NORTHERN CONFAB DELEGATES TO JONATHAN: Don't contest in 2015, or ...

...towards a better life for the people

**

VOL. 25: NO. 62208

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

EBOLA: ECOWAS >>56-57 OSUN ELECTION: We official who received Sawyer dies in Lagos

were offered N14m >>8 bribe —DSS

NORTHERN CONFAB DELEGATES TO JONATHAN:

Don't contest in 2015, or ...

•President planning third term, Coomassie, Gambari, Ayu, Dalhatu, Ibrahim, Useni, others allege

•They are mischievious — Presidency

By Emmanuel Aziken, Henry Umoru, Charles Kumolu, Dapo Akinrefon & Gbenga Oke

A

BUJA — N o r t h e r n delegates at the on-going National Conference, yesterday, alleged that the conference has been deliberately diverted to promote the political ambitions of President Goodluck Jonathan, saying that a draft constitution circulated to delegates was skewed to promote a third term plot for the President.

Leaders of the Northern delegates, who addressed the press in Abuja, claimed that any attempt

by President Jonathan to contest the presidential election next year would plunge the country into anarchy as they claimed he was not qualified under existing constitutional provisions.

Their claim was debunked last night by spokesman of the Southern delegates, Mr.

Continues on page 5

COLUMNIST:

Ebola virus, the absurd and •P.19 urban legends

Mr & Mrs

INFERNO: Fire from an oil spill site at Ikarama community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, yesterday.

Photo: NAN

Ribadu declares >>9 for PDP >>60

See 8-page pull-out inside

Anxiety over poor state of primary/ secondary schools in Enugu

2 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 3

•Joyce Banda

C M Y K

4 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —5

POCKET CARTOON

They're up to blackmail, says Odumakin

Countering their CERTIFICATE OF RETURN: National Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Com- assertion last night, Mr. mission (INEC), Ambassador Muhammed Wali (left); presenting Certificate of Return to Governor

Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State. With them are: Deputy Governor, Mrs Titi Laoye-Tomori; Secretary of the commission, Mr Oladipo Oladapo; Acting Director, Legal, Mr Ibrahim Bawa (3rd left) at the INEC office, Osogbo, Osun State, yesterday.

Don't contest in 2015, or.....

Continues from Page 1 Yinka Odumakin, who accused the northern delegates of blackmail, saying all issues included in the draft constitution were agreed to at the conference.

Odumakin challenged leaders of the Northern delegates to point one issue strange to them that was not agreed on at the plenary session of the conference.

Meanwhile, the Presidency, yesterday blasted the Northern Elders Forum, NEF, over its two month-ultimatum to President Jonathan to effect the release of the abducted Chibok girls or forget his re-election quest.

The Presidency said Jonathan does not require any threat or ultimatum from the north or any group of persons to perform his job.

Addressing journalists at the Gombe Jewel Hotel, Wuse 11, Abuja, Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF and former InspectorGeneral of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie, warned that if the document which he described as a third term agenda was not killed at the conference, it would, like in 2005, lead to anarchy, violence and chaos.

The northern delegates who distanced themselves from the draft

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

Confidence is beautiful. No matter your size, no matter your eight, be confident in who you are and you will be beautiful

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

If you limit your choice only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is a compromise — Robert Fritz

T

HE path of least resistance is an alluring op tion to accomplish goals in a simple and easy fashion and we tend to choose this path towards the accomplishment of our aims. Choosing the path of least resistance does not involve the “regular” conscious decision making process, such as evaluating what tasks need to be done and trying to figure out what possible obstacles and barriers could limit you from reaching your goal and it does not involve the creation of your own strategies to accomplish the aim.

Whenever you are confronted with the option to choose the path of least resistance, try to keep in mind that it is not always the most conscious choice!

However, it can in some cases save you a lot of time, so try to choose the path that fulfils you most, even if it is the consciously chosen path of least resistance.

Constitution, however, noted that its appearance on Monday was a surprise to them as well as shocking and what they described as disappointment to them as Northern delegates and Nigerians in general.

They said as members of the National Conference and by constitution, it was not within the purview of delegates to draft a new constitution, adding that the document was illegal.

Coomasie, who spoke on behalf of the Northern delegates, said: “Adopting a new Constitution is, therefore, calculated to enable incumbent elective office holders who are statute-barred from going for Third Term at both federal and state levels, to run for offices again under the guise of running under a new Constitution.

"This will also have the consequential effect of depriving aspiring politicians from all political parties as well as all Nigerians of their rights to choices and preferences as enshrined in the constitution.

“If not arrested, the third term agenda, as in the past (2005), is capable of plunging Nigeria into another cycle of political chaos with potential of violence and anarchy.

“We, Northern delegates to the conference wish to assure patriotic Nigerians and all lovers of democracy that we are neither privy to nor were we accessory to the emergence of the controversial 'New Draft Constitution 2014.'

"We, therefore, unequivocally disown it, and emphatically dissociate ourselves from it. Accordingly, we will have nothing to do with

it, for the following legal, moral and political reasons: “Delegates to the conference were not elected, and therefore lack both legal, and moral authority to draft a new constitution for the Nigerian Federation.

Rather, we were constituted to serve as an ad hoc advisory mechanism for The President, as representatives of broad interests across the federation, and cannot, therefore, legally arrogate to ourselves the farreaching function of making a “ new ” constitution for the Federal Republic of Nigeria. That can only be done by an appropriately constituted Constituent Assembly.”

Coomasie, a delegate representing the North West Zone was flanked at the briefing after the over two hours meeting of the Northern Delegates by Mohammed Umara Kumalia; Lt. Gen. Jerry Useni; Prof. Iyorchia Ayu; Bashir Dalhatu; Gen. Salihu Ibrahim; Amb. Ibrahim Gambari; Air Vice Marshal Mutari Mohammed; Emir of Askira, Alhaji Abdullahi Ibn Muhammed.

The hall was full to the brim by the Northern Delegates.

Some delegates who were present include Senator Saidu Dansadau; Col. Bala Mande; Prof.

Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai: Senator Ahmed Aruwa; Hajia Aishatu Isma’il; Gen. A.B. Mamman; Arc. Ibrahim Bunu; Mallam Sani Zoro; Hauwa Evelyn Shekarau; Nurudeen Lemu; Naseer Kura; Ishaq Modibbo Kawu; Magaji Dambatta; among others.

Odumakin said: “They are trying to blackmail the conference about the draft constitution. What they are doing is just to blackmail the conference by saying that the draft constitution is Jonathan’s third term agenda.

"That is not the truth.

What the conference secretariat did was to place our decisions side by side with the 1999 constitution and what the constitution would look like if all that we have done is inputed into the constitution.

“So, there is not one item in that document that was not discussed or agreed by the conference.

What they want to do is scuttle the conference and reopen issues that we have left, they want to now turn round and blackmail the conference that it is all about Jonathan’s third term and all that. That is not true, I challenge them to show one item that was in that conference that was not agreed by the conference delegates.

“So, I advise them to desist from circulating rumours in order to arm twist the conference or misinform the public.”

NEF up to mischief — Presidency

Reacting yesterday to the claim by the NEF that the presidency was fanning the insurgency for political reasons, the Senior Special Assistant to the president on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe in a statement yesterday said that the “suggestion that the Government is carrying out any scheme to annihilate any section of the country for political gain is preposterous, contrary to common sense, divisive and essentially a deliberate attempt to disseminate “hate mentality ” and cause mischief”.

According to the statement, “we wish to state categorically that

President Jonathan does not require any threat or ultimatum from any group of persons to be alive to his responsibilities to the Nigerian People.

“The issue of insurgency, especially those ideologically based on Islamic extremism is a global phenomenon and requires tact, military capability, serious deradicalisation techniques and community based counter insurgency programmes to ensure success.

“In these areas, the Federal Government is making progress. We are improving on our operational capabilities and efficiencies by acquiring more advanced weapons and technologies for our military and security agencies. We have drafted more military personnel to the region to strengthen the fighting power of our armed forces.

We are taking advantage of the offers from our international military and intelligence allies to assist in identifying key locations.

“We are working with our neighbours to secure the borders and limit the movements of Boko Haram fighters, building on the agreements reached at the recent summits in Paris and London.

“We are deploying more resources to maximize operational efficiency, acquire more advanced and relevant weaponry and boost the general morale of our combatants.

This is why the Government recently requested for an additional funding of $1bn.

“And the last piece in the puzzle is targeting the domestic and international funding, and stopping the money flows into the coffers of the terrorists.

“With all these efforts and the support of our allies, these steps will help fight the threat of the Boko haram and move us closer to bringing the girls back safely.

“President Goodluck Jonathan was voted for by Continues on Page 9

6—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

NDLEA nabs syndicate with N322m drug at MMIA

By Daniel Eteghe

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A G O S — OPERATIVES of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, yesterday, arrested a 38year-old drug trafficker, Mr. Agbala Eze Cosmos, for smuggling 35.8 kilogrammes of methamphetamine worth about N322 million at the Murtala M u h a m m e d International Airport, MMIA, Lagos.

Cosmos was apprehended while attempting to export the illicit drug to Mozambique hiding it in oil filters.

Speaking on the arrest, NDLEA commander at Lagos airport, Mr. Hamza Umar, noted that the drugs were cleverly hidden inside oil filters.

According to him; ''Officers at the export section of the airport have made a seizure of methamphetamine hidden inside oil filters. ''The drug was cleverly concealed in a manner that makes it difficult to detect. We had to cut the filters open in order to recover the drug. In all, a total of 35.8kg of methamphetamine was found inside the oil filters.''

Why I killed my 65-yr-old mother, by suspect zSays people will eventually know he did the right thing

A

By Vincent Ujumadu

WKA—A 29-year- old man, Ekene Ucheagwu, who killed his 65-year-old mother, Agnes in her home at Ogbunka in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State was yesterday paraded by men of the Special Anti Robbery Squad, SARS, Awkuzu.

Ekene, a cobbler, said he had to kill his mother because she was using witchcraft to block the progress of her surviving four children.

Nar rating his story, the suspect said: “I decided to kill her because she did not allow the spirit of God to come into our family. ''Once she cursed anybody, that person will never progress and she was doing it to my brothers and sisters very often.

“I am the only one among her six children (two later died) that knew her secrets. My elder brother, who is 45 years old is yet to get married and

nobody in our area agrees to marry any of my sisters or their daughters to marry any of us.

“When I confronted her by calling her ‘queen of the coast’, she tried to kill me, having known that I knew her secrets and that was why I decided to kill her first.

“I hit her on the head with a big stick at night and she slumped and died and I carried her in a wheelbarrow that night to the Obukwu bush in my community where I burnt her body to ashes.”

He said that after some days of the incident, some people in the community, who did not see her, began to suspect that something terrible had happened, but they could not prove anything, adding that when he could not explain the whereabouts of his mother, the villagers banished him from the community.

Ekene said he fled to Aba, Abia State where he

L

AGOS—TWO traders, who stole properties, worth N8.134million, belonging to their employer, have been brought before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court.

The defendants are Rasaq Wasiu, 22 and Chinyereudo Ikechukwu, also 22.

The duo, whose residential addresses could not be ascertained, are facing a two count charge of conspiracy and stealing preferred against them, by the police.

The defendants and others at large, stole the properties, while their boss, who was ill, between June and July, was not around. He discovered the theft when he resumed work.

The prosecutor, Emby Ingobo, told the court that the defendants and others at large, committed the offences

action, he was regretting killing his mother, although he insisted that; ''When the kingdom of God finally comes, people would realise that I did the right thing.”

Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Uche Eze, who paraded the suspect said investigation into the matter was continuing.

The suspect; Ekene Ucheagwu.

Rapist, serial killer, robbers top arrested criminals in Ebonyi

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI—EBONYI State police command yesterday said it had arrested a serial killer, armed robbers, a rapist and 13 other suspected criminals in the State.

Speaking at the Command's

Headquarters in Abakaliki, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Maigari Dikko, said that his men nabbed members of a three-man gang of rapists who gangraped one Sandra Ajiogu and murdered one Chioma Ezekele, who were students

2 docked for stealing employer's N8.1m property

By Onozure Dania

continued with his business until men of SARS arrested him.

He said that his late mother never got married, adding that she had all her six children in her father ’s house and they all answer her maiden name.

He said that having realised the enormity of his

between June and July 2013.

He said the incident, happened at 3/4 Adeyemo Alakija Street, in Victoria Island area of the state.

Ingobo said that the defendants, stole tyres and sets of alloy rims, valued at N8,134,700, belonging to one Alhaji Kumar Olanrewaju.

Some of the stolen items are seven sets of Range Rover alloy rims valued at N3,150,000; four sets of V/ Wagon Formatic alloy rims valued at N1,680,000; two sets of Toyota Camry alloy rims valued at N150,000; a set of BMW alloy rims valued at N140,000; all belonging to Olanrewaju.

According to the prosecutor, the offences committed, are contrary to sections 409 and punishable under section 285 of the criminal law of Lagos state of Nigeria 2011.

The suspected rapist.

of Kingdom Secondary School, Idembia, Ezza South Local Government Area of the state.

He said one of the victims; Chioma Ezekele was shot dead because she refused one of the suspects, Sunday Nwali a.k.a Machine from

having carnal knowledge of her.

Dikko added that the police smashed a four-man gang of Uchenna Okereke, Chukwuma Ozoemena, Nwabueze Nwonu and Sunday Nwali for the murder of the son of one Orie Okorie.

He said: “The three suspects were arrested on June 5, 2014, charged for conspiracy and murder and remanded in prison custody.

“While on patrol along Amasiri/Ohoazara road, a team of policemen attached to Afikpo Area Command, intercepted three suspects, Agwu Moses Ikechukwu, 23, Elias Azubuike, 37, Ebere Stanley Eseni, 48 and Esolonu Ibe, 42 for unlawful possession of firearms “A 32-year-old man, Paul Emenike of Oguta, Imo State who specialised in using fabricated master key to steal vehicles/valuable properties was arrested on a tip off while trying to steal Mercedes Benz car with number plate AK 728 HZ, property of Oguji Gabriel of Nnebo Ofoke Ishieke village.

“A serial killer identified as Chukwuma Isaac of Okaria village in Abaomege, Onicha LGA rampaged his community by waylaying and murdering at the same spot and in cold blood.”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —7

Two infants burnt to death in Lagos

By Esther Onyegbula

L

AGOS—TWO children have reportedly died in a fire incident that razed a story building at 43, Salami Street, Mafoluku Oshodi in Lagos on Monday night.

According to reports the children identified as Joel Chukwu and Monadi Samuel were burnt to death before fire servicemen could rescue them.

Vanguard gathered that the inferno was allegedly caused by a candle which was lit by the family. Unfortunately the burning candle fell causing the fire that gutted their flat and consumed the children while they were sleeping.

Confirming the report, the Director, Lagos State Fire Service, Razak Fadipe, said that two infants died in the fire disaster last night, explaining that the fire service was not called on time to put out the fire. ''We got a distress call around 8:38p.m. last night and when we got there, we discovered that it was a storey building that was on fire. The top floor had two-bedroom apartment and four single rooms, while the ground floor had two bedrooms and six single

2 bankers in EFCC’s net for stealing N661m

By Ifeanyi Okolie

T

ACCIDENT: Scene of Accident of a n articulated vehicle carrying a container that killed a motorcyclist plying one-way along Oshodi/Apapa, express way, at Otto Whaff, bus stop. It resulted in the commercial motorcyclist setting the truck ablaze and vandalisiation of many cars. Photo by Bunmi Azeez. rooms. They did not call us on time when the fire occurred,'' he said.

Fadipe confirmed the fire was caused by a candle which was lit by the family.

He said two water tanks were used in putting out the fire, adding that the Isolo

and Ilupeju Fire Stations were involved in putting out the fire.

According to him, the top floor of the building was razed, particularly the two bedroom flat on the top floor where the deceased children and their family used to live.

The Fire Service boss appealed to the residents to desist from using candle in their houses as it could be very dangerous, saying that they could purchase cheap rechargeable lamps that would be more useful for them at night.

WO bankers, which include, a Branch Manager and the Head Operations of a first generation bank, have been arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for allegedly stealing the sum of N661 million.

Spokesman of the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, in a statement, said the suspects who were saddled with the responsibility of supplying cash to 17 branches of the bank in Kano, Katsina, Kaduna and Jigawa states abused their positions to perfect the heist.

Uwujaren also said, the suspects in the course of carrying out their duties, fraudulently conspired and stole N661 million.

According to him; “ In an effort to conceal the illegal act, they fabricated accounting entries, which deceitfully showed that all the monies were sent to the respective branches.”

EFCC raises alarm as fraudulent developers swoop on Abuja

By Soni Daniel

A

BUJA—THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday raised an alarm that unscrupulous elements posing as estate developers had taken over Abuja in a bid to swindle unsuspecting home seekers in the Federal Capital Territory.

The commission said it had to raise the alarm following the upsurge in the number of innocent persons who have already fallen victims to the conmen recently.

The EFCC's Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, in a statement made available to Vanguard, said that the fraudsters had taken it upon themselves to make bogus offers to low and middle income earners who are in desperate need of affordable houses in the capital territory.

Explaining how the conmen in the real estate business operate, Uwujaren said they merely go to town to deceive their victims once they are given land allocation by the FCDA without having the means to develop the plots. ''Usually, the so called developers, once they are able to secure land allocation from the FCDA, create gorgeous computer assisted designs of

prototype estate and launch aggressive media blitz for prospective home owners to subscribe for different categories of houses at attractive prices,'' the EFCC spokesman said. ''They target low and middle income earners who cannot afford outright cash purchase of property in the capital city. For this category of citizens, such offers are irresistible as they present immediate escape from the burden of prohibitive yearly rents.

''They embrace such scheme with the hope that the payment spread over many years will provide the cushion to do other things. ''But no sooner than they pay the initial deposits, they are inundated with various excuses for the developers; inability to deliver the properties.''

According to the commission, some prospective home owners have waited for many years hoping against hope for their promised houses to be delivered, having parted with their money.

''While the hapless prospective home owners rue their plight, the so called developers disappear completely from the radar to enjoy their loot.

Those who do not disappear continue to make promises that are never redeemed. ''The more ruthless amongst them are prepared to wear out the scammed subscribers through tedious litigations in court, fully aware that many of the low income persons lacked the resources to sustain legal actions over a long time,'' the commission pointed out.

Three guards in court for stealing boss' N10m

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—THREE security men, were on yesterday, brought before an Igbosere Magistrate’s court, for stealing properties, from their employer, worth N10million.

The defendants, are Benedict Abah 36, David Abah 26 and Asukwo Aniekpeno Effiong 28.

They are facing a two count charge, bordering on conspiracy and stealing, preferred against them by the police. They were docked before Magistrate O.Olanipekun.

The prosecutor, Michael

Kokoye, told the court that the defendants conspired amongst them selves, with others still at large, to commit the alleged offence.

He said the incident took place on July 26, 2014, at about 2am, at 15, Prince Taiwo Sesanya street, in Parkview Estate, Ikoyi.

Kokoye, said that the defendants, stole four 42 inches plasma Television, one internet machine and gold jewelleries, all valued N10 million.

The prosecutor, said that the stolen properties, belongs to their boss, one Mrs Adeleke.

Accorcing to the prosecutor, the offences are punishable under sections, 409 and 285 (10) of the criminal law of Lagos state of Nigeria, 2011.

Earlier, the security men pleaded not guilty to the twocount charge against them.

Magistrate Olanipekun, granted them bail, in the sum of N500,000, each and one responsible surety each, in like sum adding that a sum of N100,000, should be deposited in the account of the court registrar.

The magistrarte further adjourned the matter, till August 29, for mention.

Police kill member of 4-man robbery gang in Lagos

By Esther Onyegbula

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A G O S — MEMBERS of a four man armed robbery gang said to be terrorising Abule Egba, a Lagos suburb and its environs, have been killed by security operatives attached Oko Oba Police Division.

Vanguard gathered at about 3am on Sunday, the gang allegedly stormed 10, Jonathan Coker Road, New Oko Oba for a robbery operation.

Anti robbery team attached to the Oko Oba Police Station immediately swung into action after receiving a distress call.

When a team of policemen arrived the scene of the robbery, the robbers allegedly engaged them in a gun battle which led to the death of one of the suspects, while three others fled.

8—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

OSUN ELECTION: We were offered N14m bribe — DSS

By Caleb Ayansina

A

BUJA — THE Department of State Service, DSS, yesterday, alleged that it was being hunted by political parties because the service rejected N14m bribe during last Saturday gubernatorial election in Osun State. It, therefore, appealed to politicians to desist from the habit of dragging security forces into political matter.

The spokesperson for the DSS, Marilyn Ogar, who made the allegation during the routine security briefing at the National Briefing Centre, in Abuja said the service could not be induced with money.

Ogar, who declined to name the political party that offered the bribe said, "the director that was in charge of election duty for the DSS was asked to come and collect N4 million for himself and N10million for the men and because the money was declined, that is the offence that the DSS has committed.

"The rejection of the money is bringing up a lot of misunderstandings between political parties and the DSS, which is unfortunate. I want to tell you, there is a big man

FG saves N160bn from ghost workers Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

T

HE FEDERAL Government has saved about N160 billion through the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System, IPPIS. That money could have been stolen by corrupt civil servants through the ghost workers syndrome, the Accountant General of the Federation, AGF, Mr. Jonah Otunla, has disclosed.

"We have IPPIS which has helped save personnel cost.

In fact as at December 2013 we have saved about N160 billion," he said.

Addressing members of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN, at their Mandatory Continuing Professional Development, in Abuja, yesterday, he declared that the Federal Government reform initiatives to ensure a transparent payroll system would be pursued with vigour.

There had been a subtle opposition to the exercise by unscrupulous workers in some Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, but Mr. Otunla, had insisted that e ghosts workers must be eliminated

occupying a very sensitive position in Osun State, the man should thank his God that it is not the DSS that arrested him with the huge sum of money he was found with."

Maintaining that agency cannot be induced with money, Ogar said, "we are well paid, I will say it categorically, our operations are well funded, N14 million as against N200 million that was spent, which one will you go for? People should stop using money to entice security forces.

"The Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, who have engaged us, have the capability of taking care of us."

According to her, if security forces were not fully on ground during the period of the election, the story about Osun State would have changed as she reiterating that political parties should as much as possible leave security forces out of politics.

"There was no bomb blast in Osun because there was enough security presence on ground.

The security forces that assisted in the election in Edo State were the same ones that went to Ondo, Anambra, Ekiti and Osun.

REPORT: Some delegates to the National Conference with the copies of the Draft Report at the resumption of plenary session, in Abuja, Monday.

2015: Tambuwal begins consultations with Obasanjo

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor & Daud Olatunji

S

PEAKER AMINU Waziri Tambuwal was, yesterday, locked in a meeting with

World Bank invests $200m in Nigerian power sector — UNIDO

By Chris Ochayi

A

BUJA — THE Country Representative of the United Nation's Industrial Development Organisation, UNIDO, Mr. Patrick Kormawa, yesterday, disclosed that the World Bank had contributed about $200 million to the development of power sector in Nigeria.

Mr. Kormawa, who spoke on the sideline of the on-going inaugural conference on National Council of Power, NCOP, in Abuja told journalists that UINDO was interested in devolvement of sustainable power sector in Nigeria.

Commending the Federal Government for initiating the conference on power, Kormawa said that "development partners are interested on power sector in Nigeria because it is a very important variable in economic development and for job creations.

The conference, he said, would strengthen partnership among all the key stakeholders on power such as Federal, state and local governments. He said that the conference would also help to bring development partners on round-table with other stakeholders and help to galvanise activities in such a way

that investors would have more confidence in the Nigerian power development.

He said: "Private sector is investing huge amount of money in power to resuscitate a once abandoned sector of the economy.

It requires the corporation of every stakeholder to ensure success is achieved.

"When you have partnership built around all the stakeholders it will facilitate power distribution work together to harness resources available that can be used to provide power."

He also that Nigeria had abundant resources both in renewable and other energy sources that could easily be developed for generation of power, maintaining that "UINDO is interested in power because without it, industrialisation becomes a mirage."

He mentioned some of the development partners that have been synergising with the Nigerian government to turn around the epileptic power supply in Nigeria.

UNIDO boss said that during the process of the last privatisation in power sector, many of these development partners joined hands with the government in providing technical assistance and also linked the government with potential investors in power.

former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta in a 30 minute encounter that flagged off his nationwide consultations on prospecting his candidacy in the 2015 presidential election.

The meeting, meanwhile, stirred concern about a possible pull-out of the number four man from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Tambuwal and the former president, according to sources, met alone and the meeting was already over before newsmen heard of it.

Tambuwal was accompanied by a member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Sulieman Kawu and his Special Adviser (Media), Imam Imam and Hon. Yemi Arokudare.

Imam told Vanguard last night that the meeting was essentially meant to rub minds with the former President who the Speaker valued as an elder statesman.

“It was a meeting to rub minds with Baba, being that the former President is a father figure to all Nigerians and an elder statesman,” Imam said, yesterday.

“The same way that we do meet with other stakeholders, the Speaker went to confer with Baba and rub minds together.”

Tambuwal came in a convoy of five cars around 5.00p.m.

Tambuwal’s consultation with President Obasanjo had come against the background of increasing speculations on the political future of the presiding officer of the House of Representatives.

A source in the House of Representatives and a confidant of the speaker who

was involved in the logistics of the meeting confirmed yesterday that the meeting was the begining of the nationwide consultations by the Speaker to explore the possibility of contesting the 2015 presidential election.

Tambuwal became Speaker of the House despite objections by President Obasanjo, who protested that he, (Tambuwal) collaborated with elements in the former Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, to deprive the Southwest geo-political zone of the office that was initially ceded to it under the zoning configuration of the PDP. Since his emergence as Speaker, Tambuwal had repeatedly drawn attention by maintaining an independent stance and had often publicly hit at the under-belly of the administration.

Speaker Tambuwal had repeatedly drawn attention to issues of corruption and lack of will by the administration in dealing with some of the issues that had confronted the country in the last few years.

Should he decide to contest, the Speaker would be expected to vie on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC. He is known to be in the goodwill of a number of senior APC chieftains, including the national leaders, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.

Tambuwal, who had been in the saddle as Speaker in the last three years, was the first presiding officer of the House to have gone through that period of time in office without a major crisis in the leadership.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —9

NYAKO'S REPLACEMENT: Ribadu gets Presidency's backing to dump APC for PDP One of the top sources confirmed to Vanguard last night that barring any last minute hitch, Nuhu Ribadu had concluded arrangements to defect to the ruling PDP on Thursday this week (tomorrow).

Although Ribadu had since made up his mind to dump the APC for PDP, sources close to him said that he needed to get the approval of the President before

throwing his hat into the political ring.

The President, according to competent sources, gave a tacit RESIDENTIAL approval last weekend for Ribadu CANDIDATE of the to cross over to the PDP for the defunct Action Congress of purpose of flying the party's Nigeria in the 2011 election, gubernatorial flag in the next Nuhu Ribadu, is set to dump the election.

All Progressives Congress for the Two meetings were reportedly ruling Peoples Democratic Party, hosted in Abuja and Kaduna by Vanguard can authoritatively those delegated by the Presidency reveal. to herald Ribadu into the PDPs fold and assure him that he would be granted waivers to be able to run as its flag bearer.

In the Abuja meeting, a PDP chieftain from Adamawa Southern Senatorial Zone invited a couple of APC chairmen from Adamawa a handful of former members of the state House of Assembly during the tenure of Governor Boni Haruna as well as three members of the current PDP state EXCO with Ribadu in attendance.

The PDP big-wig, who happens to come from the same local government area with a top aide to Jonathan, informed the gathering that he was personally COMMISSIONING: From left, President-elect, Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Mr. Augustine directed by Mr President to invite Alegeh (SAN); benefactor, Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN); President, NBA, Mr. Okey Wali (SAN), them to the meeting and inform and National Treasurer, Mrs. Joyce Oduah, during the commissioning of a six-storey multi- them that the defection of Ribadu purpose building, donated by Dr. Babalakin at Nigerian Law School, in Lagos. to PDP had the full support of the first citizen.

Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

P

The switch in party is to enable the former Economic and Financial Crimes Commissioner boss secure the PDP gubernatorial ticket and contest the election slated for next year.

Competent party sources in Yola and Abuja confirmed that necessary steps had been put in place to enable the anti graft czar to actualise his ambition of ruling the state under the PDP platform.

Babalakin receives accolades over new NBA building

T

HE OUT-GOING President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Mr. Okey Wali (SAN), has described the Chairman of Bi-Courtney Group, Dr. Wale Babalakin, as a pride to the legal profession in the country.

Wali, while inaugurating a six-storey, fully serviced, new NBA House, on Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday, disclosed that the structure was realised through partnership between one of Babalakin's companies, Stabilini Visinoni Limited and the NBA. The partnership, which was based on a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) agreement, was conceived to help NBA develop the prime land that had laid bare for a long time and to also enhance the revenue base of the association.

Wali noted: "I must thank our colleague, Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN), for what he has done in putting this up in collaboration with the NBA. The terms are clear.

It is a Build, Operate and Transfer. I thank Wale for the industry he has put into this."

Wali equally expressed

gratitude to the Director General of the Nigerian Law School, Dr. Tahir Mamman, as well as the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, Hon. O.C.J. Okocha (SAN) and other members, for granting access to the new building through the Law School premises.

Speaking on the difficulty in creating access to the property, Babalakin observed: "This building was landlocked. The only way we could go in was if we were able to create that access you see now. And with his (Wali's) determination; and the Director General of the Law School and the Chairman of Council of Legal Education; they made it happen."

Babalakin also acknowledged Wali's "thorough dedication" to the project, adding: "He came to Lagos specifically on a number of occasions, and I recollect with great appreciation and sometimes nostalgia how we walked round this premises, not once, not twice, when we were trying to identify the entry into the building."

The Abuja meeting convener also said that all that they were required to do was to return to their wards and mobilise delegates in readiness for the partys primaries that would soon take place.

The convener assured them that they should not be worried about the entry of the former EFCC boss into the race at the late hour since the party hierarchy was willing to grant him the needed waiver to scale through the race.

The meeting in Kaduna was coordinated by Ribadu's close ally and former Minister in the Buhari's government and had the son of a former PDP Chairman in attendance.

The development is said to have jostled other gubernatorial hopefuls in the state, who had worked round the clock to oust Murtala Nyako in order to have a smooth sail into the Government House.

It was not clear as at last night if the wave of opposition against Ribadu would thin down in the days ahead.

Contacted, one of Ribadu's aides claimed that he was aware of his master's intention to cross over to PDP but did not know the exact date.

Don't contest in 2015, or....

Continues from Page 9 an overwhelming majority of Nigerians across the board, and he will never promote any policy that is either divisive or inimical to the wellbeing of any section of the polity.

“What the country needs today is total cooperation, of all its citizens and stakeholders, with the Government and our military and the security agencies.

“We wish to assure Nigerians that in spite of this and many more distractions, the President is focused on continued successful executions of his transformation Agenda; and the guarantee of the security of lives and properties of the Nigerian people.”

No need for conditions, says Babatope Commenting on the ultimatum given to President Jonathan by the Northern elders, a former Minister of Transport, Chief Ebenezer Babatope said: ‘’I wish them luck in their postulations but I must say that such moves will not stand the test of time. They are just hallucinating and as Nigerians, we need to understand that the

abduction of these girls should not be politicised and Mr President should not be given a condition.

I must say that Mr President is not a magician to know exactly where the girls are but I believe he is working assiduously to get those girls. But for some Northern leaders to start giving conditions, such will not stand the test of time.’’

Ultimatum shows complicity with Boko Haram, says Okon In his own submission, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party ,PDP, Senator Aniete Okon argued that the statement credited to the Northern Elders has further confirmed their complicity in the Boko Haram insurgency.

He said, "I must say this is a manifestation of their complicity in the insecurity problem that is ravaging this country and this has further shown the desperation and frustration of the North in trying to frustrate the efforts of Mr President in finding the Chibok Girls.

We have always suspected their complicity in this insecurity since inception and the statement has further

shown the whole world that the Boko Haram menace is part of their plan to ground the government of President Goodluck Jonathan’’, he said.

In his own reaction, founder of the Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, Dr Frderick Fasehun berated the NEF over the ultimatum saying “have they confirmed that Jonathan stole the girls?

They should give themselves the ultimatum because they are responsible for the fate of those girls”.

Also, a group under the aegis, Igbo Redemption Group, described the ultimatum by the Northern Elders Forum, NEF as unreasonable, unpatriotic, divisive and unfortunate, noting that the position of the north was a final confirmation that the kidnap of the Chibok girls and indeed the escalation of terrorist activities in the north was an insider’s job.

Interim President of Igbo Redemption Group, Delly Ajufo at a press conference alleged that the move by the north to sponsor Boko Haram was among others, designed to prevent President Jonathan from exercising his constitutional right of

seeking a second term in office as President of the country.

The group called on genuine leaders, traditional rulers, political and business leaders as well as patriotic Nigerians to rise up in condemnation of those it called desperate parasitic politicians who do not mean well for either the North or Nigeria as a whole.

Former Lagos State Police Commissioner, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav however said: ‘’the order given to Jonathan is very good because if Jonathan can not provide security which is the primary function of government, he has no business being in office. These girls were abducted three months ago and nothing concrete has been done to rescue them. One of the Chibok girls in a recent interview said that from what the President said during their visit to the Villa, it was obvious that he is not serious about bringing back the girls. She said that they don’t want money but the release of the girls. If a little girl could make such observation, then it is an indication that the government is not serious about rescuing the girls”.

10—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Certificate of Return: Aregbesola dedicates victory to Osun people

By Gbenga Olarinoye &

Charles Kumolu

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SOGBO—REELECTED Governor of Osun state, Mr Rauf Aregbesola yesterday dedicated his certificate of return to the people of the state for their steadfastness and unflinching support in voting for the continuation of his government.

Aregbesola spoke at the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Headquarters in Osogbo, after the presentation of the certificate of return to him by the supervising National Commissioner, Ambassador Mohammad Wali.

He commended INEC for conducting a largely free and fair election in which he scored 75 percent.

Aregbesola however advised INEC to guard jealously vital electoral materials against being tampered with.

According to the governor, “I want to advise INEC to take seriously the security of election materials. They should be extra vigilant with the materials they used in election. We appeal to you to be alert and more determined to secure materials to avoid compromised staff to tamper with the materials. I also want to commend other contestants who enriched the country’s democratic process; they must all come to us on how we can move forward our state. For those who are embittered, we are in no way inducing them not to chart the legal way to redress.

“We must add that while they are seeking redress in court, they can still join us on how we can give meaningful life to our people”.

On the conduct of the troops drafted to the state, Aregbesola lamented that some of them acted in manner completely contrary to the nation’s constitution by turning themselves into a terror gang shortly before and during the conduct of the election.

He condemned alleged harassment, intimidation and arbitrary arrest of member, supporters and chieftains of the All Progressive Congress, APC, on the eve and the day of election and advised the security agencies to always differentiate between genuine and wrong order to know which one to obey or disobey..

Aregbesola said “I must commend the security agencies for their commitment to making the election a huge success and violence-free. However, one must not fail to mention the overzelousness of few of the security agencies, who in the name of obeying orders, ran riot and clamped down on innocent chieftains, members and

supporter of our party. As security personnel, you constitutional role is to maintain law and order as well as protect the people of Nigerian.

“It is therefore criminal of any law enforcement agent to molest, harass or intimidate innocent people let alone kill a Nigerian. You must from now on develop the attitude of resisting wrong orders, which is antithetical to what constitution permits.”

On his part, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, of Osun, Mr. Olusegun Agbaje, charged the governor to be magnanimous in victory for the benefit of the state and its people.

Agbaje described the August 9 election as one in which

INEC was determined more than before to conduct a free, fair and credible election, saying INEC stood tall with the way the election went in Osun.

He said: “We at INEC by the judgement of international communities and observers are pleased that the Osun election is adjudged as the best in the country, though it was not completely smooth, utterances that over-heated the polity among other allegations against INEC.'' ''Not bordered, the commission focused on conducting a free, fair and credible election. We ensured that the distribution of election materials were done without any hiccup, so also voting and accreditation were done without any hitch.''

Meanwhile, the lawmaker representing Ife Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Mr. Femi Makinde, has called on the Osun State Commissioner of Police, to mobilise his men to Ile Ife, and ensure the supporters of APC in the town are protected from being intimidated by those, who allegedly prevented some of them from voting.

He also regretted that he could not perform his civic responsibility on the Election Day, following a siege laid by security agencies to his residence.

At a briefing yesterday in Lagos, Makinde described his party’s victory at the polls as a sign that Peoples Democratic Party, PDP had been rejected in the South West geo-political zone,

COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAMME: From left—Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor on Transport Education, Dr. Mariam Masha; Former Prelate of Methodist Church, Nigeria, Bishop Sunday Ola-Makinde; National Missioner, Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, Sheik Abdulrahman Ahmad; and Iyaloja of Ojodu Retail Market, Alhaja Abibatu Adegbola, during a Community Outreach Programme between the religious leaders, market women and transport operators, by Law Enforcement Training Institute, LETI, at Ojodu-Berger Motor Park, Lagos…yesterday.

Vehicle crushes motorcyclist to death in Lagos

By Esther Onyegbula & Umeh Maureen

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A G O S — COMMERCIAL motorcyclists, popularly called Okada, yesterday, barricaded the Mile two end of Oshodi/ Apapa protesting the killing of their colleague by tanker driver, causing a heavy gridlock for several hours.

Reports said the unidentified motorcyclist was attempting to carry his bike from the service lane (Custom side) of the expressway to the other side of the expressway to run against traffic because of the traffic congestion when he lost balance and fell under the tyre of an oncoming truck. He was instantly crushed to death.

Just immediately, his colleagues armed with

dangerous weapons, barricaded the expressway and set the truck ablaze.

Similarly, motorists trapped in the ensuing melee, had their windscreens shattered.

The resultant gridlock forced commuters to trek long distances to board buses to their respective destinations.

Efforts by security operatives to pacify the irate protesters failed as they descended on the truck driver.

It took combined efforts by team of naval personnel and officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, to rescue the truck driver from being lynched by the protesters.

An eye witness who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Vanguard on arrival at the scene that: “The truck driver was whisked to the premises of the

FRSC at Berger, while the security operatives battled to prevent an escalation of the crisis”.

Mr. B.O Chigbo, Acting Head of Operation the FRSC (Berger), told Vanguard that the Okada rider was crushed by the trailer when he mistakenly ran in front of the vehicle.

He said, “At about 11 am, when we were holding our usual official meeting, we heard the people shouting and we later saw some of our men there. We rushed to know what exactly was going on and we found out that it was an accident involving an Okada rider who was driving one way and tried to jump the drainage to the other side.

Unknown to the oncoming trailer driver, the commercial cyclist fell and the back tyre of the vehicle and was crushed.''

Ositelu urges Nigerians to push for true Federalism

By Olayinka Latona

P

RIMATE of the Church of the Lord (Aladura) Worldwide, His Eminence, Most Rev. Rufus Ositelu, has called on Nigerians to fight for true federalism in the country for democracy to thrive, saying it will enable each federating state to develop at its own pace.

Ositelu spoke while addressing journalists ahead of the church's forthcoming annual Mount Tabieorar convention scheduled for August 22 at Holy Mount Tabieorar, Ogere Remo, Ogun State with the theme: “Supernatural Success” said adopting fiscal federalism would move the nation forward.

He said the country started with fiscal federalism in the first republic as contained in the Richards Constitution of 1946 and the Lytelton Constitution of 1954, adding that the regionalism operated then brought about healthy competition among the regions and also promoted good relationship between the centre and the regions.

NAFDAC raises alarm over proliferation of regulated products' adverts

By Chioma Obinna

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A G O S — N AT I O N A L Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, yesterday raised the alarm over proliferation of advertisement of its regulated products, urging media organisations to demand for NAFDAC’s advertisement approval before publication.

To this end, the agency has launched an Advertisement Verification Scheme to stop further proliferation of any of its registered product.

Addressing a forum of advertising stakeholders in Lagos, the Director General of NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii said the agency had observed steady misleading claims in the advertisement of many regulated products not been properly checked by the media.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —11

Fayose vows not to recognise 19 new LCDAs ...says Fayemi's govt won't be probed

By Gbenga Ariyibi

A

DO EKITI—EKITI State governor-elect, Mr. Ayo Fayose, has vowed not to recognise the 19 newly created Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs, by the outgoing Kayode Fayemi’s administration.

This came as he promised not to probe the Fayemi’s administration when he took over the affairs of the state on October 16, despite perceived intense pressure Fayose who spoke at a media forum in Ado-Ekiti, said as a governor, he would swear to protect the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and he would not do anything to breach same.

According to him, “since the new council areas are not known to law, it will be criminal of me to start using monthly federal allocation meant for constitutionally-recognised local governments to finance the 19 additional LCDAS newly created.

The Constitution of Nigeria currently recognises only 774 local governments and until there is a contrary development by order of National Assembly, there is no how I can be hoodwinked into using money meant for any of them to finance those not recognised by law. As far as I am concerned, I do not believe Fayemi has created any new local government. I still hold the view that his intention was misconstrued by those who think LCDA is the same as local government.”

He said he was not ready to probe Fayemi’s administration to avoid distraction on the developmental stride he intended to pursue.

According to him, he was being pressurised to probe Fayemi by those he claimed were stunned by alleged huge debt profile of the state, declaring however that probing the outgoing government would do no good.

He contended that his major preoccupation was to develop the state and make life better for the people who voted him into power, saying he was too much in a hurry to justify people’s confidence in him than engaging in distractions.

The governor-elect said he had already started working on how to usher in massive turn-around of the state, saying deplorable roads in Ado-Ekiti, the State capital would be rehabilitated within the first 100 days in office, while construction of fly-overs would follow thereafter.

On how he intends to work with the All Progressives Congress, APC-dominated lawmakers in the House of Assembly, Fayose said he had developed strategies for a cordial working relationship

with them.

The State House of Assembly is currently dominated byAPC, with 25 members against one PDP member.

Meanwhile, President of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employee, NULGE, Ekiti State chapter, Mr. Bunmi Ajimoko, has defended a recent directive to

members to shun postings to the newly created councils.

Ajimoko, along with his officials were at the plenary sitting of the House in AdoEkiti yesterday following the invitation by the House to make certain clarification on the issue.

The House had summoned the union leader following a

statement credited to him, that the Assembly had rushed the processes of the creation of the 19 LCDAs. Ajimoko said the union’s decision to stop their members from reporting at their duty posts at the councils was to protect them.

“Our union has never play partisan politics with current

CONDOLENCE VISIT: Widow of Late Prof. J F Ade-Ajayi, Mrs Christie Ade-Ajayi (left) being condoled by Mrs Victoria Iluyomade (right) and Justice Tayo Onalaja (rtd)at the Ibadan home of the Ade-Ajayis. Photo by Dare Fasube.

49,000 apply for 3,000 vacancies in Ogun

By Daud Olatunji

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BEOKUTA—NO fewer than 49,000 applicants, including some PhD holders and over 600 Master ’s degree holders have so far applied as environmental marshals across the state.

Only 3,000 environmental marshals to ensure healthy environment in the state are needed.

Governor Ibikunle Amosun announced this yesterday, at a reception in honour of state winners at 2013 President’s teacher and school excellence award.

Amosun said he had suspended the plan to recruit the 3,000 environmental marshals due to overwhelming applications.

Amosun had in June announced plan to recruit 3,000 environmental marshals.

The governor lamented the high rate of unemployment in the country.

According to him, no fewer than 14,000 applicants had recently applied for employment in the state’s civil service and said there was urgent need for concerned authorities to develop strategic plan

towards addressing the acute problem of unemployment.

He said “If we have about 600 of those with Master ’s qualification and above running around for a job that they would be paid N20, 000, then you know that there is a

problem. The other time when I met with civil and public servants, I told them that if they have children looking for work and have put in more than 10 years that they should apply. I can tell you that today more than 14,000 have applied.''

Obasanjo harps on training of youths

By Daud Olatunji

A

BEOKUTA—FORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday, said any government that failed to train and empower the youth was playing a dangerous game.

Obasanjo spoke in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital during the 2014 edition of United Nation’s International Youths Day celebration with the theme, “youth and mental health.”

The former President joined hundreds of youths in the early morning two-kilometre walk from Kuto roundabout to Presidential library along Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Addressing the youth at the proposed youth centre in the Presidential library, he urged the youth to be born again, describing them as the future of the country, saying “Let me say how

delighted I am for this modest beginning. When the United Nations decided that the youths all over the world will be celebrated in one day of the year, they knew what they were doing.This is because people will say youths are the hope of the future. But you are more than the hope of the future: youths are the hope of the future, the stability of the future.

“So, when we talk about the youths, we are talking about the future and any country that does not take the training, skill acquisition, empowerment and employment of its youths seriously, that nation is playing a dangerous game with its future.'I want to thank you for being here. I want to congratulate you and congratulate myself too for being able to join you and also being able to keep pace with you.”

Ogun APC crisis:

Osoba group petitions DSS

By Daud Olatunji

A

B E O K U TA — TWENTY four hours after some unknown persons defaced the house of former governor of Ogun State, Aremo Segun Osoba, his loyalists have petitioned the Department of State Services, DSS, in the state.

The petition dated 11th August, 2014 and addressed to the State Director of DSS, signed by the group’s Public Relations Officer, Clement Adeniyi, decried the way and manner the unscrupulous elements wrote 'uncharitable words' about the former governor.

Some unknown individuals had in the early hours of Sunday defaced the walls of the GRA residence of Osoba.

In the petition, the group said the development was the handiwork of some political elements in the state and called on the security agency to investigate the matter. ''We see this unbecoming behaviour of some political opponents as a disrespect to a former governor in the state,'' it said.

Ekiti PDP to APC:

Emulate Jonathan on conduct of elections

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HE Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ekiti State, has admonished the All Progressives Congress, APC, to learn from the transparency of the President Goodluck Jonathan-led PDP Federal Government in the conduct of elections.

The party in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Pastor Kola Oluwawol, said; “Nigerians should note that while President Jonathan, the PDP and many leaders of the party congratulated Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola on his last Saturday electoral victory, the APC and its leaders never congratulated Dr Ayodele Fayose, the winner of the June 21 governorship election in Ekiti State.

Democracy will only grow in Nigeria if political party like the APC does what it preaches.”

12—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Opuama alleges marginalisation

By Godwin Oghre

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APELE—THE people of Opuama community, Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State, have protested what they described as their exclusion from g o v e r n m e n t appointments at the state and federal level, and called on the state government to urgently look into their plight.

Spokesman of the community, Mr. Christopher Awe, told journalists in Sapele, yesterday: “There are 10 wards in the council and we are in Ward 7. Every other ward has been getting appointments except us.

“We have been giving one 100 percent of our votes to Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, at the various elections and have made enormous contributions to the socioeconomic development of the three tiers of government, all to no avail.”

Inauguration

A

KWARA Political Vanguard, a sociocultural group, was inaugurated in Sapele, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State yesterday, with Mr. Oyeke Dudu as Chairman and Mr. Godwin Etseyatse as Secretary.

Its National Coordinator, Apostle Choice Newton, said membership was drawn from all the wards in the 25 local government areas of the state and have been mandated to mobilise towards the election of Dr. John Akwara, a medical doctor and governorship aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in 2015 election.

Transition

M

AMA Mary Edun Jesse in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, aged 88, is dead.

She is survived by eight children. Burial plans will be announced later.

‘No Ebola case in P'Harcourt Airport’

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— AUTHORITIES of the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, Rivers State, have said that there were no Ebola cases at the airport, adding that measures

were already in place at the airport to check the virus.

Regional General Manager, South-South, South-East Federal Airports, Mrs Ebele Okoye, who spoke to newsmen yesterday at the sideline of the commissioning of the renovated aviation medical clinic, Port

Harcourt International Airport, said authorities of the airport had set up an isolated place within the airport to quarantine any passenger diagnosed with the deadly virus.

She said so far no Ebola case had been found at the airport,

adding that management had organised series of enlightenment programme on how to check the spread.

She said: “We have the medical team. We have those positioned at the exit and entry points. We check those coming in and out of the airport.”

Model kicks against social vices

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AVIATION: Minister of Aviation, Mr. Osita Chidoka (right) and Deputy Managing Director of Arik Air, Captain Ado Sanusi (left) at stakeholders meeting in Lagos.

PATANI COUNCILL POLLS: Call Clark to order, student leaders urge Jonathan

By Festus Ahon

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GHELLI—WORRIED by what they described as undue interference of Chief Edwin Clark in the politics of Patani Local Government Area, Delta State, past students union leaders, yesterday, appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to ask Clark to hands off from the politics of the area.

The student leaders alleged that “Clark is standing in the way of one of its own, Mr. Elijah Ologe, who is aspiring to head the council, because he is from the minority.”

The students leaders, in a statement by their Public Relations Officer, Mr. Godfrey Regha after their emergency meeting in Asaba, said: “We wonder why Chief Clark will not allow Ologe to be chairman of council whereas he (Clark) was at the forefront of the crusade that brought President Jonathan who is from a minority tribe in Nigeria to rule the country.”

Handing a 48-hours ultimatum to President Jonathan to wade into the matter, they said: “Clark should either return Ologe as Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chairmanship candidate in Patani or be prepared to incur the wrath

of the student union leaders.

“Why is Clark, who is supposed to be a father to the entire state and the nation at large, stooping so low to rob Ologe of his God-given

mandate for the singular reason that he is a minority?

“We, therefore, call on Mr. President to call Clark to order so that the will of the masses can prevail.”

Dickson appoints ex-MEND leader to head task force on piracy

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

ENAGOA—TROUBLED by the upsurge in piracy on the state waterways, Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has approved the appointment of former leader of defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, Mr. Ebikabowei Victor-Ben, aka Boyloaf, and others to lead a special task force to curb criminality in the creeks of the state.

The 11-man task force, according to a statement, is to complement the activities of the marine branch of Operation Doo Akpor in safeguarding the lives and property of the people along the waterways.

The special task force is also expected to stem the tide of kidnappings, illegal bunkering and oil pipeline vandalism that have been on the increase in recent times in the state.

The governor, in the statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said the task force was expected

to liaise with the Operation Doo Akpor marine component in carrying out their job.

ORLD super model, Nigerian Miss Beauty Osemwengie, has advised Nigerian children to shun social vices and focus on education as a way of guaranteeing a successful life in the future.

Miss Osemwengie gave the admonition in Benin, Edo State capital, during her pet project at the Oba Akenzua 2nd primary school.

According to the beauty queen who represented Nigeria at the world super model beauty pageant at Fiji Island in 2013, “good and quality education is a necessity to pursue a successful career or profession in the future.”

As a way of encouraging the primary school children, she shared many notebooks and other stationeries.

Other charity works the super model has undertaken include visit to the Edo orphanage home during Christmas and the children’s ward at the central hospital, Benin on St. Valentine’s Day to celebrate with the children.

IPMAN ex-vice chair makes case for PIB

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—FORMER National Vice President of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, Elder Peter Ogbeide, has called on the Federal Government to expedite action on the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill into law to enable IPMAN and other stakeholders benefit from the upstream sector of the petroleum industry.

Ogbeide, who also tasked President Goodluck Jonathan on the implementation of the 18 percent derivation formula for direct benefit of host communities, commended

the President for the convocation of the national conference.

Ogbeide, who addressed journalists in Benin, Edo State, yesterday, called on relevant IPMAN stakeholders to sheath their swords and join the transformation train of the association under Elder Chinedu Okoronkwo.

Describing Okoronkwo “as the best gift” to IPMAN, Ogbeide listed some of his achievements to include proposed establishment of Petrol Chemical Refineries in Kogi and Bayelsa States, flag off of 1,000 housing scheme for IPMAN members and the erection of IPMAN secretariat in Abuja.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—13

Uduaghan, Ayomanor commended

Delta revenue board scribe accused of earning ‘illegal salaries'

By Tommy Anaduaka

A

GROUP, Great Ward 3, has commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State for the exemplary manner he handled the council primaries of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Sapele Local Government Area of the state.

The group also commended a board member of Delta State Direct Labour Agency, DLA, Chief Lucky Ayomanor for his laudable role in Ward 3 of Sapele council, describing him as a role model, who had justified the confidence reposed in him the state government.

Assuring the governor that the group will work for the success of PDP in the area, it also passed a vote of confidence on the duo of Chief Ayomanor and Mr. Ogbavwerha Obakpororo, a youth leader in the council, noting that the two are good materials for elective offices.

By Austin Ogwuda

A

SABA—BARELY one month after Delta State Government uncovered 17 ghost workers drawing N50,000 per month, a group of protesters stormed the state House of Assembly, yesterday, accusing the Secretary to the State Board of Internal Revenue of allegedly receiving salary in two different organisations.

The protesters, under the aegis of Okpe Awareness and Integrity Network, in a petition submitted to the Speaker of the state Assembly, called for an investigation into the matter.

Spokesman of the group, Mr. Milverton Enajero, said: “The Secretary to the Board was appointed into office as Legal Adviser attached to the Majority Leader, Delta State House of Assembly in July 2007 and was in July 2009 appointed as Secretary to the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue.

“By this new appointment,

he was supposed to resign from his previous appointment as Legal Adviser, stop collecting remuneration and then made to refund all those monies illegally earned.”

Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mr. Peter Onwusanya, who was represented by the member representing Burutu II constituency, Mr. Kennedy

Daubry, who addressed the protesters, assured them that the petition “will not be swept under the carpet as the issues raised will be thoroughly investigated.”

Why I'm best aspirant for Delta State governorship— EDEVBIE

A

GOVERNORSHIP aspirant in Delta State, Chief David Edevbie, has said that he is the best among the aspirants bidding to succeed Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, given his experience in the public and private sectors.

The former Chief of Staff (Principal Secretary) to late President Musa Yar ’Adua, told newsmen that he was in the race not because of money or fame, but the need to invest his international administrative and financial management skills to help Delta State achieve the

desired greatness.

The former state Commissioner for Finance, said: “I have the requisite knowledge and experience. I was earning millions of pounds before I was 30.

“So, my desire to be governor of the state is not for personal gains, but because everybody seems to know the solution to our problems, but only a few are trying to actually solve them.

“The people who are intellectual, cerebral and have the solution have all abandoned them for politicians we know are not

our ‘first 11’. I am in the race because it is time to stop complaining, but time to try and make a difference personally.”

On how he hopes to solve the problems, he said: “In Delta North, potable water is the issue; Delta South do not have bridges, while Central lacks industries. I have a draft document on the solution to these challenges and many others.

“I will finalise it into a document of the people after a town hall by town hall meeting round the state for consultation.”

Kokori blasts S'South delegates to confab, tasks Delta guber aspirants

K

OKORI— A former House of Representatives member, Mr. Solomon Edoja, has faulted the South-South delegates at the national conference on their position on resource control.

Edoja, who spoke during a town hall meeting at his country home in Kokori, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State, said the South-South delegates allowed delegates from other regions to actualise their aspirations while theirs were deferred to the

future.

He said: “I am disappointed with the situation that we find ourselves because we are now begging for the percentage that should be accepted on derivation.

“All these issues should have been dealt with first because these are the issues that hold this country together.”

On the 2015 general elections, he warned aspirants from the three senatorial districts gunning for the Delta State governorship election not to hide

behind ethnicity in actualising their political aspirations.

He said: “In all previous gubernatorial election, the three senatorial districts participated just like in 2007 when Senator Ifeanyi Okowa ran with Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan. If he had won, would Delta North now be saying it is their turn?

“Politicians from Delta North must first put their house in order before coming to solicit support from Delta South and Delta Central.”

Itsekiri graduates move to divest interest from oil and gas

W

ARRI — AS part of strategies to shift the interest of Itsekiri youths away from the oil and gas sector, the National Association of Itsekiri Graduates, NAIG, has finalised arrangements to launch her maiden magazine entitled NAIG Focus.

The magazine launch billed for August 16 in Warri, Delta State, is to be chaired by a former state Commissioner for Works, Dr. Alex Ideh.

NAIG President, Alero

C M Y K

Tenumah, in a statement yesterday, said that the magazine covers issues on education and infrastructural decay in Iwereland, with special focus on Nigerian Maritime University, NMU; Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA Dockyard and Shipyard, and the Gas City/EPZ project, all in Warri SouthWest Local Government Area of Delta State.

The statement added that a Peoples Democratic Party,

PDP, chieftain and Delta State gubernatorial hopeful, Chief Godswill Obielum, will be guest of honour, while the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II is the Royal Father of the Day, with Professor Mary Edema as Mother of the Day. House of Representatives member, Mr. Daniel Reyenieju; Mr. David Omaghomi, Mr. Austin Oboroegbeyi, Mr. Ossai Osenebi and Mr. David Tonwewillgracetheoccasion.

14—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Urhobo Network endorses Jonathan for 2015

I N I T I AT I V E :

From left— National Coordinator, Mr. Chinedu Okpalanma; Head Public Relations, Ms. Ogenna Ekwubiri; Director of Finance, Mr. Haruna Madisca; and Executive Director, Contact and Mobilisation, Mr. Godwin Osigbeme, all of Goodluck Initiative for Transformation, GIFT, during an international press conference on the Goodluck Initiative for Transformation, reality show in Abuja.

By Ediri Ejoh

T

HE Urhobo people, under the auspices of Urhobo Network, UN, have reiterated their support for President Goodluck Jonathan to run for second term in the 2015 general elections.

Director-General Centre for Democratic Governance in Africa, CDGA, Dr. Dafe Akpocha, who spoke to Vanguard in Lagos, said the country was done with rumour mongers and scavenger thwarting the good intentions of the President.

He said: “We are not fooled by the ongoing uprising that seeks to trample and bring shame to the good intention and goodwill of the current administration. More so, we are going to leave a landmark in the eyes of his enemies by triggering more supporters in the forthcoming elections.”

...Omo-Agege, too

By Onozure Dania

L

AGOS—THE Urhobo Network, the organisers of Urhobo Stakeholders Forum, has endorsed Olorogun Ovie OmoAgege as the next governor of Delta State.

National Coordinator of the group, Dr. Dafe Akpocha, said: “Urhobo must unite now to forge ahead and form a platform of unity and national cohesion that will stop intruders to seek a deputy governor slot for the Urhobo.”

He said having carefully listened to Omo-Agege, they were sure of what he has to offer Urhobo people and Delta State in general and have endorsed him as the next governor.

The group said: “He is the most credible and qualified to take Urhobo and Delta State in general to the promise land.

“We the Urhobo cannot afford to make any mistake as we must avoid unnecessary bickering and witch-hunting of ourselves.

“We must unite and adopt a strategy of give and take, and avoid the pretenders from creating problems for the serious-minded people.”

Yenagoa FMC health workers begin strike over unpaid allowances

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

E N A G O A — RELATIONS of patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, were yesterday forced to relocate their loved ones to private hospitals, following the strike action embarked upon by junior health workers.

The action of the health workers may affect preparation by the Bayelsa State to contain the possible outbreak of the dreaded Ebola virus in the state.

The Federal Medical Centre, the only referral federal institution in the predominantly riverine state is one of the designated surveillance centres to check any outbreak and control of the dreaded Ebola virus in the state.

The health workers, under the auspices of Joint Health Sector Unions had on Monday embarked on the strike to demand for payment of outstanding promotion arrears.

While the officials of the state Ministry of Health claimed the strike action would not affect the Ebola Virus surveillance activities of the designated centres, the

strike action by the junior health workers and the five weeks strike by doctors have paralysed services at the hospital.

At the physiotherapy department of the Federal Medical Centre, patients were forced to seek medical service elsewhere following the strike action as representatives of the various health unions locked up the facility.

Hundreds of patients were dismissed at the General Out Patients Department, where consultant physicians were rendering skeletal services.

One Moses Salo lamented: “This is one strike too many.

First the members of Nigerian Medical Association and now the other categories of health workers are joining them; it is very pathetic that no one cares for the interest of patients.

“My mother has been under intensive care and managed by the consultants, who are not part of the strike, but this time around, even the nurses and others have started their own.

“It is so bad that this is happening because my mother was referred to this place because the private hospital I took her to lacked expertise to handle the ailment. Where do we go from here?”

SCARE: Udo man died of peptic ulcer, not Ebola— EDO GOVT

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—THE Edo State Government, yesterday explained that the man, who died on Sunday in Udo community of Ovia South West Local Government Area of the state, died of bleeding from peptic ulcer and not Ebola virus as earlier rumoured.

It will be recalled that the death of the man cause panic in the community as people fled their domain, fearing that the deceased died of Ebola virus disease due to the bleeding observed before his death.

Following the incident, officials of the state Ministry of Health stormed the community with a view to isolate the corpse and commenced investigations so as to ascertain the actual cause of death.

The state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Louis Odion, explained that “following reports of a suspicious death in Udo Town in Ovia South West last week, officials of the state Ministry of Health moved in to ascertain the cause.

“Specimens were taken from the body and taken to the Irrua

Specialist Hospital.

“However, preliminary examinations revealed that the deceased died of bleeding from peptic ulcer. To be sure, further examinations are still ongoing at the Irrua Specialist Hospital.”

On the efforts being made by the state government to ensure that the state is free from the dreaded disease, Odion said that “Public enlightenment has been stepped up by the Ministry of Information and Orientation, as the surveillance team raised by Governor Adam Oshiomhole, has started work.”

Amaechi faults FG on Rivers NYSC members' welfare

By Jimitota Onoyume

G

OVERNOR Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State has faulted the Federal Government’s reluctance to solve the problem of accommodation and other challenges faced by National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, members in Rivers State.

The governor spoke during a courtesy call on him by

members of the National Governing Board of the NYSC led by Mr Tijani Adekanbi, at the Government House, Port Harcourt.

Amaechi added that the government at the centre has consistently failed to address most NYSC challenges, leaving them all to the State to handle, despite the fact that the scheme is the responsibility of the Federal Government.

“I don’t know if you realise that NYSC is a federal scheme. If you know it’s a federal scheme, why are you transferring responsibility to the state government? Even the allowances we are paying, we are not supposed to pay. I served in Abuja, nobody paid me one dime outside what the Federal Government paid us as allowance. The vehicles NYSC members use in Abuja

were bought by the Federal Government. Why then do they transfer Federal Government responsibility to the states?

“We are virtually funding all federal agencies in the state.

If we do not want NYSC, then we should say so.

“But it solves so many problems for us as a country, including the fact that it creates temporary employment for the graduates.”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 15

Church building demolished in Anambra as Anglicans, community fight

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

O

NITSHA—THE lingering crisis between Nkwelle-Ezunaka in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State and worshippers of Ebenezer Anglican Church Oyolu-Oze in the area deepened yesterday, with the destruction of an on-going building project by the Anglican community inside the school premises.

The building, which was at its roofing stage, was reduced to rubbles at about 12 midnignt on Monday by unknown persons.

The demolition which was, according to a source, executed with a bulldozer, left the building completely pulled down from its foundation.

Crisis had ensued between the community and the Anglican church members about two months ago when the roofs of the school premises in the church compound was removed for purposes of renovation by a contractor engaged by the state Urban Development Board, ASUDEB, in collaboration with the community.

Following a protest by the worshippers over the removal of the roofs, the community became infuriated and its PresidentGeneral, Elder Chris Eluemuno, announced the ejection of the worshippers from the school premises and suspension of all religious activities in the premises.

Eluemuno contended that the school was built by the community single-handedly and handed over to the state government for academic activities in the late 80s.

Eluemuno who is also the President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo,

Anambra State chapter, added that in 1990, the Anglican church approached the community to allow it carry out religious activities at the school compound which the community obliged at a monthly rent of N20 and wondered why the church was now laying claims to ownership of the school premises.

Speaking to newsmen at the school/church premises yesterday, the Anglican Archdeacon in charge of the church building project, Venerable Frank Obi, accused the community leaders of being responsible for such a dastardly act in a house of God. Venerable Obi recalled that during last Monday’s meeting among the community, police

and leaders of the church at the Police Area Command Headquarters, Onitsha to broker peace, a member of the community allegedly boasted that the church building would not take him anything to demolish.

Also contributing, Venerable Joseph Nweke, the Archdeacon of Oyi Archdeaconry and Director of Society for Equity, Justice and Peace, SEJUP, Anglican Diocese on the Niger, declared: “The destruction of the church by unknown persons likely to be Elder Chris Eluemuno, the PresidentGeneral of Nkwelle-Ezunaka who boasted recently at the graduation ceremony of OyoluOze Primary School pupils is

condemnable.

“The edict made by Anambra State Government and assented to by Governor Peter Obi transferring the school to the Anglican church has not been repealed and therefore it is clear that the state government cannot be lawless to destroy properties belonging to any church.

“Nkwelle-Ezunaka was once at war with the Anglican community which was settled in then 1980s and any attempt by the present P-G to revisit that traumatic experience must be avoided. ''I therefore call on the state government to look into the excesses of Eluemuno to avoid anarchy in the state.”

E

NUGU—IMMEDIATE past chairman of Udenu local government area of Enugu State, Dr Godwin Abonyi, yesterday, raised an alarm over sustained threats of kidnap and assassination against him and members of his family by unknown persons.

He stated that his life and that of family had been in danger since January this year when he completed his four years tenure as council chairman and handed over to his successor.

Abonyi, who wondered why anybody would mark him and members of his family for attack, pleaded with his traducers to save their lives since he had not offended anybody.

He gave the phone numbers of those threatening

By Emmanuel Elebeke

A

BUJA—THE Director and Chief Executive of Centre for Satellite T e c h n o l o g y Development, CSTD, Dr. Spencer Onuh, has said Nigeria was losing about $2 billion to capital flight annually because of importation of foreign satellite by Nigerians.

Onuh, who disclosed this in an exclusive interview with Vanguard, warned that such omen, if not checked, would impact negatively not only on the Nigerian space agency but also the economy at large.

He said it was regrettable that Nigerians preferred to import foreign satellites, even when they could source same services locally from NASRDA, with the Nigeria Sat 1.

He said Nigerian Sat 1 was used in mapping the whole country at no cost, a service the country spent $300 million to get in 1956 when the exercise was first carried out.

Mama Obiajulu Appah, 78, for burial BRIEFING: From left: Secretary of Conference, Methodist Church Nigeria, Rt. Rev. Dr. Chibuzo Raphael Opoko, Prelate of the Church, His Eminence Dr. Chukwuemeka Uche and Lay President of Conference, Sir Jimmy Coker, KJW, during a briefing by the church in Lagos.

Ex-LG boss raises alarm over alleged threat to life

By Tony Edike

Nigeria loses $2bn to foreign satellites —Onuh

them as 070 80352016 and 08139602055.

Briefing newsmen in Enugu, the former council boss disclosed that his ordeal began on May 18, this year “when the person flashed me

in the night and when I called back, he didn’t pick and shortly after I got a text message castigating me and making fun of the bereavement I had, the loss of my parents, my sisters, that

they have died while I was the chairman looting the treasury of my people, that they will never come back to life again and that even my life, my wife and children are not safe.

NCAA chief lauds BA, tasks national carrier on aviation devt initiative

L

AGOS—AWARE of the increasing needs to promote the Nigeria aviation sector, the Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, Mr. Benedict Adeyileka, has charged corporate organisations in the airline industry to put in place programmes that would enhance the development of the sector in the country.

Adeyileka made the call

when the winners of the British Airways’ Leaders of Tomorrow paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Lagos.

He said initiatives such as the “British Airways Leaders of Tomorrow” programme could play an important part in bringing new expertise and international best practice to the Nigerian aviation sector.

The programme gave six

students of the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology, NCAT, an opportunity to gain some valuable first-hand insight into the operations of a modern international airline during a two-week internship in Lagos and London.

The NCAA boss commended the airline for choosing NCAT, Zaria, as its partner in the programme.

M

AMA GRACE Obiajulu Appah (nee Otigbu), of OgbeOrji Village, Illah, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State is dead, aged 78 years. She died after a brief illness. In a statement issued by the Appah and Otigbu families, there will be a wake keep on Wednesday, August 13, 2014, while she will be buried the following day at the family's compound in Illah. She is survived by the widower, Mr. James Appah, children and many relations, including Donald Appah and Francis Otigbu.

Late Obiajulu Appah

16—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

REWARD: From left: Mr Uzoma Bonaventure of National Lottery Commission, Abuja, Mrs. Olujie, Head, Customer Feedback and Collaboration, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON, Chairman, Binatone Nigeria, Chief Alex Akinyele, Managing Director, Binatone, Mr Gurumorthi Sridhar, Ms Comfort Mariam and Ms Tosin Ogunware of Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria, APCON, when Binatone rewarded customers with cars and products in Lagos.

Uneasy calm at FMC, Owerri, over non-payment of 2 months salary

By Chidi Nkwopara

O

WERRI—UNEASY calm now pervades the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, FMC, following the nonpayment of June and July 2014 staff salaries to those not captured by the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, IPPIS. Our correspondent, stumbled on the looming labour crisis yesterday, when he visited the medical establishment to probe alleged Ebola fever scare that rent the air in Owerri.

Some of the workers,

who spoke to our correspondent on strict grounds pf anonymity, lamented that the affected workers are in three distinct segments.

“Some staff are owed June and July salaries and there are also those that are owed either June or July salaries.

The truth is that workers are no longer very comfortable with the development”, the staff fumed.

All the workers that spoke on the issue, expressed regret that “the hospital management has not

done enough to redress the anomaly.”

Obviously gripped by fear of the impending workers’ agitation, the FMC management issued an internal memo, FMCO/ACCTS/2014/ IPPIS/301.

The memo, signed on behalf of the Medical Director, Dr. Angela Uwakwem, by the Assistant Director, Finance and Head of Accounts Department, Mr. Theodore C. Iroegbu, was dated August 7, 2014 and pasted on the hospital’s notice board.

Appeal Court dismisses Global West Vessels suit against NLNG

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AGOS—THE Court of Appeal in Lagos has upheld a preliminary objection by Nigeria LNG Limited and dismissed an appeal filed by Global West Vessel Specialist Limited, challenging an earlier Federal High Court decision to continue a substantive suit over the blockade of NLNG’s jetty in Bonny.

The Company exports cargoes of liquefied natural gas and allied products from there.

C M Y K

In a lead judgment delivered by Justice Rita Nosakhare Pemu, with which the other Justices that heard the appeal concurred, the Appeal Court ruled that the Notice of Appeal filed by Global West was”incompetent” as contended by NLNG, having been filed without leave, either of the Federal High Court or the Court of Appeal.

The ruling affirmed a previous one by the Federal High Court in Lagos

dismissing Global West’s Notice of Preliminary Objection against a substantive suit by NLNG on the ground that Global West was a proper party to the suit.

Following the refusal by the Federal High Court, Global West then proceeded to the Appellate Court to set aside the decision and stay proceedings at the lower Court, pending the determination of the appeal.

Nigeria LNG Limited in 2013 filed a case at the Federal High Court against the Attorney General of the Federation and Global West, seeking a judicial determination on, among other things, the legality or otherwise of certain levies sought to be imposed on NLNG

by Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 17

•Joyce Banda

C M Y K

18— Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 FEW expected Saturday ’s governorship election in Osun State to have passed peacefully. For us the peaceful conduct of the election was the surprise. The result might have been predictable, but many expected violence to becloud Osun.

Predictions were that the fiery inclinations of the major gladiators would produce huge bouts of violence, no matter the outcome of the poll. Their campaign speeches and direct attacks on each other were used as measures of the expected violence.

Thankfully, they were proved wrong. Many reasons could be given for the peace witnessed in Osun. Unless otherwise discovered, we would rate Osun people the most important factor in the peaceful election.

People were not ready to be used in the predicted violence. Without willing tools in the hands of politicians, violence evaporated. As the parties accused each other of desperation, expectations were that they would disrupt the election, if they thought the results were not in their favour.

It did not happen. From accreditation to voting, the exercise went well. Complaints were expected, and they were made, but they

Osun – Result Not The Surprise were minimal.

Like in Edo State last year, it was obvious the parties took propaganda too far. The tactics seemed to be to keep complaining and cease when the results are in your favour. We saw that in Osun State.

A major issue that appeared to have adverse effect on the results was the heavy presence of security agencies. They were in their numbers in earlier elections in Edo and Ekiti States. There appears to be a progression in the number of security personnel with subsequent elections.

Fears that they were recruited to help the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, win the

election proved unfounded. They did their work, and the people conducted themselves in manners that gave the security agencies no reason to harass them.

Commendations for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in the handling of the election could be qualified. However, it would seem that INEC, in Osun, was able to deal with the cyclical issue of distribution of electoral materials. It would be necessary to find out if INEC was efficient in Osun or benefitted from Osun’s less challenging terrain and good road network.

President Goodluck Jonathan quickly congratulated Governor Rauf Aregbesola, the winner. His party might be sulking over not winning elections in Edo, Anambra, and now Osun, States they once ruled.

No ruling party has lost such number of States in our history and the President did nothing about it. His impartiality is commendable.

As the winner celebrates, we should note that the answer to peaceful elections lie in our collective decision to work against violence.

We hope the Osun surprise continues through 2015.

OPINION

By Mamuzo Okoro

T

HE evolving trend in most parts of the world is for tested technocrats to adorn the garb of politics after serving humanity in different capacities. When technocrats enter governance in Nigeria they do so via two means. Either by getting appointed by a government that wants to benefit from their technical expertise or by getting fully involved in the electoral process and getting elected.

Either of both ways, the technocrat in government is of the conviction that he or she has something to contribute to governance and improve the quality of life of the people. This is the case with the personality known as David Edevbie.

It was General Ibrahim Babangida who, as Nigeria’s military president, first courted technocrats and activists whom he brought into government between 1985 and 1993.

There is a settled fact that the best policy statements to have ever come out of the Nigeria were designed and enunciated during the Babangida years. The problem then was insincerity and lack of will to implement the policies. The Babangida era saw technocrats and activists like OluFalae, BolajiAkinyemi, Ibrahim Gambari, OlikoyeRansomeKuti, Tai Solarin, Wole Soyinka and Jerry Gana serving the Nigerian state. These fellows brought fresh thinking to the running of government. Ghana’s Jerry Rawlings also did the same. The difference, however, was that while Ghanaian leaders were sincere and had the will to implement the sound policies which brought that country back from the precipice, Nigerian leaders fiddled

The technocrat governor Delta needs like Nero and the country plummeted into the valley of underdevelopment.

When Chief Olusegun Obasanjowas elected president in 1999 he tried to satisfy the politicians who helped him to ascend the exalted office of President. So he appointed old political war horses as ministers to work with him. He made little or no progress. It was as if the country was in a very deep slumber from which it would never wake up. Then during one of his trips abroad Obasanjo lamented how docile his government turned out to be. His foreign host advised him to engage tested technocrats and activists who are hungry for change and development to work with the politicians and see how the nation would become transformed in no time. Obasanjo had to wait till after the 2003 elections that earned him a second term in office as President.

After winning that election Obasanjowent on to recruit new hands who are tested technocrats and activists to work with the politicians. It was that period that saw the likes of Dr.NgoziOkonjo-Iweala, Mrs.Oby Ezekwesili, MallamNasiru El Rufai, Prof.

Charles Soludo and a host of others becoming ministers, thereby influencing government policies for good. In a very short time, Okonjo-Iweala got debt relief for Nigeria. The privatization programme that put Nigeria on the path of development took off. These guys brought remarkable competence and depth of character into public office.

Nigeria started working again.

However, just like the Babangida period Obasanjo was not sincere and soon the government was derailed and distracted by his third term ambition and many of these technocrats and activists became disillusioned. But Nigerians will remember that the country became a place of hope between 2004 and 2007 when these men and women were ministers. They had the drive, ideas and enthusiasm to take the country to greater heights.

As Nigerians prepare for the next elections, come 2015, many are anxious about the character and competence of the individuals who will run the nation and the different states from 2015 till 2019. The anxiety is very high because of the reality that development is eluding Nigeria. We are now very much aware that the Federal Government alone cannot develop Nigeria from Abuja. All the 36 states need good hands to run them from 2015 till 2019. This is where the anxiety comes from. For how long shall we remain in the wilderness of underdevelopment? For how long shall we grope and not reach our destination as a developed nation?

An overwhelming number of technocrats and activists are ever conscious of their hard earned reputations and would embark on measures that will stop mindless corruption in their states. This will enable them have enough resources for development. The technocrats also have the leadership skills and managerial acumen to manage resources. They are turn-around experts who usually inspire

development wherever they work.

There is no doubt that some states are making progress that is quite visible and appreciated. But we need to accelerate the pace. That is why many states are making a case for the enthronement of technocrats who have what it takes to develop the states as governors come 2015.

In Delta State, the people felt a sense of great relief when Edevbie, the world acclaimed development finance expert, entered the governorship race. Edevbie has the requisite leadership skills, management acumen and urbane and cosmopolitan temperament to run a multi-cultural state such as Delta.

He has served the world, Delta State and Nigeria. He has what it takes to initiate people-centred development. He understands Nigeria’s problems and he knows what it takes to get society out of the woods. As a development thinker he was instrumental to bringing development to parts of South East Asia and the Pacific Islands. For some years now he has been keenly involved with Deltans, especially at the grassroots and champions the need for the industrialisation of the state through agriculture and agro-allied industries.He is expected to deploy his vast national and international connections to attract investors to the state and make it a hub of development. *Mr. Okoro, a social critic, wrote from Lagos.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014— —19

, T

HE outbreak of Ebola virus in parts of West Africa, including Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, has rightly sent panic around the world. From Liberia it has found its way to Nigeria and is slowly spreading among health workers and others who had had direct and indirect contact with infected persons.

The fear now is that it might continue its slow but steady spread if nothing or enough is done to stem it. Such a devastating killer should not be allowed to continue unchecked, especially since the mode of transmission could be as insidious as shaking hands with an infected person.

This is not the first time this deadly disease that has no known vaccine to contain it would announce its presence. Indeed, it was first reported nearly four decades ago, precisely in 1976.

Its unfortunate hosts then were Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. There have been intermittent outbreaks since then but nothing as devastating as its recent emergence in parts of West Africa.

Found mostly among monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas, antelopes and other game animals we in these parts relish as bush meat, Ebola virus is the very death that comes from what is loved and desired. It is truly the proverbial dry meat that fills the mouth. Even though it has killed less than three thousand people in about 40 years, its catastrophic potential cannot and should not be underestimated. It is a real threat that should not be treated with the usual levity with which we treat so many other things. Clear cases of human negligence we call acts of nature in Nigeria- that is not the way to respond to the Ebola threat.

Which is why how some Nigerians have been responding to this virus should worry us all. This is more so now that doctors have been on strike for many weeks. And the fact that some health workers, local and international, are among the unfortunate victims of Ebola is another reason we should be more diligent and responsible in our response to the disease.

Not many people, including health workers, would be quick to rise to cases of Ebola virus. We are often superstitious and enigmatic

,

in explaining simple cases of personal or collective negligence.

Health workers being people with families could be easily persuaded by members of their own family to steer clear of treating a disease that appears to go after those who try to control it. That is even where they are wiling and determined to live up to their professional calling.

It’s a bad case now that our doctors and other categories of health professionals feel they have not been given enough respect or reward for their work. Which is one reason the doctors have been on strike and are now being begged to return to work.

B

ut the greater task in controlling this viral outbreak is for our government, from Abuja down to the states and local councils, to take very active and effective measures that could limit the mobility of this highly mobile threat. The response should not just be limited to medical activities. It should in fact start with mobilising Nigerians to an awareness of the danger posed by the virus. A lot needs to be done as Nigerians

The contenders and pretenders

By Julius Etakama

T

HE race to succeed Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has started in earnest. The list of those jostling for the prime position is long. Delta State is strategic in terms of location besides being well-endowed. But there are two things we cannot wish away: the next governor has to be experienced and well-rounded intellectually, detribalised and with a lot of charisma.

This piece is a result of careful research work and interactions with an array of people representing various clans, wards, local governments and senatorial districts. The result is mind-boggling but not in any way binding on any of the contenders. But taking this piece for just its paper value would be detrimental to both the contenders and the handlers of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state.

As a start, the issue of zoning was quashed for lack of merit. Delta North has no moral ground for seeking that the position be zoned to them. The simple reason is that they have been actively involved in the race since the advent of this present democratic dispensation.

Cairo Ojougboh and Ned Nwoko would perhaps agree with this position, including Ifeanyi Okowa and Godswill Obielum. These are all respected political gladiators from Delta North.

As it stands today there are five genuine contenders for the number one seat in the state. They are Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Ndidi Elumelu, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, Chief David Edevbie and Chief Godswill

Obielum. I will highlight their candidature, their strength and weakness in no particular order.

Senator Okowa represents Delta North in the National Assembly. A fine gentleman and a delight any day and any time. He was one time chairman of Ika North-East Local Government Area. He is a hard-core politician and he has a deep pocket. He is a grass-root man, but he is said to be too independent minded.

Ndidi Elumelu is also from Delta North and represents Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. He is a strong contender in the race to Government House. He is believed to be very close to President Goodluck Jonathan and has strong ties with Chief Edwin Clark. But though cleared, no one is sure what the impact of his trial and others by the EFCC with regard to the Rural Electrification Agency scandal would have on his chances. He still has to work hard to get the required grassroots support.

Ovie Omo-Agege is the National Chairman of the Urhobo Political Congress, UPC, the apex political group of the Urhobo.The Orogun-born politician, lawyer, administrator and business mogul was executive assistant to the Governor of Delta State in 2003; and later Commissioner for Special Duties. In 2007, he was appointed the Secretary to the State Government. He has a state-wide organisation which he has oiled for years. In addition to this obvious organisational strength, he is a thoroughbred political fighter, a man of

seem to relish the prospect of deliberately misinforming one another. The unproven claim that the local bitter kola cures Ebola virus is one such stupidity that should not be allowed to gain a foothold. If people must justify their consumption of this type of local snack they should not link that to serious health issues that demand immediate and serious treatment. It’s the height of absurdity for people to go into town with claims of unfounded cure that is attributed to a former chair of our electoral commission, Maurice Iwu, a professor of Pharmacognosy.

In his time as INEC boss, Iwu was not necessarily a favourite of Nigerians, especially politicians. We did not hear much about his scientific or research exploits. Which is not to discount them if they exist. But to throw him into this present discussion of Ebola virus in a manner that suggests a belated attempt at beatification is very irresponsible indeed. Prof. Iwu has not himself said anything about this so-called research that is attributed to him. Even the health authorities have debunked claims of cure for Ebola. It is therefore a disservice to many of our illiterate compatriots to peddle old wives’ tales that would as likely as not create a dangerous sense of safety where none exists. That there is observable increase in demand for bitter kola, as the media have reported, is to say that many of us are treating the unproven cure claim with the seriousness it does not deserve. It is the very reason why official authorities at all levels must rise to the occasion and counter these pernicious claims of cure with more targeted information regarding the spread of this virus and how to avoid it.

As I write this, the news is just

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Ebola virus, the absurd and urban legends

To give Ebola room in Lagos with its huge human population that is more than that of many countries in Africa is to court annihilation

As it stands today, there are five genuine contenders for the number one seat in the state; they are Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Ndidi Elumelu, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, Chief David Edevbie and Chief Godswill Obielum

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class and pedigree. He is regarded as one of the finest gentlemen in the political space in Delta State. By all parameters, he is a man with very intimidating democratic credentials who can hold his own when it matters most. He is a dogged fighter, a strategist with uncommon zeal to serve. An executive member and chieftain of the PDP in Delta State, who pleaded not to be named, had this to say: "I consider him an asset and the PDP will do itself a lot of good if he is given the party ticket for the 2015 polls. He is the best material there is for the party that can win both the governorship election and deliver 98% votes for the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan". He stands a good chance.

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r. David Edevbie is an Urhobo and a surprise inclusion on the list of contenders for the single reason that he

breaking that the nurse who attended to Patrick Sawyer, the Liberian-American, through whom the disease entered Nigeria has passed on. This is aside report that five more Nigerians have been reported to be infected with the virus. If this news is confirmed, then we just cannot be too careful and up and doing about stemming the tide of Ebola. Rather than spending precious time wondering or bickering over President Goodluck Jonathan being tested for the presence of Ebola virus when he arrived the US for the African leaders summit with President Obama- rather than such unprofitable speculation, we should be concerned about halting Ebola in its stride among the greater Nigeria population.

To give Ebola room in Lagos with its huge human population that is more than that of many countries in Africa is to court annihilation. To allow it take root in any part of Nigeria at all is to court disaster on a scale unknown in our despicable history of slow response to or lack of concern for issues of public safety.

It is the prerogrative of America to test nationals of any country where Ebola virus has been reported. That our borders are so porous that anything passes through them is no reason to expect others to follow in our step. We can only hope and pray that in their bid to contain the spread of the disease that they do not conjure phantom reasons to deny Nigerians their due or treat them unfairly when applying to visit certain countries, as South Africa did in a manner that elicited retaliatory measures from Nigeria not too long ago. To avoid this and to end Ebola’s ghastly career we must go beyond the absurdities of the last few days.

has some funds to throw around. He has a lot of baggage, including his closeness to the former governor James Ibori; he cannot speak his mother’s tongue. He was Principal Secretary to the late President, Umaru Yar'Ádua. The less than tidy handling of the last days of his former boss in office also rubs off on him. It would be surprising if he eventually gets the ticket.

But again, in politics, nothing can be ruled out.

Chief Obielum is from the Ndokwa axis of Anioma. He is a security czar. He is also a philanthropist who has touched the lives of people through the Chief Godswill Obielum Foundation. He has a deep war chest and can go any length in realising his gubernatorial ambition which he has been nursing since 2007. He stands a good chance, even though he abandoned his political structure across the state after the 2007 primaries. Party leaders are of the view that the former Police officer who later joined the Uduaghan political boat no longer commands the respect in political circles like he once did in Delta State. He has an average chance.

These are the strong contenders in the race to Government House in Delta State in 2015. All others are just pretenders.

Elder Godsday Orubebe before now stood a great chance. His unceremonious exit from the government of President Jonathan is interpreted as a sack. Little wonder all the times that President Jonathan visited Delta, he was conspicuously absent.

The likes of Victor Onyeikachi Ochei, Dr. Festus Okubor and Professor Saliba Mukoro are not serious contenders. They are probably flying kites or testing the waters. *Mr. Etakama, a political analsyt, wrote from Asaba, Delta State.

20 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Fear of Ebola, beginning of wisdom (2)

Eight days of terror as Boko Haram-like cultists kill 23 in Rivers

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME, Assistant News Editor

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ITHIN a space of eight days, about 21 persons have allegedly been murdered in Rivers State by rampaging cultists, an act some residents said was like Boko Haram operation.

Vanguard Metro, VM, gathered that the cultists opened fire indiscriminately not minding who got their bullets.

It is not clear if the killings have any link with the political divide in the state. Rivers State has been sharply divided along members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and the All Progressives Congress, APC, with each of the parties expressing strong hope of coasting to victory in the 2015 general elections.

Some residents who spoke to the VM held the view that the two divides might be secretly arming idle youths in the state ahead of next year’s general poll. The foregoing remains mere speculation.

Meantime, the killing in Khana Local Government Area came up

*Some cultists arrested in Port Harcourt by the Rivers State Police Command

paging cultist had stormed Baan community where they murdered two persons, disappearing with the head of one of them. He said the cultists also shot dead a lady in Kpaa community.

“When I heard about the incident, I quickly called the DPO to find out what happened.

When I got there ,I discovered that the corpses had been brought to the Police Station. I went with the Police to the mortuary where they were deposited. I later discovered that one of

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The gunmen who apparently missed their target at the first bar close to the popular Agip junction opened fire killing some persons

barely 48 hours the state Police Command launched a stop kidnapping campaign in the state. The state Police Commissioner, Mr Tunde Ogunsakin had told stakeholders at the event in Port Harcourt that the vigorous and aggressive approach of his men against kidnapping was yielding commendable result. He also appealled for support from the public in the area of information sharing and other allied areas to enable the Police command wipe out the crime from the state.

According to the Caretaker Committee Chairman, Khana Local Government Area, Mr Hyacinth Nwiye, the ram-

C M Y K

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the cultists that took part in this act was shot dead and beheaded,” he told newsmen.

The tension generated in Khana LGA of the state had hardly died down when another group of cultists stormed two drinking spots on Aggrey Road, Port Harcourt in search of their targets. Neighbourhood sources told the VM that the gunmen who apparently missed their target at the first bar close to the popular Agip junction opened fire killing some persons before heading to a second bar on the same road where they also shot other persons.

VM gathered that about

Rivers State Police Commissioner, Mr Tunde Ogunsakin

five persons died from gun shot wounds that nigh, though the state Police Commissioner, Mr Ogunsakin said two died.

Before the Port Harcourt killings, cultists had wreaked havoc in Egi kingdom, Ogba Egbema Ndoni Local Government Area where they left about 15 persons died.

A community source who spoke under condition of anonymity said the cultists carried on as though they were members of the Boko Haram that night.

Accompanying gunshot The cultists who reportedly came in five motor bikes allegedly shot sporadically with no specific target in sight. Sources said they moved through about four communities. Residents had to run for cover at the sound of the accompanying gun shot.

Community sources said about 15 persons died that night but the state Police boss, Mr Ogunsakin said it was

between six to eight persons who lost their lives in the sad incident.

As expected, the cult killings have instilled fear in most residents of the state as they now prefer to stay indoors early to avoid running into the cultists.

The state CP, Mr Ogunsakin said the Police were taking measures to curb the ugly situation. He further appealed to residents to support the Police with useful information to enable it wipe out crime.

Residents who spoke to VM enjoined security operatives and the government to address the challenges, stressing that the state should not be allowed to slide to the better forgotten dark era when cultists literally held the state under seige.

“We don’t want the state to go back to what it was before 2007 when cultism held sway,” they pleaded.

They also pleaded with members of the political class not to arm idle youths with sophisticated weapons to unleash leash terror during elections.

Continues from last week NDEED what are we doing? Our borders are still very porous and people are freely moving in and out. I bet you, if you go to the borders now, you will not find medical personnel screening people entering the country,” said Pat, adding: “God help us because Liberia will be a child’s play compared to Nigeria if the virus spreads. We are too crowded - on the roads, buses, markets, places of worship, just name it. So it will spread like wildfire.”

Said Nneka: “Exactly! We always depend on foreigners to do for us what we can do for ourselves; the same way we fold our arms and keep praying to God to do for us what we are supposed to be doing. Can’t we think?

We have so many talented and intelligent people all over Africa and yet, we cannot seem to get our acts together. We keep playing the blame game. God gave all of us talents to help us survive on planet earth and each one of us is supposed to discover our talents and use it for the good of humanity.

“Nkem Owoh, aka Osuofia, the veteran Nollywood actor, in one of his Igbo Language movies said the way one of his friends was behaving, it seemed he was created by God’s apprentice and not by God Himself,” stated James. Said Mercy: “Yes, that is the way some of us come across to people sometimes. We look at Oyibos as if they are out of this world but they are no super humans; they are flesh and blood just as we are. So why can’t we develop and use our God-given talents?”

“Ok, they made the experimental serum, ZMapp and gave to their people and when Nigeria asked for it, they refused, why?” asked Jide to which Mercy replied thus:”The drug is still under trial as we were made to understand; so it was even very risky giving it to the two patients. Researchers working with human subjects need to be extremely careful because the drug may cause physical and psychological suffering from which the subject may never recover. Drugs usually take long periods of trials before they are certified fit for use by the relevant agencies and if that order is flouted, the researchers or healthcare provider will risk going to jail, withdrawal of licence, job loss etc. So before they can administer trial drugs, subjects must understand the pros and cons and give informed consent. True, but they would have given to our people on the grounds of compassion,” said Tina.

Replied Mercy: “If you were in their shoes, would you try it? Remember Pfizer 1996 meningitis vaccine trial in Nigeria? So I think the best thing they can do for us is to support our researchers massively.”

“But why do we always jettison our own? Imagine the Health Minister telling people that bitter kola does not cure ebola and others took to social media to castigate Prof. Iwu, calling him fraudulent. For God’s sake, the man and his team did the research about 10 years ago before this outbreak. Please , let’s learn to give our people some credit,” saidTina. “But does it cure it? The research was not conclusive, so people should not be deceived into thinking the bitter kola cures ebola disease,” stated James.

“He should not discourage people from eating their bitter kola as long as we do not have a cure yet. After all, it is not poisonous or harmful to health. The serum given to the American doctor was still under experiment. It was not yet approved by the relevant authorities and yet, they administered it; so what are we talking about?” countered Tina. “I am sure that if a black man had discovered ZMapp, we would have mocked him and his research results but once it’s from a white man, oh, we will do everything to get it without questioning the potency,” argued Nneka. “True. So what do you say about hot salt water bath and drink? Isn’t that madness?

And people obeyed and paid dearly for it,” noted James.

“Nigerians sha! Haba! We are experts at overdoing things. I am sure some people would have used the salt water in very high concentration which is harmful. It’s all ignorance and ignorance is very expensive.

Many of us want others to do our thinking for us and solve our problems, but the truth is that you are the best person to appreciate and solve your problem; people may help you but you must lead. The disease is not airborne and only transmitted through contact with bodily fluids such as saliva, blood, vomit, sweat or faeces of a severely sick ebola disease patient but luckily, patients at this stage do not move around, they are too weak so those at risk are the primary care givers. “

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Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 21

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IRECTOR-General, Debt Management Office (DMO), on Sunday said the organisation would continue to support state governments to build the skills of debt management officers.

Nwankwo made the disclosure in Abuja. He said the DMO would be helping the states to build up their debt data on quarterly basis to ensure efficiency in debt management.

“We have a strategic programme that lasts up to 2017 and the strategic programme is for every year, the things we have to do every quarter is already specified.

“So everything we are supposed to do is in our strategic plan and we have met all of them. Among the other routine things that we have to be doing include that we continue with the programme we have with the states. We are working with the states to update their debt data on quarterly basis to train their staff on debt management, particularly since they have had staff movement in many states of the federation,” he said According to him, DMO will continue working with the states, visiting them and staying with them to retrain their staff and building a bigger reserve of capable debt management skills in all the states of the federation.

He assured the states that the office would continue to make sure that foreign loans that were negotiated were signed and the disbursement carried out according to plan.

This, he said, would help to provide the funds needed for the implementation of various projects they were meant for. He commended the commitment and the interest of the states in establishing debt management offices.

“All the states are keen to continue improving on this, in gen-

DMO promises continued support to states on debt management eral, all the states are doing well and they are continuing to improve,” he said.

Dr Abraham Nwankwo urged Nigerian producers to use the leverage provided by the Federal Government to produce goods that could be exported to help to grow the national re-

serve.

“If Nigerian individuals and companies produce and export more than we import, we earn foreign exchange and if we import less, our foreign reserves will be growing because we are adding more to it than we are drawing from. So, the essential

simple way for the reserve to grow is for Nigerian individuals, households and companies to be productive enough to compete internationally, to export goods and services and earn foreign exchange. They must depend less on imports, practically imports of consumer goods

US Secretary of Commerce, Penny Pritzker and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga during a meeting with Secretary of Commerce at the US Department of Commerce, Washington DC.

which is the strategic thrust of the government within the transformation agenda,” he said Nwankwo said that in the long term, the DMO contributes to the growth of foreign reserves by supporting not only government but also the private sector through the creation of a market for long term force. This, he said, placed the private sector in a position to access the long term funds to produce goods and services, including those that could be exported to earn foreign exchange.

“The DMO is also helping to source funds for the development of infrastructure which will not only help to increase productivity but reduce cost of production, improve competitiveness and therefore make Nigerian goods more acceptable in the International market.

It will thereby make the country to earn more foreign exchange,” he said.

Nwankwo said that there was the need to ensure that instead of exporting just crude products, primary products, primary solid minerals, primary agricultural products, it was processed to create more value.

Telecom companies to switch off fake phones from networks — SON

BY FRANKLIN ALLI

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HE Federal Government will soon order telecom companies in the country to effect a nationwide switch-off of over 12.6 million counterfeit phones from networks by using the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.

This was disclosed by Dr. Joseph Odumodu, Director General Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

Speaking during an interactive forum with Phone Brand Owners in Lagos, the SON boss pointed out that in 2013 alone, over N5 billion was spent in Nigeria on the importation of substandard mobile phones, adding that as at April this year, Nigeria currently has a GSM subscriber base of 126,958,904; and 10 percent of these subscribers (12.6 million) use counterfeit phones.

He affirmed that the enforcement will boost consumer rights protection, increased revenue for the government via taxes; increase revenue for the genuine mobile phone manufacturers as well as improved GSM

networks in the country.

According to him, SON is working out the plan with Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, and Consumer Protection Council; the phone operators, and “Soon government shall announce the directive to switch the fake phones off the networks.”

“As more countries switch-off counterfeit phones, the people behind this scourge will keep moving to countries that are yet to adopt this solution, hence the urgent need to address the situation,” he said.

He enjoined all brand owners to monitor and protect their products from the factories (manufacturers) until they get to the end-users.

“Brand owners have to inscribe coded identification marks on original phones to ensure traceability and proper user ’s guide,” he said.

Umego Adaora, CPC Scientific Officer Lagos Zonal Office, also urged the brand owners to look beyond making money by considering the negative effects substandard phones have on the economy, the environment and the consumer.

Some of the brand owners reacted to the development:

Comfort Ebere, whose company is Nokia mobile sole representative in Nigeria, noted, ‘There is a phone I saw recently; Nokia as a brand name and they wrote L300 but Nokia doesn’t produce L300. I also saw Nokia L800 and I asked where are these phones coming from? I was taken a backed and I went to the office and spoke with my people to know what is really happening in the markets. When we see a real Nokia phones from us we know. If we key in the code and it doesn’t bring up the features we tell the customer, this is not from us.”

Sunday Mbiam, who represented LG Electronics, said, “I must confess that it has been very frustrating. You have good phones in the market but getting complaints from consumer that most of the products they found in the markets are faked. They must have bought it from roadsides and not from the main dealers. We have a good warranty in places such that in case of defaults take your phone to any of our centre for replacement. And we want to encourage Nigerians to patronise our dealers and not road-side phone vendors.”

22 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

The risk of not achieving a financially secure retirement remains high among Nigerians,

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INSURAN C

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Insecurity in north threatens business operations — Niger boss

By Cynthia Chimezie

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nsurance operators have decried the rising spate of Boko Haram attacks in the northern part of the country, saying that the attacks have affected their businesses negatively.

Managing Director of Niger Insurance Plc Mr. Kolapo Adedeji, while speaking on the issue, said that the level of exchange of goods and services in the affected states is slow unlike before the attacks.

Adedeji however said that his company has embarked on several transformation programmes over the past five years which have edged the firm’s service delivery and help in improving operating performance.

According to Adedeji, the ‘No

premium, no cover’ policy has impacted positively on their performance because it creates liquidity.

Adedeji said that the company complies fully with the ‘No premium, no cover ’ policy.

According to him, Niger Insurance financials is in compliance with the International Financial Reporting Standard, IFRS, to maximise income and add more value to the shareholders, stakeholders and employees. ”We will not relent in our effort on our human capital development which is a key to achieving the overall objectives,” he said.

According to him, the company plans to launch new products which are customer friendly and repackage the existing ones to suit various clients as well as upgrade its information technology to integrate regional and branch offices.

“As a major player in the industry, we will continue to support the regulatory framework and implementation of its measures and guidelines,” he stated.

Custodian & Allied records N2.3bn profit C

ustodian & Allied Plc has announced an unaudited profit before tax of N2.751 billion for the half year period ended 30 June 2014.

The company also announced a profit after tax of N2.276 billion for the same period.

The result represents an increase of over 100 per cent over the N1.137 billion profit after tax recorded in the corresponding period of 2013.

Similarly, shareholders’ funds grew by 9.34 per cent to N20.88 billion from N19.09 billion as at June 30, 2013, while total assets stood at N48.2 billion compared with N45.6 billion reported as at June 30, 2013.

Ademola Ajuwon, the company ’s Chief Finance Officer, said the results have been transmitted to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). He observed that the

improved result was achieved on the back of favourable underwriting income from the insurance subsidiaries and remarkable efficiency gains group wide.

According to Managing Director, Mr. Wole Oshin, “The performance presents in concrete terms, the result of Custodian unwavering customer focus, comprehensive systems, processes and operations integration; coupled with unrelenting commitment to its corporate ideal of exceeding customers and other stakeholders’ expectations at all times. We will continue to ensure that our products and services are customer-driven; even as we strive to position our subsidiaries to become Africa’s insurers of choice.”

Consequently, the Board of Directors has recommended the payment of an interim dividend of 6 kobo on every 50 kobo ordinary share of the company to shareholders on record as at the close of business on 8th August, 2014.

Custodian is listed in the Other Financial Services Sector of the Daily Official List of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, and holds significant interests in insurance (Life and Non-life), pension administration, property holding and trusteeship businesses.

‘Workers should assume responsibility for their retirement’ STORIES BY ROSEMARY ONUOHA

S

tanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, a member of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has highlighted the need for Nigerians to be more proactive and assume greater responsibility for their financial security in retirement.

To assist in the attainment of this goal, the Pension Fund Administrator, PFA, took its public enlightenment campaign to Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, recently with the aim of increasing retirement planning coverage among Nigerians.

Mr. Demola Sogunle, Chief Executive Officer of the company, said the risk of not achieving a financially secure retirement remains high among Nigerians, a situation that necessitates the deepening of awareness about retirement planning in the country.

Sogunle emphasised that since retirement from active working life is inevitable, planning for it should commence early in an individual’s working life because it typically takes many years to accumulate the necessary funds with which to live comfortably when the salary eventually ceases to arrive every month.

Insurers tasked on embracing IT solutions

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nsurance operators have been called to take advantage of available Information Technology solutions to improve market share and profitability.

The Information Technology Committee of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) gave this admonition in a report it submitted to the association. The Committee charged underwriters to maximise use of innovations such as mobile space; device and cloud services; messaging and collaboration; social media; CRM dynamics; data analysis and business intelligence to boost their operations.

The industry operators were urged to harness the potential in provid-

ing alternative revenue collection channels to improve their premium collection. They were encouraged to explore channels like pay direct; mobile money; quick teller web; quick teller ATM; direct debit; funds disbursement and more.

“Digitalised enterprise insurance is beyond distribution channels – it is a total transformation of every process in insurance to reveal an enhanced way of doing business. Insurance companies should leverage on digital technology as a competitive advantage in its internal and external process, which will result in efficient service delivery, profitability and complete stakeholders’ satisfaction.” the committee said.

From left: Maurice Newa, Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria; FaruMonday, Dep. D Commission, NAICOM, and Ganiu Musa, GMD/CEO, Cornerstone Insurance at the media l C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —

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CE & YOU

By embracing a retirement plan from the early days of employment, Nigerians will avoid the myriad of difficult decisions usually encountered when nearing retirement age

23

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Airtel partners MicroEnsure, Cornerstone on free insurance to subscribers

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From left: Alero Edu, Head Consultant PR Distinction; Kenny Ogungbe, Managing Director, Radio Services, Daar Communications and Chioma Alonge, Brand Manager, Veleta during the White & Ball event sponsored by Intercontinental Distillers Limited.

“This seminar, besides celebrating those who will soon become retired clients of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, also provides an opportunity to address the concerns or anxieties you might have as retirement draws near.”

He said the seeming lack of interest and complaints of administrative complexities among workers are issues adequately addressed under the Contributory Pension Scheme upgraded through the recently signed Pension Reform Act of 2014; stressing that engaging the expertise of a professional financial advisor will help in designing the appropriate retirement plan for each person and also the adjustment of such plans when the need arises.

By embracing a retirement plan from the early days of employment, Sogunle said Nigerians will avoid the myriad of difficult decisions usually encountered when nearing retirement age. Employers too have a major role to play by helping their employees work on their retirement outlook by opening a retirement

Director (Inspection), National Insurance aunch of Airtel Insurance in Lagos.

savings account, encouraging savings and helping to ease workers’ transition to retirement, he said.

Mr. Emmanuel Olu-Ayeni, Managing Partner, StarBright Consulting Limited, who spoke on the topic, retiring well and managing wealth, traced the various stages in the active working life that ultimately culminates in retirement. He pointed out that it is the planning and resources mustered during active working days that will shape the lifestyle and level of comfort in retirement.

On her part, Dr. Chito Nwana, Medical Director, Tabitha Medical Center, Abuja, who spoke on Lifestyle and Health, stressed the need for retirees to strike a balance between their expectations and lifestyle in retirement in order to ensure a stress-free life. She recommended appropriate diets and regular physical exercises as imperative for a healthy life in retirement.

ubscribers on the Airtel network can now enjoy life and hospitalisation insurance with increasing benefits based on monthly airtime recharge.

Airtel Nigeria, in collaboration with MicroEnsure and Cornerstone Insurance Plc, launched the free insurance product in Lagos recently.

The product, which is tagged Airtel Insurance is packaged to deliver affordable insurance services and encourage insurance culture among Nigerians.

C h i e f Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Maurice Newa said that it is first of its kind in Nigeria and has been endorsed by the National I n s u r a n c e Commission (NAICOM). It is open to all

Nigerian residents between the ages of 18 and 65 years.

All they need to do is dial *259# to register for the service.

According to him, all hospitalisations are covered, both for natural and accidental causes, with no medical exclusions, making it the most widely accessible and generous free insurance cover in the country.

“Airtel Insurance rewards loyal Airtel customers with a renewable monthly life and hospitalisation cover based on the amount of monthly airtime recharged. Customers can qualify for this insurance by recharging as little as N1,000 with Airtel each month, and as they increase their monthly recharge, they earn more insurance cover – with up to N 500,000 and N50,000 of life insurance and hospitalisation cover per month. Airtel Insurance becomes active on the first day of month following registration, and is based on the amount of airtime recharged the previous month, with a minimum monthly recharge of N 1,000,” he said.

Newa said that customers also have a variety of packages to choose from, adding, “With a monthly recharge of N1,000 Airtel insurance gives the customer

Guinea Insurance strategises on growing whom trade not just in derscored by its increasing market share ofdomestic markets, but re- premium yielding policies

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anaging Director of G u i n e a Insurance (GI) Plc, Mr. Polycarp Didam, has reiterated the company’s total commitment to consolidate and strategically grow its market share through decisive longterm investment and customer engagement initiatives.

Didam said that his company is peopled by skilled professionals in the business of underwriting; an edge which will take the organisation to the next level.

He said, “Our company ’s strength lies in our passion for high standards and determination to become a world class enterprise, one with the scope and economies of scale necessary to serve the financial and risk management requirements of our numerous customers, many

gionally and throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.”

While noting that part of the repositioning strategies of the company was to constantly improve on customer service, claims experience and ultimately stand out the Guinea Insurance brand amongst its peers; Mr. Wole Fayemi, Group Lead, Technical, further emphasised the company’s commitment to continually optimise its business processes with the sole aim of meeting the dynamic needs of its numerous customers.

He said, “Customer satisfaction is the pivot of our achievements and this, inevitably builds brand loyalty. Our company’s capacity to settle genuine claims to the insuring public is un-

and capital generating ventures. We have therefore adopted a Rapid Claims Payment System (RCPS) to ensure that our response time for claims settlement is within 72 hours upon receipt of a duly Executed Discharge Voucher (EDV) from the insured. In line with our corporate objectives of providing top quality services, delivering fast, fair, honest and accurate claims services, we have made a total claims payment of N138 million as at the end of the second quarter of this year on various classes of insurance. ”A total of N44,501,734.42 was paid on general accident insurance policies representing 32.2 per cent of total claims paid, while N41,532,642.89 was paid on marine insurance policies representing 30.1 per cent of total claims paid.

N10,000 hospitalisation and N100,000 life insurance while N5,000 recharge will earn customers as much as N25,000 hospitalisation and N250,000 life insurance. A N10,000 recharge will attract N50,000 hospitalisation and N500,000 life insurance.

Newa explained that majority of Nigerians especially the middle and low income earners in Nigeria cannot afford most available insurance policies due to income levels and complicated insurance processes. He said the Airtel Insurance plan on the other hand was designed to make affordable insurance available to everyone in a simple manner.

“In line with our vision to enrich the lives of Nigerians and offer them quality services, Airtel Nigeria collaborated with two insurance organisations to package this product which guarantees our customers quality, affordable and accessible insurance services.

This further corroborates Airtel’s commitment towards creating a robust platform that helps customers accomplish their professional and personal success and goals in life,” Newa said.

“MicroEnsure is proud to be leading the world as a mobile insurance provider, and this launch in Nigeria marks a milestone in free mobile insurance offerings,” commented Peter Gross, Regional Director for MicroEnsure Africa. “This combination of insurance products, all offered for free, is unprecedented in the industry here, and we take pride in introducing a cutting edge micro-insurance product here in Nigeria.”

Mr. Ganiyu Musa, Group MD of Cornerstone Insurance Plc said, “Cornerstone is delighted to be at the forefront of providing truly innovative products and channels combinations that address the Nigerian situation. That we are grossly under-insured as a nation is very well documented; we are glad to be able to provide a platform for millions of financially excluded Nigerians to enjoy the benefits and peace of mind of insurance – for free. As we say at Cornerstone, “The Future” is, indeed, “Assured.”

C M Y K

24 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Standards Organisation of Nigeria and Portland Cement W

Honeywell records N46bn turnover, pledges business growth

BY PETER EGWUATU ONEYWELL Flour Mills Plc (HFMP) has recorded N55.08 billion turnover, representing a 21 per cent growth for the fiscal year, March 31st, 2014, from N46 billion recorded 1st April, 2013.

This result was indicated in its end of year report recently presented to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). Profit After Tax (PAT) also climbed 18 per cent from N2.8 billion to N3.5 billion which translated to an 18 per cent increase in Earnings Per Share (EPS) from 35.86 kobo to 42.26 kobo. The results, according to Mr. Lanre Jaiyeola, Managing Director HFMP “ reflect the company’s increased output capacity and aggressive push to meet rising demand across its product categories.”

Speaking further on the results, Jaiyeola disclosed that “Despite the challenge of input cost pressures caused by increase in wheat prices, Honeywell Flour

H

Mills was still able to achieve a 32 per cent increase in Gross Profit from the N8 billion recorded last year to N10.4 billion in the period under review due to deft management of raw material sourcing and efficient control of production cost.”

He also added that, “The sheer challenge of operating in the Nigerian business environment was evident in the rising profile of Honeywell Flour Mill’s operating expenses as it incurred costs to deepen its trade, marketing and sales activities to further develop hitherto underserved sectors of the Nigerian market” “Growing the top line is our number one priority, even as large industry capacity remains a constant threat. We are committed to the development of higher margin products and from our results, you can see that investments in brand equity are beginning to yield fruits as sales of our value added products like semolina, wheat meal and

noodles contributed more to our portfolio mix than in the past. This is a trend that we plan to sustain and even grow as we embark on a new phase in our corporate existence”, Jaiyeola added.

The fiscal year ended with a transition in the leadership of the Company; the pioneer Chief Executive Officer, Mr Folaranmi Babatunde Odunayo, retired after 17 years of meritorious service and was succeeded by Mr. Olanrewaju Bamidele Jaiyeola. Prior to his appointment as Managing Director, Lanre Jaiyeola has garnered 20 years experience in the company, working across strategic departments at both managerial and executive management levels.

Honeywell Flour Mills is currently at advanced stages in the development of a new Pasta plant and an Integrated Animal Feed Mill in Sagamu, Ogun State.

Conoil posts 300% increase in dividend payout

T

HE Board of Directors of Conoil Plc has recommended total dividend payment of N2.78 billion for its 2013 financial year at N4.00 for every 50kobo share.

The dividend payment is expected to be ratified by its shareholders at the annual general meeting of the company to be held later in September.

This represents whopping 300 percent increase over the N1 paid in 2012.

The Company, in a press statement, said the bumper dividend has again underscored the company’s reputation of delivering increasing returns on investment for its shareholders.

Predictably, the news of the impressive dividend payment has

triggered a swoop on Conoil’s stocks with the company’s stock garnering the highest price gain for the week.

Dr Mike Adenuga, the Chairman of Conoil Plc, while previewing the company’s performance for 2013 at its 43rd annual general meeting, assured shareholders that the company remained committed to growing its business in order to maintain its leadership position in the downstream petroleum sector. “While we are certainly not immune to the challenges the downstream petroleum sector is expected to face in the coming year as a result of non-regulation of the sector, let me assure you that your company is better positioned to

weather the storm”, Adenuga had promised.

He also reiterated that, as part of the company’s strategies to sustain its enviable position in the industry, it would improve on the quality of its products and services and ensure that its teeming customers always patronize its fuel and non-fuel products.

This impressive performance is linked to its innovative means of manufacturing and distributing products, huge financial investment in developing high performance products and the provision of services that match international standard.

,

From Left : Second Prize winner of Binatone score amazing prices world cup promo in conjunction with Cash and Carry, Mr. Owojuyigbe receiving his 3.5KVA inverter at CnC store in Ibadan. From Left: Wife of the winner, the winner-Mr Abayomi Owojuyigbe, the Binatone MD-Mr. G Sridhar, Mr. Vijay Singh-Service Head, Binatone.

E have in the two previous weeks looked at Portland cement, its pricing and its proper application in construction. The manufacture of Portland cement clinker requires large amounts of energy. Considerations of the environmental impact of the manufacturing process have brought about the situation in which for the cement sold in the market, there has been a reduction in the amount of clinker whilst other materials such as limestone and pulverised fly ash are added to make up for the clinker that has been removed.

The reduction in the amount of clinker has been done whilst maintaining the high performance of concrete made with the resulting composite cements. Portland limestone cement is the composite cement available from local manufacturers. The limestone content could be between 6% and 35% whilst the clinker content could be between 65% and 94%. The lower energy costs in making Portland limestone cement should be passed on to the consumer in lower prices of the 50kg bag of cement in the market place.

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON, placed a newspaper advertisement indicating the uses to which cement strength classes 32.5, 42.5 and 52.5 could be put. We have indicated previously that the strength of a cement is determined from the 28-day strength of concrete made with the cement.

Thus cement strength class 32.5 can give 28-day compressive strength of concrete between 32.5N/mm2 and 52.5N/mm2, cement

The lower energy costs in making Portland limestone cement should be passed on to the consumer in lower prices of the 50kg bag of cement in the market place

,

strength class 42.5 can give 28-day compressive strength of concrete between 42.5N/mm2 and 62.5N/mm2, while cement strength class 52.5 can give 28-day compressive strength of concrete above 52.5N/mm2. Thus, it is apparent that cement strength class 32.5 can serve the same purpose as cement strength class 42.5 where strength requirements do not exceed 52.5N/ mm2.

We should at this juncture take a look at the place of cement in the Nigerian economy. My estimates are that in each year we currently use three no 50kg bags of cement per person. Thus, total quantity of cement used is 480million bags and at N1800 per bag, this would give a total expenditure of N864 billion per year.

The revenues of the cement manufacturers are currently about N500 billion per year and if we allow a differential in price between the manufacturers and the retailers, we would require cement imports to meet our needs. Also, if our various governments are providing building and civil infrastructure at an appropriate level, we should be using about 6 bags per year per person. Thus the cement manufacturers continue to announce expansion plans because there is a demand to be met.

Engineering standards with respect to a subject are established on the basis of the current state of scientific knowledge and engineering practice of the subject. The announcement by the SON of the use to which the various cement strength classes could be put throws up several puzzles.

For example, what is the state of scientific knowledge about Portland limestone cement available in Nigeria and designated as 42.5 strength class and how should it be applied to make concrete with 28-day compressive strengths of 20N/mm2 and 25N/mm2 which are the strengths in use for building construction? What is the role of the limestone in the Portland limestone cement? Also, Portland limestone cement is available in strength class 32.5. Why can we not use this cement to make concrete with 28-day compressive strengths of 20N/mm2 and 25N/mm2?

The SON should withdraw its newspaper advertisement and bring out a more comprehensive statement such that the process of establishing standards would not be brought into disrepute.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—25

DIARY z HP Anti-

Counterfeit Conference Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja August 6, 2014

z Cisco Connect Sun City, South Africa Nov. 2 - 4, 2014

Preview

New inventions shaping life and living

Battle for the soul of computer village

SON declares 80% of market fake, CAPDAN kicks, admits 30%

3D controller that uses squeezable user interface tech

R

ecently Cambridge Consultants have presented one of their most interesting inventions - Suma sensor controller, a prototype 3D controller that is based on so-called “squeezable” user-interface technology.

Duncan Smith, the company ’s spokesman, said that the new invention works by conveying the 3D deformation of a squeezed item into a software-readable form.

High sensitive control is provided by finger movements and wholehand grip; thus the user can easily manage various programs, informs TG Daily. The new invention could be used by companies that develop different products and applications, be it gaming and design or creative arts.

Smith believes that till now the full possibilities of the human hand have not yet been explored.

“Emerging trends like 3D displays and augmented reality are bound to stimulate interest in Suma’s unique capabilities,” said Smith.

C M Y K

•as Counterfeiters bloat labour market

By PRINCE OSUAGWU

T

HE computer village market Ikeja Lagos, is to Nigeria, what the Silicon Valey represents to the United States of America. Both, house the largest array of computer accessories and allied technology products for their economies.

But while the Silicon Valley has become a pilgrimage ground of some sort for technology enthusiasts across the globe, the computer village has been bogged down by consistent allegations of being a safe haven for fake products. This toga has not done the integrity of the market any good both nationally and internationally.

However, the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON, an agency of Nigerian government, responsible for checking and

I N S I D E

approving standardization of products in the country, made a move recently, to check the standards of goods in the market with a view to weeding out substandard ones.

The move resulted in a fiasco, which intrigues still resonate. It has also produced several allegations and counter allegations between the leadership of SON and that of the market. While SON claims that its intent is to sanitize the market, leadership of the market under the aegis of Computer and Allied Product Dealers Association of Nigeria, CAPDAN alleges that SON’s moves are tantamount to destroying the market.

In the melee, Nigerians, who are major consumers of products in the market are left confused. They are finding it difficult, who to believe.

80% of computer market, fake?

TD Mobile unveils Nokia Lumia 2520 Tablet Phone

Recently at an Anti-counterfeit Africa Conference organised by Hewlett Packard, HP, in Abuja, Director General of SON, Dr Joseph Odumodu, berated activities of counterfeiters in the country lamenting that it has helped increase Nigeria’s already bloated labour market.

Odumodu said the scourge has also seen to the closure of many legitimate companies with their workforce thrown into the labour market, leaving untold hardships that put undue pressure on families and the Nigerian economy in general. Odumodu said that the mere realization of the untold hardship Nigerians go through as a result of the effects of consuming counterfeit products was why his Organisation was bent on sanitizing the Computer village

Continues on pg 28

How NCC moved telecom industry from $500m to $32bn investment

26—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

MDG app selected for UNWorld summit award

BY EMEKA AGINAM

Lumia 2520

TD Mobile, Nokia unveil Lumia 2520 Tab

By RICHARD UDOFIA

N

oOKIA at the weekend partnered with Technology Distribution, TD Mobile, to introduce the long awaited Nokia Lumia 2520 Smart Phone into Nigerian IT market to service the blooming tech service market.

Managing Director/ Marketing Manager of TD, Mrs. Chioma Chime, at its launching in Lagos, recently said that the new product, is sought- after both within and outside the country.

She said TD is known for

dealing on sophisticated and up to date brands of IT Products from different telecoms companies, and the launching of this Nokia product is another confirmation.

Chime added that in the wake of ICT revolution in the market, the company has always insisted on enforcing affordable, usable and product visibility to consumers in the market.

She said that at TD mobile, value added is a key driver that propels product sales which in turn promotes

growth and development of her products.

She expressed gratitude that her company was part of the launch of the new Nokia Lumia 2520 to the market.

"The phone can perform enormous tasks simultaneously within limited time," she said, while encouraging business owners and entrepreneurs to take advantage of the facilities configured in the phone to service their duties.

"At TD Mobile," she added,“ we are driven mostly by best processes to adopt and arrive at an expected end. Our customers are very important as well because we always take into consideration their taste and preference when coming out with any product, while as a product, our services are product driven”, she said.

Mobile phone usage not cancerous — Johnson reassures

BY EMEKA AGINAM

W

ith growing fear on the possible health implications of mobile handset on end users, the Minister of Communication Technology, Dr. Omobola Johnson at the weekend has allayed fears, saying that the use of mobile phone does not cause cancer..

The Minister who was reacting to a media statement alleging that the use of mobile phones can cause cancer, explained that there have been no proven health hazards yet resulting from the use of mobile phones.

Engr Ngozi Ogunjiofor, a Deputy Director, Department of Posts and Telecoms, Federal Ministry of Communication Technology, who represented the Minister at the launch of the Etisalat Flagship store in Abuja on Thursday had expressed a personal opinion and was quoted as saying that the use of mobile phones can cause cancer.

The Special Assistant on Media to the Minister , Efem Nkanga described the media statement as a personal misinformed view of Engr Ogunjiofor, which was not backed by proven scientific analysis.

Ogunjiofor was quoted as saying that “the most

dangerous and important element in the communications sector are mobile phones, because of the health and other related risks they bring.

Some radioactive elements in the mobile phone might affect the body and cause cancer and other health challenges. Radiation from phones can cause problems, and this is why we are advising the public not to bring phones close to their body or use in the rain.

Radio waves produced by mobile phones could interfere with important electrical equipment, such as telecom masts, monitors, hospitals equipment’s and electrical systems on airplanes, and that is why the ministry made it mandatory for operators to install their masts five kilometres away from residential areas.

“Dangerous driving is caused by mobile phones and it is important for operators to also enlighten the public on the risks, because this will also help members of the society to enjoy their lives. Mothers should not allow their children to play with mobile phones, especially when they are not of the age of using a mobile phone and are not well educated on the use of it”Ogunjiofor was quoted as saying.

Describing the statement as a personal opinion that does not represent the position of the Minister or Ministry of Communication Technology, Nkanga enjoined Nigerians to disregard the caution on the use of mobile phones as various researches conducted by international organizations on the safety of mobile phones use till date remain inconclusive.

According to her, until results of a definitive and conclusive research is obtained with zero doubts on the safety of cell phone use, Nigerians can safely continue using their mobile phones.

E

fforts to retool software in Nigeria to fit the global market have started yielding expected results as Malaria Destroyer Game (MDG) , a highly Innovative Technology App developed by Mobile Software Solutions to fight the Malaria Pandemic in Africa and the rest of the world has been selected as one of the 454 App games to compete at the UN-based World Summit Award Mobile scheduled for Abu Dhabi, UAE February, 2015.

MDG app was developed by the immediate past President of Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria, ISPON, Chris Uwaje.

The World Summit Award mobile is an UN-based initiative that selects and showcase world’s best mobile content to bridge the digital gap and put UN-WSIS targets into action.

For the contest’s winners, WSA-mobile is a chance to raise global awareness for their products and to enter the international stage. Those projects that will come out on top of the Jury’s decision will be invited to the WSA-mobile winner ’s Event taking place from February 1st to 3rd 2015 in Abu Dhabi. The event will host an exhibition, offering WSA-Winners a platform to present their services and projects to potential partners and investors.

However, the events will include keynotes from renowned experts as well as conferences, summits, forums, roundtables, vision panels, and strategy workshops, turning Abu Dhabi into the hot spot of the mobile world.

Salzburg and other an international jury of renowned IT experts and industry leaders have started evaluation of the world’s best mobile content in this year ’s nominated products.

Accordingly, members of the Jury come from all continents and have backgrounds in the creative industries, telecommunication, advertising, journalism and research,

Only IT solutions can untangle Nigeria’s power problem – Eaton declares

By RICHARD UDOFIA

D

ebuting electrical solutions provider, Eaton International limited, has declared that Nigeria’s energy challenges lie not in building more and larger power generation plants, but in investment in advanced power management technologies to enable businesses do more with less energy in an increasingly resource constrained world.

The company said that the Nigerian market is a huge ecosystem and fertile environment and urged fellow investors to plough their foreign capital in promoting the market.

Managing Director, of the company, Shane Kilfoil at the opening of its office in Lagos recently, said that Nigerian market is such where Technocrats and stakeholders can generate urgent information through the assistance of IT solutions swiftly.

He disclosed that his company specializes in helping customers manage electrical, hydraulic, IT firms, Engineering among others by making mechanical power more reliably, efficiently, safe and sustainable through the assistance of IT solutions.

He said most developing countries are now depending on generated power in place of Normal energy for production use, as these solutions are cost effective when compared to the conventional means.

Kilfoil said that these solutions are designed to help customers maximize optimal utility from the appliances and equipments used either domestically or industrially.

He was very keen on stating that the cost of investing in this kind of business is really capital intensive because of the level of outcome expected to achieve in the market.

On power generation, he said the Nigeria loses Foreign Direct Investment, FDI, due to lack of power supply as this is the backbone of most industry.

As an IT firm that builds solutions to solve challenges faced in building, transport, energy, health, Agric culture, Telecoms sectors among others, our company has concluded that Nigeria is the hub of economic activity in Africa.

He promised that this can be achieved through the development and use of innovative technologies like IT solutions in this critical sector. ‘’Nigeria’s energy challenges lie not in building more and larger power generation plants, but in investment in advanced power management technologies to enable businesses do more with less energy in an increasingly resource constrained world,”he said.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—27

NCC set to sanction defaulting VAS providers

How NCC moved telecom industry from $500m to $32bn investment

By EMMANUEL ELEBEKE

T

he Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, Dr. Eugene Juwah says the guiding principles of the commission which are to be fair, firm and forthright in all transactions are responsible for successes recorded so far by the commission since its establishment fifteen year ago.

He said these values have helped transform the Nigerian telecommunications industry from its humble beginnings in 2001 to where it is at the moment with over 130million connected lines and an investment of over $32billion from a paltry sum of $500million.

According to the EVC, the three values have been the driving force of the commission towards integrity, excellence, professionalism, responsiveness and innovation in all its operation.

The NCC boss made the disclosure in his opening remarks during a joint awareness programme between the NCC and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC last week at the NCC Head Office in Abuja.

the NCC is not only committed to c o n t i n u i n g r e g u l a t o r y transparency but also very committed to protecting the fortunes of the industry.

In his own remarks, the E x e c u t i v e Chairman of the EFCC, Ibrahim Lamorde thanked NCC Chairman, Dr. Eugene Juwah the Management of the NCC and expressed his pleasure at the way the NCC He said he was happy to received him and his team. showcase the Commission’s Lamorde lamented the high successes to the EFCC rate of corruption among because both agencies are public servants and said that vested with primary roles of corrupt Nigerians are taking building modern, the advantage of the weak enlightened, informed and criminal justice system in the civic-oriented society. country to get away from According to him, with strict justice. application of these values, The EFFC boss who was the sector, has contributed up represented by a Deputy to 8.69 percent to GDP “This Director, Public Affairs of the investment profile and the Commission, Mr. Osita exponential growth no doubt Nwajah said the continued will attract attention to the exploitation of the weak penal industry and challenge our code by corrupt Nigerians to moral, professional and escape justice has remained ethical commitment to a major challenge to effective regulatory oversight.” discharge of the EFCC’s The EVC congratulated his statutory mandate.

EFCC counterpart saying that

Etisalat hits 19.5 million subscriber base …records over $1bn investment

By EMMANUEL ELEBEKE

E

tisalat Nigeria at the weekend says the active subscriber base in its network is now 19.5 million. Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Matthew Willsher disclosed this at the formal opening of Etisalat experience centre at Robb House, Wuse Abuja.

With this development, Etisalat Nigeria now controls 25.35 per cent of Nigerian mobile telecom market share out of the total of 130 million active subscribers in the country.

However, the company said that 60 percent of this subscriber base is Lagos customers alone.

According to Willsher, the idea of establishing the experience centres across the country was informed by the company’s decision to offer unparallel services to its customers in a way they will have value for money.

He said that plans were on to site the centre in all cities across the country in line with its ongoing expansion in investment and improving quality of service “In Etisalat, we value our customers and go all out to offer them the best. We are raising the hope of our customers to be able to come here and get quality service for their money. Apart from getting service usual service from our staff, customers can come in here and get selfservice without necessarily being on the line because we value them so much.

“We have got quick recharge plan here, waiting lounge, and a whole lot of packages stimulating information for customers visiting any of these centres,” he added.

On broadband penetration, the Etisalat boss said the company is putting in more investments on broadband and 3G networks to deepen penetration of services in all areas of its operation, because

of the importance it attached to the project.

“With that in mind, we have been investing in that area, we are the first to launch 3G network in the country. We have and will continue to expand our 3G network in other cities. We are expanding our 3G capacity in Abuja and Lagos currently because we want to be a giant in broadband and internet penetration in Nigeria.

“We have continued to invest on quality of service and will continue to improve. We are rated number one by the NCC in terms of quality of service, this we will continue to improve upon. We are going to continue to invest on investment and improve in all areas until our customers get satisfied,” he added.

Wilsher stated that Etisalat has so far made over $1 billion investment in Nigeria and would continue to increase on its investment drive in the country.

BY RICHARD UDOFIA

S

tiff Punishment awaits Value Added Service, VAS, Providers and Mobile Network Operators, MNOs, who derive pleasure in exploiting consumers on unsubscribed products without their consent.

At least the commission wouldn’t mind to explore either legal measures or, revoking of licenses and fining of erring service providers will soon be the order of the day if complaints by subscribers persist.

Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, Dr. Eugene Juwah, expressed the intentions to carry out these actions, in Lagos, at an interactive session with the VAS providers and MNOs on the regulatory framework for the VAS segment of the Nigerian Telecoms Industry.

He was represented by the Executive Chairman (Stakeholder Management), Dr. Okechukwu Itanyi who also frowned at various strategies which the VAS providers have adopted to deceive consumers.

Itanyi said the commission has received numerous complaints from consumers regarding forceful activation of VAS by service providers without subscribers’ consent.

Worse still, these services are auto-renewed resulting to perpetual lock-in of subscribers by the VAS Operators, he said.

He recalled that the commission has witnessed high level of Telemarketing, especially unsolicited messages by Mobile Network Operators and Value added service providers soliciting for subscription for their services which most times constitute nuisance to consumers.

However, he supported the position of consumers who complain that these operators sometimes give free trial for certain period, only to automatically c h a r g e subscribers for these services after the expiration of the trial period without their consent.

Itanyi said that the commission was really concerned about these unhealthy developments and as they are not in line with the commission’s principle of firmness, fairness and forthright, may wield the big stick soon.

However, he expressed hope that with the interaction realistic principles to move the Nigerian Telecoms Industry forward would be achieved. however, in a sharp reaction, the providers warned the NCC not to over regulate the industry because VAS providers were also in the system for business.

For instance, one of the providers, representing Wireless Association Service Providers of Nigeria, WASPON, Mr. simeon Aderinola, advised the commission not to over regulate the telecom sector, because it will prevent innovation and competition among firms.

Aderinola further said that VAS providers who have acquired licenses through the NCC, should also be allowed to do business, develop and promote Local Content in the industry.

However, another representative, Mr. Ibitoye Ogunjobi pleaded with NCC to thread softly on their findings as operators of VAS and MNOs are in the market for investment reasons.

Ogunjobi said that if stiff sanctions are enforced on operators, these investors will simply withdraw from the industry and go to other countries where the business environment is conducive.

Dr. Onyebuchi Chima, a participant at the event kicked against any sanction by the NCC on operators who have legally acquired the VAS license as short code facility is one facility they are entitled to enjoy as stakeholder in the industry.

In a swift reaction, Head of Legal and Regulatory Services, NCC, Mrs. Yetunde Akinloye said that the commission has come up with a licensing framework mandating interested companies who are interested in issuing short codes to tender their Memorandum of Understanding with MNOs, which plays a platform for business activities.

Akinloye reacted contrary to positions that having acquired VAS licenses operators should be handed blank cheque to operate and possibly exploit subscribers

28—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

NEW GLO IDD RATES

Is the world coming closer to Nigerians?

By PRINCE OSUAGWU

S

INCE the advent of Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) in 2001, the distance between Nigeria and the rest of the world has shrunk with every passing day.

A little over a decade ago, communicating with family and friends abroad was an uphill task.

Most Nigerians had to queue up at call centres with International Direct Dial, IDD, capability in order to reach their relatives, friends and business contacts abroad.

The cost of the calls was prohibitive and the quality of the calls was, to say the least, suboptimal. The alternatives were illegal call centres set up by mostly nefarious youths known as ‘area boys’ in dingy shops in the heart of Lagos Island. There were no signboards to direct customers to the shops, but some youths known as strikers,, who stood in popular bus stops gesticulating and asking passersby if they wanted to make an international call. Customers patronized them at the risk of being victims of police raids.

The reason was not difficult to fathom. The lines used for the calls were diverted from legitimate owners, mainly corporate subscribers and even the service provider, the stateowned national carrier, NITEL, which had no inkling their lines were being tapped.

Legitimate subscribers Because it was a persistent cause of friction between legitimate subscribers and the operator and because it was a drain on the revenue of the stateowned telecom carrier, armed security officials periodically carried out raids on such centres in an unsuccessful bid to stop the criminal act.

Indeed, these illegal international call centres constituted a prominent part of the ugly underbelly of Nigeria’s telecommunications in the days of yore.

There was also the option of International Calling cards, introduced by smart entrepreneurs as a safer, cheaper alternative to earlier highlighted options. However, in actual fact, it was only marginally different from the other options. It was cumbersome, as you had to

endure a long protocol including, first, dialling some codes and obtaining a tone before proceeding to dial the desired numbers. Yet in terms of costeffectiveness, it was only marginally better than other options.

However, in a little over a decade, GSM operators, have consigned all these indignities and inconveniences of the past to the dunghill of history bringing in innovative ways of linking people easily to their desired destinations abroad through telephone.

The unique experience of international call for subscribers today is convenience. Though the cost is not as it used to be, it is, however, still on the high side.

But having played leading role in galvanizing the telecommunications industry to record giant strides in the area of international connectivity, Second national carrier, Globacom seems poised to break the price jinx. Globacom owns a

(Left to Right) Globacom’s Miss Muyiwa Alli, Coordinator Gloworld, Mr. Dimeji Amoo, Chief Commercial Director, Glo 1, Mr. Ajay Mathur, Head, Business Development, Glo Gateway, Mr. Femi Oduntan and Miss Olanma Eke, another Globacom staff, at the launch of new IDD rates by Globacom in Lagos.

fibre-optic submarine cable, Glo 1, which originates from Europe and courses through major countries on the West African coast. That alone midwifed a new era of seamless international connectivity in Africa in terms of broadband internet and cheap How it used to be...Nigerians lining up to make international calls international calls.

With a fully dedicated Consistent with these exploits International Gateway, Globacom in the area of international has strives to bring the world connectivity, Globacom again closer to its teeming subscribers The operator ’s postpaid recently raised the bar by three new subscribers enjoy seamless unveiling International Direct Dial Packs, roaming services in almost every part of the world as Glo has which offer millions of prepaid interconnectivity arrangements subscribers on the network the with over 430 partners in 176 lowest call rates to various international destinations. countries.

One of the new packs is called New IDD Rates

Combo Pack 1. It comes at a rental rate of N100 with bundled airtime of N100 and a call rate of 14k per second to United States, Canada, India, China and fixed lines only in the United Kingdom. The package comes with 7 days validity for the bundled airtime.

Combo Pack 2 has a 15-day validity for the bundled airtime at a rental rate of N200 with bundled airtime of N200 and a call rate of 13k per second for calls to United States of America, Canada, India, China and United Kingdom (Fixed lines only).

The third offer tagged Combo Pack 3, has a rental rate of N500 with N500 bundled airtime, while calls to United States of America, Canada, India, China and fixed lines in the United Kingdom are fixed at 10k per second. It has 30 days validity for the bundled airtime.

According to the Commercial Director of Glo 1, Mr. Ajay Mathur, these are currently the most competitive rates for international calls in the country.

The prevailing call rate in the market is about 20k per sec.

He noted that this is consistent with Globacom’s commitment to providing Nigerians with affordable means of connecting with each other wherever in the world they may find themselves.

“Globacom has consistently brought innovation and quality service delivery to its subscribers since the company rolled out in 2003. The IDD package is not an exemption,” he said.

Battle for the soul of computer village Continues from page 25 market, Ikeja.

He regretted that the computer market in Ikeja, known around the world as the largest IT market in Africa sells more of counterfeit products than original.

For him, the perception of the market from outside the world suggests a genuine market environment which elevates the country among markets in world economy, but he regretted that, “unfortunately,80 percent of their activities are illicit” Again, he lamented that, “over one million Nigerians working in the textile industries lost their jobs since 2000 due to counterfeiting, leading to accelerated closure of many manufacturing firms, while the surviving ones are in the state of comatose” Corroborating him, the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Dikko Inde, admitted that “counterfeiting and Piracy affects the wellbeing of any economy in a variety of ways. For example they promote criminality as successful counterfeiters are often also the promoters of social negativities in view of their possession of enormous illegal wealth.

Government is deprived of much needed revenue since counterfeiters evade payment of necessary taxes and duties. Health development agenda of government is also compromised and innocent public is exposed to dangers through subscription to cheaper but dangerous items of food and medicament”

Available statistics Dikko said that from available statistics,

over the past decade illegal trade in counterfeiting and piracy has expanded to include virtually every product sector including equipment, chemicals, mobile phone batteries, spare parts and toys which is estimated that by 2015 the value for global illicit trade on counterfeit and pirated goods could reach $1.7 tr Meanwhile earlier in his welcome address, District Manager, English Africa, Printing and Personal Systems, HP, Jean Paul Pinto said counterfeiting has remained a major threat.

Pinto, who said Africa is important to HP, disclosed that the Nigerian market accounts for over 20 per cent of HP’s sales globally.

He claimed that two PCs and one printer are sold by HP every minute in Africa, with major sales coming from Nigeria, adducing that as reason HP believes that if it succeeds in tackling counterfeits in Nigeria, it can equally succeed in other parts of the continent.

CAPDAN reacts But almost immediately, in Lagos, leadership of the Ikeja computer market, dismissed Odumodu, describing his claims as outrageous..

Public Relations Officer of Computer and Allied Products Dealers Association of Nigeria, CAPDAN, Mr Godwin Enemoh said that the claim by SON DG was not only a lie but outrageous, unguarded and deceitful.

According to him, “ I was shocked to read the outrageous claims of the SON DG. How can a top government official make such statement which he cannot substantiate?

In the first place he has not come into the market since he became the DG and has not met with the leadership of the market. As a matter of fact his only presence in the market was a couple of weeks ago, in Gestapo manner, to disrupt activities in the market. So, claiming that 80 percent of products in the market are fake, was unbecoming of a government official” he added.

For him, “ a good DG should regulate the market not to destroy it. You have not come to the market to take a study, so you can’t know what goes on. You have not even met the leaders. That is what a proactive leader should do. But you are not doing that. Regulating the market from pages of newspapers is not the right procedure”.

Enemoh however agreed that there were fake products in the market but not to the level Odumodu claimed. In his opinion, counterfeit in the computer market was not beyond 30 percent. “The market cannot have more than 30 percent of fake products.

Even at that, most of the people dealing on fake products, we have made to register their products and have trademarks. So we have even made it is easy to quickly identify who is fake.

He said that the best way to solve the counterfeit problem in the market was for “SON to understand the market, call us and have a meeting so that we dialogue and find a common solution. Otherwise, Odumodu’s statement may discourage those who may want to invest in the market from within or outside the country and may also discourage those who would want to find jobs in the market”

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —29

•Yinka Odumakin

Prof. Ango Abudullahi •The Chibok girls

2015:

Afenifere, North fight dirty

THE two-month ultimatum from the Northern Elders Forum to President Jonathan to rescue the abducted Chibok girls rekindles fault lines in the Nigerian nation

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, POLITICAL EDITOR

I

T was a battle they inherited from their ancestors. The faceoff that emerged yesterday between Afenifere, the Yoruba Socio Cultural group and the Northern Elders Forum, NEF over the feasibility and competence of President Goodluck Jonathan’s reelection was a recall of the mutual suspicion that existed between Nigeria’s first indigenous regional leaders.

While the conflict of the forefathers was essentially centered around regional domination, the conflict that burst yesterday is on the surface focused on the fate of the more than 200 Chibok secondary schools abducted last April.

At the peak of the distrust between Nigeria’s founding fathers, the late Northern

leader, Sir Ahmadu Bello was quoted as saying that his priority in filling job vacancies in the north would be “first a northerner, then an expatriate and then a southerner and that on contract.”

Bello’s assertion was to be the basis of the chasm and subsequent hostility that shadowed relations between the two sides of the country since independence.

The hostility which was fueled by the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election Chief Moshood Abiola was only partially soothed by the election of General Olusegun Obasanjo as president in 1999.

However, since the Obasanjo phenomenon and the relegation of the north from its position of political dominance, the seeming discomfort of the north in playing second fiddle in the polity has taken a central role in the polity.

It has been especially so under President Jonathan who has generally been affirmed to be Nigeria’s most “troubled” leader. Jonathan has been troubled by the insurgency fanned by what was once thought to be a mainly Islamic agenda. The Islamic Boko Haram group which started by killing Christians, burning and bombing churches has lately expanded its agenda to killing non conforming Islamic leaders bringing to question the real motif of the group.

While some allege that it still has an Islamic agenda, the gruesome and unrestrained brutality of the group has given vent to a political agenda.

So when the NEF last Monday urged President Jonathan to forget re-election if the Chibok girls are not returned, the group whether advertently or inadvertently rekindled the regional distrust that existed between the north and the south.

In a statement issued by Barrister Solomon Dalung and Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the group alleged that the ongoing insurgency in the north was aimed at politically and

economically weakening the north to allow the easy reelection of President Jonathan.

“We also reject the notion that multiple internal security challenges such as attacks on villages, ethno-religions conflicts and banditry springing up by the day in many parts of the north are all a coincidence,” the statement said.

“Indeed, we are convinced that most of these conflicts are being engineered to weaken the North politically and economically by interests which intend to exploit such weaknesses for electoral benefits.”

Alleging that the administration was deliberately allowing the crisis to fester, the NEF said: “The lack of a strong will at the level of the presidency to fight it, as well as deep-seated corruption and incompetence in governments and in the management of our security challenges has allowed a band of terrorists to take and hold vast parts of our land and populations hostage, while every citizen lives in fear that they will be its next victim.”

Takeaway Afenifere on Northern Elders •They are cuddling Boko Haram •Refusing to condemn Boko Haram •Prefer to cite alleged incompetence of Jonathan •Not sincere about Chibok girls C M Y K

Northern Elders on Jonathan •Administration is insensitive to the plight of Chibok girls •Toying with corruption •Has put politics ahead of governance •Has closed its eyes to the Boko Haram scourge in the North

The NEF which has such prominent Jonathan bashers as Dr. Junaid Mohammed, Prof.

Ango Abdullahi in its fold and had never hidden its revulsion of a second term for Jonathan or the aspiration of any other southerner, was quick to push forward its most notable agenda, to wit, that Jonathan should not re-contest.

“In the light of our firm conviction that the insurgency and related security challenges pose threats to the 2015 elections and the survival of our nation, we strongly advise President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to bring an end to the insurgency in all its manifestations and produce the Chibok girls before the end of October, 2014.

The circumstances under which our fellow citizens in and around Gwoza in Borno State in particular live and die will not be tolerated by any people who have a government and a leader sworn to defend them, and they must be reversed immediately. In the event that President Jonathan fails to do this, Nigerians will be left with the only conclusion that he has forfeited his right to ask for our mandate beyond 2015.”

Afenifere in a sharp rebuttal was quick to enter the fray yesterday. The group in a statement issued by its spokesman, Mr. Yinka Odumakin said the statement by the NEF was an exposure of the linkage between the Islamic Boko Haram sect and some northern elites.

“By linking the electoral fortune of President Jonathan in 2015 to “Bring Back Our Girls” latest by October as well as ending Boko Haram at the time, the “elders” have just confirmed the suspicions in the

Continues on page 30

30—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Yellow card for Labour in Ondo *Filani, Oke, others predict better days THE once tight grip of Labour Party on the politics of Ondo State recently eased when some foot soldiers of the party changed camp to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP

BY Charles Kumolu

T

HOSE who followed the re-electioneering campaign of Ondo State governor, Olusegun Mimiko, would hardly forget the roles played by the governor ’s men, who repeatedly wadded off various political missiles targeted at their camp.

Like amour bearers, these men and women displayed what they believed was the best way to exhibit party loyalty, at a time when opposition parties, particularly the All Progressives Congress, APC, deployed all known democratic tactics to ensure Mimiko’s defeat at the polls.

To have emerged victorious in that battle which was waged by South West governors under the leadership of Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, would not have been as easy as the elections result made it look, without the input of some notable hands.

Prominent among those, who analysts believe, put aside ethnic sentiments to campaign for the governor’s re-election, was the then Commissioner representing Ondo State on the Board of the Niger-Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Mr. Benson Enikhomehin.

With the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, picking its governorship candidate, Mr. Olusola Oke from Ondo South Senatorial District, it was easy for many to have expected Enikhomehin, who is influential in that zone to have supported the aspiration of his kinsman.

Rather, the influential politician pitched his tent with the governor against the expectations of his constituents, who had expected that his weight would have been thrown behind Oke. Even though Mimiko got about 8,538 votes against the PDP candidate’s 19,281 votes, the contribution of riverine communities to his victory, has been adjudged remarkable. However, since the governor’s re-election in 2012, a number of issues have emerged to destroy the cordiality between the governor and his supporters from Ondo South.

C M Y K

•Enikhomehin

•Mimiko It was as such no surprise that Enikhomehin recently defected from Labour to the PDP. Ominous signs for LP Leading the pack of defectors in a move observers described as ominous for the LP, was Enikhomehin, who said he was deceived into believing that once Mimiko wins the election on the platform of the LP, he would defect to the PDP. Disclosing this at a rally in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area, he noted that he fell out with Mimiko because the party had no good plan for the people of the riverine areas.

Giving more insights for his defection at the event which was graced by PDP chieftains , he described his former fold as a one man business, adding that LP members claim to be PDP members when they are in Abuja, just as they claim LP when they return back to Ondo.

While welcoming the defectors, South-west National Vice Chairman of PDP, Chief Isola Filani, said the party had staged a comeback in the region.

“In Osun State, we have hope. We are just coming from the campaign in Osun and the impression we got there shows that we have no

problem at all there.

All what we need is the cooperation of all PDP members in the South west, just like they did in Ekiti where they came out to support the party,’’ he added.

Lending his voice, the state party leader, Oke maintained that a new wind of change was blowing across the country starting from Ekiti. “A new wind of change is blowing across the country. Fayose has come to assume the leadership of the South West PDP. The bats must disappear.

Benson is like Moses who went to Egypt to study them.

He is familiar with their

antics and falsehood. They rigged our election they cannot do that again. They have never been part of us and never again will they deceive us. They are chameleons,” he added.

Other party stalwarts at the for um included Ayo Ifayefunmi, Adewale Kukute, Thompson Atikase, Albert Akintoye, Olusola Oludipe, Wale Ozogoro, Tayo Dairo, Fatai Adams, John Ola-Mafo, Denis Alonge-Niyi, Abayomi Sheba, Agboola Ajayi, Akpoebi Lubi, Yinka Orokoto, Idowu Mafimisebi, Segun Odidi, Kunle Odidi and Tunde Akindehin among others.

2015: Afenifere, North fight dirty Continues from page 29 land that the activities of the Islamic Sect Boko Haram is either enjoying the sponsorship of some elites of the North or at the least having their sympathy.”

Afenifere was quick to spot out what it referred to as the unwillingness of the northern elders to condemn the activities of Boko Haram while focusing on the alleged failures of the president.

“In all the sound and fury of the Forum, we searched in vain

any outright condemnation of Boko Haram. And this has .been the pattern of most reactions from the majority of the elites of the region who always appear politically correct to the insurgents while using their activities to rattle the government. The most audacious of this perfidy is this direct put by the Northern Elders Forum.”

“A traumatized country that has been held in anxiety over the fate of the abducted girls cannot but challenge these elders at this stage to appeal

to their wards in Boko Haram to release the innocent young girls who now appear cannon fodders in the struggle for “we want our power back”.

“A time has come to let these elites know they can no longer play the ostrich by burying their heads in the sand and think no one sees them because they are seeing no one.”

“We, however, frown at the disingenuous attempt by unconscionable elites who are now dishing out two months ultimatum to end an insurgency that they prepared the

atmosphere for in decades of exploitation and iniquitous dealings with their own people.

Can they name one country that has defeated terror in 60 days?”

“How many rulers have we had in Nigeria since 1960 and how many come from the North? Why did it not occur to any of them that the Almajiris should go to school?” “The country has suffered enough of the errors of these leaders which has now produced terror in the land, they should stopping pouring salt on the injury,” Afenifere said.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—31

Imo 2015: APC, PDP no match for APGA — Ezeh, guber aspirant A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Imo State, Okey Ezeh, who is entrepreneur and CEO of Savvycorp Limited, a leading investment advisory and management consultancy firm as well as the Executive Chairman of Okechukwu Theodore Ezeh Foundation (OTEF), in this interview speaks among others on how APGA will reclaim Imo from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015.

W

HAT is your assessment of the current state of affairs in Imo State?

Imo today is in economic dire-straits with no new meaningful private sector investments to speak of in the last three years; heavy debt overhang estimated to be in the N100 billion region, dwindling federal allocations owing to strangulating firstline charges on various loan repayment schedules; over 800,000 unemployed youths (by a recent National Employment Survey estimate); rampant poverty; rising wave of crime and creeping insecurity; scandalous decline in education quality with 11 faculties in the state university and the Polytechnic in Umuagwo unaccredited and the worst ever student performance in NECO and WAEC results recorded in its history a few months ago.

Worse still, there appears to be no coherent plan or programme to arrest this state of anomie as the government of the day is busy executing white elephant projects such as street gates, roundabouts, squares, new government offices, quarters and inaugurating vigilante squads to the detriment of the productive sectors of the local economy which have been completely neglected.

What would you do differently, if elected?

I will immediately re-order priorities to squarely face the existential threat of poverty in the land. We will funnel resources away from nonregenerative and cosmetic schemes to agro-based industrialisation drive using the industrial cluster model that will be spread across the three zones of the state.

We will run a transparent and accountable, value-formoney administration with zero tolerance for corruption, ineptitude and cronyism. This alone will free up huge resources that will be applied to harnessing our virtually limitless agricultural potentials. I will invest in

high-yield fertilizers and introduce organic, high-yield seedling varieties to not only shore up food security in the state but to also create the capacity required for the agroindustrial transformation of the state. I will bring back the Farm Settlements of the Michael Okpara era. I will revamp our near-comatose educational system with improved funding, better

,

BY Clifford Ndujihe

What are your chances of in the election?

Excellent! You know our party APGA, arguably, has the best track record in internal democracy among all the parties in the country and that is the first guarantee we have that the most acceptable aspirant with the best prospects of leading the party to victory will emerge. In my

We will run a transparent and accountable, value-for-money administration with zero tolerance for corruption, ineptitude and cronyism

,

learning tools and training and re-training of teachers. I will additionally attract grants for our tertiary institutions and enrol them in offshore support programmes, exchanges and linkages that will promote skills and knowledge transfer with institutions of international repute.

own particular case, my aspiration is quickly crystallizing into a mass movement not only within the rank and file of the party but also among the general Imo populace where we have a near-cult following among the youths and women groups,

*Ezeh the key demographic strata that decide all elections. The simple reason is my age, personality, professional pedigree and track-record which most Imolites agree all add up to the profile of the leader they look up to reinvent Imo in 2015.

Do you think APGA has a chance in Imo against the APC Peoples Democratic Party, PDP? All students of modern

political history in Nigeria know that APGA always wins in Imo because the cockerel is the symbol that is intrinsically enshrined in the hearts of every Imolite. Forget all the propaganda; APC is like the proverbial seed that falls on parched ground and is scorched almost immediately it germinates.

The Imo •ebig men•f in PDP, more often than not have APGA sympathies and pedigree.

2015: The candidate Oyo needs to beat Ajimobi

BY Bashir Ogunmola

A

S political activities begin to gather momentum across Oyo State ahead of the 2015 governorship election, the question on the lips of many residents of the state is, who will the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) present as its candidate to confront at the polls the incumbent Senator Abiola Ajimobi who is increasingly becoming so unpopular to the extent that he is virtually ripe for the picking.

While four dominant parties will likely slug it out in the Oyo State governorship election (APC with Ajimobi as its obvious candidate, Labour Party with Sharafadeen Alli, Accord with Senator Rashidi Ladoja and PDP which has yet has no candidate), the general expectation is that PDP with its well financed nationwide structure and as the ruling party at the centre is the best poised to rout Ajimobi from power.

As it were, there are about a dozen strong aspirants jostling for the PDP ticket. But it is

generally agreed that if the contest were to be based on combined factors of grassroots popularity, crossover appeal, character and experience in government alone, Alhaji Kehinde Olaosebikan, a journalist and former Oluyole local government chairman from Ibadan, the sprawling capital of Oyo State which boasts of 11 out of 33 local governments in the state has what it takes to sweep the struggling Ajimobi out of Agodi Government House.

But what Olaosebikan lacks, which some of the aspirants have is financial muscle. There is however no doubt that PDP, which in any case has the financial resources to back any of its candidates, need to pick someone with the mass appeal of Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State whose rapport with the Ekiti masses is widely known. Because while it may be true that Ajimobi with his anti-poor programmes is probably too weak to win a second term, it is necessary for the PDP decision makers to

*Ajimobi choose a candidate with the right qualities who can give the party a sweeping, non-controversial victory like what was recently witnessed in Ekiti State where Fayose trounced Kayode Fayemi the incumbent in what has been widely described as one of the freest election since the historical June 12, 1993 presidential election. Even Fayemi publicly agreed that Ekiti people had spoken, an unprecedented phenomenon in Nigeria where

no one accepts defeat.

Neither former governor, Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala nor Senator Teslim Folarin have what it takes to give PDP what Fayose gave the party in Ekiti. They are simply too controversial and divisive to ensure a clear victory in the 2015 gubernatorial polls. It is no secret that if Akala were to be picked as the party’s choice, his political ambition would be sabotaged by his sworn enemies in PDP who are determined to undermine him again just like they did in 2011. Ajimobi rather than PDP is therefore likely to be the beneficiary of Akala’s candidacy.

What holds for Akala also holds for Folarin who despite serving two terms in the Senate is just incapable of being the party’s rallying point. That explains why the party needs a candidate who appeals to the wide spectrum of the party and has the connection with the poor masses of Oyo State who are fed up with the draconian Ajimobi government

*Ogunmola wrote this piece from Ibadan.

C M Y K

32 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Evumena: Falconets have the quality to subdue England F

FIFA U-20 WOMEN

ormer Falconets coach Dan Evumena has urged the side not to settle for a draw against England at the ongoing FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Canada.

The Falconets will engage the English side in today’s last group game at the Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton.

Nigeria, at present, top the group with four points against England’s two points and need just a draw to cement their place in the quarterfinals of the biennial global football fiesta.

Evumena said the Falconets have the quality to overpower England and should go all out to achieve a resounding victory in the game.

“The Falconets shouldn’t look for a draw against England but go for an outright victory in the encounter.

“It’s tricky to go into a game with a mindset to pick a draw it may backfire and you see yourself at the losing end.

“Rather let them go into the game with a winning mentality; worst case scenario they end up with a draw than pinning their hope on an outright draw.

“I don’t see the English women upstaging the Falconets, they’ll surely triumph but that’s not to suggest they should go to sleep as witnessed in their last match against South Korea which resulted in panicky moments.

“England have abundance of talent being the centre of football excellence but an average Nigerian player is higher in talent.

“England are sure to play mental games while we’re expected to

CELEBRATION . . . Falconets players celebration their victory over K 20 Women’s World Cup in Canada. They look set to celebrate again to

Akpala pitches tent with Karabukspor N

igeria striker Joseph Akpala has joined Turkish side Karabukspor on a permanent deal after spending last season on loan at the club.

The 27-year-old, who played a key role in the club’s European football qualification last season, joined the Black Sea outfit from German Bundesliga side Werder Bremen for an

undisclosed fee and signed a three-year deal.

Akpala, who scored six goals in 14 games last season, said: “As soon as the chance to return here presented itself again, I wanted to make sure that I signed.

“Despite a difficult time on loan [with injury], I still enjoyed my time at the club

and it is great to be a permanent Karabukspor player now.

“The club is on track for greater things and I’m really pleased with the opportunity to be a part of it.”

Stakes high a target last eig T

he moment of truth has arrived in Groups C and D, with hopes of progress accompanying fears of elimination for the teams in contention. Only Nigeria and France enjoy relative security ahead of their final outings, whereas the future hangs in the balance for Group C trio England, Mexico and Korea Republic and Group D sides Paraguay, New Zealand and Costa Rica. With the permutations almost endless, FIFA.com sheds a little light on the situation in both sections.

Match of the day

Nigeria-England, Edmonton Nigeria are the only team in the group to have won a match so far, seeing off Korea Republic last time out thanks to a blistering start and the fastest goal in the history of the competition. That win has left them in a strong position as they prepare to face England, with a single point sufficient to take them through and even a defeat not disastrous providing Mexico fail to overcome Korea Republic. Their European rivals require victory, on the other hand, unless both matches end in draws with

the same sc case, Nigeri and Englan drawing of l for the righ the quarterThe other

Almost an happen in Mexico will take matter hands by d Republic. T them safely t eight, thou they must h to prevail as opponents, the section t

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 33

'S WORLD CUP •Bayern Munich

•Guardiola

B

ayern Munich will not be recruiting any more players before the new Bundesliga season starts, according to coach Pep Guardiola.

“We don’t need any new players,” Guardiola said ahead of the German Supercup against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.

“I’m very happy with the squad,” the Spaniard said, adding that Thiago Alcantara, Rafa Rafinha and Franck Ribery were on their way back from injuries.

Alcantara underwent a knee ligament operation in May, with German press predicting a comeback only in October.

But Guardiola insisted: “Thiago will come back quicker than people think, that I’m sure of.”

The former Barcelona coach, commencing his second

G

lenn Hoddle has been appointed first team coach at Queens Park Rangers.

The former England manager will join Harry Redknapp’s backroom team, working alongside coaches Kevin Bond and Joe Jordan as the Hoops prepare for Premier League football.

“I am really pleased to take up Harry’s offer to come in and work with him, Kevin and Joe,” Hoddle told the club’s website. “After winning promotion last season, the first aim at QPR is to stay in the Premier League and I am looking forward to helping play my part as we try to achieve that.

“I have always loved coaching, and I can’t wait to meet the players, get on the training pitch and get to work.”

Hoddle took his first steps into management in the early 19902 s as he guided Swindon Town into the top flight before going on to spend three years at Chelsea.

ass rivals ght

matches

nything can still n Group C, so l be desperate to rs into their own downing Korea That would send through to the last gh if they draw ope England fail s well. As for their the only team in to have suffered a

season in charge of Bayern, also played down any talk linking the Bavarian club to Dortmund playmaker Marco Reus.

“I haven’t talked about Marco Reus with (Bayern boss) Karl Heinz Rummenigge. We already have eight midfielders. Eight!

That’s enough,” said Guardiola.

Bayern have signed up Polish striker Robert Lewandowski from Dortmund and Valencia defender Juan Bernat for the season to come, meanwhile selling Toni Kroos to Real Madrid and Corat striker Mario Mandzukic to Atletico Madrid.

Hoddle joins QPR backroom team

Korea Republic at the on going FIFA U oday against England.

coreline. In that ia would advance nd would face a lots with Mexico t to join them in finals.

No more Bayern recruits, says Guardiola

loss, they can settle for nothing less than victory while keeping their fingers crossed that Nigeria lose – and even then, they must win by two goals or hope Nigeria lose by two. All clear? The situation is a little less murky in Group D, especially for section leaders France. Having won both their games and racked up an array of goals i n the process, Les Bleuettes can make do with a stalemate against Paraguay, and can even lose as long as New Zealand fail to overtake their goal difference in a success against Costa Rica. In Paraguay’s case, they will progress with a win – providing they too maintain their goaldifference superiority over New Zealand – or a draw if the Kiwis miss out on a victory. Lastly, Las Ticas need to prevail by a handsome margin and hope Paraguay lose, with their chances diminished by a pair of reverses thus far. Well, we did say it was complicated.

Silva signs new five-year deal at City S

pain playmaker David Silva has signed a new five-year deal with Manchester City, tying one of the English champions’ most important players to the club until the summer of 2019.

Silva joined City from Valencia in 2010 and has been instrumental in the club’s rise as a force in English football, playing a key role in its Premier League title successes in

2011-12 and last season.

The 28-year-old Silva says on Tuesday it was a “straightforward decision to extend my stay here and spend my peak years” at City, and sees “no reason why we won’t become one of the top teams in the world.”

Silva is a regular in Spain’s national team, with whom he won the World Cup in 2010 and the European Championship in 2012.

34—V anguard 34—Vanguard anguard,, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 35

•Joyce Banda

36—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

I learn new skills always — Bimpe, CEO, Brownies Beauty World •Reveals secret behind fame

BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA

NINE years ago when graduates would jump at whatever job came their way, Adebimpe Adeyi was too glad to resign her highlypaid employment to pursue her dream. Even her employer’s ploy to sway her with a transfer to the UK wasn’t tenable enough to convince Adebimpe.

Amazing about her decision was that she was resigning just to have enough time to sell make-up products and also go to Germany to perfect her skill in make-up artistry. Today, that courage has paid off as the last nine years has seen that little business grow into one of Nigeria’s leading studios for complete beauty. That’s Brownies Beauty World, a studio that has produced hundreds of make-up artists in Nigeria and created employment for many. In this interview, Bimpe tells us more, recounting her challenges and successes.

Let us take you down memory-lane; how impressive was the pay for your first makeup job?

T

HE pay wasn’t bad; it was about N30,000 and the job was for a bride and two sisters. I got that contract through a friend. It was quite a drama because at that time, I had not perfected my skill at geletying. My younger sister was a little good at that but she refused to go along with me. I eventually went alone, praying throughout for God to help me do a perfect job.

Miraculously, I ended up tying ten gele at that event because everyone who saw my work wanted to have her own tied too. No one could guess it was my first job. Since then, it has been awesome.

the London College of Business and Computer Studies and it was my first job as a young graduate. The pay was quite good and the job was very promising. I loved and gave it my best,and was soon appointed the manager of the firm which had over eight branches in Nigeria. But you know, I already had the name Brownies World right from my days at the University of Ado-Ekiti where I studied Business Administration.

Also, I had planned out all the brand was going to do. So, I became restless and decided I must pursue of my dream. Soon, I began selling make-up products, leaving office during lunch hour to sell to bankers and others in their offices.

At some point, I decided it was time to face the business. This is my passion and apart from the difficulties at the early stage, I’ve never regretted my move.

That means you’ve got a successful business running...

In fact, it’s been wonderful. It

A lot of make-up artists fade out before you say jack. That’s why I make consistent training my priority. I make it a point of duty never to be where you met me last year.

Is there anything spectacular that has kept you flying all these years?

Was there a time you wished you stuck to your international job instead of resigning for this business?

Of course there were times I wished I had not left my job at the London College of Business and Computer Studies.But I tell you, that was only at the early stage of my business. You know, I started with an assistant managerial position at the country head-office of

wasn’t easy at the beginning like I said, but so far, things have looked up. We’ve expanded on all sides and people have increasingly pleaded with us to come set up offices *Bimpe in places like Abuja, PortHarcourt, and more.

We also do a lot of training and in the last nine years, we’ve trained hundreds of people.

Hence the name Brownies has We do skincare and now we have continued to reign in this industry. our own range of skincare products.

So, I make it a point of duty never to We do fashion shows make-up as be where you met me last year. Aside well as bridal, regular and movie. going on course, I engage in personal We do spa treatments, massage, learning. I buy a lot of books, CDs photo shoots, including for and even purchase study packs magazines, and many more. So, I online. will say we’ve metamorphosed into a combined beauty world.

*Bimpe at work

It’s been God all the way.

Clients have also been faithful. Precisely, we’ve always learnt new things.

I’ve never given up on learning since my first training at Jessy Beauty College in Germany which first launched me into business. I have since garnered other advanced skills both locally and internationally, the last being Special Effects Make-up which I went for in London early this year. A lot of makeup artists fade out before you say jack. That’s why I make consistent training my priority.

What have been the challenges?

My major challenge is staff leaving to establish their own business simply because they feel they have learnt the ropes enough by working for me.

Another is convincing clients that the art of makeup is a professional job and deserves quality fee for service rendered.

Where do you see Brownies Beauty World in the next ten years?

In our early years, we came up with our line of make-up brushes. Now we have our skincare range of products.

So, in the years ahead, we plan to come up with our line of lipsticks, powder, eye-shadows, etc. and also have branches in selected states because we’ve observed that we always have to ship a lot of skincare products to the northern part of Nigeria.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 37

•Joyce Banda

•Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde E

bola has sure become more popular than any other terminal disease worldwide with a whopping record of ten cases and two deaths in less than few weeks after it was first imported to Nigeria by Liberian Patrick Sawyer. As it is, the fear of this scary virus is now the beginning of wisdom. Trust Nigerians who would always try to invent funny remedies like the salt and water solution vaccine which fuelled the bank accounts of telecommunication giants a few days ago as people rang and sent messages to even their enemies. Anyway, nobody is above Ebola and our dear Omo Sexy is very much aware. Trending on cyberspace is this picture of her in hand gloves to guard against catching the virus. Omotola is currently on vacation with her family in South Africa.

•Rachael Seriake Dickson T

here’s no better time to celebrate the achievements of a First Lady than her birthday. Thus, Bayelsans took to cyberspace August 10th, 2014, to celebrate the 41st birthday anniversary

of her Excellency, Dr(Mrs) Rachael Seriake Dickson, wife of the Governor of Bayelsa State. Rachael who has held close to heart the interest of women and girls in the state and always put their issues on the front burner of her activities, is being celebrated for her success exemplified in uncommon devotion and service to mankind, especially Bayelsans.

F

ormer President of Malawi, Joyce Banda, was recently dubbed as one of the worst leaders in a survey done by Gallup polls.

This was done during the recent first-ever US-Africa Leaders summit, where African Leaders converged in Washington DC. Interestingly enough, the Gallup poll did not ask who the worst president was. The poll was basically a rating on African Presidents based on their job

•Sally Mbanefo

performance over the period in question in which case Joyce Banda received 51 % approval rating which was higher than most others.

This survey was taken when she was in office for one year after having inherited a near- collapsed and sick economy. But why then should Joyce be given such labels when she actually inherited a bad economy?

C

yberspace is still on Sally Mbanefo’s alleged Brazil 2014 World Cup fraud. The Nigeria Tourism Development Commission- NTDC Director may be trying everything within her power to cover up her role in the alleged crime after allegedly failing to chew up a piece of document that could incriminate her in a hotel in Brazil in June.

So far, she has been asked to meet with President Jonathan to explain her part in the alleged fraud that is ruining her credibility.

Mbanefo was accused to have diverted an undisclosed amount of money meant for the sponsorship of a proposed Nigerian Fan’s Village in Brazil, after which she allegedly asked for the Memorandum of Understanding-MOU between her and Za Entertainment, the contractor for the project. She allegedly tore it and began to chew the paper. Nigerians wait with their breath held to see how this will play out.

•Tonto Dike H

as Tonto Dike throws caution to the wind? At a time when everyone is scared to the bone and cautious of bush animals due to the rising spate of Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, Nollywood Actress Tonto Dike seems carefree. She shares her love for pets, especially monkeys on cyberspace. It’s shocking that daring Tonto still holds-on to her pet monkey not minding what fans and critics would say. We hear this pet is confined to her home though.

38 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 39

•Joyce Banda

40—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

ate the dire situation we are in.

No fewer than 13,000 people have been killed since the insurgency began in 2009 with the Human Rights Watch documenting about 2,500 deaths in 2014. We have an enemy that targets everyone, yet some people are constituting stumbling block to solution. The nation is currently confronting an asymmetric warfare which requires extra ordinary weapons, if the war must be won,’’ he added.

Nengak’s position does not exist in isolation, as the spokesperson of Northern Delegates to the National Conference, Mr. Anthony Sani, punctured arguments against the proposed loan.

Budget allocation

BOK O HARAM: BOKO

Flexing fiscal muscle against an unseen foe Y

OU are no doubt cogni sant of the on-going and serious security challenges which the nation is facing, as typified by the Boko Haram terrorist threat. This is an issue that we have discussed at various times. I would like to bring to your attention, the urgent need to upgrade the equipment, training and logistics of our Armed Forces and Security services to enable them more forcefully confront this serious threat.

“For this reason, I seek the concurrence of the National Assembly for external borrowing of not more than $1 billion, including government to government arrangements for this upgrade.”

It was on this note that President Goodluck Jonathan kickstarted the $1 billion anti-terrorism loan question.

Expectedly the move has attracted knocks for the Federal Government even though the proposed fund is being solicited to prosecute the battle against a common enemy.

Human rights activist, Mr. Festus Keyamo, in his objection, said: ‘’I am totally opposed to the grant by the National Assembly of the request

by the President for the approval of a $1billion loan to upgrade equipment and ‘re-energise’ the military to fight insurgency. The simple reason is that billions of naira have been made available in our budgets in the last few years for the same purpose, yet the insurgents continued to grow from strength to strength. This, therefore, raises the question of the prudence that has been employed in the past in spending the funds. In this regard, it is important that a thorough audit of previous allocations to that sector is carried out before further approval is made.’’

Nationwide criticism Indeed, this nationwide criticism trailing the proposal, has provoked posers as to whether there is need to borrow in order to finance the war on terror, since there is a conventional army with statutory responsibilities of quelling the internal aggression.

Another reason for the question, VanguardFeatures,VF, discovered, was the fact that budgetary allocation for defense in the last three years, constitutes the largest portion of Nigeria’s fiscal expenditure.

While the rationale behind the puzzle was not found to be in dispute as the citizens are entitled to have their say on how they are governed, VF however, discovered that the President’s proposal is in tandem with global precedents in the war on terror.

Consider this: The United States of America had since the September 11, 2001 terrorists attack in New York, voted considerable amount of financial resources towards defeating terrorism.

A 2006 CIA report to that effect, stressed that: “The struggle against international terrorism is different from any other war in our history. We will not triumph solely or even primarily through military might. We must fight terrorist networks, and all those who support their efforts to spread fear around the world, using every instrument of national power, diplomatic, economic, law enforcement, financial, information, intelligence, and military.’’

The piece titled: “National Strategy for Combating Terrorism”, further said: ‘’Our economic strength will help failing states and assist weak countries in ridding themselves of terrorism.’’

Also writing in a piece, Drew

DeSilver observed that U.S. spends over $16 billion annually on counter-terrorism. ”Since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, the United States has spent more than $500 billion on intelligence, according to The Post. The 2013 budget request was about twice

,

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

Sani told VF thus: ‘’Even though past budget allocations for purposes of containing national security challenges have not yielded the desired results by way of putting an end to the mindless killing of innocent Nigerians,it would not be apposite for Nigerians not to allow the government take the loans purportedly meant to upgrade the volume and quality of our security apparatus for performance.’’

Dismissing fears regarding the timing of the request, Sani who is the immidiate Spokesperson of Arewa Consultative Forum,AFC, said: ‘’We are aware of the suspicion in some quarters that the timing for the loan suggests it could be abused,but as things stand in the country today,any thing purportedly aimed at improving ways to rein in the security challenges across the country would be welcome because Ni-

One would wish to say that the capacity and capability to contain the security challenges seem to go beyond money to include the political will needed to bring the people of this country together and inspire them to unleash their energy against a common monster

the size of the estimated 2001 budget,” the report stated.

Since these reports among others, re-emphasized on the nexus between terrorism and proper funding, some are still in consternation as to why criticisms have trailed the President’s move.

President of Civil Society Alliance, CSA, Dr. Daniel Nengak regretted that the President’s request is not getting the envisaged public approval. ‘’It saddens the heart when important national issues are trivialised. The statistics are there to make anyone appreci-

,

gerians are truly fed up with the prevailing insecurity.’’

He nonetheless cautioned thus: ‘’At this juncture, however,one would wish to say that the capacity and capability to contain the security challenges seem to go beyond money to include the political will needed to bring the people of this country together and inspire them to unleash their energy against a common monster. Surely, a divided people by way of ethnic nationalism,religious bigotry and regionalism cannot reasonably be expected to bring the situation under control.’’

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—41

NEW AUTO POLICY:

Coming tto o terms with Innoson’s car owner ship wnership option AT a time when the Nigerian Automotive Industrial Development Plan ,NAIDP, is set to commence, an indigenous vehicle manufacturing company, in a move seen as adventurous, has concluded plans to export locally manufactured cars, opening a new vista in Nigeria’s auto-market. CHARLES KUMOLU reports

W

HAT was supposed to have elicited enthusi asm across Nigeria, only produced mixed feelings, as many doubted if it held any promise for the country.

Indeed it was confounding that a Nigerian company venturing into vehicle manufacturing business with the prospects of redefining car ownership in the country, was not enough to inspire excitement.

The reason for this lukewarm attitude towards a development meant to re-invent the capacity of Nigeria’s automobile industry, is not farfetched: Past efforts to revive the industry through the introduc-

•Vehicles manufactured by Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company

Africa at the moment. For instance, our vehicles are now bought and sold in Ghana. We are selling in Cote d’Ivoire, Mali.

In Chad, there are Innoson vehicles. And the interesting thing is that in these countries, our vehicles are so well accepted you would think we had been in the market for several decades.

Their satisfaction is not just from the mere fact that we were able to give them good quality motor vehicles, but they take pride in the fact that this is an African initiative; that might be a test case for the kind of leapfrog the continent

,

INNOSON has proven its readiness to be in the lead in supporting Federal Government’s policy on automotive sector

tion of importation policies and the National Automotive Council,NAC, among others, yielded little or no results.

But seven years after an indigenous company, Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing Company,IVM, embarked on what many had described as adventurous, there appears to be a silver lining in Nigeria’s darkened automobile industry.

While it is no longer news that the 100 percent Nigerianowned company which had its production lines officially commissioned by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2010, has made remarkable impressions within a short time, Vanguard Features,VF, can authoritatively report that the auto company has concluded plans to start exporting its brands.

An elated Chairman of the company, Chief Innocent Chukwuma, had this to say on the development: ‘’We are in various parts of

,

could witness if all talents are harnessed towards that purpose.” He added thus : “In other African countries where we have sold these vehicles, the joy that we have seen is greater than what was the case in our home market, Nigeria.’’

For the fact that capacity utilization in the automobile industry over the years dropped below expectation with vehicle manufacturing below 10%, the development has generated so much excitement and questions.

While the excitement was discovered to be related to the belief that the move would make car ownership easier for low and middle class Nigerians, the ensuing poser sought to know if the company had met local demands before venturing into exportation.

This question, VF gathered, was necessitated by arguments that a country of over 160 million people has about eight million vehicles with a

ratio of 16 passenger vehicles for every 1000 persons. This, experts say, does not compare favourably with South Africa which has a ratio of 159 passenger vehicles for every 1000 persons.

An industry expert, Chief Chijundu Udensi, was on hand to allay the fears.

Udensi, who was a top management staff of one of the defunct automobile companies in Nigeria, said there is no reason for fears that the importation would starve the auto-market market of the Innoson brand.

He told VF that what the company intends to do, is in line with the Nigerian Automotive Industrial Development Plan,NAIDP, initiated as an integral part of an elaborate design which aims to revive the auto industry by stopping dependence on importation. ‘’The transformation programme of President Jonathan’s administration has started making impact on the lives of the populace, but most importantly in the automobile sector,’’ he noted.

Automobile sector Udensi, who is conversant with the feat IVM had made since it came into the industry in 2007, said: ‘’It was almost unthinkable for Nigerians to dream of owning brand new cars with just one million naira, but with the recent introduction of Fox Sedan and Amazon car brands by the INNOSON Vehicles Manufacturing Company into the Nigerian and West African markets, with a minimum of one million five hundred thousand naira to three million naira, this elusive dream can materialise into reality.’’

With this roll-out, he stated

that ‘’INNOSON has proven its readiness to be in the lead in supporting Federal Government’s policy on automotive sector,’’ adding that “their courageous move to initiate local manufacture of cars, trucks, buses and other brands within the country is both laudable and patriotic.

It must be noted that they are the first indigenous Nigerian company to manufacture a truly indigenous brand, whereas other companies are merely replicating the monogram of other foreign brands.’’

Accordingly, he added thus: ‘’Different countries are notable with car brands as exemplified above and these brands represent the image of those countries.

National pride In Nigeria, it is gratifying that INNOSON as the first indigenous name has chosen to make the nation proud by initiating moves to start exporting Nigeria’s brand to neighbouring African countries like Ghana, Benin Republic, Sierra Leone, Togo, Liberia, Niger, Chad and others.

This is unarguably a demonstration of national pride, and for once Nigeria’s Giant of Africa status will be backed with concrete evidence of our ability as a people to expand the frontiers of human knowledge and capacity to do the unimaginable.’’

President of Auto-Mark, Mr. Tokunbo Aborishade, also did not hide his elation, as he told VF the introduction of madein-Nigeria affordable cars would boost the country ’s economy and that of other African countries. He particularly said the development was commendable considering the problems of environ-

mental pollution which fairly used cars pose to the society. ‘’The health hazards inherent in the gaseous emissions of fairly used cars in Nigeria are obviously uncountable, but the most notable, according to health experts, is cancer of the lung.

Therefore, government’s plan to gradually prohibit the importation of fairly used vehicles or what we know as “Tokunbo” will not only aid the survival of local auto manufacturing companies like INNOSON, but will help to reduce the perilous impact of hazardous environmental pollution,’’ he added.

Environmental pollution Before now experts had argued that the auto industry in Nigeria desperately needed an overhaul after years of neglect. This was after domestic production of motor vehicles in the late 1970s through partnerships between the Nigerian government and foreign companies went comatose.

Indeed, there had been six assembly plants – two for cars and four for trucks – established between 1970 and 1980. These were Peugeot Automobile Nigeria Limited, PAN, in Kaduna; Volkswagen of Nigeria Limited, VWON, in Lagos; Anambra Motor Manufacturing Limited, ANAMMCO, in Emene, Enugu; Steyr Nigeria Limited (Bauchi); National Truck Manufacturers, NTM, in Kano for Fiat trucks; and Leyland Nigeria Limited in Ibadan.

Currently all the auto manufacturing plants are either moribund or on life support.

42—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Ebola: WBFA stresses importance of stronger health systems community at large, including

the developed world.

From the table, it can be seen that issues like this present Ebola epidemic warns us of much bigger problems if the manpower and infrastructural deficits in the healthcare sector in sub-Saharan Africa are not well addressed.

The Wellbeing Foundation Africa

T

HE Wellbeing Foundation Africa, WBFA, has noted that the current Ebola outbreak in the intersection of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, does not come at much surprise, when one considers that Liberia and Sierra Leone have the worst doctor-patient ratios in West Africa.

Currently, the WBFA notes, the doctor-patient ratios in Liberia and Sierra Leone stand at 86,275-to-1 and 45,588-to-1 respectively.

“This deadly pandemic should serve as a wake-up call to all actors in global health, from the World Health Organisation and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, to national governments and aid

•Ebola isolation Centre in Lagos agencies. The message is clear: weak health systems in

poor and developing countries poses a threat to the global

We need breastmilk banks, says Ogundimu

BY Monsuru Olowoopejo & Gabriel Olawale

I

N a bid to reduce the infant mortality rate in the country and give hope to babies whose mothers were not opportuned to breastfeed, Project Coordinator of ColostrumInternational, Dr. Bunmi Ogundimu has advocated for establishment of breast milk banks across the country. The initiative which she described as a way of identifying with nursing mothers who are passing through some challenges that have denied them opportunity to

breastfeed their baby.

“This milk bank is expected to accompany blood banks because in our proposal, it is stated that every blood bank that is operating under the law can also have milk bank associated with it under the same regulation. “ It is known that before you put blood in the bank there are procedures to carry out before given it out for use, so it is expected to follow the same condition where by nursing mothers can go and donate and people in need can access it. “We have some women that are called

Are you addicted to X ?

T

HE word “addicted” is commonly used nowadays.

We have all heard people say someone is addicted to alcohol, drugs, smoking among others.

An addiction is ALWAYS to something that alters our senses or alters our behavior. But, people have used the word to describe excessive cravings for sex, dangerous adventure (adrenaline junkie), parties, sport, television, and even digital social media.

Often, including medical practitioners, the term is misused or misapplied.

Before someone can become “addicted” to something, they must pass through 3 identifiable behavioral markers. These are compulsion, tolerance and dependency. Whatever the addiction, these markers are present. The period anyone exhibits any of the markers vary for the same addiction, X.

Compulsion

This is an immediate need for X. This first stage is quite normal as a behavioral response in

everyone. After all, the substance or behavior is for a purpose. The person is merely fulfilling that purpose. Taking or doing X gives a response of , say, grade 5 satisfaction.

Tolerance

After an unpredictable time, compulsion leads to tolerance.

At this stage, taking or doing X does not give grade 5 satisfaction; the person will need 2 or 3X to achieve that grade 5 satisfaction.

This stage is often a warning sign that there is impending dependency. Unfortunately, for the afflicted individual, this is also the time of denial and lack of insight. It is the time of excuses: “I only take X or do X when I need it; not all the time.” This critical stage is the best time to deploy various interventions to prevent dependency and possibly addiction. Counseling, behavioral modification, coping mechanisms and weaning strategies should be initiated at this stage. Typically, attempts at reducing exposure to or experience of X, will be tricky and

“weeping women” because their breast produce milk excessively, so instead of them wasting the milk, they will be sensitised to go and donate it in the nearest milk bank close to them,” she said.

While appreciating the Lagos State government for the adoption of six months maternity with a 10day paternity leave to allow the fathers share in both the joy and the responsibility that goes with a new addition to the family, Ogundimu appealed to the Federal government and private organisations to take a cue from the Lagos State and support the

difficult. For example, if the person has reached the level of 8X to get Grade 5 satisfaction, X has to be gradually reduced over time.

This may be complicated by symptoms and signs of “withdrawal”. This can manifest differently in different persons for different addictions. Withdrawal symptoms may be physical like sweating, vomitting, hypertension or psychological like irritability, impatience, anger, argumentative and confrontational attitudes or labile emotions. If this stage manifests and is unsuccessfully corrected, it may progress to...

Dependency

Dependency is a state whereby the body MUST have X. If the person is unable to have X the body reacts with clearly recognizable “ withdrawal” symptoms. Dependency can be physical or psychological. “Oh, I can stop X any time. In fact, I have done so. But I had to start it again because I needed it.” “I can choose to stop it anytime. I have

Country Liberia Sierra Leone Togo Benin Senegal Cameroon Guinea Bissau Mali Ghana Guinea Cote d’Ivoire Nigeria South Africa

(WBFA) continues to advocate for strengthened health systems, especially through the provision of basic resources like the hallmark safe delivery kits (‘Mama kits’) and the innovative, client-held Integrated Maternal Newborn and Child Health (IMNCH) Personal Health Record (PHR) booklet.

Population N. of persons per doctor 4.4 million 86,275 6. 2 million 45,588 7 million 20,057 10 million 18,450 12.8 million 17,274 20.3 million 15,082 1.75 million 14,113 15.7 million 12,161 27 million 11,634 10. 6 million 11,277 23.2 million 8,449 168 million 2,879 54 million 1,366

survival and proper development of children for the common good of the nation.

“The six month maternity leave and 10 days paternity leave is just a piece in the Child Rearing Bill that we propose which is meant to give our children very good foundation. To give our children a very good foundation in the first three years of life there must be policy to guide and support the development of each child which the bill is advocating for.

“The larger benefits of breast milk cannot be over emphasised as is serves as a reliable source

of infant food and the cognitive and emotional developments of a child is a fall out of the bonding established during breastfeeding between mother and child, and by extension to the father.

Bonding is also an exceptionally important development part that assisted the child to realise that mother and father represent humanity who must be loved, whose properties must not be stolen or destroyed, who must not be stabbed or bombed, and who must be respected, obeyed and honoured.” She added.

doctor@lagospainclinic.com it under control.”

At this stage, sadly, its the other way round....X has the person under its control. Many in the medical profession misuse the term “addiction” for what is really a “dependency”. In most patient contacts, the doctor is unable to determine the criteria that justifies the final stage......addiction.

Addiction

Addiction is that final stage when dependency has been surpassed. The person now tries

BY ALL MEANS to obtain or experience X. The use, abuse or experience of X now causes social, economic, work and family conflicts for the afflicted person.

The person will lie, deceive, and use any legitimate or illegitimate means to use or experience X. X would be experienced or sought from unconventional

channels, often hidden from significant others. X is now causing problems in the person’s life and relationships.

Addiction goes beyond deadly substances like alcohol and drugs like heroin, cocaine and cigarettes. Society now relates it to non lethal behavior like sex, gossip, coffee, video games, social media....and more. These cravings may not kill, but research has shown that they can and they do destroy interpersonal relationships.

Replace X in this article with any of these things. Do you know of someone whose pattern fits into these criteria? What could YOU be addicted to? Addiction can be treated. However an excessive, destructive craving for anything, good or bad, is not complimentary to a healthy lifestyle.

VANGU ARD, WEDNESD AY, A UGUST 13, 2014 —43 ANGUARD, WEDNESDA AUGUST

His wife doesn't know about us Dear Bunmi, am a 30-year-old mother of two and my partner has refused to formally introduce me to his relatives.

Initially, he meant for me to be his second wife but changed his mind when I first got pregnant because his wife had a nervous breakdown. When I got pregnant again, he bought us the house we are now living in, in my name. I come from a financially comfortable family and run a thriving business.

But my fear is that my sons will not know their half brothers and sisters formally before he dies.

He believes that as long as he gives me his time and money, I should be all right.

But what if he eventually dies: What role would I play at his funeral?

Jade, by e-mail.

I

My husband is anti-social Dear Bunmi, have been married for over 15 years to a man in his 40s. When people come to see us, he often refuses to be drawn into conversation with them. He just reads his papers or watches sports on telly and ignores them.

This is particularly noticeable when his older sister comes around. I find his behaviour very rude and upsetting. I think that anyone who comes into our house should be treated with courtesy.

I’ve tried talking to him about this reasonably. I’ve also tried getting annoyed.

Nothing works.

My husband says that he

I

hasn’t invited these people into our home and he doesn’t see why he should put himself out for them. My husband’s father used to be the same way until he died, but that’s no excuse.

Tiwa, by e-mail.

Dear Tiwa, It's obvious your husband allows his conflict with others to go unresolved.

Instead of dialoguing, understanding, forgiveness and love, he retreats into himself and makes enemies and bears a grudge to those around him.

Your husband’s rudeness undermines your efforts to be hospitable to your guests,

making you feel confused and irate.

You need to put a stop to this.

Why not plan gatherings and visits of family and friends with your husband instead of waiting for them to drop by?

Agree with him who you’ll invite.

When he says he doesn’t like someone or he doesn’t want them in his home, ask him to talk through and resolve whatever problems he has with that person.

Encourage him to become a more amiable and tolerant person towards his older sister. But if he still feels that he must go into a huff when an unwanted visitor arrives, then ask him to do his sulking somewhere else.

My husband wasn't there for me Dear Bunmi, am a married woman of 43 with four children. I used to be the legal secretary of a company until I was inched out in a bitter boardroom brawl. As to be expected, my confidence took a bashing on top of which my savings dwindled.

At first, I had the sympathy of my husband. When he began to complain about the quality of food he was getting, I explained to him that now I wasn’t earning a salary, I couldn’t augment the house-keeping he was giving me. He became cold and distant and sometimes refused food until I found out he was having an affair a couple of streets from us! I confronted him and he was really hurtful, saying he had to eat decent meals once in a while.

Well, as God would have it, some meters broke away from my oId company to form a brand new one and I was invited as an executive director. I was able to raise the money they asked for and the company is now doing well. My self-confidence is back.

What has gone really is how I feel about my husband. He has started being nice all over again but I really hate him. I never knew he could be such a fickle man. The kids want me to let by-gone be by-gone. But he let me down when I needed him most.

Joko, bye-mail

I

Dear Joko, URTS like you have experienced take a

H

long time to disappear but you must work at it. It was cruel of your husband not to support you when you were down on your luck but he must have panicked too, thinking of the financial implications of your wage loss.

Though it doesn’t explain his rushing to other women for comfort, he must have

been confused too.

Why don’t you have things sorted out with him? Tell him how much he hurts you and maybe you might be able to understand why he behaved so badly and with time, you will be able to forgive and forget. You should listen to your children too, they too matter in the making of a stable family.

Alone with the children this Xmas Dear Bunmi, UST over a year ago, my husband of nine years left me and the children for another woman. He lives with her now because she’s rich.

At first he said it was a temporary thing to tie him over until he finds a new job.

Early this year, he said he wanted a divorce so he could get married to this woman and I didn’t object. Any man who could do what he did to us is not worth fighting for.

Now another Christmas draws to a close and all the bitterness is back. I now live with my parents with our three children and I would want all of us to have a good festive period.

My ex has another idea though - he wants the children to spend the holidays with him and his flossie. I told him it was okay, but there’s no way I’m exposing my innocent children to that kind of depravity!

Evelyn, by e-mail.

J

Dear Evelyn, OU really haven’t let on on how active your ex is in the lives of his children.

What he did to you was a deplorable thing but that doesn’t really amount to being depraved! As much as you can, strive to make this Christmas one to remember by spending quality tiime with your children. Whilst you do that, resist the temptation to portray your ex an irresponsible father. You were terribly hurt and still suffers from your ex’s betrayal but he’s still your kids’ dad.

In the meantime, let your ex realise you don’t want to confuse the children by letting them be with him and his lover for days on end.

Instead, agree on the occasions and days of visits and See how things go. Let your kids realise you love them - so does their dad.

Then look forward to a relaxing and stress-free holiday.

Y

Dear Jade, E has already pointed out the role he wants you to play in his life, that of a mistress. When he dies, you’ll play exactly the same role as you’ve always played.

The man has shown you the amount of time he can commit to you. If you want more than that, I’m afraid you have to start looking for a man who will go the whole length with you.

As you’ve realised, you can’t force him to give what he doesn’t have.

H

I never appreciated his love Dear Bunmi, am still in love with an ex boyfriend, we grew up and went to school together. For three years, on and off, we were a couple. We broke up two y.ears ago, but run into each other from time to time. We’ve seen other people since our break-ups. ‘I’ve bad other partners but I always find myself comparing them with him. They just don’t seem to measure up to him, so my relationships end.

We broke up because we were young and I took advantage of my boyfriend’s good nature. We split up many times, but I always know he’d have me back. I was selfish and I didn’t consider his feelings. He forgave me every time until he’d had enough and ended our relationship. I regret everything I put him through. He was funny, clever, good looking and always there when I needed him. He was everything I could ever want in a partner. I’d do anything to turn back the clock.

So when my best friend told me recently that he asked for my mobile number, I couldn’t stop thinking about him. Should we try again?

Winifred, By e-mail

I

Dear Winifred, OT on your life! Now that you’re having a tough time finding the partner you need, you’re idealizi.g your ex who was very far from right. This former boyfriend might be the nicest, kindest and most handsome bloke in the world, but you couldn’t sustain a relationship with him. This wasn’t because you were young. The relationship failed because you did not want it to succeed. The breakups allowed you to vent your anger on a man whose embrace you sometimes found stifling and unwelcome. His always begging for another chance was flattering, walking all over him was a thrilL Eventually, the worm turned!

He may foolishly be tempted to take you back again to have a last fling, if he realizes you’d like to undo some of the hurt for which you were so often responsible. But don’t.

We need to walk away from repeatedly and hopelessly broken relationship, not try again and again to fix them!

N

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

44—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Repack aged Britain confr onts epackaged confronts immigrants

By Vera Samuel Anyagafu

F

OLLOWING his recent announcement on new immigration laws restricting some categories of individuals’ entry into UK, the British Prime Minister, David Cameron has defended his action, stating that changes have been effected to present a different kind of Britain. He said the repackaged Britain would accommodate immigrants who would ensure they live according to Immigration law.

Cameron explained that the new immigrant laws are a vital part of his long-term economic plan to secure a better future for Britain, adding that the changes are in line with the immigration system already made since he became prime minister.

He noted that he would also make available some details of changes, expected to be introduced over the next six months.

He intimated that his government’s policies has three main objectives, such as ‘clamping down on abuse of the system’, ‘making sure that the

right people are coming to Britain for the right reasons’, and ‘ensuring the British people get a fair deal’, as part of the model with which it intends to control immigrants.

The main changes herein anticipates that UK colleges or educational institutions must ensure they carry out sufficiently stringent investigations to ascertain that prospective students were genuine, otherwise, they stand the risk of losing their visa sponsorship licences. The development came on the heels of findings by the UK government, which exposed some colleges and universities that allow students to enroll and end up not attending classes.

The students in many situations were found roaming the streets and in some cases become full time workers, which is not in line with the ‘Tier 4 student visas’ permit. Although the students are permitted to work during vacations, and for not more than 20 hours per week during term time, they must be in classes and study.

The report also disclosed that from November 2014, UK landlords/landladies will be required to check if tenants and or prospective tenants are legally entitled to stay in the country, while from December, banks will be mandated to ensure that immigrants are legally staying in the country before allowing them open a bank account.

Deportation of criminals The law will also permit courts to deport criminals before immigration appeals are heard.

In other words, many foreign criminals who have committed offences in the UK will be deported before immigration appeals are heard, except for immigrants whose countries are considered unsafe.

In curbing the right to family life in the country, though the European Convention on Human Rights guarantees all citizens the ‘right to family life’, the Prime Minister pointed out that there has been an‘abuse’ of this clause of the convention,

• The British Prime Minister, David Cameron following which judges treated right to family life in the country as unqualified right.

He, therefore, pledged his commitment towards ensuring that his government instituted it very clearly into the law that when weighing up cases in relation to the above right, judges must also consider the British public interest. He further stressed that as far as the government is concerned, the rights of law-abiding citizens come well above the rights of criminals in the case discussed herein.

The new law as stated, will massively restrict UK jobs to be advertised exclusively abroad and will ban overseas-only recruitment, for the fact that many UK employers have been hunting out cheap labour abroad, while too many young people are out of work in the

country. The development according to Cameron, will help the government reduce the vacancies advertised overseas by over 500,000 jobs, adding that the effort is all about building a different kind of Britain.

However, a large number of Nigerians seeking UK visa who spoke to Vanguard Consular Advisory, VCA, were of the view that the changes were mere eye catching immigration initiatives targeted towards selfish interest. A few condemned the UK go home campaign, adding that the changes will have little or no effect, while some others agreed that the changes are a vital part of Cameron’s plan to secure a better life for his people.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—45

Carpenter docked for defiling girl, 8

By Onozure Dania

L

LAUNCH: From left, Mr. Kiereini Kirika, Regional Expansion Manager, Africa of Microensure; Mr. Maurice Newa, Chief commercial Officer, Airtel; Mr. Ganiyu Masu, Group Managing Director, Cornerstone Insurance Plc, and Mr. Dinesh Balsingh, Airtel Vice President, during the official launch of Airtel Insurance, at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja. Lagos. Photo: Bunmi Azeez

AGOS — A 38-year-old carpenter ,Gabriel Francis, who sexually assaulted an eight year old girl ( names withheld) has been brought before a Lagos Magistrate Court sitting at Igbosere.

The defendant is facing a twocount charge of fingering and deflowering the minor preferred against him by the police.

The victim, who said the defendant had been working for her mum, said he came to her bed room, locked the door and pulled off her trousers.

She said that she left her sister and their house help, in the kitchen where they were plucking vegetables and went to lie down in her room, after

There's no Ebola in Imo — Okorocha

Ebonyi PDP, Gov. Elechi deny Nwazunku was impeached

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI — EBONYI State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has dismissed insinuations that Speaker of the House of Assembly, Chukwuma Nwazunku, was ever impeached.

According to the party, issues that led to the purported impeachment of the Speaker are not serious enough to warrant impeachment.

However, an Abuja-based legal practitioner, Dr. Eze Anoke, yesterday, condemned the party’s verdict on the impeachment, saying the action of the party was a clear manifestation that the present administration in the state was a threat to the growth of democratic principles.

Nwazunku was impeached July 21 by 18 of the 24 members of the House, but has continued to describe the action as illegal.

But the party, after a meeting with the House members, told reporters that its findings showed that the speaker was never impeached.

PDP, which position was made public by Governor Martin Elechi at the secretariat in Abakaliki, insisted that Nwazunku remained Speaker of the Assembly, adding that decision to re-instate him as Speaker was non-negotiable The party said: “Today being the 11th day of August, 2014 exactly three weeks, we woke up to hear the purported impeachment of Hon. Chukwuma Nwazunku, Speaker of our House of Assembly.

“Ever since then, there has been reactions from all manner of people, from the informed, the uninformed and ill-informed. We have read from the pages of the newspapers of various comments and reactions from so on and so forth.

“Therefore, we as a party, we as a government, remained calm and did everything to unravel what led to the alleged impeachment of the speaker.”

“We interviewed both sides and they bared their minds and spoke frankly. On our own part, we believed that the issue that led to the alleged impeachment of the Speaker were not good enough to justify any attempt of impeachment.

“We are also convinced that the allegations which the members had against him was in all respects improper and unacceptable.

“But we did not appropriate blames at that stage. We simply met with our elders and principal stakeholders in PDP and in executive arm of government by extension the entire Ebonyi State.

“Having considered all these and in the interest of justice, peace and fair play to prevail, we as a government, we as a party hereby state and affirm that Hon. Chukwuma Nwazunku was never impeached as being alleged. So he remains the Speaker of Ebonyi State Assembly and we shall continue to work with him.”

But the Minority Leader of the House, Enyi C. Enyi, described the party’s interference in the matter as unconstitutional.

“It is unconstitutional for anybody who is not a member of the House to interfere in its internal affairs,” Enyi said.

He added that no person, except court of law, could declare the impeachment of Nwazunku illegal.

Meanwhile, an Abuja-based legal practitioner, Dr. Eze Anoke, yesterday, condemned the party’s verdict on the impeachment of Chukwuma Nwazunku by the state House of Assembly.

In a chat with Vanguard, Anoke stated that the action of the party was a clear manifestation that the present administration was a threat to the growth of democratic principles in the state.

Anoke, who stated on the need for state governments in the country not to interfere with the legislative businesses of their Houses of Assembly, further emphasised that the operation of separation of powers among the three arms of government was non-existent in the administration of the state.

According to him, Ebonyi State House of Assembly had always supported Governor Martin Elechi on the passage of bills into law, appointment and sack of commissioners and local government officers, among

complaining of back ache, adding that the defendant started fingering her and penetrated her vagina with his finger, and was deflowered in the process.

Francis, who resides at Lawson Bus Stop, Badore, was arraigned before the magistrate The prosecutor, Babaji Ishaku, told the court that the defendant, who had been making furniture for the victim’s mother, committed the offences on August 3, 2014, at about 12 noon.

He said the incident, happened at Lawson Bus Stop off Badore and Langbasa, in Eti-Osa area of the state.

The prosecutor said that Francis unlawfully and sexually assaulted the minor by fingering her vagina, claiming that the carpenter deflowered the girl in the process of fingering her.

By Chidi Nkwopara

others, but wondered why Governor Elechi should become overbearing on the House members who decided to change their leadership.

Anoke emphasised the need for governors in the country to allow House members to embark on legislative activism, noting that such a practice was necessary for the growth of democracy in the state.

“For such controversial development, it is the court of competent jurisdiction that is allowed to handle it. Governor Elechi is not the court and his verdict doesn’t hold water. If the impeached Speaker believes he has a good case, then he should allow the court to rule on the matter,” he said.

O

WERRI — IMO State governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha, has denied the rumour making the rounds that the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, has berthed in the state.

Okorocha, who made the denial in a brief broadcast to the citizenry on the Ebola disease, however, cautioned against procession with corpses and taking them to churches.

“The deadly disease called Ebola is not in Imo State and will never come to the state. There is no cause for alarm in the state over the dreaded disease,”

My fears for 2015 — Ngige

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA — THE senator representing Anambra Central senatorial zone and former governor of the state, Dr. Chris Ngige, yesterday expressed fears about the success of the 2015 presidential election.

He advised that the only way the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, could get it right was by removing those he described as fraudulent state Resident Electoral Commissioners, RECs. Addressing reporters at his campaign office in Awka, Ngige alleged that most of the RECs were biased and fraudulent, adding that unless the way the Osun State REC was removed before the election was done in other states before 2015, it would be difficult for INEC to conduct free, fair and credible election in the country.

He said: “My worry for 2015 general election is that INEC will not be able to dispense with corrupt RECs in different states.

“The Osun State election succeeded because a petition was written against the REC in that state and he was removed and another person brought in, which was what we wanted in Anambra, but INEC refused to listen to us.

“The INEC chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega, has to do an inhouse cleansing and carry out personnel adjournments of his staff who will be reporting to him before and after elections, if he wants to get it right in 2015.”

The Senator, who belongs to All Progressives Congress, APC, said the strategy adopted by the party in winning the Osun State governorship election last week would equally be used in 2015.

Ngige also spoke on the APC presidential ticket, debunking the claim in some quarters that APC

had zoned its Presidency to any particular zone.

“Before we do the zoning, we will first of all put in place our Board of Trustees, BOT, and National Executive Council, NEC. The only zoning APC did was for party officials.

“All these will have to be done quickly so that the party can kick start its own campaign like President Goodluck Jonathan, who is using all manner of tactics to campaign everywhere.

“We have no time, while Jonathan has started campaigning everyday with many organizations set up. But in the next few weeks, it will be run… run…..run for APC.” Ngige also said that 50 percent of Boko-Haram insurgents were unemployed youths in the North East, adding that the country needed a government with a human face as APC to tackle challenges like Boko Haram.

46 —

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Borno gov reviews monthly school feeding allowance to N100m

Commissioner makes case for women, youth empowement

M

AIDUGURI— GOVERNOR Kashim Shettima of Borno State has reviewed monthly schools feeding allowances from N20 to N100 million for all post primary schools in the state.

Also, as part of the state government education reform, government has also purchased 78 school buses in phase I and II worth millions of naira and distributed to public and private post primary schools across the state.

The outgoing state Commissioner of Education, Mr Musa Kubo disclosed this yesterday, when handing over the affairs of the ministry to the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Mohammed Kawuji at the Musa Usman Secretariat, Maiduguri, the state capital.

Kubo said that during his tenure, the state government awarded various contracts for the construction of 20 two bedroom bungalow flat staff quarters in several schools across the state as well as the drilling of boreholes in Government College, Maiduguri, Government Girls Secondary School, GGSS, Yerwa, GGSS Maiduguri and Mustapha Umar

By Marie-Therese

J

By Ndahi Marama

Nanlong

OS—THE girlchild, women and youths in Plateau State, have been urged to take every available opportunity given to them to equip and improve themselves to reverse the trend of their being relegated to the background as a result of ignorance and illiteracy.

The state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mrs. Olivia Dazyem, who gave the advice, added that education and empowerment of the youths and women in the society will bring out the potentials in them and enable them contribute to the development of the state.

Dazyem said that the state government was reversing the trend and urged all stakeholders to join hands in the education and empowerment of youths, girl-child and women, so that they can contribute positively to the development of not only the state, but the country as a whole.

She spoke in Jos, when she granted audience to the European Union Consultant, Research and Evaluation on Conflict Management, Peace-building and Security, Evelien Weller and the Management team of Apurimac Onlus led by Lionello Fani and Godwin Okoko.

El Kanemi Arabic College Maiduguri.

Others he added include the complete construction of new GGSS and Government

Secondary School, GSS, in Shani and Briyel respectively, in addition to completion of ongoing projects inherited from previous administration at

international secondary school Ngala, GSS Gwoza, Ngoshe, while that of GSS New Marte, GSS Abadam, Malam Fatori, Ngamdu and Kukawa are still ongoing.

LAUNCHING: Governor Ramalan Yero of Kaduna State (left), and Local Government Commissioner, Kaduna State, Shehu Ahmed Giant, at the official launch of equipment/ items procured under the unified services by the 23 local government councils in the state in Kaduna. Photo: Olu Ajayi.

Govt can't fund education alone —Wike

A

By Laide Akinboade

BUJA—THE Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, yesterday, said that funding of education sector, especially at the basic level was an enormous task that should not be left in the hands of government alone.

Wike at the public presentation of Education For All, EFA, 2015 Review Report/ opening ceremony of

a 2-day National Dialogue on EFA organised by Ministry of Education, said that in 2015, the target year for achieving EFA, stakeholders in education sector should be mobilised to support government efforts at all levels towards the achievement of EFA goals.

He reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to ensuring quality basic education for all Nigerians, irrespective of

tribe, location and circumstances.

According to him, “Nigeria has made enormous strides in basic education delivery as well as improving the quality of education through the provision of infrastructural needs in our institutions. As you read through Nigeria EFA Review Report 2000-2014: Strides and Milestones, you will discover that the report has come at a critical time in view of the fact

By Bartholomew Madukwe

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

that 2015 is a few months away.”

He said that the establishment of agencies such as Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC; National Commission for Nomadic Education, NCME and NonFormal Education, NMEC and National Board for Technical Education, NBTE among others, provide veritable platform for policy coordination.

(nwamad@yahoo.com)

On Ebola virus in Nigeria

I

t is the same attitude exhibited on menace of Boko Haram and the rescue of the Chibok girls that we are almost seeing in the Ebola matter. May God bless us with good and strong leadership. Mr. Imanuel Luminous Jannah- Businessman

T

he government should use all powers within the constitution to get the Nigerian Medical Association back to work. Ebola is a virus that is capable of challenging the very existence of Nigeria. I wish we can just get this thing straight before it spreads.

Ms. Esther Adichie- Worker

T

his Ebola virus is no longer a state issue but a federal issue and all state government should be encouraged to follow the same standard in all the centers and all expenses should be charged into national ecological/security vote. Ms. Alice UdoyohStudent

E

bola has been affect ing our neighboring countries for the past one year and the ministry for health never cared to put Nigerians on alert knowing that infected persons can find themselves in our own soil. Mrs Morayo Iyoke - Self employed

W

hy can’t we use American viral drug, if the US infected citizen is getting better with that cure? Our politicians are good only in executing programmes in the newspaper. So we cannot look for drug until another 70 persons are declared infected with the virus? Unbelievable! Mr. Nonso Azudiefe- Student

T

HEY should equip all the centers with necessary gear; coveralls; sanitizers and in the meantime house the group in a particular location as prevention so that they don’t come in contact with their immediate families while they are on this urgent medical/humane assignment. Mr. Eyinna Okpani- Student

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —47

CAC to sanction defaulting firms, businesses in Bauchi

B

By Suzan Edeh

AUCHI — THE Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, in Bauchi State has warned that companies and businesses defaulting in compliance with the provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAMA, will soon face severe sanctions.

State Director, Public Affairs, Mr Churchill Williams, in a statement in Bauchi said the commission had set up a special enforcement committee, which has commenced a crackdown on the operations of such companies.

He said: “The special enforcement committee had completed the first phase of the on-site examination exercise in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and had visited various markets, shopping malls and held collaborative meetings with relevant organisations to sensitise the public on the post incorporation obligations of registered companies and the consequences of operating unregistered businesses.

He said: “A total of 474 companies were penalised for non compliance during the exercise in the FCT. The next phase of the enforcement will be carried out in the 36 states of the federation."

FCT Minister frees 53 prisoners in Bauchi

B

By Suzan Edeh

AUCHI — MINISTER of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Muhammed, has secured the freedom of 53 inmates serving various jail terms in the Bauchi State prison and assisted them with N10,000 each.

Represented by his aide and chairman of the non governmental organisation, KAURA Community Elders Initiative, Alhaji Musa Gora, the minister explained that the gesture was to bring succor to the prisoners and decongest the prison.

“The beneficiaries are those with minor cases, who were jailed as a result of their inability to pay fines imposed on them. N1.7 million has been disbursed to settle the fines which led to the release

No Chibok girl in our custody, says JTF

By Abdulsalam Muhammad

K

ANO — THE Joint Taskforce, JTF, in Kano State has denied holding in custody, 16 female suicide bombers.

The JTF spokesman, Capt.

Ikechukwu Eze, in a statement urged the general public to

disregard such rumours.

Capt. Eze said: “The general public is hereby advised to disregard the purported story making the rounds with regards to the arrest of 16 girls linked with Sambisa forest and Chibok girls following its publication by some media

houses.

“The report is not true and did not emanate from the JTF in Kano. We advise the media and their representatives to always cross check with us before going to press.”

He assured the public would be kept posted if the need arose.

From left: Kwara State Commissioner for Works, Dr. Abubakar Kannike; Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State; Mogaji of Jooro community, Alhaji Nuhu Adebayo and Imam of the community, Alhaji Hassan Abdulsalam during the governor's inspection of Jooro road projects in Ilorin West Local government Area of the state.

Our members not interested in joining APC in Jigawa —PDP

By Aliyu Dangida

D

UTSE—THE Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Jigawa State has denied speculation that the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, was in thoughtful contact with chieftains and supporters of the ruling party to quit the PDP. Speaking with newsmen in Dutse, the state chairman of the party, Alhaji Mahmud Kuit, said the party received the unguided statement released to the general public by the so-called opposition APC in the state with disappointment, describing the news as untrue and capable of bringing chaos to the state.— “None of our member is interested neither in contact with APC or defection,” he said.

Kuit explained that supporters and members of Jigawa PDP are united as one family and are very proud to associate themselves with the laudable projects executed by the current administration of Governor Sule Lamido in the last seven years.

He noted, however, that he had confidence on them that they will not betray the kind gesture done to them by the PDP leader in the state.

It will be recalled that Jigawa State APC Chairman, Alhaji Ado Kiri had told newsmen that the party was in serious contact with

some PDP chieftains and supporters for urgent defection ahead of 2015 general elections.

But the PDP chairman said those APC was talking about in contact for defection were former Governor Ibrahim Turaki and his supporters,

who are not members of the PDP because they were not registered in their respective wards, adding: “If it was those people they were talking about, we agreed and wish them well, but our supporters and members are not part of the journey.”

CJN to chair book launch on Corruption and Human Rights Law in Africa

T

HE Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mariam Mukhtar, will on Monday 18 August 18, 2014 chair the launching of the book ‘Corruption and Human Rights Law in Africa.’

The book was written by Dr. Kolawole Olaniyan of Amnesty International in London.

Also expected at the book presentation are the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, who will also be the chief launcher; Executive Director of the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA), Abdul Tijan Cole and Chief Registrar of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Dr Robert Eno. Also expected at the launch is the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu who will be the Royal Father of the day.

Other dignitaries expected at the event are Ekpo Nta, Chair, Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offences Commission (ICPC); Professor Akin Oyebode of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos; Mr Femi Falana, SAN; Lagos State Solicitor General, Lawal Pedro; Director General, Consumer Protection Council, Mrs Dupe Atoki, and former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

Others are Professor Oluwole Smith the Dean Faculty of Law UNILAG; Professor Ayo Atsenuwa, UNILAG; Professor Anya Anya; Femi Adesina, President, Nigeria Guild of Editors; Mr Lai Muhammed, APC National Publicity Secretary among others.

UNIBEN VC's absence worries stakeholders

B

ENIN—WORRIED by prolong absence of the Vice Chancellor of University of Benin, Prof. Godwin Oshodin, who was said was last seen sometime in April, some academic and nonacademic staff have called on the relevant university authorities to look into the matter to ensure smooth administration of the institution.

Oshodin, according to report, was flown out of the country for medical treatment in a United Kingdom hospital for an undisclosed ailment.

Though the university authorities had claimed that despite his absence, normal administrative and academic activities were going on smoothly, some concern staff, however, argued “this is hampering the day-to-day running of the university as a result of failure by members of Governing Council in conjunction with the university senate to appoint an acting vice chancellor to act in his place.”

ASPMDA elects new executives

By Emeka Aginam

L

AGOS — Auto Spare Parts & Machinery Dealers’ Association (ASPMDA) has elected new executives to run its affairs in the elections held at the Lagos International Trade Fair complex, Badagry expressway.

The President-elect, Chief Daniel Offorkansi, who spoke to newsmen at the weekend thanked all members of ASPMDA for trusting in his capacity to serve and giving him the two-year mandate to drive development at ASPMDA. Unfolding plans for infrastructure upgrade during the inauguration of the Executive at the weekend, he said: “Due to the poor state of roads within the trade fair complex, I will partner with other trading groups to seek an immediate delivery of the roads and this will be joined the same time with the foundation laying stone for the ASPMDA Hospital within the complex.”

Other executive officers elected include Chief Models Hyginus Ezeamama as Vice President; Mr. Nnamdi Ebeku, general Secretary; Financial Secretary, Mr. John Akarigwo; Okwudili Ugbene, Treasurer and Mr. John Edene , Chief Provost.

48 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

WEDDING: From Left: Groom's mother/Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Princess Sarah Sosan; MD/CEO, Forte Oil Plc, Mr. Femi BIRTHDAY: Wife of the Bayelsa State governor, Dr. (Mrs) Rachael Dickson Otedola; groom, Mr Olugbenga Sosan; his bride Adesuwa, and the President, (middle)cutting the cake to mark her 41st birthday anniversary at the King of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, during the wedding ceremony of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa, With her are the Deputy Governor, Gbenga and Adesuwa in Lagos. Photo by Kehinde Gbadamosi.

Rear Admiral Gboribiogha Jonah (left); Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Fred Agbedi, (2nd right) and the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs, Allison Oguru.

(LEFT) VISIT: From left; Former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Nsima Ekere; Paramount Ruler of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, Edidem Udo Joe Ntuk Obom, and Clan Head of Ukpum Ete, Barr. Clement Idemudo, during Ekere's consultation visit to the pramount ruler in Ikot Abasi.

WHITE CANE DAY: From left; Members of Council, Nigeria Society for the Blind , Mrs. Oluyemisi Daramola; Otunba Boye Ogunlaja; Mrs. Biola Agbaje (council chairman), Mrs. Arit Imoyo, and Miss Tomi Sowande, representing wife of former Lagos State Governor, Mrs Obafunmilayo Johnson at the 2014 NSB White Cane Day at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

UNVEILING: From left; Lawrence Olugbenga, Brand Mgr,Bacardi Breezer; Boudewijn Haarsma, MD, Consolidated Breweries; Chuma Nwankwo, Head of Human Resources, Consolidated Breweries; Quintana Eduardo, G M, Technical, Consolidated Breweries; Femi Olajimbiti, Country Mgr, Barcadi Martini; Frederick Van Os, Sale Operations Mgr, Consolidated Breweries at the unveilling of New Bacardi Breezer drink in Lagos.

VISIT: From left; Sir David Suoware, Registrar and representative of the Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke; Dr. Nelson Uwaga, President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Institute of Management; Mr. Grant Orugbani, National Treasurer and Engr. Mohammed Sulaiman, Registrar/Chief Executive during the Institute's courtesy visit to Federal University, Otuoke recently.

OPENING CEREMONY: From left; Charles Akindayomi, Chairman, Board of Finance Committee, Special Olympics Nigeria; Mrs Adenike Ibirogba, Board of Directors; Mr Adeola Adetunji, MD, Coca-Cola Nigeria and Mr Victor Osibodu, Chairman, Board of Directors, Special Olympics Nigeria during the opening ceremony of 2014 Special Olympics Nigeria National Games in Lagos on Sunday. Photo Lamidi Bamidele.

PRESENTATION: From left; Kevin Chinonso, a relative of the car prize winner; Emeka Collins, the winner of the star prize; Mr. Ogbemudia Godday, zonal dealer and Alliagbor LAUNCH: Over a thousand five hundred school children pledging to good oral hygiene at the Abass, Primary Technical Engineer at the Startimes second launch of New Pepsodent Smile Pledge sponsored by Unilever Nigeria in Lagos. draw star prize winner in the ExtraTime promo in Abuja.

C M Y K

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 49

•Joyce Banda

C M Y K

50— V anguard, WEDNESD AY, AUGUST 13, 2014 Vanguard, WEDNESDA YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 CANCER: Mercury has started going on backward motion in your Star sign, therefore you will need to reexamine both your personal ideas and advice given to you by others. Be family minded.

LEO: Avoided you don’t allow others to mislead you, things will not go wrong. The more willing you are to take the initiative the better for you. Take your love life more seriously.

VIRGO: Although you will need to be as secretive as you can, your success will attract others’ attention to you to the betterment of your cause. Be ambitious.

LIBRA: People who more influential than you will be willing to support your cause but you will need to make the necessary move. The more self assertive you are the better.

SCORPIO: Challenges of yesterday will today bring you good opportunities along your career/business lines to the betterment of your finances seek supporters of powerful ones.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

I

S Nigeria’s situa tion the worst in t h e world?(Assuming there is any) are there no people still living in the worst part of the world?

Cheer up brother!

The challenges of

Is Suicide A Solution? — 2 Nigeria are raw materials for designing Nigerians.

The problem is not Nigeria. The problem is not God. The problem dear

TERROR MUDA

friend is you and I. It is us. Nigeria is a lemon. It is our duty to turn it to lemonade. Nigeria is pregnant. And like every pregnancy it

in “Never say goodbye”

will run its full circle. At the fullest of time it will be delivered. What Nigeria needs is a good midwife so that it does not suffer miscarriages anymore.

Will you be that midwife for Nigeria?

By Lanre Kehinde

SAGITTARIUS: Think of the best way to improve on your working pattern in order to enhance your career prospects if you listen to your creative self, things will work out fine for you. Be more loving.

CAPRICORN: Success is boldly printed on your cards today. Think of both immediate and far future while you are savouring goodies offered you but mother nature.

AQUARIUS: You should not have it tough while trying to win the needed supports of others. Take good advice from some of your friends who are creatively gifted.

PISCES: Your creativity quotient is enhanced today and if you demonstrate this within your working arena, you’ll earn success and consolidate on your recent progress.

ARIES: As mercury prepares to go on backward motion it is important you don’t take things for granted. Watch carefully what you agree to do.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

TAURUS: Better than yesterday. Others will be willing to give you the needed co-operation both at home and within your working arena. This is a good day for lovers.

GEMINI: Those of you who are more enterprising will have much to show for your efforts. The more cooperative you. Don’t neglect love.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What does future have for me?

Dear Joshua, I don’t want you to publish my data. However, I want to know how the planets lined up when I was born. And which day of the week was I born, would I record success in life ?

When would my success come?

Ambrose, Ibadan.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Dear Ambrose, You were born on a Jupiter ruled day - Thursday.

You’ll succeeded earlier than you think.

Your Horoscope Data DAY OF BIRTH: THURSDAY SUN SIGN = PISCES: SUN IN 25TH DEGREE OF PISCES MOON SIGN: PISCES: MOON IN 21ST DEGREE OF PISCES MERCURY IN 28TH DEGREE OF AQUARIUS VENUS IN 28TH DEGREE OF ARIES MARS IN 7TH DEGREE OF CANCER JUPITER IN ZERO DEGREE OF AQUARIUS SATURN IN 27TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN URANUS IN 22ND DEGREE OF LEO NEPTUNE IN 11TH DECREE OF SCORPIO PLUTO IN 6TH DEGREE OF VIRGO NORTH NODE IN 6TH DEGREE OF PISCES CARDINAL AND MUTABLE STAR SIGN HOSTED THREE PLANETS EACH, FIXED AND WATER FOUR EACH, FIRE EARTH AND AIR HOSTED TWO EACH. PUSHFUL INFLUENCE = 40% NON-PUSHFUL INFLUENCE = 60% HIGHLY HIGHLIGHTED STAR SIGN = AQUARIUS FINAL DISPOSITOR = SATURN ANALYSIS OF THE HOROSCOPE DATA Saturn as the final dispositor-the most influential planet at home when you were born, pointed to you as an ambitious person who must have a well developed career. You are a disciplined person with higher degree of leadership quality in yourself. Although, you can be emotional, you are stable and reliable. Less than 50 per cent of push-full influence in you is an indication of your being an amiable person. Both your natal sun/moon in Pisces and Aquarius are indications of characteristic of star signs are highly pronounced in your inner-self Having your hands on public pulse will always bring you unexpected success and fulfilment.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 51

•Joyce Banda

52 — V anguard Vanguard anguard,, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

BRIEFS Libyan police chief assassinated

WHO approves experimental drug for Ebola •As death toll hits 1,000 mark •Spanish priest dies of virus

T

HE World Health Organisation (WHO) has approved the use of untested Ebola drugs to treat the current outbreak in West Africa.

The WHO said at a news conference in Geneva on

Tuesday that the use of untested drugs was ethical, provided certain conditions were met.

The statement comes following a meeting of medical experts asked to assess the ethics of using untested drugs in the

outbreak. Two batches of experimental treatments were reported to be heading to Liberia on Tuesday, the first delivery of untested Ebola drugs in Africa.

The UN health agency said more than 1000 people had died so far from the illness in West Africa, with authorities recording 1,848 suspected or confirmed cases.

Australian man, Khaled Sharrouf earlier in a picture with his sons in front of an Islamic State flag

The virus, spread by direct contact with bodily fluids was detected in Guinea in March and has since spread to Sierra Leone, Liberia and possibly Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the Ebola virus has killed 1,013 people and infected another 1,848 across West African nations, latest World Health Organisation data shows.

The fatalities include 52 deaths recorded between August 7-9 in three countries at the centre of the epidemic - Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, according to data released late on Monday.

During the period, Guinea reported six additional deaths and 11 new infections. Liberia had 29 more deaths and 45 cases while Sierra Leone saw 17 new fatalities and 13 cases. A Spanish priest named Miguel Pajares, 75, the first European infected by a strain of the virus died in hospital in Madrid, a spokeswoman for the city’s health authorities said yesterday.

UN names Gaza war crimes probe panel *As Israel Kicks

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HE United Nations,UN, has named experts to an international commission of inquiry into possible human rights violations and war crimes committed by both sides during Israel’s military offensive

in the Gaza Strip.

Israel responded to the announcement, dismissing the inquiry as a UN Human Rights Council “kangaroo court”.

Sami Abu Zuhri, Hamas spokesman in Gaza, said: “Hamas welcomes the decision to form an investigation committee

into the war crimes committed by the occupation ([srael] against Gaza and it urges that it begin work as soon as possible.”

The UN statement said the independent team will investigate “all violations of international humanitarian law and international human

rights law in the context of the military operations conducted since 13 June 2014.”

The panel is to report by March 2015 to the UN Human Rights Council.

Israel, which is not a member to the council, has long accused the 47member state forum of bias against it.

Maliki defiant as Iraq crisis deepens

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URI al-Maliki, Iraq’s incumbent prime minister, has told army officers that they should not intervene in the country’s political c r i s i s .

The armed forces and security services must limit their role to defending the country, Maliki told a meeting of senior army, police and security officers on Tuesday.

His comments came a day after Iraqi President Fouad Massoum selected Haider al-Ibadi, the deputy speaker of parliament, to replace Maliki as prime minister.

The president gave Ibadi 30 days to present a new government to lawmakers for approval.

Ibadi’s nomination quickly received support

from the Iraqi Kurdistan leader Masoud Barzani, Iran and the United States as well as Saudi Arabia, prompting Maliki to describe the nomination as

a ‘violation of the constitution’.

Barzani told Joe Biden, the US vice president, that he would be willing to work with the new Iraqi leader.

...Military helicopter crashes delivering aid

A

Russian-built Iraqi military helicopter providing aid to those stranded on a mountain fleeing Sunni militants crashed Tuesday after too many tried to climb aboard, killing the pilot, said the army spokesman.

Lt. Gen. Qassim alMoussawi said in a

statement that Iraqi parliamentarian Vian Dakheel, of the minority Yazidi community most affected by the fighting, was aboard the Mi-17 helicopter and was injured in the crash. She and others aboard were evacuated to a hospital in the nearby Kurdish autonomous region.

The New York Times reported on its website that reporter Alissa J. Rubin, riding along on the helicopter for a story, suffered an apparent concussion and broken wrists in the crash.

Photographer Adam Ferguson was also on board but uninjured.

T

HE head of police in the Libyan capital Tripoli has been killed by unknown gunmen.

Col Muhammad Suwaysi was shot while leaving a meeting in Tajoura, a suburb in the east of the capital.

Two of his colleagues were also taken captive, the interior ministry said.

Libya has been gripped by violence involving militias that spearheaded the 2011 uprising against Muammar Gaddafi. Thousands have been forced to flee recent fighting in Tripoli.

More than three years after the uprising, Libya’s police and army remain weak in comparison to the militias who control large parts of the country.

The official Facebook page of the National Security Directorate of Tripoli said that Col Suwaysi had been assassinated.

Interior ministry spokesman Rami Kaal told the BBC that the police chief had been in Tajoura for a meeting with local authorities.

Ukraine may block Russian humanitarian aid

U

KRAINIAN officials have set conditions for receiving Russian aid in the east, after a huge convoy of food and medicine set off from outside Moscow.

Security council spokesman Andriy Lysenko said aid should pass through a government-controlled border post and be accompanied by Red Cross officials.

There are Western concerns that Russia is using humanitarian assistance as a pretext to invade eastern Ukraine.

At least 1,500 have died since Ukraine sent troops against pro-Russia rebels.

The fighting in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions since mid-April has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, many of whom have fled to Russia.

The Red Cross says it still needs more security guarantees and information about the aid convoy.

Taken by surprise Almost 300 lorries of humanitarian aid left the Moscow area bound for Luhansk on Tuesday morning.

Russian TV showed the cargo, said to include hundreds of tonnes of grain, baby food and medicine, which will go to civilians trapped by fighting in the area held by pro-Russia rebels.

Kerry condemns Syria decapitation photo

U

S Secretary of State John Kerry has described a photograph of a Sydney-born seven-yearold boy clutching the severed head of a Syrian soldier as “disturbing” and “grotesque,” and called for international co-operation against the threat posed by foreign fighters returning home from Iraq and Syria.

The Australian newspaper reported on Monday that the image was taken in the northern Syrian city of Raqa and posted on Twitter by the boy’s convicted terrorist father, Khaled Sharrouf, an Islamic State fighter. Speaking after a US-Australia bilateral security summit in Sydney, Kerry said the image showed why the Islamic State group posed such a threat to the world. “This image, perhaps even an iconic photograph ... is really one of the most disturbing, stomach-turning, grotesque photographs ever displayed,” Kerry told reporters.

Actor Robin Williams took his own life — Police

F

AMED actor and comedian Robin Williams took his own life by hanging himself at his California home, police have confirmed.

Marin County Sheriff ’s Lt Keith Boyd said Williams, 63, had been treated for depression.

The celebrated entertainer was last seen alive by his wife on Sunday evening, and was found dead about noon on Monday, Lt Boyd said.

Just before noon California time (19:00 GMT), the actor’s personal assistant became concerned when he did not respond to knocks on the door, he said. The assistant entered the room and found Williams dead and cool to the touch.

V anguard anguard,, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—53

Female suicide bombers: Dealing with the emerging trend

How to tame the monster called corruption

By EZE ANABA

B

ESIDES wars, diseases and violent mil itant groups, nothing has threatened states in recent times more than corruption.

It is often stated that one of the ways a functioning democracy is judged is how it treats the issue of corruption. That is why the founders of democracy defined good governance as a government that is transparent, participatory and based on the rule of law.

Yet, corruption is especially a difficult problem in poor states like Nigeria endowed with highly valuable natural resources. The African Union, AU, has noted that corruption across African states and capital flight to developed economies run into billions of dollars every year. AU indicts senior government officials for the larger share of that amount. A timely example of the evil of corruption is poverty, inequality, insecurity and under-development in many African states.

Everyone is a victim when some officials appropriate the commonwealth for their personal benefit and the chronic under-enforcement of anticorruption laws in many countries is responsible for this state of affairs..

In Nigeria for example, corruption has become a recurring theme. In several discussions where reasons behind the country's poor showing in the development index crop up, corruption continues to hit the front seat. The reason Nigeria is so poorly rated in the anti-corruption index is because successive years of military rule and the civilian administration that succeeded the military have not been able to tackle the problem.

All hopes are, however, not lost as Dr. Kolawole Olaniyan’s new book on ‘Corruption and Human Rights Law in Africa’ responds exactly to these concerns. I have had a chance to read the book, which was recently released. Dr. Olaniyan works as Legal Adviser with Amnesty International in London. In his book scheduled to be launched in Lagos on Monday, August 18, (and with no other eminent legal personality than the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mariam Mukhtar chairing), he proposes a theoretical, legal and policy frameworks

charge its duties and which is necessary for the effectiveness and survival of governments is lost without integrity and impartiality.”

Olaniyan’s thesis is motivated by the twin observations (a) that large scale corruption is incredibly harmful because it “fundamentally contrasts with even a minimal notion of the rule of law, and the ideal of government as a public trust; (b), and that although corruption is “as old as humanity,” large scale corruption in many parts of Africa has created a culture of impunity in which the corrupt need not fear punishment.

Leaning on his rich expertise of the African human rights instruments, Olaniyan notes that corruption is “a human rights violation insofar as it interferes with rights of the people to use their natural wealth and resources,” and therefore “increases poverty and economic development.” But he also powerfully argued that corruption leads to multitude of human rights violations.

In what seems to be a ground-breaking proposition, Dr Olaniyan states that corruption should be seen as a violation of the rights of the individual as against being seen as an offence against the state the Olaniyan’s seminal work is probably the way corruption is currently seen most detailed elaboration of the relationthrough the eyes of criminal law.

One of the most interesting asship between corruption and human pects of the book is the idea of rights law, at least in Africa imposing a “public interest duty” to effectively reform the traditional criminal law on financials institutions and banks that accept instrument against corruption so that corruption and keep stolen funds from Africa. Dr Olaniyan can be deterred and critical institutions of governsaid that, “in relation to stolen public funds at ment improved. least, this duty of due diligence would at the Almost all of his suggestions entail the use of minimum demand complete fidelity to the pubhuman rights law, in particular, the African Charlic trust. If this is so, victims of corruption and ter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (which African public interest groups can rely on human rights states except South Sudan have ratified) to comlaw to ensure compliance with the duties of due plement a criminal law approach to the problem. dili gence and Know Your Customer rules, thereHe eloquently tells us the advantages of the former by enhancing the effectiveness of the rules in over the latter. practice. This public trust function would be unOlaniyan states, “corruption unquestionably vidermined, for example, if financial institutions olates Article 21 of the African Charter, as well as were to unreasonably withhold information on other substantive human and peoples’ rights in transactions concerning Politically Exposed Perthe charter. Not only is it the case that every dollar sons from the public upon request.” lost from corruption is one less than can be spent I am very much in agreement with him about constructively, but also that the loss is often offset the insufficiency of the traditional criminal law by government borrowing. These loans or interna instrument against corruption particularly in sevtional aid received from abroad may be considered eral countries in Africa beset by the culture of part of the ‘national cake’ to be shared among highimpunity, and the utility of human rights law to ranking state officials, or, in plain lan guage, stoact as a complementary tool to achieve justice len or mismanaged.” for victims of corruption.

He also argued that, “human and peoples’ rights Olaniyan’s seminal work is probably the most are seriously compromised because corruption undetailed elaboration of the relationship between dermines the integrity and impartial ity of a govcorruption and human rights law, at least in Afernment, the important values for the effective and rica. And given the threat that corruption genefficient functioning of any state, and the enforceerally poses to developing countries today, ment of the rule of law and human rights. Clearly Olaniyan’s proposal is something to be taken the public trust, confidence, and support on which seriously. every civilised government depends upon to dis•Anaba is Deputy Editor, Vanguard Newspaper

,

I

By ACP Frank Mba

N modern history, female suicide bombers have earned dubious honour of becoming more news-worthy than their male counterparts following the widespread belief that women are naturally not wicked, non-violent, motherly and weak to take such deadly task of committing suicide bombing.

However, records have revealed that the participation of women in any terrorist activity and even as suicide bombers is hardly a recent phenomenon as their debut suicide attacks have been traced to early eighties.

Recall the 1985 incident where a 16-year old Lebanese female suicide bomber, Late Sana’a Mehaidli, a member of Syrian Social nationalist party, an affiliation of the Lebanese National Resistance Front, blew herself and a car filled with explosives in Jezzine, Lebanon. Subsequent decades witnessed the spread of female suicide bombings in other countries after late Sana’a Mehaidli’s incident.

Another prominent example of a female suicide bomber is the 28-year old divorced and frustrated Palestinian, late WafaIdris who carried a bomb in a backpack she wore and blew herself up during the 2002 Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Jerusalem,

Police IG, Suleiman Abba Israel.

Today, the Boko Haram terrorist group in Nigeria has joined the trend of using innocent young girls as suicide bombers to unleash their terror on innocent citizens. This new trend in Nigeria started in Gombe State where yet to be identified middle-aged woman wrapped an explosive round her body and headed towards the Quarter Guard of the 301 Nigerian Army base in Gombe. While she was being stopped for a search, the bomb suddenly went off.

In a similar vein, four (4) unidentified female suicide attackers heavily strapped with IEDs have at different locations; different days but almost same week of the month of July, 2014 blew themselves up while the security personnel on duty were trying to stop them from accessing their target areas in Kano State. Worried about this curious phenomenon, some Nigerians have already concluded that the Boko Haram insurgents

have indoctrinated and prepared the abducted Chibok school girls for suicide missions across the country. Although the above hypothesis sounds plausible, there is no empirical evidence to support the view. The recent interception and subsequent arrest of two teenage girls by Policemen at Katsina State casts a huge doubt on the veracity of this claim as none of the two girls already strapped with explosives and prepared for suicide mission was among the abducted Chibok girls.

As can be seen from the level of damage and horror associated with female bombing, it has become paramount for law enforcement to deal with the emerging trend before it gets out of control. It is on this note that this piece will examine the choice of female suicide bombers by the terrorist groups in carrying out their attacks and the possible ways of nipping in bud or preventing this evil trend.

Why terrorist groups use female suicide bombers: Generally, suicide bombing notoriety and the use of women to perpetrate suicide attacks are totally strange to Nigerians. The Boko Haram terrorist group sees this new trend as an effective strategy of drawing more attention of the general public and getting relevant supports from their sympathizers as they continue their criminal and violent campaign across the nation.

Terrorist organizations believe that if a woman commits a crime such as suicide attack that is deemed non-feminine, the media coverage will be extensive. This fits into the communication and strategic objectives of terror organizations in seeking massive media attention, thereby mindlessly spreading fears among the citizens, presenting government in bad light and unleashing psychological torture on innocent victims.

Another reason that account for why terrorist groups adopt this trend is that women are generally known to be more emotional, perceived to be weak and non-violent in nature. They are therefore least suspected to be the source of any security threat. For this reason, they find it easy to slip through security checks, especially those manned by male officers since they are usually not subjected to the same level of suspicion and scrutiny as their male counterparts.

To be concluded

,

54—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Am committed to Delta guber, says Omo-Agege

DELTA 2015: PDP urged to support Ijaw

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URUTU—PEOPLES Democratic Party, PDP, hierarchy and stakeholders have been enjoined to consider the Ijaw ethnic group in Delta State for the next governorship slot in the state.

A youth leader from the Burutu Local Government Area of the party, Mr. Frank Akiefa, who made the appeal in Burutu, insisted that the other ethnic groups in the state have either produced governor, deputy governor or Secretary to the State Governor with the exception of Ijaw.

Akiefa lamented that the Ijaw of Delta State were the most underdeveloped in the state due to their absence in vital positions in government, stressing that the only compensation the Ijaw will accept is to be allowed to produce the governor to succeed Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan.

Jonathan for groundbreaking ceremony of A'Ibom methanol plant

By Chioma Onuegbu

U

YO—PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan is expected to be in Akwa Ibom State tomorrow to lay the foundation stone of a US$1.8 billion methanol plant located in Ibeno Local Government Area of the state.

Special Adviser to Akwa Ibom State Governor on Media, Mr. Nduesse Essien, who disclosed this to newsmen yesterday in Uyo, said President Jonathan will also commission the 69kilometer processing gas pipeline at Uquo in Esit Eket Local Government Area during the one-day working visit.

He said: “President Jonathan will also inspect the Olympic size international stadium in Uyo and you know he was the one who performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the project last October. There will also be a forum for interaction between the President and stakeholders in the state.”

By festus ahon

U DONATION: From left— Mr. Rekpene Bassey, Security Adviser; Mr. Efiok Cobham, Deputy Governor; Mr. Mark Obi, Legal Adviser, all of Cross River State; Mr. Dennis Okoro, Director, MTN Foundation and Mr. Steve Nwaubani of MTN, at the presentation of security vehicles to the Cross River State Government in Calabar, yesterday.

‘Comments on Amaechi's tour of LGs shocking'

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— RIVERS State Government has expressed worries over a statement credited to the state Police Commissioner, Mr. Tunde Ogunsakin, allegedly warning Governor Rotimi Amaechi not to use his tour of local government areas to campaign for votes for All Progressives Congress, APC. The state Commissioner of Information and Communications, Mrs Ibim Semenitari, said that the government was disturbed by the tone and implication of the statement, adding that the essence of the ward tour by the governor was to feel the pause of the people on his administration.

The commissioner assured that the governor would stick to the rules specified by the Electoral Act on campaign.

She said: “The attention of Rivers State Government has been drawn to a statement credited to the Commissioner of Police warning the governor about campaigning during his ward tours.

“The Rivers State Government is worried about the tone of the statement accredited to Ogunshakin and concerned about the implication of the same.

“For the purposes of clarification and emphasis, the

administration of Amaechi considers participation a key element of democratic rule and good governance. As a result, it has consistently embarked on stewardship accountability fora and stock taking.”

Nwabuakwu emerges Aniocha North PDP candidate

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HE Aniocha North chapter of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has elected Mr. Henry Nwabuakwu as its chairmanship flag bearer in the forthcoming council elections scheduled for October 25 in Delta State.

Chairman of the party in the council, Ogbuefi Nnamdi Mohanye, who presented Nwabuakwu, said the choice was unanimous and based on the zoning formula adopted by the leaders to ensure equity and fairness.

He said of the three clans in Aniocha North, only the Odiani clan had not produced an elected council chairman as against the two and one from Ezechime and Idumuje clans,

respectively.

Delta State Poverty Alleviation Commissioner, Dr. Antonia Ashiedu, said: “It was only fair and in the spirit of communality to allow other clans have a shot at the chairmanship of the Aniocha North council.

“The leaders of the party in the council met at the Obior residence of the immediate past Deputy Governor of the state, where the idea of the zoning formula was muted and upheld.”

Former state Commissioner for Commerce, Sir Vincent Ugbelase, reaffirmed that the decision had the support of the Odiani clan leaders and the entire leadership of the party at the Obior meeting.

Uduaghan mourns aide, Issele-Uku monarch

By Austin Ogwuda

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SABA—GOVERNOR Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State said yesterday, that he was dumbfounded and still in shock over last Saturday ’s ghastly motor accident that claimed the life of his Senior Special Adviser on Information Communication Technology, ICT, Mr. Sunny Ofili and the Obi of Issele-Uku, HRM Henry Ezeagwuna I. Uduaghan in a condolence message by his Press Secretary, Mr. Felix Ofou, conveyed his regrets and wishes to the Delta

State Executive Council, families of the deceased and people of Issele-Uku, and prayed God to grant them fortitude to bear the loss.

He said: “I have not been able to say anything. Eating is only a formality. I cannot believe what happened. The deaths are personal calamity. My heart is with their families. I share in their pain.

“Ofili’s colleagues and friends are affected. Issele-Uku has lost a king and they have been thrown into mourning. I only ask God to grant everyone involved fortitude to bear the loss.”

He added that the late Ofili

enjoyed a personal relationship with the governor.

He added: “He was one of the few people appointed because of what I knew of him. I appointed him based on merit and everyone attests to his capacity and attributes.”

Meantime, the late Obi of Issele-Uku has been interred in accordance with the tradition and custom of the people.

A source close to the palace said the Obi’s first son, who is heir to the throne, was summoned home from the University of Ibadan, UI, where he is studying, to be present at the interment.

G H E L L I — F O R M E R Secretary to Delta State Government, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, has said that he was committed to adding value to the governance of Delta State if elected in the forthcoming 2015 governorship polls, noting that he was not a reluctant aspirant.

Speaking at his Orogun hometown, when he paid a consultative visit to the Okpara-Uku, OmoAgege emphasised that he was in the race because of his conviction that, if given the mandate, he will add value to governance in the state.

The guber aspirant, who also spoke at Ozoro and Oleh, Isoko North and South Local Government areas, respectively, said: “I am running because I feel I can add value to governance.

“That was what propelled me in 2007 and 2011, but that I was not successful is not enough for me to say the dream should die.

“I want to contribute my quota to the development of the state.

If I did not think I have the capacity to give good governance to Deltans, I will not bring myself to vie for the position.”

Yusuf, ex-FAAN MD dies

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FORMER Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, Alhaji Mohammed Yusuf, is dead. Alhaji Yusuf died at an Indian hospital in the early hours of Sunday, August 10, after a brief illness.

According to family sources, his remains will be buried at his home in Zaria, Kaduna State, today.

Late Yusuf joined FAAN as the Director of Administration and was later appointed MD/CEO of the Authority in 2006.

He served in that capacity till November 2007.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 —55

ADAMAWA: INEC doesn’t want me to be gov, Ngilari tells court ...as electoral body shuns suit; hearing shifted to Sept 10

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

A

BUJA — OUSTED deputy governor of Adamawa State, Mr. Bala Ngilari, yesterday, accused the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, of deliberately frustrating his legal moves to replace his former boss, Admiral Murtala Nyako, who was impeached from office by the state House of Assembly on July 15.

Ngilari made the allegation after the electoral body declined to enter appearance in the suit he filed before the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court.

The suit is seeking to stop the electoral body from going ahead with its plans to conduct a byelection to produce a replacement for Nyako.

Though INEC is constitutionally required to, within 90 days from the removal of the former governor, organise a by-election to replace him, Ngilari, however, went before the high court, asking it to declare him governor.

It was his contention that in view of the fact that he did not validly resign his position as a Deputy Governor, he had the legal capacity to take over the reigns of leadership in the state.

Aside praying the court to sack the acting governor of the state, Mr. Ahmadu Finitiri, who was hitherto Speaker of Adamawa State House of Assembly, the plaintiff is also seeking an “order of injunction restraining the 6th Defendant (INEC) whether by itself, its agents, servants, privies, officers or otherwise, from conducting a by-election to fill the office of the governor of Adamawa State.”

Meanwhile, Justice Ademola Adeniyi had on August 8, refused an ex-parte application by Ngilari which sought to restrain INEC from conducting the governorship by-election.

He further okayed the service of the suit on the defendants through Newspaper publication of the court processes.

However, all the parties appeared in court yesterday except INEC, a situation that led Ngilari’s lawyer, Mr. Festus Keyamo, to beg the court to intervene in the case he said was of “high constitutional importance”.

Keyamo told the court that

INEC was duly served with the court processes, insisting that the electoral body was likely to treat the matter with levity.

Besides, he informed the court that the acting governor, Mr. Fintiri, had already written a letter to the commission, asking it to make haste and conduct the byelection “as quickly as possible,” despite the pendency of the suit.

The other defendants in the suit persuaded the court to grant them an adjournment to enable them respond to the suit.

They relied on provisions of Section 99 of the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act, which they

said gave them minimum of 30 days to respond to court processes served through such substituted means.

Aside INEC, other defendants in the suit are speaker of the State House of Assembly, the House itself, Fintiri who was sued as an individual and as the acting governor of the state and Nyako.

Nyako through his counsel, Mr. Ayo Akam, also told the court that he had already filed a counter-affidavit to the suit.

After listening to the parties, yesterday, Justice Adeniyi adjourned hearing on the case to September 10.

MEETING: Former Minister of State, Defence, Mr. Demola Seriki (left) with Mr. Okechukwu Itanyi, Commissioner, Stakeholders Management of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, at a meeting between the NCC and Value Added Service, VAS, providers, in Lagos

Govt alone cannot fund education — Wike

By Laide Akinboade

A

BUJA — THE Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, said yesterday, that funding of the education sector, especially at the basic level, was an enormous task that should not be left in the hands of government alone.

Wike stated this at the public presentation of Education For All, EFA, 2015 Review Report/ opening ceremony of a two-day National Dialogue on EFA organised by the Ministry of Education.

He said in 2015, the target year for achieving EFA, stakeholders in education sector should be mobilised to support governmens'efforts towards the achievement of EFA goals.

He reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to ensure quality basic education to

all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, location and circumstances.

“Nigeria has made enormous strides in basic education delivery as well as improving the quality of education through the provision of infrastructure needs in our institutions.

“As you read through Nigeria EFA Review Report 2000 – 2014: Strides and Milestones, you will discover that the report has come at a critical time in view of the fact that 2015 is a few months away,” the minister said.

He said the establishment of agencies, such as the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, National Commission for Nomadic Education, NCME, National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, NMEC, and National Board for Technical Education, NBTE, among others, had provided veritable platform for

policy coordination and implementation of programmes.

According to him, this is not only aimed at achieving the six EFA goals, but also ensuring that the impact speedily reached its target groups.

However, the Minister noted

that funding and advocacy had been the challenges faced by government in the process.

Wike urged stakeholders not to relent in achieving the EFA, saying “I would, therefore, suggest that no effort should be spared in the pursuit of achieving EFA.

NGE commends media on reportage of Ebola Virus Disease THE STANDING Committee of Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE, has commended the media for its responsible reportage of the arrival of Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, on the shores of the country.

NGE, in a communique issued at the end of its meeting in Lagos, last weekend, urged the media to continue in the professional path and ensure that its reports did not cause panic in the polity.

In the communiqué, the NGE also called on all state governments to set up isolation centres and units as proactive measures to stay a step ahead of the deadly virus.

For a fastidious and exotic pathogen like Ebola, the Guild warned that reactive steps would only result in risky fire brigade approach.

The NGE also urged governments at all levels to sustain awareness campaigns on how to prevent the spread of EVD in the country.

To striking doctors in the country, the Guild appealed to them to return to work as the nation needed them now more than ever.

It called on the Nigerian Immigration Service and other relevant security agencies to be more alert to their responsibilities and ensure better policing of the nation’s land, sea and air borders to check the invasion of Ebola Virus.

It also urged the government to take the screening of passengers coming into the country more seriously so that infected or already ill patients of the EVD were not allowed a free rein in Nigeria.

EBOLA: 52 varsities uninsured, says NUC

By Laide Akinboade

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BUJA — As the deadly Ebola Virus continues to ravage parts of West Africa and Nigeria, the National Universities Commission, NUC, yesterday, raised the alarm that 52 out of the nation’s 129 universities were not covered by the Tertiary Institutions Students Health Insurance Programme, TISHIP. The Executive Secretary of the

NUC, Professor Julius Okojie, highlighted the worrisome issue at a one-day sensitisation forum jointly organised by his office and that of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth and Students Matters for all the universities in the country.

Okojie pointed out that although two thirds of the universities in the country were already under the health insurance scheme it was imperative for the remaining ones

to join the programme in view of the current crisis caused by the epidemic.

According to Okojie, who was represented by his Deputy Professor Chiedu Mafiana, the remaining universities do not need to be reminded of the need to urgently key into the health insurance scheme for their institutions given the current crisis being created by the Ebola epidemic.

56—Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

EBOLA Jonathan seeks greater cooperation among West African countries •FG directs military labs, others to set up infection control facilities •Lagos warns against failure to report for treatment •NCH insists on death certificate before burial •WHO issues ethical considerations on unregistered interventions •Our airports not be transit points for transmission —Chidoka

By Sola Ogundipe, Kingsley Omonobi, Ben Agande, Chioma Obinna, Olasunkanmi Akoni, Victoria Ojeme, Lawani Mukairu, Daniel Eteghe, Monsur Olowoopejo & Gabriel Olawale

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has called for greater strategic collaboration among West African countries to control and contain the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, in order to check its spread and further threat to human lives, even as the Federal government, yesterday, directed all laboratory centres and hospitals nationwide to set up Infection Control Facilities with immediate effect.

The President who spoke while receiving in audience the new ambassador of Guinea to Nigeria, Mr. Gaoussou Toure, who presented his letters of credence to the President at the State House, Abuja, commended the containment measures so far taken by West African countries affected by the disease stressing that more concerted intra-regional cooperation and action needs to be developed.

He said, “A problem that affects one of us affects all. We may need to come together as a region to

strengthen our containment measures. I am, however, pleased that serious measures are being taken to control the spread of the disease.”

Military labs, others to set up infection control facilities Against the backdrop of the death of two medical personnel from the Ebola virus and the fact that 10 cases have so far tested positive, military laboratories and others have been directed to set up infection control facilities

Passengers Protecting themselves against Ebola virus at the MM Airport in Lagos.

Minister of State for Health, Dr. Haliru Alhassan, who made the disclosure at the commissioning of the Defence Reference Laboratory extension block at Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, said the directive became necessary since health personnel were at high risk while providing treatment for victims.

He said it had now become necessary not only to look at the curative side of the problem but also the preventive side hence the need to set up Infection Control Facilities to ensure proper infection preventive measures for the Ebola virus.

Haliru noted that the inauguration of the Defence Reference Laboratory at a time when Nigeria was not only grasping with the HIV/AIDs scourge, but the Ebola emergency, was timely promising that the federal ministry of health would partner the military authorities towards finding a lasting solution to the problem.

On his part, Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, said that if Nigeria

as a nation encouraged the military to do more in the area of research, they were capable of coming out with drugs that will checkmate most medical challenges adding that there will be no need to run overseas all the time for succour.

He disclosed that the construction of the new extension block and its speedy completion was the federal government’s way of investing in specialized diagnostic services and research as bedrock for advancement of medical care and control of infectious and emerging diseases.

“Naturally, there is no better place to make such an investment

Our airports won't be transit points for the transmission—Chidoka

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HE new Minister of Avia tion, Chief Osita Chidoka has assured Nigerians that the country’s airports will not be transit points for the transmission of the Ebola virus. The minister gave the assurance while briefing aviation report-

Cote d’Ivoire imposes travel restrictions as fears spread COTE d’Ivoire the economic powerhouse of French-speaking West Africa, on Monday banned air travellers from the three countries worst-hit by the Ebola outbreak and ordered its flagship carrier Air Cote d’Ivoire to cease flights to and from them.

The measures are the latest sign of mounting anxiety about a disease that has killed nearly 1,000 people in one of the world’s poorest regions and has been branded an international health emergency by the World Health Organisation.

Cote d’Ivoire has not yet registered any cases of the deadly viral disease but is seen as vulnerable given its shared borders with Guinea and Liberia.

Chocolate maker Barry Callebaut confirmed it has cancelled a major meeting of managers in Ivory Coast, the world’s top cocoa grower, due to concerns about Ebola’s spread, in an indication that concern over the outbreak is hurting the regional economy.

“We have banned flights to and from countries touched by the virus, notably Sierra Leone, Li-

than the military” he said, noting, “I am optimistic that that the frontiers of research would be further extended beyond the military to the civilian establishments like teaching hospitals and the academia”.

Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, said that the referral laboratory would enhance Nigerian armed forces medical requirements “particularly at this period that our troops are deployed in response to national security challenges. It will no doubt enhance the ability of the armed forces to meet the security aspirations of defending a united democratic Nigeria."

beria and Guinea. These places will no longer be serviced by Air Cote d’Ivoire,” Transport Minister Gaoussou Toure said.

The government has also forbidden all airlines from bringing passengers from Ebola-infected countries into Cote d’Ivoire, after similar measures in nearby Gambia and Zambia last week.

Mandatory temperature tests will be put in place at airports and new screening measures are planned at maritime entry points, the government said.

The main airport in the commercial capital Abidjan attracts more than two million passengers a year and is a major transit hub in a region where travel

ers on the outcome of his facility tour of Lagos Airport and interaction with aviation union workers.

Affirming that the Aviation Master Plan was on course, Chidoka said: “I assumed office at a time the world is faced with a great challenge, the challenge of the Ebola Virus, so part of the visit to Lagos yesterday, (Monday), was to review the medical procedure that has been put in place at the airport, the screening of passengers coming in and leaving Lagos and to reassure all Nigerians that we are doing our best within our ability to make our airports safe from the virus.

“You can agree with me that the testing so far has been useful, you may also agree with me that the proactive manner with which Mr. President has reacted to the issue of Ebola virus, highlighting it and making it of national importance and coming out to make sure that

Continues on page 57

Ebola claims first European victim as infected Spanish priest dies

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Spanish Defence Ministry aid workers and doctors transfering Miguel Pajares, a Spanish priest who was infected with the Ebola virus while working in Liberia, from a plane to an ambulance as he leaves the Torrejon de Ardoz military hospital

SPANISH missionary who caught Ebola in Liberia has died of the disease. Miguel Pajares, 75, died on Tuesday at the Carlos III hospital in Madrid, where he was being treated in isolation.

He was evacuated from Liberia last week to Spain, where he was reportedly given the experimental ZMapp drug, which had not been tested on humans.

Pajares had been working with Ebola patients at the San Jose de Monrovia Hospital when he became infected.

He was part of the San Juan de Dios order, a Spain-based Catholic humanitarian group that runs hospitals around the world.

Spain’s Health Ministry confirmed it had obtained a course of the American-manufactured drug for Pajares but the hospital would not say whether it had been used.

The priest’s order had earlier said he would be given the serum, which aims to boost the body’s immune response to Ebola with antibodies grown in tobacco plants.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—57

How Liberian govt cleared Patrick Sawyer to travel to Nigeria

Our airports won't be transit points for the transmission —Chidoka Continues from page 56 the country does not go back in the fight against that virus has shown a path way for all of us, so that is why we decided to go to the airport yesterday to interact at the airport and to reassure Nigerians of the government commitment to keeping our airports safe and to making sure that it is not a transit point for the transmission of the Ebola virus.”

The minister noted: “Ebola virus is not a political issue, it is not an issue for passing the buck, it is an issue against humanity, it is an issue that we should all rise up and fight, it is an issue we should all show restrain and also compassion for those that have been infected with this illness especially members of the medical team who are everyday exposed to people with this virus.

“So I want to assure all Nigerians of our commitment in keeping our airports Ebola virus free. It is a total commitment which I have the alignment of all the unions and stakeholders in the aviation industry. We will let you know our plans after we have met with the stakeholders

in a couple of weeks, we will be sharing that plan with the media in making our airports safe

and ensuring that passengers travel in comfort and convenience “

A

VAILABLE documents in dicate that Mr. Sawyer’s employers, ArcelorMittal, an iron mining company, suspended him from work and isolated him after it became aware that he had contact with his sister who died of the virus on July 8. The company also issued an internal memo to staff of the company informing

Aviation Minister, Mr Osita Chidoka and Dr. Jemila Shu’Ara, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation protecting themselves with gloves against the Ebola virus during their inspection of MM Airport. Photo Lamidi Bamidele

WHO issues ethical guidelines on unregistered Ebola interventions

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HE World Health Organi sation has issued ethical considerations for use of unregistered interventions for EVD. In a statement issued after a 12-man consultation panel discussion, yesterday, the organisation noted that although research efforts for drugs and vaccines for Ebola virus disease have shown promising results in the laboratory, they have not yet been evaluated for safety and efficacy in human beings.

“The large number of people affected by the 2014 West Africa outbreak, and the high case-fatality rate, has prompted calls to use investigational medical interventions to try to save the lives of patients and to curb the epidemic,” the panel noted.

The panel that was mandated to consider and assess the ethical implications for clinical decision-making of the potential use of unregistered interventions reached consensus that it is ethical to offer unproven interventions with as yet unknown efficacy and adverse effects, as potential treatment or prevention. It said ethical criteria such as transparency about all aspects of care, informed consent, freedom of choice, confidentiality, respect for the person, preservation of dignity and involvement of the community, must guide the provision of such interventions.

In order to understand the safety and efficacy of these interventions, the group advised that, if

and when they are used to treat patients, there is a moral obligation to collect and share all data generated, including from treatments provided for ‘compassionate use’ (access to an unapproved

drug outside of a clinical trial).

There was unanimous agreement that there is a moral duty to also evaluate these interventions (for treatment or prevention) in the best possible clinical trials

under the circumstances in order to definitively prove their safety and efficacy or provide evidence to stop their utilization. It added that ongoing evaluation should guide future interventions.

How not to fight ebola virus under the law

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AGOS lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, SAN, has faulted the declaration of emergency on Ebola Virus by the Federal Government saying there was no provision under the constitution to justify such declaration.

In a statement, yesterday, Falana said, “the federal government has confirmed that the dangerous ebola fever had claimed two lives in Nigeria. To prevent the further spread of the disease about 140 people have been placed under surveillance. Last weekend, President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency on the killer disease and announced the sum of N1.9 billion had been earmarked to combat the ebola virus.

“With respect, there is no provision under the Constitution or any other law which justifies the declaration of emergency on any disease. However, the President is empowered under the Quarantine Act (Cap Q2) Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, to impose quarantine on any part of the country to prevent the introduction into and spread of in Nigeria and transmission from Nigeria of dangerous infectious dis-

ease. Under the Act, governors too have the power to impose quarantine in any part of the states. Even in Lagos State where the ebola fever has been reported quarantine has not been imposed by either the federal government nor the Lagos State government.

“Section 35 (1)(e) of the Constitution permits the Governnent to derogate from the fundamental right to personal liberty of “persons suffering from infectitious or contagious disease ....for the purpose of their care or treatment or the protection of the community.”

Protection of the community Without the imposition of quarantine some of the measures being adopted by the governments cannot be justified under the Constitution. We are not unaware that the National Assembly is currently taking steps to repeal the Quarantine Act and replace it with the Nigerian Public Health (Quarantine Isolation and Emergency Health Matters Procedure) Act. Since the Quarantine Act enacted in 1926 by the British colonial

regime can no longer meet the health challenges of the nation the national assembly should speedily amend it so that the Government can take steps for the containment and transmission from Nigeria of dangerous and communicable diseases, organisms and agents. Any further delay in passing the bill into law is a threat to the health of Nigerians.

them that Mr. Sawyer had been referred to the Liberian Health ministry for testing and close observation.

The Liberian Government was aware that Patrick Sawyer, its citizen who brought the ebola virus into Nigeria, had possibly contracted the virus from his late sister, yet cleared him to travel to Nigeria for a conference organised by the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS. The July 11 edition of Satellite, an internal newsletter of ArcelorMittal Liberia, said “A family member of an ArcelorMittal Liberia employee died on Tuesday, July 8, in Monrovia due to a confirmed case of the Ebola virus. The employee had minimal contact with the victim, at the state where the virus was infectious.

“Doctors say the risk of potential transfer to any member of the ArcelorMittal staff or contractors is very low. The employee has submitted to the Ministry of Health for a medical examination for possible Ebola infection, and has also requested the Ministry of Health to make the result available to ArcelorMittal Liberia and its close affiliates. There is no evidence to suggest that the employee has been infected. Under the Ministry of Health guidelines, the employee is being monitored on a daily basis and will continue to do so for a period of 21 days. During this time the employee will be absent from work.”

The July 25 edition of the Satellite, which announced Mr. Sawyer’s death, reads: “Patrick was last at the Buchanan site (of AncelorMittal) on July 9 when he informed us about the death of his sister. Having informed us of this news, Patrick was submitted to the Ministry of Health for a medical observation and isolation and requested not to return to work until he had passed through the incubation period. He has not been at the Buchanan site or in any ArcelorMittal office since that time.

But despite being under isolation and observation for the deadly disease, the Liberian Government, through its Deputy Finance Minister For Fiscal Affairs, Sebastian Muah, cleared Mr. Sawyer to travel to Nigeria for an ECOWAS convention in Calabar.

ECOWAS official who assisted Sawyer dies of Ebola in Lagos

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BUJA—AN ECOWAS of ficial who had contact with the late Patrick Sawyer, died of the Ebola Virus in Lagos yesterday.

A statement from ECOWAS in Abuja, said Mr. Jatto Asihu Abdulqudir, a Protocol Assistant was among those who assisted the Liberian delegate to a regional meeting.

Mr. Patrick Sawyer died from the Ebola Virus Disease at a Lagos hospital on July 25, 2014. Abdulqudir had been under quarantine following the sad incident.

The Commission expressed gratitude to Nigerian government authorities and others who

contributed to managing the late official while under quarantine and commiserated with Mr. Abdulqudir’s family and colleagues for the loss.

Before the sad event, the Commission working in collaboration with Nigerian health authorities, had disinfected all the facilities of the ECOWAS Lagos Liaison Office as part of precautionary measures to safeguard the health, safety and security of staff members, and will continue to monitor the situation. It reassured staff of all Community Institutions all over the entire region that it is taking all necessary steps to guarantee their health and safety.

58 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 Edited by: Emma Nnadozie emmadozie@hotmail.com 08023145281, 08111813021

I use robbery proceeds to train my daughter in school hool— robbery suspect

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA

T

WO suspected robbers, said to be members of a notorious gang that has been terrorizing Lagos and it’s environ for long, have been arrested by operatives of the Special AntiRobbery Squad, SARS, Ikeja, Lagos. Police sources said the suspects were apprehended around 11 pm in Mushin area on their way to carry out an operation.

Crime Alert gathered that the suspects who boarded a cab from Oshodi to Mushin, became jittery immediately they saw a police check point at Mushin. They ordered the driver to stop to enable them alight. When the driver refused, they tried to force the door open, but the driver sped off to the police checkpoint where he eventually stopped. As soon as he stooped the cab, the driver told the officers to search them, that they have been acting strange since they boarded his cab which arosed his suspicion. In the process of searching the suspects, a locally made gun was found a one of them.

Confession—Afeez

“Iam from Osun state, I am married, I have a daughter, I joined the gang 12 months ago, I have participated in five robbery operations within Lagos and Ogun states. I have not made much from the robbery operation. Sometimes, I make N20, 000, N15, 000 or N30, 000.

I also make money from selling phones, gold and valuables we steal during operations. I was

*The suspects, Afeez and Wasiu When I got there, he gave me a gun to take to his wife at Mushin but on our way, police arrested

,

,

I am a trained mechanic but I don’t like the work, that is why I joined the gang to make a living

selling Indian hemp at Ojuelegba before the Aiye cult boys forced me to join them, that was how I started robbery with the gang. I was a cobbler when I lost my mother, I could not continue because there was nobody to support me. I have worked as a bus conductor for more than nine years; I sold Indian hemp for three years before I joined the gang last year when Legba introduced me to the gang. We only use the guns to scare people during operations. I have never killed anyone and I have never raped anyone.

That night, Legba called me on phone to come to Oshodi.

us. I knew him when I was selling Indian hemp but I

didn’t know that he was an armed robber. I am the one who introduced Wasiu into the armed robbery gang. We live in the same area in Iyana- Itire area of Lagos state. I have a fouryear- old daughter, I use proceeds from the robbery operations to train my daughter in school. I regret joining the

group.”

Wasiu: “I joined the gang this year and I have also participated in five robbery operations in Lagos state. We are nine in the group. I was introduced into the gang by Afeez. I was at Mushin when he asked me to accompany him to Osohdi when the gang leader

called him. When we got there, he told us to take a gun to his wife which was what we were doing when we were arrested.

I have not made anything from the operations. If I ever get out of this, I will never rob again. I am a trained mechanic but I don’t like the work, that is why I joined the gang to make a living.”

DCP Lak anu, o ther e fr om W ar College Lakanu, other therss graduat graduate from War

D

EPUTY Commissioner of Police, Taiwo Lakanu, and 138 senior officers from the Nigeria Police, Army, Navy, Air Force and other paramilitary services, graduated from the National Defence College, NDC, Abuja, after one year of rigorous academic and top leadership exercise, recently.

Over a dozen officers from other countries like Brazil, Bangladesh, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Cameroon and others, participated in the one-year programme at the school formerly called National War College (NWC).

The National Defence College is the apex military training institution for the Nigerian Armed Forces, and

a Centre of Excellence for peace support operations training at the strategic level in West Africa. It was established in 1992 as the highest military institution for the training of senior military officers in Nigeria.

The graduation was attended by the Vice President, Alhaji Namadi Sambo and other top brass in the Nigerian Armed Forces including the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah, his Air Force counterparts, Air Vice Marshal Olushola Amosu, Vice Admiral Jubrin and the InspectorGeneral of Police, Alhaji Suleiman Abba, amongst others.

*Dcp

60 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014—61

World super model, Nigeria miss beauty, Osemwengie, with children during the launching of her pet project at the Oba Akenzua the second primary school in Benin city

R-l: Dr. Martins Oni Director-General Police Assistance Committee (PAC), Chief Sunday Akibor Executive Director (PAC), DCP Emmanuel Ojukwu and Mr. Dan Rivers all delegates at the ISS South Africa conference on Intelligence and Support System for Lawful Interception in Johannesburg, South Africa.

2015: Delta Elders rally support for Olejeme

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ELTA elders and leaders have re solved to support the chairman, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, Dr. Ngozi Olejeme.

They also urged Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chairman, Chief Peter Nwaoboshi, to ensure that the zoning arrangement in the state was perfected.

Meeting under the aegis of Delta Political Leaders and Elders Forum (DPLAEF) Thursday in Abuja, the group described

Dr. Olejeme as a symbol of unity, change and qualitative leadership. ‘Olejeme values the unity, stability and orderly development of Delta State” the forum said.

Spokesperson of the DPLAEF, Chief Collins Elunor in a statement issued after the meeting stressed that Olejeme’s decision to contest the governorship election in the state was born out of her desire to promote and sustain democratic institution and also use her vast experiences to promote good governance in the state.

From left, Mr Aregbesola Babatunde, Mr B O Adewunmi, Mrs Temillade Aregbesola during gubernatorial election in osun state at Ilesha Photo: Shola Oyelese

62 — Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Bayern battle Dortmund in Super Cup classic T

HE German Super Cup Klassiker holds tonight, with Borussia Dortmund hosting Bayern München at the sold-out Signal Iduna Park, where the stage is set for one of the two Bundesliga powerhouses to kick off the season with a vital win, and a trophy to boot With the pair having only returned from to training this week following injury, new Dortmund captain Mats Hummels and new vice-captain Marco Reus aren’t expected to feature.

Summer arrivals Adrian Ramos, Ciro Immobile (pictured) and Dong-Won

Ji should all make their competitive BVB bow at some stage, while FIFA World Cup-winners Matthias Ginter, Kevin Großkreutz and Erik Durm could also play some part.

Over in the red corner, meanwhile, the vast majority of Bayern’s World Cup winners are unlikely to feature. German Footballer of the Year Manuel Neuer (pictured) will travel to Dortmund, though, with fellow goalkeeper Pepe Reina having only last week joined up with his new employers. Spanish duo Juan Bernat and Javi

Martinez will likely start the contest, while Sebastian Rode and David Alaba may well turn out in a possible five-man midfield.

Since Pep Guardiola arrived at Bayern, he has won four out of six trophies on offer. One of the two which he hasn’t lifted is the Supercup, after Jürgen Klopp’s Dortmund prevailed 4-2 over Bayern last summer. The head-to-head between the to tacticians stands at two wins apiece coming into this match-up, incidentally one of the most hotly-contested games in German football. It has the Klassiker moniker for a rea-

son and both sides will want to steal a mark in the psychological stakes.

Bayern and Dortmund are the two most successful teams in the history of the Supercup, with four titles each. Dortmund won their crowns in 1989, 1995, 1996 and 2013, the most recent being a thrilling 4-2 win over their Bavarian rivals on home soil last season. For their part, Bayern have lifted the trophy in 1987, 1990, 2010 and 2012, their last triumph coming at the expense of Jürgen Klopp’s men in the Allianz Arena courtesy of a 2-1 win.

Guardiola: We’re flying to Dortmund to win

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ESTERDAY was Bay ern Munich’s turn to take the hottest seat and face the glare of the international media ahead of their Super Cup clash with Borussia Dortmund tonight.

Dortmund coach Jürgen Klopp had claimed that the “Supercup means a lot”, and Bayern’s head coach Pep Guardiola followed suit in underlining the importance of the encounter at Signal Iduna Park: “A final is no pre-season friendly - you play these games to win”.

As relaxed as he might have looked, the Spaniard has maintained the intesity levels at the record titleholder’s plush Säbener Stra?e training complex gearing up towards his fifth meeting in just over a year with the tactical nous of Klopp. “We have to train with quality, not quantity,” said Guardiola in response to being asked why he had cut training short on Monday.

Indeed, the Supercup clash could hardly be more

Guardiola C M Y K

perfectly poised with the Bundesliga’s preeminent masterminds both picking up two wins in their four encounters last season.

However, it was Dortmund who took the spoils this time last year - a loss that still rankles with Guardiola as one of only two trophies he hasn’t won with

Bayern, and something he intends to change. “We’re flying to Dortmund to win,” said the Spanish tactician. “We have deserved to play in this fixture.”

Lewandowski now Bayern Munich player

Ikpeba backs Qatar 2022 World Cup

BY ONOCHIE ANIBEZE

O

NE time Africa’s Foot baller Of The Year, Victor Ikpeba, has joined the cream of stars backing Qatar to host a successful World Cup in 2022.

Qatar won the right to host the 2022 World Cup but the Middle East country has never known peace since world football governing body, Fifa, awarded them the right.

Europe has been on their neck with England leading the campaign for the bid to be thrown open again. Issues were first raised with the weather which is truly not football friendly at summer.

Qatar impressed fifa del-

egates that inspected the country with a promise to install a technology that will cool the stadium atmosphere during games.

When the issue of weather appeared to be waning as Qatar said that they were open to the option of hosting the games at winter, that of bribery came up.

They are being accused of compromising some officials to vote for them.

“We have heard a lot of things Europe has against Qatar,” Ikpeba, fondly called the Prince of Monaco said at the weekend.

He was a big name at Monaco and broke the transfer record at Dortmund when he signed for Borussia Dortmund of Germany.

Ikpeba said the following: “From weather to bribery, the issues appear not to be ending. I just want to say that I was in Europe when France won the bid and hosted the France ’98 World Cup. They lobbied to host the World Cup. Germany Lobbied to host the World Cup. All countries lobby to host international events. I don’t know about bribery. It is wrong to bribe but it is part of the game to put up a good pro-

•Victor Ikpeba posal and lobby to be awarded the right which I think Qatar did and got it right.

I think that people should realise that it is the World Cup that we are talking about and all parts of the world have the right to host the World Cup if they meet the conditions and satisfy the inspectors. If Fifa was discriminatory we would not have had the chance to host the World Cup in Africa.

If Fifa was discriminatory in the past they have now changed. The Middle East could host the World Cup and I’m solidly behind

Qatar. If it’s winter that will be good for the game of football let some continents adjust their league.

The important thing that Fifa is doing is to take the game to all parts of the world. They are promoting the game and taking it to every home. I think that such a thing should be supported by all men of goodwill and all who mean well for the game.

Hosting World Cup in Qatar will change a lot in the Middle East and if we could host it successfully in Africa, I think they (middle East) should be able to do so if not better. I think that

some people have not imbibed the spirit of sportsmanship in this regard.

And that’s why they still have issues with Qatar.

They should learn to accept defeat and accommodate all in the interest of the game.”

Among the world stars who have backed the Qatar 2022 World Cup are Zinedine Zidane of France, Raul Gonzalez of Spain, Pep Guardiola, former Barcelona coach who holds the ace now at Bayern Munich, Bora Milutinovic, a World Cup veteran who has taken four countries to Mundial, late Bruno Metsu, Christian Karembeu who played for France, Mohammed Aboutrika of Egypt, Gabriel Batistuta of Argentina, Ronald de Boer of Holland, Sami Al Jaber of Saudi Arabia and Roger Mila of Cameroun.

They are all ambassadors of the Qatar 2022 World Cup and now Victor Ikpeba, a one time Nigerian international who was a big star in Europe and now does football analysis for Super Sports, Africa’s topmost television cable station, has joined them in voicing support for Qatar 2022.

Vanguard, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014 — 63

Abugan wins 400m gold in African Athletics NFF dumps plan to cut Keshi’s pay Championship N T IGERIA;S Folashade Abugu yesterday brought joy to Team Nigeria’s contingent to the ongoing African Athletics Championship holding in Morocco, after winning gold in the women’s 400m final race.

Following the illustrious footsteps of Commonwealth Games sprints double champion and African women fastest runner Blessing Okagbare, Abugan last night took her other contenders to the cleaners in the keenly contested race watched by a horde of cheering

fans in the Moroccan city.

And speaking after crossing the finish line first, Abugan said she was delighted to win after coming third four years ago. “ I am so happy to win because four years ago I won a bronze medal but this time around, I am the African champion. This season has been a great one for me as I became national champion, won a bronze at the IAAF World Relays and silver at the Commonwealth Games. I am going to train harder ahead of the Continental Cup”, she said.

BY JOHN EGBOKHAN

HE Nigeria Football Federation (MFF)nay have reconsidered its plan to slash the salary of Coach Stephen Keshi, when the former Togo and Mali manager is offered a new deal by the footballgoverning body.

Keshi was on a N5mmonth salary, in the last dispensation, but the present NFF board led by Mike Umeh, was considering slashing the pay to N3m because of lean purse Keshi is due to be offered

NFF •Abugan

Umeh charges Falconets to ground England A CTING President of Nigeria Football Federation, Chief Mike Okeke Umeh yesterday challenged the U-20 Women National Team, Falconets, to go all out in

Edmonton, Canada today and earn a first –ever win over England in the history of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup..

Both previous clashes between Nigeria and

Okwaraji Continues from BP Ogbeha raised serious concerns on the poor treatment of the anniversary of Okwaraji

by Nigerian Football officials who are currently locked on who occupies what position at the heart of Nigerian football. ‘’It is sad that yesterday was the 25th anniversary of his death and yet it went by like a day without any relevance’’, Ogbeha a retired General and former Military Administrator of Akwa Ibom and Bendel State said. ‘’You cannot expect to get the best from serving players when they watch your shambolic treatment of their models and heroes who died in the course of playing for Nigeria’’, the Senator admonished.

He said that he expected the administrators to honour Okwaraji with lectures and seminars as well as a visit to his people to make them know that their son did not die in C M Y K

vain. ‘’We must begin to appreciate our heroes dead or alive. I think that Okwaraji remains a legend in Nigerian football and deserved better treatment from those who run football in Nigeria’’.

Senator Ogbeha, an ardent football follower and proprietor of Ogbeha Babes Football Club showed so much passion for football that players of Ogbeha Babes got their sign-on fees and other allowances paid without delay.

And as Nigerian officials get enmeshed with the power tussle over who controls the steering of the NFF, sources hinted yesterday that Senator Ogbeha may joine the race to salvage Nigerian football. ‘’His name has been mentioned severally but we are watching with keen interest to see if he will come out to save us from the leadership quagmire of NFF’’, one of the football heavyweights said.

a contract extension this week but it now appears that the pay-cut plan has been quashed by the NFF board Speaking on the turnaround by the Umehboard, an Executive Committee member told Sports Vanguard last night that “we want to respect higher authorities and feel that slashing Keshi’s pay to N3m was not in the best interest of Keshi, who we feel deserve some respect given his services to this country. We have resolved to offer him a new deal but he is to earn his old pay”.

England at the championship have ended in 1-1 draws, first in Coquimbo, Chile on November 22, 2008 and then in Augsburg, Germany on July 14, 2010.

Both were group phase matches.

It is another group phase match at the Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton on Wednesday, with Nigeria in need of a draw and England needing to win to be sure of a place in the knock –out rounds.

With four points from their first two matches, the Falconets lead Group C and will earn a place in the quarter finals with a draw against the England squad.

“I am happy with the performance of our girls in their matches against Mexico and Korea Republic, even though there are areas in which they need to improve.

They must improve on those areas to be able to beat a crack side like England.

Falconets Continues from BP good situation, the game against England must be taken with all seriousness.

“We must take the game very seriously, just like any other game. We cannot afford to be too confident,” he told SL10.

Mexico and England both have two points apiece, and the former will progress if they beat Korea Republic, while England know only an outright victory over Nigeria can secure their place in the next round.

But Dedevbo is having none of those permutations as he insists that his players must stay focused.

“We must stay focused,”

he said.

“We cannot bother ourselves with what the other teams play. We just have to focus on our game.”

The Falconets are looking to win the biannual for the first time, despite having competed in all editions starting from the first in Canada in 2002.

Dedevbo meanwhile, is saying that despite the desire to win, he’s hardly under pressure.

“I’m not under pressure,” he continued.

“Of course the ambition is always to win but I’m not putting myself under any pressure.

“I’ve said the same to the players. We cannot afford to play under pressure. We have to be calm at all times.”

Continues from BP Cup (AFCON) qualifier between Nigeria and Rwanda on September 6.

Addressing the media after the meeting which lasted for about four hours, chairman of the communication committee of the federation, Chief Emeka Inyama said the need to sign the contract is to ensure that the country does not falter in her quest to defend the trophy she won in South Africa in 2013.

“Having finalized the fresh contract with Mr. Stephen Keshi, for him to continue as Head Coach of Super Eagles, and having forwarded same to Mr. Keshi, the Executive Committee expects the new contract to be signed by the NFF and Mr. Keshi in a matter of days”.

He also announced the lifting of the various bans handed out to some football stakeholders by the leadership of the impeached Alhaji Aminu Maigari saying such reprieve is with immediate effect.

However, for the former chairman of the technical committee of the NFF, Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi, it is not yet time for celebration as the board insisted he must first of all withdraw his case against the federation currently at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) in Lausanne Switzerland.

“After exhaustive deliberations, the Committee unanimously decided to lift bans of various lengths placed on the following members of Nigeria football family: Chief Rumson Baribote, Barr. Olaleye Adepoju, Mr. Jarrett Tenebe and Mr. Olajide Fashikun.

The ban on former member of NFF Executive Committee, Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi will be lifted once communication is received from the Court of Arbitration for Sport that he has withdrawn his case.

Other banned persons will have their cases reviewed as soon as they appear before the Committee” Inyama stated.

Consequently, the board announced that Barr.

Adepoju will, with immediate effect, retake his position as the chairman of Oyo State Football Association as well as his seat on the Executive Committee of NFF. Also, Mr. Chidi Ofor- Okenwa was cleared to retake his seat as chairman of Enugu State Football Association.

However, the Communiqué stated that the lifting of the ban placed on Chief Baribote is as far as football –related activities are concerned, and does not restore him to his former position as the chairman of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL).

Meanwhile, following the confusion that greeted the purported lifting of the ban placed on two board members, Barr. Chris Green and Ahmed Yusuf Fresh for alleged anti board activities by the Appeals Committee of the NFF, the board announced that the chairman of that committee, Barr. Eddy Ibrahim Mark will appear before its Ethics and Fair-Play Committee headed by Barr.

Ikechukwu Obidike. Other members are Hon. Shehu Adamu, Chief Effiong Johnson, Mr. Ayodeji Tinubu and Hon. Suleiman YahayaKwande.

VANGUARD, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014

Okwaraji’s 25th anniversary: Ogbeha frowns!

A UGUST 12 rolled by yesterday like any other day without Nigerian sports administrators marking the 25th anniversary of

FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup — Kickoff 1 a.m

Falconets take battle to England F

ALCONETS Coach Peter Dedevbo says they have to take today’s last group game against England very ‘seriously ’, despite needing just a point to qualify to the next round of the FIFA Women’s U-20 World Cup in Canada.

The Nigerian girls have four points after two games and will need at least a draw against the English to be guaranteed a place in the quarter finals.

But Dedevbo says despite being in such a

the death of Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji who slumped and died at the mainbowl of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos in a World Cup qualifier against Angola.

Cocktails of promises have remained unfulfilled 25 years after Okwaraji paid the supreme sacrifice of dying with the national jersey number 6, a jersey that the administrators vowed would be retired in memory of Okwaraji.

But Senator Tunde

Continues on Page 63

•Late Okwaraji

NFF to sign new contract with Keshi

Courtney Dike challenges Ha Eunhye of Korea during their FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup match. Nigeria tackle England by 1 a.m(Thursday).

•Lifts ban on Baribote, Adepoju, others

BY JUDE OPARA, Abuja

T

HE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) says it has finalized arrangements for the signing of a new contract with Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi in the next few days ahead of the 2015 African Cup of Nations

Continues on Page 63

•Keshi

Continues on Page 63

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 4 Rubbish (5) 7 Deed (6) 9 Colour (3) 10 Resin (3) 12 Soothing (5) 13 Victim (4) 15 Pattern (5) 17 Calm (6) 19 Mud (4) 20 Heading (5) 22 Faucet (3) 24 Knee-cap (7) 27 Enclosure (3) 28 Fire-raising (5) 31 Muddle (4) 33 Posture (6) 35 Irrigate (5) 37 Respect (4) 38 Singer (5) 39 Immerse (3) 41 Tear (3) 42 Maintain (6) 43 Enquired (5)

DOWN 1 Floor-covering (6) 2 Certify (6) 3 Pass (3) 4 Duct (4) 5 Kingdom (5) 6 Hat (8) 8 Appellation (4) 11 Satisfied (9) 14 Yap (4) 16 Trade (4) 18 Harvest (4) 21 Inactivity (8) 23 Scheme (4) 25 Trial (4) 26 Cunning (4) 29 Appeared (6) 30 Elbowed (6) 32 Cursed (5) 34 Opera-song (4) 36 Parched (4) 40 layer (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Yell 4, Cup 6, Cede 9, Oar 10, Province 11, Brag 14, Aid 16, Taste 19, Provided 21, Metal 23, Remarked 24, Frame 27, Rap 31, Spar 33, Agitated 34, Ass 35, Dyke 36, Keg 37, Doll.

DOWN: 2, Earl 3, Live 4, Consider 5, Plea 6, Cobra 7, Ear 8, Draft 12, Spoof 13, Cocoa 14, Aim 15, Deter 17, Slake 18, Elude 20, Damaging 22, Lap 25, Repay 26, Morse 28, Task 29, Hard 30, Tell 32, Ask.

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.

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