court Rules as amended.

The AGF told the apex court that the NASS was determined to proceed with passing the constitution by overriding the veto of same by President Jonathan, despite the fundamental nature of the issues raised against the proposed alterations to the constitution.

Adoke argued that it would be in the interest of the whole Nigerian polity that the issues in the substantive suit be resolved one way or the other by the court before the National Assembly could proceed further on the proposed alterations to the constitution.

NASS shuns suit

Meantime, the NASS shunned the suit, yesterday, as it failed to enter appearance before the court, even though the CJN confirmed that it was duly served with all the originating processes on April 30.

Consequently, the CJN directed the issuance of fresh hearing notice on the respondent (NASS) for it to appear on June 18 to respond to the suit.

Besides, the apex court asked the AGF to prepare to address it on the next adjourned date on the import of the provisions of Section 232 of the 1999 constitution to the suit.

The court noted that going by that section, only the President himself, and not the AGF, has the locus standi to invoke the original jurisdiction of the apex court against the NASS. The CJN further observed that it was not only the NASS that was involved in the constitution amendment process, adding that though the 36 States of the federation also participated in the exercise, they were not joined as necessary parties to the suit.

According to the CJN, section 232(1) of the constitution conferred the Supreme Court with the original jurisdiction over any dispute between the NASS and the President. He said that the president ought to have been the one that filed the suit and not the AGF. However, counsel to the AGF, Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN, insisted that the suit was properly instituted. Ojo argued that the AGF, being the

Chief law Officer of the state, has the right to file the action on behalf of the President.

His submissions did not persuade the CJN who still maintained that some of the necessary parties were not joined in the matter.

Justice Mohammed pointed out that the AGF would only have the right to litigate for the President when the dispute is between the federal and state governments.

Take a second look at the case — CJN “I will give you time to go back and look at this case again. We have to make sure that the proper parties are before the court before we proceed to making any order or pronouncement.

You need to look at the totality of the originating processes.

“We will adjourn to give the plaintiff time to address this court on salient issues surrounding this case, which require to be put into proper perspective.

“Meanwhile, pending the hearing of the parties on June 18, status quo should be maintained. In other words, no step should be taken with regard to the subject matter of the suit by either the respondent or the plaintiff ”, the CJN held.

Other Justices on the panel, yesterday, included Justices Sulaiman Galadima, Olukayode Ariwoola, Bode Rhodes-Vivour, Kumai Bayang Akaahs, John Inyang Okoro and Centus Nweze.

The suit by FG

It will be recalled that FG had asked the apex court to nullify all the proposed amendments to the 1999 constitution.

In its originating summons, it prayed the Supreme Court to declare as unconstitutional, the amendments as proposed by the lawmakers.

Specifically, FG urged

the court to set aside sections 3, 4, 12, 14, 21, 23, 36, 39, 40, 43 and 44 of the Fourth Alteration Act, 2015, purportedly passed by the Defendant.

It contended that the said Fourth Alteration Act 2015, was not passed with the mandatory requirement of four-fifths majority of members of the Defendant (National Assembly), and the mandatory due processes provided for under the relevant sections of the extant Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended.

As a follow up, President Jonathan equally wrote separate letters to the Senate President, David Mark and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, asking them to halt moves by members of the National Assembly to go ahead with the constitution amendment process.

In the letter which was served on them by the AGF, President Jonathan urged them to restrain other federal legislators from tampering with the 1999 constitution, as issues regarding its proposed amendments, are already before the Supreme Court.

More so, the AGF told the apex court that; “Hon. Samson Osagie, Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, said to the whole world at a Press Conference purposely called on the issue in this suit that despite any case filed against the said Act (which actually is a Bill); the National Assembly would go ahead to pass it into law."

The AGF contended that the balance of convenience tilts in favour of resolution of the legal grey areas concerning the proposed constitution amendment, before any further step could be taken on the Bill.

In an affidavit deposed to by one Theophilus Okwute, a lawyer in the chambers of Chief Bayo Ojo, SAN and Co, which Continues on Page 49

6—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Onitsha bizman docked over dud cheque

By Enyim Enyim

O

NITSHA—AN Onitsha businessman, Zeribe Ezeanu, has been arraigned before a magistrate’s court for allegedly issuing a dud cheque of N500,000 to a former legislator in Anambra State House of Assembly.

Police prosecutor, Inspector Obasi Mathias, while arraigning the 53year-old businessman, told the court that the suspect, on March 2, issued the dud cheque to one Ezeobi Okpala, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 1 (1)b of the Dud Cheque Act of the federation.

Earlier, counsel to the defendant, Mr. Sunny Abuchi, prayed the court to give them time to respond to the allegations and charge against his client and promised to always produce him in court.

The presiding magistrate, Mrs. O. N. Ike, adjourned the case to May 11 for further hearing and other legal actions.

One arrested over Imo surgeon's death

By Chidi Nkwopara

O

WERRI—ONE of the two brothers suspected to be the masterminds of the killing of the veterinary surgeon, Dr. Ugonna Omereonye, has been nabbed by the police.

Dr. Omereonye, who was the leader of the sacked beneficiaries of Chief Ikedi Ohakim’s 10,000-job scheme, was killed on the eve of the governorship election in Imo State by two armed men, who were members of Imo Security Network, ISN. Vanguard gathered that while one of the suspects, whose name was given as Onyinyechi Okeke Nweremizu, is telling police all he knows about the surgeon’s death, his brother, Izuchukwu, who was also allegedly linked to the case, is believed to be on the run.

Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, was contacted, he confirmed the arrest and detention of the suspect.

THIS IS LAGOS: Stranded commuters trekking from Orile-Iganmu area to Lagos Island due to traffic gridlock in Lagos, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

Man attacked by 7 dogs gets N30,000 zFamily members angry; wife gets bag of rice, beverages

By Esther Onyegbula

L

AGOS—THE 45-year-old commercial driver, Saturday Akpomose, who was attacked by seven dogs at Ajah area of Lagos State, has received N30,000 and a job offer from the owner of the dogs.

However, his family members expressed anger when they heard that Akpomose collected money from the dogs’ owner, who is a soldier.

Vanguard learned that the victim, who was admitted at Akodo General Hospital after the attack, was discharged on Friday, May 1, after about eleven days.

It was gathered that before the victim was discharged from the hospital, he demanded N5 million compensation from the soldier, but was persuaded and later given N30,000 to take care of himself, while a bag of rice and beverages were also given to his wife.

When Vanguard visited Akpomose in his residence, he said the money given to him was not a pay-off, as the man had promised to further take good care of him and his family.

He said: “I believe you saw all the injuries on my body.

They have not healed completely. I collected the money from him because I am not a troublesome person. I have left everything to God.

‘How I defended myself’

“When the dogs attacked me, I tried to protect my neck, my private parts and my stomach, because I knew if the dogs touch any part of these places, I am gone.

“That was one of the reasons I decided to settle out of court with the owner of the dogs. If I had died my family member would have collected the money and enjoyed it.

“However, I cannot work with him. All I want him to do for me is to assist me in my hotel business. How can I start waiting for salary at this stage, when I have grown up children who are in the university to cater for?”

When Vanguard visited the house where the dogs are domiciled, the Chief Security Officer working in the building, who identified himself simply as Victor, said the matter had been settled out of court.

He said: “After we footed his medical bill, he was demanding N5 million from my boss to set up a business and feed his children, claiming that he cannot work now due to the injuries all over his body.

Family’s ritual claim

‘’But to our surprise, after the incident, Akpomose’s family members came to our house and started accusing us of using him for ritual. They claimed that after the incident, we slaughtered four cows and rams to appease the gods in the house.

“We have told his family members, who are threatening us with law suit, that after settling with the victim, they should go ahead with whatever they want to do because we have done our best.

“My boss gave him a bag of rice and some beverages to take care of the children.”

It would be recalled that in the

early hours of Tuesday, April 22, seven dogs, allegedly owned by a captain serving in the US marine, were reportedly being taken out of the compound to ease themselves when they attacked Akpomose.

It took the intervention of residents and passers-by to

rescue him from the dogs.

The incident was later reported at Ogombo Police Division, which referred Akpomose to the General Hospital at Akodo, Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area due to the severity of the injuries he sustained.

Saturday Akpomose, when he was in hospital.

Residents raise alarm as robbers

By Egufe Yafugborhi

W

ARRI—MOTORISTS and residents in Effurun have cried out over the spate of robberies at Effurun Roundabout in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, following the commissioning of the new flyover.

Those that spoke to Vanguard yesterday, said the absence of security lights on the N4.1 billion flyover delivered last month by Delta State

government to reduce gridlock at the roundabout, has made the place unsafe, with criminals cashing in to rob and attack motorists and pedestrians.

Clifford Imasuen, a resident, said: “It is counter-productive and very unsafe for government to have constructed such a massive project at that spot without street lights.

“Even before the flyover, the roundabout used to be unsafe.

But it is worse now, especially at night as criminals hide

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—7

Police uncover another ritualists’ den in Ogun, rescue woman

By Daud Olatunji

A

BEOKUTA—OGUN State Police Command yesterday uncovered another suspected ritualists’ den in Unity and Peace Estate, along IteleLafenwa Road, Ota, Ado OdoOta Local Government Area.

Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, said the latest discovery was made possible by the escape of a 28-year-old lady, who had been kept bound in an uncompleted building in the estate.

The lucky victim was said to have been told by her captors that they would come for her in the night, but she struggled to free herself and rolled towards the entrance of the building before she was noticed. Passersby saw her and came to her

rescue.

She did not disclose her identity before policemen from Itele Police Station arrived and cordoned off the area.

When policemen combed the surroundings of the uncompleted building, decomposing bodies of two female victims were found in the bush. Human bones also littered the place.

Adejobi said: “The command has taken over the building and our men would take some samples from the scene for forensic analysis in order to assist the command in its investigation.”

How I was taken—SURVIVOR

Narrating how she became a victim, the lady said she had

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

Survivor lured by ‘boyfriend.’ met one of her captors two weeks ago, and they struck a relationship.

She said the man called about two days ago, saying he had secured a cement supply contract worth N1.5 million for her at a site in the estate.

However, on getting to the site, the ‘boyfriend’ who lured her to the building was joined by other members of the gang

and they began to rough-handle her.

She said: “They attempted to rape me. But I was having my monthly flow.

“They then tied both my hands and legs, covered my face and mouth with cloth, and promised to come back at night to complete their assignment. It was a miracle that passers-by rescued me.”

UI students protest colleague's death; mob, rob journalists

By Ola Ajayi

I

BADAN—STUDENTS of the University of Ibadan, UI, threw civility to the wind, yesterday, as they trooped out of their campus and attacked some journalists who were there to cover their protest over the death of one of their colleagues at the institution’s health centre.

Among the journalists attacked was Mr. Sola Adeyemo, New Telegraph’s correspondent, who had his shirt torn into shreds by the rampaging students. They also robbed him of his phones, including a blackberry Z3.

The students were protesting the death of their colleague, Mayowa Alaran, a 200 level

NO FUEL: Vehicles and jerry cans on queue at a Lagos

petrol station along Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, as fuel scarcity persists across the country, yesterday. PHOTO: Joe Akintola, Photo Editor.

Oghenevwede Olomu, another resident, added that “robberies occur even in the middle of the bridge itself.

“Vehicles do not pass through at night. Besides, vehicles can easily fall down in case of accident because the handrail is so low.”

Police Area Commander, Warri Command, ACP Mohammed Mu’Azu, said he would immediately deploy his men on concentrated patrol at the spot.

student of the Department of Kinetics, who was said to have developed some complications while watching football at the Independence Hall.

They alleged that the deceased student, who was said to be asthmatic, died as a result of neglect by health officials at Jaja Clinic because he could not produce his identity card.

Reacting, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Oladejo, said the students had been advised earlier in the day to do whatever they wanted within the purview of the law.

According to him, there is no way the management can say the attack was carried out by the students because it happened outside the campus.

Ekiti hospital authorities worried over missing nurse

By Gbenga Ariyibi

DO EKITI—THE management of Federal s take over new Effurun Flyover A Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, everywhere to rob victims” Another resident, Joshua Chukwuma, said: “Last night, a woman who just arrived from Ughelli was attacked and robbed. They almost raped her.

“Sometimes police stay for a while and then disappear.

Even with their presence, there is urgent need for street lights.”

Ogenejabor Ikimi, lawyer and rights activist, queried the state government for rushing the project to score a political point.

Five dead in Rivers communal clash

has expressed concern over the whereabouts of a staff nurse in the hospital, Mrs. Margaret Aladenika, who was kidnapped by gunmen last weekend Aladenika was kidnapped while travelling from Ipere-Ekiti to Iludun-Ekiti, along with her husband and another occupant of the vehicle.

It was learned that the nurse was taken away at gunpoint by the kidnappers, who also killed one of the occupants of the car.

Briefing newsmen at the

hospital in Ado Ekiti yesterday, the Chief Medical Director, CMD, of the hospital, Dr. Lawrence Majekodunmi, expressed concern over the whereabouts and safety of the staff nurse He also expressed concern about the attitude of some youths in the town who staged a protest a few days ago over the non-appointment of indigenes of the town in any federal institution, dismissing the claim as untrue.

He said the youths invaded the hospital and disrupted all official and medical activities, barely four days after the nurse was kidnapped.

ORT HARCOURT— ABOUT five persons reportedly lost their lives in a clash between two communities in Tai Local Government Area in the early hours of yesterday.

Details at press time were hazy, but community sources said Police had moved into the areas to restore order.

When contacted, state acting Police spokesman, ASP Grace Koko, confirmed the crisis, saying it was between Kpogor and a neighbouring community.

According to her, the two communities have been involved in an age-long hostilities, and that the Police had restored peace in the area.

NDLEA official, one other docked over drugs importation

A

N official of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Adeogun Olajide, and a civilian, Adams Michael, were yesterday arraigned for allegedly importing 2.692 kilogrammes of cocaine.

The accused persons were docked at a Federal High Court in Lagos, on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy and importation of narcotics.

The accused persons denied committing the offence.

The prosecutor, Mr. Augustine Nwagu, also an NDLEA official, told the court that the accused persons committed the alleged offences between January and March 8.

He said the offences were committed at the International Mail Processing Centre of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

Justice Saliu Saidu ordered that the accused should be remanded at the NDLEA facility for seven days.

“If NDLEA fails to conclude its investigation within seven days, I will entertain the bail applications,” Saidu ruled.

8—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Fuel crisis ends in days, DPR, NNPC, PPMC assure zWe have 31 days fuel supply — NNPC zNigeria loses N41bn to pipeline vandalism in 2014

By Michael Eboh

A

BUJA — THE Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR; Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, and its downstream subsidiary, the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, PPMC, yesterday assured Nigerians that the ongoing fuel scarcity will thin out in the next couple of days.

This was even as the fuel crisis continued unabated across the country as majority of the fuel stations remained shut, while motorists struggled to purchase the commodity from the few petrol stations that were selling.

The DPR blamed the scarcity on a shortfall in fuel supply, stating that over the last couple of days, product lifting to the FCT had dropped significantly compared to actual demand.

Speaking in an interview with Vanguard, Mr. Mohammed Saidu, Head, Public Relations, DPR, Abuja, blamed the scarcity partly on the strike embarked upon by the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners, NARTO and Petroleum Tanker Drivers, PTD, stating that despite the fact that the strike had been called off, it will take between seven to eight days for supply to stabilize.

Saidu further stated that the DPR had constituted a task force to enforce the sale of the product to motorists and also to eliminate sharp practices.

He said: “The function of the taskforce is to ensure that the limited quantity supplied to the FCT is sold to motorists.

Though, we get reports that most petrol stations are engaged in illegal activities at night, due to the fact that the taskforce do not work at night.

We hope to deal with such cases decisively.”

He expressed optimism that fuel supply to the FCT will improve in the next couple of days, projecting a rise in fuel supply to meet actual demand by next week.

According to him, fuel import has improved, adding that the only challenge is in the lifting of the products from the depots.

We have 31 days fuel supply — NNPC, PPMC

Also, the NNPC and the PPMC stated that they have 1.2 billion litres of premium motor spirit (PMS) otherwise known as petrol, in stock.

The quantity, according to a statement by Mr. Ohi Alegbe,

Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, NNPC, translates to 31 days sufficiency going by the 40 million daily consumption of the product in the country.

Managing Director of the PPMC, Prince Haruna Momoh, further stated that 21 additional vessels laden with petroleum products are offshore Lagos waiting to berth.

He said the NNPC had made adequate arrangements to ensure energy sufficiency in the

country and reassured motorists that the noticeable queues at the filling stations would thin out in the days ahead.

Momoh noted that the NNPC has 21 days sufficiency of Automative Gas Oil (AGO) otherwise known as diesel and 18 days sufficiency of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) otherwise known as kerosene.

He announced that as part of efforts to ensure petroleum products sufficiency and distribution, the NNPC embarked on aggressive

Reception Depots rehabilitation in 2011, adding: “As at today, 18 depots out of the 23 depots have been fully recovered with the exception of Makurdi, Yola and Maiduguri due to the activities of pipeline vandals.”

N41bn lost to pipeline vandalism in 2014

Momoh further stated that the corporation suffered petroleum products losses worth N40.8 billion through pipeline vandalism in 2014, stressing that no business could survive such a loss and still remain a going concern.

Momoh noted that there

was a marginal increase in pipeline vandalism, stressing that in 2013, the corporation recorded 3517 vandalized points but in 2014 the figure increased to 3774.

He observed that as at today, 97 pipeline vandals are undergoing prosecution and regretted that since the cases started a few years ago none of the accused persons has been convicted for economic sabotage.

He called on Nigerians from all walks of life, especially those living in communities where the pipelines run through, to protect the pipelines in the national interest.

FG directs BPE to begin privatisation of NRC

By Henry Umoru, Favour Nnabugwu & Funmi Olasupo

zAs Jonathan urges Buhari to boost railway system

A

BUJA — THE Federal Government, yesterday, directed the Bureau of Public Enterprises, BPE, to commence the privatisation of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, and other railway facilities across the country.

The National Council on Privatisation, NCP, gave the directive to the BPE and the Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility, NIAF, after its council meeting in Abuja.

Director-General of the BPE, Mr. Benjamin Dikki, said the decision to reform the railways was borne out of the government’s desire to avoid the collapse and eventual shut down of the railways, generally regarded as a loss making but socially and economically important to the nation.

According to him, “the funding challenges facing the future of rail in Nigeria seem dependent on the efficiency and professionalism which the private sector can bring to improve on railway operations.

“The railway reform, restructuring and privatization programme are specifically aimed at achieving the provisional framework for private sectorled growth through expanded domestic and foreign investment; improve NRC’s ability to provide adequate, safe, reliable and efficient rail services; and reduce NRC dependence on the FGN budget by introducing private sector investment in the sector.”

NIAF has committed to

INSPECTION: President Goodluck Jonathan and FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed (far right) during the inspection of Abuja Railway Station project at IDU, Abuja, yesterday.

Photo: Abayomi Adeshida. funding the consultancy for the development of the roadmap and framework for the concession of the rail tracks of the NRC.

Jonathan urges Buhari to boost railway system

Meanwhile, President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, urged the incoming Buhari administration to continue to boost the railway system as the cheapest and most effective mode of mass transit in the country.

The President said this when he inspected the ongoing construction of the National Railway Terminal at Idu and the Abuja light rail transit system.

Jonathan said he was happy with the progress of work done on the projects and called on the state governors

to also build light rails in their state capitals.

He said: “We cannot do mass transit using taxis, small cars and small buses, even the luxury buses.

“It will be too expensive until our rail system works. That is why we are emphasizing on inter-city rail and intra-city light rail systems and of course this government is leaving on May 29 but the incoming government will definitely continue.

“This is a noble project that will benefit Nigerians, especially residents of the FCT. I am quite appreciative of the level of completion; the China Engineering and Construction Company, CCECC, has been doing very well. I am quite impressed; I have been wanting to come and inspect this project for a very long time but it has been

so challenging in terms of my commitments.

“I think this period I really need to do so that when I am having conversation with the incoming President; I know exactly what to tell him.

“I have seen it myself. I have seen the level of completion and of course we know the usefulness of this project to us in terms of easing the movement of people in the federal capital territory.

“I have to congratulate Nigerians for this project” President Jonathan said the projects were dear to the Federal Government, adding that it was the target of his administration to link up all states of the federation.

He, however, said the state governments were being encouraged to construct intrarail systems in the major capitals to ease transportation.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—9

Why I'll fight corruption, insecurity, unemployment —Buhari zCommends Umana as A-Ibom APC goes to tribunal

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA —PRESIDENTELECT, General Mohammadu Buhari (retd), yesterday, reechoed that the high level of indiscipline and corruption in government and other social places were the main reasons why he has pledged to fight corruption, insecurity and unemployment head on when sworn in as President.

According to him, worse are the electoral fraud and judicial compromises which had characterized the courts.

Buhari spoke against the background of the manipulation of electoral process which he said played out in the last general elections.

Buhari, who was particular about Akwa Ibom State, was delighted when the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state, Mr Umana Umana, who led a delegation of Akwa Ibom people, including Senator Ita Enang, the Senate Committee Chairman on Business and Rules to pay him a congratulatory visit in Abuja informed him that he had gone to the Election Petition Tribunal to challenge the result of the governorship election in the state.

Recalling his experience at the courts, Buhari said he would strengthen the process to prevent subversion of the will of the people in future polls.

Buhari lauds Umana as A-Ibom APC goes to tribunal He said: “I’m glad that you have gone to court too because you believe in the system as the right place to fight for your right and the right of the people you represent. I have appealed three times and arrived at the Supreme Court not because I believe the system had changed but this time around, in your own case, you were still denied even with the use of PVCs and the card readers.

“That means they will never stop lies because the essence of the system itself is to protect the interests of the parties, the candidates whether it is the local government elections, House of Assembly, governorship, House of Representatives, Senate etc.

“There is need to go to the constituency, educate them,

Organisations, the Akwa Ibom State Caucus at the National Assembly, the African Union Election Monitoring Team, the European Union Election Monitoring Group, the US Government, represented by its embassy in Nigeria and many elders of the state, including former Governor Victor Attah and for mer Minister of Petroleum Resources, Atuekong Don Etiebet. Such reports go a long way to confirm our stand that there were no valid elections in Akwa Ibom State.

A-Ibom APC goes to tribunal

VISIT: From left: First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; First Lady of Congo Republic, Mrs Anthoin Ssassou Nguessou and the Nigerian Ambassador to Congo Republic, Princess Victoria Jolaade Onipede when Dame Jonathan visited Congo Republic, yesterday.

beg for their support and understanding. Let them know the real essence according to law to choose who they want to choose otherwise we are wasting our time.

"I stand for that, that’s why I chose to go to court and ending up at the Supreme Court. I don’t go to court because I can afford it financially or physically but people who believe in stabilizing the system helped me along the line.

“Now the records are very clear. Anybody who wants to study the political development of Nigeria cannot do so without getting the Supreme’s Court judgement of those years —2003, 2007 and 2011. If you could recall in 2007, the Supreme Court was split into two. Six panel of justices were divided.

Six justices led by Justice Oguntade, a Christian, a Yoruba man, Justice Aloma Mukthar, I think she’s a Muslin but a Yor uba woman and another Justice from Delta State said election of 2007 was null and void because it was not conducted according to law.

Nigeria's problem is not ethnic or religious “But the former Chief Justice, Mustapha, a Fulani man from Jigawa and another Chief Justice from

Taraba, also a Fulani man said well, the election was not flawless but all the same PDP has won and then the Chief Justice, a Muslim from Nupe cancelled the votes with them. So it was four against three. So the point I want to make here is that the problem of Nigeria is not ethnic or religious, it is corruption.

“This is what we are fighting, that is why corruption is number three in my campaign. The first one is security. The north east, the Delta areas where people are kidnapped and ransom are being demanded which people cannot afford. The second one is unemployment. Sixty percent of Nigerians are youths, most of them, whether they went to school or not are unemployed and that is dangerous.

“So we have to get the issue of the economy right to make sure the jobs are made available and we should try to kill corruption before corruption kills Nigeria. Let us practice what we preach as well. Whoever wins as a governor too has a lot of work to do because corruption is fast becoming a culture and to try to caution people is not an easy task but it must be done.

"I know you all represent various constituencies, please pass our message and give them hope that we’ll do our best in the interest of all.

I wish sincerely those that are going to tribunal the best of luck.”

Umana chronicles alleged massive rigging Earlier in his speech, the governorship candidate, Umana, who chronicled the massive rigging that took place on April 11 informed the incoming president that he had approached the courts to challenge the results.

He said: “The people had hoped that there would be free and fair elections in Akwa Ibom State for them to vote and bring in APC government at the state and federal levels, so that the lot of the people of the state would change for the better.

“However, it is a matter for regret and a point of great frustration that our votes for you in Akwa Ibom State were not allowed to count during the Presidential election because of massive vote fraud and wanton violence.

“Your excellency, we would like to report that the governorship and House of Assembly elections held in the state on April 11, 2015 witnessed even worse degrees of electoral fraud and violence, leading to many deaths and injuries.

“We are a bit mollified that the incidents of widespread electoral malpractices and bloody violence that marred the purported elections in our state have been amply confirmed by independent local and international monitors, including the Civil Liberties

"We are pleased to inform you that we have challenged the outcome of the purported elections at the tribunals. It may interest you to know also that figures declared in the elections by the Akwa Ibom State INEC office were at variance significantly with figures captured by card readers and transmitted to INEC database in the commission office in Abuja.

“For instance, data obtained from INEC head office in Abuja show that the total number of accredited voters captured by card readers for the gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections in Akwa Ibom State was 437,128, but the figure declared by the state INEC office was 1,122,836.

By INEC guidelines, use of the card reader was mandatory in the gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections.

Electoral reform “Your position on electoral reform is, therefore apt, and we wish to commend you on your determination to reform and reposition the electoral process to make elections more credible in Nigeria.

“With specific reference to the manifold cases of violence and bloodshed that rocked our state before and during the general elections, we demand justice for the families of those who were killed and maimed. We also hope that those who masterminded those crimes of electoral violence and fraud would not be allowed to escape justice.”

Umana also pledged the support of Akwa Ibom people to the incoming administration, saying: "We hereby pledge to wholly cooperate with and remain loyal to your government, while fully committing everything at our disposal, including the best of our talents, to the success of your administration.”

10 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

NUPENG appeals to Lagosians over Apapa gridlock

L

AGOS—THE National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) yesterday has begged Lagosians to bear with the ongoing gridlocks caused by petrol tanker drivers in Apapa axis, Lagos.

Mr Tokunbo Korodo, the South-West Chairman of the union, told newsmen in Lagos that the severe traffic was not a fault of the union members.

“Most of the tankers responsible for the traffic jam came from the northern part of the country to load petroleum products in Lagos. It is unfortunate that the tankers came as planned but they brought traffic gridlock to the Apapa axis.

They were programmed to get the products here (Lagos), but when they got here most of the depots owned by Independent marketers refused to load the tankers.

“The independent marketers are aggrieved they were not carried along with the major oil marketers on the recent subsidy payment by the Federal Government.

Now that the tanker drivers are here, it is difficult to return to the north without the product because it will not make an economic sense.

For them to go back to their stations (empty) is economic loss; so they will continue to wait till they get the products.

“This is coupled with an early morning accident along Ikorodu Road. The union is working with the officials of Lagos State traffic unit to manage the situation,” he said.

He said the gridlock would reduce as soon as majority of the tankers load and leave Lagos. Korodo maintained that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) should decentralize the loading of petroleum products to reduce traffic gridlocks on Lagos roads.

He revealed that only three depots out of over 50 available currently had petroleum products, adding that this was mainly responsible for the traffic jam. He said that the three depots were Capital Oil and Gas Tank Farm, Ibeto Oil and Gas Tank farm and Integrated Oil and Gas Tank Farm, all in the Apapa area.

EIGHT YRS AS GOV: To those I might have offended, I apologise — FASHOLA

By Olasunkanmi Akoni & Monsur Olowoopejo

L

AGOS—THE out-going governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, yesterday, in sober mood expressed unreserved apology to those he may have offended during his eight years of governing the state.

Fashola tendered the apology while marking his 2,900 days in office in Ikeja.

He said: “This is the time to prepare for the change of barton.

Without the support of the residents of Lagos, your taxes, understanding and perseverance, honest criticism and prayers we may not have come this far. Our new governor, Akinwunmi Ambode will need more of the support that you gave to me. I urge you to stand very firmly with his team.

“On a daily basis for 2,900 days I was saddled with the responsibility of taking decisions on a lot of files both in the afternoon, morning and night and there is no way I could have gotten all of them right. It is impossible.

I took those decisions in the best interest of Lagosians based on the facts presented to me.

“To those that we haven’t reached, please bear with us, the work will never finish. And I am sure that our new governor will continue from where I stopped.”

Speaking on the gains of his office, the governor said he had delivered on the promises he made to residents on assumption of office on May 29, 2007.

He said, “I make bold to say that there is no area of human endeavour that we have not touched. We have built modern hospitals across the state, constructed and upgrade roads, built affordable housing scheme

VISIT: From left: Mr. Toba Otusanya, DG-Office of Transformation, Command Centre Alausa, Mrs. Nike Animashaun; Perm Sec, Min of Science and Tech; Gov. Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State;, Mr. Remi Ibirigba, Commissioner of Information and Strategys and Mr. Hakeem Bello, Special adviser to governor on Media, during the governor's visit to Command Centre on Citizen Relationship Management Demo's new Plat form, in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos. Photo by Bunmi Azeez.

LagosHoms, create a new face of environment, provide employment and a new face of economy, new face of transportation and perhaps providing an avenue for business to thrive through the introduction of the security trust fund to secure the environment.”

On severance package

Fashola, reacting to the issue of severance package for political office holders in the state, said; “That should not be a problem because the money from which the fund is paid isn’t my personal money. And the process that pays the severance package is under the existing law and established procedures.

On Oshodi-Apapa expressway gridlock

The governor lamented the

intractable traffic gridlock along Apapa-Oshodi expressway and environs, saying, the state government was overwhelmed by the situation.

Reacting to a question on the Apapa gridlock, Fashola said; “It is a sad story of our nation. I apologise for the inconveniences that the residents of Apapa go through daily due to the traffic caused by the tankers who come to that axis to lift fuel and by extension the traffic has spread to other parts of the state especially on Ikorodu road.

Fashola continued: “If you can really avoid going to that axis, please do so. I urge you to use listen to the traffic radio and get an update as you plan your journey. For me, if you can do that business on the phone rather than going to such place, please do so.

“Specifically, Apapa is one of

the many reasons people voted for change at the last elections. This was because it was an inappropriate way to transport petroleum products by road. They must move by rail and the state government doesn’t control the importation and distribution of petrol in the country.

On LASU

Speaking on Lagos State University, LASU, crisis, Fashola stated: “Let us connect problem with their causes. When either the union or the students go on strike and the university is shut, the regular work is not done that day.

“When the school is reopened, everyone is running to cover the lost time. Then the students graduate. But the time lost due to the strikes lost forever. That was the time the preparation of certificates, verification, printing and others should have been done.''

How FG sustains NYSC for nation building – JONATHAN zUrges Buhari to continue supporting scheme

By Ikenna Asomba

L

AGOS—IN what sounded like a fare-well speech, President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, affirmed that his administration at the onset recognized the strength and vision of the youth, that was why it worked with urgency to help them define their path, through the sustenance of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme.

Jonathan, who spoke at the swearing-in ceremony of 2015 Batch ‘A’ Stream I corps members, deployed to Lagos State, at the NYSC Orientation Camp, in Iyana-Ipaja, boasted that with the necessary appropriation, his government was committed to

supporting the NYSC scheme, thus positioning it as a leading light of youth organizations in world.

Represented by Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, President Jonathan said in the past 42 years, the NYSC has remained a beacon of hope in the country’s mission for a united nation, stating that it has exposed millions of youths to the cultures and traditions of Nigeria’s pluralistic society.

Affirming that his administration has put in place many beneficial interventions, which have increased the skills, selfconfidence and self-sufficiency available to the youth, Jonathan, however urged the incoming administration of Maj-Gen.

Muhammadu Buhari to continue to support and encourage corps members by fulfilling it’s statutory obligations to the scheme.

This is even as he commended the corps members who were sworn in for the successful completion of their academic endeavours, calling on them to dedicate themselves with renewed vigour, conviction and commitment to the progress and development of the nation.

He said: “I am greatly pleased to address you today, our promising young men and women, on your induction into the 2015 Batch ‘A’ National Youth Service Corps set, deployed to the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

“I congratulate all members of

this batch for the successful completion of your academic endeavours, and your patriotic response to National Youth Service to your fatherland.

“Your call-up to serve your country is a worthy acknowledgment of your consistent dint of hard work, and obedience to constituted authority.

I welcome you all to the larger Nigerian society where you will gradually begin to make your individual and collective contributions toward national growth and development.

Jonathan, who affirmed that the concluding story of the last general elections cannot be complete without the mention of corps members, commended them for discharging their electoral duties with diligence, transparency and patriotism.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 11

Mu’azu mocks Fayose over Buhari’s death wish zGod sees our hearts — FAYOSE

By Abiodun Alade

T

HE national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Adamu Mu‘azu yesterday mocked the governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, insisting that his deathwish advert on president-elect, Muhammadu Buhari led to the loss of President Goodluck Jonathan at the polls.

Muazu took to his verified Twitter handle, to mock Fayose with the post, “Fayose: I have evidence that Muazu worked for APC. We hope it’s not the kind of evidence he once said he had that Buhari was dying?”

This was a reaction to the earlier allegation by Fayose that he (Fayose) do have evidence that Mu’azu betrayed the PDP and worked for All Progressives Congress, APC during the presidential elections.

Governor Fayose had recently called for the resignation of Mu‘azu as national chairman, saying it was inexcusable that President Jonathan could have lost in Mu‘azu’s home state of Bauchi with an incumbent PDP governor, minister of Federal Capital Territory and the national chairman.

Fayose had pressed on to say that he had evidence that Mu‘azu was compromised as national chairman and worked for the APC. Mu‘azu in yesterday’s tweet, challenged Fayose to come out with the evidence.

He wrote; “We challenge Governor Fayose to come out with the evidence that shows National Chairman worked for APC during the elections.”

He followed that with another tweet to buttress the support he gave to Fayose as a candidate, “The National chairman campaigned for Governor Fayose, defended him and was at his inauguration and will continue to support him and Ekiti people.”

Fayose hits back

Fayose, whose twitter account handle had not been in use since April 29, responded within two hours, deriding Mu‘azu for taking to cyberspace to engage him.

“Disloyalty: A leader, who takes to twitter to slight a party member but never did the same with or to the opponent. God sees our hearts,” he wrote.

He was to follow up with a series of tweets like: “PDP will outlast many of us. The legacy of true politics is service to the People,

loyalty to one’s team and a clear conscience before God,” followed by “I appreciate the online community of PDP supporters and will always champion our collective cause for a better Nigeria under God.” In a seeming rebuke to the national chairman for directing his missiles at him, Fayose in another tweet urged the national chairman thus, “Any strong words we have are reserved only for our opponents and only in political season. This is now the time to unite for PDP and Nigeria.”

The tweet was against the background of claims that the presidency and associates of

President Goodluck Jonathan were peeved by the refusal of Mu‘azu to use strong words against the APC’s presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari.

APC lawmakers scoff at gov

Meantime, Fayose’s archenemies yesterday latched on his face-off with the PDP national chairman to rob in their determination to unseat him.

Spokesman for the Ekiti 19APC members and factional speaker, Dr Adewale Omirin’s special adviser, Media, Mr Wole Olujobi asked rhetorically; ‘’What strong words does Fayose have for the opponents and when is he going to deploy those words?

‘’Instead of bracing up for the challenges of rebuilding his sunk party, the governor is engaging in muscle-flexing with the opponents that are busy working out strategies to deliver for the people of Nigeria to enable them get over the maladministration hang-over they were subjected in the last 16 years by PDP. ‘’Soon, very soon, Fayose shall have encounters with the Nigerian Law. APC advises him to prepare for enough words till that period when the supremacy of Nigerian Constitution shall take over from the scroll of impunity that the PDPled administration has turned the supreme law of the land.’’

AGM: From left; Mr Obinna Nwosu, Deputy Group Managing Director; Mr Herbert Wigwe, Group Managing Director/CEO; Gbenga Oyebode, Chairman and Sunday Ekwochi, Company Secretary, all of Access Bank Plc during the bank's 26th Annual General Meeting at Lagoon Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos yesterday. Photo by Akeem Salau.

Some Buhari advisers are hypocrites – Oba Akiolu

By Monsuru Olowoopejo Awujale and I have decided to never wanted Ambode to

L

AGOS—OBA of Lagos, Oba Riliwan Akiolu yesterday said some of those advising President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, rtd, on how to run the country were hypocrites.

He spoke at an event to commemorate the 2,900 days in office of Fashola’s administration in Ikeja, which was also attended by the former Governor of Lagos, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the Chief Imam of the state, Alhaji Garba Akinola and others.

Akiolu, who addressed the gathering in Yoruba language, said that he is not a partisan politician, ‘’but I am a politician of my palace, the Iga Iduganran, and I am not afraid of any person or anything. I can only fear God.” According to the Akiolu, “Some people have been telling Buhari all sorts of things.

meet Buhari over this. ‘’Whoever labours for any course must reap the fruit of his labour; because Lagos and South West states must benefit from the Buhari’s administration.

“Some of the people, who are now writing to dictate to Buhari on what to do are hypocrites.

“Most of them did not want Buhari to win the election. These people know themselves. ‘’ At a stage, I will name them one after the other. I am not afraid of human being.”

Akiolu to Ambode

Warning the Lagos State governor-elect, Akiolu said; “I have told him not to resume office with vengeful heart. He should forget the past and move on.”

He noted that some persons now rallying round Ambode didn’t support his candidacy, saying “Among the people here, there are people who

emerge the governor of Lagos.

Most of you are hypocrites. ‘’

Eye Foundation Hospital introduces laser machine for cataracts

W

ITH the high rate of cataract and refractive error patients in Nigeria, the Eye Foundation Hospital Group has introduced the new Femto Laser Technology for cataracts and refractive surgery.

This was disclosed recently at a workshop for ophthalmologists and optometrists on how to maximise the use of the new machine organised by health partners under the aegis of Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO).

At the workshop held at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, medical practitioners educated participants on the new hightech Femto laser technology.

Videos were used to illustrate the new method for Laser cataract and refractive surgery.

Speaking to journalists after the end of the workshop, the Chief Executive of Eye Foundation Hospital Group, Dr Kunle Hassan, explained why the refractive Laser surgery and the new full cataract laser surgery were introduced .

He said: “We are here today because of the advanced technological changes going on in the eye care sector. Eye Foundation is usually on top of available high tech modalities for treating eye diseases. Our benchmark is the international standard practice.

We are introducing the advance Femto Laser Technology for cataract surgery and correction of refractive errors for those who do not want to wear glasses in Nigeria. It is the first in Sub Sahara Africa and its a special laser that is different from any kind we’ve been used before.

The whole procedure is done with laser and it is safe and with predictable result.”

Federal pensioners protest in Abeokuta

By Daud Olatunji

A

BEOKUTA—SCORES of Federal retirees under the aegis of Nigeria Union of Pensioners yesterday protested non payment of their 10 months contributory pension.

The senior citizens, who stormed Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ogun State council secretariat, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, lamented that, failure to pay their entitlements have subjected them to abject poverty, as well as loss of over 20 members who died during the struggle to get their money.

The protesters who carried placards with inscriptions such as ‘we have suffered enough after 35

years service to our fatherland’, ’Pencom is owing retirees 10 months arrears of unpaid pension and gratuties’, ’Federal Government pay us now.’

Addressing newsmen, the National Chairman of the union, Samuel Kojusola flanked by other members of National Executive, said the body has noticed some anomalies in the implementation of Reform Act 2014 that is yet to be implemented by the National Pension, Pencom.

He said it was sad to confirm that workers who retired under the contributory pension scheme since August 2014 till date all over the country are yet to have their lump sum or monthly payment settled by National Pension Commission.

12—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Stop bombing pipelines, Buhari’s security aide urges Urhobo, Isoko ex-militants

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—BIBI Oduku, Coordinator of Niger Delta Security, NDS, the safety wing of President–elect, General Muhammadu Buhari Support Organisation, BSO, has enjoined aggrieved Urhobo and Isoko ex-militants in Delta State to shun further pipeline vandalism and threats of violence in the Niger Delta region.

Bibi, when he led members of the group on a courtesy visit to the factional President General of Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, Chief Tuesday Onoge, in Warri, alleged that many ex-militants were allegedly shortchanged in the Federal Government’s amnesty programme by the out going administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, adding that it should, however, not be an excuse to go back to the days of pipeline vandalism.

He said: “I have personally made a representation to the

RIVERS LG POLLS: Aggrieved APC members flay primaries

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— SOME members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Rivers State, yesterday continued their protest against the primaries of the party held on Monday ahead of the May 23 local government polls, describing the exercise as a sham.

One of the protesters from Ahoada East Local Government Area of the state, Mr Kingsley Ogubie, told Vanguard, yesterday, at the state secretariat of the party in Port Harcourt, that materials for the primary election meant for the council were allegedly hijacked, adding that he was shocked when a chairmanship aspirant declared himself winner when there was actually no primary election in the council.

He said they were protesting what he described as attempts by some chieftains of the party to force a chairmanship candidate on them.

According to him, they had a shadow primary election among all the chairmanship aspirants for the council from the party where one of them emerged winner, insisting that the result be upheld.

incoming government about this issue and I have the assurance that all related cases will be given due attention, but you must first stop the acts and threats of vandalising oil facilities.”

Responding, Chief Onoge

expressed delight at Bibi's effort to bring ex-militants together for the common objective of securing a peaceful environment that will drive the much desired development in the Niger Delta by the incoming

government of Buhari.

“If the youths are angry, Niger Delta cannot be peaceful. Therefore, it has become expedient for the youths to forge a common front to achieve peace and attract development,” he said.

NYSC SWEARING-IN CEREMONY: From left: The Gbenemene of Tai Kingdom, HRM King Godwin Gininwa; Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties/representative of Rivers State Governor, Dickson Umunnakwe and State Coordinator, National Youth Service Corp, Rivers State, Mrs. Ngozi Nwatarali, during the swearing-in ceremony of 2015 Batch 'A' Corps Members deployed to Rivers State at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, NONWAGbam, Tai, yesterday. Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke.

Delta election tribunal receives 40 petitions

A

By Festus Ahon

SABA—DELTA State Governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal, has received a total of 40 petitions, challenging the outcome of the 2015 general elections.

Three petitions are challenging the election of the state governor-elect, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, while one is challenging the election of Senator James Manager,

Delta South.

Seven petitions were received for the House of Representatives election and 29 for the state House of Assembly election. It was learned that the tribunal will soon commence sitting.

Secretary to the Tribunal, Mr Al’Sadiq Abubakar, told Vanguard on phone, that the tribunal will stop receiving petitions 21 days from the day the results of the elections were declared.

According to Abubakar, all the petitions were received at the tribunals between April 17 and May 3, explaining that the tribunals are made up of a chairman and two members each.

He added that the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal will sit at High Court 3, beside Grand Hotel, while the National Assembly/ Legislative House Tribunal will sit at High Court 5, both in Asaba, the state capital.

Don’t see those heading to election tribunals as enemies —IGINI

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—THE Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, in Edo State, Mr Mike Igini, has urged Nigerians not to see those contesting the results of the just concluded general elections at the tribunals as enemies but as compatriots whose actions will help strengthen the process in future elections.

Speaking during the presentation of certificates of return to members-elect of the House of Assembly in Edo

State, Igini said that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, did its best to ensure that the votes of Nigerians counted in the 2015 general elections, adding that those heading to tribunals to contest the results of the election should not be blamed as their action will help perfect the electoral process.

He said: “There is no standard book of democracy stipulating that a successful election anywhere in the world is necessarily the absence of

challenges. Democracy is not a final product that you graft into a society, but a dynamic process that must be nurtured and enriched with the growth and evolution of society.

“As a people, we must have something to build on as exemplified by the four elections conducted under civilian leadership. The challenge of democracy and the ills associated with periodic elections can only be cured with more improved elections as we have done since the 2011 election.”

Election tribunal receives 16 petitions in Bayelsa

By Samuel Oyadongha

T

HE National and state Houses of Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal sitting in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, said 16 petitions were filed before it.

The tribunal has limited time at its disposal to deliberate on all petitions before it and deliver judgment in writing within 180 days from the date of the petition.

Secretary of the Bayelsa Elections Petition Tribunal, Adekunle Sunmonu, who disclosed this in Yenagoa, said though the tribunal had adjourned till May 20 and 21, four senatorial petitions, two House of Representatives petitions and 10 state House of Assembly petitions were filed before it, though he did not mention which of the political parties filed the petitions.

I'm not afraid of defending my victory at tribunal — UVIEJITOBOR

W

INNER of the Delta State House of Assembly, election for Udu constituency, Chief Peter Uviejitobor of Labour Party, has said that he was not afraid of defending his landslide victory at the tribunal.

This followed a report that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate at the election, Elegbete Moses Odibo, had dragged him to the tribunal.

In a statement by his media aide, Mr Gabriel Choba, Uviejitobor said that he was yet to be served the court papers.

“He should stop publishing court process on pages of newspaper and do the right thing by serving me. As the winner of the election, I have duly received my certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC."

Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015—13

C M Y K

14—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

FG orders verification of workers’ certificates

By Favour Nnabugwu THE FEDERAL Government has directed that a verification and revalidation exercise be carried out on all credentials and records of all staff in the Federal Civil Service.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Danladi Kifasi, gave the directive to officials managing the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System in a circular signed by the Permanent Secretary (Special Duties) in the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Amina Shamaki.

Kifasi said, , “The exercise will encompass verification and revalidation of crucial documents of all federal staff in the core Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government and their outstations in the affected states in collaboration with other IPPIS stakeholders.”

SUBSIDY: Nigeria saved N400bn through

Project Aquila —Outgoing PEF boss

By Michael Eboh

T

HE IMMEDIATE past Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Equalisation Fund, PEF, Mrs. Adefunke Kasali, yesterday, said the agency saved the country more than $2 billion, about N400 billion, through the 'Project Aquila.'

Kasali, who stated this in Abuja

during the handing over ceremony to the newly appointed Executive Secretary, Mr. Asabe Ahmed, stated that through the initiative, PEF had detected and stopped payment of more than N847million in fictitious claims by petroleum marketers.

She noted that Project Aquila is a high-tech electronic loading and delivery system introduced by PEF to check leakages in the system,

as well as enthrone transparency and due process.

According to her, PEF had been able to check fraudulent activities among petroleum marketers and ensured transparency in the system through the project.

She said: “The new initiative, also known as ‘e-loading’ ensures the delivery of petroleum products to the right destination.

“The process has checkmated

SAFETY DAY: Safety and Environment Manager, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company, SNEPCo, Mrs. Elizabeth Usen; Regional Occupational Manager, Dr. Olusola Taiwo; Managing Director of SNEPCo, Mr. Tony Attah; Shell's Associate General Counsel for Nigeria and Gabon, Mrs. Barbara Blum, and SNEPCo's Finance Director, Mr. Ralph Wetzels, at the 2015 Shell Safety Day, in Lagos,Wednesday.

Senate okays tax holiday for operators of oil and gas in export free zones

.As

it passes Oil and Gas Free Zone, AMCON bills

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru & Joseph Erunke

A

BUJA—A bill seeking tax holidays for operators of oil and gas in the oil and gas free zones in the industry was passed, yesterday, by the Senate.

In like manner, the Red Chamber passed the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (Amendment) Bill 2015,

which also seeks to enable organizations to purchase nonperforming loans from Deposit Money Banks,DMPs and recapitalize technically insolvent banks.

The passage of the oil and gas bill, tagged: “Oil and Gas Export Free Zones Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2015, and the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (Amendment) Bill, 2014, came after a clause to clause

consideration of the bills submitted by their sponsors, Senators Odion Ugbesia, PDPEdo Central, and Bassey Otu,LP, Cross River South.

Senator Ugbesia, in a lead debate presented during the plenary, argued that the Oil and Gas Free Export Zones Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2015, if passed, would provide for the designation and establishment of oil free zones and sub-zones,

Traditional rulers call for truce in Enugu

T

HE TRADITIONAL Rulers Council in Enugu State has appealed to the executive and the legislative arms of the government in the state to put an end to the current crisis between them.

Rising from a meeting, Tuesday, in Enugu, the Council

in a communiqué by the principal officers, noted that the people of Enugu State appreciated the peace and harmony that has prevailed in the state since the inception of the administration of Governor Sullivan Chime in 2007.

“As custodians of culture and

Madam Teresa Agu passes on at 102

A

PROMINENT woman leader in Umunko, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, Madam Teresa Agu (Nee Nwola), is dead, aged 102.

She will be buried today, at her compound, Amaokpula village, Umunko, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State.

She is survived by children, grand children, great grand children, and many others, including former Chairman of IgboEtiti LGA, Hon. Okey Agu. Late Teresa Madam Agu

tradition of the people of Enugu State, we see the current crisis as alien and unfortunate. We deplore the face-off between the two arms, whose tenure will end in less than one month from now. What we expect from them is a peaceful, normal and cordial hand-over.”

The traditional rulers, who signed the communiqué include HRH Igwe Lawrence O.C. Agubuzu, OON - the Chairman; HRH Igwe R.S.N Ezeh- Vice Chairman; HRH Igwe Sam Uka, 3rd Vice Chairman; HRH Igwe Simon Itodo JP – Grand Patron; HRH Igwe Ezeudo Nwobodo MFR – Patron, and HRH Igwe Apostle Chime MFR, CFR, Patron.

which will ensure economically viable laws to act as catalysts for economic growth in the country.

He said it would provide strong legislative background for the authority of the oil and gas industry to function not only properly but also legally.

“The main feature is that the appointment of the chairman of the board must be subjected to senate approval,” he said.

He added: “The other feature is that tax holidays will be enjoyed fully by the operators of oil and gas in the industry because free zones all over the world observe tax holidays.

“This in itself provides the opportunity for free zones to contribute to the growth of the economy. It is to encourage industrial development in the country.”

Ugbesia regretted that the oil and gas industry in the country had over the years not operated in line with global best practices.

Also, at the consideration of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (Amendment) Bill, 2015, its sponsored, Senator Bassey Out, explained that the bill intended to widen the scope of AMCON’s powers to achieve intendments without unnecessary interference from any quarter.

the annual loss of N15 billion to the activities of some unscrupulous petroleum tanker drivers, who engaged in some unethical activities such as diversion of some petroleum products.”

Kasali maintained that the agency had taken a bold step to eliminate corruption and ensure prompt payment of bridging cost through ‘Project Aquila.’

The executive secretary said the project had also been able to remove encumbrances that normally caused distortions in the supply chain such as the issue of prompt payment of bridging claims.

She said: “Just look at the way we designed the business, we saved two billion dollars up-front because we wrote the codes inhouse and how about all the tens of billions we have saved by people that used to claim fictitious amounts.

“There was a time when we stopped N847 million worth of fake tickets and all the ones we have been saving ever since and we thank God for that.”

Kasali refuted claims that the board was under-paying some marketers or delaying their payment, saying that the PEFMB had been consistent in paying the right claims due to marketers.

This, she said, was in accordance with their capacity as approved by the Department of Petroleum Resources.

“Those who are complaining are those that the robust Project Aquila has blocked their old ways of “milking” the system and are uncomfortable with the new measures imposed to check past abuses.

“If any marketer said he was not paid it means we could not confirm that they were loaded, so if somebody said his claim has been stocked it means that they were not loaded,” she explained.

The New Executive Secretary, Mrs. Asabe Ahmed lauded the achievement of Kasali and said she was going to build on the achievement.

“I can see a team of highly motivated professional and the efficiency I have seen in the system is due to all of you I have come to carry on from where she has left off “Because the good things that are happening here is the efficiency that has been brought about by the system put in place,” she said “Not a whole lot is going to change in terms of process that is already in place, I can only build on the outstanding that has been recommended for upgrading and improving the process,” she added.

She called for cooperation of the staff, stressing that the industry was a complex one that needed the cooperation of all the stakeholders including the staff.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 —15

Indonesia Business Gathering in Lagos

From left, Mr. Victor Gotevbe, Admin Manager, Vanguard Media Ltd; Mr. Ndukakwu Ikechukwu, Amb. Harry Purwanto, Republic of Indonesia Ambassador to Nigeria; Mr. Jude Onwemene, Mr. Obi Ralph, Mr. Michael Onwuemene, during the Indonesia Business Gathering, at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, Wednesday. Photos: Kehinde Gbadamosi

From left, Mr. Marcello Difranco, Canadian Deputy High Commissioner, Otunba Oluwole Lawal, Dr. Fola Rogers-Salim, Mrs. Funke Jegede, and Mr. Lanre Kuponiyi.

From left, Mr. Emeka Ajoiyi, Country Manager, West Africa Nabati Snacks; Mr. Johannes Goenawan, Country Manager, PT Tempo Scan Pacific Indonsia, and Mr. Ishmael Balogun.

From left, Mr. Huang Jiale, Mr. Zhang Pemg, and Mr. Xu Wenjie.

From left, Mr. Didik Novandi, Mr. Didy Supriyadi, Mr. R.Eko Indiarto, Sir Charles Egbe.

From left, Mr. Nice Kenechukwu, Pastor Innocent Nwanekwu, Assistant Admin. Manager, Vanguard Media Ltd, and Mrs. Pat Iwegbu

From left; Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, General From left, Mrs. Iyadunni Gbadebo, Guest Manager\Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard Media Speaker, being presented a gift by Amb. Harry Ltd, receiving a souvenir from Mr. Nino Ws Purwanto of Indonesia of Indonesia.

C M Y K

Indonesian cultural dancers, performing.

16—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

NIPOST donates two buses to staff

By Emmanuel Elebeke

A

S PART of activities to mark 2015 workers day, the Senior Staff Association of Communication/ Information Union, Nipost chapter, has made a donation of two brand new 15 seater Toyota buses to its members.

President of the Union, Mr. Imafidon Gabriel, who made the donation said the union considered members’ welfare as a top priority, hence the decision to procure the new buses to ease transport challenge being faced by the members.

The union leader, who condemned confrontation approach by workers in engaging government and their management, said the gesture was the union’s May Day gift to its members and contribution to the ongoing transformation and revitalization of Nipost so as to encourage the staff to put in their best in the service.

“I am confident that these buses would not only reduce the sufferings of our members but also increase productivity in the organization."

“Rather than engage on confrontation, we think that dialogue remains the best way to resolve industrial disputes," Gabriel said.

HRH Anie for burial

Late HRH Anie

H

RH ENEBELI Anie, the Okpala Ukwu, Onye-Nwosa of Utagba Ogbe Kingdom, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State, is dead, aged 126.

The wake-keep holds at No. 20, Edele Etiti Umusedeli Ogbe Kwale, today, at 7p.m., while the funeral service holds tomorrow.

He is survived by children, grand children, great grand children and other relatives.

C M Y K

VISIT: From 5th left, Leader of Ohanaeze Caretaker Committee, Chief Ralph Obioha; President-elect, Muhammed Buhari; Senator Chris Ngige, and other members of Caretaker Committee of Ohanaeze, during a visit of the group to Presidentelect, in Abuja. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan

Enugu Speaker challenges Gov Chime to debate over budget ...Insists 2012 supplementary budget was forged I'll petition EFCC —Lawyer

.

By Francis Igata

E

NUGU—THE embattled speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Eugene Odoh, yesterday, lashed out at the state governor, Mr. Sullivan Chime, over his claims that the House approved the contentious N11 billion for him, wondering why Chime came back to seek fresh approval for the same loan if what he said was true.

Odoh, who spoke in an interview with Vanguard, also accused Chime of allegedly altering the 2012 Supplementary Budget without approval of the House, describing the action as forgery.

The embattled Speaker, who challenged the governor to a television debate, insisted that the 2012 Supplementary Budget of Enugu State was forged, since Chime failed to subject it to legislative approval.

He spoke as the All Progressives Congress, APC, and an Enugu- based lawyer, Mr. Ray Nnaji, blamed Chime for engaging in illegal virement

in the state budget.

Nnaji, said: “The allegation, that Chime forged the Supplementary Appropriation Law 2012 was to me an allegation, until he (Chime) commented on the radio, saying that he altered and moved allocations from a section to another section.’’

However, the APC Chairman, in the state, Mr. Ben Nwoye, lamented that the House had known about the forgery since 2012 and did nothing to save Enugu people.

Odoh and 13 other members of House had, Monday, ordered the Clerk of the House, Christopher Chukwurah to serve Chime an impeachment notice over alleged forgery of 2012 Supplementary Budget.

However, Chime had while reacting to the allegation, at a news conference, Tuesday, admitted that he did vire or reallocate funds for projects in the 2012 Supplementary Budget.

Odoh said: ”Before you reallocate funds or do virement, it must be sent to the legislature for approval. If you alter the budget that has been approved

by the House without their consent, it is forgery.

“I challenge Chime to a public debate, let him come out and explain to the public what reallocation or virement of public funds means. He should provide documents for approval from the House and I will provide mine. I assure you, he will run away. If he is clean, he should come to a television debate with me.”

Meanwhile, an Enugu- based lawyer, Mr. Nnaji, said,”that in law, it is called virement, and if an executive must engage in virement, he must send the same appropriation law back to the House for the House to do the needful and bring it back to the Executive.

“For the governor to do what he did is an alteration. And what do you call alteration? It is a criminal offence. It is forgery. Once you alter an original document which gives it a different meaning, structure and nature different from what it is, it is forgery.

“The governor himself, who is a lawyer, is supposed to have known the implications of what he did, which means he is no

Julius Berger subsidiary to invest in research, production of furniture materials

By Bartholomew Madukwe

A

FP FURNITURE Production facility, a subsidiary of Julius Berger Plc, plans to invest in research and production of furniture materials that would meet international standards.

Speaking at the flagging-off of the Lagos Architects Forum, AFP’s Sales Manager, Uche Uzoewulu, assured Nigerians of

meeting their needs in the production and delivery of quality furniture works of international standard.

He said: “AFP is the furniture production facility of Julius Berger Plc. We are into production of furniture works for private individuals, schools, hotels and multinational corporations. ‘’AFP is a production facility of JB that is proudly Nigerian because we depend on local raw materials for the production of our finished works.

“We have competent hands and production machinery that can produce customised furniture specifications given to us. Our work is not limited to production alone but we produce, deliver and instal at any location in Nigeria.”

Uzoewulu explained that AFP was reaching out to massive timber dealers to get quality wood materials supply.

“The beneficiary of the efforts is not limited to final consumers alone as wood merchants are vital to our production,” he added.

longer denying the fact that he forged the 2012 Supplementary Budget.

"By that statement I heard in the network news, where he (Chime) was saying as an admission, that actually I (Chime) reallocated funds from one section to another. This is virement. You cannot do virement with executive fiat.

“He does not have such right.

He (Chime) should have taken it back to the Legislature. For him to have done it without legislative approval..., it is forgery. So, he (Chime) has to face the law. We, the indigenous people of Enugu State, are not going to take it lightly.

“I thought the House was joking, until I heard his voice, admitting that part. I will petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to come in immediately.

If EFCC fails to move in, I will go to court and compel them to do that. I will not waste time to do that. I was thinking it was an allegation until he (Chime) used his mouth to say he reallocated funds.

On his own, the APC,Chairman, Mr. Ben Nwoye said: “This should not come to Enugu people as a surprise, Chime’s dictatorship had been there. Odoh has been hiding those atrocities. The question is, have the checks and balances worked? Before now,when the governor went on a protracted medical vacation and breached the law by not coming back at the specified time, it was Odoh that gave him legislative blanket.

“During contract awards and the impeachment of former deputy governor, Sunday Onyebuchi, Odoh also gave him legislative blanket. The question is, where did they part ways? He who seeks equity must come with clean hands.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015— —17

C M Y K

18 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2014

T

HE more we claim we are building our nation, the more we recline to primordial leanings that expose our pretences, and affirm that politicians are in business just for themselves. In their continuous quest for selfish enterprises, the nation’s importance declines in relation to their intentions. We have seen these times over.

In the season of change, the difference is the stridence with which people are appropriating Nigeria’s political offices - supposedly on behalf of their zones, peoples, and political convictions – to themselves. The All Progressives Congress, APC, has shifted from the battle of electioneering to sharing the gains of controlling the centre. Nobody seemed to have been adequately prepared for the implications of slicing national offices in proportions that could annoy others, who could feel their contributions to victory were ignored.

The ordinary matter of electing the National Assembly leadership is providing sparks that could bring the party to early squabbles. Every zone, except the South East which did not contribute to APC ’s victory, with votes others are parading, feels entitled to produce the

No To Culture Of Entitlement Senate President or Speaker of the House of Representatives, offices that have assumed more importance over years of growing hunger.

Nigeria once farmed out those offices without attention to region or religion. It seemed that competence and camaraderie counted more than connections and contacts, some of the credentials being touted in today ’s contests.

Nobody needed to spread out the map of Nigeria and put pins on the zones of the President, Vice President and principal officers of the National Assembly. Undue weight is being put on spreading the offices.

Joseph Wayas from Ogoja, nearer to Enugu (then in Anambra State) than most parts of Cross River State, was President of the Senate. Edwin Ume-Ezeoke from Nnewi in Anambra State was Speaker of the House of Representatives though the Vice President Alexander Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme was from Okoh, also in Anambra State. Some could argue the alliance between National Party of Nigeria, NPN, and Nigerian Peoples Party, NPP, caused the “anomaly”, but these officers never enjoyed a fraction of what the offices now offer.

Thirty-six years after, the past could be the building blocks for dispersing these offices without the on-going bickering. If the fights were about enthroning quality leadership at the National A s s e m b l y, they would be u n d e r s t a n d a b l e . Ra t h e r, t h e y a re a b o u t entitlement, easily captured in It Is Our Turn To Eat, Michela Wrong’s 2010 classic about Kenya’s power struggles (between Kikuyus and Kalenjins) as well as the permissive atmosphere of corruption.

We think entitlement should be the least qualification for leadership of the National Assembly for it to make laws to curb arbitrariness and the excesses it entails.

OPINION Why Next Senate President should be which for administrative convenience have been further split into six zones. Each of the former three regions was said to have Christian society, is not legal theory at all, but an a dual cultural make up: a territorial

BY DAN AMOR

A

T a time when the alleged acrimonious campaign to Islamise Nigeria by an emerging power bloc is almost gaining currency, few members of the public, the Press, or the political class have never actually presumed- in context or in full- the hidden agenda of the new clique of powerful anti-Christian elements whose ultimate design is to implement the secret accord they had with their sponsors.

The clamour by a section of the political class to push for the emergence of a Muslim as the new Senate President in spite of the its inelegant religious statement since the President-elect General Muhamadu Buhari is a Muslim and the sure bet of another Muslim emerging from the North East as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, flies in the face of rationality.

This dangerous maneuver puts at risks nothing less than the survival of the structure of our government as set in place by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which recognises the Federal Character and ethno-religious paradigms of our union. If this terrible gamble scales through, what now passes for constitutional theory in most prestigious law schools, in many of our courts and in much of liberal C M Y K

egalitarian political agenda which no elected legislature will enact.

It is the view of this writer, therefore, that the country must run a democraticcapitalist government that must respect the geo-religious configuration instituted by our founding fathers. The simple premise of this argument is that democratic capitalism allows man more freedom to achieve his rightful place in the universe as a creature of dignity made in the image of God than any other socio-economic system. This does not mean it is perfect.

There is room for improvement. But when compared with other systems in the real world, democratic capitalism is vastly superior.

Currently, the Federation of Nigeria consists of three geo-political regions

The country must run a democratic-capitalist government that must respect the geo-religious configuration instituted by our founding fathers

nucleus inhabited by members of a cultural majority and a peripheral zone inhabited by cultural minorities which include both tribes and nationalities. In any political equation whereby the Commander-inChief is a Muslim, as is the case in the incoming administration, it is only logical that the Chairman of the National Assembly should be a Christian, to ensure a genuine balance of faith. Now that the APC government- in -waiting is disposed to zoning the Presidency of the Eight Senate to the North Central, it has to go to a Christian.

The North Central made up of the Tivs, Junkuns, Kabbas, Idomas, Yorubas, Igbiras, Biroms, and Nupes, etcetera, occupying the six states of Benue, Kogi, Taraba, Niger, Plateau and Kwara, consists of Nigerians who are predominantly Christians. Whatever is zoned to them must be headed by a Christian since Christians are in majority there. It is also necessary to emphasize that since the aggregate population of all the minority ethnic nationalities in Nigeria almost outweighs that of the so-called major tribes, any attempt to toss the minorities like a dice would no longer be acceptable. In contemplating the true meaning of honour and the integrity they preach, leaders of the victorious All Progressives Congress, APC, must support the emergence of a Christian minority as President of the

Eight Senate.

The assumption that adherents of a particular faith should and must man certain strategic positions in this big, irregular estate with faulty foundations called Nigeria is at the root of the endemic political unease which is threatening to tear the country apart. In fact, there is no national consensus on the issue of restructuring the federation because some power blocs still expect to gain superiority under the old rules.

In order to extricate itself from the maze of insinuations from certain quarters that it lacks internal democracy, the APC must be careful not to repeat the mistakes of the PDP which caused the latter to lose the 2015 general and presidential elections.

For example, why would a George Akume who worked so hard for the party from inception and eventually led the opposition as Minority Leader in the Senate be denied the Presidency of the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly due to ethnoreligious maneuvering? How then do we reward hardworking and patriotic individuals? Patriotism thrives on sacrifice and selfless service, and these can either be over-tasked or nourished. A nation where extreme individualism, selfishness and greed are fast replacing patriotism and collective drive for progress can only be inching towards the precipice, with its future shrouded in uncertainty.

*Mr Amor, a journalist and public affairs analyst, wrote from Abuja.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015— —19 Send Opinions & Letters to: opinions1234@yahoo.com

Cecil Rhodes: Colonising African minds HE attacks against African Africa Company (BSAC) had migrants in South Africa been given a Royal Charter to T drowned a salutary step taken run them as private estates. by that country against a major symbol of racism in the continent. After occupying a pride of place on the campus of the Cape Coast University, South Africa, the statue of British imperialist, Cecil John Rhodes unveiled 81 years ago, was removed on April 8, 2015. It was the culmination of protests by students, lecturers and other South African patriots. The decision to move the statue to the dustbin of history, was democratically taken by the 30member Council of the university. The sculpture was provocative; it was like having the statue of Adolf Hitler in West Jerusalem because his infamous acts propelled the creation of Israel.

The act of the university was one more step taken by Africa to cleanse itself of the infamous role Rhodes played in the brutal subjugation, exploitation and colonisation of the continent. The colonialists had renamed parts of Africa, Rhodesia, in honour of Rhodes whose British South

Back in 1964 at independence, Northern Rhodesia changed its name to Zambia, and fifteen years later, Southern Rhodesia where Rhodes is buried, was renamed Zimbabwe.

This decision on the statue, reminded me of a past that never seem to go away. As a primary school pupil in the Lagos of the early 1970s, we were taught some history as part of social studies. Our standard text book on history featured great figures we were taught to emulate. One of them was Cecil Rhodes. We learnt about some of these figures by rote. I recall very clearly that Rhodes was born in 1853.

It was in my undergraduate years when I joined some discerning and anti-apartheid organisations like the Alliance of Progressive Students (ALPS) of the then University of Ife (now OAU) and the Pan Nigerian Patriotic Youth Movement of Nigeria (PYMN) that I came to realise that part of my education was colonial.

I found out that Rhodes was the

grand father of apartheid in South Africa that condemned non-whites to decades of servitude, slavery, racism, violent and bloody repression.

How can a supposedly independent country like Nigeria which was also in the fore front of the anti-apartheid struggle, teach its impressionable young minds to emulate a person like Rhodes?

Rhodes was an unapologetic imperialist and racist who argued that the Englishman “…has won first prize in the lottery of life” and that England’s divine duty is to colonise the world. He said that was the will of God. Hitler was to make similar arguments for Germany in the 1930s,leading the world into a global war and unimaginable massacres.

His idea of how to guarantee world peace was for Britain to colonise all of Africa, Asia, Palestine and South America, incorporate the United States and give representatives of these people seats in the British Parliament. For him, Africa was

The sculpture was provocative; it was like having the statue of Adolf Hitler in West Jerusalem because his infamous acts propelled the creation of Israel

Time for Ndigbo to face and accept reality

By Clement Udegbe

E

LECTIONS 2015, came with some realities that are difficult to be understood by many Nigerians. For example, while GEJ and his ruling People Democratic Party, PDP,may feel betrayed by many of their supporters in the North and South west of Nigeria, GMB even in his victory, would be surprised, if not shocked by the gale of defections from the ruling party to his own party, following the announcement of the March 28 results, and the godly concession of victory by GEJ. GMB will soon realise also, that the people who can really be trusted in Nigerian politics are the Igbos, who have remained predictable in every election, since we started our walk with democracy after the civil war. From the NPN/NPP accord in 1980s to the present day PDP, Ndigbo had voted en-block in support of the North, who has continued to exploit the suspicion between the Igbos and Yorubas on one hand, and between Ndigbo and the South -South on the other hand, to dictate the pace and beat of Nigeria politics and leadership.

You may call it divide and rule tactics, but the last elections has more than any before it, re-echoed that times have changed, the game of Nigerian politics have brought some stack realities, with it, which Ndigbo refused to accept all the while.

Some of these stack realities as unpleasant as they may appear , include first, that ethnicity, religion and greed are the three main pillars of Nigerian politics. The North voted massively for one of theirs in an election that was C M Y K

manipulated badly by the umpire, INEC under the leadership of a northerner.

Even, members of the ruling PDP in the North voted for one of theirs GMB, in Bauchi, Kaduna, Plateau, and Niger against GEJ who was a Christian and perceived as an Igbo man by the North.

Second, the North has remained in their fear of an Igbo man, becoming President, 45 years after the civil war, but the Igbos painfully, have failed to accept and face this reality. Governor Rochas Okorocha,of Imo, the only Igbo APC Governor, who boasted, that GMB promised to hand over power to him come 2019, will have realised by now, that it is what APC decides as a party will happen and not any of those merry- go- round

Why can’t Ndigbo close their eyes to this cursed oil money of Nigeria, and focus on reforming their agriculture, and industrial revolution, by a deliberate shift from importation to manufacturing?

good only for three things; land to exploit raw materials, “cheap slave labour” and market for surplus English goods.

Rhodes was a philanthropist, provided it brings in some profit; the Rhodes scholarship he initiated was for people from countries who can be molded by Oxford University in English culture, ideas and interests.

Rhodes who in 1888, cofounded De Beers Consolidated Mines and created a monopoly that manipulated the world diamond market, was Prime Minister of the Cape Colony from 1890 -96. It was in this position, he made three fundamental contributions to the racist policies and laws that metamorphosed into Apartheid South Africa. First was his 1892 Franchise and Ballot Act which sought to disenfranchise blacks by placing financial and Western education qualifications to be eligible to vote. In later years, the vote was given to whites only.

Two years later, his government passed the Glen Gray Act which abolished the indigenous African communal lands and limited land ownership by non-whites. In 1913, the racists expanded this into the Land Act under which blacks were restricted to seven percent of the lands.

The Rhodes Government also legislated the Labour Tax which forced the black people to work in the white-owned commercial farms or industry in order to be able to pay the tax and survive.

In post-apartheid and independent South Africa, it is untenable to have the statue of such a man occupy a pride of place.

I recall that in Nigeria, the statue of Queen Elizabeth was for

electoral promises by GMB. They are now in power, and the rest is history! That is change!

No northern President will hand over power to you as an Igbo man, when you lack any political base, because you have the organised South West and North Central to contend with, and more importantly, you were defeated in a civil war, and your existence today is by a concession owed to General Yakubu Gowon, a northerner, who apparently from recent reports, still has issues against the avowed Igbo leader, late Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu.

As clear as these issues appear to be, Ndigbo will not accept, face and deal with the political reality of it all.

Third, is that no ethnic group really likes the Ndigbo in Nigeria. With every due respect, Ndigbo, to other ethnic Nigerians, appear like the proverbial house fly that has perched on the scrotum. If you hit it hard you hurt yourself, and if you leave it you bear great discomfort.

In the North they call us “Nyamiri” , which means Nyem Mmiri, “give me water” an unfortunate reminder of the pleadings of the victims of the 1966 genocide, in Kano, Kaduna and most northern states. In the South West, they call us “Aje okuta ma mu omi” meaning “people who eat stones without drinking water”, in acknowledgement of the survival spirit of the Igbo man! No matter how long the mangrove stays under water, it can never become a crocodile.

Just like the Jew will remain a stranger no matter how long he lived in Egypt, so will an Igbo man remain a visitor, no matter how long he lives in Yoruba, Tiv, Idoma, Urhobo, Ijaw, Efik, Ibibio, Igbira or Housa Land in Nigeria. Ndigbo are afraid to accept and face this reality.

Fourth,is that the feeling among Ndigbo, of betrayal by the South Southerners during the civil war has worked more to the loss of both regions than any other fact. It has remained a

many years at the entrance of the Parliament Building, Race Course, Lagos until student protests forced its removal. Such statue belongs to the museum or some art gallery.

The Rhodes story in Nigeria educational system is just one example of how colonial our education system can be. Due to lack of critical scholarship and political clarity, we adopt the colonial narration and history for our education system. What our education system end up producing are what Franz Fanon called Black skin, White masks; black people with colonial orientation or the mentality of the colonised.

I also recall that in primary school in Lagos, we were taught that the infamous British pirate, Sir Francis Drake was an exemplary patriot, noble man and a role model, as was Bolden Powel who founded the Boys Scout Movement. Conveniently left out is the fact that the Boys Scout was set up to spy on Africans in South Africa and smoke them out of their hideouts to be killed, or burnt while sleeping in their caves. There is no reason why the Nigerian child should be taught that Frederick Lugard amalgamated the country in 1914 without teaching him that Lugard, a retired British major, was a mercenary contracted by the East African/Royal British Company to militarily defeat and colonise the Ugandans, the Sokoto Empire in Nigeria and the Asanti Region in Ghana.

Social studies is necessary and history should be made compulsory to high school level.

But we need to re-write history from the perspective of the African, not of the colonialists.

weak link, that has been fully exploited by the North and South west since after that war. Elections 2015, have merged them together, reinforcing their bonds, and it is about time, they opened their eyes to the potentials in their working and walking together. A common political base among them will give them 11 solid states, and with oil as bedrock, no one will overlook them or push them around any more in this country. The questions remain;will the South East and Southsouth team up to stop their detractors from driving sledge hammers in between their relationships ? And who will bail the cat?

The South East, and South South can close their eyes and develop a deep sea port that will serve both regions in Bayelsa state, which has one of the deepest sea port potentials in sub-saharan Africa. If United Arab Emirates could create a world class deep sea port from the desert in Dubai, why can’t we have same to serve the Lower Niger Area in Bayelsa? They can also muster the resources to standard rail lines and transportation systems, also, without the monthly federal allocations.

I do not yet see why the Ndigbo who refined their own oil during the war within one year, cannot wake up and build three or more refineries borrowing ideas from Singapore, that has no oil, but operate twelve refineries.

Why can’t Ndigbo close their eyes to this cursed oil money of Nigeria, and focus on reforming their agriculture, and industrial revolution, by a deliberate shift from importation to manufacturing?

Let Igbo land be the source of eggs and poultry, sheep, goats, piggery, and aquatic agriculture for the West African sub region.

We can surely do it, if we can shut our minds and doors, and call the bluff of the north, and all that.

•Mr. Udegbe, a legal practitioner, wrote from Lagos.

20 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015

Nursing mother raped by masquerade graduates, thanks Vanguard, others

By Chinenyeh Ozor, Nsukka

Appeals for help to further education

“Having acquired NCE from a recognised college of education, I still want to study further, to have a degree in education at any Nigerian university. I am appealing to all public-spirited individuals, corporate bodies, philanthropists and donor agencies, both at home and in the diaspora, to assist me achieve my life ambition to acquire a degree in education.

I will definitely make sure that I train some indigent and lessprivileged Nigerians because the society showed me love and affection. So, I have to reciprocate the love.”

Ngozi’s father expresses appreciation

*Ngozi Ugwu, with her baby, responding to questions from Vanguard’s correspondent me to be somebody in the society after I was raped by a masquerade. I was amazed by the love Nigerians showed to

me; I sincerely appreciated the support given to me. I do not know how to contact some of the good Samaritans who helped me, but my prayer is that God will surely pay them back individually and collectively.

I have forgiven the masquerade that raped me and pray God to forgive him; let the masquerade show total remorse before any ordained man of God if he has not done so

Mass in Diaspora for me

Appreciation to Nigerians

In her words: “I appreciate all the kind Nigerians who on reading the ugly story of my rape by a smelly masquerade reached me on phone, advised me to take heart, that God will definitely see me through in life, and to be prayerful. Today I am an NCE graduate through the help of these good Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora. A good number of Nigerian priests held holy mass for me without my knowledge, all for C M Y K

Tests negative to HIV/ AIDS and other infectious diseases

“I went for HIV/AIDS test at a general hospital six months after the masquerade raped me and the result showed negative. Other tests of infectious diseases were equally carried out and they also came out negative. I have forgiven the masquerade that raped me and pray God to forgive him. Let the masquerade show total remorse before any ordained man of God if he has not done so since three years of the heinous rape. He should abstain from hiding under a masquerade to attack and defile women. I appreciate the fact that masquerade has been banned in the community since the rape incident.

T

HREE years ago she was an object of pity after Vanguard reported her rape by a masquerade at Opi community in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State. But that humiliating experience did not dampen her zeal to carry on with life by continuing her academic programme at the Enugu State College of Education (Technical). Today, Ugwu Ngozi Virgina, 32, a nursing mother, has not only graduated from the school, but is a proud holder of a National Certificate of Education, NCE, in Biology/ Chemistry from the institution.

The turning point for Ngozi was when Vanguard reported her rape ordeal, courtesy of a masquerade. The report had elicited national outrage, prompting many publicspirited Nigerians, both home and abroad, to rally to her aid.

A good number of Nigerians sent cash, including in foreign currencies, through her bank account, published along with her rape story on May 30, 2012.

The support was to enable her complete her NCE programme at the Enugu State College of Education which she had to abandon at 200 level following her rape by the masquerade on her way to fetch water in the community.

Basking in the euphoria of her academic accomplishment, Ngozi is also full of appreciation to Vanguard newspapers for the role it played in helping her overcome the rape trauma.

Ngozi noted that rape story filed by Vanguard’s correspondent in the university town of Nsukka made people from different walks of life to reach out to her. She said she received a lot of financial assistance after her rape story was published in two major national and international tabloids of the same date.

my baby girl; since then my poor parents have been doing their little best for the upkeep of my baby.

“A Catholic priest outside the country called me on phone to confirm my identity. He later held mass service, raised money from the congregation and sent same to me. People also sent dollars to me while other priests in Nigeria held mass services for me. I think that was why I was able to graduate from the College of

Education without any stress.

Nigerians truly helped me out.

Some people sent N10, 000, others N50, 000 to me. In fact, good Nigerians bankrolled my studies at my institution. I am appreciative of the sympathy shown to me during my moment of temptation.

Family background

“My parents are peasant farmers. My father is a mason at Adani in Uzuo-Uwani LGA while my aged mother farms in the village and takes care of my five-year-old baby; my brothers are petty traders at Onitsha in Anambra State. I am the only girl born to my parents. The man who was to be my husband dumped me and ran away immediately I delivered

Ngozi’s father, Mr Marcellinus Ugwu also had words of appreciation to all those who rallied to his daughter ’s assistance.

According to him: “Now that I have seen the Vanguard reporter for the first time three years after my daughter was defiled by a masquerade, I feel that I have seen others who assisted financially. The Lord’s doing was marvelous in my family. I do not know how to thank all the people, both at home and abroad, but only to pray God to protect and replenish their purses. With their permission, I’m still appealing for further assistance to enable her(Ngozi) acquire a degree at any university in Nigeria.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Nigerians seek transparent disbursement of oil revenue ...call for passage of PIB

By Chioma Obinna

F

OLLOWING an audit report recently released by Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, NEITI, stakeholders have called for effective and transparent disbursement of fiscal allocation of proceeds from the oil sector.

The stakeholders made the call during a three-day workshop by Centre for Public Private Cooperation, CCPC (a non-governmental organization), in collaboration with NEITI and Department For International Development, DFID, in Lagos, to sensitise civil societies in the South West on ways of deepening their advocacies in ensuring transparency in disbursement of fiscal allocation of proceeds from Extractive Industries.

They alleged lack of transparency in disbursement of revenue accruable to governments from the nation’s extractive industries, and reiterated the need for the passage of petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, into law.

The workshop focused on the 2007-2011 Fiscal Allocation and Statutory Disbursement (FASD) Audit Report recently released

by NEITI, which for the first time revealed government earnings in the nation’s oil and gas sector. The stakeholders drawn from Civil Society organisations, Non Governmental Organisations, (NGOs), academia, the media,

Stakeholder laments poor budgetary allocation for Calabar port dredging

By Evelyn Usman & Godwin Oritse and maritime Astakeholder lawyer, Dr. Nsikak Ediom

AWARD: From left: President, Business Education Examinations Council (BEEC), Mazi

Mike Okereke; Director General, Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr. Juliet Chukkas-Onaeko; and Senior Management Consultant, The Management School, London, Dr. David Demetrius, during the presentation of “The Best Performing Government Parastatals’ Award For Excellence” to ITF’s boss by BEEC, in Lagos.

women organizations, state actors and religious organisations were equipped with information to enable them ask critical questions about how oil revenue were being disbursed among various tiers of governments and agencies of government.

In her view, the Programme Officer of CCPC, Mrs. Kenny Williams, said the NEITI report was an attempt at promoting transparency and accountability in the industry as it revealed for the first time, how much the country is earning and people could not act on the information to ask 1.60 $129.65 relevant questions with view to holding $2,950.00 2.00 g o v e r n m e n t accountable. “We know 12.75 -0.12 that nations that are rich in oil and gas that often times, the oil is $66.22 -1.55 like a predicament. It is a paradox of a rich nation with poor 59.35 -1.58 people.” Williams urged Civil Society CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL Organisations (CSOs) DOLLAR 196 196.5 197 to utilise the POUNDS3 298.5472 299.3088 300.0704 opportunity provided EURO 220.1276 220.6892 221.2507 by the workshop to FRANC 212.0753 212.6163 213.1573 deepen their advocacy YEN 1.6357 1.6398 1.644 in oil and gas revenue CFA 0.3141 0.3241 0.3341 tracking in the South WAUA 273.6742 274.3724 275 .07 West. She said the call YUAN 31.6089 31.6931 31.7711 was necessary in view RIYAL 52.2569 52.3902 52.5235 KRONA 29.4848 29.56 29.6352 of the far-reaching SDR 275.38 276.0825 276.785 recommendations contained in the CBN Exchange Rate as at 07/ 05 /15 report.

C M Y K

— 21

The programme officer who expressed optimism that with the new government, the changes that Nigerians are yearning for in the oil and gas sector will become a reality said the CSO s are expected to step down the information contained in the report to the members of the society particularly the grassroots. “The people should be aware of how much Nigeria is earning and where these monies are being disbursed. And the question now is government putting into accounts those monies that have been collected? How well are

The people should be aware of how much Nigeria is earning and where these monies are being disbursed

they using these monies so that lives of the better lot of Nigerians will be improved at the end of the day?”

In his own submission, the Director of CPPC, Prof.

Ademola Ariyo said the workshop was specifically for oil and gas revenue tracking and advocacy in the South West. He lamented that the operations in the oil and gas sector has over the years been shrouded in secrecy making it a black box, which breeds corruption. “The 2007-2011 Fiscal Allocation and Statutory Disbursement (FASD) audit report recently released by Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) offered an opportunity for the incoming government to turn the black box into a white box. The report will empower the public particularly, the stakeholders and civil societies to empower them with information since information is power having being equipped with information and the intent is to step down training with step down information to other members of the society and at the end of the day, everybody is aware of how much Nigeria is earning and how these money are being disbursed,” Ariyo stated.

The Team Leader Outreach for NEITI, Mrs. Obageli Onuorah said the recommendations and findings by the reports if implemented would reform the oil and gas sectors.

has lamented the poor budgetary allocation for the Calabar Port dredging project, a development he said may work against the economic growth of the South South and South East region of the country.

Ediom said that the attitude of the NPA management seem to be stalling the project saying that “the current NPA management does not want the dredging of the Calabar which is very strategic to the economic growth of the country and the SouthSouth and South-East regions in particular.

“This project is very key to the administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. He must ensure that priority attention is given to it before he hands over to the incoming administration on May 29, 2015.All those seen to be sabotaging the effort must be called to order.”

The contract for the dredging was awarded by the Federal Government to a consortium of companies led by Niger Global Engineering & Technical Company Limited with Royal Boskalis and Westminster Dredging Company through the NPA’s special purpose vehicle (SPV), Calabar Channel Management Company Limited (CCML) but it is being starved of funds by the NPA management which prefers to allocate larger sums to the Lagos and Bonny Channels whose physical infrastructure had already been developed and may not have activities in terms of actual work to match their budgetary allocations.

The action of the NPA management has raised concerns by maritime watchers who wondered why the management would not allocate little funds to the Calabar Channel dredging project which has massive infrastructural outlay which includes the ongoing capital dredging campaign.

They believe that the action of the management is a subtle attempt to frustrate and bring to oblivion, one of the major achievements of the outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration as the port is expected to come to life after decades of lying in comatose.

22—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Guinness Nigeria issues N10bn commercial paper •Standard Chartered acts as lead arranger

By Peter Egwuatu

G

•From left Mrs. Taba Peterside, General Manager/Head, Listings Sales and Retention, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Executive Director, Business Development, NSE; Mallam Bello Maccido, Group CEO, FBN Holdings and Mr. Bisi Onasanya, Group Managing Director/CEO, First Bank at the FBN Holdings Facts Behind the Figures presentation at the exchange.

Ashaka Cement to invest N130bn in expansion projects

By Peter Egwuatu & Michael Eboh

A

bY

shaka Cement Plc has announced plans to invest about N130 billion in the nearest future to expand its operations and grow the company.

The company’s profit for the financial year 2014stood at N4.567 billion, rising by 61.69 per cent from N2.824 billion recorded in 2013, while total comprehensive income for the year grew by 92.64 per cent to N5.04 billion, from N2.616 billion in 2013.

Shareholders of the company approved the board’s proposal to pay a dividend of 45 kobo per ordinary shares , calling on the company to make effort to ensure a significant growth in dividend payout in the years ahead.

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting, AGM of the company held in Abuja, Chairman of the Ashaka Cement Plc, Mallam Suleiman Yahyah, said the investment will see the company expanding its cement production capacity to about four million metric tonnes per annum and will also lead to the construction of 64 megawatts captive coal-fired power plants.

Yahyah noted that the expansion programme was earlier derailed by the twin attack on the company by insurgents in 2014, stating that the company is currently reviewing its strategy to ensure its survival and growth.

He described 2014 as its ‘most difficult year’, adding that the company has lost a minimum of N2.5 billion post balance sheet, as a result of the attack by the insurgents.He, however, commended the management of

the company for their ability to deliver exceptional performance in spite of the daunting challenges faced by the company in the year under review.

He said, “It was by God’s grace that we delivered this financial performance despite the attacks on our facility. After the attacks, we were faced with shutting down or scaling down our

We decided to continue despite the challenge, which is mainly why we are posting these result today.

operations, especially as, majority of our staff had to flee at some point in time, leaving about 200 left out of about 700 staff at the facility.

“Our strategic assets had to be moved out of the facility to safer location, for the safety of the country and we had to continually seek approval to carry on certain aspect of our operations. These actions and others are not sustainable for any company. We decided to continue despite the challenge, which is mainly why we are posting these result today.”

Yahyah further stated that the company hopes to tap into the opportunity presented by the reconstruction projects in the north-east, the deficit in urban housing stock and the urgent need by governments at all levels to upgrade various road networks in the country.

Wema Bank to focus on retail banking to boost profitability •Shareholders task Board on dividend payment

By Peter Egwuatu

W

ema Bank Plc has disclosed that it will focus more on retail and commercial banking to enhance profitability, even as shareholders tasked the Board of Directors to do everything possible to pay dividend for the next financial year, 2015.

Some of the shareholders who spoke at the AGM, such as Messrs Sola Abodunrin, Nonah Awoh stated that the bank should reduce its cost to income ratio in order to make good returns . They said “Shareholders have waited patiently for the bank to pay dividend. We cannot continue to wait indefinitely. it is time for the bank to start paying dividend and we hope next financial year , we should get something as compensation for our investment .”

C M Y K

They also called on the Board of Directors to consider any of the minority shareholders who will represent them on the board.

Speaking at the 2014 Annual General Meeting, AGM in Lagos, Chairman of Wema Bank Plc, Mr. Adeyinka Asekun commended the shareholders for their patience , stating that the tight monetary policy stance of the CBN is expected to continue in 2015. He stressed that the success recorded in inflation management continues to be overshadowed by the threat of exchange rate volatility and stabilizing the naira is likely to be the main focus area for the apex bank in 2015.

According to him “In spite of the harsh economic environment expected in 2015, we will continue to leverage on our strength, with heavy focus on the retail and commercial banking space. We will continue to build capacity and leverage on technology and innovation. We will

be profitable in 2015 but in a responsible way. As such, the bank will continue to be guided by the robust risk management platforms we have put in place.”

Commenting on the outlook for the bank, Wema Bank Chairman said “It is expected to consolidate and build on the successes of 2014 and the prior years. According to him “ The benchmarks for the bank in 12015, as it has been in recent times, will continue to be challenging as we push the limits of what is attainable.

The bank’s financial position shows that total assets rose by 15 per cent to N382 billion in 2014 as against N331 billion in 2013; Deposits grew by 19 per cent to N259 billion from N218 billion in 2013; Gross earnings up by 14 per cent to N42 billion from N37 billion in 2013; Profit Before Tax was N3.09 billion up by 59 per cent over N1.9 billion in 2013; Non Performing Loans, NPL ratio up by 2.49 per cent from 3.9 per cent in 2013.

uinness Nigeria Plc, a quoted company on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE has issued a N10 billion commercial paper as part of its financial strategy Meanwhile, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited and Standard Chartered Securities Nigeria Limited have acted as both issuing, calculation and paying agent and as joint lead arranger respectively on the N10billion Domestic Commercial Paper, CP Issuance Programme for Guinness Nigeria. This was announced at a formal signing ceremony in Lagos recently.

Attendees at the signing ceremony included representatives of the FMDQ OTC, a Securities and Exchange Commission licensed over-thecounter market operator for fixed income securities.

The N 10billion Commercial Paper Programme represents the first CP Programme to be established by a (non-financial institution) corporate issuer following the new guidelines on commercial paper from the Central Bank of Nigeria published in 2009. In that regard, Guinness clearly demonstrates its innovative approach towards executing the company ’s financing strategy in an increasingly dynamic market environment.

Commenting on the transaction, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited , Standard Chartered Bank CEO is Mrs .

Bola Adesola said “Standard Chartered is proud to have played a leading role in supporting this ground breaking Commercial Paper programme for Guinness Nigeria Plc. This is the first of its kind transaction, following the new CBN guidelines, creates a template for other similar transactions. We believe this is the beginning of many more opportunities to support institutional growth for our clients and the continuous development of the economy at large. This is clearly in line with our commitment to be “here for good”.

Stanbic-IBTC Capital Limited served as joint arrangers, Aluko & Oyebode acted as legal counsel while KPMG acted as auditors to the issuers.

Guinness Nigeria is a part of Diageo, a global leader in beverage alcohol, with an outstanding collection of brands across beer, spirits and wine categories, according to the statement.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 —23

Nigerian food exports get boost with SON’s lab

By Jimoh Babatunde with agency reports

W

ITH the commissioning of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)’s Chemical and Food Technology Laboratories in Lagos recently, experts said that Nigeria’s agricultural products would no longer suffer rejection at the global market.

Before now, Nigeria has to depend on neighbouring country, Ghana to export products to the world, because the country’s products faced rejection in international market with statistics showing that Nigeria recorded the highest number of 102 rejects in the global market when compared with other countries in the African continent between 2012 and 2013.

But with the SON’s recently commissioned laboratories, non-oil exports have received a major boost as products after being tested and certified by the SON will no longer be subjected to any kind of testing anywhere in the world. The laboratory, according to SON, will help to prevent huge financial losses the country had lost over the years.

The SON achieved the feat late 2014, following the International laboratory Accreditation Corporation (ILAC)’s unprecedented testing and accreditation which represents a high water marks in efforts towards boosting the non-oil sector not only for Nigeria’s economy but that of Sub-Saharan Africa.

Indeed, the effective utilisation of the internationally accredited microbiology laboratory is expected to mitigate a potential loss of about $6.9 billion projected to be incurred from rejections of export items by developing countries to developed nations this year as projected by a recent World Bank report.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, during the commissioning of the laboratory, expressed delight, saying that the laboratory’s accreditation was in the proc-

Odumodu ess of being expanded to cover areas of micro nutrient, cable, refrigeration and cement construction materials.

Aganga stressed that the laboratory is an integral part of the national quality infrastructure which the federal government is building for the country.

“It is a shame that as a nation after 50 years, we never had one and this is what this administration is leaving behind. For the first time in history, we now have a quality policy which took us a long time,” he said.

He added that the plummeting oil price is a wakeup call as a country, saying that the nation can no longer depend on one product for foreign exchange. According to Minister the for a mono-product economy has gone, adding that this was why the National Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) was launched to create value addition to all the nation’s commodities.

The Director General, SON, Dr. Joseph Odumodu said the new laboratory will put an end to Nige-

Aganga rian goods being rejected in the international market, saying that the laboratory is for a specific competence which boasts of conducting chemical and biological testing for agricultural products in the country.

He said it was the first time a Nigerian laboratory was accredited, maintaining that it was worth celebrating because it will save the economy a lot of cost from the nation’s goods being destroyed and rejected at the foreign markets.

He urged SMEs to take advantage of this golden opportunity to push their products to the world, pointing out that the laboratory is coming at a time when some of the country’s agricultural products do not meet global standard and competitiveness He said Nigeria has now entered a stage which he called the map for world quality” due to the recent launch of the laboratory Meanwhile, Chairman, Honeywell Group, Oba Otudeko said the significance of SON’s world class food and chemical laboratories is very pivotal to the na-

tion’s rapid economic development, particularly now that the manufacturing and agricultural sectors are being focused on as part of economic diversification.

He pointed out that for a long time, Nigeria has suffered from the absence and lack of internationally certified facilities to serve as impetus for the country’s efforts towards economic diversification and export promotion.

Otudeko said as stakeholders in the nation’s industrial sector and indeed other non-oil productive areas, his company has been under negative effects of over-dependence on oil and imported goods while the nation’s local products continued to experience market resistance locally and internationally.

“However, it is heart warming to know that we are on the way to redressing this situation with what SON has done. The accredited

Kenyan farmers visit South African GM crops fields

M

ORE than thirty stakeholders from Kenya, mainly farmers, participated in a one week study tour to South Africa recently to see how farmers in South Africa have adopted useful technologies that address their challenges.

The participants visited five farms, including Ephraim Mogale’s municipality in Limpopo Province and Boekenhoutskloof in Gauteng Province. They held discussions with farmers, government officials, biosafety officers, and technology developers. From these engagements, it emerged that adoption of GM crops in South Africa was farmer driven.

“We were fed up with weeding and spraying pesticides to control bollworms and weeds.

When the technology was introduced, we rapidly picked it up,” said Frans Mallela, one of the large-scale farmers in Limpopo Province. According to Mr. Mallela, since he started growing GM cotton, he recorded an increase in yields, from 4 hectares to 150 hectares.

He has moved from GM cotton with a single trait to stacked traits (insect resistance and herbicide tolerance). “Cotton with the two traits does not require a big land for refugia.

This helps me to maximize on yields,” said Mallela. “When I first went into farming, as a part time job, I used to plant

conventional maize and the harvest never went beyond one tonne per hectare. Now with biotechnology, I get up to 7 tonnes per hectare if the rain is good,” Mr. Mallela added.

The participants were impressed with the way South African farmers are enthusiastic about the benefits of GM crops.

“Some of us have heard negative stories about the GM technology. We are going to urge our own government to avail this technology to Kenyan farmers because we have similar circumstances with South African farmers” said Mr. Titus Ndalemia, a farmer from Machakos, Eastern Kenya.

It is a shame that as a nation after 50 years, we never had one and this is what this administration is leaving behind.

For the first time in history, we now have a quality policy which took us a long time,

laboratories would boost the nation’s diversification and export promotion drive. One cheering news and indeed a key positive development from SON’s establishment of the accredited labs is that once local products are tested and certified, they are automatically accepted to have met local and global standards.

He said Nigeria has all it takes to be a net exporter with its abundant human, material and natural resources, saying that the country cannot afford to remain largely import dependent.

He counselled that Nigeria must strive to improve exports of raw materials and industrial goods for improved balance of trade with its global trading partners, noting that the standardisation of locally manufacturers’ products in line with acceptable world best practices is a key requirement in this regard.

“We will surely benefit immensely from SON’s accredited labs. I suggest that SON should continue on a proper sensitisation campaign which would enable the SMEs and agro allied operators across the country to key into the latest development. On our part, as a manufacturing enterprise, we will continue to support and collaborate with SON in its committed efforts to drive the nation’s economy through appropriate standard elaborations.

Appropriate standard According to the industrialist if standards are maintained and adhered to, fake and sub-standard products would definitely go out of circulation and would pave way for the nation’s agro-allied and local industries to thrive, arguing that SON owed it a duty to facilitate the development and accreditation of private laboratories across the country for the use of small and medium scale enterprises.

“Granted that standards are SMEs and market-driven, today’s products, especially locally produced ones, require regular standard reviews in order to meet global competitiveness. SON should not relent in its efforts to evaluate products or sectors in dire need of standard reviews, so that we will continue to march along with the rest of the world,” he said The Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Segun Awolowo said some of the factors responsible for the rejection of exported food items include non-compliance with regulatory requirements for processed and semi-processed commodities, non-compliance with documentation requirements, incorrect filling of information for entry, among others.

He noted that developing countries including Nigeria seem to face considerable problems in meeting food safety hygiene requirements for exporting food items to developed countries, and said it is therefore of immense challenge to meet standards requiring more sophisticated monitoring.

24 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council and its new mandate

By Godwin Oritse In the beginning

E

STABLISHED in 1978, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council was primarily charged with the responsibility of protecting the interests of Nigerian shippers. This, it is expected to do through provision of adequate and up-to-date trade information to Nigerian importers and exporters as well as the international business and shipping community.

The Council also has a Shippers’ Complaints Unit, through which it attends to the numerous needs of shippers. It also operates through the Shippers’ Associations that have been created all over the country.

The Council has also had to take on other responsibilities that are adjunct to the execution of its immediate mandate. One of such is the conceptualization of Inland Container Depots (ICDs) and Container Freight Stations (CFS).

But, in its efforts to protect interest of Nigerian shippers, the Council was for a long time erroneously perceived as a toothless bulldog.

It is a known fact that for many years, the Shippers’ Council fought unsuccessfully to check the arbitrary imposition of charges by suppliers of shipping services - the multinational shipping lines. For years, the shipping agents successfully dared the Council.

It was usual to see the various shipping lines/ agents take on the Nigerian Shippers’ Council at will and dared it to punish them.

The inability to successfully call the shipping lines to order in the face of glaring arbitrariness rubbed the Council of the muchneeded respect as opportunists took advantage of the loophole in the Council’s enabling Act.

By Godwin Oritse, with agency report

M

HANDING OVER: From left, the out-going Managing Director Habib Abdulahi handing over files of the authority to the newly appointed NPA boss, Alhaji Sanusi Lamido Ado Bayero who officially took over the leadership of the agency on Wednesday.

Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Council.

Regulation

Specifically, the new role includes assessment of options for competition, deciding on entry rules, regulating pricing freedom and monitoring the outcomes.

Effective regulation requires much more than just competent economic and financial analysis, but it must also manage often complex interaction with the regulated firms, consumers, politi- cians, courts, the media, and a range of other interests. It is essential that the regulator provides a level playing field among the various actors.

A Regulator needs to be independent, transparent, legitimate and credible, bearing in mind that the transition to a competitive market is a major reg- ulatory challenge. It is also germane that the regulatory pro- cess is fair to all parties, by not taking arbitrary decision and by balancing the needs of stake- holders.

Exhibiting a good understand-

Port concession without regulation

This went on and even the flagoff of the Federal Government’s port reform programme in 2006 did not make much difference as defiant providers of shipping and terminal services continue to ripoff Nigerian importers.

The Government noticed that the service providers were taking advantage of the vacuum created by lack of a post-concession regulator of the port system. It acknowledged that there was absence of an Economic Regulator that will act as a referee in port activities.

And as an answer to this, the Federal Government in February 2014 appointed Nigerian Shippers’ Council as the Economic Regulator of the ports.

It is significant to note that this new role came just few months after Barrister Hassan Bello was appointed as the Executive C M Y K

Migrant rescue takes front burner at World Maritime Congress

ing of its new mandate, the Council’s Executive Secretary; Mr Hassan Bello said: “Effective regulation requires much more than just competent economic and financial analysis, but must also manage often complex interaction with the regulated firms, consumers, politicians, courts, the media, and a range of other interests”.

And apparently conscious of the challenges of the role of the Council, he acknowledge that: “In our capacity as the Port Eco- nomic Regulator, our role is to consult, coordinate, moderate and harmonize the various processes and procedures with a view to achieving operational efficiency at our ports. Where there is unreasonable resistance, we shall not hesitate to apply appropriate sanctions to ensure compliance.

We shall remain open, independent, neutral and consul- tative and all decisions will be based on the buy in of stakeholders. We are also to assess options for competition; to decide on entry rules; to regulate on pricing freedom; to monitor outcomes and all that”.

Carrying everyone along

The government noticed that the service providers were taking advantage of the vacuum created by lack of a post-concession regulator of the port system

The involvement of stakeholders is an important source of legitimacy and public acceptability for regulatory agencies and their decision-making procedures.

As a start-off, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council met with all stakeholders, including freight forwarders, shipping agents, importers, private terminal operators, all of whom acknowledged the need to have an umpire to regulate activities of the various players.

As a follow up, the Council has also met and received the support of the Nigeria Ports Authourity (NPA), whose managing director; Mallam Habib Abdullahi affirmed that: “it would amount to failure on the part of NPA if the Nigerian Shippers Council fails”.

At the meeting, the Managing Director assured that the NPA is

ready to cooperate and support the Shippers’ Council in its new role as the economic regulator of the nation’s port system.

In similar vein, the CEO of Shippers’ Council has held similar consultations with the Nigeria Customs Service and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). At these meetings, the CEOs of the agencies gave assurances of their support.

The new port order

While giving an insight into what the Shippers’ Council is doing to further entrench its new role and espouse a new port order, he disclosed that it is establishing a new plat- form for everyone to integrate.

Experts explain that the new port order involves a situation where the cargo is scanned before it is stacked. As the ship is discharging, the cargo is also being scanned, and the im- age is used by the Nigeria Customs Service to commence clearing process in terms of segregating the cargo for whatever line of inspection, such as: green, yellow and red light, as the case may be.

On the new port order, Bello says: “We are working with the CBN, Customs and other relevant stakeholders so that every payment made in the maritime domain is reflected on the platform.

In doing this, we have designed a tem- plate and standard tariff system that will ensure 30 to 40 percent reduction in cost to achieve harmony in tariff. This involves all service providers.

The system harmonizes every transaction in such a way that transfer of containers to off-dock terminal does not attract extra charge in terms of payment of royalty to the terminal operator.” He insists that transfer of containers to off-dock facilities should not attract extra charge, and assured that the “practice will be discontinued as it amounts to double charges to the shippers”.

IGRANT rescue will be one of a range of important issues to be discussed at the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF)’s World Maritime Rescue Congress to be held from June 1-4 in Bremerhaven, Germany.

The event will include a presentation from Martin Xuereb, Director of MOAS (Migrant Offshore Aid Station) on the challenges of rescuing migrants in the Mediterranean.

MOAS acts as an aid station to support vessels in need of assistance, coordinating its efforts with search and rescue authorities around the Mediterranean and last year helped save 3,000 migrants during its 60 day mission.

Over 200,000 migrants in distress were rescued by Governmental and Non-Governmental Search and Rescue (SAR) organisations and merchant ships in 2014, but more than 3,000 lives were lost. Concerns are increasing: the number needing to be rescued this year is expected to escalate.

The increasing loss of lives has led to high level talks amongst European States and in the SAR community.

There will be further discussion of the migrant rescue issue at the Congress.

James Vaughan, International Director for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), will address another major issue – drowning – a global problem that requires action across a range of Governments and agencies.

Delegates will hear that an estimated 40 people drown every hour of every day and amongst young people (1-24), it is one of the 10 leading causes of death around the world.

Overall, the death toll from drowning is two thirds of that from malnutrition and well over half of that from malaria.

James will refer to the World Health Organization (WHO)’s important new Global Report on Drowning that suggests a ten point plan for countries to adopt and which includes some obvious areas for the maritime SAR community to be involved in. He will ask whether all those at the Congress should be lobbying their respective Governments and relevant bodies to support the WHO’s recommendations.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 25

O

Emirates, SA Tourism sign agreement on joint marketing

n her first cruise and where I went on my first cruise in 2006, aboard Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas which was one of the largest cruise ships at the time. It was a 7-night Mediterranean sailing, out of Barcelona, Spain round trip, with stops in Italy and France.

On what the experience was like The experience is really indescribable. I had so much fun, no sea sickness, no rocking from side to side as one may imagine. One could easily forget that one was not on land.

There was so much to eat and drink, entertainment galore, loads of activities with no dull moment.

My favourite activity by far was attending the Broadway productions. It is still what I enjoy doing most on any sailing. The ship was like a mini land resort with every amenity one will need, plus the fact that I could visit so many places in one week without stress, got me hooked! That trip for me was one week of utopia!

On why anyone should go on a cruise It is an easy and convenient way to travel. You unpack once and journey from port to remarkable port on any fleet of innovative ships. You will experience the best of the region you are visiting in one cruise vacation. There is nothing easier than simply waking up in the morning in the world’s most exciting and interesting cities. For example, on a 12day Grand Mediterranean voyage you will visit nine ports of call including Barcelona, Istanbul, Athens, Rome, Venice and more.

Enjoy exclusive entertainment, dine as a family, with friends, or savour a romantic dinner for two. You make your vacation your own. It’s that easy on any cruise line.

Unbeatable value. So much is included — a wide range of accommodations, delicious dining options, award-winning entertainment, exciting onboard activities, a variety of stateroom amenities and more.

Plus, you won’t have to pay for costly airfare, trains, or motor coaches/buses to get you from one city to the next.

Warm, welcoming service.

You will be right at home without a care in the world. From sun-up to late into the night, the crew members are there to anticipate your every need.

And by voyage’s end, the crew will feel just like family.

Finally, there is nothing comparable to being out on the open sea with warm ocean breezes. It is more than a vacation-it’s an experience like none other.

On activities a tourist can

E

•Waiters at Jonny Rockets dancing for patrons aboard Liberty of the Seas

Why cruising is growing faster in leisure market — Soluade Mrs. Victoria Soluade is a notable vacation consultant and the managing director of Soltan Travels, Lagos, Nigeria and Canada where she currently lives and operates from. In this interview with JIMOH BABATUNDE, she talks about why cruising is the fastest growing segment in the entire leisure market today and what a tourist will find interesting while cruising.

Here is an excerpt .

engage on board a cruise ship Tons! Depending on the ship, you can relax at the full service spa, work out in the fitness center, go shopping, ice skating, climb the rock wall, take the water slide, surf on the Flowrider, bumper car drives, casinos, pool games, tournaments, wine tastings, audience participation events, wi-fi service, theatre/production shows & guest entertainer shows. movies, bars, nightclubs, discos, bingo & gaming Lessons, dancing, karaoke & comedy.

Also library & book clubs, zumba classes, afternoon trivia, theme night parties, deck parties, enrichment activities and loads more!!

On average cost of taking a cruise Fares can be as low as $750 per person, inclusive of taxes for a 7-night sailing. However fares are based on date, itinerary, stateroom category, cruise line and length of sailing.

Guests can also take advantage of the early-booking promotions advertised by all cruise lines to get even more value for their money. The secret is booking way ahead of your sail

Soluade in Bahamas with her daughter on a Caribbean Cruise.

There is no special celebration you cannot hold on board a ship today date.

On what type of cruise she will recommend and time For the budget conscious, I will recommend Europe in April/May/October/November or Dubai & Emirates in November and March. Otherwise, you can pretty much sail anywhere in the world at your convenience.

On why cruising is the fastest growing leisure market Cruising is the fastest growing segment in the entire leisure market today, with annual growth rate of 8% - 10% and

here are some of the reasons :They have a wide range of amenities catering to a diverse customer base, including every age group and lifestyle.

There is no special celebration you cannot hold on board a ship today. From board meetings to trainings, AGMs and conventions; from weddings to family reunions and special milestone celebrations and religious events - any activity can be and is accommodated on board.

The value added is that there are no venue and equipment fees.

Once your group is booked, every other thing is included in the fare you pay and all the work is done by the cruise line.

Ship charters for music concerts, fashion shows and other large events are also possible and available.

Whatever you do on land can now also be done on board a ship with the stress totally taken out for the organizers and participants while everyone enjoys a fabulous holiday and return home unforgettable memories.

mirates and South Af rican Tourism have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) that will open the way for the development of joint marketing initiatives aimed at growing the number of visitors from the Middle East to South Africa.

The MoA was signed by Thulani Nzima, South African Tourism Chief Executive Officer, and Orhan Abbas, Emirates Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations for Latin America, Southern and Central Africa; on the side lines of the Arabian Travel Market 2015, currently being held in Dubai.

The signing of the Agreement, which extends until 31 May 2016, was witnessed by South African Minister of Tourism, Mr. Derek Hanekom.

The agreement also provides a framework under which Emirates and South African Tourism will work together and explore various marketing initiatives aimed at promoting South Africa in various regions in the Middle East which will be identified by the two parties.

“In Emirates we have found a like-minded partner with the willingness to work together in growing the number of visitors to South Africa. We are excited to jointly discover and access markets in regions that have massive untapped potential. It is our mission to find and implement the best strategies to market South Africa and position it as the preferred travel destination. We are therefore delighted to collaborate with partners who can assist us in accessing new markets and spreading our footprint,” said Mr Nzima.

“South Africa is a very important market for Emirates.

We fly to three destinations in the country – Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban – bringing in both leisure and business visitors from across our network, which currently extends to more than 140 destinations around the world.

“This Agreement underpins our commitment to support South African Tourism, which also benefits us as an airline with multiple points and frequencies into the country,” said Mr Abbas.

26—VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

•Paulker: Lawmaker

•Dickson: Bayelsa governor

•Dokubo-Spiff: Head hunted to lead party

BAYELSA PDP: Containing trouble GOVERNOR Serikae Dickson is doing everything to keep trouble at bay.

However, the effort of the former law enforcer and lawmaker in maintaining party discipline is brewing trouble of its own.

By Samuel Oyadongha

I

T was not a surprise that in spite of the crushing defeat of the Peoples Democratic Party in the recent presidential election that the embattled party held its own in Bayelsa State where it once again asserted its dominance in the politics of the state by clinching the three senatorial seats, the five House of Representatives seats as well as maintaining its control of the state House of Assembly.

However, it was telling that the party’s strength in state House of Assembly was diminished after the All Progressives Congress, APC and the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA each took a seat in the 24 member state House of Assembly.

The seat obtained by APC was in the constituency of the immediate past governor of the state, Chief Timipire Sylva while APGA obtained a seat in the senatorial constituency of Senator Emmanuel Paulker.

That the two parties were able to get a foothold into a state that was otherwise regarded as a fortified enclave of the PDP was of concern to some and especially, Governor Serikae Dickson.

That may have propelled the decision of the governor and the state chapter of the PDP to investigate and discipline some of its high ranking members

alleged to have played antiparty activities in the run up to the recent elections.

Trouble indeed has not been far from the state chapter of the PDP since word leaked out of the division that emerged between the First Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan and the governor. Both persons had been seen to be working at cross purposes and it was no news that the camp of the First Lady was bent on stopping the governor from achieving a second term in office in elections due not more than a year from now.

APGA during the state House of Assembly elections.

In spite of the cleavages within the PDP family in the state, the party has been able to maintain its dominance. It was therefore a surprise to many when Governor Dickson inaugurated a panel to assess the performance of the PDP during the state assembly elections as well as investigate anti-party allegations levelled against some members of the party.

Inaugurating the committee in Government House, Dickson said indiscipline within the

Perceived opponents While some analysts see the move as a grand design by Governor Seriake Dickson to get at his perceived opponents in the run up to the state governorship election, others have argued that it is the best thing to do to enforce party discipline and cohesion.

Though the list of names of the party members to face the disciplinary committee was not made public, it was speculated that Senator Emmanuel Paulker representing Bayelsa Central Senatorial District and Waripamowei Dudafa, Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on domestic matters openly supported candidates of the Labour Party LP and the All Progressive Grand Alliance

Dickson, who warned that dire consequences await any member of the PDP, who engages in anti party activities, emphasized the importance of party discipline and loyalty

party contributed to the failure of its leader Goodluck Jonathan in the recent presidential elections.

The committee has a twoweek period to submit an interim report to the government and is also expected to determine and recommend steps to be taken against those who worked contrary to the party’s interests during the general elections.

Dickson said, “We won the election no doubt, but this party must continue to be a party of discipline, commitment. One of the problems we have in the PDP, as a matter of fact, the main reason we even lost at the federal level in addition to other things, is because of indiscipline and disloyalty to the party.

“Party interest supersedes individual interest and agenda.

Regrettably, we have received reports that some leaders of our party in some cases did not only work against the interest of our candidates, but actually sponsored and actually worked to undermine the success of our party and our candidates at the just concluded elections” Dickson added.

Dickson, who warned that dire consequences await any member of the PDP, who engages in anti party activities, emphasized the importance of party discipline and loyalty towards achieving success in any political contest.

He said reports at his disposal indicated that, some members sabotaged the interest of the party rather than demonstrate commitment and galvanize support for the

party’s flag bearers.

But the setting up of the investigative committee some have argued is nothing but a subtle move by the governor to weed out perceived opponents and as such some chieftains of the party have started aligning and strategizing on their next step.

Already, the outgoing lawmaker representing Yenagoa Constituency 1 in the state House of Assembly, Alfred Egba, Chief Sonme Ogilogi and their followers have all decamped to the APC, with many others likely to follow in.

In defending the setting up of the committee Dickson had said “We will not sit idle and allow people promoting indiscipline and disloyalty to overrun our party.

Loyal members The PDP has to reform itself; it has to renew itself and be a party of committed and loyal members. Without discipline and loyalty no political party can survive or stand or even win any political contest,” he said.

The governor added that Bayelsa State would continue to be a stronghold of the PDP as demonstrated in the last elections in the state and congratulated the State and National Assembly members elect for their victory at the polls.

The committee is chaired by the State Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd).

Other members of the Continues on page 27

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—27

EDO PDP: Standing tall again THE Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP had for long been stifled by crisis. The emergence of Dan Orbih as state chairman, and his steady engagements with the Adams Oshiomhole led administration may have put the government on its toes and also paid off handsomely for the once derided party in the state.

By Gabriel Enogholase

T

WO contrasting factors made Edo very unpredictable for bookmakers ahead of the March 28 presidential election.

As an APC governed state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole was expected to deliver the state to his party’s candidate, Muhammadu Buhari.

On the other hand, being in the South- South geo-political zone where President Goodluck Jonathan hails from, there was also some sympathy to back the PDP candidate, who has been described as a “son of the soil” instead of Buhari from the north.

Oshiomhole’s stand Unlike in 2011 when Governor Oshiomhole was believed to have tactically supported President Jonathan to win in Edo, 2015 was a different ball game. The governor, today, ranks as one of the fiercest critics of Jonathan and the PDP in general. He constantly blames the PDP for creating the mess he has been battling in the state and the woes that betide the country.

Colossal waste The governor, more than ever before, has consistently drummed it into the ears of whoever cared to listen that the 16 years of the PDP in power in the country has been a colossal waste and misrule.

At the end of the National Assembly elections, PDP won two of the three Senatorial seats in the state, that is, Edo Central and Edo South while the APC won Edo North.

PDP’s conquests The PDP also won five of the nine House of Representatives seats in the state. It clinched the two Reps seats in Edo Central and three in Edo South. The APC claimed the three seats in Edo North.

Edo State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, while commenting on what gave the PDP the leverage over the APC in the National Assembly election said: “Before the elections of March 28, PDP worked very hard and the morale of the people was very high following the presentations of candidates with good credentials for the

election from the three senatorial districts. PDP was the only party that exploited its internal democracy where all its candidates emerged freely without interference from the party.”

PDP state exco’s role He also noted that the state executive of the party led by Chief Dan Orbih, put behind its failure in the 2012 governorship election when Governor Oshiomhole won in all the 18 local councils of the state to mobilize Edo people for the elections.

With his constant but seemingly well constructed criticisms of the Oshiomhole administration and government expenditures, Orbih was able to woo some notable politicians and supporters to the PDP fold in the never-ending political alignment and realignment in the state.

APC kingpins who worked for PDP A major notable name who left the ACN/APC for the PDP is Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who was the coordinator of the Goodluck campaign team in Edo State. Pastor Ize-Iyamu as a political tactician and strategist worked very hard to ensure that apart from delivering Jonathan, his party won in Edo South.

The party also had the likes

•Anenih: BoT Chairman

of PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Chief Anthony Anenih; Captain Hosa Okunbor, a wealthy businessman who has provided immense financial support to the party and its candidates; a former deputy governor of the state and coordinator of the SURE-P, Lucky Imasuen and the Minister of Works, Architect Mike Onolememen. These men galvanized their support to ensure that President Goodluck Jonathan won the presidential election in Edo

•Orbih: Edo PDP chairman

State.

The party’s campaign, led by Orbih, covered every local council in the state. According to Nehikhare, campaigning for Jonathan and other PDP candidates, was made easier by the difficulties and challenges that have recently engulfed the Oshiomhole government.

The statement credited to the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief David Edebiri, who said that the Bini would not vote for President Jonathan because of certain reasons he adduced

almost pitched the Bini against themselves.

Some other high ranking chiefs such as the Isekhure of Benin and the Eson of Benin, Chiefs Nosa Isekhure and Amos Osunbor respectively, however, countered Esogban, warning him not to pretend as if he was speaking for the palace but himself.

Isekhure (Chief Priest) in particular, countered Esogban’s claims, saying Bini Continues on page 28

BAYELSA PDP: Containing trouble

Unlike in 2011 when Governor Oshiomhole was believed to have tactically supported President Jonathan to win in Edo, 2015 was a different ball game

Continues from page 26 committee include, the Acting state PDP chairman, Chief Serena Dokubo-Spiff as Vice Chairman and Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson, Secretary to the State Government, Professor Edmund Alison Oguru, Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Fyneman Wilson, Principal Executive Secretary to the Governor, Deacon Markson Fefegha and Chief of Staff, Government House, Rt. Hon. Talford Ongolo are to serve as members.

Other members of the committee include; Chairmen of all the 8 Local Government Councils in the State,

Chairmen of Restoration Caucuses, with Mr. Godspower Keku, State Secretary of the PDP, as Secretary and member.

Whichever way the matter is viewed it is about the struggle for the state governorship election holding in November 2015.

Corporate lawyers Already as a way of restoring the integrity of the party, one of the most respected corporate lawyers from Bayelsa State, King Serena Dokubo-Spiff of Brass was reportedly headhunted by associates of the governor to help stabilise the party which had suffered

internal crisis on account of the division created between some associates of First Lady Patience Jonathan and supporters of the governor.

Even if President Jonathan’s loss of the presidential election would weaken the hands of his wife in the run up to the governorship election later this year, the strength of her following is bound to give concern to party stakeholders of her capacity to rock the boat for Dickson. It was in that light that the emergence of King Dokubo-Spiff as party chairman has gladdened the hearts of several concerned stakeholders that he could help to douse the possible tension that are bound to emerge.

28—VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

of that institution. I believe that for me to chair the Finance Committee, I must be doing something good.

Some allege that you are not accommodating and that there are some negative attributes that would derail your aspiration?

Didn’t you see people around me, when you came? This is part of what we are talking about concerning discrimination against women. These are emotional abuse against women, but I am not bothered, I would not say because they talk about me, I would not excel or that I am not going to represent my constituents, women and children in Lagos State and I believe that I have served women, children and my constituency very well. I don't compromise myself as a woman. My Bible tells me to be submissive to my husband only.

If I was playing ball the way they wanted me to play it, nobody would say any bad thing about me. So, being a woman, you must stand on your right to achieve what you want instead of using your body. When a woman renders herself to be used unlawfully, then, she is

•Tejuosho: I don't compromise myself as a woman

Why I should become first Lagos female speaker — Tejuosho Adefunmilayo Tejuosho is the only female of about eight members-elect to the Lagos State House of Assembly, LSHA vying to become speaker. Currently spending her fourth term as member representing Mushin Constituency 1 in this interview she gives reasons why her aspiration should bear fruit. Excerpts:

By Ebun Sessou

Y

OU are the only female contestant for the post of the Speaker in the 7th Lagos State House of Assembly, what are your chances in the race?

My chances are very high; I have so much trust in my colleagues and my leaders in the party. I have been in the assembly since 2003 and I have been loyal to my party.

I have been given a lot of awards even by the correspondents covering the Assembly under the auspices of Lagos State House of Assembly Correspondents Association (LAHACA). So, if the press can recognize the fact that I am working, I want the people to know that I take my work very seriously.

I am a lawyer by profession, and I have been trained to work hard. I believe my chances are very high, I have the support of my colleagues in the House and my party leaders, and I take God first in everything I

do.

Are you not intimidated that you are competing with men?

Not at all, I am never intimidated; I have always worked in an environment dominated by men. I am a lawyer by profession, and when you talk about being called to the bar, I am the most senior lawyer in the LSHA, and I feel that we are ready for that change that we talk about in Lagos State. It is not just that I am competing as a woman; I feel that I am very experienced and I am hard working.

First among equals I believe that being a team player would work for me. We are 40 members in the House and the Speaker is just first among equals. I have held positions of authority in this Assembly in the past. I believe that there is nothing that I ought to learn that I have not learned and I understand the

budget of the House very well; I believe that this is one of the primary duties of a lawmaker.

I am the Chairman of the Finance Committee of the House and I believe that the finance of any institution is the lifeline

My chances are very high; I have so much trust in my colleagues and my leaders in the party

good, but any woman who uses her brain to achieve great in life is seen as arrogant.

If I don’t compromise my belief, this does not make me a bad person. Some of those, who say bad things about me would come and still have a cup of tea, take sandwich and cookies.

People pull you down with their mouth, just because they don't want you to compete with them.

But I don’t believe in talking down on people because I want to be Speaker. If I pull others down, I will end up as nothing. We have to separate sentiments from issues, the question is; am I doing my work very well, and am I representing my constituents well?

If I am not accommodating, how come people keep sending me here?

Husband of substance So, I am fulfilled and satisfied and my constituents love me and stand by me, and they encourage me to move on. That is what a politician needs. I have a husband of substance, a man that has self esteem, I don’t have to worry. The love between me and my husband dates back to our high school days. In fact, we went to the same primary school, I have known him forever and I know what he can do, he also knows what I can do. If you go and tell him any bad thing about me, you are wasting your time.

A lot of people have had their homes destroyed, and they run away, but I would not run away.

What Bills would you work on as the Speaker of the LSHA? We have a lot of things that we can do, there are so many things to be done in Lagos State. Not only child abuse, we need to work on other laws. We have done a lot of things such as cremation law, health insurance law and all that. These are the kind of things we look forward to.

EDO PDP: Standing tall again Continues from page 27 would vote for President Jonathan because the Benin Monarch had endorsed him.

He made reference to the visit of the Benin Crown Prince, Eheneden Erediauwa, to the Aso Rock Villa, where the Crown Prince reportedly delivered the message of his father, saying, “President Jonathan will be given the opportunity to continue his good work."

Miserable PDP showing in

House of Assembly contest The PDP’s impressive showing in the presidential and National Assembly elections, however, failed to replicate itself in the state House of Assembly elections as the party won only three out of the 24 seats in the state legislative election, the poorest showing ever.

Giving reasons for the failure, Nehikhare said: “At the point when the State House of Assembly election was held, there were a lot wrangling and financial inducement from the

APC-led state government and they went ahead to buy over INEC, police and security agencies.”

Another he said, was the meeting by prominent Benin sons to give the National Chairman of the APC, Chief John Odigie –Oyegun a safe landing. But beyond that was the fact that with the handwriting already written against the PDP in the presidential election, many wanted the bandwagon to just go on.

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—29

F

OR the purpose of this article, it is assumed that Nigeria is a democracy and currently practising one of its cardinal principles - leaving the choice of governance to more than one political association or political party. During the just concluded elections, about fourteen political parties contested for a single position of the President.

It could be reasonably argued that the present day Nigeria enjoys a lot of political freedom far from those dark days in the early 1980s when Gen Buhari was a military dictator, and before he was overthrown by another military dictator, Ibrahim Babangida. The fact that a former military Head of State could aspire to be elected as the President after three attempts is a sign that the seed of democracy is germinating firmly in the country.

The present day democrats owe a great debt to those good old Greeks philosophers who developed the concept of democracy as a government of the people by the people and for the people. The lovely Athenians of those pleasant days should, also, be admired for enthroning a philosophy which had brought political stability to many civilized countries of the world.

It is observed that many strong political leaders, especially in some developing countries, including our own former President (Obasanjo), did argue, but rather disingenuously, that the Greeks who bestowed democracy on the world did “practice it without political parties”. To the former President, “multi-party bickering is definitely a luxury we cannot afford”. That attitude was apparent during his eight years reign as president, and after.

However, the multi-party concept has been accepted in many civilized countries because it guarantees opportunity for the people to make a choice from the contending parties for governance. After the last elections, some analysts

Multi-party system and the Nigerian factor in a democratic environment attributed the defeat of PDP to the lack of internal democracy in the party. Thus, that party was illprepared for a strong and well organized opposition.

However, the past political history of the country pointed to the existence of viral multi-party system – even under the colonial system (British Imperialism).

After dominating the political process for about a decade, the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) of Herbert Macaulay was strongly challenged by another party, Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) of younger and brilliant minds of the time – Dr Vaughan, Dr. Azikiwe, Chief H. O. Davies, Chief Awolowo and others.

While the NNDP won Legislative Council seats in 1922, 1930 and 1931, the rival party (NYM) won

It may be observed that the concept of multi-party system has taken a firm root in Nigeria through earlier experiment in Lagos

in 1938, 1940 and 1941.

It should be recognized that in Lagos and later, in many towns of South-West, Obas and Chiefs were active political participants.

In the struggle to extend political franchise in 1930s, the Oba of Lagos, Esugbayi and his chiefs were always seen at the political rallies of the NNDP. The late Oba of Lagos, Adele was a strong supporter of the Action Group (through the Area Council Party) while his successor, Oba Oyekan was a supporter of the NCNC and a personal friend of its leader, Dr. Azikiwe.

It may be observed that the concept of multi-party system has taken a firm root in Nigeria through earlier experiment in Lagos. However, its rapid growth has been affected by many attributes of Nigerian politics which have manifested themselves in diverse directions – ethnicity, religion, cultism and monetary inducements (infrastructure of the stomach).

Under the multi-party system in this country, the election results have shown neither the victory for a particular political ideology nor the preference for a particular economic philosophy. There is neither the Babangida`s party of the Left and Party of the Right, but a party predominantly of the South-East and South-South states and the other parts of the North (North-West, North-East), with South-West and the minorities of the North-Central,

making electoral victory and loss, sweet and painful. It looks as if the recent elections have thrown into focus once again the recurrent problems of political disunity and economic insecurity.

Recently, in the matter of balancing Nigeria`s political equation, the case of the SouthEast and South-South States comes to mind. The question of supporting “our son or cousin”, irrespective of performance, should not arise if the concept of multi-party should work. The clever drafters of the 1999 Constitution have made the making of Nigeria President an uphill task in a democratic environment. Any successful candidate should enjoy widespread backing, especially by winning four of the six geographical political zones.

Without any organized opposition, the ruling PDP wears a large hat, but in a contest with a stubborn opposition, the party`s thinking cap appeared to be forgotten at home.

As a Leader of Ibo Renaissance, the Anambra State Governor perhaps needs a refresher course in practical political strategy. A young struggling party which asked its own members to vote for another party deserves not to live.

Any President would need a majority in the National Assembly to execute his programmes. Why not from the solitary APGA State?

Any political strategists would have learnt from the disasters of

AD in the South-West in 2003 elections. The AD party was “tricked” into Elysian field of the mainstream of national politics.

The gullible AD leaders took the bait and the party lost all States under its control, except Lagos (where the Resident Electoral Officer was reported to have refused to announce fake results). The Lagos State under Ahmed Tinubu has been able to withstand the storms since, and has now become a part of the winning team.

Some of the pragmatic politicians are still asking about the reported deal by late Chief Emeka Ojukwu for a cooperative political alliance between APGA and the old AD (Ibo and Yoruba) as a bridge towards North/South political evolution. Lagos since the time of Tinubu has started with a South-East citizen as a Commissioner in its Executive.

Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi could not see and evolve the same kind gesture.

It may be relevant to ask if the idea of a government of National unity is desirable in a multi-party system especially, if the victorious party has a workable majority in the National Assembly. Yes, an all inclusive administration may be required to tackle some complex and specific problems like Security, (internal and external), mass unemployment, widespread poverty and weak domestic currency. All these challenges need strong measures which could stretch the fragile political unity to its full limit.

The country needs injection of massive funds into the economy for infrastructural developments.

But where are the funds coming from in a situation where corruption is endemic and where financial recklessness of political office holders could only be matched by the executive penchant for frivolous spending.

And the vastly dwindling oil revenue is besieged by unreasonable subsidy payment and oil thefts.

LAGOS ASSEMBLY: Upholding excellence

By Olusola Fashina

T

HE 2015 general elections have come and gone and new administrations are getting set to take over the reins of government at both the state and federal levels. In Lagos state, the incoming governor, Akinwumi Ambode is hoping to step into the shoes of his party man, Babatunde Fashola who has no doubt left his footprints on the sand of time in the state. Fashola’s achievements in Lagos state cannot be mentioned without talking of the legislature he worked with.

Fashola’s eight years as Governor happened during about a decade of somewhat stable and peaceful Lagos state house of assembly.

The peaceful atmosphere in that legislature which is a prerequisite for effective legislative operation incidentally happened under the leadership of outgoing Speaker of the assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji who emerged from a unanimous decision of his

colleagues who voted for the removal of his predecessor, Jokotola Pelumi.

Ikuforiji is widely and rightly too believed to have instituted a legislature of pride and an envy of many states in the federation.

Talking about physical structures, templates for capacity development for both legislators and legislative staff as well as standards of lawmaking business, Lagos assembly under Ikuforiji will score a relatively good grade in this part of the world. As the leadership of almost a decade at the Lagos assembly packs its things from the House, the imperative is there for the party, All Progressives Congress (APC) which had held sway in the legislature to ensure that it replicates a pattern of stable assembly of lawmakers prepared to uphold the standards and probably surpass the records of churning out people oriented laws in the upcoming 8th assembly.

As the outgoing governor, Fashola would by now in his heart

remain grateful to a supportive legislature in Alausa, Ikeja, his successor, Ambode needs to start thinking of ways of enjoying a similarly cooperative and supportive voices at the hallowed chamber of the legislature which shares the fence with Lagos House, seat of the execeutive arm of government.

Standard best practice With opinions flying on the need for a competent and experienced leadership at the 8th Lagos House of Assembly, it is believed that the APC would jettison sentiments, imposition and employ standard best practice and time tested method to choose the next Speaker since it controls a majority of 32 members in the 40 member assembly.

The plurality of returning members aspiring to occupy the Speaker ’s seat in the next assembly in Lagos requires the

leadership of APC in the state to tread with caution in picking the right candidate.

In matters of leadership of the legislative arm of government, experience is an added advantage, therefore, shopping for the next leader among returning members is a step in the right direction. Also important is the character of aspirants. Maturity, educational exposure, relational attributes with colleagues, articulation, exposure, attitudinal disposition as well as records of leadership experience especially in the House matter in selecting from among those eyeing the top seat.

With opinions ventilated in the media on the matter, it is clear that the experience of the only surviving member of the outgoing management of the House, Hon Rotimi Abiru representing Shomolu Constituency 2 should not be wished away. There are others aspiring to become the first among equals at the assembly.

The importance of getting it right

•Abiru in electing the Speaker of Lagos assembly is further underscored by the fact that the opposition PDP has never since 1999 given the APC a hot chase like it did in the last election. Though the APC still commanding the overwhelming majority, managing the House cannot be said to be business as usual.

•Mr Fashina writes from Lagos.

30—VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

I have no beef with Olamide— Lord of Ajasa

Lord of Ajasa

•Releases new album LORD of Ajasa is one of the foremost indigenous rappers in the country. With hit songs such as “Esa Lo Bade,” “Ara Awe,” “Le Fenu So,” among others, Ajasa has paid his dues in the highly competitive industry. Sometime ago, it was rumoured that he was having a face-off with Olamide. But in this interview with WG, Lord of Ajasa puts the record straight, insisting that he never had any beef with Olamide. He also talks about his new album, ‘The Spirit.’

By Tofarati Ige

W

HAT should your fans be expecting from Lord of Ajasa at the Coded Tunes Reunion concert?

You know Coded Tunes is a group of creative artistes. It’s a very good opportunity for people to see us together.

We have been able to make a great impact in the Nigerian music industry, so when we say we’re celebrating our reunion, you should know it’s something worth celebrating. When I look back at when we started, we had nothing. But look at where we are today. We are all successful in our music careers.

Music careers I’m looking forward to giving my fans the best performance at the concert. Most of my songs are evergreen, so they should look forward to having a good time. Most of the songs I’ll be performing are the ones produced by ID Cabasa, and it will be with a live band.

You’re reputed to be one of the pioneers of Yoruba rap in the country, do you think the industry really respects your effort?

I’m not one of the founders; I’m the founder of indigenous rap in Nigeria. Not even just Yoruba, but indigenous rap as a whole. Who else started it before me? On the issue of respect, I don’t like talking about things like that anymore, because people will hold my words and start saying whatever they like.

But you need to express yourself…

It’s glaring now. There’s nothing anybody can do about it. It’s normal; when anybody is making waves out there, people will hail you! But when you’re no more at your peak, they move away and don’t care about you again. That’s Nigeria for you.

Look at Rasheed Yekini; did anybody talk about him till he died? It was after his death that people started talking about him. The same thing happened to Da’grin.

Music is just about passion for me; I’m C M Y K

doing it because it’s what I love doing.

It’s not about how many people are screaming my name. God gave me the talent, and I see it as a blessing, and I’ve been able to spread the blessings around.

I’m a successful fellow in the industry.

Many people are doing what I started, and nobody can deny that.

Some people believe you have ‘beef’ with Olamide. Is that true?

I don’t have any ‘beef’ with Olamide.

Let me clear the air now. He’s my very good friend; if you see us together, you wouldn’t say all this. Everybody is just creating something to write about.

Are you working on any new song?

My new album is out and it’s titled, “The Spirit.” I featured Olamide, Seriki, Terry G, Mode Nine and others. I don’t want to

God gave me the talent, and I see it as a blessing, and I’ve been able to spread the blessings around

Olu Akengbuwa reunites Itsekiri people with their past

Olamide

talk too much about it, the time will come for that. Anytime from now, you’ll be seeing it on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, and the likes. But you might not be seeing it on the streets because of these Alaba people; they don’t co-operate with us and I’m not ready to wait for them.

There’s nobody to give me a good contract with them. My former marketer

is still owing me over one million Naira right now, so to work out another deal with them is kind of hard for me. Right now, I believe in the online way of doing things where my true fans can go on iTunes and download my songs; by doing that, you’re helping my career. Not by going to download it on a free site and commenting rubbish.

Teamspirit takes centre stage at Google Campus

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—31

Synopsis

I’m in the industry to compete with the best – Zayo

Zayo

leaving a part of me that would be remembered for all-time. I want to come and make a mark. I believe I am gifted and I have everything I need to succeed.

I have the support of God. I have the support of Koga. I have the support of my fans and the support of my friends and family.”

The singer also talks about the release of his latest song, ‘Anything’ as well as two music videos for his single titled ‘Coloured,’ which was shot by Unlimited LA and the video of ‘Ewo Omo.’ The track ‘Anything’ has the usual African-flavoured beat and dictates the dance steps with indigenous heavy rap.

Musical greatness

D

RIVEN by his passion, confidence and hunger to become one of Nigeria’s biggest musical brands, gifted singer and reality show winner, Zayo born Raheem Adeyemi Abd-Sobur has said that he’s into music to compete with the ‘best of the best’ in the Nigerian music scene.

“I want my voice to be heard. I cannot come to this world and just go without

Zayo also thanked his label, Koga for believing in him and giving him the opportunity to achieve musical greatness.

“For me, Koga is family… Like blood!

Koga Entertainment is a team that helps you chase your vision, career and what you are all about in a way that shows that they are a family.They help you get to the point you aspire to get to.”

Interestingly, his biggest Nigerian inspiration remains Fela Anikulapo Kuti; a man whose musical influence is celebrated well beyond the shores of Nigeria and repeatedly honoured by international brands and prominent personalities across Europe, U.K and beyond.

AFRIMA 2015 entry submission opens May 18

A

ll Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, in partnership with the Africa Union Commission, AUC, will open submission of entries for this year’s edition of the continental awards on Monday, May 18, 2015.

Music professionals of African origin including artistes, songwriters, video directors, music/entertainment journalists and music producers resident on the continent or abroad are eligible to enter in any of the 33 award categories and entry submission closes on Monday, July 20, 2015. Works to be submitted must be produced in the year under review –May 31, 2014 to July 20, 2015.

According to the organizers, detailed information about eligibility and format of submission is available on www.afrima.org. Entries should be done by completing the registration form on AFRIMA website while a URL link of the music work on YouTube, SoundCloud, MySpace and other compatible platforms must be included in the space

provided on the entry registration form.

The dates for entry submission and closing were recently announced by the AFRIMA President/Executive Producer, Mr. Mike Dada during the AUCAFRIMA Joint Conference held last week, at the African Union Headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

yore tells the story of a life after life…..circle that we live not remembering who we were in the world before . It’s a mystical tale set around the ancient city of Benin kingdom in Edo State of Nigeria. The epic movie is a mixture of historical fact and fiction. It also explore a tragic love story centered on the rich culture of colonial Benin to the present day while exploring the supernatural idea of reincarnation. The movie premieres today at the box office.

TOP MOVIES OF THE WEEK · · · ·

FAST AND FURIOUS 7 NIGHT CRAWLER PAUL BLART 2 BLACK OR WHITE

Schedule commencing from Friday 1st – 6th May , 2014.

SILVERBIRDCINEMAS, VICTORIA ISLAND Iyore 2:30pm,6:45pm The Next Door : 12:15pm,4:15pm,6:55pm Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 12:10pm, Fast & Furious 7 : 4:25pm,8:50pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, IKEJA Iyore : 3:00pm,7:00pm The Boy Next Door : 12:40pm,6:35pm Black or White : 10;50am,6:05pm,9:00pm Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 1:10pm,4:40pm, Fast & furious 7 : 1:15pm,6:05pm,8:30pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, SEC Iyore : 12:20pm,2:20pm,4:20pm,6:20pm,8:20pm The Boy Next Door : 2:20pm,6:30pm,8:20pm Top Five : 1:00pm,3:00pm,6:50pm,8:50pm Black or White : 12:00pm,4:10pm Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 3:00pm,6:50pm,8:40pm Fast & Furious 7 : 1:10pm,3:40pm,6:20pm,9:05pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS CEDDI PLAZA , ABUJA Iyore : 1:00pm,4:55pm Fast & Furious 7 : 11:30am,4:15pm,9:00pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, PORT HARCOURT Iyore : 1:00pm,5:05pm,9:00pm The Boy Next Door : 11:25am,3:10pm,7:20pm, Fast & Furious 7 : 1:30pm,6:25pm,9:00pm Son of a Gun : 12:50pm,4:45pm,6:50pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, WARRI Iyore : 12:45pm,4:40pm,8:35pm Black or White : 10:30am Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 10:00am,2:10pm OutCast : 2:40pm,8:35pm Fast & Furious 7 : 11:45am,4:00pm,6:25pm,8:50pm Chappie : 6:00pm,8:25pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, UYO Iyore : 11:50am,1:45pm,3:50pm,5:50pm,7:50pm Black or White : 1:50pm,6:15pm OutCast : 11:40am,4:15pm,8:35pm Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 11:30am,1:25pm,3:20pm,5:15pm,7:10pm,8:05pm Son of Gun : 11:45am,1:55pm4:10pm,6:20pm,8:30pm Love or Somthing Like That : 11:50am,2:00pm,4:10pm,6:20pm,8:30pm Chappie : 12:00pm,4:15pm OZONE CINEMAS SABO YABA Iyore : 1:05pm,7:10pm The Boy Next Door : 3:25pm,6:40pm,8:40pm Top Five : 2:15pm, Project Almanac : 12:25pm Black or White : 1:10pm Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 10:00am,11:45am Fast & Furious 7 : 4:05pm,6:20pm,8:30pm FILM HOUSE CINEMAS, LAGOS Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 10:45am,4:30pm,10:10pm FILM HOUSE CINEMAS, KANO Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 3:35pm FILM HOUSE CINEMAS, APAPA Iyore : 6:45pm,8:35pm FILM HOUSE CINEMAS, PORT HARCOURT Iyore : 10:05am,1:40pm,8:50pm FILM HOUSE CINEMAS SAMONDA Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 10:10am,4:00pm Out Cast : 8:15pm FILM HOUSE CINEMAS, CALABAR Iyore : 12:00pm,1:50pm,3:40pm,5:40pm,7:20pm Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 12:00pm,1:45pm,3:35pm,5:20pm,7:10pm,9:05pm VIVA CINEMAS,IBADAN Iyore : 1:15pm,3:40pm Black or White : 11:00am,7:25pm, Paul Blart Mall Cop 2 : 3:00pm,5:35pm,9:40pm Night Crawler : 9:55pm Son of a Gun : 11:00am Invasion : 11:00am

Mike, CEO of AFRIMA

STOP PIRACY NOW! STOP BUYING PIRATED MOVIE AND MUSIC CDs, DVDs. IT IS KILLING THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY. C M Y K

I

IYORE

VIVA CINEMAS ILORIN Black or White : 2:55pm,7:00pm Paul Blart Mall Cop : 1:10pm,5:25pm OutCast : 5:10pm,9:25pm Night Crawler : 3:15pm Son of a Gun : 9:15pm Love or Something Like That : 9:15pm Chappie : 7:10pm Invasion 1897 : 11:00am

32—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Olu Akengbuwa reunites Itsekiri people with their past ...as Uduaghan adopts play for May

By Benjamin Njoku

I

T was a moment of reunion with the people’s past as Alex Eyengho’s historical play, “Olu Akengbuwa” was staged last Friday, to commemorate the 28th anniversary of the coronation of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse II, in Warri, Delta State.

The play, staged at Federal Government College, Warri, aptly re-echoed the rich Itsekiri culture from the various kings since its emergence till date.

While the presentation lasted, feelings of nostalgia, reunion and accolades filled the air.

Overwhelmed by the performance, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II endorsed the play. It has now become an integral part of the programme of events of the annual anniversary of the coronation of the Olu of Warri.

Nollywood producers Featuring notable Nollywood stars including, Nobert Young, Ejike Asiegbu who played Olu Akengbuwa, Peter Atomilola, Matel Alex-Eyengho, Barney Obi-Abiezue, Efe MayfordOrhorha,Anthony Edet Offiong and Omonoba Bello, the performance also featured some Itsekiri stars.

At the end of the presentation, Alex Eyengho, president of the Association of Nollywood Producers, ANCOP, who also produced and directed the play called on Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State to establish a theatre in the various parts of the state to boost culture and arts.

According to him, this is because presentation of stage C M Y K

plays require a theatre because of the lights and sound.

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to deserving sons and duaghters of the Itsekiri nation.

Among the awardees were Governor Uduaghan, Chief Ereyitomi Thomas, Chief Mrs Rita Lori, Chief Francis Omatseye, Mr. J.O.S Ayomike,

Artistes on

stage

29 hand-over

and Chief Oma Eyewoma among others, for their contribution to the stability and promotion of Itsekiri culture.

After receiving his award of excellence, Governor Uduaghan who was special guest at the event commended the performance, promising to support the producer to stage the play in Asaba during the

hand over ceremony on May 29.

Olu Akengbuwa is a play about the intriguing incidents that created a lacuna in the historical trajectory of the Warri Monarchical system, when for 88 years the Kingdom had no King. Historians link two of such incidents as immediate cause of the 88 years

interregnum in Warri Kingdom: A curse placed on the Kingdom by a certain herbalist from Ife, Oyo empire, and a pronouncement by Olu Akengbuwa against his son, Prince Omateye. Using the rich culture, music and dance, Eyengho reunites the Itsekiri people with their unforgettable past through the play.

DJ Humility, Murphy Ijemba, Oge Ogwo for Broadcasters’ Nite

A

fter successfully hosting a couple of editions in Ibadan, Abuja and Kaduna, the much-talked about Nigerian Broadcasters’ Nite (NBN) is back in Lagos.

It would be recalled that the ‘train’ of the monthly event solely designed to further celebrate broadcasters, On-Air Personalities, TV and Radio stations, left Lagos in 2013, for Ibadan, Abuja and Kaduna in 2014.

However, on Saturday, May 30, it will be the turn of Rhythm 93.7 FM’s DJ Humility and Brila FM’s ace presenters,Ogechukwukanma Ogwo and Murphy Ijemba, to be celebrated at the Nigerian Broadcasters’ Nite, holding at the new Vapours Nite Club; the celebrity

hangout, situated along Samuel Manuwa street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

It may interest you to know that the dynamic duo of Ogechukwukanma Ogwo and Murphy Ijemba emerged Most Popular Radio Sportscasters at the prestigious Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards (NBMA) that was held in 2012 and 2013 respectively, while DJ Humility of Rhythm 93.7FM, was crowned ‘Best In-House DJ’ in Nigeria during the 2011 maiden edition.

The Nigerian Broadcaster’s Nite is powered

by The Reality Entertainment in association with Vapors Nite Club. Red carpet is slated for 9pm with special performances from rising and shining music stars. The event will be anchored by humour merchants, De-Don and MC Lin Chung.

DJ Humility

Enter ‘Last Slave’ T

By Juliet Ebirim

HE highly anticipated movie, Last Slave which frowns at human trafficking, is set for release today.

Announcing the release date, the producer and director, Henry Ozuluonye, said human trafficking still exists in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

“When people get missing without trace, it is possible they ’ve been trafficked. The message in the movie is for everyone to join hands and eradicate this scourge. The movie is aimed at fighting human trafficking,” he noted.

According to him, there were numerous

challenges during the making of the movie.

He insisted that managing 120 cast and crew members wasn’t easy.

His words: “We were attacked by armed robbers on the first day, but God intervened and rescued us through the Nigeria Police.

We suffered many hazards due to the location, which was in a thick forest somewhere in Enugu.”

Ozuluonye said the movie took 25 days and over six months of editing and VFX Effect, adding that the budget was about $200,000. Already preiered in Houston, Texas, the movie features the likes of Francis Duru, Zulu Adigwe, Joyce Kalu, Patrick Onyeocha and Nuella Njubigbo.

VOL. 1: NO. 18

FRIDAY, MAY 8 8,, 2015

BUHARI GOVT:

Eyeing Lagos template to solve power crisis

By Dapo Akinrefon

O

VER the years, the issue of power generation has been Nigeria’s biggest problem.

Since the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1999, power has been in the front burner, without an end to the problem.

Past administrations proffered solutions to tackling the hydra in the power sector but have virtually failed in this regard.

Interestingly, politicians have had to dwell more on providing solutions to this during electioneering C M Y K

campaigns.

Often times, the power issue takes centre stage during electioneering campaigns but not much has been achieved over the years in this regard.

Where we are: Unbundling NEPA: Besides, prior to the enactment of the Electric Power Sector Reform (EPSR) Act 2005, the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) was responsible for policy formulation, regulation, operation, and investment in the Nigerian power sector.

Regulation of the sector was done through the Federal Ministry of Power (FMP) with

operations through the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA).

To address the twin issues of NEPA’s poor operational and financial performance, the FGN amended the then

prevailing laws (Electricity and NEPA Acts) in 1998 to remove NEPA’s monopoly and encourage private sector participation.

The amendments, however, were not far-reaching. This informed FGN of the need to undertake holistic policy, legal and regulatory reforms.

The National Electric Power Policy, 2001, specifies the reform agenda, while EPSRA provides the legal basis for the unbundling of NEPA, the formation of successor companies and the privatisation of the latter. EPSRA also provides for the development of a competitive electricity market, the establishment of a dedicated regulatory body and the establishment of a rural electrification agency.

C o n s e q u e n t l y, FGN established the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN – the initial holding company) and subsequently unbundled it into eighteen (18) s u c c e s s o r c o m p a n i e s .

Strategically, the objectives of the reform include: the transfer of management and financing of SC operations to the organised private sector; the establishment of an independent and effective regulatory commission to oversee and monitor the industry; and focusing the FGN on policy formulation and long-term development of the industry.

This step was perceived by

many to lead to increased access to electricity services; improved efficiency, affordability, reliability and quality of services; and greater investment into the sector to stimulate economic growth.

However, nothing much seems to have been achieved in this sector.

And Jonathan tried: Though the President Goodluck Jonathan administration worked round the clock to the solve the epileptic power supply, its successes were limited.

Only recently, President Jonathan inaugurated the rehabilitated Unit 6 and the overhauled Unit 4 of the Egbin Power Station in Lagos, which effectively added 240 megawatts to the national grid and also restored the power plant to its full capacity of 1,320 megawatts.

With the completion of the projects, the country’s power generation capacity now stands at 5,500 megawatts for the first time in history but actual generation was 3,800 megawatts as a result of the recent acts of vandalism on the Escravos-Lagos pipeline network, which supplies gas to some power stations.

Power stations Speaking at the official inauguration of Units 4 and 6 at Egbin, the president said the initiative was a major milestone in the government’s power reform programme. But not many Nigerians are impressed with this development.

Tinubu’s ENRON: During Bola Tinubu’s administration,the governor was able to pressurise the federal government into approving the take-off of the multi-million project by ENRON International Energy Corporation.

Tinubu had boasted that “before long, Lagosians will Continues on Page 2

IN THIS EDITION

Hoodlums loot shops, as inferno wreaks havoc in Akure Pg 3

Oyo PDP chieftains trade blames over poor election results Pg 2

FAMILY PLANNING: Yes for women, no for men Pg 5

2 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Continued from page 1 have at least 270 Megawatts dedicated to Lagos State in addition to the Statutory allocation from NEPA that will make sure that at any given time, between 80 per cent to 90 percent of our electricity problems are solved.”

“Now with the take-off of ENRON, Lagos State stands to benefit from this project,” Tinubu noted.

Perhaps Tinubu’s dream is becoming a reality.

The Tinubu administration did all that was humanly possible in order to achieve the ENRON breakthrough while the deliberations with the federal government lasted.

Tinubu then asserted: “What we have achieved now is our own big giant step in the moon.”

He explained that the reason why he has been excited by this breakthrough lies in the fact that “we made a promise to the electorates in Lagos State that ours is a commitment to the infrastructural development that will lead to economic growth, poverty alleviation, independence of small scale industries, where research and development, and the hopes and aspirations of big and small professionals will flourish. This is the beginning of that joy and we are going to achieve it.”

Lagos IPP: However, the Lagos State government has tried to take the bull by the horns in solving the power problem.

The commencement and installations of power plants in strategic places across the state has gone a long way in reducing the epileptic power problem.

Power generation But one snag for the Lagos government has always been that of distribution.

This is as a result of the fact that only the Federal government has the franchise of power generation and distribution.

To ensure under-served commercial and industrial districts get access to reliable power supply via the use of Independent Power Projects, the Lagos State Government successfully commenced operations in three power plants - AES Barge, Akute Power, Island Power Project and one transformer factory El Sewedy transformer factory by means of Public Private Partnership (PPP). There are plans under-way to develop multiple IPPs across the state, currently the Alausa Power Project and the Island Power Project Expansion are currently in development.

Governor Babatunde Fashola said it also showed that the C M Y K

million.

•Akute Power Project (12.15 Megawatt) - IPP for the Lagos State Water Corporation

money to improve the Nigerian economy is in the country, “since we don’t need the World Bank to come and do this for us.”

The governor noted that, “let no one say that he has no money to deliver power for the entire country. This is the limit to which the law allows us to do, but we have done this to make a statement that power can be generated. So, when they come with lies that power is impossible, you can tell them that we have power here; we make it possible.”

The Lagos template Already, the Lagos State government has recorded a feat as the state secretariat, Alausa became the first in the country to run its own power.

Fashola, recently flagged off 10.6 Megawatts, MW, Alausa Power Project, with the capacity to power the entire state Secretariat, Alausa and Obafemi Awolowo Way. The project was executed through Public Private Partnership, PPP, with Oando Gas and Fidelity Bank Plc. The Alausa IPP is expected to boost social welfare component for the public officers as the plant has an impact in improving the work environment, the work quality, the work ethics and improved efficiency as well as improve power supply generally in the state.

The power project, will supply power to 62 buildings and 160 departments within the secretariat to bring an end to the usual epileptic power supply in the area.

Expressing his reservations over the inability of state governments to generate its own power, Fashola said, “it is bad enough that we don’t generate our own electricity, the public power is 12. 75k per kilowatts per hour, but we are generating our power at sometimes four or five times more than that.”

According to him,”in

Magodo for example, they spend N8million a day in the whole estate on diesel, when it should have cost them just about N2 million public power.

Even Lekki spends about N12m a day, when it should have cost them about N3million a day. So these are the numbers we are seeing. If you buy energy saving bulbs, it may be more costly but you would save seven times more over a longer period when using it.”

The governor, who re-iterated that the solution to unemployment and jobs creation, improved economic situation lies in made in Nigeria goods, and expressed delight that the Alausa IPP is another made-in-Nigeria project, delivered by a Nigerian government with two Nigerian companies using largely Nigerian personnel to solve a Nigerian problem.

He disclosed that, according to records, the project would be a substitute for over 120 generators which were being used at the Secretariat at the last count.

The state government is not resting on its oars, as it intends to focus, within the next 12

months, on public power, schools, hospitals, streetlights, courtrooms, religious institutions, among others.

Fresh IPPs are scheduled to also commence in; Lekki to power the Lekki Water Works, Ikeja GRA that will power the General Hospital, High Court, the Police Command and the Ikeja Water Works expected to be fully completed in 2016.

“We already have a transformer manufacturing plant and so we are going ahead to ensure that when the power is ultimately here, the components to bring it to peoples’ home will be available. What we hear before is that well, there is generation but there is no gas, so we don’t want to get to that when the talk would be there is electricity but there is no transformers, so we are already ahead of the curve and that factory will also be manufacturing meters in the plant,” the governor said.

The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Oando Oil, Mr Wale Tinubu, explained that Alausa IPP will run primarily on gas and reduces pollution that emanates from diesel generation that was hitherto in use across the secretariat.

Enhancing security

With his victory at the just conducted polls, the President-elect, Maj-Gen Muhammadu Buhari (retd), has an herculean task of ensuring the power problem in the country is resolved soon

He added that the Alausa Secretariat campus and Awolowo Road Street light, will also be powered by the power plant, thus enhancing the security of the citizens at night, adding that the strong commitment shown by the Lagos State government before the commencement of the project ensured that the negotiations did not flounder.

On her part, the General Manager, Lagos State Electricity Board, Mrs. Damilola Ogunbiyi, said that the IPP would save government about N30

APC ’s solution to power difficulty During the 2015 electioneering campaign, the All Progressives Congress, APC, told Nigerians its plan for steady power when voted into power.

During one of its campaigns, Vice President-elect, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo, said an APCled Federal Government can provide steady power supply by installing Independent Power Projects in strategic parts of the country.

Perhaps this informed Osinbajo’s recent visit to Lagos state to study the perceived success of the state government’s IPPs. As a way of using the Lagos state IPP template to tackle power supply across the country, Osinbajo said already, IPPs were being used to provide steady electricity in courts and hospitals across Lagos State and this could be expanded.

According to him, “ what we must understand is that the Federal Government has privatised power distribution and generation, not transmission and we feel transmission should be privatised as well.

Proper gas infrastructure We don’t have power today because generating plants can’t get gas supply and this is also largely because of the bad pipes. If we wait until we can set up proper gas infrastructure, it can take 10 to 15 years before we can get steady power supply.”

He was quick to add that “we have decided to decentralise power.”

“For example, in Lagos we have IPPs in Marina which generates 10 megawatts and it powers hospitals and courts.

We also have in Ikeja. They do not have problems of gas supply. The IPPs are directly connected to the place we want it to power. If we can mobilise our trade groups in certain areas, we can provide 24-hour power for them. Also, we can then provide for local governments. In Lagos for instance, the state government already knows the power needs of each local government so we can provide IPPs as well,” he said.

Osinbajo further said the price of gas must also be deregulated so that more private companies could invest in the sector and increase power supply.

With his victory at the just conducted polls, the Presidentelect, Maj-Gen Muhammudu Buhari (retd), has an herculean task of ensuring the power problem in the country is resolved soon.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 3

ONDO STATE

Hoodlums loot shops, as inferno wreaks havoc in Akure

By Dayo Johnson

A

KURE – FIVE months after a gas explosion razed many shops in Akure, the Ondo State capital, another mysterious fire incident has consumed several shops on the popular Oba Adesida road, Akure.

Tears flowed freely as owners of the affected shops and houses watched helplessly as the fire razed their properties at about 2am on May 1.

The affected victims were woken up from their sleep with the unpleasant news by people who live around the areas where their shops were situated and their night guards through telephone set .

Those whose mobile telephones were on, immediately rushed to the scene, even in their night gowns, while others who switched off their telephones knew of the incident the next day after the damaged had been done.

It was a sorry sight as owners and sympathizers ran helter skelter fetching water from nearby wells to quench the raging inferno, as early efforts to get the state fire service proved futile.

However, when they eventually arrived, the water in their tank was insufficient to put off the fierce inferno, that they had to go searching for water more than thrice, revealed an eyewitness.

Telephone accessories Among the items razed down in the affected shops were books, drinks, laptops, telephone accessories, shoes and generators. This is even as several people were reportedly wounded during their effort to prevent one of the properties in the affected shops from being razed down completely.

Vanguard gathered that fire started from one of the affected shop and gradually spread to others. One source said the fire was caused by a power surge, while another source said that the fire incident was mysterious.

It was learned that save for the quick intervention of sympathizers, several other shops where books, musical instruments, clothing materials and others would have been razed completely by the inferno.

Speaking to Vanguard, Olori.

Adenike Adesida who owned Fiyinfogo Bookshop, said the shop and their family house were razed down by the inferno.

Narrating her ordeal, Adesida, C M Y K

who said she has been selling books in the place for about 20year said “On the 1st of May, 2015 at about 2:00 am, we received a phone call informing me that my shop is on fire. On getting there, we noticed that some of the shops at 73B Oba Adesida Road, including our family house have been destroyed.

“We called the attention of the fire brigade to the scene, they came with little water to the place, and went back saying they didn’t come with much water and chemicals. They said that the vehicle they brought is the only fire truck in Ondo State.

“We discover that even the only fire service vehicle in Ondo State still had mechanical problems.

So, they left to refill for about four times repeatedly for a period of about 45 minutes interval before returning with more water. But unfortunately, within this period, the shops had already been caught with fire and razed completely.

Hoodlums on the prowl However, while the intervention

•Olori Adesida

•The Burnt Shops operations by sympathisers were ongoing, it was gathered that some hoodlums who also pretended to be good Samaritans looted some of the shops.

Two of them were reportedly apprehended when they attempted to cart away some telephone accessories and a generator into a waiting vehicle parking close to the scene of the

inferno.

In another development, Jide Alebiosu, one of those who rallied around to put-out the inferno, took a swipe at the state fire service, asking government to probe its activities .

Alebiosu recalled that in a gas explosion, last December in Arakale area of the state, many

shops were completely razed because the fire service failed to show up despite several distress calls put to them by the people.

He pointed that the fire service has proven to be unable to render the needed services expected of them in times of distress, thereby calling on the state government to beam it’s searchlight on the activities of the fire service.

“If the problem of the place is lack of equipment, government should as a matter of urgency intervene. The activities of the state fire service is worrisome to the people of the state. There would be a time when members of the public may vent their anger on the state fire service if the ugly situation persists,” he cautioned.

Meanwhile, efforts to speak with officials of the state fire service proved abortive as one of the officials said as civil servants he is not authorised to

German commits life savings to building medical centre in Ondo

By Dayo Johnson

T

HE people of Oka-Akoko in Akoko South West council area of Ondo State, recently trooped out in their hundreds in appreciation to a German-American Catholic faithful, Mrs. Johannah Schleichelt who donated her life savings to build a modern medical centre for them to meet their health challenges.

Commissioning of the 25 bed hospital at Iworin, Oka Akoko named Sancta Maria Catholic Medical Centre was part of the week long activities to mark the “Bishop’s Week.”

Johannah was said to have lived a moderate life to be able to save in order to realize her life dream of meeting the health challenges of people in any remote area in the sub Sahara in Africa.

•Santa Maria Catholic Medical centre donated by a German

The donor declined that her photograph be taken while she lived. She insisted she wanted to be remembered for giving life to people who are sick by donating the hospital.

She was a waitress in New York and she had a dream that one day she would be able to give her life savings to build a modern medical centre for those who do not have a privilege of a hospital.

To make her life dream come true, Johanna approached the Msgr. Thomas Modugno of the Archdiocese of New York in USA and relayed her wish to him.

Report had it that Johanna who had some inheritance worked tirelessly and also made some saving to make her dream of saving the lives of people she never met in life come to reality.

As fate would have it, Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Ondo, Most Rev Jude Ayodeji Arogundade was in New York and the grant was channelled through him in order to make the dream of Johanna come true .

Speaking with Vanguard, the Director, Health Department, Catholic Diocese of Ondo Fr. Fidelis Olokunboro said that Johanna only request was that the hospital should have a chapel and that the names of her parents Carl and Hannah Schleichelt be engraved on its altar.

Olokunboro said that Johanna worked all her life.

Lived a moderate life, saved and gave her life saving to build an hospital for people she did not know or ever met in her life. He extolled the giving virtue of Johanna and challenged Christians to borrow a leaf from the German.

4 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

OYO STATE

By Ola Ajayi, Ibadan

J

UST as things have fallen apart for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the centre, the Oyo State chapter where the party had wielded so much influence since 1999 until 2011 when it was overthrown by the broom wielding All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Badly hit by the 2011 defeat of the party, by the incumbent governor, Abiola Ajimobi, the PDP tried to gather its remnants together and fought spiritedly in the just concluded April 11 governorship election. Its fall this time around is more devastating. It came a distant fourth trailing the APC, Accord Party (AP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

One wonders if the founding fathers of the party like the former National Vice Chairman of the party, South West, Alhaji Yekeen Adeojo; former Minister of Power and Steel, Elder Wole Oyelese and several others had fallen into deep slumber. With this thunderous fall, the party may find it difficult to get back to its feet again.

Surprisingly, instead of the party to appraise what led to its fall and make necessary amends, it has started preparing for another fall in future election as chieftains of the party have started blaming one another for the terrible blow that the party suffered in the election.

Political bitterness It is no longer news that one of the factors that led to its fall was the unresolved internal crisis that has dogged the steps of the party since 2011 which the leaders, despite several efforts, failed to tackle in 2015.

Just last week, chieftains of the party began another round of political bitterness by trying to put the blame at the doorsteps of some notable people in the party.

Alhaji Adeojo, who campaigned throughout the state for Folarin and the party was annoyed that all his efforts amounted to nothing and that success of the party was punctuated by the uncooperative attitude of leaders like the Minister of State, FCT, Oloye Jumoke Akinjide; Senator Ayo Adeseun and the Chief of Staff to former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, Dr. Saka Balogun.

Following their alleged antiparty activities, Adeojo announced their suspension with immediate effect.

Oloye Akinjide who coordinated the presidential campaign for President Goodluck Jonathan in some parts of the South West zone was alleged to have used the money

•Elder Wole Oyelese

•Oloye Jumoke Akinjide

• Dr. Saka Balogun

Oyo PDP chieftains trade blames over poor election results of the party to garner support for the Accord governorship candidate, Ladoja.

Other politicians that were axed by the party include Alhaji Kunmi Mustapha from Iseyin Local Government and Hon. Moroof Akinwande from Oyo. As for Adeseun who defected from the APC to PDP, Adeojo accused him of working against the PDP in Ogbomoso zone by his tacit support for the Labour Party governorship candidate, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala.

Adeojo said, “It is a shame that these so-called leaders of the PDP sold out their conscience for personal aggrandisement and greed, despite their professed loyalty to the party.

Loyalty to the party While they have deceptively carried themselves as members of the PDP, their activities in the last governorship election showed their duplicity and it is on this account that the party has suspended them.”

But, in response, some leaders of the party under the aegis of the Progressive Youth Frontiers (PYF), led by its secretary, Comrade Abiodun Adeniyi, accused Adeojo and the governorship candidate, Senator Teslim Folarin of being the cog in the wheel of success of the party.

They described Folarin as someone who lacked the political clout to win election in his ward let alone the state adding that the party leadership began another journey into the abyss of failure immediately they picked him as

the candidate against the interest of several chieftains of the party.

Apart from Folarin, leaders like Alhaji Adeojo was not left out saying their refusal to allow Senator Rashidi Ladoja, former governor of the state who parted ways with PDP after he was denied a second term ticket in 2007 back into the party and be fielded as the governorship candidate of the party.

The group said those “retrogressive elements pushed Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala, Mr Seyi Makinde, Elder Wole Oyelese and others out of the party just to gratify self-serving ends.”

“They took hold of the National Working Committee of the PDP in Abuja, embarked on a zero-sum game and tilted the party to a near abyss all because of selfish interest and unrealistic ambition,” the statement said.

Just last week, chieftains of the party began another round of political bitterness by trying to put the blame at the doorsteps of some notable people in the party

As the heated controversy is raging between Adeojo and others, Alhaji Adebisi Olopoenia and the state executives of the party are at daggers’ drawn over the results of the election.

Olopoenia, while reacting to an earlier comment by the Publicity Secretary of the party in the state, Mr. Kehinde Salawu, who threatened sanctions against those who are trying to put the losses behind them and forge a new PDP, said “Everyone knows they are failed executives of the party. I do not even expect them to talk at this point in time. They should come and tell the whole World what they have done towards the progress of the party in recent times, most especially, the last general elections.

“I can say that all they know is to share bags of rice and collect money from aspirants in the guise of giving them tickets.

A promise which they did not fulfil 100 percent. Some of those they collected money from and failed to give tickets to contest the last election are still raining curses on them”.

“It still baffles me that the party’s PRO is now coming out to kick against a group of people who are willing to transform the party and give it a new face. Where was he when the APC was hitting hard on the PDP on radio, T.V and even on the pages of newspapers?

“He should be able to tell us why he was unable to respond to criticisms from opposition parties most especially the APC before and during the last general elections. In fact, I’m still wondering how such a group of people will be

threatening sanction on a particular set of people who are ready to change things from the old way of doing them in order to turn around the fortune of the party in Oyo State”.

Speaking on the fatal fall of the party in the election, Senator Lekan Balogun, another bigwig of the party attributed the festering crisis to alleged high handedness of some leaders saying, “some ministers destroyed the party and the presidency. It is more painful that the party may be destroyed permanently.

Global interest According to him, instead of the party leaders to take global interest as their cardinal principle, they pandered to selfish interest which spelt doom for the party. He added that for the party to regain its lost glory, there has to be radical departure from its selfish interest.

In as much as he would not want to be enmeshed in the unedifying crisis within the party in the state, he disagreed with those who said Senator Folarin was a wrong candidate.

To him, if the leaders had genuinely worked for the party, Folarin would not have lost the election noting that as a former Senate leader, he had contested and won election before in the state. Will PDP rise to its feet from this mud in which it has fallen? Only time and its willingness to mend its torn umbrella which has exposed its members to scorching sun and downpour will determine.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 5

OYO STATE

By Ola Ajayi, Bukola Ifegbayi & Fisayo Ogunwale

U

NLIKE women, a greater percentage of men detests the family planning. To many of them, family planning is like a suicide mission which may terminate the life of any man that tries it.

As Vanguard went round Ibadan city to seek the opinion of married couples on why some homes don’t subscribe to family planning, various reasons were given.

They specifically complained about a particular method called vasectomy which means male sterilization. It is a procedure performed on a man that will permanently keep him from being able to get a woman pregnant.

As for Mr. Sola Adeyemo, South West Bureau chief of The New Telegraph, it is a dangerous venture for a man to present himself on a slaughter slab where surgical operation would be conducted on him without complaining of any illness.

Adeyemo said, “For whatever reason, I can’t do it. What for?

I cannot predict what will happen tomorrow so it is a risky venture to now submit myself for surgical operation.

We have seen instances where a family lost two out of their three children in a day. what hope do such people have if they had rendered their reproductive organs useless.

But, if they are still okay, they can still have more children.

Besides, surgical operation, no matter how perfect is, would certainly not make that person a complete human being again.

Is it worth the danger all because I want to do family planning?. Also, I am aware that some of these methods have side effects. If I submit myself for this, I learnt it could result into a man getting fatter and fatter. Please, count me out”.

Child spacing practice When asked if he could allow his wife to do it, he answered in affirmative saying it is good for a woman but then he can’t allow his wife to do a life threatening one like tying of the ovaries.

Other men who spoke also said they could never allow anybody to start cutting their bodies all in the name of family planning.

Despite the apathy that men have towards the children spacing practice, the phenomenon is getting more popular in Ibadan due to efforts of primary health professionals who move from house to house to sensitize families why the practice should be given more attention.

•Main gate of UCH Ibadan

FAMILY PLANNING: Yes for women, no for men In the past, they used to have the belief that children are too many in one’s body and that they would trouble the woman if they were not delivered.

South west voice interviewed a 22 year old woman who has got seven children. She said if not for the introduction of family planning by the officials, she would have got many more.

Speaking on the issue, Mrs. Elizabeth Ogunsina, a Matron at the Primary Health Centre, Foko, Ibadan, noted that misconception, rumors, taboos and beliefs have made family planning misconstrued and less celebrated by members of the public.

She gave an insight on the much dreaded topic which is now gradually being embraced as a result of its free nature which was made possible by the Nigeria Urban Reproductive Health Initiative.

“Thank God for the intervention of NURHI, in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Health, that came to Nigeria to sensitize families on the need for family planning. Also, every material and resource given was free

and this hastens people to come and plan for their famlies.

Child spacing in Nigeria has really been overlooked at times, because some believe child bearing is a gift from God and should not be withheld from couples with any scientific measures. As it pleases some, it has also destroyed cordial love between some other families when their wives tend to give birth to children uncontrollably.

men don’t like and then the use of spermicide is outdated.

According to Mrs. Kafayatu Monsuru, a trader, a pregnant woman at the Foko Primary Health Centre. “I did family planning so that I will not get

Long lasting methods In order to enlighten and encourage members of the public, she highlighted the various methods of family planning such as oral pills, the injectable, the insertions, tubal ligation and the implants, the long lasting methods and Intrauterine device for the women.

The methods of family planning that are applicable to men Include condom, vasectomy and spermicide.

Condom is still the most relevant because vasectomy is a minor surgery which most

Child spacing in Nigeria has really been overlooked at times, because some believe child bearing is a gift from God and should not be withheld from couples with any scientific measures

pregnant and to space my children. I did the injectable on my upper arm every month but when I was preparing to get pregnant I stopped going for the injection, It had no side effects and my husband agreed with me, you know some women don’t want to do it because they think they might not see their menstruation on time” she said.

For Mrs. Yekeen Alimat, a teacher who is heavily pregnant with her second child said “some men don’t cater for their children. It is women who cater for them. So I advise women to give birth to the number of children they will be able to cater for.

When I came, they just asked me what kind of method I wanted and that was it. “But, now I am happy because proper counselling was done.

Also, check up is necessary to know if such woman does not have any health challenge before any method is used.

Women are advised to give family planning its importance because giving birth to a lot of children in this type of country is not advisable”, she advised.

6 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

OGUN STATE

By Daud Olatunji

P

LANS to create LCDAs in Ogun Ogun state is more than ripe to have more than 20 local governments, the creation of local governments as it is today is just a mere paper work.

Local governments administration is usually the closest to the people, and they only feel you if you are there for them. You will not expect a Shimawa indigene to always run to Shagamu or Abeokuka when the Headquarters is there or close by. And the thing is that if there is no venture, there is no gain. If you keep running away from trouble you will never find a solution.

If this government had not come on board and we had not done certain things, there is no way the IGR would have increased from N750 to N4billion per month. And again don’t forget that in 2002, we created additional 32 Local Government Councils.

If successful government had continued with the 52 local Government councils till date, it would have been stabilised. In a situation where a new government comes in and breaks away from the former this will not speak well for the growth of the state and the government.

Getting stabilised If successful governments had continued the metro line project, we would have gotten somewhere today. Any attempt to start that metro line in Lagos today will run into billions of Naira and it would have cost $100 million in 1993.

How does government wants to go about it?

Everyone of us didn’t start walking the day we were born, it went through a lot of process, if we are allowed to do that, it will definitely get stabilized. Lagos State is just getting stabilized with its 20 local governments and 37 LCDAs. It was practically impossible for people to believe in 2011 that we can generate N4b monthly in this state. If we don’t attempt, we can’t get anything.

Who initiated this idea?

While I was still the speaker in 2002, we passed a law which was signed by the then governor of the state, Olusegun Osoba to create 52 local governments in the state, the report was sent to the National Assembly and there is no local government in Ogun State today that you can not divide no matter how small it is because we can

•Ogun State Commissioner for Local governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Muyiwa Oladipo

Ogun has 52 LGAs by law, not 20 — Oladipo Ogun State Commissioner for Local governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Muyiwa Oladipo, who was once the Speaker of the State House of Assembly between1999-2003 under the administration of Chief Olusegun Osoba cleared the air over the plan by governor Ibikunle Amosun to expand the Local governments in the state from 20 to 52.

Oladipo in this interview says the Assembly had passed the law to make the councils 52 it was assented to by Chief Osoba who he said had submitted the law to the national assembly. Excerpts:

bring towns from adjacent local governments to form another local government.

So, how many should be expected?

You should expect 52 , there is a subsisting law.

It is either we continue or we create additional local governments to join the existing ones. The ones we created and was passed to law has not been repelled. So, as we

At the last count we have 246 Obas. But, we have four paramount rulers and we have first class Obas across the state. Although, it varies from one traditional council to the other

speak, Ogun State by law has 52 local government areas. It is not a one day thing, don’t forget we have workforce across the state in all the local governments so, if you create additional local governments, you split them, you second them to all those areas. There is really no need of employing another staff.

Why Ogun has two Obas in each towns?

To every cause, there is an action. If you look at it very well, the entire Egbaland occupies almost all the communities in Ifo axis, all the components of Egba all has units in the community and they usually rotate it among themselves. Ifo for example, the last Oba before this present Oba is an Owu man. Ifo is a commercial settlement. All the four components of Egba, Egba Oke-Ona, Egba Alake, Egba Gbagura and Owu are all settled there.

So, they rotate the Obaship among themselves. That is why to a large extent they have two Obas possibly representing the community.

Clashes come up when they don’t realise or appreciate the need to coexist peacefully.

On the number of recognised Obas in the state At the last count we have 246 Obas. But, we have four paramount rulers and we have first class Obas across the state. Although, it varies from one traditional council to the other.

We cannot say Ikene does not have an Oba, we can only say there is no Alakene. In Ajaka today, there is no Oba and we are on it at the moment and the matter is in court. The last Alajaka had gone to join his ancestors and there is need to fill the vacant stool but the family is at loggerheads with one another.

On plan to rotate paramount tittle in Egbaland The whole world is dynamic. So, its a suggestion and Alake has to some large extent been a bit above.

Paramount ruler In the independent Egba kingdom, in 1852, it was the Alake that was regarded as the head of administration, while the other parts of Oke Ona, Gbragura and Owu were seen as component, like prime minister, treasurer and all that.

So maybe if it is going to be a possibility, then, we will attempt it, but, for now there is just one paramount ruler in the whole of Ebgaland as we have one paramount ruler for the whole of Remo and of course Awujale is the paramount ruler of Ijebu land, while Olu Ilaro is the paramount ruler of Yewa land.

Power to sanction erring Obas by Government Yes, it has the power, but it has to go through the local government. With records we have sanctioned about three Obas, but most times, what we do is to call any erring Oba and bring him to notice.

We also query him privately, instead of making it public.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 7

OSUN STATE

As Aregbesola puts together new cabinet

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

SOGBO – Barely six months into the second term of Osun state governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, the contest among chieftains of the All Progressive Congress, APC, for the available positions in the state cabinet seems to be reaching a climax in anticipation that a new cabinet will soon be constituted.

It would be recalled that Governor Aregbesola, few days to his second term inauguration on November 27, 2014, announced dissolution of the cabinet that had worked with him for three years.

Also, before picking his team, Governor Aregbesola, in his characteristics shrewd approach, had largely put at back seat, political patronage in selecting his team, but overtly went for young technocrats of Osun origin, scattered in all parts of the world, among them university scholars and other professionals.

While this move, in no small measure, assisted the governor in driving some of his programmes, it nearly proved fatal and cost him return mandate to Oke-Fia Government House, because almost all his commissioners were aloof to the the local politics going on in their various communities.

This development, not only denied many people that had hoped the presence of their kinsmen in the state cabinet would helped them get patronage, it also created gulf between party supporters and government.

It was however learnt that, when faced with the reality that many of the commissioners had been political burden to the ruling party, Governor Aregbesola, sources said after August 9, 2014 governorship poll, he assured that in the new

cabinet, political consideration cum competence would be the major requirement for anyone to have a look at.

Former commissioners in battle royale with intending ones

Vanguard investigations revealed that all the13 former commissioners that served in the state cabinet in Aregbesola’s first term are interested in returning to the cabinet.

Few of them, who had attempted to snatch ticket for the national assembly elections but failed, are said to be leveraging on their already established relationship with Aregbesola to remain in pole position for reappointment.

After leaving office, many of these former commissioners, especially those in good books of their boss, were still seen undertaking some functions on his behalf.

To further consolidate their advantageous position in the race, many of these former commissioners also made selves available for party activities and were very visible in electioneering activities of APC in the state, holding key posts in the campaign structure of Buhari/Osinbajo project.

Not totally foreclosing the possibility of Governor Aregbesola leaning towards recommendations of some elders in the party, those intending to return have also been currying favours of some personalities they consider may be crucial to their return as commissioners.

In the face of unrelenting moves by those commissioners that served during Aregbesola’s first term to return to the cabinet, some APC stalwarts interested in joining the state cabinet or with qualified

•Barrister Kunle Oyatomi candidates, appeared to be mounting a counter challenge to dislodge those considered as impediments among former commissioners.

Some APC bigwigs that have distinguished themselves as “kingmakers” in recent times, with scores to settle with majority of these past commissioners, are also pushing for better deal whenever the next state cabinet is formed and resultant effects of this move may

It was however learned that, when faced with the reality that many of the commissioners had been political burden to the ruling party

•Dr. Wale Bolorunduro put paid to the chances of these former aides.

The probables

Although no official list has been drawn of commissioner-nominees, party sources however confided in South West Voice that names are being compiled.

However, going by the body language of key stakeholders that wields considerable influence in decision making within Osun APC, the names being bandied around as those to man key portfolios in the new cabinet may be those that will eventually get look-in.

Those on the list include; Barrister Kunle Oyatomi, the director in charge of Directorate of Publicity and Research of APC in Osun state presently.

Oyatomi, a former editor with Vanguard newspapers, though not a career politician, but he is one of the few professionals making wave in Osun politics at the moment.

The Ipetumodu-born media guru is drawing applause of many people, owing to the effective

manner he has managed, what is being described as “the most proactive APC directorate of publicity and strategy” in South West region. He is being touted as the next Commissioner for Information in the state.

Mr. Sunday Akere, who was in charge of Ministry of Information during Aregbesola’s first term, is another man expected to play a role in the new cabinet. He has been a rallying point for APC in the state and the efficient manner he managed the corporate image of government when he was Commissioner for Information, may have earned him another term in the team.

Barrister Jibola Basiru, Mr. Sikiru Ayedun, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro and Prof. Bukola Oyawoye are some of the former commissioners that may be returning when a new cabinet is formed.

Both Bolorunduro and Basiru are considered as key men behind Aregbesola’s success in his first term and if feelers coming from sources with in the party are to be considered, Bolorunduro may be returning to Ministry of Finance, while Basiru may be next head of Ministry of Justice.

The possibles

Former APC chairman in the state, Mr. ‘Lowo Adebiyi, Hon Nathaniel Agunbiade and Rotimi Makinde, the two lawmakers of the ruling party that lost re-election in the just concluded polls are few of the names on the list of possible commissioners.

But governor Aregbesola is presently not in any mood to constitute his cabinet now, no thanks to the dwindling revenue from the federation account to the state government which largely responsible for the inability of the state government to pay salaries of its workers for several months.

Osun transport unions provide palliative on deplorable roads

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

SOGBO – Major roads and streets in Osogbo, the Osun State capital are in bad condition, following what residents have described as neglect by the state government in the maintenance of the roads. This usually forces motorists to have hectic time driving on the roads.

As the rains are here again, the roads have become worsen, leaving motorists groaning on a daily basis.

Vanguard gathered that the maintenance of the roads was abandoned by the state government due to paucity of fund made available from the federation account.

In order to avert auto-crashes on the township roads, the City Bus drivers of Olorunda/ Osogbo Town Service, popularly called Korope recently embarked on self help service by patching all the pot C M Y K

•A portion of the road at Odi-Olowo street being patched by some commercial drivers in Osogbo

holes of the affected roads.

Members of the transport union in conjunction with, Road Transport Employers Association of Nigerian (RTEAN), National Union of Road Transport Workers

(NURTW) and National Association of Cooperative Transporter (NACT) trooped out in their hundreds patching the pot-holes ridden major roads in the city centre.

Some of the affected roads

includes the popular Ola-Iya, Odi-Olowo, Gbaemu, ItaOlokan, Atelewo and Igbona among others.

Speaking with Vanguard, the state Chairman of the Union, Comrade Yemi Onifade

condemned in totality the lacklustre attitude of the government towards maintenance of some roads mostly in Osogbo, the state capital.

Onifade, said the affected roads had become impassable for motorists plying them daily.

His words, “It is not that the state government is not doing its best for the people, they are trying but some roads needed to be repaired adequately to enable motorists move smoothly. What we are doing today is on humanitarian grounds as we did not seek any assistance from any quarters before embarking on the exercise,” Onifade stated.

The Chairman who said the humanitarian exercise had become a part of them, stated that they do it as and when due for the benefit of the entire motorists. He thus enjoined government not to take the issue of construction and rehabilitation of roads with levity.

8 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

LAGOS STATE

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

U

NDOUBTEDLY, one of the monumental uncompleted projects that the Lagos State Governorelect, Akinwunmi Ambode, will be inheriting from his predecessor, Governor Babatunde Fashola, from May 29, 2015, is the multi billion Naira Lekki-Epe International Airport, located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, LFTZ of the state.

The proposed international airport being implemented under the Public Private Partnership, PPP, is currently wobbling and facing serious financial challenge as a result of unwillingness on the part of investors.

Recently, some property owners in Eluju Town and its environs LFTZ, Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area of the state, had protested against what they called illegal acquisition of their land by Lagos government without any form of compensation.

However, in swift reaction, the state government, through the Surveyor General, Joseph Olorunjuwon Agbenla, said they were being sponsored by people, he described unscrupulous individuals.

Agbenla, said that the allegation was incorrect, deceptive and capable of disrupting developmental plan in the state.

He explained that contrary to the allegation, the state government had only commenced excision exercise in some villages whereby some acquired lands were being returned to 98 villages to enable them participate in developmental process.

According to him, the expectation of the government from the excision exercise was to provide opportunity for the villages to key into the economic development process going on in the axis such as the LFTZ, the proposed International Airport, Dangote refinery project among others.

Refinery project With 64 companies that have already indicated interest to invest at least $25 billion (about N3.750 trillion) in LFTZ, Agbenla, urged residents to disregard the allegation but support the government in its activities, stressing that the essence of giving back the land is to fast track development at the grassroots.

Some of the companies that have shown interest are; MasterCard, Guinness and a host of other companies. The reverse is the case with the proposed international airport in the area.

Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Sola Oworu, disclosed the current challenge facing the realization of the airport while briefing newsmen on the activities of her ministry.

Oworu explained that further work has been suspended on the construction of the airport as the former investor which earlier indicated interest later withdrawn from pursuing the project over certain reasons.

Though, she was not specific on lack of funds for the withdrawal but said one of the reasons given by the investors was the 2015 general elections outcome, which they feared could endanger the investment by incoming administration.

“The state government is currently shopping for new investors. Efforts are being made to conclude discussion with prospective investors. As soon as all documents are ready we will recommence construction work at the site.” Oworu stated.

Owuru however, assured that the

•Lekki Free Zone

N7bn Lekki-Epe Int’l Airport suffers set back •As LASG shops for fresh investors incoming administration in the state would continue with the project, saying investors’ investments are guaranteed, as “a ready market is provided for their products with the state’s estimated over 20 million residents.”

She also reiterated that the project is a reality as it had so far attracted key players particularly in the oil and gas sector with a greater prospect of attracting more investors as its development progresses, especially with the provision of standby 12 megawatts of electricity supply.

Oworu, recalled when the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Senator Jubril Martins-Kuye, carried out an on-the-spot assessment of the LFTZ, saying with the right environment, which had been created for the LFTZ, would be consolidated, so as to open doors of better economic opportunities and ensure, technology transfer and capacity building.

Project: The state government had earlier, appointed one of the new generation banks, as the sole financial advisor on the

Our involvement is yet another testament to our commitment to infrastructure development in Lagos State, which is founded on our deep belief in Nigeria

proposed Lekki-Epe International Airport project.

The airport is to be developed on a modular basis at an estimated project cost of N71.64 billion in its first phase and is expected to commence operations with a conservative capacity of two million passengers per annum, reaching five million passengers by 2015.

It is a scalable airport that is been designed to cater for the Airbus A380, making it a Code F compliant airport as well as boost economic activities around LFTZ. Located about 10km from Lekki Free Trade Zone, LFTZ, the proposed airport was also designed to drive urban development and tourism in the Lekki-Epe axis of Lagos state and by extension check rural-urban drift.

Functional investment As part of commitment to make the LFTZ a fully functional investment haven, Oworu, said the state government has also completed the master plan on the 3500 hectares of land earmarked for the project adding that preliminary work on the project had since commenced with the clearing of 4.5 km of the access road and 9km of perimeter road.

Financial partner: The Chief Executive Officer, CEO, (namewithheld) of one of the new generation banks a partner on the Airport project reinforced the bank’s long standing partnership with the state government in the area of infrastructure develop-ment.

According to the CEO, “We are indeed proud to partner with the Lagos State Government on the Lekki-Epe International Airport project. Our involvement is yet another testament to our commitment to infrastructure development in Lagos State, which is founded on our deep belief in Nigeria and our confidence in its massive developmental potential.”

Earlier EOI on project: Companies had earlier submitted Expression of Interest (EOI) in August 2011, bidding for the project under a PPP arrangement. Request for Pre-Qualification (RFPQ), 33 Nigerian and international firms had indicated interest to participate in the ambitious project.

The RFPQ provides the bidding companies with guidelines for the submission of a Statement of Qualification (SOQ) which highlights their technical, operational and financial capability to design, finance, build and operate the Lekki-Epe International Airport, before its transfer to Lagos State Government at the expiration of the concession period.

NAHCO Aviance, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited and Cappa ’Alberto Plc, were among the 20 Nigerian companies that had been provided with the RFPQ. Companies that bided then, included; 13 international firms, Munich Airport Germany, Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co Limited (Korea), Canadian Commercial Corporation, Orascom Construction Industries, among others, for the development of the first phase of airport project.

Lekki master plan: The Lekki Peninsular which is regarded as the fastest real estate market in the whole of Africa, in the next five years will be transformed by projects currently being executed for the area, under the Lekki Master Plan being led by state government. Lekki International Airport ,Lekki Free Trade Zone ,Lekki light Rail Network , Lekki Water Transport System, vast road network including the rebuilding of the Lekki-Epe Express Way, landscaping and landscape irrigation, water supply and fire fighting water, storm water collection disposal, wastewater collection, solid waste management, power supply, telecommunications network and security are some of the projects on the desk.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—33

With PRINCE OSUAGWU princeosuagwu@gmail.com 08050498513

Teamspirit takes centre stage at Google Campus

By Laju Iren

S

OCIAL media platforms are the ideal avenue for individuals to connect with the world. From Facebook to twitter, the opportunities for one-onone and one-to-many interactions are limitless.

However, when it comes to teams, there haven’t been many platforms designed to foster teamspirit…until recently at the Google Campus in the United Kingdom where Nigerian tech-preneur, Mr Yinka Olugbodi recently changed the social media landscape with Teamspirit which he calls the first global team oriented social network services.

Teamspirit is a new social networking site with a global appeal and it seeks to differentiate its offerings from others. Team spirit evolved out of a strong resolve to build a

brand that promotes the uniqueness of a team. It’s overall relevance is that it is a platform where individuals can team up with others under the same teams.

Team spirit is the social platform where an individual connects to his teams across the globe.It is a collection of all teams in one platform. It is also based on the principle that everyone belongs to a team.The site www.teamspiritlive.com illustrates an innovative and refreshing approach to social networking. Olugbodi asserted further that a significant edge for teamspirit is that it is the first solely and global oriented team networking site and this clearly positions it as the foremost team networking site. The logo of the brand encapsulates all its stand s for and it communicates succinctly the brand essence.

The logo depicts teamwork and teaming. It shows two

individuals working in a powerful picture in divisive and chaotic world.

This underscores the power behind the strength of team coming together. This is one thread that holds the brand as it resonates amongst the target audience.

It is imperative to state that the brand is coming from Africa

and projecting its unique essence to the global world.

Teamspirit is a potent factor to project the ingenuity of Nigerians to develop laudable ideas that stand the test of time.It is one that will reshape the image of the country and redefine the black pedigree.

Yinka Olugbodi,says team

spirit would be positioned as the arrow head for technological development in Africa by using all potential great resources that are numerous on the continent.

His words: “The social networking site is equally an avenue to build an African Silicon Valley through network joining or individuals inviting team mates to join the networking site. This will go a long way to achieve substance a build a global interactive platform for teams. The new social networking site has enormous benefits for the target audience.”

The teamspirit brand is friendly, engaging and interactive as team mates can connect globally and interact on matters of mutual interest and benefit. The site is designed to be increased through building up the user base through joining and also building different e-business platforms-marketing, advertising and online sales platforms.

Are Microwaves the best thing since sliced bread?

By Laju Iren

M

AINTAINING the perfect work-life balance is never easy for the modern day woman. Aside from working 9 hours a day, she has to worry about cooking for her family. Though the arrival of microwave ovens has greatly simplified the cooking process, the gourmet taste of the food has had to be sacrificed along the way. This problem led to the innovation of the next generation of Lightwave cookers, one of which is the LG Lightwave Microwave Oven by global leading Home Appliances manufacturer, LG Electronics.

With all new features and improved cooking power, the LG’s Lightwave Oven enable users enjoy the speed and energy-saving) offering of a microwave, without forfeiting the taste, texture and flavor of traditional cooking in convection ovens. This is all due to its core technology, Lightwave technology.

Speaking on the core technology behind the microwave oven, General Manager, Home Appliances Division, LG Electronics West Africa operations, Mr. Hyunwoo Jung, said: “With the expansion of Lightwave technology into our latest overthe-range microwave ovens, cooking is now easier than ever before so families can spend more time doing things that C M Y K

matter most. At LG, we are always looking for ways to make families’ lives easier, and tasty and healthy cooking is a big part of that”.

“LG Lightwave microwave ovens are so easy to use, and are great additions to any kitchen. With simple features like one-touch controls and child lock protection, LG helps you users create perfectly cooked meals without the hassle.”

LG’s premium Lightwave Technologies offer Lightwave Technology, a multi-heating system designed to cook healthier, tastier, gourmet-

standard food with the minimum of fuss. By letting food retain its natural flavors, Lightwave makes dishes that are crispy on the outside and irresistibly juicy on the inside.

This multi-heating system is designed to cook healthier, tastier, gourmet-standard food in a microwave oven with minimum fuss. By letting food retain its natural flavors, LG SolarDOM and other Lightwave ovens make dishes that are crispy on the outside and irresistibly juicy on the inside. With innovative features like Speed Grilling and Speed Cooking.

It uses a powerful halogen heater to give instant intense surface heat which also penetrates deep into the food so inside of the food is cooked at the same time. This form of cooking is fast and efficient, keeping food moist, tender and bursting with flavor. The upper and lower heaters allow you to simply grill both the top and bottom of the food resulting in browned toppings and crispy bottoms.

The LG SolarDOM Microwave Oven is 3 easy to use kitchen appliances in one.

Cooking in an LG SolarDOM presents you with a number of

cooking options (Microwave, Grill and Convection Oven).

You can also select the Speed Control option that combines all 3 cooking methods to cook up 3 times faster than conventional convection ovens.

The SolarDOM can be used purely as a microwave where the microwave power can be manually selected. The running time can be adjusted while the microwave is in operation. Regarding the ease of cleaning, all LG SolarDOMs have a round cavity rather than the traditional rectangular cavity. The round cavity makes cleaning easier, so you can just wipe away all dirt and food scraps in one easy action.

Lightwave is capable of producing moist, flavorsome food that looks great and tastes even better. Using the Lightwave Oven reduces unnecessary salt and fat in dishes, while sealing in vitamin C and other nutrients to create healthier meals. LG’s Lightwave Oven also helps to lower energy consumption by making the cooking process more efficient.

Lightwave technology ensures food tastes good and retains its natural goodness when cooked. It is crispier, healthier and juicier in a fraction of the time. From steam technology to dual convection options, users are bound to find a combination of microwave oven features that combine convenience with traditional cooking.

34 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Parents, institutions decry abandonment of autistic children in Nigeria •call for creation of centre •as parent narrates experience

By Caleb Ayansina

A

BUJA – Emotion ran high recently when it was revealed how potentials embedded in children affected by autism were wasting and left untapped, due to their neglect by the society.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of complex neurodevelopment disorders, characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behaviour.

Several accounts made it clear that those children suffering from autism ignorantly referred to as ‘imbecile’ by some people are fully loaded with God’s given talents, if they could be catered for and brought up like other children.

Consequently, the Comprehensive Autism and related Disabilities Education and Training (C.A.D.E.T.) Academy in conjunction with the non-profit Dewdrops Community Centre for Special Needs Abuja, organized an Autism Awareness Dinner/ Seminar to mark World Autism Month of April.

Huge challenge Speaking at the occasion, the Minister of Power, Prof.

Chinedu Nebo said that no child should be left behind in term of quality education, regardless of their status.

Nebo, who one of his grandchildren is suffering from autism, noted that although it was a huge challenge to take care of them, “every individual with autism is unique in their own way”.

He said it was so unfortunate that there was little or no education about children with ASD, as some times the society had misconception about them.

The minister noted that some people see them as witch or children affected by dark or occult power and in the process, “some of them were tortured, they received the beating of their life. The most important thing we need to do is to see the opportunity in every situation we encounter.”

Narrating his experience, one of the parents at the seminar, C M Y K

Barr. Moses Ntuen in an interview with newsmen confessed that it was not an easy task to take care of an autistic child.

His word; “I have a daughter who is autistic (that is ASD). We have been through a lot, because basically in Nigeria, there is a very low awareness to it.

“The journey is quite slow, you will not see a success coming cascading in a quantum that you normally expect, if you are investing your emotion, your resources, times in training a child, you know what you expect basically from

Nebo, who one of his grand-children is suffering from autism, noted that although it was a huge challenge to take care of them, “every individual with autism is unique in their own way

• Autistic child

a normal child, for them there is nothing abnormal about them except they are special need children.

“Honestly, it is quite tasking.

Emotionally, to take care of these children is quite tasking, an autistic child will need to be watched in every single minute except he or she goes to bed.

“The child could pick any thing and put it the mouth, the child could eat poison, and also the child might have tendency of not feeling thing and along the line endanger his or herself.

“So, given the kind of world we are living, a world you need

to work very hard to provide for your family to survive, and at the same time give a parental care to the same child, it takes a lot.

“About my daughter, the success is quite slow, but she could do some certain things by herself now. But what come along with them is that they are very organised, and when they pick on something to do, they are focus.

“It is good to be enlightened, we never thought in that direction that the child was stubborn or it is a spiritual matter. But you know! You don’t

live in isolation of your society and the practices within your community. A lot of other persons could prescribe what could possibly be the reasons for this thing, but we never think in that direction.”

In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of CADET Academy, Mr. Lola Aneke explained that “the dinner served as a platform to create awareness about Autism, educate, inspire and encourage families, teachers and caregivers who are dealing with young students living with Autism.”

She added that the seminar would also be used to raise funds to build a centre; The Dewdrops Community Centre for Special Needs and Vulnerable Women, registered as their non-profit arm in Abuja.

According to her, the centre would provide scholarship/ sponsorship of special needs students, special education capacity building for teachers as well as procurement and installation of special education needs resources, assessment materials and teaching aids.

Mrs Aneke decried a situation where children with special needs are being denied education because of their disability status, calling on government at all levels to ensure that schools are opened to all children.

She maintained that they were ready to provide training on special education to those teachers that would be taking care of the children with special needs.

Onyeka Onwenu teams up with top celebrities for Women Empowerment Campaign

A

By Kehinde Ajose

S part of the African Union Year of Women Empowerment, the ONE Campaign on Thursday, April 16, 2015 in Abuja launched Poverty is Sexist, a campaign and online petition calling on world leaders to put girls and women centre-stage in 2015, a year when new development goals will be set.

High profile Nigerians, including Executive Director of the National Centre for Women Development, Lady Onyeka Onwenu; actresses Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, and Genevieve Nnaji; musicians Omawumi and D’banj, have added their names to ONE’s call for action.

The campaign was launched at a policy forum that was

attended by representatives of the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS), Equity Advocates and Save the Children Nigeria among others.A recently released report

by ONE entitled, “Poverty is Sexist: Why Girls and Women Must Be At The Heart of The Fight to End Extreme Poverty” shows how unlocking women’s economic potential could improve the lives of everyone in society.

Poverty and gender inequality The report shows that poverty and gender inequality go hand in hand, whether you look at health, education or work. Not only are girls and women worse

off than those in wealthier countries, but the gender gap in these areas between males and females is greatest in the poorest countries.

This double disadvantage means that: a woman in Sierra Leone is 183 times more likely to die in childbirth than a woman in Switzerland, working women in the least developed countries are three times more likely to be in vulnerable employment than women elsewhere and in the poorest countries, and literacy levels are a third lower for women than men.

During the event, Lady Onyeka Onwenu joined Arunma Oteh to sign the online petition, which is online.

Onwenu recognized that

progress is being made in women empowerment, but there is a lot left to be done. Other Issues raised at the policy forum include the need for a comprehensive national policy on political inclusion for women, the need for monitoring mechanisms for funds targeting women development, and increased collaboration and synergy among women’s empowerment groups and champions.

A policy document will be compiled from the forum, which will contribute to a continental narrative being developed by the ONE campaign to lobby leaders for action, in the lead up to the AU Heads of State Summit in June and the UN Summit in September.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 35

IoD challenges women on networking skill

golden rule of networking is to help others get a strategic contact, send a useful business tactic, give a specific tidbit of interaction and make friends with influential people before one needs them.

Dignitaries at the event include: Mrs Nike Akande, former minister of industry, Mrs Funmi Babington-Ashaye, Vice Chairman Women Directors Conference, Chief John Odeyemi, Chairman Ecobank, Mrs Stella Okoli, Chairman, IoD Nigeria Women Directors Committee and Mr Ayo Olumoko, Managing Director of INFOGEM Limited.

By Providence Obuh

T

HE Institute of Directors Nigeria (IoD) has challenged Nigerian women to possess a strong networking skill if they would make their way to the top in all aspects of life in a male-dominated environment.

This was the submission of women directors, leaders and top officers who converged recently at Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos at the luncheon organized by IoD Women Directors entitled Networking to the Top…issues for women.

Speaking in her welcome address at the ceremony, the President/Chairman of Council, Mrs Eniola Fadayomi, emphasized that one of the ways to facilitate easy movement of women to the top is for the Government at the local, state and federal levels and corporate organizations to work towards achieving women empowerment in leadership positions and gender equality on boards of corporate organizations.

Fadayomi said: “Today many countries of the world are making efforts to bridge the gap between men and women in leadership positions whether in politics or corporate boards. In Nigeria, the representation of women, though has improved marginally, is still very low compared to what obtains in the other countries, especially in the developed nations.

Women empowerment “A consideration of the first 20 listed companies in the Nigerian Stock Exchange revealed that 7 companies have no single woman on their board; 5 of the companies have a woman each while 8 of the companies have either 2 or 3 women on their boards. It has been said that Nigeria stands to be the world’s 15th largest economy by 2050… this could only be realizable with women empowerment,” she said.

She commended Emzor, Africa Prudential Registrars Plc, Dangote, Northwest, Risk Analyst Insurance Brokers Limited, Access Bank, United Capital, Keystone Bank, H.PIERSON, RiRS among others for sponsoring the programme.

The guest speaker, Mrs Oluwatoyin Sanni, Group Chief Executive Officer, United Capital Plc, while challenging women on the need to network their way to the top, C M Y K

IoD Nigeria was founded in 1983. It is an affiliate of the Institute of Directors UK. The primary aim of IoD Nigeria is to enhancing the quality of corporate governance, maintaining and establishing contacts amongst business leaders at the highest level

•Eniola Fadayomi emphasized that women need to be involved in national issues, to belong to professional groups and organizations, meet people with business and career interest, be involved in sporting and athletic groups and social country clubs.

She listed other activities women should involve in if they were to reach for the top as to include joining religious groups, do some volunteer

works and be active in social media platform such as Linkedln, twitter, facebook, Instagram and many others.

According to Sanni, making decent conversation, having good conversational skill, pleasant disposition, neat appearance, describing self intelligently, ensuring to be the best at endeavours, being valuable to others, being well grounded in issues among others would move women to

Corporate governance

the top.

She listed obstacles hindering women from moving to the top to include: lack of support from other female leaders and peers; struggle to balance raising families with running business/ career; cultural restrictions; fear of failure from battle scars; public criticism and rumours.

Also, Group Chief Executive Officer, Poise Nigeria, Mrs Mavi Isibor, said that the

IoD Nigeria was founded in 1983. It is an affiliate of the Institute of Directors UK. The primary aim of IoD Nigeria is to enhancing the quality of corporate governance, maintaining and establishing contacts amongst business leaders at the highest levels, and interfacing with government for the formulation of policies that support the corporate environment.

IoD spans across all sectors of the economy and aims at securing greater effectiveness and efficiency in boardrooms.

IoD offers a network of over 110,000 members in over 150 countries, and membership is drawn from directors, business leaders, policy makers in the public and private sector across diverse enterprises and industries.

Foundation lauds police conduct during election

By Esther Onyegbula

C

RIME Victims Foundation (CRVIFON), a nongovernmental organization responsible for assisting victims of crime in Nigeria has commended the Lagos State Police command for their conduct during the 2015 Presidential and governorship election in the country.

Executive Director of the Foundation, Mrs. Gloria Egbuji who made the commendation in statement made available to Vanguard noted that the command’s conduct during the elections met international standards in conduct of cops during elections.

According to Egbuji, “Crime Victims Foundation commends Nigeria Police particularly the Lagos State Police command for their conduct and performance during the just concluded elections. When compared to the past elections, the Lagos State Police command had the least number of infractions with the electorate on the electioneering programme.

“This is a clear demonstration of a much higher and better understanding of the role of the police and the civic rights of the general

•Gloria Egbuji public. At the same time, the police were also very responsive and highly efficient in tackling cases of public threat and safety of the general public.

“This is a demonstration of high level of training and human rights awareness that have been received by the police especially the Lagos State Police formation

which yielded a greater benefit.

CRIVIFON hope that this practice will continue as it enhances democratic practice.”

Crime Victims Foundation was established as nongovernmental, nonpolitical, organization with charitable status registered in Nigeria as a private company limited by guarantee and founded

by Mrs. Gloria Egbuji, a lawyer and social scientist that at that time was doing her Phd in Victimology at the University of Lagos.

Because this time, there was no organization that offers support to crime victims in Nigeria, at time when the UN Declaration 30/34 was just introduced, the founder invited friends who came together to set up the organization.

At the initial stage, CRIVIFON was an organization of victims and witnesses’ assistance programme and practitioner’s criminal justice and professionals, mental, health, professionals, researchers and former victim survivors and others committed to the implementation of victim’s rights. Activities were focused on raped victims, domestic violence, court related services for victims of crime and researches into related matters.

36 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 —37

Allison-Madueke on firing line

By Emma Ogbuehi

A

PARTICULAR trend by a section of Nigeria’s public opinion commentators is the easy resort to herd disposition.

By this, they easily fall over a particular issue, chorusing the same argument in a manner reminiscent of a flock in dire need of pasture.

The engagement, ordinarily, may not give cause for concern.

The danger, however, is that beyond the veneer of championing a touted national interest, there are individuals stoking the fire with an aim of profiting from an agenda.

Often, the aim which is hardly stated, usually tailored at settling scores. But by the time the dust of the exercise would have settled, some hard-earned reputation must have been sullied.

That, incidentally, has been the burden of public office holders in Nigeria. Dr. Alex Ekwueme, former Vice President, is a victim of this absurd tendency. By the time the Second Republic that he served, had been sent packing by soldiers led by the then Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (now, president-elect), he was readily categorized among the rogues of the administration. Without due diligence but in obvious deference to the prevailing public opinion of the time, he was hauled into detention for a grueling 20 months.

Appeal panel It took a more thorough opinion by an appeal panel for it to be established that the former vice president, in fact, came out of government poorer than he was before volunteering for service.

The appeal panel, in fact, had remarked that it would take somebody that is more of an angel to maintain the record that he had in service. That verdict, somehow, gave Ekwueme the needed breather.

But undoubtedly, his reputation and health had been tampered with before it came. The Minister for Petroleum Resources, Diezani AllisonMadueke, is currently undergoing this jaundiced trial in the court of interested members of the public. She appears to have been programmed for an ignominious exit from office, in what may signal an era of witchhunt that lies ahead.

The Minister, incidentally, is not a stranger to controversies that have dogged her office since her appointment. Before now, she had been the butt of dangerous insinuations about the alleged sleaze in the petroleum industry. But she had, at every turn, rebuffed

Petroleum minister, Deziani Alison-Madueke attempts to present her in bad light, blaming her woes on the antics of oil cabals that she had been having running battles with.

But with less than a month to the exit of the President Goodluck Jonathan administration, the onslaught on the Minister has been on the upswing, giving the impression that she has become a marked woman.

What perhaps, seems to have added fillip to her trial on the media, is the statement by the president-elect that he is going to initiate fresh probe into the controversial “missing” $20 billion from Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) account.

Buhari was said to have told a delegation from Adamawa State led by the governor-elect, Bindow Jibrilla, that he would investigate the allegations of the missing fund despite information that some persons have already started returning money to government coffers.

He reiterated that the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, was removed from the Central Bank because he said that about $20 billion was missing, noting that instead of the government to investigate the matter, it sacked him.

It would be recalled that Sanusi, had in September 2013, written President Jonathan, alleging that the Nigeria

By initiating and carrying out some far reaching reforms in the sector that the players consider injurious to their interest, she has clearly stepped on toes and has incurred their wrath

National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) had failed to remit the sum of $49.8 billion to the Federation Account over a 19month period. The letter was supposed to be for the president’s attention and necessary action but for reasons that became clearer later, the communication was leaked to the press. NNPC, however, quickly debunked the allegation.

When Sanusi was put on the spot by the Senate Committee, inquiring into his allegation t o substantiate his case, he told the members that the missing figure was $12 billion instead. He was later to change the figure to $ 1 9 . 8 billion and then to $20 billion. But obviously t a k i n g advantage of a system w h e r e questions are rarely asked, the former C B N governor pranced about with t h e confusing story and was rather lionized by the unwary public.

It was at this point that the Federal Government, wanting to set the

records straight, ordered a forensic audit conducted by world-acclaimed accounting firm, Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) into the accounts of NNPC. The firm came up with the verdict that only $1.48 billion was actually unaccounted for.

That should settle the matter.

But that is not the case. And it is hardly surprising. Oil business, the world over, is big business. Its operations are carefully kept from the eyes of the public. They are only known within the circles of the key players- the oligopolies. This is why even some oil producing nations hardly have any say on how their oil is exploited or explored. It is, indeed, a tricky business.

It is also a dangerous terrain for a suspected intruder. This is the cross Allison-Madueke is currently carrying. By initiating and carrying out some far reaching reforms in the sector that the players consider injurious to their interest, she has clearly stepped on toes and has incurred their wrath. To them and their local collaborators therefore, anything and anyhow it takes to bring the Minister down, is in line with the tenets of the business.

This is why the in-coming

administration should not allow itself to be used in the unfolding shadow-boxing that is clearly not in the interest of the country. Probing activities of a seating government of its predecessor, is not a bad idea, per se. It should also be comprehensive and not selective. This is especially if the exercise is intended to enhance governance and add value to the lives of the people.

Perceived opponents The action rather becomes a curious engagement when it is applied as instrument of vendetta to get at perceived opponents. The excitement in the camp of those chorusing the Allison-Madueke probe mantra, suggests more to the issue than meets the eye.

This is where the Presidentelect is expected to exercise great deal of caution in dancing to frenzy for those yelling for action. He fell into this trap in his first coming, when brimming with exuberance of revolutionary agenda, he took some actions that later worked against his government. With the benefit of hindsight and age, it is expected that he should, this time around, not allow himself to be herded into hasty actions that may end up serving concealed interest.

•Ogbuehi, a public affairs analyst, writes from Lagos.

38—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Africa’s sustainable development begins with local capacity

By Lennie Bazira Kyomuhangi-Igbodipe & Linn Dorin

O

VER the last decade, there has been a gradual, yet significant shift in the way large international donors give foreign aid in countries like Nigeria.

Increasingly, major development donors, such as the United States Agency for International Development, USAID, have begun giving money directly to developing country governments and local non governmental organisations, NGOs. Often referred to as "aid localisation," this movement bypasses traditional international NGOs to directly empower grassroots organisations; ensuring aid reaches its intended recipients.

As the trend of aid localisation continues, the global community is starting to pay more attention to the impact localisation is having for the organisations that receive the aid on-the-ground in developing countries.

Amref Health Africa, a nonprofit organisation with a focus on women and children that is committed to improving the health of Africans by partnering with and empowering communities, is one of many NGOs across Africa and South Asia that has experienced the impact of aid localisation.

Localised aid has dramatically changed the way these organisations operate, mostly in a positive way. With the right investment in local NGO capacity, localisation of aid can

• Lennie Bazira Kyomuhangi-Igbodipe

yield positive results in the long term. In addition to the benefits, the increase in direct funding from major donors has also created some unintended challenges.

Operational & financial burdens For example, localisation has imposed new operational and financial burdens on aid recipients, many of which have gone unnoticed by international donors.

These include responsibilities related to grant applications and reporting systems - the responsibilities once typically handled by international NGOs,

• Linn Dorin

The global community must act now to empower onthe-ground organisations that can help smaller organisations to continue to improve health and economic growth within their communities

but now passed on to local partners.

These responsibilities have proven to be challenging for lots of in-country NGOs. Many do not have the strong operational systems needed to comply with the reporting demands.

According to a new report surveying development experts, as many as 97 percent of aid recipients describe grant compliance - the process of tracking grant activities and budgets and adhering to donor compliance guidelines- as a growing burden.

This burden has increased demand for an already limited number of skilled operations and finance professionals, having predictable effects. Often, NGOs

Health promotion: NANNM, Unilever target 10m

By Chioma Obinna

I

N a bid to promote the culture of preventive health among Nigerians, Unilever Nigeria Plc and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, NANNM, last week signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, aimed at reaching 10 million Nigerians with information on disease prevention among others.

The new partnership which will run for the year 2015 and 2016 would take health awareness to the door steps of millions of consumers through a multiple set of initiative by 2020.

At the official signing of the MoU which held at Unilever office in Lagos, Marketing Manager, Unilever, Mr. David Okeme explained that the role nurses play in the community informed the choice of the association. “This is an initiative

for us is to reach out to families and children and carry on to them the right information and right behaviour and habits.”

Noting the role of nurses in community healthcare delivery, he said research has established that before people even showed up in the hospital a lot of them must have made several visits or made several conversations with these nurses. “That is how important they are in terms of the role they play within the community.”

Okeme who explained that the partnership would be driven by the company ’s baby range products, Pears Baby Lotion and Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, regretted that many Nigerian children are still dying due to preventable diseases.

“We have, as a nation, too many children still dying. We are the second highest in child mortality rate in the world. Organisations like ours are building coalitions

of professional bodies and organisations so that we find and put into place sustainable ways of supporting parents to deliver the right level of healthcare to children so that we prevent a lot of the avoidable deaths.”

School programme “In Unilever, we have a strong school programme we run where we teach children the right behaviours. Hopefully that begins to put the right habits into them and prepares them for adulthood.

We are also giving consumers the tools that they need to live well.

“Today while signing the agreement we are celebrating two of our brands, who have made this possible: Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, the world’s purest and oldest brand on the market of jellies. And we have Pears, the nation’s No.1 in baby care. These brands have created this platform.

Responding, National President, NANNM, Comrade Adeniji Abdurafiu Alani said the MoU, would be of great benefit for Nigerians, particularly, women and children who are the most vulnerable in the society, adding that, without caring for these Nigerians, the health indices of the country will be nose diving.

He said most of the programmes under the partnership would target more school children because they are prone to certain preventable diseases including worm infestation, malaria and other endemic diseases that are predominant in Africa.

Abdurafiu – Alani noted that the partnership will focus more on preventive health which he said is the most important part of disease prevention and major tool in early detection of any ailment.

will recruit and train local administrative staff in financial and marketing tools, only to have them leave for higher-paying positions in the corporate sector.

Amref Health Africa has experienced these operations challenges and pressures. As the impact of aid localisation began to be felt, Amref Health Africa invested in tracking employee hours and allocating resources to build a team for grant applications.

Dividends: While this requiredsignificant upfront investment, these systems are now paying dividends, allowing new grants and improved efficiency. Amref Health Africa is also sharing lessons and helping to strengthen local operational and financial capacity by sharing its own innovation initiative, known as Organisational Development and Systems Strengthening, ODSS. Success story While this is a success story, many smaller NGOs are struggling.

The global community must act now to empower on-the-ground organisations that can help smaller NGOs meet the changing requirements, so they can continue to improve health and economic growth within their communities. But if we don't address these challenges as a community, the overall effectiveness of aid will suffer.

Creative responses are already being seen around the world, led both by international and incountry NGOs. International groups are creating local affiliates within countries, investing in the operations and systems capacity of their grantees, and building regional technical support hubs.

Internal capacity Developing country organisations are beginning to build their own internal capacity to manage these funds while also considering outsourcing operations tasks, employing local fiscal agents, and establishing partnerships with private accounting firms.

While these changes are helping, more needs to be done to ensure that the localisation of aid has the greatest positive impact. Donor harmonisation the aligning of grant requirements across many donors - would be a good first step.

Long-term effects: While the long-term effects of localisation are still largely unknown, it is critical that the international community takes action to build local capacity on-the-ground.

Ensuring that developing country organisations are equipped with the resources, talent and tools they need is critical to helping us all reach the ambitious development goals we've set.

• Lennie Bazira KyomuhangiIgbodipe is the Interim CEO, Amref Health Africa, while Linn Dorin is the Principal of Global Finance Strategies.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 39

Governor Godswill Akpabio receiving a portrait from Akwa Ibom State NYSC Coordinator, Lady Ngozi Chukwuka during the official swearing-in of Batch A Corps Members in Akwa Ibom State. The State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Mr. Monday Uko (middle) watches.

Hypertension on the rise in Nigeria— Cardiologist

By Chioma Obinna

A

S the world prepares to mark this year ’s World Hypertension Day, a renowned cardiologist and vice president, World Heart Federation, WHF, Dr.Kingsley Akinroye, yesterday, said despite the increased awareness on hypertension, prevalence of the disease has continued to rise unabated.

Hypertension is one of the most prevalent non communicable conditions worldwide. According to the World Health organisation, hypertension is responsible for an estimated 45 percent of deaths due to heart disease and 51 percent of deaths due to stroke globally. According to WHO’s Global status report on non communicable, of WHO’s six regions, the African region has the highest prevalence of hypertension estimated at 46 percent of adults aged 25 and above. Akinroye who is also the president, Nigeria Heart Foundation, NHF, further regretted that statistics available have shown that 70 percent of hypertensive patients go on drug holidays while the prevalence among Nigerians is between 25

percent and 40 percent depending on the area of location. Akinroye who noted that hypertension was synonymous to job termination once diagnosed in the mid 70s said: “despite the awareness which has increased to about 80 percent, it is still rising within the N i g e r i a n population.”

Speaking in Lagos during the anniversary of “Fight the Good Fight A g a i n s t Hypertension, FITGAH” a programme of N e i m e t h International Pharmaceuticals Plc, in Lagos with the t h e m e : “Hypertension Never Sleeps” also drew the attention of the government and Nigerians on the unacceptable rise in many parts of the country of some known lifestyle driven factors of heart disease. According to

him, the government and Nigerians should as a matter of urgency, tackle rising incidences of high blood pressure, obesity, tobacco consumption, excessive intake of salt and urban lifestyle where people eat more of junk foods as part of efforts to check heart disease.

Hon Johnson Erijo representing Isoko constituency 2 in the Delta State House of Assembly, receiving his certificate of return from Ibrahim Bawa, INECC head of legal services in Abuja.

40 — VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

NASFAT Group Arabs, and Allah has made him the Last Prophet.

Over and above, those who preceded us used to offer their Salat either in their churches, mosque, or places of worship, whereas the Islamic Shari‘ah permits a person to offer Salat everywhere.

Jumada Al-Akhir 21, 1436 A.H.

Dry ablution and praying

Shariah is not difficult A

GAINST the erroneous view that shariah (the Islamic law), is difficult simply because Muslims refused to changed it under the guise of constitutional review in line with divine commandments.

Yet there is abundance of evidence to proof that the law given to the followers of Prophets of Allah-(AS), before Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was difficult than the one given to this nation.

The problem is that many of the followers of those Prophets altered the divine law of those earlier Prophet (AS) to suit their selfish desire. Therefore, the following are some of the evidence to support this fact

by Sheikh Ibn Bazz and other writers.

any hardship. In the past laws preceding the Shari‘ah of our Prophet Muhammad (SAW), people were not permitted to perform Tayammum (dry ablution) when they ran out of water.

They would then delay their Salat and combine them until they find water, then perform Wudu’ (ablution), and offer their Salat afterwards, but Tayammum was prescribed in this Shari‘ah brought by Prophet Muhammad. When there is no water, people can simply perform Tayammum and offer their Salat.

Selfish desire Allah has made the Shari‘ah much easier and relieving to this nation. He says: he releases them from their heavy burdens (of Allah’s Covenant with the Children of Israel), and from the fetters (bindings) that were upon them. The Prophet (SAW) also said: I was sent with the lenient Hanifiyyah (i.e. the True Religion of Islam).

Allah sent him with a lenient Shari‘ah that does not include loads, shackles, or any hardships. He says: and has not laid upon you in religion

Whenever Salat becomes due, you can offer it where you are— in deserts, wastelands, or any part of this earth

This is one of many other aspects of simplifications.

Furthermore, each Prophet was sent only to his people whereas Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was sent to the Jinn (creatures created from fire) and mankind, Arabs and non-

Whenever Salat becomes due, you can offer it where you are— in deserts, wastelands, or any part of this earth according to the Prophet’s saying (SAW): The land has been made a Masjid and a pure place for me (i.e. for dry ablution and praying).

The Islamic Shari‘ah brought by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is a simplified and comprehensive one that has no hardships or restraints, among which is the facilitation for patients by exempting them from the

obligation of fast~ they are permitted to eat and compensate for the days missed.

A traveller is permitted to combine the quatrain Salat and delay fasting Ramadan and then make up for these days as well according to Allah’s Saying: and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe fasts must be made up] from other days.

A person may offer Salat while sitting if standing becomes difficult and unbearable, lying down on one side if they are unable to sit, or lying on their backs if they are unable to lie down on one side as authentically reported from the Messenger of Allah in the Sunnah. Apart from this, allowing them to eat from a dead animal when necessary and to stay alive when lawful food is unavailable to escape death.

Lessons of Suratul Khaf Continues from last week S the reality is hidden from you, you are at a loss to understand the wisdom of what is happening, and sometimes if it appears that things are going against you, you cry out, ‘How and why has this happened’.

The fact is that if the curtain be removed from the “unseen”, you would yourselves come to know that what is happening here is for the best.

Even if sometimes it appears that something is going wrong, you will see that in the end, it will also produces some good results for you.

The same is true with the story of Zul-Qarnain for it also admonishes the unbelievers: “0 you vain chiefs of Makkah you should learn a lesson from Zul-Qarnain. Though he was a great ruler, a great conqueror and the owner of great resources, yet he always surrendered to his Creator,

A

whereas you are rebelling against Him even though you are insignificant chieftains in comparison with him. Besides this, though Zul-Qarnain built one of the strongest walls for protection, yet his real trust was in Allah and not in the “wall”.

He believed that the wall could protect him against his enemies as long as it was the will of Allah and that there would be crack and holes in it, when it would be His will : whereas you who possess only insignificant fortified abodes and dwellings in comparison with him, consider yourselves to be permanently safe and secure against all sorts of calamities.”

Fortified abodes While the Quran turned the tables on the unbelievers who had tried to ridicule the Holy

Prophet, in the end of the Surah the same thing stated at the beginning was reiterated at the end: “Tauhid and the Hereafter are absolutely true and real and for your own good; you should accept these doctrines, mend your ways in accordance with them and live in this world with this conviction that you are accountable to Allah: otherwise you shall ruin your life and all your doings shall be set at naught.”

This allegory is also related in the Gibbon’s Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire (end of Chapter 33) but without the spiritual lessons as explained in the Quran.

The relativity of Time, how Allah does whatever He wishes in mysterious manners; the position of oppressor and the oppressed, the persecutor and persecuted, as well as the true potency of prayers to guide the actions of man aright.

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 41 realised that university cannot be taken out of context of the society.

The way we practice Islam cannot be taken out of context with our universities. In Sudan, they don’t have a dress code; but we have a dress code here, although we still find it difficult to enforce it. This is because, a lot of students were brought up in different ways, unlike in Sudan where Islamic cultures have been inculcated in the children right from their homes, so, they dont need to enforce it.

So, everybody dresses and behaves Islamically.

Therefore, students go into the university in their normal behaviour. So, if you want to evaluate us vis-a-vis other Islamic universities, you have to take these factors into cognizance. Parents and the society have a lot to do also in making a good society.

Jumada Al-Akhir 21, 1436 A.H.

Fountain is the best Islamic based varsity — VC Says: Hijab is not compulsory but encouraged Professor Bashir Ademola Raji, the Vice Chancellor, Fountain University, Osogbo, in this interview bares his mind on the success so far achieved by the Islamic university, stressing that academic excellence laced with Islamic etiquette, enterprenueship culture and honesty are the core values the school is currently imparting on students in order to better the society. Excerpts.

Academic ranking

F

OUNTAIN over the years There are over sixty private universities now in the country and out of the number, the Islamic based universities were four but with the recent licence granted by the Federal government, Islamic faithbased universities are now five.

Fountain University is one of them and it is the only one owned by an Islamic organisation, NASFAT. There have been a lot of challenges trying to impart curriculum laced with Islamic ettiquett in our students. We are marrying religion with academics so that the products will be better for the society. In our curriculum, there are general courses that are meant for all students both Muslims and Christians. These are Arabic and Islamic courses, albeit, at elementary level in year one and two. Since Arabic is a language, it is useful to even the non-Muslims and again the Islamic course gives them better knowledge of Islam.

There is also a fiqh forum where students interract and ask

Prof. Bashir Raji questions. As part of our common values, we ensure that

I realised that university cannot be taken out of context of the society. The way we practice Islam cannot be taken out of context with our universities

every student including staff greets in Islamic way. Again, hijab is not cumpulsory but students must cover their heads.

We want to see the Islamic culture in your outlook and behaviour rathan than the physical. We want them to behave ‘Fountainly.’

Among African Islamic based universities.

During my visit to African International University in Sudan and the University of Science and Technology, I

So, if you have to grade us, it must be vis-a-vis the society we operate from and the transformation we have been able to bring. In the recent private universities’ ranking, Covenant was ranked the best in Nigeria. In terms of academic ranking with other Islamic based universities in the country, Fountain university is the best. In terms of inculcating Islamic cultures, we are doing our best too.

I cannot evaluate myself; again, there is no generally accepted instrument to evaluate that but suffice to say we are still not where we want to be but we will continue to do our best to turn out products that will impact greatly and positively in the society.

Challenges

The main challenge we have like other universities is funding. To run a university, you need a lot of funds. Even the federal and state universities, the governments need a lot of money to keep them going. They still cry of

University products There are two core values we give to our students, we ensure that ICT is an intergral part of our curriculum. Our graduates can handle ICT very well and you know, nowadays, in various workplaces, knowlege of ICT is one of the requirements. We also inculcate in them enterprenueship skills. In our school, all the toiletries, insecticides we use are made by our own students.

The paints we used recently to paint some of our buldings were made by our students.

During our enterprenuer training, we expose them to a lot of handiwork so that they can be employers of labour instead of looking for employments.

So, we try to make them to be hardworking, honest and incurruptible. These are attributes you need when going into the labour market aside from your academic proficiency.

Strike a balance between home, carrer--- group urges Muslim women

By Aderonke Adeyeri

M

Sheikh H. Gbajabiamila, Lagos Central Mosque, (left) and other worshippers during a special Jumat Services orgainised to mark Community day held at the Lagos State Central Mosque, Idumota, Lagos.

funding and that is also a challenge to us. Again, there is also the societal prejudice.

People are already used to government institutions.

Anything government seems to be more accepted than anything private. It is only in primary and secondary school that education has broken into private realm. The concept of private universities in the minds of people has not changed totally. But because of the stability in private universities, a lot of people have come to buy into it. Again, poor enrolment in all private universities is a norm. Last year, the University of Ilorin alone had 107,000 applicants, the whole 60 private universities had only 17,000 applicants.

With renewed committment and leveraging on the brand name, NASFAT, which in otherwords is a success, every other thing under it must achieve resounding success.

We see ourselves in the next few years ranking as the best among private universities in the country.

USLIM women have been urged to strike a balance between their home and their career so as to prevent chaos and disharmony in all their endeavours.

This was the thrust of the three days’ workshop held by the Lajna Imaillah (women servant of Allah), Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Nigeria, at Ojokoro, Lagos, last weekend. The annual workshop which had over 600 female members of the Islamic organization throughout the federation in attendance highlighted the roles Muslim women have to play in the contemporary world.

The workshop did justice to various issues affecting women and how the problem can be tackled.

Speaking on the theme of the seminar, “Muslim women and effective multitasking in the contemporary world”, Sister Rashidah Kamal-Muili said, “Human exerts efforts in

multitasking just the same way computer operating system engaged in multitasking.

The society today, expects men and women to contribute to the nation development by utilizing the skills learnt through educational institution or other places.

However, in a situation whereby the man and the woman exhibits equality in matrimony, it creates discord and sometimes may lead to breakdown.”

She further stressed that in Islam, women are entrusted with a special and God appealing role by ensuring they have a stable, peaceful and harmonious home.

“They are not obligated to work nor spend on their family. Allah has make spending, caring and protection of the family the responsibility of men as the head of the family. However, it is unfortunate that a lot of men want to spend on their family.

They are incapacitated because of joblessness, insufficient fund or bad economy. This makes women to contribute to the provision of the household by working outside their homes.

42—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Amaechi's refusal to set up transition c'ttee, an act of impunity —WIKE

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT—THE refusal by Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State to set up a transition committee to interface with the one constituted by the governor-elect in the state, Mr Nyesom Wike, has been described as an act of impunity.

Secretary to the transition committee set up by the governor-elect, Mr Frank Owhor, who briefed newsmen, yesterday, in the office of the Deputy Governor, Old Government House, Port Harcourt, said it had been the practice in the nation’s democracy since 1999 for transition committees to be set up by a governor-elect and the outgoing governor.

Owhor who said it was unfortunate and hypocritical that Governor Amaechi, who allegedly refused to set up a transition committee in his state after his candidate lost the guber election was busy in Abuja as a member of a

Community commends NDDC for access road

By Tom Moses

E

SIT EKET—THE people of Ukwo and Etebi in Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, have commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, for providing a road to the community by the construction of the long abandoned Ukwo-Etebi Road.

The people also praised the commission, led by Mr Bassey Dan-Abia, for other ongoing road projects in the council aimed at transforming the once forgotten community through developmental projects.

The Ukwo-Etebi people, who spoke through Mr. Prince Bassey, a youth leader in a chat with Vanguard, yesterday, noted that although the community is one of the predominantly endowed communities in the state, contributing to the national economy, it had been neglected thereby giving the impression that the mineral deposits in the community was a curse and not a blessing.

transition committee interfacing with the one set up by the Federal Government to ensure smooth transition of power on May 29 .

He said: “In the current democratic dispensation, the Federal Government led by President Goodluck Jonathan has already set up a transition committee. President-elect

General Mohammadu Buhari has also set up his transition committee which incidentally has Governor Amaechi as a member.

“Unfortunately the outgoing government in Rivers State led

by Amaechi has refused to set up its transition committee. It smacks of double standards that Amaechi who is a

prominent member of the transition committee of the president-elect has rejected all entreaties for a peaceful transition in the state.

“Efforts by the transition committee of the incoming administration to interface with the Rivers State Government have been thwarted by the latter."

PRESENTATION: Minister of Education, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarawu (left), presenting the License of Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Delta State, to Amb. Akponode Clark, during the presentation of provisional licenses to new private universities, in Abuja. Photo by Gbemiga Olamikan.

Youth leader drums support for Uduaghan's DESOPADEC bill

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—AN Itsekiri youth leader in Delta State, Mr Benson Erewa, has called on oil and gas producing ethnic nationalities in the state to support the exceptional zeal of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, to guarantee direct payment of 13 per cent allocation to them through the restructuring of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC. Erewa, who spoke to newsmen in Warri, yesterday, said: “I appeal to all the oil producing ethnic nationalities be it Ijaw, Itsekiri, Urhobo, Ndokwa or Ika, to support the restructuring of DESOPADEC because the commission, as it is presently constituted, does not touch the critical masses at the grassroots.

“The proposed restructuring will not only create more jobs for our teeming youths but will also enhance development.

There will be a decentralization of power, more powers will be given to the ethnic nationalities,” he added.

He appealed to Ika ethnic nationality, which has joined the league of oil producing areas following the commercial

operation at Abavo, Ika South Local Council, to support the bill as it stands to benefit more from same.

Appoint the next RRIN CEO from within, FG urged

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—COALITION of Trade Unions in the Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, RRIN, in Edo State, has appealed to the Federal Government to appoint the next Chief Executive of the Institute from qualified research directors within the institute.

It noted that the prevailing situation where the Chief Executive has always been appointed from outside the institute was a violation of the scheme of service governing the administration of research institutions across the country.

In a communique by Chairman of Academic Staff Union of Research Institutions, ASURI, in the institute, Dr Edith OmoIkerodah, the union stressed

that the institute has qualified Research Directors who can effectively handle the research and administrative mandate of the establishment, noting that “From experience, the appointment of Executive Directors of the Institute from outside RRIN had always created a gap in continuity and inevitable delay in research activities for a period between one to two years.

“This invariably brings a major setback on research activities and progress in the institute. The persistent sourcing of Executive Directors from outside the institute, has always led to exit of qualified Research Officers, who are denied the benefit of reaching the apex position in the institute," she said.

We're ready to work with Okowa —DELTA SDP

C

By Dapo Akinrefon

HAIRMAN of Social Democratic Party, SDP, in Delta State, Dr. Oke Idawene, has said that the party was ready to work with the governorelect, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, to move the state to greater heights.

Speaking with Vanguard, Dr Idawene, who said that the Emmanuel Uduaghan administration has done well in fulfilling its threepoint agenda for the state, adding: “We in SDP urge our people to support Governor Uduaghan to finish stronger. We also commend Uduaghan for the low debt profile of Delta State. We in SDP are ready to work with Okowa and Otuaro to move the state to greater heights. We must keep faith alive.”

Assessing the three- point agenda of the Uduaghan administration, he said: “In peace and security, I score him high because we in Delta State can all attest to it. In human capital development where most Deltans don’t understand, I will throw some light. In infrastructural development, he has equally done well. I urge him to finish strong by completing on-going projects. In all, his administration has performed 70 percent, we only need to bring a good hand to continue from here.”

Pa Iluwa for burial

P

A. Aluwa Augustine Babajime of Ajoki Town in IkpobaOkha Local Government Area, Edo State, is dead, aged 71.

Pa. Iluwa until his dead was the Benin City Chairman of Itsekiri Cultual Society aka Utieyin Reshola.

Service of songs holds tomorrow, at his compound in Ajoki, followed by funeral and traditional rites on May 9, at the same venue.

He is survived by a widow, children and grand children.

Late Pa Iluwa

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 43

55% of Lagos commercial drivers hooked on hard drugs —LASG

I'll not interfere in my successor’s govt —GOV ORJI

By Anayo Okoli

U

MUAHIA—OUTGOING governor of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji, has vowed not to interfere with the administration of his successor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, dismissing insinuations in this regard.

According to him, insinuations that he will pry into the affairs of the incoming government because of claims that he singlehandedly chose and made Ikpeazu governor, does not hold water.

Governor Orji said he would allow Ikpeazu to use his initiative and discretion to run the affairs of the state when sworn-in.

Orji, who made the pledge at Government House, Umuahia, when the Ukwa Peoples Assembly visited him, Wednesday, said that once his tenure elapsed on May 29, he would leave the affairs of the state to the new administration.

The governor said he would only visit on invitation as he would not want to be seen as teleguiding anybody.

He said that having been elected by the people as their governor, his successor should be given a free hand to govern the state and pleaded with the people

By Olasunkanmi Akoni & Chioma Obinna

L

AGOS STATE government has disclosed that of 801 commercial drivers screened for hard drugs through urinary test, 442 representing, 55 per cent, tested positive.

Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, made the disclosure at a ministerial press briefing at Alausa, Ikeja, on the activities of his ministry in the last one year.

According to Idris, the state Ministry of Health has been engaging its transportation counterpart in securing health and safety of commercial drivers and conductors.

He said this was to reduce the prevalence of road traffic accidents and ensure the safety of residents.

He said the drivers were also at different times, screened for hypertension and diabetics, among other ailments.

Idris stated that the screening was carried out in some specific motor parks in the state in December last year.

According to him, breathalysers were used to screen 929 commercial drivers to know the level of alcohol intakes.

He said of this number, 202, representing 22 per cent, tested positive to alcohol, while 801 drivers screened through urinary test, 442, representing 55 per cent tested positive.

to co-operate with the incoming administration for the rapid development of the state.

Orji, who said he ran an inclusive government in the state, stated that it was his belief that the next governor should also run

an inclusive administration to be able to accommodate all shades of good idea for the good of the state He, however, advised the incoming Ikpeazu’s government to have a listening ear, saying,

72% of Nigerian children suffer from anaemia —Nutritionists

By Chioma Obinna

N

UTRITION EXPERTS, yesterday, lamented the huge burden of anaemia among Nigerian children and women of child-bearing age.

According to the experts, 72 per cent of children are anaemic.

The experts at a media conference in Lagos, also disclosed that one in two Nigerian women of child-bearing age suffered from anaemia.

In her presentation tagged, 'Prevalence & Consequences of Anaemia among Women, Teenage Girls and Pregnant Women in Nigeria,' National President of Nutrition Society of Nigeria, NSN, Prof. Ngozi Nnam, said the consequences of the problem had impacted seriously on children’s cognitive development and performance,

pregnancy outcomes and work capacity as well as physical activity.

Nnam, who further explained that iron deficiency had been implicated as the most common cause of anaemia globally, described anaemia as a condition in which the number of red blood cells or their oxygen-carrying capacity was insufficient to meet physiologic needs.

She added that anaemia was associated with fatigue, weakness, dizziness and drowsiness.

“Pregnant women, women and adolescent girls of reproductive age and children are particularly vulnerable,” she stated.

Noting the role iron played in normal cognitive function, Nnam stated that inadequate dietary iron intake in humans led to reduced oxygen circulation, which could impair cognitive

Industrialist to Buhari: Tackle corruption, not fuel subsidy

By Felix Ogbonna

A

N ABA-BASED industrialist, Chief Emeka Diwe, has called on the Presidentelect, General Muhammadu Buhari (retd) to fulfil his promise of tackling corruption and shun calls for the removal of fuel subsidy.

Diwe, who spoke to Vanguard in Aba, said the removal of fuel subsidy would bring serious

“as the first Ukwa Ngwa governor, he knows the enormous expectation of the people on him.”

The governor used the forum to apologize to all those he might have offended in his duties as governor to forgive and forget.

hardship to less privileged Nigerians, added that the major problem inhibiting the country’s development was corruption.

He said: “Fuel subsidy is not our problem. There is a danger in this proposal calling for the removal of fuel subsidy because it is going to negatively affect the masses. ‘’“Corruption is a cankerworm and the only factor militating against the working of our

refineries, the welfare of the common man and the capacity to address the poor state of infrastructure in Nigeria. ‘’The removal of subsidy will only create a negative impact on the lives of the people. ‘’The only way to do this is by tackling corruption even if Nigeria removes fuel subsidy for 100 times, the country will still be rudderless in addressing the so called critical sectors."

function and result in deficits in attention, perceptual motor speed, memory and verbal fluency.

“Iron-deficiency anaemia during infancy and the first years of life has long term effects on cognitive performance.”

The President of NSN explained that a recent meta-analysis found significantly improved measures of attention and concentration in children between the ages of five and 12 and improved Intelligence Quotient, IQ, among anaemic children who took iron supplements.

On immune function, Nnam said: “Iron contributes to a normal functioning immune system.

Human studies show that iron deficient individuals have significantly lower immune parameters than individuals with normal iron status, suggesting that iron is required for regeneration and maintenance of the immune system.

Speaking on the matter, Dr. Folake Samuel, Senior Lecturer, Department of Human Nutrition, University of Ibandan on the Preliminary Research Findings’

by Unilever, noted that although the awareness on iron in vegetables and agreement that iron was beneficial for health was high, many Nigerian women of reproductive age were anaemic.

Samuel stated that eating foods containing iron built red blood cells as foods containing iron strengthened the immune system and eating foods containing iron builds white blood cells.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

On rescued females from Sambisa Forest by troops

A

t this time, Boko Haram knows that there is no point keeping the Chibok girls as hostages. The main aim to discredit the outgoing government has been achieved; so they should just release the innocent girls and others. -Mr. Nnamdi Okoji, Student

C

ongratulations to our gallant soldiers, Nigerians are proud of you. Sooner or later, there won’t be any safe place in Nigeria for these animals, terrorists, bloodsuckers, pedophiles,... to incubate and hatch their eggs. -Mr. Ndubuis Igwe, Engineer

T

hese girls will need counselling for the next 10 years or so. And I hope that they are not just returned to their families and abandoned. Some have lost their parents; and they will need help to relocate, get education and adapt to normal life. -Mrs. Morayo Simeon, Worker

G

MB, the Presidentelect, is a God-send, the wind around him has started blowing gradually till he gets on the seat. I see more victories for him and the Nigerian military in the continuous combing of Sambisa Forest and rescue mission. -Mr. Jibrin Aliyu, Worker

N

othing this present government does relating to the Chibok girls will ever suffice for their failure. Even if they are found now, no credit will go to them. In fact, it will be more of an indictment. PDP will pay for this crime for a very long time to come. Mr. Sam Omale, Bizman

S

ambisa has been a no fly zone for the past six years or so, but today our troops have broken that yoke and once again the Nigerian people salute our troops for their bravery. And I hope this is good news for the family of the girls. -Miss Ukogu Chinasa, Vocalist

44 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

‘Udom's election, divine mandate'

Kogi govt, Labour on collision course over pay cut

By Boluwaji Obahopo

A

KWA IBOM State governor-elect, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel’s landslide victory at the just concluded gubernatorial elections in state has been described as a divine mandate by the Akwa Ibom Dignity and Intergrity Defenders Foundation.

According to the foundation, Emmanuel’s uniqueness was displayed when he said in an interview session on AIT immediately after his victory that Dr. Godswill Akpabio has laid a very strong foundation which a skyscraper could be erected upon and it would be unfair for a governor with a 'bungalow mentality' to emerge.

In a congratulatory message to the governorelect, the Foundation’s President, Moses Udo-Udo Umoren, said that they endorsed his candidature, mobilized and sensitized members throughout the 31 local government areas to vote for him.

“To us, this did not come as a surprise not just because you worked for and deserved victory but also because it was a divine mandate; which has never been trampled upon or compromised. The more reason we were the first to present a congratulatory banner to the campaign secretariat a day to the election, Yes, because we saw it coming,'' he said.

L

BATTERED!: Mr Sola Adeyemo, a correspondent of New Telegraph newspaper, beaten by students of the University of Ibadan protesting the death of their colleague at Jaja Clinic on yesterday, narrating his ordeal to his colleagues.

NLC to Yuguda: Settle all unpaid salaries or face indefinite strike B

AUCHI—THE Bauchi State chapter of Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, has given Governor Isa Yuguda sixday ultimatum to settle all unpaid salaries or face indefinite strike.

The state chairman of the NLC, Malam Hashimu Gital, gave the ultimatum in a statement issued to newsmen on Thursday in Bauchi.

The statement said the government owned workers two months’ salaries; March 2014 and April 2015.

It warned that if the government failed to meet its demand, labour would embark on indefinite strike.

“The leadership of organised labour in Bauchi State met on

Delta polls, irredeemably flawed, says Ndokwa group the state as well as the number

T

HE Ndokwa Survival Project has condemned the recently held elections in Delta State, describing both the national and state polls as irredeemably flawed.

While addressing newsmen yesterday, in Obiaruku, Ukwani LGA of Delta State, the group, through its coordinators, Elder Tony Onyekweli and Hon Ijeoma Oliogu, berated the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for what it claims amounts to the commission merely rubberstamping the dictates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and being a willing tool in the hands of the party in subverting the will of the electorate.

According to the group, elections in the state were massively rigged to the extent of PDP scoring what it described as an impossible number of votes, asserting that the results recorded in favour of the party were both at variance with the number of registered voters in various constituencies across

of those who actually came out to vote for the various parties.

Insisting that the election results reflected a clandestine conspiracy between INEC and PDP to undo the All Progressive Congress, APC and deny the people of the state the change they had been yearning for all along, the group nevertheless congratulated President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari on his victory in the Presidential election while commending the APC for finally bringing change to the nation.

While lauding Olorogun Otega Emerhor, the APC’s governorship candidate for Delta, for challenging the election at the election petitions tribunal, it further encouraged Emerhor to be steadfast in the legal battle, assuring him that the people of the state were solidly behind him in his quest to bring the badlyneeded change to the state.

May 6, 2015 and resolved to communicate to Bauchi State Government the following: “That payment of outstanding salaries of March 2014 and April 2015 should be made on or before May 12, 2015.

“Failure to meet this demand will lead to withdrawal of services of workers indefinitely until the salaries are paid, “the statement added.

In his reaction, the state Head

of Service, Mr Abdon Gin, told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, that the workers were owed only April 2015 salary.

He explained that government and organised labour had reached a compromise that the March 2014 salary would be paid in instalment.

He said that the government and labour were negotiating to resolve the issue before the May 12 deadline.

OKOJA—THE Kogi State government and the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, are now on a collision course, following the announcement by the government, slashing workers salaries by 40 percent.

Salaries of staff on grade levels to six and special assistants to the governor are not affected by the new directive.

The state government announced that the cut in the salaries of its workers saying it would enable it meet part of its commitment towards infrastructural development in the state.

However, in a swift reaction to the development, the NLC threatened to shut down the state if the government refused to rescind its plan to cut April salaries of workers.

The state Governor, Capt. Idris Wada had said the development would also, enable the government pay salary to all workers rather than owe back log of salaries.

“During the meeting the governor explained reasons behind the 60 percent salary payment, saying that since workers are insisting on 100 percent, he would request them (workers) to be patient to enable him source for funds to pay the 100 percent salary,” the NLC stated.

Phase3 Telecom seeks early education, ICT training for girls

W

EST Africa’s largest independent fibre optic infrastructure and telecommunications services provider - Phase3 Telecom advocates early education and consistent training to sustain active engagement of girls in the ICT space. This is in collaboration witheBusiness Life Communications to mark the 2015 edition of the globally

celebrated International Girls in ICT Day. The Girls in ICT initiative of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is a global effort to raise awareness on empowering and encouraging girls and young women to consider studies and careers in ICTs. To date over 111,000 girls and young women have taken a part in more than

Customs impounds N250m worth of fake drugs in Owerri

By Ifeyinwa Obi

T

HE Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘C’, an anti-smuggling unit of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Owerri has seized a total of 1,777 cartons of fake and sub standard drugs, Super Mebendazole and Levamisole Hydrochloride, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N250,676,300.00.

The fake drugs, according to the FOU Customs Area Controller, Dimka Victor David, came into the country, without NAFDAC registration, manufacturing batch numbers and expiration dates; implying

that the importers have no value for human life.

Dimka disclosed this while showcasing the latest seizures recorded by the zone at the Customs Government Warehouses in Owerri and Benin; noting that the truck conveying the super mebendazole tablets was impounded on the Benin/Edo expressway, consequent upon a tip off by some patriotic individuals.

Highlighting that the drug baron on sighting his men at a close range, actually fled into the bush and escaped on foot, the driver of the truck was however arrested and is now helping in the investigation.

3,500 events held in 140 countries around the world.

In Commemoration of the 2015 installment themed “Expanding Horizons and Changing Attitudes” the chief executive officer of Phase3 Telecom - Mr. Stanley Jegede says that early education, digitalized training as well as developing technology skills for women and harnessing those skills promptly is critical to Africa’s rapid socio-economic development and sustainability.

He adds that “one of the key elements of addressing poverty is the empowerment of women and there is no better way of doing that than ensuring the sustained representation of women in the world of technology to aid rapid socio-economic development in Africa”.

He maintains that this and building a crop of young African girls to actively participate and compete in the evolving as well as innovative global ICT space; is the basis for Phase3 Telecom’s commitment to continue to support the International Girls in ICT day initiative.

Jegede said he is optimistic that this global evolution will gain greater influence in Africa as more and more institutions and agencies advocate ICT skills for women on the continent.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 45

Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State (right), and Chief Olalekan Odugbemi, leader, delegates of Institute of Security Studies, during the group's visit to the governor at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

PHOTO: Wunmi Akinola.

IRISH CREAM: From left— Mr. Ceecee Gilbert, Ceecee Int. Ltd; Mr. Olaleye Solomon, T-shirt distributor; Mr. Rotimi Adebari, first elected black/ African mayor in Ireland; Mr. David Ogunsawe and Mr. Nwodo Vincent, at the official opening of Irish Mayor outlet and launch of Irish Cream Liqueur

by Mr. Adebari in Lagos. PHOTO: Shola Oyelese.

LAGOS/NURTW CAMPAIGN: From left— Mr. Kayode Opeifa, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation; Boboye Oyeyemi, Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC: and Alhaji Najeem Yasin, National President, National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, at the joint Lagos public enlightenment rally with major transport unions in Lagos. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

PRESENTATION: From left— Bankole Williams of Edgecution; Maureen Iyasele, CEO JobMag; Ihotu Amuta of GEMSTONE Foundation; Olatunde Samson, CEO Business Impact Ltd & Convener; Professor Pat Utomi, keynote speaker; Bimpe Bamgbose-Martins of SMILE NGO; Gus Ogunlowo, CEO Ba2you, UK; and Emmanuel Effiong-Bright, CEO Immagination, during the presentation of a book authored by Olatunde at the just-concluded Youth Connect Summit at University of Lagos, UNILAG, Akoka, Lagos.

VISIT:

Diocese of Lagos Mainland Methodist Church Nigeria Synod; Sir Godwin Adewunmi, Lay President Emeritus, Diocese of Lagos West; Bishop Isaac Olawuyi, host, and Very Revd Emmanuel Akande, Synod Secretary, at the 2015 annual Synod, Diocese of Lagos Mainland at Folawiyo Bankole Memorial Methodist Church, Surulere, Lagos.

WECONNECT: From left— Olufemi Oguntimehin, Specialist, SME Segment, Etisalat Nigeria; Adesuwa Ojumola, 2013/2014 winner of Etisalat EasyBusiness Millionaires Hunt and CEO of Blue Spa; Comfort Avunze Sakoma, Executive Director, WEConnect International; and Bidemi Ladipo, Head, Business Market Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, at the first edition of the Etisalat-sponsored WEConnect International Exhibition and Matchmaker in Nigeria, WEIM, in Lekki, Lagos.

IRON DEFICIENCY: From left— Dr. Myriam Sidibe, Hygiene and Nutrition Social Mission Director, Unilever Nigeria Plc; Professor Ngozi Nnam, President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria; Mrs. Nsima Ogedi-Alakwe, Brand Building Director, Unilever, and Dr. Folake Samuel, Senior Lecturer, Department of Human Nutrition, at a press conference on Impact of Iron Deficiency Anaemia, organized by Unilever in collaboration with Nutrition Society of Nigeria, in Lagos.

IMMIGRATION RECRUITS: From left— Mr. Auta Danjuma, Comptroller of Immigration, Federal Capital Territory, FCT; Mr. Ayuba Gora, Deputy, Corps Commander, Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, FCT; Mr. Harrison Pepple, Corps Commander; Mrs Monica Ezugwu, Assistant Comptroller, and applicants, during physical examination, document verification and oral interview of candidates for Nigeria Immigration Service recruitment in Abuja. NAN PHOTO.

SYNOD: From left— Bishop Joel Akinola, guest preacher, 21st annual

C M Y K

46 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015— —47

48 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 ARIES: Good results can be achieved but, your mood looks less buoyant. Whatever happens, this is the wrong time to gamble with matters of the heart.

TAURUS: Since you cant run away from your shadow it is better you face challenges coming your way both at home and in the office. Eventual success’ll be yours very soon.

GEMINI: Although, partnership related issues are becoming seriously, today you will need to rely on your creative mind to get the desired results.

CANCER: Similar to yesterday as money continues to dominate issues. This is the wrong time to rely too heavily on friends either for assistance or advice.

LEO: You’ll continue to be relevant in the scheme of things, although you’ll be made to operate under pressure through career/business related affairs but great success indicated for you today. Be stable.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

Is any condition normal?

By Richard Eromosele

I

T is not uncom mon to find man reeling out a catalogue of why he could not do anything. It is an abnormal condition, he will say. But if we must face the truth,

man will be nothing without challenges confronting him. Do you think God couldn’t provide everything for us? Why

TERROR MUDA

do you think God commanded us to have dominion over all things? Everyone of us have a huge sense of satisfaction

in “Never say goodbye”

anytime we overcome a major challenge. That is the joy.

There is no normal condition anywhere.

But the condition will be normal when the man is normal.

Think about it!

By Lanre Kehinde

VIRGO: It’s your day when good luck’ll crown your efforts. The more secretive you are the better for your cause. Avoid unnecessary argument.

LIBRA: Reliable associates of yours may unconsciously disappoint you .Nursing false hope may force emotion to run very high. Be patient please.

SCORPIO: If you like to cut-corners you’ll need to prepare for unpleasant surprise as those you least expect’ll disappoint you. Prepare to protect your image.

SAGITTARIUS: Relying on the element of luck today may fail to give you the desired results. Then it’ll be wrong of you to disrespect the law and/or it’s enforcement agents.

CAPRICORN: It’s important to differentiate between enterprise, gambling and adventure, because you may not go free by unnecessary mistake. Take love very seriously.

AQUARIUS: Many people are not in the mood to take thing lightly probably because of tension generated by the Moon and Saturn. Thus you’ll need to be prepared to take responsibility of whatever you do and/or say.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

PISCES: Unnecessary argument can not help your cause today, no matter how logical you think you are. Take domestic issues more seriously than before.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What are my numbers?

Dear Joshua, I am deeply interested in Astrology: and the way you analyse people is great, keep it up.

Kindly tell me whatever you think I should know about my life together with my luck, social life and my lucky number.

John Abuja.

Dear John, Thank you for your words of encouragement. Too many things are important but I think what both your immediate and far future have for you must be revealed to you so that you will be prepared.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Mars in Aquarius together with Uranus are pointers to an active social life. The more influential social circle you belong to, the better for you. You’re the cool-headed type beloved by many but once your anger manages to fly off, it can be very difficult if not dangerous; it’s because of your natal Pluto. Yet they keep coming your way.

YOUR LUCK Saturn can not help forcing challenges on your way, luckily for you however, you have what it takes to live up to the challenges. And as Saturn will never deny it’s worthy native the deserved success, it also gives recognition.

Saturn or no Saturn, good relationship bet Mars and lucky Jupiter when you were born, are green tumb for WEALTH; you will be wealthier more than having liquid cash; nobody can stop your becoming wealthy.

Best colours for you include YELLOW, golden, black but not coconut white. Your sleeping posture should be on East/ West axis with your head to the West.

5 is your destiny number, 9 is your ambition, 8 is your expression, your other numbers are 1, 6, 7 & 11. Thus, they are as superior as listed.

THE FUTURE TRENDS Between now and your 46th year on earth (three and half years) women, money, youngster will greatly feature in your life and a few publicity cum commercial success equally indicated for you.

However come your 47th year (around that period) tough challenges which will border on stiff competition, avoidable accident, treachery and money will come your way.

Although it sounds somehow, it’s the needed tonic for and or pillar for an endless cycle of success that will follow.

Therefore whatever can be shaken to the foundation or be uprooted by that time should not be initiated now. The future is truly brilliant for you.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—49

Supreme Court halts constitution review reacted to the approval of immunity development, yesterday.

Continues from Page 5 was attached to the application, he averred before the apex court thus: “That I listened to Hon. Samson Osagie, the Minority Whip of the House of Representative on the NTA 9 O’clock News on 24/ 04/2015 when he said that the National Assembly would go ahead to pass the (Fourth Alteration) Act (Bill) 2015 into law despite any Court action because no order had been made against the National Assembly to restrain it from doing so.

“That by that very disposition of the said Hon. Samson Osagie who spoke to the press as a Principal Officer of the Defendant/ Respondent, it is clear that the Defendant/Respondent is determined to proceed to pass the Fourth Alteration Act into Law despite the pendency of the substantive suit herein.

“That fundamental questions were raised by the Plaintiff/Applicant on the proposed alterations to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria through the Fourth Alteration Act, 2015 which is in issue in this suit.

“That it will be in the larger interest of Nigeria that those issues be resolved before the Defendant/Respondent takes any further step in giving effect to the proposed alterations to the Constitution.

“That with the utterances of Hon. Samson Osagie at the Press Conference earlier alluded to in this affidavit, it is clear that the Defendant is determined to ignore the proceeding before this Honourable Court on the proposed alteration and proceed to give effect to the alterations to the Constitution.

“That the Defendant/ Respondent will not lose anything or suffer any prejudice if this application is granted.

“That the balance of convenience tilts in favour of granting this application.

That the whole Nigerian legal system shall be put into confusion if the Defendant/Respondent proceeds to give effect to the Fourth Alteration Act (Bill) 2015 and this suit succeeds such that the Constitution remain unaltered, meaning that the Act is void and or no effect.

“That the Constitution is the basic law of Nigeria and should only be amended following due process. That it will be in the interest of justice to grant this application”, he stated.

Remarkably, the lifespan of the current federal legislature is due to expire on June 6 when the 8th NASS will assume office.

Prof. Sagay, Mr. Ngige and Dr. Mohammed C M Y K

The National Assembly was yet to react and sources close to the leadership told Vanguard, yesterday, that the body would react formally next week after consultations between the leadership of the two houses.

The adjournment is very strange —Sagay

Constitutional lawyer, Professor Itse Sagay, SAN, said he was puzzled at the ruling of the Supreme Court on Constitutional Amendment.

Sagay said: “It was an ex parte ruling. That is a very strange adjournment, is it that the Supreme Court was not aware of the expiration of the current session of the National Assembly? I do not know the answer to that because by then the president-elect, would have assumed office. In any case, he is not the one who brought the action.

Both President Goodluck Jonathan and the National Assembly are involved in the suits. All I can say is that I am puzzled.”

It’s sad the exercise ended this way —Ngige Also speaking, Chief Emeka Ngige ,SAN, said: "The implication is that the President and the National Assembly would have been out of office when the hearing will come up. The exercise would have become dead technically speaking. I would have preferred a situation where the hearing will come up earlier than May 29. I would have loved to see the time for the hearing abridged. Being the appellate court, I believe the Supreme Court has enough facts that informed its decision.

They must have based the decision on peculiar findings. It is unfortunate that the constitution amendment exercise is ending this way.

"I put the blame on the National Assembly. Some of the provisions in the bill forwarded to the President were clearly unacceptable. I have never seen a bill where the constitutional powers given to the person that would assent to it, are removed. The National Assembly caused the trouble. What they have done is outrageous and obnoxious. You can imagine approving life pension and severance package for the Senate President and Speaker.

That is not right. The

clause for the legislators for whatever reason is wrong when there is a law that gives them immunity for whatever they say on the floor of the House.

"Splitting the office of the Attorney General of Federation and the Ministry of Justice is also wrong for whatever reasons. The National Assembly was very much unreasonable in some of these recommendations.

That is why I am supporting Jonathan on this for going to court to override their veto power. He was right by not assenting to the bill.

However, I would have preferred the argument taken before May 29. That would have augured well for our democracy an jurisprudence."

SERVICE OF SONGS: From left: Mr Tony Okonedo, Peggy Okonedo and Mr Bill Okonedo during the Service of Songs for late Pa Victor Okonedo, in Lagos. Photo: Diran Oshe.

NASS wants to circumvent sections of the constitution — Mohammed

In his reaction, Second Republic lawmaker, Dr Junaid Mohammed said: “I have never had any doubt in my mind about the illegality the National Assembly, especially what the Senate was trying to do.

All they were trying to do is to circumvent specific provisions of the Constitution.

“What the National Assembly is trying to do with this constitutional amendment is purely political because it is evident they are trying to achieve certain political gains from it and they have finally failed now.

“In other countries of the world, constitution amendment is not this simple and what we have seen can only happen in Nigeria and this is traumatic. What some of them could not achieve at the National Conference is what they are trying to achieve with this constitutional amendment.

“Part of their plan for the constitutional amendment was to get Jonathan elected for second term and create more states but all seems to have failed. I can tell you that such amendments will always fail even at the court."

Prince Orizu:

Nwafor

The National Assembly has constitutional power to alter the constitution subject to it following the due process and any person not satisfied with the action of the National Assembly can react by going through his or her elected representative.

Given that a new government is about to take office, it is better to leave the issue of the constitution amendment to the next legislature."

From left: Mr Olaleye Solomon, distributor of T-shirts; Ms Harriet Robert; Ms Adetunji Oluwatobi; Mr Rotimi Adebari, first elected Black/ African Mayor in Ireland; Mrs Shittu Taiwo; Ms Gift Nnaru; Ms Emilia Francis and Mr David Ogunsawe during the opening of Irish Mayor outIet at Trade Fair International Market by Mr Adebari, in Lagos. Photo: Shola Oyelese

‘How my 2 children died of hunger, thirst in Sambisa forest' “Luckily they escaped but She had to leave the child OKO Haram terrorists where it was, Bello said. the trauma is still there.”

Bwho were said to have “The stories will break The Malkohi camp is fled when Nigerian soldiers closed in on them last week reportedly left the hundreds of women and children they captured to their fate in the bush. Many survived but others weren’t so lucky.

One of the rescued women who spoke with an aid worker Mohammed Bello at the Malkohi internally displaced people camp outside Yola described how her two young children died of hunger and thirst in the militants’ Sambisa Forest stronghold in neighbouring Borno state when their rebel captors deserted them.

“The bigger one was crying for food and water.

The younger one was just too small. She took her shirt off and covered the bodies of her children,” he told AFP after one closed-door session.

“It was only when the army came to rescue them that they gave her something to wear.”

One woman told how her sister gave birth in the bush. Both she and her newborn baby died.

Another described finding a baby crying in an abandoned pick-up truck, its parents nowhere to be found.

your heart,” he added.

“When they heard the army was coming they (the women and children) started to run with Boko Haram. But the rebels left them in the Sambisa Forest.

now home to 275 women and children, brought in last weekend to recover from their ordeal and prepare them for a return to their home towns and villages.

Equity investment, opportunities abound in stock market —Expert

By Udeme Clement

L

AGOS — LOCAL investors in Nigeria have been advised to take advantage of the anticipated changes in the nation’s capital market following the recent political evolution in the country, which is expected to drive economic development, with the stock market playing a central role in optimum.

A stock market expert, Mr. Ambrose Omorodion, made this known while addressing newsmen in Lagos, stressing that this is the time for investors to reposition their investment portfolio to benefit from anticipated changes, as the

new government is expected to come with key reforms to transform all facets of the economy.

He said: “It is imperative for investors to know which stocks to buy now, the stocks to divest from and which sectors to invest in.

"We expect that the market will be largely driven by economic policies from the new government.

Therefore, the stock market is the surest path to financial freedom for many Nigerians.

The only challenge is that many local investors are not conversant with the dynamism of the market and are often not properly informed about which stocks to invest in and the right time to buy and exit."

50—Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015—51

Rivers Assembly staff on indefinite strike over unpaid allowances

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— RIVERS State chapter of Parliamentary Staff of Nigeria, PSN, has declared an indefinite strike in the state over unpaid allowances by the leadership of the state House of Assembly.

Chairman of the body, Mr Okeleke Liu, who announced the strike action, yesterday, said they were owed 2013 and 2014 allowances by the state House of Assembly.

He said that all efforts made to see the Speaker of the House to resolve the issue were frustrated, adding that they wrote letters to him that were not replied.

Meantime, the Rivers State Government said it had paid salaries up to March, adding that the one for April would soon be cleared.

State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs Ibim Semenitari, told Vanguard: “The state government wishes to note that all civil servants employed by the Government of Rivers State have been paid

salaries up to the month of March with plans to commence payment of April salaries.

“The Rivers State Government has continued to ensure the payment of staff salaries because it believes

that the welfare of its workers must be paramount in governance.”

COMMISSIONING: From left: Managing Director, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Brovo Kim; Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on International Development Co-operation, Mr. Roy Ndoma-Egba; Programme Coordinator, United Nations Population Fund, Dr. Aline Mukundwa and Programme Officer, Science, UNESCO, Dr. Osuji Otu, at the commissioning of Samsung Digital Village, Oban Community, Akamkpa, Cross River State.

T

HE Joint Task Force, JTF, has recovered 4.2 million litres of crude oil allegedly stolen in the Niger Delta region.

One of the JTF team leaders, Captain Sunday Olaleye, said that the discovery was made in two vessels which were arrested by Operation Pulo Shield, an anti-illegal bunkering and oil theft outfit of the JTF. One of the vessels was arrested in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State while the other was arrested in Forcados, Warri waterways, in Delta State.

He said the team discovered that of the 10 compartments in the vessel arrested in Forcados, nine were filled with crude oil.

Captain Olaleye told newsmen that one compartment contained 330,000 litres of crude oil, adding that this can fill a truck.

He said the arrest was made possible through a tip-off, adding that the two ships attempted to escape but for the quick response from his officers.

He said: “When you multiply 330,000 litres of crude oil by nine compartments, you have

C M Y K

2,970 million litres. That is for the ship that was intercepted around Forcados. Besides, the ship seized in Okrika region has four compartments filled with crude oil. When you multiply 330,000 litres of crude oil by four, you have 1.32

millon litres. Altogether, over 4.2 million litres of stolen crude oil was recovered in two separate operations carried out by JTF. “Immediately we were informed that the ships were planning to escape, we

swung into action. We arrested the ships. When we moved closer to the ship that was arrested around Forcados area, the sailors and other crude members escaped through a boat they snatched on the river.”

N-Delta youths threaten court action against minister over empowerment package

By Chris Ochayi

A

BUJA—NO fewer than 98 youths of Niger Delta region have threatened to drag the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Dr. Stephen Oru, to court over alleged failure by the ministry to provide empowerment packages for them after being trained in Israel about 11 months ago.

The youths are beneficiaries of

the advance Agricultural Training, under the Niger Delta ISAC Israeli Trained Agricultural Group of Nigeria, NDITAGON, a training programme organised by the ministry for non-militant youths drawn from the nine states that make up the region.

Addressing newsmen, yesterday, in Abuja, the President of NDITAGON, Azuibike Emmanuel, expressed disappointment over the ill-

treatment they were subjected to by officials of the ministry, especially, the minister himself, who they accused of reneging on the empowerment agreement.

Emmanuel, said: “We have made several efforts since our return to the country and we had resolved that if the authorities fail to address this issue within the next seven days, we will be left with no option than to seek redress in the law court."

NPDC workers vow to shut down flow stations over alleged sale of OML 42

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—CRISIS is brewing in the nation’s oil sector as staff of Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, in Benin City, Edo State, issued a sevenday ultimatum to the Federal Government to reverse the alleged sale of one of the country ’s priced oil assets,

OML 42, to some individuals in the country or they will shut down the entire flow stations in the country.

The workers had earlier protested on Monday within the premises of NPDC on Sapele Road, Benin City, Edo State, before they were dispersed by armed police men.

Following the ultimatum, the

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

JTF nabs two ships with 4.2m litres of crude oil

By Ifeyinwa Obi

Dickson swears in Information Commissioner

workers have cried out over allegation of being threatened by the Managing Director of the company.

The tension in the company heightened last Tuesday, when the staff received a memo to hand over some parts of the assets of the company to a business mogul who has been a contractor to the company. The workers vowed to resist the move.

E N A G O A — GOVERNOR Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has charged the newly sworn in Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Esueme Dan-Kikile and two Special Advisers to generate sound ideas that will assist government consolidate on its achievements.

The Special Advisers are Mr. Seiyefa Koroye on Strategy, Documentation and Community Relations and Mr. Lloyd IneyeOwonaro, Local Content Matters.

Dickson, who gave the charge at the swearing-in of the officers in Yenagoa, urged them to demonstrate absolute commitment to the ideals enshrined in the restoration agenda and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He said the call become imperative as they were coming into the government at a critical time, when the administration expects loyalty and dedication from its officials to enable it deliver on its mandate amidst daunting challenges.

Group calls for fresh gov, Assembly polls in Delta

A

pan-Deltan political pressure group, One Delta Forum, has threatened street protests if the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, fails to conduct fresh governorship and House of Assembly elections in the state.

Chairman of the group, Chief Isaac Emetitiri, who briefed newsmen after its meeting in Eku, Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state, said: “We are ready to go on street protests if INEC does not conduct fresh governorship and House of Assembly elections.”

He challenged INEC to show how it came about the number of votes that came from Burutu, Bomadi Warri-South, Warri South West, Warri North, Delta North senatorial district, part of Delta Central, especially Ethiope West Local Government Area of the state.

52—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

2 chairmen emerge in Ebonyi APC

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI— EBONYI State chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC, has split into two, leading to the emergence of factional chairmen of the party, Ben Nwaobashi and Pastor Eze Nwachukwu Eze. Members of the new faction of the party, including four purportedly suspended officers, Engr.

Ngaji Nwodoh, Ephraim Eze, Pastor Eze Nwachukwu and Prof.

Francis Ibiam, had in their resolutions passed vote of no confidence on Nwaobasi-led executives.

They elected the deputy chairman, Pastor Eze Nwachukwu Eze, as the new chairman and relieved Nwaobasi of his duty, accusing him of financial misconduct, incompetence, negligence of duty, dictatorship and wrongful substitutions of the party’s candidates during the last general elections.

Jonathan deceived Ndigbo on 2nd Niger Bridge, Ohanaeze tells Buhari ...pleads for SGF position

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA—OHANAEZE Ndigbo Caretaker Committee, yesterday, told the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, that President Jonathan lied to the Igbo nation about awarding contract for the construction of Second Niger bridge and major federal roads in the South East.

Listing Enugu-Awka-Onitsha Expressway and EnuguUmuahia-Aba Expressway, the

committee said that up till now, work was yet to start at the sites.

It added that no financial commitment had been made by the Federal Government to commence the construction of the Second Niger Bridge, saying that those were deceptive campaign messages to Ndigbo.

The committee made the revelation during its congratulatory visit to Buhari at the Defence House in Abuja.

The leader of the delegation, Chief Ralph Obioha, who spoke on behalf of the Committee,

Health Minister to commission Onitsha school of nursing

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

O

NITSHA—THE Minister of Health, Dr. Khaliru Alhassan, is expected in Onitsha, Anambra State, this weekend for the commissioning of the newly completed ultramodern School of Nursing and other projects.

He will also lay the foundation stone for the ultra-modern theatre complex at St. Charles Borromeo Mission Hospital, Onitsha.

The ceremonies which are the grand finale of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the hospital owned by the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, would commence with a Pontifical Holy Mass to be officiated by the proprietor and M e t r o p o l i t a n Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke, at the hospital premises.

C M Y K

INAUGURATION: From left, Chief Osita Chidoka, Minister of Aviation; Mr. Wale Babalakin, Chairman, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Ltd, during the Inauguration of Common User Passenger Processing System, CUPPS, at the Murtala Muhammed Airport 2, MMA2, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele

however, told the President-elect that the South-east was a silent supporter of his presidential ambition.

He also stated that the region would fully support the incoming government to succeed, urging him to reconstruct Nigeria.

Revisitation of the report of Oputa Panel and the issue of abandoned property in the country were also other matters the committee presented before Buhari.

He said: “This is a delegation of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Caretaker Committee, who proudly took side with you, convinced that what Nigeria needs today is the leadership that you will provide to rebuild our battered and pulverised nation.

“The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Caretaker Committee is fully aware of the difficult and daunting work that has befallen on your shoulders. And we are here to offer our commitment that Ndigbo will stand shoulder to shoulder with you on this mission to reconstruct our nation.

“We are also aware that our cry of marginalization is not unique to our region, but ours stands out as an SOS case as a region criminally neglected and abandoned by the outgoing administration.

“During your campaign tours, you saw things for yourself and needless reminding Your Excellency that South-east is an emergency case. You drove through the badly neglected and impassable Enugu-AwkaOnitsha Expressway and the Enugu-Umuahia-Aba Expressway, needless to mention the Oba-Okigwe Highway.

Police kill 3 suspected kidnappers in Nnewi

By Chidi Nkwopara

O

WERRI—THREE suspected kidnappers have been killed at Nnewi, Anambra State, by a crack team of anti-kidnapping squad from Imo State police command, which had been trailing the hoodlums for a while.

Narrating how the dare devil hoodlums succumbed to the superior power of police operatives, the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, a deputy superintendent of police, DSP, explained that following a credible tip off, the operatives trailed the suspects to Nnewi.

“The police operatives killed the suspects during a gun battle at Nnewi, Anambra State, last

Tuesday. The police successfully rescued the captives unhurt, while the lifeless bodies of the suspects were brought back to Imo State Police Headquarters, Owerri,” the PPRO said.

According to Mr. Enwerem, the kidnappers abducted their victims at different locations in Imo State, before moving them to their hideout at Nnewi.

“On spotting the police operatives as they were heading to the hideout, the kidnappers opened fire, which was returned by the advancing policemen. ‘’However, when the firing died down, the three suspects laid dead but the victims were rescued unhurt,” the PPRO recounted.

After giving a graphic account of his ordeal, one of the victims, Mr. Lazarus Ezuka, said he was kidnapped at Akatta, Oru East

local council area of Imo State on April 28, 2015, adding that he passed through hell in the kidnappers’ den.

Speaking also, another victim, Mrs. Living Nwaeze, said she was blindfolded from her Akatta home and taken to the hoodlums’ hideout.

She recalled that her captors forced her to walk through a forest for about two hours before getting to their hideout.

Mrs. Nwaeze said the hoodlums had already demanded the sum of N3 million from members of her family before the team of policemen came to their rescue.

All the captors commended the policemen for saving them and their respective families from the trauma associated with kidnapping.

“Contrary to the election claims by the outgoing administration, no appreciable work is going on these roads, information has shown that no financial arrangement has been firmed up for the Second Nigeria Bridge.

The Oputa Panel report has been gathering dust and Ndigbo have pleaded for the revisitation of the so-called abandoned property in Nigeria and its collateral reparation demand.

“One common denominator is that unknown to a vast majority of Nigerians, Ndigbo were the silent majority supporters of General Muhammadu Buhari, GMB, but a twist of “what is wrong with Nigerian” electoral result cannot prove it.

Obioha also made a case for the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, to be ceded to the Southeast.

“This body, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Caretaker Committee, is a baby conceived by Chris Ngige and delivered by Chief Mbazulike Ameachi and handed over to Ndigbo to check excesses of the people who were just agents of a pre-determined agenda.

“Your Excellency, you were aware that the South-east was targeted by the PDP rigging machine which produced an election result that denied the zone of even a single senator and only three non-ranking House of Representatives members.

"Ndigbo request that you adopt the principle of necessity to give the zone the position of Secretary to the Government of the Federation which is your prerogative and in addition, a position of one Presiding Officer in the House of Representatives,” he stated.

According to the leader, Buhari assured them of equity.

“He gave us assurance that he is going to treat the entire nation as his constituency for all and we believe him,” he said Also speaking, a member of the delegation, Senator Chris Ngige said that though the party was yet to make a categorical statement on the issue of SGF, he was optimistic that it would eventually consider the Southeast.

“Well, I was in the first delegation that came the last time, but we cannot say for now that our party has zoned the position of SGF to the South-east because we have a Senate committee that is still working on distribution of party offices, executive and that of legislature which is where we have the Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker of the House of the Representative as presiding officers.

Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015—53

C M Y K

54—Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

People's need 'll drive our service —IZEZE

D

ELTA State House of Assembly memberelect for Ughelli South Constituency, Mr. Reuben Izeze, has said his service will be driven by the needs of the people.

Mr. Izeze spoke while receiving his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, officer.

While thanking his constituents for their support, Izeze said: “Our laws will be driven by the needs of our people. We shall adopt the bottom-up approach by holding regular constituency meetings with our people such that their needs and aspirations will be conveyed to us.

“Our promise to the people is that when we stand to represent them, we will put the interest of the entirety of Ughelli South first before any other consideration.”

Ecobank, First Bank, others jostle for N1.8bn First Deepwater Discovery subsidy fund

T

HERE are indications that about six different companies are contesting the N1.8bn subsidy accruals to the First Deep Water Discovery Ltd, following its indebtedness to them.

It was gathered that there are several suits presently at the Federal High Court involving First Deep Water Discovery and other creditors, including Ecobank Nigeria Limited, who have approached the Court to recover their monies from the First Deep Water.

Also, other interested parties such as First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Stallionaire Energy Limited, Olive Energy Limited, Bargamo Shipping Limited, Sulphur Stream Limited, Faiceck Petroleum Limited have a court judgment demanding the Debt Management Office (DMO) to pay the same money to them.

The DMO has filed a response to the committal proceeding in the Ecobank suit and that the court has adjourned for hearing on May 13, 2015.

APC accuses Jonathan's aides of overheating polity

T

HE All Progressives Congress, APC, yesterday, accused President Goodluck Jonathan’s aides of overheating the polity with their pronouncements and urged the President to call them to order.

The party, in a statement by its National Publicity

Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, also re-echoed its earlier claim that the Jonathan administration was frustrating the transition process.

The party said: “While PDP may be deeply traumatized by its loss, that should not be a reason for it to disrupt the

nation’s peace by displaying crab mentality.”

It described as provocative and ill-intentioned the statement credited to Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Professor Rufai Alkali, that APC should talk less and plan more for the nation, and that APC was

AGM: From left— Guillaume Roux, Group CEO; Leonard Palka, MD; Suleiman Yahyah, Chairman; Bello Abdullahi, Company Secretary, and Edith Onyechekwa, Vice Chairman, all of AshakaCem, at the 40th annual general meeting of the company in Abuja.

seeking to stampede the President out of office.

“Professor Alkali does not know what he is saying. How does he expect us to plan when the PDPled government has bluntly refused to cooperate with us in ensuring a successful transition?

“As we write, the Transition Committee of the Federal Government has yet to hold a single meeting with our own Transition Committee, neither have they given us a line of handover note.

“As a matter of fact, the Jonathan administration has said the handover notes will not be ready until the third week of May, meaning just a week before the handover.

“What time then do we have to scrutinize the handover notes?

How can we plan when we do not even know which projects they have, the ones completed and those outstanding? How can we plan when we do not even know how many barrels of oil are sold per day?”

Experts list challenges of gas devt

By Clara Nwachukwu & Sebastine Obasi, Houston, Texas

D

ESPITE the current gas price of $2.50 per thousand British Thermal Unit, Btu, stakeholders have identified pricing, funding and infrastructure as the core impediments to appropriate gas development in Nigeria.

The experts, who spoke at the ongoing Offshore Technology Conference, OTC, in Houston, Texas, United States of America, said the price of gas should be increased to between $4 and $5 per thousand cubic feet, for genuine investors to be attracted to gas development.

According to the Managing Director, Frontier Oil Limited, Mr. Dada Thomas, the price base line of $4-$5 per a thousand Btu is imperative for investors to be attracted to the gas business in the country.

Thomas said the gas price graduated from 50 cent per standard Btu to $1.50 and now $2.50.

He, however, expressed hope that for new entrants to the business, the new gas price base of $2.50 would make it much easier for them to raise

funds to finance their projects.

He attributed the poor funding of gas projects by investors to the low gas price.

Also speaking, Chairman/ Chief Executive OilServe Limited, an oil servicing company, Chief Emeka Okwuosa, said fiscal policies associated with gas production, transportation and

… as NNPC woos investors

By Sebastine Obasi, Houston, Texas

N

OW is the time to invest in Nigeria’s gas subsector, to ameliorate the effect of the drop in crude oil prices, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, told foreign investors.

NNPC’s Group Managing Director, GMD, Dr. Joseph Dawha, made the call at the panel session by Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria, PETAN, at the ongoing Offshore Technology Conference, OTC, in Houston, Texas.

He said with its immense gas potential, Nigeria “needs not be and must not be a victim

APRA confab holds in Cameroon

P

UBLIC Relations Association, APRA, 27th annual conference will hold in Cameroon between May 12 and 14.

A statement said the aim of the conference is to analyse and project to the world the

utilization would make a lot of difference.

He said whether or not $2.50 cent is the price, what is important is that Nigeria has moved up from the price regime of 50 cents per thousand Btu, to the current price of $2.50, as this will give stakeholders the ability to responds to funding of

true image of Africa.

APRA Secretary-General, Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, told newsmen in Lagos that the programme is pertinent considering the image crisis plaguing the African continent.

of price drop. We should position to benefit from it.”

Represented by Group Executive Director, Gas and Power, Dr. David Ige, Dawha said for the gas sub-sector to benefit from the drive, industry players must brace up for challenges ahead.

He added: “Nigeria's gas sector has seen tremendous focus in the last few years.

We have grown capacity at a pace of 18-20 percent with supply now at about two billion cubic feet of gas per day in the domestic market from a humble start of about 300 million a few years ago.”

He said based on projected growth demand anchored on growing industrial requirements, the sub-sector may need to grow further to some six billion cubic feet of gas per day.

He noted that despite the annual investment of millions of dollars in the last four years in gas supply and infrastructure, there was need for significant addition to infrastructure and supply development.

projects promptly.

For Managing Director, Shell Petroleum Development company, SPDC, and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, although there is sufficient resource base in the country to meet gas export and domestic use, the issue of pricing remained central.

According to him, “the issue of pricing has been a journey. Few years ago, it was a bit of struggle, but this is central to the gas development in the country.”

He also recommended full implementation of the nation’s Gas Master Plan, GMP, as the answer to all issues related to pricing and infrastructure deficiency in the industry.

Amaefule for burial

M

R. Amaefule Anyatowu of Umunebia, Eziudo, Ezinihitte LGA, Mbaise, Imo State, aged 77, is dead.

Christian wake-keep is Monday, May 11. He will be buried on May 15, at his home, Umunebia.

He is survived by widow, Regina Amaefule, children, grandchild and many relatives.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 55

‘Arrogance, mediocrity, bane of Nigerian youths'

Review Nigeria’s youth policy, Commonwealth council tells Buhari

By Ediri Ejoh & Mildred Ibrahim

L

AGOS—THE Principal Consultant, Lonadek Nigeria Limited, a firm of local content consultants, Dr. Ibilola Amao, has attributed arrogance, self aggrandisement and the celebration of mediocrity, as a major stigma that has continued to threaten the development of Nigerian youth.

This according to her is a major defect to the country’s development as well as the youth low empowerment force.

Speaking to Vanguard in an exclusive chat, Dr. argued that, “If we can humble ourselves in this country and put ourselves in the learning mode and continues improving mode, this country will be the best country on earth.

She explained that, “Any Nigerian that has been privileged to rise a little above his family member, neighbours, relations and community people will become a local champion and become un-trainable because of the achievement and feel more knownledgable than anybody.

She, however, faults the country’s educational process, adding that platforms are not made available to explore the talents identified in Nigerian, saying; “We have talents in the country but the talents are not in the right place, as the mode of education to produce innovators, create people who think out of the box is very scarce.

It is available but very rare in Nigeria.

“The type of teaching and learning in Nigeria is a kind of mass produce, innovators and creators are out of the box. This is because we don’t have the tenacity to contentiously explore for solution. One can identify a problem and have no rest nor peace till solution is proffer to the problem.''

By Abiodun Alade

T

VISIT: From left, former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Victor Attah; Senator Ita Enang; governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC in Akwa Ibom State, Umana Umana; President-elect Muhammadu Buhari; former ANPP National Chairman, Don Etiebet and others during a visit to Buhari in Abuja. Photo by Gbemiga Olamikan.

Bauchi gov-elect vows to recover all state resources from Yuguda's govt

By Suzan Edeh

B

AUCHI—THE Bauchi State governor-elect, Mohammed Abubakar has vowed to recover all state resources frittered away by the out-going Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, led administration.

Abubakar spoke yesterday during the inauguration of the state re-branding project in Bauchi.

Represented by the deputy governor-elect Nuhu Gidado, Abubakar expressed worry over the financial recklessness in the state, lamenting how state resources were lost under the PDP administration in the state.

He said: “what Bauchi as a state is currently brandishing

We'll fight smuggling to standstill, Customs vows

By Ifeyinwa Obi

T

HE Controller of Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’ Ikeja, DC Usman Turaki, has expressed the unit’s readiness to secure the nation against influx of prohibited goods, assuring that it will not abdicate this responsibility for whatever reason.

Turaki, who gave this assurance in the unit’s 2015 first quarter report of its anti-smuggling activities, said it achieved a 45 per cent increase in terms of quality and quantity of seizures when compared with the first quarter of 2014.

He said: “We are confident that our renewed zeal and optimism will be the catalyst for optimal performance.

The war against smuggling, no doubt, is a herculean task, because of the natural tendency for a smuggler to fight back each time their goods are seized. ''However, we have remained undeterred as we believe that we have

a responsibility to secure the nation against influx of prohibited goods and items. ''We will not abdicate this responsibility for whatever reason. We therefore call on Nigerians to support the Nigeria Customs Service through genuine information that could assist us in tracking smugglers and their routes.”

Pointing that the Unit will continue to strategize on its operational plans to be ahead of smugglers, especially in line with six point agenda of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Abdullahi Dikko Inde, the FOU boss however said: “The Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ Ikeja effected 482 different seizures valued at N228, 906, 100 with a Payable Duty of N65, 538, 209, with a Duty Paid Value of N294, 444, 309, and 36 suspects apprehended in connection with the seizures.”

is an immeasurable financial recklessness culminating into massive indebtedness.

“The task of rejuvenating the image of our dear state and reconnecting with the glory of the past is not an easy work and that is what has necessitated the re-branding project today.”

Abubakar further said that the menace of massive youth restiveness in the state, saying that “now that the opposition and progressive advocacy has culminated into a mandate of the generality of Bauchi State populace, we are charged to do things differently. ''We are committed to applying our intellect, maximizing our will and leverage our relationships to make things work in fulfilment

of our promises.

“On assumption of duties as a government, we will focus on our quick win programmes which include the tackling of youth restiveness, poor, environmental sanitation and widespread corruption and corrupt practices.

“In this regard, let us once more be categorical that state resources frittered away will be recovered.

This will be in addition to overhauling of the civil service that is currently dysfunctional, indolent and lacking.”

Abubakar revealed that a major commercial bank had stepped forward to assist the in-coming administration to conduct a forensic audit of the entire state and local government personnel status with a view to developing a biometric data.

HE chairperson of the Commonwealth Youth Council, Ahmed Adamu, has urged President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari to review the country’s youth policy as well as initiate youth development targeted at improving the lives of the youth.

Dr. Adamu, who stated this while addressing a group of youths in Abuja said youth development targets and indicators must be set out by the incoming administration and updated regularly, while stressing the need for youth participation in youth affairs.

“The ministry of youth must be placed in a position to mainstream all youth development programmes and projects.

Government ministries, departments and agencies working in developing youth agenda must do so in partnership and collaboration with the ministry of youth. There should be a consolidated youth development funds that will help in developing youth capacities and entrepreneurial skills. The Nigerian youth policy must be reviewed and implemented to the later. There should be a youth development centre” he said.

“We call on Muhammadu Buhari to ensure 30% affirmative action for youth participation in governance at all levels. This is a non-negotiable option. We specifically call for appointment of a young person below the age of 35 as youth minister.''

Pan-Delta group says poll subversion of people's wishes

W

ARRI—THE PanDeltan Integrity Alliance, a public affairs awareness group in Delta State has described the recently held elections in the state as a subversion of the wishes of voters across the state by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP with the collaboration of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and security agencies.

Addressing newsmen, yesterday, in Warri, the group, through its Convener, Comrade Rawlings Esievo, wrote off the elections as what it described as a huge joke that the people of the state did not find funny at all, insisting that they were wantonly rigged and must be overturned.

According to Esievo, “There were no elections in the state.

PDP just went about, snatching ballot boxes, buying result sheets, and intimidating voters throughout the state. ''Can you imagine PDP, as a participant in a process, dictating to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, where and where not to deploy the much talked about card readers? INEC was at its beck and call with the police and army actively doing the party’s bidding every step of the way. It was a complete sham.”

Alleging that the APC was poised to sweep the polls in Delta in tandem with the yearning of the people of the state to be rescued from what he described as the past sixteen years of massive corruption by the PDP, Esievo urged the national leadership of the party to continue to support Olorogun Otega

Emerhor, its governorship candidate for Delta, in his quest to invalidate the polls and reclaim his stolen mandate.

While congratulating the All Progressive Congress, APC, for the victory of PresidentElect, General Muhammadu Buhari, Esievo praised the leadership of the party for successfully mounting an historic challenge to what he described as the arrogant dominance of Nigerian politics by the PDP in the last sixteen years.

He said: “Across Nigeria today, people like General Buhari, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and APC National Chairman, former Delta State governor, John Odigie-Oyegun deserve unreserved applause for finally rescuing our nation from the daily bread politicians of PDP.”

56 — VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8 , 2015

UK Decides: Uncertain future awaits Britons

By Hugo Odiogor, Foreign Affairs Editor with Agency Report

P

ROSPECTS of a hung Parliament loomed large yesterday as voters in United Kingdom went to elect their next government, where four Nigerians are on the ballot None of the major party stands the chance of winning the 326 seat required to gain control of the House of Commons.

The Tory Party led by Prim Minister David Cameron struggled with 35 per cent opinion poll approval which put him on the same level with Mr. Ed Milliband of Labour Party.

The coalition partner in the present parliament, Mr. Nick Clegg of Liberal Democratic Party is trailing with 9 per cent while Mr. Nigel Farage of United Kingdom Independent Party is enjoying 13 per cent approval in opinion poll.

Regional political parties like The Scottish National Party is expected to send about 50 parliamentarians which is a huge gain for Ms Nicola Sturgeon who is the leader of the party that failed last September to take Scotland out of the United Kingdom. The Wesh Plaid Cymru Party is expected to send 40 representatives from Wales. Polling stations opened at 7am in the 650 constituencies and the voting will end by 10pm GMT. Among the early voters were the leaders of the different parties. David Cameron and his wife, Samantha, voted at Spelsbury Memorial Hall in Witney, Osfordshire.

While Edl Milliband and his wife, Justine, voted at Sutton Village Hall in Doncaster North. UKTP leader Nigel Farage voted at East Cliff Community Housing Office at Ramagate.Thanet South.

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg voted in Sheffield Hallam with his wife, Miriam Gonzalez Durantez.

The SNP leader Nicol Stargeon voted in Gasgow while the Greens Party leader Natalie Bennett voted at

•David Cameron Holborn.

A total of 3,971 candidates are vying to take up the 533 Parliamentary Constituencies in England.

Scotland is providing 59 Wales has 40 constituencies while Northern Ireland has 18 contituency.

The parties are contesting to get 326 seats to command a majority in the House of Commons.

At total of 10,000

•Nick Clegg

•Ed Miliband contesting in the election.

Among them are Mr. Chuka Umunna who has served as a Member of Parliament for Streatham under the Labour Party since 2010.

The 36 year old lawyer is the founder of an online political magazine, The Multicultural Politics.

Umunna has been referred to as ‘the British Barack Obama’ in the media.

Another contestant is Kate Osamor who is contesting for the Edmonton seat under the Labour Party.

Kate is the daughter of

& Equalities. Although a former member of the Labor Party, the 53year old joined the Conservatives in 2006 and became the first black woman to be selected to defend a Tory seat and her election made her the Conservatives’ first female black MP. The fourth contestant is Chi Onwurah who is also a current Member of Parliament for Newcastle upon Tyne Central. He is the first

•Nichola Sturgeon

•Nigel Farage

•••Four Nigerians on the ballot

•Chuka Umunna council seats across the 290 local authorities are also up for grabs while six Mayoral seats are up for elections in England.

A total of 650 Members of Parliament (MPs) will be elected and over 9,000 council seats are being contested across 279 English local authorities.

There are four Nigerians who are

•Kate Osamor popular local UK politician, Martha Osamor, who was a former Haringey councillor and community leader on the Broadwater Farm estate in Tottenham. She was also vice-chair of the party ’s Black section. The third contestant is Helen Grant who is the current Member of Parliament for Maidstone and The Weald in Kent . She is the current Minister for Sport, Tourism

•Chi Onwurah black person to occupy this position for Newcastle. Onwurah is of mixed parentage with a Nigerian father and English mother. A graduate of Electrical Engineering, the 50year old served as Head of Telecoms Technology at OFCOM, with a focus on broadband provision before she

became a Member of Parliament.Nigerians are concerned about a government that would better their lives and improve their standard of living. She however said apart from the immigration policy that is unfavourable to blacks, Cameron has tried his best even though she won’t vote for him. She said there

•Helen Grant are blacks who are in the upper class that would vote for the Conservative Party. Britain is facing an uncertain future as non Britain is facing an uncertain future as of the political party can non of the parties can comfortably take a decision on the knotty issues facing the country on political stability, membership of European Union and immigration which has become a hot cake in Europe and beyond.

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, MAY 8 , 2015 — 57

Mali lost $261m to graft in two years

M

ALI lost more than 152 billion CFA francs ($261 million) to fraud and mismanagement in the two years before ex-president Amadou Toumani Toure was toppled in a 2012 army coup, according to audits released by the authorities that replaced him.

Soldiers in the West African nation ousted Toure on March 22, 2012, angry at his handling of

Amadou Toumani Toure a separatist rebellion by Tuareg fighters in the

north.

The auditor-general’s reports for 2010 and 2011 said forged documents were used to justify spending, regulations were disregarded, unjustified expense claims were filed and public procurement was marred by irregularities.

The reports were submitted on Monday to President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, who will

now decide whether to pursue legal action against those believed to have been involved.

They were made publicly available late on Wednesday and will be posted on the auditorgeneral’s website from May 11.

The reports do not name Taure or any other individuals as being personally responsible for

Sex crimes: CAR threatens to sue French soldiers HE Central African Republic will take T legal action against the French soldiers accused of raping children in exchange for food at a refugee camp, the country’s justice minister has said.

“Legal action will be pursued ... These are still very serious acts,” said Justice Minister Aristide Sokambi on Wednesday, insisting his nation was not targeting France but individual soldiers.

Several children - the youngest just nine - allege that 14 soldiers dispatched to the impoverished nation as part of a peacekeeping force sexually abused some of them in exchange for food between December 2013 and June 2014.

“We regret the fact we were not brought into these investigations despite the cooperation agreements we have with France,” Sokambi added.

“So I have instructed the public prosecutor to open a probe and seek the evidence already at the disposal of the French.”

French troops were deployed to the Central African Republic in December 2013 to help African Union peacekeepers restore order after a bout of sectarian violence triggered by a coup.

EW Ivorian officials and diplomats expect major violence before a presidential election in October.

President Alassane Ouattara has the backing of his main coalition partner, the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI). His former rival Laurent Gbagbo, whose refusal to accept defeat in a 2010 election sparked a war that Ouattara won with the backing of a rebel force, now faces trial for crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court.

Gbagbo’s old party, the Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), is deeply divided.

Following years of delays, Ouattara is pushing ambi-

T

HE number of Ebola cases reported in Guinea and Sierra Leone last week dropped to its lowest total this year, the World Health Organization announced yesterday, just days before Liberia is due to be declared Ebola free.

Health experts acknowledge they are still unable to track exactly where the virus is still spreading in West Africa, more than 16 months after the first deaths in the remote forests of Guinea. The outbreak has killed more than 11,000 people.

In Guinea, five of the country’s nine new cases were detected only after the patients died; none had sought treatment at an Ebola clinic.

And only two of the nine cases in Sierra Leone

were identified as contacts of previous Ebola patients.

“It will still take some time before we are going to be able to actually celebrate an Ebola-free West Africa,” said Peter Jan Graaff, the U.N. secretary-general’s acting special representative and head of the United Nations Mission for Ebola Emergency Response.

Graaff emphasized the importance of knowing where the virus is moving within communities.

In Guinea, where Ebola first emerged, health workers are still struggling to trace cases.

“As long as we have this, it’s going to be very difficult to get to zero.

Not impossible — but very difficult,” Graaff said.

Burundi elections risks shift amid unrest

A

•French soldiers protecting children in Bangui.

Hundreds of troops were stationed at Bangui’s M’Poko airport, which was transformed into a giant refugee camp.

Most of the displaced families living amid the abandoned planes had lost everything in the conflict, which pitted mainly Muslim rebels against vigilantes from

the majority Christian population.

Prosecutors in Paris have opened an investigation into the reports, with France’s defence ministry pledging to take “all the measures necessary for the truth to come out”.

The defence ministry has said it immediately launched a probe into the

case, sending police investigators to the former French colony on August 1 after receiving the news.

The ministry has denied attempting to cover up a potentially devastating scandal. The allegations were contained in an internal UN report that was leaked to French authorities last summer by a UN official.

HE number of Eb ola cases reported in Guinea and Sierra Leone last week dropped to its lowest ebb this year, the World

Health Organization announced yesterday , just days before Liberia is due to be declared Ebola free.

Health experts acknowledge they are still unable to track exactly where the virus is still spreading in West Africa, more than 16 months after the first deaths in the remote forests of Guinea.

The outbreak has killed more than 11,000 people.

In Guinea, five of the country’s nine new cases were detected only after the patients died; none had sought treatment at an Ebola clinic.

And only two of the nine cases in Sierra Leone were identified as contacts of previous Ebola patients.

“It will still take some time before we are going to be able to actually celebrate an Ebola-free West Africa,” said Peter Jan Graaff, the U.N. secre-

tary-general’s acting special representative and head of the United Nations Mission for Ebola Emergency Response.

Graaff emphasized the importance of knowing where the virus is moving within communities. In Guinea, where Ebola first emerged, health workers are still struggling to trace cases.

“As long as we have this, it’s going to be very difficult to get to zero. Not impossible — but very difficult,” Graaff said.

Health workers have come under attack by fearful Guineans at times during the crisis, who accused outsiders of spreading the disease.

Liberia, which has seen the highest death toll with more than 4,700 lives lost, is poised to declare the outbreak there over on Saturday unless new cases are announced in the coming days.

leading Burundi opposition figure said yesterday that parliamentary elections in May and the presidential vote in June should be delayed because of unrest, provided the vote was held before the president’s current term ends on Aug. 26.

Protests have continued for almost two weeks against President Pierre

tious plans to disarm and demobilise some 74,000 ex-combatants by the end of June. The authorities say the process is on track.

Combatants are supposed to hand in a working weapon or ammunition to qualify for the scheme.

But the programme’s own numbers show that up to November, 44,493 former combatants had entered the programme while just 6,050 functioning guns had been collected. Diplomats and analysts say thousands of fighters have skipped the process while former rebel leaders have been allowed to influence who is processed.

Nkurunziza’s bid for a third term, which opponents say is unconstitutional. A court ruled he can run. His spokesman dismissed calls for any delay in the vote.

“It is needed,” former rebel-turned-presidential hopeful Agathon Rwasa told Reuters when asked about a delay, echoing comments by some other opponents. “There is no security.”

Migrant crisis: Sunken boat ‘found in Mediterranean’

Ebola cases drop in W/Africa — UN T T

Ivorien rebels still ready for war

F

WHO to declare Liberia Ebola free

HE Italian navy be lieves it has found a boat that sank in the Mediterranean, leaving at least 800 migrants dead.

The three-deck boat sank near the Libyan coast three weeks ago, in what the UN has called the deadliest ever incident in the Mediterranean.

On Wednesday, the Italian navy said it had found a boat 375 metres (1,230 feet) below on the sea bed.

Sicilian prosecutors, who are investigating the tragedy, must now decide whether it will be raised.

Only 28 people survived after the boat crashed into a merchant ship - four were children.

Rescuers found only 24 bodies at the scene.

Italian prosecutors say the migrants paid between $700 (£460) and $7,000 (£4,600) to be on board, having been forced to stay on a farm in Libya for up to a month before the journey.

While there, prosecutors say, the migrants were subject to abuse and there are reports of deaths due to violence and exhaustion.

On Thursday, the navy said it had found a blue, 25-metre (86 foot) boat on the sea bed that matched the description of the vessel that sank.

Two men - the boat’s Tunisian captain and a crew member - are being investigated on a number of charges, including suspected culpable homicide and illegal confinement.

The UN says 60,000 people have tried to cross the Mediterranean so far this year.

Close to 1,800 people have died trying to reach Europe.

In the most recent reported incident, 100 migrants were brought to Sicily on Wednesday evening following a rescue. They said their boat had been adrift near the island for 12 days, the last two of which without food and water.

60 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Falcons to wear adidas kits for Mali •Nike kits yet to arrive

F

BY JUDE OPARA, Abuja

ORMER Nigeria track and field stars,Henry Amike,Tony Osheku and Yusuf Ali have hailed Mike Itemuagbor and his company,Pamodzi Sports Marketing for putting Nigeria among the list of countries the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) has counted worthy of hosting a world class road race in 2015.

The 10km Okpekpe road race is the brain-child of Itemuagbor and his company and was late last year granted a bronze label status by the worl governing body or athletics.

IAAF Road Race Label

T

HE senior women national team, the Super Falcons may no longer be the first team to adorn the new national kits from new sponsors, Nike when they take on their Malian counterparts in the 2016 Olympic Games qualifier slated for this weekend in Abuja.

Sports Vanguard investigations at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), revealed that the girls will have to appear in the kits supplied by former sponsors, adidas.

A reliable source at the federation disclosed that all efforts made by the NFF to get the American company to ship the kits ahead of the encounter failed.

He also stated that there is no way the new kits manufacturing company can frown because they have not delivered on their own agreement, even as he added that the federation will not be pressing for any charges.

“We have a crucial match this weekend but our new sponsors are yet to provide us with the kits. They have no reason to frown because they are yet to fulfill their own side of the bargain.

If I buy a car from somebody and he is yet to deliver it to me, I think I should be able to use another means to go to any place I want to go.”

Due to the non arrival of the kits, it was also gathered that the NFF who had started giving out the old kits halted the move until the arrival of the Nike kits.

Super Falcons in Adidas wear.

••• To play Canada, New Zealand N

IGERIA Football Federation is hoping to have the Super Falcons play international friendlies against New Zealand and Canada, hosts of the FIFA 2015 Women World Cup starting in June.

The Falcons will open their World Cup account with Sweden on June 8 in Winnipeg. NFF women committee chairperson, Dilli Onyeadinma disclosed in a phone chat that the Falcons will leave early for Canada after their two-leg Olympic Qualifier against Mali.

“Once we are through with the qualifiers we will proceed to Canada.

We have plans for the team to play against New Zealand and Canada before the Falcons play their opening game.”

Speaking on the game against Mali, she stated that the Falcons are not going to underrate their counterparts whom they

3 Lions Continues from BP plans in the foreseeable future for a senior men’s international between England and Nigeria, it was agreed to keep dialogue open between the countries. ‘’ The Super Eagles last played England in a friendly on November 16, 1994, and the Europeans won the

Okpekpe: Ex-Nigerian stars hail Itemuagbor, Pamodzi

game 1-0 thanks to a goal from skipper David Platt.

Two days ago, Amaju Pinnick had mooted the idea of both countries playing a friendly in October but The Three Lions have two crucial E u r o p e a n Championship qualifiers against Estonia and Lithuania in that month.

beat 8-0 in the All Africa Games qualifier. “ Nigerians saw how we played Mali (AAG qualifiers) and that’s our true strength.

Having said this, We

don’t have to entertain any fear because we’re going to beat Mali on Saturday. “ We are not being over confident but even the Malians know they are

no match for us, but we know they ’ll prepare harder as most teams that find themselves playing against Nigeria.”

Bridges Cup finals tomorrow

A

LL roads lead to the sports complex of Yaba College of Technology tomorrow as the curtains fall on the maiden Omoluabi Bridges Cup U-17 finals.

The finals of the tournament, which began in Osun state last May, will see Mendo FC taking on Moje Elites in the boys’ category, while Omoluabi Stars and Oginni Queens square up

in the female category.

There will be a lot of side attractions at the event where a female exhibition match between Real Salt Lake from USA will trade tackles with Selected Nigerian Girls team. The competition was organised by Bridges To America Inc in collaboration with the government of Osun state.

The soccer fiesta is being organised under

Kanu Continues from BP qualify for AFCON 2015 after they won the tournament in South Africa in 2013.

Former Arsenal, Ajax and Inter Milan star Kanu has now said all that is in the past and the country will soon be back in forefront of the game.

“In life there are ups and downs. The last few months we have faced serious trying times in our football.

But right now that is in the past,” he said.

“There has been no time I have lost confidence in the Eagles. The Eagles will bounce back better than ever.”

“Now is time for all the stake holders and the NFF to ensure that we rally round the team and help them succeed as the AFCON qualifiers gets underway next month.

“We have the talent that can do it, but we must support them to succeed because they cannot do it alone.”

Keshi has been reappointed the country’s coach and he will begin his qualifying campaign for the 2017 AFCON in June at home against unknown Chad.

Egypt and Tanzania are the others teams in this qualifying pool.

the umbrella programme tagged Save-A-ThonProject, which according to Adams Miles, the Chief Executive Office, CEO, of Bridges to America “is an ongoing humanitarian effort to help African youth change their futures through the world’s sport of soccer. We aim to build to a world-class soccer academy in Nigeria, West Africa by the end of 2017.

We provide opportunities for American young women to travel to Nigeria to conduct community soccer clinics, play exhibition matches, and serve the people there.

Events are races that the international world body designates as one of the leading road races around the world.

‘Mike (Itemuagbor) has made us Nigerians proud.He has done tremendously well in the development of athletics,especially road races and I believe the government should just take advantage of the leverage he has brought into the sport to move it further up there,’said Amike,the reigning national 400m hurdles record holder (48.50) who ran in the final of the event at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Amike also wants government to give him (Itemuagbor) all the necessary encouragement so that more private sector participation can be achieved and make the race even bigger.

‘He has provided the opportunity for our middle and long distance runners to showcase their talents and earn a living.''

FIFA ranking Continues from BP Tunisia, Senegal, Cape Verde Island and Guinea make up the first seven countries ahead of Nigeria in eight.

Algeria remains number one and also move one place up on the world chart to 20 from 21.

As usual, Germany still remains the number one football country in the world with Argentina, Belgium, Colombia, Brazil making up the top five.

Egwero Continues from BP that Okagbare has the support of all the homebased athletes, adding that the Athletics Federation of Nigeria had rather heed her advise.

“Blessing is quite comfortable ordinarily, she could have kept quiet. But she owes it to all Nigerian athletes who are struggling to make a mark. In her heart she is not happy

being the only Nigerian athlete who is making world standard performance.

“There are athletes here who only need motivation and little funding. But it is not forth coming. Ask Divine Oduduru and other up and coming athletes, it is still the same old story of frustration,”said Egwero one of Nigeria’s best male sprinters.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 — 61

Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix 2015….Speed & Glitz

BY BAYAGBON ANTHONY M

T

HE Spanish Grand Prix which is the traditional curtain-raiser to the European season is coming up this weekend (8th – 10th May, 2015) in the Circuit de BarcelonaCatalunya. This race weekend (the 5th this 2015 season) promises thrill and fun especially for sport fans who love high speed intelligent sport with lots of technicalities and strategies that keeps the mind working.

The Track Circuit de BarcelonaCatalunya is a 4.655km track in Barcelona Spain.

F1 has been hosting grand prix on this circuit since ‘1991 and will host a grand prix for the 25th time this weekend.

The track has a mix of sixteen high and low speed corners, plus its abrasive and rather bumpy track surface, makes for a physically and mechanically taxing race in completing the 66Laps, 307.104km race.

Fastest lap record of 1:21.670 is held by Kimi Räikkönen in 2008 With two DRS zones on the straight between turn 9 and 10 and also between turn 16 and 1 providing flat out racing and exciting over takings at speed of 318km/hr.

Constructor/Driver to watch The 2015 season has so far been a straight fight between Mercedes and Ferrari with Lewis Hamilton winning three races of the four so far and Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari winning one.

Ferrari has 11 wins in the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and also the man with the fastest lap in Kimi, while Mercedes can boast of the 2014 race winner Lewis in its fold Lewis Hamilton the double world champion is the bookies favorite to make it four wins out of five races this 2015 season. Still the richest sportsman in Britain with a fortune of £88m and presently in contract negotiation with Mercedes for a new deal that could be worth £27m a year Lewis seems to have everything going right for him at the C M Y K

moment and this is translating to superb performance on the track with man and machine unifying as one unstoppable force.

Report has it that the Formula One world champion’s relationship with his on/off girlfriend of seven years Nicole Scherzinger has reportedly hit the wall after his 2014 world championship victory and his failure to commit to her Unlike Lewis, Nico Rosberg is having a difficult start to the new 2015 season, pretty much the same way he ended the 2014 season.

Presently trailing his team mate with 27 point, Rosberg seem to be having confidence issues thus resulting in mistake that creates difficulty in putting a superb lap together in Q3 to give him opportunity to be on pole position for a race which brightens his chances of winning.

With 170 races to his name, Rosberg would be keen to add to his 8 career wins.

Sebastian Vettel has put behind him a difficult 2014 season in which the former Red Bull Racing driver finished the season without a win and was dominated by his then team mate Daniel Riccardo. Now with Ferrari , Vettel has shown once again why he a four time world champion with a race win, two third place finishes and a fifth place, trailing Nico by a single point in the driver championship.

Not many will bet against Vettel securing more race wins to add to the 40 career wins he already has considering the upward performance trend of the Ferrari team.

Dark Horse 35years old Kimi Räikkönen (Oldest driver on the Grid) of Ferrari Constructors team was a surprise second place in the Bahrain Grand Prix mainly due to excellent tire strategy. A repeat of such genius where he pitted one less stop than the front runner thus saving 25 seconds pit time can see him stage another impressive

experience winning again in Formula 1.

The Spanish crowd would cheer their homeboy especially if he utilizes any opportunity to overtake at the turn ten hairpin or DRS zones during the race and thrill the home crowd.

However, avoiding being lapped and slotting somewhere in the lower part of the top 10 would be a significant improvement for Alonso this season The stats below are definitely not good music to the ears of the Barcelona-Catalunya F1 fans. Without a single point this season, it’s all gloom for Fernando.

•Lewis Hamilton popping champagne upset. This is a strategy mostly employed by Kimi during his days with Lotus team due to his gentle driving style whereby he seem to preserve his tires more than most other drivers Valtteri Bottas and Felipe Massa of the Williams team uses the same engine power as the Mercedes team which has proven to be dominant since 2014 season. So far this season, they have not been able to match the 2014 performance level

weekend like in 2014, then a podium place is a possibility.

Spanish Crowd Support The Spanish crowd will undoubtedly be rooting for home boy Fernando Alonso who has endured a difficult season since switching from Ferrari to McLaren in 2015. Alonso with 238 races, 32 race wins and two world championship trophy is considered by many as one of the best driver presently on the grid but has really been

struggling so far in 2015 mainly due to reliability and drivability of the MP4-30.

Alonso recently signed a 3years contract worth £25m per year with underperforming McLaren-Honda team.

The deal is reportedly devoid of any opt-out clauses that would enable the Spaniard to leave if a more attractive seat became available thus prompting former team-mate Jarno Trulli to say that Fernando Alonso might not

•Sebastian Vettel

•Hamilton in a race Daniel Ricciardo of Red Bull Racing was the revelation of 2014 season picking up 3 wins with the RBR as the only other driver to win a race that season apart from the Mercedes duo of Lewis and Nico. If Ricciardo can put together a perfect race

S/N 1 2 3 4

Race Australian GP Malaysian GP Chinese GP Bahrain GP

Grid Position Did Not Participate 18 18 14

Race Position Did Not Participate DNF 12 11

*DNF: Did Not Finish With the temperature in Barcelona expected to be within 17 - 19degs over the race weekend, not many keen F1 fan would bet against a victory for Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes Constructor to get his 37th career win and continue his domination this season.

62 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

You can’t track down Messi – Boateng J

EROME Boateng paid tribute to the quality of Lionel Messi after the Barcelona man mesmerised the World Cup winner last Wednesday.

Messi was in sublime form in the first leg of Barca’s UEFA Champions League semi-final with Bayern Munich at Camp Nou, scoring twice in a 3-0 win.

After smashing in the first from the edge of the area, Messi ghosted past Boateng, leaving the defender on his backside before clipping the ball beyond Manuel Neuer.

Neymar added a third in stoppage time to effectively wrap up the the tie at the halfway stage and, like the rest of the watching world,

Boateng was quick to praise the Argentine magician.

“You can’t keep tabs on such a quality individual,” he told the DFB’s official website.

“You can only manage to reduce their threat as a team and, as shown by the closing stages, that certainly takes a lot out of you.

“You can’t keep Messi out of the game for 90 minutes. We did really well to limit his influence for the first 70, but then you have to continue to defend as a team.

“After falling behind, which shouldn’t happen in the first place, you can’t then allow the other team to further increase their advantage.”

B

Messi: Barcelona were lucky L

IONEL Messi has admitted Barcelona were somewhat fortunate in Wednesday’s 3-0 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final first-leg.

The Argentina captain once again stole the show on his 100th European appearance as his late double set Barca on their way to victory at Camp Nou, before he provided the assist for Neymar’s goal well into stoppage time.

The 27-year-old ‘s performance ruined the homecoming of Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, but the attacker has admitted things could easily have gone differently, before warning that the Bundesliga champions still pose a threat in next week’s return leg at the Allianz Arena.

“We were lucky to score the first goal,” Messi told reporters.

“Then the others came

after that in quick succession and we have come away with a great result for the second-leg game, which is just what we wanted.

“Germany will be a tough venue. We have got a great result, but we must now go there and we can’t drop our guard.”

SKILLFUL . . . Barcelona’s forward Lionel Messi (L) shows skill as he vies with Bayern Munich’s defender Jerome Boateng (R) during their UEFA Champions League match at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona. Barca won 3-0. Photo: AFP

Bayern can’t expect a Porto miracle – Mueller HOMAS Mueller The defeat means the says Bayern Germans must score at T Munich fans can not least three goals in the

•Bayern Munich’s forward Thomas Mueller gestures during their UEFA Champions League match. Photo:AFP

... puts Ronaldo in his place

A

•Ronaldo C M Y

few hours before Barcelona kicked off against Bayern Munich, Forbes magazine pub-lished their annual list of the world’s highest-earning sports stars. Cristiano Ronaldo topped the footballers’ list with earnings of $79 million, ahead of Lionel Messi on $70m.

Forbes also published a report on the most popular players on social media. Ronaldo came out on top again,

Guardiola: Bayern didn't lose because of Messi

with 102m Facebook ‘likes’ to Messi’s 75m.

When it comes to football, though, Messi put Ronaldo in his place, at least for now, with a b r e a t h t a k i n g performance that caused a reaction all around the world. His brilliant first goal against Bayern Munich took him level on 76 with Ronaldo in the all-time Champions League scoring list. His even-better second goal made him top scorer on his own, with 77.

expect another miracle fight-back, like they saw against Porto, following their 3-0 semi-final drubbing at Barcelona in the Champions League.

Lionel Messi’s inspired performance saw Barca score all three goals in the final 17 minutes with the midfield maestro netting twice in three minutes to stun Pep Guardiola’s Bayern before putting Neymar through to score the hosts’ third goal.

Messi’s magical footwork at the Camp Nou for his second left Germany defender Jerome Boateng flat on the turf in a move former England international Jamie Redknapp described as “almost illegal”.

“They completely fell apart, that should have never happened,” fumed Bayern’s honorary president Franz Beckenbauer.

“It would be a sensation now to turn this around.”

return at Munich’s Allianz Arena on Tuesday to reach the June 6 final in Berlin.

But Mueller said their fans can forget another fight-back which saw Bayern reach the semifinals with a 6-1 quarterfinal drubbing of Porto at home having lost 3-1 away.

•Pogba

AYERN Munich coach Pep Guardiola insisted there is more to Barcelona than just Lionel Messi, despite the Argentine’s two-goal performance in the opening leg of Wednesday’s semi-final tie.

Barcelona took a stranglehold of proceedings in the UEFA Champions League clash after three late goals helped the home side to a 3-0 victory at Camp Nou. Messi lived up to the pre-match hype, netting twice in the final 13 minutes, before setting up Neymar ’s injurytime goal as Bayern’s resolve was finally broken in Barcelona.

Guardiola - facing the team he led to 14 major trophies for the first time since 2012 - refused to single out Messi for praise, telling reporters: “I will not say what I think of Messi. They are not just Leo, Barca are a very good team.

“They were very solid, in defence and attack.

They have great players, Neymar, Luis Suarez.

“We tried to control the game so that Messi would not participate so much. We were 15 minutes away from a very good result.''

Neymar wants Pogba at Barça

B

RAZILIAN striker Neymar wants Juventus’ Paul Pogba to join him in Catalonia ‘he’d do well at Barcelona’.

The Blaugrana cannot do any business in the summer window due to a transfer ban, but it has nonetheless be suggested that the French midfielder could end up at Camp Nou. “Pogba? He’d be welcomed,” Neymar is reported as saying by SportMediaset.

“He’s a fantastic player, he’s younger than me and he’s already reached the top level. He’d do well at Barcelona.”

The former Manchester United man is one of the most highly-sought after players in Europe, though Bianconeri general manager Giuseppe Marotta has said they are not looking to sell.

Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, MAY 8, 2015—63

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015

Eagles ‘ll fly again – Kanu

F

ORMER Super Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu has declared that Nigeria will bounce back to reckoning soon and in style.

Nigeria are now

ranked a disappointing 45th in the world by FIFA. And last year, the three-time African champions failed to

Continues on Page 60

Friendly: England reject Eagles T

HE English F o o t b a l l Association has ruled out playing an international friendly with the Super Eagles in the near future.

Nigeria Football Federation President Amaju Pinnick was at Wembley Stadium in London on Tuesday for a private meeting with FA Chairman Greg Dyke.

One of the key points discussed at the informal meeting was the possibility of both countries facing each other in an exhibition game before the end of 2015. ‘’The discussions included reference to Mr Pinnick’s appreciation for English football and his desire to foster closer links between the NFF and The FA,’’ The English FA stated on its official website. ‘’Although there are no Continues on Page 60

•Kanu

Eagles remain 45 in FIFA ranking T HE position of the Super Eagles in the monthly FIFA ranking remains unchanged in the May edition released in

African Top 10 (1) Algeria (2) Ivory Coast (3) Ghana (4) Tunisia (5) Senegal (6) CapeVerde (7) Guinea (8) Nigeria (9) Cameroon (10) Congo

•Rooney

•Mikel

Zurich yesterday.

In the latest FIFA ranking, Nigeria remain on the 45th position in the world chart and number eight in Africa.

Just like the last ranking, Algeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Continues on Page 60

Okagbare is fighting for us — Egwero

BY BEN EFE

B

L E S S I N G Okagbare has received the backing of

home-based athletes in her opposition to AFN’s recruitment of foreign athletes.

The African double

sprint champion had voiced her opinion to the exercise, which she said was detrimental to the development of local

talents.

Speaking on the issue yesterday, Ogho Oghene Egwero stated Continues on Page 60

•Keshi

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

FRI DAY'S FRIDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 3 Composition (5) 9 Floating (6) 10 Mild (6) 11 Accepted (5) 12 Cheese (4) 15 Pleasant (4) 17 Controller (7) 20 Decay (3) 21 Material (5) 23 Declare (4) 25 Circle (4) 26 Emulate (5) 28 Wager (3) 30 Prosaic (7) 33 Revise (7) 35 Valley (4) 36 Moor (5) 38 Washing (6) 39 Multitude (6) 40 Renovate (5)

DOWN 1 Seraglio (5) 2 Unsoiled (5) 3 Consume (3) 4 Said (6) 5 Elderly (4) 6 Longing (3) 7 Step (5) 8 Cap (5) 13 Harmed (7) 14 Manufacturer (5) 16 Curdle (7) 18 Kingly (5) 19 Conifer (3) 22 Booby-trapped (5) 24 Tear (3) 27 Small (6) 28 Cabin (5) 29 Shy (5) 31 Wild (5) 32 Inclined (5) 34 Gala (4) 36 Girl?s (3) 37 Cut (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS 1, Effect 5, Gifted 9, Lilac 10, Thread 11, Pester 12, Dared 14, Road 17, Lad 18, Cede 20, Total 22, Aired 23, Neatest 24, React 26, Perial 29, Edge 30, Art 32, Dire 33, Breed 35, Crater 36, Purged 37, Latin 38, Entity 39, Demean.

DOWN 1, Extort 2, Format 3, Clad 4, Tidal 5, Graped 6, Iced 7, Titter 8, Darted 13, Rapture 15, Oozed 16, Dance 18, Cited 19, Debar 21, Let 22, Asp 24, Rescue 25, Aghast 27, Niggle 28, Leaden 30, Array 31, Tepid 33, Belt 34, Dune.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. Phone: Newsroom: 018773962. Deputy Editor: 01-4548355. Advert Dept Hotline: 014544821. Abuja Advert Hotline: 09-2921024. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Editor: MIDENO BAYAGBON. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.

C M Y K