2 Nigerians with $9.3m cash held in S-Africa

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62232

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ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

We've information on missing fighter jet — Chief of Air Staff

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2 Nigerians with $9.3m cash held in S-Africa

•One Israeli too; cash packed in 3 suitcases •Say they're in S-Africa to buy arms for security services •Chartered plane registered in US

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AGOS—TWO Ni gerians and an Israeli citizen are presently being held by South African police for attempting to illegally bring $9.3m cash into the country. South Africa’s City Press newspaper reported that the accused persons brought the money which is in bundles of unused $100

Continues from page 5

COLUMNIST: Seasons of carpetcrossing from the APC to the PDP

•P.17

Two governors & U.S. justice 2 5 •P.

Mr & Mrs CAUGHT—Lanseria Airport, Johannesburg, S-Africa. INSET: The Bombardier Challenger jet.

Akwa Ibom LG chairmen under fire over rural roads See Inside

Lawyers seek end to crisis in Rivers Judiciary •P.12

Courtesy: Flightaware.

SYNAGOGUE: Death toll rises to 49, rescue operation ends today •P.9

2 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—3

C M Y K

4 — Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—5

POCKET CARTOON

We've information on missing fighter jet — Amosu SCHOOL RESUMPTION—From left, Director of Port Health Services, Dr Sani Gwarzo; discussing with 2nd Vice President of Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Dr Barthy Okorochukwu; 1st Vice President, Dr. Ibekwue and President NMA, Dr. Kayode Obembe during a meeting between House Committee on Education with Ministry of Education and Stakeholders on School resumption on Ebola in Nigeria at the National Assembly, Abuja. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

2 Nigerians with $9.3m cash held in S-Africa Continues from page 1 bills, packed in three suitcases in a small business jet, a Bombardier Challenger 600 with a Nigerian crew.

According to the report, the jet departed Abuja on September 5 and when it arrived South Africa, Customs officers became suspicious when the passengers’ luggage was unloaded

and put through the scanners just after 7pm.

The officers then investigated and found three suitcases full of cash.

The passengers then told customs officials that they were acting on behalf of the Nigerian intelligence services and provided documentation to confirm that they had come to South Africa to buy weapons for Nige-

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

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

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth —Rumi

W

HEN we train ourselves to live in each mo ment, we immerse ourselves in it and begin to discover its beauty and wonder. We learn to focus and how to manage our energy. To make every moment count we must embrace it. Everything we do and every person we come in contact with deserves our full attention. Even when resting, we should savour the moment. It gives us the opportunity to recharge, renew and gain clarity.

Quite often we put huge expectations on ourselves and our lives. We rush to do this, hurry up with that, without actually enjoying the process. What’s the rush? Where do we think we’re going?

If we don’t stop and think about where we’re at, we’re probably missing the point. Instead, when we appreciate each moment and garner the lessons from it, we live consciously, purposefully and responsibly.

rian security services. It was not clear whether the Israeli passenger was an intelligence operative or an arms dealer.

Spokesperson of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Marika Muller in a statement, said the money was seized at Lanseria airport, northwest of Johannesburg. The statement said: “The passengers’ luggage was searched after Customs officials detected irregularities.

The money was detained as it was undisclosed/ undeclared and above the prescribed legal limit.

The funds are being held at the central bank as police investigate".

Also, South African airport security spokesman Solomon Makgale confirmed that police investigation was on-going but declined to give further details.

The National Conventional Arms Control Committee, which has to approve the import and export of any weapons as well as issue permits for such transactions, was not aware of any applications in this case.

The Nigerian security service is yet to respond to inquiries for confirmation of the story.

The aircraft according to investigation used to belong to the American healthcare company Kimberly-Clark. But company spokesperson Bob Brand said the firm had sold the plane years ago, and denied that it had anything to do with the incident. According to the US Federal Aviation Administration aeroplane register, the Challenger, with the registration number N808HG, was reregistered in the name of Bank of Utah Trustee last year. The address in the register was given as Salt Lake City, US. Aviation industry insiders claim similar “owners” have previously been involved in several controversial financing transactions for aircraft in Africa. City Press has also established that the aircraft is used by an entity called Swat Inc in Abuja, but no details of such a company could be found.

Another plane used by Swat Inc, a HawkerSiddeley 125, also with an American registration number (N497AG), landed at Lanseria Airport last month. That plane and its passengers remained in the country for two days before returning to Abuja on August 13.

By Ben Agande

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BUJA—THE Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Ademola Amosu has said that the Air Force has credible information on where the Alpha Jet which crashed while on a mission in North-eastern part of the country may be.

An Air Force jet with two pilots on board, while on a mission from Yola to Maiduguri, disappeared from radar since Friday and a search and rescue operation has been dispatched to locate and rescue the pilots.

Speaking with State House correspondents after meeting with Vice President Namadi Sambo, the Air Force chief said the inclement weather in the area has hampered search operations but added that citizens around the area of operation have provided useful information on its possible location.

According to him: “One of our Alpha Jets went on routine operation in the North East and lost contact with the control towers and that made us to immediately initiate search. The weather has not been helpful as we have deployed all our surveillance capability, the citizens have been very, very helpful and we have gotten good information from them. But you know, in the aviation sector, we have some specific information that we ought to have to make the search easy.

“But the information we are getting from the citizens are good but not sufficient enough for us to define the area of search. But we have an idea of where the aircraft could be. Do not forget that it is the open Sahel.

Some people may think

it is easy but in the open Sahel, sometimes, it is even very challenging.

Human beings standing may look like trees and again the area we are talking about we have operations going on there and we have limitations as to how low we come to conduct the search. I am hopeful that before the end of the week we should be able to provide credible information as to the location of the aircraft and then the pilots” he said.

He, however, ruled out the possibility of a sabotage, saying that the Air Force was in charge of the airspace where the incidence happened.

According to the Air Force chief, although details of what happened were unclear, “one thing is clear, whatever problem they had, an ejection was contemplated, it is therefore my hope that the pilots are still alive.

“There was no Sabotage because it is a distance of just from Maiduguri to Yola. We are in full control of the air space. But don’t forget that when you lose radio signal it becomes very challenging. There are so many possibilities but we are working on it”, he said.

It would be recalled that farmers in Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State were quoted in the media to have claimed that they saw a low-flying aircraft that may have crashed at a place near Gabun, a mountainous village in the local council, three days ago.

The farmers claimed that they saw a “low-flying jet” matching the description of the missing Alpha jet after its disappearance on Friday.

6—Vanguard , TUESDAY TUESDAY,, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Student docked for rape

Man electrocuted while vandalising transformer in Lagos

By Evelyn Usman

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS — The Police, yesterday, docked a 26year-old Ibrahim Fashina, a student of University of Lagos, for allegedly raping a 21-year-old lady (names with held).

The defendant, who resides at 89, Okesuna Street, Lagos Island and claims to be studying Mass Communication, was arraigned before Magistrate M. L. Owolabi.

He is facing a count charge of having unlawful carnal knowledge preferred against him by the police.

The prosecutor, Francisca Okere, told the court that the defendant committed the offence on September 12, 2014 at 89, Okesuna Street in Lagos Island when the victim went to charge her phone.

The defendant was said to have invited the victim to his room to plug her phone and immediately she entered the room he locked the door and forcefully made love to her.

According to the prosecutor, the offence is punishable under Section 285 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2011.

Earlier, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

Magistrate Owolabi granted him bail in the sum of N300,000 with two responsible sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must be a blood relation.

The case was adjourned till September 24.

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AGOS— RESIDENTS of Lonlo area of Iju-Ishaga, Lagos woke up yesterday to find the corpse of a man that was electrocuted inside a transformer cabin.

The deceased, whose identity could not be ascertained, was said to have been electrocuted while vandalising the transformer.

According to reports, the deceased who was wearing a blue shirt and blue jeans trousers, apparently hid under the cover of darkness and power failure to remove the steel covering of the power equipment.

Just then, power was restored and there was reportedly a spark from the transformer.

His motionless position alerted curious passers-by who initially assumed he was an official of the Ikeja Power Distribution Company. But on close observation, he was discovered to have been electrocuted.

The incident created a scene as residents thronged the scene

By Eric Ugbor

A

The electrocuted man in the transformer. Photo: Trent.com to have a glimpse.

Police sources at Iju said the

local government council had been informed towards removing the corpse.

Two in court for stealing N22.2m goods

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By Onozure Dania

AGOS — A 50-year-old trader, George Daramola, and one other were yesterday arraigned before a Tinubu magistrate’s court, for stealing goods worth N22.244 million.

The other defendant, Saturday Mekuleyi, 36, is a student. They were docked before Magistrate Yetunde Phinero.

The defendants, who reside at 7, Babafemi Osora Crescent, Lekki Phase I and

Landlord nabbed for inflicting machete cuts on tenants

2, Admiralty Close, Lekki Phase I off Babafemi Crescent respectively, are facing a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, burglary and stealing.

The prosecutorm, Inspector Ignatus Okeke, told the court that the defendants and others at large conspired to commit the alleged offences.

He said the defendants on June 27 between 9 and 10 am broke into a house at

Youths lifting the canoe donated to Dutsen Lawal community in Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State by Chairperson of the LGA, Mrs Hassana Arkila, in Bauchi, yesterday.

Photo: NAN.

7, Babafemi Osoka Crescent, Lekki Phase I in Eti-Osa Local Government Area and stole some goods worth N22,244,426 belonging to one Olufemi Ogunnike.

Okeke said some of the items stolen are 20 designer hand bags, 40 designer shoes, five boxes of English wears, four gold set of jewellery, designer watches, hair extension, three boxes of shirts and T-shirts.

Other items are Lenovo laptop, two school sandals, one Apple ipad and home theatre The prosecutor also told the court that the second defendant received the stolen property from the first defendant knowing that they were stolen.

According to the prosecutor, the offences are contrary to Section 409 and punishable under Sections 285 and 320 (11) of the Criminal Law of Lagos, Nigeria, 2011.

However, defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

Magistrate Yetunde Phinero granted the first defendant bail in the sum of N200,000 with two responsible sureties in like sum, while the second defendant was granted bail in the sum of N100,000 with one surety in like sum.

BA — POLICE from Ndiegoro Division in Aba, Abia State have arrested a man said to be the landlord of 2, Ogechi Street, off Ohanku Road for inflicting machete cuts on a couple who were his tenants.

It was gathered that the landlord, Emmanuel Ndukwe, who hails from Item in Bende Local Government Area had recently lost his sevenyear-old daughter to illness.

The landlord was reported to have accused one of his tenants and the wife, Mr. and Mrs. Maduabuchi of being responsible for his daughter ’s death.

The death of the girl and the ensuing accusation were said to have caused friction which led to the landlord inflicting machete cuts on the couple.

Believing that the couple were dead, Ndukwe fled his house.

The cries of the couple attracted their neighbours who met them writhing in pains in the pool of their blood and rushed them to a private hospital in the city where they were said to be responding to treatment.

The matter was later reported to the police at Ndiegoro and the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Crescent Mammah, mobilised his men who arrested the landlord.

Abia State Command Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Geoffrey Ogbonna could not be reached for comment, but a senior police officer, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed the incident and said the man would be charged to court after investigations.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 7

LASU students again ‘seal’ Fashola’s office

By Monsuru Olowooepejo

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AGOS — ACTIVITIES at the office of the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, were yesterday paralyzed by students of Lagos State University External System,LASUES, over alleged fraudulent practices by the school authorities and mass failure by the students.

This came barely a month after Fashola reversed the tuition fee for the students to N25,000. However, the external system students were excluded from the fees cut.

The students defied the scorching sun to storm Alausa secretariat office of the governor at about 10.00 am and barricaded the entrance, demanding that Governor Fashola meet their demands before they would vacate the premises.

Vehicles that approached the governor ’s office during the period were forced to turn back.

The students, who were armed with placards, some of which read: ‘APC government has failed us’; ‘Lack of proper academic calendar, missing scripts and withheld results, increment in tuition and poor management, Fashola please save us’.

The students said in three years, LASUES had only conducted three examinations which the protesters said was not in tune with global practices in education.

According to them, “students who gained admission into the system in 2008/2009 are still in 500 level, first semester when their five-year academic studies should have ended in 2012.

“Also, thousands of 2009/ 2010 and 2010/2011 set do not have admission letters but they pay their tuition fees yearly.

“Thousands of LASUES students pay for their identity cards yearly but they are not given. We have written several letters to the Vice Chancellor, Professor John Obafunwa and the Director of LASUES, Professor Abanikanda but they have turned deaf ears to our complains.’’

The students in addition demanded reduction in tuition fee from N68,700 to N38,700 for 500 level, and N75,700 to N45,700 for students in 400 level and N95,700 to N65,700 for those in 300 level.

According to them, less than five per cent of the cumulative 40,000 students record passes each time they sit for examinations.

Identity card

Speaking on behalf of the

Man arrested for defrauding pharmaceutical firm

By Esther Onyegbula

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AGOS — A 35-year-old man identified as Isibor Aigbobhiose has been arrested by the Police for allegedly defrauding a pharmaceutical company in Ajao Estate, Lagos.

It was gathered that the suspect, a native of Edo State, was employed by Superior Pharmaceuticals Limited as a medical sales representative in November 2013 to market the company’s products in Ondo, Edo and Delta states.

However, trouble started when the management of the company decided to disengage the suspect after discovering that he was not selling their products but falsifying client’s details.

According to reports, from the date of his employment to the time of disengagement, he was supplied products worth N1,430,000. Although he later returned goods worth N1,129,000 to the company, it was learnt that no money was remitted to the company’s account after sales.

Vanguard gathered that the suspect disappeared after selling five cartons of the products, valued at N301,000 and converting the money to his personal use.

It was gathered that the suspect was arrested after the company placed an advertisement in newspapers seeking medical sales representatives using another company’s name. Unknown to the suspect that it was the same company he defrauded, he applied and was invited for an interview which he attended in Lagos.

The protesting students students, Mr. Abolaji Azeez, the Speaker of the Student Representatives Council, LASUES, lamented that over seven of his courses were still missing, noting: “I do not have identity card to show that I am a student of the institution. And I pay yearly for the issuance of the card.”

Another student, Miss

Omobolanle Bakare, a 500 level student, said: “I am yet to see my 100 level result despite paying N110,000 as tuition. It is annoying that four years after, the school could not say where my results are. So, I cannot calculate my Cumulative Grade Point Average, CGPA.” Mr. Justice Okosun said: “It is only in LASU that one writes

exams without knowing the lecturer which is abnormal."

Efforts by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youths and Students Affairs, Mr. Hakeem Animashaun to pacify the protesting students proved abortive as they demanded to speak with the governor.

Police arraign car dealer for breach of trust

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BUJA — THE police, yesterday, arraigned a car dealer, Rotimi Oriade, in Wuse Zone 2 senior magistrate's court, Abuja for allegedly misappropriating N1.65 million given to him to purchase a car.

Police prosecutor, DSP Auta Yusuf, told the court that one Oluwafemi Ajayi reported the matter to the police on May 13.

Yusuf said the accused

received the money from the complainant for the purchase of Honda Accord saloon, 2007 model.

According to him, the accused failed to deliver the car to the complainant, but instead misappropriated the money and equally threatened him.

The prosecutor said the offences of criminal breach of trust, intimidation and cheating contravened provisions of Sections 312, 322 and 397 of

Penal Code.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The magistrate, Mr Aminu Eri, granted him bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum.

Eri said the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and adjourned the case till October 23.

Suspects account

"I was given new products to introduce to hospitals and pharmacies in the three states which I did but sales were not coming as expected.

"I called the management and I was asked to return the stock to Lagos. So I returned the stock except five cartons of the products which I sold to customers valued at N301,000.

Meanwhile, the company only paid me one month salary and transportation was not paid. The management kept on saying that I should remit money from the sales of the products. When I complained that I have no transportation to go around those states to collect money from customers I sold products to, they did nothing.

"In view of that, after collecting money from the customers, I spent it on transportation hoping that when my salary comes I will pay back. Unfortunately, my salaries were never paid."

8 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Queues at filling stations in Abuja

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BUJA—QUEUES of motorists jostling to buy petrol resurfaced at most filling stations in Abuja, yesterday, following an unconfirmed report that oil workers have embarked on a nationwide strike.

The queues were noticed in the afternoon around the city centre shortly after the workers were said to have announced the start of the strike.

News Agency of Nigeria, NAN gathered that the workers were called out on the strike after ongoing discussion between their leaders and Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC management over unresolved pension issues was deadlocked.

It was learnt that the workers’ unions Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN and Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, declared the strike at about 1p.m. immediately after the negotiation failed.

Leaders of both unions were said to have ordered out all staff of NNPC out of their offices at the c o r p o r a t i o n ’ s headquarters in Abuja and threatened to shut the premises.

It was gathered that the situation was, however, checked by security personnel hurriedly drafted to the NNPC Towers.

The news of the development made motorists to jostle for petrol, obviously to stem the hardship that might result if they strike really commenced.

At 2 p.m., many filling stations in Wuse, Utako and Central Business areas had already recorded long queues of vehicles.

Efforts to reach officials of the two unions proved abortive as the security operatives at the entrance to NNPC barred newsmen from entering the premises.

They could also not be reached on telephone, especially President of NUPENG, Mr Igwe Achese, whose telephone appeared to have been switched off.

Nigeria to sell TCN assets for $20bn

By Sebastine Obasi, with Agency Reports

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BUJA—NIGERIA will earn more than $20 billion from the sale of the assets of its national electricity transmission company, TCN, as it struggles to provide adequate power to Africa’s largest economy, Minister of Power Chinedu Nebo said.

The sale of state-owned Transmission Company of Nigeria may start “in a few years,” Nebo said in an interview with Bloomberg Television Africa in Abuja, the capital. The government will also focus on developing renewable energy projects to diversify its supply of electricity. The interest now for

transmission is over $20 billion.

People are coming from everywhere,” he said.

The current transmission capacity of Abuja-based TCN is 5,500 megawatts compared with an installed generation capacity of 8,000 megawatts, Nebo said.

This means that if generation companies were operating at full capacity, the grid would be unable to transmit all of the power to homes. According to him, the government wants transmission capacity to exceed 6,000 megawatts by 2016.

Transmission is the only segment of the power industry that the government still controls as it seeks to curb regular blackouts in the country. The country

generates about a 10th of the power that South Africa does even though its population of about 170 million is more than three times larger.

The government of President Goodluck Jonathan is said to be spending $3.5 billion to boost transmission capacity by 50 percent.

Nigeria sold 15 state-owned generation and distribution companies to raise funds.

Power generation is significantly lower than capacity, partially due to problems of transporting gas to power plants.

“Gas supply has been a limiting factor,” said Nebo, who is working with Minister

VISIT: Country Director, African Development Bank, ADB, Dr. Ousmane Dore addressing Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State and Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonji-Iweala, when the Minister led a delegation of ADB on a courtesy visit to Orji in Umuahia.

of Petroleum Resources Diezani Alison-Madueke to make enough gas available to generation companies to match the transmission capacity by the end of next year.

“Nigeria is moving in the direction of trying to have a robust energy mix,” he said.

Coal is another resource that could generate 3,000 to 5,000 megawatts of power “in the next several years” after government reclaims unused coal blocks. We are working on making sure those coal blocks are taken away from those who have refused to develop them over the decades and are given to those who can actually develop them,” he said.

Officials are deciding which model to adopt for the company’s sale.

Manitoba Hydro-Electric Board of Canada’s three-year management contract ends next year. “The process could take the form of a public-private partnership, a concession or a build-operate-transfer. While divesting from most other parts of the power industry, the government is planning to invest more in renewable energy such as solar and hydro power, Nebo said.

“The government is very intent on making sure that the renewable energies kick off because we cannot continue to depend on only one or two means to continue giving electricity to our people,” the minister said, citing the planned 700-megawatt and 3,050-megawatt hydropower plants in Zungeru and Mambila.

Both plants are in central Nigeria.

EBOLA: Isolation wards in Lagos, Port Harcourt now empty ...Multiple high-risk exposure opportunities in PH worry WHO

By Sola Ogundipe, Chioma Obinna & Gabriel Olawale

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ITTLE or no activity has been recorded in the Ebola isolation wards in Lagos and Port Harcourt over the last seven days following the discharge of the last patient from the Lagos isolation centre last week.

As at yesterday evening, the number of contacts under surveillance in Port Harcourt had dropped from over 500 to less than 400, while in Lagos, the number dropped below 16, even as contacts gradually exit 21 days of observation. The country has not reported any new case of EVD. Nigeria current EVD status as at 15 September, 2014 - 19 confirmed cases, seven dead, 12 survivors.

Confirming this position weekend, the Minister of Health, Professor Onybuchi Chukwu said although there have been several rumours about suspected Ebola cases in Nigeria, all the rumoured and suspected cases have been investigated and proven negative.

According to the Minister, at

present, there is no single current case of confirmed EVD in Nigeria.

Further investigations by Vanguard showed that in the last two weeks, Nigeria has not reported any new case and the total number of confirmed Ebola cases in Nigeria remains 19 - 15 in Lagos and four in Port Harcourt.

Presently, only 16 people are under surveillance in Lagos and 490 in Port Harcourt.

Chukwu also explained that the total number of death stands at seven.

Responding to the successes recorded so far, he said although there is no active Ebola case in the country, government cannot roll out the drums to celebrate.

“We cannot celebrate for the simple reason that, though we know we have won the battle but not yet the war. We are happy for now. There is nobody with active Ebola virus disease in Nigeria but that is not to say we should be surprised if we had one tomorrow.

“I would not be surprised because right now we still have a

number of people on surveillance. We are keeping them on surveillance because there is the possibility that any of them could develop the disease. The reason they are under surveillance is that there is a chance, no matter how slim they may develop the infection,” he added.

Ebola virus was imported into Nigeria via an infected air traveller, an American- Liberian, Patrick Sawyer who entered into Lagos on 20 July and died five days later. Sadly, a close contact of the Lagos case, an ECOWAS staff, fled Lagos, where he was under quarantine, to seek treatment in Port Harcourt.

WHO expresses concern over high risk exposure in PH Meanwhile, the World Health organisation, WHO, in its situation assessment expressed concern over multiple high-risk exposure opportunities, following the outbreak of EVD

in Port Harcourt, adding that the outbreak has the potential to grow larger and spread faster than the one in Lagos.

WHO disclosed that Nigerian health workers and WHO epidemiologists are monitoring more than 200 contacts. Of these, around 60 are considered to have had high-risk or very high-risk exposure.

According to WHO, the highestrisk exposures occurred in family members and in health care workers and patients at the facility where the index (first) case was hospitalised. Church members who visited the index case while he was hospitalised are also considered at high risk.

“WHO, together with the Rivers State Port Health Service, has assessed public health measures at airport gates and other points of entry. Screening is under way at domestic and international airport gates. Social mobilisation efforts have been stepped up, initially targeting key community and religious leaders,” the assessment report revealed.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 —9

Northern Elders Council lashes ACF zSays they are desperate opposition politicians

By Henry Umoru

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BUJA—THE Northern Elders Council, NEC yesterday tongue-lashed the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF led by former InspectorGeneral of Police, IGP, Ibrahim Coomasie, saying that they form a motley crowd of desperate opposition politicians, who have hijacked the machinery of ACF for attacking President Goodluck Jonathan.

Addressing journalists yesterday in Abuja, Chairman of NEC and Alhaji Tanko Yakasai said only former President Shehu Shagari, former Nigeria Permanent Representative to the United Nations, UN, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule and himself remain the original founding members of ACF who were instrumental to its emergence in 1967.

Yakasai noted that since the present leadership of the ACF came on board, the body has derailed from the objectives and principles of the founding fathers.

He said, “We wish to observe that since the emergence of the current leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, there has been a derailment and non-compliance with the mission and vision of the founding fathers of the forum. A motley crowd of desperate opposition politicians have hijacked its machinery.

It will be recalled that Coomasie had on Sunday alleged that there was a deliberate plan to emasculate the North economically and divide the people along religious line.

He also said President Jonathan has failed woefully on addressing the increasing level of insecurity in the north occasioned by the activities of insurgents.

According to Yakasai, “It is becoming more and more isolationist even within the region. This has greatly degraded the respectability and nonpartisanship of the ACF.''

SYNAGOGUE: Sniffer dogs fail to arrive •As death toll hits 49, rescue operation to end today •Fire outbreak under debris causes panic •Lagos yet to determine approval status of collapsed building

•Doctors can’t locate parents of minor victim

By Leke Adeseri, S-West Regional Editor; Evelyn Usman, Olasunkanmi Akoni & Monsur Olowoopejo

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AGOS—ALTHOUGH the Nigeria Police authorities yesterday deployed sniffer dogs to the scene of last Friday’s collapsed building owned by the Synagogue Church of All Nations, SCOAN in Ikotun area of Lagos, with a view to assisting rescue workers locate the exact positions of trapped victims, the handlers came without the special breed canines.

The vehicle said to be conveying the dogs to the scene reportedly broke down midway, thereby depriving rescue operators of their use.

An optimistic South West Spokesman of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Ibrahim Farinloye, however said; ‘’All things being equal, the rescue operation will be concluded by say 2.00pm tomorrow (Today).’’

Death toll now 49 This is as the death toll rose to 49,with the recovery of additional five dead bodies between 5am and 5.35pm yesterday.

However during the course of search and rescue, electrical items under the debris , according to the Lagos State Fire Service, resulted in a fire outbreak.

As at 1.40pm, excavation work was close to the second floor where majority of the victims were believed to have been trapped. But locating their exact positions became a challenge, as some of the rescue workers told Vanguard that there was every likely hood that the excavator might cause more damage if proper care was not taken.

Consequently, a collective decision according to Farinloye, was reached to involve sniffer dogs.

“We are deploying Nigeria Police sniffer dogs to assist in locating trapped victims as we are getting close to the area suspected to have more people trapped. ‘’The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State ordered the release of five dogs after a collective decision to use dogs

VISIT: The governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mr. Godwin Emefiele (right), with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN President, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu (centre) and ICAN Vice President Otunba Femi Deru during a visit on Emefiele. by responding agencies. ‘’NEMA has requested the Police Disaster Unit to manage the dogs. The dogs were to assist in search and rescue faster and help early conclusion of the operations”, Farinloye said.

Three more dead bodies, all females recovered Between 4.40pm and 5.37pm, three dead bodies, all females were said to have been recovered.

On the fire outbreak under the rubble, the Director, Lagos State Fire Service, Mr Rasaq Fadipe, explained that; “During the course of search and rescue operation, items under the rubble generated excessive heat and resulted in a fire outbreak. But we were fully on ground to control it.”

It would be recalled that during the visit, the Lagos State Commissioner for Physical planning, Mr Toyin Ayinde, revealed that the 5storey building had no government approval for its construction.

Ayinde who said records in his office showed that no permit was handed to the civil engineers for the building to be erected, however added that he was awaiting the church engineers to present the building permit they were given to erect the collapsed building.

As at 7pm, yesterday, Vanguard gathered that SCOAN was yet to make available names of those who lodged in the collapsed building.

Parents of minor victim cannot be located — Doctor

Church yet to produce approval for collapsed Meantime, Doctors have building said that parents of a minor Meanwhile, 24 hours after the visit of Governor Babatunde Fashola to the scene of the collapsed building, SCOAN as gathered, was yet to produce the approval for the collapsed building.

victim of the Synagogue Church collapsed building on admission at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, could not be located.

Dr Ibrahim Mustapha, a Consultant and Head, Surgical Emergency

Department, LASUTH, told the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos yesterday that the minor was fit to be discharged.

“One of the victims, a child, is due to be discharged today, but we cannot find her parents.

“We intend to take her photograph to make the announcement and hopefully, she will be found by her parents,” Mustapha said.

He said that the other victim, a male, who sustained some bruises on the head and arm, was also fit to be discharged soon.

“The two victims of the collapsed building are responding well to treatment and will be discharged soon.

“Both sustained minor injuries including bruises, but we have been able to treat and dress their wounds,” he said.

When contacted, the middle-aged man, who refused to disclose his identity, told NAN that he was grateful for surviving the collapsed building.

He said: “I was in the building when it suddenly collapsed.

“I am responding fine to treatment and I hope to be discharged soon.”

10 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

STRIKE: 104 unity schools may not resume Sept 22 outstanding labour issues.

According to investigation, among the pending labour issues are the nonNDICATIONS EMERGED, payment of promotion arrears from yesterday, that 104 Unity 2007-2010 and the balance for 2011 as Schools, also known as Federal well as the non-payment of salaries to Government Colleges, FGCs, some members of staff for the months across the country may not resume of July, August, September and on Monday, September 22, as October, 2013. workers in the schools, Federal Vanguard gathered that a meeting Ministry of Education, FME, and of all concerned stakeholders of the Inspectorate Departments, union in the FME and the 104 Unity planned to Monday begin an Colleges has been fixed for Friday indefinite strike alleged refusal by 19th September 2014 to map out final the management to honour the strategy for the strike.

VISIT: Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and a representative of Sultan agreement reached with the Confirming the planned strike, in a of Sokoto, Alhaji Mallami Maccido (Ubandoma Sokoto), during a condolence visit workers through their union, the statement yesterday, Secretary General to the governor on the death of President-General, League of Imams and Alfas, Association of Senior Civil of ASCSN, Mr.Alade Bashir Lawal, South-West, including Edo and Delta states, Alhaji Sheikh Mustapha Ajisafe, at Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, on said “By this decision, the 104 Federal Government House, Osogbo, weekend.

Unity Colleges will not reopen for the next academic session scheduled to begin on the 22nd of September 2014.” future.

The Union expressed BRT guilty of negligence, he

By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Adebajo said the Chief of Army Chairman Ikorodu Branch, sadness over the inability of Monsur Olowopejo would be charged accordingly Staff, Major General Kenneth Dotun Adetunji who represented the government to address Minimah and the Brigade and so, it should be the case the Nigerian Bar Association, all outstanding labour issues for soldiers found culpable”, he AGOS — LAGOS State Commander of the 9th NBA, urged the tribunal to do all and particularly the nonsaid.

Tribunal of Inquiry into the Mechanised Division, Ikeja within its power to encourage payment of promotion The Managing Director of July 4 road traffic accident and Cantonment, Brigadier General people to come to give evidence. arrears from 2007-2010 and Lagos Metropolitan Area subsequent arson, destruction Lubo promised that the military Adetunji said it was only when the balance for 2011 as well Transport Authority, LAMATA), of Bus Rapid Transit, BRT, would be represented before the justice was done that people as the non-payment of Mr. Dayo Mobereola who looting and rioting that tribunal. would have confidence in the salaries to some members of recounted a television The terms of reference for the occurred in Ikorodu Lagos, system adding the decision of the staff for the months of July, programme on investigation of yesterday, at its inaugural tribunal include an inquiry into tribunal to make recommendation August, September and plane crashes urged for a sitting, warned that the era of the road traffic accident to avoid a re-occurrence was a October, 2013. Records thorough investigation by the impunity by unknown uniform involving a soldier]/motorcyclist good step in the right direction. available to the union tribunal to ensure that such and a Bus Rapid Transit, BRT, men was gone in Lagos.

Chairman, Lawyers in the indicate that the Ministry incident did not happen again.

The warning was contained in bus as well as the subsequent Media, John Unachukwu had collected the money The LAGBUS boss, Mr. the opening address by the events at Maryland, Ikorodu ,counseled the tribunal to ensure meant for the settlement of Babatunde Disu who corroborated tribunal chairman, Justice road on Friday, July 4, 2014. that adequate security was these arrears from the LAMATA ’s position, also urged the It is also requested to Ebenezer Adebajo (rtd), who provided the members of the Federal Ministry of Finance. public to assist the tribunal to gave the assurance that there ascertain the cause and actual public who may be vulnerable.

According to the union, “it enable it do a good job and make would be fair hearing to all those location of the accident, whether “All interest group must be is very unfortunate that the appropriate recommendation that involved in the July 4, 2014 on or off the BRT lane and the government called the union’s would stop such impunity in protected in order to get to the root incident at Palm Grove, Lagos. type and condition of vehicles of the matter”, he said. bluff despite the ultimatum Adebajo said the government involved; while determining given to it to implement the “put up the tribunal in ensuring whether the late soldier or bus agreement entered into on or that the era of Unknown Soldier, driver were in breach of the law. before the 12th of September, The panel is to further where they engage in barbaric 2014 or face industrial action. determine the extent of act, is gone in Nigeria.”

The failure of the government Several buses belonging to the vandalism, arson, looting and to follow through its promise government were allegedly set harassment of innocent citizens in a meeting that the ablaze by soldiers who were that followed and identify the government was calling the ALL PROGRESSIVE recognise young people who protesting the alleged killing of persons responsible or shots is quite disheartening Congress, APC, governorship have challenged the status quo one of their colleagues by one involved; while making and unfortunate because a hopeful in Lagos, Mr. and charted a course for of the BRT buses on Ikorodu appropriate recommendations government that often breaks Akinwunmi Ambode, has themselves." to prevent future occurrence of Road. its words can never be trusted.” commended young Nigerians Seeking for support from all incidents of this nature.

Another member of the panel, who have not allow the sociothose involved, Justice Adebajo Jude Igbanoi also said that the economic and political urged members of the public circumstances in the country to who witnessed the incident to tribunal expanded its scope of weigh them down, but have come before the tribunal with activities as it was prepared to use the challenges to motivate take memoranda from people information on what they themselves. who wanted to remain witnessed. honorary fellows of the college He spoke at La Roche

By Gabriel Olawale The chairman urged them not anonymous. who were recognised for their Leadership Foundation to Igbanoi said, even during to entertain any fear, stressing various national contributions to recognize and celebrate some that they would be well sitting, the tribunal would HE NATIONAL the development of health sector exceptional youths in Lagos at protected against any form of protect and take evidence from Postgraduate Medical since inception. an event tagged “The Chosen intimidation, while promising anybody who did not want to College of Nigeria, NPMCN, has Rasheed said 247 students Youth” which held at the that the tribunal would ensure make public his identity. said it graduated no fewer than would be graduated Thursday In his comments before the Astroturf 2000 in Ikoyi, Lagos. 4,705 Fellows in different while distinguished fellowship the protection and The event recognized the tribunal, the Director, Centre for specialties of medicines and confidentiality of the witnesses efforts of 11 youths who have dentistry within 35 years of would be conferred on two Free Speech, Richard Akinola eminent fellows for their service where required. contributed immensely to the existence even as it called for to the college and the country.

He said the only way to who represented the civil development of their appropriate funding from the He explained that the college's prevent impunity and the society, recalled the burning of communities in the areas of Tertiary Education Trust Fund, main function was to produce repeat of the incident was for Kalakuta republic in 1977 by Youth & Sports, Tourism, Social TETFUND. adequate medical and dental the tribunal to do a thorough job soldiers advised the tribunal Media, Entertainment and Speaking, ahead 2014 specialists of the highest quality, and make appropriate against returning a verdict of Fashion. convocation slated for Thursday, competence and dedication to recommendation to that effect. “unknown soldiers” in the Speaking at the event, the College President, Professor world class services in teaching, matter.

Although, the military was not “Because if at the end, the Ambode the founder of La Arogundade Rasheed, said the research and health care. represented at the inaugural Roche said: “Today we 4,705 Fellows excluded 16 sitting, however, Justice tribunal finds the driver of the

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

I

BRT VANDALIZATION: Tribunal pledges fairness L

Ambode lauds doggedness of youths

4,705 fellows graduated by Postgraduate Medical College in 35yrs

T

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 —11

Amosun's aide resigns, defects to PDP zWe wish her well — Govt' Daud Olatunji

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BEOKUTA — CRISIS rocking the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ogun State has taken its toll on the government of Senator Ibikunle Amosun as his Special Adviser on Environment; Abimbola Lanre-Balogun has resigned and joined the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Lanre-Balogun, who resigned, Thursday, explained that she resigned her appointment and joined the PDP because Governor Amosun ran government of “myself, for me and my family.”

Speaking at the stakeholders' meeting of the PDP at the Goodluck Jonathan Political Centre in Ijebu-Igbo, the former Special Adviser claimed many top members of Amosun’s cabinet would defect to the PDP in the state very soon.

Lanre-Balogun was received by PDP’s National Auditor, Fatai Adeyanju, the state chairman Bayo Dayo and South West Chairman, Organisation and Mobilization Committee of the party, Prince Buruji Kashamu who was honoured with life Patron by South West zone of National Automobile Technicians Association as well as other leaders of the party who were present at the event.

According to the former special adviser, “Amosun runs government of nepotism. I have been in this government (Amosun’s) since inception. I was sworn in as Special Adviser on Environment precisely on the 21st of July, 2011 and we swung into action. Like I always say, I have passion for hard work; I set out to do so and began to do what God sent me to do for the good people of Ogun State. I began to work day and night when I was in the Ministry of Environment. It got

to a stage that the governor himself called me to exco to take a bow, saying, I was up to the task”.

She claimed she was later made redundant, alleging that no more work was being sent to her desk, about which she said she complained to the governor.

According to her, the governor said “the position is just for me to occupy and that the people doing the work are there. And who are the people doing the work? Just five people.... We were not given anything to do. I am a proper Ogun woman born in Abeokuta.

Both of my parents are indigenes from Abeokuta.”

She however, claimed that, more members of Amosun’s cabinet would soon defect to the PDP, saying, “I have just come forward so that I can preach the gospel to the people there, the gospel of light. I can tell you this, very authoritatively that more people are defecting anytime soon. They are top people; top cabinet members of the government would defect anytime soon.”

In a reaction, the state government said it had

accepted the resignation letter of the former Special Adviser.

The state Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Yusuph Olaniyonu in a statement said, “Mrs. Lanre-Balogun in the resignation letter submitted last Friday noted that she was leaving to devote more time to her legal practice and political career. The government, while accepting the resignation thanked her for services she rendered to the good people of the state in the last three years and wished her well in her future endeavours.”

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KURE —THE Court of Ap peal sitting in Akure, the Ondo State capital, yesterday, declared the seat of a member of House of Representatives, Ifedayo Abegunde, representing Akure South and North Federal Constituency vacant.

This followed his defection from Labour Party, LP, to the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN. Abegunde had defected from LP in 2011 to the ACN and in a bid to pre-empt the party from recalling him, approached the Federal high Court.

But the Federal High Court ruled against his defection, describing it as unlawful since the

By Bola Ajayi

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BADAN — MORE Nigerians, yesterday, paid tributes to late Brigadier-General Benjamin Adekunle, (rtd) who died last Saturday.

Two governorship aspirants in Oyo State, Senator Teslim Folarin and Mr. Olu Abiala in separate statements said the country had lost a great patriot.

According to Folarin who is one of the aspirants contesting the ticket on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, “the footprints left by the war veteran cannot be forgotten in a hurry.

Folarin, the former Senate leader, said the enviable patriotic qualities in the exCivil war hero would be remembered by generations to come.

Labour threatens to extend FAN Milk strike INAUGURATION: From left Haruna Rilwan, Special Guest; Amb. Ademola Onafowokan, Nigerian Ambassador to Ghana, and Alhaji Munir Bankole, Managing Director, Medview Airline, on arrival at Accra International Airport, yesterday, during the airline's inaugural flight on the Lagos-Accra-Lagos route.

....Housing for workers too expensive — NLC

By Daud Olatunji

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BEOKUTA — CHAIRMAN, Nigeria Labour Congress, Ogun State chapter, Akeem Ambali, has described the housing units built for civil servants by the Ogun

State government at Laderin Village as too expensive for junior workers, especially between Levels 2 and 6.

He said that it is only workers who are in the middle and high income grades that can afford the houses in Laderin.

Ambali spoke at the

commencement of the annual conference and workshop organised by the state Civil Service Union in collaboration with Emados Consult at Sagamu.

The governor had said he built some houses for workers at the cost of N7 million and above.

Court declares House of Reps' seat vacant

By Dayo Johnson

More Nigerians pay tribute to late Gen Adekunle

party was not witnessing any internal squabbles.

Abegunde in a bid to remain in the National Assembly proceeded to the Court of Appeal which invariably sacked him, yesterday.

Abegunde had through his lawyer, Mr. Yemi Osibajo, SAN, sought the protection of the Federal High Court.

He asked the court to pronounce that the division within the LP facilitated his defection to ACN, now All Progressives Congress, APC. In his originating summons, he sought the determination of whether or not in view of the provisions of section 68(1) (g) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, he was not entitled to dump the LP for another party.

However, the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, filed a counter-claim among others, claiming that he should automatically vacate the seat, having left the LP that sponsored him into the National Assembly.

The trial court presided by Justice C. Okeke in his ruling in 2012 upheld the position of the state Attorney-General that the lawmaker should vacate his seat, having defected from the party that sponsored him to the National Assembly.

Dissatisfied with the decision of the trial court, Abegunde asked the appellate court to upturn the judgment of the lower court.

After the exchange of briefs and written addresses by the plaintiff and defendants, the Appeal Court

dismissed the appeal filed by the lawmaker.

Delivering judgment, the fiveman panel of the appellate court headed by Justice A. G. Mshelia dismissed the appeal and affirmed the decision of the Federal High Court.

Mshelia said the appellant had violated the provision of section 68 (1) (g) of the Constitution of the Federal Repubic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

The court further held that “there was no division within the LP to warrant a defection from it."

The court therefore ordered the appellant to vacate his seat as a member of the House of Representatives representing Akure North/South Federal Constituency.

By Victor AhiumaYoung

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ATIONAL UNION of Food Beverage and Tobacco Employees, NUFBTE, yesterday, threatened to extend the on-going strike at the Fan Milk Company in Ibadan over termination of appointment of workers, and transfer to other outlets nationwide.

President of the union, Mr. Lateef Oyelekan at the union’s National Executive Council, NEC, meeting in Lagos, warned that the union would use Fan Milk as an example to other antilabour employers in the industry to show that organised labour in the sector would not accept any slave driver.

He insisted that while the company reserved the right to retrench its workers, it must follow laid-down rules and regulations, saying the ongoing strike in the company was to protect workers’ rights and end the culture of impunity.

According to him, the management had boasted that it knew people in high places, hence the deployment of Police Armoured Personnel Carrier, APC, and dozens of police to the gate of the company, saying the union and the workers would not be intimidated in the fight against injustice.

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Okpamen guns for Edo Assembly

THANKSGIVING: From left— Conference Lay President, Methodist Church Nigeria, Sir Jimmy Coker; the Prelate, Dr. Samuel Uche; his wife, Nneona; host bishop, Rt. Rev. Jacob Adeyemi, and the Presbyter, Otta Circuit, Very Rev. Olusola Makindipe, at the Prelate's first anniversary thanksgiving service at the Williams Memorial Church Cathedral, Ago Ijaiye, Ebute Metta, Lagos.

By Simon Adewale

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HE Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, Mr. Henry Okpamen, has declared his intension to contest for the state House of Assembly election to represent Esan NorthEast Constituency 2 in Uromi, in the 2015 general elections.

Okpamen told newsmen that he had used his current position to attract electricity to Idikhalia-Idisaba and other neighbouring communities in Ebhoiyi and the rebuilding of Afuda-Idigun Primary School and the remodelling of Amedokhian Primary School, which was done in collaboration with some members of the community.

He added that his desire to contest was to enable him serve humanity and advance the well being of others.

He added that Oshiomole’s legacies were clear evidence of pragmatic leadership that needed to be protected, preserved and built upon, hence his desire to offer himself for service.

Big Joe gets SON's clearance

B

By Gabriel Enogholase

ENIN— A Beninbased business concern, BIG JOE Ventures Ltd, has been awarded the Mandatory Conformity Assessment programme by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON, in recognition of its quality products and service delivery.

Head of SON, Edo and Delta states, Mr. Akogun Ilesanmi, while presenting the award to the company, said the certificate authorises BIG JOE Water to use the NAMCAP NIS logo and number on its products.

He said the award followed over six years of series of inspections at the company and several laboratory analyses.

Lawyers beg for end to crisis in Rivers judiciary

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— L AWYERS in Rivers State have appealed for an end to the crisis rocking the state judiciary.

Staff of the state judiciary have been on strike since June 10, due to a tussle between Rivers State Government and the National Judicial Council over the appointment of a Chief Judge for the state.

Briefing newsmen yesterday in Port Harcourt, the five chapters of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, in the state pleaded with parties in the crisis to consider the plight of lawyers in the state.

Flanked by the other Chairmen and the most senior practicing lawyer in the state, the Degema branch Chairman of NBA, Mr. Talbot Obaye-Ekine, pleaded that courts should be re-opened to avoid anarchy and resort to self help by those who cannot access the court to seek redress.

He said: “We seize this opportunity to appeal to the parties to consider the plight of the over 4,500 lawyers in

Rivers State and the general public. Let the day not come when anarchy will prevail.

“As an interim measure, we urge that the courts should open and function on the

position that prevailed before the appointment of an Administrative Judge and the powers granted to the Chief Registrar under the amendment to the High Court Law.”

FG committed to schools' rehabilitation— MINISTER

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HE Ministry of Education remains committed to completing the building of schools flagged off by the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike at Ogu and Omoku in Rivers State.

Special Assistant, Media, to the Minister, Mr. Simeon Nwakaudu, said this in a statement yesterday, adding that the third school will be constructed in Andoni as a deliberate design to reach out-of-school children in the three senatorial districts of Rivers State in line with the key objective of creating access to basic education for all Nigerian children.

He said: “These schools form part of the critical ongoing interventions of the Goodluck Jonathan administration as

regards the creation of access to basic education in Rivers State and other states of the federation.

“Last Friday’s flag off is part of the second phase of the construction of relevant basic education schools in the country by the Jonathan administration.

“Before the commencement of last week’s construction of three additional schools in Rivers State, the Federal Government had successfully completed a Federal Junior Model Girls School in Aluu and an Almajiri school in Omerule in the first phase of construction work.

“This is in addition to key interventions in 10 secondary schools across the state.

Some have been completed and others are ongoing.”

E-payment boosts operations in Onne

By Godfrey Bivbere

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ORT Manager of Onne Port, Rivers State, Mr. Umar Munir, has said the introduction of e-payment by the authority ’s management has helped improve operations at the ports.

Speaking in his office, Wada said the introduction of e-payment has helped to

reduce cargo clearing time and ship turnaround time at the port.

He said that in the past, importers and their agents had to return to the port after making payment at the b anks, explaining that NPA still had to contact the banks to ensure that payment was actually made, thereby causing delay in both cargo and ship dwell time.

He noted that it was only then that the authority can issue receipt for the payment.

Umar explained that a command and control centre recently set up at the head office had made information about ship position at the various ports across the country known, adding that the centre can monitor and control any form of delay at the berths in any port.

Delta APC loses guber hopeful to PDP

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N All Progressives Congress, APC, gubernatorial aspirant in Delta State, Squadron Leader Ben Nwose, has decamped to Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. At a reception in honour of some decampees by the PDP Chairman of ward 3, Mr. Mike Elechie and party officials at Illah, his home town in Oshimili North Local Government Area of the state, Nwose, a former PDP governorship aspirant in 2011, said PDP provides the only viable and allinclusive platform for the aspirations of party members.

He reiterated his commitment and loyalty to the party, promising to dismantle the entire structure of APC in Illah, the council and the state and handover his followers to PDP. Speaking also, Elechie charged Nwose to henceforth hold PDP in high esteem in all his political undertakings.

Elechie said “By the powers conferred on me and on behalf of our great party chairman, Mr. Peter Nwoabosi, the council Chairman and members, I hereby dress you in the party colours of PDP and issue you membership card.

“You are to speak PDP, dream PDP and walk PDP henceforth.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—13

Ex-militants protest INEC's allocation of new polling units N

O fewer than 2000 exmilitants from Delta, Edo and Ondo states thronged the streets of Bomadi, Delta State, yesterday, to protest the proposed creation of 21,000 polling units in the North against 8,000 for Southern Nigeria by the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC. The protesting ex-militants,

some of who had placards reading “Jega must go,’ ‘We will never ascribe to that number,’ ‘Jega perpetrating northern agenda,’ ‘We call on the National Assembly to call Jega to order,’ among others, urged President Goodluck Jonathan and the Senate President, David Mark, to sack Professor

Attahiru Jega, the INEC boss.

The Co-ordinator of the exmilitants, who is also the Chairman Delta branch phase three Presidential Amnesty Programme, Mr. Preye Ekpebide, said Jega had contravened Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution and also violated his oath of office and as such cannot be the umpire

VISIT : Mr. Victor Ochei (right) and Mr. Emmanuel Satu, Chairman, South-South Youth Political Struggle, SSYPS, during the g r o u p ' s solidarity visit to Ochei in Asaba.

of the nation’s electoral body.

Recalling the allocation of polling units to Abuja and North-West region, which comparatively surpassed those of South-East region and the entire South-South, he said that Jega’s intent was to politically reduce the South and make the North dominant.

He said: “It is a calculated attempt to hatch the Northern agenda to undo President Jonathan in the 2015 general elections. We are not going to fold our hands and watched this day light robbery to happen.”

Ekpebide called on the presidency and the National Assembly to ask Jega to jettison the proposed creation of polling units or create equal polling units to avoid mass protests.

The ex-warlords promised to work with Ndigbo youths and the Oduduwa Peoples Congress to organise a mass rally against INEC on the new polling units.

Nigeria, largest internet market in Africa— MINISTER

By Samuel Oyadongha

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ENAGOA—THE Minister of Communication Technology, Dr. Omobola Johnson, yesterday noted that with over 121 million active subscribers, the country’s teledensity has increased to 86.62 percent as against 114.76 million in 2011 and 95.9 million in 2010.

Johnson, who spoke in

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, during the third regular meeting of the National Council on Communication Technology, said the country had made appreciable progress in the ICT sector and was the largest internet market in Africa.

She said: “With over 121 million active subscribers, the country’s tele-density has increased to 86.62

percent up from 114.76 million in 2011 and 95.9 million in 2010.”

Citing the International Telecommunications Union, ITU, she said as at June 2012, Nigeria was home to 48.4 million internet users up from 45 million at the end of 2011.

“The 2012 figure represents 28 percent internet

2015: SSYPS backs Jonathan, Ochei

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HE gubernatorial ambition of Mr. Victor Ochei, former Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, has received a boost with the visit of a 10man delegation of the South-South Youth Political Struggle, SSYPS, which declared their support for his aspiration and President Goodluck Jonathan’s second term bid.

The group’s Director of Media and Strategy, Mr. Gabriel Choba, who spoke

during the visit in Asaba, said that their support for Ochei was because of his impressive track record, as well as having the exceptional listening characteristic of true leaders.

He said: “We have taken our stand by deciding to support and vote a man of the grassroots believing that his antecedents will in no small measure ensure the replication of his accomplishments.”

NGOs commend Edo Central PDP on zoning

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IVIL society groups in Edo State have congratulated Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo Central senatorial district for zoning its senate and House of Representatives slots to different zones and local governments in line with the party’s zoning principle.

The groups also called on other senatorial districts in the state to emulate Edo Central, saying it will enhance the winning chances of the party in the state.

Speaking yesterday after a meeting of the groups, comprising National Movement of Nigeria, NMN; Rainbow Caucus, RC, and Edo for Grassroots Development Organisation in Benin, National Publicity Secretary of NMN, Mr. Okharedia Ihimekpen, faulted other aspirants for opposing the arrangement, saying that many of them would not have been in the position they were if not for PDP’s zoning formula.

penetration and 29 percent of total internet users in Africa, making Nigeria the largest internet market in Africa.

“On ICT in government, in recent ranking of countries in the United Nations egovernment index, Nigeria moved up 21 places to number 141 and improved her participation cores by 22 points.”

C-River CJ advocates employment of more judicial staff

By Ike Uchechukwu

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ALABAR—THE Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Okoi Itam, has called for the employment of more staff for the judiciary to ease the increasing administrative functions of the judiciary and the need for efficient functioning, growth and sustenance of the courts.

Justice Itam, who made the call at the opening of the 2014/2015 legal year of the state judiciary, lamented that the staff strength of the judiciary had reduced from 2000 in 1999 to 741, as against 779 in September 2013 due to loss of 38 staff: 29 to retirement and nine to death in the year under review, without replacement.

He decried the yearly reduction in staff strength, stressing that same had constituted a threat to the rule of law and the justice delivery system in the state.

Justice Itam said that a total of 2,179 cases were rolled over from 2012/2013 legal year, 1,733 fresh cases filed in the 2013/2014 legal year were disposed of, while 1,961 are still pending in the high courts.

In the magistrates’ court, Justice Itam hinted that a total of 20,990 cases were rolled over from the 2012/ 2013 legal year, while 6,771 cases were filed in the 2013/ 2014 legal year, 3,186 were disposed off while 24,575 others are still pending.

“In the district court a total of 580 cases were brought forward from the 2012/2013 legal year, 2446 fresh cases filed in 2013/2014 were disposed off and 985 still pending.

“We shall not relent in our efforts to initiate, adopt, device and implement measures aimed at ensuring the optimum welfare of the staff.”

14—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

PRAYERS FOR LATE AYANGBUREN Special prayers were said to mark the 40th day Fidau for late Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Salawudeen Oyefusi at his residence in Ikorodu, last weekend. PHOTOS: Shola Oyelese.

From left, Chief Oluwatoyin Sunmonu, Olori Muyibat Oyefusi, widow; and Chief David Sunmonu.

From left, Major Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo (rtd.), Justice Fatai Adeyinka(rtd.) and Chief Tunji Olusanya.

From left, Princess Abiodun Oyefusi, Prince Kehinde Oyefusi and Prince Idowu Oyefusi, children of late Oba Oyefusi.

From left, Chief V. Onyemepu, Chief Ivo Mba, Eze Laz Okeke, Eze-Igbo of Ikorodu, and Eze Livinus Ewenmadu, Eze-Igbo of Igbogbo-Ikorodu.

From left: Mr. Fred Odueme, AGM Brands, Vanguard Newspapers; Princess Abiodun Oyefusi and Mr. Sunny Awevia, Operations Manager, Vanguard newspapers.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—15

16— Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Enugu monarchs laud Chime on devt

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NUGU—TWO firstclass traditional rulers in the Enugu-East senatorial zone have spoken out in favour of the leadership style and development strides of the state governor, Sullivan Chime.

The duo, Igwe Okey Ogbuka, Udo-Oha II of Amodu Okowo, and Igwe John Nwodo, of Ugwuafor kingdom, Akpugo, spoke in separate interviews in the state capital last weekend.

Amodu Okowo and Ugwuafor Akpugo communities are all in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State.

C o m m e n d i n g Governor Chime on his development strategy, Igwe Ogbuka said: “Using almost all positive indices, we seem to be in a position to compete now: infrastructure-wise, see what he has turned Enugu State into? Enugu capital territory can now compete with any well-built city in the world.

“In almost all areas, we can now compete; the infrastructure, everything; for the first time, we now have local government councils doing asphalt roads, that never happened before in the history of Enugu State.”

Igwe Nwodo, in his own assessment, praised Governor Chime’s commitment to the infrastructure development of Enugu State, adding that his style of leadership engendered a followership based on conviction rather their coercion.

“We now know what good governance is all about; go and see the brand new state secretarial complex nearing completion and you’ll understand what am saying.

“Check out the roads both on the townships and hinterlands, and you can’t but marvel at what the Lord is doing for us using Governor Chime “Communities like mine which never knew electricity or hospital can now count themselves lucky, an indication that the reach of the state government is wide and deep,” Igwe Nwodo said.

Vigilante boss shot dead in Ebonyi A

By Peter Okutu

BAKALIKI—LEADER of a vigilante group in Eziga-Idembia, Ezza South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Mr Joseph Ndaba, aged 45, was yesterday shot dead by unknown gunmen.

The incident occurred during a wake keep in a compound within the community.

An eyewitness, who begged for anonymity, explained that the gunmen invaded the compound where the wake keep was taking place and shot the deceased in the midst of a crowd.

“We were at the compound where the wake keep was taking place by some minutes past 10pm and suddenly we heard a sporadic gun shot and everyone began to scamper for safety. It was after we heard that the vigilante chairman had been shot dead,” the source said.

Circumstances surrounding the death of the vigilante boss at the time of filing this report had not been ascertained but sources hinted that hoodlums who had been terrorising the community must have committed the crime.

The sources added that since the emergence of the deceased

as the chairman of the community vigilante group, the community was no longer a safe haven for the hoodlums who hitherto terrorised the area.

Vanguard gathered that the burial ceremony of the deceased whose wake keep the vigilante chief was killed had been put on hold until peace returned to the community.

Our correspondent learnt that since the incident, there had

been massive arrests in the area by security agents.

Reacting, chairman of Ezza South Local Government Area, Chief Lazarus Ogbee, said he had visited the family of the deceased and promised adequate protection of lives and property of the people of the area.

“The council has stepped into the matter and we are on top of it. We have advised the

deceased family not to embark on any form of reprisal attack as the police have made some arrest. I want to assure the people of Ezza South that the law will take its due course,” Ogbee said.

Meanwhile, the state police spokesman, ASP Chris Anyanwu, stated that the police divisional command in Ezza South was yet to report the matter to the state headquarters for further investigation.

PROTEST: Eke-Awka market women protesting imposition of levies by a factional leader of the market union in Awka, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

Protest rocks Awka market over alleged imposition of levies

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA—BUSINESS activities at the popular Eke-Awka market were brought to a standstill yesterday as female traders protested alleged imposition of levies by a faction of the leadership in the market.

There are two factions in the market and leadership tussle had lingered there for a long time.

The factions are led by Mr. Emeka Jude Agumadu and Nze Christian Igwebuike Chinwuko, who are both claiming to be the authentic leaders in the market.

While Agumadu was elected chairman in July this year, Chinwuko claimed that he had been named the caretaker chairman of the market.

Leader of the protesting women, Mrs. Chinwe Ezeigwe, told reporters yesterday that the women in the market decided to carry out the protest to drive home their rejection of the levy being imposed on them by a factional leader in the market.

She said: “Our protest is to let the women and even men in the market know that

the levy imposed on us is a fraud and that we will not pay it.

“We want the state government to look into the matter and send back the person brought by Awka South local government chairman who imposed the

levy.

“We know our leader who we all queued up behind and voted for in July as the chairman. So, for these people to come here and be telling us that they want to collect levies, we will not accept it.”

However, the leader of

Awka South Market Amalgamated Traders Union, ASMATU, Chief Anayo Nweke, told reporters that all the allegations of levy imposition were false.

He said: “Those women were hired and paid to protest in the market.”

Anambra communities spoil for war over land between the two communities Akwu Enugwu

N

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

NEWI—TENSION is mounting in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State as two of its towns, Eziora Ozubulu and Irefi Oraifite villages, are spoiling for war over a piece of land at the boundary between them.

Peace-loving indigenes of the two communities are calling on Anambra State Government to take a step to avert bloodshed

now that the youths of the two communities were yet to get fully involved in the matter.

The land in contention is a piece of land natives of Akwu Enugwu, Eziora Ozubulu, allegedly sold to an Otolo Nnewi indigene, Deacon Joseph Chukwuka, to build a secondary school, to which Irefi Oraifite villagers are laying claims.

According to chairman of Committee of Land Owners in

Industrial Layout, Eziora Ozubulu, Mr Ikechukwu Nwokolo, the action of Irefi youths led to invitation of the police.

However, the Nnewi Police Area Command promptly dispatched some policemen to the site last weekend to maintain peace and order in the area in dispute and thereafter, mandated the claimants to produce within two weeks necessary evidence to their claims of ownership of the land.

FMC Owerri worries over non-availability of equipment to tackle Ebola the level of preparedness of

O

By Chidi Nkwopara

WERRI—THE management of the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, FMCO, has raised alarm that there was nothing on ground in the establishment to battle the Ebola Virus Disease,

EVD, if and when it eventually hits Imo State.

The Head of Clinical Services, HCS, Dr. Benneth Ajuonuma, gave the situation report on behalf of the Medical Director, Dr. Angela Uwakwem, when our correspondent sought to know

FMCO to battle the EVD. “What the Imo State government did soon after the disease was reported in some parts of the country was to invite those they regarded as stakeholders to a meeting, to chart the way forward,” Ajuonuma said.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 17

I

F you have not noticed it already, a new season has dawned in Nigerian politics.

That season is one of carpetcrossing back to the PDP. About a year ago, there was a rash of defections from the PDP to the APC. Nearly 40 legislators left the ruling party for the opposition. Five PDP governors also followed suit.

But now the movement is a one-way trajectory in the opposite direction. APC members are having buyers’ remorse and are making their way back as prodigal sons to the PDP. There are two basic reasons behind this. One year ago, the APC was the new party on the block. A simplistic political calculus led some to the hasty conclusion we finally have the party that would dislodge the PDP after 15 years of one-party rule in Nigeria. So some people quickly joined the APC bandwagon. But the more cynical reason was that the defections were designed to discourage Goodluck Jonathan from seeking reelection as president. The vain hope and expectation was that Jonathan would see the colossus ranged against him and throw in the towel.

New realpolitik: One year is a lifetime in politics and these prognoses have become bankrupt. A new harsh reality has set in. The APC is now a shadow of its hype. Since the

Season of carpet-crossing from the APC to the PDP times.

Timber and caliber: What has happened over the last few months is that a procession of APC who-is-who has defected to the PDP. This includes Attahiru Bafawara, Brigadier-General Buba Marwa (rtd.), Ibrahim Shekarau, Femi Fani-Kayode, Ali Modu Sherriff, Jimi Agbaje, Nuhu Ribadu and Tom Ikimi.

These people have read the writing on the wall and have discovered that, by hook or crook, the PDP is not going to lose the coming presidential election. Don’t be surprised if by next year, even Atiku applies to be re-admitted to the PDP, after he would have been

The PDP and the APC are not even yin and yang. They are Siamese twins.

They are children of the same ugly mother

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initial excitement, it lost Ekiti by a landslide and scraped through in Osun; two states presumed to be APC strongholds. In spite of considerable arm-twisting, including the nuisance value of APC Trojan horse Sule Lamido’s candidacy, Goodluck Jonathan is going to run on the PDP’s 2015 presidential ticket.

Short of the shenanigans of Attahiru Jega and his fictitious 30,000 new polling units, the APC does not stand a chance of defeating the PDP in the coming presidential election.

The combination of these two realities is provoking a noholds-barred migration back to the PDP. As a matter of fact, once Jonathan finally declares his candidacy and is endorsed by the PDP, there will be a mass exodus from the APC to the PDP. Even before then, those who lose out in the APC choice of its presidential candidate will not waste time before making their way to the PDP. The movement will be massive all in one direction because in Nigerian politics the winner takes all. The one thing politicians are very good at is in reading the signs of the

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shut out of the APC. There were a lot of raised eyebrows at Nuhu Ribadu’s defection to the PDP. But what exactly was he supposed to do? There is no future in the APC for him. Ribadu served for eight years under the “hateful” PDP. As EFCC Chairman, he indicted Tinubu of corruption and called him a looter of public funds “of international dimension.” But then he ended up in Tinubu’s ACN where he was even comically paraded as the party ’s 2011 presidential candidate; only to be traded off shamefully in a despicable act of political treachery.

Clearly, Ribadu cannot be APC’s presidential or vicepresidential candidate.

Neither can the APC make him governor of Adamawa State. Since he recognizes that the APC is headed for defeat in 2015, that means the offer of a ministerial position in Abuja is out of the question.

Neither can the APC make him the Nigerian High Commissioner to the Court of St. James as a consolation prize.

However, the PDP can offer him all but one of these juicy posts. So what would be the

point of staying in the APC? None whatsoever! This kind of cold hard calculus will become increasingly evident to other APC politicians; the closer we get to the 2015 election. Just you wait; they will soon be jumping ship to the PDP in droves.

One-party rule: There is still only one political party in Nigeria at the federal level and that one party is the party in power.

What is the difference between the PDP and the APC? Only one; PDP is in power at the centre: APC is not. Besides that, there is no difference whatsoever!

They are not even yin and yang. They are Siamese twins.

They are children of the same ugly mother. They are Jekyll and Hyde. They are two peas in a pod.

When the APC first emerged, some were excited that we would finally have a two-party system. No such luck! For the longest time, Nigeria will remain a one-party state.

When you truly have a twoparty system, you have two parties with different worldviews.

They have two contrasting and competing ideologies. Not so in Nigeria.

Like people, like priest!

The people are uneducated and so are the polithiefcians.

They have no ideology, no policies and no vision. It is all about getting into power to get a piece of the national cake.

The APC touts Buhari as an anti-corruption icon. It says PDP is a party of thieves and robbers. But when did you hear the APC require those PDP governors and legislators it welcomed into its ranks to account for the money they stole while in the PDP? Never!

It relies on them to bring the money. Murtala Nyako was impeached for corruption. Did anybody hear APC members say anything against his corrupt practices?

Boko Haram politicians Suddenly, the APC is making a lot of song and dance about PDP’s Bunu

Sheriff being labeled by Stephen Davis as a sponsor of the Boko Haram. But the same Bunu Sheriff was in APC for over a year until recently.

Even as APC member, he was fingered as a possible Boko Harram sponsor, and the party took no action against him.

Bunu Sheriff was not kicked out of the APC: he resigned.

At a meeting in the British parliament, chaired by John Glen, a close adviser to Prime Minister David Cameron, allegations were raised that key members of the APC in Nigeria are supporters and financiers of Boko Haram “for ideological and political means.” Early this year, British MP Andrew Rosindell questioned Foreign Secretary William Hague in parliament specifically on the question of the United Kingdom’s engagement with the APC over the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria.

No ideologies Nigerian political parties are much of a muchness. If you did not know this, the rash of defections to and fro is eloquent testimony. That is why Obasanjo can be the socalled Baba of the PDP yesterday, and today be invited by a high-powered delegation to become the Navigator of the APC. Kwankwaso can be elected governor of Kano on the platform of the PDP in 2011.

But midstream in his tenure in 2013, he switches to the APC without any change in policy or ideology.

How many prominent members of the Labour Party in Britain have we ever heard defecting to the Conservatives? How many prominent members of the Democratic Party in the United States do we ever hear crossing the carpet suddenly to the Republican Party?

Virtually none! The reason is that those parties stand for something and their members believe in what they stand for.

However, Nigerian political parties stand for nothing.

They believe in nothing. All they seek is to feather their nests while in office.

The PDP makes few principled pretensions. It is a party of thieves and robbers.

It is a party of “come and chop!” That actually makes it endearing in a way. What you see is what you get. But lately, it has been trying to reform itself. There is now more internal democracy in the PDP, making for fewer spats.

The APC, on the other hand is a party of dissemblers. It calls itself a progressive party.

But how do you have a progressive party that makes a point of collecting the “nonprogressives” rejects of the PDP? How do you have a progressive party led by certificate forgers and insatiable land-grabbers with dubious unexplained wealth?

Political prostitutes Nigeria political parties are Twedledee and Twedledum.

They may go by the acronym ECN, or NEPA or PHCN; but the one constant is lack of electricity. As for Nigerian politicians, they are nothing but high-class prostitutes. The principled and upright ones, like Senator Udo Udoma of Akwa Ibom, are few and far between. Neither do they survive for long in politics.

After eight years, Senator Udoma voluntarily called it quits. “The beautiful ones are not yet born.”

But take, for example, the current Governor of Imo State.

He must hold some kind of Nigerian record for carpetcrossing. Okorocha was in PDP before he was not. In 1999, he contested for governor of Imo under the PDP. In 2003, he ran for the ANPP presidential ticket.

When that came to grief, he returned to the PDP as President Obasanjo’s Special Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs.

In 2005, he was a foundingmember of the Action Alliance.

By 2007, he was back in the PDP. In 2010, he defected to APGA and ran for governor of Imo State. Having become governor, he decamped to the APC in 2013.

Men like Okorocha who cannot stay in one place need to be placed under arrest.

Okorocha’s jumps from pillar to post have one unchanging purpose: his unending search for politically greener pastures.

If he does not secure the vicepresidential ticket of the APC at their coming convention, your guess is as good as mine if he will remain one day longer in the party.

In short, at this stage of Nigerian politics, virtually all our politicians are self-serving.

Far more than the people they misrule, they are the ones always looking for stomach infrastructure.

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

H

AVE Nigerians accepted mass failures in secondary school examinations? Mass failures no longer produce shocks or the sort of debates predicated on concerns about a fractured future.

The West Africa Examination Council, WAEC, has released its 2014 May/June 2014 Senior Secondary Schools Certificate Examination, SSCE, results. The 31.28 per cent pass in five subjects or more, including English and Mathematics (1,692,435 candidates sat for the examination), was a drop in 38.81 per cent recorded in 2012 and 36.57 per cent in 2013.

Fluctuations in the performances of our children pale in importance when compared to the attention we give elections, revenue allocation, security, and health scares like Ebola.

In 2011 when 98 per cent of the candidates did not make the grades, there were no alarms. The examinations are treated like most national issues, rituals with regular

Statistics mask SSCE failure places on the calendar. Nobody is interested in how the outcomes affect our future.

We are watching a skewed “tomorrow” forming before us. We are immersed in today, especially sharing of revenue from oil and gas, which are for immediate consumption.

For a country that lives only in the present, elections are more rewarding than whether other peoples’ children pass or fail examinations.

Do children of policy makers attend the schools their policies ruin? Things can change when the misrule of our leaders affect them.

Our schools are steeped in chaos.

Many lack facilities, instructional materials and trained teachers. The poor foundations are laid at the primary school level. Education’s lengthy bureaucracies consume allocations to it. There are minimal investments in training of teachers and infrastructure to support their work.

Long months of school closures over teachers’ agitations for better remunerations, or registration of voters, affect quality of instructions students receive.

Well-established private schools make the point that qualified teachers, infrastructure and instructional aids are critical to success. The private

educational system benefits from the failure of public schools and the patronage of government officials and politicians.

Time is overdue for governments – federal, state and local – to evaluate our educational policies. Current damage is deep with inadequate thought given to frequent policy changes. Concerns for the future are based on fears that the failure rate will worsen unless it is addressed drastically.

A return to orderliness in our public schools would be a vital first step.

Governments should invest more in the present and future of our education, particularly in infrastructure, teaching and learning aids and the development of teachers.

The examination results are indicators of failed policies. Solutions lie in correcting these policies, in addition to initiating ones that would improve our education. One such policy would be one that would attract more qualified people to teach.

OPINION

By Francis Ehigiator

T

HE Online dictionary - dictionary.com describes hemorrhage as a profuse discharge of blood, as from a ruptured blood vessel. In looking for a word to best describe the ongoing exodus from the All Progressives Congress (APC) of its leading lights, I could not find a better word than hemorrhage.

With the recent decision of Chief Tom Ikimi to quit the party -an event that prompted this analysis in the first place - the party has bled out most of its life wires, losing its vigour through chronic anemia.

In the past few weeks, the party’s presidential candidate in the 2011 elections, Nuhu Ribadu had waved it goodbye, just like former Governors Ibrahim Shekarau and Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa, as well as former military governor of Lagos and Borno States, Brig-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.) and former Minister Femi Fani-Kayode. The departure of the former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission chairman (EFCC), Nuhu Ribadu, dealt a huge psychological blow on the party that has, since its discredited national convention, been sliding down the precipice. The situation in a party must be of the worst kind to make its presidential torch-bearer in as recent as the 2011 elections to jump ship.

Just when the party was trying to come to terms with Ribadu’s departure, Ikimi, announced that he was dumping the party too. Unlike Ribadu who spared Nigerians the gory details of the deceit that went for party politics in the APC, Ikimi could not hold his bitterness. The former National

From Ribadu to Ikimi: APC hemorrhage continues Chairman of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC) in the aborted Third Republic made it clear his decision was largely influenced by the domineering influence of former Lagos Governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has turned the party into an instrument for “reckless self-aggrandizement”.

Ikimi may not be the first to have been hounded out of the party by Tinubu and his cohorts, but he is easily the most embittered.

Shekarau, Bafarawa, and Marwa may have taken their humiliation with stoic equanimity, but Ikimi was not simply a number in the APC. For a man who played a central role in the formation of the APC by managing the tricky merger of four legacy parties, Tinubu had craftily sidelined him in the subsequent affairs of the party and used his cohorts to obliterate Ikimi’s contributions. An instance is the party’s National Summit on the 7th of March 2014 in Abuja which was an elaborate event to officially unveil the new party. At the presentation, those in attendance were shocked to observe that not even a word was mentioned of Ikimi as one of those who contributed to the creation of the APC. If that was not callous enough, the rudeness with which the man was forcibly prevailed upon to abandon his quest to lead the party at the June national convention was most uncharitable. Ikimi who has clashed severally with Tinubu since their ACN days

was particularly targeted with the propaganda that he was too high-handed to lead the party. The attack was so ferocious that the Tinubu camp had threatened to quit the APC if Ikimi emerged the party’s new chairman. With that blackmail, Ikimi was pressured to submission; the ex-Foreign Minister walked away from the contest when it became apparent that Chief John OdigieOyegun had emerged as Tinubu’s anointed candidate.

To add to the insult, other leaders in the party watched in amazement as one man foisted on the whole, a weak leadership that he has been manipulating for the advancement of his personal agenda. The most worrisome of that agenda is the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket which Tinubu has sworn to foist on the party, in the belief that the Northwest and Southwest could, through their population, muster the electoral votes to win the 2015 presidential election.

But the myth of Tinubu’s infallibility in the Southwest has long been punctured in Ekiti; and, before it was Ondo. Ekiti people, like most other enlightened race like the Yoruba Southwest geopolitical zone, are discontented with his party and the manner in which its affairs are being conducted at his whims and caprices. Tinubu has run affairs in the APC like one would a fiefdom, playing the sole king-maker and ramming his choice candidates down everyone's throats. Well known for his habit of talking down at people

-supposed allies and political opponents alike - he has since extended it to other leaders of the race, including -of all people - the Yoruba traditional rulers who have not been spared from the man’s insults and uncouth language.

The North has not fared any better either.

While Muhammadu Buhari, an Army General and undoubted leader of the Northern wing of the party, has quietly accepted his imposed role as Tinubu’s alterego without any whimper, another presidential aspirant, Abubakar Atiku, has been severally humiliated by Tinubu. While Buhari lives on the delusion that Tinubu will deliver the party’s presidential ticket to him on a platter of gold, Atiku and his allies have systematically been edged out from the calculations for the party’s 2015 presidential ticket, and made to play spectators to Tinubu.

How one man was able to bring a whole region to its knees remains a surprise. Never before has the fate of a region been put in the hands of one man. Never since Sardauna has one unpredictable man played the North’s kingmaker. The question is: did Ikimi actually say something new? Of course, not!

The surprise is that other leading lights in Nigeria’s major opposition party have, by their acts of commission or omission, surrendered to the whims of one dictatorship.

Like Ribadu and Ikimi, the exodus in the APC will continue and like a bleeding dog, the hemorrhage will ultimately lead it from the present comatose position, to eventual death.

Mr. Ehigiator, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Benin City, Edo State.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—19

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HE Ebola virus disease came into this country and displayed its deadli-ness; thanks in part to so many coincidences, the virus is being successfully contained - the first hospital of call of the first Ebola victim; the professionalism of the first doctor who attended to him, late Dr. Stella Adadevoh and the state of first visit, that is Lagos state. If Mr. Patrick Sawyer had arrived in any other state, the consequences would have been very grave for Nigeria. Lagos state is very far above other states in terms of sophistication in the medical field. Apart from the two University Teaching Hospitals of repute, we have, scattered around the state specialist private hospitals of various types, with latest equipments in the medical fields that are comparable to those in developed countries. It is one of such hospitals that Mr. Sawyer, the first Ebola patient visited. But if the truth be told, these hospitals are out of the reach of the average Nigerian. Those who have the means and care to find out, don't have access to such 'state of the art hospitals in Lagos.

The federal government and all agencies involved in tackling the Ébola scourge must be commended. They really delivered in the dissemination of information and sensitization of the people.

In fact,

commendations have started coming from the international communities. According to the Leadership online of 7th september 2014, "The US Assistant Secretary of State for African affairs, Amb. Linda Thomas Greenfield, commended the Minister and his staff and the government of Nigeria on how effectively they have been working to deal with the Ebola outbreak here in Nigeria.

They are taking all the right steps to control this. And, they are having great success here." She even appealed to our Minister to assist neighbouring Liberia and Sierra Leone, as they grapple with the terrible outbreak.If the Liberian and Sierra Leone authorities had taken similar measures, we would have been spared the Ebola nightmare in Nigeria.

The only negative aspect of the whole issue was the decision of doctors union to continue their strike in the midst of such deadly scourge. The way the Ebola virus is contacted reminds one of the plague that afflicted ancient Egypt, as recorded in the Old Testament in the Bible. Ebola is more deadly than even Boko Haram. Boko Haram threats pales into insignificance when compared with the Ebola virus threat.

We would have been singing "uhuru" but for the crazy decision of the Port Harcourt doctor, Sam Enemuo, to secretly handle an Ebola patient without notifying the

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authorities. It is baffling to see a well trained and qualified medical practitioner take up a case of such deadly magnitude, so lightly. For now, no one knows the level of devastations this one act of stupidity will cause the nation.

According to reports; they have over four hundred people quarantined in Rivers state. That is why the issue of the holiday extension given to schools, as a result of the Ebola virus disease, must be studied and analyzed very critically.

M

aybe, when you read this article, the holiday extension given would have been called off. Again, it is a reflection

Baby factories in Nigeria

By Michael Oberabor & Tunde Fatunde

A

GRID iron is an intentional malapropism. In medicine, one gridiron is the type of incisionused in appendectomy, the removal of an inflamed appendix, a vestige of the gut with little or no use but a litany of woes. Here, alternating crisscrossing cuts are employed as progress is made into the abdominal cavity. This is a deliberate platform created to prevent a laterday complication of herniation- the protrusion of intestinal contents through the abdominal wall sequel to weakened muscles.

One of the greatest advances of science in thelast fifty years was the sequencing of the human genome. This opened a vast field of research in the basic structure and building blocks of humanity and the essence of being.

Inlaboratories and research institutions, biologists, embryologists and allied scientists search the endless possibilities that arise from the complete understanding of the structure of man. Before now it was generally assumed that cell division-the process that begins the formation of the whole- also known in biology as mitosis must begin without fertilization. The development of Dolly the sheep put paid to that assertion.

Africa however lags behind in scientific development and one major area is in the advances in fertility.A reverse application of fertility treatment has led to the proliferation of baby factories across Nigeria especially in the South Eastern region. In these sweat shops, young girls who are out and down on their luck with no hope for a future are engaged by the owners of the factories andmade to enter into paid liaisons with young men. As soon as they get pregnant, they are catered for in these factories until they bear children who are immediately taken away from them and sold to already sourced buyers. The subterranean and exploitative motives C M Y K

behind the actions negate its application as a form of treatment of infertility. And the offspring of these unions are in no way biological children of the couple to whom they are sold.

Science has conquered infertility and couples who have hitherto been unable to conceive have a wide range of options. But the problem arises when the couple or one of them insists that the offspring must be biological. Fertility management in Europe and North America is guided by spirited monitoring schemes with rules, regulations and enabling laws. One of these is the adoption process which though may be lengthy and cumbersome is reliable.

Another option is surrogacy. Where the seed of the male partner is active and motile but unable to conceive the woman, there is the option of getting it artificially inseminated into the woman. This is achievable in many ways. But ifthe husband’s sperm is unable to play this role, artificial insemination can be done by a donor.The same applies if the female partner is unable to produce viable eggs for fertilization. No records are kept of donors. They are usually young and healthy medical students but each laboratory has its own rules and regulations to guide this process. Both partners can also agree to produce seeds which are united outside the body, usually in the laboratory and the fertilized egg inserted back into the female partner. This is traditional surrogacy.

This method produced the world’s first test tube baby, Louise Brown. The other variant of this method is when the fertilized egg is carried by a surrogate mother who has no genetic link to the offspring. This is gestational surrogacy. A surrogate mother is usually a paid person who ab initio agrees to the rules and the baby delivered to its biological parents. It is the negative variant of this process that baby factories in Nigeria exploit. Ordinarily this could have passed for surrogacy and a form of treatment of infertility as once upon a time in some

of our inability to think things properly, or/and, when we are able to think, we find it difficult to properly execute. The only thing that interests everybody is the pecuniary gains that come out of it.

It is rumoured that there are pressure groups- especially from the private schools sector- doing all they can to make the federal government rescind on its decision to extend the holidays. I do not know what impact that one month holiday will have on the schools calendar that the ASUU strikes and others have not done more.

Waiting for, just one month, will not have such an adverse effect on the system. The Ebola virus is deadly; it took just one man to bring it into the country and within a week or two, people have died as a result of contact with him and the whole country is in a state of panic.

Why are we so impatient? And, why would the authorities succumb to such pressures?

The biggest excuse given presently is the decision of the government to allow the Transformation Agenda (TAN) of Goodluck Jonathan rallies to hold in cities across the country, in the midst of the Ebola crisis. Well, that decision, on its own, is an indictment on the authorities and very self serving and hypocritical.

Why granted permissions for such huge gatherings in different cities across the country, in the midst of a devastating scourge, that takes just a minimal contact to set off. It is a big gamble to take because of politics and must be discouraged by all.

But be that as it may, two wrongs do not make a right. The decision to call schools back to

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By Sunny Ikhioya

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Ebola holidays and matters arising

Schools are populated by children, some of whom have not mastered basic hygiene techniques and therefore, more prone to contact the virus. That is why the authorities must not be stampeded. We must bear for this one month

Nigeria needs to tighten its laws and bring to an end this obnoxious trade in persons while encouraging and sensitizing the populace on the various platforms available in the management of infertility

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communities and societies, a woman unable to conceive usually took a ‘wife’ that bore children for her. This was the case with Sarah and Abraham and the slave girl Hagar in the Old Testament.

S

urrogacy remains a grey area in the management of the biological child bearing process and is only legal in a few countries. It started a little over thirty years ago in the UnitedStates. In those days, most of the surrogates were also the genetic mothers who were made pregnant through the insemination of the sperm of the intending father. However, in 1986, asurrogate mother Mary Beth Whitehead refused to give the baby to its biological father and his wife. This was the Baby M case. As the two families battled for rights to the ownership of the child, traditional surrogacy gave way to gestational surrogacy where an embryo is created in vitro-sometimes using eggs and sperm from the parents and sometimes from donors and then transferred to the surrogate mother who has no genetic link to the offspring. This is the area that the baby factory owners choose to exploit. Even in recent times and in countries where surrogacy is legal, like India and Thailand and even in the United

session because, some people are having rallies does not make sense to me. The rallies are attended mostly by adults and grown up youths, while the schools are populated by children, some of whom have not mastered basic hygiene techniques and therefore, more prone to contact the virus.

That is why the authorities must not be stampeded. We must bear for this one month, it is just one month and the school proprietors will still collect their school fees.

Lecture schedules and examination time table can be rescheduled; everything depends on the degree of commitment of the teachers and their ability to carry the children along.

I repeat, we must not take this Ebola threat for granted or allow any self centred interest to distort our focus. It is not every state that has the capacity to handle it, the way the Lagos state government did. We must wait for the safety flag to be hoisted, before the schools resume. It is not too much of a demand on everybody, only a few extra feeding and maintenance expenses for parents. The private school proprietors will still collect their fees in full, without any discount. Indeed, some of them have increased their school fees, such is the system in Nigeria.

The Minister for health and his education counterparts must note that without life, no other thing counts. You have to be alive to go to school and engage in other life activities.

Let's all be wise in this instance.

*Mr. Ikhioya, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

States, problems are still rife in the entire process. This is more so when three women are involved: the genetic mother, who has the egg used, the surrogate mother who carries the baby to termand the mother who commissioned the entire process. The Nigerian baby factory begins operations when rich gullible women seek spiritual consultants and rogue healthcare workers who promise to make them conceive and bear children even when they have passed their reproductive years. They are made to feel pregnant one way or the other but usually by unorthodox manipulation. Then, on an appointed day, they arrive at the ‘maternity’ where they are sedated and some kind of blood or its artificial variant dabbed in the birth canal to give a semblance of labour.

On waking up, they are presented with a bundle obviously delivered around about that time in the next room by someone else.

The female reproductive system can be easily manipulated and women in their fifties and early sixties have borne children. But there is a well laid out procedure in these instances involving highly qualified personnel in state of the art facilities with clear rules and regulations. The products of Nigeria baby factories have no genetic link with their ‘mothers’.

Problems begin when these babies are screened for their genetic makeup as the ‘mothers’ try to take them abroad and want to procure a passport, usually the American one for their ‘offspring’. The entire process now becomes a scandal involving security agencies and the anti-human trafficking squads. Surrogacy is an old idea with a new name but Nigeria’s baby factories fall short of the definition. Nigeria needs to tighten its laws and bring to an end this obnoxious trade in persons while encouraging and sensitizing the populace on the various platforms available in the management of infertility. The sanctity of humanity is unquestionable.

*Mr. Oberator, a medical doctor, Warri, Delta State & Fatunde, professor of French Studies, Lagos State University, Lagos.

20 — Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Residents lament police, Okada riders’ face-off in Lagos

BY BOSE ADELAJA

T

HE face-off between Policemen and commercial motorcyclists in Mushin area of Lagos is adversely affecting commuters and traders who have appealed to the government to tactically settle the rift.

Those who spoke with Vanguard Metro last Tuesday, said, they now find it difficult to move around as many of the riders have abandoned the route to avoid being arrested as Policemen are said to be practically hunting for cyclists.

According to reports, six policemen went on patrol in Fatai Atere area of Mushin, on Sunday September 7 and in the process impounded some motorcycles. However, the exercise turned sour as one of the policemen allegedly lost his AK47 rifle to one of the riders and efforts to recover it proved abortive as the rider was said to have disappeared into thin air.

In search for the rifle, a team of Policemen was said to have carried out a raid in Mushin and environs the following day, arresting a couple of riders.

However, street urchins

•Some Okada riders in Lagos. Pix by Akeem Salau. snatched during the raid while her N15,000 spectacles were also damaged.

On various occasions, policemen will come and arrest our members on unrestricted routes only to take us to a junction and collect at least N10,000

,

popularlly called area boys, took advantage of the situation, to harass innocent commuters and residents, many of whom were robbed and rough handled during the raid. Subsequently, cyclists stopped plying the routes to avoid being arrested, a development that is causing untold hardship to commuters and traders who find it difficult to get to their respective destinations.

A commuter who gave her name as Orelope Aduke, said the few riders who brave plying the routes, only work for few hours while they charge exorbitantly.

Also, a trader who sells spare parts, Chijioke Gladys, said her hand bag containing N250,000 and two cell phones was

,

Some of the riders wondered why Policemen should raid cyclists on Fatai Atere way, as the route was not one of the 475 roads on which they were banned as claimed by the Police.

Also, sources said the six policemen who carried out the raid were well known faces who used to visit the zone regularly but went tough last Sunday choosing to impound any unfamiliar motorcycle.

Some of the riders not affected were said to have joined their colleagues to plead for a release of their bikes but the appeal turned sour as a policeman’s rifle was snatched allegedly by a rider .

An Okada rider at Mushin under-bridge, who pleaded

anonymity lamented the extortion by some policemen saying; ‘’On various occasions, policemen will come and arrest our members on unrestricted routes only to take us to a junction and collect at least N10,000 from us and this had been ongoing for the pat two years. When they came last Sunday, we thought it was

one of such visits and we offered them a token and pleaded that there was no sales on that day but they refused our pleas on the account that this would not take care of their weekend expenses,’’ When VM visited the area last Tuesday, only few motorcyclists were seen with many stranded commuters in

various routes.

When the Zonal chairman of the riders Chief Razaq Bello, was contacted by VM, he denied involvement in the matter saying his members don’t work on Sundays. Zone C according to the riders, comprises Isolo, Ejigbo, Oshodi, Mushin, Ojuwoye, Maryland, Yaba and Bariga.

Farmer kills wife over bag of Garri

BY DAYO JOHNSON

A

45-year-old farmer ,John Ogunji, has allegedly killed his wife, Christianah Ogunji, in Okitipupa, Ondo State after an argument over sharing of a bag of garri (cassava flour).

Problem started, after the farmer suggested that the bag of garri be shared equally between the couple.

The wife allegedly did not not accept the idea.

Vanguard gathered that before the incident that led to the murder, a similar quarrel had occurred between the duo.

The suspect is presently

being detained at the state Police headquarters in Akure.

Vanguard gathered that the ugly incident occurred at Obatedo village in Omotosho , Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state.

Her alleged effrontery to snub the husband led to a hot argument that later resulted in free for all.

The 39-year old deceased according to report, said that the bag of garri should be intact and not shared because of their quarrel.

She was said to have insisted that it was improper

for a couple to separate the food in the house.

The suspect was reportedly irked by the stance of the wife and consequently hit her on the head with a plank.

Vanguard learnt that the deceased died before she was rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.

Police Image Maker, Mr. Wole Ogodo said the suspect had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigative Department in Akure for further investigation.

Ogodo said that the suspect would soon be charged to court.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 21

Financial Institutions critical to successful implementation of PAAR – Customs boss

By JONAH NWOKPOKU

C

From left : Nigerian Ambassador to India, Ndubuisi Amaku; Indian Trade Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga; and Permanent Secretary, Abdulkadir Musa, after a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the MITI-Ambassadors Roundtable in New Delhi, India.

Honeywell invests N1bn to boost FG’s cassava policy

BY MICHAEL EBOH

T

he Federal Government’s transformation agenda in the Agricultural sector, weekend, received a boost, as Honeywell Flour Mills Plc said it has invested N1 billion in the upgrade of its mills for increased cassava flour inclusion.

The cassava inclusion policy requires flour millers in Nigeria to include a minimum of 20 per cent cassava flour in wheat flour meant for the baking of bread and the production of other confectioneries.

The Federal Government a couple of weeks ago, said the policy will save

178.05

-2.50

3,093.00 53.00 13.81

-0.55

the country about N150 billion annually, explaining that about N750 billion is spent on wheat importation annually.

Mr. Lanre Jaiyeola, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Honeywell Flour Mills, who disclosed this a press briefing in Lagos, also stated that the company is exploring viable backward integration options to further boost cassava flour availability in demonstration of its belief in and support for the initiative.

Jaiyeola also revealed that as part of the company’s strategy to scale up its production capacity, civil works has commenced on its 63-hectares land in Sagamu, Ogun State in preparation for the construction of the factory buildings.

He confirmed that the project is on course for completion and start of commercial production within the next 24 months.

According to him, this is expected to grow the company’s top and bottom line to provide better returns to its shareholders.

He, however, urged the Federal Government to provide palliatives to encourage increased investment in cassava growing, processing and utilisation.

He explained that there is better understanding and collaboration between flour millers and the ministry of agriculture on the cassava initiative, expressing hope that the collaboration is sustained for successful implementation of agriculture transformation policy.

Jaiyeola assured shareholders and investors that the company is committed to building the wealth of shareholders not only for today but for the future.

He used the session to call on investors with interest in long term returns to focus strongly on Honeywell Flour Mills Plc.

omptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS Dikko Abdullahi has identified the financial institutions as quintessential to ensuring successful international trade, especially the implementation of the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report, PAAR. He made the observation while delivering a speech at the First City Monument Bank, FCMB international trade customer forum held in Lagos last week.

He said banks and their customers involved in the business of international trade constitute a major stakeholder in Customs’ operations.

According to him, “Financial Institutions are strategically located at the heart of the Buy-Export-ImportDelievery-Chain. Provision of Credit Rating, Import/Export Finance, Execution of Payment, Insurance, and Issuance of Statement are critical stages for Customers involved in international trade. For Import Clearance in Nigeria, the Banks are the first ports of call.”

He however disclosed that the PreArrival Assessment Report being implemented by the Service is playing significant role in boosting international trade in the country.

He said that despite challenges confronting the Service in the implementation, in the last three months, i.e. from June to August, total PAARs issued stood at 72,898, representing a monthly average of over 24,000 PAARs. He explained that, “Through the PreArrival Processing, importers can access the Trade Portal and get authoritative information about their imports, take informed import decisions, order their imports, process import documents ahead of arrival and get their imports out of the Ports in good time.

NECA faults exclusion of OPS in presidential jobs board 96.91

-1.1

92.15

-0.56

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL SELLING DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

154.74 155.24 155.74 251.1894 252.0011 252.8127 200.2026 200.8495 201.4964 165.5504 166.0854 166.6203 1.4425 1.4472 1.4519 0.2859 0.2959 0.3059 231.2774 232.0247 232.772 25.222 5.304 25.3859 41.2552 41.3885 41.5218 26.8903 26.9771 27.064 232.11 232.86 233.61

CBN Exchange Rate as 15 /09 / 2014

By VICTOR AHIUMA-YOUNG

N

IGERIA Employers Consultative Association, NECA, has decried the exclusion of Organised Private Sector, OPS, in the Presidential Jobs Board, set up by the Federal Government to fight the scourge of unemployment in the country.

In a statement by NECA President, Mr. Larry Ettah, the body demanded for representation of the mainstream private sector leadership; OPS on the Presidential Jobs Board of Nigeria, an initiative of the Federal Government to alleviate the scourge of unemployment in the country.

NECA said “The Nigeria Employers’ Association of Nigeria wishes to commend President Goodluck Jonathan, on the initiative and recent inauguration of the Presidential

Jobs Board of Nigeria to address the lamentable and unyielding unemployment in the country. This is a welcome development that would aid in addressing the crying shame of high unemployment among our youth, currently put at 80% by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, in June, 2014. We hope that this initiative will not be another grandiose political gesture but a pragmatic attempt to address a practical problem. Jobs are key to the reduction of poverty, enhancement of security and sustainable economic growth.’

“We, however, wish to note that the composition of the Board, unfortunately, does not include the real Private Sector in Nigeria. Once again, it highlights the unhelpful tendency of government equating oligarchs and some entrepreneurs with the face and representation of the private sector.

22— Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

We currently have enough stockbroking firms considering the current size of the market and as the market grows in size, then the need for more stockbroking firms to come up may arise. It is important that whatever number of firms we have will continue to play the game according to the rules

INVESTORS ,

,

Top 10 performing stocks

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

O

n the top 10 performing stocks last week were Ikeja Hotel Plc, Premier Breweries Plc, Vono Products Plc, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, FTN Cocoa Processors Plc and A.G Leventis Plc. Others were Ecobank Transnational Incorporated Plc, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, Evans Medicals Plc and Forte Oil Plc. I k e j a Hotel led with 42 percent or N 0 . 4 2 p r i c e appreciation to close at N1.42 from N1.00 it started the week at. Recently, the Nigerian Stock Exchange fined the company N5.5 million for late filing of its financial report for period ended December 31, 2012 on time, beside other fines that have been slammed on the company previously for the same offence. This is besides being able to pay its shareholders dividend in the last few years. The company declared 10 kobo dividend last on 2008, while the dividend was paid in 2010. Of the three companies listed on the hospitality sector of the NSE under hotel/lodging sub-sector, Ikeja is the least priced. It has, however, delivered fantastic return of 132.1 percent to investors in 52 weeks.

Ikeja Hotel is the owner of Lagos Sheraton Hotels and Towers, Ikeja, as well as Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island Lagos.

Premier Breweies Plc, which ranked second on the list, is also being indicted by the management of the NSE for non-rendition of its 2014 audited financial statement.

The share price rose by 33.12 percent or N1.05 to close at N4.22 from N3.17 it started with. Analysts are of the opinion that Premier Breweries is one of the stocks that have enjoyed unwarranted price rally in the year as the appreciation is not predicated on any known factor. Stockbrokers believe that it is either that bargain hunters could simply be scouting for cheap stocks or there could be a probability of a take over bid brewing in the company. Investors enjoyed reward on their investments in terms of dividend payment last in 1995 when they were paid six kobo per share. Like Ikeja Hotel, Premier Breweries has returned significant 422.08 percent to-date to investors.

V o n o Products was the n e x t , appreciating by 20.69 percent or N0.18 to

C M Y K

close at N1.05 from the initial N0.87.

The company recently announced the appointment of Mr. Olatunji Oludare Anjorin as a non-executive director of the company and disengagement of its Managing Director, Mrs. Titilola Bakare following her redeployment as the Managing Director of Vitablom Nigeria Limited, a soft furnishing subsidiary of Vitafoam Nigeria Plc .

Prior to Anjorin’s appointment to the Board of Vono Products Plc, he was the Head of Human Resources for UAC Restaurants in Nigeria and Ghana, Group GM, Human Resources at PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc and Managing Director of Vitablom Nigeria Limited (a subsidiary of Vitafoam Nigeria Plc).

Though the company has been operating in losses, its 2013 audited accounted showed an improvement over that of the previous year. It recorded N841.4million turnover in 2013 as against N525.8 million in 2012. The gross profit rose from N121.3million in 2012 to N230million, while it recorded a profit after tax of N1.5 million compared to a loss of N86.8million in 2012. The company, according to the chairman, Mr. Mohammed Yinusa, would enter into joint ventures with some foreign partners to boost its finance base in the coming years.

Union Bank of Nigeria Plc followed with 19.98 percent or N1.71 to close at N10.27 from N8.56. Atlas Mara, the African investment vehicle of former Barclays boss Bob Diamond, recently lifted its stake in UBN to almost 30 per cent with a $270 million investment. The bank recorded gross earnings of N121 billion from N117 billion, up four percent from 2012 figure. The profit before tax was up 31 percent to N3.8 billion from N2.9 billion it posted in 2012, while the profit for the year stood at N3.8 billion, which was up 217 percent from N1.2 billion in 2012.

FTN Cocoa Processors’ share price rose by 9.62 percent or N0.05 to close at N0.57 from N0.52; A.G Leventis appreciated by 8.57 percent or N0.12 to close at N1.52 from N1.40; ETI advanced by 8.17 percent or N1.46 to close at N19.32 from N17.86; Dangote Sugar recorded 7.98 percent or N0.65 price appreciation to close at N8.80 from N8.15 per share; Evans Medical’s share price went up by 7.69 percent or N0.15 to close at N2.10 from N1.95, while Forte Oil advanced by 7.58 percent or N16.60 to close at N235.60 from N219.00 per share.

Challenges against new ATM charge

By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

T

he response to the introduction of N65 charge for using the ATM of other banks is becoming obviously more than the regulators and operators in the banking industry anticipated.

Last week, two civil groups, namely Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC), and Enough is Enough Nigeria, wrote a letter to the CBN demanding information relating to the new ATM charge within seven days.

The letter, dated September 12, 2014, and titled, ‘Freedom of information

request in respect of the reintroduction of charges on ATM withdrawals from other banks’ was signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the PPDC, Mr. Seember Nyager.

The groups stated, “According to the directive, the cost of N65 per transaction would apply to the cardholder from the fourth ‘remoteon-us’ withdrawal in a month.

“Considering the need for all banking directives to be made in the national interest, we write to request for documentation that would enable us to properly assess how this decision to reintroduce charges on

Frrom left: Mr Bruno Witvoet, Executive Vice President, Africa, Unilever; Dr Ngozi Ok Iweala, Minister of Finance; Mr Paul Polman, Global CEO, Unilever and Mr Yaw Nsa MD, Unilever Nigeria during a media chat with the Global CEO of Unilever in Lagos. P Lamidi Bamidele.

MARKET NEWS

NSE fines 15 more companies N19.2m

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

T

he Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, has imposed more financial sanction on 15 quoted companies for their failure to submit their various 2012 and 2013 full year financial statements on time.

Specifically, the companies, which comprise of eight insurance firms out of the 16, were made to pay a total sum of N19.2 million for reneging on that responsibility to both the investing public and the NSE. Listed companies are required to provide it with timely information to enable it efficiently perform its function of maintaining an orderly market.

According to the Exchange, the sanctions

were applied in accordance with the provisions of Section 14 of Appendix 111 of its Listing Rules The companies include: Studio Press Plc, NCR Plc, Regency Alliance Insurance Plc, WAPIC Insurance Plc, Oasis Insurance, Aiico Insurance Plc, FTN Cocoa Processing Plc, Niger Insurance Plc and Continetal Reinsurance Plc. Others are Law Union & Rock Plc, Sovereign Trust Assurance Plc, Fortis Microfinance Bank Plc, C & I Leasing Plc, Linkage Assurance Plc and Royal Exchange Plc. FTN Cocoa Processing got the highest sanction of N7 million (Seven million naira), paying N6.100 million and

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 23

N900,000 (Nine hundred thousand naira only) for late submission of its 2012 and 2013 respectively.

Royal Exchange got the next highest financial fine, paying the sum of N1.4 million; Linkage Assurance and C&I Leasing were made to pay N1.2 million each, while Fortis Micro-finance Bank and Sovereign Trust Assurance were fined N1.1 million each for late submission of their 2013 financial statement after the due date.

Niger Insurance on the other hand, was fined N1 million; Continental Reinsurance was fined N900,000; Law Union & Rock, N600,000; Aiico Insurance, N800,000; Oasis Insurance and Wapic Insurance got N700.000 fines each, while N600,000 fine was slammed on Regency Assurance for late submission of its 2013 financial statement.

NCR Plc got N500,000 fine, while Studio Press Plc was fined N400,000.

Meanwhile, some quoted companies have also been sanctioned in the course of the year for unauthorised publication.

Some of the companies in this category are Julius Berger Nig. Plc, which was sanctioned for nondisclosure of substantial shareholdings of Oasis Petroleum Company limited in the 2011 Annual Reports and Accounts. According to the NSE, Oasis Petroleum holds 9.8 percent of Julius Berger ’s shares.

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INVESTORS SPEAK

Revoking licence of inactive stockbroking firms in order

By William Jimoh

R

ecently, the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, announced plans to revoke the operating licence of inactive stockbroking firms following a new rule approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC. An inactive firm, according to the NSE, is a firm that has been suspended for a period of more than six months by the Exchange or SEC or has not recorded any activity for a period of three or more months without being suspended. The NSE insisted that the decision to revoke the licence of inactive stockbroking firms followed its determination to maintain the market integrity and further protect the investors, even as it stated most of the prohibited acts perpetrated in the market are carried out by inactive firms.

Investors, who spoke to Vanguard Investors Forum on this, threw their weight behind the Exchange management. EXCERPT:

Boniface Okezie:

If any stock broking firm has not been active for more than six months, I do not think that revoking the licence of such a firm is the way forward. You need to first find out the reason behind their inactive status. What are the problems these stockbroking firms are facing. For some of them, it is the margin loan that is affecting them, making many of them to struggle to pay.

But looking at it from another angle, if a company does not have the resources to remain in business, the best thing for it to do is to close shop.

We currently have enough stockbroking firms considering the current size of the market and as the market grows in size, then the need for more stockbroking firms to come up may arise. It is important that whatever number of firms we have will continue to play the game according to the rules. If there is any firm that fails in this area, then let them close shop and notify the Nigerian Stock Exchange that they are no longer in business.

The firms should also be able to inform their clients, those that have shares with them so that the proper steps will be taken to ensure that their shares are transferred to other firms instead of becoming moribund and then creating confusing situation and

*Williams Adebayo

*Boniface Okezie

problem for the system when they should wind up.

William Adebayo: The

reason

behind

poor

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konjoarkoh, Photo:

ATM withdrawals was arrived at.�

The action of the groups is a good development for the bank customers. Though individually, bank customers had at one point or the other challenged certain policies of banks considered unfair, it is rare to see customers acting under a group to challenge the industry.

In fact, this implies why banks introduce charges arbitrarily and force them down the throat of their customers.

The challenge, however, is the action of the groups might not yield the desired result due to some factors. The first is that the new ATM charge may be a lost battle. Prior to December 2012, bank customers pay N100 whenever they use the ATM of other banks for cash withdrawal.

That charge was not challenged. Nobody or group challenged the CBN or the banks on why customers had to pay for such charge. In fact, presently, the customer still pays for N100 per any interbank transaction via the ATM irrespective of who owns the ATM. For example, if you want to do third party transfers, you will pay N100 irrespective of who owns the ATM where the transaction was conducted, likewise, if you pay for flight ticket, and utility bills. Beside, the above are the powers of the CBN to regulate bank charges, as it has done through the Revised Guide to Bank Charges issued March last year.

Furthermore, customers are not charged for using the ATM of their own bank but for using the ATM of other banks. This is in consonance with principles of market economy wherein individuals pay for services of other people.

Thus, for individual customers, the new ATM charge is a matter of convenience and choice.

However, what is of greater concern to bank customers and which they would, possibly, prefer the group to challenge are some card and ATM related charges, which are imposed subtly by banks. These include: Monthly card charge by some banks. What this means is that there is need for the two groups to restrategise. Effort should be concentrated on charges and practices that can be duly and victoriously challenged on behalf of customers.

The starting point in this regard is for them to convey a forum of bank customers, where the real issues would be identified and articulated so as to effectively challenge them.

,

S FORUM

One thing the stockbroking firms also need to do is to go out and look for customers, because in those days, brokers go out even to government ministries, conducting seminars for civil servants, enlightening them about the gains that await them if they invest in stocks

One thing the stockbroking firms also need to do is to go out and look for customers, because in those days, brokers go out even to government ministries, conducting seminars for civil servants,

One thing the stockbroking firms also need to do is to go out and look for customers, because in those days, brokers go out even to government ministries, conducting seminars for civil servants, enlightening them about the gains that await them if they invest in stocks

performance on the part of the stockbroking firms is that, following the last market meltdown, just like the shareholders, most of them had to retrench their staff, even to the extent that some of them do not have more than five people and this they did so as to be able to cope after the crisis.

But really, whichever way you look at it, first look at the deposit they pay realising that aside the brokers, you also have the dealers.

If you then look at the requirements, including the initial capital requirement, it is not a sum that is easy to come by in relation to the general index of the capital market. If not for the intervention of foreign investors, how many new domestic investors are coming to the market to buy shares?

What I am saying is that we need to be very careful in dealing with these people. It is either the stock exchange mandates them to possibly form mergers as a way of saving cost or reduce the capital requirement they are expected to have.

,

enlightening them about the gains that await them if they invest in stocks.

So, this is an area they should be encouraged to go into; not only because they needed this to remain in business, but because it will also increase the level of awareness people have about the market, thereby encouraging them to come into the market.

This is important because most Nigerians do not see any reason why they should invest in the market. They do not know that there are other modes of investment that is better than they having large deposit in the bank.

They need to know that if they put their money in the bank, the interest will continue to grow, but not as fast as what you get when you invest the money in shares and other investible instruments.

The stock exchange also needs to engage in enlightenment campaigns for them and they in turn should go out and do the same for the public if they must remain in business.

C M Y K

24 —

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Energy firms owe Nigerian banks N2.6trn

By Michael Eboh

E

NERGY firms are owing banks in Nigeria about N2.644 trillion as at end-December 2013, the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has stated.

The amount, according to the CBN in its recently released Financial Stability Report for December 2014, represents 24.21 per cent of the total private sector credit in the period under review.

Specifically, the CBN report revealed that oil and gas firms borrowed N2.45 trillion from the banks, while power and energy firms borrowed N193.98 billion, representing 1.93 per cent of the total.

Generally, total bank loans and advances to the various sectors of the economy stood at N10.043 trillion, rising by 13.9 per cent from N8.814 trillion recorded at the end of June 2013.

The report said, “Total bank loans and advances to the various sectors of the economy grew by 13.9 per cent to N10.043 trillion at end-December 2013. The oil and gas sector recorded the highest growth rate, with a share of 24.4 per cent, followed by manufacturing 12.9 per cent and the general sector 11.6 per cent.

“The share of the agricultural sector declined to 3.7 per cent, from 4.0 per cent in the first half of 2013.”

The CBN, however, warned that “The continued dominance of shortterm deposits constrained the ability of banks to lend long term loans and especially to the real sector, which typically has a preference for longer loan maturities. Thus, the observed mismatch portends refinancing and re-pricing risks for the system.”

In view of the loans given out by the banks, the CBN stated that NonPerforming Loans, NPL, decreased to 3.23 per cent, compared with 3.65 per cent at end-June 2013, reflecting an improvement in the quality of banks’ assets, remaining within the regulatory threshold of five per cent.

According to the CBN, total NPLs increased by 0.72 per cent to N324.13 billion at end-December 2013, from N321.80 billion at end-June 2013.

The CBN said, “Furthermore, credit concentration remained a concern as the top 50 and 100 borrowers constituted 31.88 and 40.51 per cent, respectively, of gross credit at endDecember 2013. This compares with 32.57 and 40.76 per cent, respectively, at end-June 2013, indicating a marginal decrease in credit concentration.

“Liquidity risk remained subdued during the review period as all banks exceeded the minimum required ratio of 30 per cent and the industry maintained an average of 50.63 per cent.

“The downside risk, however, was the cost of liquidity management in order to contain inflationary pressure and to protect the naira exchange rate.”

Going forward, the CBN warned that the continued decline in oil revenues due to challenges in the oil sector, among other factors, could elevate market risks in 2014.

“Measures taken by the CBN, however, helped in moderating the rates towards the end of the reporting period.

“Notwithstanding the stable rates,

the continued decline of foreign reserves and decrease in oil receipts due to challenges in the oil sector, coupled with possible foreign portfolio investment reversals following the tapering of the US quantitative easing programme, could elevate market risk,” the report stated.

In its projections for 2014, the CBN said, “For the Nigerian economy, real

Gross Domestic Product, GDP, growth is expected to remain strong at 7.3 per cent in 2014, up from the 6.4 per cent recorded in 2013.

“Similarly, real GDP growth in the non-oil sector is expected to remain strong, driven largely by agriculture, trade and services, while activities in the oil sector are projected to recover in 2014.”

From left: Group Executive Director, Business Development, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Attahiru Yussuf, representing Group Managing Director, Dr. Joseph Dawha, and Group Executive Director, Engineering & Technology, Engr. Adebayo Ibirogba, at the NNPC IT Forum, n Abuja.

Nigeria to review power MoU with Germany

By Chris Ochayi

T

HE Federal Government has said that it will examine and review existing Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, signed with Germany in the power sector with a view to strengthening and making them workable.

The Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo, disclosed this in Abuja last week when he received in audience the newly posted Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Zenner, who paid him a visit on assumption of duty.

Nebo said the Bi-national Conference scheduled for October in Berlin, Germany, will be a platform for strengthening of co-operation between Nigeria and Germany, as the upcoming event will examine and review the existing MoU. He specifically identified enormous work done in the area of cooperation and assistance for Nigeria to harness its vast potential, especially in the area of solar power wherein a number of German companies are involved.

Nebo said Nigeria stand to benefit a

lot most especially on renewable energy like solar in which Germany has a lot of investment, adding, German companies have been playing a vital role in investing in the Nigerian’s power sector.

The Minister revealed that the German Agency for International Corporation, GIZ, in conjunction with European Union, EU, is working tirelessly to provide solar power to seven Nigerian universities. He added that a pilot study in the University of Ibadan has proved to be successful.

The Minister said that Nigeria has over the years benefited immensely from relations with Germany, and planned to leverage on this mutually beneficial relationship.

He expressed optimism that these universities will create the required environment for studies and research exercises, adding that GIZ has continued to support the nation’s privatisation efforts.

The minister said that the proposed conference will pursue with vigour a lot of investments in renewable energy sources like wind, solar and biomass,

and also discuss on issues around gas supply to thermal plants.

Earlier, the new German Ambassador said he was in the Ministry as part of his familiarisation visit. He said the sector is a very important component of the transformation efforts of this administration, which is underpinned by the privatisation of the power sector.

Zenner further revealed that the biNational Conference between Nigeria and Germany will focus on energy and urged the Ministry to participate fully at the conference.

He also stated that Germany has reached an advanced stage on solar energy issues adding that Nigeria can tap from its experience to fast track the nation’s quest for access expansion.

The Ambassador said he would facilitate in bringing more German companies to invest in Nigeria’s power sector, but said that they required guarantees for safety of investments and ability to recoup return on their investments.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 25

BRIEF

Vietnam to commence purchase of Nigeria’s crude

By Paul Chibuzor, with Agency Report

V

IETNAM has indicated interest in purchasing crude oil from Nigeria, with the first set of purchases likely to be by November.

Quoting oil dealers, Reuters said Vietnam’s state energy company, Petro Vietnam, will this week issue a tender to buy crude oil from Nigeria, some West Africa countries, Libya and Azerbaijan.

The report also said Vietnam will issue a tender specifying it is looking to buy crude oil grades including the Nigerian Qua Iboe, Escravos, Forcados, Erha, Brass River, Yoho as well as Azeri and Libyan grades.

The oil dealers said it was the first time they had seen West African crude oil grades targeted by Vietnam, adding that the country’s decision to opt for West African crude in the tender may have been prompted by the lower premium of Brent crude to Dubai DUB-EFS-1M. According to the report, ýthe premium grade fell in August to its lowest since 2010, but had since recovered slightly, adding that the move also reflects a more outward-looking approach from Petro Vietnam.

Tanker drivers threaten strike over bad roads

By Chris Ochayi

P

ETROLEUM Tanker Drivers, PTD, branch of National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has threatened to embark on strike over deplorable conditions of some highways in the country.

The Union listed the Port Harcourt-Eleme junction, Okigwe-Umuahia, and JebbaOloru-Ilorin roads in Rivers, Abia and Kwara states respectively, as the worst highways, warning it will commence an indefinite strike if government failed to urgently repair them.

The National Chairman of PTD, Comrade Salimon Oladiti, who gave the warning after an executive meeting in Abuja, said the roads have claimed the lives of some PTD members, and portends great dangers to more lives and properties.

He said the deplorable state of the Port Harcourt-Eleme Junction road a distance of about 10 Kilometers, takes up to seven to eight hours for trucks to maneuver.

From left: Commissioner, Government and Consumer Affairs, National Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, Dr. Abba Ibrahim; Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Power, Hon. Patrick Ikhariale; Executive Director (Commercial), Benin Electricity Distribution Company, BEDC, Mr. Abu Ismail-Ejoor; and Commissioner, Engineering, Standards and Safety, NERC, Mrs. Mary Awolokun, during a workshop.

Global fuel use projected to rise 38% by 2040 … Infrastructure, oil theft stunt Nigeria’s production

By Sebastine Obasi

T

HERE are indications that world petroleum and other liquid fuels consumption may rise to 38 percent by 2040, spurred by increased demand in the developing Asia and Middle East, according to projections in International Energy Outlook 2014, IEO2014.

The IEO2014, recently

released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, EIA, however, stated that though Nigeria increased its output from deepwater fields in recent years, onshore production has declined.

It added that infrastructure constraints and incidents of oil theft and attacks on pipelines have curbed production growth and are expected to continue in the near-to mid-

term. It also said that the West African OPEC crude and lease condensate production will increase to 5.3 million barrels daily (MMbbl/d) in 2040, from 4.4 MMbbl/d in 2010.

The report noted that Angola is expanding its offshore deepwater production, and as relative geopolitical stability improves, is likely to develop onshore exploration and

FG explains policy on renewable energy

By Chris Ochayi

T

HE Federal Government has said that the proposed National Policy on renewable energy and energy efficiency was conceived to boost electricity supply nationwide.

The Minister of Power, Prof.

Chinedu Nebo, said this at the stakeholders’ forum on renewable energy in Abuja, last week, adding that the proposed policy framework will drive renewable energy issues and would be well accepted internally and externally.

The Minister, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Prof. Chidi Onyia, urged participants at the workshop to do all within their capacities to fast track it.

He said this is a key element in government’s renewed efforts to increase and expand access to electricity by Nigerians, especially in the rural areas.

He said the power sector has

been marred in the past, partly due to unnecessary emphasis on the national grid, which has been proven to be incapable to reach communities that are far flung and remote.

The new matrix is based on greater access, easy cost recovery mechanism and indeed guide with approach to ensure that more Nigerians have access to electricity.

He then urged the participants at the workshop drawn from the industry, civil society groups, NonGovernmental Organisations, and other stakeholders to brace-up to the challenge of championing a new order that will drive the nation’s power sector.

The Coordinator of the workshop and Director inCharge at the Ministry, Mr. A. Adebisi, described the policy as a document that will push the nation far ahead of its peers on the continent. It is conceived to provide a lead and sense of direction for all actors in the

nation’s electricity industry from generation to transmission and distribution.

Presidential Aide on the North-East Transformation, Prof. Soji Adelaja, an economist, earlier in his keynote address assured participants that the policy will take Nigeria into the global picture as a country serious and ready to address its power challenges.

He said that the policy is long overdue against the backdrop of the compelling need for Nigeria to harness its vast energy potential.

Adelaja said that with the abundant wind, solar and biomass in all parts of Nigeria, it has become far cheaper to explore renewable energy sources, away from the undue emphasis on the national grid.

For entrepreneurs renewable energy sources elicit mature thinking and real value for money, as investors can quickly recoup their investment from renewable energy sources, he said.

production areas as well.

To meet the government’s goal of maintaining oil production at around 2 MMbbl/d, state-owned Sonangol plans to make substantial exploration and development investments in deepwater and ultradeepwater areas of its Congo Fan region.

It will also develop pre-salt resources in the Kwanza and Benguela basins. It estimated that around $30 billion is expected to be invested in 12 deepwater developments between 2013 and 2020.

The report said that the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, will maintain a cohesive policy limiting supply growth, rather than maximising total annual revenues. It also said that no geopolitical events will cause prolonged supply shocks in the OPEC countries that could further limit production growth.

Accordingly, world oil prices will trend downward, from $113 per barrel in 2011 to about $92 in 2017, and then increase steadily to $141 per barrel in 2040.

It also said that OPEC producers will invest in incremental production capacity to enable them to increase crude and lease condensate production by 14.2 MMbbl/d from 2010 to 2040.

This will account for between 41 and 47 percent of total crude and lease condensate production worldwide over the course of the projection.

The IEO2014 further said that crude and lease condensate production in OPEC’s North African member countries, Libya and Algeria is projected to decline from 3.2 MMbbl/d in 2010 to 3.0 MMbbl/d in 2040.

It noted that the potential for growth in Libya’s production is high, but the country has been unable to stabilize production amid social and political unrest.

After the 2011 overthrow of the Muammar al-Gaddafi regime, Libya’s crude and lease condensate production returned to pre-revolution levels of about 1.6 MMbbl/d in October 2012. But with ongoing political unrest and mechanical problems, production levels have continued to decline, to less than 0.5 MMbbl/d.

Until a permanent government is in place, it will be difficult to improve conditions sufficiently to attract the foreign investment needed to repair and improve Libya’s production infrastructure. As a result, the country’s prospects for increased production are unlikely to improve substantially for several years.

The report also said that North African OPEC member Algeria has also encountered difficulties in improving its petroleum production.

26 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Sugar production to generate 411MW electricity

By Favour Nnabugwu

T

HE National Sugar Development Council, NSDC, said the sugar sector could contribute 411 megawatts of electricity to the national grid, in line with federal government’s quest to boost energy supply in the country.

The NSDC Executive Secretary, Dr. Lateef Busari, disclosed this in Abuja when he led a delegation of the council on a visit to the Director General, National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii.

Busari said the move by the council would also create over 115,000 direct jobs and production of 161 million litres of ethanol.

He said, “Sugarcane is now seen as an energy crop through the production of sugar. The sugar industry will be able to generate electricity and also to produce ethanol which can be used in running vehicles.”

According to him, “The new and profitable sugar industry which is set to emerge by 2020 to 2022, will see the creation of over 115,000 direct jobs, the production of 161 million litres of ethanol and production of 411MW of electricity through cogeneration.

“For every tonne of cane which is processed, approximately 11 units of energy can be extracted from the sugarcane plant. About 70 litres per tonne cane can be fermented into ethanol from

the sugar in the cane, representing about 14 per cent of the total energy content.

“Another 0.33 of methane can be generated per tonne cane via the anaerobic digestion of the liquid by-products of fermentation, boosting the sugar-juice’s energy contribution up to 17 per cent.

“Expanding sugarcane cultivation for electricity and ethanol production might also provide rural employment opportunities and could help mitigate the exodus of rural workers into the cities. The direct capital investment required for creating new jobs

in cane energy is 10 per cent to 25 per cent of that required in mining or petrochemical.”

He further said that the government has increased local production and utilisation of the commodity.

“Last year, we imported about 1.3million metric tonnes and it is because the prices were lower, so the refineries that are refining the raw sugar which we were importing were able to increase their capacity utilisation. Capacity utilisation jumped from 60 per cent to 75 per cent that means they processed more sugar. More people were buying sugar

because the price was lower.

“Our priority is simple, to ensure self-sufficiency in sugar production. In other words, it is to ensure that Nigeria is able to produce all the sugar it consumes. We believe that it is an achievable target because we have all that is required to be able to produce sugar.

“We have the human capacity, we have the land, and we have over nine million hectares of land, of which 80 per cent is arable. We have the good weather, we have good soil, sugarcane needs a lot of water and we have a sizeable source of water,” Busari said.

From left: Deji Wright, Managing Director, TSL Limited, Tunji Rabiu, Head Business Operations, Forte Oil, Akin Akinfemiwa, Group CEO, Forte Oil, Joseph Makoju, Former MD, NEPA, Julius Omodayo-Owotuga, Group CFO, Forte Oil and Niyi Adeseun, ED, Manilla Banking, Heritage Bank, during the launch of Forte Oil’s 100 newly acquired product delivery trucks in Lagos

NARTO raises alarm over hijack of loaded tankers ....Demands tight security at trailer parks

By Favour Nnabugwu

T

HE National Association of Road Transport Owners, NARTO, has raised alarm over the hijack of their trucks by heavily armed men who escape with them fully loaded with petrol and siphon the fuel and set them ablaze afterwards.

The drivers, who expressed their concern over the worrisome development in Kaduna recently, decried the great losses they suffer in the hands of armed men who also put the lives of their members at risk.

NARTO Secretary, Kaduna State, Alhaji Babangida Jaafaru, said the development is the reason tankers drivers are reluctant to move their trucks to trailer parks. He added that there is no security on ground to assure the safety of their trucks, and as such will

continue to park on the highways near communities for safety.

According to him, “The major issue is the security. You cannot expect a driver to park his truck without proper security. We are facing challenges of truck hijack.

Armed men hijack our trucks, take the product and set the trucks ablaze and that is one of the worries and that is why tanker drivers are not parking inside the trailer parks.”

Jaafaru also said, “In as much as NARTO appreciates the effort of the Federal Road Management Agency, FERMA for securing a large space like this for our tankers to park, they deserve to be commended but security for us is key to our business and services.”

He added, “We have tried our best to ensure that we evacuate all the tankers that

park indiscriminatingly along the roadside to move to the park, but the major challenge there is the issue of insecurity.”

The Managing Director of FERMA, Mr. Gabriel Amuchi, told journalists while on inspection of work done along Abuja/Kaduna road, including one of the trailer parks, said the agency is providing the necessary facilities for the comfort of the drivers.

“We have provided the shade, the toilet and then lighting; we agreed to move in stages and as they come in the other facilities that are required would be put in place. It is a very massive location and all the facilities cannot be put in one day. So they have agreed and we have gone beyond that and they have started parking.”

Though Amuchi did not disclose the amount so far

invested in the parking lot, he added that “the new strategy of the agency is to make sure the drivers parked in the lots provided.

“They (drivers) have agreed and we have gone beyond that and they have started parking.

And like we told you, they have moved all of them here, but the threat is insecurity and then they started reacting to insufficient security. We would address that and make sure they have enough security.

“FERMA has acquired these trailer parks in more than seven locations across the country. We want to use this as a model to commence the parking of tankers in a safe place like this and evacuate them from federal highways.

This will improve safety on our roads, and reduce the effects of leakages of petroleum products on the roads that lead to road failures.

BRIEF

IPMAN tasks FG on adequate supply of kero, diesel

By Sebastine Obasi

T

HE Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, has called on the Federal Government to ensure adequate supply of Dual Purpose Kerosene, DPK/ kerosene and Automobile Gas Oil, AGO or diesel to avert scarcity.

The Chairman of IPMAN, Mosimi Depot, Mr. Dele Tajudeen, stated this at a recent delegates meeting of the association held in Mosimi, Sagamu, Ogun State.

According to him, petrol is available at the depot and it is promptly distributed to members’ filling stations, but kerosene and diesel are not getting to the depot.

He said the absence of storage facilities for kerosene at Atlas Cove makes it impossible for the product to be transported to Mosimi depot for onward distribution.

Tajudeen also said the association does not oppose deregulation of the products, but before they are deregulated, the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, must be passed to ensure level playing field for all the stakeholders.

While reacting to the allegation of misappropriated N500 million, Tajudeen said this was unfounded and baseless.

According to him, “the association did not make N500 million in turnover and there is no way it could have been misappropriated. Although, they did not have legal standing to have access to our account, where did they get such figures? We are going to sue them for libel if they cannot substantiate their claims with evidence.”

Recall that a faction of IPMAN led by Adeleke Dada alleged that the Dele Tajudeen-led faction misappropriated N500 million belonging to the IPMAN. Dada claimed that: “they misappropriated about N500 million during their tenure because they made about N10 million per month from all of the unnecessary levies which were illegal collection that were not accounted for.

“During the fuel scarcity period, government did not increase the price of petroleum; it was their administration that increased the price in their own capacity to the rate of N110 per litre which is very wrong.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 27

BRIEF

NNPC tasks IT Division on innovative strategies

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HE Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Joseph Dawha, has challenged the Information Technology Division of the Corporation to evolve innovative ideas and strategies to support management’s threepoint agenda.

Dawha gave the charge at the 2014 NNPC IT Knowledge Sharing and Direction Setting Workshop which held recently in Abuja.

He said that NNPC under his watch will in the short term focus on three key areas of ramping up production to 250,000 barrels of crude oil per day through its upstream subsidiary, the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC. Also included are boosting gas supply and expanding gas infrastructure to enhance its availability for power generation, and feedstock for gas-based industries; and driving performance management and improving core processes to instill a culture of performance and boost productivity.

Represented by the Group Executive Director, Business Development, Dr. Attahiru Yussuf, he urged the Division to be strategic and proactive in generating ideas. He also charged them to deploy cutting-edge technologies that could promote the efficient and speedy achievement of the three key short-term objectives of Management.

Dawha said: “I urge you to reequip yourselves in order to play a leading role in accelerating change across the entire Corporation. To lead this transformation, our IT executives must re-imagine their roles by seeing themselves and encouraging others to see them as chief executives of an information business.

“Like any chief executive, our IT leadership should bring vision, direction, and organisation to NNPC’s big data investment priorities. That means engaging internal customers on their biggest challenges while attracting the best talents and suppliers; most importantly, it means being accountable for execution and results,” the GMD stated.

Speaking on his expectation from the workshop, Dawha said he anticipates “firm decisions on the five levers that are required to step up the impact of IT in NNPC to enable us achieve the above corporate aspirations.”

Afren sets 5-year double digit production target

By Sebastine Obasi with Agency Report

A

FREN Plc, an independent oil and gas company listed on the London Stock Exchange, said it is targeting a 5-year doubledigit growth, as plans for a production ramp up will start in the second half of this year.

Underpinning this target growth are Afren’s plans for the new producers on Ebok, where oil production was said to have been averaging 29,300 barrels per day, bpd.

Drilling of four additional wells (including three producers) has already commenced and the

programme is expected to be completed this year. The Ebok deep exploration is expected to start production in Q4 2014, targeting resources of 50 million barrels, with production flowing through the existing offshore mobile platform unit.

There are plans for one infill and one side-track well in Okoro, three new producers on Oil Mining Lease, OML 26, where drilling of the first well is currently progressing.

It added that it has also commenced fast-track development drilling on shallow water Okwok with estimated reserves of 46.6 million barrels.

A dedicated production facility and wellhead platform with an export pipeline tied back to Ebok Floating Production Storage and Offloading, FPSO (some 13 kilometres away) are to be installed.

Industry regulator, the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR is said to have also approved plans for the development of offshore Aje field on OML 113. An FPSO is being lined up for the field as the development plan calls for two subsea production wells to be tied back to a leased FPSO. The plan involves the recompletion of the existing

Crude Oil Pipeline

Aje-4 well and a new well drilled close to the Aje-2 subsurface location. First oil is due in 2015 with median reserves of 32.4 million barrels expected although the completion of 3D seismic analysis on the block and on neighbouring OML 310 could lead to further prospects being identified.

Commenting, Mr. Toby Hayward, interim CEO of Afren Plc, said: “Despite recent challenges Afren is totally committed to delivering on our work programme across the portfolio. With numerous growth opportunities expected to drive a step-up in near-term production, cash flow and reserves, we remain in a strong position to deliver shareholder value in 2014 and beyond.”

The only sour note for Afren is the continued fall-out from its investigation into the receipt of unauthorised payments potentially for the benefit of former Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Mr. Osman Shahenshah, and former Chief Operating Officer, COO, Mr. Shahid Ullah.

The Board has suspended two of its associate directors, Mr. Iain Wright and Mr. Galib Viriani, as heads continue to roll in the scandal that has rocked the company.

No conclusive findings have yet been reached and the investigation is still ongoing.

FG targets 1m MT cooking gas yearly

By Ediri Ejoh and Isaac Ekoemeye

T

HE Federal Government has said it plans to supply the local market up to one million metric tonnes, MT, of Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG/cooking gas yearly, to boost per capita consumption of the commodity in the country.

Currently, the market is being supplied with about 250,000MT, up from the 150,000MT, when it began its intervention in the sector about a decade ago.

The Head, Environment, the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, Lagos Zonal Office, Mr. Patrick Emordi, disclosed this last week at the 2014, stakeholders’ forum with LPG Operators..

He said the country recorded 85,000MT gas supply in 2009, which increased to 210,000MT in 2013, a development that buoyed the hope of achieving about one million MT in the near future.

Emordi argued that government has continued to put in place measures that

would deepen LPG consumption in the country. “In addition to boosting LPG distribution nationwide, the Department has introduced a new interim guideline for gas retailing at DPR licensed retail outlets across the country, thereby making LPG readily available to consumers.

“The guidelines for the grant of permit for bulk LPG off-take have also been approved to guide LPG vessel owners,” he said. He added that in furtherance to governments’ drive to reach more consumers, the use of gas as automotive fuel is gaining acceptance among Nigerians.

He noted that in view of safety concerns in LPG operation across the nation, safety audits will be carried out in gas plants with particular emphasis on electrical components for future licence renewal.

“The Department in the coming months shall commence facility audit of licensed plants nationwide to ensure compliance with statutory provisions on operational safety. The plant operators must be conversant

with all safety requirements in LPG plant operations,” he added.

Also speaking, the Zonal Operations Controller (Lagos Zonal Office), DPR, Mrs. C. N. Njoku, in her welcome address emphasised the need for operators in the oil and gas industry to embrace the statutory requirements for their operations.

She said, “The Nigerian petroleum laws and regulations are investors friendly and intended to provide guidelines for safety and growth in a sustainable manner such that investments embarked on by investors are protected and the environment safeguarded.”

She said that government’s aspiration is to sustain a robust economy, and this can only be achieved when business entities thrived, thereby reducing unemployment, and ensuring a clean environment through the propagation of the use of LPG. There are about 76 LPG licensed plants in the zone, 57 of them in Lagos and 19 in Ogun state. Also, there are

about 145 gas retail shops in Lagos and 53 in Ogun, making a total 198 licensed shops.

Speaking on irregularities in operations, Njoku noted that despite directives to operators to desist from sharp practices, some LPG plant owners have continued to sell products to unlicensed distributors and bulk end users.

“The Department wishes to reiterate its advice and to remind us once again that sanctions await operators that continue selling LPG to unlicensed distributors and industrial consumers. Prospective LPG plant owners must follow due process to obtain all requisite approvals before the commencement of any project, and the upgrades of existing facilities also require approval of the Department.”

Continuing, Njoku stressed the need for operators to adhere to various design considerations/ approvals and requirements such as layout, spacing and distance requirements for vessels, drainage, and containment control. This will limit the extent of fire damage in the event of accidents.

28 — Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 29

Adadevoh: My mother paid the ultimate price — Son

By Sola Ogundipe & Gabriel Olawale

O

VERWHELMED by the great outpouring of love and gratitude to his late mother, son of the late Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh, Bankole Cardoso, expressed pride and pain while attributing his mother's death to the plan of God. At the Requiem Mass held at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos, for the deceased Lead Consultant and endocrinologist of First Consultants Hospital, Obalende, Bankole, in a tribute, stated: “My mother paid the ultimate price to contain the spread of the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD in Nigeria and as the accolades grow louder; my heart swells with equal measure of great pride and great pain.

Still, we are a praying family and as we say farewell our hearts are at peace in the belief that events occur with the consent of our Lord and savour Jesus Christ.

‘Further Bankole noted: “The calls from the Nigerian public, for a lasting tribute to mark her professional commitment leave me inspired and grateful that my dearest mother, (Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh) was given this opportunity to serve her country.”

Regret

At the event, the Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu, regretted not meeting the late Dr Ameyo Stella Adadevoh in person until her death following the encounter with the late American -Liberian, Patrick Sawyer, the index case of the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, in the country.

Chukwu who condoled with the family of the deceased, opened-up on what he described as what they shared in common.

“She was a doctor and I am also a doctor; we both attended the same College of Medicine, University of Lagos even though I did not meet her in medical school because she left that school in 1980 which

was the year I went in.

"So even though we shared that common delegate of having attended that same great medical school, I regret not knowing her in person till her death," he recounted.

Further, Chukwu stated: “We are both Catholic and I believe from the testimonies of many of her colleagues who knew her, it is clear to me that she was a doctor par excellence. She was the real meaning of being a doctor. Her behavior can be described as a genetic role going by her ancestry.

“It is also clear to me being Catholic myself, that the Catholic discipline must have been brought up in her because with all sense of humility and without sounding immodest, certainly, the Catholic Church is the one that lays much emphasis on sacrifices, not that prosperity is not important to the Catholic, but they intend to talk more about sacrifices and today we are at the Holy Cross Cathedral, and the meaning of The Cross has certainly reflected on the late doctor.

Eulogising the departed, the Minister stated: “But more importantly, the life of the late doctor is something that should be very important to us. But I want to say this clearly , as we mourn her departure, there must be lessons that we need to learn; it is easy for us to look at standards, but how ready are we to practise those standards that we prophesy? Certainly, if we are to make her happy, if you say Adadevoh is courageous, how courageous are you?

“The government has noted the

• R-L: Minister of Health Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu with husband of the late Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh, Mr. Afolabi Cardoso (centre), and the deceased’s son, Mr. Bankole Cardoso during the Requiem Mass held last week at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos. Photo: Gabriel Olawale. sacrifices she made to ensure that we did not end up in disaster and I believe that at the appropriate time, this country will certainly honour her."

On schools reopening

Shedding light on the controversy surrounding the scheduled reopening of schools in the country, Chukwu said the Ministry of Health had nothing against the school resumption date, saying public and private schools in the country could reopen as planned.

“Our children can go back to school and for those of us in the health sector we have nothing against it because even today our children can go back to school but since they have fixed September 22, there is no need of bringing it closer again.

"If there is any reason why any child cannot go back to school this month certainly it is not because of Ebola Virus Disease, EVD. There could be other reasons such as school fees, illness, public holiday among other reasons but certainly not because of EVD.”

Defence interns petition Jonathan over unpaid salaries

A

GROUP of medical professionals, known as Ministry of Defence Interns, has raised alarm over non-payment of salaries by their employers.

In an open letter to President Goodluck Jonathan, the doctors comprising dentists,

pharmacists, optometrists and Lab Scientists employed by the Ministry of Defence alleged they were being owed about eight months salary to the tune of N211.50 million.

“Ever since our appointment we have dutifully carried out our assignments for eight months, but to our uttermost dismay, the Ministry of Defence, our employers have bluntly refused to pay us our salaries.

“In this light, we have written numerous letters to the relevant authorities, begging them, we have cried, dialogued, but they have constantly turned a deaf ear to our plea.”

The Group said following a visit to the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja, they were told the salaries couldn’t be paid because the payment was not reflected in the 2014 budget.

Urging the President to wade into the matter, which they alleged had been recurring for years, the group lamented acts of threat and intimidation including eviction from the taff quarters.

Mr. President, we wish to be paid for work done, nothing more. not only are we fresh graduates newly experiencing what it is like working in the civil service, a • The first IVF baby at Nordica Fertility Centre, Lagos, Julian Oluchukwu number of us are married, we have Onwudinjo (3rd left) clocked 10 recently. He is flanked by his mother, weAJALA; are uncles, aunts, have PIX CAPTION: FROM L-R: children, DR(MRS) TAYO CHAIRMAN OF THEwe NIGERIAN Francesca (3rd right) and sister, Uju. On the left is Managing Director, Nordica VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION LAGOS CHAPTER, DR.and ALAO MOBOLAJI; dreams, aspirations lots of Lagos, Asaba & Abuja, Dr Abayomi Ajayi with Clinic Manager, Mrs.DR. Tola Ajayi AROSO OLUFEMIresponsibilities.

AND DR. BENEDICT OKONKWO DURING THE NVMA and Head, Endoscopic Unit, Gbemisola Babalola during the media activity to OFFICAL POSTION ON THE DEATH OF TWO PEOPLE FROM THE BITE OF A “Ironically, the nonpayment of our mark the occasion last Sunday.

SUSPECTED RABID DOG. salaries has made it practically impossible

for us to meet our numerous responsibilities to ourselves, families and the society.

“We are hungry, our children are hungry, and it is disheartening to see that we have gradually become a burden to those that truly love us. Please we need your help, we need it urgently,”the Group remarked.

NAIP holds 17th annual conference

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OWARDS proferring solution to lin gering issues around the Pharma Industry, the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria, NAIP, umbrella body of pharmacists in the nation’s pharmaceutical industries, is deliberating on contemporary and challenging issues around the nation’s pharmaceutical industry.

Highlighting these issues at its 17th Annual National Conference billed to hold September 16-17, 2014, with the theme: “Tapping The Opportunities in The Pharma Industry For Wealth Creation”, experts will be on hand to discuss good drug distribution practice, harmonisation of standards in Pharma marketing in Nigeria, leveraging on ICT for field force management, impact of the deepening of NHIS on the pharma industry, impact of the deepening of NHIS on the industry among others.

30 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

•Looking for safe drinking water. According to WHO/UNICEF 2013 Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply and Sanitation, 768 million people utilise unsafe drinking water sources.

Expert worries over proliferation of unsafe drinking water

By Gabriel Olawale

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HE Principal Consultant, Emani Global Network Limited, Emmanuel Osiegbu has raised concern over the proliferation of unsafe drinking water in the country.

Osiegbu, who spoke at a public forum recently said the development was a source of worry because it has remained one of the routes of common health disorders such as cholera and typhoid among others.

"We have heard reports of some people producing water in their room. Some abandon the treatment of their bore holes during rainy season while others use fake materials in the production, while in some cases, no treatment is adopted at all. This attitude, one way or the other, has great impact on the overall health of the public."

Osiegbu regretted that majority of consumers were yet to be concerned about the appearance and taste of the water they drink, in view of the invisible load of potentially harmful microorganisms as well as other contaminants that may

be present in the water.

"Part of this invisible load is 'heavy metals' that can be very harmful to health if found in drinking water. Severe effects include reduced growth and development, cancer, organ damage, nervous system damage, and in extreme cases, death. Exposure to some metals,

such as mercury and lead, may also cause development of autoimmunity, in which a person's immune system attacks its own cells. This can lead to joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and diseases of the kidneys, circulatory system, and nervous system.

He said the only way to detect the presence of heavy metals in water is through a test that can be done with reliable technology.

Unsafe water is a global public health threat that predisposes people to risk of diseases and chemical intoxication.

Osiegbu said the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, was doing its best to ensure total and continual compliance by commercial packaged water producers and ensure quality standards are sustained on an annual basis.

Out of five states monitored in Nigeria, water from Adamawa and Kogi had heavy metals.

"In the cause of screening for standard we make use of 22 parameters for physicochemical and microbiological water testing this makes it easy to ascertain the status of the water," he remarked.

UNICEF child mortality data show that Nigeria is one of thye countries having significant populations without improved water and sanitation.

Of the 783 million people worldwide without improved drinking water, 66 million are in Nigeria. Those without improved sanitation in Nigeria are 109 million. Improvements in water and sanitation would greatly contribute to a reduction in child mortality in the country.

Church, hospitals partner against EVD

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ECOGNISING the threat of the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, High Life Church in partnership with the Etiosa Zone of the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, AGPMPN, has donated 30 Infectious Disease Control, IDC, Kits and 30 non-contact thermometers for use in the early detection of the disease in the zone.

Head Pastor, High Life Church, Pastor Babatunde Carlton Williams said doctors are seen as Ministers of God for good.

• L-R: Pastor Carlton Williams of High Life Church; Dr Mike Abah of Havilah Hospital and Chairman, AGPMPN, Etiosa Zone, Dr.Efosa Aruede during the presentation of Non Contact thermometers and Infectious Disease Control kits to member hospitals of the AGPMPN in Eti Osa LCDA.

“Everything that brings healing to people must be encouraged. This makes Doctors Ministers of God for good; as derivable from the fourth verse of the 13th chapter of Apostle Paul’s letter to the believers in Rome.

This sits right at the heart of the Empowering Our Community strategy of High Life”.

Williams noted that the Church considers the donation to be a civic duty as representatives of Jesus Christ, in support of the commendable commitment of the Federal and Lagos State Governments to subdue the Ebola Virus Disease.

The items were received on behalf of the Etiosa Local Government Area Branch of the AGPMPN by Dr Efosa Aruede, Proprietor of BAEFEM Specialist Hospital in Victoria Garden City in the Etiosa Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The donations would be useful for the control of infectious diseases that bedevil medical practice in the nation. This, he said, is the reason that the Association would ensure that the donations would be put to responsible use.

Also, Dr Babatunde Palomeras, a past Zonal Chairman of the

Association appreciated High Life Church for being at the forefront of fight against the dreaded Ebola virus saying that the church is truly “taking the message right from the pulpit to the warfront”.

Ebola: Organic India introduces immune boosters

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ITH the call for better intake of food supplements towards boosting immunity against diseases such as Ebola Virus Disease, a host of natural products such as Tumeric formular; Bowel care; Liver-Kidney care; Ashwagandha, which inhibits and retards tumours, reduces chronic fatigue among other functions, are now on the Nigerian market.

The products from the stable of Organic India, are approved by the United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, EU Organic Certification and the National Agency for Food, Drugs Administration and Control, NAFDAC. Speaking at the launch in Lagos, the Managing Director, Organic India, in Nigeria, Dr. Felix Adeduro, regretted that many Nigerians have died from preventable diseases, hence the need to introduce such beneficial product line in the country.

"It took four years to get approval from the Indian government to bring the products into Nigeria. We eventually got permission to come to Nigeria in January but decided to save the launch for September," he said.

Adeduro said all plants utilised for the products are cultivated naturally without fertilisers or pesticides. " Every product is contained in glass bottles to avoid chemical interactions that occur in plastic bottles, which reduce the organic potency of drugs."

•Agbado Health Centre, Ifo LGA, Ogun State.

Corps doctor gives Agbado Health Centre new look

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CORPS doctor, Dr. Anuri Emeh, has given the premises of the Agbado Health Centre, in Ifo local government, Ogun state, a brand new look. Emeh, who is currently undergoing the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, programme at the health centre, was moved to carry out extensive flooring work on the compound for the comfort of patients who access health care services at the centre.

“The place is usually waterlogged and marshy when it rains. Some patients slip and fall right inside the hospital. So I took it up to ensure that the hospital is floored,”Anuri remarked.

Ogun state Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Lagos state Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Barr. Ifeoma Anosike, were among guests at the official commissioning of the refurbished premises yesterday, September 15, 2014.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—31

Chevron supports Ebola control with ambulances

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HEVRON Nigeria Limited (CNL), on behalf of the NNPC/CNL Joint Venture last week donated two standard ambulances to support the fight against Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, in Lagos State.

The ambulances, equipped with emergency life support tools and oxygen for optimum care of patients, were donated to support core operations of the Ebola Operation Centre, EOC, and Point of Entry, POE, activities of the EOC at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Health Services in Lagos, respectively.

Presenting the vehicles, Medical Director, CNL, Dr. Olubukunola Fagade, said: "We

see the EVD as a threat to the collective health and socioeconomy of the country. We therefore reiterate our commitment to partner with other stakeholders to stem the tide of Ebola."

Head/Incident Manager EOC, Technical Advisor to the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Faishal Shuaib, received the ambulance at the EOC headquarters in Yaba, Lagos.

Earlier, at the presentation to the Port Health Services, Dr. Morenike Alex-Okoh, Head, Port Health Services, Lagos who was accompanied by Mrs. Faleye, Head Nurse, received the Ambulance designated for Port Health assistance.

• Lagos State Chairman, Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Dr. Tope Ojo (Centre), with the Secretary, NMA Lagos Dr. Babajide Saheed, and Public Relations Officer, Dr. Ibrahim Ogunbi at a press conference held in Lagos recently to update the media on activities of the medical profession towards responding to the threat of the Ebola Virus Disease in the country.

• Interior view of one of the ambulances donated by Chevron Nigeria Limited on behalf of the NNPC/CNL Joint Venture to support the fight against Ebola Virus Disease in Lagos State to support operations of the EOC and POE at the MMIA Health Services in Lagos.

... As UPS provides free transportation, support

By Chioma Obinna

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NITED Parcel Services Limited ,UPS, a global leader in logistics and transport, is providing transportation support and commitments in tune of $400,000 in gifts-in-kind, GIK, for urgent relief items to combat the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, outbreak, which has claimed over 2,100 lives.

Disclosing this in Lagos, the President, The UPS Foundation, Eduardo Martinez, explained that UPS and its Foundation are responding to the World Health Organisation's, WHO, plea for increased international response to the affected regions to enable the world eradicate the Ebola virus.

“UPS is providing transport

services at no cost to relief agencies. "We sponsored a Humanitarian Relief charter flight for UNICEF from Liege, Belgium, to Monrovia, Liberia, on August 29. The aircraft carried 55 metric tons of HTH dry chlorine disinfectant on behalf of the Liberian Ministry of Health to assist in hygiene activities at Ebola treatment centers in Liberia.”

He noted that over 40 per cent of the confirmed Ebola deaths occurred in Liberia, saying that UPS expedited the trucking of 10 pallets of supplies for Medshare from Decatur, Ga., to New York's JFK Airport, to be placed on a humanitarian flight arranged by Airlink.

UPS has also committed an additional $75,000 GIK to

Medshare for ocean transport and transported five pallets of aid supplies for ChildFund from Tampa, Fla., to New York's JFK Airport to connect to a donated charter as well as nine pallets of Ebola supplies from Savage, Md., to New York's JFK Airport for the National Organisation of Sierra Leoneans in North America, NOSLINA. “These items were expedited to Sierra Leone on a donated charter. We are committing to provide Africare & Direct Relief International transportation of five ocean shipments estimated between $30,000 and $35,000, collaborating with the CDC Foundation and UPS customer Henry Schein, which has committed to donate PPEs to support the CDC's efforts.”

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

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ELLO everybody and welcome to a new week.

Today’s article will feature a mixture of new product reviews and questions from our readers. We will be reviewing products that can help with male arousal, performance energy and erectile dysfunction. As many of you may know, oral supplements are the most common aphrodisiacs used for arousal. But there are other forms of aphrodisiacs too, many of which are not even supplements. Some of them come in the form of adult toys while others come as adult movies. The adult movie versions are what is referred to as visual aphrodisiacs.

This is because they rely on the visual stimuli of the brain in order to initiate genital arousal. When a man fails to get aroused during foreplay or intercourse, it does not necessarily mean that he is suffering from erectile dysfunction. Sometimes the brain just needs the right visual stimuli before it can come alive and send signals to the genitals through the nervous system. That is why adult movies can help with arousal. The sight of other people having intercourse can be a powerful motivator and aphrodisiac for the brain and new movies such as Old Friends and Booty Call can provide just this type of incentive. Old Friends and Booty Call are shot in Blu ray and DVD as well, thereby providing the viewer with a wider range of options.

Sometimes, tactile stimulation can also help with arousal.

Whether it is done by hand or mouth completely depends on the adults involved. But with the increasing popularity of oral sex, many documentaries have been made on the subject, one of which is the instructional film The Better Sex Guide to Great Oral Sex. This is a well-researched film on the many pleasures, advantages and systems of oral pleasuring and a great knowledge of what it teaches can help adult women in helping their men get aroused when facing challenges regarding getting in the mood.

But sometimes, adult movies and genital stimulation are not enough to wake up a sleeping lion. At times like this, stronger measures are required especially when it regards age related erectile dysfunction and low genital arousal. That is when a powerful oral aphrodisiac can be

of great help, an example of which is Kangaroo, our newest performance supplement for the treatment of male genital arousal, weak erection, erection loss, lack of stamina and staying power. Kangaroo is also an organ enlarger and works in the system for up to three days with the consumption of just one table. Kangaroo erection enhancer is all natural, is intended for adult consumption and requires no prescription. It is a powerful erection enhancer that can benefit men with the above named challenges.

So these are the performance enhancing solutions for this week’s review. Let us now take a few questions form our readers.

When I am having intercourse the first time, I ejaculate quickly. By the second time, I tend to last a little longer. But first impressions matter so I want to impress my woman in the first round - Andy Andy there are many solutions to premature ejaculation. You can use delay condoms like Safex Delay Condoms or you can use a variety of lubricants, sprays and penis sleeves. A spray like the Ultra Maximum delay spray can help you and so can the Kamasutra Prolonging Gel – Uche There is an instant penis enlarger you wrote about some weeks ago. Please I am interested in it. My wife also needs an arousal gel or something for vaginal dryness – John I believe the penis enlarger you are talking about is the Optimale Instant Penis Enlarger and yes it is available. For your wife, I recommend the Fifty Shades Come Alive Pleasure Gel – Uche That is all for today. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of these treatments/novelties can call 07086754515 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries, send your emails to custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

32— Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

By Theodore Opara

Toyota, FG officials to meet in Germany over assembly plant O

FFICIALS of Toyota Motor Corporation Japan and the Federal Government’s team led by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga will be meeting in Germany on Friday to discuss the possibility of setting up a Toyota assembly plant in Nigeria, under the Federal government’s new auto policy.

The meeting which would have held earlier in Nigeria was shifted to Germany due to the outbreak of Ebola disease in Nigeria.

According to a Vanguard source, the two parties will be meeting to finalise discussing on the setting up of Toyota plant in Nigeria, aimed at making some Toyota models more affordable to Nigerians.

The source disclosed that if the meeting is concluded favourably, Toyota will be joining 22 other auto companies in Nigeria who have signed commitments with technical partners to set up assembly operations in the country.

The 22 companies that have shown interest include: six car/SUV companies, four pickup trucks companies, six minibuses, manufacturers, five bus companies and eight truck companies.

The source further noted that with the keying in of Toyota and Ford into the policy, the major automotive companies

across the world have joined in the Federal government’s auto policy which is also a boost to the policy that is targeted at making new vehicles affordable and available to

Nigerians.

As it stands all the 22 auto companies have so far acquired land and/or factory for assembly operations, while all, except two have completed

T

started assembly operation, the same disclosed.

PAN Nigeria in July 2014 resumed production of Peugeot 301 cars in Kaduna while VON is assemblying Nissan and

Hyundai vehicles at their plant in Lagos. Innoson Autos is schedule to commence car production in their Enugu plant where it has been producing buses and pickup.

Ford renews interest in assembly plant in Nigeria C

ONTRARY to the belief that Ford Motor Company was not interested in setting up an assembly plant in Nigeria under the Federal government’s new auto policy, Vanguard Motoring can

reveal authoritatively that the company is renewing interest in the nation’s automotive sector with the intention of setting up a plant as soon as possible.

Vanguard gathered that Ford Motor ’s

New Mercedes-Benz dealership opens in Enugu ETRALOG Nigeria Limited will tomorrow throw its doors open to Mercedes-Benz customers as it commissions its ultramodern Sales and Service centre located at the high brow area of Enugu City, along Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway of Enugu State.

Tetralog Nigeria Limited is an automobile distribution, production and logistics service company incorporated in 2008. It was appointed an authorised

their feasibility studies.

Two out of the 22 companies have started building plants while three will start assembly operations before the end of the year. Six have

dealer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Nigeria by Daimler AG in 2011.

The Sales and Service centre comprises a showroom for new Mercedes-Benz vehicles and a workshop for maintenance of MercedesBenz vehicles. According to the Managing Director of Tetralog Nigeria Limited, Engr. Onuorah Nnabugwu, the Centre “is still work in progress” as it will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to

meet the needs of Mercedes-Benz customers.

He revealed that what was being commissioned was the first phase of the project. He said that arrangements have been concluded in line with the Federal Government new Automotive policy to produce locally, such a u t o m o b i l e superstructures like water/ fuel tankers, troop carriers, refuse disposal vehicles, closed steel body etc.

management has been in contract with the National Automotive Council (NAC) on how to come into the country in full force without delay.

Several correspondents has been exchange between NAC and Ford in the last one month on the setting up of the plant.

Simonetta Verdi, Director Governmental Affairs I Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company will be on Thursday with the officials of Nigeria government in London, led by the Director General of the National Automotive Council, Engineer Aminu Jalal, to discuss and finalise the way forward.

According to Vanguard investigation, Ford is asking for information about some old assembly plants in the country with the aim of partnering with

them in setting up assembly lines within their plant.

The company which Ford is showing interest include, PAN Nigeria, ANAMMCO, Leyland Busan, National Truck Manufacturers (NTM), Stallion, and Zahav.

The reason for their inquiries about the already established automobile company, according to my source is that Ford does not want to waste time building a new plant but would like to commence production immediately to establish the brand in Nigeria which is becoming new investors haven.

The source further revealed that of all the auto companies being considered, PAN Nigeria seems to be the most appropriate for what Ford is looking to set up an assembly line because PAN has all the facilities

needed for vehicles production.

“With PAN, all the facilities needed to commence production of cars and pickup vans by Ford is on ground, which makes it probably the best choice for what they are looking for. All they need to do is to bring their CKD and commence production immediately,” the source told Vanguard.

It should be recalled that Ford Motors has in the last two years demonstrated it willingness to capture the one ton pickup market segment as well as the passenger car segment in Nigeria through it two representatives in Nigeria, BriscoeFord and Coscharis Motors.

Fords popular models in Nigeria include the Ranger pickup, Focus, Taurus, (Sedans), Explorer, Escape and Edge.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 33

By Theodore Opara

Abuja Motor Fair to boost investment in auto sector T

HE annual Abuja International Motor fair scheduled to hold at the Eagles Square Abuja next month is targeted towards boosting investments in the auto sector.

Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, Chairman Managing Director, BKG Exhibitions and Chairman organising committee for the event disclosed this to newsmen in his office in Lagos recently.

He assured that the platform of this edition has been packaged to increasing the attention of the various tiers of government in Nigeria to the importance of developing the sector so as to enhance the nation’s socio-economic development.

Mr. Agwu said that every effort have been deployed to ensure that the sector receives the needed support from both the government and the private sector to enhance its’ rapid development.

“We are packaging a show that will showcase all the existing and potential investment opportunities that abound in the Nigerian automobile industry, which we believe are very attractive to existing and prospective investors”, he announced.

The organizing committee head further disclosed that event which holds at the Eagle Square Abuja from October 22-30, 2014 has been repackaged to ensure that both the private and public sectors are sensitized to accord the automotive sector high priority as it is capable of catalyzing and sustaining the nation’s quest for economic transformation as espoused by the new thinking in the industry.

According to him, “Hosting Auto Shows of international standard such as the Abuja Motor Fair will go a long way in placing Nigeria in the map of World automotive business and will equally fast track the making of the nation the hub of automotive business in the continent.

On drives to drive traffic to the event he disclosed that intensified and broader publicity activities are already in place while consultations and reach out to relevant stakeholders and sectors has been in the increase.

These according to him are aimed at achieving the mission of making the 16th edition another rewarding and successful one to all stakeholders.

On the issue of security which he acknowledge

•Mercedes Benz SLs AMG heading to Abuja Motor Show? that some stakeholders have raised some concerns with, Mr. Agwu said that “ while doing the above, we know that they would amount to nothing if there are no adequate security measures in place to secure the

exhibitors; exhibits and visitors to the event.

Towards this we have c o n c l u d e d arrangements with relevant Security Agencies to provide personnel, gadgets and arms for increased surveillance and

keen on making good use of their leisure and those even desirous of enjoying quality time with family or friends.

City Sightseeing Abuja is the first of its kind in Nigeria in particular and West Africa in general.

Mrs. Sally Mbanefo, Director-General, the Nigerian Tourism D e v e l o p m e n t Corporation (NTDC), having toured certain areas of Abuja on the city tour buses, was optimistic that this novel open top sightseeing tour would

will not leave any room for any breach of the security or threat to the lives and property of all those who will be at the event. Extra measures will be taken to ensure a smooth and free event for all and sundry”.

Ford Ranger XL-Plus: Tougher than ever F

ORD Motor Company has introduced a rugged new version of its popular Ranger to the Sub Saharan Africa region. The new variant - the Ranger XL-Plus - will go on general sale early next year*. It brings a new dimension of toughn’ess to the line-up, making it of particular interest to mining companies, farmers and other bt,Isiness owners with very specific requirements.

“The Ranger XL-Plus was born out of particular requirements from the mining industry, as well as otherbusinessownerswhose

main concerns were rugged capability and impeccable safety standards,” says Mark Kaufman, vice president of marketing, sales and service at Ford Sub Saharan Africa.

“The vehicle is already extremely capable, and big mining companies have committed to using only vehicles that have five-star ENCAP and ANCAP ratings, which Ranger XLPlus derivative boasts.”

Built at the Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, following a $1.8 million investment,RangerXL- Plus will be sold in South Africa

City Sightseeing Abuja takes off C

ITY Sightseeing, the worldwide city tour, has commenced tour operations in Abuja. It operates in over 90 locations across 5 continents. Known as City Sightseeing Abuja, the tour offers visitors and residents in Abuja the opportunity of touring the federal capital territory in specially built eco-friendly open-roof tour buses. Moreover the tour is best suited for those who might want to explore Abuja on a spectacular scale, those

monitoring of movements into, within and around the venue. All these are in place notwithstanding that Eagle Square as well the surrounding Central Business Area are highly secured by the government. We

boost tourist activities in the federal capital territory, given its hospitable metropolitan feel. She enthused about the establishment of City Sightseeing Abuja and applauded its management for actualizing such a dream in Abuja.

City Sightseeing Abuja ply over 14 designated stops, cutting across 24 exciting sights such as National Assembly, Wonderland Amusement Park, Silverbird Galleria,

Millennium Park, National Park & Zoo, to name a few.

as well as being exported to other markets with similar requirements. It will be available in both Left Hand Drive and Right Hand Drive.

With airbags for both the driver and passenger, as well as side impact, curtain, and a driver-side knee airbag, Ranger XL-Plus complies with the safety requirements determined by international mine operators. In addition to that, it has a steel bullbar as standard that is designed to ~ork in conjunction with the veh’s existing safety systems, thus not compromising airbag deployment. An extensive list of modifications have also been tested to ensure the Ranger XL-Plus Will stand up to the harsh

environments seen in mining operations such as those in Australi,$, New Zealand and here in Africa.; External modifications and enhancements include a frame tested for an increased towir{g load of 3 500kg, extruded aluminium side steps, front mud flaps, and a lockable fuel filler cap.

Inside and under the skin, the Ranger XL-Plus gains a Crew Chief mounting bracket paired to an expanded wiring harness for accommodating more switches and circuits, a heavy duty ~cond battery, vinyl floor covering, and heavy duty seat covers.

“Modifications developed for the Ranger XL-Plus came from extensive testing in real-world scenarios,” says Kaufman,

34 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

FG, stakeholders ratify 30-year roadmap for housing and urban devt sector

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By Jude Njoku

T was unarguably the greatest assemblage of built environment experts in the country in the recent past. The setting was a two-day stakeholders workshop to validate the draft roadmap that would guide activities in the nation’s housing and urban development sector in the next 30 years. The draft roadmap was prepared by a Ministerial Expert Group, MEG, headed by foremost housing guru and pioneer Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority, FHA, Mr S.P.O. Fortune-Ebie.

The Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs Akon Eyakenyi in her address, set the tone for the brainstorming session. Quoting President Goodluck Jonathan, Mrs Eyakenyi said “the roadmap will address the ramifications and complexities of unleashing a housing revolution in Nigeria within the shortest possible time. It will also provide the pathway for transforming our cities into liveable and functional human settlements, serving as veritable platforms for advancing national integration and the good of humanity from one generation to another”.

The Minister explained that the roadmap will provide the pathway for navigating through the housing and urban development sector over the next 30 years, with a view to consolidating on the gains recorded under the present administration’s transformation agenda and making sustained, goal-oriented and innovative interventions to optimise the contribution of the sector to accelerated national development.

“Through the instrumentality of the roadmap, the culture of focusing almost exclusively on low-hanging fruits will be replaced with a new paradigm of action orientation, meticulous planning and wellarticulated programmes for enhanced performance and impactful results towards repositioning the housing and urban development sector effectively as one of the key sectors for advancing the agenda of sustainable national development and prosperity,” she explained.

Tracing the genesis of the housing roadmap, Mrs Eyakenyi said its foundation was laid in December 2011

when a similar stakeholders conference validated the draft National Housing Policy and the draft Urban Development Policy.

“The two draft policies were subsequently approved for implementation by the Federal Executive Council in June 2012. Thereafter, a Ministerial Implementation Team, MIT for housing delivery in Nigeria was constituted by the Ministry to provide modalities for

translating the two policies into action. It is in this regard that the Ministerial Implementation Team recommended the development of a roadmap for the Housing and Urban Development Sector as a strategic tool to set a clear direction for the transformation of the housing and urban development sector. This is with a view to achieving the envisaged targets and aspirations for the sector, in

both the short and long terms, as outlined in Vision 20:2020, the Transformation Agenda and other emerging National Development Plans,” she said The Minister was elated that while the draft roadmap was being articulated, the National Planning Commission, NPC, commenced the process of developing a 30-year National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan, NIIMP, which has also been approved by the

Federal Executive Council.

“With the NIIMP now in place and its synergy with the roadmap, we are committed to the realisation of the sector aspiration and targets of the housing and regional development component of the plan document for the revitalisation and accelerated transformation of the housing and urban development sector,” she said.

Although Mr Ebie wasn’t physically present at the validation workshop, the draft roadmap was presented on his behalf by a former UN-Habitat Country Representative in Nigeria, Prof Johnson Falade.

A housing estate in Abuja

Grenadines Homes unveils Katampe scheme

By Kingsley Adegboye

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RENADINES Homes Limited, a leading real estate company in Nigeria, has taken another bold move towards boosting home ownership in Nigeria with the formal commencement of the process for the construction of a new set of homes at Katape in Abuja, the nation’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

To this end, the firm has engaged the services of two reputable construction companies, Cubic Contractors and CPMS, to construct and manage the project respectively the new Katampe housing estate. The first class quality homes are expected to serve as a major solution in meeting the growing demand of Nigerians who are desirous of descent shelter as well as the need to escape the rent trap when completed.

Speaking at the handover ceremony to the contractors in Lagos last week, the Managing Director, Grenadines Homes Limited, Mrs. Noimot Olatunji, said the 25-unit luxury estate is the latest addition to the growing list of home ownership initiatives the company has launched over the years.

She said the Abuja estate aligned with

the vision of the company in empowering Nigerians to meet one of the critical components in man’s hierarchy of needs which is shelter.

“Shelter is one of the most important things every man, woman or family thinks of first after food. This project is therefore strategic because it speaks to that critical need in the life of every human being. We are convinced that the launch of this new estate would afford prospective home owners great opportunity to own their own homes more so in an enchanting neighbourhood that is a little removed from the hustle and bustle of the city centre of the FCT”, Olatunji said.

She added that Grenadines Resort Katampe, Abuja, would comprise well finished and furnished terrace duplexes and complimentary amenities that make bold statement about luxury living.

On his part, the Construction Manager, Cubic Contractors Limited, Mr. Majid Mulani, said his firm was pleased to be part of the project, and assured that the company would bring its experience to bear in ensuring excellent service delivery across all the phases of the project.

He further assured prospective home owners that the company would deliver houses as well as maintain best global

practices from the beginning to the end of the project.

Also speaking, the Project General Manager, CPMS, Mrs. Nike LanreLadenegan, said as the the project manager, the company would ensure the delivery of a quality estate at the agreed duration of the project.

She stated that the firm is knowledgeable in all aspects of building construction while assuring that CPMS would coordinate the activities of all parties involved in the construction process to ensure an effective synergy and timely delivery of the houses. “We will ensure that quality is not compromised. This project will be delivered at the agreed time”, she said.

Grenadines Homes Limited and its other member-companies in particular Propertymart Real Estate Investment Limited is built on the tripod of innovation, trust and exceeding customer care. They have gained clients’ trust and achieved international recognition and credibility by exceeding the expectations of their diverse stakeholders in providing qualitative real estate services across various socioeconomic classes of clients.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 35

Developer unveils Purplestone Mall

By Kingsley Adegboye

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RIVEN by the vision to provide first class and affordable housing infrastructure for residential and commercial purposes which will invariably impact on the quality of life of both high and medium income earners, Beverly & Sam Properties, a firm of property developers has developed an ultra modern multi-purpose shopping mall in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

Known as “Purplestone Mall”, the first class one-stop shopping edifice located in the ever bustling Apo area of Abuja, is expected to meet the yearnings of the residents by catering for their shopping needs.

Briefing the press last week in Lagos in respect to the commissioning of the multimillion naira project slated for November 2014, the Managing Director of Beverly & Sam Properties, Mrs. Lilian Agbakoba said the mall which sits on 3000 square metres of land will enable everybody no matter his or her social status, have a place to do their shopping, adding that this is the sole aim of her company for embarking on the massive project.

Mrs. Agbakoba who lamented that there is a housing deficit of 17 million units in Nigeria, said “we have taken as part of our corporate social responsibility to play a role to close this wide gap by making housing more affordable. We are set to expand the PURPLESTONE brand of properties to 20 cities. We have plans to expand into Asaba, Ikorodu, Abeokuta and other parts of the federation”, she noted.

Equating the mall with fivestar shopping malls across the country in terms of status and service, Mrs. Agbakoba noted that Purplestone Mall’s profile in terms of quality of tenants in the mall and in terms of service delivery can be compared with the notable fivestar shopping malls in Nigeria, admitting however, that the choice of locations is the difference between Purpolestone Mall and other five-star malls in Nigeria.

According to her, 80 percent of Nigerian cities do not have any shopping, pointing out that the company is therefore exploring the possibility of extending its business frontiers by replicating Purplestone Mall in some states of the federation Mrs. Agbakoba who explained that the shopping complex has been completed and ready for commissioning, pointed out however, that what is ongoing at the complex is what is called snagging, which means trying to correct some abnormal situations in building in order to bring out a world class facility.

She revealed that in order not to let out the facilities to people whose characters are in doubt or whose financial standing cannot sustain continuity as tenants, the company is presently profiling prospective applicants.

According to her, the twostorey mall would be let out in the following order: Ground floor-N25, 000.00 per square metre, 1st floor, N23, 000.00 per square metre while the second floor would go for N21, 000.00 per square metre. She

added that the cost for the shops are exclusive of the service charge which she said is N15, 000.00 per square metre for any floor because there would be a standby generator that is expected to run for nine hours daily.

“Among the benefits that would be accruable to owners of the shops are 24-hour security services, water supply, cleaning of common areas, waste management and an ample parking space for 80 cars”, she said.

In his remark, the Legal Adviser to the company, Mr.

Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) said he decided to take interest in Beverly & Sam Properties because of the uniqueness of the mall. Agbakoba added that the location of the mall in Apo is a big plus for those who would be patronising the place.

He said most Nigerians are looking for places that are conducive to shop.

According to the Maritime lawyer, coming on board of Purplestone Shopping Mall in Abuja would serve as a onestop shop to Abuja residents who have been longing for such an opportunity.

•The model of Purplestone Mall

Stakeholders advocate energy-efficient buildings to preserve ecosystem

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By Ikenna Asomba

ORRIED by the depletion of the ozone layer which is blamed on the advancement in technology, infrastructure, exponential population growth and other manmade activities, stakeholders in the built environment have advocated greenness to be encouraged in the construction of buildings with designs which will ensure the use of more of day lighting and less wattage of electricity light.

Speaking during a first-of-its kind Business Seminar on energy-efficient buildings organised

by Pera-Beam Limited in collaboration with LG Electronics, Korea in Lagos last week, the participants upheld that the choice of devices used in servicing buildings, and their application should be energy efficient in order to promote green environment, as well as manage the cost of energy. The Chairman, Pera-beam Limited, Major Gen. Sansaliyu Awosanya (Rtd), who spoke at the event said: “Pera-Beam Limited and LG Electronics, Korea organised the event to showcase new technologies in both residential and commercial air-conditioning that supports energy efficiency and preservation of our ecology.

The two organizations have come a long way to deliver these environment friendly devices to the Nigerian market in collaboration with all stakeholders in the building and construction industry.

“The major challenge in the world today is how to preserve our ecosystem in the face of increasing demand on it. Advancement in technology, infrastructure and exponential population growth is putting so much pressure on our ecosystem.

The question is, can we sustain the comfort and the advancements we now enjoy without thinking of sustaining our environment? As an organization, Pera-Beam remains committed to the green culture. We promote technologies that

are of green value to the environment.

“Being a key player in the building services industry, we are concerned with doing more with energy. Conserving the energy is essential to the sustainability of the ecosystem. The choice of devices we use in servicing our buildings, and the way we apply them should be energy efficient. This is not just for the promotion of green environment but to also enable us manage the cost of energy in our premises”, Awosanya said.

Similarly, the Managing Director, PBL, Dr. Abayomi Akindele said the seminar became imperative as the level of awareness for energyefficiency is still very low in Nigeria. His words: “Achieving greenness in our building goes beyond talking. It is about implementing it at the point of conception to execution and in our day-to-day living. So, today, we are drawing the attention of all relevant stakeholders on the need to encourage greenness in our buildings, by managing the energy consumptions. It will start from the way we design our homes, by ensuring less wattage of light, by using the day light. What the day light can give you in your space, you don’t need to use lighting. Even in the air-conditioning business, there are devices that are more energy-efficient in terms of the way they operate. This is the kind of things we promote”.

Explaining how the Lagos State Government has keyed into the initiative, the Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello disclosed that the Lagos State Government in its commitment towards promoting a green and energy efficient environment has targeted public and private secondary schools, encouraging the young ones on the need to be energy and environment efficient, as well as be aware of environmental sanitation and hygiene.

Firm boosts distributors’ outlets with branded stockist kiosks

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or easy identification of its dealers’ outlets nationwide, Eternit Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading hosing solution providers has provided its dealers and distributors who form part of its channel members with specially made branded stockist kiosks. This is part of the marketing strategy of the Sapele, Delta State based roofing and ceiling manufacturing company to consolidate its position in the market.

The branded stockist kiosks which were jointly handed over to the dealers and distributors on behalf of Eternit management by Adeniji Kayode, an engineer and General Manager, Marketing; and Bemigho Malvis, an engineer and General Manager, Business Development respectively, were received by the appreciative distributors who could not hide their feelings of joy and satisfaction with the Eternit management for the gesture During the brief but colourful presentation of the kiosks, Kayode reminded the dealers that the presentation of the kiosks was part of the management’s decision to encourage the channel members in their sales efforts.

He therefore appealed to the dealers to ensure that the kiosks are appropriately put to use; not only to aesthetically enhance the ambience of their outlets for the quick and easy identification of all Eternit range of products as a merchandising tools, but ultimately to serve as an attraction in boosting their sales “What we have done today by presenting the stockist kiosks to our dedicated channel members is a clear evidence of the trust we repose in them; and our unflinching commitment to encourage them in their sales efforts. We are confident that these kiosks will be put to appropriate use not just for the aesthetics value or easy identification of our products but ultimately in sales drive that will yield positive results to our bottom line”, he said Speaking in the same vein, Malvis specifically thanked the dealers for their loyalty and support for the Eternit brand these past years and consequently urge them not to relent in the collective efforts to ensure that Eternit remains as one of Nigeria’s truly leading brands in its industry category as a housing solution provider

36 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

FG, developer endorse pact for devt of Festac Phase 2 •Govt to earn N25.77b as premium, N150m yearly as ground rent

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By Jude Njoku

major milestone in the nation’s housing and urban development sector was recorded last week when the Federal Government and Messrs New Festac Property Development Company Limited, signed an agreement for the concessioning of the reclamation and infrastructure development of Festac Phase Two in Lagos.

The Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi signed on behalf of the Federal Government while the Vice Chairman of New Festac Property Development Company, Sir Isaac Chuks signed on behalf of the developers.

Speaking at the brief ceremony in Abuja, Mrs. Eyakenyi explained that the realisation of the concession will transform Festac Town into a modern city and yield great benefits both in the infrastructure and economic development of Lagos. “The serviced plots to be realised through the concession shall be complemented with green areas, off street parking, power supply, petrol station, shopping malls, hospitals, hospitality centres and laid roads, water works, street lights, sewage disposal systems, incinerators and all necessary support infrastructure,” he said.

Specifically, the Minister disclosed that the government will earn an estimated N25.765 billion per annum as premium for 30 years of the concession.

The government also expects to rake in an additional N150 million annually as ground rent, with the parties agreeing to review the earning clause to reflect the market situation.

Beyond the financial benefits, the Minister explained that 50,000 housing units would be delivered and their construction would create thousands of job opportunities.

Mrs Eyakenyi traced the origin of the project to the 1970s when the Federal Government made massive acquisition of land for the development of Festival Town to host the 1977 World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture.

Recalling that the completed estate was handed over to the Federal Housing Authority, FHA, to manage, the Minister regretted that efforts to reclaim and develop the outstanding 1126 hectares of land known as Festac Phase, had remained unsuccessful.

In 2006, FHA took advantage of the public-private partnership initiative and

invited bids for the reclamation and infrastructural development of Festac phase Two to produce 7,000 serviced plots complete with standard infrastructure and essential services. The bid was won by Messrs New Festac Property Development Company which is a special purpose vehicle made up of four companies – Fung Tai Engineering Limited, PW Nig

Limited, SCC Nigeria Limited and Energo Nigeria Limited.

In his brief remarks at the ceremony, the Vice chairman of the Company, Sir Isaac Chuks said the scope of the concession includes but not limited to land reclamation, sand filling, infrastructural development, marketing/sale of the over 7,000 plots of land to be created from the reclaimed land and

facility management for the 30 year period of the concession before reversion to Federal Housing Authority FHA. “By the concession, the Concessionaire - Messrs New Festac Property Development Company Limited is expected to fully fund the implementation of the project and recoup its funds mainly through the sale and

management of plots of the land over the concession period,” he said..

According to him, “since the award in April, 2013 New Festac Property Development Company Limited has been preoccupied with extensive preliminary project development activities including surveys, field studies, site investigation, environmental impact assessment, town planning, funding and third party appraisals and agreements.

He further disclosed that the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, ICRC and the Bureau of Public Procurement, BPP have consented to the concession.

Lands Housing and Urban Development Minister, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi exchanging documents with the Vice Chairman, New Festac Property Development Company Ltd., Sir. Isaac Chuks while the Permanent Secretary Urban Housing and Development, Dr. Ezekiel Oyemomi (2nd left); MD New Festac Devt. Coy. Ltd., Mr. Goody Egbuji (right); Ag. M.D. FHA, Engr. David Kpue (left); Director New Festac, Dr. Sola Ayandele (2nd right) and the Company Secretary, New Festac Co.Ltd., Chief Odein Ajumogobia (3rd right) during the concession agreement signing ceremony for Festac Phase 2 at the Minister’s Conference Room, Mabushi, Abuja.

Nigeria yet to benefit from Climate Change fund — Presidency

By Emmanuel Elebeke

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HE Special Adviser to the President on New Partnership for Africa’s Development, NEPAD and APRM, Amb. Fidelia Njeze has noted that Nigeria is yet to benefit from the Climate Change Fund put in place by NEPAD to support implementation of programmes and projects on climate change and environmental degradation by member states.

Njeze stated this in her keynote address at a national workshop on climate change and environmental degradation organised by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa, CSEA in Abuja at the weekend.

She said climate change had become a recurrent phenomenon with a cumulative effect on natural resources and the environment, resulting in an enormous increase in weather conditions, which bring adverse effects on man and ecosystems, causing abrupt and harmful changes on the seasonal cycles.

Njeze added that these changes had shown adverse effects on agriculture, water supply, food supply, food production and also resulted in loss of lives and property

... As study shows most Nigerians lack sciencebased knowledge on climate change especially in the coastal Niger-Delta region of the country.

Meanwhile, the survey conducted by the CSEA, revealed that large percentage of Nigerian population lacks science-based knowledge on climate change; temperature and rainfall amount are gradually increasing; housing for the vast majority of the households is poorly built which makes them vulnerable to any violent or extreme climate change occurrences such as flooding, erosion and thunderstorm.

Other findings in the survey showed that access to water for bathing and other uses is not a major problem to most communities in the region but the quality is so poor that some of the water available may not be safe for bathing and that the continued exploitation of forest for cooking fuel contributes to the reduction of carbon sinks among others.

Consequent upon this, Njeze said the federal government had decided to tap into the NEPAD funding and had requested for some funds to build capacity of communities on Climate Smart Agriculture

in the affected parts of the country.

According to her, the funding became necessary in view of the fact that climate change and environmental degradation posed serious threats to the global economy and the well-being of citizens around the world.

She observed that developing countries, including Nigeria are mainly susceptible to the effects of climate change because a large part of their economies depend on natural resources which are particularly vulnerable to these changes.

“As we move on with the presentations and discussions, let us bear in mind that this is an issue that affects every one of us with virtually all sectors of the economy inevitably vulnerable to the changes in climate as well as environmental degradation. “it is imperative that stakeholders work jointly in clusters involving the private sector, civil society organizations, development partners and of course relevant public sector to tackle these challenges and provide a safe environment for now and future generations.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—37 elections in Nigeria. The status quo favours the PDP and President Jonathan. Why? Because Boko Haram-affected areas and indeed the Northern region are opposition strongholds, hence the Administration is hoping - and perhaps secretly wishing- that the Boko Haram crisis, the declaration of emergency rule and general atmosphere of insecurity in the North will lead to the cancellation of voting in some areas and limit voters’ turnout in general, a development which the PDP believes will minimize its electoral losses in the North and enhance the likelihood of a PDP victory.

Politicisation of Boko Haram insurgency, bane of Nigeria’s anti-terror fight (3) Being the concluding part of a paper delivered at Portcullis House, House of Commons, London by Alhaji Lai Mohammed, National Publicity Secretary, All Progressives Congress, APC, on Monday.

The second part was published last Friday

Worsening crisis

By LAI MOHAMMED

Beyond that, reports from the grapevine are that the government is even trying to cash in on the worsening crisis to explore the possibility of delaying the elections and extending its tenure. It does not occur to them that the country must first survive for anyone to rule it. Our worst fears were confirmed recently when the Australian hired by President Jonathan to help negotiate the release of the over 200 school girls named the President’s allies and members of the ruling PDP as the sponsors of Boko Haram. He said the Boko Haram commanders identified the men: Former Army Chief Azubuike Ihejirika and a former governor of Borno State Ali Modu Sheriff - among the sponsors of the sect.

Now that the cat has been let out of the bag and the real sponsors of Boko Haram have been exposed , we hope President Jonathan will summon the courage to do the right thing: Hand over the

T

LAI MOHAMMED (commensurately) for the huge monies purportedly expended.

There are recurring reports and stories in the media about how frontline troops and soldiers have inferior weapons and firepower compared to Boko Haram’s and how Nigerian soldiers have been fleeing battlefields (into Cameroon),

•Chibok girls kidnapped by Boko Haram Year 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 Total

Amount (Naira)

Dollar Value (@N165 = $1)

1,174,897,477,334.00 1,178,832,576,309.00 1,154,857,159,110.00 1,080,894,801,178.00 836,016,773,836.00 5,425,498,787,767.00

and communities and military barracks being easily overrun by Boko Haram fighters. This begs the questions about where and how is the money being spent?

Is it truly spent on security? Is corruption taking place in security spending? What and where are the military hardware acquired? Who is supplying security equipment – manufacturers or third party agents?

Unanswered questions and puzzles about Boko Haram insurgency: APC’s research and analysis of the Boko Haram insurgency has unearthed some intriguing puzzles that warrant serious attention.

Since 2011, President Goodluck Jonathan-PDP led government has increased security spending; declared and renewed emergency rule, issued propaganda claiming the capture and killing of Boko Haram members (including the leader Abubakar S h e k a u ) , destruction of Boko Haram camps, and c o u n t l e s s assurances of improving security and winning the battle against Boko Haram. Over the same period, however, the empirical realities are that Boko Haram has become more daring and audacious in its attacks through: Increase in the scale, number and spread of attacks, even against supposedly fortified military bases.

More Boko Haram killings and casualty levels among civilians and security

7.12 billion 7.14 billion 6.99 billion 6.55 billion 5.07 billion 32.88 billion

personnel. Rapid growing number of Nigerian Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Refugees, now estimated by the UNHCR at over 600,000!

Increasing reports of mutinies and soldiers absconding (desertion) from battlefields.

Boko Haram declaration of a Caliphate.

The key issue in all of this is this – are all these mere empirical coincidence or statistical correlation OR are there genuine organic and logical connections (some form of action and reaction)?

Certainly it is my and APC belief that there is a pull and effect logic at work.

Spectacular failure Put simply, President Jonathan’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgency has been a spectacular failure, and this is deliberate for political reasons. Where and even if the President Jonathan-PDP Admnistration may claim to know nothing about the origin of Boko Haram, it has actively sustained the crisis, profiteering from it.

The way forward: APC ’s stand: The APC has consistently argued for New Thinking and alternative approaches to the Boko Haram crisis. The five pillars of APC’s approach are: •Urgent formulation of a holistic Counter-Terrorism strategy that emphasizes the synergistic use of military, political and economic elements, and roles for civil society and other critical stakeholders.

•Political negotiation with Boko Haram. All recent cases

of internal security challenges (militias. etc.), including the OPC, MEND, etc. across Nigeria have all been resolved through political negotiations of some sort. Boko Haram cannot be an exception.

•Planning and Investing for Peace through a Human Development Approach to address the socio-economic, governance and environmental conditions that gave rise to Boko Haram. Key here are youth development, employment and means of livelihoods, education, access to markets, revival of agriculture, etc. What is advocated is a serious and genuine consideration of socioeconomic revival of the Northeast and other affected Northern areas, not the tokenistic (£7million) If the funding of Boko Haram gesture is not cut off, it will be difficult proposed by to defeat the sect the Jonathan Administration •Bring in the United Nations identified Boko Haram sponsors (and its specialised agencies), to the International Criminal and mobilise local and Court, ICC, for investigation international peace building and prosecution. There is no organisations to work with doubt that Boko Haram has communities and groups committed crimes against humanity in its scorched-earth affected by Boko Haram.

•Security Sector Reform campaign against unarmed through a thorough National citizens, and the most Security Review, New National appropriate body to investigate Security Policy, and tailored and try the sect’s sponsors is the institutional, legal and ICC. According to Article 17 of the operational reforms and reorganisation of Nigeria’s Rome Statute that set up the security agencies. The Boko ICC, and to which Nigeria is a Haram crisis has exposed signatory, the ICC is a court of systemic failures in Nigeria’s last resort, expected to exercise national security system, and its jurisdiction only if states there is a rare opportunity to use themselves are unwilling or this as the basis to transform unable to genuinely investigate Nigeria’s National Security and prosecute international crimes. In view of the fact that architecture.

Conclusion: Unfortunately the alleged Boko Haram but truly, the Nigerian sponsors are either members of government had bungled the the ruling party or friends of the fight against Boko Haram. The President, it is clear that the government’s attempt to make PDP- led Federal Government political capital out of the is unwilling and unable to try insurgency has backfired. The them. As we all know if the Boko Haram crisis and the funding of Boko Haram is not Jonathan Administration’s cut off, it will be difficult to response to it must be seen in defeat the sect. the context of the 2015 general

,

HE Boko Haram crisis and GEJ security spending spree: One salient, yet under-reported and underdiscussed issue is the incredible amount of Nigeria’s national income being expended, by the President Jonathan administration purportedly on combating Boko Haram in the last five years (since 2010). I will share the mind-boggling figures with you.

APC’s research on total security sector spending (covering Defence, Police, Office of National Security Adviser, Road Safety Corps, and security-related service-wide votes (e.g. on Amnesty Programme, internal security operations, etc.) is based on information contained in successive budget documents.

Why and what is important about these statistics?

•On the average the Boko Haram Insurgency has fuelled increases in security spending to around 25 per cent of annual federal government budget.

• In light of the rebasing of Nigeria’s GDP (put at N80.3 trillion or $509.9 billion), the yearly average 2010-14 is $6.58 billion, is equal to 1.3 per cent of GDP. • The total for the 5 budget years amounts to 6.5 per cent of Nigeria GDP. • Most importantly, there appears to be nothing to show

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38—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMPER 16, 2014

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HE National Assembly on July 17, 2014 embarked on its annual vacation to allow the legislators have some rest after hectic legislative assignments. It also afforded them the opportunity to consult with their constituents, oil their political wheels ahead of the 2015 general elections as well as commission their constituency projects.

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

B

EFORE the vacation, there were unresolved issues, bills and committee reports that have been pending before the lawmakers for a long time.

Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB As the Senate resumes legislative deliberations today, issues expected to dominate the session will among others include, constitutional amendment, the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, which has raised suspicions on the sincerity and seriousness of the National Assembly on the bill following allegations that some oil giants in the country have made efforts to thwart the passage of the bill.

The coalition of Civil Society Organisations recently warned that if members of the National Assembly did not pass the PIB into law before the 2015 elections, the masses would mobilize against them to ensure that they are not re-elected.

The Environmental Rights Watch/Friends of the Earth Nigeria, ERA/FoEN, alongside Green Alliance Nigeria, GAN, the Host Communities Network of Nigeria, HOCON, and the Students Environmental Assembly Nigeria, SEAN, had few months before the vacation staged a rally at the National Assembly over non-passage of the PIB. The Executive Director of ERA/ FoEN, Dr. Godwin Ojo had said that the PIB has popular support not only among the civil society groups but also among communities across the Niger Delta and other oil-bearing communities that have for decades borne the weight of degradation and dislocated livelihoods on account of oil exploitation.

His words: “Broadly, we see some of the provisions of the PIB as a conflict resolution mechanism to the decades of violent conflicts, and the restoration of transparency and accountability in the petroleum sector in Nigeria to which the National Assembly has been called upon to act quickly.

We state strongly that failure to pass the bill will have political

costs for sitting lawmakers.

“So far, we would like to commend the efforts of the 7th National Assembly for their response to popular agitations for the complete overhaul of the PIB 2012 as it presents an opportunity to check corporate rule, total disregard for local livelihoods, and reckless degradation of the environment, violence, corruption and theft which have been the sad hallmarks of the Nigerian petroleum industry.

“We believe that with the antecedent of the present National Assembly, in their staunch refusal to bow to corporate lobby and blackmail, Nigerians will ultimately get a law that they will be proud of.”

According to him, the PIB if passed, would strengthen the transparency and accountability driven by the removal of nondisclosure clauses from the bill in line with the EITI principles which Nigeria is now a compliant state, and the discretionary powers being granted the President and the Minister.

It would also ensure the inclusion of communities’ interests in the petroleum sector, by allowing communities through Community Foundations to manage the 10 per cent equities being devolved to them and not to be swallowed up by administrative processes under the petroleum minister.

Dr. Ojo pointed out that the PIB would ensure inclusion of provisions for the protection, conservation, clean up and remediation since the polluter pays principle should apply as well as ensuring the inclusion in the bill of adequate compensatory mechanisms for victims of the negative impacts operations in the sector as well as end gas flaring and the impunity of oil companies.

Jonathan’s $1bn insurgencyloan President Goodluck Jonathan had before the Senate proceeded on the vacation sought approval for $1 billion loan for the fight against terrorism especially the Boko Haram insurgency in some parts of the country.

President Jonathan in the letter

Hard nuts await legislators as NASS resumes

•National Assembly complex addressed to the Senate President, Senator David Mark which was read a day before the vacation explained that the loan would be used to upgrade equipment, training and logistics of armed forces and other security agencies.

The Senate did not deliberate on the letter but the Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba, SAN, in an interview with Vanguard assured that it would be given adequate attention.

He said: “You recall the request came in a day or two before we proceeded on annual vacation.

When we resume, we will address it because the situation in the North East has even become more challenging than it was before we left on recess. It is of great concern to Nigerians and we are going to address it.”

On the pending Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, the Senate Leader said that though

the bill was very important to the country, the Senate wanted to do a thorough job and assured that it would be passed.

He said: “I want to assure Nigerians that the PIB will be passed before the end of the Seventh Senate. I have said it again and again that it is a very technical bill.

“It is an important bill and we want to make sure that when it is passed, it sufficiently captures every aspects of the industry and essentially, protects the overall interest of Nigerians.”

Probe of N135 billion police funds Also pending in the Senate is the report of the investigation into alleged N135 billion said to have been injected into the Nigeria Police in the last three years as part of reform measures.

Specifically, the controversial

PENDING ISSUES •PIB • $1bn insurgency loan •N135bn police fund probe •Ezzu River probe •UNILAG bill •Immigration tragedy •Constitional amendment

amount was said to have been pumped into the force between 2011 and 2013 by the President Jonathan’s administration with a view to repositioning the police following public outcry over poor funding in the past.

The Senate had directed its committee on Police Affairs to immediately commence probe of the management of the funds and report back in the shortest possible time.

The Senate action came after heated debate on a motion tagged: “Reforming the Nigeria Police”, brought before it by Senator Abubakar Tutare, PDP, Taraba Central, on the level of funding and implementation of the Nigeria Police Force Reform Programme.

Senator Tutare, who is the Vice Chairman of Senate Committee on Police Affairs, in the motion, noted that over the years, the Nigeria Police was neglected in terms of offices, residential accommodation, kits, vehicles, arms as well as communication equipment.

He said with the myriad of problems, the Nigeria Police Force had failed in the discharge of its statutory responsibility of crime prevention and detection and protection of lives and property.

He observed that arising from this development, the Federal

Continues from page 39

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMPER 16, 2014—39

Continues from page 38 Government initiated a Police Reform Programme to provide “all what it takes overhaul the police and make them to be more professional, effective and efficient in the discharge of their duties with a take- off grant of N75 billion”, insisting that the government followed up with appropriation of N25 billion, N15 billion and N22 billion in the 2011, 2012 and 2013 budgets respectively.

The senator regretted that despite the take off grant and the provision of a total of N57 billion appropriated between 2011 and 2013, “there is still nothing to show that the reform agenda is on-going in the Nigeria Police Force.”

The Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, had said that beyond poor funding, the Nigeria Police Force was facing problem which he referred to as “structural defect”, noting that the situation called for the creation of State Police to ensure effective policing of the country.

On his part, Senator James Manager, PDP,Delta South, said:“What we should do is to reopen the debate on decentralization of the Police.

“There is something organically wrong with the Police and Nigerians have to decide whether a central Police or decentralized Police is appropriate.”

The Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, observed that the solution to the problem of the Police called for urgent decentralization of the force.

The Senate President had said that the creation of State Police to effect structural changes that would enhance effective policing of the country had become necessary.

He said: “I used to be a strong advocate of federal government Police or central Police. I am sure

Hard nuts await legislators as NASS resumes

•Mark of the day in the Senate one year after the two committees that were mandated to unravel the circumstances surrounding the over 35 strange dead bodies found floating on Ezzu River, Amansea, a town on the border between Anambra and Enugu states.

The unidentified dead bodies, mostly males, were discovered floating on the river in the early hours of Saturday, January 19, 2013, by some villagers of Amansea, in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The situation generated panic

As the Senate resumes legislative deliberations today, issues expected to dominate the session will among others include, the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, which has raised suspicions on the sincerity and seriousness of the National Assembly

,

you have noticed that sometimes ago I also changed my mind to say that maybe we should experiment with State Police and see what it is. There are basic problems with the current system but we must try to address them in a manner that has nothing to do with politics in any form at all because if this country does not survive we will not play politics.”

But several months after the committee was said to have submitted its report, no legislative action has been taken and it is expected that the report will be presented and deliberated on the floor of the Senate.

Ezzu River probe Another important report which has not yet seen the light

•Tambuwal

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across the state as people wondered where the bodies could have come from, given that no community had come up with claims of missing members.

Two weeks after the incident, precisely on January 31, 2013, the Senate, after an intense debate on a motion brought on the development, by Senator Andy Ubah, PDP, Anambra South, mandated its committees on Police Affairs as well as Security and Intelligence, to immediately carry out a thorough investigation into it and report the findings within two weeks.

The Senate had during the motion, entitled: “Strange Dead Bodies found in Ezzu River of Anambra State,” expressed concern that the inability of the

country to unearth the cause of the incident could adversely affect her reputation.

The joint committee, headed by Senators Matthew Nwagu, PDP, Imo North and Mohammed Magoro, PDP, Kebbi South respectively, which was mandated to carry out an indebt investigation into the matter and report its findings to the Senate committee within two weeks, is yet to submit the report 11 months after.

Bill to amend University of Lagos Act The proposal by President Jonathan to change the University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University generated serious controversy but despite that the President forwarded executive bill to the senate seeking an amendment of the Act that set up the university so as to carry out the proposed change of name.

The bill tagged: “A Bill for an Act to Amend the University of Lagos Act,CAP U9 LFN 2004 to make Provision for a change of name of the university from University of Lagos to the Moshood Abiola University, Lagos 2013” The President sent three executive bills to the senate asking it to amend the act setting up the three institutions so as to give room for certain amendments of the universities among which he said, was changing of their names after some Nigerians who have distinguished themselves to the services of the country.

According to the bills, while the University of Lagos is to be re-

named Moshood Abiola University, Lagos, the Federal University of Agriculture, Umudike and the Federal University of Technology, Yola, are to be re-christened Michael Okpara University, Umudike and Modibo Adama University, Yola, respectively.

Although the President had tactically withdrawn from the proposed name change, when the University of Lagos alumni association secured a perpetual injunction restraining him from going on with the change pending the determination of the case the body instituted at the Federal High Court, Lagos, the bill has not been officially withdrawn from the Senate.

Alleged remark against Senate leadership It is also expected that the report of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions over alleged uncomplimentary marks made by Senator Oluremi Tinubu may also dominate debate especially as the Senate had on many occasions been divided along party lines.

The Senate leadership had directed Senator Tinubu to appear before the Senator Ayo Akinyelure committee over her alleged uncomplimentary remarks against the Senate leadership, but it was gathered that the committee was unable to form quorum till the time the Senate went on vacation.

Immigration tragedy Another Senate report that is said to have been dumped after the committee submitted its report

is the Immigration recuitment tragedy where about 18 youths including a pregnant woman lost their lives and several others were injured at various recruitment centres across the county during a stampede.

The tragedy took place in March this year and after many months the Senator Abubakar Bagudu-led Senate Committee on Interior submitted its report; it was yet to be attended to.

Going by the dust the incident raised and alleged plans to sweep the report under the carpet, some senators are expected to demand debates on the report.

The decision of the Senate not to treat the report in a hurry, as gathered, may not be unconnected with reported damning revelations of the committee and the attendant recommendations which are said not to be favourable to a top government appointee said to be close to the Senate leadership.

The Senate had, on March 18, three days after the Immigration recruitment tragedy of Saturday, March, 15, 2014, mandated the committee to carry out comprehensive probe of circumstances that led to the tragedy which claimed 18 lives of job seekers and l Even as members try to keep sealed lips over the outcome, there are insinuations in some quarters that the report of the committee had found some top government appointees wanting.

It is expected that the Senate will be busy to trash out some of these and other pending issues as it resumes for legislative duties today.

40 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Lagos, the mega-city grappling with inadequate potable water Residents queueing for potable water in Lagos

F

OR several decades, improved access to portable water, especially in mega cities has been a major concern for governments in the world over.

For Lagos, a megacity with a population of over 21 million residents, providing safe drinking water has been a vital challenge for successive administrations, including the present administration of Governor Babatunde Fashola.

In 1980, the then civilian administration of Chief Lateef Jakande, through the State’s Water Board initiated the construction of 10 miniwaterworks, across the state, which supplied up to 3 million gallons of water daily to Lagosians.

Production capacity But today, the Board, now Lagos State Water Corporation, LSWC, has constructed over 38 Water Facilities spread across the state, with a production capacity of over 210 Million Gallons/Day. The facilities and their capacities in millions per day (mgd) are Gbagada with (1.0 mgd), VI Annex (1.0 mgd), V.I Annex (1.0 mgd), Aguda (1.0 mgd), Ishasi (1.0 mgd), Bariga (2.4 mgd), Dolphin (1.0 mgd), Isolo (3.0 mgd), Onikan (1.0 mgd), Ikoyi

(2.4 mgd), V.I Saka Tinubu (1.0 mgd), Ikorodu (3 mgd), Eredo (1.4 mgd), Epe (3.0 mgd), Badagry (2.4 mgd).

Others are Oto Awori (2.4 mgd), Igando (2.4 mgd), Idimu (1.0 mgd), Iwaya (1.0 mgd), Oworoshoki (1.0 mgd), Apapa (2.4 mgd), Ajegunle (0.1 mgd), Amuwo (3 mgd), Ikeja (1.0 mgd), Alausa (0.3 mgd), Surulere (2.4 mgd), Iju (45 mgd) and Adiyan with the largest capacity of (70 mgd).

The state has also designed a 10-year Master Plan (20102020), that will see its water capacity, grow from 210 mgd to 745 mgd by December 2020.

But despite this projection, Vanguard has gathered that residents in major suburbs such as Makoko, Ajegunle, Isashi, Bariga, Okokomaiko, Iba, Isolo, OttaIkosi, Eredo, Epe, Badagry, Oto Awori, Idimu, Iwaya, AmuwoOdofin, Shomolu among others are still grappling with inadequate potable water, as government’s master plan has yielded little or no fruits.

Against this backdrop, residents, particularly land owners, have arbitrarily taken to the construction of boreholes instead of the water mains provided by the LWSC. This has also given rise to the number of local water entrepreneurs, including sachet water sellers found across the state’s suburbs.

Another worrisome situation,

noticeable in these suburbs is the clustering of pipes in drains and canals. This health experts have decried to be the major cause of diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, malaria and typhoid fever.

Access to potable water

Lamenting the situation, Elder Silas Ibekwe, who resides in Okokomaiko area of Lagos, said: Ït is unfortunate that even before this democratic dispensation, series of promises to adress the inaccessibility of potable water have been made by politicians, especially during electioneering campaigns. But when they get elected, the promises are never fulfilled.

“More worrisome is the fact that 99 per cent of Lagosians rely on bore-hole water. It’s just God that has been faithful to Lagosians against the outbreak of water-borne epidermic, because these boreholes run through drains and canals.

“For me, I think the Lagos State government owes the masses the responsibility to provide adequate access to potable water, because we all pay our taxes. If I buy a 25 litre of water for N50 everyday, you can imagine how much I spend in a month just for water.”

Similarly, Mr. Chinedu Nnanna, a resident in Coker area of the state said: “The situation is worrisome in my area.

The only time I had access to potable water was when a Councillor provided one for us in his compound. But it stopped running three months after. “immediately, he stepped down from office, the water tank was disconnected from the public.

This has been a perrennial problem in Lagos, so I expect the government to take urgent action in addressing this situation, so as to give Lagosians

,

By Ikenna Asomba

people digging the highway, laying pipes here and there in the community, but as far as I know, we have never had any benefit of potable water here in Ajegunle. Rather, residents here depend largely on satchet water (pure water) as their basic source of drinking water, which is not really hygeinic.”

However, decrying this situation, the Group Managing Director, Lagos State Water

With the population of the state, our current water demand daily is about 540 million gallons per day. The state has an installed capacity of 210 million of gallons per day, leaving the state with a shortfall of 330 millions of gallons per day

the reason for paying their taxes.”

According to Mr. Peter Erabor, a resident in Ajegunle, “There has never been access to potable water here. I am saying so, because what we have here is water brought in by tankers, which we can not be sure of the sources, but we buy from them.

Also, there are few people that say they have personaal borehole, but having investigated their claims as a water expert, I discovered they don’t even have water treatment plants.

“Successive governments have always put politics in their promises to address this abysmal situation. Several times, we see

,

Corporation, LSWC, Engr. Shayo Holloway had said that the state will require over 540 million gallons of water daily to address the water shortage in the state, adding that the water requirement of the state may increase following the influx of citizens of other states into the state.

He said: “With the population of the state, our current water demand daily is about 540 million gallons per day. The state has an installed capacity of 210 million of gallons per day, leaving the state with a shortfall of 330 millions of gallons per day.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

— 41

Mixed feelings trail Sept 22 school resumption •Ebola war has not been won, says WHO

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

A

S part of measures to prevent a possible pandemic outbreak of the deadly Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, among pupils and students, the Lagos State Government is yet to state categorically, resumption date of all public and private nursery, primary and secondary schools for the 2014/2015 session.

The Federal Government after a national consultation had earlier directed all schools to resume on September, 22 as against October 12, 2014, following satisfactory containment of the EVD, in the country.

However, concerning the resumption date, Lagos State Government at the weekend expressed support for the September 22, 2014 resumption date, with a proviso.

As part of pre-emptive measures, the government had also directed the state’s water corporation to connect atleast 600 public secondary schools to its mains for the supply of pipe borne water inorder to reduce chances of Ebola spread in public schools.

In a statement, weekend, signed

by Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Information and Strategy, Alhaji Lateef Raji, he stressed that though, the resumption date is advisory, as education is a concurrent matter to be regulated by the respective federal and states authorities, the state government considered it eminently justifiable, in view of the fact that there is currently no known carrier of EVD in our state at the moment.

Discharge from observation He added that the last individual suspected to have been exposed to the virus will be discharged from observation on September 18, 2014.

He said: “If he tests negative for the virus. All public and private educational institutions in the state are therefore directed to schedule their resumption accordingly.

“Considering the current situation report, it is clear that the risk of infection with EVD in Lagos State has been significantly reduced. Health professionals working on the outbreak are also in agreement that there is no reason why schools should remain closed beyond the 22nd of September, 2014.”

Also, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris at an earlier joint ministerial press briefing on the update of EVD, attested to the fact that EVD had been successfully contained in the state.

Earlier, the state Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Ola-

dunjoye, at a sensitization exercise on the Ebola Virus for Principals and Head Teachers of Public Primary and Secondary Schools, as well as proprietors of public schools in the state advised the education stakeholders to inculcate in the students the basic universal precaution of frequently washing their hands in the fight against the virus.

Oladunjoye, who spoke through her Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Omolara Erogbogbo, stressed the need for the stakeholders to be proactive in safeguarding the human resources in their care against the outbreak of the Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever that has ravaged some West African Countries.

However, Idris, on the update of Ebola cases, noted that the importance of such a sensitive sensitization exercise for relevant stakeholders in school health management became necessary considering that school children are very vulnerable, though not a most-atrisk group with the EVD containment strategy.

His words: “By their nature, children especially the young ones, are very social beings that exhibit unhindered, innocent and almost carefree, social interactions among one another such that limitations in contacts prescribed as a pillar of the EVD containment strategy is observed more in breach rather than compliance in these

Pupils in school ones.” He noted that the severity of the EVD has necessitated extreme and aggressive measures to halt the spread of the virus and has led countries heavily affected by the outbreak to enforce measures such as declaring state of public emergency, restricting public gathering, including closure of schools.

Idris also emphasised the need for people to imbibe the basic hand washing techniques in the fight against the virus in Lagos State. On the uncertainty of schools resuming on September 22, the commissioner said, “We also realized that there is need for pupils to maintain proper toilet hygiene. Any children that is sick, should not be taken to school rather they should be taken to the nearest health facility for proper treatment. That is the international standard.

“Any patient with Ebola will not be working around. He will be in the hospital. We need to let the children understand that there is a virus called Ebola. They are not too young to be aware.

All we need to do is put the required facilities in place.

“Ahead of the resumption, we are already putting in place measures to avoid any outbreak of Ebola virus. And part of the measures in place is the school

health programme which we will use to increase activities on how to avoid contacting the virus, the hand washing programme will be scaled up. Some of the schools that do not have pipe-borne water will be given while those that already have will be increased,” he added.

WHO cautions govts While saluting the efforts of both the federal and state governments, World Health Organisation, WHO, Country representative in Nigeria, Dr. Rui Gama Vaz, urged the state government to avoid being complacent due to the apparent drop in the number of Ebola cases, saying the war has not been won until the virus is entirely wiped out. According to him, “On the school resumption, we need to ensure that the schools are fully prepared in terms of availability of water, soaps and sanitizers.

The teachers must be fully aware of what is needed to be done when they are faced with any suspected case of Ebola Virus Disease, EVD in their school. The students must be enlightened about the symptom of the deadly disease.

“Even though the number of Ebola cases has reduced and most of the contacts are out of the 21 days. We should avoid any complacency. Until the last case is over and we have completed the surveillance to ensure that no other potential case, we should not relent in the effort to tackling the disease.

“We need to learn from this experience by not only dealing with the disease but to strengthen the entire health system in the country,” he added.

Parents react: Following the developments, parents have reacted to the resumption date with many giving kudos to the state government for being cautious.

Mr Victor Anyanwu, a civil servant said, “I will like the Ministries of Health and Education to kindly reconsider postponing resumption date of schools to a time that the nation can confidently declare Nigeria, Ebola virus free. “Kids and play go together, therefore, we urge our governments to continue handling issues of Ebola with uppermost caution as a few months off from our children’s educational life cannot be compared with a complete loss of lives. Extending resumption till November 2014, is not too late.”

Lagos, only sub-national govt to get W-Bank’s $600m facility — FASHOLA

By Dotun Ibiwoye

G

OVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State has disclosed that Lagos is the only sub-national government in Africa that has benefited from the $600 million facility of the World Bank.

The governor added that the state was one of the three, of all the sub-national governments in the whole of Africa, while Brazil and in India are the only other two countries where their sub-national governments have benefited.

The governor stated that the first tranche of the Bond that was taken during first tenure has been paid, adding that the next one would be due around 2016 or 2017.

Fashola made the disclosure recently, during his inspection of the progress of work at the Iganmu Terminus of the Lagos Light Rail Mass Transit project.

He also laid emphasis on the loans obtained by his administration which was used in financing capital intensive projects like the Light rail, expansion of the Lagos-

Badagry Expressway and Mile 12 – Ikorodu road.

According to him: “Of all the sub-national governments in the whole of Africa, we are the only beneficiary government. The only other two countries where their subnationals have benefited is in Brazil and in India.

“The first tranche of the Bond that was taken during first tenure has been paid, as the next one would fall due around 2016 or 2017. We are already making the provisions and the provision which will be there will be in excess of what will be needed to pay it.

“As a Federal Government, we can’t borrow money outside the country without them giving us the approval and that is all and even at that in the last two years, there were a lot of delays and frustration which led to my going to the House of Representatives to get them to pass this and even now, may be this week, the credit was finally made and so we are going to pay as a State not the Federal Government.

He added: “Nobody has done us any favour. The law just says that if any part of the country is going to borrow money, the country must approve, but the debt is our own and that is why they are publishing and we acknowledge it as our debt. We have never moved away or denied it.

“We have always said we took the money and this is part of where the money is going.

Your economy works, people are taking value from government infrastructure initiative, from government borrowing funded by tax payers money, so anybody who is worried must either not know his economics or must have a voodoo intention to achieve.” He noted that what is currently being done is to cross the water to the final station in Marina “which is another five kilometres of heavy construction work, concrete and iron rods.”

Governor Fashola noted that with the contract and the financing in place, the only thing left was how much time to log on to on a day to day basis, adding the State Government has always come to the public when it was raising Bonds and were never conducted under the table.

42 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

N18m private visit: Edo denies Orbih's allegation

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—EDO State Government, yesterday, debunked the statement credited to the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Dan Orbih, that Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s recent visit to Miami in the United States of America, was not a private one. It said the governor's trip was on the invitation of Edo community in that country as a special guest to their annual convention.

A statement in Benin by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Louis Odion, explained that the governor travelled by commercial airline and not a hired private jet that costs N18million as alleged by Chief Orbih.

It said, "Edo PDP Chairman, Chief Orbih, again exhibited his talents for lies and contempt for facts last weekend with a ludicrous claim that

Oshiomhole chartered a private jet on a private trip to Maimi, USA last month at the cost of N18million.

Ordinarily, one would not have bothered to dignify yet another of Orbih’s outbursts with response, but for the sake of the gullible, this clarification is made contrary to his mischievous lies. The governor visited Chicago not privately, but to honour Edo community in the United States on invitation as a special guest at their annual convention.

“Governor Oshiomhole travelled by commercial airline. Anyone who bothers to double-check would find that Oshiomhole is one of the few governors today who travels with the smallest entourage, if not totally alone, with a view to saving costs.”

Orbih while addressing a rally at Afuze and Sabongida-Ora, accused the governor of spending over N17milion to attend picnic at Miami Beach in the US.

L-R Standing: MI Abaga (musician), Abiodun Akinyemi (tourism entrepreneur), Vincent Adukwu (LG auditor), Agbo Titus Adekole (youth footbal coach) and Tolu Ogunlesi (journalist). Sitting: Taiwo Okunoren (fashion), Mrs. Ore Lesi (founder, WTEC), Mrs. Omilola Osikoya (public speaker and coach) Akinwunmi Ambode (founder, La Roche Leadership Foundation), Aekunbi Adeoye (proprietress, Sesewa) Tosin Taiwo (founder, Street to School Initiative) and Raquel Jacobs (founder, Beyond the Classroom) at the Chosen Youth event organised by La Roche to celebrate the youths who had made positive impact on the society.

L-r: Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon (Lagos West), vice chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, LTV Chapel, Jibola Ojesola; and the chapel chairman, Samuel Dada, during presentation of 18-seater passenger bus to the chapel of the union

by Senator Ganiyu Solomon in Lagos.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—43

UPUF faults CUYO on Delta varsity VC

RALLY:

Governor Adams Oshiomhole (left) addressing All Progressives Congress, APC, supporters and decampees from Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, at a rally in Igueben, Igueben Local Government Area, Edo State.

With him is Mr. Sam Oboh, Chairman, Esan North-East Local Government Area of the state.

By Festus Ahon

U

G H E L L I — U R H O B O Progressive and Unified Front, UPUF, yesterday, described as unreasonable and unpatriotic, moves by the Coalition of Urhobo Youths Organisation, CUYO, to protest the purported plan by Delta State University, Abraka’s Governing Council to appoint somebody from Delta South to take over from the incumbent Vice Chancellor on the expiration of his tenure.

CUYO had in a statement said it will protest the move to zone the Vice Chancellorship to Delta South by the institution’s Governing Council.

UPUF, in a statement by Edirin Ererevwo, said: “CUYO did not speak for Urhobo youths and do not have the blessings of Urhobo Progress Union.”

Communities give Chevron 21-day ultimatum

M

EMBERS of the Gbaramatu, Egbema and Ogulagha Coastal Communities Front have issued a 21day ultimatum to Chevron Nigeria Limited to stop all contracts and dealings with their former chairman, Mr. George Timinimi or move out of their communities.

The notice was signed

by Mr. Mala, Isaac Gbenewei, Frank Keniye, Profit Omula, Barry Mulade, Tom Abanara, Timi David, Darlignton Agbede, Major Atigba, Mr. Friday Ugedi, Henry Agediga, Clement Komboye, Capt. Alex Yelemu, Goddy Miebi and Robinson Weimiegbe on behalf of the communities.

They warned Chevron to either adhere to the ultimatum or be ready for a disruption of its activities.

They said if Chevron refuses to comply, it should vacate all oil and gas installations within the three Ijaw kingdoms, responsible for about 65 percent of Chevron's output in its onshore and off-shore facilities.

2000 dump PDP for APC in Edo

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—NO fewer than 2000 Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, members in Edo State have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in Igueben Local Government Area of the state.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who received the defectors led by Eronmosele Aisabor, said the government had upgraded the College of Education, Igueben, to a campus of the University of Education, Ekiadolor.

He said: “I have come to assure you that in the next two and half years of my stewardship, there will be more good news for the people of Igueben. The future of our state would be replaced from the politics of wuru wuru to that of educating our people.

“That is why we are building schools. We need teachers who are properly trained to teach our children.

“We decided to upgrade the colleges of education to degree-awarding institutions to give people the chance of taking teaching jobs by upgrading Ekiadolor to University of Education. By that decision, the Igueben College has

become a campus of the University of Education.

“Do not listen to them when they tell you to decamp to a torn umbrella that had failed to produce any meaningful development in years. Did the umbrella build schools, roads and water? So ask before you

act.”

Mr. Aisabor said he decided to pitch his tent with APC because of the vast infrastructural development undertaken by the Oshiomhole government in Igueben council and other parts of the state.

Confab delegate insists on zoning

F

ORMER Minister of Lands and Housing, Chief Nduese Essien has again called on the people of Akwa Ibom State to respect and accommodate the demand of Eket senatorial district to produce the state's governor in 2015.

Chief Essien, who spoke at the reception in honour of Obong Victor Attah, former governor of the state, by his Ibibio kinsmen in Uyo, said in appreciating the foundation Attah laid for a peaceful and stable state, Akwa Ibom people must learn to tolerate and love one another.

He said: “As we celebrate this great leader of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria, we should not forget our common heritage as a people whether Ibibio, Annang, Oron, Eket, Ibeno, Obolo and so on, we share common ancestry and a bond that has fired us to build

a great state that all of us are proud to identify with.”

Making a case for Eket senatorial district to produce Governor Godswill Akpabio’s successor in 2015, Essien said such action will further add value to the foundation which Obong Attah laid for the state.

Essien, who was a delegate to the just-concluded national conference, said: “While we recognise and celebrate Obong Attah for what he did at the conference, I want to say without fear of contradiction that he laid the foundation upon which the present Governor Akpabio has anchored his strategic infrastructural development of Akwa Ibom State.

He said: “It is time for Attah and other compatriots to reconcile and work together to bring peace and development to the state.”

Ijaw Democrats take Ebola sensitisation to creeks

B

OMADI—IJAW Democrats, ID, a grassroots socio-political organisation in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, yesterday, said it will sensitise the rural communities in the council on the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease, EVD. Chairman of ID, Mr. Keneke Godbless, told newsmen that the current

scourge of EVD could be prevented through sensitisation with the right message.

He said: “We are doing our best as a socio-political pressure group to inform the people of the policies and programmes of government at the federal, state and the local governments; their obligations as citizens; issues and current happenings.

“We will deliver the right information to the people and make them cultivate healthy attitude. The services of medical personnel and other health workers will be on hand during the sensitisation period.”

Godbless called on relevant authorities to equip Bomadi General Hospital with necessary facilities to handle any case of Ebola outbreak.

Burutu PDP dissociates self from hate SMS

T

HE leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State, has disassociated itself from a bulk text message sent to members of the party in the council, which it said was aimed at tarnishing a particular aspirant’s name and reputation.

A statement yesterday

by Mr. Ozano Ayedi, Secretary, PDP, Burutu council, said: “It has come to the notice of PDP, Burutu council that some unscrupulous elements, who portray themselves as party members, want to tarnish the image of the party.

“The party disassociates itself from such uncivilised act capable of creating rancour.

“The party believes in the peoples’ mandate and never agreed to the bulk text messages to discredit one aspirant in favour of another.”

Okolugbo tasks youths on dedication

T

HE Commissioner representing Ndokwa nation on the board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development C o m m i s s i o n , DESOPADEC, Sir Kenneth Okolugbo, has charged youths of the state to continue to appreciate the e m p o w e r m e n t programmes being implemented by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan.

He said it was a thing of joy that over 154 tricycles had been given out by the governor through DESOPADEC and charged the Ndokwa youth body to reciprocate the gesture by using the tricycles for the purpose it was given and not to sell and misuse the funds.

Speaking at a programme held in Ukwuani Local Government Area, the head of the Okada riders association, Ukwuani chapter, a beneficiary, Mr. Aminu Egwali, thanked the governor and the Commissioner for the gesture.

44 — V anguard, TUESD AY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 Vanguard, TUESDA YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139

CAPRICORN; Love, romance and sentimental things can not be ignored completely today unless you want your concentration to waver .Be more enterprising in the business world Anyway success indicated for you today..

AQUARIUS; Happenings within your base of operation (both at home and at work) must be taken more seriously now, more especially as there’ll be competition PISCES; Both your mood and element of luck may not be as friendly as you’ll like.. Matters of the heart may top priority lists of some of you. But mind you your mood will change tomorrow.

ARIES; If financial success is your priority you’ll need to redouble your efforts today and tomorrow. Be protective of your possessions and personal family.

TAURUS; The Moon gives you the needed opportunity to assert yourself to the admiration of other people. You can make it a romantic day. Experiment with your personal ideas.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

T

HE holy writ ad monished us not to call the name of our creator in vain.

I guess you are asking, does that mean we should not call on Him even in time of crisis? Far from

Calling His name...... that. We can call His name but it should not be for unserious issues.

For example, how will you feel if your

TERROR MUDA

son is calling your name in vain every time? When he is in the toilet he calls you, when he is playing with his

in “Never say goodbye”

mates, he also calls you for no just cause, will you be happy?

Call on Him only when necessary, for example in time of trouble and He will deliver you.

By Lanre Kehinde

GEMINI; Here is your day when element of luck will work favourably for you. Secret lovers are in for an exciting and memorable day. Keep your secrets please.

CANCER; If you wait till tomorrow before you make an important move ,you may be disappointed , because tomorrow’s influence will bring you more challenges than you can rightly anticipate now. But greater success indicated for you today.

LEO; Very soon there’ll be important development along your career line. But today will offer you best of opportunity and good luck to achieve your desired results. Be more ambitious now VIRGO; Here is a loving day for those of you willing to give priority attention to matters of the heart. Planning for both immediate and far future’ll not be out of place.

And it’s good to think money.

LIBRA: This is the wrong time to gamble either with your physical cash or your source of income. Take nobody for granted. Take love more seriously

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

SCORPIO; Partnership related issues are becoming more important and if you try to sweep anything under carpet now, it’ll back-fire sooner than expected. Take your love life more seriously than before.

SAGITTARIUS; Hard work will not go unrewarded if not today very soon. Important development coming through your working arena soonest will place you at advantage position. The more practical you are the better..

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What’s my best colour?

Dear Joshua,

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

I want your in-depth analysis and tell me about my social life, luck and the time I am likely to have my much desired break-through in life. Which day of the week was I born. And importantly what is my best colour?

Anonymous Nigeria.

Dear Anonymous, You were born on a Saturday. What you will find hereunder will answer your questions Social life will always bring you attention good luck envy opposition and possibly fame. Aquarius and Leo are two most active social Star signs. And you will notice that your natal Venus in Taurus, Moon in Aquarius and Uranus in Leo formed T-Square aspects putting Venus as point-focus, meaning that the best way for you not to be constant loser in the social world is to always study situation practically and know that your finance will not suffer (if it can not be beneficiary) from the setting before taking responsibility.

As for influential friends you will have them but never always take them for granted.

Yes you can be a self made man but it is indicated that there will be times when both human and divine assistance will lift you up. You will have more to gain by your being spiritual .Saturday born people are favoured by BLACK and golden colours.

Sudden SUCCESS will come your way during your 44th year on earth and will serve as a break-through year you can build great foundation of endless success on. But the same 44th year will bring love related challenges you must manage with all maturity or else it will linger till after your 46th year on earth.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—45

We’ll no longer tolerate further insult on Ihejirika —Biafran groups

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

O

NITSHA — SOME groups from eastern states of the federation have unanimously condemned some northerners for levelling frivolous allegations against former Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd), to the effect that he sponsored Boko Haram insurgents during his tenure.

Among the groups are Igbo Youth Vanguard, Voice of the East Movement, Ogene Ukwu Ndigbo, Movement for the Emancipation of Ndigbo, Amalgamation of Associations of Eastern Youths and the Eastern Youths Solidarity Movement.

In a press statement in Onitsha, Anambra State, yesterday, and jointly signed on their behalf by Mazi Edenwachukwu Chukwudi and Echewodo Gregory, the groups noted that they were rattled by such a high level of allegation against Ihejirika, adding that it appeared the northerners were bent on attacking the easterners and Ndigbo in particular.

“While we want the northerners to desist from the allegation which they levied against Ihejirika that he sponsored Boko Haram insurgents, we also wish to promise them that their evil agenda will eventually become a nullity because we the youths will

not allow them to destroy our future destiny,” they said.

The groups commended Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State for his efforts at uniting Ndigbo since he became chairman of South East Governors’ Forum.

The groups said they had gone round the state and discovered that the governor had made a lot of impacts in the lives of the youths in the state by creating jobs for them.

“Ochendo’s records have proved that Orji is a true son of

Igbo land. He has done what Ndigbo needed by bringing peace and unity among different groups in Igboland. All his efforts towards bringing Ndigbo together is highly commendable and we are calling on other governors from South East and South South states to emulate him.

“We also felicitate with Ochendo for his concern and magnanimity to Igbo race. We are commending the Abia governor for his giant stride towards providing job opportunities for the youths of Abia State.

“After our visit to the state, we saw things for ourselves, the agricultural project, the cabs/taxi which he provided for the youths and even those who underwent training as barbers, tailors and shoe-makers, all of these youth empowerment programmes were organised by the governor. ”We commend his leadership style since he became the chairman of South East Governors Forum. We appeal to him to extend his magnanimity to the entire Igboland.

AGM: From left, Mr. Dominic Ichaba, Director; Jane Anyaehie, Company Secretary; Mr. Adedokun Sulaiman, Group Chairman, and Mr. Ganiyu Musa, GMD/CEO, all of Cornerstone Insurance Plc, during the 22nd Annual General Meeting of the Company, in Lagos. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele

2015: Traditional rulers, others back Elechi’s zoning formula

By Peter Okutu

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BAKALIKI — TRADITIONAL rulers, leaders of thought and key stakeholders in Ebonyi State, weekend, threw their weight behind Governor Martin Elechi’s power shift to the South senatorial district of the state in 2015 general elections.

They described the action of the governor as an act of inspiration, maturity and fair mindedness as it would foster the peace and unity of the state.

This was contained in the communique at the end of the peace and development meeting of leaders of Ikwo Noyo clan.

The leaders further called on

sons and daughters of Ikwo Noyo clan to remain steadfast and committed to the governor until he completed a smooth and successful transition on May 29, 2015.

The communique read: “We call on His Excellency, Chief Martin Elechi, to respond affirmatively to the tremendous clamour and agitation by citizens of Ebonyi Central

senatorial zone to pick the mandate and represent them in Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We call on his Excellency to create time and embark on the commissioning of some of the impressive projects he has executed for Ebonyi people so that the record of his legacy will claim a pride of place in history.”

Abia govt partners ADB on development ...as PPA lauds FG over intervention in state

By Anayo Okoli & Eric Ugbor

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MUAHIA — ABIA State governor, Chief Theodore Orji, has sought the partnership of African Development Bank, ADB, in developing Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the state.

This came as Abia State chapter of Progressive Peoples’ Alliance, PPA, commended the Federal Government and the bank for their planned intervention to address the sanitation problem and decayed infrastructure in the state.

Orji, who spoke when the

Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Ojkonjo-Iweala, led a delegation of ADB to the state, last weekend, said the partnership became necessary because of the massive decay of infrastructure in Aba due to long years of neglect.

The governor noted that his government alone could not fix the problem of Aba, stressing that the city needed the assistance of external bodies and agencies as the ADB. “Aba is a problem; it has been a problem, not now that I am governor. Aba problems made former Governor Mbakwe in old Imo State to be tagged a

weeping governor. That problem has been there.

“We are doing a lot in Aba, based on our resources. Even if we put all our resources in Aba it cannot solve the problems. The state cannot solve the problems alone, that is why we welcome you to come and help us. We will do our best, we will cooperate with you and give the technical team you need,” Governor Orji said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Country Director of ADB, Usman Dore, said the bank had proposed an integrated project to tackle rural roads, erosion menace and waste management in the two Abia cities of Aba and Umuahia.

The delegation, on preliminary visit to the state to see things, said that it had earlier dispatched some experts, rapid assessment team to the state to study the problems.

Dore commended Governor Orji for his consistent interest in partnering with the Bank, and promised that rural roads in the two cities would be strategically rehabilitated and updated.

He disclosed that the programme would cover over 80 kilometres of rural and urban roads, including federal roads, erosion control and sanitation projects, saying the project would be executed under the Integrated Rural Mobility programme.

DEMOLITION: Anglican Church‘ll never be allowed to premises — PG

By Vincent Ujumadu

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WKA — THE controversy trailing the demolition of the Ebenezer Anglican Church built inside the Oyolu Eze Primary School, Nkwelle Ezunaka in Anambra State continued, yesterday, with the President General of Nkwelle Ezunaka Union, Dr. Chris Eluemunor, insisting that the church would never be allowed to step into the premises again.

Addressing reporters at Nkwelle Ezunaka, Eluemunoh said the Anglican Church must leave the school premises either in peace or in war because on no account would the community allow the church to claim the school it built in 1978 and handed over to the state government to manage.

He wondered why the church should claim that he supervised the demolition of the school when he was still in Abuja as a delegate to the national conference, regretting that members of the church have been dishing out lies apparently to win people’s sympathy.

Councillors accuse leader of undemocratic practices

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

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NEWI — COUNCILLORS in Onitsha South Local Government Council Area have accused the House leader, Mr. Fredrick Ezenwa, of engaging in undemocratic practices.

The aggrieved legislators are particularly raising alarm over alleged lack of accountability on Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, which they said the House leader was conniving with a former council boss to sideline them in the running of the council.

Briefing newsmen on the development immediately after their sitting at the council chambers, Deputy House Leader, Emeka Akanegbu, told newsmen that the House leader had been running the house without regards to rules.

46 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Ugborodo group dismisses report against Ayiri

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A R R I — MOVEMENT for Equity in Ugborodo, MOU, has dismissed reports credited to Concerned Ugborodo Community that the Chairman of Delta Water Ways Security, Chief Emami Ayiri, has vested interest in Ugborodo crisis.

It also described the report as an attempt to smear the image of Ayiri, who had assisted law enforcement agents in ridding Ode-Ugborodo and Madangho of illegal oil bunkering.

MOU in a statement by its Coordinator, Mr. Amejuna Atete, said the allegation was untrue.

Atete said: “My attention has been drawn to a publication credited to Concerned Ugborodo Community Elders and Women at Home, where they made allegations against the person of Emami.

“As indigenes of Ugborodo, we view this as disparagement of the person of Chief Ayiri, creating the impression that he is the one fermenting trouble in Ugborodo, and most importantly. We see this as an attempt to smear his image. Ayiri, a man of history is vilified because he chose to assist law enforcement agents to rid Ode-Ugborodo and Madangho of illegal oil bunkering."

Kwara PDP crisis worsens zCourt restrains Olugbon-led exco from parading as Exco

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By Demola Akinyemi

LORIN—THE leadership crisis rocking the Kwara State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, took another twist yesterday as an Ilorin High Court restrained Yusuf Amuda Olugbon-led factional executive from parading as Executive Committee of PDP in Ilorin West Local Government Area of the State.

Chairman of the party, Iyiola Oyedepo was last week docked for contempt of court for alleged refusal to appear in court over his swearing in of the Yusuf Amuda Olugbon led factional executives.

Justice Yusuf will on Wednesday deliver his ruling on the contempt charge file against Oyedepo following his Counsel, A O Abubakar ’s application that process of filing and serving Form 49 was “defective and premature.”

Justice Isiaka Yusuf in the ruling also restrained the PDP from recognising Olugbon-led faction as Executive Committee of PDP in the council.

The Judge in his ruling, also directed the State Executive of PDP to “collect back any official monuments, cars, money or

benefits given to the 35th and 38th defendants (Olugbon and three others) as a result of their swearing in as the Ilorin West Local Government Executive Committee of the PDP pending the hearing and determination of motion on notice.”

The ruling followed a Motion

LEH—A woman leader and mobilizer, Dame Alice Okpokpor, has enjoined all Isoko women in Nigeria to stand behind President Jonathan in next year's presidential election.

Dame Okpokpor reminded the women that Isoko people have always been known to tow a progressive and positive position on issues that border on moving Nigeria forward. According to her, "ever since the time of the founding fathers of Nigeria, President Goodluck Jonathan clearly stands out as humble, kind and people oriented President.

She said Isoko women all over the world must pray for the President and mobilise their families and friends with the sole aim of ensuring that Goodluck Jonathan returns in 2015 since it is obvious from his performance that God Almighty has raised him to lead Nigeria to thepromised C M Y K

Oba Abdulkadir who had filed 27 paragraphs affidavit to support the applications, told the court that Olugbon-led faction had concluded plans to in turn swear-in ward executives, arguing that if the court “fails to grant to prayer, the justice being sought by the applicants will be jeopardised.”

MEETING: From left: Mr Dolapo Balogun, Equity Assurance Plc,Mr Emeka UgwuOju,President SESSPN, High Chief Edem Duke, Minister of Culture,Tourism and National Orientation, Nellie Onwuchekwa, ExxonMobile Nigeria, and Nuhu Yakubu, Deputy President, SESSPN, at the General Meeting of the South East, South South Professionals of Nigeria in Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau.

Bank of Industry moves against loan defaulters

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By Favour Nnabugwu

A G O S — T H E Nigerian banking industry may soon witness an upsurge in the repayment of loans, if the clamour for the establishment of commercial courts sail through as the Bank of Industry, BoI, is currently advocating to deal with loan

defaulters.

Managing Director of BoI, Mr. Rasheed Olaoluwa at the Senior Executive Course 36 of the Nigeria Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, in Kuru, Jos, lamented that some banks hadto close shops due to inability or refusal of borrowers to pay back their loans.

Okpokpor drums support for Jonathan's re-election

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Exparte filed by another factional chairman, Alhaji Toyin Olosasa and two others against PDP and 40 others against the purported swearing of Olugbon-led faction by State PDP Chairman.

Applicants Counsel, Mogaji

land."

She assured the women that the administration of Goodluck Jonathan will continue to have positive impact on their lives through initiatives such as micro-credit schemes for

indigent women and widows.

She thanked the President for appointing Dr. Sharon Ovie as a member of UBEC and urged him to appoint more Isoko women into positions of authority.

Olaoluwa who regretted the low level of loan repayment in the banking sector, advocated the establishment of commercial courts to speedily deal with issue of loan defaulting, stressing that most banks in the country had gone down because of non repayment of loans by the customers.

“We need efficient commercial courts. We need access to funds to finance our businesses, but we also need

Plateau APC repositions for 2015

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

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OS—THE Member representing Jos North/

Pharmacists task FG on health sector crisis

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ENIN CITY—THE Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, has admonished the Federal Government to take a holistic step in tackling the crisis in the nation's health sector rather than embarking on what it described as ''divide and rule tactics" which has always led to strike action by the different unions in the sector.

They argued that doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists

and other health workers are all vital to the survival of the health sector, warning against any attempt to make one look inferior to the other.

However, a recipient of the PSN merit award, Chris Iyare, commended the federal and state governments efforts at checking the spread of the dreaded Ebola virus, saying that this effort must be replicated in other areas as regards the health sector for

to understand what the financial system is going through. When a bank collapses, nine times out of ten reasons why it collapsed, is because they have not been able to recover their loans. I know there are bank cases that have been in court for the last 5 to 7 years with banks trying to recover loans that have proven very difficult because such cases are locked up in our normal courts. One way to address it is to have commercial courts that can fast track process for foreclosure of defaulting bank loans.”

the interest of Nigerians.

Speaking at the 2014 annual pharmacy week of the Edo State chapter of PSN, in his key note address, Dr Omeh Onuche lamented that the activities of pharmacists in hospitals and other health care delivery facilities were not being documented,warning that the situation was dangerous for the health sector.

Bassa in the House of Representatives on the platform of the All Progressive Congress, Suleiman Kwande, has said his party is repositioning to defeat Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Plateau State in 2015 elections.

Kwande also urged Party members of the party to bury their differences, re-strategize and work for victory in the forthcoming general elections.

The lawmaker who spoke with Vanguard in Jos during the closing ceremony/final of the 2nd edition of IGSR football for peace and unity tournament, noted the victory of the Party during the State local government elections was a pointer that APC could do better in subsequent elections.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 —47

PDP govs hold crucial meeting

NAFDAC commends Dangote Sugar over donation of vehicles

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BUJA — THE National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has commended the management of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, DSR, for its assistance to the agency with a pledge to further tighten the noose on fake and counterfeit products manufacturers’ peddlers.

Director General of NAFDAC, Dr Paul Orhii, who gave the commendation to the DSR management while receiving keys of four pick-up vans donated to the organisation by the company, said the gesture would go a long way to strengthen the operations of the agency.

He said with such assistance coming from a private indigenous company, NAFDAC could not but brace all the odds to rid the nation of unscrupulous elements posing hazards to the health of the citizenry through adulteration, faking and production of substandard products.

Orhii who gave insight into how far the agency had been able to curtail the activities of producers of fake drugs and other related foods described the vehicle donated as being timely.

According to him,“we are not unmindful of the enormous challenges of combating fake and counterfeit products. And we know how prepared are those behind it to thwart our efforts but we are more than ready to give it all it takes.

"It is our responsibility and we are ready not to relent not even with such encouragement as we are getting now. We thank you immensely and we hope other companies will emulate Dangote Sugar.”

In his remark, Group Managing Director of DSR, Mr Sule Abdulahi described the donation as part of the CSR activities of the company to improve the health care and well-being of Nigerians.

He said the vehicles were meant to ease the enforcement operations of the agency and help it perform its job excellently.

Sule said DSR would not have done otherwise given its position as leading operator in the sugar refinery industry in Africa.

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From left: Anyim Pius Anyim, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Governor Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu of Niger State; Umar Nasko, Chief of Staff to Niger State Government, and Muktar Shagari, Deputy Governor, Sokoto State, at the North Cental zonal rally of Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) at Trade Fair complex, Minna, Niger State.

Ajaokuta steel firm to begin production before year end L

By Boluwaji Obahopo

OKOJA — Ajaokuta Steel Company in Kogi State is set to begin production before the end of the year following the arrival of billets for the Light Section Mill (LSM).

Managing Director of REPROM, Achimugu Attah, technical partner of Ajaokuta steel plant, disclosed this while receiving the first batch of over 100 billets at the steel complex.

He said: “One of the major items we have been waiting for to enable us light the blast furnace is the billets which have started arriving into the company. We will continue to stockpile the billets until we have appreciable quantity of 5,000 before we can join hands with the management of Ajaokuta Steel Complex to light the furnace to commence commercial production before the end of the year.

"We are sourcing for the billets locally and internationally through our partnership with Greener Nations Foreign Economic Corporation.

"The journey of the production of iron wroths at the LSM section of the rolling mill started in March 2013 with the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the management of the steel plant and REPROM. "Part of the MoU was to also rehabilitate Thermal Power Plant and the Light Section Mill to enable the two segment of the company commences commercial operation."

Also speaking, the Sole Administrator of the steel complex, Isah Osobere, said the arrival of the billets would pave the way for trial production before the commencement of commercial production.

Osobere, who was represented by the company’s Deputy General Manager in charge of material management, Alhaji Musa

Abdullahi, said REPROM had fulfilled the MoU signed with the steel company, urging the staff of the steel complex to brace up for full operation.

Osobere, however, commended the Minister of Steel and Mineral Development, Alhaji Musa Sada for supporting the company to come back to operation.

Earlier, the Deputy General

Manager, Light Section Mill of the steel plant, John Bello, said all the machines in the LSM were in order and ready to commence trial production.

According to him, the REPROM will fund the production activities in line with the MoU, adding that the LSM has the capacity to produce 405,000 metric tons of assorted finished products annually.

BUJA — Governors elected under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, will meet at the Akwa Ibom State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, today.

A statement by the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio said the meeting would kick off at 4.pm.

Although the agenda of the meeting was not released to the public, sources said upcoming PDP primaries and the national convention of the party among other crucial issues would feature in their discussion.

In a related development, the PDP Governors’ Forum has congratulated the Governor of Katsina State, the Katsina State chapter of the party and the entire people of Katsina State on the recent peaceful conduct of local government elections in the state.

According to the Chairman PDP Governors’ Forum, “this victory further confirm the confidence that the good people of Katsina State have in our great party, the PDP, which they have kept faith with since the advent of the present democratic dispensation in 1999."

TETFUND releases N22.3bn in 10 years

By Demola Akinyemi

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LORIN — THE management of Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND, has said it released N22.3 billion in 10 years to benefiting institutions.

Chairman, Board of Trustees, BoT, of the organisation, Dr. Musa Babayo, who explained that the amount was an intervention fund to procure technical and laboratory equipment, lamented that the huge amount had no complementary effect on the organisation.

Speaking at the capacity building programme for laboratory technologists in tertiary institutions in the NorthCentral/South-West in Ilorin, Babayo lamented that some of the equipment were either never been installed, under-utilised or not being properly maintained by the respective benefiting institutions due to lack of training of laboratory technologists.

According to him, “specifically, between 2004 and 2007, N7 billion was allocated to technical and vocational education, while N15.3 billion was released in 2011 for technical/vocational equipment through the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to tertiary institutions.”

Represented by Alhaji Idris

Saidu, Babayo noted that it was imperative to match capacity building programme to funds allocated for interventions in all tertiary institutions to ensure optimal benefit for the educational sector and the nation.

At the workshop, entitled,

"Enhancing the Capacity and Productivity of Technician/ Technologists," executive secretary of the fund, Professor Suleiman Bogoro, explained that the fund was committed to delivery of quality and forward-looking intervention for the educational development of the nation.

DELTA 2015: Opone’ll sustain Uduaghan’s achievements —Ndokwa League

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AGOS — A socio-cultural group, Ndokwa League, has called on the people of Delta State to support the governorship ambition of Chief Johnson Opone to avoid losing the gains recorded by the administration of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan.

It particularly noted that Opone would ensure that the administration’s Delta Beyond Oil mantra is taken to the next level.

This was disclosed in Lagos

by Chief Nzete Ananyi at a media chat convened to mobilise support for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain’s gubernatorial aspiration.

His words: "We think that a prominent son of Ndokwa

League should be called upon to address the challenges facing our state today and unleash its huge potentials for the benefits of Deltans today and those yet unborn. Our positions and activities are conducted with high sense of humility, sincerity and commitment to our fatherland.

"We have in all sincerity and commitment to our fatherland assessed the gubernatorial aspirants in Delta State and concluded that one man stand out above others.

"He is no other person than Chief Johnson Opone who belongs to a class of new breed politicians with progressive political inclination.

"He has an appeal that cut across the political and non political class, youths, women and artisans. He represents the change we deserve."

48—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

VISIT: From left, Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan; Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, Dr. Steve Oru and his wife, Justina, during a thank you visit to the Governor by the Minister, in Warri, at the weekend.

CONDOLENCE VISIT: Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa with the widow of Late Dimgba Igwe during a condolence visit to the Igwe's Okota, Isolo, Lagos residence.

INDUCTION: Coordinator of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria, Abdul Mamman (left) presenting the Membership Certificate of Proficiency to Mr. Emmanuel Mene, during the Institute's induction at Top Rank, Abuja.

BIRTHDAY: From right; Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, his wife, Obioma and Chairman, Honeywell Group, Dr Oba Otudeko, at the 50th birthday celebration of the CEO of Ebonylife TV, Mosun Abudu, in Lagos, at the weekend.

EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME: Participants at the on-going economic empowerment programme of the Lagos State Government trying their hands on different vocations at the Badagry Town Hall, venue for the Badagry Centre, Badagry, Lagos State on Friday.

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SEMINAR: From left; Chief Funmi Ogunbadejo; Mrs Ebun Onabanjo, Guest Speaker; Mrs Toyin Ogedengbe, President, Band of Faith, Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Catheral, Ikeja, Lagos, AVMCC; Rt. Revd. James Odedeji, Bishop of Lagos West; his wife, Lydia and Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, Guest Speaker during the Band of Faith Seminar on Family Values. Photo by Diran Oshe.

PRESENTATION: Oba Ezekiel Babatola Oladele (left) presenting High Chief Isaac Ojo Fasesin, the Alagemo of Ipole Iloro Ekiti, and Eka Meta LCDA, Ekiti State with the certificate of office at the Iwuye ceremony in palace of Olupole. On the right is the Alagemoh's wife, Christiana Titilayo Fasesin.

RALLY: Thousands troop the streets of Abuja in solidarity with GIFT 2015, as they call on President Goodluck Jonathan to declare to run for a second term in 2015.

WORKSHOP: From left: Clement Nnedu, Head of Solution Unit, Coscharis Technologies; Mukoro Emomine Sunday, MD, Coscharis Tech Ltd and Ifeanyi Onyenanu of Solidworks Professional, during hand-on experience on Reverse Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Covenant University, Otta, Lagos at the weekend.

TOUR: From left; Special Guest, Osolo of Isolo, Lagos, Oba Kabiru Agbabiaka; Zonal Business Manager, Airtel, Lagos, Olawale Alao; Lagosbased Entrepreneur, Mr. Samson Adele, during the tour of the newly-commissioned Express Shop at Okota-Isolo, Lagos.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—49

Benin bans fake checks; carriers, military bicker T HE bickering between carriers and defence forces on Benin Republic roads, seems to be going in favour of the carriers. The head of state, Boni Yayi, last Saturday held a work session with the factions.

Vanguard understood that at the end of the meeting, the government decided to suspend road checks throughout the country until further notice.

Faced with the discontent of carriers, who are angered by

frequent checks by government forces, the president said until further notice, all checkpoints are suspended. Boni Yayi's decision was made public last Saturday, according to a statement from the Minister for the Interior, Simplice DossouCodjo.

Carriers said they wanted obedience to a decree that prohibits extortion which they said police and gendarmes subject them. Ministerial Decree

President Boni Yayi of Benin

No. 0525 / MISPC / SP-C of September 6, 2014 which suspends the roadside checks throughout the nation until

further notice, does not exclude any control on roads.

For other types of controls ,it requires screeners to provide

badges clearly indicating the nature of the transaction and the service bulletin signed by their supervisor.

Similarly, security searches and patrols will continue to ensure the safety of people and their property. This is essentially the decision after the meeting with the head of state.

The directors general of the National Police and the Gendarmerie were therefore instructed to ensure strict compliance with this measure to suspend checkpoints.

CAF suspends junior team for two years!

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LTHOUGH the CAF announced a few days ago that Benin would not be sanctioned by CAF, as following actions against the young players of Benin. The body

delivered its final verdict weekend. The sentence was heavy and difficult to swallow because CAF suspended the cadets Squirrels for two years.

In recent years, Benin Football

Federation has often shown class with its very smart and clever player recruitments. A few cases abound but were often veiled.

The few cases exposed were sometimes cleverly managed. This was one of the few times that the punishment befell the football world at the national level.

According to the decision of the Confederation of Africa Football, CAF, four players were earlier denied by the commissioner for the match, who also made the report to the body.

Malians had focused on a reserve against 13 other players. After investigations, the CAF overturned the reserve carried by the Malian team, but convicted the Beninoise team for fielding four players not qualified in the first leg.

Passports of the players Under the provisions of the CAF, only players born on January 1, 1998 or later, are allowed to play. But on the passports of the players involved, it’s was not so.

Indeed, Aron Ibiola born December 10, 1997, Ogoubiyi Oluwa, born October 26,1997, Oreko Evodius, born on December 24,1997 and Amoussou Tony, born on September 19,1997 should not wear the jersey.

In his closing speech, the Benin football body FBF acknowledged wrong doing, adding that the error was due no response from the CAF on September 02, which regulated age.

But CAF said the federation indeed received the letter containing the new provisions.

But before the Benin football federation said it got the letter, the CAF sliced and suspended Benin under the provisions.

50 — Vanguard, TUESDAY TUESDAY,, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 51

2015: Group urges Kwankwanso to join presidential race

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S the 2015 presidential election draws nearer, a group, The K w a n k w a s i y a Ambassadors of Nigeria, KAN Diaspora, has called on Governor Rabiu Kwankwasoof Kano State, to throw his hat in the ring in the presidential race.

In a statement, the group's coordinator, Dr. Ibrahim Emokpaire and the Director of Media, Ladi Vera-Cruz, lamented that nearly 54 years after independence, Nigeria still lacks political leadership with a vision that matches the yearnings and aspirations of the people.

The group therefore said the Kano State governor, Kwankwaso, has all it takes to bring Nigeria out of the doldrums.

According to KAN Diaspora, “There is no coherent national policy or strategic vision to build and maintain our basic national physical and social infrastructures. The decay in our national educational system has reached a new low that our graduates cannot compete with graduates from other emerging or medium economy. Life expectancy has plummeted due to abysmal and pathetic healthcare. There is no political will on the part of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP-led Federal Government to seriously address the perennial scourge of corruption in high places that has plagued the country unchecked for decades. ''Also, we note with dismay that the Federal Government’s approach to the menace of Boko Haram has been at best abysmal, inept and scandalous.

The KAN (Diaspora) believes that of all our new generation leaders, His Excellency, Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Executive Governor of Kano State stands out as an avant-garde progressive leader with deep understanding of our national mood and the uncommon courage and vision to halt the national decay that is plaguing Nigeria currently.”

The group therefore implored Nigerians to mount pressure on the governor to join the presidential race.

C M Y K

NCDMB begins probe of Arco, Agip dispute

By Michael Eboh

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HE Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, yesterday commenced probe of the ongoing dispute between Nigerian Agip Oil Company, NAOC, and Arco Petroleum Engineering Company Limited over the maintenance of Obob/Ebocha/Kwale Gas plants.

To this end, the NCDMB in a press statement said it has summoned the Managing Director of NAOC, Mr. Carlo Vito Russo, to a meeting in relation to the dispute.

According to the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Engineer Ernest Nwapa, the invitation to the Russo followed NCDMB’s receipt of a formal letter of complaint to it by Arco

Petroleum on the matter dated September 10, 2014 wherein the company alleged among other things that NAOC and General Electric “are ganging up to forcibly remove an established indigenous contractor like Arco that can prove its mettle in the maintenance of such hi-tech equipment exclusively for six months.”

Commenting on the intervention of the Board, the Executive Secretary, Nwapa explained that the Board would continue to ensure that the provisions of the Nigerian Content Act are adhered to in relation to any contract or operation in the Oil and Gas industry.

Couple of weeks ago, Agip Oil Company and General Electric were accused of

attempting to disregard directives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, in the award of contracts for the maintenance of OBOB/Kwale/ Ebocha gas plants.

Going by various correspondence between Agip, GE, NAPIMS and Arco, the Board of NNPC awarded a five-year contract (2006 2011) to Nuovo Pignone (now GE) together with Arco Petrochemical Engineering Company Plc, a whollyowned Nigerian company as the local Technical Partner, for the maintenance of the OBOB/Kwale/Ebocha gas plants. The Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) allegedly changed the contract terms and awarded the same contract to GE.

MEETING: From left; Malam Ibrahim Mori Baba, Director General, Nigerian Postal Service, NIPOST; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Communication Technology, Dr Tunji Olaopa; Commissioner of Science, Technology and Manpower Development, Bayelsa state, Mr. Ndutimi Komonibo and Minister of Communication Technology, Dr Omobola Johnson at the 3rd Regular National Council on Communication Technology, NCCT, meeting in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Arco which was used as a local technical partner was reduced from being a partner to a sub-contractor. This, it was gathered, was the beginning of a long chain of improprieties

by GE and NAOC against local firms in a bid to frustrate the local content law.

According to documents sighted by Vanguard, within one year of the commencement of the contract, the NigerDelta crisis erupted and GE expatriate staff had to be evacuated from OBOB/Kwale/ Ebocha. Arco’s engineers and technicians took up the challenge and successfully maintained the plants for six months before the crises abated and GE staff eventually returned to site.

In gratitude to Arco for managing the plants in its absence, GE poached 19 of Arco’s engineers and technicians, reduced the scope of Arco’s jobs and introduced third-party firms to undertake part of Arco’s scope of work in the contract with the sole aim of making it difficult for Nigeria to realise its local content dream as far as Agip and GE are concerned.

But GE in response to Vanguard’s inquiry through a third party, TPT said: “What do you mean by Arco staff? We are not poaching anybody. We believe that there are qualified and experienced Nigerians from all disciplines that can join the GE family. ''That is why we believe in training, technology and skills transfer. It helps the local economy and it is the right thing to do. “But when asked why recruiting Nigerians to fill expatriate quota and yet pay them low wages? It said; “See answer to question one.”

JOHESU wants FG to clarify issues with union

By Chioma Obinna

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EW weeks after the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, suspended its nationwide strike, health workers under the Joint Health Sector Union, JOHESU, has called on the Federal Government to clarify her position on issues purportedly agreed upon, which contradicted the agreement reached with JOHESU. In a press statement made available to Vanguard, National President, Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals, NUAHP, Mr. Felix Olukayode Faniran, who listed the grey areas of contradictions to include; the post of Deputy Chairman; appointment of Directors,

approved skipping of CONMESS 3 for Medical and Dental Practitioners, Surgeon-General, appointment of Chief Medical Director and circular on retirement age, amongst others recommended that to end the crisis in the Health Sector, Government should allow level-playing field for all health workers rather than discriminatory practices.

“Gover nment should establish a level of trust and implement agreements promptly,” he stated.

Faniran, who frowned on what he described as incessant strike in the health sector, posited that the NMA and similar unregistered bodies should desist from illegal strikes and learn to

comply with laws of the nation and relevant directives.

The JOHESU spokesperson, who further called for an allencompassing stakeholders Forum, posited that the fact that the first victim of the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, after the index (first) case, was a Nigerian Nurse showed clearly that other health workers are more exposed to hazards than medical doctors.

He added that the all encompassing stakeholders forum should be convened under impartial arbiters to solve all existing conflicts in the health sector.

Faniran, who stated that the general belief that patients only come to the hospital to see a doctor has been proven false by recent happenings in Nigeria called for team spirit

and team work.

“We should be embraced by all health workers and patients’ interest, rather than self interest be taken into account at all times.

Faniran also appealed to Yayale Ahmed Committee to conclude her assignment soonest and her report be implemented immediately to save the health sector from unnecessary rivalry.

While lamenting the Ebola outbreak in the country, he said: “It must be placed on record that the commendable efforts of Governor Babatunde Fasola of Lagos State and the Honourable Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu towards effective eradication, containment and treatment of the deadly disease.”

52—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

FERMA raises alarm over extortion on federal roads in Edo

By Gabriel Enogholase

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ENIN—THE Zonal C o o r d i n a t o r, Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, FERMA, Edo State, Engineer Ohre Agbro, yesterday, told Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,

members of the state House of Assembly, that touts, under the guise of Edo State Traffic Management Agency, EDSTMA, have been engaging in the collection of illegal fees from road users on federal roads in the state.

Stop name-dropping, Edo politicians told

By Simon Ebegbulem

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ENIN—A chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, and former chairman of Egor Local Government Area, Edo State, Mr. Crosby Eribo, has challenged aspirants of the party to test their popularity before the people rather than use the name of Governor Adams Oshiomhole to seek endorsement.

Eribo, who is gunning for the House of Representatives seat for Ikpoba Okhai/Egor Federal Constituency, spoke when he visited the party’s secretariat in Egor, with his supporters.

Pointing out that the party needs to field credible and popular candidates to defeat Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the general elections, he regretted that some aspirants, rather than “seek the support of members of the

party to win the primaries, have resorted to using the name of the governor and other leaders of the party to sing.

“I decided to run for this election because I believe that our people need the best to represent them so as to consolidate on the achievements of Governor Oshiomhole.

“We need people who will help the governor and the only way to do that is for us to produce our best 11 for the election.

“This is why I am worried when some aspirants use the name of the governor to seek endorsement.

“They should stop calling the name of our governor because Oshiomhole believes in democracy and not imposition.

“Let them go to the field and seek the support of our members and win the primaries like some of us are doing.”

Agbro, who was summoned by the Chief Festus Ebea-led PDP lawmakers to explain the level of compliance with the House resolution calling on the body to checkmate alleged recklessness and extortion by EDSTMA officials, said although the sole responsibility of FERMA was to maintain roads and ensure free flow of traffic, it was only the Federal Government that has the right to collect tolls on federal roads.

He told the lawmakers of the harrowing experience he had in hands of the touts, adding that he narrowly escaped been manhandled when he confronted them.

He said he had since intimated the authority of Federal Roads Surveillance Against Roads Abuse, FARSARA, adding “I have confronted them several times. They were ferocious; they even wanted to manhandle me. I had to escape from them. It is very bad to see them extort road users.”

The House, which also referred the committee to a petition brought before it by traders whose wares, worth over N200 million were destroyed by men of the state Task Force on Illegal Structures, also called on the state government to pay adequate compensation to affected traders.

Anioma 'll produce governor by divine arrangement —OKOCHA

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Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship aspirant for Delta State in the 2015 general elections, Chief Peter Okocha, has said that providence will make it possible for Delta North senatorial district to realise its quest of producing the next governor of the state.

Speaking with journalists at his Ibusa country home, Oshimili North Local Government Area, Chief Okocha said he believes that divine arrangement, which made Chief James Ibori to emerge governor in 1999, from Delta Central and Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan in 2007 from Delta South, will propel him from Delta North to succeed the

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Itsekiri-born governor come 2015.

Okocha, a business m a g n a t e - c u m philanthropist, said though there was no written agreement for political zoning or power shift in Delta by the PDP, divine timing and propriety support will ensure an Anioma becomes governor next year.

He said he was not seeking to govern the state because he is from Delta North, adding that he has the pedigree, comportment and competence to make a good governor.

Highlighting his political agenda, Chief Okocha pledged that he will adopt the Samuel

Ogbemudia, Edwin Clark model of governance in the former Bendel State, which placed emphasis on education and scholarship for the people.

He dismissed the distribution of bags of rice and motorcycles by politicians as unhealthy palliatives cannot improve the lives of the populace.

According to him, his strategic priorities if elected governor will be employment generation, wealth creation, massive investment in schools and health facilities, a c c e l e r a t e d industrialisation and mechanised agriculture as well as private sector involvement in social infrastructure.

Two Go .S. Justice Govvernor ernorss & U U.S.

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EWS about the activities of the in Texas and the country as a whole, Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, threatening a public officer in order to get ISIS, and the International coalition that what you want is an illegal act, although was formed to deal with the menace of the the governor had the authority to cut off jihadist group, almost drowned all other funds from whichever organization he notable items on the stable of the U.S. wished. In a nutshell, the governor is in media. Two of those prominent events in trouble for abuse of office by threatening the news that occurred as ISIS took centre and trying to influence a public officer to stage had to do with two U.S. state act the way he wants. In some countries, governors, one still in office and the other people of wealth try the same thing through out of state house. Let us begin with the bribery. As expected, Governor Perry maintains that he did the right thing, only latter.

Bob McDonnell used to be the governor that the charges were about the tactic he of Virginia. He ran for office on the platform used to do what his office allows him to of transparency, upholding the dignity of do.

The fate of Governors McDonnell and the office he was then aspiring to win, Perry show what is good about the being guided by moral principles and codes of good conduct based on his American justice system: no one is above Christian religious beliefs and maintaining the law in principle and in practice. Isn’t it a corruption-free administration. The a good system that can prosecute a sitting voters in Virginia were convinced that he governor who used his legitimate power was the person of integrity they needed illegally? Governor Perry may have exercised his power to cut off funds to any and gave him their mandate.

Earlier this month, the people of the organization he deems not to be worthy of Commonwealth of Virginia woke up to a financial support from his administration. different reality about their trusted former But, the law caught up with him in his governor. Bob and his wife Maureen were method of operation. Even as a governor, found guilty on multiple charges of he does not have the right to force a public corruption by a Federal Court in Richmond, officer to act in a given manner. Those are Virginia. Bob was indicted on 11 out of 14 the checks and balances enshrined in the charges while his wife was found guilty U.S. legal system to forestall the abuse of on nine charges, including the obstruction power.

How about some other countries, of justice. The charges against the McDonnells were about abuse of office by especially in the developing world? Can a granting favors to a businessman in Nigerian governor be taken to court exchange Can a Nigerian governor be taken to court for $177,000 that came in because he tried to arm-twist a civil servant to the form of resign from office just as Governor Perry is expensive gifts, lavish being prosecuted by U.S. Federal law officers? vacations and loans from. In other words, the because he tried to arm-twist a civil servant governor had reneged on his pledge to to resign from office just as Governor Perry run a corruption-free administration. He is being prosecuted by U.S. Federal law had mortgaged his sense of personal officers? How many Governor McDonnells integrity. does Nigeria have, and how many have Rick Perry is the current governor of been taken to court over official corruption Texas. He will not run for another term of and a judge had to guts to say: Your office as his eyes are now set on running Excellency, you are guilty! The U.S. story for the U.S. presidency on the ticket of the did not stop with Governor McDonnell.

Republican Party. This would be his second His wife who literally turned the state house attempt to campaign for the White House. into their private toy shop was also found His last race for the presidency ended in a guilty. How many wives of ex-governors fiasco as he dropped out of the race at the have faced the law, even when there is primary level. This time, he is expected to evidence that they participated in their be a more credible contestant. husband’s abuse of power?

Like all Republican governors, Perry is Yet, it was an abuse of power that led to on the camp that boasts of being guided the resignation of U.S. President Richard by biblical injunctions in the performance Nixon. Can you imagine President of duty. What got him into trouble has a Jonathan or President Uhuru Kenyatta of twist to it. It all began when Rosemary Kenya voluntarily resigning from office Lehmberg, a district attorney for Travis because the press carried a substantiated County in Texas, was caught driving under report that either of them abused the faith the influence of alcohol. The alcohol level the voters entrusted in them? If former in her system was almost thrice the legal governor McDonnell appeals the judgment limit. Lehmbert is a Democrat who, and loses, he faces no less than ten years ironically, is in charge of an office of public in jail. Should Governor Perry be found integrity in the state. guilty as charged, that will scuttle his Once report of her sobriety issues came presidential ambition and he will instead to light and she was convicted on that move from state house to state prison. charge, Governor Perry joined the voices In the American system, top government that wanted Lehmbert to resign from office. officials, celebrities and the high and But the governor went further by mighty in society who did things illegal threatening to cut off state funds to her will find themselves facing the sharp edge office if she didn’t quit. It was his way of of the law. In fact, such people are more pressuring her to resign. afraid of running afoul of the law than Incredibly, the lady refused to budge, and ordinary folk. It is easy to cascade from the tough-talking governor made good his grace to ignominy over a piece of illegality. threat. That landed him in trouble because

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—53

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—55

BOKO HARAM: Jonathan’s $1bn loan request

gets priority today — Enang zSays confab report will pass normal legislative process if...

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru & Joseph Erunke

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BUJA — AS the National Assembly resumes today, the Senate has promised to give priority to President Goodluck Jonathan’s request of $1 billion loan to fight against terrorism in some parts of the country, especially the Boko Haram insurgents.

It also promised to consider the most possible way of tackling the out-break of the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease, EVD. The Senate equally said it would expect President Jonathan to present to the National Assembly the Medium Term Expenditure Framework, MTEF, that will disclose his borrowing plans and the template for the 2015 budget.

Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Ita Enang, who disclosed these while fielding questions from journalists, yesterday, also stated that if the President decided to bring the report of the just concluded National Conference to the Senate, it

would pass the normal legislative process.

President Jonathan had in the letter addressed to the Senate President, Senator David Mark, which was read a day before the vacation, explained that the loan would be used to upgrade equipment, training and logistics for the armed forces and other security agencies.

In the letter, he stated: “I would like to bring to your attention the urgent need to upgrade the equipment, training and logistics of our Armed Forces and Security Services to enable them more forcefully confront this serious threat.

“For this reason, I seek the concurrence of the National Assembly for external borrowing of not more than $1 billion including government to government arrangements for this upgrade.”

Senator Enang said among other items that would be given urgent priority was the funding of police reforms programme pending before the Senate and the Electoral Act as well as

constitutional amendment.

He said: “Today, we can say that as we resume, we will consider the health challenge that is facing the country, the way it is just handled, the way forward, particularly the Ebola question, it cannot be unnoticed, it will be addressed by the Senate; then the request from Mr. President for $1 billion loan will be laid on the order paper for consideration by the senate.

“There was also another request

by Mr. President for fund to fund the Police Reform Programme that is still pending before us; we will also put that forward for consideration by the Senate. As we resume, we are all conscious of the fact that elections will be held soon and the time table, the prioritisation of matters will take account of that."

On how the Senate was expected to handle the report of the just concluded National Conference, he said: “When it comes from Mr. President we will address it in the normal legislative process, but we cannot speak on a matter which we are yet to receive because we do not

know the form, the time and the character it will come, so we will only speak on it when we have received it. As at today, I am not aware that we have received it.”

Fielding question on what position the Senate would take on the insurgency in the North East, Senator Enang said the issue had become a national security concern and that the Senate and the National Assembly would tackle it with all seriousness, with dispatch, with decorum, with secrecy in the national interest.

“As we resume, this is September, we are likely under the law of the Fiscal Responsibility Act to receive from Mr. President, the revenue frame work under the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the revenue frame work will state how much is he likely to spend next year, how much is going to be from oil, how much on non-oil, what is going to be the exchange rate, what is going to be the barrel price of oil estimate, the template, that will be submitted before us.

Feud delays take-off of 5 federal boards

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

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INGERING DISAGREEMENT between some ministers and the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation is delaying the inauguration of no fewer than five Federal Government agencies, Vanguard learnt, yesterday.

The affected parastatals, whose board members were announced on July 10, 2014, by the Presidency are: Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and other related matters (NAPTIP), Federal College of Chemical and Leather Technology, Zaria, National Research Institute for Chemical Technology, Zaria and the National Library of Nigeria.

It was gathered that most of the supervising ministers were uncomfortable with the lists of chairmen and members of the board recommended to President Goodluck Jonathan for approval by the OSFG and were therefore reluctant to work with such boards.

SERAP seeks exposure of alleged money laundering for Boko Haram

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WORKSHOP: From left, former Managing Director, New Nigerian Newspapers, NNN, Malam Haruna Mohammed; Managing Director, Kaduna State Media Corporation, Tamani Yusuf; Commissioner for Information and Home Affairs, Hon. Ben Bako, and Ag. Executive Secretary, Nigerian Press Council, NPC, Mr. Nnamdi Njemanze, at the workshop on effective coverage and reportage of 2015 general elections, organised by NPC, at ASAA Pyramid Hotel, Kaduna. Photo: Olu Ajayi.

EBOLA: NMA makes u-turn, says schools can resume Sept 22

By Emman Ovuakporie & Levinus Nwabughiogu

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BUJA — THE Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, yesterday, made a Uturn as president of the group, Dr. Kayode Obembe, told lawmakers and other stakeholders that the resumption date of September 22 for schools as scheduled by Federal Government was okay.

The NMA had previously argued that schools should not

be re-opened until all those under surveillance for Ebola Virus Disease in the country were certified free.

Obembe said: “It makes scientific sense for schools to resume on September 22 as proposed by government.

“All cases so far in the country had epidemiological link directly or indirectly with the first index case and apart from this linkage in Lagos and Portharcourt there is no evidence of Ebola Virus

Disease, EVD transmission in the country.”

Obembe, who spoke at an interactive session with members of the House of Representatives Committee on Education and other stakeholders, further explained: “We hope that all the remaining contacts in the list in PH remain asymptomatic and do not escape from ‘quarantine,’ then we should be fine for now while maintaining that eternal vigilance and surveilance.

HE SOCIO-ECONOMIC Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP has issued a Freedom of Information request to Mr. Godwin Emefiele asking him to urgently provide information about the persons involved in alleged money laundering through the Central Bank of Nigeria to fund the activities of the Boko Haram, which have contributed to the unlawful killings of innocent Nigerians and destruction of property.”

The group also asked Mr Emefiele to provide within 14 days of the receipt of the request information on exact nature and duration of any such transactions.

It threatened all appropriate legal actions under the Freedom of Information Act to compel him to comply with the request.

In the request dated 15 September 2014 and signed by Executive Director Adetokunbo Mumuni, SERAP said that “given the involvement of the CBN in this matter and the fact that you are the governor of the bank, we believe that you will be able to use your position and leadership to provide appropriate records and information on what exactly happened.

“SERAP is concerned about the damaging allegation, especially given that the CBN as a regulatory body has a responsibility under the UN Convention against corruption and other national laws to prevent money laundering in banks, and

to ensure that its systems are transparent and accountable to the Nigerian people.”

The group also said: “It is necessary to provide clarity as to what exactly happened through the CBN if the bank is to continue to play a leadership role in the fight against corruption and money laundering, and to enjoy the public trust and confidence essential for its effectiveness.

“Providing the information would also help to ensure full accountability for those involved in international crimes, and contribute to the process of providing effective remedies for victims.

“By virtue of Section 1 (1) of the Freedom of Information, FOI, Act 2011, SERAP is entitled as of right to request for or gain access to information, including information on any transaction or money laundering activities that may have been carried out through the CBN, and the said information is in the custody or possession of any public official, agency or institution.

“By virtue of Section 4 (a) of the FOI Act when a person makes a request for information from a public official, institution or agency, the public official, institution or urgency to whom the application is directed is under a binding legal obligation to provide the applicant with the information requested for, except as otherwise provided by the Act, within seven days after the application is received."

56 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Experts advocate biotechnology to boost food security

By Jonah Nwokpoku

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XPERTS and stakeholders on biotechnology have called for the adoption of biotechnology as part of food security measures in Nigeria.

The call was contained in a communiqué issued after a round table of experts and stakeholders on ‘Biotechnology as a food security option in Nigeria, benefits and constraints,’ hosted by EDU-LINK ‘Security and Biotechnology in Africa Project’ at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

The experts said, “Food security has continued to elude Nigeria in spite of previous policies and efforts aimed at improving food production in the country.

Nigeria and indeed all of SubSaharan Africa did not benefit from the green revolution and should not lose out on the biotechnology revolution.

There is a pressing need to improve the qualities of most Nigerian seeds, especially their yield potentials as the yield of food staple per hectare remain far below the global average. A combination of traditional and modern biotechnologies should be sustainably deployed to achieve this.”

Foundation pledges support for Olejeme

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VWIE — You and I foundation of Uvwie local government, yesterday, pledged its support for the governorship aspiration of Mrs. Ngozi Olejeme, describing her as a detribalised Deltan who has distinguished herself as chairman of Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, NSITF. The coordinator, Comrade Chidi Udensi, who spoke when Dr. Ngozi Olejeme and her campaign team visited Uvwie local council, assured the governorship hopeful of total commitment citing her unprecedented track records in the corporate world. Udensi who described the assignments as very tasking stressed the need for financial and material assistance to coordinate affairs of her campaign organisation in Uvwie.

Addressing the gatherings in Uvwie Dr. Ngozi Olejeme described her ambition as divinely inspired, assuring the people of Uvwie of major role in the running of her government come 2015.

EBOLA: Anambra, Edo, Ogun, Rivers, ready for Sept 22 resumption—Education Commissioners

By Amaka Abayomi, Dayo Adesulu, Daud Olatunji, Ikenna Asomba & Tare Youdeowei

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OLLOWING the insistence by the Federal Government, that the September 22 resumption date for primary and secondary schools in the country would not be extended, several State Ministries of Education have expressed readiness for schools to resume, stressing that adequate measures have been put in place to contain any possible outbreak of the deadly Ebola Virus Diseases, EVD, in schools.

Those that gave assurances of their preparedness were the commissioners for education of Anambra, Edo, Ogun, Rivers, as well as the special adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State on Information and Strategy.

Speaking to Vanguard, the Edo State Commissioner for Higher Education (Secondary, Tertiary and Technical), Barr. Washington Osifo, who said FG’s directive for schools to resume September 22, has been wholeheartedly accepted by the State government, indicated, “Yes, the September 22 resumption is not a fluke. It is already on ground.

Our judgement was based on expert information given us by those saddled with the responsibility of certifying that schools are safe to resume. We organised training for teachers on September 11, 12 and 13, across the three senatorial districts. This does not only include public school teachers, but also private school teachers and at no cost to them. Although, since the outbreak of the EVD, Edo State has been certified 100 per cent Ebola free, but the reason for the trainings we have embarked upon is not just to contain Ebola, but other contagious diseases that go with improper hygiene

common among children.”

Similarly, the Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Kate Omenugha, affirmed the State’s readiness to tackle the scourge even before the directive by the Minister of Education on September 5.

Omenugha said: “Even before the meeting with the Minister of Education, in Abuja, on September 5, Anambra has been proactive in preventing the EVD from gaining entrance into the State. At the moment, we have trained 1, 044 Head teachers of Primary Schools, 21 Education Secretaries, as well as 256 Secondary School principals. Today (Monday), my ministry is meeting with the Ministry of Health to further train about 5, 000 teachers this weekend. So far, so good, having met severally with relevant stakeholders in the

state, to clearly define what they should do ahead of and on resumption, we are indeed ready for the September 22, resumption.”

According to the Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Segun Odubela, “We are ready to resume on September 22 as proposed by the Federal Government. The training of teachers on how to curb the spread of Ebola, would commence on Tuesday and end on Thursday, at four centres in the state.”

On her part, the Commissioner for Education, Rivers State, Dame Alice Lawrence-Nemi, said the state commenced training for teachers on Monday. She said: “Today, we started the training for teachers both in public and private schools on the Ebola Virus Disease EVD,” adding

that “the training was done in all the senatorial districts of the state.”In the same vein, the Lagos State government, in a statement, explained its support for the September 22 resumption date announced by the Federal Government.The statement, which was signed by by the Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Information and Strategy, Alhaji Lateef Raji, reads: “Concerning the resumption of all public and private nursery, primary and secondary schools for the 2014/ 2015 session, Lagos State Government supports the September 22, 2014 date, which was announced by the Federal Government after a national consultation on efforts to contain the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Nigeria.”

L-r: Managing Director, Nobex Tech, Idowu Adeoya, with Devt. Partners from University of Greenwich/ Natural Resources Institute: Consulting Engineer, Dr. Andrew Marchant, Food Safety and Quality Consultant, Andrew Graffham and Business Expert, Cassava Adding Value For Africa (CAVA), Benard Siwoku, on their working visit to Nobex Plant in Lagos.

FG implements Naijacloud initiative in 36 states

By Emeka Aginam

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HE Federal Government, yesterday, said it would begin the implementation of the Naijacloud initiative in all 36 states of the federation in Bayelsa State today.

The Naijacloud initiative inaugurated in March, 2013, by the Ministry of Communication Technology is expected to create jobs in micro work, e-lancing and programming for the youths across the nation.

Minister of Communications Technology, Dr. Omobola Johnson, who stated this yesterday in his keynote address at the ongoing thirrd regular meeting of the National Council on Communication Technology

holding in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State said that under the initiative, youths in each state would be trained, adding that completion of their training, the Ministry in collaboration with the State government would establish a monitoring framework to ascertain revenues generated and jobs created from the programme.

Johnson said, “Our demographic dividend implies that the future of Nigeria lies in a productive and engaged youth population. Finding innovative, creative and sustainable ways to providing them jobs and enterprise opportunities to channel their burgeoning energies. ICTs provide a proven way to do that.

However, our desired better future cannot be fully realised unless there is cooperation and collaboration among the various tiers of government and other stakeholders.

“This requires an integrated approach to conceptualisation and implementation of the ICT policy. Areas of existing and potential cooperation have already been articulated and I know that together we can deliver the benefits of ICT to citizens, the States and the nation.”

ICT infrastructure, she said, must be built quickly and cost effectively all across the country, human capital that would take advantage of this infrastructure must be nurtured and

developed and products and services that engender the rapid penetration and diffusion of ICTs must be deployed at the national, state and local government level.

These actions, according to the Minister, would lead to the creation of much needed jobs not only in the ICT sector but in sectors that ICT enables as well as financial services, health, education, agriculture to name a few.

The Microwork for job creation event under NaijaCloud is primarily owned by the Federal Ministry of Communication Technology in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Education’s STEP – B (Science and Technology Education Post Basic) project.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014—57

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We all have roles to play in war against terrorism —OBANIKORO

By Kingsley Omonobi

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BUJA—MINISTER of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro yesterday said the war against the Boko Haram terrorism involved more than government and the military as every lawful citizen has roles to play.

The minister spoke on the occasion of the launch of the Support Our Troops Foundation held at Army Headquarters Mess, Abuja where an undisclosed amount of money was realized.

“At a time like this when we are faced with the challenge of fighting terrorism, our civic duty as citizens becomes even more imperative. As a government, under the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan, we have an institutional role to play and we will continue to play that role to motivate, inspire and equip our troops with all they need to become a 21st century army capable of dealing with our national security challenges.

“But as a Nigerian citizen, you have a part to play. You can say a word of appreciation to our troops today; you can say a word of prayer for them. You can help them with information.

Your expression of faith in their ability to defeat our common enemy is a morale booster that only you can provide.

"Those of us who are active on social media, do not talk down on, or ridicule the great efforts that our troops are making to protect and defend our country even at the risk of their own lives. And whenever you see a military officer, never underestimate the power of these kind words:" ‘Thank you for serving.' ” Speaking further, Obanikoro said: “I have always said that the war against terrorism is not a war that should be left in the hands of our government or our troops alone. I say this with the knowledge that beyond the efforts of our troops on ground, counterinsurgency is the art of mobilizing and winning public support."

By Luka Binniyat

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ADUNA—THE Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, yesterday, accused all former Nigerian leaders of northern origin as well as incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan of being responsible for the past and present economic, social, security and political problems of Northern Nigeria.

In a communique issued yesterday, after an emergency meeting of all northern groups, called by the ACF, in Kaduna on Sunday, the groups said that it was time for the north to defend itself against the security challenge facing its people.

The communique The communique signed by the ACF Secretary General, Colonel John Ubah (rtd) reads: “A meeting of leading Northern groups and Associations on National Security challenges and the North was held on Sunday, September 14, 2014, at the National Headquarters of Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF. The meeting was the result of efforts of Northern leaders genuinely committed to the interests of the North and the survival of Nigeria as a united indivisible, peaceful and prosperous nation.

"The meeting observed that the disastrous collapse of security around the population of the North East in particular and the inability of our armed forces to contain the spread of the insurgency represent a failure of President Goodluck Jonathan to protect Northerners and other Nigerians.

“In this context, Northerners have no option than to examine their situation critically, and take all legitimate steps necessary to improve their own security. “In the light of the need for unity of the North in dealing with the absence of security around the people, the meeting resolved to sustain the current efforts to improve unity of the Northern people through constant engagement of all groups and involvement of representations of all ethnic and religious groups in its activities”

Joint committees

He noted that against this background, the Arewa leaders have resolved to “establish joint committees on strategy and coordination, political matters and security, and support active mobilization of the population in support of all activities aimed at resisting the alarming levels of insecurity in the North,” stressing that “this is to improve awareness of the people of the North over attempts to emasculate the region and deprive its people of all faith and ethnicity of their rigths to live in peace.”

Jonathan's failure The ACF scribe further said

CONSULTATION: His Royal Majesty, Obi Ikechukwu, Keagborekuzi I, Dein of Agbor Kingdom (right), and Delta State gubernatorial aspirant, Mr. Tony Obuh, when he visited the Dein in Agbor, Delta State, yesterday. Photo: Henry Unini.

ACF blames Northern woes on Jonathan, past leaders that while “the meeting noted the failure of the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan to provide the necessary leadership and commitment in protecting people of the North, particularly those in the North East,” it has also decided to draw and “invite the attention of former Heads of State and President, General Yakubu Gowon, President Shehu Shagari, General Muhammadu Buhari, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar to recognize that they are severely under-utilised assets, and Northerners expect them to improve their inputs into influencing events around their security and economic wellbeing.

“We request the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives and all legislators from the North to note that Northerners expect them to execise greater commitment towards ensuring that President Goodluck Jonathan’s goverment is made more accountable to Northerners and the citizens of Nigeria in the manner it handles national security and the management of resources of the nation.”

Ubah also said that the northern elders “ remind Northern Govenors that citizens are dissappointed over their seeming neglect of the security and welfare of the people of the North. In the next few weeks, activities of joint committees will approach Governors and involve them in mobilizing citizens towards supporting all measures to improve security in the North, and will inform Northerners of responses of all our elected leaders”.

Politics and security On politics and security, the Arewa elders explained that “the meeting noted the need for improved unity in the North to mitigate the potential damage of partisan politics and attempts to use religion and ethnicity to weaken the region,” while adding, that they also “noted that the North has a majority in population, and should use this advantage to negotiate and support candidates and programmes that will address the current challenges of the region and its need for massive rehabilitation and economic reconstruction in the future.”

On 2015 On the preparation towards the 2015 general election, Ubah said that the northern groups “reject the recent allocation of additional polling units by INEC which deliberately conferred undeserved advantages on states in the south, pointing out that “the creation of additional polling units should be re-visited, using standard criteria that INEC is aware of.

“Attempts to blackmail and stampede INEC into abandoning its hallowed responsibilities to do justice to all Nigerians, or sacrifice the rights of Northern voters are hereby condemned. The North expects INEC to re-allocate the polling units in strict compliance with its standard guidelines without fear or favour.

“We reject any excuse to prevent any citizen from participating in the 2015 general elections. Similarly, any attempt

to secure extention of tenure under the cover of security will be resisted by people of the North. Like all Nigerians, Northerners expect the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan to provide a secure and safe environment for the 2015 elections, and avoid any attempt to jeapodise the democratic process in Nigeria.”

While stressing further on the political crisis pavading the nation, Colonel Ubah (rtd), reminded all Northerners of the contents of the open letter of President Olusegun Obasanjo to President Jonathan, and the allegations made by Govenor Murtala Nyako.

“Many citizens in the region are alarmed at the appreance of attempts to subdue them by all means. The North will not accept the status of a defeated region, and will continue to work with other Nigerians to preserve our collective legacies and the foundations of a just and secure nation”.

He also stated: “All political, traditional and religious leaders in the North are urged to educate and mobilize their people on the need to get registered and issued with National ID cards and Permanent Voters Cards. Every effort must be made to ensure that during the 2015 elections all votes must count, and the will of the people must not be hijacked or subverted under any guise.

“All road blocks in the North should be dismantled and removed immediatly, as they serve no purpose than remind Northerners that they are an occupied people who must submit to oppression and extortion.”

Vanguard,TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 59

BRIEFS Egypt jails Islamist leader, frees another

Cameron appeals to Scots to vote 'NO' B

RITISH Prime Min ister David Cameron is expected to appeal to Scots’ emotions on his last visit to Scotland before this week’s historic referendum by warning them on Monday that a vote to leave the United Kingdom would be irreversible.

With opinion polls suggesting the referendum remains too close to call, Cameron, the leader of the ruling Conservative party, which draws most

•Cameron of its support from England, will plead with voters not to use the referendum as a protest

vote.

“There’s no going back from this. No re-run. If Scotland votes “yes” the

UK will split and we will go our separate ways forever,” he will say, according to advance extracts of his speech given to media by his advisers.

Cameron’s trip is a last-ditch effort to try to persuade Scotland’s many undecided voters to reject independence.

Up to 500,000 people out of more than 4 million registered voters are estimated to be unsure how they will vote.

Islamic State crisis: World leaders pledge Iraq The murder of British support large parts of Iraq and “If this intervention aid worker David Haines

T

HIRTY countries have pledged to help Iraq fight Islamic State (IS) militants “by all means necessary”.

A joint statement by foreign ministers taking part in a major conference in Paris said support would include “appropriate military assistance”.

The talks had been called to agree a strategy to combat the group, which controls

Syria.

The meeting followed a whirlwind tour of the Middle East by US Secretary of State John Kerry.

Mr Kerry, who attended the summit, has been drumming up support for a plan of action unveiled

by President Barack Obama last week.

The CIA estimates that Islamic State has between 20,000 and 31,000 fighters in Iraq and Syria.

by IS militants, shown in a video released by the group on Saturday, has added momentum to the plans, says the BBC’s Lucy Williamson in Paris.

‘Bigger threat’ Iraqi President Fuad Masum, who co-hosted the conference with French President Francois Hollande, said the international community must pursue the jihadists “quickly”.

Americans endorse Obama’s anti ISIS policy

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OST Americans sup port President Obama’s plan to attack the Islamic State, even though a majority of Americans don’t think it will work.

According to a new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll, 68 percent of Americans have “very little” (31 percent) or “just some” (37 percent) confidence in Obama’s ability to degrade and destroy ISIS. According to the poll, Obama’s foreign policy approval rating is 38 percent.

At the same time, 62 percent of Americans support the president’s plan to act in Iraq and Syria. A separate WSJ/NBC poll asked people before and after Obama’s speech is they supported action in Iraq and Syria — 65 percent did before his speech and 68 percent did afterwards. The WSJ/NBC poll was conducted before the Islamic state beheaded British aid worker David Haines.

Aaron Blake at The Washington Post argues that there are two reasons for

•Obama America’s lack of optimism. First, between Afghanistan and Iraq, America’s record in the Middle East isn’t great. Second, the president has a history of being seen as not tough enough. That perception has grown

throughout his presidency — according to polls by the Pew Research Center, 38 percent of Americans thought Obama’s foreign policy wasn’t tough enough in June 2009. Last month, that number had risen to 54 percent.

and support to Iraq is late, that means that Islamic State could occupy more territory and the threat it poses will be even bigger,” he said.

The summit declaration said participants were “committed to supporting the new Iraqi government in its fight... by any means necessary, including appropriate military assistance”.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim Jafari welcomed the decision, but also said he regretted that Iran was not present at the Paris talks.

Last week Mr Kerry ruled out co-operation with Iran citing its “engagement in Syria and elsewhere”.

But Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei claimed on Monday that the US had requested Iran’s cooperation via the US Ambassador to Iraq.

“I said no, because they have dirty hands,” he said. He added the US was seeking a “pretext to do in Iraq and Syria what it already does in Pakistan - bomb anywhere without authorisation”.

Uganda arrests 19 Al Shabab militants

U

GANDAN authorities are holding 19 suspects arrested over an apparent terror plot, officials said yesterday as the security agencies continued an operation to dismantle what they said was an alShabab cell plotting attacks in this East African country.

The security agencies arrested up to 19 suspects and seized explosives as well as bomb-making materials in a raid Saturday on a suspected terrorist cell in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, said Polly Namaye, a spokeswoman for Ugandan police.

“We are calling upon

owners of businesses, especially entertainment places, to intensify their security,” Namaye said.

All the suspects are of Somali origin and Ugandan police and intelligence officials are interrogating the suspects, said Ugandan military spokesman Lt. Col. Paddy Ankunda.

M

OHAMED Badie, top leader of Egypt’s out lawed Muslim Brotherhood, was sentenced to life in jail along with 14 others yesterday on charges of murder and inciting violence during clashes near Cairo last year.

The session had been summoned for witness statements but the judge surprised journalists and others present by issuing a verdict. Badie, 71, is among hundreds of Brotherhood members already sentenced to death in mass trials that have drawn criticism from Western governments and human rights groups. The death sentences are subject to appeal.

This came as the country’s most prominent activist, who is facing retrial on a 15-year prison sentence for violating a draconian protest law, was granted release on bail Monday, lawyers and relatives said.

Iran rejects US coalition

I

RAN’S supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khameini, rejected a U.S. bid to coordinate efforts to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.Just hours after being released from the hospital following prostate surgery, Khamenei sent a series of tweets from his official Twitter account criticizing President Obama’s push to a build a coalition to “degrade and ultimately destroy ISIS.” Several international leaders have gathered in Paris today to forge an international coalition against the extremists. Neither Iran nor Syria were invited, according to the AP Khamenei called the strategy “empty, shallow and biased.”

Meanwhile, Diplomats from around the world pledged to fight Islamic State militants “by any means necessary” as Iraq asked allies to thwart the extremists wherever they find sanctuary. Iran and the United States ruled out coordinating with each other, leaving Baghdad’s government caught between two powerful and antagonistic allies.

Kurdish fighters capture more towns from ISIS

K

URDISH fighters captured more than a dozen villages from militants of the Islamic State group in heavy fighting across northeastern Syria, an activist group and a Kurdish official said yesterday.

Hassakeh province came as diplomats at a Paris conference tried to agree on a global strategy to fight the extremist group, which has captured large tracts of territory in Iraq and Syria.

Kurdish fighters have been repelling the advances of the Islamic State militants for more than a year in northern Syria. The battle-hardened Kurdish force, known by its acronym YPK, has been the most successful at fighting the Islamic State group, which has routed Iraqi and Syrian armed forces.

As Syria’s fractured rebels have fought a two-front war against President Bashar Assad’s forces and the Islamic State group, Kurdish forces seeking greater autonomy have defended their region against the extremist group, occasionally partnering with rebels to beat back the Islamic militants.

US, NATO begin military drill in Ukraine

U

S-led military exercises involving 15 countries were set to begin in Ukraine Monday, as fighting rumbles on in the restive east between government forces and pro-Russian rebels in violation of a ceasefire.

Heavy fighting erupted around the rebel stronghold of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine on Sunday, piling further pressure on a precarious nine-dayold truce between the government and separatist fighters. Large clouds of thick black smoke billowed over the industrial city as the boom of sustained shelling and the rattle of automatic gunfire rang out throughout the day, AFP reporters witnessed.

Donetsk council said there had been civilian casualties and described the situation in the city as “critical” but gave no further information.

60—Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

PDP NEC meets on guidelines for primaries •National caucus, BoT's meetings billed for today, Wednesday

By Henry Umoru

A

BUJA — THE National Executive Committee, NEC, of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, will meet on Thursday to brainstorm on proposed guidelines for the party primaries for all elective offices.

Vanguard gathered that ahead of Thursday's NEC meeting, the national caucus of the party will meet today while that of the Board of Trustees, BoT, is fixed for tomorrow where members of the two bodies would deliberate on the issue of party primaries.

Also, governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP will meet tomorrow to discuss guidelines where they would take a common decision and then present to NEC on Thursday A source told Vanguard that the meetings by the three organs of the PDP and the governors, became imperative as the

Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had directed that the presidential primaries of the various parties be held between October 2 and December 11 while campaigns for the election will commence November 16, even as the dates are in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act. According to a source, the caucus, BoT and NEC will at the meeting come up with dates for presidential, governorship primaries as well as that of state Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives and that of the Senate, just as fees to be paid for expression of interest/ nomination forms by aspirants would also be discussed at today ’s meeting.

It is also expected that at Thursday's NEC meeting, which is made up the President, Vice President, Chairman of BoT, Secretary of BoT, members of the National Working

Committee, NWC, the 18 PDP governors, State Chairmen, former National Chairmen and Secretaries, among others would discuss dates for the Special National Convention where the appointment of the National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Muazu who took over from Alhaji Bamanga Tukur as PDP National Chairman, January 20, 2014 would be ratified at the national convention slated to hold this month.

It will be recalled that Muazu’s appointment was endorsed by the 64th National Executive Committee, NEC meeting at Wadata Plaza, PDP National Secretariat.

According to a statement by the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio, the PDP governors’ meeting would hold at the Akwa Ibom State Governor ’s Lodge in Asokoro by 4 pm.

Although the agenda of

the meeting was not released to the public, sources said upcoming PDP primaries and the

national convention of the party among other crucial issues would feature in their discussion.

NNPC workers begin indefinite strike over pension

By Clara Nwachukwu & Victor Ahiuma-Young

W

ORKERS of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, have threatened to begin full blown indefinite strike in the four refineries and other NNPC subsidiaries including Petroleum depots from today.

This followed a deadlock of the meeting between the NNPC management and leaders of the two unions in the sector, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, over the revocation of the corporation’s closed pension scheme licence by the National Pension Commission (PENCOM), among others.

But the management of NNPC assured that it was taking steps to avert a looming industrial action by the corporation’s branch of NUPENG and PENGASSAN, saying PENCOM “has given a 12month widow for the corporation to comply with the Pension Reform Act 2014 as amended.”

Vanguard gathered that the union leaders had actually directed workers to begin the full blown nationwide strike from today.

The workers, through the two unions, are demanding adequate funding of the corporation’s pension scheme which PENCOM has already revoked the operating licence over deficit funding Turn Around Maintenance, TAM, of the four public refineries and restoration of crude supply to the refineries among others.

It was gathered that the branch unions had given the management up till yesterday to address the issues especially the deficit in the funding of the pension to no avail.

Vanguard gathered that a meeting called by the management in its desperate bid to avert the planned strike, ended in a

deadlock after which the union leaders directed members to begin indefinite strike from today.

It was gathered that PenCom revoked the licence granted to NNPC Pension Fund over failure to meet its requirements.

NNPC moves to avert industrial action

Reacting to the development, NNPC management, through Mr. Ohi Alegbe, corporation’s Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division said PENCOM had earlier directed the corporation to “immediately take all necessary steps to transit to the Contributory Pension Scheme under the PRA.” In a fresh directive dated September 15, 2014, PENCOM stated: “In order to accommodate your concerns, the commission hereby grants the NNPC a transition period of 12 months within which to ensure full compliance with the provisions of the PRA 2014”.

The corporation appealed to the leadership of NUPENG and PENGASSAN to exercise restraint while it embarked on extensive engagement with PENCOM to resolve the issues.

EBOLA: Shell donates ambulances, trucks, medical supplies

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HE Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, lent its support to Federal Government’s effort to contain the spread of the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, by donating ambulances, trucks, medical supplies and internet facilities to the Lagos and Port Harcourt Ebola Centres.

The Media Relations Manager of the oil giant, Mr. Precious Okolobo, said in a statement that the company’s anti-Ebola support initiative started in August and is ongoing with personal donations by staff into a special internal Ebola Fund.

“The donations made since August 16, 2014, include an ambulance to the National Ebola Emergency Operations Centre at Yaba, Lagos and another one to the Port Harcourt centre. Two trucks with three months fuel supply were also sent to the centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State along with medical supplies to the health authorities and the centres in Lagos and Port Harcourt,” Okolobo said.

He added that SPDC offered IT support to the centre in Port Harcourt, including six units of internet facilities and sixmonth subscription. The facilities, according to him, would help to back up the internet connectivity available at the centre.

2015: A-Ibom guber aspirant makes case for Nigerians in diaspora

By Udeme Clement

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AGOS— The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has been called upon to introduce diaspora voting system for Nigerians to allow them participate actively in the fourth coming 2015 general elections.

A governorship aspirant for Akwa Ibom State, on the platform of Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Robert Umoette, said this in a chat with Vanguard in Lagos.

According to him, "INEC should give Nigerians in diaspora ample opportunity to exercise this fundamental human right by voting for a candidate of their choice in 2015 elections.

“I believe that INEC is ready for the general elections coming up next year. The commission has demonstrated this in the conduct of recent elections in Ekiti and Osun States.

"The roll-out of permanent voter’s cards though with some challenges has been largely successful. The remaining phases should be improved upon so as not to disenfranchise any eligible voter.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 61

Emenike’s goal drought continues Uwua jets out to

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UPER Eagles striker Emmanuel Emenike’s goal drought has now extended to three games after the AFCON 2013 top scorer drew blank in Fenerbache’s 00 draw with Trabzonspor.

Prior to the Turkey Super Liga clash the 27year-old failed to score in Nigeria’s first two AFCON 2015 qualifiers against Congo and South Africa.

Emenike was on for 90 minutes before he was replaced in time added on by Selcuk Sahin.

His only goal so far came a fortnight ago in Fenerbache’s 3-2 victory over Karabukspor on the August 31.

Still in Turkey, Ex Under-20 captain Gbenga Arokoyo continued his fine form playing for the entire duration for Gaziantepsor as they claim a 2-2 draw against Erciyesspor.

Meanwhile, out of favour Super Eagles midfielder Raheem Lawal was yellow carded on the dot of 90 minutes as his team Eskisehirspor battled to a goalless draw with Galatassary.

On Monday, John Utaka will be aiming to be among the goal scorers when Sivasspor tackle Akhisar Belediye, and Godfrey Obaboana will be gunning for his first appearance of the season when Rizespor visit Besiktas.

Germany for course •Among five Nigerian coaches picked by NFF

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•Emenike (r) on duty for Fernabahce

Ideye: Coach demands patience

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EST Bromwich Al bion fans have been told to exercise patience with club record summer signing Brown Ideye after the club suffered a 20 defeat at home to Everton on Saturday.

While former Baggies forward Romelu Lukaku did the harm, their new Nigerian forward has yet

Coaches murn Ntiero

T

HE umbrella body of coaches in Nigeria, Nigeria Coaches Association (NCA), has lamented the sudden death of former coach of the Super Falcons, Effiong Ntiero.

In a statement signed by the secretary of the association, Solomon Ogbeide,

•Late Ntiero

ORMER Super Ea gles assistant coach, Godwin Koko Uwua, last night left for Cologne, Germany for a three week coaching course.

The Niger Tornadoes technical adviser is among the five coaches nominated by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for the refresher course sponsored by the German football federation, Deutscher FußballBund eV. (DFB).

According to the Benue State born tactician, the course is for FIFA licensed B coaches across Africa under the developmental policy of the German FA to assist coaches in the continent to upgrade their knowledge of the game.

the death of Ntiero was not only saddened and shocking but has opened a big gap in the development of female football in the country.

“He was one of the pioneers of female football in Nigeria. He worked tirelessly to make the Falcons a brand in the world after taking over from Ismaila Mabo. The foundation he laid is what successive coaches either in the Falcons or the junior teams are building on,” the NCA said.

The scribe lamented that the death of Ntiero has created a void that could take a very long time to cover in the development of female football, especially in the area of coaching.

to score since making his move in somewhat controversial circumstances after manager Alan Irvine claimed never to have seen him play before bringing the striker over.

He was substituted with Georgios Samaras in the 71st minute of the game.

Irvine has now stood up for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner, stating that he needs time to be able to match up to the prowess of Lukaku.

While Lukaku moved to Everton on a permanent basis for 28million Pounds, Ideye left Ukraine for West Brom at 10million Pounds.

“There’s a big difference between the two of them, there’s a big difference in terms of the money straight away,” Irvine was quoted by the Birmingham Mail .

“There’s also a big difference in terms of what they ’ve had to go through to be at this point.

“Romelu, who clearly has the greatest of respect here because of the job that he did when he was here, is a player who understands the Premier League.''

•Ideye

•Uwua “I will be leaving Nigeria through the Murtala Mohammed International Airport on Monday (yesterday) for a three-week coaching course in Cologne, Germany,” he said.

The former Flying Eagles coach expressed appreciation to the NFF for nominating alongside four others for the course as well as the management of Niger Tornadoes for releasing him even when the league is at a crucial stage.

“I want to thank the NFF for looking at my way, for nominating me for this course among the several qualified coaches in Nigeria. I am grateful for the opportunity.

“But my most sincere appreciation goes to my management at Niger Tornadoes. This course was planned for the end of the season in Nigeria but because of the crisis, the league was suspended and I just have to attend the course."

Spurs beat Liverpool to Yahaya’s signature contact with the attack- ment with the White Hart

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T has been reported that English Premier League club, Tottenham Hotspur beat two of their big rivals to secure the signature of Musa Yahaya, considered back home as the Nigeria’s answer to Brazilian star Neymar.

After Musa Yahaya put himself in the shop window at the 2013 Fifa Under 17 World Cup, representatives of Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur made

ing midfielder ’s camp regarding a deal.

La Liga powerhouses Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid were also keeping tabs on the Mutunchi Academy ace before they both pulled out of the race because of the strong interest from England.

From the word go, Tottenham Hotspur were front runners for the 16year-old’s signature after his representative reached a verbal agree-

Lane outfit in Dubai during the FIFA Under 17 World Cup.

•Yahaya,

62 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

UEFA Champions League Ancelotti: Real can make history by retaining title C ARLO Ancelotti believes Real Madrid can make history by becoming the first team to retain the Champions League.

Real finally won their tenth European crown last season after a 12year wait, beating rivals Atletico Madrid in the final, and the Italian manager is aware of the difficulty of repeating the feat.

‘The statistics suggest that we are not favourites as no team have won the Champions League twice in a row,’ Ancelotti told Corriere dello Sport.

‘But we can repeat last year ’s success, that

would be great. The Decima was a dream for Madrid followers everywhere. The 11th would be the dream of all dreams.

Ancelotti has now won the Champions League three times, a figure only Bob Paisley can match, but the former AC Milan boss admitted that Madrid’s European rivals had not been idol this summer.

He said: ‘Chelsea are the team which have strengthened most this summer. They signed the phenomenon that is Diego Costa, then brought on board Cesc Fabregas, Filipe Luis and Thibaut Courtois. They ’ve improved a lot.’

Ronaldo could re-join United, says Calderon

C

RISTIANO Ronaldo has become increasingly frustrated with life at Real Madrid, and could be interested in a sensational move back to Manchester United, according to the European champions’ former president Ramon Calderon.

‘When he came [to Real Madrid] with [Arjen] Robben he thought he would be a good colleague for him in the team [but then he was sold]. ‘[Gonzalo] Higuain was sold and he didn’t like that. Last year he thought it was a mistake to let [Mesut] Ozil leave and the last straw was selling Xabi Alonso and Angel di Maria this summer.’

Rodgers: Liverpool will treat Ludogorets with respect

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IVERPOOl manag er Brendan Rodgers has promised to treat Champions League outsiders Ludogorets with the utmost respect when the little-known Bulgarian side make their debut in the group stage of the competition at Anfield today.

“We’ll respect them like we would if we were playing Real Madrid,” Rodgers told a news conference on Monday.

Saturday’s 1-0 home

defeat by Aston Villa should help the Premier League side avoid any complacency and the manner of it convinced Rodgers that his new-look defence must improve.

Liverpool have kept a clean sheet in only one of their four games this season and two in 13 going back to last March.

Juventus expect tough Malmo challenge

•Balloteli

Wenger plots Dortmund’s fall J

•Ozil (l) celebrates with teammate

ACK Wilshere and Danny Welbeck looked focused as Arsenal trained prior to today ’s Champions League group stage clash against Borussia Dortmund.

Wilshere scored and played outstandingly in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Manchester City on Saturday, while Welbeck enjoyed an encouraging debut before limping off with

cramp.

The former Manchester United striker looked to have recovered from the injury though as Arsene Wenger put his side through their paces on yesterday in preparation for the Gunners’ match against the German side at the Westfalenstadion.

The Arsenal manager will hope Wilshere can carry on his good form, saying after the City match: ‘He has found his pace back.

J

U V E N T U S d e f e n d e r Giorgio Chiellini was not wanting to get ahead of himself as the Bianconeri look to get it right in Europe against Malmo tonight.

The Serie A champions are desperate to go further in Europe this season than they did last time around, when they were knocked out in the group stage, and two disappointing results against Scandinavian opponents have stuck in his mind.

Dortmund can reach the Champions League final – Mkhitaryan

B

•Balloteli

ORUSSIA Dort mund attacker Henrikh Mkhitaryan is confident his side have the “necessary strength” to reach the Champions League final this season.

The Bundesliga giants reached the final of the European competition in 2012-13, losing to league rivals Bayern Munich at Wembley, and it took the grit of eventual winners

Real Madrid to knock Jurgen Klopp’s side out the following season.

And Mkhitaryan believes his side have what it takes to go all the way again this term, insisting

they will do their utmost to do so.

“Why not?” the Armenia international told Kicker when asked if his side could feature in this season’s final in Berlin.

•Chiellini

Vanguard, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 — 63

Van Gaal: ‘this is just the beginning’

A

NGEL Di María winks at Louis Van Gaal after the Manchester United forward was substituted near the end of the victory over QPR. Louis van Gaal hailed a “fantastic” Manchester United performance but insisted his team will be much better and hopes

they will end as the Premier League’s highest scorers after Queens Park Rangers were defeated 4-0 at Old Trafford.

The victory was the first win of the season for United and the Dutchman, at the fifth attempt.

By the close Wayne

Babayaro Continues from BP rific, but I have always maintained, an average Nigerian myself inclusive, we are very sentimental people and football and sentiments don’t go together.

“That is why we have this situation where Keshi never invites the best hands, for one sentimental reason or the other.

On a good day, somebody else without sentiments would have invit-

ed every other person.”

“We have to bring the players. They will create competition which at the end of the day makes every other player better.”

Criticisms have mounted over Keshi’s non-inclusion of Villarreal striker Ikechukwu Uche, saying recently that the player has said he should be begged before he would return to play for Nigeria.

Rooney, Robin van Persie, Juan Mata, Radamel Falcao and Ángel di María had illustrated the attacking riches now at Van Gaal’s disposal.

Ugbade Continues from BP Iheanacho included in subsequent Super Eagles squads has intensified following his impressive pre-season with the English champions and

most recently, Columbus Crew in the USA, which has coincided with a poor run of form by the African champions.

And Ugbade, who is one of the coaches working with Iheanacho at

Siasia Continues from BP up the midfielder for the 2005 FIFA U20 World Cup and then dropped him for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, said that Mikel does not welcome criticisms.

“Someone would have to talk to him. But to talk to Mikel, you have to be ready for your own beating,” Siasia told Africanfootball.com.

This further confirms the awesome playerpower the Chelsea star wields in the Super Eagles.

Siasia said that it will be up to Mikel to take

the responsibility to step up his game.

“From what we have seen and what people are talking about, they don’t think he is giving his best. But he should be able to criticise himself,” argued the coach.

“He should do a selfcritique. If he believes he is not doing well, he has to try and up his game.

“He has been watching the games from the World Cup, if he thinks he is not doing well, why is he not scoring, he has to be able to look at those videos and see the

areas he needs to improve on.

“Nobody has to tell him. He is a professional. So, I am not going to criticise him. He has done well for this country but if he is not doing well like he used to, then something has to be done.”

Siasia equally conceded he is “confused” about whether the best position for the player is as a defensive or attacking midfielder.

“I am actually confused on that one, I don’t know anymore,” he admitted.

Nigeria’s U20, says the former Taye Academy starlet can do a job with the Eagles.

“Kelechi (Iheanacho) can do a job with the Super Eagles if he’s called, I believe so. He’s such a talented kid and has a bright future ahead of him,” Ugbade said.

The 17-year old hasn’t made Manchester City’s squad for this season’s English Premier League but is still highly regarded at the Etihad especially by manager Manuel Pellegrini.

“As a defensive midfield player, it doesn’t mean you should not go forward or try to take some shots at goal. (Nemanja) Matic is doing it, Ramires is doing it, so how come Mikel is not doing it? Why can’t he cover the box-to-box play. If you don’t get into the box, you can never shoot at goal. So, that is his problem.”

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2014

Iheanacho good for Eagles — Ugbade A

S the call for the graduation of Kelechi Iheanacho to the Super Eagles intensifies, former Nigeria international

Nduka Ugbade says the Manchester City youngster is ready for the senior side if needed.

The calls to have Continues on Page 61

No Nigerian good to coach Eagles —Babayaro E

X-INTERNA TIONAL Emmanuel Babayaro has declared that no Nigerian coach is good enough to handle the Super Eagles.

Babayaro added that he was never convinced from the onset that Stephen Keshi was the right man for the Eagles job.

“I don’t think Keshi is the man for the job. I never thought any Nigerian coach is the right person for the Eagles.

And note this, it has nothing to do with their ability as coaches. As coaches they may be ter Continues on Page 61

Why coaches fear Mikel — Siasia F

I'm proud of you — Stephen Keshi congratulates Mikel for a job well done.

Is he telling Mikel the truth?

ORMER Super Ea gles coach Samson Siasia has warned that anyone who wishes to talk to Mikel Obi to raise his game, should equally be ready to take a slagging from the Chelsea star.

Mikel has come under intense criticisms following his recent sluggish displays for the Super Eagles.

And Siasia, who lined

Continues on Page 61

•Siasia

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 2 Guide (5) 7 Swim (5) 8 Tree (5) 10 Go in (5) 12 Intimidate (3) 13 Drugged (5) 15 Ebbed (7) 17 Bred (6) 19 Bed (3) 20 Lodge (7) 23 Encounter (4) 25 Bludgeon (4) 26 Ousted (7) 30 Child (3) 31 Purify (6) 34 Told (7) 37 Wine (5) 38 Boy (3) 39 Outcoming (5) 40 Sham (5) 41 Stormed (5) 42 Fishing-basket (5)

DOWN 1 Boat (5) 2 Absolute (5) 3 Nursed (6) 4 Always (4) 5 Hermit (7) 6 Drain (5) 9 Seed-case (3) 11 Regain (7) 13 Play (5) 14 Walked (5) 16 Lettuce (3) 18 Dedicated (7) 21 Pick-me-up (5) 22 Gloss (5) 24 Lockjaw (7) 27 Vessel (3) 28 Shy (6) 29 Broom (5) 32 Deadly (5) 33 Famous (5) 35 Record (3) 36 Expensive (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 2, Outer 7, Fold 8, Uneven 9, Dunce 11, Cup 13, Aim 15, Omit 16, Lie 18, Undo 19, Recluse 20, Frog 22, Emit 23, Tornado 25, Reed 27, Tie 28, Knee 30, Mad 31, End 33, Nylon 36, Debate 37, Onus 38, Wager,

DOWN: 1, Forum 2, Odd 3, Tin 4, Rue 5, Wed 6, Fetid 10, Chic 11, Confirm 12, Piloted 13, Anemone 14, Mottled 16, Leant 17, Elude 18, Use 21, God 24, Airy 26, Eager 29, Ensue 32, Vat 33, New 34, Lug 35, Nor.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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