Find new ways to tackle insurgency

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62450

•P.17

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

COLUMNISTS: Between Oshiomhole and Okonjo-Iweala

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Vandalism, Joda panel and cable buy-back and associated airline mergers •P.19 scams •P.19

APAPA GRIDLOCK:

>>10

Ambode worries over delayed enforcement

BABANGIDA TO BUHARI:

Find new ways to tackle insurgency zSays bloodletting in 4 weeks has heightened nation's fears zWarns media against celebrating killings with sensational headlines zUrges Nigerians to unite against Boko Haram zExpresses confidence in Buhari's ability to crush insurgents zUS visit: Security, economy my top agenda — Buhari >>8

By Henry Umoru

A

BUJA — FORMER Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd), yesterday, lamented the resurgence in the murderous activities of the Boko Haram sect in the last four weeks of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, saying that it has struck fear in the hearts of most Nigerians.

Since May 29, Boko Haram has unleashed an avalanche of suicide

Continues on Page 5

We won't bow to pressure to further devalue Naira —CBN >>9 Mr & Mrs

IDPs—Elated children from Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp react during distribution of clothes to them for Eid-ElFitr by NEMA officials, in Maiduguri, yesterday. TOP RIGHT: Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Communion, Most. Rev. Nicholas Okoh, commiserating with some children during his visit to donate relief materials to them at their new Kuchingoro IDPs camp in Abuja, yesterday. BELOW RIGHT: Some IDPs off-loading relief materials donated by Most. Rev. Okoh. Photos: NAN.

States got N9.6trn from FAAC in 4 yrs C M Y K

>>9

2— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 3

C M Y K

4— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—5

POCKET CARTOON

PRODUCT LAUNCH—From left: Mr Silivrili Oghuzan, Marketing Director RB West Africa; Mr Rahul Murgal, General Manager, RB West Africa; Dr Ikeoluwapo Ajayi, President, Society for the Study of Pain, Nigeria; Dr Aamerah Shah, Primary Care Specialist, [Dubai], and Prof Hannu Kokki, Professor in Anesthesiology, University of Eastern Finland, during the launch of Nurofen, pain relief, yesterday, at Darlington Hall, Ilupeju Estate, Lagos.

PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

IBB TO BUHARI: Find new ways to tackle insurgency the anti-terror war are Continues from Page 1 bombings and attacks on religious houses, markets and public places in Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Plateau and Kaduna states among other places, destroying about 700 lives and property worth billions of Naira.

Disturbed by the increasing wave of the attacks, Babangida, who expressed confidence in the ability of Buhari to nail Boko Haram’s coffin and that Nigeria can truly assume her greatness in the comity of nations, nevertheless, urged the President to hammer out new and effective ways of tackling the insurgency.

He also pleaded with Nigerians to unite against the terrorists and asked the

media to shun sensational headlines and celebration of the sect’s killings.

The former president shared his thoughts via a Sallah message he titled: “Let us be strong and unite against insurgency.”

Within the last four weeks, according to him, the country has witnessed the worst of human follies in the conduct of these avoidable carnage and bloodletting by unscrupulous persons that operate under the guise of religion and wreaking havoc on Nigeria and Nigerians’ sense of nationality.

In the Sallah message, Babangida also called on President Buhari to ensure that the welfare of military personnel waging

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Talent hits a target no one else can hit. Genius hits a target no one else can see — Arthur Schopenhauer

T

HE most creative people in any field are people who have a tremendous amount of knowledge.

Creative people like Einstein, Edison, Coltrane, and O’Keefe were also experts in their own field.

In this age of easy access to search engines the internet, there is a tendency to assume that information is available when you need it and so you don’t need to internalize it. But, if you have to interrupt your flow of work whenever you need to look something up, you can’t follow ideas to new places.

In order to maximize the quality of your knowledge, you have to develop the habit to explain things back to yourself. Openness is one key factor to creativity, It reflects how much you are motivated to consider new ideas, concepts, and experiences.

The most creative people are typically very open people.

If you are someone who resists new ideas and experiences, that does not mean you cannot be creative. It just means that you need to develop a new set of habits to try new ideas and new ways of thinking and being creative.

adequately taken care of to encourage soldiers, who would be assigned such responsibilities subsequently.

According to the former president, if President Buhari must overcome the insurgency, it has become imperative to device new ways of confronting members of Boko Haram without making public such new methods.

Noting that the Islamic religion he was born into 74 years ago preaches peace and encourages everyone to cooperate with one another, he prayed that God should touch the hearts of the insurgents to end the bloodletting.

Babangida, who noted that if Nigeria was serious about the management of information on security issues, the story of taking some Boko Haram suspects and prisoners to Anambra State would not have been public knowledge, advised that headlines and lead stories that promote activities of the insurgents should be stopped.

The Statement

The statement reads: “Let me convey my warm wishes to all Muslims home and abroad for the successful completion of the Ramadan exercise. As much as one would have appreciated our efforts as devout Muslims who have observed the obligatory month of Ramadan, the incessant killings and bloodletting by members of the Boko Haram leave a sour taste in my mouth.

For want of no discernible ideology, they have continued to portray Islam in very bad light, making members of other

religions to perceive us with scorn. Islam, which I was born into, some 74 years ago, is a very peaceful religion that preaches brotherliness and togetherness. It is a religion that encourages love, affection and respect for our neighbours and mankind. It is one religion that has an abiding influence on its adherents to cooperate with one another and promote peace in their respective communities. May God touch the hearts of these insurgents so that the untoward act of bloodletting will permanently cease.

Happy Eid-el-Fitri to all.

“Events in the last four weeks have continued to raise our adrenaline, in a season of apprehension and utter suspicion, about our security engagements and the sum total of our collective sufferance as a nation. The heightened tension is occasioned by renewed hostilities and mindless bombings predominantly by suicide bombers who have decidedly chosen the option of death to life. We have seen the worst of human follies in the conduct of these avoidable carnage and bloodletting by unscrupulous persons under the guise of religion, doing havoc to our sense of nationality.

New ways to tackle insurgency “At this stage of our national history, especially with the insecurity we presently experience, it is appropriate for us to device new ways and means of confronting this h y d r a - h e a d e d insurgency, without making such initiatives public knowledge. Media intelligence is required in helping to assemble information and distilling such information in a manner that would benefit the fight against terrorism.

Going by the news and information we get everyday, I feel very strongly that the media has a greater role to play in the management of information. The type of headlines and lead stories that are promoted in favour of the insurgents could only help to motivate members of Boko Haram rather than demotivate them. I expect, with a deep sense of patriotism, to see a greater deal of positive news promoted in support of military efforts at confronting this menace than a celebration of Boko Haram carnage, day in and day out.

“Strategic efforts and initiatives of the military targeted at curtailing the spread of the Boko Haram should remain most often

top secret within military hierarchy and the presidency. Collaborative efforts should also follow similar pattern so that little or limited information is let loose for the consumption of members of the sect. Coordinated efforts by the security agencies should be strengthened and refocused to gain new dimensions towards combating the unwholesome activities of this sect, and when such dimensions are sought and cultivated, they should remain the exclusive preserve of top military brass. Information management is very key to confronting an unconventional warfare such as the one under reference, which is further complicated by the unfashionable method of suicide bombings.

“It is a strange dimension to this whole exercise of insurgency and has further compounded our earlier strategies in helping to nip this monster in the bud. The media, it must be emphasized, has a greater role to play in this information management system where a well defined synergy is encouraged between members of the media and the military hierarchy.

On a good day, as is often said, the idea of taking some Boko Haram suspects and prisoners to Anambra State, should not be public knowledge, if we are truly serious about information management.

“Each time we celebrate the dastardly acts of Boko Haram on the front pages of our newspapers and electronic platforms, it is a score for Boko Haram.

We must weigh such information against our collective national interest. Do we subscribe to Boko Haram or to the Nigerian nation? Since we are of good consciences and subscribe to the Nigerian nation, military efforts and achievements in the fight against insurgency should be given primacy than what a suicide bomber has just done.

“We must make it a duty to encourage and

motivate our military personnel; those who have died in the course of this struggle and those who are still there on the battle field trying to make the Nigerian society safe for all of us. The families of those who have lost their gallant fighters and bread winners must be catered for beyond the present tokenism. This initiative will serve as incentive to others who are still in the trenches battling to keep us safe.

“The President, General Muhammadu Buhari, as a military officer, understands the import of these altruistic suggestions and I trust that he will take steps to apply some of them that fit into the mainstream strategies already in place. The approach has to be a holistic one, well coordinated with full onslaught launched by the day and night to rout these insurgents to surrender.

Condolence

“Let me join millions of Nigerians home and abroad in condoling with the families of those who lost their beloved ones during this carnage. Let me also commend the efforts of the Federal Government in helping to address the plights of the Internally Displaced Persons across different locations in the country.

“The renewed interest of the international community in helping out with superior military hardware towards combating this menace is a welcome development.

Our Islamic clerics should do more in their daily sermons to prevent new converts and recruits into this deadly group. Both religions preach the virtues of good and pious life tempered with the fear of God or Allah. We must continuously preach sermons that deliver the right messages to our people without ambiguity.

“I have implicit confidence in my mind that President Muhammadu Buhari, will put the final nail on the coffin of Boko Haram so that Nigeria can truly assume her greatness in the comity of nations.”

6—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

COMMUNAL CRISIS:

6 detained corpses released for burial in Delta

By Ochuko Akuopha

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LEH—TEARS flowed freely at Irri in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State yesterday, as the remains of the six victims that died as a result of the crisis in the area were released for burial.

The corpses had earlier been seized by a private hospital over the nonpayment of N13.5 million mortuary bills.

The deceased were among scores of others slain in the intracommunal crisis that erupted in the area in 2002, following a leadership tussle.

Commercial activities were brought to a halt in the community for several hours in honour of the deceased, as the indigenes, who were clad in black attires, wept uncontrollably.

It would be recalled that the bodies of five victims were buried on June 24, while the remains of six other victims were seized by the hospital over mortuary bills.

The body of one of the female victims was interred in neighbouring Oyede in Isoko North Local Government Area, while the bodies of five others were buried in their family compounds at Irri.

Earlier in the his homily, Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in the community, Rev Silver Odhe, stressed the need for the people to exhibit love for one another and put things right.

“We must put indelible footsteps on the sands of time for our children to emulate,” the cleric said.

Speaking with newsmen at the community’s town hall, chairman of Irri Community Development Committee, Mr. Goddey Igirigo, said the leadership of the community had held a meeting with the management of the hospital during which it was agreed that N7million mortuary bill be paid for release of the corpses.

Blaming the crisis on the divide-and-rule tactics of an oil company operating in the area, Igirigo said: “There was power tussle, but today, we have come together.”

Man bites off robber's ear in Aba

By Ugochukwu Alribe

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BA—NEMESIS has caught up with a suspected robber, Chijioke Ikechi, as a victim bit off his ear lobe during a robbery attack on a residence at Ukaegbu Road, Ogbor Hill, Aba, Abia State.

Ikechi and three other members of his gang had invaded the residence, dispossessed their victims of

N300,000 and inflicted a machete cut on a resident, Ndubuisi Mba. Vanguard gathered that residents of the area sent a distress call to a police patrol team as one of the victims held on to Ikechi after biting off his ear lobe, while other members of the gang fled on sighting the police.

A resident told Vanguard: “We heard shouts that armed robbers were robbing near our

house and called the police, who did not waste in responding.

“When they saw the police, some of the armed robbers ran away. The victim held on to one of them and the police arrested him. We commend the Police team for responding to our call.”

Police Public Relations Officer, Abia State Command, Ezekiel Udeviotu Onyeke, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, who

Family announces burial programme for slain ex-FUTA's VC

CONTROLLED DEMOLITION: A building being pulled down by officials of Lagos State Building Control Agency, at Oloto Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos State, yesterday.

NAN PHOTO.

By Dayo Johnson

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Catholic priest kidnapped in Imo

By Chidi Nkwopara

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WERRI—KIDNAPPERS have abducted Rev. Fr. Francis Ugoo Egbebu, the parish priest of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Umuola, Amaigbo, Nwangele Local Government Area of Imo State.

Reports from the Catholic Diocese of Orlu, where Rev. Fr. Egbebu is serving, indicated that the priest was last seen driving out of the parish last Monday morning.

Although it was not clear at press time the exact location the priest was picked up by the hoodlums, Vanguard gathered that the kidnappers had made an initial contact with close relations of the priest and demanded N5 million ransom.

Vanguard also gathered that Rev. Fr. Egbebu, who is the first vicar of the parish, resumed duties on November 2014, when the young parish was created and inaugurated by the Catholic Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Rev. Augustine Ukwuoma.

Confirming the kidnap to newsmen, the Parish Council Chairman, Engr. Adolphus Ogbonna, said: “We have heard the news of the kidnap of our parish priest.

“Some people say he was kidnapped around Owerri, while others claim he was kidnapped in our community.

confirmed the incident, said the police recovered a machete and an iron pipe fitted with wood, resembling a gun from the gang.

The police spokesman added that Mba, who sustained a machete cut, had been receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital in the area, and appealed to the public to volunteer useful information that could help to nab fleeing members of the gang.

We are filled with anxiety and sorrow over the incident.”

While affirming that the kidnappers had made a N5 million demand, the Parish Council Chairman, however, urged the parishioners to remain calm and be prayerful.

Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, not only confirmed the incident but also affirmed that the command was already on the trail of the kidnappers.

He said: “The command has

received the report about the kidnap of the priest. We are still on the trail of the kidnappers.”

However, Imo State government has blamed the resurgence of kidnapping and other serious crimes on youths armed by politicians to fight election battles.

Mr. Sam Onwuemeodo, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Rochas Okorocha, said: “The elections are over, but youths have not returned the arms.”

He said this explained why

‘I want justice for my 3-yr-old daughter defiled by neighbour’

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—A woman, whose three years old daughter was allegedly defiled by a 30year-old neighbour, has cried out for justice.

Spokesman for Edo State Police Command, DSP Stephen Onwochei, confirmed the incident, saying the suspect had been arrested.

The mother of the child, Mrs. Nkechi Amaechi, said the suspect’s family members refused to pay for medical treatment for her daughter, adding that the girl had been manifesting several symptoms since she was forcibly defiled.

Mrs. Nkechi told newsmen in a chat that the suspect, who was a next door neighbour, had lured her daughter into his room under the pretext of buying biscuit for her and defiled her.

She said: “I saw my daughter walking funny. When I checked, I saw that her vagina was very wide. It was wider than that of a woman that just gave birth.

“The man was begging me and later wanted to fight me.

I had to call the police. I do not have money to take care of my daughter. I want help from people for proper medical treatment.”

KURE—AS the family of murdered former Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, Professor Albert Ilemobade, yesterday, announced a 10day burial programme, the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has called for justice.

A burial programme announced by the family of the deceased indicated that he would be committed to mother earth on July 30 in Ondo, his home town.

According to the programme, his lying-instate will hold at his residence along Gani Fawehinmi Street, off Ademulegun Road in Ondo and a Christian wake on the July 29 at the Oba Adesanoye Civic Centre in Ondo, while funeral service and interment will hold at All Saints’ Anglican Church, Ogbonkowo area in Ondo on July 30.

A reception will follow at Oba Adesanoye Civic Centre in Ondo, while a thanksgiving service will hold on Sunday at All Saints’ Anglican Church, Ondo on August 2.

Meanwhile, FUTA branch of ASUU, at a briefing, called for justice, saying “ we are moved to lament the loss of a revered academic to such a cheap, evil and cruel death.

“We are calling for adequate and appropriate justice on anyone and everyone found to have a hand in the death of Professor Albert Adeoye Ilemobade. Let due justice be served duly.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—7

DSS arrests 3 pastors, woman over child trafficking in Bayelsa

By Samuel Oyadongha

zI'm made to hawk, work in farm, says 12-yr-old Jessica

Y

ENAGOA—THREE pastors and a woman, who operates a private school in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, were paraded, yesterday, as operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, smashed a child trafficking syndicate operating in the state.

Thirty six children, whose ages range from five to 14 years, were rescued by operatives of the DSS in the state from homes where they were being used as house boys and girls.

Those paraded were Dauda Nurugada, 32, from Kebbi State; Anthony Onwebeyi, 53, from Anambra State; Benaalim IsaGarba, 43, from Kaduna State and Mrs Tombra Alazigha, 38, a school proprietor.

The Assistant State Director of Security, Mr. Friday Onuche, while addressing newsmen at the state headquarters of DSS, said the children were rescued from homes in Yenagoa and Kaiama in Bayelsa State, Enugu-Agidi in Anambra State and Port-Harcourt in Rivers State.

He said the kingpins operated under the guise of missionaries and NonGovernmental Organisations, NGOs, and target vulnerable children largely from the northern part of the country.

Among the places targeted by the traffickers, he said, include Zuru ethnic group in Kebbi and Zamfara states and Zaria in

By Akpokona Omafuaire

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RESCUED: Victims of child trafficking rescued by operatives of Department of State Services, DSS, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Kaduna State, where they approach poor parents to allow them send their children to school.

Mr. Onuche said the children rather than go to school as promised, ended up as house helps or hawkers.

He said: “There is the need, therefore, for members of the public to be sensitised on the need to be circumspect in the way they give their children or take in children from such unsuspecting modern slave traders.”

‘I’m a missionary’

However, Pastor Anthony Onwebeyi, in an interview, said he was not a trafficker but a missionary assisting children to get back to school.

He said he only collected some small amount of money as transport fares from those who got custody of the kids.

The only female suspect, Mrs Tombra Alazigha, who said she runs both a private school and an NGO, which takes care of vulnerable children, said she had six of the children in her custody and that they were all brought to her by the pastors.

She, however, denied using them as housemaids, adding that they attended her school together with her six other

children from her meagre earning as a civil servant and a school proprietor.

She displayed before journalists a photograph of one of the girls in school uniform and also letters purportedly signed by the parents of the children.

However, one of the children, who simply identified herself as Jessica, aged 12, said she was denied access to school and was being used for farming and hawking, among others.

EJIGBO SODOMY: The suspects in the case of torture and attempted murder of market women at Ejigbo Market in February 2013, shortly after the court proceedings at Ikeja High Court, Lagos, yesterday. INSET: The Iyaloja of Ejigbo market, one of the accused. PHOTOS: Lamidi Bamidele.

By Gbenga Olarinoye SOGBO—A lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Economics of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, Dr. Deji Adejobi, was on Tuesday night killed by suspected assassins in his residence at The Dawn area near the toll gate, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

Adejobi’s gateman (names withheld), who recounted how the incident took place, said the assailants trailed the deceased to his house at exactly 10:10p.m. on Tuesday and shot him twice after shooting into the air to scare off residents of the community.

Also, one of the children of the late lecturer, Oyin Adejobi, said: “As we finished our evening

House help to die by hanging over magistrate's murder

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BEOKUTA— AN Ogun State High Court sitting at Isabo, Abeokuta, yesterday sentenced a 26-year-old house help, David Uche, to death for killing a retired senior magistrate, Mrs Olufunmilayo Timeyin.

Justice Abiodun Akinyemi ordered that the convict, who

hails from Benue State and worked as a domestic staff of the late senior magistrate, be killed by hanging.

The convict was represented

by Mr. Felix Dalley.

On March 28,2014, the retired chief magistrate was slaughtered by her house help in her residence in Laderin Estate in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of the state.

ARRI—DELTA State Police Command, Tuesday in War ri, paraded 35 suspected cult members arrested in the city in the wake of recent increased secret cultrelated attacks, which have led to several deaths.

Delta State Commissioner of Police, Alkali Baba Usman, who made the disclosure at a briefing in Warri, said the suspects were arrested by policemen attached to Ovwian Aladja Division, Operatives of the Quick Response Squad.

He said the suspects had confessed to the crime, saying one bus with number plates UBJ 449 XA, some weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, white candle sticks, black beret, vest, a bangle and cap with cowries, four Aye Confraternity black berets and one Aye Confraternity singlet were recovered from them.

OAU lecturer assassinated begging them that they should not take him away.”

O

By Daud Olatunji

Police parade 35 cultists in Warri

The 25-year-old house help was accused of scaling the fence of the late Timeyin’s bungalow, deactivating the security system and then hacking the retired magistrate to death.

He had been employed in January 2014 and sent packing two weeks later for allegedly stealing his boss’ valuables, including phones and jewelleries.

‘We thought he was kidnapped'

Dr. Deji Adejobi. prayer at 10:05p.m., daddy drove into the compound.

“Then I overheard an argument between the gateman and some strange people. I looked out from the window and I saw another black car that entered our compound together with daddy’s car.

“Our gateman was querying the occupants of the other car, but they hit him and ordered him to lie down.

“The men in the black car came out before daddy could alight from his car and one of them shot into the air. Two of them advanced to dad’s car while others came inside.

“Grandma started begging those that came inside to spare our lives. Suddenly, we heard gunshot, twice, from outside.

“The assailants left at 10:20p.m. and took daddy’s car away. I overheard daddy

“When they left, we thought they took him away and we started praying for the safety of daddy without knowing that he had been killed. When the police came, they saw his lifeless body in the flowerbed.”

The younger brother of the deceased, who is also the Public Relations Officer for Ogun State Police Command, Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi, described the death of his brother as very pathetic.

The Police Public Relations Officer for Osun State Police Command, Mrs Folashade Odoro, while confirming the incident, said the command had commenced investigation into the matter and assured that the police would fish out the killers Public Relations Officer of OAU, Mr. Abiodun Olanrewaju, also said the death of Dr Adejobi was very unfortunate, adding that the management, staff and students of the university were very sad about the development.

Olanrewaju regretted that it was unfortunate that university lecturers had become the target of kidnappers, armed robbers and assassins.

He warned that the trend was dangerous for the country's education system.

8—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

US visit: Security, economy my top priorities —Buhari zTo meet with Congress c'ttees, US key officials zBuhari determined to fight corruption — Anyaoku, Momodu

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

zRenews call for probe

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BUJA— AHEAD of his visit to the United States of America, USA, on Sunday, President Muhammadu Buhari has disclosed that core issues of security and economy would feature prominently in his talks with President Barack Obama.

A statement by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari will also hold different discussions with US Vice President, Mr. Joe Biden; Chairman of the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Martin Dempsey and the Deputy Secretary of Defence, Robert Work.

Before leaving Washington DC, President Buhari would address the United States Chamber of Commerce and Corporate Council for Africa as well as meet with Nigerians resident in America.

The statement added that the President would spend four days in America and return to the country on July 23.

It will be recalled that President Obama had on June 25 indicated interest to host him at the White House.

Details of Buhari's visit to USA Adesina’s statement read: “Topmost on the agenda of President Buhari’s talks with President Obama and United States Government officials will be measures to strengthen and intensify bilateral and international cooperation against terrorism in Nigeria and West-Africa.

“He will later hold further discussions with the Chairman of the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Martin Dempsey and the Deputy Secretary of Defence, Robert Work on military and defence cooperation.

“The President will also meet with Vice President Joe Biden and confer with the US Attorney-General, Loretta Lynch; the US Secretary of Treasury, Jack Lew; the US Secretary of Commerce, Penny Pritzker and the US Trade representative, Michael Froman, on United States' support for his administration’s war against corruption as well as fresh measures to boost NigeriaUnited States trade relations.

NNPC's plan to move $1.2bn to CBN linked to missing NLNG dividends —APC

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BRIEFING: Former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, briefing State House correspondents after his meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

“The President, who will be received by the United States Secretary of State at the State Department in Washington DC, will later hold meetings with the United States Senate and Congressional Committees on Foreign Relations as well as the Black Caucus of the United States House of Representatives.

“Before leaving Washington DC, President Buhari will address the United States Chamber of Commerce and Corporate Council for Africa.

“The President, who will be accompanied by the Governors of Imo, Nasarawa, Edo, Borno and Oyo States as well as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and Permanent Secretaries of the Federal Ministries of Defence, Foreign Affairs, Industr y, Trade and Investment, will also host an interactive session with Nigerians in the American Diaspora.

“The US trip will also afford President Buhari the opportunity of a reunion with members of the American War College Class of 1980 in which he was a distinguished participant.

“He is due back in Abuja on Thursday, July 23.”

President determined to fight corruption

—Anyaoku, Momodu Meanwhile, former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has expressed optimism in the President Buhari-led government to rid Nigeria of corruption.

Anyaoku, who spoke to State House correspondents after a private meeting with the President in Abuja also stated that their meeting touched on Buhari’s forthcoming journey to the United States.

He said the President was very determined to correct the social anomalies in country.

He said: “I had a positive discussion with the President. We discussed international affairs including in particular his forthcoming visit to the United States on the invitation of President Obama.

“We also touched on some national issues because of the strong link between foreign policy and domestic issues.

I put at his disposal the benefits of my long experience on governance matters with Heads of Government of 54-member countries of the Commonwealth and also other issues related to internal affairs.

“I can tell myself talking to a President who is very determined to effect a real

change in the circumstances of our country and very determined too to bring to bear on his administration the generally perceived attributes of his character, which I believe many Nigerians would support.

“Well, I believe that before he became President, he was known as somebody who has very strong passion for anti-corruption. I believe that he is determined to fight and he would go a long way in doing so. Corruption is a very endemic issue in our society and I’m quite impressed of his determination to do something about it.

“Well, I can tell from the strong impression I got from my discussion with him that he is very determined.”

Also speaking after a meeting with the President, a foremost newspaper columnist and publisher, Mr. Dele Momodu, said that issues of corruption and security dominated their discussion.

He said: “I met with Mr. President and our conversation was very candid and I find him extremely jovial.

“We spoke about security and the efforts he is making.

We spoke about anticorruption crusade and I must say today he reassured me that not only does he know what he is doing, he is determined to make Nigeria work.”

BUJA — THE All Progressives Congress (APC) has renewed its call on the Federal Government to probe the whereabouts of the dividends paid to the NNPC by the NLNG, as well as the taxes paid to the FIRS Federation Account prior to the latest payment in June 2015.

In a statement issued in Lagos, yesterday, by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the call has become more urgent against the backdrop of published reports that the NNPC has withdrawn $1.2 billion from banks so it could place the money with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

It said the move by the NNPC is a panic reaction to the expose by the party (APC) that over $4 billion are missing in past dividends paid to the NNPC by the NLNG. According to the party, "whereas NLNG’s dividends are paid to NNPC’s account with JP Morgan, from where they are supposed to be paid into the Federation Account in accordance with the law, some unscrupulous officials of the corporation have apparently been moving such funds to local banks so they can collect huge commissions on them.

"Now that the cat has been let out of the bag, they have started moving the funds from the banks to the CBN. We believe what we are seeing now is just a tip of the iceberg, hence the need for the authorities to call the NNPC officials to give accounts of the paid NLNG dividends to date."

The party said any delay in calling the officials to account for the dividends may give them enough time to cover their tracks, in addition to the dangers posed to the banks and by extension the economy – by the sudden withdrawal of such a huge fund from the NNPC accounts with them.

"The top officials of the NNPC and others who met on Monday and decided to withdraw the $1.2 billion from the corporation’s account to the CBN must be asked a number of questions, including their motive for the decision and the whereabouts of the commissions paid on such funds,’’ it said.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—9

States got N9.6trn from FAAC in 4 years

By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief, Mike Eboh, Favour Nnabugwu & Emma Elebeke

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BUJA — IN spite of state governors’ claims of paucity of funds to pay workers’ salaries and run their governments, it has emerged that state governments received well over N9,629,440,575,160.42 in the last four years.

That figure represented 26.72 per cent of their share from the Federation Account and proceeds of the Value Added Tax, VAT. State governors also received a separate 20.60 per cent of the Federation Account revenue as well as the local governments share of the VAT, in accordance with the Joint Accounts Provisions of the constitution.

The local governments were allocated an average of about N120 million each within the period under review but the funds were usually “annexed” by governors who gave local government chairmen whatever amounts they (governors) liked.

The figure was also separate from the states’ internally generated revenue. The amount varies from state to state.

The breakdown

An analysis of the receipts by geopolitical zones indicated that the oil-rich South-South got the highest revenue from the central coffer with N3,435,082,465,812.34, followed by the North-West region which got N1,589,955,159,981.08.

South-West came third with N1,372,266,936,693.85, followed by the North-East which received N1,159,089,156,240.80.

The North-Central and the South-East got the least allocations among the regions. North Central got N1,116, 758, 071, 909.96; while the South East kept the rear with N 957, 248, 784, 523.49.

State-by-state breakdown

On a state-by-state basis, Akwa Ibom had the highest allocation of N932 billion; Rivers, N792 billion; Delta, N 714 billion; Bayelsa was fourth on the line with N587 billion.

Lagos and Kano had the highest allocations among the non-oil producing states. They had N404.3 billion and N303.3 billion, respectively.

Others were: Kaduna, N286 billion; Ondo, N259.507 billion; Kastina N229.702 billion; Borno, N226.802 billion; Oyo, N218. 223 billion; Enugu, N216.612 billion; Edo, N214.288 billion; Bauchi, N 214.135 billion; Imo, N208. 208 billion; Jigawa, N202. 792 billion; Niger, N201.844 billion; Plateau, N197.623 billion; Abia, N195.963 billion; Cross River, N195. 937 billion; and Anambra, N 195.862 billion.

The rest were: Sokoto, N194.813 billion; Benue, N194.260 billion; Kogi, N193.865 billion; Kebbi, N192. 902 billion; Adamawa,

N188.487 billion; Ogun, N187.787 billion; Yobe, N186.

674 billion; Taraba, N185.573 billion; Zamfara, N180. 473 billion; Kwara, N170. 413 billion; Nasarawa, N157.790 billion; Gombe, N157.415 billion; Osun, N154. 780 billion; and Ekiti, N147.691 billion.

Ebonyi State had the least allocation of N140.602 billion

but interestingly was one of the states that regularly paid its workers’ salaries.

A report of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, last month indicated that most of the 36 states of the federation were owing workers’ salaries arrears with some owing as much as seven months.

States that were up to date in

the payment of their salaries were: Adamawa, Anambra, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Gombe, Kaduna, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Sokoto, Taraba and Ebonyi.

The plight of local government workers is the worst, as some of them have not been paid for well over eight months.

We won't bow to pressure to further devalue Naira —CBN zAs Naira crashes further

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AGOS — AMIDST a threeday straight slide in the exchange rate of Naira against US Dollar, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said that it would not bow to pressures to further devalue the local currency.

Yesterday, the parallel market segment of the foreign exchange market traded one US dollar to N245 after it opened the day at N242/ USD1.00. The exchange rate on Tuesday was N240 and N238 on Monday.

Dealers in the parallel markets expressed fears that at the on-going speed of slide the exchange rate might hit the N250/USD1.00 low by next week.

But reacting to the development, CBN’s Director of Corporate Communications, Mr Ibrahim Muazu, told Vanguard that there was no need for panic at the development, adding that it could be just a temporal reaction to the policy change.

While defending the recent

foreign exchange measures taken by the apex bank to shore up the dwindling foreign reserves, Muazu said the apex bank would not be pressured into further devaluation of the local currency which he said was the intent of some sections of the foreign communities.

He stated the parallel market cannot trigger any economic crisis since all major foreign exchange demands for eligible imports go through the official exchange market which has not only remained stable but has been fully supplied by the apex bank so far.

Bureau de Change (BDC) operators said huge demand for foreign exchange began to inundate them as well as the black market as a result of the CBN’s shut off of 41 items from the official market three weeks ago.

But Muazu denied this assertion, stating that CBN’s findings was that the supply/ demand gap being experienced in the parallel market was as a result of supply shortages in that segment following the plugging of loopholes from the official markets that had hitherto leaked into parallel market through round tripping.

By Victor AhiumaYoung

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AGREEMENT: From left: Chief Financial Officer, Seven Energy International Limited, Mr. Bruce Burrows; Group Managing Director, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Ladi Balogun; Chief Executive Officer, Seven Energy Limited, Mr. Philip Ihenacho; Divisional Head, Corporate Banking of FCMB, Mrs. Folake Fajemisin; Managing Director, Accugas Limited, Mr. Stephen Tierney and Executive Director, FCMB Capital Markets Limited, Mr. Tolu Osinibi, during the agreement signing ceremony of a $445 million loan facility to Accugas by a syndicate of Nigerian banks in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Akeem Salau

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor

PENGASSAN faults El-Rufai’s call to scrap NNPC

He also said other economic crimes such as money laundering were major drivers of what is happening in the parallel market today.

President of BDC Operators of Nigeria, Aminu Gwadabe, had given reasons for the steady decline in value of Naira in the parallel market to include “over regulation of the bureau de change and financial markets, increased naira liquidity chasing fewer dollars, intensified hoarding and speculative activities, inability of banks to meet legible and legitimate demands and tightening policies of CBN.” However, Vanguard interactions with some of the parallel market dealers, yesterday, indicated that most of them have been driven by speculations that the country was cash strapped in foreign currency, hence they are hiking the exchange rate on fears of long term real scarcity.

On the other hand, some speculators are taking positions against possible devaluation in the face of continued pressure on the apex bank from both within and outside the country.

AGOS — PETROLEUM and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, has faulted the call by Governor Nasir elRufai of Kaduna State for the scrapping of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, saying political interference is the bane of the corporation.

Reacting to the governor’s comment in a paper he delivered during the 7th Professor Wole Soyinka's birthday lecture on Monday, PENGASSAN’s Acting General Secretary, Mr. Lumumba Okugbawa, said instead of “kill the NNPC,” the governor should have called for the insulation of the corporation from undue political interference that had distracted the organisation.

PENGASSAN noted that corruption issue in the NNPC mentioned by the governor was a problem hindering Nigeria’s growth and development in the oil and gas sector as a whole, noting: “Let the government deal with the corruption in the system but not to throw away the baby with the bath water.”

It argued that instead of killing the NNPC, what the governor should have called for was the reorganisation of the corporation and its subsidiaries to function effectively with clearer mandate, empowerment and improved financial approval authority without undue political interference.

The association called on the government to instil in NNPC, the culture of corporate governance and career management, requiring a legislative review to “ensure that the board of NNPC is headed by technocrats and not politicians; infuse compliance with global best practices and competitiveness, responsibility, transparency and accountability of all accruing revenue and expenditure in the national oil company; ensure that audit of NNPC and Subsidiaries’ business and investment relationships, operations, financing, procurements are carried out and published at appropriate intervals.”

According to the association, NNPC created by an Act of Parliament in 1977, its subsidiaries and service units had been subjected to undue political interference.

10—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Labour alleges planned diversion of bail-out funds

By Victor AhiumaYoung

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A G O S — ASSOCIATION of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, yesterday in Lagos, alleged moves by some state governors and Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, to divert the N713.7 billion granted to them to pay outstanding salaries and allowances of Public Service employees, urging President Muhammad Buhari to ensure that the money was not diverted.

The union in statement by its Secretary-General, Mr. Alade Bashir Lawal, claimed feelers from the states indicated that some state governors had concluded plans to divert the fund meant for private purposes thinking that it was business as usual.

According to the statement, “this is why we are requesting that the Presidency should set up necessary machinery to monitor the disbursement of the fund by the State Governments to ensure that it is used to pay salaries and allowances. It will be a tragedy if this humongous sum of money is diverted to private pockets and not used to pay public servants their salaries and allowances some of which have been outstanding for more than nine months.

State governments should be encouraged to imbibe the culture of financial prudence and discouraged from embarking on white elephant projects or indulging in financial recklessness and conspicuous consumption.

More importantly, it should also be made clear to them not to develop the mentality of Oliver Twist or begin to see the Federal Government as Father Christmas that is ever ready to be doling out bailouts to them.”

ASCSN contended that the release of N713.7 billion to states and some Federal MDAs to offset arrears of salaries and allowances of public service employees had demonstrated clearly that the high hope and expectation placed on Mr. President by more than 15 million voters who gave him a historic mandate on March, 28, 2015 was not misplaced.

APAPA GRIDLOCK: Ambode worries over delayed enforcement

By Olasunkanmi Akoni & Monsur Olowoopejo, with Agency reports

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AGOS—GOVERNOR Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State, apparently, worried over public outcry that has greeted the continued traffic gridlock on the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, yesterday, directed the newly deployed Commissioner of Police in the state, Ajani Owoseni, to ensure immediate free traffic flow in the area by enforcing the state road traffic law to the letter.

According to a reliable source, who preferred anonymity, the governor expressed serious concern, following the fresh reported traffic gridlock that returned to the area despite the existence of a 24hour special taskforce created to ensure traffic flow.

The governor, was said to have expressed surprise at the turn of events in the area, describing the development as a huge embarrassment to the state government.

Vanguard also learned that, the governor, apparently unaware of the lingering gridlock in Apapa, after reading the reports in Vanguard Newspapers yesterday, put a call across to the new CP asking him to address the situation with aggressive enforcement.

It was learned that the fresh traffic situation grew worse in the axis following the change of Commissioner of Police in the state .

The standby taskforce, led by Superintendent of Police, SUPOL, Akeem Adedeji, it was gathered, had to retreat in the enforcement of traffic

EJIGBO TORTURE: Under-aged

victim’s account heard in camera

By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Bartholomew Madukwe

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AGOS—JUSTICE Oluwatoyin Ipaye of an Ikeja High Court yesterday ordered journalists and litigants out of court at the beginning of the trial of those charged for alleged torture and dehumanization of Ajoke Agomo and her children over accusation that they stole pepper in Ejigbo market, Lagos, two years ago.

Justice Ipaye’s order was made moment one of the victims of the incident, Nike Agomo stepped into the witness box to give her testimony on what she suffered in the hands of the accused persons on February 2, 2012.

Earlier, the Director of Public Prosecution, DPP, Mrs. E.I. Alakija had requested from the court that the witness be heard in camera on the ground that she is a minor, who needs to be protected. She sought the court permission to drive away all those sitting at the gallery, mainly journalists and a few litigants who came for other cases before the court.

Responding to the DPP’S prayer, Justice Ipaye therefore ordered people sitting at the gallery out of the court.

All the journalists from the print and electronic media who thronged the court to cover the testimony of the victim walked out, disappointed.

It was expected yesterday that the witnesses who were the principal victim of the attack by the marketers and Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, members would tell the court how she was accused of stealing pepper and her arrest and torture as well as how her mother and siblings were also tortured.

Earlier, in her evidence, Nike’s mother, Ajoke told the court that two of the accused persons, Buhari Yusuf and Aruna Abdullahi produced the grounded pepper rubbed on her body and private parts.

The witness said that the people mixed the ground pepper with a bottle of dry gin and rubbed it on her and her two daughters.

law in order not to incur the wrath of the new CP since he might not have been adequately briefed on the matter.

“The governor, therefore, directed the new CP to

ensure free flow of traffic in the area within 48 hours and that it should be sustained.” The source confided.

Traffic gridlock along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, returned fully on Tuesday, following the

resurgence of drivers of tankers and articulated vehicles who parked indiscriminately on the highway in their bid to lift petroleum products from tank farms within the Apapa and Kirikiri areas of Lagos State.

VISIT: Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State (right) discussing with the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Mr. Denys Gauer (2nd left) while the Consulate-General of France & Head of Mission, Amb. Marcel Escure looks on during a courtesy visit to the governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja, yesterday.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 11

UNPAID SALARIES: Osun labour reaches fresh truce with Aregbesola

By Gbenga Olarinoye

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SOGBO—THE leadership of the Osun state council of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC yesterday recanted for the second time in 48 hours as it again ordered civil servants in the state to resume work immediately.

The congress leaders had on Monday ordered civil servants in the state to resume at their duty posts on Tuesday, thus ending six weeks of strike over non-payment of their salaries which runs to several months.

They stated that they have reached an agreement with the government representatives with a promise to pay immediately two months of their salary arrears.

But when on Tuesday, shortly after some workers had reported for duties to discover that only 50 percent of one month salary was paid, the state chairman of the NLC, Comrade Jacob Adekomi ordered the workers to continue with the strike until further notice.

However, in a statement by both the NLC chairman and the state chairman, Joint Negotiation Council, JNC, Comrade Bayo Adejumo, yesterday in Osogbo, workers were again asked to resume work immediately.

The statement reads; “ After due consultation between the government and the leadership of the joint labour movement in the state, we hereby resolved as follows; “That government has assured the leadership of the labour movement of its conscious commitment to

payment of full salaries; “That the entire members of the labour movement in the state are hereby assured that the leadership of our movement is on top of the situation and we will continuously stand in the defence of the interest, welfare and rights of all members at all costs without disappointment; “That all workers are hereby directed to resume duties and continue working at their various duty posts; “That the leadership of the labour movement hereby reiterate that nobody should disturb any worker from carrying out their constitutional assignments.”

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B E O K U TA — T H E Nigeria Labour Congress, Ogun State Chapter has warned Governor Ibikunle Amosun against the wrath of workers in the state over his alleged refusal to remit unpaid contributory pension deduction for five years and other backlogs of arrears in the state.

The NLC said the workers were becoming agitated and losing hope of survival in the state over the unpaid pension deductions, cooperative deductions, gratuities, check-off dues and a host of others that have not been remitted to the appropriate quarters.

Addressing newsmen, yesterday at the Secretariat of the union, Chairman of the NLC in the state, Comrade Akeem Ambali said the pensioners and workers in the state were suffering because of the unpaid

Meantime, the Osun State House of Assembly has expressed readiness to investigate the petition sent to it by a judge of the state high court, Justice Olamide Folahanmi Oloyede having obtained the response of Governor Rauf Aregbesola on the matter.

The judge had written the state Assembly to investigate the governor for alleged mismanagement of the state resources which led to the inability of the government to pay workers salaries for several months.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Mr. Goke Butika, the detailed response of

GRADUATION: From left: Pastor Okechukwu Nwanne, Ag Chairman, Parent Teacher Association of Primrose Children’s School; Mr. Anifowose Abiodun; Mr. Shola Ojo, Internal Auditor of Vanguard Newspapers and Chairman of the occasion; Mr. Segun Ayankogbe, School Proprietor and Mrs. Anne Osobukola, during the Primrose Children’s School End of the session Graduation and Prize-giving ceremony, at Anthony Village, Lagos. Photo by Bunmi Azeez.

NLC warns Amosun over unpaid deductions, bail-out funds

By Daud Olatunji

Assembly ready to probe judge’s petition

the state governor was obtained yesterday, compelling the parliament to set machinery in motion on the investigation of allegation of financial recklessness and her position for the preparation of impeachment article against the governor among other issues.

The assembly stressed that it would be fair and thorough in its investigation of all the issues raised with a view to reaching a logical end that would give all parties concerned sense of justice without fear or favour.

Salaam then asked Justice Oloyede to prepare for personal appearance before the investigative committee that would soon fix a date for it so that she would be in position to shed more light on her position as expressed in her petition.

pension deduction and others.

Ambali, who thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for the recent bail-out approved by his administration, warned the state governor over diverting the fund.

The NLC told the state

government that ''The bail-out fund being expected from the Federal purse should be used to settle all the accumulated arrears in the interest of industrial peace and harmony in the state.”

He however, acknowledged the dwindling allocation from the federation account,saying it was time to call on the state government to do the needful towards a better welfare of the workers in the state.

RESIGNATION: S-West APC chieftains defend Odigie-Oyegun

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AGOS—SOME leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the South West geo-political zone on Tuesday debunked allegations of corruption against national chairman of the APC, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, saying Oyegun is running the party based on honesty and fairness.

In a statement issued by the chairman, APC Harmony Group, Tajudeen Balogun in Lagos, the leaders said detractors were bent on creating crisis in the party.

“He is honest and has strong

moral principles,” the leaders said after an emergency stakeholders meeting in Lagos. ''For some people to say that the chairman should resign is to say the least unbelievable and uncalled for,” the group said.

Condemning as hostile, rude, insensitive,arrogant and arbitrary mode of communication of those asking Oyegun to resign, the leaders advised them to define the objectives and strategies of their political struggle more clearly than degenerating to abuses, lies and wide allegations.

Why I’ll support creation of Ijebu state – AKARIGBO

By Daud Olatunji

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BEOKUTA—THE Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba Michael Sonariwo, has said that he will support the creation of Ijebu state because it will usher development into both Remo and Ijebuland.

Oba Sonarinwo said this on Tuesday while briefing journalists at his palace in Sagamu, Ogun State, to commemorate his forthcoming 25th year coronation ceremony.

The monarch, who spoke through the chairman of the 25th Akarigbo coronation anniversary planning committee, Asiwaju Solomon Onafowokan, said he would support every effort to get the Ijebu state dream realised.

He said President Muhammadu Buhari, the vice-president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, the Senate president and the Speaker, House of Representatives, Bukola Saraki and Yakubu Dogara respectively among others would be part of dignitaries invited for the grand finale of the ceremony.

He said, “We have all been giving support for the creation of Ijebu State, because when you look at the idea of Ijebu State with Remo as capital, we will support it.''

Reasons for Olayinka’s tomb abuse untenable – APC ...As Fayose hails Gen Olonisakin’s appointment

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HE All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ekiti State has insisted that the desecration of the tomb of the late Deputy Governor, Funmi Olayinka, is politics of bitterness taken too far, saying Governor Ayodele Fayose’s defence of his action betrayed a jittery afterthought.

It said the governor’s action was a deliberate act to distort his masterplan of the Heroes’ Park originally meant to be a library instead of a Women Development Centre.

A statement by the Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatubosun, challenged the governor to produce the masterplan of the new building and show where it was designed as a Women Development Centre.

He said: “Fayose’s original plan was to cancel the masterplan that makes that space a Heroes’ Park as established by the House of

Assembly law by erecting the library to deliberately shielding the tomb from public view.’’

Gen Olonisakin’s appt merited – FAYOSE

Meantime, Governor Fayose, has congratulated the newlyappointed Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin, describing the appointment as well deserved.

The governor also thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for finding an Ekitiman worthy of appointment as the Chief of Defence Staff for the first time in the history of Nigeria.

In a release issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, Fayose said the honour done Ekiti with the appointment will not be misplaced, adding that he was confident that Olonishakin will exhibit the courage, intelligence, honesty and hard-work that Ekiti people are noted for.

12—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Rivers govt, Intels, others raise N3bn to fix East-West road

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— INTEGRATED Logistics Limited, Indorama Petrochemicals and four other companies have collaborated with the Rivers State Government to raise N3 billion to fix six kilometres portion of Eleme to Onne end of the East West Road.

Speaking, yesterday, at the flag off ceremony in Eleme Local Government Area of the state, Governor Nyesom Wike said that the government had to approach companies doing business in the area to partner it to fix the deplorable portion of the road for the good of all, adding that it will be completed within two months.

He said that his administration had to come up with the idea to save the economy of the state as the road leads to major companies sustaining the economy of the nation.

“Because of this road, many companies threatened to pull out of the state. In the next two months when the road is completed, companies will start coming back.

I plead with the contractor, RCC to do quality job. I thank the interest groups that have contributed to lessen the burden on road users. Imagine the man hour wasted on the road between Port Harcourt and here because of the bad state of the road. A trip that should not take less than 20 minutes, people spend about two hours because of the bad road.

“Wealth of the nation comes from here. We can’t wait for the Federal Government to come.

So let us do this, take the bull by the horns. We have partnered the investors. God will bless all of you for collaborating with the Rivers State Government. RCC, we are handing over this road formally to you,” he said.

According to the

memorandum of understanding signed yesterday at Indorama Petrochemicals Limited before the flag off ceremony, Integrated Logistics Limited will raise N1 million, Indorama Petrochemicals Limited N500 million, West African Container Terminal Limited N500 million, Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited N300 million , Nigerian Ports Authority, N200 million, Oil/

Gas free zone N200 million, while the Rivers State government will contribute N300 million to the project.

All parties in the joint project are to pay their money to RCC, the road construction company handling the project. Rivers State Government and some of the companies said they had already made payment.

Governor Wike also explained that the life span of the repair work was a minimum of two years.

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COMMISSIONINIG: From left, Mr. Afam Ugochukwu, Executive Director, Operations, Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited, representating the Managing Director, Chief Dere Ofokome, Chairman, Joint Community Relations Committee, and Mr Robert Obinze, during the commissioning of Okochiri Access Road at Okrika, Rivers State. Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke

A-Ibom PDP carpets APC over N2.5bn INEC bribery claim

By Chioma Onuegbu & Tom Moses

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YO—THE Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Akwa Ibom State chapter has taken a swipe at the All Progressives Congress, APC, over claims that the petition of its gubernatorial candidate was being frustrated by bribery allegedly offered to Mr. Austin Okojie, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Akwa Ibom State, by former governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio.

The state PDP chairman, Obong Paul Ekpo, described the allegation as false, spurious, baseless and an alarmist cry by the APC .

Ekpo recalled that counsel to APC governorship candidate in the last election, Mr. Okon Umana and a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, Victor Iyanam, in a petition addressed to the Director General of the Department of State Security, DSS, and the Inspector General of Police, accused Okojie of taking bribe from Akpabio to work against the interest of APC at the tribunal.

Ekpo, who laughed off the APC

allegation, observed that while it was not necessary to join issues with the party, APC was reputed to thrive on propaganda and blackmail.

He said: “It was pertinent to

set the records straight so that the gullible and unsuspecting public is not misled and misinformed by the APC. The bribe story only exists in the imagination of its authors.”

He challenged the APC to present evidence of how the alleged sum of N2.5 billion was disbursed to INEC officials by the state government, through whom, and by what channel it was transmitted.

A'Court sets aside N12m damages against Benin chief Hamma Barka, held that the expert evidence, therefore, it

By Gabriel Enogholase

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ENIN—THE Court of Appeal sitting in Benin, Edo State has set aside a N12 million special damages awarded against a Benin Palace Chief, John Osamede Adun by the lower court for damaging of a room and parlour in dispute between him and Osahon Obayuwana and two others.

The appellate court in its judgment delivered by Justice

N12 million special claim by the respondents as the value of the property destroyed was not strictly proved by them as required by law.

The appellate court held that the evidence of the Estate Valuer, who was expert was in error as he did not tell the court the way and manner he arrived at the sum of N12 million as special damages for the destroyed property.

“For evidence to qualify as

must be of scientific or other information of technical nature that may be outside the experience and knowledge of the judge. It has also been held that for a witness to be accepted as an expert, he must satisfy the following criteria: he must state his qualification, he must satisfy the court that his is an expert in the subject in which he is to give his opinion and he must state clearly the reasons for his opinion.”

I'll reposition NIESV in Delta , says Appih

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SABA—THE newly elected Delta State branch chairman of Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, NIESV, Chief Efe Appih, has promised to reposition the body for greater efficiency during his tenure.

In his acceptance speech, in

Asaba, the Delta State capital, shortly after his election, the NIESV boss said he came to serve and not to be served, adding that there was so much work to be done to move the institution to enviable height.

He assured of injecting fresh ideas into NIESV, promising to

open a temporary take off office which will also serve as a secretariat.

According to him, the current executive will provide the institution with website, functional email accounts and a Facebook page to enable members have access to all that they need to move forward.

Delta gets new auditorgeneral for LGs

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By Festus Ahon

SABA—GOVERNOR Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has appointed Mr Abel Esievo as Local Government AuditorGeneral in the state.

Until his appointment, Mr Abel Esievo was a Director in the State Local Government Audit. The state Head of Service, Mr Patrick Origho in a statement said that the appointment was in exercise of the power conferred on the governor by section 92 (1), Local Government Law, 2004.

Origho said the appointment was with effect from June 3, 2015.

Meanwhile, the Erhuwu Club of Nigeria has congratulated Mr. Esievo on his appointment as the state Local Government Auditor-General.

President of the club, Mr Sam Dieteke in a statement commended Governor Okowa for the appointment of Esievo, whom he said was the immediate past President of the club.

Egbema people hail Buhari on Monguno's appointment

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ARRI—THE people of Egbema Kingdom in Warri North Local Government of Delta State, have commended President Muhammadu Buhari for appointing Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd) as National Security Adviser.

Prince Ebimene Fetimi, President of Egbema for Positive Change, who spoke yesterday in Warri, said, President Buhari made the right choice.

Fetimi expressed confidence in Monguno’s ability and reliability to deliver effectively and contribute greatly to the success of the Buhari’s administration.

He called on Nigerians to be hopeful and have trust in Buhari’s determination, commitment and willingness to transform Nigeria to a better country.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—13

I've no hand in missing N605m —ORUBEBE

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North ABUJA—FORMER Minister, of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, has denied stealing the N605 million said to have disappeared during his tenure.

Orubebe told Vanguard on telephone, yesterday, that the money was not taken during his tenure and that it was mischievous for anyone to link him with the said missing fund.

He said that he had already resigned from the ministry before the said money went missing.

Orubebe said: “I have heard them mention my name as if the money was taken under my watch. The truth is that I had left office before the money was allegedly taken. It did not happen during my tenure and that is what Nigerians should find out.”

He explained that it was in a bid to clear his name that he responded to an invitation by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, ICPC, to state his side of the story.

“Yes, I went to the ICPC the other day to clear my name. I told them what I knew about the

money said to have been stolen and made it clear to them that it did not happen under my watch,” the former minister said.

It was gathered that the former minister was invited by the ICPC in connection with the ongoing probe into the N605 million fraud.

The cash was allegedly withdrawn from the Constituency Project Account of the ministry by five officials without authorisation, a development which prompted the ICPC to drag the suspects to court.

The ICPC has already filed charges against the five persons

in conjunction with the fraud: Yusuf Agabi (Director of Finance and Account), Akpore Okeroghene (Deputy Director of Finance), Abibu Ayinla (Director of Finance), Idowu Adewale (Deputy Director, Accounts) and Ngozi James (Deputy Director, Accounts).

BRIEFING: From left, Sesan Sobowale, Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Tim Kellow, Country Director, Nigeria, Concern Universal and Osita Abana, Sustainable Development Manager, Guinness Nigeria Plc., at the briefing to showcase the Guinness Nigeria/Concern Universal Safe Water and Improved Sanitation and Hygiene, SWISH, project in Cross River State.

Firm assures community of gas flare stopage

W

A R R I —

MIDWESTERN Oil and Gas, an oil producing company operating in Delta State, has assured its host community of Umusadege, in Kwale area of the state that it has not only stopped the smoky gas flare which arose from a newly drilled well in the community, but that it will ultimately stop gas flaring entirely in its oil exploration processes.

The assurance came on the heels of complaints by the community that gas flared by the company has hampered their normal living routines and threatened their health.

General Manager, Technical of the company, Mr. Amarquaye Martey, said

that the grouse of the community was not exactly on gas flaring, but the smoky flare, which he said had been totally taken care of by the company.

He said: “What was reported is not about gas flaring. It is about the smoky flare which is as a consequence of the crude type.

“This came up as a consequence of the crude type and the separation process resulting in unforeseen carryover of entrained oil. We are trucking crude from the remote location until the permanent flow line is completed. So this is only a temporary measure, and we have even stopped it completely.”

Bini group wants FG to takeover welfare of Boko Haram victims

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By Simon Ebegbulem

ENIN CITY—THE Benin National Congress, BNC, a Benin socio-cultural organisation, has called on the Federal Government to provide adequate security and take over the welfare of victims of the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East who are camped in Ovia community in Edo State or relocate the camp to another state.

BNC warned that if proper security and welfare were not provided, the camp might metamorphose into a recruitment and safe haven for sympathizers of the Boko Haram terrorist group.

It said “Much as we sympathize with the plight of the victims of terrorist activities in the North East for their humanitarian predicament, we cannot fold our arms while our places of abode and businesses like Egor and Ovia communities gradually descend into the whims and caprices of the terrorist network."

Delta LG workers suspend strike

By Festus Ahon

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SABA—THE two months strike action embarked upon by members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, NUDGE, in 21 of the 25 local government areas of Delta State, over inability of the councils to pay workers salaries has been suspended.

Addressing newsmen shortly after a meeting of State Executive Committee meeting of NUDGE, yesterday in Asaba, Mr David Ofoyeno, state president of the union, said the state government had released money for three months salaries to the affected councils.

Ofoyeno who is also the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, stressed the need for the state governments to take over payment of primary school teachers salaries.

14— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—15

Workers spoil for war as Imo govt cuts salaries by 50%

By Ugochukwu Alaribe

.PDP commiserates with workers over unpaid salaries

By Chidi Nkwopara & Chinonso Alozie

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W E R R I — A labour war is brewing in Imo State, following what the workers called “the inexplicable reduction by 50 percent, of their monthly wages by the state government”.

Similarly, government has, through the Office of the Head of Service, Mr. Callistus Ekenze, issued what some affected civil servants called, “controversial salary table to ministries”.

Vanguard investigations revealed that the new salary table completely reversed the salaries and allowances of judicial staff, health workers and agricultural field staff attached to ministries, to “the normal salary grade levels in consonance with their colleagues on the same grade level” in other ministries.

It was also gathered that because of the devaluation of salaries and allowances to reflect the new salary table, the payment schedule in the affected ministries like Justice, Agriculture and Health, were returned to the Directors of Accounts for fresh computations.

Unconfirmed reports had it that Governor Rochas Okorocha gave the Directors of Accounts up to today, to complete the computations and return the salary schedules for payment.

Already, the lawyers in the

Ministry of Justice have rejected the new salary table and were at press time, said to be preparing to challenge the government directives.

Meantime, the staff of Imo State House of Assembly and the State Assembly Commission, have rejected their salaries on the ground that all their approved allowances were carefully removed by government without their consent.

Confirming the situation yesterday to Vanguard, some of the workers, who spoke on strict grounds of anonymity, lamented

that their hazard, outfit, legislative and other allowances accruing to them, were yanked off by government.

The aggrieved workers quickly mobilized and confronted the Speaker, Chief Acho Ihim, on the matter but were counseled to go about their grievance peacefully.

Meanwhile, Imo State Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has commiserated with Imo workers over the inability or unwillingness of the present state government to pay their monthly wages as at when due.

The State PDP Chairman, Chief

Nnamdi Anyaehie, who made the party’s feelings known while briefing the press yesterday in Owerri, also described as “most uncharitable”, the glaring inability or unwillingness of the state government to clear the arrears of workers salaries and allowances.

“Our party is sincerely sad about the plight of Imo workers and we challenge the APC government in the state to step up it’s policies in order to make the people happy ”, Chief Anyaehie said.

GUIDELINES: From left, Dr. Okechukwu Itanyi, Executive Commissioner, Stakeholders' Management; Dr. Eugene Juwah, Executive Vice Chairman, and Mrs. Yetunde Akinloye, Head, Legal Department, all of Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, at the Public Inquiries on Enforcement Regulations and SIM Replacement Guidelines, organised by the Commission in Abuja, yesterday.

Lawyer seeks court order forcing EFCC to probe Chime

By Francis Igata ENUGU—An Enugu-based lawyer,Mr. Ray Nnaji has brought before a Federal High Court sitting in Enugu, a Motion on Notice seeking an order of mandamus on the Economic Financial Crime Commission,EFCC,to investigate alleged gross misconduct and financial recklessness by the past administration of former Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State.

Joined in the suit are Chime’s sons Nnamdi and Tochukwu,his former Chief of Staff, Ifeoma Nwobodo,his brother,Jide Chime, sister May Orji, Enugu PDP state chapter Chairman,Ikeje Asogwa, Accountant General of Enugu State and Code of Conduct Bureau.

Nnaji in a petition to EFCC alleged that,”Chime misappropriated public funds worth N12.8 billion and forged the supplementary appropriation law 2012.

“Chime allocated the former Polo park in Enugu which is a public property to a South Africa company owned Shoprite and Games, a company,Chime has an interest through a proxy. Chime using a

ANLCA tasks Rep on maritime policy

proxy,owns substantial shares or equities in the said South African company.

“The old Trade Fair Complex in Enugu State was also partitioned and arbitrarily allocated to family members and cronies. In breach of his oath of office and in abuse of his office, Chime allocated the old Eastern Region Industrial Layout,Zik Avenue,property of Enugu State to a company fronted by his second son,Tochukwu Chime without public bidding.

“Chime also in abuse of his office,arbitrarily allocated to himself and family members,a substantial portion of Enugu State Conference centre car park and all adjoining lands, and acquisition was done without invitation to the public to apply and the illegally acquired plots of land have been largely built upon by the governor ’s relations including Nnamdi,Tochukwu Chime and his younger brother Jide Chime and his elder sister May Orji is not left out.

“Chime also secretly and fraudulently sold to himself the Hotel Presidential Enugu,Enugu State Water Corporation,his private residence at M9 Independence Layout Enugu.”

A

BA—ASSOCIATION of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, ANLCA, Onne Chapter, Rivers State, has tasked the member representing Aba North and Aba South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ossy Prestige, on the need to formulate policies which would benefit the maritime industry in the country.

Chairman of the Association, Kingsley Offor, who made this known during a reception in honour of the lawmaker, hinted that they are looking up to him as a former chairman of ANLCA, Onne chapter, to bring the problems of the association on the floor of the House.

While describing the lawmaker as the first from the South East and South South zones of the association to be elected a member of the House of Representatives, the association explained that Prestige would make his constituents and the maritime industry, proud through quality representation.

Police in Imo begin campaign against cultism

By Chidi Nkwopara

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WERRI—IMO State Police Command says it has mapped out a deliberate policy of touring select secondary schools in the state to properly tutor the students on the dangers associated with joining secret cult groups.

According to a release by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, a deputy superintendent of police, DSP, the move is part of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Mr. Solomon Arase’s community policing strategy.

“The sensitization tour is so dear to the IGP, who believes that sensitizing secondary school students on the dangers of cultism is one of the ways to stop it,” Mr. Enwerem said.

The tour, which began last Tuesday, took Mr. Enwerem and his sensitization team to Police Secondary School, Isu, Girls Secondary School, Isu and Isu High School, all in Nwangele local government area.

16—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

ECA: Leave

OkonjoIweala alone, PDP stalwart tells Edo gov

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ENIN—A Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain in Edo State, Prince Sani Usman, has asked Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State to stop picking holes in the past activities of Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala.

The party chieftain was reacting to assertion by Governor Oshiomhole, at a Seminar in Benin that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala illegally withdrew $1 billion from the Federation Account for the re-election bid of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Usman said though individuals are entitled to their opinions, the comments credited to Governor Oshiomhole were unbecoming of a Chief Executive of a state.

According to him: “If Governor Oshiomhole admitted to have a vast knowledge and workings of government, he should know that the erstwhile Finance Minister cannot withdraw any money without due approval by the National Economic Council.

"The Okonjo- Iweala that we all know is a renowned economist who through hard work and diligence rose to the pinnacle of her career in the World Bank.

"It was in deference to the call by well-meaning Nigerians that she jettisoned her prime job to serve her fatherland. To in turn compensate her in this form is to say the least unjust and uncharitable."

Bishop Ugorji celebrates Silver Jubilee

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HE 25TH Episcopal Silver Jubilee celebration of His Lordship, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese will take place on August 6, 2015 at Mater Dei Cathedral Umuahia.

According to the organizing committee, the celebration is scheduled to begin with a Thanksgiving Mass at 10.00a.m. followed reception at the Jubilee A u d i t o r i u m , entertainment, cultural dances and free-will speeches.

APGA chieftain threatens to drag Umeh to EFCC over party funds

By Vincent Ujumadu

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WKA—A chieftain of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, and former member of the party’s Board of Trustees, BoT, Chief Austine Ndigwe, has threatened to drag the immediate past national chairman of the party, Chief Victor Umeh to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, over alleged unaccounted party funds.

Speaking with reporters in Awka yesterday, Ndigwe said the monies included those

paid by aspirants to the various elective positions which, he alleged, amounted to millions of naira.

He said: “Umeh ran APGA like a private enterprise for 11 years.

Throughout the period, APGA account was never audited and the funds involved were monies paid by members of the party who wanted to contest elections.

“He has to give account of APGA money. We are the founding fathers of this party and as a major stakeholder; I have facts and figures of how the party was handled by Umeh.

“During the last general elections, APGA realized N917

million from the sale of forms, but what was left in the account for the new executive is N40 million.

Where is the rest of the money?"

Ndigwe also said the reason former Governor Peter Obi left APGA to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was because Umeh was reluctant to confirm him (Obi) as the party’s (BoT) chairman after the party had endorsed him.

He added that stakeholders of the party did not go to court to stop the recent convention of the party held in Awka because it would have amounted to elongation of Umeh’s tenure.

According to him, “most

LAUNCH: Representative of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, Agbogidi, Chief Achike Obi; the Ajaka Obi of Onitsha (4th from right), supported by Chief Akunne Agbu, Agbalanze of Onitsha (3rd from right); Globacom National Sales Coordinator, South-East, Dr. Prince Dimkpa (2nd left); Chairman of Onitsha Main Market Amalgamated Traders' Union (OMMATU), Chief Innocent Agudiegwu, and other executive members of OMMATU, at the launch of Glo Yori Yori Special SIMs for OMMATU members, at the Onitsha Main Market, Tuesday.

Ugwuanyi appoints 3 new perm secs, 3 commissioners for state electoral body Stories by Francis Igata

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NUGU—THREE new permanent secretaries and three commissioners of the Enugu State Independent E l e c t o r a l Commission,ENSIEC,appointed

by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, yesterday, took their oath of office

as the governor charged them to assist government to fully actualize its policy objectives and holistic development of the state.

Those sworn-in were Rose Ngozi Chiama, Eucharia Ngozi Ugwuanyi and Barr. Chukwuka Ugwu as permanent secretaries while Mrs. Jane Chinwendu Ene, Chris Ogbonna and Okenyi Collins Remigius were sworn-in

as commissioners of ENSIEC. During the brief ceremony at Government House, Enugu, Governor Ugwuanyi urged them to consider their appointments as a call to duty that demands the utmost level of commitment, diligence and sacrifice for the purpose of obtaining optimal result in the best interest of the state.

Samsung advocates more technology transfer initiatives in Nigeria

By Prince Osuagwu

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ANAGING DIRECTOR of Samsung West Africa Mr. Brovo Kim, has advised technology companies operating in Nigeria to develop technology transfer initiatives which will ensure that Nigerian youths are technically fit to do some of the jobs that expatriates are flown in to do in the country.

Kim was making reference to Samsung Engineering Academy, a Public Private Partnership

initiative between Samsung Electronics and the Lagos State government which just graduated 53 Nigerian youths as technicians from the academy.

According to him, that initiative is a transfer technology model worthy of emulation by every technology company operating in the country.

He noted that the Nigerian youths who have become well trained technicians now, are expected to deepen the pool of well trained technicians in the

country.

Kim added that “Samsung is dedicated to creating a large pool of skilled engineers with a target of training 10,000 students across Africa. The Samsung Electronics Engineering Academy provides hands-on, vocational skills training, opening up well-paying job opportunities for its graduands to work in the electronics industry either as employees in repair centres, assembly lines or as independent entrepreneurs,”

members of the party wanted him to leave the office at all cost and any attempt to stop the convention would have made him stay longer and we did not want that.”

He said that even at that, most of the officers were hand-picked by the former chairman, except the new national chairman.

He urged Governor Obiano to re-convene another convention of the party to ratify certain issues, adding that APGA needed to be overhauled if it must continue to exist as a political party.

However, the former APGA national chairman, Chief Victor Umeh has dismissed the allegations made by Austin Ndigwe as frivolous and therefore should be disregarded.

Speaking through his media aide, Stan Okeke, Umeh called Ndigwe a serial blackmailer, "who plotted in vain to become national chairman of APGA but failed because he was not qualified. He wanted to be made national chairman of APGA after Umeh’s tenure but he didn’t get it because he neither had any education nor credible integrity for such an exalted office. “ Umeh handed over an audited account to the new national chairman of the party before he was sworn in. Contrary to his claims, the party realised N600m from sale of forms and not N917m as Ndigwe claimed. These monies were duly used for the conduct of primaries across states and for payment of staff salaries.

"Besides, 25 per cent of monies realised from states were paid into the account of the states from where they were realised. So, Ndigwe was talking absolute rubbish.

"Moreover, the party’s account has been audited for the past six years and that was what Umeh handed over peacefully to the new national chairman. ”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 17

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NE of the more defining aspects of the new culture of change in Nigeria is taking place right before our eyes today, in the enduring and intense debate on the state of Nigeria’s finances, especially under the Goodluck Jonathan presidency. The protagonists are remarkable representatives of the two sides of the Nigerian coin. Adams Oshimhole, governor of Edo state is pitted against Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Jonathan presidency’s Minister of Finance, who had the additional title of Coordinating Minister for the Economy. Oshiomhole is a street-wise, former leader of the Nigerian working class movement, who fought many battles on the shop floor and in the streets, against exploitative and stubborn employers of labour in the textile industry, which in its halcyon days, employed thousands of workers, especially in Northern Nigeria, where Adams cut his teeth as workers’ tribune and leader.

He then led the Nigerian working people in bruising battles as a reactionary Nigerian government, especially after 1999, became wedded to the orthodoxy of neo-liberal capitalism and the notorious Washington Consensus.

On the other side of the raging controversy, is Ngozi OkonjoIweala, poster girl of neo-liberal capitalism. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala saw herself as a kind of “God’s gift” to the Nigerian ruling class, having served imperialism at its home base in Washington and the World Bank. She is the ultimate “technocrat”, chosen to administer the one-size-fitsall poison of neo-liberal reforms in Nigeria. Technocrats of this hue are exceedingly arrogant and cannot brook any interference with what they assume is the best cure for the economic woes of a neocolonial society. Ngozi was particularly gung-ho about what she did and from the heights of the perch that she occupied, first under Obasanjo, but even more so, under the Jonathan presidency, she became particularly intolerant of scrutiny of her much-vaunted expertise and the cure she was administering to a very sick Nigerian economy! She had a long list of retainers ever willing to take the battle to adversaries. And everytime that Ngozi was interrogated, we ended up receiving lectures about how allegations ‘show that these people are still in the business of throwing up wild, unsubstantiated figures to damage Okonjo-Iweala’s name”, to quote her Media Adviser, Paul Nwabuikwu, as reported by VANGUARD newspaper of Wednesday, July 1, 2015, responding to allegations from Governor Oshiomhole, that Ngozi had spent $2.1billion from the Excess Crude Account, ECA, without authorisation.

Ngozi’s defence Ngozi’s defence on that occasion was that “decisions on withdrawals from the ECA were DISCUSSED (my emphasis) at monthly meetings of the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee, FAAC, attended by

Between Adams Oshimhole and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Finance Commissioners from the 36 states. Oshiomhole had told the media after the National Economic Council meeting of Monday, June 29, 2015, that: “Dr.Okonjo-Iweala reported by November 2014 that we had $4.1bn. Today, the AccountantGeneral’s office reported that we have $2.0bn which means the minister spent $2.1bn without authority of NEC and that money was not distributed to states, it was not paid to the three tiers of government”.

The “unauthorised” spending according to the NEC, was one of the anomalies discovered in the management of the nation’s economy between 2012 and May 2015.

But the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, in the changed circumstances of post May 29, 2015 Nigeria, was now playing the “victim”: “It is curious that in their desperation” according to Paul Nwabuikwu, “to use the esteemed National Economic Council for political and personal vendetta (seeking the truth about finances that Ngozi managed became vendetta, eh?), the persons behind these allegations acted as if the constitutionally-recognised FAAC, a potent expression of Nigeria’s fiscal federalism, does not exist”. And to take the “victimhood” further, Ngozi’s Media adviser added that: “…this is the latest chapter of a political witch-hunt by elements who are attempting to use the respected National Economic Council for ignoble purposes having failed in their previous attempts to tar the Okonjo-Iweala name”.

Under her, monthly personnel cost went from about N35billion to about N65billion, even as oil revenue was declining

It is curious, that in the management of Nigeria’s economy, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will describe ELECTED governors of Nigerian states as “elements” attempting to USE the NEC to politically witch-hunt her! But not to be cowed by her deployment of “victimhood” and the effort to hide behind sandbags of obfuscations, Adams Oshiomhole went further to challenge her to publish the letter of authority as to how six billion dollars of excess crude taxes from the Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas and other funds were transferred to the consolidated Federal funds.

Her main “sandbag” remained the FAAC, but last week Tuesday, FAAC denied approving the withdrawal and spending of about $2.1billion from the excess crude oil revenue account in December 2014.

Misleading claims

They described Ngozi’s claim as “misleading and far from the fact”, adding that they were not informed when the former minister approved the release from the ECA account.

Furthermore, FAAC reminded that the law setting it up, which predates the ECA, did not empower them to approve such withdrawals, and that there were records of the FAAC meetings, showing they had always queried the activities on ECA, especially the withdrawals: “FAAC did not and could not have approved, nor took the decision to withdraw the sum of Two Billion Dollar ($2, 000, 000, 000. 00) from the Excess Crude Account”. So in one fell swoop, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s FAAC sandbags collapsed in her face.

But she won’t stop playing victim because in response to the FAAC statement, Paul Nwabikwu retorted that all withdrawals from the ECA: “were DISCUSSED (my emphasis!) at meetings of the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC)…at no time did Dr. Okonjo-Iweala say that FAAC approved such expenditures…why is OkonjoIweala’s name being battered in this way?” And then the Nwabuikwu clincher: “THIS PERSECUTION MUST STOP”!

So the know-it-all, imperialist– trained technocrat, who thought she did Nigeria a favour coming to implement imperialism’s neo-liberal, Washington Consensus policies, that could not be

interrogated, suddenly became the “victim of persecution”? We must thank God for the change that Buhari’s emergence as president is signposting for Nigeria! This is because the demolition of the FAAC sandbag finally made Ngozi to own up to the fact that she got President Jonathan’s approval to spend money from the ECA, “to pay for subsidies for the Nigerian people”, according to Paul Nwabuikwu!

But Adams Oshiomhole was not going to let go. This week, he revealed that fuel importers refuted the statement that they collected $2.1billion as subsidy payment.

These importers, according to Governor Oshiomhole “said they got only $1 billion”. So where would the remaining $1billion be? Well, Adams Oshimhole is afterall a politician and he offered a political answer: “He accused (Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala) of illegally taking $1billion from the Federation Account to fund the failed re-election bid of former President Goodluck Jonathan”, as reported by THE NATION newspaper of Tuesday, July 14, 2015.

Adams went further that: “Mrs. Okonjo-Iweala would have been declared a pathological liar if she were a witness in court due to the inconsistency in her statements”. Ngozi angrily rejected the latest accusation of having spent on Jonathan’s re-election, describing it as “stupid and unfounded”.

Nwabuikwu said the statement was “just another example of the numerical diarrhoea that seems to have afflicted His Excellency (Adams Oshiomhole) in recent times in his effort to damage the reputation of the former Minister”. We can wonder just what remains of the muchvaunted “reputation”, given the mess that Ngozi seemed to have made of Nigeria’s finances. And it was against that backdrop, that activist lawyer, Femi Falana, asked NgoziOkonjo-Iweala to accept guilt on the unauthorised withdrawal made from the Excess Crude Account while at the same time tendering apologies to the Nigerian people. Falana said the contradictory statements she made in her defense of the withdrawals had given her out as a guilty party! So much for the “persecution” and the “reputation”!

A demystified Okonjo-Iweala

In truth, I think Ngozi OkonjoIweala is being systematically demystified and all that ridiculous talk about her service to imperialism at the World Bank, as the qualification for the manner she worked as minister and CME, is being exposed as having failed to serve the best interest of our country.

As a perceptive observer asked, did Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy to boot, manage the economy well or not? Under her, monthly personnel cost went from about N35billion to about N65billion, even as oil revenue was declining.

Another N20billion went for pensions and gratuity monthly, while N50billion went on monthly interest payment for capital market bonds and another N50billion went for monthly statutory transfers.

Our perceptive observer then asked: “Was the handwriting not on the wall? Is it not all about revenue and expenditure and should the ‘manager’ not be heedful so the latter does not outpace the former? I would have thought that she would be when she saw crude oil production- for whatever reasons- going down from 2.3mn bpd to 1.6mn bpd along with prices. What did she do instead?

She decided to borrow to pay salaries. Under her watch, personnel costs grew exponentially: when there was a problem at the pension office, a new bureaucracy known as Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) was created.

There was…the SWF with its own heavyweights; DMO since her first coming with its 200 or so fat cat DG, directors, deputy directors, etc. (does it take more than one person to purchase a bond?)…Then there was the SURE-P mess. Between April 2012 and 2014, she spent N35bn per month (or $220m) on SURE-P. Where did the money come from? Excess Crude Account. It only stopped when money ran out last year and we stopped hearing about SURE – P, as it died a silent isolated death.

SURE-P created additional running costs such as the Graduate Internship Scheme that sent our young men and women to companies paying them N18,000/month until funding ceased in January and left them stranded. NgoziOkonjo-Iweala mis-advised President Jonathan and sold him the SURE-P dummy as a PTF type scheme, but PTF it was not…YOUWIN, PROJECT NOLLYWOOD, SAFE SCHOOLS INITIATIVE were all additional expenditure created under Ngozi OkonjoIweala at a time when prudence was required”!

This is the real score sheet for Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and her running from pillar-to-post about spending from the Excess Crude Account, is really a tip of the iceberg of a most irresponsible economic management regime. Ngozi thought she was very special and was doing Nigeria a favour as a minister, but we now know better. That is why individuals like Adams Oshiomhole must be appreicated for helping lift the lid off the mystifications of imperialist-trained technocrats like Ngozi OkonjoIweala. This is truly the era of change in our country!

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18 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 THIS was the first time that the posting of prisoners from one part of the country to another by the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS) was causing such a fluster among a cross-section of Nigerians. But these were no ordinary prisoners. They were 47 convicted members of the murderous Islamist sect, Boko Haram, who were recently sent to the Ekwulobia Prisons in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.

When the news was confirmed as not being a mere rumour, a series of peaceful protests and demonstrations took place all over Anambra State and other parts of the South East, with markets being shut down to show the depth of the peoples rejection of the unwanted ‘guests”.

An unhealthy touch of politics was added to it when the Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South East, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, had initially debunked the “rumour”, while Governor Willie Obiano and Chief Security Officer of Anambra State, appeared to fully back the protests with a view to getting the Prison authorities to rescind their

Ending The Boko Haram Prisoners Controversy decision.

Ordinarily, the Nigerian Prisons Service, as the sole administrator and custodian of all correctional facilities in the country, has the authority to send prisoners within its custody to any part of the country.

However, this issue is a bit different because the Ekwulobia Prisons is not known to be a maximum security facility able to keep these special inmates safely locked away from other prisoners and the host community. Their mere presence within the bowels of a congested local community like Ekwulobia is bound to cause the people sleepless nights, in view of the several jail breaks that their

members have perpetrated in places like Koton Karfe and Lokoja in Kogi State in efforts to free their members.

We encourage the Anambra State Government to continue the engagement that has been established between it and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to find an amicable and lasting solution to the controversy. It is the only sane and patriotic thing to do.

We must desist from allowing the situation to degenerate to unhealthy politics of seeing it from ethno-religious and sectional prism, which is capable of creating unnecessary tension. The Boko Haram headache is one that we, as Nigerians, must be ready to share as citizens of one country. But it must be handled in such a way that people are not given the impression that their genuine fears are inconsequential.

The Federal Government must recognise the fact that terrorism as a violent crime is here with us. We must confront it taking into account how other more experienced countries handle such without multiplying a problem in efforts to solve it.

OPINION neither for profit nor for the Pope Francis on climate change analysis well-being of the human race”, that “in the most radical sense of the term power is its motive – a lordship over all”. This and Nigeria (2) bears repeating, technology’s ultimate Continued from yesterday's pg 19

By Paul Odili

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VERY effort to protect and improve our world entails profound changes in “lifestyles, models of production and consumption, and the established structures of power which today govern societies. Authentic human development has a moral character. It presumes full respect for the human person, but it must also be concerned for the world around us.”

Pope Francis laments our inability to deal with this problem adding: “Regrettably, many efforts to seek concrete solutions to the environmental crisis have proved ineffective, not only because of powerful opposition but also because of a more general lack of interest.

The exploitation of the planet has already exceeded acceptable limits and we still have not solved the problem of poverty.”

In reading the encyclical, it is hard not to pause and reflect on the following with respect to Nigeria and how this country has conducted its affairs: “For poor countries, the priorities must be to eliminate extreme poverty and to promote the social development of their

people. At the same time, they need to acknowledge the scandalous level of consumption in some privileged sectors of their population and to combat corruption more effectively”, Pope Francis notes. Does this sound familiar?

Of course, it should about Nigeria. The question of poor governance and corruption are regular standard topics in the country. Even if Pope Francis did not mention Nigeria, his assessment speaks about Nigeria.

While Pope Francis acknowledges the great stride science and technology have brought to the human society, he warns those who place their absolute trust in technology, explaining that: “Technology tends to absorb everything into its ironclad logic, and those who are surrounded with technology “know full well that it moves forward in the final

Our freedom fades when it is handed over to the blind forces of the unconscious; of immediate needs, of self-interest, and of violence

objective is power.

Elaborating further Pope Francis expresses his deep mistrust of man’s capacity to control so much of the power technology confers on him. “There is a tendency to believe that every increase in power means “an increase of ‘progress’ itself”, an advance in “security, usefulness, welfare and vigour; …an assimilation of new values into the stream of culture”, as if reality, goodness and truth automatically flow from technological and economic power as such. The fact is that: “contemporary man has not been trained to use power well”, because our immense technological development has not been accompanied by a development in human responsibility, values and conscience.

Our freedom fades when it is handed over to the blind forces of the unconscious; of immediate needs, of self-interest, and of violence. In this sense, we stand naked and exposed in the face of our everincreasing power, lacking the wherewithal to control it. We have certain superficial mechanisms, but we cannot claim to have a sound ethics, a culture and spirituality genuinely capable of setting limits and teaching clear-minded self-restraint.” This is a truly frightening insight, which no

reflective man should ignore. Pope Francis’ powerful comments should set every human being thinking. I hope it does. I hope we can sit back and rethink the world for our sake and the future of unborn generations. This is by no means a call to abandon technological evolution—far from it. The point is that power without restraint even, technological power is troubling and there is need for caution.

As it is, it is not difficult to situate Nigeria. Nigeria is not showing leadership in the struggle to combat climate change. So far, there appears to be no indication that the country fully appreciates the issues and ready to harness the opportunities inherent in combating climate change. Both from policy and programme perspective, the average Nigerian views climate change as exoteric. Yet, this can be the basis of a transition in our energy systems, farming methods, infrastructure and industrial strategy on a sustainable basis and from it reduce poverty, create employment while being good caretakers of the earth as Pope Francis had urged.

Overall, I have not read a more inspiring interpretation of human civilisation, morality, technology, science, power — its dimension and uses.

Pope Francis’ encyclical is an awesome intervention — truly awesome, in every respect.

Concluded •Mr. Odili was formerly Delta State Green Economy Project Lead.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16 16,, 2015— 19 Send Opinions & Letters to: opinions1234@yahoo.com

Joda panel and airline mergers

W

HEN General Muhammadu Buhari emerged as the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Alliance (APC) I had my reservations. It had nothing to do with baseless ethnic, religious or North-South sentiments. My main point of concern was that if this politician emerged as president of Nigeria, we might be forced to go back to certain aspects of our history which we thought we had outgrown since the momentous annulled June 12 1993 presidential election.

Our history before that time was that of a country under the colonial-style grip by a section of it, the North. Buhari had been a central figure of it as a military head of state. During his time, the North was so dominant in our politics that for the first time in our history, the Head of State was a Northerner and Muslim, while his Deputy (Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters) was also a Northerner and Muslim. No pretence was made whatsoever about the need to balance the scales. Part of the reforms put in place after the June 12 election was to enshrine the principle of

Federal Character in the constitution and split Nigeria into six unofficial geopolitical zones to ensure that every section was given a sense of belonging in power sharing.

During Buhari’s first time, the Nigerian economy was operated mainly by the state. The 1979 constitution gave the federal government the power to manage the economy of Nigeria on behalf of the states, which it then spoonfed and still does till date. The Federal Government owned so many state monopolies, such as Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL), Nigeria Airways, Nigerian Telecommunications Ltd (NITEL), and so on.

Every year, the federal government budgeted huge sums of money to subsidize these ponderous, corrupt, inefficient and unproductive state monopolies. It took General Ibrahim Babangida, who listened to the ideas proffered by Dr Kalu Idika Kalu, Chief Olu Falae and Dr Chu SP Okongwu as Finance Ministers, for the economy to be deregulated and eventually largely privatised.

Today, the only one of those monopolies still standing is the NNPC and its comatose refineries.

When Buhari won the election and appointed Dr Ahmed Joda as the Chairman of his Transition Committee, my worries of our drift back to the past were stoked. Joda, one of General Yakubu Gowon’s Super Permanent Secretaries more than forty years ago, was to the federal bureaucracy what Buhari and others were to the Nigerian Army. They represented the interest of the North in the federal government and played leading roles in concentrating political and economic powers at the centre for effective Northern control and benefit.

I was not too surprised, therefore, when online blog, Premium Times, claimed it had the “full version” of the Joda Transition Committee Report which was presented to President Buhari in June 2015.

Part of the recommendations, according to the paper, was that our local private airlines should be merged into a “national carrier” and operated under the public/ private partnership (PPP) model.

It was their own way out of the huge indebtedness of the airlines

What our indigenous investors need is encouragement and support, not politicallymotivated sliding tackles and an uncertain operating atmosphere

Vandalism, cable buy-back and associated scams

W

ITH the sick baby of the Nigerian economy, the energy sector, no news is good news. This sector can only be in the news for the wrong reasons – because of its abysmal performances, either that the staffers have been beaten up somewhere or that some youths have carried their demonstration to headquarters.

On 1 November 2013, the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, as it was then called, was unbundled into 18 separate companies – six generation (Genco), one transmission (Transco) and 11 distribution (Disco) – and privatised, ostensibly for greater efficiency. But since then, things have degenerated incrementally.

At no time did the Federal Government hide its inability to fund the power sector, hence the decision to privatise. But the investors came barely half-prepared: contrary to global best practices where private investors are supposed to raise the money for buying the assets by themselves under equity arrangements, without borrowing, so that they could later borrow to finance the upgrade of the assets, most of the new investors used 100 percent borrowed money to acquire the assets.

The investors paid for the assets around July 2013 but because of the bureaucratic bottleneck in the privatisation process, they did not take possession until November 2013, by which time, amortization of the purchase loan was due.

Consequently, instead of embarking on massive upgrade of the infrastructure and procurement of transparent metering, the new investors were entangled in the process of raising funds to pay their financiers.

Paradoxically, the Federal Government that relinquished the power sector to private hands because of its professed inability to afford the funding is the same Federal Government that now funds the new investors through the back door. We

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remember the Federal Government intervention fund of N213 billion in October 2014.

It is instructive that under the present arrangement, the power system in Nigeria comprises three tiers – generation, transmission and distribution. Since the distribution company is at the end of the value chain, it is the one that the people see.

The only thing of interest to the electricity consumer is that there is light and any deficiency is visited on the distribution company.

You cannot give what you do not have.

Yet, the consumer is not interested that the generation company is unable to generate enough megawatts or that the transmission company does not have the wherewithal to transmit the generated power to the distribution point, he wants electricity supply around the clock.

Hear the front-lines: First, the Director, Benin Electricity Distribution Company, BEDC, Mrs. Funke Osibodu: “Anything that happens anywhere, even if it is not your concern, it will be assumed that it is your doing.

So, the public believes that the lack of power is because the new owners of the distribution companies don’t know what they are doing.

But in reality, it is a GENCO problem….”

Second, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Kano Distribution Company, Jamili Gwamna: “Our power allocation has been low in recent times. So,

Discos have shown themselves as sadists that benefit tremendously from supplying expensive darkness instead of light

to the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) and the banks.

If Buhari accepts and implements this recommendation, the consequences are obvious. We would return to state ownership, if not monopoly, of the airline industry after paying a massive price to exit from it starting from thirty years ago. In a PPP arrangement, whoever controls the 51 per cent controls the business. If the Federal Government is given 51 per cent share, we could see a re-enactment of the Nigeria Airways misadventures.

But this time, government freeloaders will take down other people’s investments and sweat that have sustained the industry since the collapse of Nigeria Airways. If it goes to the private sector with a crowded field of investors from Arik Air, Aero Contractors, Peace Air, Azman Air and what have you, how do you control the conflict of interests to optimise the benefits of the merger?

What is the guarantee that this will help repay the debts owed AMCON? Besides, mergers between private companies are never compelled in any sensible economy. Companies opt to go into mergers to leverage on the strengths of the merging partners and minimise the negative effects of their weaknesses. For instance, it was the voluntary merger of Standard Trust Bank (STB) and the United Bank for Africa (UBA) that produced today’s UBA, a global bank. UBA gave its name and huge national network to the merger, and STB gave it its colours and Executive Chairman, Tony Elumelu. Businesses are not like government ministries and departments you just whimsically

how on earth will customers pay me and how will I pay money also? There has not been power and when you threaten to disconnect consumers, they will tell you to hurry up with the disconnection process”.

At Independence in 1960, Nigeria was at par with South Africa and Iran on power generation. But today, those countries generate over 40,000 megawatts, while Nigeria is still struggling at below the 5,000 megawatts level, which ordinarily, is barely adequate for one State!

Enough of this rationalisation of failure.

After all, nothing atones for the efforts of the Distribution Companies at cutting corners.

Indeed they have numerous entries on the debit side: Suddenly, there is an outbreak of the vandalisation of transformers. For more reasons than one, these vandalisations simply give away the Discos. Virtually every transformer is vandalised with the cables so neatly and perfectly removed that even the blind can see that they wear the appearance of insiders’ job.

A community that is desperate to have light puts money together to replace the vandalised armoured cable. Discos are reluctant to allow the community to procure the materials. They prefer that you give them money to do the procurement by themselves and there is no telling when they are simply putting back the very cables that were vandalised. This is what we call cable buy-back.

Then, the Discos try to turn the people’s misfortune into their own big advantage by asking the community to get debtors in the zone to pay their debts before the vandalisation can be fixed, thus holding everybody, including the good customers, to ransom.

merge and damn the consequences; the consequences can be outright damning.

The argument that our airlines are debt-ridden may have its merits, but that is no excuse to take primitive decisions to forcefully merge them. All over the world airlines constantly need financial support. Since the global economic meltdown of 2007/2008, the US, UK, Kenya, Ethiopia and Nigeria, among a host of others countries, have intervened to save airlines in their economies with financial support. In any case, debt is part of business. If Arik Airline, for instance, is to continue to operate their unique, brand new planes, they need constant credit because inputs are dollar-denominated and sourced internationally. So do the others.

And if the idea, as the Joda Panel observed, is to make the product of such a merger the largest airline fleet in the West African subregion, Arik and Aero already cover the region satisfactorily. In addition, Arik flies Nigeria’ flag to London, New York and South Africa. What our indigenous investors need is encouragement and support, not politicallymotivated sliding tackles and an uncertain operating atmosphere.

We should copy the best practices that make even less fancied economies thrive, especially in an aviation sector that operates on a single, worldwide regulatory model. We should stop using the instrument of governance to enforce our narrow, ulterior and unpatriotic political desires to the detriment of the general good of the country.

Buhari should take us to a rosier, happier future, not back to the ugly, unsavoury past.

The most repugnant aspect of it all is the system of estimated billing, known among consumers as “crazy bills”, which has persisted over the years. Under this scam, Discos are known to have slammed upwards of 1,100 percent increase on consumers, even during periods when such consumers received darkness instead of light. In December 2014, virtually every house became a mortuary of sorts, when Christmas meat got rotten, because of widespread electricity failure, no thanks to the Discos.

But that was when people were rewarded with criminally high estimated bills.

Discos have shown themselves as sadists that benefit tremendously from supplying expensive darkness instead of light. It is not uncommon that a consumer buys credit that he estimates would last him for one month but because Discos supply him all darkness and no light, the credit lasts for four months. The implication is that the consumer spends N3,000 daily for diesel to power his generator, plus the nebulous monthly fixed charge of N750 (i.e. N750×4 = N3,000) plus VAT and other sundry hidden charges. Head or tail, the consumer loses.

The Erstwhile Minister of Power, Prof.

Chinedu Nebo, spent his last days in office, sermonising on why his tardy arrangements in the power sector must stay.

That sermon of darkness must be accepted only by those who want Nigeria dead; and by those who are yet to realise the importance of electricity in the life of a nation.

Honestly, for how long shall we remain this way?

20—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Buhari, Osinbajo, way to go!

By Ebele Orakpo

is the way to go! Buhari has indeed “salary shown leadership by example. To cut his THIS by half no be small thing oo!” comment-

Shops remain shut since death of monarch, Oba Festus Fatola (INSET).

Lamentations, panic in Lagos community over death of traditional ruler

By Bose Adelaja

U

NTIL recently, Igbogbo com munity in Ikorodu, was a particularly busy place being a popular destination for commerce and other human activities. But the situation has changed as residents are presently living in fear. In fact, the fear is palpable, whether at the motor parks, bus-stops, homes, shops, entertainment joints, drinking bars and markets. Particularly panic-stricken are the non-indigenes of the land. Their feeling in this regard became evident when news circulated that the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo land, Oba Festus Fatola had joined his ancestors on Monday June 29, 2015 at the age of 83. The Oba was said to have ascended the throne of his fathers about 36 years ago on his return from overseas.

But news of the monarch’s transition has created disquiet in Igbogbo, a town that was always brimming with activities by reason of serving as a transit to many communities like Oreta, Awobo, Ofin, Lajo, Igbomogun, Bayeku, Agunfoye and Morekete, to mention but a few. But now residents, commuters, traders and residents are afraid to step out of their homes.

Before his demise, Oba Fatola was said to have battled many challenges: physically, mentally and otherwise. In fact, some people are wont to believe that his search for solution to these challenges possibly prompted him to worship at the Celestial Church of Christ, CCC. He remained a member of the church until he passed on that fateful Monday.

Since his demise, the entire community has been living in fear as traditional activities have been ongoing both day and night as stipulated by tradition. Part of the demand stipulated by this tradition was clo-

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sure of markets, shops and all other types of business premises. Also, all forms of public celebration, music, especially drumming, are prohibited for the time being.

Religious centres have also been asked to put night activities and music boxes on hold for now, beginning with the first phase of the traditional rites.

Another three months of segmented traditional programmes will follow to complete the traditional funeral rites of the monarch.

During the first week activities, the traditional town crier went round the communities to announce the passing on of the monarch while informing of the traditional rites to follow. He also did not forget to stress the attendant curses or consequences on those who defy the said directives from the palace.

Most residents regard these as undue inconveniences, especially as they can neither use the markets close to them nor buy their needs from neighbouring shops as all are under lock and key.

However, the development has not stopped some desperate persons from going to neighbouring communities like Ikorodu central to procure their needs, the attendant transportation cost of N200 notwithstanding.

So tense and punitive has the situation become that some house wives and artisans have resorted to corporate begging to feed their families.

Igbogbo which is noted for social activities and celebrations, has for now been shut down till the next three months. This has created a sharp division between those who support the demand of tradition in this respect and those opposed to it, especially nonindigenes who see it as punitive and an affront on their fundamental human rights.

A resident, Mrs Iretiola Awodele who put to bed recently, said she was pained that she could not entertain her guests with music on the christening of the baby.

Some traders who spoke on the development lamented the adverse effect it has on their businesses. For example, a food vendour, Mrs Serifat Adamo, said she had already prepared food for sale against the next day when the monarch’s death was announced in the evening. ‘’I had spent so much in readiness for the next day, but the announcement almost gave me hypertension as I lost about N30,000 in the process. My system of operation is payment after sales but this development has affected me adversely,” she lamented.

As if this was not enough, some chiefs in the land were said to be going round the town seizing and destroying wares belonging to erring residents, particularly those who dared open their shops.

As at the time of filing this report, many residents were at their tethers end and are desperately calling on government to come to their rescue.

Igbogbo has produced prominent sons and daughters such as one-time Minister for Works, Adeseye Ogunlewe; immediate past Lagos State Head of Service, Prince Segun Ogunlewe; onetime Deputy Director with the Central Bank of Nigeria, Chief Olorunfunmi Bashorun, among others.

Some believe that Igbogbo would attract more development if majority of the indigenes give up their fetish ways and unfriendly attitude.

Efforts to reach the Odofin of Igbogbo for his comment on the prevailing situation proved abortive as he was said to be engaged when Vanguard Metro visited the palace.

ed Henry in the Obalende-bound commuter bus.

“Yes, I hope others will follow suit. I praise him for his courage and kindness. It’s his love for Nigerians that must have made him do that,” said Taiwo.

“Yeah, he is a modest, upright man. He knows Nigerian political office holders earn armed robber’s salary,” said Funmi.

“Story, story! Abegi, make we hear word jare.

Why they no slash their allowances? The allowances are more than the salary; so if they are serious, they should cut the allowances,” said Steve.

“Bad belle. If someone does well, praise him and if he does badly, rebuke him; that is the way it should be. Don’t just condemn everything someone does simply because you hate him. If all our political office holders will slash their salaries, even by 10 per cent, it will go a long way. I am sure 50 per cent of the President’s salary can pay the salaries of at least 12 junior staff,” said Funmi.

“I think it will make more sense if they keep their full salaries and scrap the allowances,” said Abe. “That’s not fair. Which worker doesn’t get allowances,” asked Taiwo.

“I agree they have done well but that is not enough,” insisted Steve.

“You guys are impossible. The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, so Buhari has done well. At least, he is better than his predecessors in that aspect,” stated Henry.

“No matter what anyone may say, the fact remains that Buhari is a man of God,” said Abe. “Which one you dey sef? What makes him a man of God?” asked Steve.

“Abeg, allow me to land. It is only a man of God that can bring out billions of naira out of a near-empty treasury,” said Abe. At this point, everyone burst out laughing. “You are not serious,” said Steve.

Buhari has “On a more serious note, look at the lopindeed sided appointments shown leaderso far in favour of the North. Is that fair?” ship by examasked Abe. ple. To cut his “Please cool down.

Like the legendary salary by half king of pop, Michael no be small Jackson said, he does not hire colour but thing oo! competence. So I think Buhari knows what he is doing. He is hiring competence above tribe and religion. He wants the desired results at the end of the day,” said Joe. “I see, so there are no competent people in the South?” asked Abe angrily.

“The man should stop distracting us with all these. First we were told he rejected bullet-proof cars; now he slashed his salary by half. Meanwhile, security situation is worsening and we need to see things working. He should appoint ministers joo and let them do their jobs,” counseled Steve.

“What exactly will the ministers do that the permanent secretaries cannot do?” asked Joe. “They are very corrupt. In fact, the civil service is corruption personified. Were they not the ones that cost a former Health Minister her job by making her share public funds amongst themselves the way they do it?” asked Steve.

“My own be say members of the National Assembly should slash their own salaries or scrap their allowances, including the constituency allowances; governors should give up their security votes. After all, they secure nothing with the security votes and most of the senators do nothing for their constituencies with the constituency allowances,” said Taiwo.

“Hmm, you are on your own oo. I no dey house abeg,” replied Henry, laughing.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

— 21

NECA urges FG to stop granting import waivers

By Victor Ahiuma Young

NLC, said congress must ensure that public policies were inclusive and people driven.

Adeyemi said that no country would develop by importing its raw materials except by building industries.

According to him, “We are

N

IGERIA Employers Consultative Association, NECA, has called on the Federal Government to stop granting waivers and concessions to selected individuals or groups to import at concessionary rate, lamenting that such waivers are detrimental to other players in the economy.

President of NECA, Mr Larry Ettah, at the body’s 58th Annual General Meeting, AGM, in Lagos, argued that failure of trade policies to recognise the importance of tariff had undermined industrial activities in Nigeria.

According to him, tariff policy should be decided on a sector by sector basis with adequate considerations for the imperatives of sector strategies, saying “it is important to recognise that tariffs are instruments of industrial policy and as such have implications for employment, investment, technology and productivity growth.”

He insisted that planed review of waivers should pass through the Tariff Review Committee under the Federal Ministry of Finance, noting that the rampant cases of duplication of taxes and levies across the country had added to the cost of doing business.

He called the Joint Tax Board to ensure the harmonization of the tax structure to eliminate cases of double taxation.

In his goodwill message, Mr Peters Adeyemi, Deputy President of Wabba Ayuba led faction of the Nigeria Labour Congress,

$125.85

51.73 CURRENCY DOLLAR POUNDS EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL SDR KRONA

BUYING 195.95 304.2516 216.4072 206.524 1.5881 0.3111 273.1371 31.5597 52.2436 275.2314 28.9935

By Franklin Alli

T

HE Bank of Industry (BoI) says it is planning a cluster initiative for the Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs across 40 sectors in order to aid ease of access to bankable loans for their businesses.

Also, the bank wants to induct successful entrepreneurs under the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) programme into its hall of fame in a bid to encourage entrepreneurship.

The Managing Director, BoI, Rasheed

0.22

$57.11

-0.74

-0.47 196.95 305.8043 217.5116 207.578 1.5962 0.3311 274.531 31.7216 52.5102 276.636 29.1415

CBN Exchange Rate as at 14/ 07 /15

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Olaoluwa, who disclosed this when he addressed entrepreneurs during the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP) boot camp, in Ota, Ogun State, said: “ With over 40 sectors already identified, the bank is looking at developing an SME cluster initiative where specific funds will be directed for the growth of such sectors.

He, therefore, implored entrepreneurs to avail themselves of the services of the Business Development

Service Providers (BDSPs) identified by the bank, to constantly update themselves of current trends in the global market space and to understudy the dynamics of the economy and the world at large.

“Ideas that are generated today will not remain forever. Please be watchful and monitor the environment in terms of the ever-changing needs and wants of consumers to whom you will be offering your services. As the world continues to change, you must follow the trend to become successful entrepreneurs,” he added.

The Founder, TEF, Tony Elumelu,

Ideas that are generated today will not remain forever.

Please be watchful and monitor the environment

stated that the boot camp was designed to provide entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to begin and take their businesses from idea to reality.

He said the initiative is a holistic 10-year, $100 million commitment that will identify, grow and create 10.000 African entrepreneurs.”

A programme built by Africans, for Africans. As the first class of 1,000, your experience with us these last several months and in the months and years to follow will help shape the future of thisgroundbreaking programme,” he said.

N5.4b income: Ship-owners expectant as NCDMB deadline for foreigners expires

By Godfrey Bivbere, Godwin Oritse, Ifeyinwa Obi Ship-owners are hoping to NIGERIA take charge of Cabotage business

CENTRAL 196.45 305.0279 216.9594 207.051 1.5921 0.3211 273.834 31.6406 52.3769 275.9337 29.0675

es for the products, which eventually lead people into spending more than they earn and therefore either go borrowing and be enmeshed in unending debt crisis or continuously steal to survive.

“Our country is in this state because we have all allowed impunity for too long. Public resources were brazenly taken by leaders and their cronies entrusted with the management of our collective interests in manners that gives all of us out as accomplices as we watched helplessly while the reign of mass looting persists. Public enterprises were given out under the guise of being unprofitable, inefficient, unmanageable, and wasteful or that government must not be involved in business. These are mere excuses for a policy imposed on our country to stop funding public interests with public money. Our taxes are meant to provide us good services, qualitative lives and infrastructures.”

They are not contributions for individuals. Government must reverse some of the sales of public enterprises, including electricity which despite its privatization has sunk further in comatose.

BoI to cluster SMEs across 40 sectors for easy funding

9.00

$12. 78

pay so high to run a generator to produce encourages corrupt practices as he will pass cost of production to the worker through low wages, unfair labour practices and also to the consumer with unbearable pric-

BRIEFING: From left, Jailesh Shah, Vice-President, Business Development, ISON BPO International Ltd; Opemipo Alebiosu, Chief Marketing Officer; Pravin Kumar, Global Chief Executive Officer and Stephen Obasahon, AGM, Human Resources at a press briefing in Lagos to announce three additional ISON BPO call centres and other service offerings in Nigeria. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele

2.90

$3,318. 00

hopeful that further close collaboration between NLC and NECA as social partners could help the new government under President Mohammadu Buhari to rethink governance and wasteful spending. A system where an employer will have to

as the deadline by the management of the Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board, NCDMB, for the N5.4 billion monthly vessels servicing projects by foreign owners for major companies expires in a few months.

Disclosing this at a press briefing in Lagos, President of Nigerian Ship-owners Association, NISA, Capt. Niyi Labinjo, said with the expiration of the deadline by the end of the year, Nigerian ship-owners would be

considered for all classes of offshore support vessels services. The NISA president also disclosed that it has entered into another agreement, this time with American and Turkish partners over provision of vessels not limited to product tankers alone. Recall that it had earlier entered into an agreement with a Greek company to provide 40 vessels for Nigerian ship-owners.

According to Labinjo, “We have under consideration all classes of offshore support vessels including anchor handling tugs, platform support vessels, utility vessels, crew boats, patrol boats etc.

22—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

,

Failure to define the goal carefully can result in discouragement; if we fail, then we won't try again

,

Climbing yyour our mountain

A

re you happy with your life? Or, are there things you would like to change?

Dissonance, or unhappiness, creates tremendous stress in our lives and often causes us to chase from one poor choice to another. People who lack vision or goals stew in their own unhappiness. The more they stew, the more unhappy and restless they become.

Eventually, depression sets in; and with that a lethargic sense of going nowhere; like trying to run through waistdeep water. Often, people use the distractions of work, entertainment, socializing, or substances to anesthetize their unhappiness.

Most of us have had to climb, or are climbing now, these

You are never too old to set a new goal and strive to achieve it

mountains of confusion, of dissonance. It takes a lot of courage to keep on climbing when your heart is afraid. It takes a lot of positive people along the way, encouraging and cheering you on. It takes a lot of perseverance to continue when you just want to quit. But, when you reach the peak, when you’ve invested in yourself, when you have conquered something very difficult, when you’ve recognized the importance of developing your life, you will have changed not only elements of your life, you will have changed the very being of who you are. As Zig Ziglar puts it, you will have changed from a “wandering generality to a meaningful specific.”

Victory stirs an internal elation; a self-confidence that rivals everything else experienced. It is an elation that occurs over and over as you reap myriad benefits which all of your hard work brought to you.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.”

How do you get started? Take the first step.

The first step is vision. The

Good Book says “Without vision, the people perish.”

Which mountain do you want to climb? Develop your goals. Before you head out, you need to know where you are going, what you need to get there, a clear picture of the obstacles you must overcome, and whether this mountain peak is even worth the effort. Spend some time here. Ziglar said, “Failure to define the goal carefully can result in discouragement; if we fail, then we won’t try again.” Meet with people who are currently doing what you would like to do. Don’t be taken by surprise by a lousy view at the top of your mountain; learn about the pros and the cons of your goal before you start. You may need to re-think your goal; but don’t sell yourself short.

If you want to abandon a goal, is it because it looks difficult, or is it because you don’t think it is a good fit for you as a person? Everything worthwhile takes time and effort; there are no shortcuts.

After doing due diligence about your goal, if you still deem it as a worthy goal and one which would add richness and value to your life, then you are ready to strike out. Watch out for people, places and things that might distract you from your goal. Life has a tendency to throw a few storms in our path, but keep your focus on your goal, get through it, and keep on climbing.

Ziglar called goal setters “picture painters.” They are the artists of life who create or “paint” mental, spiritual, and emotional images of what they want life to be like.

“They create images of how their lives will be different if they do thus and so, and it is those images that inspire them to set a goal and achieve it.”

Many goals take years of study or practice to accomplish. Some people may say, “It’s too late. I’m too old.” You are never too old to set a new goal and strive to achieve it. A year from now you can be at the base of the mountain, kicking dirt and feeling defeated by how high that mountain looks, or you can be up into the foothills, taking a brief rest before pushing on. The further into the foothills you climb, the closer the peak looks; so don’t ever stop climbing.

BUSINESS NAIRA EXCHANGE RATES (14/07/15) Currency DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

Buying(N)

Central(N)

195.95

196.45

305.1333 216.27 207.4203 1.5896 0.3109 273.4205 31.5581 52.245 28.9751 273.7617

305.9119 216.8219 207.9496 1.5937 0.3209 274.1182 31.6391 52.3783 29.049 274.4603

Selling(N) 196.95 306.6905

217.3737 208.4789 1.5977 0.3309 274.8159 31.7201 52.5116 29.123 275.1588

Commod Light Crud

Natural G Sugar Coffee Cocoa

How to benefit from National Enterprise Devt Programme

By Yinka Kolawole, with agency report

T

he Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector represents one of the most important sectors of our economy. Statistics show that the sector represents 96 percent of the businesses in Nigeria and contributes 75 percent of the national employment. Of the 17.2 million MSMEs in Nigeria, over 17 million are microenterprises. Thus, growth in this sector is directly correlated with growth in the economy as a whole and in the level of employment throughout the country.

Most countries all over the world have used the MSMEs platform to combat unemployment. The sector has been known, all over the world, to be engines of economic growth, industrialisation and contributors to employment generation, wealth creation,

poverty alleviation and food security. In fact, the 2010 National MSMEs Collaborative Survey puts the number of MSMEs in Nigeria at 17,284671 with a total employment of 32,414,884 and contributing 46.54 percent to the GDP in nominal terms.

A a nurtured and well structured MSMEs sub-sector can contribute significantly to employment generation, wealth creation, poverty reduction and sustainable economic growth and development in Nigeria.

However, a number of challenges are inhibiting the potentials of MSMEs in Nigeria.

Prominent among these challenges are: Very low access to affordable finance; Poor access to Business Development Service (BDS); and Inadequate infrastructure/high cost of doing business.

A survey of MSMEs conducted

by National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) reported that 73.24 percent of

the topmost priority of assistance needed by MSMEs’ operators is finance. It also noted that only 4.2 percent of 17.2 million MSMEs have been able to access loans or overdrafts from financial institutions while new entrants or start-ups find it practically impossible to access funds from banks.

NEDEP The National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) was initiated to tackle some of the aforementioned challenges. The programme is being piloted by SMEDAN with other public and private partners such as Bank of Industry (BOI) and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).

It is specifically aimed at generating an estimated 5 million jobs by the end of 2015 by focusing on skills acquisition, entrepreneurship training/business development service (BDS) and access to finance.

Skill acquisition & training

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 23

,

& YOU

dity de

Gas

COMMODITIES (15/07/15) Last 52.21

Change ($) -0.83

% Change -1.56

2.90

+0.06

+1.97

12.48

-0.16

-1.27

128.55

-1.30

-1.00

3,350.00

-27.00

-0.80

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) provides direct training, core crafts skills acquisition, research and consultancy service. ITF also provides human resource development information and training technology service to industry and commerce to enhance their manpower capacity and in-house training delivery effort.

Business development SMEDAN assists businesses by providing business services including model business planning skills training, organization of MSMEs into clusters and co-operatives to enhance their productivity and have easier access to factors of production, arrangement/facilitation of trade and technological exposition, technology Assessment, and legal and taxation advisory services.

Financial facilities Bank of Industry provides financial facilities to: Small, medium and large enterprises, excluding cottage industries; New or existing companies, seeking expansion, mordenisation or diversification; Credit worthy promoters who will be required to prove their commitment to the project by contributing at least 25 percent of the project cost excluding land; Borrowers whose management

73.24 percent of the topmost priority of assistance needed by MSMEs’ operators is finance

capability, financial situation (including availability of collateral and guarantee), character and reputation are incontrovertible; Clients with demonstrable ability to meet loan repayments; Borrowers with no record of unpaid loans to erstwhile development finance institutions and other banks.

At the launching of the programme, former Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga, said that for the country to achieve her National Vision 20:2020, all efforts must be put in place to grow the MSMEs sector. “In order to properly position and develop this all-important MSMEs sub- sector in Nigeria in a structured and efficient manner to generate the much needed employment for the teeming youth population of this country, the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment evolved an innovative and inclusive national enterprise development and wealth creation programme that will facilitate the creation of five (5) million jobs between 2013 and 2015,” he stated.

Target areas The target areas by the programme are: Agro and Agro-allied enterprises; Housing related enterprises; Manufacturing enterprises; Industrial skills; Artisanal Miners; Sports and Entertainment enterprises; and Oil & Gas local content enterprises.

Jobs created The total number of jobs generated by the programme as at end of December, 2013 was 268,960. Lagos State has the highest, with 25,697 jobs, followed by Ekiti State and Ogun State with 25,110 and 24,475 jobs respectively.

Others are: Adamawa 20,905; Anambra 21,672; Bayelsa 22,330; Benue 20,506; Gombe 22,335; Kaduna 21,500; Kano 20,120; Katsina 21,560; and Osun 22,750.

What is unethical and disturbing is when employees have chosen not to add value to the organisations paying them

,

Are CEOs solely responsible for salary payment in organisations?

“Freedom is the will to be responsible to ourselves”...Friedrich Nietzsche

S

urprisingly, a lot of employees still have the kind of mindset I will refer to as SWAP mindset.

SWAP stands for “Salaries Will Always be Paid”.

Realistically, it is ethical and legal that organisations should pay their workers or employees' salaries as at when due. On the other hand, what is unethical and disturbing is when employees have chosen not to add value to the organisations paying them.

In this instance, they just come to work for coming sake without doing even the least that is expected from them. These classes of people do not care what may happen to their organisations tomorrow in as much as their salaries will come today. They work for themselves and not for their organisations. Discussing with one another, they say things like: “Please don’t kill yourself for this organisation” or “Is your father the owner of this company?”

M

y goal for this insight is for us to understand who is responsible for paying our salaries in organisations.

First and foremost, it is only a company or an organisation that has not been run down (that is alive) that can pay salaries. Even the CEO will only receive financial reward in a company that has not gone under. Now we can begin to understand that both the CEO and the other employees have individual roles to play in ensuring the growth and sustainability of their organisation. I have

BY ‘UJU ONWUZULIKE

No one is responsible for paying your salaries except yourself

had cause to ask directly from participants who have attended my training at one time or the other about who is responsible for paying their salaries. A lot of them mentioned their CEOs, Board of Directors, and Human Resources Department, etc. But no one mentioned himself or herself as being responsible.

No one is responsible for paying your salaries except yourself. If no one is adding value to the organisation, definitely the organisation might find it difficult to stay afloat let alone paying salaries. So see yourself as the most recognized person responsible for paying yourself.

A

s soon as we are in the payroll of any organisation, we owe that organisation a huge obligation.

The

foundational obligation comes from understanding that our organisation is now our business. At a session, I have asked people if they have ran a personal business before and almost all of them said no. That means what they are doing presently in their organisation is their business. Moreover that business (the work they are doing) has being taken care of their personal and family needs. With this in mind, every employee should take ownership of the business and their roles. They should see their organisation's business as their own business. They should also begin to understand that when they are playing their part, when they are adding value, when they are exceeding expectation (or at the least, meeting expectation), they are crediting the till box from which their salaries will come from.

Final note: Having ownership mentality will help us to see our organisation as our business first and foremost.

Like I always say, no one will want his or her business to fail. Everyone has a role to play. It is not only the CEO or the top management that is expected to play the role of growing the organisation.

Everyone that earns a salary should justify why he or she is on the payroll.

Most importantly, everyone should bring his or her value to the table in order to fertilize the organisation for more growth. That way, we all shall say we have a “breathing” organisation that is alive to put money in our pockets.

For your views perspectives

or

Email: uju@hainescentre.com Mobile: 09091142093 www.hainescentre.com

C M Y K

24 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

June inflation rate portends further weakening of economy

By Babajide Komolafe

T

HE inflation rate for June announced by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) portends further weakening of the fundamentals of the nation’s economy.

The inflation rate measures the rate at which prices of goods and services increase.

The NBS reported on Tuesday that, “In June, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which measures inflation rose by 9.2 per cent (year-on-year), 0.2 percentage points from the 9.0 per cent rate recorded in May.” Commenting on this development, analysts at Afrinvest Plc stated: “This portends further weakness of the fundamentals of the Nigerian economy which already has a cocktail of macroeconomic issues.”

The increase in June represents the seventh consecutive increase in the inflation rate since December 2014, when it rose to 8.0 per cent from 7.9 per cent in November.

The NBS, attributed the 200 basis points increase in June inflation to “bottlenecks observed during the period which resulted in major COICOP Divisions such as Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages and Transportation increasing at a faster pace during the period. Through the first six months of the year, the Headline index has increased by 8.6 per cent, 0.7 percentage points higher from rates recorded during the corresponding period in 2014.

“Irregularity of the supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) continues to impact food prices. The Food Sub- index rose by 10.0 per cent (yearon- year) in June, up by 0.2 percentage points from 9.8 percent in May. On a year-on-year basis, All groups which contribute to the Food sub-index increased at a faster pace during the reporting period with the exception being Oils and Fats; and Potatoes, yams and Tubers groups which increased albeit at a slower pace.

The pace of advances recorded by the “All Items less Farm Produce” or Core subindex edged higher in June.

The Core Sub-index increased by 8.4 per cent (year-onyear), marginally higher from May with the highest pressures observed in the Transportation, Education and Miscellaneous Good and Services divisions. The pace of increases slowed in multiple

BRIEFS

Access Bank Ghana, EIB offer 15m Eurosloan to local firms

P

LAUNCH: From left: Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director, NCF; Mr. Ismail Omamegbe, Head, Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability, FirstBank Nigeria Ltd; Mr. Ademola Ige, Branch Manager, Mission Road Branch, FirstBank Nigeria Ltd; Mrs. Irene Edokpayi, Director, Ministry of Environment, Benin City; Mrs. Funmi Ade-Ife, Principal, Evboesi Senior School, Edo State at the launch of the bank’s conservation programme at the school.

In June, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) which measures inflation rose by 9.2 percent (year-on-year), 0.2 percentage points from the 9.0 percent rate recorded in May

divisions as well, such as Clothing and Footwear, Housing Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels, as well as other divisions.

Analysts at Afrinvest noted due to the further increase in inflation, “Investors’ sentiments are likely to wane as real return on investments shrinks further. In addition, the recent move by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to further stabilize foreign exchange rate

and conserve the reserve may however pressure inflation rate northwards. This is given the fact that, CBN’s ban on importers 41 (mostly food and necessities) items from gaining access to the official foreign exchange markets and the continued fuel scarcity are expected to further push July inflation rate upwards”

How FSS 2020 bills will impact financial services industry —Jokosenumi

By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

T

HE passage of relevant Bills and a successful implementation of the Financial Systems Strategy, FSS, 2020 inNigeria will facilitate the emergence of Nigeria as a global financial centre like Dubai, the commercial nerve centre in the United Arab Emirate.

The Head of Programme Management Office, PMO, of FSS 2020 stated this at an interactive session with journalists in Abuja. .

“The FSS 2020 will bring about a common integrated platform that will create an economic and financial hub for Africa in Nigeria,” he said.

He added: “With successful implementation of this vision, Nigeria would become the economic powerhouse of the continent, come 2020.”

According to him, three Bills that would give legal backing

to the implementation of the vision of making the country a world financial hub have been passed by the 7th Assembly and currently waiting the presidential assent.

The Bills were for an Act to Establish the Nigerian International Financial Centre to Provide for A Financial Free Zone Offering A Full Range of Financial And Allied Services (2011); For An Act To Establish the Office of the Nigerian Financial Ombusman, an independent body, Charged with the Responsibility for Resolving Financial and Related Disputes in the Nigerian Financial Services Sector and Related Matters; and Electronic Transfer Bill that would make it possible for one to tender electronic data as evidence in court.

He revealed that a fourth critical Bill which seeks to establish an Alternative Dispute Resolution Platform was yet to be passed but that the drivers of the programme would take it up with the 8th As-

sembly to ensure it received the attention it deserves.

Jokosenumi said that Programme Office was now prepared to accelerate the implementation of the vision, especially, realizing that some time had been lost, while waiting for the enabling legal environment to be fixed.

With the FSS 2020, the Head of the PMO said that the economy would run better and translate to a better standard of living for not only Nigerians but also for others in the region.

Having reviewed the vision, Mr. Jokosenumi said “the new vision would deliver in the most significant way through real growth in the real sectors of the economy, as a result of deliberate efforts at diversifying the economy.”

According to him, concrete steps have been taken to move the nation away from the current overreliance on oil and gas.

RIVATE companies across Ghana will benefit from a new lending programme by Access Bank backed by 15 million euros from the European Investment Bank. This is the first engagement between Access Bank and the European Union’s long-term lending institution under a wider initiative to support private investment in the country and further develop Ghana’s financial sector.

The new lending programme represents the fourth scheme to support investment in the country under 80 million euros credit facility launched two years ago to improve access to finance by firms in Ghana.

“Over the last 40 years the European Investment Bank has supported private sector investment in Ghana and across Africa. This has only been effective given the close cooperation with local banks who understand local investment challenges. The new engagement with Access Bank announced Tuesday demonstrates Europe’s support for corporate investment in Ghana and builds on the success of similar programmes with other leading banks in the country and elsewhere across Africa. The European Investment Bank is committed to backing public and private investment that supports entrepreneurs and improves lives across Africa.” said Pim van Ballekom, European Investment Bank Vice President.

Tambuwal commends Fidelity Bank on CSR

S

OKOTO State Governor Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has commended Fidelity Bank for its corporate social responsibility initiative tagged, Helping Hands Programme (FHHP) The Governor described the scheme as a viable tool in mitigating the social inequalities in the country. Governor Tambuwal made the commendation in Sokoto at the weekend while commissioning the Sokoto State Orphanage Home renovated by staff of Fidelity Bank Plc in Sokoto.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Tambuwal said that such gestures are rare especially among organizations whose operations are commercially driven. “I must say that I am elated by the wonderful gesture from the Bank”.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 —25

AWARD: From left: Prof. Akaneren Essien , representing Prof Julius Okojie Exective Secretary , National Universities Commission; Dr. Haroun Adamu, President, Yale Club of Nigeria, presenting an award to Air Vice Marshal & Mrs Femi Gbadebo (Rtd), the Benola Cerebral Palsy Initiative, while Mr Eddie Mandhry, Director for Africa , Yale University, looks on during the launching of Yale Club of Nigeria in Lagos Photo By Diran Oshe

AUST ready for World Bank funding — NUC

By Dayo Adesulu

T

HE danger of Nigeria losing the sum of eight million dollars is over as the African University of Science and Technology, AUST,Abuja, has been declared ready for World Bank funding.

The declaration by the World

FUTA's VC tasks TETfund on critical infrastructure PG. 27

Do we really need more universities?

PG. 28

Bank on Thursday, July 2, 2015 will see AUST as one of the 19 African Centres of Excellence (ACEs) and one of the 10 in Nigeria.

The Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Julius Okojie who disclosed this during a press conference in Abuja, confirmed that the university had fulfilled all outstanding re-

quirements including signing of the performance contract, legal opinion on the performance contract, the partnership agreements, project accounts in line with the requirement of ACE and proper composition of the Project implementation team.

Okojie who noted that the declaration had put to rest the danger of Nigeria losing the sum of $8m meant for one of its 10

African Centres of Excellence, expressed satisfaction that not only did Nigeria retain its 10 centres, but also the specific programme, Pan-African Material Institute (PAMI) that won the ACE in AUST. According to him, the programme which would use a system-based interdisciplinary approach to undertake training and research activities in the

Osun strike beyond payment of salaries — CASUOSTI

By Amaka Abayomi

T

HE Council of Academic Staff Unions of Osun State-owned Tertiary Institutions (CASUOSTI) has said the on-going strike by the various academic unions, especially those of state-owned tertiary institutions in the state, is beyond the issue of unpaid

salaries as being insinuated in some quarters.

In a statement signed by the group’s chairman and secretary, Comrades Lasisi Jimoh and Olusegun Lana, respectively, stated that while members of the various academic staff unions in state-owned tertiary institutions, represented by CASUOSTI, are not exempted

from the problem of unpaid salaries and its consequent injuries to workers, it has become important to inform all stakeholders and the general public that the ongoing strike action by the members of these unions is beyond the issue of unpaid salaries.

The statement reads in part: Continues on page 26

areas of materials for solar energy, health, water purification and affordable housing/infrastructure would also support the training of critical mass of PhD graduates and professionals from the industry, government, business and development partners that could contribute effectively to the development of West and Central Africa.

He urged the various teams to be focused on their areas of research as the programmes have the capacity to address not only Nigeria’s challenges but the entire Africa’s problems, tasking the universities to relentlessly pursue the goals and objectives of the project including meeting the demand for skills required for the development of the sub-region and strengthening the capacities of the best African universities the science-related disciplines, to enable them deliver high quality training and applied research.

Continues on page 26

26— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Osun strike beyond payment of salaries — CASUOSTI Continues from page 25

DECLARATION: From left, Professor Sola Odusanya, Professor Julius Okojie, Executive Secretary, NUC, Professor Charles Chidume and Dr. Akin Ojo during the declaration in Abuja.

AUST ready for World Bank funding Continues from page 25

The Executive Secretary reiterated the commitment of the NUC management and the ACE team towards the success of the project.

Giving a history of the institution, the Vice-President (Academics) of AUST, Professor Charles Chidume, informed the gathering that AUST, the first of the three Nelson Mandela Institutions, which were sponsored by the World Bank, was established to source and train talented young people from the African region and in particular, sub-Saharan Africa.

The institution, which offers strictly postgraduate programmes, was targeted at training these young people even those whose parents lacked the financial capacity to cater for their educational needs.

PAMI’s goal was to develop materials for Africa’s advancement and train students who would make Nigeria a knowledge-based economy.

He stated that the project has three focal areas: Education, Research and Outreach. The Education component has a target to enrol about 50 PhD and 400 MSc students as well as host about 40 publications, within the project period of three years. The expectation, he said, is that, in 10 years, the Centre would have achieved its aim of developing a critical mass of persons to drive a knowledge-based economy.

For the Research component, the Centre was concentrating

International journals Chidume noted that AUST had an intensive master's programme and a rigorous PhD programme, which require that students publish a minimum of two papers in high-level international journals before they were awarded PhD. He stated that the university, which had so far, graduated more than 300 Master of Science students from over 19 countries across sub-Saharan Africa, had also graduated five PhD, while another six were expected to graduate by July, this year.

The Vice-President expressed gratitude to the NUC for its role in ensuring that AUST did not miss out on the opportunity to host the Centre of Excellence.

He gave the assurance that with NUC’s support and the quality of staff on ground in AUST, the Pan-African Materials Institute (PAMI) would deliver on its mandate.

In his remarks, the Centre leader, Dr Akin Ojo, noted that

The institution, which offers strictly postgraduate programmes, was targeted at training these young people even those whose parents lacked the financial capacity to cater for their educational needs

on Energy, especially using nanotechnology to develop thin film solar cells, as an alternative for silicon solar cells, which is a more expensive option. It was also focusing on bio-synthesis of materials as well as multifunctional materials for building and water purification.

Co-Centre leader, Dr. Sola Odusanya stated that PAMI was committed to ensuring that research makes direct impact on the industry, which it hopes to achieve with the employment of its students in relevant sectors of the economy.

Relevant sectors He noted that within the first half of 2015, the Centre had published 15 papers in highimpact journals, adding that the Centre was also focusing on solving problems associated with humans.

In the health sector, for instance, PAMI was focusing on cancer and cardiovascular diseases, two major causes of death among the youth. He added that the Centre was concentrating on early detection, using nanotechnology, as a means of reducing mortality rate. To achieve its aim, the Centre had established direct linkages with health institutes, research institutes and industry.

In a vote of thanks, the Deputy Executive Secretary II of the NUC, Mr. Ibrahim Dan’Iya, commended Okojie for providing the necessary support to the ACE project and for his commitment to moving the Nigerian University System (NUS) to greater heights. He congratulated the 10 participating universities and called on them to not only see the project as a new opportunity to promote research but also ensure that the dividends of the project would serve to move humanity forward.

“The academic staff of the stateowned Polytechnics and Colleges of Education had been on a two-day weekly strike action since 27th January, 2015 (long before unpaid salaries became national news).

The industrial action was made total and indefinite on 11th June, 2015 (after 5 month of weekly warning strike) because the state government did nothing whatsoever towards addressing the issues prone to industrial crisis in the state’s tertiary education sector.

“The major issues leading to the ongoing strike action are mismanagement of Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS); illegal withholding of deductions from salaries and resultant penal interests on bank loans; nonfulfillment of duly signed collective Agreements on (a) recruitment of more staff (b) review of throat-cutting tax regime and (c) full implementation of CONPCASS; and incomplete composition of Governing Councils by the absence of

statutory representatives.

"Others are non-payment of salaries for the past 8 months, installmental payment of salaries, and non-payment of leave bonuses since December 2013; centralized system of payroll administration and salary payment leading to breach of establishment laws and administrative hiccups; and breach of statutory autonomy of our institutions.

“Also, it has come to our knowledge that the state government is planning to prune out the effects of last promotion and migration policy from our salaries as staffers of tertiary institutions from January 2015.

"We use this medium to warn the government to avoid this malicious action which is capable of deepening the industrial crisis already plaguing our sector.

In the event that this obnoxious intention is carried out, we shall spare no lawful spontaneous reaction to call government to order without apology for any embarrassment such may cause government.”

10,000 educators benefit from Pearson’s digital teaching resources

By Dayo Adesulu

N

O few than 10, 000 teachers across the country are to benefit from Pearson Nigeria digital teaching resources whose digital Guides will be available through its website at no cost to educators.

The digital teacher guides are introduced to support Pearson’s leading numeracy and literacy titles for Nigerian schools, covering aspects of student texts which include; New General Mathematics for Primary Schools, New General Mathematics for Senior Secondary Schools, New General Mathematics for Junior Secondary Schools, Primary English Project, Junior English Project and Senior English project.

In introducing the new guide, Pearson assures that each text have been fully revised and updated to comply with the Nigerian Educational Research Development Council Curriculum and have been designed using Pearson’s world class content development capabilities.

The texts focus on embedding 21st Century skills in learners, preparing them not only for academic success, but also longterm success in a future workforce.

The Managing Director Pearson Nigeria, Mr. Muhtar Bakare explained that guides such as this are not typically

available free of charge, but Pearson has made the guides widely available as a way of exhibiting the benefits of digital technology in education.

He said: “Technology is not a panacea to the problems Nigeria’s education system faces.

However, when applied and used appropriately, educational technologies can have a very real, positive impact on teaching and learning outcomes and in reducing the costs involved in delivering quality education. We hope that by making these guides digitally available to a large number of Nigerian teachers, we can help them see the power of technology in enhancing the teaching process."

“These easily accessible guides will facilitate the planning and delivery of lessons and help teachers motivate students their students to achieve at higher levels”.

The teacher guides accompanying the texts are pedagogical aids and instructional handbooks designed to ensure both teachers and learners utilise the full potential of the texts.

The guides will assist Nigerian educators to attain expected competency levels and learning outcomes by enhancing student engagement and concentration. The teacher guides are available to registered Nigerian teachers via the Pearson website at www.pearsonnigeria.com.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 —27

TEACHERS AWARD: NB gets Education ministry's commendation

By Princewill Ekwujuru

N

SENSITIZATION: From left; Vivian Nkem, Head, Govt Relations; Kufre Ekanem, Corporate Affairs Adviser, both of Nigerian Breweries (NB) Plc; Dr. MacJohn Nwaobiala, Perm Secretary, Fed Ministry of Education and Mrs. O. A. Ariba, Deputy Director, Basic Education at the Fed. Ministry of Education during NB Plc's management team visit to the ministry as part of sensitization efforts of the ongoing Maltina Teacher of the Year Award initiative of the company in Abuja.

FUTA VC tasks TETfund on critical infrastructure

By Laide Akinboade Oriere

T

HE Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA, Professor Adebiyi Daramola has urged the management of Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETfund, to extend its intervention in tertiary institutions to critical infrastructure such as road construction, optic fiber for internet and hydro power plant.

He was speaking in his office in Akure when a team of journalists monitoring some of TETfund projects in Ondo, Ekiti and Osun States visited him.

The team visited and monitored some of TETfund intervention projects in Osun State College of Education, Ilesha, Osun state, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State and Ekiti State University.

Space in lecture halls The projects that were awarded

between 1999 and 2013, and some of the projects had already been completed and occupied and some are still under construction.

While the Deputy Vice Chancellor, DVC of Ekiti State University, EKSU, Professor Ibiyinka Ogunlade, said thanks to Tetfund the era of students piping through the windows due to lack of space in lecture halls are over and this has added lot of value to the institution’s educational value, but urged the Federal Government and Ministry of Education to prevail on some contractors that has abandoned sites.

Prof. Daramola noted that the fund should take its interventions beyond infrastructure that have direct bearing on teaching and learning to other critical infrastructure.

According to the VC, “What we are saying is yes, those things are very important, we don’t even have enough of them but at the same time, you need power. You and I would agree that you need power to run any decent university. You need to invest in water provision for the environment to be decent enough. You need fiber optic for

internet access and of course, you need good roads,” he said.

While noting that tertiary institutions in the country wouldn’t have been able to function well without the interventions from TETfund, the Vice-Chancellor stressed that the provision of such critical infrastructure would enhance teaching and learning.

His words: “A lot of the developments in Nigerian universities can be attributable to TETfund interventions. In fact, my friend who runs a state university once told me that the name of his university can appropriately be turned to TETfund University because a significant proportion of the capital projects were sponsored

by TETfund.

“If I must say, TETfund has done well but there’s room for improvement. I am an economist in a developing country; that’s why it is developing and not developed. The fact that there’s room for improvement makes it developing. When there’s minimal room for development like in Japan and America, they are developed countries and till today, China is still a developing country."

IGERIAN Breweries has gotten the commendation of the Federal Ministry of Education for introducing the Maltina Teacher of the Year Award, a reward programme that seeks to recognise, reward and train Nigerian teachers.

According to the Ministry, the effort by NB will encourage other corporate organisations to identify and support the Ministry’s programmes geared towards development of the education sector in Nigeria.

Speaking during a visit by Nigerian Breweries Management team led by Mr. Kufre Ekanem, the Corporate Affairs Adviser to the Ministry at the weekend, Dr. MacJohn Nwaobiala, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, said that the Ministry of Education is happy with Nigerian Breweries Plc. for flagging off such a laudable project at this time in the nation’s history.

“I want to commend Nigerian Breweries Plc for initiating the Maltina Teacher of the Year programme because it aligns perfectly with our vision to bring

back the glory days when teaching was a respectable profession and people took pride in teaching. We all must join hands to bring dignity and prestige to teachers if we want to see improvement in our education system,” he said.

Dr. Nawobiala pledged the Ministry’s support to ensure the success of the programme. He called on teachers nationwide to take advantage of the Maltina Teacher of Year Award to improve their career development and teaching practice in general.

The Maltina Teacher-of-theYear Award, launched in May, is set to splash over N50 million on Nigerian teachers. The winner of the coveted award will get one million naira cash upon his/her emergence at the finals while one million naira to be paid into his/ her account annually in the next five years. The Teacher of the Year will also be sent abroad for training by the company. The 1st runner-up will take home one million naira, while the second runner-up gets seven hundred and fifty thousand naira. Winners from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT will be given five hundred thousand naira each.

GEC: Over 7000 students offered admission abroad in 14yrs

By Providence Obuh

O

VER 7,000 Nigerian students have been offered admission into schools abroad through Global Education Counseling (GEC) in the last 14 years.

Meanwhile, about eight students graduated penultimate week, from its Management Education Training (MET) centre in Lagos to study at Debreceen University in Hungary.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Lagos, Chief Executive Officer, GEC, Mr. Theo Theodorou, said that the programme has guaranteed over 7000 admissions but 2,000 admissions were into its partner universities in the UK, Canada,

Europe, US, Malaysia, among others.

He said, “We are working hard to develop young skills and for them to become independent, to grow up and be able to face the challenges ahead of them. Their exposure to our university partners has allowed them to interact with them and hear first hand what they will expect at their chosen universities.

“The challenges we face in Nigeria do make us all focused and determined to succeed. This is reflected by the sound academic delivery of the pragramme to guide the wards to a successful outcome, overcoming the day-to-day challenges that they have faced such as lack of electricity, traffic,” he said.

28— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Do we really need more universities? (1) “More universities worsening unemployment, says NDE.” PUNCH, June 10, 2015, p 6. for university admission are HE surest way to incur the qualified. Most of those who wrath of a lot of “sensible” apply to Harvard (USA), Oxford people, including well-educated (Britain), Sorbonne (France), individuals, is to question University of Berlin (Germany), to mention a few examples are conventional “wisdom.”

It was the practice in every not qualified by the time they country in Europe to ostracize or have passed through the even kill anyone advancing what admission requirements. Indeed, is regarded as heresy or there is no country in the world blaspheme. Socrates, 469-399 where all those who complete B.C, the Greek philosopher, was their secondary school education forced to drink hemlock (poison) are regarded as university for refusing to believe in materials (applicants if you wish).

To be quite candid, most of the “established” truths. Galileo, 1564-1642, the Italian physicist Nigerian applicants are not and astronomer, who proved that university materials. In the the Sun, not our planet Earth, is USA and Britain an applicant the centre of our universe, almost must have attained the equivalent of credit in Maths and lost his life as well.

But, given a chance to recant, English before applying. In Galileo saved himself by abjuring Nigeria, the university system is the truth. Unlike Socrates, to full of applicants awaiting results Galileo, the truth was not worth in Maths and English – which the price of his life. Invariably, many fail. The high drop out and when set against established referral rates in Nigerian positions, “The truth shall make universities confirm that close to you free, but first, it shall make thirty percent of those admitted you miserable.” (VANGUARD should not have been there in the BOOK OF QUOTATIONS, first place.

VBQ, p 253). By its very title, it should be obvious to the reader First line that this article is set to question of attack one of the greatest and untested assumptions by which Nigerians That last statement constitutes live. the first line of attack on the As far as most Nigerians are widely held belief that we need concerned there are more more universities. It means that applicants for university at least thirty percent of the seats education than spaces in the are occupied by the wrong universities we have established. people while some of the right That is only half true. people might not gain The problem arises when admission. At least another ten people assume that all, or even per cent of those who made it most, of the applicants are cobbled their five credits in two qualified. So far that has not been or three sittings. DULLARDS on proved. It has not been proved campus. because of our convoluted criteria Let us return again to the cutfor admission of students to off point. In the United States, a universities. Elsewhere, the cut- central and private body, based off point for admission for in New Jersey, administers the interview is first of all established. Scholastic Aptitude Test, SAT, Then the university imposes its very much like our own JABM. own admission requirements Every applicant determines the which are rigidly enforced. On universities to which his/her account of that, not all applicants results will be sent. As can be expected, the top universities have established the highest cutoff points, as the basic criteria for admission.

At the other end, there are states and community universities (colleges) whose admission scores are lower.

Irrespective of whether the applicant is aspiring to go to Yale of a Community College in rural Alabama, he/she is not What we have in considered fit for admission our universities unless the minimum scores established by the university are are hundreds of attained. thousands of By contrast, if one is searching individuals who for a country where “anything goes” with respect to university have no business admission, he should look no being there at all further than Nigeria.

T

CEREMONY: From left; Otunba Dele Olapeju, Director/Principal, King's College, Lagos; Dr McJohn Nwaobiala, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education and Alhaji Bashir Umar, Director, Asset Management Dept, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation representing Alhaji Umar Ibrahim, MD, NDIC as Chairman of the occassion druing the King's College, Lagos Annual Speech Day and Prize-Giving ceremony at the school premises in Lagos. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele.

Nigerians to get Yale varsity scholarship as alumni launch club

By Dayo Adesulu

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RILLIANT Nigerian students having challenges of furthering their education can now breath a sigh of relief as Yale University Club, Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to scholarships.

Speaking at the formal launching of the Yale club on saturday, held at the Metropolitan Club, Lagos, its President, Dr. Haroun Adamu said: “Once a student passes through the competitive undergraduate admission process, he or she does not have to worry about finance they will be on full scholarship.’’

He explained that the Yale Club in Nigeria will serve as an intermediary between Nigerian students and the admission office of Yale

University in order to facilitate students admission to Yale.

The Alumni who graced the launch include, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Professor Julius Okojie who was represented by Professor Akaneren Essien, former Vice Chancellor of University of Uyo, Mrs Botsio represented the president of Yale Club of Ghana, Alhaji Mohammed Hayatudeen, and Chairman Alpine Investment, Lagos Professor Jide Owoeye.

Others were; Chairman of Council, Lead City University, Ibadan, Dr Tunji Olowolafe MD Deux Projects, Mr Emeka Izeze, MD, Guardian Newspapers Ltd, Alhaji Bello Maccido, Managing Director First Bank Holding Ltd, represented by Mr. Wale Aribiyi, Chief Financial Officer

to mentioned a few Giving reasons why Yale Alumni should be proud of the university, Adamu who was Yale class of 1970 said: ‘’Yale has an endowment of 24 billion dollars from alumni willing to pay back. Yale University library holds more than 15million volumes and the library is the third largest in the US." Yale graduated five US presidents,19 US Supreme Court justices, 13 living billionaires, high level diplomats including Senator Hilary Clinton, former secretary of state and the incumbent secretary of state senetor John Kerry. Fifty two Nobel Laureates have been affiliated with the university as students, faculty, or staff including our own Professor Wole Soyinka.

Educationist urges institutions to focus on talent development

By Glory Ekwenuya

A

N educationist and Director of Cayley College, Dr Mary Iyayi, has called on educational institutions to focus on talent development which is key to developing the innate potentials of the students. The need to improve the mind of the students also helps them engage in better selfexpression which aids learning capabilities.

Dr Iyayi who spoke during the recent literary day celebration of the school stated that there should be urgent focus on preparing students to develop platforms for self-expression which helps them distinguish themselves among their peers. She added that a

literary day which has several programmes affords the students the opportunity to showcase their innate potentials while also providing avenue for interaction and bonding.

According to her, there should be focus on activities that will enable students improve their minds and showcase their potentials for impact. This is one thing that will enable them identify their core areas of strength in life.

She asserted that the literary day provides ample opportunity for students from other schools to interact and exchange ideas which improve their minds and create fertile ground to promote learning. She added that the literary day is one of the avenues the school

utilizes to prepare the total child for a challenging future.

In the drama which was a major feature of the literary day, its theme focuses on violence which does not aid societal development. It also underscores the need for peace and mutual understanding among people.

A major highlight of the day was a debating competition amongst invited schools on the topic of corruption and terrorism where the students showcased their public speaking prowess. The contest concluded after three rounds. Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls took first position, Unique Heights Schools came second while Dansol High School came third.

To be continued

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 29

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32 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

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34—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Nigerian soul is gone if judiciary is compromised — Quakers Mr Norrison Quakers, SAN, in this interview speaks on strengthening the country’s justice system of Nigeria, disciplining of judges, the recent transfer of Boko Haram suspects by the Federal Government to prisons in the eastern part of the country and other sundry issues.

Excerpt:

By Onozure Dania

A

RE you satisfied with the state of the country’s criminal justice sys-

tem?

I won’t say yes or no, because the most fundamental thing is that we have the laws that address practically every sector of our polity and existence as human beings. But the challenge we have in Nigeria is one attitudinal disposition to enforcement of the laws and agencies and individuals themselves. Until we deal with the issue of using political influences when breaches are committed, the efficacies and efficiencies of these laws will continue to erode us.

That is why you find a common man without means convicted for an offence while the man with means ends walking away a freeman and conviction is not secured.

How do you think the criminal justice system can be strengthened?

Firstly, you can’t strengthen the criminal system without reforming the institutions. I like what President Obama rightly said, the challenge with Africa is that our institutions are not strong. Is like you have a situation where institution are built around human beings, and given such situation, when a particular head of such Institution is no longer there, it will nosedive. EFCC under Mallam Nuhu Ribadu was quite effective, there was the awareness that he is the one running EFCC, it takes a man of conviction to run such institution.

Selective judgment Even when some people accused him of selective judgement or conviction, he was still very effective, but what now happened when he left, EFCC begin to nosedive, the institution became another story. It is like that with most other institutions, look at NAFDAC under the late Prof. Dora Akunyili of blessed memory, after her, we stop hearing of crackdown on adulterated drugs and the likes. Until we take out the individual and reformed the institutions and make them stronger, we will continue to have such development. When the institutions are reformed the laws become effective. In America, it is not about the man heading

the Institution, people may not know you, but the point is there is more emphasis on the institution itself. The point is that the laws are there, all we need is to strengthen the institutions.

Recently, the Chief Justice of Nigeria said about 54 judges had been disciplined so far in the last five years for one reasons or the other. Wwill you say this is on the high side?

So far this is an action that needs to be commended. And one needs to commend the NJC for being up and doing in his responsibility. To me, it is not about the ratio, the most important aspect is that judges have been disciplined. I remember what the man said recently, that once the judiciary is compromised, the soul of the country is gone.

System in place Because the only Institution that can deal with offenders of laws is the judiciary and we can imagine if such institution is compromised, then we can no longer have a system in place. I think it is not about ratio or number of judges that have been disciplined, but the fact is that judges are disciplined, this to me, is a welcome development and it is something that needs to be encouraged and appreciated.

The NJC said that the bar was not doing their part, because while the bench disciplines erring members, those who are culpable within the bar do not face disciplinary measure?

You could be correct. But I will not say the bar is not disciplining their members who erred.

There are numbers of disciplinary cases pending with the Legal Profession Committee. You know that recently, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria was banned and the rank taken from him, three years ago another two SAN faced similar disciplined and sanction, though at different time. So you could see that the members of the bar are also sanitizing their own constituency, but I think we need to do more because the system is really bad. I don’t think the bar is docile in terms of discipline among its members.

What is your position on the petition written by a Justice in Osun State against the governor on his inability to pay the civil servants in the state?

Dr. Fabian Let me say this: I commend that judge, it is just that often time, will say that the judiciary must be neutral. In an environment where people play politics with everything that goes around them, you now have a judge who is also in the system and has the courage to speak up on issues that affect the people against what the people call lord and master, I think such courage deserved commendation and there is no law that says she does not have the right to talk. There are lots of cases where judges could not make pronouncement against a sitting governor.

In a matter of days, some lawyers will be conferred with the title of SAN. How will you react to this in view of the call for the abolition of the title because it has been politicized?

Those who are agitating for the abolition of the SAN title have not taken time to reflected on the good side of it. What they must have seen so far is a few bad eggs among the members of SAN, who had misbehaved in one way or the other. Some

I think it is not about ratio or number of judges that have been disciplined, but the fact is that judges are disciplined, this to me, is a welcome development and it is something that needs to be encouraged and appreciated

Law pavilion partners IBA on How Buhari can take the Africa’s investment opportunities profit out of corruption —Pg 37 —Pg 36 C M Y K

of us aspired to be SAN because of the seniors we saw, it is just because some of them are no longer the same. We cannot say it is oppressive or that it is not good. It is a reward for hard work, industry and advocacy and largely based on merit. So I see no reasons why anybody will want to call for its abolition. Is like when you want to call for abolition of professorial appointment or a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountant or Arbitration. Even when people call for the abolition of the Queen Counsel, QC, a committee was set up that looked at the various complaints and grouse, it was reformed. Rather than call for abolition, we should look at issues raised and complaints and make necessary reforms, and not certainly abolition.

Just recently, Chief Afe Babalola talking about reform, he said that as it practice in England, if 40 lawyers applied for the SAN and if they are qualified, they should be given instead of selecting 15 or 17 of them. Do you agree?

In England, the reasons why you have a high proportion of comfreys for judicial appointment is that you have to be through the Queen Counsel.

Commercial litigation But we don’t want a situation whereby it will be proliferated and you have a high number. What now happen to the excess?

If we have a system such that we have number of Senior Advocate going into the bench after conferment, there are some state that have more commercial litigation than the others. So if we now have more numbers of SAN from a particular geographical location, cases we also lingered.

For instance if you have five SAN in a court and you have to hear their cases, what now happen to those who are not Senior Advocates and their cases? I think that is why most people are advocating the abolition because it is oppressive. Even

Continues on page 35

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 35

' Prisoner's movement is prerogative of Federal Government' Continues from page 34 some of the cases they advocate are not supposed to be in court, but you have a Senior Advocate who spent four or five hours in court.

So you have this kind of people coming in and I think the way it is been done should still stay.

Recently, the National University Commission gave a directive that law graduate from Open University will not be allowed in the Law School. What is your reaction to this?

I don’t know the rationale behind this, but if I should go back to time, some of our prominent first generational lawyers did not go to the conventional universities to read law and they were call to bar and some of them are still practicing today.

You don’t shut people out on account that they went to open university, what we should consider is the quality of the grade or certificate and the quality of the individual.

University setting Today people now read and earn certificate through correspondent, not everybody will find himself or herself in a university setting, but the point is looking at the certificate and the quality of the individual to determined whether he or she can practice or not.

Is like you want to throw the baby and the bath water away.

Most of the people involved in policy making today earned their certificate through correspondent. Recently, a judge told me that Nigerians are complex people, that just like a man who conceived the idea of constructing a bridge and just as he got to the other side and realized others trapped at the other side, he then decided to destroy the bridge so that others would not be able to cross to the other side.

This is just what is happening and if not, what is wrong in having everybody educated? There are lots of Nigerians who graduated as a lawyer but refused to go to Law School, many graduated from university as an offcampus student. But then Law is very important.

EDITORIAL TEAM Innocent Anaba ( Head) Wahab Abdulah Ikechukwu Nnochiri Dayo Benson (Supervising Editor) 08056180119 dayobenson@yahoo.com

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the Boko Haram suspects and they raised certain issues, that what is the guarantee that there will not be a reprisal attack, two that indigenes of the SouthSouth, who ran home for safety from the Boko Haram infected states and now again to the South-South and the people will continue to live in fear and trauma.

Fear and trauma

In America before you are allowed to study law, you must have had a first degree. If you can get your degree online, why would you want to waste time going to a conventional university setting?

Even the open university is a source of employment to lecturals. The world is developing and we can’t afford to be docile.

On the Boko Haram suspects who were recently relocated to the prisons in the Eastern part of the country. As a lawyer, what do you think must have informed government to take this decision?

Recently, I read in a paper about the outcome of the confer-

There are lots of Nigerians who graduated as a lawyer but refused to go to Law School, many graduated from university as an off-campus student

ence of Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in that part of the country saying that the people are scared with the presence of

Nigeria is a federating state on paper and prisons is on the concurrent list and as such if a prison has been set up, it is not something that could be questioned and movement of prisoners is also the prerogative of the Federal Government. But under Obasanjo presidency, we had a situation when he made a proclamation or pronouncement that some prisoners who had stayed in prisons across the country for over 20 years or those serving life imprisonment, should be freed, but what happened was that a

governor then went to court to challenge this action, claiming that some of the offences committed were state offence. We insisted that Obasanjo pronouncement covers the entire federation.

If the prisoners were moved to that part of the country, it is a security decision because if they are left in their state, it is possible to have a case of jail break. People are not suppose to know where such suspects are kept, movement of prisoners all over the world is done discreetly even the suspects themselves should not know where they are kept. Now there is awareness and this is dangerous for the polity. In Lagos alone, it has over 2000 prisoners with 80 percent of them awaiting trial. We have a situation where prisons facilities are over stretched, so that must be the reasons they are now looking at other states that can accommodate them.

To me it has nothing to do with traumatizing the people. I don’t think this government will want to do that.

Treat women’s rights as human’s rights, lawyers charged

By Dayo Benson

L

awyers and human rights activists in the country have been challenged to treat women’s rights as human’s rights as a matter of urgency. This call was made by the wife of Kwara state governor Mrs Omolewa Ahmed, at the Nigerian Bar Association NBA Section on Legal Practice seminar on “The Reality on Women’s rights in Nigeria”.

The seminar which took place at the Sheraton hotel Lagos also had wife of Lagos state governor Mrs Bolanle Ambode as one of the prominent guests which included lawyers and women rights activists.

According to Mrs Ahmed “women’s rights must be seen as human rights which are observed as a matter of course without the need of any spe-

cial demand or coercion”.

Speaking further, she said “without controversy, a person cannot run effectively on one leg”. Former president of Tanzania, Julius Nyerere rightly observed as follows: “A person does not walk very far or very fast on one leg. How can we expect half the people to be able to develop the nation?

And the two legs on which any nation should stand or walk or run are her manhood and womanhood”.

She therefore called on the NBA to be the mouthpiece of the public saying “particularly women and children to ensure that not only are the provisions of the law respected but that policies and practices that are repugnant, having outlived their relevance are dispensed with”.

“The effort of the NBA may then be actively complimented by activists and other bodies such as FIDA, towards the

provision of pro bono services to women and children whose rights have been violated and cannot genuinely afford the cost of legal representation to preserve or enforce their rights “she added.

Mrs Ahmed pointed out that “progress is not achievable in a day but the race must begin somewhere and thereafter, momentum will be gained”.

One of the panellists at the seminar, Mrs Toun Adebiyi a Deputy Director General of the Nigerian Law School Lagos campus, identified existing laws that protect women’s rights which included Islamic laws. Section 42 of the constitution which talks about discrimination against women, Section 254 of the constitution which deals with the jurisdiction of Industrial court on discrimination in work places, African chatter on human and people’s rights which affirms women’s rights.

36—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Law pavilion partners IBA on Africa’s investment opportunities

By Dayo Benson

A

LEADING legal technology company Law Pavilion, has sponsored the first International Bar Association IBA conference on investment in Africa.

The conference titled Ïnvesting in Africa Conference opportunities for Business and the lawyers who counsel them”which held in New York in the United States focused on investment areas in Africa, current businesses/industries enjoying patronage of foreign direct investment (FDI), the challenges that investors encounter when trying to invest in a new clime in Africa as well as the risks and benefits of investing in Africa.

Topics discussed at the Conference included: Africa’s investment trends and how they affect commercial enterprises and their lawy Recent deals in sectors of rapid growth, including agribusiness, finance, IT, media and entertainment and consumer products/retail Recent deals in nature sectors, including oil and gas, mining, telecommunications and power-related infrastructure Who is funding Africa’s growth? – funding sources, including private equity, capital markets, foreign and African banks, and multilateral institutions (e.g., African Development Bank, International Finance Corporation) Risk mitigation How law firms can augment their presence in Africa Expectedly, Nigeria was very well represented with nearly all panels having at the very least one Nigerian legal practitioner to elucidate on their experiences or know how.

The Conference offered participants a unique opportunity to network and meet with legal practitioners from other countries who represent clients with interests or prospects in Africa. A lot of attention was paid to Nigeria as the biggest economy in Africa. The smooth electoral transition was commended and expectations are high that with the advent of the new Government, there are

enhanced prospects of foreign direct investments flowing in Nigeria.

Furthermore, there was a special session on how law firms can augment their presence in Africa. The session revealed a shocking fact that about 80% of the legal services consumed by businesses operating in Africa was carried out by Law Firms in New York, London and other sophisticated locations.

Only 20% of the demand is supplied

by African law firms. It is apparent that lawyers and Law firms operating in Africa need to quickly amplify the level and sophistication of their practice by leveraging on technology and advanced knowledge. A vast awareness of the regulatory framework within local economies is also a great gain for the African legal practitioner.

L

AGOS High Court sitting in Igbosere has awarded N10 million as damages against Access Bank Plc, for false and malicious publication against one Mrs. Cecilia Ajayi, following a commercial transaction between the two parties.

Ajayi, through her lawyer from the law firm of A.O. Hodonu, had approached the court, stating that the bank had caused the police to publish a gazette declaring her wanted for the offence of conspiracy, forgery and obtaining money under false pretence.

Delivering judgement on the matter, the trial judge, Justice M. O. Obadina, held that publication by the police was not a fair comment and was done in bad faith, with the aim of using the police to enforce a commercial transaction.

The judge further held that the defendant was entitled to damages as her reputation was ruined by the publication that she was one of the most

L –R Governor of Anambra state, Willie M. Obiano, Justice Nwali Sylvester (JSC), Chief Judge Anambra state, Justice Peter N.C Umeadi and Justice Olukayode Ariwoola (JSC)

Solicitors toolkit One of the products showcased at the just concluded Conference was the LawPavilion Solicitors Toolkit (STK). The STK is a first of its kind product from the stables of Grace Info Tech Limited, owners of the LawPavilion brand. The STK is a software targeted significantly at Legal Practitioners who work in commercial/corporate circles.

The conference explored and identified challenges associated with tapping into Africa’s growth, including availability of information and tools to unlock Africa’s regulatory doors, and also have a firm grasp of the risks associated with investing and operating in sub-Saharan Africa.

The STK is a Central Bank of Commercial Law and Practice comprising of Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Laws of States, Regulations, Guidelines and Policies from MDAs, Decided Cases of the Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, Tax Appeal Tribunal, High Court of Lagos State, High Court of the FCT Abuja. The solution also contains Forms and Agreements, in templates which are editable whilst keeping the original boilerplate.

Court awards N10m damages against bank

By Dotun Ibiwoye

NBA,Onitsha Branch held 60th Birthday Anniversary of Anambra State Chief Judge, Justice Peter N. C. Umeadi at the NBA Onitsha Bar Centre Onitsha

wanted criminals by the Nigeria Police.

According to the judge, Ajayi belonged to many organisations and the publication made her to withdraw from them, adding that her professional association (Chartered Institute of Stock Brokers) demanded explanation from her on the publications.

Affirming that the defendant was entitled to damages, Justice Obadina said: “For her to be dubbed a criminal and fraudster is damaging her reputation and she is entitled to damages.

"In all circumstances of this case, I award to the counter claimant N10 million general damages for false and malicious publication written and cause to be published as a letter to the Police and consequent actions taken by the Police in publishing Special Bulletin No. CR/3150/29/04/09 posted all over Nigeria concerning the defendant/ counter-claimant.”

L-R Mr. Steve Ononye, former publicity secretary NBA, Mr Afam Obi, general secretary NBA, Mazi Afam Osigwe and vice president, West African Pan African Lawyers union, Mr Emeka Obegolu

L-R Dr Ogugua Ikpeze, former president, commonwealth lawyers association Boma Ozobia and Mr. Emeka Etiaba L-R Chairman NBA lawyers in the media forum, John Austin Unachukwu, chief Ojinnaka Umeadi and Mr. Chris Emelife

L-R Mrs Uju Okwusogu, prof Epiphany Azing (SAN), O.J Nnadi (SAN)

L-R Hon. Oseloka Obaze, Chief Judge Bayelsa state, Justice Kate Abiri and Chief Judge Delta state, Justice A. Umukoro C M Y K

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—37

How Buhari can take the profit out of corruption

By Kolawole Olaniyan PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has rather wisely turned the spotlight on recovering stolen funds. The President recently confirmed that his government has “received firm assurances of cooperation from the U.S. and other countries on the recovery and repatriation of funds stolen from Nigeria.

According to the President, “the government in the next three months will be busy getting facts and figures needed to help us recover our stolen funds in foreign countries.”

It’s no coincidence that the first priority of the Buhari government is not to throw corrupt officials in jail but to recover stolen funds. Nigeria is broke, and several of its 36 states can’t even pay their workers’ salaries. But this is hardly surprising given that for many years the country has fallen victim of systematic stealing by career politicians and soldiers dabbling in politics.

Previously considered a matter of “little brown envelopes” corruption is now a huge “profitable business” for politicians (and their families and friends, the so-called gobetweens or ‘looting pipes’), corporations and financial institutions and centers.

Financial institutions Stealing is odious, illegal and immoral but stolen funds don’t stink, as corrupt officials continue to empty the public treasuries for personal gains—to amass luxury cars, buy extravagant homes, and enjoy exotic vacations—to the amazement and anger of millions of Nigerians. Images of government officials lining their pockets with the treasure of the poor are stark and raw.

Yet, corrupt officials are allowed to keep their looted funds and thus reaping the benefits of their corruption. The abundance of wealth of the ruling class stands in stark contrast to the poverty of the majority of Nigerians.

Allowing corrupt officials to benefit from their crime has a degenerative effect on the

institutions of governance, human rights and the rule of law.

Therefore, the Buhari government is spot-on to focus on the return of stolen funds, as this can help take the profit out of corruption, thereby reducing the incentive to act corruptly. This notion of taking the profit out of corruption is premised on a belief

stolen funds are deposited in those banks.

But none of these will succeed without the full and effective cooperation of other states. That is why the “firm assurances of cooperation” by the US and other unnamed countries is in principle to be applauded.

political will to cooperate in the repatriation of Abacha loot.

Although often touted as a ‘success story’, only a small part of the Abacha funds have actually been repatriated by the UK and Switzerland. France even failed to execute a letter of request for mutual assistance on the rather

President Muhammadu Buhari that the individual’s economic behaviour is rational and based on a balance of interest and risk.

However, asset recovery is complex, expensive and slow, requiring sound planning and proactive actions by the government if any significant success is to be recorded. Important documents and primary information will be needed to allow forensic experts, accountants, lawyers, etc., to build a prima facie case to initiate mutual assistance requests.

Once stolen funds are identified, the government must move swiftly to seize and freeze the funds as a provisional measure, to prevent the possibility of funds being moved around and closure of accounts.

The government may for example request that a blanket disclosure and freezing order be sent to targeted banks in Europe and North America where prima facie information is available that

Nevertheless, it has to be stressed that the way jurisdictions like the US keeping stolen funds respond in practice to requests for technical and financial assistance suggests that the promise of cooperation should be taken with a pinch of salt. For example, the US and the UK have not shown sufficient

Once stolen funds are identified, the government must move swiftly to seize and freeze the funds as a provisional measure, to prevent the possibility of funds being moved around and closure of accounts

A cross section of participants at the Law Pavilion sponsored IBA' conference on investment

flimsy ground that it was drafted in English!

Therefore, to make sure that the US and other countries fulfil their promises to cooperate, the Buhari government can make the best use of progressive rules on asset recovery as contained in the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) which the US ratified on 30 October 2006.

The UNCAC for example makes it obligatory for states to exchange information and take measures to facilitate the full return of funds to the countries from which they were stolen.

Yet, the use of the UNCAC may not necessarily guarantee success in securing the cooperation of financial centres without the requisite political will to observe the rules on international cooperation and assistance.

Experience has indeed shown that while many countries including the US, the UK (and Nigeria) have ratified the UNCAC, the convention is rarely effectively implemented by financial centres in Europe and North America.

In essence, recovery of stolen funds still largely depends on the goodwill of the states where the funds are located.

Therefore, the Buhari government would need to make a strong case on why it is in the public interest of the US to facilitate recovery of stolen funds

by Nigeria, as the US (and other countries) won’t cooperate if cooperating with Nigeria is deemed harmful to its public or economic interest.

However, Nigeria is not entirely left to the political whims and caprices of the financial centres.

One way Buhari can deal with the cases of unwilling or uncooperative financial centres and off-shore havens is to consider, first, the possibility of judicial intervention through the mechanism of the International Court of Justice (already con-templated under article 66 of the UNCAC as a means of resolving disputes among states parties). Second, in cases of jurisdictions that persistently violate rules on international cooperation regarding asset recovery, the government should work with friendly countries to put pressure on the international community to consider imposing heavy political and economic sanctions against those j u r i s d i c t i o n s .

Although not an international court, the OECD mechanism allows non-members like Nigeria to make a request to its Working Group on Bribery or to its Secretary General.

The Buhari government can take full advantage of this mechanism by requesting the Working Group and the Secretary General to include the government’s asset recovery initiative on their “Tour de Table”.

Beyond dealing with the issue of international cooperation, there are other issues that will determine whether the government will succeed in its asset recovery agenda or follow the failed initiatives of past governments.

Initiatives of past governments For reason of space, only a few of these issues will be highlighted here. In the first place, the government’s asset recovery initiative must be comprehensive andavoid selective justice, consistent with the precepts of a social and democratic state based on the rule of law. The principle of equality, according to which justice should be administered equally for all, means that Buhari should seek to recover stolen funds even from members of his own party and those that may be involved in his g o v e r n m e n t .

It’s equally important to target not only the high-ranking government officials and politicians but also the gobetweens—their families and friends—who may have helped them to stash stolen funds abroad, as well as financial institutions and centers that help to keep and hide ill-gotten wealth. Similarly, Buhari’s asset recovery agenda should take a firm stance against corruption in business transactions by establishing mechanisms to impose direct liability on companies and multinational corporations for bribing high ranking government officials.

To be continued

38—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

traffic gridlock in the state, Governor Emmanuel ordered the re-designing of Uyo capital city. The governor also set up technical committees with the mandate to look into means of applying mechanized approaches to agriculture to boost food supply and sufficiency and to attract foreign investments to the state.

Disclosing this to Vanguard, Special Adviser, Media to the governor, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, said that in a matter of weeks, there would be actions on job creation.

“If you look at some of the western countries, most of the millionaires are those who are into agriculture and allied industries. It is the opinion of the governor that we put a machinery at work to ensure that we tap into the enormous potentials that exist in that sector of the economy, “ Udoh said.

He also averred that industrialization is of importance to Governor Emmanuel as

•Gov Udom: All hopes are not lost

UNEMPLOYMENT:

Great expectations as Udom seeks solution

By Tom Moses

W

ITH an estimated N13 billion monthly allocation from the federation account , Akwa-Ibom State is unarguably one of the richest and most endowed states in Nigeria.

But this wealthy status has not translated into prosperity for people of the state, as most wallow in poverty. The 2006 National Population Census had pegged the population of the state at 3, 902, 051, even though the elite maintain that the population is about five million.

Of this figure, only a paltry 55, 000 people are employed by the state government, while the federal government employs 4,000 people. Others are in the private sector.

Peacock paint industry The implication is that a larger percentage is either unemployed or under-employed.

Worried by the level of unemployment, the Chairman of Etinan Local Council Area, Mr. Kenneth Okon penultimate week, drew the attention of Governor Udom Emmanuel to the problem which according to him is becoming a burden.

He therefore implored the governor to revive the Ikot Ekan Peacock Paint Industry within his first 100 years in office to boost job creation efforts.

The appeal was made when Emmanuel visited Etinan to

assess the state of the moribund paint industry with a view to revitalizing it.

It was also part of his efforts at establishing other industries in line with his campaign promises.

Okon said: ‘’I am appealing to the governor to come to the aid of the teeming unemployed youths in this local government and revitalize the Peacock Paint Industry within his first 100 days in office as all the equipment and facilities to make it work are functional. This will boost employment generation for the unemployed persons in this area.”

An unemployed youth leader in the area, Mr. Ndifreke Etukudoh, also urged the governor to make bold his promise not only to revitalize the paint industry but to also attract other investments to the state.

Etukudoh said that criminal activities in the state which were bolstered by unemployment would reduce drastically when the characters behind those vices would have been engaged in those industries.

Speaking at the event, Governor Emmanuel recalled that the Peacock Paint was a reliable brand in Nigeria because of its high quality, noting that the company would be revived.

He said: “I am happy with what I am seeing today. All hopes are not lost. We can actually pick up what we have today and build up a brand that will go round the whole country. The technical team will come and see how we can

turn around the fortunes of this place. The legal issues will be handed over to the Ministry of Justice to advice government in this regard. What I have seen today gives us hope that we can still pick up and build based on where we are as a country.

To ensure that an industrialised Akwa Ibom would not lead to

The governor is conviced that when the industries are rehabilitated, thousands of jobs would be created for the teeming unemployed youths, who are currently relying on politics as the only alternative means of survival

reflected by the number of technical committees he has setup and the resultant upsurge in the number of foreign investors visiting the state.

“Governor Emmanuel is desperate to make the state an Eldorado not just in aesthetical value but also in provoking industrial revolution for unprecedented economic independence of the state with the prospect of employment generation for all categories of the unemployed,”Udoh added.

The governor, he said, had toured the existing functional industries to assess their levels of workability and to also identify latent challenges holding them down.

Latent challenges The industries include; Peacock Paint Industry located in Ikot Ekan, Etinan Local Government Area, the Biscuit Industry, Sunshine Batteries and the Plasto-Crown Industry.

He said the governor is conviced that when the industries are rehabilitated, thousands of jobs would be created for the teeming unemployed youths, who are currently relying on politics as the only alternative means of survival.

Aside from the ailing industries, Udoh expressed the governor’s commitment to realizing the dreams of the Ibom Deep Seaport as soon as possible.

In this light, the state government recently constituted a 10-man technical committee to see to the realization of the project with Mrs. Mfon Usoro, a-one time Director-General of the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), as chairman.

••Akwa Ibom people want result — Etuk Sammy Etuk is an Uyo-based legal practitioner and the convener of Akwa Ibom Interest Group Movement (AIGM). In this interview, he speaks on topical issues bothering the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel. Excerpts:

By Chioma Onuegbu

M

AJORITY of Akwa Ibom people are of the opinion that the immediate past Governor, Godswill Akpabio is the man behind the mask, Udom, do you agree with that?

First and foremost, people are entitled to their opinions, but the reality on ground is that Udom Emmanuel is a man of his own.

Udom Emmanuel, as I have heard, consults a lot. So, it will not be out of place for him to consult his predecessors and beyond that, they are elder statesmen who are always ready to give constructive advice.

Governor Emmanuel realizing that he needs constructive advice will have no other alternative than to reach out to these

persons, particularly his predecessor Chief Godswill Akpabio. And doing that does not mean they are dictating his actions. Godswill Akpabio may not have had a very cordial relationship with his benefactor and predecessor, Obong Victor Attah, from the start of his administration, but that does not necessarily mean Udom Emmanuel should also have that experience. I do not know of any mask because at the end of the day, there is only one Governor of Akwa Ibom State now and that Governor is Udom Emmanuel and whatever happens, he will be held responsible for his actions and inactions by the people of the state.

On his appointments Governor Emmanuel should

•Etuk: Udom must ensure equitable distribution of resources know that he is coming from an organized private sector background; he should be able to decipher. If he wants to reward people for their loyalty, he can do that but what I am saying is that he should put square pegs in square holes and round pegs in round holes. Those he needs to encourage, he should Continues on page 39

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—39

NATIONAL CAKE: Ndigbo don't need to vote Buhari to get their share — EZEEMO •Says Buhari needs competent people to fight corruption CHIEF Godwin Ezeemo was the Anambra State governorship candidate of the Progressive Peoples Alliance, PPA in the 2013 polls. In this interview, he explains why President Muhammadu Buhari should constitute a unity government. He also spoke on other issues.

By JohnBosco Agbakwuru

H

OW do you think the Igbo would fare in this dispensation under President Buhari?

I believe they are prepared and can play the role of opposition in this dispensation.

I said this because they are seen as not having voted for Buhari. They voted for the All Progressives Congress,APC but the bulk of their votes went to the Peoples Democratic Party,PDP and other parties. I am interested in seeing what will happen.

I was in Buhari’s office in Kaduna in 2013 and I saw his character and humble office.

Display of wealth That made me to really appreciate the type of person he is. He wasn’t displaying wealth rather he was displaying the confidence that he has the ability to bring everybody together, and I strongly believe he can.

Ndigbo do not need to vote for Buhari to get their share of

the national cake. It is their inalienable right to get what is due them. If they don’t get it, then whoever is the president should know that he is not doing well. It is now that Buhari will use his position to bring this nation together for onward march to where we want it to be.

Do you have the same level of confidence in APC governors?

I will not tell you that I have the same level of confidence in the governors but given the fact that Buhari himself has what it takes to make Nigeria work is enough to change their attitude to governance.

Some are of the view that President Buhari should constitute a government of national unity, do you share this view?

I share the view because APC as a party does not own Buhari, rather he is the President of the entire country. Every ethnic group deserves to be carried along.

Can we know your expectations from this administration?

The availability of power in

the country is nothing to write home about. If we have constant power supply, industries will spring up in all nooks and crannies of this nation, jobs will be generated for the people and as such people will not be idle.

Secondly, if there is constant power supply, agriculture can take off because we are still struggling in agriculture.

Without power, there is no way people can engage in agriculture. Virtually all the industries we have in this country are light industries. We don’t have heavy duty industries. It is when we have heavy duty industries that the light industries can take off

President Buhari should therefore exercise caution over who he picks to work with him. If he gets the right people to work with him, we will be able to fight corruption collectively

•Ezeemo: APC as a party does not own Buhari because the heavy duty industries will produce all the raw materials needed in the light industries. So, in everything, power is essential.

Availability of power will equally bring down the cost of living. Our hotels are the most expensive in the world and the reason is that they power the hotels with generators. It is a big problem. I am telling you this out of experience because I am an industrialist and I

Akwa Ibom people want result — Etuk Continues on page 38 encourage but appointment should not be seen as a means of empowerment.

What is your expectation of the Udom Emmanuel-led administration?

The expectation of AIGM, like every other discerning Akwa Ibom person, is for the new administration to effect positive change in the state. We expect change that goes beyond infrastructural development, change that will address the issues of unemployment and insecurity; change that will propel our state from civil service based to an investment destination of choice; change that will consolidate on the achievements of past administrations; and change that will not be lopsided.

Above all, we expect change that will see projects equitably distributed among every integral part of the state. These are what our movement expects of the Emmanuel-led administration.

How is that feasible?

It is feasible in the sense that

the elections are over and the person at the helm of affairs today is Mr. Emmanuel. He is of the Ibibio extraction and emerged the Governor of Akwa Ibom State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. But elections are over and that means Udom Emmanuel has entered a covenant with the people of Akwa Ibom State to deliver responsive governance to all parts of the state irrespective of ethnic composition, religious affiliation, gender or orientation.

Religious affiliation He has to address the issue of effective distribution of development across board.

Do you think the last administration did not address that?

Well, to the best of its ability, the Akpabio administration was able to do that but you cannot fail to see a manifest lopsidedness.

As a person, I am very passionate about the people of

Oron federal constituency. I have had occasions to go to that area for personal and legal businesses and the level of infrastructural decay there is not comparable to any other federal constituency in the state. I do not know what could have necessitated such lopsidedness but it is visible for even a blind man to feel. Yes, Emmanuel’s predecessor must have tried his best but there was an obvious lopsidedness.

His assessment of members of the Technical Committee set up by the governor to realise the Ibaka deep seaport As a lawyer I have been privileged to read materials on maritime law and the industry and I know in Nigeria there are just two highly known authorities when it comes to this area. One of them is Chief Olisa Agbakoba and fortunately for Akwa Ibom people, the second is a former Director General of Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Mrs. Mfon Usoro.

So, for Udom to have

constituted a technical committee and appointed her to chair it with the likes of Enobong Etteh, who has versatile experience in labour law, banking and finance law, as the Secretary of the committee amongst others, means the governor knows what he is doing and what Akwa Ibom people want.

Members of that committee are the best hands in the industry.

For me, but for the duration given the committee to work, it is a step in the right direction.

You have to understand that this deep seaport project started during Obong Attah’s tenure and Akpabio’s eight years in office could not also actualize it. I am told there is litigation on the project.

So, Udom has to also look at it from this angle to avoid failure; looking at issues that affected the non-actualization of the same project from the days of Obong Attah till date. However, he has started on the right direction but what Akwa Ibom people want is results.

know the problems I go through.

Also, the government should be inclusive. Everybody should be given a place, whether they voted for APC or not. APC, I believe, is a party that wants to make sure that Nigerians support them and they can only do it by doing what is right.

How do you want the administration to handle the issue of corruption?

This is going to be a very difficult area for the administration. The President cannot be everywhere, even though we see him to be an upright person.

Ability to deliver What I will suggest is that he must pick people that can deliver. He should not pick people because they come from a particular geo-political area not minding his or her ability to deliver.

If he picks incompetent persons, they will let him down and he will be blamed for it.

For instance former President Goodluck Jonathan had good intentions for this country but those around him were more interested in what they could get. And they were doing things with impunity.

He is a good man and could have performed better than he did. President Buhari should therefore exercise caution over who he picks to work with him.

If he gets the right people to work with him, we will be able to fight corruption collectively.

40—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

that no one is above the law.

On comments that the crisis was orchestrated by those who want to hijack the National Assembly to hinder President Muhammadu Buhari from waging his anti-corruption war With due respect, I think the President has summarised it all.

He has asked everybody within the party in each of the chambers of the National Assembly to drop their personal interest.

NASS CRISIS: Alteration of Senate rules must be probed — REP OLADELE MR Bosun Oladele represents Irepodun/Orelope/Olorunsogo Federal Constituency of Oyo State in the House of Representatives on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC. In this chat he shares his thoughts on the crisis ravaging the National Assembly and the way out.

By Bashir Adefaka

O

N the controversy trailing the elections of National Assembly leadership Whether you like it or not the leadership of the House of Representatives emerged from among APC candidates. What we are now contesting is whether or not it was in line with the expectation of the party.

It wasn’t in line with the expectation of the party. The extant rules are there. They have not been changed and what the rules say is that the party with the majority must nominate candidates for the leadership.

The situation in the Senate has raised a lot of questions. On what ground should PDP candidate become Deputy Senate President?

Do you blame the emergence of a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, senator, Ike Ekweremadu, as candidate as deputy Senate President on the alleged forgery of the Senate rules?

There has been that allegation, which will be proved or disproved and until that is done, I will say it is better not to make comments on it.

If we look at it carefully, the process that led to the emergence of the Senate President and even the Deputy Senate President as well is flawed in the sense that not everybody participated. I

If we look at it carefully, the process that led to the emergence of the Senate President and even the Deputy Senate President as well is flawed in the sense that not everybody participated

would say at least about half of the people that were supposed to participate did not participate and it was a situation of the PDP catching in on the absence of some people and I would say the process smacks of mischief. It was like a gang-up.

The basis of the allegation of forgery against Ekweremadu I think the fulcrum of the allegation is that at no time was the extant rules of the Senate which prescribed voice vote for the appointment of principal officers amended to allow secret balloting by which the Senate President and the Deputy Senate President were elected to their

Lack of infnrastructure

•Oladele: The situation in the Senate has raised a lot of questions current positions.

I am of the opinion that if the allegation is coming from a member of the 7th Senate as in this case, then it is something that ought to be viewed with all seriousness that it deserves. One is fortified in this line of reasoning by the fact that the National Assembly keeps records of its proceedings which includes the names of members that moved motions or gave notice of any amendment sought.

Standing rules It is therefore logical to look into such records and see the veracity of this instant allegation.

Further more, if an unauthorised alteration has been

made to the records of proceedings of the 7th Senate or any part of the standing rules and orders then it amounts to forgery and there must be consequences.

I am afraid this is not a case where “doctrine of necessity” can be used to obliterate clear breach or criminal act. It will be the most unfortunate thing to happen at that level of government and it will be incurably bad for the leadership of the Senate.

I also do not see anything wrong in the invitation (if any) extended to the Deputy Senate President by the police if it will help the investigation. Let’s not forget that none of them at that level enjoys any immunity under the Constitution and I think it will give the present administration’s anti - corruption crusade a bite

We must drop all our personal interests so that Nigeria would move forward whereby we will all settle down and work for change expected by the people.

On the wardrobe allowance controversy I think some mischief makers were at play; people wanting to set people against the new government. The question one should ask is, why would anybody want to spend millions upon millions of Naira to dress up when people are hungry all over the place? It that was pure misinformation.

That money they are talking about consists of housing allowance for new legislator because, there is no more official accommodation. And you would agree with me that in most places in Abuja now, the least accommodation you can get is between N4 million and N7 million and so on and so forth.

The money also consists of furniture allowance, which is payable once throughout the tenure. And then the money consists of car loan to be given to legislator, which is deductible every month.

Then, the wardrobe allowance for a member of the House of Representatives is not up to half a million naira. And, so, I wonder why the people that mischievously branded that payment wardrobe allowance did so.

••We need quick resolution — Oji

By Henry Umoru

D

ISTURBED by what the National Assembly crisis portended for the polity the Executive Director of a pressure group, Friends in the Gap Advocacy Initiative (FGAI), George Oji has called for a thorough Investigation into the alleged case of forgery of the Senate Standing Rules and quick resolution of the crisis Speaking for the FGAI, which is a parliamentary advocacy, monitoring and lobby group, Oji said there is need for thorough investigation of alleged case of forgery in view of the petition written by the “Senate Unity Forum,” to the Inspector General

of Police calling for an investigation into the circumstances of the emergence of the “Senate Standing Orders 2015,” which was used in the election that led to the emergence of Senator Ekweremadu as the Deputy President of the Senate as well as the explanations provided by Senator Ike Ekweremadu that every new senate must operate with a new rule in compliance with Section 64 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution as amended to justify the emergence of the new rule book.

His words: “Consequently, we appeal to the Senate to conduct thorough investigations to ascertain the circumstances that led to the surreptitious

emergence of the new rule book, particularly whether it was done in accordance with order 110 of the Senate standing order 2011.

“We urge that there should not be any sacred cow in the investigation process. The investigation should also be concluded quickly and on time too.

“We demand that anyone found culpable, remotely or directly in the unlawful printing of the said new Senate rule should be made to face the music; be prosecuted in a court of competent jurisdiction in the country, as there is no immunity against prosecution provided for any lawmaker in the nation’s constitution. The probe is not all about Ekweremadu or indeed

•Arase any other individual senator. It is all about honour, integrity and character.

“It is our position that as elected representatives of the people, members of the National Assembly must be like Caesar wife; they must live above board; not engage in any form of criminal activities, much more,

forgery.

“Also, Friends in the Gap Advocacy Initiative urges quick and timely resolution of the current crisis of leadership in the two arms of the National Assembly, so that the lawmakers would settle-in quickly, to commence the real business of lawmaking for which the Nigerian electorate have invested so much time and resources.

“It is our further position that Nigerians voted the present crop of lawmakers into office as part of the larger change mantra, represented by President Muhammed Buhari, which means that Nigerians expect the legislators to join hands with the President to make laws that would change our old ways of governance.’’

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 41

42 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 43

44— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Hospital boosts critical care, emergency medicine services

By Sola Ogundipe

S

EVERAL years ago, Dr. Ngozi Onyia, a Paediatrician/Primary care Physician, had a brain haemorrhage and was spared the trauma of developing a stroke through the timely availability of specialist emergency medical care.

Being a direct beneficiary of specialist emergency care, she was privileged to appreciate its value, and that singular experience motivated her to into contributing her own quota towards bridging existing gaps in the provision of specialist care in the country.

Just before she turned 50 in 2010, Onyia,voluntarily quit her job at Nigerian Breweries where she worked as medical adviser for 10 years, and with 50 percent of her severance pay, founded the Paelon Memorial Clinic - a world class boutique hospital with highly sought personalised multi-specialist medical services in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Last week, the hospital opened a 2-bed state-of-the-art Intensive Care Unit, ICU, in line with the dream of the founder to further provide evidence-based healthcare services of the highest quality.

In a chat, Onyia, who is the facility’s current Medical Director described the event as the fulfilment of a heartfelt passion.

“What we have is a pasion. This vision started because we wanted to redefine specialist medical care in the country. When I started out in 2010, it was a journey into the unknown, but we have remained committed to the goal. Our aim is to get it

Equipment at the newly installed Intensive Care Unit at Paelon Memorial Hospital, Lagos. Inset: Dr. Ngozi Onyia (1st right) and Dr.Sylvia Cole during the opening last week. right, every time.

“We are going to be a facility where people will train. What we will be doing here will impact lives in other areas, This is a start, but it is a place where those who work in other facilities can come to see the equipment and learn how they can be used to deliver proper healthcare.

A partner at Paelon and Consultant in charge of the new ICU, Dr. Sylvia Cole, said the whole essence of making effective critical care services available was in the

effort to prevent complications.

Cole, an Anaesthetist/Intensivist, regretted that in Nigeria, emergency cases are not well covered in terms of specialist care. “What we are doing here is to set up a centre where we can look after trauma patients for the first three hours, and stabilise them, until they get better.

“In my area of critical care and emergency medicine, the first three hours are crucial.

In anaesthesia, the first five minutes make a difference whether a person would be

brain dead or not. The first three hours make a difference as to whether the kidneys fail, or if the liver fails or whether the patient will even survive.

“We are starting with two beds, even though in Lagos we need more than 100 beds, but if we are waiting for somebody to start a 100-bed ICU, nothing will happen.” she remarked.

Paelon, which is open to all, is already providing basic healthcare. The facility is soon to be accredited to train doctors.

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—45

Bayelsa govt wants forensic investigation into Agip pipeline fire disaster Y

By Samuel Oyadongha

ENAGOA—BAYELSA State Government has called for a comprehensive forensic investigation into last Thursday's Agip pipeline explosion, which claimed 13 lives, including a staff of the state Ministry of Environment and security personnel.

Governor Seriake Dickson, who made the call in Yenagoa, when he met with officials of Nigerian Agip Oil Company, NAOC, expressed worry over spill statistics of 656 in 2014 from the company's facilities in the state.

The governor expressed displeasure over reports indicating that the company failed to comply with internationally accepted standards in its operations in the state.

He warned that the government would not hesitate to explore all legal means to seek redress over the sad incident and serial abuse of the environment, should the outcome of the final report by the investigating team, which will comprise experts from all relevant agencies, indict NAOC. Dickson, who urged oil companies and other corporate organisations to operate in line with international standards, expressed dismay at the absence of NAOC’s Managing Director at the meeting.

Ndokwa youths task IPP firm on power supply

O

By Ochuko Akuopha

LEH—YOUTHS of host communities of Independent Power Plant, IPP, Okpai, in Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta State, have called on the management of the company to step down the facility so as to boost electricity supply in Ndokwa nation.

The youths, under the aegis of Ndokwa Neku Union, NNU (Youth Wing) and Pages Group lamented that most part of the Ndokwa nation had been in total darkness in the last one year “despite the fact that we have the IPP located in our home. The situation has become very unbearable and our people are very angry.”

Addressing newsmen in Kwale, Ndokwa council, Secretary of the Youth Wing of NNU, Presley Ifeanyichukwu, said: “What we do not understand is why we have abundance of natural gas which is one of the prerequisite for constant power and an Independent Power Plant situated here at Okpai and still suffer paucity of electricity supply."

C M Y K

The governor said henceforth, he will want to deal with the Chief Executive Officer of the company in any weighty mutual issues, where binding decisions are to be taken.

Consoling the families that lost their loved ones to the incident, Dickson restated his administration’s commitment to the protection of the environment against any further destruction by oil companies and perpetrators of

pipeline vandalism.

He said: “In this government, we are concerned about the environment. The statistics that have been read out is alarming, to say the least. I can’t imagine in this state, how from your facilities alone, 656 spills occurred in one year. That means, almost three spills at three different sites occur everyday of the year. That is very troubling even though I know that the activities of some

of our people also contribute to it.

“In view of the litany of complaints against most of the oil companies here, and in particular about Agip from all s t a k e h o l d e r s - s e c u r i t y, communal and government, the government of Bayelsa State is interested in a full forensic investigation. Like I said earlier, I don’t want to prejudge the final report that will come."

GROUND BREAKING: Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State (middle), performing the ground breaking of Mimshac Merkavim Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Technologies Plant at Ikot Ukap, Itu Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State.

Edo Central lauds Oshiomhole, party chair on leadership

B

ENIN—MEMBERS of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Edo Central senatorial district, have reviewed the performance of the party in the last general elections with a view to repositioning the party and enhance its performance in future elections.

Party faithful, who met at the country home of Chief H. Okoror, after careful and extensive

deliberation, thanked Governor Adams Oshiohome for providing genuine and pragmatic leadership for the party and the state “which is manifest with the massive infrastructural development in roads and schools.”

Members poured encomium on the state chairman of the party, Mr Anselm Ojiezua for his exemplary leadership that has raised the fortune of the party in

the state and Edo Central senatorial district. They thereafter passed a vote of confidence in the state party chairman and advised him to continue to support the governor in the overall interest of the people and state.

Speaking further, vice chairman of the party, Chief Okoror called on all members to unite and work for the collective good of the party.

NISA moves to acqiure more vessels from US, Turkey

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By Ifeyinwa Obi

AGOS—BASKING in the euphoria of reaching an agreement with the Greeks shipowners over provision of 40 ships to enhance capacity among its members in the Nigerian maritime sector, the Nigerian Ship-owners Association, NISA, has said that it had entered into another agreement, this time with American and Turkish partners on the provision of vessels not limited to product tankers alone.

Speaking in Lagos, the President of NISA, Capt. Niyi

Labinjo, said “We are currently in talks with the Americans and the Turkish on the provision of vessels that are not limited to product tankers alone.

“We have under consideration all classes of offshore support vessels including anchor handling tugs, platform support vessels, utility vessels, crew boats, patrol boats etc. If you recall, under Earnest Nwapa, the Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board, NCDMB, served a notice to all foreign vessel owners that their contracts

will not be renewed on expiration.

“Therefore, we expect the International Oil Companies, IOC to engage Nigerian vessels in line with the provisions of the Cabotage Act and the NCD Act. We are therefore, gearing towards providing the required offshore support vessels.

“When this is fully operationalised, we expect about 700,000 direct and indirect jobs to be created with an annual $15 billion saved from capital flight."

Asagba's birthday c'ttee unveils programme

By Hugo Odiogor

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SABA—ACTIVITIES to mark the 90th birthday anniversary of the Asagba of Asaba, Professor Chike Edozien starts on July 18 in Asaba, Delta State capital, with guided tour of tourist sites especially, traditional tourist sites like Ani Ahaba, and colonial sites such as the Anchorage of the Lander brothers, Mungo Park building, the early cemeteries and missionary schools, in Asaba among others.

The Chairman of the Anniversary Committee, Professor Epiphany Azinge, told Vanguard that “The committee has worked out a very elaborate event that will enable it showcase the people and culture of Asaba while honouring its monarch.”

Prof Azinge said: “On July 21, there will be an induction of the Asagba into a Hall of Fame in Asaba, to appreciate the peaceful and transformational nature of his tenure in the past 24 years on the throne.

“A world press conference has been planned where the Asagba will give account of his reign in the past 24 years, after the press conference, there will be a cultural exhibition in his palace. The exhibition which will run throughout the celebration period will showcase the rich cultural assets and artefacts of Asaba people.

“On July 22, residents of Asaba, institutions and corporate bodies are expected to pay homage to the monarch at his palace. This will be followed by a dance carnival and musical float that will go round the town and terminate at the Arcade in Asaba on July 23. The Asagba will be the guest of honour at the grand finale of the football competition where he is expected to present the trophy to the winners of the football match.

“On July 24, we have equally planned fishing festival and some intellectual activities like essay and quiz competitions, folklore and music concert among the secondary schools in Asaba."

46—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Activists laud Udom over AG’s appointment

By Ediri Ejoh & Richard Udofia

A

RIGHTS group, Civil Liberties Organisation, CLO, has described the recent appointment of Uwemedimo Nwoko as the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice

by Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom, as a welcome development and one of the best decisions taken so far by the State Government.

In a statement issued

by Clifford Thomas, the state chairman of the Civil Liberties Organisation, CLO, on behalf of the human rights community in Akwa Ibom, the forum described Nwoko as “one of its own”.

Nwoko, who had been making news, even before his appointment first assumed duty as the Akwa Ibom state Attorney General in the last four months of the previous administration of Godswill Akpabio and was last week retained by in the same office.

The statement added that “Nwoko’s appointment as Attorney General is not only a recognition of excellence in the performance of duty, but a conscious involvement of the human rights community in the observance, preservation and protection of the rights of persons living in Akwa Ibom.

PIPELINES VANDALISATION: NSCDC in Ebonyi

reads riot act

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI—New Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC, Ebonyi State Command, Adeyinka Fasiu has ordered vandals to desist from vandalizing petroleum pipelines across the state as the command would no longer tolerate such act in the state.

Fasiu handed down the warning while resuming officially at the Command headquarters in Abakaliki.

The commandant further called on petroleum product marketers to stop adulteration of petroleum products in their bid to make profit at the expense of the people of the state.

He stressed that anybody caught in the act would be punished according to the law.

According to him, his administration would uphold

the core mandates of the corps, which include anti-vandalism, monitoring and supervision of the Private Guard Companies, PGC, fight against kidnapping and antiterrorism and adulteration of petroleum products.

He said: “I have to follow the core mandate of the corps in terms of anti vandalization drive, the monitoring and supervising of the Private Guard Companies, PGC, and the issue of kidnapping and terrorism. I am going to

...recovers stolen car, sets up pipeline monitoring team in Abia

By Anayo Okoli

U

MUAHIA—ABIA State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, said it has recovered a stolen Volkswagen Passat car which was snatched from the owner at gun point in Umuahia.

The V-6 engine Passat Volkswagen car, according to NSCDC was recovered from one Martin Chukwemeka, the alleged buyer of the car.

The suspect, the Command said

took its men to Afor-Ikeduru in Imo State where the car was parked.

Parading the suspect in Umuahia, Abia State Commandant of the state NSCDC, Dr. Benito Eze alleged that the suspected buyer was arrested at Ubakala in Umuahia South Council area of the state.

Eze said that the suspect thereafter took his men to Imo State where the car was recovered.

According to him, the vehicle

Rector condemns nations that justify gay marriages

By Ikenna Asomba

T

HE RECTOR of Evangel Faith Theological Seminary, Mafoluku, Oshodi Lagos, Professor Johnson Olatunde has said that any nation that justifies gay marriage as an acceptable lifestyle is in its final stages of moral corruption.

Professor Olatunde who spoke at the Minister’s Leadership Conference organised by Evangel Faith International Mission, EFIM, to equip church leaders on how to understand God’s purpose for excellence lamented that gay marriage and other negative things are happening all over the world because people are no longer committed and connected to God. He said, “unfortunately, even Christians in Western countries have allowed gay marriage to

reach out to all my men in the 13 LGAs of the state to put in place 24 hour monitoring and surveillance of all these vandals so as to checkmate them."

creep into their folds.

"What we see these days is not worth emulating. This is what Jesus Christ had explained to us as signs of the end. But as members of the clergy, our prayer today is that the clergy in Nigeria will be steadfast to ensure that the glory of God does not departed from us."

He expressed optimism that President Muhammadu Buhari

will perform well drawing from his experience as a former leader.

He said: “Buhari is not Nigeria’s President by his powers, but because of the intercessions and prayers of God’s people. " It’s our genuine prayer that the Lord will perfect his excellence for this nation through President Buhari.’’

was suspected to have been stolen by one David Ariwodo who was once an inmate in Afara Prison Umuahia. He was alleged to have stolen the car in connivance with another suspect, one Uchenna Samuel Kwubiri, aka Uche, who was alleged to have escaped from police custody in 2014.

Eze said that the car was taken to Amakohia in Imo state where the buyer resides, but was later moved to where it was hidden, which was where it was recovered by his men.

The alleged buyer of the car, Chukwuemeka said that a friend gave the car to him to keep for him. He claimed that he lost his phone hence he could not reach the said friend again.

“I lost my phone and had been calling his elder brother to come and take the car before the men of NSCDC came to arrest me,” he claimed.

The NSCDC Commandant also warned pipeline vandals in the state to desist, saying that he had instituted a new pipeline monitoring team to ensure the safety of the right of way.

Group condemns vituperations on Ugwuanyi

By Francis Igata

E

NUGU—A Group,Nsukka Youth Progressive Forum,NYPF,has condemned attacks on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi on a section of the media,(not Vanguard)accusing the authors of,”bias and mischief” aimed at distracting

governance in Enugu State.

The publication, had described Ugwuanyi’s commissionernominees as,” recycled old men that lack vision”.

But in a swift reaction, NYPF, in a statement made available to newsmen read in part: ”We condemn in its entirety, the ulterior motive of the author and the content of his story which does

not reflect the true position of things in the new administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

"It is either that the writer in his myopic judgment is ignorant of the action plans and tremendous efforts so far made by the governor to modernize and develop Nsukka, 9th Mile Corner and other satellite towns."

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

Should Sunda ed Super Eagles coach?

Sundayy Oliseh be appoint appointed

W

hen Steven Keshi coached the Super Eagles to win the Africa Cup of nation, we said Keshi was the best, but later rejected him and almost stoned him when he failed to qualify for the African Nations Cup. -Mr. Benjamin Ukposidolo, Worker

W

hat I have to say about Oliseh to be appointed as Super Eagles coach is that such is what it is meant to be, using people with experience and efficiency to train the players in one or two strategies so as to get positive results. -Mr. Samuel Lilrichey, Student

W

e should stop wishing our coaches bad luck. The only thing God needs from Nigerians is for us to have faith and believe that Oliseh will bring joy to the Super Eagles and to Nigeria. With our prayers, he might turn to be the best. -Miss Isaac Chika, Nurse

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o have played as a footballer is a completely different thing. If Zinedine Zidane can be appointed as a coach by Real Madrid based on his six years experience, then that is why we are where we are today in all areas.

-Mr. Frank Anoh, Self Employed

I

do not support the idea of NFF narrowing down super eagles coaching job to ex-footballers alone. Must one be a former football player in order to be a good coach? They should open the job. -Mr. Fisayo Aderibigbe, Businessman

T

o me this is crap.

What has Oliseh done as a coach for him to deserve that position? Why not start him with Eaglets?

Nigerian politics in almost all sectors is just crap.

What team had he coached? Does he have the experience? -Mrs. Morayo Simeon, Worker

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 47

Jigawa festive as Lamido, sons regain freedom

By Aliyu Dangida

D

UTSE—BAMAINA village, the country home of former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, was thrown into festivities yesterday, following his release from Kano Central Prison.

Associates and kinsmen of the former governor in Bamaina and its environs came out en-masse to celebrate the release of their political leader and his two sons, chanting praises of Allah for His intervention.

A Federal High Court sitting in Kano State, presided over by Justice Evlyne Anyakedi, last Thursday remanded Lamido, his two sons, Mustapha and Aminu, and one other at Kano Central Prison, Kurmawa, pending the determination of the bail application by a vacation judge.

One of his aides, Aminu Kasti Bamaina, described the release of his boss and sons as a welcome development, but added that the process that led to his detention was politically-motivated and a witch-hunt.

“I felt extremely happy for seeing that Lamido will be back home to celebrate Sallah festivities

By John Mkom

T

TREE PLANTING: From left; Lanre Ogunlesi, MD, Skin Beauty; Dr. Paul Abolo, MD Ecologists Solution; Engr. Adebola Shabi, GM, LASEPA and Ade Ogunlesi, Executive Chairman, Skin Beauty, at The Skin Beauty/LASEPA event to mark the 2015 Industrial Tree Planting campaign at Skin Beauty office complex, Oregun, Lagos. with his family, friends and close associates,” Bamaina said.

A social media coordinator of “Lamido mu ke fata 2019'”, Mansur Ahmed, said he could not express his happiness over the release of their mentor, father and former governor of the state, adding that Lamido's supporters

would converged on Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport to welcome him home.

Vanguard reports that most of the supporters and PDP chieftains in the state described Lamido’s arrest as political witch-hunt aimed at tarnishing his reputation, claiming that his achievements

were commendable.

The release of Sule Lamido has come at the time Jigawa State government distanced itself from his detention, saying the N1.35 billion alleged fraud, the case involving his sons, was a long awaited case since he was covered by immunity while in office.

We made sacrifices to pay outstanding salaries — ABUBAKAR

By Suzan Edeh

B

AUCHI—BAUCHI State government has said it made sacrifices to settle the three months outstanding salaries of workers in order to improve effective service delivery of the state civil service.

The state governor, Mohammed Abubakar, who made this known during the 2015 NLC State Level School at the Secretariat of the Nigerian Union of Teachers in the state yesterday, noted that the welfare of civil servants in the state

was one of the top priorities of the remaining outstanding the state government. salaries will be paid to workers.

The governor, who was “It could be recalled that N5 represented by his Deputy, Nuhu billion was given to the state from Gidado, said despite the the Federal Government out of its dwindling resources of the state, the state government was able to pay workers three months outstanding salaries to established a worker-friendly

By Victor Ahiuma-Young state.

He said: “Barely two months HE National Union of that the administration came Electricity Employees, into inception, the government succeeded in NUEE, yesterday expressed shock paying three months salaries over renewal of the contract of owed workers and very soon, Manitoba Hydro Nigeria to manage the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, despite perceived opposition and abundant evidence that the company failed to meet the terms and conditions of the three years contract earlier given to it by the Lifestyle”, was focused on capacity government of former President building and the efforts put in by Goodluck Jonathan.

The union in a statement signed Smile Communications to meet up with its brand promise for by the General Secretary, Joe Ajaero, said it was surprised that Nigerians.

They expressed delight that in President Muhammadu Buhari’s less than three years of launch of government aspiring for a change its services in Nigeria, Smile had had agreed to a continued payment remained dependable, providing of eight white men $23 million per high quality connectivity with annum for a non-performing contract without a review. almost zero downtime.

NUEE advised officials of The Managing Director, Smile Communications, Mr. Michiel Manitoba to stay away from all Buitelaar, explained that with TCN locations until the contract the deployment of 4G/LTE was reviewed in the interest of technology that runs on 800GHz Nigerians, and challenged the spectrum, the company would company's boss to tender his continue to offer the best curriculum vitae and show where connectivity and high network in the world he had worked.

The union said: “With the alleged availability index in the country.

CEOs, CIOs laud Smile over fast broadband connectivity

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HIEF Executive Officers and Chief Information Officers of corporate organisations have commended Smile Communications Nigeria Limited for providing high speed 4G LTE broadband services in the country.

The corporate chieftains made up of chief executives as well as chief information and chief technology officers of large and medium organisations from banks, oil and gas corporations, insurance companies, ecommerce, logistics firms, among others, gave the commendation at an event hosted by Smile Communications recently.

The event, tagged “A Connected

Tiv group protests killing of kinsmen

by Fulani herdsmen

sale of liquid natural gas. This money collected from the federal government was not meant for the payment of salaries, but the state sacrificed it to pay workers.''

HE Tiv people of Dan-Anacha in Gasol Local Government Area of Taraba State yesterday protested with two corpses of their kinsmen killed by Fulani herdsmen to the office of Governor Darius Ishaku.

The protesters were angered by the continued attacks targeted at them in Taraba by Fulani herdsmen and decided to convey the corpses of the slain persons to demand for immediate action from the state government.

The deceased were said to have been slaughtered in their farms in the early hours of yesterday.

Crisis erupted in the area last week, despite ongoing efforts by Governor Ishaku to restore peace to troubled areas in the state.

Spokesman of the protesters, Chief John Shagbaor, told the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Anthony Jellason, that the Fulani herdsmen started killing his people last Thursday without any provocation.

Stay away from TCN, Labour warns Manitoba

T

secret signing of TCN Management contract with Manitoba Hydro Nigeria, despite our advice, the hope of change is on the verge of collapse. ‘’We had wished that the era of impunity was over with the

last administration but the latest signing of agreement with Manitoba Hydro Nigeria’s non-performing contract is an eloquent testimony that this is a government of endorsement and continuity.''

NLC condemns Boko Haram's continued killing of Nigerians

By Suzan Edeh

B

AUCHI—THE Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, has condemned the continued killing of innocent Nigerians in some parts of the north by Boko Haram in the name of fighting the course of Islam.

NLC National President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, who made the condemnation during the opening ceremony of the 10th NLC State Level School in Bauchi, organised by the state council of the NLC, said the Muslim world had disassociated itself from the activities of Boko Haram, pointing out that the activities of the sect were the height of cruelty and

crime against humanity.

Wabba, who was represented by Bauchi State NLC chairman, Hasimu Gital, said a religious state could not be established by acts of terrorism and vandalism.

He said: “Nigeria is enmeshed in crisis of unimaginable challenges, ranging from corruption, kidnapping, armed robbery to other social vices, but among all the self-imposed problems, the most disheartening is the killings of innocent Nigerians in the name of Islam.

“The act of barbarism being perpetuated by Boko Haram can only lead to the establishment of a satanic state which can never be created in the country.”

48—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

HONOUR FOR BRF: From left— Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), former Lagos State Governor; Abdulwaheed AbdulRaheem, CEO, Kausar Abdulsalam Hassan Establishments; and Dr. Oluranti Adebule, Lagos State Deputy Governor, during the presentation of Award of Excellence to Fashola as the best former governor on pilgrims welfare in Nigeria, in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

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NEPC/NBCC MOU: Mr. Olusegun Awolowo, Executive Director/ CEO of Nigerian Export Promotion Council, NEPC, (left) and Prince Dapo Adelegan, President, Nigerian-British Chambers of Commerce, NBCC, exchanging copies of a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, to further enhance the fortunes of non-oil exports in Nigeria, in Abuja.

ORAL HEALTH: From left— Avinish Jain, Social Mission Manager, Africa, Hygiene & Nutrition Brand, Unilever; David Okeme, Brand Building Director; Bunmi Adeniba, Category Manager, Oral Care; Dr. Bode Ijarogbe, President, Nigerian Dental Association, and George Umoh, Brand Manager, Pepsodent, at the launch of Pepsodent Oral Health Schools' programme organised by Unilever at Central Primary School, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

SEMINARY: Rev. (Prof) Johnson Olatunde, Rector, The Evangel Faith Theological Seminary, and other Board members, during the seminary's Minister's Leadership Conference 2015 at The Evangel Faith International Mission Headquarters, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos. PHOTO: Bunmi Azeez.

REHABILITATION: From left— Mr. Adetona Lawrence, Education Secretary, Mainland; Jacqueline Olayemi Odiadi, Executive Director, Development Support Institute, DSI; Mr. Ade Abatan, Director Social Mobilisation, SUBEB; Judith Eigett, representative of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany; Mrs Ojelade Moriam, Headmistress, Makoko Anglican Primary School, and Mrs Olubunmi Francis, Director, Programme, DSI, during the commissioning of seven blocks of rehabilitated toilet facility at Makoko Anglican Primary School, Lagos.

AWARD: From left— Mr. Aderinlewo Olulere, Manager Sales; Mr. Atanu Datta, General Manager, both of Dana Plast Limited, and Mr. Oyewule Adeniyi, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Sate Printing Corporation, during the presentation of an award to Dana Plast as Africa’s Most Reliable Plastic Products Company of the Year 2015.

TREE-PLANTING: From left— Mr. Taiwo Orenuga, Executive Secretary, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA; Mr. Michael Dawodu, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, and Mr. Anibaba Obafemi, Principal, Lagos State Junior Model College, Igbokuta, during the 2015 tree planting campaign held at Keme Balogun Junior College, Ibeshe-Ikorodu. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

BREIFING: From left— Pastor Charles Akoh, Pastor Goke Aniyeloye, Pastor Lanre Aiyedun, Pastor Niyi Ajimuda and Pastor Frank Oyorhigho at a briefing on an interdenominational prayer crusade tagged It's Time for My Manifestation, at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Testimony Parish, Akute, Ogun State.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 49

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50 —Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

NLC CRISIS: Why we are taking it easy, by Ajaero THIS is a continuation of the interview Johnbosco Agbakwuru, had with Comrade Joe Ajaero, factional President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, where he spoke on the crisis rocking the Congress and how it could be resolved. The first part was published last week. Excerpts:

O

NE of the arguments against you is that despite the flaws you mentioned with regards to the process leading to the election, you still went ahead to contest in both the botched and the rescheduled elections?

The truth is that under any circumstance, I was sure I was going to win the election. So it was not a question of looking for short cuts. I am not that kind of person. I followed the process and if I had lost that election, when I say lost, I mean lost in a free and fair manner, I would have left and prepared for the next election in four years. Unknown to many people, I contested for vice president in 2007 and lost and nobody heard anything. It is not do or die.

We had the issue of counting going on for two days. In modern elections, the counting has to be open in such a way that before you finish sorting everybody would have known who the winner or loser was and there was public address system in the Eagle Square; just count ‘Ajaero, Ayuba, Ajaero, Ayuba.’

Immediate counting By the time you finish sorting, everybody would have known but Omar started fighting my agent because my agent insisted on immediate counting after sorting.

That was the main crisis; we said you must count it, they said no and that was what led to his attack and the lights-off that took place at the venue. Up till that time there were no issues; it was not until the lights went off and my agent was attacked that we had issues . I had faith because I knew that Nigerian workers were not guided by where the candidates came from. I knew where my popularity reached and I followed it up. That was why I kept quiet.

Are you categorically saying that the election at the Eagles Square was rigged?

I have clearly stated it here that I won that election. Any day, any time I stand election with Ayuba, I will floor him. Even before that election and even up till today, as at the day they said they went to court, the issue of Ayuba’s eligibility in that election is still

in contest in the court by members of his union. When somebody has credibility problems even from his constituency, it is an issue. In terms of votes cast, most of the delegates were already taking pictures with me throughout that day because of the report that came out from agents, as the president-elect. Before long I will give you the names of the people that perpetrated the rigging; few of them are still in office. Some have left, they will soon all leave, I will give you the full dossier of how they handled this election on give and take.

We understand that the veterans have waded into the matter?

I have told you about the first meeting of the veterans in Abuja where they invited us, the issues they raised, the condition they gave to us which was not met and the veterans moved further, led by Sunmonu (Alhaji Hassan Sunmonu is pioneer NLC president) and came to my office and during the introduction I brought to them a matter that is in court and they felt disappointed and they took the court summons and said they were going to meet with Ayuba and they pronounced here that we can’t be in court and they would be settling this matter, that the condition for them to go into the matter is for this matter to be out of court for them to look into it and since that time, they have not sent for me again. I have not met with them.

Workers are the major victims here; don’t you think you should sheathe your swords for the benefits of these workers?

In all my engagements, I have avoided going personal because it is not all about Ajaero and Wabba in this issue. First and foremost, some of us were trained to say no to injustice no matter who is perpetrating it and that is the life we have lived. If I spent my time all these years and I can’t say no to such things, it then means that the life I have lived is not worth living. That is exactly what you have seen. For the first time we should be able to tell ourselves the truth; that this is wrong. It is not for anybody to benefit anything and I mentioned that there are some unions that

Comrade Joe Ajaero have organised themselves even better than the NLC, that even have resources better than the NLC. It is not like there is something there to gain.

Are you saying that there are unions that pay their staff more than the NLC which is the umbrella body of all unions?

Let me say here, whatever they are paying NLC president, the General Secretary of NUEE earns higher in whatever aspect. The resources of NUEE is higher than that of the NLC. So, it is not about going there to acquire something for yourself. It is just that if you have played a role in a union, you want to play it before

the larger body.

I took over as the scribe of NUEE in 2006 with N400,000 in all the NUEE accounts and N250m in debts. I am proud to tell you, you can find out from the records that today, NUEE is in the billionaires’ club. In Lagos and Abuja you see our assets including companies plus the foam manufacturing company in Jos and other investments.

How to transform t h e s e workers’ deductions of N1,000 or N1,500 to a greater value is what is moving us.

If in the quest to serve and people say wait ,we don’t want you, or it is not yet your time, you relax but if somebody feels that it must be this or when I finish I give to my cousin or I give to my uncle, definitely an Ajaero will say no. In this case, Ajaero is not wanted because he has fought the state for the interest of the workers.

Is there an age limit or other restrictions to becoming NLC president?

I have tenure by my side, I am not like Ayuba who is not the president of his union but he is president of NLC. Is NLC now a retirement home for anybody who has finished his tenure? I didn’t have that encumbrance.

I am a General Secretary of a union that retires at 60 and last December I celebrated 50, I could have as well waited for the next four years or even eight years.

Deputy president

Before long I will give you the names of the people that perpetrated the rigging; few of them are still in office

Those are not the issues; it is not the issue of I must be this and the major thing is that no unionist that you know whether Ejiofor, Kokori and others have ever held any position in NLC. Having at even before 50 years become deputy president of the NLC, who says I have not achieved something and I have even acted as president. The signal I am getting is because I have said privatisation is bad, Nigerians would not have supply, you have not paid my members; all these issues are the reasons why the state hated me

and got collaboration from my own constituency. It can be very painful; I repeat, it can be very painful when people from your constituency are used against you. If people from the movement start to collaborate with forces outside, then there is a problem and we are in for something different.

Are you saying outside forces are trying to influence happenings in the NLC? Let me tell you something. If some of us had agreed to play the spoilers’ role, by today the NLC would have been dissolved. It doesn’t cost me anything to mobilise 5,000 people in Abuja to go and take over that secretariat; I am not joking. The fact that you have seen some of us relaxing is because we know the history of the movement.

External trustee Those people they said supported them don’t want the movement. I repeat; they don’t want an NLC. If there is crisis, they will use that opportunity to clampdown on you, set up an external trustee or sole administrator and then you see all manner of laws against Nigerian workers as well as Nigerian people. With this at the back of my mind, I have slowed down so much, submitted myself to the veterans and all they said I agreed with. I was even reluctant to challenge the process initially and have been equally taken to court on that and I am following it up. So I don’t think that there is desperation from my side.

You mentioned immediate past president of the NLC at the beginning of this interview, are you saying he has a hand in the crisis?

The issue is this, there are a lot of tracks to be covered and he needed someone to cover them and he saw that Ajaero is not someone to do that. You ask yourself this, NLC got over N4billion from the Urban Development Bank to get buses.

Where are the buses? At the last NLC delegates conference, was there any financial statement from the Labour City Transport which is a growing concern of congress as a profit centre? What happened to that money because the people involved here are president and treasurer? (Wabba was immediate past treasurer).

That brings us to the KristonLally issue; Ayuba Wabba is the chairman of Kriston-Lally committee and now he wants to tell you that he doesn’t know what happened there? If he doesn’t know it means he is a weak leader, which is not possible. z THIS INTERVIEW CONTINUES NEXT WEEK.

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RCCG to test-run 3km auditorium zCondemns same sex marriage; Boko Haram attacks

By Sam Eyoboka & Olayinka Latona

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OWE(OGUN STATE) —REDEEMED

Christian Church of God, RCCG, yesterday, confirmed that its new three kilometre square auditorium expected to host 12 million persons will be one of the venues for its 63rd annual convention slated to begin August 9.

It also condemned same sex marriage, which was recently endorsed by the American Supreme Court, saying “we don’t support it. There is no where in the Bible where God said

people of the same sex can get married. The stand of the church is very clear and it states; one man, one wife.”

Similarly, the church clarified its position about Christians in politics, noting that it does not bar individual members of the church from participating in politics but “we are not accountable for their performance.

“We pray for those in power as the Bible has enjoined us to do. That is our stand but we believe that by the end of this year, Nigerians will have cause to say that all is well.”

GOOD BYE, RAMADAN:

Time for self re-appraisal, repentance AS WE look out for the moon today for new month of Shawwal, how much has Ramadan affected you positively and how have you adjusted to the requirements of the month? What have you been doing that you would not want to do again? Would you like to continue doing what you always do in Ramadan? It is indeed a rewarding time.

Muslims are expected to be better persons at the end of this month. That is why the Prophet advised that this month must not pass without Muslims seeking forgiveness of sins from Almighty Allah and turning out to be a better person. Therefore, a re-appraisal is necessary at this juncture.

Fasting during this month is a way to protect you from evil and learn patience, humility and control. It is also considered to be a shield against evil and allows Muslims to get rid of their sins. The Prophet (S.A.W.) said: “Whoever fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah will have all of his previous sins forgiven.” So, we can say that with some degree of certainty that we are a new born, we have been cleansed of our sins and we should henceforth refrain from sins, maintain that status, help other needy Muslims and make the society better.

One important benefit of fasting is that it helps you to understand the suffering and pain of the poor. It also allows human beings to understand how those who do not have enough money for a meal survive through the day. Therefore, it is believed that fasting makes individual a better person as it allows them to associate with the pain of others. No fasting Muslim will observe the Ramadan fast very well, keeping all the dictates and remain the same. It will no doubt leave us a better person both physically and spiritually.

Allah’s Messenger (S.A.W.) said: Allah decorates Paradise every day saying to it, ‘My righteous slaves are about to be comforted of their burdens and sufferings and enter you'; Shaytan is chained during this month and sins of the believers are forgiven by the last night of Ramadan. Those who really appreciate this cry as Ramadan winds down.

Remember to give your Zakat-ul-Fitr. We have dealt so much on that in the last few days. Endeavour to give it in staple foods or in cash as the case may be. A Saudi scholar’s view, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Mutlaq coroborated the payment with money a few days ago when he said: “the poor need cash more than rice in Zakat ul-Fitr. “We should not blame those who want to give Zakat al-Fitr in cash; there are considerable doctrinal views which allow it, and we must respect each other in such matters.”

Another senior scholar, Sheikh Qais Al-Mubarak backed it, saying it is permissible to take the Hanafiah model to pay the Zakat ul-Fitr in cash.

May Allah grant us the grace to observe many more Ramadan. Amin

The three kilometre by three kilometre Arena, still under construction, is located on Simawa Road, some distance from the outgoing one and half kilometre by one kilometre arena which was commissioned in 2000 with a capacity to sit one million worshippers.

Addressing newsmen at the church’s Redemption Camp, Head of Media and Public Relations, Pastor Segun Adegbiji with support from several ministers of the mission, said the new arena will host plenary sessions of a few evenings of the week long programme on an experimental basis.

According to Pastor Adegbiji adequate

arrangements have been put in place to host participants from the 24 regions of the church spread across 188 countries of the world.

He quoted the General Overseer of the church, Pastor Enoch Adeboye as warning unserious persons to stay away from this year ’s convention, which has a theme The All Sufficient God.

Fuel prices up by N25 —NBS

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor

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VERAGE price of fuel across the country in June was N112.13 per litre, National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, PMS Watch has shown.

This is about N25 or about 30 percent higher than the official pump price of N87 per litre.

However, NBS did not state which segment of the market it measured as most parts of the country witnessed price surges in the black market (street hawkers) at between N300 and N500 per litre for some weeks in May, a development which may have resulted in marking the month as the average peak price since 2014, when the market research began.

Stakeholders partner on accredited training practice

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HE Centre for Management Development, CMD, has begun a partnership with Kaiste Ventures Limited, publishers of Nigerian Seminars and Trainings.com, towards the achievement of CMD’s drive to ensure only duly accredited training providers practice in Nigeria.

According to Mr. Kayode Teriba, CEO/MD, Nigerian Seminars and Trainings, under the terms of the engagement, Kaiste Ventures is currently working on updating the full list and addresses of all CMDs accredited management training institution and firms and uploading them on their portal.

The report released yesterday also indicates that though there was a 5.3 percent drop against previous month’s record high of N118.4, fuel prices have been on high pitch since this year, yielding an overall year-on-year increase of 7.3 percent above 2014 average.

Surprisingly, the state with the highest price was Bayelsa, a major oil producing state, at retail price of N155 per litre, up from N115 recorded in the previous month.

Measured against the national figure and trend, Bayelsa also presents a surprising position as it records fuel price far above national average and also moving up negatively against the price decline in the national average.

Some other states, which recorded highest average prices are Niger at N138.3; Kogi, N128.3 and Adamawa, N122.5.

The three states also show declines in the prices between May and June.

Daramola emerges head of VCs' c'ttee

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HE Committee of Vice Chancellors, CVC, of Nigeria has appointed Professor Adebiyi Daramola, Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, as Chairman.

A letter by Professor Michael Faborode, Secretary General of CVC, said the appointment takes effect from August 18. He congratulated Daramola and assured him of the unalloyed cooperation and support of the secretariat in ensuring the accomplishment of his vision during the period of his stewardship.

It said: “At the special meeting held on June 25, members unanimously appointed you as the new Chairman, CVC, and by extension, Chairman of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian universities.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—55

Scores feared dead as terrorists invade Borno villages again zPolice allay fears of Boko Haram presence in Jos

By Ndahi Marama & Marie-Therese Nanlong

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AIDUGURI—A suspected group of Boko Haram sect yesterday invaded Hambagtha and Limankara in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State killing scores of people and destroying houses.

This came as three persons suspected to be members of the sect were apprehended in Terminus area of Jos North local government area of Plateau State but the State Police Command allayed the fears of residents, saying there was no need to panic.

The terrorists also wounded many people after looting their foodstuff, including livestock, and fled without confrontation from the hapless villagers.

Gwoza was declared as an Islamic Caliphate by the group’s leader, Abubakar Shekau, last year when his fighters seized the

town which is south and about 150kms from Maiduguri, the state capital.

After the deadly attacks and taken over of Gwoza by the terrorists last year, including Limankara village, no fewer than

40 policemen undergoing training at the Limankara Mobile Training Camp were declared missing, although a few of them were reported to have been located and rescued, with over 30 still missing at the time of this

report.

Reliable sources told Vanguard that with the liberation of Gwoza by military troops early this year, many fleeing residents returned to Gwoza and other surrounding villages to pick up the pieces of their lives, before another group of terrorists launched fresh attacks on neighbouring communities, killing unspecified number of people.

El-Rufai sacks 20 perm secs

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By Luka Binniyat

ADUNA—GOVERNOR Nasir El Rufai of Kaduna State yesterday announced the sacking of 20 permanent secretaries from the state civil service and appointment of new officials to fill some positions in his government.

A statement signed on his behalf by his spokesman, Samuel Aruwan, yesterday in Kaduna, said the reason for sacking the permanent secretaries was to cut the cost of governance and free more

funds for developments.

The statement read: “In line with its resolve to cut the cost of running government, the Kaduna State Government has announced the retirement of 20 permanent secretaries.

“This decision follows the streamlining of ministries in the state from 19 to a leaner 13, as part of efforts to free up resources to be used for providing schools, hospitals, roads and other public goods.

“The government, which had at inception declared its

determination to cut costs, drive efficiency and improve service delivery, is continuing the restructuring of its agencies.

“To ensure that the number of permanent secretaries is properly aligned with the new structure, there will be only 13 permanent secretaries for the 13 ministries."

“The ministries are: Justice, Agriculture and Forestry, Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Youth, Sports and Culture and Environment and Natural Resources among others.

APC counsels Osun workers OSOGBO—THE All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state of Osun has advised labour and workers in the state’s employment to have at the back of their minds the hard fact that Nigeria’s economy will take some time and some belt-tightening with creative engagement before things can return to normal.

‘The damage done by the PDP’s corrupt, reckless and horrifying mismanagement in the last seven years is such that except most states of the federation have sustained lifeline from the Federal Government, things may not return to normal soon.

According to the party, a creative new thinking as to how this problem could be solved, moving forward, should be the challenge of everybody.

"Narrowing our thinking to self interest may not work because the country is not only broke, it also faces the huge problem of exiting (not alleviating) poverty."

Cattle rustlers kill 11 in Minna

By Wole Masadomi

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INNA—NO fewer than eleven persons have been confirmed dead in Niger State, following an invasion by cattle rustlers of some villages in Shiroro local government area.

The villages mostly affected are Kwati, Basa and Kaore villages in Lakpan area of Shiroro local government where several cows were carted away.

Vanguard gathered that some local vigilantes put up a resistance by chasing away the rustlers during which eight of the rustlers were killed, while three of the vigilantes also lost their lives.

The Senator representing Niger East in the National Assembly, Senator David Umaru, in a condolence visit to the people of the area, decried the increasing activities of cattle rustlers in parts of the state, calling on government to step up security in the affected places.

“The activities of cattle rustlers are becoming a major concern because it has increased in recent times and the cow thieves seemed to be having their way. The only organisation

that is helping to rescue the villagers is what they called the “Yanbaga or local vigilantes.

“This is a sort of rag tag arrangement by the communities to protect themselves from the cattle rustlers who are heavily armed. In the process, some of them have been killed,” he said.

Umaru described the activities of the rustlers as a major concern.

He said: “Government has to do something because these people in the villages are helpless. They are quite vulnerable because there is no presence of police.

“Some of these places do not even have a police post.

Even where there are, they are ill- equipped to handle the situation. That is why we have seen the rise in the activities of the rustlers.

The people have to rally round to help themselves."

The village head of Kwati, Alhaji Barko Barua, appealed to government to give his subjects adequate security to enable them carry out normal farming activities. He also thanked the senator for identifying with them in this trying period.

56 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Quality engagement key to viable artistic practice---- Egonwa

By Japhet Alakam

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ORRIED by what can be described as the perceived limitations in artistic scholarship in Nigeria, a coalition of art administrators and teachers from the academia converged in Lagos for a forum tagged First International Conference on the State of Visual Arts Scholarship in Nigeria in the Era of Globalism.

The conference which was attended by many art teachers, scholars and administrators from various universities across the nation held at Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island Lagos, afforded them the opportunity to deliberate on matters concerning the development of the visual art practice in Nigeria.

In his keynote address, Prof D. Egonwa of Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State enjoined Visual art teachers, practitioners, promoters, artists as well as others in the discipline to embrace practices that promote quality, as quality engagement in visual arts studies is the key to the academic and administrative visibility of colleagues in the Ivory Tower.

According to him, “Visual Arts as an academic discipline at the tertiary level of Nigeria’s educational system has evolved through various stages in the past six decades from the ordinary National Diploma to the Doctor of philosophy degree in Studio Art. In its evolutionary

history, the discipline has witnessed desirable as well as many undesirable developments.

The limitations range from improper definition of purpose, mission and vision, no or nebulous methods of instruction, mixed system of staff hire and fire, wrong or no research methods, infrastructural and curricular inadequacies to poor text book development. All these leading to poor professional engagement of trained artists amongst others. These issues in turn contribute to largely to the hesitant acceptance and poor visibility of the Nigerian artist in the academia.”

Divided into four areas,Visual Arts Studies in Nigeria ; Curriculum Development and Art Teaching Methods; Studio Ph.D.: Problems and Prospects

Egonwa enjoined those in the discipline to embrace practices that promote quality as quality engagement in visual arts studies is the key to academic and administrative visibility

*Art scholars in search of a better artistic practice Art Exhibitions as Publication, Egonwa looked at the grey areas in the visual art practice and suggsted that there is need for a total overhaul of the system. For example, in the field, artists have virtually lost grip of a professional steering of the art market to dictatorial collectors as quality critical and informed appreciation no longer reigns. ‘Authoritative’ publications on art in Nigeria are on the increase and paradoxically authored by persons without appropriate art writing training while the trained “lack organizational skills”? and are bypassed as “ prophets of doom”? or accused of complacency. On books and other academic materials needed to enhance art education, the argues that publications that have been so rated as authoritative on art in Nigeria are authored by people who lack appropriate training. But professionals who have been trained, the organisers lament are by-

passed as prophets of doom or accused of complacency.

Several others who presented papers at the forum argued that the issues raised are largely blamed for imbalance rating of artists in the Nigerian academic environment.

On his part, Frank A. O. Ugiomoh in his paper titled A Revisionist Overview of the Historigraphy of African Art History, Disciplinary, Authenticity and Western Mindset points to the importance of historiography.

He stated that the historiography of art history demonstrates that the production of knowledge is always historically determined and knows no closure. This realization permits us to understand more fully the interpretations proposed by the scholars of the past, that is, it sensitizes us to how the values of their own time colored their accounts of the past, as it makes us cognizant of

SNA celebrates Jegede@70 with Introspection

By Japhet Alakam

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N the spirit of the wind of change blowing all over the nation, the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) has lined up a lot of activities to honour her former president, an artistic icon, erudite scholar and one who changed the face of the association, Prof.

Dele Jegede who turned 70.

In a media parley which was attended by the SNA president, Oliver Enwonwu, Dr Kunle Adeyemi, Bolaji Ogunwo and others, the chairman of the organising committee, Dr Kunle Filani said that the events themed Introspection: Dele Jegede@70 is to commemorate Prof. Dele Jegede’s 70th Anniversary and his contributions to the development of the Society, as well as contemporary Nigerian art. The events will feature a conference, an exhibition and talks to be held across 2 separate venues; the University of Lagos and the Yaba Colege of Technology from July 23 to 24, 2015.

Events to mark the celebration include a conference which is set to open on Thursday July 23, 2015 and close on Friday July 24,

2015 at Dept. of Creative Arts Complex, UNILAG and YABATECH, Lagos by 11.00 am. It will feature a Creative Confab (Stampede) on Friday July 24, 2015 at Art Complex Foyer, YABATECH, Lagos by 3pm and Art Exhibition which will open on 24 and run till 31st July, 2015 at Yusuf Grillo Gallery, YABATECH, Lagos . To be featured are his works , the works of his contemporaries like Kolade Oshinowo, David Dale, Joshua Akande etc and works *Hoosier Daddy, a piece by Jegede of those he influenced.

Also speaking, Dotun Alabi Jegede is a renowned illustraLagos SNA chair said that Lator, cartoonist, painter and art gos chapter will also be celebratcritic from Ikere-Ekiti in Ekiti ing him in a special way with a State, Nigeria. He trained at the novelty match between the stuYaba College of Technology, Ladio artist and academic artists, gos, before proceeding to the the two areas Jegede belonged Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and it will take place at Yabatwhere he graduated as a paintech and Universal studios. er in 1973, winning the departA former president of the Sociment’s prize. He also received ety of Nigerian Artists, Prof.

*Prof Dele Jegede

his PhD in Art History from the Indiana University, Bloomington, United States.

Prof. Dele Jegede was the Art Editor of Daily Times before he became a research fellow at the Cultural Studies Department of University of Lagos. He has been professor of Art History at Miami University since 2005. He has taken part in several exhibitions in Nigeria and internationally.

the social and political function of our own activity as purveyors of culture Earlier in his opening remarks, the chairman of the event and chairman of Society of Nigeria Artist, SNA, Oliver Enwonwu who commended the organisers for a job well done, said that SNA is a the forefront of supporting any good thing in the development of visual arts. The topic according to him is vital particularly today as the world is getting smaller because of internet and as it is geared towards making us to be part of the global village.

Speaking after the presentations, Egonwa who is one of the conveners said, "the issues I raised about the limitations in artistic scholarship in Nigeria that we can come together and negotiate and integrate so that people will know what to do.

Disservice to society You can find that a lot of people are not doing exactly what they ought to do, some because they do not know, some because they don’t know the implication of what they are doing, like not teaching well, they are not teaching well because you are after your own business. The generation after you will not have anything and then you would have done disservice to the society instead of doing what is right."

"After the papers, we are going to publish a very colourful and good publication that will be accessible to people, but we are going to make some of our findings by way of communique to the powers that be in the authorities like the NUC, Federal ministry of Education and universities because we want a change of attitude. For instance, the joining of drama and music and visual art together as cultural and creative art is not good, its a disservice to the nation."

In attendance were Professor Osa D Egonwa at Delta State University, Prof Frank Ogiomoh, Prof. Ajibade Babson, Dr.Bojor Enamhe, Dr. Ken Koli,, Zaria. Dr. Adeyemi Kunle, Mr Mike Omoighe, Prof. Netto A. Emiemokumo, Dr. Etido Inyang, Dr. Nelson Edewor, Prof. Cliff Nwanna and Mr.Iyama Gordy and a host of others.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 57

provocative and reflective.

It addresses some of the mistakes our childrenmakewhen not given the proper guidance and, issues relating to injustice. Above all, it presents God as the ultimate solution to every problem.

People must know that Beyond the trial emerges a new you.” She explained.

Hinting on why she went into writing fiction as a med*L- R. Prof. Onakoya; Mr Joseph Mbadugha the author's husband; the author Dr Chogozie ical practitioner, Mabadugha, Dr Leke Pitan and Dr Hope Iloka at the book event Mbadugha said “ I chose medicine but writing chose me.

My book is a call that every Nigerian man should write a will, no matter how little it is, so as to protect the woman

By Prisca Sam-Duru boggling stories, with young book of hope and inspiration. As and her children in case of unexpeople and mothers in mind. “I parents, it helps us see the need pected occurrence. The whole HE issues of unwanted wrote the book with hope that more to go closer to our children and book has a feminist angle as it is pregnancy which has young girls can talk to their children to go closer to the parents a cry out against domestic vioseen many countries across the mothers and mothers can learn to and see them as confidants. The lence. Most importantly, it aims globe, pass laws permitting listen to their daughters. This is a book sends a message that is to help people who have faced abortion, have become of great similar challenges as documentconcern in Nigeria as most girls ed in the book, to stand strong and drop out of school and become know that they can triumph in the young mothers. future.”

Other factors such as early widowhood, rape, domestic

By Chris Onuoha violence and girl child marriage, IKIYA Graham Douglas, theatre producer and which is prevalent in the northern founder of Beeta Universal Art Foundation part of the country have also (BUAF) has revealed that a new playwright competicontributed negatively to the de- tion for the teaming young generation will soon be velopment of women. And thus, unveiled. In a chat with Vanguard Art, the fast rising have become issues of serious con- thespian, actress and compere, Bikiya, who recently cern that require urgent solution. bagged an award in Dublin through her theatrical These issues took the front performance and prestigious honour as African youth burner at the public presentation Ambassador said that having noticed that there’s a of Beyond The Trial authored by vacuum in theatre industry especially among young Dr Mrs Chigozie Anuli people, there’s need to create a platform that will Mbadugha, an Ophthalmic upgrade the industry to a height.

Surgeon and avid researcher who Citing that theatre went through a depression in began writing at age six.

Nigeria, she said a lot of people did not see it as very

I chose medicine but writing chose me ----- Mbadugha

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BUAF unveils playwright competition

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Medical profession The book event which held at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, brought together, the author’s family, friends, colleagues in the medical profession, literary enthusiasts as well as mentors and mentees.

Before the unveiling of her book, Dr Mbadugha displayed what everyone believed was only a piece of the stuff she is made of as she stormed the stage and rendered a soul lifting song, her own composition with the same title as the book. The poetic nature of the song gave her composition a lift and to the event, raised the entire ambiance. Well deserved accolades followed that presentation as many who knew her only as an ophthalmologist, appreciated her rare talent as a composer, singer, writer and a poet.

The author who disclosed that she draws inspiration from God and from the love of her family, told her guests that she wrote Beyond The Trial, a collection of three fascinating and mind

important anymore and did not recognize theatre as an entertainment. The depression time really affected the mind of young ones who would ordinarily wants to venture into play writing. But now people are wakening up to the voice of theatre that will encourage young generation to write play, hence, a playwright competition platform which will actualize the vision.

Iconic playwright According to her, “Theatre is huge in its own right and people are beginning to recognize it. It’s only a matter of time we will be seeing young writers showcase their worth as long as there’s an enabling environment for them to operate. When I reflecting on the works of iconic playwrights like Wole Soyinka, Ola Rotimi, Femi Osofisan, Ahmed Yerima and others, I feel that there’s an urgent need to maintain continuity and keep up the longevity of their endeavours and as well groom young ones who will take this position in history.” She said.

The competition which will be open to creative Nigerians between the ages of 18 to 40 is a platform to develop, showcase and tell story of Nigeria in their own way. It will involve short stories that can be represented on stage within the stipulated duration.

Making up the panelists is a very respectable thespian from South Africa Milany Makeba, a renowned poet, actor and special poet to late former South African president, Nelson Mandela alongside other acclaimed thespians from Nigeria mixed up with some literary experts whose input will make a dynamic change in the industry.

Former Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Dr Leke Pitan who was Chairman of the occasion, described Dr Mrs Mbadugha as a pride to the medical profession, a multifaceted, multitalented and multidisciplinary woman adding that all this, make her a rare talent in the medical profession.

“We in the medical profession believe that once you are in medicine, just face it. Any other thing is believed to become a distraction. We are mostly scientists to the core. Whenever I remember Chigozie, I remember her as the very hardworking doctor and I’m impressed with what she has done today. I look forward to an album from her soon.” He said.

Dr Pitan who recommended Beyond The Trial to every family as well as those looking forward to raising a family, advised Doctors not to limit themselves to the medical profession but to borrow a leaf from the author and touch more lives globally.

The event featured short video presentations and readings from the book. First, it was Dr Mrs Ogechi Nwokedi who read from page three of the book while Mrs Hope Iloka and Mrs Egodi Adedeji followed suit. Towards the end of the event, the author entertained guests with a duet which she performed with the Golden Voices.

58 — VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Obama calls Iran deal historic chance to pursue safer world

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RESIDENT Barack Obama, seeking to sell the Iran nuclear deal to skeptical U.S. lawmakers and the American public, insisted on Wednesday that the landmark agreement was the best way to avoid a nuclear arms race and more war in the Middle East.

Obama made his case in a nationally televised news conference responding to critics at home and abroad after Iran and six world powers sealed an accord in Vienna on Tuesday to restrict Tehran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

“Without a deal,” Obama said, “there would be no limits to Iran’s nuclear program and Iran could move closer to a nuclear bomb ... Without a deal, we risk

Liberia confirms 2nd Ebola death in resurgent outbreak

Iranians celebrate nuke deal

even more war in the Middle East.”

Obama said that if the United States does not seize the opportunity for a deal, “future generations will judge us harshly.”

The agreement is a political triumph for Obama, who has made outreach to America’s enemies a hall-

mark of his presidency, but it is also seen as his biggest foreign policy gamble since taking office in 2009.

Obama is now spearheading an intense White House push to counter Republican critics in Congress and reassure nervous U.S. allies such as Israel and Saudi Arabia.

second person in Liberia has died from Ebola in the latest resurgence of the deadly disease in the West African nation, an official said Wednesday.

The woman in her early 20s who died on July 12 was linked to the 17-year-old boy who died last month, Deputy Health Minister Tolbert Nyenswah told The Associated Press. Three other confirmed cases are being treated in Monrovia, he said.

Some of the more than 120 people under observation in Nedowein, southeast of Monrovia, could be discharged once they complete 21 days of quarantine and show no signs of infection, he said.

“By the weekend we should be having a big ceremony to discharge and reintegrate them into the

community,” he said.

Liberia lost more than 4,800 lives to Ebola before it contained transmission in May. These are the first known cases since then.

Samples taken from the 17-year-old boy who died

from Ebola in Liberia on June 28 shows the virus is genetically similar to viruses that infected many people in the same area more than six months ago, the World Health Organization has said.

Desmond Tutu to spend night in South Africa hospital over infection

Child marriage accepted in Brazil to Supporters celebrate Banda’s court victory escape abuse at home - researchers By Innocent Anaba after prosecutors had failed

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HILD marriage is widely accepted in Brazil, where girls seek older husbands to escape from sexual and other violence in the home, or because of teenage pregnancies or the lack of job opportunities, according to new research.

There has been scant research in Brazil on child marriage, and little has been done to tackle it, researchers from Plan International, Brazil’s

Federal University of Para and the gender equality charity Promundo said.

“Child marriage in Brazil is very normalised and accepted,” said Alice Taylor, lead author of the report, whose researchers say it is the first study of its kind in Brazil.

Brazil is ranked fourth in the world in the number of girls married to or living with a partner by the age of 15, with 877,000 women aged 20 to 24 reporting they

were married by 15, according to a Brazilian government census in 2010.

Legally, Brazilians can marry at 16 if both parents consent, or earlier in certain circumstances such as pregnancy.

The researchers examined child marriage in the two states with the highest prevalence of the practice in the country - the northern state of Para, and Maranhao in the northeast.

China holds nine foreigners over ‘propaganda video’

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INE tourists from South Africa, Britain and India have been detained in China and may face criminal charges after being accused of watching “propaganda videos”, a charity said Wednesday.

Gift of the Givers, a humanitarian relief organisation based in South Africa, said a total of 20 visitors were held on Friday at Ordos airport in China’s Inner Mongolia region.

It said 10 were South African, nine British, and one an Indian national, adding that none of the group had been charged.

Six British members of the group have been released and have already left China, while five South Africans are

scheduled return home tomorrow. The nine others are being held at a

detention centre, Gift of the Givers said in a statement.

Pope invites world leaders to Vatican for child trafficking, climate change talk

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HE Vatican is keep ing up the pressure on world leaders to listen to Pope Francis’ dual mantras of fighting climate change and human trafficking by inviting mayors to a Vatican meeting next week devoted to battling the exploitation of the Earth and its poorest people.

For the mayors, it’s a photo op of a lifetime: Francis is on vacation but he’s expected to address the July 21 conference, which has attracted 60 or so mayors from Accra (Ghana) to

Zagreb (Croatia).

For the Vatican, it’s another move in its unprecedented campaign to keep the momentum alive from Francis’ environment encyclical ahead of U.N. climate change conference at the end of the year.

Francis released his encyclical to great fanfare last month, denouncing the “structurally perverse” global economic system in which the wealthy exploit the poor and destroy the Earth in the process.

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HE recent dismissal of the criminal case brought against the former President of Zambia Rupiah Banda should be celebrated as a victory for rule of law in the country, his supporters say.

The case, which had accused former President Banda of pocketing $2.5 million from an oil procurement deal with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, was dismissed by Zambian Magistrate Joshua Banda on June 29

to bring forward any evidence to back up the accusation.

Lawyers representing Banda said that the charges were fabricated as part of a “political attack” against him driven by the late President Michael Sata, and had no basis in law.

“This ruling is very positive because it separates the real anticorruption fight from the politicisation of corruption cases, which Nigerians are well aware are sometimes used to attack innocent political opponents,” said

Robert Amsterdam, an international lawyer representing former President Banda.

Amsterdam, who in the past has defended the Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and other Nigerian interests from political persecution and false charges, said that at no point was the prosecution ever able to prove that Banda had benefitted from any oil deal, did not prove any transfer of funds, and never brought any witness to testify who could point to any wrongdoing.

Burkina Faso presidential hopefuls urged to tackle early, forced marriage

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URKINA Faso’s presidential candidates must commit to tackling forced and early marriage and improving access to contraception, sex education and health services for women and girls ahead of elections in October, a rights group said on Wednesday.

While gender equality is protected under the country’s constitution and law, widespread forced and early marriage and unwanted pregnancies have reduced hundreds of thousands of girls and women to second-class citizens, Amnesty International said.

Elections are due to take

place in the poor, landlocked nation a year after President Blaise Compaore, who ruled for

27 years, was toppled by a wave of popular protests when he tried to change the constitution so he could seek re-election.

Uganda president calls for unity to end Burundi crisis

U

GANDAN President Yoweri Museveni urged Burundi’s government and its opponents on Wednesday to put aside sectarian and political differences after weeks of violent protests and days of clashes with rebels in the north.

Burundi’s political crisis, the worst since a civil war ended in 2005, was

triggered by President Pierre Nkurunziza’s decision to stand for a third term in an election scheduled for July 21.

Opposition parties say his re-election bid is unconstitutional and are boycotting the race. The president cites a court ruling declaring he can run for five more years in office.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015—59

Our job is to support Nigeria, not replace it—Hawkins The US out-going Consul General, Jeffery Hawkins has described his stay in Nigeria as rewarding. The CG who noted that Nigeria is a nation with tremendous brain power and people power, urged Nigerians to maintain efforts towards moving the country forward.

In this session, Hawkins who also disclosed things that Nigerian visa applicants’ could do differently to make the work of the US consulate’s consular officers easier, pointed out that although, Nigeria is a country with real affinity for the US, the US government is here to support Nigeria and is highly committed to ensuring that Boko Haram is fought to a standstill.

Excerpts:

go in and if you are going for a son’s graduation or something sudden, like medical consultation, you cannot just sit around for a month or so waiting for the visa. We have automated system and we have worked very hard to ensure that our wait times hover around a week or two. The touts for

By Vera Samuel Anyagafu & Victor Gotevbe

H

OW would you describe your stay in Nigeria and what lessons have you learnt from your interaction Nigerian public officials?

My stay in Nigeria is rewarding and the challenge I found is politics, which I would adequately describe as a wonderful experience. It has been a wonderful one and my interaction with Nigerian public servers is quite interesting.

I keep using the same term to express it and with all sincerity it has been a tremendous experience for me and my family and I have really enjoyed living here. I am an American and not a Nigerian but I do consider myself a Lagosian. I have lived in this great city for three years and I loved every minute of it. Interactions that I have had with Nigerians are not just political aspects but across a spectrum, from Nigerian young people to entrepreneurs, civil society, and religious leaders. They have been important to Nigeria important to me personally.

Tremendous brain power This is a nation with tremendous brain power and people power. This is a country the people made my stay wonderful. It is a country with real affinity for the US, I am not trying to convince Nigerians to engage with America, they want to engage with America and I want to engage with them.

A lot of Nigerians seeking visas from diplomatic missions, including the US mission patronise touts and other ‘self-styled consultants’.

Is this practice an indictment

that gets in the way of visa applicants and that a big challenge.

And your question gets to the heart of it which is education is key to make people understanding what is wrong or right and what you need to do or not. The touts really hurt the function of the system. The reason the system is telling you there is no date is not because Nigerian travellers have filled up all the appointments, but illegitimate touts have taken all the appointments.

At the height of the campaign of terror by Boko Haram in parts of northern Nigeria, the US more or less sat on the fence. Does the ‘Black Hawk-Dawn’ still have a shilling effect on the US ability to robustly engage in such conflicts?

There appear to be a misunderstanding Nigerians have about the nature of our work in Nigeria. The US has done several trainings, provided equipment and continuously shared information with the Nigerian government, and worked with law enforcement, the Military etc., on a wide spectrum designed to help Nigeria.

There was a certain moment and time the public perception was that maybe our support was not enough, but in reality that was not true and certainly is not true today.

Deep interest But one thing I do want the leaders also to understand is that Nigeria is a Sovereign country and it is not up to the United State to solve Nigeria’s problem. Our job is to support Nigeria and not replace Nigeria and we share a very deep interest in partnering with Nigeria, for fact that we want to see Boko Haram defeated, because it is in our interest as well.

Jeffery Hawkins...stay in Nigeria rewarding on the consular sections of these missions ability to properly educate Nigerians on the missions’ procedures for obtaining visas?

I think we have tried very hard to inform the Nigerian public and there a number of people out there who are suffering from these people that are offering Nigerians a range of services, between quotes, that they are charging money for something that should not cost anything at all.

In some instances those services are illegal or could actually hurt the person’s chances of getting visa and yet because this seems a culture of needing to have aid or to be assisted in some way, a lot of Nigerians fall into the trap of these men.

To set one example, we are very conscious of wait times in the consulate, so the amount of time people have to wait to

example, will go in and control all the visa appointments and then sell them, but they do not cost anything.

It is free to book appointments, but they go in, reserve them and resell them to people, and we are working hard on ways to stop that, but they still do it. Not only is that they are charging people for what they should not have paid for, but is also taking up others parts and schedules.

Big challenge So it is not actually the people but the applicants who will think there is no space and will have to wait for six weeks to have a visa because the touts have taken all and so we have a fairly high issue here because a lot of the appointments that are made are not real appointment and

Our job is to support Nigeria and not replace Nigeria and we share a very deep interest in partnering with Nigeria, for fact that we want to see Boko Haram defeated, because it is in our interest as well

Do you have any advice for journalists who cover who cover the US diplomatic mission in Nigeria on how to better report your activities in Nigeria?

One thing that we have done very loftier and I would really like to see more of is traveling with the media a little bit more. You are credibly responsive when we have a press conference, when we have some important visitors coming in, you come in and cover. You do great interviews and certainly have done lots of good works. And as journalists you have wonderful experiences like the Ambassador is doing, pigging English on Wazobia and things like that. But I do not think that we have spent a whole lot of time in the field with journalists. It would have been great if you were doing some Dawn in Creek in the Niger delta or something.

USAID is working on new health program somewhere, it would be nice to see like how our engagements actually are.

Information process Ugly experiences some people may have had in the consulate relate a lot more to misunderstanding of the process and then again information process and that is something we need to work on. We did do a great event in Abuja where we had journalists come into the consular section and walked through every step of process.

What would the US consulate expect Nigerian visa applicants do differently to make the work of its consular officers and maybe the in-coming Consul General easier?

It is important for us to put out as much information to visa applicants on the process and it is also important for visa applicants to follow the process. And we would appreciate if we knew exactly how to get around that.

Another thing is really to understand the visa officers’ process and the fault is that applicants need to prove they are allegeable for visa and not the other way round in a short period. This is very important for applicants and it is also very important for the officers.

We are very conscious of wait time and it is important for the Nigerian applicants to approach the process in good sense and how they might demonstrate to the officer that they are allegeable for the visa. And finally for the people that get refused, I really want to say that far more Nigeria get visa than not.

People should not take it personally and we are not making assessment about whether the Nigerian is a good person, is honest Basically, the idea is that you need to demonstrate that you have to come back. However, if you do not get the visa is not a judgment on you.

60 — VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

Oliseh: I come to serve my country, not to wage war F

ORMER Super Eagles’ captain Sunday Ogorchukwu Oliseh resumed life as Head Coach of the team on Wednesday, with a clear message to the generality of Nigerians: “I come to serve my country, not to wage a war.”

There were several questions and insinuations at Wednesday’s colourful official presentation ceremony bothering on Oliseh’s perceived ‘stubbornness,’ but the former captain swiftly differentiated between being principled and being stubborn.

“I have come to serve, and the NFF has promised to give me all the support I need to succeed. They are the employers and I am the employee. That distinction has to be appreciated at all times.

“I have had meetings with members of the Technical and Development Committee, led by Chief AnyansiAgwu, very knowledgeable people all.

I have met members of the Executive Committee and the General Secretary. I believe we will all work together excellently. It is a huge honour to be the Head Coach of Nigeria.”

NFF President Amaju

Continues from BP terday in Abuja during his official presentation as the Super Eagles Chief Coach by the board of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said the task of rebuilding national team requires the patience and support of everybody.

The former national team captain who took time to explain the roles of each of his technical assistants including Belgian Jean Francois Lusciuto, Salisu Yusuf and Aloy Agu said the state of Nigerian football at the moment is pathetic because unlike in the past, there is no individual player that can on his own propel the team to win matches.

“First of all, I am not coming as a messiah, I am not coming as man who knows it all, I am not coming as someone who can singlehandedly just turn Nigeria into Germany but I am coming as a man who has come to serve his country and ready to give a 150% even more and that is why

Oliseh (r) speaking at the unveiling ceremony.

NFF President Amaju Pinnick (l) looks on. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

Journeymen From left, NFF President Amaju Pinnick exchanging contract signed with new Super Eagle Coach, Sunday Oliseh while NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi during Unveiling of Super Eagle Coach at Abuja National Stadium. Photo by Gbemiga Olamikan Pinnick presided over the event, supported by Vice Presidents Seyi Akinwunmi and Shehu Dikko, Executive Committee members Anyansi-Agwu, Yusuf Ahmed Fresh, Dilichukwu Onyedinma, Babagana Kalli and Ahmad Kawu, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and other members of NFF management, including Technical Director Shaibu Amodu.

As Pinnick announced to the audience that the NFF would immediately pay three months’ salary of Oliseh and his assistants

Messiah

I brought an expatriate, Lusciuto who is ready to work and without the attitude of better than thou in him. He is an expatriate who knows Africa and hungry for victory. We need Salisu because he knows the league in and out because our aim is also to work with home based players. We need Aloy Agu because when you are talking about calmness and someone who can also channel the goalkeepers and also give tactical and technical advises to the coaches he is also one of them and that is why we are what we are.

“The state we are now in Nigeria I think we are all not very happy with it, we say it as it is, but I must be very blunt because I am among my countrymen so let us call a spade a spade.

Gone are the days when we had individual players who can win matches for us out of their own individual efforts and that is

in advance, the member of the FIFA Technical Study Group opened a window on his philosophy for player-selection.

“My assistants and myself will not invite to the camp of the National Team of Nigeria, any player who is not playing in the top division in the recognized Leagues of the world, including Nigeria. The only exception would be those players from any of the age-grade National Teams that we find exceptional and deserving of an opportunity to try and win shirts in the senior what we had during my generation and the way out is this; if you don’t have great players, you need a great technical coaching crew and a great national federation to compensate for what you don’t have as regards these great players. But we have potentials even to be the best in the world, that is what I honestly believe and that is what my coaching crew also believe. “ Oliseh also used the occasion to announce that under him, there will be no place for any player who is not playing in the top league in any country where he plies his trade except for members of the age grade national teams.

He explained that the decision was taken to ensure that only quality players who are also very hungry to play for the country were given the opportunity to represent the country at international matches because according to him, playing for Nigeria is not a favour but rather an honour.

team.

“One thing I will say, dear compatriots, is that I am not a Messiah. I have come to do my very best, give 150%, to take Nigeria football to the next level, with the support of my assistants, the NFF and relevant stakeholders. I am optimistic that we will lift the Nigeria game to a new height.”

Continues from BP ju Pinnick has described newly appointed Chief Coach of the Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh as the African version of former FC Barcelona Coach, Pep Guardiola.

Pinnick who spoke at the official presentation of Oliseh to the media as the chief coach of the national team also reassured Nigerians that the nation’s football is in good hands given the pedigree of the former national team captain whom he described as the best choice for the team at the moment.

According to him, after series of consultations with football personalities both at FIFA and CAF, the federation settled for Oliseh due largely to the recommendations they were given about his qualities which he added qualified him to have been selected into the prestigious FIFA technical study group.

“Let me tell you that we are just presenting to you the Pep Guardiola of Africa, we are very excited because we know as a federation that Sunday Oliseh will deliver, the federation

Continues from BP in first division in anywhere in the world and in Nigeria, you cannot play for the Super Eagles henceforth,” Oliseh warned at a media presentation in Abuja on Wednesday.

“However players coming from the under-aged teams are the only exception to this rule.”

Oliseh said it is an honour to lead the Eagles now as a coach, but he alone cannot turn around the footballing fortunes of the country.

“It’s a great honour to be a coach of this nation,” he said.

Oliseh has been working as a team and we met till about 5 am this morning before going to bed and I believe that after the meeting yesterday members of the technical committee and members of the executive committee did not have any choice but to do what we are doing right now.

“Talking about Sunday Oliseh, I personally have been globe- trotting lately especially within the confine of CAF and FIFA and they have always mentioned to us that ‘if you need glory in football you don’t need to go anywhere else you have it at the back of your house and that is the person of Sunday Oliseh so we are very excited because football has technologically advanced, he has a degree in Economics, he is so very vast when it comes to the game.

On the field he gave Nigeria one of the best brilliant goals ever, on the field I don’t think we have found a replacement for him since he left Nigeria 13 years ago, on the field he was dedicated, he was disciplined and even off the field he is a good father and

“First of all, I am not coming as a Messiah. I am not coming as a man who can single handedly turn Nigeria to Germany.

“I am coming in to do my best and give if possible 150% all the time.

“The state we are now in Nigeria I think we are all not happy with. Gone are the days we have individual players who can single handedly win a match for you. But we have the potentials and that is our belief and the players must know that it’s an honour to be invited to the national team.”

husband, dynamic and amiable member of the highly revered FIFA Technical Study Group which I know he has traversed the length and breadth of the world acquiring knowledge and giving out knowledge, coaching coaches, teaching teachers, training trainers and today he is experienced both on and off the field.

“Talking to Oliseh last week in London, i just noticed that I was talking to an Arsene Wenger and to a Pep Guardiola because before he said anything, he didn’t talk about individual stardom, he talked team stardom, he talked about team work and when a coach sees the need to redefine his playing pattern you know that he knows what he is talking about” stated Pinnick who also promised to give the coach all that he needed to succeed.

He also pledged on behalf of the NFF to ensure that the terms of the three year contract which was handed out to Oliseh was religiously followed because of the fore knowledge of the fact that Nigerians sleep and dream football.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 61

Serena hits another milestone with ranking feat

S

ERENA Williams, who owns all four tennis Grand Slam titles for the second time in her career, has achieved another historic milestone in the wake of her Wimbledon victory.

The WTA Tour revealed Tuesday night that world number one Williams is the first top-ranked player ever with more than twice as many points as her nearest rival.

Records dating to the WTA’s 1973 founding show the 33-year-old American’s domination to be the greatest of any point in the rankings’ history, with Williams on 13,161 points and Russia’s second-ranked Maria Sharapova on 6,490.

In addition to sweeping the US, French and Australian Opens plus

Higuain not for sale, Napoli rule

A

•Serena Wimbledon over the past 12 months, Williams won last year’s WTA Finals in Singapore and at Miami last March to help build her runaway rankings margin.

Williams beat

Sharapova in the Wimbledon semi-finals and downed Spain’s Garbine Muguruza in last Saturday’s final to win her sixth Wimbledon crown and 21st Grand Slam title overall.

Warri Wolves to pay for coach, player’s misconduct rescheduled Match Day 7 others and showing disre-

N

IGERIA Football Pro fessional League governing body has reprimanded the Delta State Football Association for not ensuring adequate and proper security at the Warri Township Stadium during the Match Day 17 Glo Premier League match between Warri Wolves and Enyimba International.

Warri Wolves FC, its Team Manager and player were also subjected to disciplinary measures for various breaches of the Rules and Framework during their

fixture in Ibadan against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC).

In these latest disciplinary measures carried out in exercise of Summary Jurisdiction, a fine of N250, 000 has been imposed on Warri Wolves for the encroachment on to the field of play by its officials and substitute players. The Club’s Team Manager, Gordon Ogbe was also fined N50, 000 and suspended from one match for exhibiting several acts of misconduct and “failing to set positive example for

spect to the Match Officials by leading a confrontation that delayed the Match Officials from gaining access to the changing room” Midfielder, Ikechukwu Ibenegbu was also handed an additional one match ban to the automatic ban arising from his expulsion in the match against 3SC and fined N50, 000 for “several acts of misconduct including showing disregard for the authority and decision of the Referee .

Rio 2016 Olympics qualifiers:

Equatorial Guinea are no push overs — Onyedinma second leg. We are well

By Ben Efe

N

IGERIA Football Federation women committee chairperson, Dillichukwu Onyedinma said Saturday’s Olympic 2016 qualifier between Nigeria’s Super Falcons and their Equatorial Guinea counterparts in Abuja will not be handled with kid gloves.

She stated that the Nzalang Nacional as they are called parade a host of Nigerian born players who are too familiar with the Super Falcons’ make up. However she is opti-

TRANSFER, TRANSFER, TRANSFER

mistic that the Guineas will not constitute an obstacle to the Falcons’ ambition to redeem themselves after the women world cup slip up in Canada.

“The match on Saturday will be a tough one. This is because they have a lot of Nigerian born players in their team. But we know them very well and this is why we have called in our best players.

“Francisca Ordega, Desire Oparanozie and others are around. We will not have Asisat Oshoala, her manager said she will only be available for the

prepared for the match and we will get the result we want,” said Onyedinma.

She admitted that the Falcons had tough luck in Canada as the group they found themselves was not easy. “The team did all its best. Even if we had won against the USA in our last game, it wouldn’t have mattered.

We must move on and try harder next time around.”

The winner of this fixture will meet either South Africa or Kenya for a slot at the Olympics billed for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

RGENTINA inter national striker Gonzalo Higuain will not leave Napoli this summer, according to club president Aurelio De Laurentiis.

Higuain has been linked with a move to the Premier League, with Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United thought to be keen to acquire the 27-yearold’s services.

The former Real Madrid star has three years left on his contract with Napoli and the Serie A club have no intention

•Higuain of letting him leave.

“There is absolutely no chance that Higuain will leave,” De Laurentiis told Italian TV station

Mediaset. “Gonzalo is a Napoli player.

“I have made his (release) clause clear in order to stop the constant speculation that appears in the press.

“There is a precise clause.”

Napoli paid Real Madrid 40million euro (£28million) to sign Higuain in the summer of 2013 and any potential suitors would have to splash out 94.7million euro (£66.8million), Higuain’s release clause, to acquire the player.

Mancini: I am jealous of Mourinho

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OBERTO Mancini is jealous of Jose Mourinho’s treble-winning season at Inter Milan Despite Mancini claiming three consecutive Scudetto triumphs during his first four-year stint at Inter, the Italian was sacked and replaced

by Mourinho in the summer of 2008.

The Portuguese managed to pull off a famous treble during the 2009/ 10 campaign - the Serie A, the Coppa Italia and the Champions League - and Mancini admits he is envious of his success.

“I think he’s a good coach,” the former Manchester City boss said of Mourinho.

“Am I jealous about the

•Mourinho treble? That’s a natural emotion, but I believe things happen because they were meant to happen.”

Keita renews Roma deal

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OMA have rewarded Seydou Keita following his strong first season at the club with a new one-year deal, the Serie A club announced.

The 35-year-old midfielder joined Roma as a free agent last summer and scored two goals in 26 league appearances to help the Giallorossi finish runners-up to Italian champions Juventus in the 2014-15 domestic campaign.

The Mali international’s previous deal had expired on June 30.

A statement from Roma read: “AS Roma announces that it has signed a new contract with Seydou Keita to keep the player at the club for the 2015-16 season.”

Keita, who began his professional career at

•Keita Ligue 1 side Marseille and won La Liga three times and the Champions League twice with

Barcelona from 2008 until 2012, is delighted to continue at the club.

Liverpool fans abuse Sterling’s girlfriend

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HE angry backlash from some football supporters towards Raheem Sterling has taken an ugly turn for the worse after his girlfriend was on receiving end of vile abuse too.

Sterling’s long-protracted £49million transfer from Liverpool to Premier League rivals Manchester

City was confirmed on Tuesday after the England international signed a fiveyear deal worth £180,000a-week.

And it appears the completion of the 20-yearold’s move sparked further vitriol among Reds fans who took to social media to let their feelings known towards the footballer and his girlfriend, Paige Milian.

62— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015 — 63

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2015

'No more journeymen in Eagles' C

OACH Sunday Oliseh has fired a warning he will only consider players who feature in the top leagues overseas and at home.

Oliseh’s predecessor Stephen Keshi was known to call up players from the lower leagues overseas.

But the new Eagles supremo said this must change.

“If you are not playing

Continues on Pg 60

UNVEILING: New Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh (m) was unveiled yesterday in Abuja. Here NFF President, Amaju Pinnick(l) and Sec.General Sanusi Mohammed display Oliseh's No 15 Jersey during the ceremony

Oliseh is Pep Guardiola of Africa — Pinnick STORIES BY JUDE OPARA, ABUJA

•Oliseh (r), Pinnick signing the contract.

P

RESIDENT of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ama Continues on Pg 60

'I’m not a Messiah' N

EWLY appointed Super Eagles Chief Coach, Sunday Oliseh has warned Nigerians not to expect too much from him because he is not coming as a Messiah even as he

promised to give his best to ensure that the Nigerian national team returns to its pride of place among the comity of football playing nations.

Oliseh who spoke yes-

Continues on Pg 60

NPFL Results IfeanyiUbah Bayelsa El-Kanemi Pillars Enyimba Sharks Giwa Lobi Stars Dolphins

1-2 0-0 1-1 1-1 3-1 2-0 2-1 1-0 1-0

Kwara Rangers H/land Wikki Sunshine A/Warriors Nasarawa Akwa Shooting

ARRIVAL: Man of the moment, Sunday Oliseh (m) is being led to the venue of his unveiling by NFF 1st Vice President, Seyi Akinwumi (l) yesterday.

I come to serve my country, not to wage war — Oliseh — P.60 P

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

FRI DAY'S FRIDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 2 Smell (5) 7 Pass (4) 8 Snub (6) 9 Attire (5) 11 Dog (3) 13 Spoil (3) 15 Stagger (4) 16 Circuit (3) 18 Destiny (4) 19 Liberate (7) 20 Declare (4) 22 Gaelic (4) 23 Harmed (7) 25 Frank (4) 27 Guided (3) 28 Present (4) 30 Free (3) 31 Performed (3) 33 Destroy (5) 36 Comfort (6) 37 Thought (4) 38 Giant (5)

DOWN 1 Obscure (5) 2 Append (3) 3 Poem (3) 4 Donkey (3) 5 Gain (3) 6 Dupe (5) 10 Stop up (4) 11 Maker (7) 12 Ebbed (7) 13 Wed (7) 14 Renovated (7) 16 Lawful (5) 17 Heaped (5) 18 Charge (3) 21 Managed (3) 24 Equipment (4) 26 Fulcrum (5) 29 Ascended (5) 32 Cushion (3) 33 Damp (3) 34 Newt (3) 35 Family (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Scrub 5, System 8, Noble 10, Bridal 11, Avid 14, Talent 15, Garnish 18, Tea 19, Tar 21, Dray 23, Petal 24, Held 27, Red 29, Eel 31, Disease 32, Master 34, Sage 35, Amazed 38, Allot 39, Roller 40, Berth.

DOWN: 2, Car 3, Undone 4, Boa 5, Seat 6, Soiled 7, Mostly 9, Bluster 12, Vat 13, Dear 16, Ague 17, Hated 20, Radical 22, Alas 24, Hamper 25, Less 26, Detail 28, Debate 30, Leg 33, Rear 36, Mob 37, Eft.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. Phone: Newsroom: 018773962. Deputy Editor: 01-4548355. Advert Dept Hotline: 014544821. Abuja Advert Hotline: 09-2921024. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Editor: MIDENO BAYAGBON. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.

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