Trial of looters begins soon— BUHARI

...towards a better life for the people

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

**

VOL. 25: NO. 62469

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

N150

Ooni: Anxiety in Ife as ALLEGED N70BN FRAUD: Amaechi's hands clean, OAU declares curfew ex-SSG, others write Buhari •Residents stockpile food 13

•The true Oduduwa story, by Ooni of Ife (2) •Pgs11,34&35

Trial of looters begins soon— BUHARI

By Levinus

Nwabughiogu •Says vicious cycle of corruption must be broken •Peace Committee urges him to follow due process A •Buhari is "born again" phenomenon — Soyinka 8

BUJA—THE trial of former public officers who looted the national treasury and stashed the funds in foreign banks will commence in few weeks.

President Muhammadu Buhari disclosed this, yesterday, when he met members of the National Peace Committee led by former Head of State, Continues on Page 5

Scourge of baby factories: Story of booming illegal business See Inside PEACE COMMITTEE—President Muhammadu Buhari flanked by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and the Sultan of Sokoto (5th R) while Chairman, National Peace Committee, Gen. Abdulasalami Abubakar (4th L); President, Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor (4th R); Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (2nd L); the Catholic Bishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan (3rd R); former president, Nigerian Bar Association, Mrs. Priscila Kuye (3rd L); Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Communion, Bishop Nicholas Okoh (2nd R); Retired Justice Rose Ukeje (R) and Publisher of Vanguard, Mr. Sam Amuka (L) with others during an audience with President Buhari at the State House, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

CBN faults banks on ATM withdrawal limits COLUMNISTS: Should Buhari probe the Jonathan administration or •P.36 not?

•P.19

A survival guide for politicians in I can't seem to my Buhari era •P.17 mend broken heart C M Y K

Kachikwu appoints 4 new GEDs for NNPC 9

9

Who committed rape in Alapere, Lagos? 7

Mr & Mrs

2—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—3 —3

C M Y K

4—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—5

POCKET CARTOON

VISIT—Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (2nd left), welcoming South Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Noh Kyu-duk. With them are the Senate Leader, Sen. Ali Ndume (left), and the Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Sen. Francis Alimikhena (right), after a courtesy visit to the Senate President at the National Assembly in Abuja, yesterday.

Trial of looters begins soon — BUHARI Continues from Page 1 General Abdulsalami Abubakar at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

General Abubakar, however, advised President Buhari to follow due process in the prosecution of corrupt officials, reminding him that Nigeria was no longer in a military regime.

President Buhari, who vowed to break the vicious cycle of c o r r u p t i o n , unemployment and

insecurity in Nigeria, stated that his administration would not only ensure that stolen monies stashed in foreign bank accounts were returned but that the looters must be tried.

He disclosed that he was gathering documents which would serve as evidence against suspected culprits in the anti-corruption war.

The meeting between President Buhari and the committee, it was

IT'S UP TO YOU

BY AYO ADIO

Y

OUR enemy is not just the man that points a gun at you but a dear friend that adds no value.

Never hang around people that add no value to you too often. Be not deceived, bad company corrupts good manners. It’s up to you.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everybody will respect you —Lao Tzu

O

NE of the most common and destructive daily habit is to constantly compare your life and yourself to other people and their lives. And at the end of the day, you pummel your self-esteem to the ground and you create a lot of negative feelings within. And perhaps also outside of yourself. So what can you do? How can you get a handle on this habit?

It does take some time though, so be patient with yourself – and towards having a healthier outlook in life. Try to realize that you can’t win if you compare yourself to others. Just consciously realizing this is helpful.

gathered, followed an earlier meeting with the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, during which committee members were told of the persecution that members of the PDP were facing in the hands of the new governing party.

“Nigeria has to break this vicious cycle before we can make progress,” the President said.

The President, who regretted the sorry state of the country’s finances also told the committee that as part of his actions to address the national problems he inherited, he has ordered the reorganization of Nigeria’s revenue generating institutions.

No more business as usual He explained that a single treasury account had been established for all federal revenue to ensure greater probity, transparency and accountability in the collection, disbursement and utilisation of national funds.

His words: “We have really degenerated as a country. Our national institutions, including the military, which did wonderfully on foreign missions in the past, have been compromised.

But we are doing something about it. The military is now retraining and morale has been resuscitated.

“As Petroleum Minister under Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo in the 1970s, I could not travel abroad until I had taken a memo to the Federal Executive Council asking for estacode.

Now, everybody does what he wants. That is why security-wise, and economically, we’re in trouble. Those who have stolen the national wealth will be in court in a matter of weeks and Nigerians will know those who have shortchanged them.”

The National Peace Committee, then asked him to follow due process in the anti-graft war.

They also reminded the President that Nigeria is not under a military regime, stressing that everyone suspected to have committed any crime was assumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Rising from the meeting held behind closed-doors in the Presidential Villa, the committee remarked that though corruption was not to be condoned, the process of prosecuting suspects has to be

constitutional.

Speaking to State House Correspondents on behalf of the committee, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, who confirmed the meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan, however, said the former president never begged for their intervention.

According to him, the meeting was a hearingout process.

“We gave a bit of update about the relevance of the Peace Committee itself and how we can help to nurture what God has given to us. Anybody is free to come to our committee but President Jonathan never by telephone or another means talked to the committee. We went to see him, but that was after we had already seen members of the political party, members of the civil society; we plan to see the Speaker because we couldn’t see him yesterday.

“This is a very planned series of interventions essentially just to hear out everybody and I think the good news is that Nigerians are committed to a new nation.

They are committed to ensuring that the gains and blessings God has given us come to fruition.

Due process must be followed —Peace committee “This is not an intervention, it is a hearing out process.

When we had election, it was like a wedding, now the reality of government is the marriage and people need to be encouraged. We need to reaffirm that this is our country and the only thing we can collectively be opposed to is injustice, inequity, corruption and in that regard we all had one

single conversation.

“The President has also reaffirmed the need for this committee to continue and the international committee has very much welcomed the contributions of the committee. Essentially we are not policing, but when the need arises, we will help to build confidence in the process.

“It is not heating up the polity.

In our conversation with former President Jonathan and members of the parties, I don’t think any Nigerian is in favour of corruption or is against the President’s commitment to ensuring that we turn a new leaf.

I think what we are concerned about is the process. It is no longer a military regime and under our existing laws, everybody is innocent until proven guilty.

“Again, our own commitment is not to intimidate or fight anybody. The former President’s commitment and what he did still remains spectacular and I think that President Buhari himself appreciates that. So our effort really is to make sure that the right thing is done,” Kukah said.

Members of the National Peace Committee who accompanied Gen Abubakar on the visit were Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, His Eminence, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto; John Cardinal Onaiyekan, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN); Archbishop Nicholas Okoh, Primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria; Justice Rose Ukeje (rtd), Prof Ameze Guobadia, Mr. Sam Amuka, Publisher, Vanguard Newspapers; Dame Priscilla Kuye, Senator Ben Obi, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, and Dr Arthur-Martin Aginam.

6—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Police smash notorious car-snatching gang

By Ifeanyi Okolie

O

PERATIVES of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, Ikeja, Lagos, have smashed a notorious gang of interstate robbers, which specialised in snatching cars.

Two members of the gang, Evans and Benson, were apprehended when SARS operatives stormed Benin, Edo State capital, in search of a Toyota Corolla, snatched at gunpoint from a Lagos-based businessman, Alhaji Babangida Isah, around Dopemu area of Lagos.

Vanguard gathered that the operatives, while trailing a cell phone stolen from Alhaji Isah, along with his car, arrested Demodia, an auto mechanic at his workshop, at 33, Auchi Road, Benin, who was in possession of a stolen Toyota Camry belonging to one Mr Lawrence Oaikhena, of Warri, Delta State, and a Honda CRV. The Toyota Camry was said to have been snatched at gunpoint from its owner in Warri, Delta State, when a white-coloured Peugeot 307 car with two occupants blocked him.

During interrogation, 27year-old Evans, who is married with two children, confessed that he was a receiver of the gang’s stolen vehicles.

He told Vanguard that he had received over four cars from the gang leader, Benson.

He also explained that Benson and one Chief Osama lured him into joining the gang.

He said: “I joined because of the huge profit. When I met Benson, he told me that he was a car dealer who buys vehicles from states and he would want me to help him sell.

“I discovered that he was an armed robber when I saw an expended cartridge in one of the cars.

“I also discovered that the vehicles usually had no papers. I deal in Toyota products, so I told him that I wanted Toyota cars. I paid him N400,000 for the Toyota Corolla he brought and I sold it to a woman for N500,000.

“I also bought a Toyota Camry from him for N350,000 and sold it for N400,000. I also received two other cars, which I was yet to sell when the police arrested me.”

G o v e r n o r A d a m s Oshiomhole of Edo State and his wife, Iara, addressing Boko Haram victims in Benin, yesterday.

PICTURE: Simon Ebegbulem.

Woman sells her baby for N70,000 in Enugu

By Francis Igata

E

NUGU—POLICE in Enugu have arrested Chinwendu Agbo, 20, for allegedly selling her sixmonth-old baby for N70,000.

Agbo, who hails from Ehalumona in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, was arrested August 8 when she went to collect the money from the buyer, a woman, at Umuabor, Ehalumona.

In a similar development, operatives of the Special AntiRobbery Squad, SARS, have arraigned two suspected vandals, Ignatius Chukwulozie,48, and Christopher Ezebuilo,32, before a Federal High court sitting in Enugu.

The suspects were arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on stealing, conspiracy and tampering with Niger Delta Power Holding Company, PHCN, high tension cables and installations.

The suspects had allegedly conspired among themselves with others, currently at large,

to vandalise installations along Ugwu-Onyeama by

Enugu-Onitsha Expressway on June 5, at about 10.30p.m.

… as another dies fighting over boyfriend in Bauchi

By Suzan Edeh

B

AUCHI—POLICE in Bauchi State have arrested a 30-year-old man, identified as Nasiru Usman Banki, and a lady over the death of his girlfriend in Bauchi.

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Haruna Mohammed, who confirmed the incident to newsmen in Bauchi, said the deceased, known as Iklima Alhassan, aged 28, and an indigene of Bukuru village in Plateau State, visited her boyfriend, Nasiru, who resides at Rafin Makaranta area, behind Awala Hotel in Bauchi.

He said trouble started when the deceased met another lady, Fatima Baba Isa, 22, of Makera ward in her boyfriend’s apartment, a

situation that allegedly resulted in a fight between the two women.

Mohammed said: “On August 9, at about 12:50a.m., an uncon-scious young lady was found along Maiduguri by-pass, near Awalah Roundabout, Bauchi.

“The police patrol team attached to Tafawa Balewa Housing Estate Division visited the scene and rushed the victim to ATBU Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, were she was certified dead on arrival by a medical doctor and the corpse was deposited in the mortuary for post-mortem examination.”

The police spokesman said the deceased's boyfriend and the other lady were arrested and were assisting the Police with useful information that could help ascertain the cause of her death.

2 dead, scores injured in Delta auto crash

By Perez Brisibe & Ochuko Akuopha

U

GHELLI—AT least two persons were last Sunday roasted to death and scores of others sustained injuries in a motor accident near Ughevwughe and Edjophe sections of the ECN/ DSC Road, Ughelli, Delta State.

The accident involved a fully-loaded 18-seater bus conveying passengers from a marriage ceremony in a

neighbouring community and a Honda car coming from another marriage ceremony.

Vanguard guarded that the vehicles went up in flames after the head-on collision, roasting the bus driver and an elderly man to death.

Eyewitness account

An eyewitness said the driver of the Honda car was trying to overtake another vehicle and rammed into the 18-seater bus, adding that the

injured were rushed to OtuJeremi General Hospital, Ughelli Central Hospital, and other nearby hospitals by a rescue team.

At press time, some of the accident victims were still in a state of coma, while others were responding to treatments.

It was learned that the corpse of the two deceased accident victims had been taken to their home towns for burial.

Policeman dismissed over death of 2 nursing mothers at funeral

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—A police corporal, Mr. Ali Christopher, who was alleged to have accidentally killed two nursing mothers at a funeral in Fugar, headquarters of Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State last June, has been dismissed from the force.

It was gathered that his dismissal was sequel to the outcome of Edo State Police Command’s Orderly Room Trial, which found him culpable.

At the time of his dismissal, Corporal Ali Christopher with Force No. 444040, was attached to the Area Commander ’s office, Auchi.

Edo State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Stephen Onwochei, who confirmed his dismissal, said: “That case has been thoroughly dealt with.

“Two police officers were arrested and at the end of investigations, one officer was found to be culpable.

“As I speak with you, he has been dismissed.

Hopefully by next week, he shall appear in court.”

He advised police officers to be guided by Force Order 237, which spelt out the use of arms by officers.

He also appealed to members of the public to always keep a reasonable distance from any officer bearing arms.

Vanguard, WEDESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—7

Controversy trails alleged rape of woman by 4 OPC members

By Emma Nnadozie, Crime Editor, & Chioma Obinna

L

AGOS—Controversy is trailing the reported rape of a 30-year-old woman in Lagos by four members of Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, last week, at Alapere area of Lagos State.

While sources close to the victim said she was gangraped by four OPC members, police have denied receiving such report at Alapere division.

When contacted, the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, and the new police spokeswoman in the state, Patricia Amadim, denied that such incident happened.

However, Vanguard gathered that the victim was raped by the four men right inside her makeshift shop at Mile 12 market.

According to the sources, after raping her, the suspects threatened to unleash more harm on her should she attempt to report the incident to anybody.

It was gathered that the victim was rushed to a hospital where she narrated her experience to workers.

Conversation with IPO Vanguard investigations further revealed that despite claims and counter-claims, an investigating officer, Sergeant Ibrahim Isiola, with telephone number

It didn’t happen—PPRO, DPO

As IPO hangs up on reporter 08038414197, was assigned to handle the case by the police at Alapere.

When the officer was called on telephone yesterday, after persistent ringing, he picked his phone around 5.16p.m. and the following conversation ensued between him and the reporter: Officer: Yes, who is calling?

Reporter: Ibrahim my brother, how are you?

Officer: I am fine. Who are you?

Reporter: Abeg, are you still serving at Alapere?

Officer: Ok, what is it?

Reporter: I want to know how far you have gone with the case of that woman that was raped by four OPC men.

Officer: Who are you?

Reporter: My name is Emma Nnadozie of Vanguard Newspaper...

Officer: What! Please, this is a wrong number.

Efforts to further get him on line failed as he switched off his telephone.

Further efforts made to get the police image-maker in the state failed as the line rang persistently without response.

Another source hinted that she was afraid of speaking out because of threats from her rapists.

L

AGOS—THREE people were feared dead yesterday, while 11 others were injured on Lekki-Epe Expressway in an auto crash involving a 13-seater bus, belonging to Young Shall Grow Motors and a truck carrying an earth-moving equipment.

The casualties include some of the passengers in the 13seater bus, marked AAA 868XJ, which was heading to Epe. The bus was said to have collided with the truck at IgboElefon Bus Stop around 9a.m.

Vanguard gathered that the commercial bus was speeding, while the earth-moving machine covered a substantial part of the road, leading to a collision. The three victims were trapped in the wreckage.

Other passengers, who sustained injuries, were reportedly rushed to a nearby

K

OKORI—POLICE at Isiokolo Division in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State, have gunned down a suspected kidnapper and rescued a female victim abducted August 8 at OvwianAladja.

Sources said that following a distress call to the Divisional Police Officer that a kidnap victim was being held hostage at an uncompleted building at Kokori, a police patrol team and vigilante men mobilised

L

AGOS—A 23-year-old domestic house help, Tony Arikpo, was yesterday brought before a Tinubu Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly stealing $4,000 from his boss.

The defendant, who resides at 173, Jakande Estate in Lekki area of Lagos, is facing a onecount charge of stealing preferred against him by the police.

The prosecutor, Inspector Francisca Okere, told the court that the defendant committed the offence sometime in March. The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Magistrate L. A. Owolabi admitted the defendant to a N100,000 bail with two responsible sureties in like sum and adjourned the case to August 31.

By Dayo Johnson Drugs impounded by National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in Onitsha, yesterday.

hospital for treatment.

The incident was said to have resulted in traffic gridlock, which lasted for hours as onlookers thronged the scene.

Director, Lagos State Fire Services, Razak Fadipe, who confirmed the development, told Vanguard that the casualties were handled by Lagos State Ambulance Services.

Police kill kidnap suspect, rescue victim

By Emma Amaize

By Onozure Dania

Farmer hacked to death in Ondo

3 dead, as commercial bus runs into earth-moving machine

By Bose Adelaja

Domestic help accused of stealing $4,000 from his boss

to the hideout.

The kidnappers, who had demanded N30 million ransom from the family of the victim, opened fire on sighting the security team.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Celestina Kalu, said: “In the ensuing gun battle, one of the criminals was killed, while others escaped. The victim was, however, rescued unhurt.

“Items recovered include one cut-to-size gun and two live cartridges. Meanwhile, efforts are on to apprehend the fleeing suspects.”

In the meantime, detectives, with the assistance of vigilantes, have arrested one of the robbery suspects who broke into the residence of Nweke Michael at Agbarho and robbed him of his laptop, two handsets valued at N30,000, belonging to his sister, Nweke Aghogho, at gunpoint.

Kalu said police recovered two locally-made pistols and the victim’s laptop from the suspect, adding investigation was in progress, while efforts were on to apprehend the suspect’s accomplices.

A

K U R E — DETECTIVES from Ondo State Police Command have launched a manhunt for the killers of a farmer identified as Babangida Oni, who was reportedly hacked to death in his house at IseAkoko area of the state.

His murder threw the entire Fulani camp at IseAkoko in Akoko NorthEast Local Government Area of the state into mourning.

A source within the village said the farmers were planning to conduct a private investigation into the murder of their colleague, whose lifeless body was reportedly discovered by another farmer who visited his house in the morning of the incident.

He said police detectives were informed that three men invaded the camp in the early hours of the day Babangida was hacked to death and that police had launched a manhunt for the suspects.

8—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Buhari is ‘born again’ phenomenon Says Nigerians should’ve challenged Jonathan for —Soyinka defending stealing

Ghana does not manage Nigeria’s airspace —GCAA

A

BUJA — NOBEL laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, has described President Muhammadu as a “born-again” phenomenon on the Nigerian political landscape, who is ready to make amends for his past mistakes.

Soyinka, who spoke in an interview with Zero Tolerance, a periodic publication by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, noted that Buhari has already paid some debts to the Nigerian community, describing him as a lucky man.

Soyinka noted that although Buhari has not come out openly to apologise for his wrong deeds in the past, he has nonetheless accepted the fact that he had made some mistakes.

He said: “He (Buhari) has not brought himself round to apologise; if he had done that, I might have been less ambiguous about him. But I think from my findings about him, he is a born again phenomenon. If I am wrong, well, too bad. Though I don’t believe in ‘born-againism’ but I think this may be an exception.”

knows that fraternities are a normal culture in all colleges. It exists in all colleges. President Clinton was a member of a fraternity. In fact, anybody who goes to college in the United States is a member of a college fraternity. There is absolutely nothing evil or occultic about fraternity.

L

Nigerians should’ve challenged Jonathan for defending stealing

VISIT: From left, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, UN, Alhaji Maitama Sule and Alhaji Sambo Lamido during Sule's visit to the vice president at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

The laureate also descended heavily on former President Goodluck Jonathan for trying to differentiate between stealing and corruption, saying Nigerians should have challenged him on that.

Soyinka noted that it was wrong for a president to have taken such a position on a serious issue like corruption, thereby playing down its negative impact on the nation and its people.

He said: “The media should have challenged President Jonathan to define what stealing is, when he said that stealing is not corruption. How can a public figure, an intelligent person like that, come out to tell the public that corruption is not stealing?

Then you should have asked him, what then is corruption? The media should have challenged him.”

Pyrates Confraternity isn’t a cult

The pioneer Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, chairman, who is believed to have co-founded the Pyrates Confraternity in Nigeria, said it was wrong to lump cultism with confraternity, arguing that the two were not the same.

According to him, belonging to confraternities is a normal culture in colleges and not an evil cult, as wrongly portrayed by ignorant persons in Nigeria.

Soyinka said: “Everybody

Insists Pyrates Confraternity isn’t a cult “But here, the media is largely responsible for fuelling the ignorance of society of the words ‘cultism’ and ‘fraternity’.

This is a disservice and I have said it again and again. There are evil cults, whose members must prove themselves by going to rape. There are others whose entry is to slash or eat

somebody or rob; it has nothing to do with college fraternity.

“The media owes the responsibility to constantly tell the public the truth. But they go on and children grow up, believing that college fraternity is Satanic, demonic and this is wrong.”

Labour rejects planned 100% increase on VAT Says it'll worsen poverty level

By Victor AhiumaYoung

L

AGOS — TRADE Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, has condemned the plan to double the Value Added Tax, VAT, from five per cent to 10 per cent, to shore up government revenue which has been eroded by declining international price of oil, warning that it will worsen poverty in Nigeria.

TUC, in a statement yesterday, contended that the VAT increment proposal by Sunday Ogungbesan, Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, runs contrary to the agenda of the President Muhammadu Buhariled government centred on restoring hope to the masses, reducing the poverty level among the citizens and building a new Nigeria that the entire citizenry will be proud of.

In the statement by the group’s President and Secretary General, Bobboi Bala Kaigama and Musa Lawal, respectively, TUC disagreed with Ogungbesan’s claim that the tax regime undermines the ability of the president to deliver on his campaign promises.

According to the statement, “the fact that the country depends on crude oil exports for

over 70 percent of government revenue and over 90 percent of foreign exchange is not debatable. The chairman needs not preach that; he should save us the stress. After all, even the president was aware of the current scenario when he made the promises.

"In fact we advise the president to beware of wolves in sheep’s clothing within his administration, persons whose main motive is to play the good boys to the detriment of the people. The proposed increment will enthrone poverty and create untold hardship in all spheres of life, as most goods consumed by the masses attract VAT. "Just as it happened after each increment in the prices of petroleum products, prices of goods will increase across board, and purchasing power will drastically reduce. Staple food will virtually disappear from the dinner table of the average Nigerian, thereby compromising his health, and we know the implications of that in a nation where access to basic medicare is a luxury.

“The FIRS boss opined that the country can survive without oil.

That is true and incontrovertible.

But our worry is, why must we always choose the easy but destructive way out? Must the government always prey on the

masses to achieve revenue targets and address deficits?

"How efficient has the government been in monitoring and enforcing the payment of VAT at the current rate of five percent, and how effective has been the utilisation of the VAT that has been collected over the years? Should the poor masses of the country be blamed if, as the chairman claims, only 125,000 out of 450,000 corporate entities pay tax to the government?

"Whatever the answers to these questions may be, surely the government and FIRS need not be reminded that Nigeria can and should also generate substantial revenue from bitumen, tin, gold, limestone, iron ore, coal, etc.

“Now let us ask ourselves this question: have government agencies entrusted with the responsibility of collecting taxes demonstrated the will to attain optimal collection? In other words, have they demonstrated the courage and wherewithal to collect up to 50 per cent of the projected tax revenue? Our answer is a capital “NO” because they have been involved in compromises for pecuniary considerations, a habit that has rendered useless many a Nigerian agency."

AGOS — THE Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, GCAA, has denied reports that Ghana manages the airspace of Nigeria over the Gulf of Guinea.

According to the GCAA, Ghana only manages the airspace of Togo and Benin.

Deputy Director General, Finance and Administration of Ghana Civil Aviation Authority Abdullai Alhassan, disclosed that International Civil Aviation Organization, ICAO, has sent a delegation to Nigeria to ascertain the truth concerning President Muhammadu Buhari's order to Nigeria’s Ministry of Aviation to take over the security of the nation’s airspace over the Gulf of Guinea from Ghana.

Alhassan said: “At the international civil aviation level, they have sent the regional director to Nigeria to find out exactly what they mean because Ghana is not managing the airspace of Nigeria. Unlike Togo and Benin, where we manage their airspace, we do not know about the management of the Nigeria’s airspace.”

Alhassan disclosed that the IATA council is handling the issue and in fact they have even sent a delegation to Nigeria to ascertain the truth in the matter since they are all aware that Ghana does not manage the airspace of Nigeria.

The latest development follows reports that President Buhari has directed the Ministry of Aviation to take over from Ghana, the management of the Nigerian airspace in the Gulf of Guinea.

He is reported to have given the directive at the State House in Abuja last week while receiving a briefing from top officials of the ministry led by Permanent Secretary, Hajiya Binta Bello.

The permanent secretary later told State House journalists that Buhari ordered her ministry to begin the process of securing the management of the Nigerian airspace which, she noted, Ghana had been managing since 1945.

The permanent secretary said Togo and Benin Republic had equally concluded arrangements to take over their airspaces from Ghana.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—9

Kachikwu appoints 4 new GEDs for NNPC

Election monitoring fund:

Cuts top management staff from 122 to 83 Subsidiary CEOs fired, replaced 12 of 15 new appointments from outside NNPC

ICPC orders PSC to refund N133.4m

By Clara Nwachukwu & Mike Eboh

A

BUJA — THE new Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Emmanuel Kachikwu, has announced the appointment of four new Group Executive Directors, GEDs, to run the four new Directorates that were approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

It will be recalled that following the compulsory retirement of the former eight GEDs on August 5, the NNPC Directorates were pruned to four.

The appointments came as all the subsidiary Chief Executive Officers, CEOs, were also fired and replaced immediately. It also makes good President Buhari’s promise of complete overhaul of the corporation that has been linked with so much corruption.

The development also confirms Vanguard’s earlier report that the Strategic Business Units of subsidiaries’ CEOs were originally meant to go with the former eight GEDs, but the decision was stepped down for a later date.

In a statement from the NNPC, yesterday, Kachikwu was quoted as saying that the new appointments are in line with the Federal Government’s aspiration to transform the corporation into a lean, efficient, businessfocused, transparent and accountable national oil company in keeping with international best practices.

To this end, the NNPC top management staff cadre has also been trimmed from 122 to 83, as 38 of them are to proceed on compulsory retirements.

New appointments

In addition to the four new GEDs, a total of 15 new appointments were announced by the NNPC with 12 of them coming from outside the fold.

The NNPC said the 12 were appointed “in line with the aspiration to reposition the corporation … to jump-start a new business outlook to enhance the operational environment as a profit-driven business as against the current civil service orientation.”

The new Group Executive Directors that will head the four Directorates are: Dr. Maikanti Baru, Group Executive Director, Exploration & Production; Mr. Isiaka Abdulrazaq,Group Executive Director, Finance & Services; Mr Dennis Nnamdi Ajulu, Group Executive Director, Refining & Technology; and, Dr. Babatunde Victor Adeniran, Group Executive Director,

Commercial & Investment (outside the fold).

Furthermore, Mr. Chidi Momah is now the Group General Manager, Company Secretary & Legal Adviser.

Momah, one of the 12 from outside NNPC until his appointment, was the Executive General Manager, Government Relations & Communications, Total Upstream Companies in Nigeria.

For the Strategic Business Units are: Mrs. Esther Nnamdi Ogbue, Managing Director, Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, PPMC; Mr Chinedu Ezeribe, Managing Director, Warri Refinning & Petrochemicals Company, WRPC (outside the fold); Mr. Babatunde Bakare, Managing Director, Nigerian Gas Company (NGC); Mr. Inuwa Ibrahim Waya;

Managing Director, Hyson (outside the fold); Mr. Abubakar Mai-Bornu, Managing Director, Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC (outside the fold); Mr. Ladipo Fagbola, Managing Director, NNPC Retail.

Others are Mr. Rowland Ewubare, Managing Director, Integrated Data Services Ltd, IDSL (outside the fold); Mr. Modupe Bammeke, Managing Director, NNPC Properties (outside the fold); Mr. Abdulkadir Saidu, Managing Director, Duke Oil (outside the fold) and,Mr. Dafe Sejebor, Group General Manager, Nigerian Petroleum Investment Management Services, NAPIMS.

Experts’ opinions

Those who spoke to Vanguard in confidence on the new appointments, however,

cautioned that the criteria for the appointments should be well defined.

According to them, “let them (NNPC) not throw away the good hands like what happened during the time of Funsho Kupolokun as the GMD, when some staff were compulsorily retired from the refineries, but were later brought back on contract terms. It was discovered that these guys were the only ones who could handle some very critical components of the refineries, so there was no choice but to bring them back.”

Some industry experts, who spoke with Vanguard during Kachikwu’s appointment, had predicted that the new helmsman would need to appoint some of his lieutenants from outside the NNPC family, if he is to succeed in his mission.

Others had also emphasised the need to prune the top management cadre to pave the way for brighter and younger minds who had been rendered redundant on account of the top-heavy management.

FUND: From left: Executive Director, Large Scale Enterprises, Bank of Industry, Mallam Mohammed Goni Alkali; Founder\CEO, Ruff 'n' Tumble, Mrs Adenike Ogunlesi; Managing Director\CEO, Bank of Industry, Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa; President, Fashion Designer Association of Nigeria (FIDAN), Mrs Funmi Ajila-Ladipo and Executive Director, Small and Medium Enterprises, Mr Waheed Olagunju during BOI-Fashion Fund at the bank's head office, Marina, Lagos.

CBN faults banks on ATM cash withdrawal limits

L

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor

AGOS — THE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, yesterday disagreed with the restructuring some banks have effected in their debit card, otherwise known as Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) services as well as some measures they introduced on foreign cash and e-payment transactions this week.

Some banks had early this week imposed N60,000 per day limit on ATM withdrawals while also limiting foreign currency withdrawal per day to $300.

Also some of the banks have indicated that they can allow $10,000 withdrawal in a single transaction that would cover for one month maximum limit

while others have imposed $300 daily limit on POS/online spending.

CBN Director of Corporate Communications, Ibrahim Muazu, told Vanguard, yesterday, that the apex bank policy was just on ATM cash withdrawal limit of $300 per day and POS/online purchases abroad which has a limit of $50,000 per annum.

He stated that the apex bank’s policy does not affect or stipulate any limit for domestic (Naira). He also added that the $10,000 single transaction limit even if it stays within the $50,000 annual limit stipulated by CBN is in violation of the rule.

Muazu also explained that the basic thrust of the policy on withdrawal limits in foreign transactions was to curb abuse

of the exchange system while preventing people from trading with their ATMs abroad which, according to him, eats into the country’s foreign reserve.

In the wake of the apex bank’s measures against speculative demands for foreign exchange, banks have followed with series of actions limiting volume of transactions allowable on electronic payment cards.

In the new arrangement, all ATMs that were hitherto enabled for domestic and foreign transactions were restructured to limit Naira cash withdrawal at ATM machines to N60,000 per day while foreign currency is $300 per day. Previously, the domestic withdrawal limit was N150,000.00 per day.

By Caleb Anyasina

A

BUJA — THE Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, has ordered the Police Service Commission, PSC, to refund to the government treasury N133.4 million of the N350 million it received from the Federal Government for the monitoring of the conduct of the 2015 elections.

The ICPC, which investigated the allegation of fund diversion levelled against its chairman Sir Mike Okiro, said although it did not find any act of criminal infraction against him, the balance of the money must be returned to the government.

The outcome of the ICPC investigation, which was obtained by Vanguard, last night, indicated that while the PSC under Okiro budgeted and collected money for 900 police officers and men who were to be trained in Lagos, Kano and Abuja, only 391 staff were actually trained in Abuja.

The commission also directed that N11 million, which was collected by staff who pretended to have travelled out of Abuja by air but actually monitored election within Abuja and its environs, be returned with immediate effect to the federal treasury.

The report of the investigation dated August 6, 2015 with ref. No. ICPC/Inv/ GBP/HOD/352 and addressed to the Permanent Secretary Police Service Commission, said the commission had carried out thorough investigation into the allegation of corruption, abuse of office and fraudulent act to swindle the PSC to the tune of N275.5 million raised against Mike Okiro According to the ICPC report, “the Police Service Commission (PSC) received the sum of N350 million from the Federal Government to monitor the conduct of police personnel in the recently conducted general election.

The commission budgeted to expend the fund on training and physical monitoring during the election.

“Investigation findings revealed that the commission budgeted for training of 900 staff and to conduct training in Abuja, Lagos and Kano.

However, the entire staff force was not more that 391 and that is the figure actually trained in a programme held in Abuja only."

10 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Tribunal admits Ladoja’s exhibits in petition against Ajimobi

By Ola Ajayi

I

BADAN—SOME of the exhibits tendered before the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Iyaganku, Ibadan, yesterday by former Governor Rashidi Ladoja in the petition he filed against Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s victory in the April 11 elections were admitted.

At the time of filing this report, exhibits already admitted include a report of an inspection of election materials used for the April 11 election, INEC approved guidelines and regulations in connection with the conduct of 2015 elections, a certified true copies of data and readings from the card readers and others.

Hearing of the petition filed by Ladoja, who was the candidate of Accord Party in the election began in earnest yesterday after the conclusion of pre hearing on Monday.

Ladoja is challenging the declaration of INEC which gave victory to Governor Ajimobi saying the election results were not true reflection of the votes cast.

Although the first and second task force’s counsel opposed the admissibility of the documents, it was accepted and marked by the tribunal.

At the time of filing this report, reports from three local governments, namely Atiba, Atisbo and Iseyin had been tendered, admitted and marked as exhibits five to 34.

N25.7BN THEFT CHARGE: EFCC appeals judgement freeing Atuche, others

By Abdulwahab Abdulah

L

AGOS—THE Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos was yesterday urged to set aside the judgement of a Lagos High Court which discharged a former Managing Director of defunct Bank PHB, Mr. Francis Atuche of the N25.7 billion theft charge preferred against him.

The notice of appeal filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, also prayed the court to re-list the case at the high court for fresh trial.

Discharged alongside Atuche at the lower court were his wife, Elizabeth and a former Chief Financial Officer of the bank, Ugo Anyanwu.

The trial judge, Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo, while delivering judgement in the matter on June 22, 2015, upheld the arguments canvassed by the defence team including Chief Anthony Idigbe (SAN) and Sylvia Ogwemoh (SAN) that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the suit and that the prosecution’s case lacked merit.

In the appeal lodged by the anti graft body’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), it prayed for an order of the court to set aside the order of Justice Lawal-Akapo, which struck out the counts contained in the amended information dated June 1, 2011

IGERIA Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has appointed Joseph Ogbebor as Acting General Secretary of the Union.

Ogbebor takes over from Isaac Aberare, the former General Secretary who recently retired from the union after 33 years of meritorious service.

A statement by the union, said before his appointment, Ogbebor, was the former Deputy General

against the respondents.

Besides, EFCC sought for an order allowing its appeal and an order directing a continuation of trial and defence before Justice Lateefa Okunnu of the High Court of Lagos State, in Ikeja.

The anti-graft body hinged its

appeal on five grounds.

The agency further submitted that the defendants pleaded separately each of the counts contained in the amended information to the main suit, adding, that “counts one to 10 dealt with the alleged stealing of money belonging to the bank while

counts 11 to 27 dealt with the allegation of conversion of the monies to personal use.”

It said the court ignored Section 152 and 153 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law 2011 by striking out all the counts against the defendants.

Ambode wants FG’s task force on Lagos lands scrapped

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

L

AGOS—GOVERNOR Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos state, yesterday, accused members of the Presidential Task force Implementation Committee on the alienation of Federal Government Landed Properties of not working in the interest of Federal Government nor the state.

He therefore, urged that it be disbanded.

The task force began its operations during the immediate past President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

Ambode in a statement through

NUPENG names Ogbebor acting Gen Sec

N

SUMMIT: From left; Ms Shyda Nafycy, Corporate Accountability International; Nnimmo Bassey, Director Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF); Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, President, Women Arise and Campaign for Democracy; Mr Akinbode Oluwafemi, Deputy Director, Environmental Rights Action and Mrs Priscilla Achakpa, of Women Environmental Programme at Lagos water summit: themed Connecting local outrage to global resistance of corporate control of water, organized by Environmental Rights Action / Friends of the Earth, Nigeria and Corporate Accountability International at Dover Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday.

Secretary in-charge of Operations of the Union.

The statement said “Ogbebor who is a law graduate from the University of Benin, Edo State, passed through the mills in NUPENG to rise to this present position, having served in various capacities and levels as Assistant General Secretary in Warri Zone, Senior Assistant General Secretary, and Head of zone, Port Harcourt/Warri Zones.’’

his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, said the call became necessary following several petitions over alleged nefarious and reprehensible activities of the federal task force.

According to him, the taskforce, whose existence and legality was still in doubt, had unlawfully embarked on brazen seizure and appropriation of state and federal government properties.

He stressed that the activities of the task force had left in its wake a near total destruction, displacement, stoppage including unprovoked mass harassment, intimidation, molestation and denial of the original owners of the land and properties.

Also, Governor Ambode has charged Private Sector Participants, PSPs, to improve on waste management performance in line with basic standard in order to ensure a cleaner and healthier state.

He made the remarks through the new Managing Director of Lagos State Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, Mr. Abdulwahab Ogunbiyi during his inaugural meeting with stakeholders at Waste Transfer Loading site, Agege.

He also solicited for the

support of the stakeholders for effective waste management and assured them that the authority would continue to make available all the necessary infrastructural technical assistance for the private collectors to enhance their services.

According to him, it is no longer the responsibility of LAWMA alone to be carrying waste all around, but to manage and regulate the activities of the PSPs, “but as partners we all have to join hands to ensure a

cleaner and healthier state” He also promised to build on the achievements of his immediate predecessor, Mr. Ola Oresanya whom he described as a bosom colleague and commended him for taking the agency to an enviable height.

At the meeting were 350 PSP service providers, made up of marine waste evacuators, street sweepers and PSP operators across the 57 Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas in Lagos State.

FAAN reiterates parking rules for tankers at airports

By Lawani Mikairu

L

AGOS—THE Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Saleh Dunoma has said the rules banning indiscriminate parking of petrol tankers at Lagos and other airports are still in force and would be enforced in the event of any breach.

A statement yesterday by the General Manager, Corporate Affairs, FAAN, Mr Yakubu Dati said “The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of

Nigeria, Dunoma reiterated the resolution of the Authority to ensure absolute compliance of all tanker drivers to the rules of engagement, as far as parking and operating around the airport environment is concerned. “ According to Dati, Dunoma noted that the notorious act of parking tankers along the airport road would no longer be tolerated as the act was capable of jeopardizing safety and security of the airport, which would adversely affect airport users.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 11

OONI: Anxiety as residents stockpile food OAU asks students to comply with movement restriction

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

SOGBO—THERE was anxiety in Ile Ife yesterday over the restriction of movements being mooted as part of the rites of passage for the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade.

As part of rites of passage for the monarch, informed palace sources said a particular drum that is only beaten on the night preceding the formal announcement of Ooni’s death, was sighted in the palace court, suggesting that the final rites were nearing completion.

The leader of Oro cult in IleIfe, Oba Layi Adereti on Monday said formal declaration of Oba Sijuade’s passage would be done today when Oro rites are expected to take centre stage.

He also added that there would be restriction of movement between 9am and 4pm when Oro procession would move round the town to formally announce Ooni’s passage.

But the Royal Traditional Council of Ile Ife, dismissed the restriction order and appealed to people not to panic, and go about their normal lawful businesses.

Lowa of Ife, Oba Joseph Ijaodola, in a message monitored on an Ile Ife-based radio station, said there will be no restriction of movement in the town, adding also that no procession of Oro

would move through the town.

He warned newsmen to disregard further information about Oba Sijuade that does not emanate from the Royal Traditional Council, saying the town will deal with anyone that flout its directive on the matter.

However, despite the appeal, residents were seen buying basic needs in preparation for the restrictions that may last for hours.

At many Automated Teller Machines, ATM, points visited in the town, long queues were seen and in markets across Ile Ife, residents were shopping till

Odumakin’s petition to EFCC, a worthless hype – OSUN GOVT

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

SOGBO—THE Bureau of Communication and Strategy in the office of the Osun State governor yesterday described as another gimmick, the petition allegedly submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, by an activist, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, saying it was part of the ploy to continue to get media attention.

The Bureau said all discerning Nigerians need to do is to “'Spot the difference between the supposed petition to the EFCC and the one which was submitted by a judge of High Court in Osun to the House of Assembly, which has ended up discrediting the petitioner.

“I don’t think seriousminded people take Odumakin serious again.

After brainwashing a judge to waste her status and privilege of being a judge

very late in the evening.

Also, some residents, especially the non-indigenes, sources said have left for neighboring towns in fear.

Meanwhile, Dean Students’ Affairs of OAU, late yesterday told students of the institution to stay indoors during the duration of the burial rites.

A statement by the Acting Dean, Dr. I. M. Durosinmi , said: “This is to inform the generality of students that there shall be a curfew in Ile-Ife, on Wednesday, 12th of August, 2015 from 9am to 4pm and from 11pm till dawn.

“Students are therefore

strongly advised to stay on campus and those offcampus to remain indoors.

“The Division of the Students’ Affairs counts on the maturity and sense of responsibility of Great Ife students and appeals to all students to comply with the information and continue to keep the peace.”

Meantime, the Ife Traditional Chiefs may today pay another visit to Governor Rauf Aregbesola at his Oke-Fia government house, Osogbo where the demise of Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade may be formally announced.

VISIT: Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State (right), decorating the 51st President of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Otunba Olufemi Deru with the state's lapel pin, during the visit of the Institute's team to the Governor's Office in Abeokuta, yesterday.

of a High Court to join the fray against Aregbesola on their dubious agenda, their next strategy is to keep making noise all over the place with hyped visits to EFCC, or ICPC. “The question discerning Nigerians should ask Odumakin, Niyi Owolade, and other sponsors of this mindless pull-him-down project is: ‘With all the anxieties raised by the frivolous allegations against the governor by their hired judge, why did the Judge chicken out when called upon by the House of Assembly to which they made her to submit her petition?''

OSUN SUMMIT: PDP worries over members' defection

By Gbenga Olarinoye

O

SOGBO—NATIONAL Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Prof. Wale Oladipo, yesterday expressed concern over mass defection by its members saying the party will not suffer more defections but will soon start receiving defectors from other parties.

He assured the party’s supporters that the national secretariat of the party was making efforts to reposition the party for future elections.

According to him; ‘’The party was on the path of recovery by forming a credible opposition party to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.’’ Addressing a gathering tagged PDP Rejuvenation Summit held in Osogbo, Oladipo, said at the national level, the party was making progress in its reconciliation moves.

Tribunal reserves ruling in Ondo NASS petition

By Dayo Johnson

A

KURE—THE Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Akure, Ondo State has reserved judgment till September 11 in the petition filed against the Leader of the Ondo State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, members in National Assembly, Joseph Akinlaja, by the All Progressives Congress, APC candidate in Ondo West and East federal constituency, Ola Bamidele.

Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Anthony Ogar reserved the judgment after listening to the submissions of the lawyers to the petitioner led by Dr Tunji Abayomi and that of the PDP led by Hon. Remi Olatubora.

Return Olivet Heights to owners – OLD STUDENTS

O

LD Students of Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, have called on the state government to return the school to its rightful owners. They made the call in Lagos at a conference in preparation for the 70th anniversary of the school.

According to the President of National Old Students Association (NOSA) of the School, Dr. Kunle Ogunmola the need for the hand-over of the school is for proper maintenace.

Ogunmola explained that the school which came into existence in January 1945 by the American Southern Baptist Missionary at Oke–Isokun, Oyo State was one of the few schools in Nigeria equipped with hostel facilities, staff quarters, good laboratories among other facilities.

2nd National President of NOSA, Mr Gboyega Ajibola also said a planned fund raising event is important.

12—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Delta LG Councillors petition Senate over alleged usurpation of powers A

By Festus Ahon

SABA—ACCREDITED Leaders of Uvwie Local Government Legislative Arm, Delta State, have petitioned the Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki over what they described as illegal incursion and usurpation of powers of the council by the Delta State House of Assembly.

It will be recalled that the state House of Assembly had last week suspended the council Chairman, Asiwaju Henry Baro over alleged financial impropriety.

The petitioners in the petition, said that they were set out to carry out their legislative duties within the legal compass allowed them by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 and the Delta State Local Government Law. Decrying that the state House of Assembly would not allow them to do their work as dictated by their judgment and perception of imperatives by the suspension of their council chairman, they said “When it became obvious that we could not be stopped from doing our legitimate work or submitting to the dictates of the state government, the Delta State

House of Assembly resorted to underhand tactics and brazen display of might to scuttle our proceedings and intimidate the elected chairman of the council.

“The Uvwie council legislators in one of our plenary sessions, suspended five councillors who disrupted proceedings for their unrepentant disruptive posture, which they were warned to eschew in the past.

“Though the decision of the leadership of the council legislature enjoyed overwhelming support of majority of councillors and was warranted and justified, the Delta State House of Assembly, rather than look into the reasons for the suspension and mediate, issued an order on the councillors and directed us to comply with their order or, the Uvwie council

legislature would be dissolved.”

Noting that when the state House of Assembly was not finding it easy arm twisting them, they transferred their anger to the council chairman, whom they placed on ultra vires suspension without justification and in violation of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as the Deltas State Local Government Law which did not give them such powers.

BRIEFING: From left: Secretary, Trade Union Congress, TUC, Imo State chapter, Mr Basil Iwu, Chairman, Imo State chapter, Mr. Paul Akalazu, Secretary for Enugu State, Mr Ben Asogwa, Chairman, Enugu chapter, Mr Igbokwe Igbokwe, and Chairman of Abia chapter, Mr Christopher Okpara, during the briefing by South East TUC officials on labour malpractices by Enugu Electricity Distribution Company in Enugu, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

2016: Dokpesi c'ttee tasks Ogbemudia on

credible PDP gov candidate in Edo

B

By Simon Ebegbulem

ENIN CITY—THE Reconciliation Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State, led by Chief Raymond Dokpesi, yesterday, visited former governor of defunct Bendel State, Dr Samuel Ogbemudia, appealing to him to help the party identify a credible governorship candidate of Bini extraction ahead the 2016 governorship election in the state.

But Ogbemudia who reacted swiftly, informed the PDP leaders, who visited him that Governor Adams Oshiomhole had performed creditably well in the state, therefore, the PDP would need a candidate of unblemished character to defeat the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the 2016 governorship election.

Dokpesi, who showered praises on Dr Ogbemudia on his achievements as governor of the old Bendel State, acknowledged that the PDP made so many mistakes in the state through imposition of candidates and lack of respect for leaders, adding, however, that the committee was making efforts to reconcile members before the 2016 governorship election.

He appealed to Dr Ogbemudia to lead the party in searching for a governorship candidate that will replicate the kind of success the elder statesman achieved

during his time as governor of the old Bendel State.

In his response, Dr Ogbemudia commended the committee members for the visit, describing Dokpesi as the Ted Turner of Africa. He said, however, that the

PDP had “set up many committees, but this is the most promising. For me, I had affirmed at every turn that I am a proud member of the PDP, a member of the Board of Trustees. I have been conscious of my responsibilities,

but some forces had actively thwarted me. I am not interested in recriminations.

“Looking backward, it is frightening because it was infected with the ghost of missed opportunities."

Ndokwa youths want NNPC boss to end gas flaring flaring by multinational oil Government and multinational companies to thoroughly

By Ochuko Akuopha

O

LEH—NDOKWA youths, under the aegis of Pages Group International, yesterday, called on the new Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Emmanuel Kachikwu, to put an end to lingering problem of gas

companies in the Niger Delta region.

President of the group, Chocky Chukwuma, in a statement, lamented the adverse impact of gas flaring on farmlands as well as the health of those living in the areas where they are being carried out.

Appealing to Kachikwu to collaborate with the Federal

harness the huge gas deposits in the Ndokwa nation, the statement noted that “Instead of us wasting the gas, let us tap it and make good use of it.”

Congratulating him on his new appointment, the statement thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for finding it worthy to appoint a Delta State indigene to “fill such an enviable position.”

NPA moves to boost maritime activities in Niger Delta ports

Y

By Samuel Oyadongha

ENAGOA—THE Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, says plans are on to improve maritime activities at the ports in Niger Delta with a view to boosting the local economy.

Executive Director, Marine and Operations, David Omonibeke, who stated this in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, explained that the authority was coming up with operational procedures that

would serve the shipping community to ease the movement of vessels on the nation’s waterways.

He spoke shortly after being honoured by the Yenagoa branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE, with an award for his meritorious service to the practice of engineering in the country.

He said: “The authority will not limit the opportunities in the

maritime sector to the Niger Delta alone because we have six ports in the country. We have two in the South West and four in the South South.

“What we have done in NPA is to ensure that marine operation is easy and smooth.

We are coming up with standard operative procedures, so that we can really serve the shipping community as vessels can come in to reduce cost of doing business in the sector.”

‘Bayelsa can play key role in transforming Nigeria's economy'

Y

By Naomi Uzor

ENAGOA—THE Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Kemela Okara, has said that, beaming the searchlight on the rich opportunities that abound in the state, the state can play pivotal role in the transformation of the nation’s economy.

Speaking at the second Bayelsa State Investment and Economic Forum in Yenagoa, Okara, said: “This forum has the objective of industrialising and focusing on the key sectors of power generation and agriculture in addition unveiling investment opportunities at the Brass Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Area, manufacturing opportunities at the world class Eco-Industrial Park, the power generation hub and investment opportunities with the proposed Agge Deep Sea Port.”

Porbeni dismisses defection rumours

M

R DATARE Porbeni, son of Rear Admiral Festus Porbeni (rtd), has denied media reports that his father plans to quit the People’s Democratic Party, PDP for the All Progressives Congress, APC..

Datare in a statement, yesterday, said: “There have been recent reports alleging that Rear Admiral Porbeni (rtd), will be involved among others in decamping from the PDP, to APC. “It should be noted that these reports are completely false.

“Whilst Admiral Porbeni is a staunch supporter of good governance and the rule of law, as an elder statesman, he is not involved in party politics and is not a registered member of any political party.

"He continues to work tirelessly in the service of his great nation and implores all Nigerians to contribute their quota to the betterment of our society,” the statement added.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—13

ALLEGGED N70BN FRAUD: Amaechi's hands're

clean, ex-SSG, others write Buhari P

By Clifford Ndujihe

ORT HARCOURT— FORMER commissioners in the administration of immediate past Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, have written President Muhammadu Buhari, saying that the former governor was innocent of allegations of N70 billion fraud levelled against him by a Rivers State pressure group, The Integrity Group, TIG. In an open letter to the President dated August 3, the TIG had accused Amaechi and other functionaries of his administration of ‘’corruption, criminal breach of trust, unlawful enrichment and conversion of over N70 billion state resources’’ and provided evidence to back up its allegations.

The TIG had also accused Amaechi of fraudulent sale of Rivers State power assets and conversion of proceeds amounting to N60.48 billion; unlawful payment to and criminal conversion of N4.63 billion by CLINORIV Specialist Hospital; and unlawful enrichment of Messrs Collect Solutions (Nig) Limited with public funds to the tune of N1.56 billion.

Dismissing the allegations as false, Mr George Feyii (former Secretary to the Rivers State Government) and Dr Chamberlain Peterside (former Commissioner of Finance), in the letter, said that the facts were twisted and misrepresented to

malign Amaechi’s integrity.

The former SSG and Finance Commissioner attached copies of Executive Council extracts, MoUs and the agreement for the resolution of the failed 1000-bed (Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte) mega Specialist Hospital Contract, to exonerate Amaechi.

On the sale of Rivers State power assets, Feyii and Peterside, said that the exercise was not fraudulent and the proceed was captured as one of the sources of revenue to fund the 2014 budget.

According to them, the State

Executive Council, after extensive deliberations on August 15 and 16 2012, decided to sell 70 per cent of its equity in the power assets of the state because the Federal Government had commenced the privatisation process to unbundle the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN; the PHCN was not paying the state for electricity contributed to the national grid; the state was buying gas to fuel the plants and was indebted to SPDC and NAOC to the tune of N7 billion while spending over N1bn yearly to maintain the

plants.

“The power assets were priced and sold at a premium at $800,000 per megawatt, which is higher than the rate of $358,000 per megawatt used by the Federal Government in disposing its power assets at Afam. Whereas Rivers State earned $302 million for 70 per cent of its power assets of 541 megawatts, the Federal Government received $260 million of the 726 megawatts plant situated adjacent to the Rivers State facility.”

RETREAT: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State (right), Head of Office, Department for International Development, DFID, South West , representing the South East, Head of Office, DFID, Dr. Adesina Fagbenro (left), and Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Edward Ubosi, on their arrival for a three-day retreat organised for the State Executive Council members, at the Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu.

Edo govt takes over welfare of Boko Haram victims As Oshiomhole visits camp

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN CITY— GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, yesterday, paid a visit to the camp for the Boko Haram victims in Uhoghua community, Ovia North East Local Government Area of the state, saying that the state government will take over catering for the welfare of the displaced persons.

Oshiomhole who visited the camp in company of his wife,

C M Y K

lara, expressed shock over the number of the internally displaced persons, most of them children, assuring that the state government will immediately build standard primary and secondary schools and hostels to give them some comfort.

The governor described as shocking, attempts to relocate the IDPs last Sunday by security agents, saying that the issue took him to Abuja to meet with the President, where he prevailed on him to allow the children remain

in the camp, as the state government will take care of their needs despite the current economic hardship.

The governor interacted with the IDPs in Hausa language, where most of them informed him of the name of their states and communities. The children, who were elated interacting with the governor, prayed for him and expressed their gratitude to the first lady llara, who said that she had taken them as her children.

According to Oshiomhole, “I can see that the children are from different states in the North, from Taraba, Borno, Kano, Yobe, among others, they are very young. We have to do everything to ensure that they are comfortable. We have

discussed with security agencies, they will ensure that adequate security is provided to secure these children.”

BAYELSA POLL: Ijaw group drums support for Dickson

By Chris Ochayi

A

BUJA—THE Ijaw Justice Forum, IJF, has appealed to all Ijaw leaders and the entire Bayelsa people, irrespective of political affiliation to rally round Governor Seriake Dickson and return him as Peoples Democratic Party, PDP governor in the forthcoming December 3, 2015 election.

IJF, in a statement by its President, Karona Etonye, said that the state cannot afford to lose the governorship position to the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC. The group, while pleading for forgiveness on behalf of Governor Dickson, argued that, a defeat for PDP in the state will do more harm to the reputation of the immediate past president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who is from the state.

According to IJF, “We have been studying recent political developments in Bayelsa State with great concern. Our concern is borne out of the fact that Bayelsa is the only home to all Ijaws in Nigeria because it is the only homogenous state that we have."

Buhari floors Niger Delta opponents with Ogoni clean up

L

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

AGOS—INSINUATIONS about President Muhammadu Buhari’s bias against the Niger Delta region have been laid to rest with his decision to fast-track the cleaning up of Ogoni land, Rivers State, the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC said yesterday.

Addressing newsmen in Lagos, party spokesman, Alhaji Lai Mohammed also identified the adulteration of the original version of the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB as preventing the party from taking a position on the bill.

Mohammed said

that APC-led Federal Government would focus on creating more job opportunities and providing infrastructure in the Niger Delta as a way of addressing the spate of restiveness in the region.

Noting that President Muhammadu Buhari’s decision to adopt the report of the United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP on the clean up of Ogoni land as one of the most significant decisions taken since the advent of the new administration, Mohammed said: “This action of the President transcends all the needless arguments about the appointments so far made by him, because it touches directly on the well-being of a long-suffering people,peoplewhosefarmlands,drinking water, homes and sources of living have been deeply affected by hydrocarbon pollution."

14 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Lagos, FRSC endorse Nigeria Safety Award

By Tare Youdeowei

L

AGOS—THE maiden edition of the Nigeria Safety Award, billed for September, 2015 at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, has been endorsed by both the Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC) and the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) This was made known by the Chief Coordinating Officer of 9JA Safe Award 2015, who is also the Managing Editor, Safety Record newspaper, Mr Femi Da-silva, while interacting with reporters.

According to Femi Dasilva, the endorsement is necessary in giving the event the needed boost and helping to consolidate the positive public perception of the brand behind the award, which is Safety Record Newspaper. “Safety Record has been in the forefront of the creation of nationwide awareness and sensitization on safety matters in the country, and is berthing with 9JA Safe Award 2015 as its awards icon, being the first Nigeria award in Health, Safety and Environment (HSE). It is open to any individual or organisation committed to practicing Health, Safety, and Environment Management at the workplace in Nigeria,” Da-Silva said.

Lagos State Safety Commission in acknowledging and offering collaboration with the organizers said, “We at the Lagos State Safety Commission have long recognised the importance such relevant recognition and award has in arousing the safety consciousness of the populace through our annual safety champion award. We therefore share the laudable objective of Safety Record newspapers in taking this recognition to a lofty height through the promotion of safety award to our larger society.”

Other organisations which have equally given their endorsement to the award,, according to him, include the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), Society for Occupational and Environmental Health Physicians of Nigeria (SOEPHON), Fire Protection Association of Nigeria (FPAN), and National Industrial Safety Council (NISC).

Rebuilding the North East, a global responsibility — SARAKI

By Henry Umoru & Joseph Erunke

A

B U J A — S E N AT E President, Bukola Saraki, yesterday, said the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the North-East zone, devastated by the Boko Haram insurgents was a responsibility for the international community.

The Senate President, who stated this when he hosted the Ambassador of South Korea, Mr. Noh Kyu-Duk, and the India High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. A.R. Ghanashyam in his office in Abuja, said the task of rebuilding the North East was for the whole world, He lamented that the zone currently lacks functional hospitals, schools and other social amenities that make like worth living and specifically called on the two envoys and their countries to assist in the rebuilding and rehabilitation efforts of the Federal

Government in the North east, which will immediately follow the seizure of insurgency operations in the area.

He stated that one of the major challenges confronting the country is the insecurity caused by the Boko Haram. He said: “Nigerians are yearning for a move to address some key issues such as the security challenges we are seeing in North Eastern part of country. We went to visit the zone and our observation was that there is need for rehabilitation and reconstruction. They now lack schools, hospitals and houses. All these need to be totally rebuilt in most of those places.

“I think a lot of friendly countries like yourself can play a role in this great humanitarian support to see what you can contribute to the development of the area because if we are going to reconstruct the North East today, it cannot just be from our regular inflows and revenues.

“I think it is a big responsibility

for all our friends to see how they can contribute in putting together an infrastructure development fund that will go towards rebuilding the Northeast. The rebuilding of the Northeast should be a global responsibility.”

The Senate President also told his visitors that the Senate under his leadership was currently reviewing extant laws and also initiating new ones to make Nigeria an attractive investment destination.

“One of our legislative agenda that has been listed is reviewing all laws that have to do with making Nigeria more attractive for business people to do business, looking at legal instruments that will also improve our commercial dispute resolution and make people find Nigeria as a place that it will be easy to do business,’’ he said.

He added that the Senate was also interested in how Nigeria could deepen its trade relationship with South Korea and India.

Earlier, the South Korean Ambassador, Mr. Kyu-Duk, noted

that the Senate President had already proved himself as a visionary leader who was set to achieve the change agenda, having delivered reforms and change in the areas of health, education, agriculture, security, power and environment as governor of Kwara State.

He added: “I am quite confident of your success in leading this representative body to reform malfunctioning sectors of this country through proactive legislations. Nigeria is a second home to me.”

On his part, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Ghanashyam, said his country desired improved business relationship with Nigeria, having sustained mutual understanding even before the two countries became independent.

Apart from the establishment of healthcare and educational facilities in the country, the envoy said India was ready to partner Nigeria to diversify its economy through agriculture and knowledge-based industry.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—15 —15

C M Y K

16—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

NDLEA arrests 4 with 150.54 kg of hard drugs in Onitsha

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA—THE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has impounded 150.535 kilogrammes of hard drugs at Onitsha main market and arrested four suspects. Of the quantity, 133.4 kilogrammes were cannabis sativa, while the rest were cocaine and heroin.

Anambra State commander of NDLEA, Mr. Sule Momodu told reporters in Onitsha, yesterday, that the drugs were seized from one Chidiebere Mnezie, who, he added, was helping the agency in its investigations.

Three others namely, Izuchukwu Obi, Patrick Ohanazoeze, and Chigozie Ogaze are also in NDLEA net over the illegal drug business.

The commander warned that any society wishing to reduce crime should first of all fight illicit drug usage.

C M Y K

Police arrest 10 suspected kidnappers in Onitsha ...laud Obiano for prioritzing state security

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

O

NITSHA—THE police in the commercial city of Onitsha, Anambra state have

arrested 10 suspected kidnappers within the Divisions under the Onitsha Police Area Command within the last six months.

They have also arrested about 15 robbery suspects who operate

with motorcycles and recovered about 11 stolen vehicles in the area.

Police Area Commander for Onitsha, Philip Ezekiel, an Assistant Commissioner of

Obiano’s birthday celebration, waste of Anambra funds —Labour Party

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

T

HE LABOUR Party in Anambra State has faulted Governor Willie Obiano of the State for engaging in what they called lavish celebration of his birthday with the state funds at a time all the governments in the country are crying for money to provide democracy dividend to their citizenry.

Chairman of the party in the state, Comrade Luke Ezeanokwasa, told newsmen yesterday in Awka, the state capital that it amounted to insensitivity on the part of the governor to lavish the state's lean resources in organizing a birthday party for himself, when there are many projects that have been abandoned and crying for attention in the state due to lack of fund.

“It is unnecessary waste of public fund for the governor to be organizing his birthday to massage his ego at a period the revenue profile of various governments in the country have gone down drastically and when many projects have been stalled in the state for lack of fund”, said the Labour Party boss.

He accused the governor of undue interference in the Local Government funds in the state and questioned what became of the N80 billion being allocation of local governments in the state for the past 16 months.

Accusing the governor of lacking administrative knowledge and ability to govern the state, Ezeanokwasa frowned at his action to bring local government administration in the state to a halt by starving them of their statutory funds, alleging

that the governor had directed that local government chairmen cannot carry out projects exceeding N400,000, which he said has crippled development in the local governments in the state.

LP further challenged Governor Obiano to publish the comprehensive allocation of the state and local governments in the past 16 months and what have been done with the money, alleging that Obiano could not have claimed to be working when there are abandoned projects dotted all over the states.

The party also said that Obiano’s government had been imposing astronomical levies on individuals and groups carrying out legitimate businesses in the state, citing the instance of tipper drivers, whose levy were increased from N200 to N1,000 per trip.

Police, ACP who disclosed this to newsmen in his office yesterday, said policing Onitsha has not been easy but with the cooperation of good citizens in the area, and an assistance from the state government and police high command, they were able to achieve this feat.

Ezekiel who noted that the arrests have led to the reduction of robbers operating with motorcycles to a reasonable extent, disclosed that some of the arrested suspects are currently facing trials in various law courts, while others are still being investigated at the State Criminal Investigations Department, CID and Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS. He specifically commended Governor Willie Obiano for having the security of the state at heart, adding that the police high command had increased the strength of policemen and number of patrol vans at the notorious Upper Iweka axis in Onitsha and other parts of the state.

He reminded revenue collectors in the state of a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP, banning collection on highways, warning that any one caught doing so would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 17

''Y

OU’RE only as good as the people you surround yourself with”: it’s a popular saying which holds much wisdom when one thinks of the Nigerian situation, as we all eagerly await President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministerial list. So is: ”Be brave enough to let go of those weighing you down”.

Fortunately, the President’s Spartan, well-documented strength of character, means he will have no issues abiding by this. In life, there is also the fact that some people will get close to you simply to benefit from your success, even though they bring nothing to the table.

Such people pretend to be on your side and to have your best interest at heart, whereas they pursue their own selfish agenda: one thinks of the members of the House of Assembly and the Senate, especially those who defected to the APC from the PDP and defied their new party’s wishes to crown themselves the leaders of both chambers.

I’ll add another popular saying at this point “there’s something wrong with your character if opportunity determines your loyalty”. With more defections from PDP to APC announced in Bayelsa and Patience Jonathan allegedly supporting the APC’s gubernatorial candidate, I think a (satirical) guide for the smart politician in this new dispensation, is in order.

Political dealings Be strong. Attempt to remain unblemished (that is, if you were transparent and “pure” in your political dealings and calculations to begin with).

Remember, your obligations are to the Nigerian people, not to any kingmaker or godfather, even if he (I detest the fact that it is still so rarely a she) did sponsor your candidacy.

Remember always, your company determines your character and Nigerians are a lot more vigilant and critical than they once were: I’m sure most politicians in our country hate social media, or the instant spread of news (both true and false).

If you’re worried about spending money that isn’t yours (that is, your constituents’ money) refrain from cultivating certain friendships. However, it might be difficult to avoid certain friends all together, so instead set boundaries. What is corruption?

Ask yourself this question at multiple times every day, as you brush your teeth, as you get dressed, etc. There are no more goats, no more yams, no animals, or produce of any kind, so tread carefully. This goes for both old and new APC members.

Furthermore, if your friend, a known kingpin in the high stakes game of politics who has fun with other people’s money, asks you to hop on a private jet out of the country for a week or two, during the House recess C M Y K

tprincewill@yahoo.co.uk

A survival guide for politicians in the Buhari era for instance, ask him to do something a little more low-key.

A real friend will value your company over the disgrace (and incarceration) relating to both your names being associated with corruption, the day Nigerians get angry enough to demand to see both chambers’ finances. If you are one of those who owes banks money and is living a false life, right now would be a good time to keep a low profile.

Forget about keeping up with the Joneses, they’re broke. If you are new to politics, you’re probably looking at people who’ve been in the game for decades, who arrived at a time when corruption was “permissible” and you’re probably wishing you had all that money.

Perhaps you’re wishing you were more visible or more involved during the Jonathan era. Perhaps you own no private jet. You should be thanking your lucky stars: if you’re new, you probably have nothing to hide (yet) so Baba won’t have too much of an issue with you.

So resist the urge to overspend as it’s a huge red flag and often a blatant signifier of corruption as legitimate business owners,

Resist the urge to overspend, as it’s a huge red flag and often a blatant signifier of corruption; if you’re one of the few who had a legitimate source of income before politics, Nigerians will know; if you’re not, well, Baba is watching you

i.e. people who work for their money pace themselves, often aren’t extravagant and exhibit decorum in all they do.

Whether it’s the latest bag for your wives and girlfriends, or fancy schools abroad, remember Nigerians will judge you on social media. If you’re one of the

few who had a legitimate source of income before politics, Nigerians will know. If you’re not, well, Baba is watching you.

Keep being introspective: keep asking yourself questions.

Do those criticising me have a point? Am I wrong? Is it my friends’ influence? Consider

your situation carefully: the fear of EFCC right now is the beginning of wisdom. If you are still in PDP, know that resentment is a fruitless emotion: indulge in a bit of selfcriticism, understand what went wrong and forget about ethnic sentiments.

This last part, if I might be so bold, is for Baba himself.

Remember, when dealing with these many different categories of people, old and new friends, that most want to see you fail.

The change for Nigeria, which you represent, is beyond their understanding. Conventionally, one would say, “don’t judge a book by its cover”.

In this case sir, you can feel free to judge them by what they have. What many of these people own was not acquired through legitimate means. This isn’t about envy on Nigerians’ part but about righting wrongs: it’s great to be a millionaire, but not by playing Russian roulette with other people’s money. It’s great to be a Nigerian again.

Sen. Godswill Akpabio and the PDP senators

P

DP has always done things a certain way; so it’s having trouble with the new direction the country is taking.

During its time in office,the Department of State Services, DSS, harassed those who didn’t toe the line. EFCC was selective and went after political opponents; election tribunals were never fair, granting victory only to those supported by First Ladies and their lackeys.

So it’s no wonder that the PDP today would like to believe the same thing is happening all over again, except that this time, they are the victims, or so they would like Nigerians to believe.

However, corruption has no ethnic group, religion or political party.

The PDP Senate caucus must realise this (I believe they do and their press conferences and releases accusing the President of selectively tackling corruption are merely the theatrics of frightened, drowning men).

The President, like his counter parts internationally, doesn’t micro-manage government agencies: the EFCC has had files sitting in its offices gathering dust for years, evidence against “untouchables” at the time.

Two wrongs don’t make a right:

•Godswill Akpabio if, in the past, some corrupt people were allowed by other corrupt leaders to get away with wrong-doing, it doesn’t justify others for doing wrong in the future. Furthermore, no matter the order in which justice is served, that is, no matter what persons are convicted first (regardless of party allegiance etc.), let Nigerians rest assured that justice will be served

Turai Yar’Adua

T

•Turai Yar'Adua

because the end of sentiment, bias and feckless patronage which has destroyed our country, is gradually upon us.

All over Nigeria, politicians, their fraudulent business associates, fear this new era; that is why they attempt to trick Nigerians into supporting a halt of all investigations, under the guise that they are selective: we will not be fooled.

HE rumour mill in Nigeria is perhaps one of the most prolific on earth. This former First Lady’s daughter was invited by the EFCC to discuss matters pertaining to her time as first lady of Kebbi State.

Apparently, the Yar ’Aduas also believe they are being “victimised” by Buhari. What about the millions of Nigerians who were “victimised” by successive governments who did nothing to uplift their lives?

Rather, they kept our commonwealth for themselves, stashed away in foreign bank accounts.

It always baffles me how our elite never seem to see the connection between their actions, poverty in Nigeria and the need to pay for said actions.

“Don’t write cheques, you can’t cash”, is a popular American saying; so is “don’t do the crime if you can’t do the (jail) time”.

Tabia Princewill is a strategic communications consultant and public policy analyst. She is also the co-host and executive producer of a talk show, WALK THE TALK which airs on Channels TV.

18 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 THE news has been making the rounds in both the conventional and internet media that President Muhammadu Buhari is to assume the position of Minister of Petroleum when he appoints ministers next month. According to the information reportedly leaked after a meeting of the president with chieftains of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja over the impending ministerial appointments, Buhari said he would take the action as part of his move to sanitise the oil sector and rid it of corruption.

Ordinarily, this should be a welcome development for several reasons. Number one is that the president’s reputation as “Mr Clean” remains intact, even among his political adversaries. Number two is that the fight against corruption, especially in the cash-cow oil sector, has been a major concern of Nigerians which Buhari promised to address during his campaigns. Number three and most importantly, is that President Buhari is a veteran in the management of the sector. He spearheaded the establishment of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) when he was oil minister in the late 1970’s. He has the

President as Minister of Petroleum? cognate experience to do a thorough job and creating the right template before ceding the position to a cabinet minister.

However, we are concerned about issues of transparency and accountability if the president chooses to take up the post in addition to his onerous and overloaded duties as the nation’s Chief Executive and Security Officer. The nation is still at sea over the way in which former President Olusegun Obasanjo handled the same job for six years from 1999 when he assumed power.

A number of tur naround maintenance projects were undertaken and

billions of naira sunk and yet the refineries remained comatose until after Buhari took over, and they started bouncing back, as if by magic.

We do not want a repeat of the nation being put in the dark about proceedings in the industry.

One big disadvantage of having the president of the country as Minister of Petroleum Resources is that it will be very difficult, if not impossible, for him to be summoned by the National Assembly to be grilled over any misgivings that might arise, and to supply information that will help to set the minds of Nigerians at rest when the “clean-up” of the industry begins. The story will be different if a minister is on the job.

We suggest that the president appoints a person of proven competence and integrity to carry out his mandate in the industry and be available and accountable to Nigerians through the federal legislature, the media and civil society.

Once bitten, they say, twice shy. A minister should be put on the job for greater transparency, accessibility and accountability.

OPINION Dredging of the Aba River

By Godwin Adindu

F

ROM the old, cranky bridge overlooking the Aba waterside, the crowd of bystanders stood to watch the new cinema. There used to be the old REX and EMI Cinema in this town where the senior boys of old stole out of bed and scale over the barbed wire fences of their dormitories at night to watch the escapades of the Chinese macho man, Bruce Lee, the American version of Rambo. That was the Aba of old, the paradise lost.

Today, there is no more Rex, no more Emi and no more Bruce Lee. But, there is a new fancy that has caught the attention of the Aba people this early morning and they are looking with consumed absentmindedness, oblivious of the risk of the speeding trucks behind them. The new cinema is the combusting dredger crawling in the Aba river, excavating the waters and evacuating the accumulated debris that have caused the water to meander away from its concave shores.

The bystanders are looking with curiosity because a dredger in the Aba River is a novelty. There is no memory, as much as they can flashback, of a dredger in Aba or of a dredging work in Aba River. So they must be part of this drama!

The scenario, in symbolic terms, goes to signal the Aba Urban Renewal Drive, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s driving force under which he is reviewing the truncated

C M Y K

dream that is Aba city. Recently, he deployed the dredger to the Aba water as part of effort to recover an endangered water line. The sedimentation of debris below the water bed is partly the cause of the Aba flood and the environmental decay. If there had been constant dredging in the past, the river would accommodate more storm water from the drainages and the entire network of drainages in the city will flow freely.

Cutting through the thick forest of Okpu Umuobo in Osisioma local council, the Aba River snakes its way through the city to Ukwa and empties into the Opopo River.

In the hey days of Aba’s fame, the river provided water as raw material to the manufacturing companies which were strategically located along its banks and also accommodated sewage. Old students of the many old schools of Aba savour sweet memories of their swimming spree in the waterside. Courtyard swimming pools were not common currency in those days

Indeed, the Aba waterside is what the lagoon is to Lagos

so Aba boys and girls got their first swimming encounter here and mastered the symphony of the ebbs and tides. Thus, the Aba waterside remains another source of nostalgia for old Aba people.

Indeed, the Aba waterside is what the lagoon is to Lagos. It defines its landscape and its topography and projects its environmental beauty. If you point at the heavy capacity ships that hang onshore waiting for the right to berth from the authorities of the ports of Apapa, Aba people would point at the wooden canoes paddled by the swamp dwellers of the waterlines. Apart from the sea breeze generated by the cascading waves of the Atlantic, there is nothing that the Lagos water offer that Aba waterside is not capable of offering Aba people. Abia can create her own beaches like Lagos. It could create a tourism delight out of the waterside.

Governor Ikpeazu is looking in this direction. In the effort to create a new city, using local content and harnessing the latent ingenuity of the Aba people, the Aba River must be a key element in the mapping of a new landscape and designing of a new environmental order. If the Aba River is well guarded, it could provide potentials for marine transport. With the process of urbanization catching up with yesterday’s rural communities like Ovom, Akpa and the communities along the Aba Opobo road, a marine transport system is all what the natives need to access the city.

Same with the communities along the Osisioma stretch of land. Mini commuter boats with final embarkation point at the

waterside could serve this purpose. This will ease the traffic along the Orgbor hill axis and on the Aba Owerri Road.

Governor Ikpeazu is prepared for the task at hand. The dredging of the waterside is the first step in a large and broad vision that encapsulates a marine culture that will add value to life, create a new symphony of drama of city life, reengineer the economy and bring Aba back to its pride of place as the hub of commerce and trade. This is being driven in unison with the construction of new roads and maintenance of the old ones and the general infrastructural renewal of the city.

Before the arrival of the dredger, the desilting of drainages, gutters, storm water systems and flood channels has been going on in earnest. It has been an amazing discovery to see many drainages of more than thirty feet deep, built by the colonial administration with the original plan of the city covered up by residents over the years, some with solid structures built over them. The dream is big; the will must be strong.

This morning, the Aba people saw the tenacity of the will in the combusting dredger crawling in the water like a dancing duck. It provided a good sight, in the absence of Emi and Rex. But, much more than that, it heralded the town crier’s voice: a Daniel has come to judgment!

*Mr. Adindu, is the Chief Press Secretary to the Abia State governor.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—19 —19 Send Opinions & Letters to: opinions1234@yahoo.com

Should Buhari probe the Jonathan administration or not?

M

Y unequivocal answer to the question of whether President Muhammadu Buhari should investigate the Goodluck Jonathan administration for corruption is yes. This is not the first time I would be saying this.

It won’t be the last time either.

At least for as long as some people continue to act as if they can blackmail everyone into silence on the matter by casting it as necessarily a witch hunt, for that long would people like me continue to insist we don’t all necessarily have to pretend that the Jonathan administration was above board in spite of massive allegations and sometimes proof of corruption against certain members of the administration.

Although many supporters of that administration have tended to portray the issue of probing the administration as an attempt to get at Jonathan and possibly have him jailed, but that in my view is not the point at all. And it should not be except those making that claim, as the wife of the former president, Patience, had alleged once in the heat of the 2015 presidential campaign,

are willing to accept the obvious implication of their allegation.

Which is that the former president is corrupt. But I am sure that is neither their claim nor admission. Their opposition to the issue of probe might be connected to the possibility of the whole process being turned into a witch hunt of the president.

This is what Nigerians must watch against. Otherwise, there is no reason in this world why Buhari should not look into the past.

There have been a lot of talks in the past about probing former office holders whether at the federal, state or local government level. But more often that not, nothing comes out of such talks. Also when such warnings of probe are issued, they are often done to scare and thereby silence opposition.

Where probes are ever attempted, they are dropped as soon as the individuals or groups they are directed at read the writing on the wall correctly and give up any challenge to the authority of those who have succeeded them in office.

The possible exception in this case was the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission probe of some former office holders during the Obasanjo administration. Even that has been made controversial by claims that the investigations were selective. This might be true as those the Commission went for were often on the wrong side of the Obasanjo administration. But that is not the same thing as saying that those investigated had nothing to answer for. Very often they were as guilty as sin.

The point some of us made on the issue of so-called selective investigation of office holders levelled against Obasanjo was that whoever took over from him could continue from where he stopped, that is go after those Obasanjo allegedly ignored in his anti-corruption battles. But the fact that some people were not probed should not be sufficient ground for letting everyone off without question, or even rewarding them like is the case with a former aviation minister found culpable of corruption but who is now sitting pretty in the

If both Umar Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan chose to forfeit their right to investigate the Obasanjo administration, it was simply their own failure

NASS Leadership: Dogara’s exemplary magnanimity in victory

By Iliaya Habila

O

NE of the most difficult but commendable decisions the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Dogara Yakubu has taken of late is the announcement of Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, from South West as the Leader of the 8th House of Representatives, along with other leaders.

In what some people described as conceding the leadership positions to members of the House who were hitherto seen as belonging to the opposing camp, the Speaker announced Abdul Jubril from North Central; Alhassan Ado Doguwa from North West and Pally Iriase from the South-South as Deputy Leader, Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip respectively of the House.

The announcement of the principal officers of the House during plenary on Tuesday July 28, 2015 followed series of political intrigues, manipulations and calculations. Meetings at various caucuses and levels were held with a view to finding lasting solution to the matter which had disturbed a lot of concerned groups and individual Nigerians. The meetings held included those with notable personalities such as the President, Muhammadu Buhari and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

And so, when the Speaker took the bold decision to announce the names of the leaders, it finally put to rest the over onemonth old leadership crisis which stalled activities at the Lower Legislative Chambers of the National Assembly. That singular act was greeted with applauses C M Y K

from political analysts and keen observers of the Legislature and the political landscape of the country in general.

Most observers described the outcome of the crisis as a situation of “No victor, no anguished”, while the Speaker got the loudest accolades from both the Legislators and Nigerians who described him as a “hero”.

Recall that Dogara’s initial insistence that all geopolitical zones in the country benefit from the leadership positions of the House was to ensure fairness, justice as well as sustenance of the principle of Federal Character as enshrined in our constitution. This is understandable in the light of the fact that the Legislature, being a strong pillar of civil democracy should lead by example in preaching principle of fairness, equity, justice and inclusiveness in governance.

However, as a loyal party man and as a lover of peace and stability of democracy as well as being sensitive to calls from Nigerians that the leadership issue be resolved, Dogara had to exhibit an uncommon spirit of sacrifice and magnanimity in victory to ensure that normalcy returned at the House.

After due consideration of the appeal made by the President that the House should resolve the impasse, the Speaker

Dogara is at peace with the party just as the party is at peace with him

Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber as a law maker.

If both Umar Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan chose to forfeit their right to investigate the Obasanjo administration, it was simply their own failure.

Only they know why they failed or refused to act. But that is hardly any reason why some people should expect Buhari not to probe the immediate past administration of Goodluck Jonathan. Probing the Jonathan administration should not be confused with probing Jonathan as a person, except something is found against him. Jonathan’s major problem, his mistakes while in office, seems to me to be more of omission than commission. He lacked control over those who claimed to work for him. He allowed them free rein to operate as they deemed fit with neither caution nor control.

He was too indulgent, too accommodating of all kinds of nonsense to be an effective leader, much less one who commanded the respect of even his own subordinates except the fawning ones. My hunch therefore is that most of the rot that a possible probe would uncover about the Jonathan administration would be traceable mostly to his subordinates than to him personally. So far, the allegations making the round of massive looting and siphoning of funds abroad appear to justify my position. Although many of the potential culprits are beginning to feign ill health and are accusing agents of the present administration of harassment, we still must insist on their being probed while equally insisting on the protection of their rights as citizens of this country and as persons to be considered innocent

showed once again that he was a selfless person and capable of handling every issue that would arise from the House with maturity and for the overall benefit of Nigerians.

But before announcing the landmark decision, the Speaker had a word for those who were trading on the crisis for their selfish gains: “Those who think they will continue to make more money from this issue will be disappointed”., the soft-spoken Dogara declared.

And then there was dead silence in the House for a moment after that statement.

It was followed by applause, cheers and jeer by the members who kept shouting the speaker’s name “Dogara hero”, “Dogara hero”, “Hero”, with some of them attempting to carry him.

Any person who has been following the events that led to the emergence of the Speaker (from North East), his Deputy, Yusuf Suleman Lasun (from South West) and the aftermaths will undoubtedly say Dogara took a bold decision that day to ensure the stability of the House. That was not without reservations from some of his supporters.

Among the politicians who have applauded the resolution of the crisis is Hon. Bello Dantani Argungu, member representing Argungu/Augie Federal Constituency in Kebbi State who said:` “The action of the Speaker shows that he knows what he was doing; he has his party and Nigerians at heart.

“The way and manner the Speaker handled the issue helped a lot in dousing the tension. So, he must be commended for that and I urge him to continue to conduct the affairs of the House with the way he started.”

On his part, member representing Ganye/ Jada/Toungo Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdulrazak Namdas the President directed that the party should consult the leadership

until proven guilty. But it simply won’t wash for them to continue to play the ostrich in the vain hope that they won’t be held accountable for their misdeeds.

There are solid grounds why the probe of past office holders should start with the Jonathan administration. What happened under that administration, the level of criminal negligence, to say nothing of wilful destruction of the economy by corrupt office holders, is so stark and fresh for many Nigerians to see and feel.

The trail is still very hot and can be followed up for possible discovery of unpardonable malfeasances. The president has said that much. It is true that what has so far been said reside in the realms of allegations, but we should all be patient until the proofs and facts are provided.

Only when this present government or president is unable to do that should Nigerians start raising issues with them.

Up to this very moment Nigeria is still recovering stolen funds traced to the Abacha family alone. There are those who still don’t believe that family has a case to answer to the Nigerian people. But when revelations of the looting spree Abacha instituted first started coming out in all its primitiveness, many doubted if one single person or family could take that much from a country without destroying the economy beyond repair. It is the same plea apologists of the Jonathan administration are making now.

They can’t believe allegations of massive corruption and looting being connected to some people who destroyed hundreds of millions of Nigerian lives in the name of serving Jonathan either as ministers, heads of agencies and parastatals, etc.

of the House in resolving the issue which they did hence the resolution of the problem.

Arguably, by that singular decision made, Dogara is at peace with the party just as the party is at peace with him.

In fact, following the resolution of the crisis, the Chairman of APC, Mr. John Oyegun commended Dogara and his colleagues for what he described as the sense of patriotism in handling the situation that arose in the House.

Although the fallout of the announcement was greeted with complaints and petition by the APC South East caucus of the House of marginalization, the resolution of the matter has led to stability in the House.

This, they made it categorically clear during a press briefing after the announcement of the leadership positions.

To further show their grievances, the member representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency of Imo State on the platform of APC, Hon. Chukwukere Austine Ikechukwu rose to lodge the complaint of the sub-region during a plenary on Thursday.

He said Nigerians were wondering the injustice meted on the South East by not giving them even one leadership position in the House of Representatives while some geo-political zones had more than one leadership position.

Again, Dogara exhibited his leadership qualities by declaring that the whole leadership of the House would look into his complaint of the sub-region being denied of their privilege as stated. There was thunderous applause from the House, ostensibly in approval of the Speaker’s decision.

The cheering news is that both Dogara and Gbajabiamila have said that the House and party emerged stronger and better from the crisis.

•Mr. Habila is SSA Media & Publicity to Speaker Dogara Yakubu.

20 —Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Ford to start truck manufacturing in Nigeria

By Jonah Nwokpoku, with Agency report

— 21

Nigeria’s digital marketing to hit $10bn

By Princewill Ekwujuru

N

A

MERICAN automobile manufacturer, Ford Motor Company has announced plans to start assembling its best-selling Ford Ranger pickup truck in Nigeria by October, 2015.

Ford said the move is part of its expansion in Africa and the Middle East.

The Nigerian assembly plant which will be in partnership with the Ford dealer, Coscharis Motors Limited is the first outside South Africa, where Ford produces the Ranger for 148 markets.

Priority market The President/CEO of Ford Motor Company, subSaharan Africa, Jeff Nemeth said: “Nigeria is a priority market for us in sub-Saharan Africa. Depending on how Nigeria develops over time, we are potentially looking at using our Nigerian plant to service West Africa,” he told Reuters news agency on Tuesday.

He added that, “The auto market in Nigeria has huge potential but retails only a small amount of new vehicles annually.”

According to him, “The sector is dominated by imported used vehicles, while limited financing for consumers to buy new

VISIT: From left: CEO, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema; National Director, Special Olympics Nigeria, Naomi Saliu-Lawal; Chairman, Board of Directors, Special Olympics Nigeria, Mr. Victor Osibodu; Head, Corporate Services, NSE, Mr. Bola Adeeko and Member, Board of Directors, Special Olympics Nigeria, Mr. Misan Eresanara, during the visit of board members and athletes of Special Olympics Nigeria to the floor of Nigerian Stock Exchange, in Lagos. vehicles and the absence of an industrial policy that would encourage suppliers to set up in Nigeria have

The plant will have the capacity to assemble up to 5,000 units annually, which will be sold in Nigeria

stunted growth.”

The plant located in Ikeja, Lagos will assemble the Ford Ranger using parts and components imported from South Africa. The plant will have the capacity to assemble up to 5,000 units annually, which will be sold in Nigeria.

Ford produces 85,000 units each year in South Africa, which are sold across 24 African countries.

“It would take between one to two months to take an order, build it and deliver it within the country. If you

order from overseas, it would take between four to six months,” Nemeth said, noting that “the benefit of the Nigerian plant was being close to its customers.”

Recall that other automakers like RenaultNissan, Kia Motors and Volkswagen have also announced plans to assemble vehicles in Nigeria, immediately after the federal government unveiled an auto policy to regulate auto importation into the country.

IGERIA’s digital market ing space has been projected to hit $10 billion mark from its present value of $2billion by 2020.

This projection was made by the Executive Vice President, EVP, Digital of Porter Novelli, Jesse Soleil, while on a courtesy visit to Nigeria as part of his five days working visit to Nigeria.

He said that the size of digital marketing in Nigeria will reach $10 billion by 2020 from its present $2billion value, if brands and marketing communications professionals incorporate the simple digital strategy in the overall marketing strategy. According to him, the Public Relations network has achieved a high level of success in its digital marketing campaigns because it has always focused its attention on the needs and behaviours of its target audience.

He observed that the major factor inhibiting the growth of digital marketing is the marketing communication practitioners’ treatment of digital marketing as a separate entity from marketing communication.

“Many marketing communication practitioners focus on the wrong indices – reach, impressions etc. – paying little or no attention to their target audience and what they want. We have to remember that digital marketing is still marketing and putting the digital in front of it doesn’t stop it from being marketing, and think about what the audience wants,” he said.

Master mariners fault local content, cabotage levies $135.50

2.00

$3,064.00

- 31.00

$10.40

-0.17

$48.96

43.18 CURRENCY DOLLAR

BUYING

-1.45

-1.78

CENTRAL

196 196.5 POUNDS 303.8392 304.6143 EURO 214.816 215.364 FRANC 199.0454 199.5532 YEN 1.5722 1.5762 CFA 0.3078 0.3178 WAUA 272.0261 272.7201 RENMINBI 31.5616 31.6426 RIYAL 52.2625 52.3958 SDR 272.6556 273.3512

197 305.3894 215.912 200.0609 1.5802 0.3278 273.414 31.7235 52.5291 274.0467

CBN Exchange Rate as at 11/ 08 /15 C M Y K

N

IGERIAN Association of Master Mariners, (NAMM), has raised alarm over the payment of 1.5 percent Local content and two percent Cabotage levies by indigenous operators, which they described as double taxation.

The group also said that the double levies paid by indigenous operators in both the maritime and oil and gas industries were beginning to impact negatively on local businesses in the country.

President of the Association, Captain Ade Olopoenia said that both

By Godwin Oritse & Adekanbi Adebisi the Cabotage and Local content have failed to achieve the purpose of building indigenous capacity. He said that both the Cabotage and Local Content Acts were also supposed to promote the development of indigenous commercial marine trade in the nation’s coastal waters.

Cost of doing business Olopoenia noted that the collection of both levies have increased the cost of doing business in Nigeria adding that some of these policies were supposed to be a stop gap to protect local investment.

According to the group’s President, with foreign dominance on coastal trade Nigerian businesses will continue to be short changed. He observed that Nigerian businessmen now add the two percent and 1.5 percent of the value of their contract as against removing the percentage from the contract sum.

The group also fingered the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, (NNPC), as a major clog in the businesses of local operators as the Corporation always support the mother vessels to deny local operators from loading their vessels.

“Whenever local vessels come along side the mother vessels, the masters of these mother vessels chase away in-

digenous vessels and they (local operators) complain to NNPC, which hardly do anything about it,” he added.

Members of the group however agreed to set up a task force to work with the relevant government agencies with a view to ensuring that government rescind either of these levies.

He further explained that what the Cabotage Act is to the Maritime industry is what the Local content is to the oil and gas industry.

He said “This issue must be addressed, we will visit the Ministry of Transport as soon as a minister is appointed, vessels of certain tonnage must not be allowed in to the country as Nigerians have the capacity to handle coastal trade”.

22 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

,

A vast majority of Nigerians including the supposedly enlightened community lack information on the workings and belief in the workability of the contributory Pension Scheme

NAICOM resolves 34 complaints in insurance sector

T

he National Insurance Commission, NAICOM, has said that it successfully resolved 34 complaints arising from disputes over delayed or non-settlement of genuine insurance claims in the first half of 2015.

In a statement, signed by NAICOM’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Rasaaq Salami, the monetary value of the resolved complaints paid to the various complainants is N539,760,298.88.

Salami said that NAICOM received a total of 147 complaints from policyholders, beneficiaries or their representatives during the period under review. Majority of these complaints are at advanced stages of being resolved.

“The Commission employs a civil process of resolving these disputes and complaints through correspondences and mediation meetings between all stakeholders. It will be recalled that the Complaint Bureau Unit of the Commission was established in line with extant laws to process and resolve complaints received from aggrieved insurance consumers and beneficiaries on all facets of insurance business in Nigeria,” Salami said.

Carmudi, Custodian partner to drive access to auto insurance

By Jonah Nwokpoku

O

nline car marketplace, Carmudi.com has entered into partnership with Custodian and Allied Insurance Limited to provide car insurance to car owners.

To access this service, customers are required to visit the Carmudi Nigeria website, click on the purpose-built Custodian and Allied Insurance Banner or the Get Insurance Link and complete the form provided. Once this is done, an instant quote is generated and the customer is able to procure his/her valid motor insurance cover on the spot at highly competitive pricing. The classes offered include the Third Party, Third Party Fire & Theft and Comprehensive Motor Insurance Covers.

At the official roll-out of the initiative in Lagos, the Head, Business Planning & Strategy at Custodian and Allied Insurance Limited, Oladele Akinsanya said that, “Custodian finds in Carmudi an organization desirous of making the online environment the preferred commerce avenue for every Nigerian; a drive that is consistent with Custodian’s commitment to making insurance readily available to all while exceeding expectations at all times by remaining at the cutting edge of technological deployments, product offerings and service delivery.”

,

INSURAN 32 states default on compulsory group life insurance Stories by Rosemary Onuoha

A

LTHOUGH the C o n t r i b u t o r y Pension Scheme, CPS, has been in operation for over 11 years now, 32 state governments are yet to comply with the section of the Pension Reform Act, 2014 which mandates employers to have compulsory group life insurance for employees.

Consequently, any employee of these states government who die in the course of duty will be deprived of their statutorily benefits which would have emanated from compulsory group life insurance as stipulated in the Pension Act. The affected states are Abia, Adamawa, Akwa-ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Bornu, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, as well as Imo. Others are Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Ogun, Ondo, Oyo, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.

The National Pension Commission, PenCom, in its first quarter 2015 report stated that only Rivers, Osun, Niger and Lagos states employees are presently covered in the

scheme.

Section 4 (5), of the Pension Reform Act, 2014 states that “Every employer shall maintain a group life insurance policy in favour of each employee for a minimum of three times the annual total emolument of the employee and premium shall be paid not later than the date of commencement of the cover.

Employee and premium Where the employer failed, refused or omitted to make payment as and when due, the employer shall make arrangement to effect the payment of claims arising from the death of any staff in its employment during such period.”

Although the Federal Government has embraced the scheme, it has refused to show leadership by ensuring premiums are paid as and when due.

According to the former Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Fola Daniel, going by the ‘No premium, no cover’ policy, Federal Government’s workers presently have no insurance cover due to nonpayment of this year’s premium.

Reacting to this negative trend, Managing Director of Premium Pension Limited, Mr. Wilson Ideva said that under subscription to the CPS is as a result of lack of adequate public awareness.

Ideva said, “A vast majority of Nigerians including the supposedly enlightened community lack information on the workings and belief in the workability of the contributory Pension Scheme. How else can one explain the less than 10% penetration of the market more than ten years after the commencement of the scheme?”

Every employer shall maintain a group life insurance policy in favour of each employee for a minimum of three times the annual total emolument of the employee

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers emerges best pension fund manager

S

tanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited has been named the best pension fund manager in Nigeria 2015 in the Global Banking & Finance Review Awards.

The awards, which were instituted in 2011,recognizes achievements and innovations by companies in the global financial community, cutting across banking, Islamic finance, hedge funds, asset and wealth management, real estate, and corporate social responsibility, among others.

“We are quite honoured to receive such a distinguished award showcasing our flagship role in nurturing the growth of Nigeria’s pension industry,” Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, Dr. Demola Sogunle, said.

“Since we opened our doors nine years ago, our aim has always been to set higher standards of service delivery and ensure that our retirement savings account holders have peace of mind as well as derive maximum value from their investments,” he added.

Send comments & enquiries to insuranceandyou@yahoo.com C M Y K

R-l: President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, alhaji Remi Bello, deputy president, Dr. Nike Akande, Prof. Pat Utomi, a member of the chamber and managing directorm Cornerstone Life and Retail, Tokunbo Bello receiving the LCCIn awards for best online insurance company presented to Corner Stone Insurance Plc at the 2nd edition of the LCCI awards 2015

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

,

CE & YOU

— 23

The scheme has already begun to improve the lives of retirees in the country. It is also inching towards becoming a critical contributor to national development

,

Royal Exchange records N9.4bn gross premium, pays dividend

R

AGM – From left: Mr Michael Gowan, Director; Group Managing Director, Mr Akin Ogunbiyi and Chairman, Mr. Akin Opeodu, all of Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc during the 19th AGM of the company in Lagos.

He said that less than seven million workers in Nigeria have subscribed to the new pension scheme out of the estimated more than seventy million working population while a total of N4.9 trillion has been amassed as pension assets under management in the industry.

“The lukewarm attitude of some Nigerians to the new pension scheme is inexplicable considering the ugly past of the defined benefit scheme which we have all been striving to break away from.

Workers looked up to retirement

with so much fear and trepidation because of the inherent uncertainties. The old scheme was fraught with corruption and bureaucratic bottlenecks that occasioned the ugly sight of long queues of aged citizens waiting to be paid pension that oftentimes never came.

“The scheme has already begun to improve the lives of retirees in the country. It is also inching towards becoming a critical contributor to national development”

Ideva stated.

Ideva noted that under the CPS, entitlements are being paid regularly. “All you need to do is notify your Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) six months before your retirement and submit all the necessary documents.

Once this is done, within one or two months upon retirement you will be paid your lump sum which has replaced the gratuity and thereafter you begin to enjoy continuous programmed withdrawal,” he stated.

Mutual Benefits records 39% growth in PBT

By Usuwa Olachi

M

UTUAL Benefits Assurance Plc has reported a profit before tax of N4.52 billion from a position of 911 million in 2013 which represents a 39 per cent increase for the financial year ended 31st December 2014. Chairman of the company, Mr. Akin Opeodu disclosed this to shareholders last week at the company’s annual general meeting in Lagos.

Opeodu said that the growth was made possible by the immense commitment and hard work of the staff and management of the Company.

He said, “Our improving financial position created room to attract more businesses both in the private and public sector. Policies in force increased by 45 per cent over 2013, resulting in Gross Premium Written growth of 90% from N8.1 billion achieved in 2013 to N15.4 billion 2014.

“The claim ratio reduced by 15.96 percentage point (ppt) to 25.33% in 2014 as against the 41.29% recorded in 2013. This is a direct result of the high level risk mitigation strategy that the

management has put in place.

The strategy involves proper measurement of the proportion of the premium written that needs to be reinsured based on adequate risk analysis. In view of this, reinsurance expenses grew by 54% from N954 million in2013 to N6.2 billion in 2014.

The resultant effect of the foregoing is an increase of about 39% in Net Premium Income from N6.7 billion recorded in 2013 to N9.3 billion in 2014 (compared to the 90% increase in gross premium written).”

Opeodu said that underwriting profit for 2014 was N5.5 billion representing a 114% rise against the 2013 result of N2.6 billion. “As a percentage of Net Underwriting Income, the underwriting profit margin increased by 15.82%. I am also pleased to report that your company closed the year with a Profit after Tax of N4.1 billion, a whooping increase of 638% over the N555 million reported in 2013.

With an adequate investment strategy in place, the Group asset base grew by 31% from N32.2 billion in 2013 to 42.4 billion. Both shareholders’ funds and policy holder’s funds are represented by the right portfolio mix short and long term investments,” he said.

OYAL Exchange plc has recorded a gross premium written of N9.43 billion at the end of 2014 financial year, an increase of 4 percent from N9.08 billion in 2013.

The Company’s total assets also rose by 28 percent to close at N26.27 billion as against N20.27 billion the previous year, an increase of 28 percent, says Kenneth Ezenwani Odogwu, Chairman of the board at the Company’s 46th Annual General Meeting in Lagos.

The Company during the review year met claims obligation to the tune of N2.43 billion. Also from a profit before tax N315.63 million, Royal Exchange Plc is paying a dividend of 2 kobo per 50 kobo share held by members of the Company.

The low profit Odogwu said was as result of the rise in management expenses which rose to N3.09 billion in 2014 compared with N2.53 billion in 2013.

Retail business development This was attributable to ongoing branch expansion, retail business development and investment in e-business and information technology, he said.

On the future prospect, he said “We also see significant growth in Takaful and micro-insurance services in the retail insurance space, as a means of boosting insurance penetration and driving financial inclusion amongst the lower income class”.

According to the Chairman, emphasis will be on channels and product innovation to reach a large portion of the economically disadvantaged section of the 170 million populations.

“The explosion of on-line retail shopping platforms, tele-

GAINERS FOR EQUITIES

communications and microfinance banking are already providing alternative sales distribution channels to stretch retail insurance services to fingertips of the citizens.”

As always, Royal Exchange stays abreast with many of the initiatives mentioned in the quest to grow market share and attain leadership position.

“Our three year transformation plan is a testament to the fact that we are and have always been on course. The group is presently streamlining major components of her businesses, service delivery, processes and operations to deliver superior returns in the medium term to our shareholders. This makes us believe we took the right step, in the right direction with the right strategy.

Chike Mokwunye, Group Managing Director (GMD) said the performance of Royal Exchange Group in 2014 was a show of resilience. “At group level, we ran a two prong business growth approach focused on sustaining old businesses and at the same time acquiring new direct businesses.”

Mokwunye stated the Company also diversified its revenue base by deepening its tentacles in traditional financial services markets and concurrently branching out into frontier market segments.

Mokwunye said moving forward, the Company wish to reassure its shareholders that there would be more stringent cost monitoring measures put in place to in the forthcoming year to once again improve efficiency levels. We also believe the current steps undertaken for expansion would translate to improved revenue growth in the medium term, the GMD assured.

24 — Vanguard,

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

‘For diabetic foot, prevention is better than cure’

By Chioma Obinna

A

RE you a diabetic patient, how well do you take care of your feet? Your doctor is likely to tell you that a diabetic foot ulcer is a pivotal event in the life of a person with diabetes and a marker of serious disease and co-morbidities.

It is a fact that poorly managed diabetes could lead to amputation and without early and optimal intervention; the wound can rapidly deteriorate, leading to amputation of the affected limb.

It has been estimated that every 20 seconds a lower limb is amputated due to complications of diabetes.

Studies done in the US have shown that 50 percent of people who undergo amputations do not live beyond five years, while foot ulcer is a leading cause of hospital admission in diabetic patients in Nigeria.

Medically, it has been ascertained that good sugar control and proper care of the feet is key in preventing foot ulcer.

Are you a diabetic patient in Nigeria? Diabetologists warn against injury in the feet, unfortunately, Nigeria lacks experts in Podiatry, the aspect of medicine that takes care of people with foot sores.

No medical school in the country currently offers the course, creating a huge gap in management of diabetes, and this gap has led to a high number of

DIABETIC FOOT: A typical case of diabetic foot. On the right is Project Coordinator Diabetes Podiatry Initiative Nigeria/Medical Director, Rainbow Specialist Centre, Lagos, Dr. Afoke Isiavwe. cases of diabetic foot ulcers that end up in amputations and even deaths, says a Diabetologist and Medical Director, Rainbow Specialist Medical Centre, Lekki Phase1, Lagos, Dr. Afokoghene Isiavwe.

Early presentation: Isiavwe advised that early presentation and compliance to treatment are key to successful treatment and for the diabetes foot problem, prevention is better than treating it. As one of the major

complications of diabetes, diabetic foot affects a significant number

Nigeria lacks experts in Podiatry, the aspect of medicine that takes care of people with foot sores

of people living with the disease.

Findings from a Lagos- based study showed that diabetes mellitus foot is the second leading cause of diabetes-related deaths in Nigeria accounting for 19.5 to 24 percent of all diabetes mortality. A study on diabetes mellitus foot ulcer in Midwestern Nigeria showed an amputation rate of 52.2 percent and mortality rate of 14.3 percent in a cohort of diabetes patients with foot ulcers.

Add years to your life, eat walnuts, groundnuts

By Sola Ogundipe

T

HE next time you come across a walnut hawker, buy a couple of wraps or more and eat. And whenver you are offerred some groundnuts, whether boiled or roasted, make sure you take some and eat.

Certified nutritionists and dieticians agree that these nuts are crucial for a healthy diet, especially for people over 50.

“Nuts are the whole health package with proven diseaseprevention benefits," a nutritionist confirmed to Health & Living.

“A nut-rich diet can boost longevity in many ways. They lead to weight loss, better sleep, improved, memory, a stronger immune system, and healthier, younger-looking skin. All of these contribute to a longer life, as do their benefits of reduced risk of cancer and heart disease.”

The fountain of youth may not be full of water, but walnuts which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, that significantly boost memory and recall. Walnuts reduce inflammation and promote more relaxed, dilated blood vessels, which can turn back the time on heart disease.

FOUNTAINS OF HEALTH: Walnuts and groundnuts.

“Walnuts make endothelium dysfunction (a condition of the inner arterial layer that instigates heart disease progression) more functional. They also lower your cholesterol and make blood less likely to clot.”

Groundnuts are an all-time favourite of health buffs. Forget all thos tales about groundnut causing pimples or acne, truth is that groundnut is one of the most potent anti-aging foods you can get. It contains resveratrol (also found in red wine and dark

chocolate), which is a potent antioxidant known to help slow aging and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Dryroasted and unsalted groundnuts are an absolute health delight.

Nutritionists recommend groundnuts because of the high amounts of folic acid, niacin, protein, manganese and vitamin E for improved brain health.

The New England Journal of Medicine recently published a study that showed people who ate a handful of mixed nuts on a daily

basis were 20 percent less likely to die from heart diseases, cancer or other ailments.

The study showed that as little as a handful of walnuts and groundnuts or most other nuts per day could be the difference between living to 80 and living to 90.

Indeed, to add years to your life, nutritionists say you should eat nuts, so if you have not begun to benefit from the natural goodness of these nutrient-rich nuts, now is the time to join the train.

Isiavwe said good sugar control is key in preventing foot ulcer.

Foot sores: “A sore in the leg is like a smoking engine. By the time a person comes down with a diabetes foot ulcer, the person has already has blood vessel problem, the blood flows to the heart, brain, kidney, to the leg, there is already circulation problem, many times that circulation problem has already affected the kidney,” Isiavwe noted.

To prevent foot sores, she says you should take your drugs and follow doctor’s advice, check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Footwear: “Choosing footwear is a project for diabetic patients because there is an ideal time for it. And this is because the type of footwear must be the correct one.

The appropriate time for this is usually in the afternoon when fluid accumulates in the legs causing swelling. This period gives an accurate size of comfortable shoe for a diabetic.

“As a diabetic, you need shoes with enough space. Avoid putting your feet in hot water. Use your elbow , not your foot to guage the hotness of your bath water.In diabetics, nerve problems are not restricted to the legs.”

Fungal infections Isiavwe who recommended exercise for the legs also warned against neglecting fungal infections which are a major cause of foot sores in diabetics. She also advised diabetics to avoid crossing their legs for too long in order not to restrict blood flow.

Data show that cost of successfully treating diabetic foot ulcer in the country averages N220, 000, whereas average monthly wage is about N10, 120.

While the prevalence of diabetes in Nigeria varies, in Lagos it is about 6 percent.

Currently, there is no national or localised foot care training institute in Nigeria. However, to help bridge the gap and raise awareness on the subspecialty of Podiatry, Isiavwe urges government to pay more attention to diabetic foot care.

As part of strategies to increase awareness, the Podiatry Initiative, Rainbow Specialist Medical Centre, Lagos, World Diabetes Foundation, and Podiatry Institute, USA, are organising an international workshop on foot care with the theme: “Building Local Capacity in Diabetes Foot Care” The conference holds August 17-21, 2015, to build local capacity in foot care in Nigeria and improve management and prevention of diabetic foot complications by raising awareness on proper foot care.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 25

C M Y K

26 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 27

As Buhari plans his cabinet (2)

NIMASA DG and quest for federal character

A

By Kenneth Sam

S lobby for who becomes the substantive Director General/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, hots up, maritime stakeholders are calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to look inwards in picking a candidate rather than going for an outsider, who would spend months and years learning the rope.

The call was amplified recently when it was rumoured that the Federal Government is planing to use the office of NIMASA DG as compensation for top politicians who worked assiduously for the installment of the incumbent administration. The worry is that the politician that is being touted may be a greenhorn who could spend a long time to get acclimatised to the operations in a very sensitive regulatory agency saddled with weighty responsibilities.

According to a seasoned maritime analyst and member of the Presidential Committee on Port Reforms, Lucky Aimiwero, “it is imperative that any NIMASA boss must have the requisite maritime qualifications, as spelt out in the NIMASA Act. In addition, he/she must also have cognate industry experience because the task of repositioning the agency is daunting.”

Interestingly, there are three executive directors in NIMASA, who by ranking, are the most senior officials of the agency. They are: Capt Ezekiel Bala Agaba, a Master Mariner from Benue State, who was appointed executive director, Maritime Safety and Shipping Development; Barr.

Callistus Nwabueze Obi, a lawyer from Anambra State, who is NIMASA’s executive director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services and Baba Haruna Jauro, an accountant from Yobe State as executive director, Finance and Administration. They were appointed at the same time in 2012 by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

After the sack of the former director general, Ziakede Patrick Akpobolokemi in July, Obi was announced as the acting CEO. His stay on the “hot seat” was for only 72 hours, as the F e d e r a l Government replaced him with Jauro in what stakeholders described as a hot political intrigue.

A clinical analysis of the appointment of heads of agencies under the transport ministry shows it is often tilted in favour of the North, a frightening abuse of the federal character rules. Out of eight parastatals, five are When you currently occupied by the North. They bring in are, the Nigeria outsiders, Ports Authority, NPA, the Nigerian those of us Institute of Transport inside are Technology, NITT, Zaria, Kaduna State, perpetually NIMASA Lagos, the stagnated

Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC, Lagos and the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, Lokoja, Kogi State. The three remaining agencies headed by the South but with the exclusion of the South East are, the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, Lagos, the Council for Regulation of Freight Forwarders, CRFFN, Abuja and the Maritime Academy of Nigerian, MAN, Oron Akwa Ibom State.

All the geo-political zones are accommodated, except the South East that constitutes the bulk of importers and freight forwarders in the shipping business.

With this lopsidedness, industry watchers felt the appointment of Callistus Obi as the acting director general of NIMASA was in order, when viewed from the prism of equity because it seemed like an attempt to obey the federal character rules.

The first part of this article was published in yesterday’s edition of Vanguard

By Obi Nwakanma HERE Azikiwe preached political inclusion and strategic integration, his political opponents preached exclusion based on historic difference. The defeat of the Zikist vision of nation was the ultimate Nigerian tragedy; in its place have triumphed the Awoist and Sarduana models of Nigeria, in which “the North is for the North, and the West is for the West, and Nigeria for all of us.” These are the people we celebrate today for their “sagely” vision that basically argued that a single, organic national space is impossible and must be fought. This belief in the “ethnos” is the powerful drive against coherence; and against the emergence of Nigeria. Nigeria of course deserves its heroes. For many years, the Igbo modelled the dream of a pan-Nigerian nationalist identity; the possibility of an organic Nigerian state. They dispersed in this belief to all corners of this nation,

W

Perpetual stagnation Civil servants in various government ministries, departments and agencies have repeatedly clamoured for abolishment of politically motivated appointments, especially when the appointees are less qualified than those inside. The reason is that employment of outsiders leaves most career civil servants stagnated in a position for a very long time, a development that demoralises those affected by it.

According to a senior NIMASA director, “when you bring in outsiders, those of us inside are perpetually stagnated. Among us civil servants, you have those of us with three master’s degrees and some Ph.Ds, who are still on level 13 or even 12. Some of us have close to 22 years experience.

Then, someone comes from nowhere, claims he schooled overseas and becomes your boss, even with no cognate industry experience at all. That is manpower mismatch, to say the least. How will people function under such a circumstance? Can you ever be happy if you are a victim of that abuse?”

According to the President, League of Maritime Editors, Ovie Edomi, bringing in people from outside leaves the core civil servants stranded in a position for years without promotion. “We call for the appointment of a NIMASA-groomed DG, who is a maritime trained professional that understands the policy direction of the agency”, he said.

Those who could be DG •Haruna Baba Jauro: The current acting director general of NIMASA was, until his appointment, the executive director Finance and Administration in the Agency. Born on May 6, 1956, he is an accountant by profession with a HND Accounting from Kaduna Polytechnic, PGD in Finance and Material Management and an MBA both from the University of Maiduguri.

Calistus Obi Nwabueze: Born on May 1, 1964, Callistus Nwabueze Obi is a graduate of law from the University of Nsukka. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1991. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Administration from the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria.

Ezekiel Bala Agaba: An indigene of Benue State, Captain Ezekiel Bala Agaba is a Master mariner with Class 1 Certificate of Competency (Foreign Going Unlimited) from John Moore University, Liverpool in 1986. He also holds an M.Sc in Transport Planning.

President Muhammadu Buhari willing to be nothing else but Nigerian: they made the railways run; they made the civil service function; created institutions; men like Kenneth Dike ran universities at global standards; created the Nigerian National Museum of Antiquities; the National Archives; the National Institute of Social Research; the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture; the National Institute of International Affairs; etc. But in 1966/ 67, the Igbo were forced out of Nigeria, and when it became clear as Gowon only recently confessed that “Nigeria was better with the Igbo as part,” Nigeria fought a war to bring back the Igbo. The Igbo were forced back, not as equal partners, but as a defeated part of Nigeria which must only be tolerated, but whose political and economic rights remain severely abridged since 1970. As a result, a high As Zik number of the Igbo preached, continue to dream of a separate the youth of nation of Biafra. Africa are The Igbo are still to return spiritually to those on Nigeria. Over the whose years, many Igbo have bought into shoulders the ideology that rests, the Nigeria is no future longer worth their time; that it is a

“contraption;” a “mere geographical expression,” a “mistake of 1914.” The Igbo have created a myth of Biafra and handed it to their children, and just like the Jews mythologized Jerusalem, only a return to Biafra, will mark their ultimate triumph and liberty. It is only in this “New Jerusalem” called Biafra that they would unleash what they see as their talents, of which in some estimation, Nigeria is undeserving.

This is of course a highly romantic vision, of which I too as an Igbo occasionally indulge, only because, there is a certain power to dreaming about historical purpose. It is the absence of “the dream” and clarity of a historical purpose; a fundamental myth of nation; that makes Nigeria fragile and impossible, and of very little worth to the imagination.

The reason why modern Nigerian art – its poetry, its fiction, its drama, its visual arts, and even its music – is fixed within a tragic sensibility is fundamentally because there is no redemptive myth of nation. While Azikiwe gave us that from 1937-1957, the result of which is the aesthetic and moral force that drove Nigeria’s early vision of itself as the “giant of Africa,” or as “the new black hope,” this age, with its recondite and separatist will; its religious fanaticism; its sectarian and ethnic impulsions, think of itself in the measure of teaspoons.

Its mind is inferior. President Buhari has yet to grasp the imperative of this history, because he is fixed to the past of Nigeria’s most tragic moment. For a new nation to arise, he must offer himself as sacrifice – he must be like Zik: large and above the fray.

He must seek to bring together and heal. He must drive a new generation towards self-redemption; towards believing again in a historical national purpose; he must look towards the youth for the new foundation of this new nation because any Nigerian above the age of 35 is tainted.

Younger generation As Zik preached, the youth of Africa are those on whose shoulders rests, the future. Buhari must appoint his ministers from people in that age.

President Buhari must give this younger generation purpose, but above all, the task to rebuild this nation in their own interest.

All over the world, their peers are steering the ships of state, and redefining the world in the powerful image of their time. The president must seek young, fresh, creative, driven, and sophisticated Nigerians from across the world, to join their peers, in shaping this new Nigeria that President Buhari has promised this nation, and for which he has taken four months contemplating. There are such Nigerians, and I can name at least three at my fingertip: Last year, I called up Dr. Chudozie Okongwu, Senior VicePresident at NERA Consulting in New York, to roll up his sleeves, get off his metropolitan bum, and join national service.

We had planned to meet for lunch in London and talk, but eventually, both our schedules did not permit it.

Chudozie, whose father, Dr. Chu S.P. Okongwu was once Nigeria’s Minister of the Treasury, is a chip off the old block; a brilliant Economist trained at the famous MIT and with a PhD in Economics from Berkley.

To be concluded

28—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

DIARY

The Nigeria Internet Group (NIG), A G M/ election Golden Gate Restaurant, Ikoyi Lagos, August 28, 2015 Gartner Symposium/ ITxpo 2015 Cape Town, South Africa November 812, 2015

Preview Could the PlasticRoad be the future?

Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Mr Tony Ojobo, and other staff welcome Prof Danbatta to his first day in office as NCC EVC

Cyber threats everywhere: •Cyber attacks becoming more sophisticated – Cisco •Mobile devices vulnerable -Checkpoint •Cybercrime law not enough without good implementation - NCS •Invest in integrated technologies, Nigerian businesses warned

By Prince Osuagwu, Emeka Aginam & Emmanuel Elebeke

T

D

EVELOPED by construc ion firm VolkerWessels, the PlasticRoad consists of prefabricated plastic structures that are laid on top of sand, making installing a new road a considerably simpler process than laying asphalt or using other road materials. That means, a huge amount of time shaved on traditional road construction timetables, making it a more economical option for cities the world over.

Each unit of PlasticRoad consists of board-like panels that are hollow at the center, allowing it to be used as instant pathways for cables and pipes. An entire stretch of road can be installed as a single piece, as well as broken up in numerous pieces for easier transport, giving folks a flexibility not available in existing road solutions. Not only can it withstand the typical abuse roads experience from vehicles, it’s also weather-resistant and corrosion-proof, making it lesslikely to require as much maintenance.

HE word threat is a mild way of indicating danger.

It however carries serious red alert with it. It becomes more dangerous when it grows within the ICT Eco system. This is basically because technology has erased the borders separating local and international markets, developed and underdeveloped economies, small and big businesses.

Global village What this means is that with technology reducing the world to a mere global village, a threat to one is largely a threat to all. This is also why smaller economies should harken when the big economies shout over developments that limit growth.

From every corner, reports are emerging that cyber attacks are imminent not only to big Organisations but also the smaller ones with the same kind of style and intent. Today’s cybercriminals are sophisticated and ruthless: they prey on the weaknesses in a network, approaching any security layer as an open invitation to try to hack it.

Meanwhile security professionals and organizations alike have been advised to endeavor to understand the nature of the latest exploits and how their networks are potentially impacted, in order to protect themselves against attacks, Highlights to two latest reports; one from Cisco and another from Checkpoint reveal the dynamic nature the threats have become that it takes the properly vigilant professional to cope with.

Sophisticated attacks: Cisco Midyear Security Report released at the weekend, shows that Cyber attacks is increasingly becoming more pronounced in a sophiscated form.

It said the need for organizations to reduce time to detection is critical in order to remediate against sophisticated attacks by highly motivated

threat actors.

The report observed that adversaries continue to innovate as they slip into networks undetected and evade security measures.

One of the key finding in

Organizations in Nigeria cannot just accept that compromise is inevitable, even if it feels like it today

I N Family matters S I go online at D FamilyParliament.com PAGE 29 E

study is that exploits of Adobe Flash vulnerabilities are increasing. They are regularly integrated into widely used exploit kits such as Angler and Nuclear. Angler continues to lead the exploit kit market in terms of overall sophistication and effectiveness. The Angler Exploit Kit represents the types of common threats that will challenge organizations as the digital economy and the Internet of Everything (IoE) create new attack vectors and monetization opportunities for adversaries.

The report revealed that the innovation race between adversaries and security vendors is accelerating, placing end users and organizations at increasing risk.

It recommended that Vendors be vigilant in developing integrated security solutions that help organizations to be proactive and align the right people, processes, and

Continues on page 30

Dambatta takes first strike at NCC staff structures PAGE 30

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 29

C M Y K

30—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Dambatta takes first strike at NCC staff structures ....as experts set agenda for new NCC boss

By Prince Osuagwu & Emmanuel Elebeke

T

HE newly appointed Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Prof Umar Dambatta, who has resumed duty in acting capacity pending confirmation by the Senate, has promised to tackle the quality of service issues in the industry very seriously.

But that was not before first reshuffling the staff structure and offices at the commission. Although, HI-tech reliably gathered that a few staff have been moved from their positions, but no official confirmation to the new development.

Some of the people reportedly affected by the reshuffle, included the Secretary to the Universal Service Fund, Abdullahi Maikano.

Other s included Mrs. Maryam Bayi, who was Director in charge of the Consumer Affairs Bureau, but has now been moved to the Human Capital and Infrastructure Group.

Reliable sources also told Hi-Tech that Engr. Fidelis Onah, who was the Director, Human Capital and Infrastructure Group may be named the new Director in charge of Spectrum Administration Department, While Mrs Iyabo Solanke, Director of Fi-

nance of NCC was also affected in the shake-up as well as Ms. Funlola Akiode, Director of Special Duties, who are being assigned new responsibilities in the telecoms regulatory agency.

Professor Danbatta who was said to have addressed a cross section of top management and Staff of the NCC at the headquarters in Abuja, weekend, said that he will bring his experience to bear in confronting the challenges of the telecom industry in Nigeria.

“I want to pledge that I will bring to bear, my wealth of experience in tackling the issue of quality of service in order to meet the expectations of the public that we are servicing’ he said.

The Professor of Electronics engineering, said he would focus on those internationally acceptable ideals in telecom regulation, as stipulated by the International Telecommuni-cations Union, ITU that makes quality of service a compelling attraction for the achievement of universal service.

“The concept of universal access is premised on three ‘A’s, as the hallmarks of universal access and they include Availability of service, Accessibility of Service, and Affordability of service. Those will dictate at all times what we

do, and I am sure those were the dictating parameters for improvement in the quality of service”, he said.

Professor Danbatta admitted there are challenges in the telecommunications industry but that they are not insurmountable. He enjoined the support and cooperation of the staff of the Commission to succeed, affirming that NCC still reckons as the number telecom regulator in Africa and the need for the staff to brace up for sustaining the prime position in the interest of the nation.

“We will judiciously use the resources of the Commission to ensure that we maintain this position in a manner that will enhance the image and prestige of the Commission as well as serve as a reminder to government of the important role that this agency can play in improving the GDP. This we can only do if all of us live up to our responsibilities as ambassadors of the Commission, and in these I urge everybody’s cooperation to enable us accomplish this very important task for the country”, he added Agenda: Meanwhile stakeholders in the ICT sector have provided guide to where Danbatta should anchor his leadership focus. They however charged Him to use his wealth of experience in

Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) and Bayero University as a lecturer to take the Commission to higher level from where his predecessors left it.

Critical among their demand is improvement on the quality of service, multiple taxation, creating enabling environment for operators, friendly policies, engendering more competition, widening the scope of the broadband plan for deployment of service and above all resist the temptation of sacrificing competence on the altar of mediocrity by breaking the established rules of the Commission.

Warned against policy summersault The President of the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Engr.

Lanre Ajayi, who described the appointment of Danbatta as a welcome development, said that he should strive to bring positive change in the personality of the leadership and improvement in the success recorded by his predecessors.

Ajayi, who expressed confidence in the ability and experience of the new EVC urged him to work harder in order to exceed the mile stone achieved by his predecessors by improving on the quality of regulation and standards of service delivery in the industry.

Cyber threats Continued from page 28 technology. According to the General Manager, Cisco Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone, Mr. Dare Ogunlade, “Organizations in Nigeria cannot just accept that compromise is inevitable, even if it feels like it today.” He warned that technology industry must up the game and provide reliable and resilient products and services, and the security industry must provide vastly improved, yet meaningfully simplified, capabilities for detecting, preventing, and recovering from attacks.

Mobile devices vulnerable: Meanwhile, Latest security study by Check Point Technologies Limited has revealed a rise in zero-day attacks on mobile devices and networks as the biggest threat to today’s enterprise.

The 2015 report is the company’s third annual report revealing the major security threats that impacted organizations across the world.

The security report, among other things provided insight into the

major security events that occurred in organizations across the world and offers recommendations on how to protect against them.

The study also provided insight into the degree of infiltration and sophistication of new threats in the enterprise.

However, the report is based on collaborative research and in-depth analysis from security events found in more than 1,300 businesses from all industries around the globe, 1 million devices, and from events discovered through Check Point ThreatCloudTM, which is connected to security gateways of more than 16,000 organizations and from more than 3,000 gateways reporting to the Check Point Threat Emulation Cloud.

While organizations often forget about the security implications that arise when they lack the proper security implementations, the report further revealed the prevalence and growth of threats on enterprise networks, through information obtained over the course of 2014.

President of Check Point Software Technologies, Amnon Bar-Lev, said: “Only by arming themselves with a combination of knowledge and strong security solutions can organizations truly protect themselves against these evolving threats. By making security a critical asset to their business, you can turn security into an enabler. And in doing so, you’re able to unlock innovation and foster an environment for high performance and productivity”.

According to him, “Mobile devices are the weak links in the security chain, providing easier direct access to more valuable organizational assets than any other intrusion point.

Check Point research found that for an organization with more than 2,000 devices on its network, there’s a 50 percent chance that there are at least 6 infected or targeted mobile devices on their network.

Cybercrime Act not enough: However, at the recently concluded general election of the Nigerian Computer Society, NCS, participants urged government to give the cybercrime law some teeth with adequate implementation strategy in

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 31

C M Y K

32 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Amuneke: We’re ready to play any team

•Emmanuel Amuneke

•FIFA U-17 W/C

N

igeria U-17 trainer, Emmanuel Amuneke is upbeat about his team’s readiness to defend their crown at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015 scheduled for 17 October to 8 November.

The Golden Eaglets have been drawn in Group A with hosts Chile, USA and Croatia, following the draw of the tournament held last week in Santiago.

The four-time winners will open their campaign against USA on 17 October 2015 in Santiago. Three days later, the West Africans will be up against hosts Chile at Vina del Mar before squaring Croatia on 23 October 2105 in Coquimbo.

Amuneke, famed for his days with Barcelona and Sporting Lisbon in the 90’s opened up to Cafonline.com after the draw. Below are excerpts; Cafonline.com: What are your thoughts on the draw of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015 draw?

Emmanuel Amuneke: We had been waiting anxiously for long to know about the teams we are going to meet.

It is interesting that we are in the same group with the host team, Chile. We also have USA and Croatia. It is not an easy group so to speak but we could say the same thing about the other groups. I think our group like the rest is not an easy one and we were not expecting anything less as such. We must be ready to play any team after all, we are the defending champions.

Playing against the host team would always be difficult with the home crowd behind them. How are your boys going to deal with that?

We don’t want to box our minds that we are going to play the host team, rather we want to work well and be ready to have good results against all our group phase opponents. Playing against Chile, USA and Croatia is not going to be easy but the most

important thing is for us to keep working hard and prepare well.

Nigeria will face USA in the opening match of the tournament on 17 October 2015.

How ready is your team?

I don’t like the word ready because you have to keep on

working hard even till the last minutes before kick-off.

We are going through the process and when the time comes, we hope to be ready.

Preparation is the key for us and we would keep working hard.

What is the general state of your team after your bronze feat at the continental championship in Niger?

I’m not the type that dwells on what is gone; rather I look forward to the future. The most important thing is that

we are working and we would continue to work very hard.

We would be working specifically with our opponents in mind. We would step up our preparations for the World Cup.

Katsina offers to host Eaglets camping BY: JUDE OPARA, ABUJA

A

head of the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup to be hosted by Chile in September, the Katsina State government has offered to camp the Golden Eaglets in the state.

Special Adviser to the Katsina State governor on Sports, Alhaji Aminu Kurfi who revealed this to journalists after submitting the formal request to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said the gesture was in line with the resolution of the government to partner with the federation and to develop sports in the state.

Kurfi who is also the vice president of the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) said if the team was camped in the state, it will also be a source of motivation for the teeming youths who may get interested in the game instead of indulging in antisocial behaviours.

“We want to host the camping of the Golden Eaglets in Katsina as a way of encouraging our teeming youths. You know the strength of football in moulding the youths. Most of them who would have taken to antisocial behaviours may get hooked with football. Everybody knows that sports can change the lives of many people

who take to it.

“So I have come here to submit our request and hopefully the team will be training at our ultra-modern 15,000 capacity Stadium located at the heart of the city. We believe that as defending champions, the Golden Eaglets needs the best of preparations for the tournament.

We want to partner with the NFF and be part of the coming glory.”

The Coach Emmanuel Amuneke tutored side who are currently camping in Abuja will play in group A against the United States of America, Croatia and host nation Chile.

VOL. 1 NO 40

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12 2015

Anambra/ Kogi border clash: ‘Peace has eluded us since oil business began on our land’ —PAGE 5

Scourge of baby factories:

Story of booming illegal business

BY ANAYO OKOLI

O

NE of the social problems that have almost defied solution in the South East states, particularly Abia State, is child trafficking, known in common parlance, as ‘baby factory.’

This is simply the business of illegally selling babies by a syndicate. Rather than going through the normal and legal procedure of adopting babies, these syndicates that have spread beyond the South East up to Delta, Edo, Ondo and Lagos, engage in outright sale of babies without any documents to back up their transactions.

Investigations and confessions of some suspects paraded by the Police for this crime, showed that millions of Naira are made in this illegal business by those involved in it. Babies are sold

C M Y K

between N200, 000 and N400, 000, depending on the sex. Male babies usually cost more.

Usually, at the head of the syndicate are people who operate illegal Motherless Babies’ Homes through which they receive babies on the pretence of keeping them for adoption only

to sell them out to desperate buyers, some who could use them for some satanic acts like rituals.

Besides receiving babies that lost their mothers during birth, the most common way of procuring babies for their illegal business is by sourcing for young

girls with unwanted pregnancies, nursingthem till they deliver and the baby is sold and the young mother is given only a pittance.

There was also this other bizarre report of homes that hire young men to impregnate young girls, mostly in their teens, who

are kept in the illegal home till they are delivered of the babies, who are sold and the young mothers are discharged with a pittance.

Incidentally, qualified doctors and nurses are sometimes involved in the illicit business because of the huge money involved in it.

No case in Ebonyi

BY PETER OKUTU

A

BAKALIKI- EBONYI State does not have a record of any reported location of any baby factory or factories in the state.

However, the prevalent phenomenon in the state has to do with incessant cases of teenage pregnancies, dumping of babies in gutters or road-sides and cases of unresolved rape cases, especially in rural areas of the

state.

South East Voice investigation reveals that some teenage girls, who do not wish to expose their pregnancies to their parents and close associates, often visit these baby factories in neighbouring states like Enugu and Abia where they are taken care of until they give birth.

Some of these ladies usually sell their babies immediately after delivery and return to the state as if no crime was committed by them.

Meantime, the only rumoured case of a supposed baby factory many years ago was

said to have been in Abomege in Onicha Local Government Area of the state, but there had never been any reported case of a baby factory as the state government had always intervened in the area of child abuse, teenage pregnancies and rape.

A key development that had always endeared the hearts of the people of the state is the way and manner administrations in the state have catered for different categories of children, irrespective of their religions, political affiliations and economic backgrounds.

2 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Illegal baby factories still thrive in Abia

By ANAYO OKOLI

U

MUAHIA—The baby factory business is almost turning to be an endemic problem in that the security agencies, including Police, Army and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, have joined in the fight against this evil and illicit business.

But what the public is yet to understand is why a particular, Charity Home, ‘Nma Charity/Maternity Rehabilitation Centre,’ located in Umukpeyi village, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, which both the state government and the Police had described as illegal, still thrives despite several raids and sometime ago, the arrest of the proprietress, one Mrs. Nma Charity.

Could it be a case of weak laws to deal with the matter?

What is the role of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters, NAPTIP. The proprietress had, when she was paraded sometime in the past, claimed that her home was registered with the state government hence legal, a claim the government denied then. The question remains, why is the business still thriving, with growing tentacles across the South East zone and beyond.

There is also a case of one Dr. Ezuma, a medical doctor, that operates from both Aba in Abia and Owerri in Imo State.

His case is believed to be still in court where he had gone to challenge the invasion and arrest of people in his hospital.

The said Nma Charity/ Maternity Rehabilitation Centre at Umukpeyi had been

raided a number of times with many arrests made. During recent raids made there by the Abia State Police Command, 14 young girls were arrested and 12 of the young girls were pregnant at various stages, while the other two were said to have come for pregnancy tests. The girls were aged between 14 and 25 years.

According to the Police Public Relations Officers of the Command, Onyeke Udeviotu Ezekiel, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, the girls, some of the suspects claimed to be from Imo, Anambra, Enugu and Rivers states, were pregnant and were kept at the illegal home by the proprietress for commercial purposes.

Some of the young girls, according to the police, claimed that they were driven out from their homes due to unwanted pregnancies and that they were brought to the maternity by sympathizers, but the police, however, said that the principal suspect, one Nma David escaped arrest as she was not at home at the time Police visited her, and currently on the run.

Also, during another recent raid of the same home by soldiers, another set of 14

•Teenagers rescued from baby factory at Mbutu, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State.

Abia Police spokesman, Udevioute, insisted that their men are working hard to stop the illegal business, but their handicap is the law.

“Suspects arrested in the course of the various raids, have been charged to court, but were granted bai,” he lamented

pregnant teenagers and eight children were rescued and six young men, who claimed to be staff of the home, were arrested.

Also arrested were two young girls, aged 16 and 25, who also claimed to be workers of the home, but the proprietress, Mrs. Nma Charity again escaped arrest.

Because the illicit business thrives, it has encouraged criminals to engage in stealing of babies. One of the suspects, who was caught at Eke-Akpara community in Osisioma Ngwa area recently, while trying to steal a baby, confessed that he has been in the business with Mrs. Charity for a long period.

According to him, his role was to steal a child and deliver it to the home where the baby would be sold to waiting customers. In fact, it was the confession of the suspects that prompted soldiers to raid the home.

Sometime in July last year,

the Abia State command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, raided and rescued 19 pregnant girls from the same home and described it is “a home where teenage pregnant girls, who are less privileged, were kept until they give birth and the babies sold.”

The Corps disclosed that the owner of the ‘baby factory,’ Nma Charity, “hires men who impregnate the girls and after delivery, have their babies sold and peanuts given to the young mothers.”

Abia Police spokesman, Udevioute, insisted that their men are working hard to stop the illegal business, but their handicap is the law.

“Suspects arrested in the course of the various raids, have been charged to court, but were granted bail,” he lamented.

It’s N200,000 for boy, N150,000 for girl in Anambra some of the homes and those found to be in the habit of selling the babies were arrested. In fact, some officials in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development were fingered in the deal.

At a time, only the rich were known to be going after such babies, but when the demand increased, many people started building hostels or using their homes to keep girls, who were pregnant by accident. They encouraged the girls to keep the pregnancy with a promise to

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

A

WKA—THE business of selling babies was made popular by some motherless babies’ homes run by government agencies.

Unknown to many, some of the people who ran the homes were in the habit of selling some of the babies to desperate couples, who either were unable to have their own children, or wanted a particular sex.

The development sometime ago, made the state government to close down C M Y K

•Teenagers rescued from a baby factory by Anambra Police

Continues on pg 3

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 3

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

E

NUGU—DESPERATION is the propelling factor that has sustained the continued nefarious activities of baby factories in the South East, and Enugu State is not left out.

It is a common knowledge that in the South east, the demand for a male child as a man’s successor to a man when he dies, is not toyed with. Except for those Christians with strong faith, some of this category of people usually succumb by going for adoption of a male child after several years of waiting. Only very few of these ‘barren’ women can still wait upon the Lord.

But it is all centred on how to protect the man’s inheritance after his demise.

Because of the prevailing cultural and traditional norms which do not recognize the wife of the man as a benefactor to the man’s inheritance, except there is a written will left behind by the husband, the issue of adoption has become rampant.

Unfortunately, the adoption is not usually legally transacted as done in other climes where there is transparency in the whole deal. Hence, baby factories thrive.

The operators of this illegal baby factory are fully aware of this and exploit it to the fullest.

However, those expected to ensure such illegality does not thrive have failed to do so.

Otherwise, how would officials of the state Ministry

•Enugu baby factory

In Enugu, it’s driven by desperation for male child Unfortunately, the adoption is not usually legally transacted as done in other climes where there is transparency in the whole deal. Hence, baby factories thrive. The operators of this illegal baby factory are fully aware of this and exploit it to the fullest.

of Health open their eyes and certify a ramshackled private residence as a maternity manned by unqualified hands?

There had been other cases, but the recent discovery of a baby factory in Enugu in June this year suffices.

When men of the state police command, working on a tipoff stormed the baby factory where nine pregnant teenagers were rescued, what followed was this shocking revelation from the operator of the centre.

The discovery was found within Etiti Amankwo Ngwo of 9th mile axis in Udi Local Government of Enugu State.

Hear the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ebere

Amaraizu while parading the suspects: “On the part of the owner of the factory (names withheld), he claimed that he got a provisional approval in October 2007 from Enugu State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to admit and shelter pregnant women in his hospital called The Tex Hospital and Maternity Home at 9th Mile Corner, Enugu, and that the hospital is no longer functional; hence he is now running the home from his house.

“He (operator of the factory) also admitted that under the authority, he was supposed to inform the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development within 24 hours

It’s N200,000 for boys, N150,000 for girls in Anambra Continues from pg 2 be paid a certain amount of money on delivery.

Among the enticing conditions were that the pregnant girl would stay with the Madam who owns the hostel and would be taken care of until the delivery of the baby and if it is a boy, would be paid N200,000 and N150,000 if it is a girl.

Before long, it became a thriving business such that some of the women who ran the business also employed boys to be impregnating girls for them for a fee. Some of the girls, mostly secondary school students, abandoned their studies and plunged into the business of making and selling babies.

Recently, men of the Department of State Service, C M Y K

DSS, stormed a storeybuilding in Atani, which was used as a baby factory. During their search, 13 pregnant girls and five boys, who served as impregnators at the baby factory, were arrested. The owner of the place escaped and is still at large.

Eye-witnesses said that the baby factory had been operating under the guise of a motherless babies’ home, but the security operatives became interested in the place following increased vehicular traffic into the compound, coupled with the fact that many people, who drove into the house sometimes came out with babies.

Similarly, the Anambra State Police Command uncovered a baby factory where women with unwanted pregnancies

were harboured till delivery, after which the babies were sold to interested buyers, with or without their mothers’ consents. The suspected owner of the baby factory was arrested and detained by the police.

In the state, such homes had been discovered at Okpoko, a suburb of Onitsha, Ihiala, Odekpe in Ogbaru, Nkpor near Onitsha, among other places.

There was also a case of a blind staff in the social welfare department in one of the local government areas of the state who was using his position to sell babies in the social welfare centre to needy couples, until he was caught by the police.

Rather than follow the normal procedure for adoption, the blind staff would sell babies to the highest bidder in

collaboration with a member of staff in the social welfare department which he headed.

At Odekpe in Ogbaru, a woman opened a maternity home and was said to be in the habit of selling babies after delivery and later tell the mother that the child had died and was buried.

However, the bubble burst when an inquisitive mother discovered that her baby had been sold for N700,000 and she invited the police who arrested the woman. Her modus operandi was that after informing the mother of the baby that it died after delivery, she would then nurture such babies and subsequently sell them to prospective buyers. It was gathered that she had agents who contact prospective buyers.

of admitting any pregnant women. This was against the backdrop that he claimed that he only calls the ministry on phone and not in writing and gaining their consent when admittance are made.”

The girls between the ages of 17 and 24 who hail from the following states in the South east: Ebonyi, Enugu and Anambra were at various stages of pregnancy when they were rescued from the den called maternity or hospital.

Genesis of reported cases of baby factory in Enugu started several years ago when a medical doctor delved into the act. He eventually had a running battle with both the police and officials of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp, NSCDC, and was eventually jailed.

The business thrives as the cabal involved in the dirty deal, also take undue advantage of teenagers, who found themselves in dilemma by having unwanted pregnancies. They are easily lured to the baby factory to have the pregnancy delivered under cover. At the factory, they are well treated and eat the best food.

The human traffickers in collaboration with the owner of the home smile to the bank while the hen that laid the golden egg (pregnant teenager) is paid paltry sum of money in return to leaving their babies behind for onward sale.

Investigation showed that babies are sold between N500,000 to N750,000 depending on the sex and the high demand from willing buyers, who are very desperate.

4 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

U

ntil a few years ago, not many people knew about the existence of several flourishing baby factories in the Imo State. Indeed, not many people knew that most of the so called motherless babies' homes were the industries where babies were manufactured and sold like any other commodity in the open market.

Motherless babies' homes were clandestinely turned into huge money spinning establishments for the individuals in the business.

How it all began It was not in doubt that many women died during child birth.

There were lots of other innocent and helpless children whose mothers died in road traffic crashes.

These special circumstances led the Nigerian Red Cross, NRC, and the Catholic Church to establish motherless babies' homes.

Catholic nuns were placed in charge of the homes owned by the Catholic Church.

However, the scenario completely changed when overambitious individuals started establishing motherless babies' homes. They put machinery in motion to scout for pregnant young girls, who were probably sent out of their family homes by their parents, to avoid the shame associated with teenage pregnancies.

With time, these homes became huge and flourishing colonies of sorts. Pregnant teenage girls became quarantined in these places and taken care of by the owners of the homes. The understanding was, for some of the girls, that the babies delivered would be “given out” to foster homes where the children would be properly taken care of.

On the other hand, the girls who insisted on going home with their babies, were given huge bills and harsh conditionalities that would be extremely difficult to fulfil. These compelled some of the girls to simply walk away without their babies. That was how baby factories were born!

Mohammed Katsina’s shocking findings The true colour, content and operation of these new generation motherless babies' homes were unearthed when Mr. Mohammed Katsina, a Commissioner of Police, CP, was sent to Imo State, by the police high command. Mr. Katsina roundly proved that the proprietors of the baby factories were constantly smiling to their banks. The former CP’s intelligence report led him to the first baby factory at Umuaka, Njaba local council area of the state, owned by one Madam 1,000. It was called Amaefule Babies Home.

“When I got this information, I looked at the structure, studied their literature and later found

Some of the 17 pregnant teenagers rescued after a Police raid in Imo State

It’s war in Imo out that most of these so-called baby homes and motherless babies homes are just nothing but an area for the perpetration of gross illegalities, without any let or hindrance. The people come out with very flamboyant signboards and highly enticing environment. The whole place represents optical illusion. People get easily deceived with the beautiful place where motherless babies and orphans are kept, but that was not the case,” Mr. Katsina told South East Voice during an exclusive chat.

What journalists saw, when they joined the police in the operation, was very startling.

Teenagers, who were allegedly forced into pregnancy, were kept in captivity. They were rendered completely incommunicado.

Their telephone handsets and

This new approach completely avoided the establishment of homes. The perpetrators of this new crime only watched out for where a new baby was born or mothers walking along the roads with their babies.

Whenever and wherever they found one, the criminals would strike, snatch the baby or babies and vanish into the thin air, like hawks prey on chickens.

other means of communication were taken away from them.

They were kept in small, sparsely ventilated rooms and subjected to all manner of forced labour and servitude. The perimeter fence was not only high, but carefully laid with broken bottles and nails like a Nazi detention camp. One of the girls rescued by Katsina and his men even said that when all hopes were lost, they turned to their God in prayer and fasting and at the end of their fasting, police came to their rescue. The girls were eventually reunited with their families. This marked the beginning of the fight against baby factories in the state.

The police, thereafter, went after the owners of other baby factories scattered around the state. At the end of this frantic combing, the police arrested no fewer than 261 in connection with the operation of baby factories. So many pregnant young girls were similarly rescued and reunited with their families.

When the police stormed another home owned by Dr. James Ezuma, about 10 exotic vehicles of different makes were impounded from the premises.

There was also the case of the missing baby, belonging to a young girl from Ebonyi State.

South East Voice witnessed the outpouring of emotion by the teenage mother and her parents, who arrived Owerri from Ebonyi State. The girl’s parents told the Commissioner of Police that they had been looking for their daughter for sometime and even reported the incident to the police. They never knew that she was being kept in captivity in Imo. About six parents of the teenage pregnant girls, who came to the CP’s office, expressed surprise about the story woven around their daughters. They never knew that

their daughters were in such a mess. Some of them even thought their children were dead.

The hawk system When it was clear that the State Police Command under the leadership of Mohammed Katsina had dealt a death- blow on the proprietors of these funny homes, the criminals cooked up a new system called “the hawk.”

This new approach completely avoided the establishment of homes. The perpetrators of this new crime only watched out for where a new baby was delivered or mothers walking along the roads with their babies.

Whenever and wherever they found one, the criminals would strike, snatch the baby or babies and vanish into the thin air, like hawks prey on chickens.

Churches became targets.

About three children were stolen from St. Mulumba’s Catholic Church, Owerri, as they were walking home after the Sunday Mass. The police did a good job on this and reunited the children with their parents. Another woman that tried to steal some children from the Anglican Church, Nekede, Owerri West local council area, was stopped in her track. She had already boarded a commercial bus when the parents and some church wardens gave the vehicle a hot chase and stopped them. In all, the police faced the new challenge squarely. Some of the stolen children were recovered and reunited with their families.

As at the time Mr. Katsina was posted to another state police command, there was no single baby factory in Imo State.

The Ahiazu factory Only recently, four pregnant girls kept in an illegal maternity home in Amuzi, Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, were rescued by the State Police Command.

Briefing newsmen in Owerri, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Andrew

Enwerem, said “the operator of the illegal maternity, who does not have any knowledge of medicine, has been arrested following a credible tip off.”

The pregnant girls included Chioma Gabriel Obioma, 19, Chinyere John, 18, Chioma Obasi, 19, and Jennifer Musa 22.

The four girls, who are between the ages of 18 and 22, told newsmen that they were introduced to the owner of the illegal maternity home by their friends, since they could not cater for their pregnancies.

They equally revealed that the owner of the facility, Dominic Anaejuonu, had told them that the babies when delivered, would be given out for adoption.

“He said he will take care of me and if I give birth, anybody that does not have a child, will take the child. Thereafter, I will go back and continue from where I stopped in school.”

The second girl said: “As I do not have the necessary facilities to take care of the baby, I want to give it out to people that are willing to take care of it. I am not after the money.

I am after the welfare of the baby.”

The third girl said: “The man (owner of the illegal maternity home) asked me if I will sell the baby or keep it after giving. the baby. I told him that my parents already know about my pregnancy. When my mum accepts me, I will take the baby after delivery.”

However, the operator of the baby factory, who is in his late 60's, denied having any intention to either sell or give out the babies as claimed by the girls.

The suspect explained that he engaged the services of a nurse to run the home after the death of his wife, who he said, was a health practitioner.

The Command’s image maker also said: “The suspect has questions to answer. The girls were found in the suspect’s house with different stages of pregnancy without any justification. He was arrested. The suspects have confessed.”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 5

Anambra/Kogi border clash:

‘Peace has eluded us since oil business began on our land’

By VINCENT UJUMADU

A

wka- FOR the umpteenth time this year, many people in Aguleri and the neighbouring communities in Anambra East local government area came face to face with invading armed youths from Odeke in Ibaji local government area of Kogi State. Since the hostilities began in the area, several people were either killed or wounded, all in an effort to control the vast land rich in crude oil deposits.

In the attack that took place last week, two persons from Aguleri were beheaded and four persons injured. What perhaps triggered off last week’s attack by Odeke people was an announcement made two days earlier by the managing director of Orient Petroleum Resources Plc, Mr. Sunny Okoye that the company had discovered two more oil wells and would increase its production to 3000 barrels per day by September this year.

One of the victims in the latest attack who simply called himself Udealor, who narrated his ordeal to South East Voice from his hospital bed in Onitsha said government and security agencies have not lived up to expectation in protecting the villagers who still have to go to their farms on a daily basis.

On the last attack, Udealor said: “It is a routine for our people to go to farms located at Eziagulu Otu almost on a daily basis. However, since the Ibaji people increased the frequency of attacks on us since the establishment of Orient Petroleum at Aguleri Otu, we devised a means of going to the farm in groups.

“On this latest attack, we were busy with our work when we noticed a large number of people running towards us. As usual, everybody took to his heels and unfortunately, two persons were killed and their heads severed from their bodies, while four of us managed to run into the bush with wounds inflicted on us.

“I was shot on the arm and it was God that saved me as I carried the wound and the bleeding into the bush. It was much later that our people came from the upland to rescue us after the attackers had left.

In the previous attack, the story was the same as they came on

a day we did not expect because we usually got information from our sources in their community on their movements.

“Farming is our main occupation and generations after generations have been farming on this land where the Ibaji have been attacking us.

We cannot do without farm as there is no other work for us to do in our area.”

In the attack before this one, about 150 youths also from Odeke invaded the premises of Orient Petroleum and destroyed property worth millions of naira belonging to Nigercat Ltd, the major construction company working at the petroleum refinery. Six persons were also wounded during that incident.

A prominent chief from Aguleri told South East Voice: “The police and the army have created a buffer zone in the area and we were surprised

•Another injured person, receiving blood transfusion •One of those injured during the attack

that the Kogi youths succeed in attacking Aguleri Otu and Eziagulu Otu frequently despite the presence of security operatives. What it means is that they are not interested in the peace moves being made by the governments of the two states and efforts of the National Boundary Commission to create border demarcation between Anambra and Kogi. Following the complaint by Odeke people, they were asked to decide what

should be done to appease them, and they listed items to be bought for the ceremony which amounted to N20,000.

“The mediators set up by the two communities gave them the money in August last year to buy the necessary items and surprisingly when we went to Nsukka for a scheduled meeting, they failed to attend, even though they were in the same hotel with us.

“Eventually, they said that the money was not enough and

we gave them another N30,000 just to ensure that we live in peace in the area and eventually the ceremony was carried out . But to our greatest surprise, the Kogi people attacked our people the following day.”

Anambra State authorities will continue to sue for calm and peace, but must warn that those who breach public peace and security and resort to violence must be made to face the full consequences of the law.”

Increased pains for motorists on Awkuzu—Umunya road

By VINCENT UJUMADU

A

WKA- THIS is indeed a very bad time for those driving through the Awkuzu Umunya axis along the Onitsha -Enugu express way. The about five kilometers stretch has many offices that make it inevitable for motorist to pass through the road on daily basis.

There is the permanent site of the National

•The Umunya portion of the Enugu-Onitsha express way

Youth Service Corps, NYSC, orientation camp, the major office of the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, two major abattoirs, and operational camp of a major construction company working on federal roads in the South East.

It is common to see emergency mechanics fiddling with broken down vehicles on that stretch and and most times, such vehicles stay there over night. Because drivers must reduce their speed considerably once they get to Umunya, men of the FRSC and the police have mounted permanent checkpoints in the area.

South East Voice spoke with some of the drivers and they have ugly stories to tell.

Mr. Angwe Matthew, who plies Oturkpo-Onitsha said he had had a terrible experience along the Umunya road. “I loaded at Oturkpo for Onitsha and by 12 noon, I was already at Awkuzu. As usual, I slowed down because of the bad road, but just as I passed the FRSC gate, the vehicle stopped.

“Barely 10 minutes as we were trying to identify the fault, a young man who claimed to be a mechanic came to the spot and asked what was wrong. I told him the bus just stopped and could not start again. He told me he is a mechanic and I became happy that my problem would be solved.

“After over one hour of trial and error, he told me it was my carburettor and that he would have to go to Onitsha to buy it. He collected money from me and I had to transfer my passengers

to another vehicle to complete their journey. When he eventually came and fixed the carburettor, the vehicle still did not start and I eventually slept there. I had to use a towing van to remove the bus from that spot to a mechanic workshop at Awkuze where it was eventually fixed the following day. It was a terrible experience.”

Another driver, Mr. Uchenna Onwuka said the door of his vehicle had fallen off several times on that road and wondered why the federal government has abandoned it.

According to him, driving from Onitsha to Umunya junction is usually sweet, but the Umunya -Awkuzu axis is usually a drivers’ nightmare. He said that while people suffer the dust during the dry season, the rainy season appears to be even worse.

It was gathered that that the Umunya axis of the expressway was abandoned following lack of funds as the federal government was said to be owing the contractor after completing the Toll gate to Umunya stretch.

During the campaigns for the 2015 general elections, the road became an issue and some politicians announced that the former President Goodluck Jonathan administration had awarded the contract to complete the road from Onitsha to Enugu.Though most parts of the express-way were bad, none could compare with the Umunya axis.

Efforts to speak with officials of the Federal Emergency Road Maintenance Agency, FERMA, proved abortive as a staff in the office said the state coordinator was outside the state.

6 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

6 MONTHS ON:

BY PETER OKUTU

A

BAKALIKI- THE fire that gutted a section of Ebonyi State House of Assembly in the early hours of February 24th 2015 was reflective of the political and economic turbulence that characterized the administration of former Governor Martin Elechi.

The fire which gutted the account section, computer and media rooms among other offices at the state House of Assembly occurred when the 4th Assembly was gearing up to impeach the out gone government over cases bordering on financial recklessness and misappropriation.

It could be recalled that on the fateful day of the fire incident that the conspirators came into the House of Assembly at about 1:15am and light up the building without being noticed by security operatives within and outside the complex.

During an inspection tour of the incident, the former Speaker now a House of Representative member Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Nwazunku had accused the executive arm of government under former Governor Martin Elechi as being responsible for the dastardly act.

With accusation and counter accusation over the incident, no concrete fact has since emanated over who spear-headed the incident. The question that has been on the lips of many has been why the house was set on fire, why has there not been a public report on the incident, why the security agencies has not arrested any suspect over the incident and much more.

What is however worrisome is the abandonment of this section of the state House of Assembly by the present administration and current leadership of the House that was destroyed by the inferno.

The Speaker of the 5th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ogbonnaya Nwifuru together with all the members of the state House of Assembly should urgently get the attention of the present administration towards the immediate renovation of the complex.

It is on record that abandoned sites or locations are often used by hoodlums as a hideout to perpetrate maleficent objectives; and so to avoid such ugly episode from occurring in the near future, that section of the House should not be left unattended to.

The sight of the section that was burnt has kept visitors and staff of the Legislative arm of government wondering whether the edifice has now become a monument or an archival reference for generation yet unborn.

Many visitors of the complex who spoke to South East Voice called on the state government to commence immediate renovation of the structure as it C M Y K

is not only reducing the aesthetic value of the state House of Assembly but also endangering it to any nefarious plans of the enemies of the present administration in the state.

“We wonder why the section has been abandoned for quite sometime now. That place requires urgent attention and restructuring; the present administration should take positive action towards its renovation”.

Meantime, the state Police Spokesperson, DSP Chris Anyanwu said he would get an update on the fire incident from the Investigation Department of the Command before he could boldly speak on the matter.

South East Voice gathered that investigation into the fire incident, which occurred six months ago, might end up without public indictment of persons behind the wicked act as such trend should be discouraged if Ebonyi State must become crime-free and an epitome of justice and equity.

Who burnt a section of Ebonyi State House of Assembly?

South East Voice gathered that investigation into the fire incident, which occurred six months ago, might end up without public indictment of persons behind the wicked act as such trend should be discouraged if Ebonyi State must become crime-free and an epitome of justice and equity.

•Section of burnt Ebonyi house of assembly

Immaculate Heart Sisters open old people’s home; thank Archbishop, Obi and others T

he Immaculate Heart of Mary ’s Sisters on Thursday opened their newly constructed old people’s Home at Nkpor. In her welcome address at the event, the Superior General of the congregation, Mother Mary Claude Oguh thanked God for the successful completion of the project. She said the project, Mater Christus Home for old sisters, was conceived many years ago but could not be started until the former Gov. of Anamba State, Mr. Peter Obi came to their support morally and financially. She noted that Mr. Obi visited the project many times even after he left office.

The Superior General who thanked others for their contributions to the

project also appealed to the people to continue to support in its maintenance at all times.

The Auxiliary Bishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Dennis Isizor who blessed and dedicated the building said it was to the greater glory of God. In his goodwill message, Mr. Peter Obi who was accompanied by his former Commissioners, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna and Engr. Patrick Obi as well as Prof. Akachi Ezeigbo, described the conception of the project as visionary.

He said he would continue to assist in its maintenance in line with his belief that the elderly are critical component of the society, who, having devoted their

productive years to the service of the country, needed great care and compassion.

Speaking further, Obi who stated that he flew in the same day to attend the event because of how critical the aged are to the society, recalled that as the former Governor of Anambra State, he paid some select old people above 75 years who were not pensioners nor had any means of assistance 5,000 Naira per month. He also said that his government spent close to 40 Billion Naira to settle arrears of pension and gratuities owed in the State since 1999.

“I made sure that those that retired from service got their entitlements in three months”, he said.

6 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

6 MONTHS ON:

BY PETER OKUTU

A

BAKALIKI- THE fire that gutted a section of Ebonyi State House of Assembly in the early hours of February 24th 2015 was reflective of the political and economic turbulence that characterized the administration of former Governor Martin Elechi.

The fire which gutted the account section, computer and media rooms among other offices at the state House of Assembly occurred when the 4th Assembly was gearing up to impeach the out gone government over cases bordering on financial recklessness and misappropriation.

It could be recalled that on the fateful day of the fire incident that the conspirators came into the House of Assembly at about 1:15am and light up the building without being noticed by security operatives within and outside the complex.

During an inspection tour of the incident, the former Speaker now a House of Representative member Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Nwazunku had accused the executive arm of government under former Governor Martin Elechi as being responsible for the dastardly act.

With accusation and counter accusation over the incident, no concrete fact has since emanated over who spear-headed the incident. The question that has been on the lips of many has been why the house was set on fire, why has there not been a public report on the incident, why the security agencies has not arrested any suspect over the incident and much more.

What is however worrisome is the abandonment of this section of the state House of Assembly by the present administration and current leadership of the House that was destroyed by the inferno.

The Speaker of the 5th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ogbonnaya Nwifuru together with all the members of the state House of Assembly should urgently get the attention of the present administration towards the immediate renovation of the complex.

It is on record that abandoned sites or locations are often used by hoodlums as a hideout to perpetrate maleficent objectives; and so to avoid such ugly episode from occurring in the near future, that section of the House should not be left unattended to.

The sight of the section that was burnt has kept visitors and staff of the Legislative arm of government wondering whether the edifice has now become a monument or an archival reference for generation yet unborn.

Many visitors of the complex who spoke to South East Voice called on the state government to commence immediate renovation of the structure as it

is not only reducing the aesthetic value of the state House of Assembly but also endangering it to any nefarious plans of the enemies of the present administration in the state.

“We wonder why the section has been abandoned for quite sometime now. That place requires urgent attention and restructuring; the present administration should take positive action towards its renovation”.

Meantime, the state Police Spokesperson, DSP Chris Anyanwu said he would get an update on the fire incident from the Investigation Department of the Command before he could boldly speak on the matter.

South East Voice gathered that investigation into the fire incident, which occurred six months ago, might end up without public indictment of persons behind the wicked act as such trend should be discouraged if Ebonyi State must become crime-free and an epitome of justice and equity.

Who burnt a section of Ebonyi State House of Assembly?

South East Voice gathered that investigation into the fire incident, which occurred six months ago, might end up without public indictment of persons behind the wicked act as such trend should be discouraged if Ebonyi State must become crime-free and an epitome of justice and equity.

•Section of burnt Ebonyi house of assembly

Immaculate Heart Sisters open old people’s home; thank Archbishop, Obi and others T

he Immaculate Heart of Mary ’s Sisters on Thursday opened their newly constructed old people’s Home at Nkpor. In her welcome address at the event, the Superior General of the congregation, Mother Mary Claude Oguh thanked God for the successful completion of the project. She said the project, Mater Christus Home for old sisters, was conceived many years ago but could not be started until the former Gov. of Anamba State, Mr. Peter Obi came to their support morally and financially. She noted that Mr. Obi visited the project many times even after he left office.

The Superior General who thanked others for their contributions to the

project also appealed to the people to continue to support in its maintenance at all times.

The Auxiliary Bishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Dennis Isizor who blessed and dedicated the building said it was to the greater glory of God. In his goodwill message, Mr. Peter Obi who was accompanied by his former Commissioners, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna and Engr. Patrick Obi as well as Prof. Akachi Ezeigbo, described the conception of the project as visionary.

He said he would continue to assist in its maintenance in line with his belief that the elderly are critical component of the society, who, having devoted their

productive years to the service of the country, needed great care and compassion.

Speaking further, Obi who stated that he flew in the same day to attend the event because of how critical the aged are to the society, recalled that as the former Governor of Anambra State, he paid some select old people above 75 years who were not pensioners nor had any means of assistance 5,000 Naira per month. He also said that his government spent close to 40 Billion Naira to settle arrears of pension and gratuities owed in the State since 1999.

“I made sure that those that retired from service got their entitlements in three months”, he said.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 7

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA, ENUGU

T

HE introduction of paternity leave for male civil servants in Enugu State whose wives put to bed has been overwhelmingly commended. There was wild jubilation in the coal city as the news spread. Both civil servants and non civil servants hailed the new policy.

The government of Enugu State led by Mr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi had last week Wednesday, announced the granting of three weeks paternity leave to male civil servants whose wives put to bed.

Before now, female workers who gave birth were entitled to only three months maternity leave while their husbands were left out; but with the present directive, nursing mothers who are civil servants would now be enjoying additional three months, bringing the number of

period they will observe their maternity leave to six months.

State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sam Ngwu who announced this said that the new policy is meant “to strengthen the family as a social unit and also promote mother and child welfare”.

He stated this while unveiling plans to mark this year’s Breast Feeding Week in the State last week.

Ngwu explained that the extension of the maternity leave would encourage nursing mothers in the state to engage in the internationally recommended four to six months exclusive breast feeding of newborn babies.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Moses Otiji, the Commissioner said nursing mothers should be allowed to continuously breast feed their babies anywhere they work, whether in the private or public

Wild jubilation as Enugu govt introduces paternity leave for male civil servants ….Reciprocate, don’t abuse the privilege, rights group cautions sector.

He added that “The week is dedicated to draw the attention of the public on the need for exclusive breast feeding which contains yellow milk that contains most of the vital ingredients for healthy growth of the baby”.

Coordinator of Baby Friendly Initiative, Enugu State Ministry of Health, Mrs. Pauline Enenwali had few days ago lamented that no fewer than 15 children die in Enugu daily due to poor nutrition, noting also that it was not an excuse for nursing mothers not to feed their babies exclusively on breast milk.

Enenwali further told reporters

that “the health indices on exclusive breastfeeding in the State were so poor that not less than 5,000 babies died annually arising from malnutrition while the prevalence of malnutrition stood at 30.6 per cent”.

South East Voice went to town and sampled opinions of the people and the result was a resounding commendation. It was unanimously accepted although some persons spoke against the decision but were not in majority.

One of the residents who spoke against it, who simply gave his name as Johnbull said, “this is laughable. I have never heard

Our only source of livelihood gone —Sister of slain Ariaria shoe-maker Corpse of slain John at Ariaria police station Gov Ikpeazu visits the victims in hospital

BY ERIC UGBOR

A

BA—FOR the Uba family in Obazu Mbieri in Imo State, it has been uncontrollable tears since some of their family members heard the news last Friday that their only son, Mr. John Chukwudi Uba was among the three shoe makers that was brutally killed in cold blood at the power line area of the Ariara International Market, Aba, Abia State.

The late John Uba, popularly known as John 3:16 at the power line was allegedly killed by the men of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) who raided the Market that Friday in search of a suspected drug baron.

The late Uba who was the only son was about 34 years old when he died, leaving behind, his only sister, his wife and three children.

His mother died in 2008 while his 86-year-old father is yet to be communiciated with the sad news as of the time of filling this report .

His only sister, Tochi Uba who returned from Lagos after hearing the sad news wailed

uncontrollably while speaking with South-East Voice at No 3 Alayi by Ibadan Road in Aba, Abia State.

“The Sun has set at noon for the family; an unprepared rain has fallen on us with devastation that no body can repair.”

She said her mother’s brother, called her on phone to come to Aba that something has happened only for her to arrive to learn her brother has died.

She said that the shoe work which her late brother was handling was given to him by their relation in Abuja so that when the job is completed, the money realised from it would be given to her to relocate from Lagos to Aba to establish her own trade.

“I was surprised to have returned to Aba to see that my brother has been shot dead and when I asked what he did, they said he did nothing as he was only in his shop working while he was shot dead by men of the NDLEA. “When I arrived Aba, I went to my brother’s shop on Saturday morning and discovered that his two shops were locked and I asked why and people around there told me that my brother was

killed yesterday inside his shop” she cried .

“I saw my brother ‘s blood all over the front of his shop like water with his sandals still there, and my brother is dead. He’s the only light we have. Now, who will look after our aged father and the family” she broke down again in tears.

After she was calmed down, she said, “My brother dosen’t smoke cigarette, nor any other drug and does not even drink alcohol. He is always on his own. Every morning he takes his bath and goes to the shop and returns every evening by six o’ clock unless there is a church programme for him to attend.

“Any time I called him from Lagos, he was always either in his shop, church or at home. They just killed my brother for nothing.

My brother is the only hope of the family. We have nothing. We are still living in our old house built by my father and my brother was hoping to renovate it but now that he is dead, there will be nowhere to keep his dead body.

“What would I do in life again?

What will I do with my old father.

He is yet to hear this sad news and by the time this news gets to him, two dead bodies would be

down in our home. My God, what have we done, what has happened to me ?” She wept.

South-East Voice gathered that the wife of the late John Chukwudi Uba who stays at the Obazu, Mbeire Village, in Imo State has been communicated of the sad story.

Many shoe makers who spoke with South-East Voice at the Power line market in Aba condemned the brutal killing of their colleagues and called on the Federal and State governments to investigate the killing and bring the trigger happy security agents to book.

Emeka Ndudi, a neighbour to the late John Chukwudi Uba said, “Only God saved me and my other colleagues, we would have been among the dead today”.

He showed our correspondent various bullet shots through the walls and tarpaulin of his shop which is next to that of the late John.

He said, “We were all here working until we had noises from the other side of the power line and before you could know it, there were gun shots all over the power line by the members of the NDLEA, Army and Police”.

about paternity leave anywhere in the world before now. After all, in Igboland, when a woman delivers, the husband sends for his mother in-law to assist her daughter to nurse the baby.

“I don’t know where governor Ugwuanyi got this idea but surely it will reduce the productive capacity for the State”, he stated.

On his part, Mr. Nwobodo Onyekwere, a media consultant based in Enugu said “it is a family-friendly policy and Enugu is setting the pace in this regard. The long term effect would include multiplication of smarter kids who would have been breast fed exclusively while in short term, working parents can have the opportunity to grapple with post-natal challenges with minimum distraction.

“It shows the Gburugburu (governor) government is sensitive, generous and profamily”.

Also lending her voice, a seasoned labour Editor with Vanguard stable, Mrs. Funmi Komolafe in her reaction said “it is quite commendable. Fashola started it by granting Lagos hubby two weeks and it is for only first and second babies in the marriage”.

Also commenting, a human rights group, Centre for the Vulnerable and the Underprivileged, (Centrep) led

by Mr. Oghenejabor Ikimi told South East Voice that “sincerely speaking, the 3 weeks paternity leave for husbands in the Enugu State Civil Service whose wives put to bed, and the six months maternity leave for nursing mother instead of the initial three months leave, is a welcome

THE TEAM

Supervising Editor: Chioma Gabriel (08052201257; email, anyagafu@yahoo.com) Anayo Okoli, Umuahia Vincent Ujumadu, Awka Austin Ogwuda, Enugu Chidi Nkwopara, Owerri Peter Okutu , Abakaliki Chimaobi Nwaiwu Francis Igata Nwabueze Okonkwo Ugochukwu Alaribe Enyim Enyim Chinoso Alozie Emeka Odogwu Eric Ugbor Obialunamma Nwadiogbu U

C M Y K

8 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 A statue mounted at the coal camp area in Enugu, hauling coal loaded in a wheel

Rail track in Enugu leading to a mining site impassable, while the mining site taken over by bush and inaccessible. It also shows the encroachment as buildings sprang up even close to the rail line

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

E

NUGU -THE acronym ‘coal city ’ which the Enugu State is known, in all ramifications reflects the abundance of coal in the State.

There are however other mineral deposits, which include limestone, iron ore, crude oil, natural gas and bauxite among others.

Created on the 27th of August 1991 out of the former Anambra State, the name of the State is derived from its capital city called Enugu. The word ‘Enugu’ translates to mean “the top of the hill”.

Incidentally, while a first time visitor might be wondering about the presence of massive mountainous rocks sprawling in the city, beneath the rocks is a money spinning mineral resource – coal.

In short, Enugu State is noted for its abundant coal deposits, hence that nick name the ‘coal city’.

History has it that coal mining started in Ogbete while others said it first started at Iva valley or Udi ridge but one thing that is certain is that coal mining business in Nigeria started in Enugu State which brought a lot of attention and popularity to the State as a reference point in both commerce and tourism expedition.

Research findings showed that a British mining engineer called Mr. Albert Kitson actually discovered coal in Enugu in the year 1909 at the Udi Ridge during the colonial era, while the first shipment of coal was made to Britain five years later in 1914.

The Iva Valley Coal Mine was opened in 1917 by the British colonial government of Nigeria after the Udi Mine in 1916, making it the second ever coal mine established in the city of Enugu.

Enugu then became the centre of attraction as mining activities increased in the area and grew into a township status 1917 as the white men from Britain moved into Enugu in droves and this was facilitated with the

Enugu Coal Mine: How one-time money spinner became abandoned project construction of railway system that transported the coal.

The coal business boomed and both indigenes, residents had a good time as commercial and social activities were at the peak. Job opportunities abound while petty traders raked in profits too.

But then came a sudden turn of event in the 1970s when attention was shifted to oil exploration known as the oil boom that took the center stage. What followed was the neglect and abandonment of coal mining. …Relics of the glorious past The neglect of coal mining indeed dealt a devastating blow on the Nigerian Coal Corporation (NCC).

Today, NCC facilities in

The coal business boomed and both indigenes, residents had a good time as commercial and social activities were at the peak. Job opportunities abound while petty traders raked in profits too.

But then came a sudden turn of event in the 1970s when attention was shifted to oil exploration known as the oil boom that took the center stage.

Enugu are either dilapidated or hijacked while coal mining sites have totally been abandoned. Even the rail tracks leading to the site which locomotive train used to pass to load coal for export has been taken over by bushes as activities were abandoned for decades.

Coal camp, a settlement for the miners is no longer what it used to be. The only reminder that coal camp existed was the monument reflecting a muscularly-built man wheeling coal from a mining site erected in the area.

Another challenge is the encroachment on the NCC facilities. Shanties, make-shift houses including churches have sprang up everywhere even close to the rail track, with some marked for demolition on that same route.

The abandonment became obvious during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s era in 1999 when the privatization option handled by BPE was introduced leading to the outright sale of the moveable assets of the NCC. … The hazards South East Voice encountered one of the pioneer miners who gave his name as Ekene Nwachukwu.

He said that “ in those days, it’s like saying your last prayer when entering it. You are expected to wear only pant with your tool bag, a mine helmet which is very heavy and a torch light strapped on the forehead because the place is very dark.

But if the mine unfortunately collapses, it’s instant death.

The person will be smashed to pieces and there will be no remedy. We lost many miners there”, he hissed.

“Before you go in, the surveyors will first mark some spots where the coal is found with chalk and woe betide you if you cross beyond that mark.

One thing I must tell you is that before the detonators which connected with cables is ready to blast, all the surrounding roads would be closed to traffic.

Whistle was used to give signal informing about the blasting. It tells you to steer away and nobody comes close but later, it was gradually modernized.

It was really tough then”, he added.

The miners, too, protested poor wage from time to time by going on strike and the most devastating strike was the one that occurred in 1949, leading to killing of 21 miners. That scare is still there.

Till today several of the miners are still owed salaries for months and other entitlements before the shut down.

When coal turned object of campaign In March 2015, during the last presidential campaign, members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, one morning thronged major streets in Enugu drumming support for General Muhammadu Buhari, using coal as the master stroke.

Spokesman of APC in the South-East, Mr. Osita Okechukwu while addressing reporters during that street rally said, “for Enugu State in particular, General Muhammadu Buhari, (GMB) our dear presidential candidate pledges to revamp Enugu coal, to utilize the coal to generate electricity and create one million jobs in four years.

“GMB stands by this pledge he made on 10th January, 2015 on the occasion of Enugu State rally of our great party. His word is his bond.

“GMB”, he said, “is very passionate to create jobs for our youths and strongly feels that the best way to create jobs in this region is to revamp the Enugu coal which has been abandoned since the civil war”.

He added that “his (Buhari) visit to Taichung Coal-Fired-

Power-Plant, in Taiwan, the largest in the world motivated his interest to revamp the Enugu coal”.

Now that General Buhari is in power, time will eventually tell whether he will live up to the above campaign promise in revamping the Enugu Coal or not. … The BPE/Enugu Govt deal In November 2013, the Enugu State government acquired the headquarters of the NCC. At that official handing over, former governor Sullivan Chime noted that the acquisition of the headquarters of the Nigerian Coal Corporation, NCC by the State government was significant given the role of coal in the development of the State. He stated that “coal is dear to the State hence the State capital derived its nickname (Coal City) from coal.

He seized the opportunity to advise the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) who were there for the handing over to ensure that the investors that acquired the remaining four coal blocks of the Corporation were basically investors with the requisite technical and financial wherewithal to operate the blocks. Officials of BPE led by Mr. Benjamin Dikki told the governor that the Bureau was finalizing arrangements with the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development and other stakeholders to commence the privatization of the remaining four coal blocks.

That dream is yet to materialize, maybe someday.

But suffice it to say that the importance of coal cannot be overemphasized most especially now that the world is seeking alternative source of energy as the oil market is witnessing a down turn.

Once upon a time, the OjiRiver Power Station was driven by coal and power was steady but now, the coal mining project is abandoned.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 33

Federation Cup to witness new champs F

I

f feelers’ coming from the weightlifting camp of the Nigeria team preparing for the All Africa Games is anything to go by, then Nigeria may be heading for a poor outing at the Games as the athletes seem not to be in a happy mood.

Captain of the squad, Yinka Ayenuwa speaking on behalf of the athletes, expressed total disgust with the manner they were being treated ahead of the continent’s most glamorous sporting fiesta. He said the action of the commission so far is capable of demoralizing them.

He lamented that the reduction of their daily allowance from the two thousand Naira they were always paid during camping for major championships to one thousand Naira by the current leadership of the National Sports Commission was capable of demoralising the athletes.

“You know sports in Nigeria is just like individual efforts from the athletes. Before the last All Africa Games and some other

AAG: We’re not motivated – Nigeria weightlifters cry out championships, they were paying us two thousand Naira per day but this time around we are preparing for another All Africa Games, they are giving us N1,000(One Thousand Naira per day). Are not motivating us or they are demoralizing us?

Nevertheless, I am not looking at the allowance of a thing, let me just go there and watch first and then I will tell the country my mind and I will tell my mind to the National sports commission,”

or the first time since Nigeria’s Cup competition was re-christened Federation Cup in 2009, a new champion will be crowned when the 2015 final is decided.

The new contenders include Premier League sides Enugu Rangers, El-Kanemi Warriors, Lobi Stars, Nasarawa United, FC Ifeanyiubah and Akwa United.

The duo of Niger Tornadoes Feeders and non-league side BJ Foundation complete the list.

Monopoly Only the trio of Enyimba, Kaduna United and Heartland have won the Cup in its era as the Federation Cup. In 2009, former Super Eagles coach, Austin Eguavoen led Enyimba to record a 1-0 victory over Sharks at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.

Enyimba reached the final

again in 2010, but lost to a determined Kaduna United side under the guidance of Maurice Cooreman.

The defeat made Enyimba the first side to lose the Federation Cup via penalties after an exciting 3-3 draw.

In 2011, Enyimba reached their third consecutive Federation Cup final only to lose again.

This time the People’s Elephant were frustrated by oriental rivals, Heartland and Dutch manager Lodewijk De Kruif led the team to win the Cup for the first time since their success as Iwuanyanwu Nationale in 1988.

ARS 5: Rivers State teams qualify for National Finals R

CAP: Regional Operations Director, Airtel, South Region, Veronica Onoja; Captain of Rivers State male team, Tari Ogidi with Ex-Super Eagles International and ARS 5 Technical Adviser, Etim Esin during the presentation of trophy to the team at Liberation Stadium, Port Harcourt on Saturday.

ivers State male and female teams have emerged winners of the South Regional Championship at the ongoing Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) 5 U-17 football tournament held in Port Harcourt at the weekend.

Rivers State boys clinched the ticket after defeating their Delta State counterpart 2-0 in an encounter that was full of action. The goals were scored by the team captain, fifteen year old Tari Ogidi, who eventually won the Highest

City join bidding ‘war’ for Pedro

A

P

edro’s ongoing summer transfer saga has taken a new twist over the past few days. Just as he looked to be on his way to Manchester United, the club’s closest rivals, Manchester City, have entered the fray. Txiki Begiristain contacted the Catalan club to express an interest in the striker and has not ruled out making an official bid for him in the next couple of days.

That offer would be upwards of United’s bid of €26m plus €4m in add-ons, or the €30m that Barcelona would initially accept to let Pedro leave the club. City appear to be ready to offer €30m plus €2m in add-ons. However, that offer is not yet in writing.

The question is whether their interest in the player is real or whether they are simply

•Romagnoli •Pedro trying to push up his transfer fee given that they are competing with their crosscity rivals for his signature.

Right now, Pedro’s transfer negotiations are at a standstill. Luis Enrique is reluctant to let him leave.

Circumstances are proving the Barça boss right.

Goal Scorer Award in the regional tournament.

In the female category, the girls from Akwa-Ibom held the River State girls to a 1-1 draw, but lost 5-4 on penalties.

While presenting trophies to the winners, Airtel’s Regional Operations Director for South Region, Veronica Onoja, congratulated all the teams for participating in the competition and supporting the tournament. She noted that all the boys and girls who participated in the regional

tournament played so well and did their best to get to the finals.

“Airtel has done well to create a platform to facilitate the development of our youths and sports and also help them achieve their dreams. We have seen quite a number of stars in the making and the most important thing is that they have been able to showcase themselves on this platform. I believe this is a springboard to launch them to greater heights” she said.

AC Milan confirm Romagnoli signing

C Milan have confirmed the signing of Alessio Romagnoli on a five year deal from Roma The 20-year-old, who described the Rossoneri as the world’s biggest club, arrived for a medical in Milan earlier yesterday.

And the rising defensive star has now completed his switch to San Siro, where he will reunite with coach Sinisa Mihajlovic, under whom he worked while on loan at Sampdoria last season.

Confirming the news via a welcome note on their official website, Milan said: “Welcome Alessio, you’ve signed with us until June 2020 and we’re very happy about it.

“You’re a young man, you’re 20, and because of that we believe you have all the time in the world to become an icon of our club, following the path of the great Rossoneri defenders. A big hug from AC Milan, and forza Alessio.”

Galatasaray confirm interest in Ibrahimovic

Z

latan Ibrahimovic’s agent Mino Raiola has revealed that Turkish league champions Galatasaray are interested in signing the striker and have presented his client with an initial proposal, according to Calciomercato.

The enigmatic Swedish striker is entering his final year with French champions Paris Saint-Germain leading to much speculation as to where his next move could be.

•Ibrahimovic

34 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

SPECIAL REPORT ON OONI OF IFE

The true Oduduwa story,

by Ooni of Ife (2) This is the concluding part of this interview with the Ooni of Ife which was first published yesterday.

H

OW did this come out?

They were looking for a German visa in the two passports that I gave them. He told them that I went to Germany to recruit!

So, there was no visa in the two passports, but they said Ooni is a clever man. He must have used the ordinary passport. That was why they requested for the ordinary passport. Now, when they got the ordinary passport and they saw that it has not been used for 30 years, they knew the plot was meant to bring the Ooni down. That’s what happened.

What’s your relationship with Buhari now?

Cordial. Buhari was here, when he was campaigning, I received him and I even gave him a gift because we leave everything to God. You mentioned Chief MKO Abiola, what was your relationship with him? Because there are those who say that you did not support the June 12 cause in relation to Abiola?

You see, it’s a long story. Abiola had been coming to greet me before I became Ooni. I used to give Abiola business to do.

Closest friend Abiola was the closest friend of my late younger brother, Dapo.

So Abiola was a younger brother to me. Awolowo was above Abiola. Abiola was one of those who did not allow Awolowo to reach his goal and that is partly why we are suffering today. That is why Yoruba are suffering today. If Awolowo had made it to being the president of this country, this country would have been great. Abiola had been planning to be president for 20 years.

I believe so much in your ability but I don’t believe in your destroying anybody. Whether I believe in June 12 or not, I donated and gave Abiola money up to four times. In my house in London, Abiola was with me up to three times. I knew Abiola very well and he was very close to me.

After June 12, the traditional rulers visited the Federal Government and when they came out, you spoke on their behalf. You said June 12 was gone and that the people, in the context of a possible re-run of the elections, should go out and participate. Can you tell us what happened?

There was nothing like that. It was July 26, 1993. There was a C M Y K

meeting in Abuja and my phone rang. We were staying in Nicon Hotel; it was the Awujale who said he was on his way. By 9:30p.m, the door opened and it was the Awujale, followed by Alaafin and the late Oba of Lagos, Adeyinka Oyekan. They sat down. They asked me what was going to happen tomorrow.

I said we had been invited by the government, but that we could play a fast one on them! Let’s tell them at the meeting tomorrow that, as fathers of Abiola, since he (Abiola) had won the elections and if there was no cogent reason why he had not been appointed as the president, the Yoruba will break from the Nigerian union the next day.

Temple in Ife The Awujale said: "Alaye, you are going to say it because 70 per cent of Yoruba’s problems are on the Ooni’’! I replied and said, "It was the headache of the Federal Government and not mine. If I say it and I am detained, tell them at home!" The meeting started and the President spoke for a few minutes. The former Sultan, Alhaji Ibrahim Dasuki, spoke and then it was my turn to speak.

I said, "Mr. President, first and foremost, by way of digression, when we were here in April, I told you exactly that in my temple in Ife, I saw darkness descending on Nigeria and that you should take steps.

I said the next speaker after me on that day, was the Oba of Benin, who affirmed what I said and yet, you did nothing. I said that darkness has now engulfed Nigeria.• That was by way of digression. I said. Abiola, who is our own son should have the

Just before Osun State was created, we were assured that Ife would become the state capital at that time and of course, it never happened

Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade...instrumental the to creation of Osun State mandate of the people. He won the elections; you refused to appoint him. If there was no cogent reason, then the Yorubas are no longer interested in the Nigerian union." There were 30 traditional rulers there when I spoke and the whole place was dead in silence.

"Everybody on that day spoke in my favour. They didn’t want secession; they didn’t want the country to break-up. So, they were more or less on my side except one traditional ruler from Imo State. He said: "Why don’t you allow the government do whatever they think is right." The Awujale was sitting opposite me.

When he took the microphone, he said: "Mr. President, you know I always disagree with the Ooni every now and then, but on this occasion, I agree with Ooni a hundred per cent!"

Friendship's sake President Babangida later took the microphone. He said gentlemen,• I’m the closest to Abiola’s family and what I have done is for friendship’s sake." .

He brought out a file and said he has paid Abiola over $800 million for jobs done and those not done. The whole place was dead silent. Yet, I was not satisfied; I raised my hand and then Dasuki spoke in Yoruba to me to let the matter die there.

Still, I was not happy. After the meeting, as we stood up, about six Emirs moved close to me and said: "Ooni, you are not going today. We will come to your hotel room at 8p.m." At that time, Uche Chukwumerije, who was then the Minister of Information, moved nearer and said: "Your Highness, the press is waiting. I followed him out. When the press asked about the outcome of the meeting, I said the president spoke sense, but that

we were going back home because we had a mandate from our people. When I got to my hotel, I met my aide who said I had been misquoted. I asked my aide, "Why do you bother your head?’’

Some three Emirs later came to my hotel room and said: "Ooni, we saw you today being very annoyed but the downfall of Abiola has nothing to do with us.

Abiola was used by the military and he is having problems with the military. Ooni, give us a Yoruba man that can rule this country and the entire north will not raise any eyebrow." That was how the Yoruba came to rule. I further asked the Emirs if they could reconsider and they said that the north had no hand in Abiola’s downfall but that I should present a Yoruba man to rule the country.

There are two names you’ve mentioned repeatedly, Babangida and Obasanjo. What is your relationship with Babangida today?

First because during his last visit to Ile-Ife, on his way out of office, just before Osun State was created, we were assured that Ife would become the state capital at that time and of course, it never happened.

What was your relationship with Babangida then, and now?

We did not put our foot down that Ife had to be the state capital.

I single handedly got Osun State created. The Orogun Ila phoned me and said they were coming to see me. When they came, they said they have done their best for this state, and that they wanted to hand it over to me and I ask him what do you mean by that. So, I phoned Babangida that I wanted to come and see him.

He said that I should come and I told him at that meeting that I wanted a state.

He said, "Kabiyesi, why do you want me to break Yorubaland any

further?’’ I said, the one you gave us in Oyo State cannot even develop Ibadan, how much more other towns surrounding Oyo State•. He said, "Kabiyesi, that’s a very good point, "and he promised to help. But on that occasion, I didn’t tell him that Ife had to be the capital. Few months later, Oba Olashore was launching his book, though he was not an Oba then.

Traditional rulers Babangida was the chief guest of honour and I was the chairman, while Abiola was the chief launcher. Twenty traditional rulers went to that launching led

by Orogun of Ila, late Oba Ayeni.

After the ceremony, I told the president that the tradition rulers from Oyo would like to greet him.

As he (Babangida) stretched his hand to the Orogun of Ila, he said, "Mr. President, where is our state?" He said that the Ooni has spoken to him and he would help at the appropriate time. That’s how we got the state. But Abiola was working with Ataoja, but God’s time is the best. So, I don’t blame Babangida for anything.

What kind of relationship did you have with Obasanjo?

You see Yoruba don’t understand Obasanjo. There are no two Obasanjos. If God didn’t want Obasanjo, he would not have been there except you don’t believe in God. He went to war and ended it in 1970. He was the one who handed over, in 1979.

There is something God wanted to tell us, there is nothing God cannot do. God wanted to tell us something but we Yoruba didn’t understand Him (God). If God didn’t want Obasanjo, he would not have lasted one day on the seat, but you didn’t understand.

If you hate someone, you hate him for life. But God does not Continues on page 35

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 35

SPECIAL REPORT ON OONI OF IFE

The true Oduduwa story by Ooni of Ife Continues from page 34 work like that.

It’s just like the case of President Yar’Adua who is now sick; so many are crying as if he is dead.

God creates, God takes. When you offend God, He is going to give you 200 opportunities to repent. That is what we learnt as Ooni during our training. There are Bibles in my temple and if you are a Muslim, there are Muslim books which you can never get to buy.

There are ambitious people and there are over-ambitious people.

Take for example, a Baale in a big town who wants to be the biggest man and with plenty of money. That's the problem of the Yoruba! Yoruba are responsible for not allowing Awolowo reach his goal. Some Yoruba told some Emirs that if Awolowo should become President, he won't allow some things to happen.

Launch of a book That is Yoruba for you. Some people were responsible for the disagreement between Awolowo and Akintola. Akintola was not inherently a bad man.

What is the true Oduduwa story as it relates to other parts of the country; for instance, your relationship with the Oba of Benin and the Olu of Warri.

Could you please tell us some more about the Oduduwa story?

The first Ooni was Oramiyan.

He owned the Benin and Oyo dynasty as a warrior prince before he became the Ooni. You are going to be invited here on January 2, 2010 on the launch of a book on Ife which tells us that Ile Ife was created in 405 B.C as one of the first five holy cities created by God on Earth and the first in Africa.

There is no Alaafin without Ooni, there is no Oyo without Ife. Orun Oba Ido, here in Ile-Ife was the burial ground for Benin Obas, till 1916. The story the Oba of Benin is telling now is not quite correct, because his late father Oba Akenzua had a more detailed story which he told the world the day we went to open the WATECO Motors branch in Benin.

It is not yet time for me to tell him the real story. It was Apomu that Alaafin Aole attacked in 1793 that led to the fall of Oyo Empire.

Our problem is that small historians who are seeking livelihood are trying to re-write history in a dangerous way. So we now have new tales being peddled around.

Down memory lane, there have been some controversies in your private life. For example, when your marriage with your wife was consummated, there was some controversy with the Sodipo family. What was it about?

My father in-law said I didn't

take his permission before falling in love with his daughter; that was all! But the daughter said she was over 27 years old and was in a position to decide her own fate. That was all.

The Modakeke issue seems to have been resolved. Since then, some coronet Obas have been crowned within Ife. (Cuts in) Modakeke is Ife. But the other crowns that have been given out since the Modakeke Oba was crowned, was that part of the peace settlement?

No, it’s not part of any peace settlement. They (the Obas within Ife) are entitled to their crowns. Theirs were created by Oduduwa himself. We have Obalufe, Obalaye, Obalorun who were all created by Oduduwa himself.

Did that include the Olu of Awolowo?

It was himself and the Oba of Modakeke that were promoted and we are promoting more for peace and progress in Ife land.

We are doing more on that. The Obalufe belong to another class entirely.

Still on Ife, has the problem on farm land been finally resolved?

It is either you live with us or you don't live with us. I own lands but I don't sell them.

Your life, from every indication has revolved round your love for Nigeria. Are you satisfied with the state of the nation?

Nobody, whose sense is complete, will be satisfied with the position of the country. But we have to blame ourselves. I give you this example; the president is sick, some say he must die some say we must pray for him. Does that answer your question? You have to be your brother’s keeper. This is not the country we all pray for. Until we

There is no Alaafin without Ooni, there is no Oyo without Ife. Orun Oba Ido, here in Ile-Ife was the burial ground for Benin Obas, till 1916

to the path of glory?

Me, the Emir of Kano, the Obi of Onitsha have been everywhere but we have not had much opportunity because we are not in the constitution. We are spending our own money to do everything we are doing but we are doing a lot. We need the support of government to do more.

But let us first of all put our house in order. Let’s get a forum where everybody will be there, including Obasanjo and settle the Yoruba first and tell ourselves where we are going; then our own areas will be developed like other areas. Sometimes, you say you don’t want to be with the Federal Government, but it is the Federal Government that will give you money.

Can you tell us more about some of your peace missions around Nigeria?

There was a time Ohanaeze complained about marginalisation and wanted to pull out of Nigeria in 2001. I had to attend their meeting in Enugu which started at 11p.m and ended at 5.00 a.m. And it was settled that they were not pulling out. There was a meeting in Kano with northern leaders, when they said they were pulling out. We held a meeting and God answered our prayers. There was a general meeting of 21 of us from each zone in Nigeria, which the traditional rulers organised.

Traditional rulers Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade...no Alaafin without Ooni give it a serious thought, we still have to sit down. Whether you like it or not, there cannot be a successful Nigeria without the traditional rulers. It’s not possible.

You use them; (traditional rulers) as fire brigade when there is election. After that, you put them in the garage!! The traditional rulers of today are well educated.

They are not like our forefathers to whom you gave any money and then told to go and sit down.

You cannot run this country successfully without the traditional rulers. It’s not possible.

For the Yoruba, what’s the way forward?

We must all come together and find a solution to our problems.

We are all of the same mother.

We must come together and find a way forward.

What, as the custodian of Yoruba culture, will be your special message to the politicians?

All this rigmarole must come to an end. There must be an umbrella where all of them can come together. You see, coming together does not mean they cannot go to different parties. But it means to think of the race first.

And in any party you are, what can you bring back home is what is important. That is the only way you can do it. You play politics with everything. This Governor

leaves an office, whatever he has done, is going to be set aside by another Governor coming in; the old system is destroyed. It is not done. They (politicians) should learn from those who introduced politics into this great country.

They (politicians) are children of the same parents. They should come together and think of our race first. Everywhere in Yoruba land is a village – no water, no light, and no good roads, but everything is blamed on Obasanjo. It’s not right. You see everything that is good abroad.

Playing politics with people But when you come back home, you can’t put it into practice or into use or put it to use in the government you are serving. It’s not done. Governor of Osun State should be able to go to the Governor of Lagos freely; the Governor of Lagos should be able to go to the Governor of Ekiti freely. But it's not so because they are playing politics with the people.

You have gone round this country to talk to fellow traditional rulers including prominent Yoruba sons about unity. Can you tell us the work the traditional institution is doing to bring this country back

We lodged them in Nicon Hilton in Abuja in 2001 to discuss amongst themselves, so that Nigeria will not break into pieces. Ojukwu and Nwabueze led them from the east; Solomon Lar and Paul Unongo led them from the middle-east; Maitama Sule and somebody else, led from the north.

From our own area here, we had Abraham Adesanya, General Akinrinade, Ayo Adebanjo, Olaniwun Ajayi and Justice Thompson. We had them converged into that hotel for three days to discuss on how Nigeria will not break; and we spent N27million on expenses. It was not known to Nigerians because we didn’t want to publish it.

We’ve done so much to keep Nigeria together, that’s why we are still one.

You are 80 years, yet you don’t look 80. I still see in you the flashes of the dashing prince who used to set the place ablaze!

(Laughter!). You don’t look 80.

What is the secret? (More laughter!!).

But I feel 80! I may not look 80, I feel 80!! (Plenty of Laughter!!!)

I sleep at 2.00 a.m; wake up at 6:32 a.m., I sleep for four hours every day.

For your age, you look very good…

(Cuts in) I don’t know about that!!! But thank you all the same!!!

C M Y K

36—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

My friends’ loyalty should be to me, not my ex-wife!

I can’t seem to mend my broken heart Dear Bunmi, I was with my boy friend for three years and, towards the end of last year, he left me.

He got a good job in another state, but said he was no longer interested in our relationship and that both of

us were free to seek new partners. My problem is that I don’t seem to be able to move on. I can’t forget him and I miss him so much, it hurts.

Most nights, when I come back from work, I sit in my

My cheating ex wants me back Dear Bunmi, I’m in between boyfriends now as I split up with the last one only recently. The split left me feeling low until recently.

A boyfriend who cheated on me a few years back got in touch out of the blue. He wants us to go out on a date and I’m seriously tempted to say yes. He was such good fun when we were an item.

Should I? Felicia, by e-mail.

Dear Felicia,

If you believe this man has reformed, then you can try him. But l’d steer clear of him if I were you. First, a man who cheats is not a good man.

The chances are high might cheat again. Second, you only just ended a relationship. If you rush into another straight away you’re likely to make a bad choice.

Being on your own for a while is a much better option than getting involved with a love rat and getting yourself hurt all over again.

bedroom looking at photos of us together and listening to songs that remind me of him.

I’ve had offers of outings from other men, but I can’t bring myself to say yes. I don’t want to go on pining for a man, who has already moved on. Do you think I’ll ever get over him.

Irene by e-mail.

Dear Irene, You’ll need to accept that these things take time. You have suffered a great emotional loss and you need to go through stages of recovery - so don’t ruin things.

Have a good cry that whip up anger at your partner for not loving you. You’re probably stuck in a rut because you don’t want to feel angry about a man you used to love. Why not try to remember all the times he hurt you and put you down?

Then,slowly start to feel yourself out of your grieving and you’ll begin to live your life- again.

Should I break the promise to my wife?

Dear Bunmi, I am a fairly comfortable man financially and I run a thriving computer business. I am married, have children and have had the occasional affair from time to time. However, some few months back I met this girl, who was then a newly appointed secretary in my friend’s office and I started what I thought would be a casual affair with her.

But I’m now completely infatuated with her. It was a surprise when she gave me one of the best sex treat I’ve had in my life and sex with her gets better and better. I gave my wife my word that I wouldn’t have children outside our marriage.

But I have invested so much cash and emotion in this girl that I feel I shouldn’t let another man enjoy the fruits of my labour, so to speak. She is keen on having my baby.

What is stopping me really is my promise to my wife.

Should I be tied to a promise I made years ago?

Gbenga by e-mail Dear Gbenga, The fact that you think this particular affair is ‘hot’ makes a difference to the sexual charge you feel with other women. As you must have discovered in all the affairs you’ve had since your marriage, an illicit liaison is C M Y K

much more exciting than real life!

Far be it that I should be the one to help you decide what to do, but if you’re prepared for a double life, endless conflicts of time and loyalties and risking your marriage, you can have your love-child. But when reality

kicks in, you’ll discover it’s not such an exciting prospect.

This fever will definitely bum itself out. Since you are a serial philanderer, the earlier you tried to stop, the less conflict you would have.

Thoughts of relationships make me sick!

Dear Bunmi, I think that too much emphasis is placed on sex these days and I’m a bit cynical about relationships.

This worries me a lot. I am a 28-year-old girl and have lost count of the number of men I have slept with.

Most of these men I would ordinarily not sleep with, but you discover that once you are left alone with a man in a room, he wants to sleep with you at ail cost.

And the lies these men tell!

Majority of them make me believe I was the type of girl they’d always been looking for as a wife. As soon as I get pregnant, they won’t want to know. I had a few abortions as a result as I don’t believe in a single parent family.

Now I’m completely off sex and it worries me. I think I am a bit cynical about relationships and it worries

me also to be this way.

Diana, by e-mail.

Dear Diana, I think you are a bit depressed as a result of all the disappointments you’ve had in the past, hence the cynicism and indifference towards sex. It takes two to have a meaningful relationship and it shouldn’t make you feel guilty you’d been let down in the past.

I advise you to take things easy and be less eager to trust every man professing to be in love with you. At your age, you should be mature enough to know what you want from a relationship and to discourage opportunists.

In the meantime, concentrate on simply enjoying life with friends and relations until a serious man shows up. When he does, take time to know him better before committing to him.

Dear Bunmi, AFTER months of wrangling, my wife finally admitted to having an affair and has opted to stay with her lover. We have only one child and she said she was no longer in love with me. I was devastated. Most of our friends are really upset by our break-up and confused by what’s expected of them.

I don’t want to be petty and force people to take sides, but do you think it’s acceptable to ask them not to see my wife with her new man simply because it condones what she did? What she did was cheating by committing adultery and that’s wrong. Is it fair for me to say I don’t want them to meet this man, even if they do still want to see my ex?

Alao by e-mail.

Dear Alao, This is definitely an awkward situation for you and your ex. If these friends are mutual ones, they are probably getting pressure from your ex’s end as well. If

she intends staying with the new guy on a long term basis, they will have to accept him eventually for the friendship to continue. What you can do for now is to handle the situation with sensitivity. Hopefully, your ex would allow a period of time to elapse before flaunting her new beau at social outings.

Your wife is in the wrong here for having an affair and she needs to accept that the scales need to be balanced in your favour. That is why I think it’s totally acceptable to tell close friends you would find it insulting if they welcome him with open arms immediately, though you will have to accept that eventually they may have to. If it’s of any consolation, people rarely stay with the person they had the affair with. They both know what they’re capable of, so trust is low and once you put a hot lover in the role of loving spouse, the sexual spark fizzles fast. So he might not be around for long, anyway.

Your wife is in the wrong here for having an affair and she needs to accept that the scales need to be balanced in your favour. That is why I think it’s totally acceptable to tell close friends you would find it insulting if they welcome him with open arms immediately, though you will have to accept that eventually they may have to.

I don’t ejaculate Dear Bunmi, I find it difficult to ejaculate easily and can have sex with nothing happening for a long time. My girlfriend is now getting frustrated because she says I wear off all her lubrication and make her sore. I don’t know what the problem is as I have no problem masturbating.

Chuks by e-mail.

Dear Chuks, A small fraction of men have difficulty reaching orgasm. For most of these men, it will easily be only

temporary, but for some, it can be due to an underlying health problem like diabetes.

Prescription drugs can also delay ejaculation as can too much alcohol. When you masturbate, you know how to touch yourself to get the best feel. Teaching a girlfriend to stimulate you the same way may also help your performance. For some men, it is more in the mind with worries about the relationship or with their orgasmic reflex being criticized.

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

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 37

38 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 39

40 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 41

42 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 43

44 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—45

Delta community accuses contractors of alleged complicity in pipeline vandalism U

By Perez Brisibe

GHELLI—WORRIED by the incessant pipeline vandalism in Ughelli and its environs, Delta State, some indigenes of Ughelli under the aegis of Natives of Ughelli Kingdom, have accused the contractors in charge of pipeline surveillance for OML 30 and 34 of complicity in the crime.

The group in a petition to the Delta State governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, urged him to prevail on the management of Nigeria Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, and Shoreline Natural Resources Ltd., to revoke all pipeline surveillance contracts awarded to the present set of contractors.

The petition by the group’s president and secretary, Daniel Awisa and Felix Olokpa, explained that they were ready to work with the state government to ensure that pipeline vandalism was brought to an end in the area.

The group while attributing pipeline vandalism in the area to a cold war between the contractors and the community noted that the failure of the

contractors to include the locals in their operations as well as the failure to pay staff were the reasons pipeline vandalism in the area had persisted.

Meanwhile, the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, HRM Oharisi

III, has urged security agencies in the area to come together to put an end to vandalism of government property, including oil pipelines.

Lamenting the effect of vandalism, the monarch at his

palace, yesterday, noted that aside the negative effect of the scourge, residents of the various communities affected, suffer huge losses in their farm produce as a result of environmental damage from the activities of vandalism.

PRESENTATION: From left: Governor Seriake Dickson of Beyelsa State, representative of Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Mr. Ade Ipaye, and Chief Executive, AD Consulting, Mrs Jumoke Ademowo, at the presentation of the master plan for the Eco-Park to the governor at a summit in Yenagoa.

POWER OUTAGE: JTF detains ex-militant leader over

planned protest B OMADI—THE Joint Task Force, JTF, in Bomadi Local Government Area, Delta State, has detained the Delta State Chairman, Phase 2 ex-militants under the amnesty programme, Mr. Kingsley Muturu, over a planned peaceful protest in Bomadi, the council headquarters, to press home the demand of the people for the restoration of power supply to the council.

Mr. Muturu, narrating his ordeal in the hands of the JTF in a statement in Ughelli, said Bomadi council had been under electricity blackout for over a year and half as a concerned Bomadian, he placed several calls to the council chairman, Chief Oluwole Karetimi, to ensure that power supply was restored to the area, since it was the council’s decision to pay electricity bills in the area.

He also noted that the people of the council would gladly accept to pay their bills individually if the council would agree to offset the light bill already owed the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN. He added that in his determination to fight for the people, he said he planned a peaceful protest to call on the council to put to an end to the pains and sufferings of the people, which information he passed to various security outfits including the police, DSS and the

C M Y K

JTF commander in Bomadi district, Capt. Robert, briefing them on the planned protest.

Muturu narrated that in the course of informing Capt. Robert

over the phone, he asked him to report to his office in person at Bomadi-Overside, where after interrogations he alleged that the commander told him he had no right to carry out the protest and

in a bid to know why he had no constitutional right, that he was rough-handled and detained alongside four of his companions in JTF cell for over two hours, with his phones seized.

Gov Emmanuel tasks Akwa Ibom indigenes in Diaspora on industrialisation

By Tom Moses

U

YO—GOVERNOR Udom Emmanuel of Akwa-Ibom State, yesterday, tasked indigenes of the state in the Diaspora to deploy their professional and creative energies to assist his administration to realise its industrialization policy and wealth creation agenda for the state.

According to a statement in

Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, Governor Emmanuel implored the 5th Global Congress of the Ibibio Peoples Union, IPU, in Dallas USA to give him all the necessary support to enable him deliver on his industrialisation and employment generation promises to the people.

He noted that his administration had already

commenced a series of programmes and initiatives that would close skills gap and create wealth for the citizenry whilst pursuing infrastructural expansion, education and health care development.

The governor commended IPU and its leadership for organising the people in pursuit of the continued development and preservation of the cultural heritage of the people.

Rivers PDP dismisses Dakuku's comments on defection of members He said that the PDP was intact,

P

By Jimitota Onoyume

ORT HARCOURT— PEOPLES Democratic Party, PDP in Rivers State, has dismissed as mere propaganda, the allegation by the governorship candidate of the All Progress Congress, APC, Dr. Dakuku Peterside that a large number of chieftains of the party will soon decamp to the APC. Peterside had told members of his APC recently in Port Harcourt,

that some chieftains of the PDP had expressed willingness to defect to the APC because there was nothing happening in the PDP. Deputy Publicity secretary of the PDP in the state, Mr Sam Wonosike, said that the claim by Peterside should be ignored, alleging that it was another tissue of lies to boost the already dampened morale of members of the APC in the state.

stressing that there was no attempt by members to decamp en-masse from the party.

“It is worrisome and laughable that some leaders of the APC could say elections did not hold in the state.

There is an APC member who is in the state House of Assembly representing Eleme. Where did he get the votes if elections did not hold? When APC wins, there is election, but when PDP wins election did not hold," he said.

Okowa woos UPU youths

A

SABA—GOVERNOR Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, has told the Youth Wing of Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, that his administration needs more support to actualise its plan of creating prosperity for all Deltans.

Okowa, who was represented by Special Assistant on Political Matters, Chief Akigho Okiemute, during a courtesy visit to President’ General of the UPU Youth Wing, Mr. Anthony Igho, said that the state cannot grow in a non harmonious atmosphere.

Okiemute said that within his 100 days in office, Okowa has been able achieve some milestones in the area of strategic wealth creation initiatives.

He noted that the first batch of beneficiaries of the wealth creation scheme, had been released, adding that others will follow suit.

Responding, Igho noted that Okowa has the prerequisite to take Delta State to the next level.

Group faults lawmaker on Buhari's comments

B

ENIN—CITIZENS Efforts for Growth, a youth group Edo State, yesterday, faulted the lawmaker representing Etsako federal constituency of Edo State, Mr Philip Shuaibu, for speaking in support of a recent statement credited to President Muhammadu Buhari, that he would pay more attention to the regions that voted for him.

Mr Scott Osegbowa, chief facilitator of the youth group, in a statement faulted Shuaibu's position, saying “We are particularly bothered by recent statements credited to President Buhari that he would give 95 per cent attention and five percent attention to regions which voted for and against him respectively.

“We condemn the reactions of Shuaibu’s in support for Mr. President on this matter on national television, which we feel is a mere eye service and a disservice to the Nigerian people, who elected him to represent them at the hallowed chambers."

46 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Orbih’s return deepens Edo PDP crisis

RETURN OF N12M: Enugu govt offers cleaner

automatic employment, names street after her

By Austin Ogwuda

E

NUGU—A cleaner attached to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, in Lagos, Miss Josephine Ugwu, who

B

ENIN—THE crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State following the opposition by some leaders of the party to the return of Chief Dan Orbih as state chairman heightened, Monday, with the leaders reiterating their opposition on his return.

They said he had nothing new to offer the party after six years in office.

The leaders were reacting to an interview by a former Vice Chairman of the party, Paschal Ugbome, who insisted that Chief Orbih had performed creditably in the state PDP, and as a result "he will be re-elected in the forthcoming congress of the party."

But a chieftain of the party in Edo South, Mr. Osaze Jesurobo and two time former chairman of Owan West Local Government Area and leader of the PDP in Edo North, Dan Asekhame, disagreed with Ugbome, stressing that the entire leadership of the party should give way for new persons to be able to stand a chance in the 2016 governorship election in the state.

Jesurobo said: “We have been saying it internally that Orbih should give way but we need to react to the comment by Ugbome. What he said are his personal views, those are not the views of majority of the party. Somebody that cannot win three elections in a row has nothing new to offer the party."

picked N12 million belonging to a passenger at the airport and returned same to the owner intact will be offered automatic employment in the Enugu State Civil Service.

In addition to that, a street will also be named after her

in Enugu to immortalize her in appreciation of the unequalled display of honesty by that act.

This was unanimously arrived at during the sitting of the State House of Assembly, yesterday.

Nigeria'll implement accrual basis accounting standard —FG

By Funmi Olasupo

THF

EDERAL G O V E R N M E N T has said Nigeria will begin the implementation of Accrual Basis under the International Public Sector Accounting Standards, IPSAS, in January 2016.

The Accountant-General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris dropped the hint in Abuja at a book launch: 'Government Accounting in Nigeria: An IPSAS Approach,' authored by a former AccountantGeneral of the Federation, Kayode Naiyeju and Professor Eddy Omolehinwa, a lecturer at the University of Lagos.

Idris said Nigeria had just started the implementation of the cash basis in 2014 and the country was now transiting into accrual basis.

According to him: “There is an implementation committee at the national and state levels and they are working based on a time frame. So there is no delay; we are on course. The accrual basis is scheduled to start in January.

We want to be a global player and that is why we keyed in.”

Idris explained that with the implementation of IPSAS, Nigeria would operate on the same platform with advanced economies, saying, “ we will operate on the same platform with advanced economies in terms of

financial accounting reporting, information rendition, services of our financial accounts and so on.

We stand to benefit because we will be rated like any other advanced economy, like any other advanced player in the global economy. It will make information open and transparent.”

Earlier, the author, Kayode Naiyeju, said the book was very rich in information about public financial management and would be of great benefit to Nigeria now that the country was moving from cash to accrual basis.

According to him: “Nigeria

cannot just jump from cash basis to accrual basis without taking certain steps. Change has come and we must follow the change.

"You know people could afford to do things because money was coming in, but you can see now that some states and local governments have not been able to pay their staff and there is a problem and because of the problem, they will now take public financial management seriously.

"IPSAS is just an international public sector financial accounting standard, which is imbibed globally and Nigeria will not, but join the train.”

Members of the State Assembly led by the Speaker, Mr. Edward Ubosi also resolved to write Miss Ugwu a formal letter of recommendation to serve as an inspiration to other Nigerians.

Member representing Awgu North constitutency, Mr. S.K.E. Ude-Okoye, during the debate on the floor of the House on the issue, said: “I do move that the House should urge Enugu State government to name a street in the state capital after her for her truthfulness and honesty.”

Many contributors, including the chief sponsor of the motion, Mr. Matthias Ekweremadu, who is the Chief Whip, eulogized the cleaner for her rare character, while the Speaker described Miss Ugwu as “a true daughter of Enugu State and Igboland.

“I thank you in a special way because you have proved to be a true ‘Wawa’ woman.' ‘Wawa’ means 'no, no.' You said no to temptation. Keep it up."

Accept defeat, Uzodinma Campaign Organisation urges Izunaso

By Emma Nnadozie

T

HE HOPE Uzodinma Campaign Organisation, HUCO, has advised the All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate in the last Imo West Senatorial District Election, Osita Izunaso, to accept defeat if he believes in democracy rather than resorting to blackmail with intent to reverse the will of Orlu people, who overwhelmingly voted for Senator Hope Uzodinma at the election.

In an apparent reaction to the claim that the Imo State chapter of the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, was allegedly conniving with the Peoples Democratic party, PDP, to frustrate the APC at the electoral tribunal, Director General of HUCO and Chairman of the Senatorial Council, Orlu Zone, Dr. Christopher Osuala told journalists in Abuja, weekend, that Izunaso and his group in their series of blackmail, have now resorted to descending on the Resident Electoral

Commissioner, REC, in Imo State and the INEC, crying foul where nothing exists.

Going down memory lane, Osuala said that, “from 20072011, Osita Izunaso was the senator representing Orlu Zone on the platform of PDP, but due to his poor performance, Orlu people outrightly rejected him (Izunaso) in 2011 and elected a new political icon-Senator Hope Uzodinma, making it the first time an incumbent will lose to a new entrant.”

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

What is yyour our vie w on CBN's bailout tto o tte extile industr y? view industry?

M

y candid view on these bailouts is that too many of it is not good in fighting corruption. State governors got bailout, now industries, which will be next? I hope we will not spend 50 years paying for the bailouts. -Mr. Tunde Julius, Sound Engineer

I

n economics sure an industry is regarded as infant industry, in order for our textile industry to survive, it has to been protected from competition abroad (China) or a very higher tariff imposed on imported textile. -Mr. Nnamdi Okoji, Student

Y

ou know, Nigeria has a population of about ten million people in textile business before it was frustrated out. Now for you to bring it back then the Federal Government should be ready to subsidize certain materials. Mr. Emmanuel Sunday, Music Director

T

hey will need a bailout forever unless power supply is improved. They can stand on their own and be successful if they have electricity. So this money will help them better if you invest it in power than giving it to them. -Miss Constance Anwulika, Model

B

uhari should not bail out only the textile industry in the North. He should start seeing himself as a president of Nigeria, not only for northerners.

The change we are seeing since the inception of APC government has been regional/Islamic change. Mr. Kayce Perry, Worker

R

eviving the textile in dustry is very strategic to our quest for massive employment. This is a product of a thinking government. He is working hard. It is left for the rest of the economy to hear his calls and help selflessly. Miss Chimezie Ezembu, Communicator

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 47

C M Y K

48—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

WHITE CANE DAY: From left— Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, Head, Public Relations, Dufil Prima Foods; Mr. Fola Osibo, Chairman, Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind; Chief Michael Olufalomo, Chairman, Cane Day celebration, and Ogunshina Deborah, student, Vocational Training Centre for the Blind, at the 10th edition of the White Cane Day at National Stadium Surulere, Lagos.

the bride's parents, Dr. Olusegun Odejayi, and his wife, Yetunde, Director of Admin and Human Resources, Office of Lagos State Deputy Governor, at the wedding ceremony in Lagos.

MTN FOOTBALL SCHOL ARS: From left—Okundola Bamgboye, Sponsorships & Events Manager, MTN; Owolabi Ifedunor of Unilag Warriors, Most Valuable Player, and Henry Nwosu, former Green Eagles player, during the presentation of N250,000 cheque to Ifedunor at the final novelty match of the fifth edition of the MTN Football Scholars initiative.

UCH BRIEFING: From left— Dr. Adefemi Afolabi, Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee; Professor Temitope Alonge, CMD, University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan; Mr. Yemi Siyanbola, Ag. Director of Administration, and Mrs Funke Logun, Head, Hospital Services, during the briefing on the ongoing strike by Association of Residents Doctors, ARD. PHOTO: Dare Fasube.

STAR TREK SAPELE: From left— Dotun, host and on-air personality of Cool FM; Mr. Obabiyi Fagade, Brand Manager, STAR, and Patoranking, music star, at the Sapele leg of Star Music Trek.

INVESTITURE: From left— Special Apostle Prophet Sunday Funsho Korode, new Chairman and General Leader Cherubim &Seraphim Church Movement, Surulere District; Special Apostle George Ogunleye, Special Apostle Benjamin Alaka, and Most Snr Apostle Prophet Oluseyi Coker, Deputy Chairman of the Investitive Committee, during a briefing on the investiture and ordination of Special Apostle Prophet Korode in Lagos. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

VISIT: From left— Mr. David Ofoeyeno, State Chairman; Mr. Ofuonyeadi Innocent, State Secretary, both of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC; and Mr. Mike Okeme, Special Adviser to Governor of Delta State on Labour and Industrial Relations, during a congratulatory visit on the Special Adviser on his appointment. PHOTO: Nath Onojake.

WEDDED: Newly-wedded Mr. & Mrs Babajimi Ajayi-Oba flanked by

C M Y K

ANGLICAN CHILDREN: From left— Rev. Canon Idowu, Ikosi Archdeaconry Chaplain; Venerable Abraham Odumuyiwa, Diocesan Sunday School Chaplain, and Mrs Oluwabunmi Adesanya, past Diocesan President, taking salute at the Lagos West (Anglican Communion) Children Rally kids game at Archbishop Vining Memorial Garden, Ikeja, Lagos.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—49 —49

C M Y K

50—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

FRSC moves to reduce road accidents in Anambra

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA—THE Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has put in place measures to drastically reduce road accidents caused by articulated vehicles in Anambra.

The FRSC Assistant Corps Marshal in charge of federal operations, Mrs. Mary Wakawa, spoke yesterday while launching the 2nd phase of the FRSC’s Operation Scorpion in Onitsha.

The exercise, which attracted drivers of articulated vehicles – lorries, trailers, trucks, tankers and low-bed vehicles – was aimed at educating them on ways to strictly comply with traffic standards while driving.

We'll fulfil obligations to students on scholarships abroad —GANDUJE ‘My govt is a continuation of Kwankwaso’s'

of the economy, especially the health sector of the state.

He maintained that despite financial challenges facing the country at present, as a result of dwindling oil revenue, the state government would do its best to ensure that the students pursuing different undergraduate and post graduate courses in several countries continued their academic pursuit unhindered.

The governor observed that the calculated attempt by some unscrupulous elements to pitch his administration against the immediate past government, of which he was a part as the former Deputy Governor and Commissioner of Local Governments, would fail.

He said: “As the then deputy governor, this government is a continuation of the Kwankwaso’s administration as I was part of all the decisions that were taken, inBRIEFING: From left, Mrs. Toyin Ojudun, Director Membership, CIPM; Mrs. Esohe Adetola, cluding the sponsorship of our Chairman, 2015 Conference Planning Committee; Mr. Anthony Arabome, President / students to foreign universities.”

He warned the students to folChairman of Council, CIPM; Mr. Sunday Adeyemi , Registrar /CEO, CIPM, and Mrs. Eniola Ade-Solanke, Head Sales and Marketing, CIPM, during the media briefing in Lagos on 47th low due process in presenting their problems and stop being Annual National Conference on October 14, in Abuja. Photo: Diran Oshe used to blackmail the government by rushing to the media to lodge their complaints.

Further allaying fears of parents in particular, the

By Austin Ogwuda because this is the only lan- home and begin to mobi- governor maintained that guage that can make them lize for an action. his administration would “We are giving the EEDC make funds available to the N U G U — T H E comply with the demands the last ultimatum of 21 days students to enable them lingering crisis be- of workers. tween the Enugu Electric“We have tried all man- to resolve the issues at the conclude their studies and ity Distribution Company, ner of peaceful process and end of which labour would return to the country as EEDC, and their workers the only option left for us is commence very serious in- scheduled. The governor worsened yesterday as the action because those peo- dustrial action. We cannot stated that the government leadership of Trade Union ple there are human be- continue to watch things also intended to give more Congress, TUC in the ings, you cannot enslave get worse. All we are say- attention to technical and South East in conjunction them; they are our members ing is that majority of cus- vocational courses so as to with the zonal leadership and we are going to mobi- tomers of the EEDC are build their capacities for of Senior Staff of Electrici- lize the five States in the workers and they cannot be self-employment and ecoty and Allied Companies east and close up that place making money from work- nomic progression.

Staff vowed to shut down so that the world will hear ers and fail to treat their “We understand that unoperations completely in that EEDC maltreats work- own workers well. We are employment is a major looking at the inefficiency problem in our society and the zone. ers.

Rising from a meeting in “Series of letters had been in that area, we are look- one of the best ways to tackEnugu yesterday, the la- written for a meeting where ing at the inability to im- le it is to help build the skills bour leaders declared that issues could be resolved prove power supply the of our youths so that they the alleged ill-treatment of without response. We have way it should be and the would not have to wait for EEDC workers would no thus met and we have de- poor industrial relations af- non-existent white collar longer be tolerated, point- cided that leaders in each fect the output of the organ- jobs,” the governor asserting out that they were ful- of the five States should go ization. ed. ly prepared to to go to ‘war’ with them this time around.

They have therefore handed down a fresh 21day ultimatum to the manBy Ndahi Marama uri and 45 kilometres to Biu Local Govagement within which to ernment Area which had suffered seORNO State Police Command ries of attacks by insurgents in recent resolve all issues or they yesterday said Boko Haram ter- times. would face the planned However, the police commissioner, shut down. They are also ror group was not winning the ongorequesting the EEDC man- ing war,, noting the insurgents were Mr. Aderemi Opadokun, yesterday in agement to rescind the or- running helter-skelter to survive by an interactive session with journalists fleeing to neighbouring countries of der preventing its workers Niger, Cameroon and Chad to attack in Maiduguri on the state of security in the metropolis, said members of the from participating in trade soft targets in the sub-region. general public in the state should not union activities. Chairman This came on a day no fewer than 20 entertain fears of insurgents winning TUC Enugu State chapter, persons, mostly traders, were killed the ongoing war against Boko Haram Comrade Igbokwe Chuk- and several others injured as some attacks and bombings that continued wuma Igbokwe who is also group of terrorists suspected to be su- to subside. the coordinator of the group icide bombers invaded Sabon Gari comAccording to him, relative peace is addressed newsmen after munity market in Damboa Local Gov- being restored in Borno State. ernment Area of the state.

He said: “Let me take this opportutheir meeting.

Sabon Gari is south and located along nity to inform the people of Borno State Said he, “we are going the closed Maiduguri- Damboa - Biu to shut down the EEDC road, about 140 kilometres to Maidug- that Boko Haram is not winning this war against terrorists."

G

OVERNOR ABDULLAHI Umar Ganduje of Kano State has assured indigenes given scholarships to study abroad that the government would fulfil

its obligations by paying their fees.

The governor, who spoke during the launching of the state Free Eye Care Programme at Sir

Sunusi Hospital in Kano, said that the government was keen at ensuring that they completed their studies to enable them fill the vacuum in certain critical areas

Recall sacked workers or face shutdown in S-East, labour warns EEDC

E

B’Haram runs helter-skelter to survive lost war, says police commissioner

B

VANGU ARD, WEDNESD A Y, A UGUST 12, 2015—51 VANGUARD, WEDNESDA AUGUST

Church should not wed gay people, it's against God's will —Medo-Uwa Founder/General Overseer of Pentecostal Cannanland Mission, Ajao Estate, Lagos, Pastor Nick Medo-Uwa, speaks on the state of the nation, Buhari’s administration, same-sex marriage and other issues in this interview with ETOP EKANEM.

H

OW did you receive the news of the endorsement of same-sex marriage by the American Supreme Court?

It was no surprise to me because America is a country that is being used by God; but the devil also uses the country to advance some of his activities. Any time that the devil wants to do evil, he uses America to do it. America has been used by God to spread the gospel but today, Americans are no longer interested in spreading the word of God, instead Africans have taken over that responsibility of spreading the gospel.

This gay marriage issue has spread to other nations of the world but we still thank God because at the end, he will still do what he wants to do. However, where I am having concern is the situation where the church is being forced to wed gay couples against biblical rules. If their government legalizes samesex union, it should be in government’s courts and not in the house of God. They should limit this kind of union to the courts; the church should not be involved. Same sex marriage should not take place in the church to avoid polluting it. I am praying that they should leave the church out of this anomaly.

The church should not be compelled to wed gay people because doing that will be against the will of God for his church.

But you don’t envisage such a law coming to Nigeria?

It will be difficult to have such a law in Nigeria because so many things will work against it. Our tradition, culture and religious belief forbid such things.

Nigerians believe in prayer, if any leader endorses such practice in Nigeria, the citizens will stone him.

What do you see as the greatest challenge facing Nigeria as a nation?

I think the greatest problem that we have today is how to unit Nigerians. Disunity is eating deep into the fabrics of our nation. For instance, if a Yoruba man is doing something wrong, instead of condemning such an action, his kinsmen will support him, and

Pastor Nick Medo-Uwa they may want to defend him. Similarly, if Igbo person commits same offence, his kinsmen will defend him. The same thing is applicable to all the tribes in this country but that should not be the case.

Anyone that commits a crime should be made to face the consequences of his crime without any ethnic sentiment attached.

Division along ethnic lines is a very big problem of this country. And if there is anything that government can do to discourage this division among Nigerians, it will help this country to move forward. The seed of discord that was sown shortly before independence has germinated and grown to what we are seeing today.

The President should lead by example and treat all Nigerians equally. Things must be shared equally and each zone must be given a sense of belonging.

If the president lays this foundation and the next president builds on it ethnic dichotomy will fizzle out in Nigeria.

Is it too early to assess President Buhari’s performance in office?

Well, this is one of the issues we had when the late Alhaji Musa Yar ‘Adua

The church should not be compelled to wed gay people because doing that will be against the will of God for his church

came onboard. Some Nigerians were saying that he would do great things but after three years, not much was done. It seems that President Buhari is taking similar steps, he has been in government for more than two months now but we are yet to see anything.

Nigerians want to see what his economic agenda is. We want to know where he is going but no one can tell us exactly the direction this government is going.

Everything seems to be standing still. So we want him to bring out his programmes of action because there is no time to waste. There is the need to understand and say that this is the direction that the president is going.

We can fix this country ourselves because we have the resources but what we lack is good management of these resources, if we should manage what God has given to us well, this country will be fine.

Other countries that are doing very well don’t have the money that we have in this country but the problem is the way that this money is being shared and siphoned everyday by a few people, if government can say no to the embezzlement and plug the wastages, this country will be fine.

Our political leaders should cut down their spending habits; some of them waste our resources and keep on doing that till tomorrow. I can’t understand why a governor should have a retinue of entourage, it is all waste of resources which should be cut down. If the economy is dwindling, we expect the leaders to cut cost.

52—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

Aisha Buhari

A

PPARENTLY, Wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, has been operating from the Office of the First Lady located inside the Presidential Villa, according to a report trending on blogosphere.

Since her husband’s assumption of office, Mrs. Buhari has dropped the title of “First Lady ” used by her predecessors and adopted the title of “Wife of the President.

But observers say Mrs. Buhari and her handlers operate from the First Lady’s office used by

her predecessors, and that the office is located beside the official residence of the President.

She has also been organizing events such as “thank you dinner ” she organised in honour of APC women and youths for supporting her husband’s election. At the conclusion of Ramadan, Mrs. Buhari also famously hosted children to an elaborate Sallah party.

In addition she has donated cash or relief items to internally

displaced persons and other groups in parts of the country and there is even talk of a pet project, just like previous First Ladies.

Buhari, who was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, had promised that he would not have an office for the First Lady should he emerge victorious at the election. “The Office of the First Lady is not in the constitution, so there’s no official role for them,” Buhari had said.”

Yemisi Wada

Megyn Kelly

T

R

HIS pretty but quiet woman has been trending for e few weeks now on the Nigerian blogosphere, thanks to one controversy after another- all of them related to ex, Femi Fani Kayode.

First, it was about her not inviting the ex to the wedding of their daughter, Tope, who tied the knot with JK Randle’s son just weeks back. Now, it’s the reaction of the father of her three children a a newspaper article that claimed he had not been doing his part.

A representive of Fani Kayode had publicly, through a letter, asserted: When Femi’s father died in 1995, he came back to Nigeria. The family questioned the paternity especially of the last child, Tumininu, and not only that, they were so disgusted by Yemisi’s behavior and the insults and the things she kept saying about the family that nobody wanted her and her children to attend the burial. That was why their names were not listed among Femi’s father’s grandchildren during the burial notices. They forced themselves on the Christian wake-keeping But the former Aviation minister himself has denied ever disowning his children, claiming he would never write about his family in public.

Though Mrs. Wada is yet to give an official statement, her Instagram post

ABBLE rouser Donald Trump appears to have bitten more than he can chew as he is under fire for attacking the woman who hosted the Republican debate, describing her as unprofessional, talentless and menstrual after she challenged him over his comments about women.

Megyn Kelly, one of the hosts of Thursday night’s debate, questioned him over his years of anti-women remarks. The question infuriated Mr. Trump. You could see there was blood coming out of her eyes, blood coming out of her — wherever, he said after the debate, speaking on CNN. Hours later, the leader of the annual Red State Gathering announced on Twitter that Mr. Trump was no longer welcome at the weekend event — and Miss Kelly was asked to join the conference in his place.

Stephanie Linus

I

T is baby bump season in Nollywood, and nowhere is this reflected more than on blogosphere where pictures of Nollywood siren Stephanie Linus- who recently launched her new film- are trending showing her beautiful baby bump from photo shoots.

Ufoma Ejenobor

A

LSO following the trend of sharing baby bump photos on blogosphere is Nollywood actress, Ufuoma Ejenobor, who looks stunning in the pregnant pictures going around social media.

Ufuoma redefined the state of pregnancy, say commentators. Already blessed with a boy, Ufuoma is said to be expecting a baby girl with her hubby, Steve McDermott before the end of 2015.

C M Y K

is making the rounds of a picture with husband, Dahiru Wada, at the London wedding of her daughter Temitope.

I can’t believe this was a week ago!! Wow! It seems like a few days ago. Still mesmerised at how God Did this…. So smoothly and sweetly. I Give Him All the Glory. Her daughter Temitope in a comment to this said: Cant believe it either, but trust our God who has always done it for us and always will- If God is for us, WHO can be against us? Blogosphere cannot have enough of this drama

Omotola Jalade Ekehinde

V

ETERAN actor and reality show star Omotola is trending, and this time not on account of some photo shoot but for calling for President Buhari to scrap the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) programme. It’s not useful, he should please do that for Nigerians. Our children don’t need it anymore.

I have looked at the programme thoroughly and exactly what it’s supposed to have achieved over the years? Believe me, there is no credible or tangible result. It’s a total waste of time and resources and I think all the time and resources should be channelled into something more resourceful. For instance, I have had situations where some members of my staff, in the name of NYSC, left for a year only to come back and their spaces had been taken by another. NYSC is not just adding any value to our society or even to the lives of our children.

Think like an artiste...

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—53 —53

C M Y K

54—VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

•Metuh: Initiated the moves for reconcilliation of the factions

•Nwoye: Says Metuh's moves are self serving

ANAMBRA PDP: Anarchy again!

RECENT moves by concerned stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Anambra State to harmonise the different factions of the party that historically antagonised one another to the delight of smaller parties may have run into a hitch.

By Vincent Ujumadu

T

HE new faction led by Tony Nwoye surfaced last Thursday and has Prince Ossy Ezenwa as state chairman, while Chief Basil Ejidike is the state secretary.

Incidentally, Ezenwa, a former secretary to the Anambra State government during the Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju administration, was the director general of the Tony Nwoye Campaign Organization during the 2013 governorship election contest. He was favoured to be the state chairman if his group had participated at the congress.

Nwoye had cried foul when Metuh, who is from Anambra State, published an advertorial fixing the ward, local government and state congresses of the party in the state and gave aspirants to the various positions two working days to go through the processes of purchasing and processing forms and making payments for the exercise.

Incidentally, the two days between the day of the publication and the

commencement of the ward congress, were public holidays, which meant that most of the aspirants did not have the opportunity to meet the requirements.

Despite protests by Nwoye and his group, which included some founding members of PDP, the national headquarters of the party still sent a committee to conduct the congresses and at the end of which, Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, a trusted Metuh man emerged the state chairman.

Common executive Other key offices were distributed to party members who had clubbed with Metuh to forge a common executive including senators, members of the House of Representatives among others.

On the day of the state congress, the Nwoye group stayed away and rather than go into the field, convened a meeting of its stakeholders from the 21 local government areas in Awka to decide on their next

The divisions have indeed become sharper as a group led by the party’s immediate past governorship candidate, Comrade Tony Nwoye has taken up arms against the mainstream led by the National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh. A third force led by Chief Chris Uba is standing by.

INSIGHT •Anambra

PDP has been factionalised since about 2001 •Metuh

had led a bold move to reconcile PDP •His move is now countered as selfserving move. At the end of the meeting, the group issued a statement describing the congress held by Olisa Metuh –led group as a nullity and of no effect because there was no level –playing field for all the aspirants. To the group, the people that emerged as officials were predetermined, a claim they said, was contrary to the wishes of the majority of the PDP members for a credible congress.

When it became obvious that Metuh and his associates were bent on having their way, the Nwoye group decided to go its own way. This development has re-enacted the disunity that had

existed in the party, which had been responsible for its consistent poor outing during elections in Anambra State.

At the heart of the greivances of the Nwoye group it was learned was their lack of confidence on the executive members some of who it was alleged had in the past played anti-party.

The Nwoye group also passed a vote of no confidence on Metuh, demanding his immediate resignation. In their view, Metuh has set his sight on becoming the next national organizing secretary of PDP and is doing everything possible to

put those he considers as his trusted people in the state in readiness for the national convention.

The group at a well attended ceremony at the Emmaus House in Awka, last Thursday selected 21 persons as members of a factional state executive committee. 18 persons were also selected in each of the 21 local government areas and 17 in each of the 326 political wards in the state, making up a total of 6,941 officials at the three levels.

The ceremony provided an opportunity for the stakeholders to bare their minds on what has been happening in the party, which they said, contributed significantly to its poor showing during the last general elections.

Nwoye said: “Metuh has stayed too long at the PDP headquarters and he should therefore leave the place as his presence there is having a bad influence on many people working in that office. We in PDP believe in equity. Those who own this party, including former vice president, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Prince Arthur, Sir Emeka Offor, Sir Cletus Ibeto, among others, said I should tell you that you are the authentic PDP.” “What PDP members demand is to be allowed to conduct free and fair congresses to usher in new leadership. This is where we need the assistance of the national leadership of our great party. Our members are known to accept defeat once the process is credible.

Credible process What had been causing disaffection in Anambra PDP were attempts to foist unpopular persons as leaders. My belief is that if we get it right this time, no political party will stop us in Anambra State. Our immediate move will be to go for membership drive in all the 326 wards in the state and ensure that all the aggrieved members of the party are reconciled.”

In what appeared to suggest that his group might ultimately dump PDP for another political party, he stated: “There have been speculations as to what will be our fate in this party. While we admit that PDP remains ours, we want to use this opportunity to send signals to those who run the party that if they do not get their acts together, the All Progressives Congress, APC, will take over this state.”

The statement was in line with speculation in many quarters that there were pressures on the group to move to APC, at a time it would have dealt a big blow to the PDP structure in Anambra State. And knowing that most of the people in the group are real grassroots politicians who had remained together even in the face of the recurring crises in PDP over the years, indications are

Continues from page 55

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—55

BAYELSA’S IMBROGLIO:

Of benefactors and beneficiaries

By Lindsay Barret

I

N recent weeks, especially in the last ten days or so, the fall-out of the loss of the PDP’s nationwide stature as the ruling party at the centre has reverberated with enormous negative impact on the affairs of the Bayelsa State chapter of the party.

The home-base of ex-President Jonathan, led by his widely acknowledged political protégé, Governor Henry Seriake Dickson, has witnessed what one web-based journal describes as a “tsunami of defections to the APC” the new ruling party. This has come at a time when the party is gearing up for an unseasonal gubernatorial election scheduled for December 5th.

This contest is occasioned by the fact that the previous Governor Chief Timipre Sylva was ejected from the seat by his then party the PDP in 2011 and replaced with Governor Dickson in 2012.

Transfer of loyalties Ironically while in the elections of this year the party recorded a 99% success only a few months ago suddenly a substantial number of its most vocal and effective supporters in the past have declared that they are ready to transfer their loyalties wholesale to the new ruling party.

What began as a trickle shortly after the elections ended has suddenly turned into a flood with the announcement that the APC’s “A team” led by Vice President Yemi Osinbanjo, and national Chairman John Odigie-Oyegun will storm the state capital Yenagoa this weekend to receive a slew of new members including some of the most illustrious former PDP stalwarts in the state.

This circumstance provokes serious reflection on Bayelsa State’s political provenance in the 19 years since it was founded during the Abacha regime.

It has become clear that the most substantial aspect of the domestic economy in the small but vitally important oil producing state is neither agriculture nor industry but political patronage. Right from the onset of its existence even during the military era it became a noticeable factor in the

governance of the state for the leaders to reward their cronies, associates, and family members with privileged positions in government and especially lucrative government contracts.

This trend was consolidated and made more acceptable in the democratic order under civilian governors who gradually perfected a system of patronage that was portrayed as being a form of payback for the years when the Ijaws, the dominant ethnic group in the state, were perceived as having been side-lined in the Federal scheme of things.

Unfortunately this trend was hijacked by the PDP’s penchant for political impunity and as a result Bayelsa State grew to be regarded as being increasingly the representative of a clique of personalities whose link to the centre served as their conduit to personal economic and political ascendancy rather than a genuine means of transforming the state into a politically viable and economically strong entity.

In the elections though, most of those who have now begun to jump ship worked tirelessly to distance themselves from the then opposition APC. Only Chief Timipre Sylva himself and a few of his diehard followers represented Bayelsa openly in the APC’s campaign team.

Many of those who have been listed as being ready to be anointed as the APC’s new broom handlers in the state

Many of those who have been listed as being ready to be anointed as the APC’s new broom handlers in the state were vocally proactive PDP supporters in the campaigns

ANAMBRA PDP: Anarchy again!

Continues from page 54 that should the group carry out the threat to move, it might result into a big problem for the party in Anambra State.

Supporters of Metuh are, however, unflinching as they at the weekend vowed that they would no longer watch their leaders being harrased.

The state chairman, Prince Ken Emeakayi, said: “We are saying that enough is enough. Metuh has our

mandate and any further attempt to harass him will be met with our collective force. One of the sins of Chief Olisah Metuh was that he has been at Wadata Plaza for the past 16 years as an officer of the party.

His rival, Ezenwa, chairman of the faction inclined to Nwoye, however, vowed that his group would not dissapoint party members in thier bid to end the hold of Metuh and Emekayi on the party. The die is indeed cast!

•Dickson: Bayelsa State governor

•Sylva: APC leader

were vocally proactive PDP supporters in the campaigns.

However as the new circumstance has become solidified and the APC makes its agenda of change increasingly visible many of the political beneficiaries of the past order are worried about their ability to continue to benefit from a system that has changed hands.

This is the context in which the overwhelming degree of claims to disgruntlement and disenchantment that now attends their efforts to justify their switching allegiance must be considered.

highly confrontational individual and his response to these challenges has been to defend his positions without apology. This enrages his critics and throws them on the defensive even more than before. As a result many of them are seeking refuge in the APC.

Switching of allegiance Many of the new APC champions insist that if the Dickson Administration was ditched by the PDP as it ditched Sylva they would have remained in the party.

The state party EXCO in fact challenged and suspended its Chairman for allegedly undermining the Governor’s agenda for selection of candidates. It also became widely acknowledged that the Governor was supposedly embroiled in a tangle of disagreements between the President’s wife’s supporters and his own interests.

To outside observers this circumstance must have been highly confusing and difficult to unravel. It served however to reinforce the impression which we have mentioned before that political patronage and privilege has become the main source of power and wealth in the state.

Dickson’s forthright rhetoric against the continuation of this situation and his impressive efforts at diverting resources away from patronage towards concrete infrastructural development did not help matters. Many of his detractors say openly that as a benefactor he has proven to be less generous than any of his predecessors.

Governor Dickson is an articulate and

Defeated leader In other words their abandonment of the party that actually gave them their credibility has been a response to the governor’s refusal to act like a defeated leader since in the context of the state he is not one.

It is unlikely that the majority of these former PDP beneficiaries would have seen any ideological or even personal benefit in absconding from the party if Dr. Jonathan had not lost the election at the centre. Most of them would probably have swallowed the conduct of the governor and remained secure under the umbrella of the party that nurtured them for over decade and a half.

Their conversion into supporters of the new ruling party is therefore no more representative of the feelings and welfare of their constituents than was their service as recipients and beneficiaries of the largesse of the PDP when it was in power.

This is a sad commentary on the fate of the state in the hands of political jobbers who continue to seek to enjoy the perks of power while ignoring the definite options for service and development that the nature and condition of the state’s reality demands.

The sad truth is that no matter which party rules in Bayelsa State it’s progress as an economic and political entity will continue to be held back by the lack of genuine commitment to selfless service on the part of those who have seized the political high ground, unless there is a major change of attitude by the political class in the state.

56 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY 5 WEDNESDAY,, AUGUST 12, 201 2015

By Jimitota Onoyume,

I

Port Harcourt

MAGINE this scenario: It was 7pm one fateful Friday last December in Omoku, headquarters of the Ogba Egbema Ndoni Local Government area of Rivers State. Suddenly sporadic gun shots were heard. Nobody could say what provoked the shooting.

But at the end of it all, 12 persons, including a mobile police man, were confirmed killed. A lady who witnessed the incident said the gun men who were armed with sophisticated rifles went from house to house, dragging out their victims and killing them on the spot. She, however, could not identify the killers or the motive of their action.

But then state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP, Ahmad Muhammad, had immediately blamed cultists for the dastardly act. According to him, the killings were the outcome of the usual supremacy contest between rival cult groups in Rivers State.

Indeed, a source who pleaded anonymity informed that cult killings have become a recurring decimal in Omoku due to the vicious struggle by cult groups to control the rich resources flowing from oil majors doing business in the area. He identified the leading cult groups in Omoku as Icelanders, Big 5 and Dewell.

Cult related clashes The story is the same in many other parts of Rivers State. In the last six months no fewer than 30 persons have lost their lives in cult-related clashes in the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Chris Ezike, who assumed duties in June this year, said cultism remained a hydraheaded monster in the state.

He recalled that on July 11 this year in Agbonchia, Eleme Local Government Area, five persons were shot dead by some cultists on a motor bike at a car wash centre close to the evening market in the area.

Though the commissioner put the death toll at five but community sources said about nine persons lost their lives in that gory incident.

In Port Harcourt several youths have been hacked to death under cult-related circumstances. For instance, 21year-old Alex Jona was shot dead by suspected cultists who came on a revenge mission to Gada area of Port Harcourt where he lived with his parents.

Those who knew the late Alex said he was certainly not a member of any cult group, but

Rivers’ harvest of deaths:

Recurring rage of cultists on killing spree was simply at the spot where he went to eat at the wrong time. They said his assailants trailed their target to the spot, but reportedly missed him. They still opened fire on those they saw there, including Alex.

In Etche local government some suspected cultists killed Hope Alison and in a bizarre manner, went to the morgue, grabbed his corpse and set it ablaze.

Political dimension of cultism Recently, a political dimension crept into the recurring cult crises as is the case in Ogba Egbema Ndoni Local Government Area.

Some persons who spoke to the

Vanguard Features, VF, under strict condition of anonymity said the situation had become worst in the area because most

On several occasions elections into youth bodies in communities in this local government had led to bloodshed

of the cultists have been recruited by the political class to prosecute political battles.

The two top contending political parties in the area are the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and the All Progressives Congress, APC. They parade high profile members in the area. According to community sources, what started as cultrelated killings have assumed political dimension in several communities in the area.

They recalled the brutal murder of a former Chairman of the local government, Chief Christopher Adube and seven others in his house in April this year. In that sad incident, three of Chief Adube’s children were

also murdered.

A journalist, Fred ( not real name) residing in Omoku, headquarters of the local government, said it had been a harvest of deaths from cultrelated killings in communities in the area. According to him, since the local government is host to Agip and Total, two major oil multinationals, youth groups sprang up seeking attention from the oil giants.

“On several occasions elections into youth bodies in communities in this local government had led to blood shed. This happened because of the bitter struggle by the

Continues on page 57

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY 5 — 57 WEDNESDAY,, AUGUST 12, 201 2015

Recurring rage of cultists on killing spree Continues from page 58 youth leadership to get the attention of the oil companies operating in the area and the benefits therefrom,” he said.

Fred said there are over 15 cult groups in the area. Some of them, according to him, have no links to the university cult groups. “They just sprang up here and are just limited to the local government. The various cult groups have been actively recruiting followers and members from innocent secondary school boys. It is so bad here. What you often hear are hits. By hits the cultists mean going to houses of their rivals to snuff life out of them, “he said.

Some of the active and most vicious cult groups include Dewell, Debam, Aromaid, K 5, Black Axe, Icelanders and Vikings.

Payment of ransom VF gathered that the cultists have also introduced kidnapping as part of their nefarious acts. They kidnap for ransom. In some cases after payment of ransom kidnapped victims are not allowed to come out alive as they are killed by the cultists and their corpses dumped by the road side.

Police boss, Mr Ezike, said the Police has the local government on its record as an area with a high record of cultrelated activities.

Cultism spreading to other communities in Rivers According to the state Police Chief, cultism is not restricted to only the local government.

It has extended to other areas he styled as fringe communities to Port Harcourt.

These include Ubima, home to former governor Chibuike Amaechi in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Rumuji communities in Emohua Local Government Area, Bori in Khana Local Government Area , Eleme and some communities

in Asari Toru,Akuku Toru and Degema local goverment areas.

In Ibaa and some other communities VF gathered that the tussle for chieftaincy stools have been largely responsible for proliferation of cult groups.

In Ibaa two top contenders to the chieftaincy stool of the community, Eze Kingsley Iyenke and Eze Princewill Nwakama alleged that a third contestant recruited cultists to harass and intimidate members of the community.

They further alleged that their houses were destroyed by the cultists, adding that they had to flee the community for their dear lives. “I have not been to my community for a long time now because of these cult boys being used to intimidate innocent people.

They burnt my house. I even live in hiding in Port Harcourt,” Iyenke said.

Iyenke recalled that these cultists allegedly murdered his brother, Samuel Iyenke, a masters degree holder in Analytical Chemistry from a university in the United States of America when he came home some time ago.

I have not been to my community for a long time now because of these cult boys being used to intimidate innocent people; they burnt my house; I even live in hiding in Port Harcourt

*Alex Jona ...shot dead by suspected cultists in Gada area of PH A resident in Ikwerre local government, Mr Amadi James, said in communities in the local government, some persons recruit cult groups to settle scores over land ownership and farm lands.

Mr Ezike said his command was doing everything to redress the challenges of insecurity arising from cultism. He paraded 74 cultists arrested from different locations in the state. He said his men also arrested a native doctor providing charms for some of the cultists.

The Police boss said AK47 rifles and locally made guns were among items recovered from them. He also paraded about 15 suspected kidnappers arrested by his men from different operations.

Mr Ezike called for support from the public to rid the state of hoodlums and brigands.

On his part, Governor Nyesom Wike said his government will be intolerant to criminals, kidnappers and other criminal elements, assuring that they will be fished out and dealt with.The governor gave force to his position with the recent signing into law of an amended anti kidnap bill.

With the new law in place any convicted kidnapper will lose

*Hope Alison ...murdered by suspected cultists in Etche

his landed properties and other valuables to the state. The governor explained that the new law will deter others from going into such crime. There has been a close relationship between kidnapping and cultism in the state. Most of the kidnappings have been carried out by suspected cultists.

Council boss hands 7-day ultimatum to cultists Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area, Mr Philip Okparaji, said he had handed a seven-day ultimatum to all cultists in his local government to repent or be ready to face the wrath of the law.

Repentant cultists According to him, cultists recently chased the paramount ruler of Ebubu community, Chief Emmanuel Bebe, from his domain because he was preaching peace in the area. He gave the names of the group terrorising his area as Red and Black. The paramount ruler could not, however, be reached for comment. Meantime, Mr Okparaji, said his government was ready to rehabilitate repentant cultists in the local government.

He blamed the rise in cult activities in his council to what he termed failure of government in the past.

“They call themselves Red and Black in Eleme here. We experience incidents of cultism; rivalry between two groups are what we face here. We have given them seven days to renounce their membership. We want them to live a meaningful life. We will give them skill acquisition.

Failure of governance in the past was responsible for the situation. This problem has been on in the last two years.

Emmanuel Bebe, the Paramount ruler of Ebubu does not stay in his place because of cultists. They chased him away. The traditional ruler

called for a peace meeting in his community sometime ago and one group said they didn’t want peace, while the other group sued for it. Somehow one group chased him out of the town, “ he said.

Intervention of the Church The churches have also been actively involved in the move to rid the state of cultists. Recently about 40 youths who confessed to being members of various cult groups renounced their membership of the sinister organisations at a deliverance programme organised by about 50 clergymen in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area.

Reverend Nwachinemere Okundo, who led the other clergymen in the deliverance programme, charged the repentant cultists to completely flee from such, saying cultism had claimed so many lives of energetic youths in their prime.

Empowerment packages Some of the ex-cultists blamed idleness for their involvement in cultism. They said they were recruited by their leaders who promised them jobs and other empowerment packages.

“They told us that we could get jobs in companies operating around us in Onne when we belong to cult groups. But most of us have not seen the jobs.

Rather we were being used to fight battles of supremacy among our leaders,” one of them told VF. He further appealed to the state government to create jobs for the youths, stressing that if they were productively engaged they will not have time for acts of cultism.

On his part, Reverend Okundo and the other clergymen enjoined parents and guardians to give adequate attention to their children and wards. He said they should mind the type of friends their children keep, adding that they should strive to be good examples to them.

58—WEDNESDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 12, 2015

Narrow escape •Robbery victim survives after extraction of 7 pellets from body •as security agents commence patrol

By Nwabueze Okonkwo, ONITSHA

T

he survival of a robbery victim, Emma Obiajulu Awogu, after seven pellets of bullets were extracted from his body, having been shot several times in the chest at close range by vicious armed robbers at Upper Iweka axis of Onitsha, Anambra state, still remains a source of joy to his family members, friends and wellwishers.

A father of four, Awogu, a native of Atani community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra state, a media practitioner based in Lagos and formerly, a circulation manager attached to the defunct Classic Magazine, according to the source, was on his way to Awka, capital of Anambra state, when the two-man armed robbery gang operating on a motorcycle attacked him under the Upper Iweka fly-over bridge.

Police Inspector to the rescue The source hinted that after the robbers dispossessed him of all his personal effects including cash, phone, handbag and other valuables, they pumped bullets into his body and drove away, leaving him in his pool of blood. It was gathered that one Inspector George Akhimien, attached to Okpoko Police Station who arrived the scene shortly after the incident, rushed him to a nearby hospital, Good News Hospital located along the Atani road, Onitsha and instructed the hospital management to commence immediate medical treatment on the victim. The source also stated that when the medical personnel commenced treatment, they extracted about seven pellets from his body and they are still making frantic efforts to save his life.

Police trail suspects Efforts to reach the Divisional Police Officer, DPO

Last week, about 30 patrol vans filled up with a team of security agencies commenced the patrol in Onitsha. They went round all the nooks and crannies of the commercial city before heading to the state capital at Okpoko for comments failed but reliable sources at the division said they were on the trail of the hoodlums who have been terrorizing innocent citizens within the Upper Iweka axis.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Alli Okechukwu (DSP), who simply confirmed the incident to Crime Alert on phone, said he was yet to get the detailed information about it..

Family commends medical personnel However, younger brother to the victim, Comrade Arinze Awogu, who spoke on phone, yesterday, said it was the promptness of doctors and nurses at the hospital, with state-of-the art equipment and God at the helm of affairs, that saved his elder brother. He described the survival as a miracle, adding that it was only God that could have stopped any of the seven pellets fired at him at such a close range from piercing through his liver and killing him instantly.

Security agents resume patrol Following this development, security agencies in Anambra state, including the Army, Police, Civil defence, Directorate of Security

Services, DSS, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA and others have resumed a joint patrol in all parts of the state to send a stern warning to all criminal elements operating in the state to stay away.

Their resumption, according to an inside source, might not be unconnected with the resurgence of hostilities by armed robbers and vicious gangs who operate with motorcycles and attack innocent citizens almost on a daily basis at Upper Iweka in Onitsha and other parts of the state.

It would be recalled that recently, another journalist

attached to Onitsha Catholic Archdiocesan Newspaper, Trinitas, John Anulumadu, was attacked by a two-man robbery gang who operated on a motorcycle on top of the Upper Iweka fly-over bridge.

Governor Obiano had shortly on resumption of office last year, set up the joint task force of security agencies in the name of Operation Kpochapu and unleashed them on criminals which led to total sanitization of the state as criminals fled the state and it became quiet. The state remained quiet until recently, when the robbers gradually resumed operations after the security agencies

relaxed their monitoring activities and daily patrols.

However, last week, about 30 patrol vans filled up with a team of security agents commenced the patrol in Onitsha.

They went round all the nooks and crannies of the commercial city before heading to the state capital, Awka, and other parts of the state to herald their resumption.

Meanwhile, the police in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, over the week, arrested about 30 suspected criminals at various flashpoints as they commenced raids in the area.

Hoodlums on rampage in Oshodi •Properties worth millions destroyed

By Esther Onyegabula

I

n spite of governments consistent efforts to curb the activities of miscreants in the popular Oshodi area of Lagos state, a gang of hoodlums seem to have defied all security checks and have constantly posed a big threat to people and residents of the area.

Recently, the dare-devils invaded Oshodi area and its environs in their numbers, unleashing terror and destroying properties worth millions of naira.

The crowd numbering over hundred stormed the area brandishing dangerous weapons during a supremacy tussle with a rival group following the removal of an abandoned caterpillar in Salami Street by the owner.

It was gathered that one of the warring cult groups in Agboile street demanded N40, 000 while the rival group from Afarogun street, demanded N80,000 from the owner of the abandoned caterpillar before he could tow it out of the vicinity.

Crime Alert learned that the caterpillar in question has been abandoned for over ten years before the owner decided to move it out of where it was parked. However, when cultists in the area got wind of it, they ordered the owner of the property to settle them with N40, 000, before towing the

caterpillar. The man was still attempting to negotiate with the hoodlums when another group from Afarogun demanded for N 80,000 before theywould allow him move the truck.

Irked by the latter demand, the Agboile group attacked their rival who they felt had no right to make any demands since the caterpillar wasn’t parked in their vicinity.

According to a resident at Salami Street where the fracas started, Paul Bukola, “ we were here when touts numbering hundreds, holding cutlasses, sticks and axes started destroying parked vehicles and shops in the area. These people attacked us in broad day light, holding cutlasses and other dangerous weapons and all the police could do was blare their sirens all over the place after the miscreants had gone. The activities of cult groups in the area are unimaginable. This is not the first or second time these set of hoodlums will take laws into their hands and unleash terror on residents in the area.

They destroyed shops and vehicles parked along Akiode street.”

Another victim, Chris Aririguzo, whose restaurant ‘Big Rank Rendezvous’ was destroyed told Crime Alert, “I don’t know why my shop will always be a target of their destruction.

Each time they go on

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 59

Greece accepts tough bail out G REECE agreed to harsh terms for a new three-year bailout yesterday and vowed to push it through parliament this week, despite mounting dissent in the ruling leftwing party.

With the country facing the risk of a debt default next week, Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras had sought to speed up the talks and get approval of a deal this week.

After Greece and its creditors reached an accord on the main points on Tuesday, Tsipras called for an emergency session of parliament for a vote late Thursday.

Greece needs to start

tapping the new bailout — worth 85 billion euros ($93 billion) — so that it can make a key debt repayment next week and secure its future in the euro. The draft agreement forces Tsipras to accept what he had vowed to resist only months ago: the sale of some state property and deep cuts to pensions, military spending and ending tax credits to people considered vulnerable.

Officials in Athens and the European Union said a few issues were left to be ironed out Tuesday.

“We are very close. Two or three very small details

•Alexis Tsipras remain,” Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos said as he emerged Tuesday morning from all-night discussions with creditors.

Zuma down plays killing of Zimbabwe’s lion was wearing a tracking

S

OUTH African President Jacob Zuma yesterday brushed aside the killing of Zimbabwean lion Cecil, dismissing the animal’s death as “just an incident.”

Describing the death of Cecil as an honest mistake, Zuma said the hunter — American Walter Palmer — was probably unaware he was shooting one of Zimbabwe’s most beloved animals.

“The hunter did not know Cecil was so popular, he just saw a lion and killed a lion,” said Zuma, giggling as he spoke at a press briefing in Pretoria. “My feeling is

that the fellow did not know.”

Palmer, a dentist from Minnesota, paid $55,000 (50,000 euros) to shoot a lion with a bow and arrow in July. The hunt provoked worldwide outrage when it emerged that Cecil was a favourite attraction among visitors to Zimbawbe’s Hwange National Park and

collar as part of an Oxford University research project.

Zimbabwe has requested that the United States extradite Palmer to face charges over the hunt.

Palmer ’s guide on the expedition, Theo Bronkhorst, appeared in court last week. He was granted $1,000-bail pending his trial on September 28 on charges of organising an illegal hunt. Zimbabwe introduced strict hunting restrictions earlier this month in the wake of the killing, but lifted most of them on Monday. Zuma said Zimbabwe had the appropriate legislation in place to regulate the hunting industry.

Management Authority said “The suspension of wildlife hunting in all other areas outside the parks estate has been lifted with immediate effect.” Hunts for lions, leopards and elephants will require written confirmation from the Zimbabwe Parks

and Wildlife Management Authority and park staff will accompany the hunters.

Minnesota dentist Walter Palmer shot the animal with a bow and arrow, skinned and beheaded it and left its corpse.

•Jacob Zuma

European Union approves 2.4 billion euros funding for migration crisis … Mugabe lifts ban on hunting

T

HE European Commission has approved 2.4 billion euros (2 billion pounds) of aid over six years for countries including Greece and Italy that have struggled to cope with a surge in numbers of immigrants.

Italy is to receive the most aid - nearly 560 million euros, while Greece will receive 473 million.

Tensions have escalated this year as thousands of migrants from the Middle East and Africa try to gain asylum in the European Union.

Calais, a bottleneck for migrants attempting to enter Britain illegally through the Eurotunnel from France, has seen several migrant deaths this month. Britain has

already received its 27 million euros from the commission in emergency aid funding, which it applied for in March. France will receive its 20 million euros later this month.

However, neither country has requested additional aid for security in Calais and will not receive funds from the aid programmes announced today.

Trump campaign suffers blowback

•Trump

D

ONALD Trump, the defiant, mercurial reality TV host leading the Republican presidential nomination race, is facing a backlash over his crude comments and fears he could mount an independent White House bid.

The trash-talking billionaire has upended the Republican campaign, refusing to apologize for suggesting that a popular Fox News debate moderator asked him tough questions because she was menstruating.

“She should be apologizing to me,” Trump told MSNBC early

Monday, after appearing on several Sunday talk shows to defend his suggestion that Megyn Kelly had “blood coming out of her wherever” as she questioned him during last week’s Republican debate.

Trump has shot to the top of the Republican field, invoking a rebellious, tone imp rovisational embraced by supporters, and striking fear into a party establishment keen to see a serious, viable candidate emerge to battle

CNN host 16 GOP presidential hopefuls Sept 16 debates

A

LL but one of the 17 Republicans vying for the party’s presidential nomination have made the cut so far for the next debates hosted by CNN, the network said yesterday in a decision that could leave former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore on the sidelines.

CNN and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, which is co-hosting the Sept. 16 debates, said invitations have been sent by former first lady Nancy

MH17 investigators find ‘possible’ BUK missile fragments

I

likely Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

“I think the guy went way overboard — offensive, outrageous. Pick your adjective,” Clinton told reporters on the campaign trail in New Hampshire.

Trump earned 19 percent support, compared with 12 percent for neurologist Ben Carson and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, and 11 percent for Jeb Bush, according to Public Policy Polling’s survey of Republican voters in Iowa released Monday.

NVESTIGATORS probing the shooting down of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine said yesterday they had identified pieces that “possibly” come from a Russian-made BUK missile, where the plane crashed.

International and Dutch investigators are probing “several parts, possibly originating from a BUK surface-air-missile system,” said a joint statement from prosecutors and the Dutch Safety Board (OVV).

Reagan to 16 candidates who meet their criteria. All but Gilmore “have qualified thus far and have received invitations,” they said in a statement.

Earlier this year CNN said candidates must meet certain criteria, including an average of 1 percent of support in three recent national polls. CNN’s latest poll released showed Gilmore at the bottom of the pack with less than one percent.

“Additional candidates will receive invitations if they meet all of the previously released debate criteria.” CNN and the library said.

Like last week’s Republican presidential debates hosted by Fox News, the CNN event will actually be two debates dividing the crowded Republican field into two groups, with one featuring the top 10 candidates.

A

BOUT 10 days after the killing of Cecil the lion, which generated worldwide condemnation, Zimbabwe lifted its ban on the hunting of lions, leopards and elephants on Monday. Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife

CAR urged to include refugees in October poll

W

ITH just over a month left before presidential elections are held in Central African Republic, experts and humanitarians are concerned that time is running out for authorities to create a representative voters roll in the country marred by ongoing conflict.

David Smith, an adviser to the Institute of Security Studies (ISS) in Johannesburg, said failure to include people in rural areas or refugees currently

in Chad and Cameroon in October’s vote, “would take a problematic election and make it very flawed”.

“So far, it is only people in the capital, Bangui, that have been put on electoral roll ... most people are in rural areas and they have one month to put it all together,” Smith told Al Jazeera on Tuesday, adding that if “these elections are to be remotely legitimate, refugees would [also] have to vote”.

Smith’s comments come days after the United Nations Security Council said it was

“absolute priority” for the election on October 18 to be an inclusive one.

The country’s transitional government, in power since January 2014, issued a draft electoral bill on June 30, saying that refugees who wished to vote had to first return to the country.

On July 22 the country’s highest court overturned the decision by the transitional parliament but it is still not clear when the government will repeal on the electoral bill.

Rival Libya factions resume peace talks in Geneva

R

IVAL Libyan factions yesterday restarted peace talks aimed at creating a unity government, with representatives of the powerful Tripoli parliament joining the negotiations after boycotting them last month. Libya, which plunged into chaos after the fall of Moamer Kadhafi in 2011, currently has two rival parliaments vying for power as well several militia groups battling for control of the country’s vast resource wealth.

United Nations special envoy Bernardino Leon, who is brokering the talks in Geneva, is urging the key camps to reach a political deal in the hope that a unity government could enforce a durable ceasefire.

A partial deal was reached last month, but leaders of the Islamistbacked General National Congress parliament that sits in Tripoli boycotted the

pact, calling it “unsatisfactory”. Leon told reporters on Tuesday that all key actors were represented in the new round in Geneva, “without exception.”

He laid out an ambitious timetable, calling for a comprehensive deal that installs a new unity

government to be concluded before the next UN General Assembly meeting in September.

“This could be ideal. But of course, we know that we are in a very complex process,” Leon said. “So at this stage let me leave it as an ideal timetable.”

Rights Group urge DR Congo to protect civilians in Katanga ethnic strife

A

UTHORITIES in the Democratic Republic of Congo must protect civilians from rival Bantu and Pygmy fighters in a conflict that has killed hundreds since 2013, Human Rights Watch said Tuesday.

“The widespread killing and displacement of civilians” in northern Katanga province “show the urgent need” for government protection, the New York-based HRW said in a report.

Fighting broke out two years ago between a tribe of the Bantu majority, the Luba, and Pygmies from the Batwa group, who consider that they have long been marginalised, exploited and despised.

Raids on settlements and clashes between opposing forces, armed mainly with machetes and bows and arrows, have frequently led to massacres, looting and the burning of villages in the southeastern province.

60 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 VIRGO; It’s true you’re willing to work harder but you just have to drop both aggression and mental arrogance to allow things to roll accordingly. Then, you’re accident prone within your working arena.

Respect the law and its agents today.

LIBRA; Serious thought may be giving to matters of the heart but it’s better you tarry a while. Joint ventures of short duration today may be an invitation to avoidable trouble SCORPIO; If you back your financial plans with concrete and positive actions things’ll go according to your desire. If you fail to realise importance of your spouse you would work your way into avoidable trouble; aren’t you tired of crisis?

SAGITTARIUS; Your intelligence, competence and level of concentration may today bring you envy, which you don’t deserve within your working arena in a negative form but.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

A

lady recently said to me - This weather is just not friendly. The sun is too much. Let the sun subside before I do it. And I looked at her and said, ‘Supposing it starts raining

The Weather now, what will you do?’ The truth is that the weather has never been friendly.

Of course, it is not the business of the weather to be friendly to you. But

TERROR MUDA

your duty is to do everything within your power to be able to use the weather as it is. Tell me, have you ever seen a perfect weather? Whether rain or sun, people

in “Never say goodbye”

have always complained. Yet, some people are making fortune from it, rain or sunshine. You too must do the same. For he that must succeed does not need to look at the weather.

By Lanre Kehinde

CAPRICORN; The Moon highlights your Solar second house of money which is good but, if you try to buy true love with money, you’ll be disappointed AQUARIUS; The Moon in your Star sign’ll gives you new confidence and with new supports from the powersthat-be, it’s like you are now un-stop-able. But be cautious, especially with the veterans within your base of operation PISCES; Better days are ahead of you but, you will today need to do away with non-productive argument and/or agreement. Try to be more diplomatic now.

ARIES; If what you’re doing today ’ll depend on tomorrow’s event it’s better you’re more careful now.

Even things may not go according to your personal plans today. Yet it’s important you plan both your immediate and far future carefully now.

TAURUS; If you take to aggression, your ego would be deflated by your superior colleagues, but your being co-operative in a civilised way’ll prevent trouble

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

GEMINI; Those willing to put you to shame one way or the other’ll be disappointed with the turn of things today. It’s good to secure support of your spouse.

CANCER; You’ve had enough of fun in the recent times and it’s now time you settle down for hard work in order to prevent avoidable trouble. Be patient please.

LEO; Your concentration level and determination are the pillars of your success today. Yet you’ll need to respect your senior colleagues and protect your image.

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,

Success for me?

What’s is my Success?

Dear Joshua, I am interested in your Astrological counselling.

Kindly tell me everything about myself, especially my finance and career; would I be rich eventually, if yes what should I do to make it happen quickly.

Jackson, Ogun .

Dear Jackson, There are indications of financial success for you but you can not change what Almighty God Has designed for you talking about the timing (the quickness you talked in your letter) Certainly however no failure for you.

Mercury –the planet of education and Accountancy, together with mighty Sun at positive angle to planets in Virgo (another Accounting Star sign) attracted you to both Accountancy profession and the academic world.

Truly you did not make wrong choice of career.

Money will eventually come along this line but it’ll not be as faster as if you take to OIL REL ATED BUSINESS. Because Neptune (the planet of OIL) was very comfortable when you were born. It will not be out of place if you have filling stations as time goes by, because you are basically a GAS PERSON. Another money spinning vocation for you include writing either along your line or for film making industry; it is important you exhibit the higher quotient of creativity in your innerself. Yes your dream of becoming A Professor will come to reality. Politics is another area you are not looking at now but will surely come. Do you say why? Because Aquarius is equally political.

Venus that was powerfully placed when you were born is all about MONEY. Thus you have special ability to make money. And as it was at positive angle to disciplined Saturn, you are not giving to serious frivolity. One major challenge here is envy by others but you will eventually overcome. Another source of challenges is your love life which looks not totally balanced.

Basically you are a family minded person. You are equally loving and caring. But sometimes your love of freedom get better off you to the resentment of your closer partner(s).Then some other times it is other party’s fault making love-business very interesting. And unless you are more careful and determined you may marry more than once.

VIRGINIA

HOME & ABROAD

dadadekola@yahoo.com

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015 — 61

Courtois to miss City clash C

OUT....Referee Michael Oliver (right) shows goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois red card during the match against Swansea on August 8 at Stamford Bridge.

Okwaraji Continues from BP qualifying match against Angola at the National Stadium, Lagos.

On the eve of the 26th anniversary of the unfortunate incident that saw one of the brightest midfielders in Nigeria football history die of cardiac arrest, Pinnick put a call through to Lady Jane Okwaraji, Samuel’s mother who lives in Owerri.

“Mama, there is nothing I can say other than to tell you to continue to take solace in the fact that Sochukwuma was a star for Nigeria, a name that no one has

been able to forget no matter how much they tried. He was the quintessential professional and patriot per excellence.

“Please be rest assured that Sochukwuma will continue to be in our hearts and consciousness. He was a rare gem. I assure you that the NFF will continue to keep in touch with you.”

Pinnick recalled that as a young boy, he was at the National Stadium to watch the big match only to go home with a heavy heart after news broke of Okwaraji’s tragic departure.

“It was a horrible day, for someone like me and several other Nigerians who were right inside the National Stadium, Lagos that day. By all accounts, Sam Okwaraji was a c o n s u m m a t e professional and was a shining example of patriotic fervor.”

NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi was also one of the scores of thousands of fans at the National Stadium, Lagos that fateful day.

Sanusi said: “That was a day better –forgotten.

We lost one of the most dedicated and committed players to have featured for any of the National Teams.”

NFF

Continues from BP attracted mixed reactions, but Pinnick insisted that Oliseh was Nigeria’s own version of Pep Guardiola.

“People are talking about experience.

Experience is the accumulation of knowledge over a period of time. Football today is driven by technology and Oliseh is quite up to date. He is like Pep Guardiola,” said Mr. Pinnick while speaking on AIT to mark his 11 months in office.

He argued that Oliseh C M Y K

has proved that he was worthy of his appointment as coach of the national team.

“We don’t have any regrets selecting Oliseh. If you know what he has done in the last one month you will know that he is a true professional.

“He is not just a coach, he is a manager. He manages the confidence of the players. A lot of countries in Africa wanted him, but he held back for Nigeria. He has so much capacity and

we have so much confidence in him. He will deliver.”

He submitted that the NFF was bent on hiring a foreign coach after Keshi was shown the exit door, but it was a news article on Oliseh that informed the decision to bring him on board.

“We were already in touch with a world class coach. As we were talking one of our members drew my attention to an article about Oliseh. Amazing article it was.”

HELSEA h a v e failed in their bid to have Thibaut Courtois’ red card against Swansea City overturned.

Courtois will therefore serve a one-match ban ruling him out of the crunch showdown with title rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

“A claim of wrongful dismissal submitted by Chelsea in relation to Thibaut Courtois has been unsuccessful following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing earlier today,” an FA statement read.

“The goalkeeper was dismissed for denying a goal scoring opportunity in the 52nd minute of Chelsea’s game against Swansea City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday (8 August 2015).

“Therefore, the player ’s one-match suspension, which is the standard penalty for this offence, remains with immediate effect.

“For a club to be successful with a claim of wrongful dismissal, it must prove to an Independent Regulatory Commission via written and/or video evidence that the match referee made an obvious error.”

Toro

Continues from BP that he found it more ridiculous that former executive member of FIFA, Dr Amos Adamu backed the former Governor’s ambition.

Toro said that Nigerians in high positions should be careful not to mislead Kalu and make Nigeria a laughing stock in the world. ‘’With due respect to Kalu, his credentials with Enyimba is not enough to catapult him to FIFA. He did well with the club but he should be told about the rules and guidelines.

Nobody wakes up to join the queue to become FIFA President overnight’’, Toro said.

He faulted Dr Adamu for not telling Kalu the truth on FIFA. ‘’ I don’t think Dr Adamu that I know can make that statement credited to him by a section of the media. If he actually made that statement, then I am disappointed. ‘’The former Bauchi State Sports Commissioner and former

Pellegrini tips Toure for greatness

M

ANCHESTER City manager ManuelPellegrinihastipped star midfielder Yaya Toure to returntohisbestformthisseason after opening the new Premier League campaign with a brace against West Brom.

“I always said last season it was a strange season for Yaya, he started with a lot of problems, the death of his brother, his agents”, said the Chilean.

“I think he was not focused on what he had to do last year.

“We spoke before the start of the season and I am very sure we will see the Yaya from two ears ago. He is a very important player for us.

I don’t think Yaya deserved the amount of criticism he received last season. He is an important player for us. It is very difficult for a player when you have so many problems.”

•Toure House of Representatives member said that Kalu does not have the platform to

contest for that exalted position. ‘’People should not deceive Kalu’’, Toro emphasised.

FIFA Presidency Continues from BP excitement as Nigeria Football Federation appears reluctant to be drawn into declaring support for the former Abia State governor.

Uzor-Kalu, declared his intention to replace Sepp Blatter in the February 2016 elections, but that move is now a subject of discussion among top football enthusiasts. Nigeria Football Federation president, Amaju Pinnick stated yesterday that the matter will be discussed by the executive committee of the NFF and its position will be made known.

“All I can say is that every decision regarding who to support for the FIFA election will be taken by the executive committee.

“But let me also add that there is this eligibility clause to run for the FIFA election.

Article 13 sub-section 1.

States that you must be in active football for the last five years as a referee, chairman of a club, president of a federation, member of executive committee and you must be actively connected to running of football in the last five years.

The NFF executive committee will surely take a decision on the matter. We appreciate his contributions to Nigeria football and we will support him in any capacity.

“Orji Uzor Kalu has done well for Nigerian football. The history of the game will not be complete without mentioning his name.

He was instrumental to Enyimba’s winning of the champions league back to back in 2003 and 2004. But that was a long time ago,” Pinnick said.

62—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015—63 —63

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2015

FIFA Presidency: NFF meets over Kalu’s ambition

O

RJI Uzor Kalu’s ambition to become the next FIFA president is generating Continues on Page 61

We’ll swim, sink with Oliseh – NFF

•Pinnick

•Kalu

BY BEN EFE

N

IGERIA Football Federation president, Amaju Pinnick affirmed yesterday that the appointment of former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh was not a mistake. He added that the NFF has full confidence Oliseh will deliver results.

Oliseh, was appointed in July after coach Stephen Keshi was fired for job hunting. The appointment of Oliseh

Continues on Page 61

Kalu: Toro faults Adamu •Warns about misleading him

BY SOLOMON NWOKE

F

ORMER Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Association, NFA, Sani Ahmed Toro has

laughed off Dr Orji Uzo Kalu’s dream of replacing Sepp Blatter as FIFA’s next president.

Toro who called our hotline yesterday said Continues on Page 61

‘Okwaraji, a true patriot’ P

•Late Sam Sochukwuma Okwaraji

RESIDENT of Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick has praised the patriotism and

professionalism of Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji, who died on August 12, 1989 while

playing for the Senior National Team in a 1990 FIFA World Cup

Continues on Page 61

•Blatter

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S PUZZLE

MONDAY'S ANSWERS

ACROSS 3 Enquired (5) 9 Encourage (6) 10 Puzzle (6) 11 Tendency (5) 12 Thought (4) 15 Pleasant (4) 17 Seance (7) 20 Child (3) 21 Magnificent (5) 23 Cheese (4) 25 Trampled (5) 26 Rescuer (5) 28 Serpent (3) 30 Despair (7) 33 Thrash (4) 35 Always (4) 36 Marsupial (5) 38 Trifles (6) 39 Die (6) 40 Commerce (5)

DOWN 1 Sponsorship (5) 2 Pane (5) 3 Skill (3) 4 Cord (6) 5 Sea-eagle (4) 6 Performed (3) 7 Confess (5) 8 Cap (5) 13 Varied (7) 14 Map-book (5 16 Forgive (7) 18 Avarice (5) 19 Insect (3) 22 Curtain (5) 24 Rug (3) 27 Staggered (6) 28 Diminish (5) 29 Confusion (5) 31 Egg-shaped (5) 32 Parched (5) 34 Fly (4) 36 Equipment (3) 37 Hatchet (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Healed 5, Stable 9, Water 10, Rafter 11, Earned 12, Reedy 14, Said 17, Dry 18, Here 20, Shrew 22, Jaded 23, Pirated 24, Baton 26, Tenet 29, Edit 30, Fit 32, Site 33, Vicar 35, Regain 36, Puppet 37, Ceded 38, Reeked 39, Render.

DOWN: 1, Harass, Affair 3, Ewer 4, Dared 5, Seedy 6, Tray 7, Banned 8, Endued 13, Erratic 15, Ahead 16, Depot 18, Hades 19, Reset 21, Win 22, Jet 24, Bearer 25, Tingle 27, Nipped 28, Tester 30, Fined 31, Taper 33, Vice 34, Rude.

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