Biafra: Nigeria remains one nation, says Buhari

...towards a better life for the people

**

VOL. 25: NO. 62629

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Why we ignored calls for naira devaluation,

by CBN 9

TSA: Attorney-General, CBN meet SystemSpecs, banks 21 over fees

Biafra: Nigeria remains one nation, says Buhari •Ohanaeze, others outlaw Eze Ndigbo in Diaspora •Pro-Biafra group protests in Umuahia, Nnamdi Kanu’s home •We must restructure Nigeria now — Okorocha •I’ll be alive to actualize Biafra — Uwazuruike •Army vows to crush acts of felony, if...

ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE: President Muhammadu Buhari (right) being decorated by the National Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Col. Micah Gayya (retd) while the Defence Minister, Brig.

Gen. Muhammad Dan-Ali (left) looks on during the official launch of the 2016 Emblem for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the Aso Chambers, State House, Abuja, yesterday.

Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

5 Africans killed in Paris attacks; Hollande vows to destroy ISIS — P.51 COLUMNISTS: FLOOD: In C-River school, students stand on desks, Corruption war, double standard chairs See Inside

C M Y K

Papa Eaglets and our cheating and human rights culture •P.20 •P.17 abuses

Students' power •P.46

By Clifford Ndujihe, Evelyn Usman, Anayo Okoli, Charles Kumolu, Jude Opara, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Nwabueze Okonkwo, Francis Igata & MarieTherese Nanlong

L

AGOS — DISTURBED by what increasing protests and agitation for a Biafra Republic portend, leaders of the apex Igbo socio-

Continues on Page 5

Govs to Commonwealth Buhari: appoints We must Jonathan diversify mediator in our Tanzania election economy stalemate 9

Mr & Mrs

2—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—3

C M Y K

4—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—5

POCKET CARTOON

THANK YOU TOUR: From left, National Chairman, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Dr. Victor Oye, Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State; Deputy Governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke and former National Chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, during the governor ’s thank you tour to Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State.

Biafra: Nigeria remains one nation, says Buhari Continues from Page 1

cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and some affiliate groups have resolved to embark on wide consultations with all stakeholders to take a common position on the issue.

This was one of the decisions the leaders took after a two-day meeting in Lagos, yesterday, sources at the meeting told Vanguard.

The leaders, including Ohanaeze PresidentGeneral, Chief Gary Enwo Igariwey; Professor George Obiozor; Second Republic politician, Chief Guy Ikokwu; National Secretary, Ohanaeze Youths, Okwu Nnabuike among others, when asked their view on Biafra, declined comments until the end of the consultations "in a few days."

However, to ensure harmonious relations

between Ndigbo and their hosts all over the world, especially in Nigeria, they prohibited the crowning of Eze Ndigbo outside Igboland.

They specifically prohibited the use of the following appellations: His Royal Majesty, His Royal Highness, His Highness and His Imperial Majesty.

This came as President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, said that in spite of challenges, Nigerians are determined to remain together as a united country just as the pro-Biafra protests continued in Umuahia, the Abia State capital and at Nnamdi Kanu’s home.

Nnamdi Kanu is the Director of Radio Biafra, who is still being detained by the Federal Government.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Army has vowed to crush any insurrection and restore law and order, if

IT'S UP TO YOU

BY AYO ADIO HE most significant step in the journey to success is the first step, be bold to take it and never stop moving. It’s up to you.

T

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Someone will always be prettier. Someone will always be smarter. Someone will always be younger.

But they’ll never be you — Take Heart Quotes

N

O matter what you do, you can pretty much always find someone else in the world that has more than you or better than you at something.

Yes, you may feel good for a while when you get a nicer car than your neighbour. But a week or two later, you’ll see someone from the next block with an even finer car. Instead of comparing yourself to other people, create the habit of comparing yourself to you. See how much you have grown, what you have achieved and what progress you have made.

SAYINGS OF OUR PEOPLE

W

HEN an old market woman falls, we can count the items in her basket.

called upon as Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, after listening to leaders of the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, called for urgent restructuring of the country to contain the widening disquiet and discontent.

Ohanaeze consults on Biafra, outlaws Eze Ndi Igbo in diaspora It was gathered that given the sensitivity of the Biafra matter, Ohanaeze leaders have commenced consultations with prominent Igbo leaders on how to have a common stand on the issue.

Said the source: "Ohanaeze and some statesmen in Igbo land are being circumspect.

But I can tell you that they are not on the same page on this sensitive matter.

The good thing is that they want the country restructured in line with the recommendations of the National Confab.

"The South-East deserves an equitable share in this country, but as things are today, the zone is obviously marginalised. That is what those boys are protesting for. They want a country where every region will be treated fairly. I can assure you that Ndigbo will speak with one voice on the issue in a matter of days.”

In the interim, Ohanaeze Ndigbo outlawed the crowing of Eze Ndigbo outside Igboland, warning that no Igbo leader in diaspora should flaunt himself as a traditional ruler.

The group said at a forum jointly convened by the Igbo-speaking Community Lagos State, Aka Ikenga, Otu Okaiwu and Ndigbo Lagos to address the controversies surrounding the existence of Eze Igbo in diaspora.

A communiqué signed

by Igariwey; National Secretary of Ohanaeze Youth Wing, Mr. Okwu Nnabuike and other Igbo leaders in attendance, warned that any Eze found violating the order on the crowning of Eze Ndi-Igbo would be sanctioned.

The statement read in part: "Under the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo on November 15, 2015, it was agreed that the crowning of Eze Ndi-Igbo outside Igbo land is hereby prohibited until the final regulation and pronouncement by the apex body of Ndi Igbo leadership.

"None of the Ezes has any right whatsoever to use the appellations of the title: His Royal Majesty, His Royal Highness, His Highness and His Imperial Majesty. None of the Ezes has any right whatsoever to use such titles on their complimentary cards and signboards.”

Our people want to remain together — Buhari Speaking at the launching of the 2016 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem at the Presidential Villa, Buhari said: “Today ’s occasion reminds us of the need to appreciate the noble contributions of our fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice to maintain national and international peace and security.

“Our nation has recently celebrated 55 years of political independence and continues to remain as one indivisible entity despite several grievous challenges.

Since independence, Nigeria has witnessed a lot of internal strife, survived a civil war and has remained united.

“This feat achieved by the country is an eloquent testimony to the determination of our citizens to remain as one people. The sacrifices of our fallen heroes, heroines, and veterans who rose up to the security challenges cannot go unnoticed.

Pro-Biafra group protest in Umuahia,

Nnamdi Kanu’s Government had said in a home town radio announcement that Pro-Biafra protesters, yesterday, carried their "release Nnamdi-Kanu" protest to Umuahia and the home town of Nnamdi Kanu, marching through the major streets of the city under the watch of security agents.

The protesters, who are members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and MASSOB demanded the release of the promoter of Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, who was arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged anti-Nigerian Government comments on Radio Biafra.

The march in Umuahia was part of the threat by the pro-Biafra groups to take the protest to all the states of the South-East before going to Abuja, if Kanu was not released.

However, economic and social activities were not disrupted as offices, markets and shops remained open as residents went about their normal businesses.

Numbering about 500, the protesters peacefully marched through Isi Court in Umuahia South Local Council, through Aba and Umuwaya, Bende and Enugu roads.

They marched around the city carrying the portrait of Kanu and the Biafran flag while chanting songs of freedom.

Meanwhile, before the arrival of the protesters, a combined team of security agencies including police, army and civil defence had mounted surveillance at strategic locations in the city like the Government House and Isi Gate even as convoy of heavily armed security personnel patrolled the city with armoured personnel carrier.

Earlier, before the protesters surfaced, Abia

it received disturbing reports that some people under the aegis of MASSOB had planned to disrupt the peace of Umuahia on Monday, and alleged that it was being sponsored by an unnamed politician.

Signed by the new I n f o r m a t i o n Commissioner, Comrade Bonnie Iwuoha, the government said: “While appreciating the rights of citizens to air their views in a democracy, government will not condone lawless acts that could impede the progress of the State."

Release Kanu, Ibeku monarchs urge FG Traditional rulers from Ibeku Ancient Kingdom have appealed to the Federal Government to release one of their subjects, Nnamdi Kanu.

According to the traditional rulers, their appeal was based on the fact that Kanu has the right to express his views in a democratic environment.

The Ibeku monarchs who spoke through the chairman of their umbrella union of Ibeku Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Henry Ezekwe, expressed worry that they could lose an illustrious son like Nnmadi Kanu if nothing is done urgently, saying Kanu has not committed any extraordinary offence to warrant his long incarceration and warned that if any harm befalls him, they would react appropriately.

The monarch lamented that the clan had lost prominent men in the past such as General Aguiyi Ironsi, saying they would not want to lose Prince Nnamdi Kanu.

In their contribution, Eze John Ibezim and Eze Chiabu Emelike urged President Buhari to listen Continues on Page 50

6—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

6 in custody over Abuja bizman's murder case

By Emmanuel Elebeke

J

USTICE Garuba Salisu of a High Court sitting at Maitama, Abuja, has adjourned the case on the murder of one Anthony Eze to December 16.

Six persons, including Augustine Nwamba, alias Jangaza; Idris Shuaibu; Emmanuel Igwe; Samuel Okoro and two others, are standing trial over the alleged murder of the deceased, who was shot dead on November 6, 2014, at Tungamaji between Zuba and Giri area of Abuja.

When the case came up for hearing last Thursday, the Investigative Police Officer, IPO, testified that he had enough evidence to prove that the accused persons actually masterminded the killing of the deceased.

The IPO, after admitting all the exhibits tendered before the court as proof of his claim, insisted that he was convinced by his investigation that the six accused persons were guilty of the offence.

Some of the evidence tendered before the court were the statements by the accused persons, SIM cards recovered from one of the accused persons and the search warrant issued him before the search as well as a bank transaction between the deceased and the accused.

Meanwhile, the defence counsel to the fourth accused person, Mr. T. A. Oguajamma objected to the authorship of the statement by his clients and urged the court to disregard it as an exhibit.

However, the prosecution counsel, Mr. Malik Taiwo, challenged him and urged the court to discountenance the objection by defence counsel and go ahead to retain the statement as a relevant element in the prosecution process.

However, defence counsel of the other suspects admitted all the exhibits tendered before the court for prosecution.

Justice Salisu adjourned ruling on the objection till the next adjournment date.

He also suspended ruling on the bail application by the second accused person till the next adjournment date and ordered the accused and five others to be remanded in prison custody.

Man, 30, rapes 11-year-old girl

By Jane Echewodo

L

AGOS—POLICE in Lagos have arraigned a 30-yearold factory worker, Peter Ekom, before a Magistrate’s Court sitting in Ikeja for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl (names withheld).

The defendant was docked before Magistrate B. O. Osunsanmi over the offence allegedly committed on November 3 at 43, Ariori Street, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos.

Ekom is facing a count charge of rape made against him by

the police.

According to Mr. Kingsley Eboh, husband to the victim’s aunty, Mrs. Elizabeth Eboh, the suspect got hold of the victim when she returned from school and was undressing, then forcibly penetrated her and warned her not to tell anybody.

Eboh said: “He followed her into the room, gave her N100 and asked her to meet him in the toilet but she declined. Ekom requested to collect his money back but she ran away.

“On November 3, at about 2p.m., my 11-year-old primary

3 pupil of St. Paul’s Primary School, Mafoluku, Oshodi, came back from school at about after 1p.m.

“She went to our residence to change her clothes so that she will come to stay with my wife in the shop. She then came back at about 2p.m., panting, with her dress rough.

“She told us that when she got home, she went to the public toilet to urinate and that the accused walked up to her, gripped her, removed her pant, closed her mouth with his hand and forcefully penetrated. She

said he left her when he heard a voice.”

In his argument, the prosecutor, Inspector Simeon Imhonwa, informed the court that the defendant should not be granted bail and that he must tell the court his reason for the act.

The prosecutor further contended that the alleged offence was punishable under Section 137 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

The matter has been adjourned till November 13, 2016.

4 men docked over alleged theft of N11m goods

By Sodiq Alausa

L

A fuel station at Mokola Roundabout in Ibadan, Oyo State, yesterday. PHOTO: Dare Fasube.

Woman bathes husband with hot water over breakfast Says he wastes money on lovers

By Esther Onyegbula

L

AGOS—LAST Thursday morning at Gbagidi, Ijanikin area of Lagos State, a housewife known as Iya Deborah, reportedly emptied a bowl of hot water on her husband, identified as Ajagadi.

Iya Deborah had complained bitterly after her husband gave her N700, out of the N800 he had, to prepare yam and sauce breakfast for the family. She bought the yam, but emptied the boiling water on her husband, who was fiddling with his phone in the sitting room, waiting for his meal.

The couple have been married for eight years, has four children, including a sixmonth-old baby.

A neighbour said: “I was in

front of the compound when I heard the victim screaming and his wife running out of the compound as if the devil was chasing her. Neighbours who were still in the compound ran into their apartment only to see him in pains.

“When we asked him what happened, he said his wife poured hot water on him. We bought raw eggs and honey which we poured on the burns, before taking him to the hospital.”

Vanguard learned that angry neighbours later caught Iya Deborah, and dragged her to the hospital.

When Vanguard visited the victim at Ademola Hospital, he was still writhing in pains from burns and blisters on his chest, face, right hand, and lap.

‘It’s the devil’

A nurse told Vanguard, on the condition of anonymity: “When the wife of the victim came to the hospital, she kept saying that she did it because the money her husband gave to her was too little.

She alleged that he has been cheating on her with other women and keeps complaining that there was no money, but keeps spending on his lovers.

Feeling a lot more remorseful, Iya Deborah, who is currently undergoing interrogation at Ijanikin Police Divisional Headquarters, said: “I don’t know what came over me; it is the devil’s handiwork.”

Vanguard gathered that the suspect once attacked a neighbour in their former compound with hot groundnut oil.

AGOS—FOUR men, Alhaji Bashir Baba, 45; Garba Musa, 39; Aminu Yusuf, 25, and Eunice Dasebe, 36, and others still at large, were, yesterday, arraigned before an Apapa Magistrate’s Court for allegedly stealing 1,400 A4 papers, 2,038 rims of 20.30 size papers and 34 packs of strong board papers worth N11,000,000.

They are facing a threecount charge bordering on conspiracy, false pretence, receiving stolen goods and stealing preferred against them by the police.

The prosecutor, Inspector Tony Idibe, told the court that the defendants committed the alleged offence on October 10 at about 12:10p.m. at Port Folio Papers Nigeria Limited, Mushin, Lagos.

He said that the defendants on October 14, 15, 16 and 19, did receive 714 cartoons of A4 paper valued at N2,713,200, knowing same to have been stolen property of one Policap Okwara.

He said the offences were punishable under Sections 409, 285 and 326 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011. Section 285 prescribes three years imprisonment for any offender found guilty.

However, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Magistrate T. Abolarinwa granted the defendants N1,000,000 bail each, with two responsible sureties in like sum and adjourned the matter till January 20, 2016 for mention.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—7

Police foil kidnap attempt in Abia, arrest 3

By Anayo Okoli & Ugochukwu Alaribe

A

BA—POLICE in Abia State foiled an attempt to kidnap a businessman and shot three gunmen at Uratta in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of the state.

Vanguard learned that a gang of kidnappers had gathered at the Uratta Primary School, Isiala Ngwa North, where they were allegedly plotting to kidnap a farm produce merchant in the area.

Suspects include would-be victim's relation Acting on a tip-off, police stormed the area, but the gang opened fire on sighting the policemen. Three of the gang members were injured.

The injured include Monday, a relation of their would-be victim; Olileanya, a Political Science student of a university of education in Imo; and Nwakudu, whose INEC voter ’s card was found on him.

Queue at a fuel station in Lagos. PHOTO: Lamidi Bamidele.

Recovered

Items recovered from the gang include one doublebarrelled shot gun with a live cartridge in the chamber, one locally-made shotgun, with an empty shell, an axe, seven empty cartridges and charms of various shapes, while 20 expended ammunition casings were found on the scene.

Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ezekiel

Onyeke, who confirmed the incident, told Vanguard that three other members of the gang were believed to have fled with bullet wounds.

He appealed to the public not to hesitate to volunteer useful information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspects, advising medical practitioners not to treat people with bullet wounds, but to alert the nearest police station.

At a filling station on Independence Avenue, Central Business District, Abuja, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

Police arrest 3 suspected pipeline vandals in Lagos

By Tiveruahor Ufuoma & Faith Ake

L

AGOS—POLICE in Lagos State have arrested three vandals that were siphoning petroleum products from Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, pipeline in the creeks of Amuwo Odofin area of the state at 12 midnight last Saturday.

According to Lagos State

I was helping a friend whose car broke down—TRUCK DRIVER Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, the suspects were arrested after a team of policemen from Festac Divisional Headquarters received a tip-off that a notorious syndicate of pipeline vandals was siphoning products from NNPC pipelines.

Owoseni added that the police recovered a Mack tanker,

7,500 litres of petroleum products, a pumping machine and one long black hose from the suspects.

According to the 40-year-old truck driver, Nurudeen Rafiu, “I am from Oyo State in Ibadan.

I was called by one Mr. Eeleyede on Saturday to come to Mile 2 and transfer goods into a bus going to Ijebu-Ode

“He told me that a bus carrying PMS got spoilt at Festac town and that I should come and work on it.”

He said it was while they were about to transfer the product that police arrested them, adding that he neither vandalized any pipeline nor was aware that the product was stolen.

Underfed 7-yr-old girl slumps in school

By Esther Onyegbula

L

AGOS—DOCTORS at a private hospital at Ire-Akari Estate in Isolo area of Lagos State are battling to save the life of a malnourished seven-yearold primary school pupil, who slumped and lost consciousness in school.

The victim, identified as Ifechukwu Jubilee, also had visible marks of violence all over her body.

She was reportedly sent to school last Friday by her guardian, identified as Ngozi, on an empty stomach.

Her guardian, according to neighbours at their 19 Owofuju Street, allegedly beat the girl, her niece, at the slightest provocation.

Neighbours also told

‘I am hungry’ were her first words on regaining consciousness Vanguard that the act usually led to arguments between her and her husband, who often frowned at his wife’s maltreatment of the girl.

... on Friday morning

She was woken up from sleep last Friday morning and asked to carry out home chores before leaving for school.

Ifechukwu was said to have strayed into one of the rooms in the apartment and slept off, which angered her aunt who then beat her and sent her to school without food.

Ifechukwu, a primary 2 pupil, reportedly left home in tears, only to slump hours after getting to school— Ire-Akari Model Primary School.

Teacher's observation

One of the teachers, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “She looked very pale and weak when she came to school, with her hands swollen and injuries in some parts of her body.

“It was when she fainted that we knew something was wrong. When she came out of coma, her first words were that she was hungry and narrated how her aunt usually beat her with a hard object.

“We thank God she did not die in the school. How would we have been able to explain that kind of situation?”

Husband's reaction

Her husband visited her at the

station and told her not to set her feet in his house again.

He told Vanguard: “Only God knows what I am going through in my wife's hands. I have cautioned her several times over the manner she beats the little girl. This is the last straw.”

Meanwhile, a nongovernmental organization, Women Right and Health Project, has promised to follow up the investigation and ensure the victim was safe.

Weeping profusely, the suspect, a 25-year-old mother of one, begged for mercy, saying she acted out of anger, as she had been taking good care of the girl.

She was released because she is pregnant.

Frustration forced me into robbing in traffic, says ex–convict

By Esther Onyegbula

A

N ex-convict, one of the robbery suspects arrested by operatives of Rapid Response Squad, RRS, Lagos State Police Command, early yesterday for robbery at Oshodi, Lagos, has said he acted out of frustration.

The robbery suspect, identified as Mustapha, 21, and his accomplices, Olumide, 20, and Amusa, 20, were arrested following a tip-off from their victim, who alerted the Police that his blackberry phone was stolen by the suspects during early morning traffic around Bolade, Oshodi.

The suspect, Mustapha, said he was driven by frustration to steal the handset from his victim.

He said: “I am a bus conductor at Oshodi. I am from Ibadan and a secondary school dropout.

I sleep in Ojuwoye, Mushin. I am an exconvict and do not want to go to prison again.

“Government should please have mercy on me.

I was frustrated into traffic robbery; I won’t do it again.”

M u s t a p h a ’ s accomplices, Olumide and Amusa, said although they saw Mustapha at Oshodi regularly, they were also bus conductors and not traffic robbers, adding that they were in Lagos to make money to buy their working tools, having completed their apprenticeship.

In another development, RRS has recovered a locally-made gun with a cartridge in Surulere, Lagos.

The gun was recovered at about 2a.m. by the operatives while on a regular patrol of Iganmu Bridge by Brewery, Surulere.

It was learned that the policemen had spotted three men standing in a suspicious manner and took to their heels on sighting the security men, but were later caught.

However, when a search was conducted on where the men were standing, a locally-made gun was found with an unspent cartridge.

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Vanguard wins Best Newspaper of the Year award

V

ANGUARD Media Limited has won the best newspaper of the year award at the 6th edition of Brand As King, BAK, International Awards, 2015.

The award, held in Lagos, saw Vanguard, publishers of Daily, Saturday, and Sunday Vanguard, Allure and Sweetcrude, an oil and gas publication, clinch the award due to its rich editorial content.

Vanguard, according to the award organizers, has been instrumental to the viability and sustenance of a vibrant Nigerian media, which, among other things, has been responsible for earning it the award.

“Winning the award will further project the image of the paper, coupled with its high online viewership,” said Mrs. Maureen Umanah, Editor-in- Chief of BillboardWorld Magazine, organizers of the award.

According to her, “the award is a corporate social initiative aimed at encouraging, motivating and rewarding key industry players and brands that have distinguished themselves, and have added immense value to the growth and development of Out-ofHome, OOH, media and the Nigeria advertising business in general.”

She said that organizing the award was the magazine’s way of encouraging newspapers to continuously nurture and sustain the reportage of OOH activities.

Vanguard was established in 1984 and became a daily paper on July 15, 1984.

FRCN'S LECTURE: From left— The Royal Father of the Day, Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; guest speaker, Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State; Chairman of the occasion, former Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie; Information Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and the Director General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Alhaji Ladan Saliu, during FRCN's annual lecture at Kado, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: Abayomi Adeshida.

N1.04trn fine: MTN delays payment due to negotiations

By Prince Osuagwu, Emeka Aginam & Emmanuel Elebeke

M

TN Group has said that it did not meet the yesterday's deadline on the payment of N1.04 trillion fine imposed on it by Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, due to continued negotiations its officials were having with Nigerian government on the issue.

The telecom company said the fine was not payable until ongoing negotiations were concluded.

A statement by MTN Group yesterday, said: “Shareholders are advised that the company's Executive Chairman, Mr. Phuthuma Nhleko, has personally met with the Nigerian authorities to continue ongoing discussions regarding the fine.

“These discussions include matters of non-compliance and the remedial measures that may have to be adopted to address this.

“MTN is committed to

Tax must become part of boardroom agenda—KPMG

By Oboh Agbonkhese

K

PMG Nigeria has said that there was need for companies to make tax part of boardroom discussions, given the country ’s changing regulatory and fiscal landscape.

Speaking at a briefing in Lagos, ahead of the launch of KPMG’s task risk management survey report scheduled for Thursday, November 19, Head, Tax Division, Victor Onyekpa,

said present economic realities will make alternative revenue sources, such as tax, vital to government.

He said with the fall in oil prices and shift in revenue sources, firm's management will do well to have a functional tax unit, as it will prevent defaulting and ensure that they do not overpay “as government continues to review its strategies for increased revenue drive.”

As NCC insists fine was in public interest resolving the matter with NCC as soon as possible and will continue to update stakeholders of any developments regarding the afore-mentioned fine.

“Accordingly, shareholders are advised to continue to exercise caution when dealing in the company’s securities until a further announcement is made.”

NCC

Meanwhile, NCC restated reasons for the fine, saying that it acted in the interest of Nigerian consumers.

A statement by NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Tony Ojobo, said: “The fine of N1.04 trillion on MTN Nigeria was done in the interest of the public, which has been at the receiving end of security challenges.”

The fine was a result of violation of Section 20(1) of the Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulation of 2011.

It says: ”Any licensee who activates or fails to deactivate a subscription medium in violation of any provision of these regulations is liable to a penalty of N200,000 for each unregistered but activated subscription medium.”

Ojobo added: “Consequent upon the overwhelming evidence of non-compliance, and obvious disregard to the rule of engagement by MTN, NCC had no choice but to impose the sanctions.”

MTN, had in a letter of November 2, admitted the infraction and pleaded for

leniency. The commission acknowledged receipt of the letter, saying it was looking into their plea without prejudice to the fine.

Defaulting

The fine was the second within two months after the operators were given a seven-day ultimatum to deactivate all unregistered and improperly registered Subscriber Identification

Module, SIM, Cards.

While others complied, MTN did not.

Four operators (MTN, Airtel, Globacom and Etisalat), were sanctioned in August for noncompliance with the directive to deactivate the improperly registered SIM Cards.

MTN got a fine of N102.2 million; Globacom, N7.4 million, Etisalat, N7 million and Airtel N3.8 million. Others complied, while MTN flouted the fine.

Wearing remembrance day emblem to be made compulsory

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA—PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, in Abuja said that Nigerians and visitors to the country may be required to wear the 2016 Armed Forces Remembrance emblem as a pass for entry into all government establishments.

He said this at the launch of the 2016 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem at the Presidential Villa.

Announcing a donation of N10 million in support of the cause, the President remarked that consequent upon the efforts of veterans, Nigeria as a country had weathered through many storms, which ordinarily should have prompted a disintegration.

The ceremony was witnessed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Head

of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmud Mohammed and a host of ministers.

Speaking at the event, Buhari said: “Today’s occasion reminds us of the need to appreciate the noble contributions of our fallen heroes, who paid the supreme sacrifice to maintain national and international peace and security.

“Our nation has recently celebrated 55 years of political independence and continues to remain as one indivisible entity despite several grievous challenges.

“I urge and encourage all our distinguished guests to purchase copies of the emblem for their wives, husbands, children, relatives and friends. In future it would be a requirement for all our staff and visitors to wear the emblem to gain access into government establishments.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—9

Graft: We're not in a hurry to prosecute suspects —Buhari

By Henry Umoru, Joseph Erunke & Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA—PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari said yesterday in Abuja that his administration was not in a hurry to prosecute those suspected to have stolen from the public coffers until verifiable evidences were fully documented against them.

He said that everyone was presumed innocent until proven guilty by the law, noting that Nigeria was not under military rule where the law may be jettisoned.

According to him, the government was determined to follow due process to give recourse to democratic norms.

The president, who spoke when he granted audience to a delegation from the Foursquare Gospel Church, at the Presidential Villa, however, restated his commitment to recovering stolen funds.

“Under military rule, people could be arrested and held on the basis of suspicion, but in a true democracy, anyone accused of an offence must be presumed innocent until pronounced guilty by a court of law,” he said.

He congratulated the Foursquare Church in Nigeria on its 60th anniversary convention which was concluded on Sunday.

In his remarks, the General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church, Rev Felix Meduoye, commended the Buhari administration for initiating a full scale war against corruption and insurgency in the land, pledging that the church will continue to pray for the peace and prosperity of Nigeria.

Dogara on PIB

Meanwhile, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Yakubu Dogara, yesterday called on President Buhari to, as a matter of urgency, transmit a new Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, to the National Assembly for early passage.

He also called for the strengthening of the independence of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, for effective functioning.

Speaking yesterday in Abuja at the beginning of a two-day National Assembly dialogue on economy, security and development, organized by the National Institute for Legislative Studies (NILS), Dogara, who called for the strengthening of these agencies, said that the enduring fight against corruption must be waged through the instrumentality of

law and legislation, stressing that people could only be accountable when the law was clear and enforced fairly and firmly.

He said, “While we await the decision of the President on whether to merge EFCC and ICPC, the urgent legislative undertaking now, is to strengthen the independence and impartiality of the Heads of these agencies by requiring the consent of the Senate to their appointment and removal from office.

This will ensure that they are not whimsically removed when they disagree with a sitting President.

Dogara, who noted that it was not possible to

meaningfully discuss improvement of the national economy without discussing priority legislations in the polity, however observed that the PIB was one of the most important aspects of legislation that requires urgent attention by this administration.

According to him, it has become imperative to pass the PIB because oil and gas account for 70% of the country’s foreign exchange earnings as well as the rapid crash in oil prices, adding that harnessing the oil and gas sector for the benefit of the country was also very important. He said that investment decisions in the oil

industry cannot continue to wait, as clarity on the legal framework for oil and gas in Nigeria was crucial to the economy.

He said: “We cannot meaningfully discuss the improvement of the national economy without discussing priority legislation in this field.

Undoubtedly, one of the most important pieces of legislation is the Petroleum Industry Bill.

“This is necessary because Oil and Gas still accounts for over 70% of our foreign exchange earnings in spite of the rapid fall in oil prices. We therefore cannot afford not to organize the sector in such a manner as to benefit the nation."

VISIT: From left: Lead Economist and Programme Leader, World Bank Group, Mr. Khwima Nthara; Country Director , World Bank Group, Rachid Benmessaoud and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, during a courtesy visit to the Vice President by World Bank Group Executives at the Presidential Villa, in Abuja, yesterday.

Governors to Buhari: We must diversify economy

A

By Henry Umoru

BUJA—AGAINST the backdrop of the present dwindling international price of oil, the 36 state governors, yesterday, told President Muhammadu Buhari that if Nigeria must be one of the top economies of the world, there was the urgent need for the diversification of the economy.

The governors, who operate under the aegis of Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF, said that diversification would help boost the Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, base of the country.

Speaking in Abuja at the beginning of a two-day Internally Generated Revenue workshop organised by the NGF, Chairman of the forum and governor of Zamfara State, Abdul’aziz Yari, who noted that the solution to the declining fiscal revenue facing

most states lies in the diversification of the economy, said: “Economic diversification is vital to ensuring the longterm economic growth we seek.

We must ensure that we are competitive in the way we diversify our economy, and ensure that the private sector plays a stronger role going forward. This event should guide our states to share practical and effective experiences for boosting revenue generation and also provide strategies to kick-start the process.”

Yari, who was represented by Kano State governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, stressed that Nigeria’s economic challenges could be overcome when the leaders make conscious efforts “to do the right thing at the right time.”

According to the NGF Chairman, the IGR peer

learning event was coming at a time the governors were expected to live up to the expectations of the electorate, and charged the attendees to mobilise the potential interaction of the resources to bridge revenue gaps.

He disclosed that NGF members have agreed to adopt the findings of the summit as an important action plan for ensuring a more robust internally generated revenue base for states, adding, “We will also expect periodic briefings from our secretariat on the status of these plans and how our states have been able to implement them.”

The governor however noted that the declining fiscal situation in Nigeria has considerably hurt the nation’s development plans.

Why we ignored calls for naira devaluation,

by CBN

By Caleb Ayansina

A

BUJA—THE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, yesterday, disclosed that it refused to further devalue the Naira because it would not have had direct impact on the country ’s exports as a mono-economy.

The CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emiefele who stated this, added that naira devaluation would lead to hyper-inflation because when the import is higher, for the country that largely depends on importation, it would lead to increase in price of goods.

Emefiele was speaking at the All Civil Society Economic Workshop with the theme: Understanding the Economic Implications of the New CBN Policies and the Role of Civil Society in Policy Advocacy and Economic Development, organized by the Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Abuja.

Represented by the Director of Financial Market, Mr. Emmanuel Ikeji , the CBN governor stated: “The simple idea behind devaluation is that it will make your import more expensive while your export is cheaper.

“Our major export commodity which accounts for more than 80% of our income is crude oil and here is crude oil that the price is determined, we don’t have a control over it. So, if we devalue, it has no impact directly on our major export, and what is supposed to be the non oil export, we are not producing effectively.

“It means that for the industry which is also import dependent, they have to pay higher prices for those goods which will translate to higher inflation.”

Explaining what transpired between Nigeria and JR Morgan, Emefiele said; “What JP Morgan wanted us to do was to allow the exchange rate to be determined by market forces.

“For us as economists, it was going to be a little bit unpleasant, because we noticed what was happening in the market when trading was not actually placed on real effective demands.”

10—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015

Group advocates laws on students' safety

By Amaka Abayomi

L

AGOS—AHEAD of the median Child Health & Safety Week summit, an advocacy group, the Movement Against Negligence In Schools, MANIS, has called on government at all levels to formulate and implement laws that would ensure the safety of children in schools to reduce cases of ill health, disabilities and deaths of students in schools.

The summit, which holds on November 20, would have officials of the Ministry of Education, medical doctors, safety experts, parents and schools in attendance.

According to Co-founder, MANIS, Mr. Toye Arulogun, MANIS, a foremost advocacy and monitoring of health and safety standards in boarding schools, aims to bring to the fore issues parents should look out for when choosing schools for their children, especially those who want their wards in boarding facilities.

Shephard Hill Baptist holds Praise session

L

AGOS—THE fourth edition of ‘just worship’ of Isreal Kristilere and Friends praise session of Shephered Hill Baptist Church, Obanikoro, Lagos holds on Friday November 20, 2015.

According to the lead worshipper and visionary, Rev Dr. Isreal Kristilere, the essence of the programme is to bring people together to worship and praise God. He stressed it is in fulfilment of vision given to him by God in 2008 during one of his visits to Malaysia.

This year ’s worship session is tagged “No Higher Calling” and it will take place at the church New Auditorium, Baptist Academy Compound, Obanikoro,between10:00pmto 5:00am.GuestArtistandMinister to feature at the event includes: Paul Wilmbur, Erujeje, Frank Edward, Glowreeyah Braimah, Benita, Buchi, India Christian Congregation, Pastor Phil and Lola Adika and other worship leaders.

Lagos to buy cars worth N17.6m for 20 lawmakers •As residents protest abnormal electricity bills L

By Ebun Sessou

AGOS—THE Lagos State House of Assembly yesterday approved N352,973,986 for the purchase of official cars for the 20 first-term members of the assembly.

This followed a letter sent by Mr Akinyemi Ashade, the state’s Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget and read on the floor of the Assembly by the Clerk of the House, Mr Ganiyu Abiru.

The letter read in part: “The 2015 appropriation law directs that any expenditure above N200 million from the special expenditure fund should seek and obtain the approval of this Honourable House."

Responding, the speaker of the Assembly, Mr. Mudashiru Obasa commended the patience of members since the inauguration of the 8th Assembly.

Obasa said; “On behalf of the state, I want to thank you for your patience that six months after inauguaration of the 8th Assembly, you have not been given official vehicles. We thank you for your endurance.”

The speaker after a voice vote gave approval and directed the Clerk to convey the House approval to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

It will be recalled that a letter

from the state Auditor-General addressed to the Clerk and entitled "Submission of the Year 2015 System Audit Report on Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs," of the state was read on the floor.

Residents protest abnormal electricity bills

Meantime, residents of the state,

yesterday blocked the two entrances to the State House of Assembly for hours refusing to leave until their grievances were addressed.

Armed with lanterns and placards against the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, the protesters, under the platform of Youth Alliance for Better Nigeria, lamented that

every month, they are made to pay huge sums of money as electricity bills when they hardly enjoy power supply.

Leader of the group, Moruf Adegoke Niniola, said this was not the first time of storming the House of Assembly to protest against the high-handedness of the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company.

AWARD: From left: Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mrs Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf, Mrs Mattou Tsotetsi, Lagos State Commissioner for Establishment, Training and Pensions, Dr. Benson Akintola, National Leader of All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Head of Culture, African Union, Mrs Angela Martins, Women Leader, APC, Lagos State, Chief Kemi Nelson, during the 2015 All Africa Music Award ceremony in Lagos, yesterday.

LAGOS FTZ'S BOSS KILLING: Court remands 4 for murder

By Onozure Dania, Bartholomew Madukwe & Jane Echewodo

L

AGOS—AN Ebute-Meta Chief Magistrate’s Court yesterday remanded four people, three men and a woman in prison custody over the murder of the Lekki Free Trade Zone, LFTZ managing director, Mr. Tajudeen

Disu. They were charged before the court apart from the previous 17 suspects that were earlier remanded.

Those ordered to be remanded are; Jaiye Dele, 40; Tunde Ismaila, 27; Shakirat Agbaje, 40 and Oshinowo Olalekan, 30.

Magistrate Afolashade Botoku, remanded them pending the legal

advice from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution, DPP. Earlier the magistrate discharged two suspects Alhaji Tajudeen Jegede, 68, and Chief Kayode Raufu, 60; who were among the 17 suspects that were remanded by the court over the alleged killing of the

Estate agent arraigned for defrauding 3 sisters

L

By Esther Onyegbula

AGOS —POLICEMEN attached to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department Panti Yaba have arrested one Lekan Oyewole, 47 for defrauding three sisters of over N3 million .

It was gathered that the three

sisters (name withheld) paid the said money to the suspect to help them secure documents for parcels of land they purchased but he fled Lagos for three months and was in hiding but the long arm of the law caught up with the suspect following a report to the police.

It was learned that the suspect was introduced to one of the sisters as a property consultant sometime in March this year. One of the sisters gave him two million, thirty thousand naira to help prepare survey plan and carry o u t

construction on her site. He pretended to be working to get the job done and he kept assuring her documents will soon be ready.

The other sisters felt he was an honest man and they paid him seven hundred and forty thousand naira and seven hundred and ninety thousand naira respectively to help them also prepare their survey plans and documents for land approval from the Lagos State government, but he made away with their money and went into hiding. He abandoned his family and switched off his phones for three months.

However, he came out of his hiding place after he ran out of money and unknown to him that the police were on his trail.

Eventually, he was arrested.

managing director of LFTZ, Mr. Tajudeen Disu, on October 12, 2015.

The two suspects were discharged by the court after the prosecution led by Mr. Cyril Ejiofor, from Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, SCIID, Panti-Yaba, informed the court that they were innocent of the crime after the investigation that was conducted by the police.

The court also granted bail to the remaining 15 suspects that were arrested in connection with the alleged killing of the FTZ’s managing director.

Lagos AG charges tribunal of inquiry to be fearless

Meantime, the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Adeniji Kazeem, yesterday, charged the tribunal of inquiry into the cause of the civil disturbances at the Lekki Free Trade Zone to be fearless and ensure everybody has a chance to say their observations and suggestions.

Speaking at the inaugural sitting of the tribunal in Ikeja, Kazeemsaidthetribunalwoulddigdeep to find the root cause of the October 12, 2015disturbanceandtheStateGovernor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, was deeply worried over the incident.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—11

Oyo, Ogun host HID Awolowo's farewell events •As Aregbesola, Ambode pay tribute I

By Ola Ajayi & Daud Olatunji

BADAN—COMMERCIAL and vehicular activities were temporarily put on hold yesterday in the ancient city of Ibadan during the lying in state and commendation service held in honour of the late Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo.

The farewell service was held at the Methodist Cathedral, Agbeni, Ibadan. The remains were led into the church in a transparent casket at 10:05 am by five pall bearers. Six different crowns were placed on the casket The children of the late matriarch accompanied the pall bearers.

At the church scores of sympathisers were waiting to catch a glimpse of the remains of the highly revered woman who died 28 years after her husband.

Governors of Oyo, Osun and Lagos State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Akinwumi Ambode respectively were in attendance to bid the matriarch farewell.

Other dignitaries at the ceremony were Prof. Tunde Adeniran, former Minister of Education; business tycoons, Chief Bode Akindele, Chief Kola Daisi; Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, wife of Oyo State Governor; Erelu Bisi Fayemi, wife of the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Dr. Yemi Farounbi, former Ambassador to Philippines; Mrs. Sekinat Aregbesola, wife of the Osun State Governor, several men of God among others.

During his sermon at the commendation service, the presiding cleric, Most Revd.

Michael Kehinde Stephen listed several achievements of the Awolowo family.

Governor Ajimobi, in his speech highlighted several memorable achievements of the Awolowo dynasty.

Aregbesola, Ambode pay tribute

At the premises of the Nigerian Tribune where the lying in state took place, governor Rauf Aregbesola said; ‘’Nigerians should emulate mama. She was

worthy. She represented the best in collaboration and partnership to her husband. For any lady to have stood the way Mama stood with such enigma is a great honour.

Ambode in his contribution said Lagos State started honouring the matriarch since Sunday.

“A lot has been said in terms of contribution and development of Lagos, Papa Awo was the originator of the vision. But, Mama was the spirit behind the vision. All of us must carry on with that spirit. It is important for all of us to bring ourselves together and know clearly that we are yet to bring to pass the vision of Awo.” The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi later turned up at the Tribune event.

All stalls at Agbeni Market were

shut for the event.

Ogun government receives her remains

Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun also yesterday, said the state as well as the entire country will miss the late Chief (Mrs) Hannah Idowu Dideolu.

Amosun who was accompanied by members of executive council to the Sagamu-interchange officially received the remains of the matriarch of the Awolowo family.

The remains brought in a grey Mercedes Benz hearse, with number plate TOS 9, arrived the interchange in a convoy of other vehicles at 3.30pm.

At the brief reception held at the Sagamu-Interchange, the remains of the late Mama Awolowo encased in a see-through coffin, was later transferred from the

hearse into a ceremonial police van.

The children of the deceased, Mrs Omotola Oyediran and Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu, in company with some grand children and great grand children, were present at the brief reception.

The governor later joined the convoy to Ikenne.

The governor in his remarks described the late HID Awolowo as a good and caring mother that would not only be missed by the people of the state but the entire country.

He said the late matriarch of the Awolowo family had laid good examples for many generations, and her passage was worth celebrating.

He said; “Mama had laid good examples for many of us.

Until November 25 when she will be buried, we will keep on celebrating her.”

LAUCHING: From left: Mr. Johnson Olaniyi, Regional Sales Director, Dangote Cement; Mr. Anthony Chiejina, Chief Corporate Communications Officer; Mr. Ahmed Mansur, Executive Director, Stakeholder Management and Corporate Communications, and Mr Oare Ojeikere, Chief Marketing Officer, Dangote Group, at the media launch of Dangote Mega Million Dash (#DMMD) in Lagos.

Ekiti SIEC to use INEC materials for council conduct of local government elections. polls elections scheduled to hold on Justice Bamisile stressed that

A

By Rotimi Ojomoyela

DO-EKITI—THE Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission, EKSIEC, has indicated its intention to use electoral materials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for the

December 19, 2015.

The chairman of EKSIEC, Justice Kayode Bamisile (retd), who made the demand while on courtesy visits to the office of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Samuel Olumekun and the State Police Commissioner, Etop John James, explained that his commission will utilise INEC’s voters’ register and voters’ cards.

He also told the State Police Commissioner that the SIEC would rely on his men for a smooth, free, fair and credible

support of the Federal agency in the areaofhumandevelopment wouldbe appreciated adding that SIEC was prepared to tap into the wealth of experience of INEC in a bid to guarantee a successful elections.

Reiterating the commitment of EKSIEC to the successful conduct of lawful and democratic Local Government elections as scheduled, Bamisile said that all relevant forms had been dispatched to all interested political parties in the State, adding that all candidates have also been screenedaccordingly.

Amuka, Clark, others for book presentation

L

AGOS—RENOWNED poet, John Pepper Clark-Bekederemo, Vanguard newspapers publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka, Ambassadors Patrick Dele Cole and Tayo Ogunsulire, are billed to attend the public presentation of the book, “Our Fathers’ Land, Including Reminiscences of the Nigerian Civil War,” on Friday, November 20, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The book which is published by Bookcraft Ltd., is authored by Titus Okereke, a biological scientist and retired university teacher.

The event will be chaired

by Engr. Guy Otobo, and the chief launcher will be Olorogun Moses Taiga.

According to Okereke, the event will provide a platform to deliberate on some current issues of national importance affecting the country, as well as proffering solutions on the way forward.

Group calls for peace, sustainable governance in Osun

O

SOGBO—A human right and civil coalition group, under the platform of Osun Progressive Left, has called for peace and sustainable governance in Osun State.

In a statement by the convener, Comrade Wale Adebisi, the group condemned the campaign of malicious slander and inciting activities by an opposition political leaders in the state on a radio programme on the bailout from the Federal Government to the Osun.

According to the statement, their approach is not only crude but also setting the people of the state against the government of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

The group, therefore, urged the governor to continue to pursue his six integral action plans for the state as this is the only sure way of elevating the state to rank among the best in the country.

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Delta gov election: Emerhor appeals tribunal judgment

By Gabriel Enogholase & Egufe Yafugborhi

B

ENIN—GOVERNORSHIP candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC, in Delta State, in the April 11, 2015 election, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, has appealed the judgment of the Delta State Election Petition Tribunal which declared Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, winner of the election.

In the appeal before the Court of Appeal sitting in Benin City, Edo State, his lead counsel, Chief T. J. Okpoko, SAN, for himself and the APC, Emerhor, who is dissatisfied with the October 26 judgment of the tribunal is asking the appellate court to upturn the judgment.

He is relying on 11 grounds to challenge the lower tribunal's verdict.

Some of the grounds of the appeal are that, “The tribunal erred in law in resolving against the appellants that the petition was incompetent on the ground of non-compliance with the procedural rule in paragraph 4 (3)(b) of the 1st schedule to the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended ).

“That the judges of the

tribunal misdirected themselves in law in holding that the petitioners have not been able to displace the presumption that the figure of the voters accredited for the governorship election conducted in Delta State on April 11, 2015, as stated in

the election results declared

by Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, are less than the total number of votes returned in the election."

The appellants are consequently asking the appellate court to set aside

the judgment of the tribunal and enter judgment in their favour as claimed in the petition by nullifying the said election and direct INEC to conduct fresh election to the office of Governor of Delta State within the time prescribed by law.

ANNIVERSARY: Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State (middle); General Overseer, Word of Faith Covenant Assembly, Pastor John Linus (left), his wife Janet and Apostle Gabriel Nkanang, during the 6th anniversary celebration of the church in Uyo.

We're committed to industrialization of A-Ibom —Emmanuel

By Tom Moses & Chioma Onuegbu

U

YO—AKWA Ibom State governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has reiterated his commitment to actualising his vision of industrialising and generating wealth for the state.

He expressed confidence in the members of his cabinet to help him achieve the vision of his administration as, according to him, they were painstakingly selected, including those appointed into technical committees, to drive these projects.

Speaking at the sixth anniversary convention of Word of Faith Covenant Assembly, Uyo, Governor Emmanuel said his team, which comprises men of proven integrity with requisite skills and international connections, was carefully selected to bring their wealth of experience to bear on the administration as well as attract investors to the state.

He, therefore, condemned the spate of unsubstantiated criticisms and blackmail by those he said have sworn to see nothing good in others except themselves and advised them to refrain from such act and respect constituted

authorities as demanded by God. Congratulating the General Overseer of the church, Pastor Linus on the sixth anniversary, Governor Emmanuel

commended him for nurturing the church from cradle to its sixth year of existence and attributed the feat to God’s benevolence and spiritual guidance.

In his testimony, the General

Overseer, Pastor Linus, said the church which was established on November 15, 2009, has witnessed tremendous growth through financial breakthroughs and divine healings.

Olu of Warri-designate urged to build sustain his virtues of bridges with Ijaw, Urhobo and transparency and impartiality

A

By Emma Amazie

S A B A — N AT I O N A L Coordinator of Niger Delta Grassroots Movement, NDGM, Mr Weyinmi Olley, has called on the Olu of Warridesignate, Prince Godfrey Emiko, to collaborate with the Ijaw and Urhobo ethnic nationalities for lasting peace in Warri.

Olley, in a statement, said the incoming Olu of Warri, Prince Emiko, holds promise for peace and unity needed for the advancement of the state and the nation.

He said that the transparent and detribalized disposition of the incoming Olu encourages not only prospect for the unity of purpose of the Itsekiri nation, but also friendly relations between Itsekiri and its neighbouring Ijaw and

Urhobo people.

He said: “My optimism for peace and progress is founded on the transparent and detribalized nature of the Oludesignate. Once crowned, I urge the monarch to be fearless

that endeared him to people all along and treat the entire Itsekiri nation as one.

“He must continue to build bridges of unity with our Ijaw and Urhobo neighbours for lasting peace.”

Abe congratulates Amaechi

S

ENATOR Magnus Abe has congratulated former Rivers State governor, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, on his appointment as Nigeria’s Minister of Transportation.

Describing the appointment as well deserved, Abe recalled that while in office, the former governor had repeatedly decried the lack of attention given to the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa under the previous federal administration, pointing out that with Amaechi on the saddle, the airport was

bound to have a facelift.

He thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his choice of Amaechi as minister from Rivers State.

Abe, in a statement by his spokesman, Parry Benson, said there was no doubt that Amaechi will deliver in his new assignment by transforming the sea ports across the country, especially the Port Harcourt ports which are currently in a pitiable state, to become a beehive of activities in the eastern part of the country.

Ex-militants task FG on N500m empowerment fund

A

By Festus Ahon

S A B A — E X MILITANTS, under the aegis of Third Phase Niger Delta Amnesty Leaders, have called on the Federal Government to release the N500 million business empowerment funds allegedly approved for them and included in the 2015 budget.

The former militants, in a statement by their Chairman and Secretary, Mr. Julius Joseph and Mr. Tam Odogwu, said that the N500 million was approved by the 7th National Assembly before the former Presidential Adviser on Amnesty, Mr. Kingsley Kuku, left office, adding that the money was to enable them set up businesses of their own.

Appealing to the Coordinator of the Amnesty Programme, Brigadier-Gen Paul Boro (retd) to facilitate the payment of the money, they said, “To avoid rancour and bickering, the money should be shared to every leader and not just stipulated few leaders."

We didn't increase tuition fees in UNIBEN —VC

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—VICEChancellor of the University of Benin, UNIBEN, Prof. Faraday Orumwense, yesterday, described as untrue, insinuations that the university had increased tuition fees for students.

The Vice-Chancellor, who briefed newsmen as part of activities to mark the 41st Convocation/45th Founder’s Day of the university, which kicked off yesterday, said that the university would be conferring honorary degrees on the Inspector General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase and Prof. Osato Osagie.

Prof. Osagie is one of the foremost Consultant Gynaecologists and one of the medical personnel that spearheaded the successful innovation of the first Nigerian test tube baby.

Prof. Orumwense, on the alleged increment in tuition fees, said: "There is nothing like increase in tuition fees in UNIBEN. What I think you are talking about is the N400 added to the National Health Insurance Scheme, NIHS, by the NUC which has nothing to do with the management of the university"

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—13

C M Y K

14—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015

COMMENDATION SERVICE FOR LATE MAMA HID AWOLOWO @ METHODIST CATHEDRAL, AGBENI, IBADAN PHOTOS: DARE FASUBE

From left: Rev. (Mrs) Tola Oyediran, Prof. Kayode Oyediran, Ambassador Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu, and Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State, during the commendation service for late Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo, at the Methodist Cathedral, Agbeni, Ibadan, yesterday.

Mr. Segun Awolowo and his wife, Bola at the event.

From left: Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Osun State Governor, his wife, Sherifat and Governor Akinwumi Ambode of Lagos State.

From left: Mrs Omotayo Morgan, Chief (Mrs) Ambassador Tunde Adeniran (left) and Agnes Ojehomon, Mrs Yejide Awolowo-Badmus and Ambassador Yemi Farounbi on the occasion.

Alhaji Tunde Badmus.

Formal opening of Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Delta State

From left: Professor E.J. Alagoa, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Edwin Clark University, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, chief host and Chief Edwin Clark, founder and Chancellor of the University, during the formal opening of the institution at Kiagbodo, Delta State.

Prof. Timothy Olagbemiro, VC, Edwin Clark University, (left), Prof. Essien, representing Prof. Julius Okojie, Executive Secretary, NUC, (right), robing Chief Edwin Clark as Chancellor of the university.

From left: Former Kano State governor and immediate past education minister, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, keynote lecturer, former Anambra State governor, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, representing Dr. Alex Ekwueme, special guest of honour and Ambassador Akporode Clark, Chairman, Edwin Clark Foundation, during the maiden matriculation of the university.

VC, Edwin Clark University, Prof. Timothy Olagbemiro, planting a commemoration tree at the administrative block of the university, to mark the event.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—15

LECTURE: Chief Willie Obiano, Anambra State governor (left), welcoming Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Edo State governor, to the 2015 edition of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Lecture series, at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Monday.

Trafigura reveals $4.3bn payments …Nigeria got $2.5bn for to NNPC, others crude oil swap

By Michael Eboh with Agency Report

T

RAFIGURA Private (Pte) Limited, yesterday, stated that it paid $4.3 billion, about N860 billion to state entities in 2013, with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, receiving $2.5 billion of the payment.

The disclosure, according to the company ’s Responsibility Report, is part of a push towards more transparency, adding that the funds were used to purchase crude oil, refined petroleum products and gas from national oil companies in countries that have signed up to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, or candidate countries.

The company also stated that the payments made in Colombia, Ghana, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago, were for an aggregate swap of crude oil and corresponding delivery of refined products from and to national oil companies in EITI countries.

Trafigura said it would

continue to review its policy on payments to governments and disclosure under the EITI, noting that currently, it is only disclosing payments to EITI member or candidate countries and only oil-related payments, not for metals, coal or other commodities the firm handles. Trafigura which is the third largest independent oil trader in the world is also the world’s second-largest metals trader. Analysts are of the view that the $4.3 billion payments disclosed by Trafigura yesterday are tiny compared with its overall business. In 2013 the volume of crude oil, petroleum products and gas traded by the Swissheadquartered company amounted to 117.8 million tonnes – or three quarters of its global turnover of $128 billion.

Trafigura handles about three million barrels of oil equivalent a day. It reported record first-half profit this year of $654 million as it gained from oil-price volatility and storing crude for future delivery.

Trafigura, however,

stated that its current report are just a first round of disclosures and just an initial step in an important and evolving process. The company said, “While our disclosure in 2015 shows that our business with National Oil Companies in EITI implementing countries represents only a small part of our overall product flows, we believe that the encouraging reaction we have received so far from governments, business partners, non government organisations and the media justifies our decision to help advance this discussion further.

“We have excluded the detail of payments to governments in non-EITI implementing countries because we, like other EITI supporting companies, see little merit in unilateral disclosure in countries that have no multi-stakeholder process comparable to the one developed by the EITI that commits all relevant players within the country, including the government, to report in line with an agreed format.”

FG to explore mix of energy sources to attain power needs —Osinbajo

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA—Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo on Monday stated that the federal government was working to provide alternative energy sources through a mix of renewable and nuclear energy to improve power generation in the country. He also disclosed that in addition to the existing mix of hydro and thermal sources of power generation, there were efforts to equally utilize other sources of energy including the solar option.

The Vice President made the disclosure

while receiving a delegation of the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission led its Director-General, Dr. Erepamo Osaisai who came to present a report on the Implementation of Nuclear Power Programme for Nigeria, conducted in partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)min Abuja. “The long and short of it is that we definitely need a mix of energy choices because in the next decade such a mix will be imperative”, he said.

Earlier at the meeting, Dr. Dohee Hann, the Di-

rector, Nuclear Power at the International Atomic Energy Agency informed the Vice President that Nigeria as Africa’s leading economy needed to consider nuclear energy for electricity to address the power deficit.

Also, the leader of the delegation, Dr. Osaisai, disclosed that the presentation of the report to the Vice President was an important stage in the process, emphasizing that the report had articulated how the nation can meet the infrastructural need for nuclear power programme for the country.

16—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Pro-Biafra group protests in Umuahia, Nnamdi Kanu’s home-town •Army vows to resist Pro-Biafra insurrection in S/South, S/East •Monarchs from Nnamdi Kanu’s clan call for his release •I’ll be alive to actualize Biafra —Uwazuruike

U

M UA H I A — P R O BIAFRA protesters yesterday, carried their releaseNnamdi-Kanu protest to Umuahia, the Abia State capital and the home-town of Nnamdi Kanu, marching through the major streets of the city, but under the watch of security agencies.

Recall that the group last week crippled economic and social activities in the commercial city of Aba. The protesters were members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, demanding the release of the promoter of Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, who was arrested by the Department of State Security, DSS, over alleged anti-Nigerian government comments on radio Biafra.

The march in Umuahia was part of the threat by the proBiafra groups to take the protest to all the states of the South East before going to Abuja if Kanu was not released.

Economic and social activities However, economic and social activities were not disrupted as offices, markets and shops remained opened and went about their normal business, numbering about 500. The protesters peacefully marched through Isi Court in Umuahia South council through Aba and Umuwaya, as Bende and Enugu roads as they were guarded by pick-up vans filled with army personnel.

They marched around the city, carrying the portrait of Kanu and the Biafran flag while chanting songs of freedom.

Meanwhile, before the arrival of the protesters, a combined team of security agencies including police, army and civil defence had mounted surveillance in strategic locations in the city like the Government House and Isi Gate even as convoys of heavily armed security personnel patrolled the city with armoured personnel carriers.

Disturbing reports Earlier before the protesters surfaced, Abia government had in radio announcement said that it received disturbing reports that some people under the aegis of MASSOB had planned to disrupt the peace of Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State, Monday, and alleged that it was being sponsored by an unnamed politician.

I’ll be alive to actualize Biafra —Uwazuruike ONITSHA —Leader of the Movement for Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, yesterday, charged members of the movement to remain steadfast and focused in the revolutionary struggle, saying that the non-violent method adopted by MASSOB had become a source of worry to the so-called northern socio-cultural group, Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, and the Nigerian military.

Uwazuruike insisted that there was no going back in his bid to actualize Biafra now or never, stressing that he was in the struggle for freedom not for any other person but for his own children, who, he said, desire a Pro-Biafra protesters, processing peacefully at Aba, under the watch of army, and other security free country where the security of agencies their lives and properties can be guaranteed.

Signed by the new urged the Federal Government Indigenous People of information Commissioner, to release Nnamdi Kanu, since Biafra,IPOB, for the creation of Special meeting Mr. Bonnie Iwuoha, the he is neither a terrorist nor a the state of Biafra.

The MASSOB leader, who government said: “While criminal.

The statement by the Army spoke through the Deputy appreciating the rights of The Ibeku monarchs, who Director of Public Relations, National Director for Information, citizens to air their views in a spoke through the chairman of Colonel Hamza Gambo Mazi Chris Mocha, weekend, at democracy, government will their umbrella union of Ibeku regretted the activities of a special meeting of Enugu West not condone lawless acts that Traditional Rulers Council, Eze MASSOB,IPOB and other Senatorial District, in Nachi, Udi could impede the progress of Henry Ezekwe, expressed affiliate groups had led to an Local Government Area of Enugu the state. worry that they could lose an increased sense of insecurity State, lamented that since Nigeria “More so, as it has been illustrious son like Nnmadi across the region. got her independence in 1960, it discovered that a disgruntled Kanu if nothing was done According to the statement had never guaranteed security of politician in the state is urgently, saying that Kanu had made available by Colonel lives and properties of Ndigbo, a funding the said protest not committed an extra-ordinary Gambo: ”The truism of freedom situation, which he claimed, march, government therefore offence to warrant his long of expression and peaceful persuaded him to seek calls on parents to prevail on incarceration and warned that assembly is not contestable independence of Biafra. their children not to join if any harm befell him, they particularly as it is guaranteed He frowned that some Igbo elite misguided elements in acts would react appropriately. by section 39,1, and 40 of the had become stooges to our that could destabilize the The monarchs lamented that constitution of the Federal oppressors, who often used them progress of our state. the clan had lost prominent Republic of Nigeria 1999,as to do odd jobs and also sponsor “The Police and other men in the past such as General amended. Instructively, this them to make blatant comments security agencies have been Aguiyi Ironsi, saying they constitutional guarantee does to discredit Biafra in order to win directed to take lawful steps to would not want to lose Prince not allow for abuse of the other contracts from their masters in protect the peace of the state Nnamdi Kanu.

Abuja. person’s freedom and safety. and secure lives and properties He regretted that such elite, In their contribution, Eze “It is, however, pertinent to of law abiding citizens.”

John Ibezim and Eze Chiabu note that same constitution in because of the peanuts they were Emelike urged President section 217 (2) mandates the getting from the oppressors, Monarchs to the rescue Muhammadu Buhari to listen Armed Forces of Nigeria to would accept to sabotage the Traditional rulers from Ibeku to the demands of the agitators supress insurrection and act in Biafra struggle without knowing Ancient Kingdom had appealed and maintaininternational best aid of civil authority to restore how much MASSOB had to the Federal Government to practices on such issues order when called upon to do laboured in the past 16 years, release one of their subjects, instead of resorting to use of so. To this end, if and when the insisting that their plans were Nnamdi Kanu, the promoter of force against them.

Nigerian Army is called upon bound to fail.

Radio Biafra being held by the According to Uwazuruike, “ACF The traditional rulers called to play its legally mandated DSS. on the President to address the role, it shall do so with utmost had asked Allah to give them Boko According to the traditional issues like marginalization and sense of duty and responsibility Haram, he gave to them and they rulers, their appeal was based neglect "which are some the to the nation. became comfortable with its on the fact that Kanu had the major reasons behind the pro"In such an instance, the outcome. Afenifere elders had right to express his views in a Biafra agitations."

Nigerian Army shall act within Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, democratic environment. its Rules of Engagement fighting for social justice in Yoruba Only last week, Kanu’s father, Army’s resistance accordingly. It is also important land. an Ibeku monarch, who "I am very happy that Biafra is The 82 Division of the Nigerian to reassure all law-abiding presides over the people of Army, yesterday, warned that it citizens that they have nothing being talked about all over the Isiama Afaraukwu community in will suppress insurrection and act to fear. The Nigerian Army world and people are being killed Ibeku, Umuahia North Council in aid of civil authority to restore remains committed to and detained for the sake of of Abia State, also called for the order when called upon protecting democratic norms Biafra. So, if I fail to get Biafra, release of his son. following the spate of agitations while ensuring a peacful then I would have failed to do Not happy with the continued by the Movement for the environment for scoio-economic what Ndigbo expected of me detention of one of their sons, Actualization of the Sovereign activities to thrive.” and if I also die for the sake of the traditional rulers from Ibeku State of Biafra,MASSOB,and the Biafra, I will be fulfilled.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 — 17

I

N just six months, the government’s anti-corruption policy has gone off the rail.

During the election, candidate Buhari made this pledge: “Whoever that is indicted of corruption between 1999 to the time of swearing-in, would be pardoned. I am going to draw a line, anybody who involved himself in corruption after I assume office, will face the music.”

At the time, cynical observers insisted this was designed to reassure corrupt members of his APC party who were campaigning for him that he would not come after them after the election but would let sleeping dogs lie.

But once in office, the president dropped this pledge the same way he and his party have conveniently jettisoned a number of their campaign promises.

Speaking on his official trip to the United States, the president declared he would arrest and prosecute past ministers and other officials who stole Nigeria’s oil and diverted government money into personal accounts.

Ex-Generals: CNN iReport maintains Buhari’s new position to probe and prosecute his predecessors prompted a tete-atete among Nigeria’s former military rulers. The outcome of this was the warning that it would not be in the president’s interest to pursue that line of action.

Prince Kassim Afegbua, Babangida’s media adviser, released a statement on behalf of his boss that reads: On General Buhari, it is not in IBB’s tradition to take up issues with his colleague former President. But for the purpose of record, we are conversant with General Buhari’s so-called holierthan-thou attitude. He is a onetime Minister of Petroleum and we have good records of his tenure as minister. Secondly, he also presided over the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) which records we also have.”

Government's probes “We challenge him to come out with clean hands in those two portfolios he headed. Or, we will help him to expose his records of performance during those periods. Those who live in glass houses do not throw stones.

General Buhari should be properly guided.”

Immediately thereafter Femi Adesina, President Buhari’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, hastened to declare that the government’s probes would be limited to the Jonathan administration. He claimed it would be “a waste of time” to go beyond that.

This was the first curious exclusion in the government’s anti-corruption policy: former generals who became heads of state are untouchables. As a result, the CNN maintained the American government concluded the Nigerian government is not serious about anti-corruption.

American businessmen who bribed Nigerian officials in the Halliburton scandal have been sent to jail in the United States.

However, the more culpable

Corruption war, double standard and human rights abuses Nigerian politicians who demanded and received the bribes are allowed to go scot-free in Nigeria.

APC kingpins Another exclusion from prosecution in the government’s anti-corruption policy is APC bigguns. Even when they are substantively accused of corruption, they are seemingly immune from EFCC harassment and prosecution. On the contrary, some of them are even rewarded with APC governorship nominations and ministerial positions. However, PDP members accused of corruption are harassed, grilled by the EFCC and excoriated by government officials in the press.

A judicial commission of enquiry set up by the Rivers State government maintained that, under former governor Rotimi Amaechi, a whopping N53 billion disappeared from the Rivers State Reserve Fund. Similarly, Babatunde Fashola was accused of spending N78 million of government money upgrading his personal website. Among other allegations, Fashola was alleged to have inflated the cost of the Lekki-Ikoyi link-bridge from N6 billion to N25 billion.

Nevertheless, the EFCC has not picked up the gauntlet on any of these allegations. Neither have Amaechi and Fashola even been summoned for questioning. Instead, Amaechi

The government might have declared Diezani guilty without trial, while declaring Amaechi and Fashola innocent without trial

has been awarded the “juicy” new super-ministry of Transport which now includes road, rail, maritime and aviation. Fashola, on the other hand, has been awarded with the “juicy” new superministry of Power, Works and Housing.

Since the two states suspected most able to provide funding for the APC’s election campaign were Amaechi’s Rivers and Fashola’s Lagos, it would appear that their governors are now being provided the opportunity to recoup under the guise of merged “super-ministries.”

This kind of conclusion might seem unfair, except that while the government is preaching anticorruption, APC legislators are fighting over “juicy” committee positions in the House and Senate. “Juicy” legislative committees are anathema to anticorruption. What makes a committee “juicy” is precisely its scope for providing the avenues for corrupt enrichment.

Doublestandards While the APC in the Senate insists Amaechi and Fashola must be presumed innocent until proven guilty, the government has declared PDP ministers accused of corruption guilty until proven innocent. For example, without taking Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, to court and prosecuting her, the government has made itself judge and jury and declared her guilty on the pages of newspapers.

Repeatedly, government officials cast aspersions on her integrity, so much so that it can be argued that it will be well-nigh impossible for her to have a free and fair trial again in Nigeria.

The Nigerian press has not helped matters but has gone ahead to write all kinds of sensational things against her without proof. As a result, she has practically become the most hated woman in Nigeria. Many even refused to believe she was suffering from cancer.

She was reported to have been arrested in London, whereas she was not. Neither was her passport seized, as reported in the press. Her family has come out to contest a number of the allegations made against her.

She has also come out to insist on her innocence and to challenge the government to prosecute her.

But instead, the government has declared Diezani guilty without trial, while declaring Amaechi and Fashola innocent without trial. This doublestandard does not bode well for the administration of justice in Nigeria.

Violation of human rights The case of retired Colonel Sambo Dasuki, the former National Security Adviser to President Jonathan, is also cause for worry by all freedom-loving Nigerians. When General Buhari was overthrown in a military coup in 1985, it is claimed that Colonel Dasuki was one of those sent to question him. It was also Dasuki’s security report that led to the postponement of the February 2015 presidential election, buying valuable time for the PDP. This makes the prosecution of Dasuki immediately President Buhari came to power seem very much like vendetta and payback.

Even more baffling is the request of the government that he should be tried in a secret kangaroo court with witnesses whose identities are to be hidden.

Dasuki claims to be suffering from cancer. He appealed to the court to be allowed to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Surprisingly, this appeal was granted and the court ruled that Dasuki’s passport should be released to him. However, he was required to bring a surety who will stand for him and suffer the consequences should he abscond.

Nevertheless, the government has flouted the court ruling by preventing Dasuki from traveling and placing him again under house arrest. In effect, the same government that has been making a case against impunity is now clearly guilty of the same.

The right of Dasuki to receive urgent attention is being denied by government agents. This violation of Dasuki’s rights is a violation of the rights of all Nigerians.

We must be careful that history should not be allowed to repeat itself here. In the president’s first coming between 1984 and 1985, similar rights of some Nigerians were infringed, sometimes to fatal effects. Ayo Oyewunmi was not allowed to get medical treatment while in detention, with the result that he became blind and died

soon after his release. Busari Adelakun developed chronic ulcer complications after he was arrested by the Buhari regime and was not allowed to get treatment.

The ailment eventually killed him.

The president promised in his Chatham House speech that the protocols of a military regime are inappropriate under civilian administrations. He needs to be reminded of this pledge.

The contempt of DSS operatives for the rule of law was further laid bare when they harassed and tried to arrest former Adamawa governor, Boni Haruna, who had gone to court to stand surety for Dasuki.

Haruna, a former minister in the cabinet of President Goodluck Jonathan, was reportedly questioned on how he knew that Dasuki would be granted bail and why he went to the court as a surety. This is preposterous.

Going to court as a surety is not against the law.

Old scores: The case of Godsday Orubebe is equally worrisome.

Orubebe disrupted INEC’s official declaration of the results of the presidential elections in favour of President Buhari; alleging that Attahiru Jega, chairman of INEC, was biased.

It took the intervention of President Jonathan for him to give up his protest. It is therefore curious that while many cases have yet to be attended to by the Code of Conduct Bureau, Orubebe has been singled out and charged to court for false declaration of assets and for receiving bribes.

Fighting corruption When the case came to court for hearing, the judge was constrained to berate the government prosecution for failure to produce a single witness to back up its allegations against Orubebe. This lends itself to the conclusion that Orubebe is merely being prosecuted as a vendetta for the action he took during the election. If the case against Orubebe had not been fully established, why bring him to court prematurely. What is the hurry all about?

In short, what we have today is a situation where the government is becoming a law unto itself.

Under the guise of fighting corruption, the rule of law is negated and security agents act with impunity; even ignoring court orders.

Jonathan administration officials are hounded, harassed and molested, sometimes to untimely death; as happened with Diepreye Alamieseigha. They are tried in the press and declared guilty without the benefit of prosecution or trial.

This must not be allowed to continue. It certainly does not represent the change Nigerians were promised by the APC during the election. Neither can it be excused in the name of anticorruption. The persecution and violation of the fundamental rights of APC’s political opponents is itself evidence of corruption.

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 WITH the December deadline for the total elimination of the Boko Haram Islamist terror group in the North East closer than ever, the picture of the progress made so far has remained cloudy.

In spite of almost daily reports of recovery of Boko Haram-held territory and the destruction of their camps, the terrorists continue to demonstrate their ability to mobilise suicide bombers and hit “soft targets” within and around the core theatres of the conflict.

For instance, it was reported that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had between July and October 2015 conducted a total of 1448 air sorties and also deployed over 300 ground troops from its Special Forces unit to fight alongside the Army. According to the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, the joint Army/Air Force operations have led to the killing of scores of terrorists and the destruction of their camps and weapons. Sev-

End-game strategies against terror eral Nigerians held hostage by the terrorists were also rescued. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai, even recently boasted that Boko Haram no longer occupies “an inch” of Nigerian soil.

While government sources celebrate reports of military victories over the insurgents, it has been a continuing tale of bloodletting in the war-ravaged zone. This is no thanks to the frequent suicide bomb attacks.

The scenario appears quite chilling. For instance, in the last two

months, no fewer than 126 lives have been lost to suicide bomb attacks in Borno and Adamawa states. Maiduguri was hit six times in October 2015 with 76 people killed. More than 1,000 people have been killed through suicide bombing since President Muhammadu Buhari assumed office almost six months ago.

It is a great and sad irony that the more Boko Haram loses on the battle front the more it is able to inflict death and injuries through suicide bombing. A solution must

be found to this.

The military should urgently review its current strategy and come up with an antidote to contain the terrorists’ attacks on soft targets in the North, including the Federal capital, Abuja.

More efforts should be put in ensuring that insurgents are not allowed to escape from liberated areas to live among law abiding citizens.

The Federal Government should compel governments of states affected by insurgency to mobilise their people to be security conscious and help in identifying and fishing out suspected terrorists in their midst. Citizens should be taught simple ways of forestalling attacks and defending themselves when attacked.

In the same vein, vigilance should be the watchword in all refugee camps in the country, to forestall insurgents using them as hideouts.

The war against terror should not be left to the military alone.

OPINION Innoson as model for job creation

By Chukwudi Enekwechi

W

ITH the recent announcement by President Muhammadu Buhari that Nigeria is broke, the need for us as a nation to begin to look inwards in terms of resuscitating the economy and creating jobs for our teeming youths has become more critical. Frankly, the dwindling resources accruing to Nigeria, and indeed other oil producing economies such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Qatar and others can be attributed to the sharp drop in oil prices globally.

Again, this calls to question our preparedness as a nation to withstand the shocks, and cushion the negative effects of the sudden slide in oil prices. But for our carefree attitude under the sixteen years of PDP administration, we ought to have planned ahead for the rainy day as we have it today. Nonetheless, rather than continue to lament, these austere period should be used to pay attention to non-oil sectors of the economy and reorder our priorities especially the automotive sector which has the capacity to create millions of jobs for Nigerians.

In doing this, the federal government must synergize with the first indigenous automobile manufacturer, INNOSON by patronising their products and granting them necessary incentives and waivers for expansion. Such incentives will in the long run help in capacity building as more Nigerians will benefit from the technology transfer, and acquire skills that will help the C M Y K

nation in multifarious ways.

There is no gainsaying that the direct corollary of any government support to INNOSON in terms of expansion will be numerous job openings for our unemployed youths. Apart from job creation, such expansion will offer an opportunity for skills acquision, and this comes with multiplier effects.

Therefore, as the new ministers assume office, they ought to help the administration think out of the box in its mission to rescue Nigeria from imminent economic downturn.

If truth must be told, Nigeria’s dependence on a mono source of revenue, as in oil earnings has put our economy in precarious state and it’s only a diversification to other areas such as automotive, ICT, agriculture and other areas of manufacturing that can disentangle our economy from the uncertainties in the oil industry.

It is indeed remarkable that INNOSON took the bold step several years ago by venturing into automobile manufacturing, and for the first time Nigeria can boast of belonging to the league of automobile manufacturers.

This is unprecedented as the move truly

For every foreign made vehicle we purchase, we create jobs for citizens of other countries

depicts Nigeria as Africa’s largest economy.

Indeed we can do more as a people, but this will require a concerted effort by all stakeholders for the country to launch itself as a truly independent economy, that is able to withstand the vagaries of oil fluctuations, that in most cases, we can hardly control.

Recently, the new comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hamid Ali (Rtd) lamented that our economy is 99% import-dependent, and there was need to reverse the trend.

Definitely, this is s cogent observation and there is absolute need to increase exports as against imports. Yet the onus lies with the federal government as policy formulators to lead the way by removing obstacles impeding the growth and expansion of indigenous companies such as INNOSON. There is no doubt that once the enabling environment is created, Nigerian companies can compete favourably with their foreign counterparts.INNOSON has since its inception employed over 15,000 Nigerians in their factories, and all what is required is for the federal government to encourage them to set up such factories in the six geo political zones of Nigeria.

As a nation, we should leverage on the abundant manpower in our shores, as well as the innovative attributes that abound, such as INNOSON, by making Nigeria Africa’s hub for automobile production. This can be achieved by discouraging the importation of fairly-used vehicles into the country.

In the same vein, a conducive

environment should be created for indigenous automobile manufacturers such as INNOSON to thrive. Once this is done, it will jumpstart the economy and help release the untapped creative energies of our young graduates. The time is now, considering Nigeria’s dwindling oil fortunes.

It is indeed a thing of joy that we have a president who is determined to restore the glory of the land, by shifting emphasis from our hydrocarbon mono economy to other areas such as automotive, agriculture, mining, coal and textile industries.

Now that the ministers have been inaugurated, it is expected that they immediately hit the ground running towards ensuring that they quickly bridge the yawning gap which the slide in global oil prices has visited on the nation’s economy.

One way to do this is to look inwards in terms of procuring vehicles for official use. When we patronise locally made vehicles, we create jobs for our people, but the reverse is the case when we outsource our procurement of vehicles to foreign companies. It is also a thing of pride that INNOSON vehicles have been tested and certified to meet international standard. This is a thing of joy for us as a nation bearing in mind that it gives us pride and prestige as a nation.

Until we shelve our appetite for foreign made goods, the much trumpeted scourge of unemployment will remain with us. The reason is that for every foreign made vehicle we purchase, we create jobs for citizens of other countries. *Mr. Enekwechi, a journalist, wrote from Abuja.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015— —19

No more excuses, please

By Sunny Ikhioya

E

XCUSES do not get things done. Those at the helm of the nation's affair must begin to realise this by now. Six months after, there should be signs of the so much trumpeted change or a positive approach towards that direction.

People are becoming weary of promises and excuses, they want to see action. A couple of days ago, I received a mail from Mr. Dan Ekoko, President of the Salimo-wits foundation, an NGO that is silently impacting lives in Nigeria through youth leadership initiatives, wealth empowerment and positive health advancement.

Mr. Ekoko has this to say about the present situation in the country: "It's time to call Mr. President to change his negative talk about Nigeria.

Yes, we have had bad leadership at all levels of government in the past.

Yes, corruption has been around with us a while Yes, infrastructures are in bad shape, need refurbishment renewal and additions to our road, rails, ports, etc What we need more than ever to stem the current situation of these problems is not talking endlessly about them but speaking out the

measures that his administration wants to adopt to change how government business will be managed going forward.".

I agree with him absolutely.

The cry and lamentation of the present leadership is beginning to weigh everyone down. It is as if they were unaware of the challenges facing the nation before deciding to delve in. Almost everyone agrees that there was misrule during the sixteen years of PDP's rule and that accounted for why they performed woefully in the last election. The APC government therefore, is assumed to be a corrective one. They did leave us with the impression during the campaigns that, they already have the formula to steer the nation's sinking ship on course, so, why the whining now?

Our obsession with the performance of the immediate past government will not allow us move forward.

Whatever happened, has happened. The previous leadership did not do well, that is why they were voted out.

We must forget about the past and move forward. If anyone has done anything against the law, the normal process of investigation and trial should be followed but we must move forward.

It is important for our president to know that no amount of foreign

trips and lobbying will change the situation of this country, it is only the people- Nigerians- that can make it happen. He will succeed if he genuinely carries the people along and not through instruments of coercion or condemnation. The president went to India and portrayed the country as a corrupt nation and in reacting to the barrage of criticisms that visited the President's action, his spokesman Mr. Femi Adesina claimed that the President must tell Nigerians the truth, but, telling Nigerians the truth is different from creating a wrong perception.

Anytime there is a gaffe on the President's part, like he did in India, his spokesmen always come out to drive it home and picture it as reality, nay the truth. No man or

You do not build by condemning everything your predecessor had done.

Government is a continuum, start from where the previous government stopped

Nigeria: Political challenges, and the Canadian example

By Nduka Otiono

T

HE generally peaceful conduct of the March 28, 2015 Nigerian presidential election and the gracious acceptance of defeat by the incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) strongly signaled that Nigeria may have turned a new page, politically. Other indicators of a new turn for Africa’s largest democratic country and economy are the following firsts in the country’s annals: the widespread innovative use of technology for the process—the use of card readers; the overthrow of the ruling PDP by the General Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) through the ballot box after 16 years of dominance; the election of four none indigenes of a state (Lagos State) as members of the Federal House of Representatives; and the above-average performance of the National Electoral Commission in ways that suggest considerable independence of the electoral umpire. Although news reports suggested a poor turn-out for the second-tier of the 2015 elections into governorship and state parliamentary positions, the relative voter apathy did not becloud the overall plaudits that the current political process has earned locally and internationally. So, too, did the reports of violence leading to death in sections of the country and the localised electoral malpractices not detract from the respectable scorecard of the electoral commission.

Sadly, the euphoria of the victory may have started varnishing sooner than one had expected, with some critics declaring to the new president that the honey moon is over!

The anti-corruption ship of President Muhammadu Buhari, whose mandate is coupled to a campaign promise to eradicate corruption, appears to be tottering even before it set sail. For as unfolding developments indicate, the same familiar politicians who had faced various corruption charges in Nigeria’s recent history have materialised to control key organs of the country.

A high point of the emerging pessimism

C M Y K

was the poor public reception of General Buhari’s ministerial list and the shoddy melodrama that defined their screening at the country’s Senate presided over by Bukola Saraki, who is on trial for a 13-count charge on alleged corruption and false declaration of assets. In a country where everyday people have developed an uncanny ability to crack jokes out of grievous disasters, the ministerial screening has been publicly derided by some as a “dramatic show” with “star attractions.” Others saw it in the light of a Biblical allusion to the sinner in the Bible whom Jesus Christ simply told to go and sin no more, to the astonishment of his traducers. And so while Nigerians, many of them young people who showed unusual active interest in the last election, were hoping for a reflection of youth in the cabinet, and that the nominees would face tough questions during the screening exercise, familiar faces in the political landscape were simply asked to “take a bow and go.”

Furthermore, the embarrassing state of the country’s political process is amplified by comparing it to the events that unfolded last week in Canada. Justin Trudeau, 43, was sworn-in as the new Prime Minister of Canada two weeks after election, complete with his new cabinet. In Nigeria's case, it took four months for the President to come up with a ministerial list, and while they were being assigned portfolios, a different set of old “suspects” were being named as Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of key Committees at Nigeria's Senate. Amongst them: Andy Uba (Public Accounts); Joshua Dariye (Public Procurement); Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (National Planning & Economic Affairs); Joshua Dariye (Solid Minerals); Murtala Nyako (Special Duties); Barnabas Gemade (Housing); Jeremiah Useni (Deputy Chair, Defence), etc. A cursory review of the

Many are yearning for tangible changes in governance and had looked up to Buhari as a messiah of change

group is a repository of wisdom, any man can make mistake and we must accept it when such a situation occur. The best thing to do under such circumstances is to be quiet. It is not every allegation that we respond to, like they say, silence is sometimes golden.

Nigeria is a peculiar country, with a peculiar people and peculiar challenges. What most people see about Nigerians are perceptions, which are very different from reality. What the president did in India was to reinforce that perception. You do not go to India to say that your country is corrupt - as the Indians are not better off in that area.

The reality is that Nigerians are perceived as a corrupt people, which fact is not validated by the statistics of criminal convictions from our law courts. The reality on ground is that Nigeria is a giant nation, with its full potentials waiting to be harnessed. The reality on ground is that Nigerians are intelligent and hard working people, who can be the best in every profession all over the world. It is also true that Nigerians are very hospitable and friendly people, warm to strangers irrespective of race or creed. It is also true that the greatest challenge facing the country is leadership. A leader that will integrate the various ethnic/ tribal groups into one united whole, with a common goal and purpose. The reality is that we have not been able to achieve this goal because of the failure of

resumes of these fellows reveals that most of them are suspected architects of Nigeria's woes dating back to the years of military dictatorship presided over by Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha.

Seeing these political veterans resurrect in new roles in this unfolding political dispensation under the watch of APC chieftains is a mockery of the idea of “change” that Nigerians clamoured for, and worked hard to ensure the overthrow of the PDP stranglehold on the country.

Taken together, the ministerial list and the list of chairpersons and deputy chairpersons of the various Senate committees underscore the growing pessimism in the political process in the land and on social media. The two lists highlight the depth of Nigeria's political challenges and the need for Nigeria's youthful generation to truly seek change beyond their exertions on social media. It is on this score that the political developments in Canada have the potential of becoming a comparative foil for Nigeria’s teeming netizens. With the increasing interest of younger Nigerians in Canada as a favourite destination for educational and professional advancement, Justin Trudeau and his refreshing diverse cabinet may become an inspiring model—imperfect as it is with the absence of at least one Black Canadian, in recognition of the contributions of Blacks in Canadian history and their being the thirdlargest visible minority group in Canada.

A friend had swiftly taken to social media to recommend to his fellow Nigerians, a quick excursion into the real change that just took place in Canada. Besides the historic gender parity in Ministerial appointments, there are other remarkable aspects of the new 30member cabinet constituted by the youthful Trudeau as so succinctly captured by Joan Bryden for The Canadian Press: “Fully 18 of the newly minted ministers are rookies who won election for the first time last month…The cabinet includes two aboriginal ministers, two disabled ministers, one openly gay minister, a refugee from Afghanistan and four Sikhs — one of whom was once wrongly accused of terrorism, tortured and detained without trial for almost two years in India.”

Problematic as comparing Nigeria to Canada may be, given the stark differences in the histories of the two countries and their uneven levels of development, the new turn

leadership. It is a reality that Nigeria needs a focussed and intelligent leadership, one that will look beyond party, ethnic and religious lines for solution, that will not see victory as a winner take all affair or an opportunity to suppress the opposition, one that will not take revenge on those who did not vote for him. It is a reality that Nigeria needs a leader that will understand our peculiar differences and approach the solution from that direction. The reality is that Nigeria can rise again and take its rightful place in the comity of nations, that is why our focus now must be on building and not destroying or pulling down.

You do not build by condemning everything your predecessor had done. Government is a continuum, start from where the previous government stopped.

Where they have done well, you continue on that path. You also proffer or implement corrective measures in any area they have erred. That is how government operates. It is not the part of government to whine and complain, that role is for the people and they exercise their rights during elections.

So, let us see real action and no more excuses, please.

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

that Canada is taking should inspire Nigerians. Many are yearning for tangible changes in governance and had looked up to Buhari as a messiah of change. But with the ongoing recycling of yesterday’s analogueage men to run crucial affairs of state, real change may just remain a mirage. It doesn’t matter if the politicians are photographed with an Ipad during electioneering campaigns or burnished with monies looted from state treasury. This ministerial list and the new senate line-up in Nigeria contrasts so sharply with the kind of change that the citizens had dreamed of; they point to the futility of slaktivism, even activism, that is not backed by working in the political trenches to overthrow the Ancien regime— no matter its political nomenclature: PDP or APC. Fortunately, technology continues to offer hope for the possibility of the “Cheetah generation” overcoming the “Hippo generation,” to borrow the felicitous expression of the Ghanaian economist George Ayittey. With the growing application of biometrics and e-governance, the twin monsters of corruption and poor leadership which are choking Nigeria’s development will definitely suffer severe concussions.

Two developments easily justify my argument: The last elections in Nigeria which showed desperate politicians preferring the old and more vulnerable manual voting system to the card readers, and the recent front-page report by a leading Nigeria newspaper that Nigerian politicians were trying to evade the Bank Verification Number (BVN), a biometric identification system that the Central Bank has launched to curtail illegal banking transactions in the country, underscore the potential of technology as Nigeria’s saviour. But whether the current leadership of General Buhari would unequivocally demonstrate the will to widely deploy new technologies of change and appoint refreshing officials to pursue the real change agenda, appears to be an unsettled question. Perhaps the announcement on Wednesday, November 11 of the portfolios assigned to the new Ministers may significantly rekindle hope in the possibilities of some action in leadership at least at the executive level. *Mr. Otiono, is a prof. at the Institute of African Studies, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada.

20—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 Adokiye Amiesimaka questioned the inclusion of Golden Eaglets captain Fortune Chukwudi during the 2009 Under 17 championship . Amiesimaka in an unusual candor bared his mind after Nigeria’s opening 3-3 draw with Germany at the Abuja National Stadium on October 24. “In the 2002/2003 season, I was chairman of Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt. I decided to have a feeder team of fresh school leavers not older than 20 years. One of my key

Papa Eaglets and our cheating culture “Yakubu is 25 but a Nigerian 25”—Everton Manager, David Moyes in 2008.

“I don’t see Nigerian football getting out of the quagmire, the problem it is in, today, is because corruption is getting deeper and deeper. From time to time we get flashes where we do well in some competitions with overage players and we celebrate. That was one of the issues I looked at; we can’t keep using overage players. We used over-age players for junior championships, I know that. Why not say it? It’s the truth.

We always cheat. It’s a fact.

When you cheat, you deprive the young stars that are supposed to play in these competitions their rights.”— NFA Chairman, Anthony Kojo Williams, in 2000.

J

ULIUS Agwu is one of my favourite comedians in Nigeria .I love his feminine voice,the crispness of his jokes as well as his delivery. Anytime I am boarding a flight and I call my wife,I usually say “abodu ala o”.I picked that from Julius.He cracked the joke about a flight attendant going around the lounge to announce an aircraft boarding because the public address system was not working during the renovations of the Enugu airport.

The Igbo lady was saying: “A Lagos abodu ala o” There was a passenger billed to fly that plane who did not understand a word in Igbo and therefore sat put while other passengers went to join the queue. About an hour later he went to the A... counter and asked why they had yet to make a boarding call only to be told that the plane had since departed “I went round shouting abodu ala” came from the flight attendant as if every passenger must understand her native tongue.

But his joke that is relevant to what I am discussing today is the one where he talked about some Nigerian team training for an agegrade competition near his house and how he went to one of the players to ask for his age and the response he got was: “Our coach has not given us our age”.

We have just “conquered” the world again in Chile and the drums are rolling in celebration of our lack of character and integrity as a people. Our infinite capacity to conspire in falsehood and pretend that all is well when the reverse is the case is once more being demonstrated even when we don’t blink in reciting our NATIONAL PLEDGE: “I pledge to Nigeria my country To be faithful,loyal and HONEST” C M Y K

*Golden Eaglets... 2015 U-17 World Champions We say these and all the other lines(read LIES) even when no one believes in them. We have mastered the art of saying something and doing another because the very foundation of our country is a concrete of lies. Every action we take is built on falsehood because we just can’t do it right.

Cheating our ways to corner undeserved advantages has become a national culture because we have not been able to construct a national vision.

After 55 years we still cannot count ourselves because an accurate census would minimise our ability to cheat. Our examinations have become a farce as parents even buy questions for their wards and pay for admissions. We beat traffic rules if there is nobody in sight to enforce them.Our politicians forge certificates to contest elections. Our vote counts conflict with actual votes cast. Judges take bribes to pervert Justice. Priests and Imams negate moral values.

The “how “ no longer matters to us and yet we pray that our country should succeed .

We can occasionally have some fake success but not good success because we break all the rules of

Nigeria has over the years paraded promising “youngsters” who mysteriously failed to fulfill their potential in the senior teams

success as natural cheats. We deploy kids to vote in elections where adults should participate when we want to cheat internally and assemble adults to go and compete with kids globally when we want to cheat internationally.

This is why we are celebrating 22 men who went to an unequal competition with only whispers about the actual ages of our boys.

Physical appearance Mere physical appearances of our boys should tell any honest person that the suspicion about true ages of some Nigerian footballers which made FIFA to ban the country from all international fixtures for two years after finding that the birth dates of three of our players in the 1988 Olympics were different from ones used by the same players in previous tournaments is still very much with us.

Nigeria has over the years paraded promising “ youngsters” who mysteriously failed to fulfill their potential in the senior teams. Phillip Osondu was the best player at the 1987 Under-17 World Cup, after which he was signed on by Anderlecht, only to drift out of the game and into janitorial work after questions were raised about his real age. Femi Opabunmi shone brilliantly when Nigeria played in the finals of the Under-17 competition in 2001 and was officially the third youngest player in the senior team when he featured in the 0-0 game with England during the 2002 World Cup. But by 2005 he had expired doing only part-time soccer in some unrated team in lower rungs of the French league.

players then is the current captain of our so-called Under-17 Golden Eaglets. By his own admission at that time, that is seven years ago, he was 18 years old…if we are not utterly irresponsible, how can he be eligible for this tournament when he is not less than 25 years old now?” Amiesimaka wrote in the Punch newspaper. Chukwudi played till the Eaglets final match and fizzled out thereafter. But since corruption is official in Nigeria,there was no whimper from our officials .

I read on The Cable in June this year of how Taye Taiwo’s twin sister allegedly celebrated her 39th birthday the day Taiwo was doing his own 27th.There was also the story of Samson Siasia cutting the cake of his 30th wedding anniversary at the age of 47!

About the most hilarious was that of Dele Ajiboye who exposed the lie over his age when he featured in the Under-17 tournament in 2007". In the chat(with Soccer Star) the Golden Eaglets gold medal-winning goalkeeper in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2007 inadvertently revealed he was older than he claimed eight years earlier. When asked about his role model as a professional goalkeeper, the Kwara United keeper revealed the person without much fuss. “I have many role models.

Anyone I learn from is my role model,” he said. Adding, “I could remember when I was still a young boy, I do watch Peter Rufai and I learnt a lot from him.”

Ajiboye is 25 now and 17 in 2007, but we doubt he was referring to the Peter Rufai of 1998 World Cup. Nobody learnt anything fruitful and meaningful from Rufai of 1998. Even Ajiboye at age eight

couldn’t have learnt anything worthy from the fumbling Dodo Mayana except, of course, how to make cheap goals look spectacular. Then, we are assuming Ajiboye was referring to the Rufai of 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup. But in 1994, Ajiboye was four!”

James Spencer in an article traced age fraud in the Premier League to African players: “Age fraud came to prominence in the Premier League from the mid1990s onwards, as clubs began looking more and more at emerging African players. Several former Premier League players from Nigeria alone have been suspected of such misrepresentation.

Nwankwo Kanu is a legend of African football and became a cult hero in England playing for clubs like Arsenal and Portsmouth. The tall forward won the Champions League with Ajax in 1995, but was always suspected to be as much as nine years older than his stated age. Speaking in 2010, Harry Redknapp jokingly exaggerated that Kanu was 49, though given how he described ever increasing ailments and the need for treatment, there seemed to be a shred of authenticity to his words.

Former Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins was also at the centre of an age row. The player had spectacularly burst onto the scene with Inter Milan as a youngster, but failed to make the most of his talent, suggesting he could already have been much older than stated. In 2005, while Martins was still in Italy, the Nigerian Football Federation claimed he was actually born in 1978, though his player registration stated it was 1984.

National failure Similar stories also exist for both Jay-Jay Okocha and Taribo West who plied their trade in the Premier League for Bolton Wanderers and Derby County, respectively. Throughout his career, Okocha was rumoured to be 10 years older than his official age. Following his departure from Derby in 2001, West allegedly told Partizan Belgrade that he was only 28, though given the state of his body the club had strong suspicions that he was 40.

It may not occur to us that our national failure is the sum total of all these little acts of dishonesty. .I recall a Dutch-journalist friend of mine who I was driving along the Airport Road in 1998 and saw a fellow peeing on the road. He looked at the guy and said to me: “If that man cannot see anything wrong urinating on the roadside,he would do other 1000 things that are not right and would not see nothing wrong”.

We shall engage in this hollow rituals of celebrating our “victory” but we know in the inner recesses of our minds that it is all a fluke because we didn’t do it right.

Scoundrels posing as patriots would even abuse this writer for writing the truth. That the majority is wrong should not deter the minority that is right from saying it as it is.

The truth must be told even if heavens fall: It is only righteousness that exalts a nation.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

WORKSHOP: From left, Kobby Bentsi-Enchill, Head, DCM Stanbic IBTC Capital Ltd;

Mark Rutten, Finance Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Bola Onadele. Koko, MD/CEO, FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange, and Kayode Akinkugbe, MD/CEO, FBN Capital Ltd, at the quotation of the N17.7bn Nigerian Breweries commercial paper on FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange in Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau.

OAGF, CBN meet SystemSpecs, banks over TSA fees

By Babajide Komolafe

review the tariff for transactions under the TSA. Presently, there is a one per cent transaction fee for every transaction through the TSA which is conducted on Remita electronic payment platform owned by SystemSpecs.

A source close to the TSA project confirmed this development to Vanguard .

Speaking on condition of anonymity, he said, “The meeting will involve all the companies in the TSA value chain, and they will discuss

T

HE Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will today meet with SystemSpecs, banks and other stakeholders on the tariff for the transactions fees to be charged under the Treasury Singles Account (TSA).

Vanguard investigations reveal that the meeting, which was at the instance of the OAGF and the CBN, will

112.80 $3,373.00

0.65 27. 00

$14.94

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

-0.10

45.06

0.59

41.64

0.94

CENTRAL

196 298. 3316 211. 484 195. 6674 1.5984 0.3013 269.7934 30.749 52. 2625 270.4996 28.3384

196.5 299.3316 212. 0235 196.1665 1.6025 0.3113 270. 4817 30. 8279 52.3958 271.1897 28.4107

197 299.8537 212.563 196.6657 1. 6066 0.3213 271.1699 30.9068 52.5291 271.8797 28.483

CBN Exchange Rate as at 16/11 /15

C M Y K

and agree on what the new tariff should be. The meeting should have been held long before now, but recent developments have made it imperative”.

Last week, following the decision of the Senate to probe allegation that Remita had been paid N25 billion, being the 1 per cent commission it charged for the transfer of N2.5 trillion of federal government funds to the TSA, and the directive of CBN to SystemSpecs to refund the transaction fees charged so far under the TSA, SystemSpecs had

written to the President, seeking intervention of the Presidency in the resolution

of the transaction fees issues.

The letter in part reads, “While we await clarification from OAGF/CBN on the way forward, we have since suspended all TSA eCollection fees on the platform. This means that none of the TSA collection parties/channels are earning any fees for providing services to Government.

“This position is however not sustainable as the collection partner banks are threatening to suspend FGN TSA collections. This would clearly be playing into the hands of those who do not wish this initiative to succeed. We understand the strategic importance of the TSA project to this Administration and the country at large.

“Your Excellency, we would appreciate your kind and urgent intervention to ensure a speedy resolution of this matter before the banks stop collections.

“In line with the subsisting contract and your assured commitment to the rule of law, we humbly request sir, that the fees earned by ourselves and the banks to date be returned to us and our partner banks. In view of the enlarged scope and the need to review the process, we humbly request sir, that you

— 21

direct a meeting of relevant stakeholders be conveyed to agree a sustainable pricing model going forward. We solicit the continued political support of the TSA initiative by your Administration for this initiative that offers far more to our nation beyond the immediate take-off issues”.

“This position is however not sustainable as the collection partner Banks are threatening to suspend FGN TSA collections...”

86% of Nigerian youths pro-enterprise — Survey

By Princewill Ekwujuru

E

IGHTYSIX per cent of Nigerian youths are proenterprise according to a research findings conducted

by Djembe Communications, a pan-African Communications Consultancy firm in association with Forbes Insight.

The research which was conducted in the four African countries of Angola, Ghana, Mozambique and Nigeria showed that of the 4,000 respondents interviewed who are between the ages of 16 to 40, 86 percent of the Nigerians surveyed said that they would prefer to run their own business rather than work for a company.

The study also showed that 59 percent entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in advancing the economy in terms of job creation, while 38 percent agreed that introducing innovative products and services into the marketing mix contributes

to the economic growth and advancement of countries.

In a discussion titled Job creation in Sub-Saharan Africa: Entrepreneurs, Government, Innovation in Lagos where the report was presented, Djembe Communications Country Manager in Nigeria, Onome Okwah, say “Nigerians today appreciate entrepreneurs as drivers of the new economy, which is a strong indicator that we are ready to move on from our dependence on the oil sector. This is the time for Nigeria’s public and private sector to establish solid institutional frameworks that will boost Small Medium Enterprises, SMEs and promote entrepreneurship.”

He went on to list the top three sectors that Nigerians expect will create the most entrepreneurs over the next five years as agriculture and agribusiness which the survey put at 58 percent, Information and Communica-

tions technology 39 percent, and manufacturing 38 percent.

He said the finding strongly reflects the country’s current landscape in which the agricultural sector is in fact, a major employer and a major driver of economic growth, and further points towards the increasing scope for adding to the value chain and creating jobs through integration with other industry sectors.

The report however illustrated that young Nigerians have a highly positive outlook on the impact of entrepreneurship on their country’s future economic growth and job creation efforts. The report stated that 40 percent of those interviewed in Nigeria believed that entrepreneurs and SMEs will be the top driver of job creation in the next five years, ahead of technology, 39 percent and government policies and programs, 37 percent.

22 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

By linking the clearing and settlement functions for CDSC Kenya and CSCS Nigeria, Africlear will dramatically improve the ability for investors to transact both within and across borders,”

INVESTOR'S ,

,

TOP 10 PERFORMING STOCKS

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

U

nilever Nigeria Plc emerged investors toast last week, rising by 15.75 per cent or N4.95 to close at N36.38 from N31.43, followed

by Eterna Plc, which appreciated by 12.42 per cent or N0.20 to close at N1.81 from N1.61. UACN Property Development Co Plc went up by 10.14 per cent or N0.67 to close at N7.28 from N6.61; Dangote Flour Mills Plc trailed behind by 9.52 per cent or N0.22 to close at N2.53 from N2.31; Ikeja Hotels Plc rose by 8.44 per cent or N0.27 to close at N3.47 from N3.20, while Chemical and Allied Products Plc appreciated by 7.76 per cent or N2.95 to close at N40.95 from N38.00 per share.

Others include P.Z Industries that advanced by 6.91 per cent or N1.68 to close at N26.00 from N24.32; Fidson Healthcare went up by 6.76 per cent or N0.19 to close at N3.00 from N2.81; Access Bank Plc appreciated by 5.15 per cent or N0.23 to close at N4.70 from N4.47, while United Bank for Africa Plc closed as the last of the top 10 performers, advancing by five per cent or N0.18 to close at N3.78 from N3.60.

Early this year, U n i l e v e r Overseas Plc, the parent company of Unilever Nig. Plc, which topped the list, increased its stake in Unilever from 50.0 per cent to a maximum of 75 per cent.

Under the terms of the proposal, Unilever acquired about 944.5 million shares in the Unilever Nigeria at an offer price of N45.50 per share in cash. The transaction was effected by way of a Tender Offer, by giving any shareholder who elects to sell some or all of their shares in Unilever Nigeria the opportunity to do so. The proposal represented a premium of 33.8 per cent to the company’s closing share price on 23 March 2015 and a premium of 33.2 per cent to the three month Volume Weighted Average share price.

The total value of the transaction at the offer price and maximum acceptance was approximately N42.973 billion Meanwhile, Unilever has been suffering under heavy interest cost and dwindling bottom-line.

For the first q u a r t e r ended march 30, 2015, the

company reported 21 per cent decline in profit before tax (PBT) to N864.742 million from N1.089 billion in Q1, 2014. Also, profit after tax (PAT) declined by 21 per cent to N590.448 million from N750.629 million in the corresponding quarter of 2014. The dwindling fortune was consolidated in the second quarter to June, 2015 as the company recorded loss after tax of N504.86 million from profit position of N713.94 million. It also recorded negative earnings per share of 0.13kobo as against 0.19 kobo earnings per share in the corresponding period in 2014.

The revenue closed weaker at N13.8 billion compared to N15.46 billion in H1, 2014.

For Eterna Plc, which closed as the second most traded stock in the week, is burdened by increasing cost. Though the company achieved 342 per cent increase in revenue for the second quarter ended June 30, 2015 to N 61.73 billion, it recorded a decline in other performance indicators following 374 per cent rise in its cost of sales and 32 per cent increase in distribution and administrative expenses.

Specifically, the cost of sales rose to N60.1 billion from N12.7 billion recorded a year earlier, while its distribution and administrative expenses rose to N755.33 million as against N571.07 million in second quarter in 2014.

Consequently, it recorded loss after tax of N200.47 million during the period from another loss position of N194.74 million in 2014. The profit after tax fell by 10 per cent from N622.57 million in 2014 to N598.36 million during the review period.

UACN Property Development, the third on the list, rewarded the unit holders in the UPDC Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) with a total dividend of 87 kobo per unit for the 19 month period ended December 31, 2014.

An interim distribution of N0.56k was earlier made to unit holders for the 13-month period ended June 30, 2014 before the final distribution of 31 kobo announced at the company ’s annual general meeting (AGM) held in Lagos.

SEC, investors and the e-dividend mandate portal (2)

By Babajide Komolafe

T

he article last week on Electronic Dividend Mandate Management System (e-DMMS) portal introduced by the Securities

and Exchange Commission (SEC) generated reactions from our readers. There were two major revelations from these reactions.

The first one which reinforced the focus of the last article is the fact that investors don’t know about

the e-DMMS. But they want to know.

The second revelation is that, it appears that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) did not carry investors along in the process of developing and introducing the portal. This point was argued by an investor, Alhaji Gbadebo Olatokunbo in his email response to

From left: Partner and Head, Tax Regulatory and People, Mr. Victor Onyenkpa, Partner, Tax Regulatory and People, Ms. Nike James and Head, Sales and Market, Mrs. Nike Oyewolu all of KPMG at a press Conference to herald the Company's forthcoming Tax breakfast Meeting and Launch of tax Risk Management Survey held at the Company's Head Office, Victoria Island.

MARKET NEWS

Device to facilitate electronic attendance, voting at AGMs underway

By Nkiruka Nnorom

I

NVESTORS across Af rica will soon be saved the hassle of travelling long distances to attend Annual General Meeting (AGMs) of their companies as a platform that will enable them to attend general meetings electronically and also vote real-time will soon be launched by Africlear Global.

Africlear Global is an institution founded by Nigeria’s Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc, African Development Bank (AfDB), Central Depository and Settlement Corporation (CDSC) Kenya, and Altree Financial Group for the purpose of improving African

securities market infrastructure by providing central securities depositories

With the electronic general meeting solution, investors can vote, participate, or just watch the proceedings without physically being present

(CSDs) with the ability to offer a greater menu of value-added services while reducing the underlying costs associated with system acquisition and maintenance.

When operational, the device will also allow investors to appoint proxy, attend concurrent meetings, ask questions and express opinions among other numerous functions.

Africlear member institutions disclosed the plan at the end of their Board meeting in Lagos.

Africlear Chairman and Chief Executive, CDSC, Kenya, Rose Mambo, said the platform will enable issuers to make convocations, announce agendas, share documents and more effectively control the meeting

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 — 23

,

S FORUM

Am not the only one they misled, a lot of people are on cross road with FRCN because they just believe they have power and the way they are using is not the way regulatory authority exercise their powers

,

INVESTORS SPEAK Vanguard Investors Forum. He stated, “SEC should have arranged meetings with investors either in Lagos or Abuja to brainstorm on the issues involved. But they did not, and only gave directives to the investors on any policy, which is the reason for policy failure in Nigeria. It is never too late; SEC should hold Investors Forum in Lagos, Abuja or any other place on the issue and invite the press to cover it.”

The SEC has a lot to learn from the Central Bank of Nigeria, when it comes to engaging stakeholders through town hall meetings and publicity of policy initiatives. For example, before introducing a major policy, the CBN will issue

SEC should hold Investors Forum in Lagos, Abuja or any other place on the issue and invite the press to cover it

exposure draft of that policy and call for inputs from stakeholders, which would be used to amend the policy before introduction. Secondly, especially in the case of the cashless policy, the CBN held several town hall meetings with various stakeholder groups, to explain the policy and get feedbacks. This is besides massive radio, TV and newspaper advertisements sustained over a period of time. These are the steps SEC should take before introducing critical policy initiative like the e-Dividend Mandate portal.

The initiative is good, but the implementation would determine the success.

Given that the real targets of this policy are the retail investors (individuals), it is the extent to which they know, understand and agree with the terms of the e-Dividend portal, that the implementation would be successful.

As suggested above, the Commission should have discussed the idea with investors by holding stakeholders forums which would involve the shareholder groups. This should have been done before introducing the portal.

Such meeting would afford SEC the opportunity to explain the objective and the methodology to investors, and also get their inputs, and make them apostles of the policy.

It is however not too late for SEC to conduct such stakeholders forum.

One of the salient and silent aspects of the e-Dividend mandate is the issue of charges.

The circular by SEC to the banks, registrars and the public is silent on this aspect. Is it free or investors are to pay for it? If it is not free, is the charge regulated and uniform? Or banks and registrars are free to charge what they like? These are questions that need urgent answers from SEC and CBN. They are questions that investors would have asked during a stakeholders’ forum, if the SEC had cared to conduct one. (For comments, questions and enquiries pls write to vanguardinvestorsforum@gmail.com)

process. She added that the electronic general meeting platform will improve financial inclusion for shareholders while reducing issuer costs by leveraging operating efficiencies.

“Typically, we find that companies operating in Africa have very low attendance at their general meetings as investors are reluctant to travel from far parts of the country.

With the electronic general meeting solution, investors can vote, participate, or just watch the proceedings without physically being present”, said Ms. Mambo.

Speaking further on the initiatives, MD/CEO, CSCS Plc, Kyari Bukar, said Africlear will not only enhance financial inclusion, but also improve market integration through collaborative approaches designed to harmonize post-trade processes and procedures.

According to Kyari, “by aligning a central security depository’s interests with those of the underlying technology provider, Africlear is changing the way African CSDs do business.” He added that “Africlear will enable us to move up the value

chain, offer new services and establish links to new markets, both domestic and international.”

Africlear also announced that it intends to facilitate connectivity between CDSC Kenya and CSCS Plc, and plans are in place to link transaction management processes between the two depositories. “By linking the clearing and settlement functions for CDSC Kenya and CSCS Nigeria, Africlear will dramatically improve the ability for investors to transact both within and across borders,” said Ms. Mambo.

She added, “With the support of the AfDB, discussions have commenced with the goal of developing a fully integrated post-trade environment for cross-border clearing and settlement of capital market transactions.”

Ms. Stella Kilonzo, Financial Markets Division Chief at the AfDB said “Africlear is at the forefront of securities market infrastructure development in Africa. The company is building links between African CSDs that will enable investors to transact in one country and settle in another.”

FRCN vs Stanbic IBTC:

We were misled – Shareholder

BY PROVIDENCE OBUH

F

ollowing the faceoff between Federal Reporting Council of Nigeria, FRCN that led to the sanction of Stanbic IBTC over its audited accounts for 2013 and 2014 and suspension of the financial reporting numbers of the bank’s Chairman, Mr. Atedo Peterside, and its Chief Executive, Mrs. Sola David-Borha, Shareholder Activist, Alhaji Gbadebo Olatokunbo, expressed concern stating that shareholders were •Gbadebo misled by the information made available by FRCN. a lot of people, then something has to Olatokunbo said, “Regulatory- be done before they do more harm to Agencies were the parameter by which the economy. to measure the country’s institutions Really l have read a lot on the issues under their supervision; therefore they leading to the suspension and did can’t afford to be misled/ some reading again on past arguments misrepresented nor radicalised their and I must confess to you that l had regulatory-functions that would create wished or hoped that the allegations confusion in the investing-public and against IBTC Holdings might not be the economy. true because if they were to be true, it The current state of the nation’s might lead to some people going to jail economy required diligence, vision but it looks as if my prediction might and serious determination of suppose, be wrong. which and should not accommodate The allegations under investigation costly outbursts of radicalism. were huge and for it to have been on I therefore humbly call on the for years undetected, then makes it Federal Government of Nigeria to criminal and as far as l could place the probe the activities of FRCN, that led allegations, they were financial-crimes to the recent sanction of Stanbic IBTC against our nation’s Holdings PLC in economy, while l hope which several investors the investigation would were misled and have absolve the accused. suffered loses; while They did not l like to suggest that FRCN should be the investigation do the due reorganised as a should look further into diligence regulatory agency of other transactions before they repute. including “the shares l sincerely thank the merger of the IBTC caused CBN for its diligence Holdings” which had confusion and on the affairs and for its been bitter pills in the misled a lot of standing up when it mouths of IBTC matter most on the side people to react Holdings minorityof justice and good shareholders. governance as a IFRS was introduced regulator of repute. into our system due to When the story came out I was some lapses in our financial reporting interviewed by one of the national and the sad and terrible banking-Saga papers and when facts started of 2008/9 and surprisingly an unfolding and I was reading a lot of institution like IBTC Holdings could articles in the papers where they still dance round it and beat the eaglefaulted the opinion of FRCN and the eyes of the regulators to it, really that CBN also forwarded their opinion and was what is known as Smooth and I read so many articles, it looks as if Perfect Operator and if the allegations they did not do the due diligence were proven, it must be sanctioned if before they caused confusion and found to be true. misled a lot of people to react one way I am of the opinion that when FRC or the other which led to the probing completed its investigation and finds and if they can come out with such IBTC Holdings guilty, it should work allegation without due diligence, it is with other banking regulators, in-order wrong. I am not the only one they to invite the EFCC into the matter; so misled, a lot of people are at a cross that it will serve as a deterrent to other roads with FRCN because they just smooth and perfect operators. My believe they have power and the way sincere appreciation goes to those that they are using is not the way brought the issue to the attention of the regulatory authority exercise their regulatory authorities.” powers. So if they have misled me and

24—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Cautious optimism greets Kachikwu’s double role

By Sebastine Obasi Ediri Ejoh

&

…Fashola’s role may be too heavy

T

HE announcement of Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources did not come as a surprise to many.

But what came as a shock, was his announcement on resuming office that he will also be retaining his job as the Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC. Apart from being an unprecedented history in Nigeria, stakeholders note that both portfolios represent enormous challenges, especially with the NNPC having 11 subsidiaries under its kitty.

Similarly, respondents also believe that collapsing Power, Works and Housing into one ministry under former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, may be too much for him to handle, in view of the scope of work required in the separate entities within the group.

Those who commented on the issue responded as follows: Chambers Oyibo - former GMD, NNPC “Some of us have been in this industry long enough to know that the role of the GMD and that of the Minister of State will be very confusing to us as operator and as regulator. We hope government has thought through it. For example can DPR, which reports to the Minister stop NNPC if NNPC infringes on one of the laws? And NNPC reports to the same Minister who is one and the same person. I hope that has been thought through. I know that there is no problem without a solution, but we see that there will be some confusion in future.”

Hon. Sergius Ogun – Member, House of Representatives “We have not been informed officially that the current Minister of State for Petroleum Resources will double as the Group Managing Director. I will advise that we wait till this becomes official before commenting on it.

“Also, efficiency is relative, depending on who is doing the assessment. Though I have said we should wait and hear before commenting on this, it looks like you have forced a response out of me.

“The work of the Group Managing Director is basically commercial and the work of the Minister is that of a Regulator how can these two responsibilities be fused into one?

“However, my interaction with the personnel has revealed that Mr. Kachikwu has changed the way business was done hitherto in the Corporation. They gave example of the so-called untouchable contracts that he cancelled; the unbundling of C M Y K

MEETING: From left, Otunba Funso Lawal, President, Petroleum Club; Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, GMD, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, and Mrs. Sena Anthony, during a meeting at the Petroleum Club, Lagos.

PPMC. He introduced whistle blowing and recognition of personnel contribution to the overall performance of the Corporation (reward system).

They also mentioned that the quality of communication within the Corporation has increased a great deal and finally that he has given management and staff hope. If he can replicate these in the subsidiaries then he would have set the agenda for change in the industry.

Olisemeka Ojieh - Managing Director, Petrocarbon Engineering Limited “It is a smart move to bring in Dr. Kachikwu as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources

while managing the affairs of the NNPC because this will synchronise the planned reforms in the oil and gas sector and increase the effectiveness of the

Within the short time in office, Kachikwu has done remarkably well, repositioning NNPC. The corporation is looking better focused and transparent

system. Kachikwu will not only be a major voice in policy making as Minister of State, but will also enforce the implementation of such policies as GMD of NNPC. I do not think the dual role is too much for him. He is highly recommended, with over 30 years’ experience in the industry and a very impressive resume.

The task ahead of him is onerous but he is equal to it.”

Lee Maeba - former Senate Committee Chairman on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) “If President Buhari feels he wants to appoint Kachikwu minister and Group Managing Director of NNPC, it is up to him.

If he thinks the man can combine both offices, he knows why it is so. He knows what he wants. It all depends on the President’s aims and objectives.”

Casmir Maduafokwa Managing Director/CEO, Tecon Oil Group. “It makes sense as a transitional arrangement only to synchronise new and mandatory policy actions with the bureaucratic operational arm of the government as far as oil and gas is concerned. The new NNPC slimmer and focused blue print headed by an oil and gas technocrat with extensive experience outside the public sector should be in place before decoupling the two positions.”

...as power, works portfolio is too heavy -----LCCI C

OMMENTING on Fashola’s position, the Director-General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce, LCCI, Mr. Muda Yusuf, said the triple portfolio is too heavy for one minister.

He said: “Fashola’s portfolio is rather heavy, perhaps the heaviest of all. Given the strategic importance of the power and works ministries, it would perhaps have been better separated for effectiveness.

“The economy is groaning under huge infrastructure deficit of power and roads. The effect on productivity is profound. There is

much more oversight responsibilities than operational ones. One is comforted by the fact that Fashola is very energetic and resourceful.

“He has the drive to achieve results. He also has a minister of state and two permanent secretaries to give him necessary support.

It is perhaps a demonstration of the high confidence and expectation which President Buhari has in Fashola.”

Yusuf therefore urged the Minister of Power to address some issues in the sector, ranging from gas pricing,

metering and billing systems in the country.

His words: “the key issues that need the urgent attention of Fashola are Gas Pricing; transmission issues; metering and billing; energy theft and indebtedness to the power providers; financial capacity of the operators to undertake the needed investment in the sector.”

On his part, the Interim President, Nigerian Electricity Consumers Advocacy Network, NECAN, Mr. Tomi Akingbogun, expressed optimism over the dual responsibility.

He said: “It is a big

combination of very critical sectors of the economy requiring urgent and committed attention. We have confidence in Mr President’s ministerial choice for Power, Works & Housing, because Fashola is a performer, a goal getter and a grassroots person.

“We believe he will review the sale of the power companies to see if they are competent. As a lawyer, he will check if the rule of law was adhered to and correct where necessary; he will look into whether the power companies have added value since they came on board.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—25

Losses from gas-flaring rise to N122bn

By Michael Eboh

B

ARRING other unforeseen arrangements, Nigeria lost about N122.232 billion ($611.16 million) between January and September 2015, as oil and gas companies flared 203.72 billion cubic feet, bcf, of gas.

Using the Nigerian Gas Company, NGC’s average price of gas of $3 per standard cubic feet, scf, and an average naira exchange rate of N200 to $1, flaring of 203.72 BCF gas translates to a loss of $611.16 million.

Specifically, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Monthly Financial and Operations Report for September 2015, revealed that the amount of gas flared between January and September 2015 represented 16.78 per cent of total gas production of 1.214 trillion cubic feet in the period under review.

Giving a breakdown of total gas supply for the period, the report put gas supply in the first nine months of the year at 281 BCF and 933 BCF for the domestic and export market respectively.

In addition, the report said the country earned $1.071 billion, about N214.2 billion from the export of gas between January and September 2015, and earned N19.318 billion from the domestic sales of gas in the period under review.

Further analysis of gas commercialisation and utilisation revealed as follows: ·187 BCF allocated to the power sector; ·93.23 BCF was allocated to industries; ·613.12 BCF was re-injected; · 110.27 BCF used as fuel gas, · 203.72 BCF flared, and; ·927.11 BCF non-commercialised gas.

Also, giving an analysis of activities in the gas sector for September, the NNPC said: “Out

of the 244 BCF of gas produced in September 2015, a total of 142 BCF of gas was commercialised, comprising 34.10 BCF and 107.86 BCF for the domestic and export market respectively.

“This translates to an average daily supply of 1.137 billion standard cubic feet per day (SCFD) of gas to the domestic market and 3.595 billion standard cubic feet per day of gas supplied to the export market.

“This implies that 58 per cent of the total gas produced was

This translates to an average daily supply of 1.137 billion standard cubic feet per day (SCFD) of gas to the domestic market and 3.595 billion standard cubic feet per day of gas supplied to the export market

commercialised while the balance of 42 per cent was reinjected, used as upstream fuel gas or flared. Gas flare rate was 8.98 per cent for the month of September 2015, that is, 730 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) compared with the 2015 year-to-date (YTD) average flare rate of 11.78 per cent, that is, 961mmscfd.”

“From the 1.137 billion SCFD of gas supplied to the domestic market in September, about 773 mmscfd of gas representing 68.02 per cent was used for Gas-Fired power plants while the balance of 363 mmscfd or 31.98 per cent was supplied to other industries.

AWARD: From left: The Winner of 2015 Aret Adams Award of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE),Dr. Emmanuel Enu; Mrs. Rita Adobi Enu; President, NAPE, Mr. Chikwendu Edozien; and Prof. Deborah Ajakaiye, at the 2015 NAPE’S international conference and exhibitions in Lagos.

Scarcity: NNPC to check sharp practices

By Michael Eboh

T

HE Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, has commenced the publication of a daily petroleum products supply chart to check sharp practices by oil marketers across the country.

…Says kerosene subsidy fraught with irregularities Speaking on the fuel supply situation in Abuja, the Executive Director, Commercial, Pipelines and Product Marketing Company, PPMC, Mr. Justin Ezeala, also described the kersosene subsidy programme

as a ‘racket’ that provided an avenue for corrupt individuals to enrich themselves.

Ezeala lamented that despite the fact that the Federal Government subsidises the product, a number of dealers still

$20bn investment in Nigeria declines by 20%—Chevron ...As global investments reach $600bn

By Sebastine Obasi

P

OLICY inconsistency have cost Nigeria about $4billion in oil and gas investments with a decline of about 20 percent in 2015, down from $20 billion recorded in 2014.

The President, Chevron Africa and Latin America Exploration and Production, Mr. Ali Moshiri, said this in Lagos, at the just-concluded annual conference of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists, NAPE. He also said that out of the global $600 billion investment recorded last year, Nigeria had a share of $20 billion.

“When you talk about investment, total global industry investment in 2014 was about $600 billion and Nigeria had around $20 billion. After the price crash, there

is tremendous reduction in global investment. Now the question you may ask: is that reduction because of cost efficiency or is that reduction because of investment? They are not doing the same thing they did before and it is cheaper. As you can see, investment in Nigeria has significantly dropped by 20 per cent,” he said.

He however said that Nigeria had tremendous capacity and resources to produce far above 2 million barrels of crude oil per day, but added that much investment would be required.

According to the Chevron President, Nigeria occupies the number one position in the production of liquid hydrocarbon in Africa, and number three in gas production due to lack of gas infrastructure. For Nigeria to

increase its production levels, Moshiri said that the country needs about $20 billion investment yearly. “Many projects were locked up in Nigeria because of costs. Bonga South West project is one of them,” he said.

He blamed the drop in oil price to the introduction of about 4 million barrels per day of unconventional oil into the market between 2014 and 2015.

Also speaking, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode who was represented by Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Olawole, Oluwo, said Nigeria has many other under-utilised energy sources such as Bitumen, Coal and non-carbon-related energy sources. He also said that Lagos, in no distant time will join the oil producing states with the efforts being made by a number of oil companies including, Lekoil, Afren and Yinka Folawiyo.

sell above the regulated price, thereby, short-changing Nigerians in the process.

He added that government is working towards addressing the irregularities in the kerosene subsidy regime and is looking at other alternatives to kerosene.

On the issue of checking sharp practices in petroleum products supply, he said the Daily Dispatch Report, will details of all product deliveries and all the receiving stations across the country.

He said the report would be uploaded on the NNPC website for ease of access, adding that efforts are on to make the website interactive, so that Nigerians can make complaints and report sharp practices witnessed in filling stations across the country.

He called on the media and the general public to join Government in the quest to curb sharp practices in the supply of petroleum products across the country, by monitoring and reporting illicit activities by oil marketers.

He said NNPC has 513 retail outlets across the country, adding that it has adopted a strategy to ensure that the retail outlets have products to dispense to the

public. He disclosed that NNPC had come to an agreement with other stakeholders that all the retail outlets operate on a 24-hour basis, while those that cannot operate round the clock due to security reasons, can operate on extended hours, from 5a.m. till about 10p.m. where possible.

He identified some of the factors responsible for the scarcity and poor products supply to include the menace of pipeline vandalism, and the perennial gridlock in Apapa, Lagos. Others are the hoarding and diversion of petroleum products and the challenges brought about in the interface with other government agencies in the discharge of petroleum products at the ports and at depots.

He also said that NNPC and other stakeholders are working to synchronise the process of product discharge, especially with government agencies, as this will help address the issue of delay in products supply.

Ezeala lamented that NNPC had not been able to transport petroleum products through the country’s pipeline over the last six months due to persistent vandalism of the pipelines, in spite of the fact that Nigeria has one of the best pipeline networks in Africa.

26—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Only 50% power gets to consumers — Nnaji

By Sebastine Obasi

C

ONSUMERS in Nigeria get only 50 percent of generated power, a former Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji, told the Senate ad hoc Committee on Power.

Nnaji who said this weekend, said the nation still experiences irregular electricity supply because the regulatory agencies have failed to carry out necessary enforcement and discipline.

He said: “Even when you have installed capacity of 12,000 megawatts, you cannot release the same amount of megawatts to the end users. Nigeria can generate 7,000MW and make it available for consumption should there be no constraint in transmission where we have inefficiency in distribution.

“Out of the amount of power that is distributed to the distribution companies, only about 50 per cent of it gets to the consumers. It is an incredible inefficiency in the power system that must be cured.”

Nnaji, who superintended the deregulation of the nation’s power sector and the unbundling of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, in November 2013, said that despite huge resources channeled into the sector over the years, Nigerians are yet to get adequate electricity supply.

According to him, the inadequate power supply could be attributed to poor transmission, which he noted was as a result of inefficient regulation by the concerned

…Blames regulatory agencies on enforcement government agency.

Nnaji explained that since the government was not producing power any more, only 5,500 megawatts out of the 12,000MW installed capacity of power generating plants in the country was getting to the consumers. For instance, he said the gas being delivered for power generation was a fraction of the installed capacity, and cannot affect the quantity meant for export through the

Liquefied Natural Gas. He however expressed optimism that the new Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, being a proven administrator and manager, would effectively discharge the functions of managing the ministries assigned to him without affecting the power sector.

Nnaji said: “I know that Fashola is an excellent administrator and manager. I

can imagine what Lagos State used to be like before he became the governor and what it is now. It comes with dedication and that is what we need in this country.

“It is a very large area to cover but the ministry of power is no longer what it used to be when I was a minister because the entire generation is out. It is no longer going to be the manager of power generation, except to supervise.”

AWARD: From left: Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC) & Country Chair, Shell companies in Nigeria, Osagie Okunbor receives an award from the President of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE). Chikwendu Edoziem, in recognition of SPDC’s support as lead sponsor of the 33rd NAPE 2015 preconference workshop in Lagos.

Demand slows to 1.2 mbpd in 2016 — IEA

By Sebastine Obasi

G

LOBAL oil demand growth is forecast to slow to 1.2 million barrels a day (mb/ d) in 2016, the International Energy Agency, IEA, said in its World Energy Outlook 2015, just released.

“Momentum in global oil demand growth, is expected to ease towards its long-term trend as recent props – sharply lower oil prices, colder than-year earlier winter weather and postrecessionary bounces in some countries – are likely to give way,” the IEA said.

According to the agency, stockpiles of oil at record 3 billion barrels are providing world markets with a degree of comfort.

This massive cushion has inflated even as the global oil market adjusts to $50/bbl oil.

It explained that global growth is forecast to slow in 2016 to 3.6 percent, warning that “downside” risks to the world

economy have grown in recent months. Although the sharp drop in oil prices is a result of oversupply rather than a lack of demand, fears surrounding the health of the global economy are keeping investors on edge, the Agency noted.

While supply appears to have outpaced demand growth in 2015, keeping oil prices subdued at their current level of $44.23

a barrel for benchmark Brent while U.S. sweet crude trades at $41.62, demand growth could slow next year, the IEA said, a factor that could be bearish for oil markets.

It further explained that demand growth has risen to a five-year high of nearly 2 mb/d, with India galloping to its fastest pace in more than a decade. But

gains in demand have been outpaced by vigorous production from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, and resilient non-OPEC supply, with Russian output at a post-Soviet record and likely to remain robust in 2016 as well.

Army to check harassment of petroleum tanker drivers

A

By Chris Ochayi

BUJA—The Chief of CivilMilitary Affairs, Nigerian Army Headquarters, Brig.

General R.I. Nicholas, has pledged to establish a cordial and working relationship between tanker drivers and the Nigerian army.

The move is aimed at ending the frictions associated with increasing cases of harassment and extortions of Petroleum Tank Drivers, PTD, by uniformed men across the country.

Nicholas, who made the pledge during a visit to the National Secretariat of PTD Branch of NUPENG in Abuja, said the Army is interested in reducing recurring frictions between it and PTD members.

He noted the important role played by tanker drivers in the nation’s economy, saying that rather than being treated with scorn, Nigeria and the Nigerian Army recognises the contribution of drivers.

He assured the union that the Army is ready to partner with member of PTD to ensure the smooth flow of fuel distribution across the country, while stressing the need for peaceful coexistence, devoid of rancour and unnecessary strikes.

General Nicholas expressed the readiness of the Army to relate with PTD members in a civil manner so long as they conducted themselves within the ambit of the law.

3 nabbed for cable vandalism, metre theft ...as Ikeja Electric targets 300, 000 metres by 2016

By Ediri Ejoh

T

HE Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, last week paraded three suspects for vandalising electricity cables and stealing smart card from prepaid meters in Lagos state.

Parading the suspects at its headquarters in Ikeja, the Lagos State Commandant of NSCDC, Mr Gabriel Abafi, said the arrest became imminent after series of complaints from customers and also the distribution company of Ikeja.

According to him, the three suspects have been involved in these criminal activities for long. “One of the suspects, Hassan Usman, was reported to have vandalised electricity materials ranging from transformer cables belonging to Ikeja Electric at Ketu area in Lagos, and was arrested on October 28.

“The two other suspects, Uzor Anyawu, and Peter Etamen, who were arrested a couple of days ago, were alleged to have defrauded a customer at Ikeja Electric and made away with N150, 000.

The duo connived to collect money from the customer to provide and install stolen smart card meters which is supposed to be free.

“This was detected and they were arrested after the customer complained that the meters were not working well and unable to be recharged,” he added.

Following this nefarious act, he explained that the suspects would be charged to court immediately the Command finished its investigation, adding that it is determined to bring to book other culprits with similar criminal records.

He, however, warned anyone still perpetuating such acts to desist or be ready to face the wrath of the law.

Speaking on the development, the Head, Communications and Strategy, Ikeja Electric, Mr. Pekun Adeyanju, said the firm was also working with security agencies to detect and arrest consumers who also bypass meters.

He reiterated the company’s plans to install between 10, 000 to 12, 000 meters on a monthly basis.

“We are targeting 300, 000 installed meters between now and 2016 and our meters are free.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—27

C M Y K

28—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Zahav unveils drive beyond borders Tunland pick-up Z

AHAV Automobile Company Nigeria Limited, local assemblers of Foton Tunland pickup has urged emerging businesses and astute commercial ventures not to wander afar in search of functional and reasonably priced pickup trucks as it unveiles the all new ‘Drive beyond borders’ Foton Tunland pickup.

A part of the Stallion Group, Zahav Automobile is the assemblers and marketers of Foton Tunland pickup trucks and Chinese engineered BAIC, Changan and Stallion badge automobiles.

Addressing the media at a guided tour of the company’s new showroom in Kofo Abayomi/Akin Adesola Street - Victoria Island Lagos, Zahav Head of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Sanjay Rupani said Foton Tunland pickup was introduced to assuage some of the challenges small businesses and commercial ventures contend with when prospecting for functional and adaptable vehicle to support their businesses.

“The next generation Foton Tunland pickup would compete in the one tone vehicle segment where renowned brands like Toyota Hilux, Nissan NP300, Ford Ranger and Mitsubishi L200 have demonstrated utter competence,” Mr. Rupani assured.

He said: “Tunland is Foton’s sig-

nature of next generation pickup truck exclusively designed to offer impressive visibility and extraordinary driving experience.”

According to him, Tunland is a perfect choice for both work and leisure, “Though Tunland is a Chinese brand, the vehicle essentially shares the DNA of two renowned automobile manufacturers – Daimler Automotive Company and Cummins Engine Company.

Ergonomically designed, the 1.5 tonne Foton Tunland pickup truck is a perfect mix of style and practicality with attractive truck lines like the American and Japanese styled cars aimed to woo discerning customers who want exceptionally fashionable trucks.

Tunland is currently marketed as the strongest Chinese pickup in its class even though it looks less Chinese save for the silver coated fancy radiator grille.

The front bumper is certainly an eye catcher and comes with a fluid design; fitted with a set of circular fog lamps and a big trapezoidal air intake which enhances the aggressive look.

Along the sides, are classical large wheel arches, which are

now a common trait among pickups and, at the back is a pair of triangular shaped taillights that distinguishes Tunland from competitors.

A peep inside the cockpit reveals upscale styling with winged shaped dashboard and ergonomic three-spoke-steering-wheel with plenty of space on the first row seats, and ample leg and headroom for both the driver and passengers.

The rear bench is pretty spacious and inadvertently compares to the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger

RONTLINE tyre company, Infinity Tyres Ghana Limited, has announced the debut of its new retail concept in Ghana with the opening of Infinity Express in association with Vivo Energy Ghana Limited (Shell Licensee), located at Shell Filling Station. The store features the entire product line up of Light Truck Radial, Passenger Car Radial and Car Battery segments.

Managing Director of Infinity Tyres Group, Mr. Arshi Chadha, said the outlet is “perfect for discerning motorists, professional riders and new customers alike, Infinity Express creates a completely immersive experience into the world of tyres and batteries”.

According to him, “Infinity Tyres has always represented the best in tyre and battery industry. We are now able to offer a complete showcase for our products and services as well as a modern setup for our customers, bringing this central mission to life in a new way.”

“Shell is a brand known around the world for quality, and quality was the compelling factor about Infinity that made us associate with them. I am extremely happy to say that we are more than delighted to see this outstanding store right in front of us, which, we are sure will provide the best quality products and services to the valuable customers of Ghana” said Mr. Jerry, from Vivo Energy, Ghana Limited.

Commenting on Infinity Tyres’ association with Vivo Energy,

ensures confidence.

Standard features includes two front airbags, ABS, 16 inch steel rim fitted on 245/70/16 tyres; airconditioning, fabric seats, power exterior mirrors, two-speaker single CD tuner and auxiliary audio input jack.

Tunland is powered by powerful 100Kw Mitsubishi 2.4 gasoline engine, with displacements below 3.0 and maximum output of 200Nm (2500-300) which is appreciably higher compared to similar products. This feature gives the vehicle an edge in harsh road conditions.

N30bn Lagos BRT project completed within time frame — Mobereola

T

HE Lagos State Commissioner of Transportation, Dr. Dayo Mobereola has disclosed that the recently completed N30 billion BRT

Infinity Express opens in Ghana

F

pickups.

Every control is placed intuitively without necessarily clustering the centre dash and the instrument gauges are easily read both at night and day time. The materials and plastics are also elegantly equipped with a nononsense instrument panel layout.

The seats are similarly comfortable with plenty adjustments to help you find your favourite driving positions in no time. This is in addition to the all around visibility with big lateral mirrors that

Country Manager, Infinity Tyres Ghana Limited, Mr. Ajit Singh Chauhan, said, “Vivo Energy’s unchallenged reputation of providing right quality fuel in right quantity, neatness of fuel forecourts, availability of stations at strategic locations, appealing branding and huge retail network has created millions of happy customers in Ghana…this is just exactly what we were looking for…and I am sure this association will create wonders”.

•Managing Director of Infinity Tyres Group, Mr. Arshi Chadha (Right) cutting the tape to commission Infinity Express Ghana.

project by the state government was completed within time frame despite the challenges faced during the execution.

The Commissioner, who spoke to journalists shortly before the commissioning of the project disclosed that some of the challenges included encroachment into the right of way, managing people simultaneously while doing the construction, among others.

“The right of way was a major challenge we faced. It was encroached upon and we had to retrieve it. Managing the people simultaneously while doing the construction was another challenge and we also learned from the mistakes of the past,”he said. During the period, he said, they tackled the problems head on by meeting with stakeholders.

He said: “We had 10 stakeholders’ forum; three before construction work started and seven during the construction project. We were engaging the people at every stage and they were guiding us.''

As for the impact on traffic, Dr. Mobereola, noted that the upgraded BRT scheme would move about 450,000 passengers daily, and will benefit all Lagosians. He said: “The project will benefit all the people of Lagos and not just the people of Iko-

rodu alone. It is everybody in the state that will take the BRT buses. The first pilot scheme was from Mile 12 to CMS. And that section has carried to date almost 350 million passengers,” he said. ''And this one, on a daily basis, will carry almost 450,000 passengers. A city with 22 million people needs efficient, reliable, accessible and safe transportation system. This is just an example of what we planned for Lagos State.''

Regarding the impact of the project in traffic, he said: ''It will improve the traffic situation along that corridor. As more people enter the BRT buses, the road will be freer; we are also doing the engineering on the road, especially at the junctions to increase the capacity of the road and make the way big enough to accommodate more traffic. ''The mobility of the people will be enhanced but priority will be given to public transport, which is a mass carrier for a lot of people. ‘’We are injecting 450 buses into the BRT scheme along the corridor.

The buses are not LAMATA’s and not for Lagos State Government. It is a PPP arrangement.

The state government provided the infrastructure, while the buses are run by the private operators. They are running the buses in line with the guidelines from LAMATA.’’

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 — 29

By Theodore Opara

Yamaha returns to Nigeria with CFAO

Y

AMAHA Japan, r e n o w n e d motorcycle, outboard engine and generator maker has returned to Nigeria, ten years after leaving the country.

Yamaha, was in the past, represented by John Holt but has found a new and reliable partnership in CFAO Yamaha Nigeria Limited, a member of the CFAO Group.

Speaking on the new partnership, the Managing Director of Yamaha CFAO, Mr. Olivier Levigne told newsmen at the just concluded Lagos International Trade Fair, that CFAO Yamaha was using the opportunity provided by the fair to announce the return of Yamaha to Nigeria by displaying full range of Yamaha products.

The products on display included, different models of motorbikes like Presidential power bikes, Ladies motorcycle, Sport bikes, three wheelers, outboard engines, generator, lubricants, All Terrain Vehicle (Viking) among others.

According to the Managing Director, CFAO Yamaha had already commenced the assembling of Yamaha motorcycles in its Amuwo Odofin plant with the aim of delivering quality motorcycles to Nigerians .

Also speaking during the occasion, the Marketing

Director who is also the Deputy Managing Director of the company, Mr. Hisashi Fuji explained that the return of Yamaha to the Nigerian market was as a result of the confidence they have in the country.

“We came back because the market is big and there is great potentials in the future”the Deputy Director stated.

He highlighted the unique attributes of Yamaha products to include durability, ruggedness, economical with availability of spare parts and ease to maintain.

“We meet peoples need for transport, fishery, and pleasurable rides,”adding that Yamaha racing bike is ranked among the very best in the world.

According to him, the Yamaha Lubricant being introduced into the market for the servicing of their motorcycles and generators last very long.

Range Rover Evoque finally goes roofless

L

AND Rover has unveiled the world’s first luxury compact SUV convertible. Range Rover Evoque Convertible combines the bold design and refinement of Evoque with comprehensive specification and a

•Yamaha stand at the just concluded Lagos Trade Fair.

sophisticated folding roof to create a no compromise, allseason convertible.

The ground breaking and distinctive shape of the original Range Rover Evoque lends itself to an elegant convertible design and the new model sits at the pinnacle of the Evoque portfolio as the most exclusive and capable convertible in the world.

As the fifth member of the Range Rover family – and the first ever Land Rover convertible – the highly desirable new model combines traditional Range Rover luxury with a distinctive four-seat design and versatile storage.

The Range Rover

Evoque Convertible has been engineered to meet Land Rover ’s most rigorous standards, ensuring exceptional structural rigidity, the trademark refinement, outstanding levels of safety and unrivalled breadth of capability.

“Range Rover Evoque Convertible is a vehicle for all seasons,” said Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer. “Its uniquely distinctive design and world-class engineering adds another dimension to the Range Rover family, further enhancing its desirability and appeal.”

The global SUV market

Isuzu to assemble light trucks in Nigeria next year K O N C E P T Autocentre Limited, representatives of Isuzu brand in Nigeria has disclosed that the Isuzu brand will commence production of its light trucks in Nigeria by the second quarter of next year.

Mr Victor Eborajolo, Director of Koncept Autocentre, said that the company was at the final stage of completing the assembly line at its Isolo Lagos premises.

He made the disclosure at the just-concluded Lagos International Trade fair with the visiting Isuzu team from Japan led by Keisuke Shimoyama. According to the Koncept Autocentre boss, the time had come for the Isuzu brand to regain its lost position in the Nigerian market, especially with the setting up of a plant in Nigeria.

He recalled that many years ago, the Isuzu brand was the preferred pick-up for many Nigerians but slid due to lack of after-sales support by the distributors, a situation he said, his company had already addressed.

According to Mr Eborajolo, Koncept Autocentre started plans for

the new assembly plant last year and had since been having discussions with Isuzu Japan and General Motors, South Africa to make the plant a world class assembly line.

“Already, we have the license from the Nigerian Automotive Development and Design. We have finalized the models and logistics to processes and the assembly line construction is going on at the moment,” he said.

“As a revered Japanese brand, we have to follow due processes and standards before the Isuzu brand would be approved for production in the plant,” he stated, adding that Isuzu has to make sure that everything in the plant is of Isuzu International standard.

Meanwhile, the Koncept Autocentre Director had thumbed up the Federal Government on the national auto policy, which he said would help in revolutionizing the Nigerian auto industry.

“We are confident that the policy will work. We know the present government is not the one that will abandon a good policy,” he said.

is forecast to grow by 20 per cent over the next five years* and Evoque Convertible will play a key role in continuing Range Rover’s 45-year success story, pioneering an allnew SUV sector.

Evoque Convertible’s eye-catching exterior design is made possible by a sophisticated fabric roof shaped to create a crisply defined silhouette that remains faithful to the original design. Its Z-fold mechanism lays flush with the rear bodywork for a sleek, uncluttered appearance when lowered.

The fabric roof is the longest and widest currently fitted to any vehicle on sale today.

According to him, their confi- growth of Isuzu in Nigeria in the which has been in Nigeria for dence in the policy necessitated last one year, saying that they had more than 110 years.

“Isuzu is doing well considerthe huge investment they are mak- already taken seven per cent of the ing the challenges in the couning in the project. light truck market share in Nigeria He however regretted that some despite the challenges in the auto try presently. There has been massive increase of Isuzu trucks stakeholders in the auto industry sector presently. were throwing spanners in the According to him, Isuzu has on Nigerian roads,” he said, addwheel of progress for the survival come to stay in Nigeria, just like ing that when the plant becomes of the auto policy. “Those who are the Kewalram Chanrai Group ( operational in Nigeria, there will benefitting from importing fully- Owners of Koncept Autocentre) be possibility of exporting the vehicles outside the country. built units (automobiles) are spending money publishing that the policy should not work,” he said. Urging this category of auto dealer to exercise caution, he noted that “when you want to introduce a change in a society, it is usually not very easy because those who are benefitting from old order will kick against it.”

Meanwhile the leader of the Japanese team from Isuzu Mr Keisuke Shimoyama expressed confidence in their partnership with Koncept Autocentre, describing Nigeria as a very important market to Isuzu. In his remarks, the Gen•Guarav Kaul, GM, Koncept Autos, Victor Eborajolo, Director, Koneral Manager Koncept Autocept Autos and Keisuke Shimoyama of Isuzu Japan at Lagos Trade centre, Mr Gaurav Kaul exFair recently. pressed satisfaction with the

30—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

OBAFEMI Onashile i

Abandoned Ajase-Ipo/Offa Road:

Legislators drag FG, contractor to court

By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

W

ORRIED by the poor state of the Ajase-Ipo/ Offa Road in the southern part of Kwara State, the legislators representing the area in the State House of Assembly, have dragged the Attorney-General of the country and the contractor handling the reconstruction of the road to the Federal High Court for allegedly abandoning the construction/rehabilitation of the road.

Specifically, Messrs Saheed Popoola and Hassan Oyeleke representing Ojomu Balogun

and Eesa,Shawo and Igboodun constituencies respectively, alleged that the contractor, Preconsmith Construction Ltd, collected 13 percent mobilization from the Federal Government and still went ahead to abandon the road project.

In the suit documented as FHC/IL/CS/64/2015, the legislators through their counsel, Mr. Oluwaseun Ijaodola further alleged that having been mobilized by 13 percent of the contract sum by the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Works, the contractor shoddily bulldozed the

roads, with its various signboards on the roads and abandoned the project since the past three years.

The lawmakers further claimed that the contractor ”callously abandoned the site, three seasons of heavy rainfall had hit the part shoddily bulldozed by the contractor which has put the road in a worse condition than it was before the contract was awarded and made the part practically impassable” They also claimed that because the Federal Government had already awarded the contract to the contractor, the Kwara State Government cannot award same

Dubai's sky scrappers

Developer of world’s tallest building, Nigerian partner launch Dubai offering

By Kingsley Adegboye

D

UBAI’s top property developer, Messrs Emaar Properties is partnering with Wrothams Windsor, a Lagos-based real estate development firm, to showcase a private collection of properties hand picked for Nigerian clients. The Dubai company which developed Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building and other iconic real estate assets, is planning a series of sales and investment events in Lagos and Abuja to offer the very best real estate developments in Dubai.

Group Managing Director of Wrothams Windsor, Mr. Richard Vedelago explained that the highlight of Emaar’s approach to developing integrated lifestyle destinations is downtown Dubai, a 500acre housing project which cost is put at a whopping US$ 20 billion. The flagship development described as ‘The Centre of Now’ features global icons like Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination and the Dubai Fountain, the tallest performing fountain.

“A sterling new addition to Downtown Dubai is the Opera District that is set to define the city as the region’s cultural destination. Key features in the District include Dubai Opera, the country’s first dedicated Opera House as well as an

array of design studios and other lifestyle amenities. Emaar has launched Opera Grand and Forte, premium residential towers in the Opera District. Emaar is also developing the Dubai Creek Harbour, a magnificent waterfront city that will define the ambitious new face of Dubai’s future, within Mohammed Bin Rashid City (MBR City). In close proximity to the Dubai International Airport and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Dubai Creek Harbour is located on a land area of six million square metres and over 1,482 acres,”Mr. Vedelago said.

“With the most iconic developments in Dubai that include the Burj Khalifa, Armani & Address Hotel residences to mention but a few, Emaar Properties has firmly established itself as the premier developer in Dubai. Nigerians have been investing heavily in Dubai and we want them to have access to the very best opportunities and Emaar Properties offers exactly that. What sets Emaar apart from other developers is the location, finishing and the delivery of their projects that give clients amazing upside in the long run.

Emaar is extending its expertise in developing master-planned communities internationally and today, it has a significant presence in several key global markets. Emaar has highlighted its commitment to project delivery by handing over homes in its master-planned communities in Egypt, Turkey, Lebanon.

contract to another contractor.

The duo averred that the Attorney -General of the federation should use its statutory powers to compel the contractor to return to site immediately after the rainy season because lives of people living in the areas and those earning their livelihood including the lawmakers, had been negatively impacted.

They claimed that in the course of plying the roads as a matter of compulsion from Offa to Ilorin to perform their legislative duties, their vehicles were damaged and the repairs cost them N1.5million ”Because of the appalling

nature of the road and its impassability, all vehicles especially commercial vehicles have boycotted the Ajase-Ipo axis and are now accessing Offa through Ogbomosho/Iwo road in Oyo state thereby hurting/ paralyzing the commercial activities of the affected communities, that is, Irepodun,Oyun, and Offa Local Government Areas of Kwara |State, “ the further claimed. No date has Meanwhile, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Kwara State Governor, Dr Muideen Akorede has expressed serious concern over the deplorable condition of the Ajase-Ipo/Offa Road.

Akorede who hails from Offa, said, ‘The Kwara State Government is seriously concerned about the state of Federal Government roads such as Offa-Ajase-ipo and Jebba/ Boda Saadu roads and appeals to the Federal Government to immediately intervene in view of their negative effects on our people and commerce in those affected areas’’ Also reacting to the poor state of the road, the Commissioner for Finance, Mr Demola Banu who hails from Ajase-Ipo, told Vanguard Homes & Property that the deplorable conditions has inflicted economic hardships the entire state.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—31

Nigeria yet to experience real estate development— Onashile OBAFEMI Onashile is a former Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, NIQS. He has also held the positions of Publicity Secretary of the chapter, Secretary, International Affairs of the NIQS and is currently the Vice President, (West Africa) Association of Africa Quantity Surveyors, AAQS. Onashile who is also the Managing Partner of Consol Associates spoke to Jude Njoku

C

ONSOL’'S merger with other firms This is the sixth year after the merger of Consol, Group Q and Aderonke Oyelami & Partners. It has been wonderful six years and the firm has grown from strength to strength. The firm is now a practice of 28 staff and four full-fledged offices in four locations in Nigeria. We have the Lekki head office, the Lagos Island office, Abuja office and Kaduna office, all fully operational and manned by a partner.

We also have a branch or an operational base that we are using to service LNG in Bonny/Port Harcourt. But that is not a full-fledged office. I am also happy to say that we have gone beyond Nigeria, we are now Onashile operating in Ghana.

Beyond Ghana, we are also looking at Rwanda because we hear that Rwanda is business friendly and encouraging international businesses into their country.

We have a couple of friends that are operating there and we are looking at Rwanda and some other countries in West Africa.

Why the merger in an era when people prefer independence,?

We merged six years ago, so, we are not just doing it now. What we saw ahead was a more fierce competition for plum jobs in our country. Like I said earlier, Nigeria is yet to experience real estate development per se. What we have been having uptil now is like a child’s play. We are going to be having projects worth 250 million dollars, 800 million dollars, one billion dollars, four billion dollars. We are talking about establishing refineries, building new international airports and international rail stations, e.t.c..

Infrastructure projects Those are big infrastructure projects and to play in the field, we must have a formidable organisation. We saw that ahead and that was one of the reasons we decided to merge, that is, put our forces together and be able to compete internationally. We have a practice with six full-time partners, not part time partners. We have the capacity to run projects simultaneously and even big sized projects..

Secondly , we needed some further expertise. For instance, my core competence now is turn-around project management, that is, if you feel that your project is going bad, call us in. But we also need expertise in dispute and conflict resolution and that is where Chief Odumosu’s services are needed.

Chief Odumosu was the first quantity surveyor to be a qualified chartered arbitrator and he has done quite a lot of arbitration resolutions locally and internationally. In order to enhance our capacity in that area,

Obafemi Onashile we said we can partner with Chief and be able to offer that kind of service to the public and I must say we have had a couple of nice arbitration experiences that our clients were very pleased with. I couldn’t have done it. Likewise also, Mrs Oyelami’s experience in construction especially with engineering is bringing in a lot of goodwill for us in terms of engineering cost management.

She is in charge of the Engineering Cost Management in Consol and since the merger, we have done a lot of jobs in engineering cost management, one of the reasons we are servicing LNG in engineering projects. So, enhancing our capacity is another reason for the merger.

Thirdly, in order to manage many more locations. We are talking about international competition where our competitors are operating in 20 -25 countries at the same time, operating in three to four continents at the same time.

If we want to compete with this kind of people, we must also build up our capacity to be able to operate in more than one country and have partners. We just must come together and build up bigger profile in order to adequately compete internationally. This is why we felt we needed the merger and I must say we intend to still merge with more firms quantity surveyors, engineers and architects It is a pointer to the current direction in our industry.

Looking at a consortium of firms?

It is not a consortium of firms but a multidisciplinary firm. That way,we are able to offer many disciplines, many vocations rather than bringing in three or four firms and saying we have joint venture. Joint venture might come in, depending on the project but we are not averse to having joint ventures.

But ultimately, we still need to build up Consol to a firm that will have over one hundred staff and also operating and making profits in about five or six countries within the next three years. So, we have Continues on page 32

32—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

A SPECIAL PROJECTS UNIT PUBLICATION IN CONJUNCTION WITH HOMES & PROPERTY DESK

Quantity surveyors brainstorm on politics and national devt at biennial confab

By Jude Njoku AGOS, the acclaimed “Centre of Excellence” will be agog this week as the nation’s construction cost experts storm the city for the 26th Biennial Conference and General Meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, NIQS. The five-day international conference which kicks off today at the Lagos Oriental Hotel along the Lekki Road in Victoria Island, will brainstorm on the theme: Politics, Policies and National Development: The Role of Professionals.

The Secretary, Marketing and Corporate Affairs of the Institute, Mr. Olujide Oke described the biennial conference as “the most important event in the programme of the NIQS and provides the forum for the largest gathering of quantity surveyors in Nigeria where policy issues and strategies which shape the direction of the profession in particular and the construction industry in general, are brought forth for discussion and decision.”

“This year’s international event which will attract resource persons and participants from outside the country and member nations of the African Association of Quantity Surveyors, AAQS, shall also be graced by top government officials drawn from the Presidency, Federal and State Governments, political parties as well as professionals from the construction /real estate, banking, insurance, captains of industry both within and without the profession, “ Mr. Oke said.

L

Quantity surveyor The highpoint of the conference, according to Mr. Oke would be the investiture of an Abuja-based quantity surveyor, Mrs Mery Torkwase Iyortyer as the first female president of the 46-year old Institute. She becomes the second woman to lead a professional body in the construction industry.

The first was Mrs Bukky Ejiwunmi who led the Nigerian Institute of Architects, NIA between 2001-2003.

Until her election as Deputy President two years ago, the highest position held by a woman in the NIQS was National Vice President occupied by Mrs Ibiyinka Conde in the 1990’s. Apart from the baton exchange between the outgoing president, Mallam Murtala Aliyu and Mrs Iyortyer, the election of a new Deputy President will be the cynosure of all eyes at the biennial confab.

How it all started: The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors was founded by a group of Nigerians who trained, qualified and practised in the United Kingdom but who upon returning to Nigeria, sensed the urgent need to develop the profession of quantity surveying in Nigeria by establishing a parallel body to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, RICS of the United Kingdom.

Quantity Surveying is practised in Nigeria along the same pattern as the United Kingdom and otherCommonwealth countries. The Regulated and other Professions Incoming President: Mercy Iyortyer (Miscellaneous Provisions ) Act President: Mallam Murtala Aliyu 1978 recognised quantity surveying profession as one of the scheduled professions while Decree No 31 of 1986 gave legal backing and recognition to the Quantity Surveying profession and also set up the Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria, QSRBN to regulate the profession.

Services provided by Quantity Surveyors Quantity Surveyors are the construction cost experts. Their services include: *Feasibility studies on capital projects *Cost modeling *Contract documentation and procurement *Contract administration and management Mallam Husani A. Dikko *Jide Oke Secretary, Marketing and *Project management Corporate Affairs QSRBN President *Drawing up the client’s brief *Direct labour project *Arbitration Current National Executive Council: *Expert witness.

President: Mallam Murtala Aliyu Deputy President: Mrs. Mercy Torkwase Iyortyer It is a project that will have so Continues from page 31 Vice President: Mr. Ade Ogunfidodo many buildings, infrastructure challenge ahead of us.

Secretary General: Mr. Femi Balogun You said we have not started and those are the kind of Assistant Secretary-General: Mr. Abubakar Alkali real estate in Nigeria. Can you developments that Nigeria needs Treasurer: Mr. Ruya Fadason to build up its infrastructure. explain?

Secretary, Professional Dev. & Library: Dr. Ejike Anunike AAQS politics Take a look at Dubai, Saudi AAQS is the association put Secretary, Marketing & Corporate Affairs: Mr. Olujide Oke Arabia, United States, China. together by some national Secretary, International Affairs: Mr. Kola Adeyemo These guys develop a city at a association of quantity surveyors time. A city is just one project in Past Presidents their own parlance. You are in order to look after the affairs of Chief G.A. Balogun 1992 talking of developing over one quantity surveying profession 1969- 1973 Alhaji A.M. Kawu 1992-1994 thousand houses. We are talking across Africa. AAQS is an G.A. Nasiru 1973 Mr. S.E. Emiowele 1994-1996 of projects worth two to four billion association that has institutions as Chief A.A. Adekanbi Alhaji Murtala Oladapo dollars. We are talking about members not individuals. I am 1973-1974 1996-2000 nuclear reactors worth one to two currently the vice president for the Chief E.O. Nwogu Mallam Husani A. Dikko billion dollars, that is the kind of west region.

I oversee the west region of 1974- 1975 2000-2002 projects we are talking about.

Otunba T.B. Adebayo Mr. J. Olusegun Ajanlekoko The one we can say looks like a Africa in helping to enhance 1975 -1976 2000-2004 big project is the Rainbow Project quantity surveying practice in the Mr. A. O. Nwanze 1976 -1977 Mr. Emmanuel Oforeh 2004 - in Port Harcourt. Go and check it region. Part of what I am doing is Chief A.O. Aderibiigbe 1977- 2006 out, it is dogged with so many to expand the influence of 1979 Mr. Francis Adetola 2006- issues. To me, it is a teething quantity surveying in West Africa, Mr. Emeka Osemenam 1979- 2008 problem we will overcome but that so we are bringing in more 1982 Mr. Felix Okereke-Onyeri is the magnitude of projects we countries into AAQS and that way, Apostle B.A. Oduntan 2009-2011 should be looking forward to spreading QS profession across 1982-1984 Mr. Ajele John Alufohai 2011- having. Another example is the entire Africa. In another couple Alhaji S.L. Giwa 1984-1986 2013 setting up a university. We are of weeks, I will be going to Chief E. Isiadinso 1986 -1990 Mallam Murtala Aliyu 2013- talking of setting up something Gambia for exploratory talks with Chief Okolo Owete 1990 - 2015 like University of Ife brand new. quantity surveyors in that country.

Nigeria yet to experience real estate development— Onashile

Erosion threatens road to oil-rich Ogbia kingdom PAGE 3

Police driver hits newspaper vendor, abandons him in hospital

PAGE 6

By Ike Uchechukwu

C VOL. 1: No. 73

TUESD AY, NOVEMBER 117, 7, 20 15 TUESDA 201

FLOOD: In C-River school, students stand on desks, chairs •State govt rejects Army’s renovation initiative •NYSC member launches N2.8 appeal fund to roof school

•A classroom

ALABAR— PUPILS of Army Children School, Akim Barracks, Calabar II, Cross River State, a nursery and primary school established by the state government in 1982, regularly stand on their desks and chairs to receive tutorials whenever there is a downpour, which submerges many classrooms in the neglected school.

Niger Delta Voice findings showed that offices of the teachers also drip with water, following leaking roofs and several years of abandonment by government.

A National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, member serving in the state, Miss Damilola Banjo, a University of Ibadan graduate of Communication and Language Arts, who has launched a fund drive to roof the building, said she embarked on the project when she saw the pupils standing on tables and chairs because of their flooded classrooms.

Banjo, who had planned to donate school kits, including bags, sandals and stationery to the pupils, said: “I never knew that a school like this could still be in the heart of a town like Calabar, the nation’s paradise.

“I wanted to donate sandals and bags as well as writing materials to them, but when I saw this place and how they perched on their tables and chairs when it rained, I wondered what impact my gift would make if they do not have a good learning environment.

Where will they stay and learn?

“I felt renovating the school was more pivotal than giving them those kits, so I decided to do this. It has been extremely challenging and I have given my all for this and I am still prepared to do more as long as I have the resources.”

When Niger Delta Voice visited the school, the Ushaped building was in bad shape. The woods were rotten and the ceilings broken.

Govt rebuffs Army

A staff of the school, who preferred anonymity, hinted that the immediate past General Officer Commanding, GOC, of the 13th Army Brigade, approached the state government sometime ago to allow the Army revamp and take over the school but government refused.

The staff said the negative image the state governmentowned school gave the military and the danger the

•Front view C M Y K

•NYSC member, Damilola

•Head Teacher, Mrs Bassey

Continued on Page 7

2—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

in this compound as extra security. We never ever thought that they will be the source of such grief to bona fide residents of this building.”

Disquieting police silence

•House where Nsikak was killed

•Late Nsikak

Police officers run riot in Delta, kill man •Caught by vigilance group •Police authorities keep mum

By Emma Amaize & Egufe Yafugborhi

W

ARRI—TWO police officers went berserk in Warri, Delta State and shot dead a 28-year-old truck assistant, Amos Nsikak.

They shot erratically into the air after the incident to scare away citizens in the neighbourhood and bolted away afterward, but alert members of a vigilance group in the area apprehended and handed them over to the police.

Since the November 4 incident, anxiety has mounted in the locality, as police authorities in the state were accused of playing hide and seek.

Findings by Niger Delta Voice revealed that Nsikak, who lived at 33, Omarekewe Street, a twostorey apartment, off London Opi Street, Ekuerede Urhobo, Warri, where the incident occurred, left his roommates to pick his cloth hanging on a line outside, when the unexpected happened.

Walk to death

If the indigene of Ekpene Ikpan Neit, Neit Ibom LGA, Akwa Ibom State, who came to Warri in March, had a premonition of death, he would have remained indoors.

THE TEAM Emma Amaize, Editor Jimitota Onoyume Samuel Oyadongha Simon Ebegbulem Gabriel Enogholase Festus Ahon Egufe Yafugborhi Emmanuel Una Akpokona Omafuaire Godwin Oghre Tom Moses Chioma Onuegbu Ike Uche Davies Iheamnachor Emem Idio Brisibe Perez Theresa Ugbobu Ochuko Akuopha Barnabas Uzosike Nath Onajoke Chijioke Nwankpa C M Y K

In preparation for work the next day, Thursday, November 5, he had washed his attire earlier that morning and hung it on a rope in the compound.

Two mobile police officers, reportedly squatting in the compound, cut him down with bullets, when he left his apartment to pick the clothes off the line.

Nsikak, about five-feet tall and third of eight children, came back with his colleagues at about 11p.m. that fateful night, took his bath before going downstairs. That was the last time his flat mates, David Gabriel, Joel Faruno and Olumide Fatoki saw him alive.

The two Police corporals allegedly shot him at point blank range with their AK-47 rifles, claiming thereafter that he was trying to steal their uniforms hung on the same line.

Hours after the fatal shooting, Nsikak’s blood splattered all over the scene revealed a futile struggle for life. Like a bull in a China shop, Nsikak, in the throes of pain staggered to various points at the backyard.

Even if he had survived, he would have been unable to use his right arm anymore, because it was shattered, with a fiveinch hole. Another bullet had pierced the right side of his abdomen.

A large hole on the shattered glass window from where the cops fired the shots spoke volumes of unprovoked violence.

‘He was not a criminal’

Nsikak’s friend and confidant, David Gabriel, said his friend was not a thief and his murder would devastate his parents.

He told Niger Delta Voice: “We got home late after our normal work day. We had travelled as far to Oghara to get petroleum products and eventually entered the house about 11p.m.

“He was going to get his clothes from the line and we were watching television. Next thing, I heard gunshots. I cautiously came out of the house to find out what was happening since we have a security man at the gate.

“That was when it occurred to me that Amos was still outside and it struck me that something must have terribly gone wrong.

“I went downstairs and met Nsikak on the ground. I called out to him and he just managed to say: na Mopol shoot me, I nor know wetin I do am ooooo.

“Things actually went awry as Nsikak laid in a pool of his blood, writhing in agony, while the police officers shot indiscriminately into the air to scare people and prevent them from coming out to ascertain what was amiss.”

Foiled escape bid

“The policemen tried to escape after the shooting; it was later the vigilante told us that they saw the policemen with their guns and ordered them to stop. The men stopped,

•Bullet wounds that felled Nsikak

dropped their weapons and surrendered themselves to the group, who took them to the police station.”

The driver Nsikak worked with, Olumide Fatoki, was in pain when he spoke to Niger Delta Voice: “That boy is a good boy. I cannot understand what happened.

“I was already asleep when the gunshots thundered. I quickly rushed down, studied the situation and ran to the Quick Response base that was just 400 metres away. They promptly came to the house, and eventually took Amos to the hospital, but it was rather too late.

“The bullet wounds on Nsikak were too fatal for the young man to survive. What will I tell his parents? I brought him to work with me because I trust him, we have been working together for five years and I can vouch for him. I do not know how this came to happen.”

The officers' duty

A source said: “Sadly, the policemen were not known tenants to the 33 Omarekweke Street, off London Opi in Ekurede Urhobo area of Warri.

“Former occupant of the building, a pastor in a reputable church in Warri (names withheld) passed the accommodation to the policemen, who were engaged to provide security at a school owned by the church. They were supposed to rest in the decent three-bedroom accommodation and resume work at the school.

“They do not pay rent here; we have just found out they are also not known to the landlord.

However, we saw their presence

Since police took the two cops into custody, they have been taciturn on their identity and investigation so far.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Celestina Kalu, just resuming from vacation, said five days after the incident: “I am yet to be properly briefed on the incident and cannot make a clear statement at the moment.”

Two days later, precisely Thursday, November 11, when Niger Delta Voice contacted the PPRO, she maintained the same position. The seeming police reluctance to speak publicly on the matter was considered repugnant and worrisome by residents.

A security expert, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “The Delta Police Command has not displayed good conduct in this whole saga.

“In other climes, the angry public would have been told names of the suspects and the duty that took them to take shelter in that building.

“Given the barbaric appeal of the crime, their mental history to determine if one or both of them have anger management troubles also would have been made known as part of measures to determine the motive for their action.

“We are talking of a man shooting an unarmed civilian so close with an AK-47. We cannot shave their heads in their absence, but their action is inexcusable.”

Killer cops moved from Warri to Asaba

However, investigation revealed that the police, while reluctant to offer public statement, have been covertly investigating the matter. They have moved the suspects initially detained at the ‘B’ Division, Warri, to Asaba.

A source told Niger Delta Voice, “Already the investigating team has recommended dismissal for both suspects before their inevitable court trial. Police usually do so in critical situations as this is to extricate itself from the eventual court trial of suspects.

“I think the reluctance of the Delta Police Command to take clear responsibility for the sins of both men is because as you may have heard, they were not drafted from any police formation in Delta State.

“From what we know, a popular church in Warri hired them from Squadron 36 in Kebbi to guard their school in town.”

A tenant said: “They were not even recognized tenants in that building. The original tenant of the apartment, a pastor, passed the accommodation for their comfort as they provide security for the church’s school.”

Rights activist, Oghenejakpor Ikimi, said: “If the shooters were not from Delta State Police Command, the church which hired them from Kebbi and housed them to watch over its school also needs to be called to question.”

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—3 terrain call for constant maintenance due to the influence of the elements on infrastructures.”

Some motorists, who spoke to Niger Delta Voice, also expressed concern about the progressive caving in of the road shoulder.

DELTA...

FINGER OF GOD

BAYELSA… GLORY OF ALL LANDS

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

ENAGOA—EROSION may cut-off EdepieImiringi Road linking the oil-rich Ogbia Kingdom, host to Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, where government first found crude oil in commercial quantity in the country, if relevant authorities do not take urgent counteractive steps.

The road is the quickest route to communities in Ogbia LGA for commuters coming from the university town of Amassoma in Southern Ijaw LGA and communities in the GbarainEkpetiama axis of the state.

Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, is from the oil-rich Ogbia area, which is host to several educational institutions, including the Federal University, Otuoke; Federal Medical Centre, FMC extension; Federal Government Girls College, Imiringi, and the state-owned College of Health Technology, Otuogidi, among others.

The road, opened to traffic about 10 months ago after its rehabilitation by the Federal Road Maintenance Agency, FERMA, after the devastation of the link bridge by the 2012 flood, has started failing again.

However, FERMA’s intervention was an emergency replacement of the collapsed bridge and rehabilitation of 1-km approach on either side of Edepie-Imiringi-Otuasega Road/ Link Road on Mbiama-

Erosion threatens road to oil-rich Ogbia kingdom •Despite FERMA’s intervention 10 months ago

•Edepie-Imiringi Road

Yenagoa.

Road prone to erosion—Engineer

Our correspondent, who travelled through the strategic route, reports that new craters were gradually forming on the hitherto smooth road just as some sections of the edge have started

•Over 5 houses gone, several persons maimed T EDO… HEART BEA BEAT

OF THE NA TION NATION

By Gabriel Enogholase

O

•Part of the gully erosion •Begging for attention According to the Odionwere: “When we noticed the gully erosion, which started from the heavy volume of flood from adjoining streets into our street, we informed the local and state governments about it.

Started about 20 years ago

The Odionwere of the community, Pa Samson Osarenren and one of the leaders, Rev. Victor Ikuobase, who narrated their ordeal to Niger Delta Voice, said they first noticed the gully erosion about 20 years ago and drew the attention of the relevant government authorities to it, but they took no action.

C M Y K

•Rev Vincent

Adele, a taxi driver, said: “Driving through the road at night could be risky due to the fragile nature of the failed portion. Some sections of the road shoulder have caved in but covered by grasses.

“It is a waiting disaster for unsuspecting road users if the trend is not arrested. This is a busy route used by many, including workers and students.”

He pleaded with the relevant authorities to revamp the failed portion before something tragic occurred.

Palm wine joint operators on the route, who went through pains when the road was shut to traffic in the aftermath of the 2012 flood, are not comfortable with the development.

One of them, Akpan Udo told Niger Delta Voice: “We are really disturbed by the threat posed by the noticeable collapse of some part of the edge of the road.

“The road is vulnerable to erosion and it is our prayer that government will respond promptly and fix it before it gets out of hand. This is where we earn our living.”

breaking up due to erosion.

An engineer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “This problem will always rear its head since the road is lying on a vast stretch of sand-filled swampy land, which is susceptible to erosion occasioned by perennial flooding. Roads in this type of

... as Edo community loses sleep, too

KHORO—FIRST Uhunmwunagho Street, off Okhoro, Okhoro community in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State used to be the getaway route for motorists trying to avoid the heavy traffic along hectic Ugbowo Road, housing two Federal Government institutions: the University of Benin and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH, in the early 80s up to year 2000.

However, today, gully erosion has taken over the road and adjoining streets in the area rendering them impassable.

Tragedy in the offing

“At that time, we noticed that vehicles that used to take the street to Ugbowo became few because they were afraid of falling into the gully.

Havoc

“Today, the gully erosion has caved in over five houses and several people have slipped into the gully with most of them sustaining life threatening injuries.

“This is why we are appealing to the state government to come to our rescue before it is too late.”

Rev. Ikuobase said: “The gully erosion, which started like a child’s play, is now life threatening.

“We cannot sleep with our two eyes closed when it rains. So, if urgent attention is not taken, erosion will submerge houses in the street and this will affect lives and properties.

“My appeal to the government is to take a holistic action, construct some gutters on the adjoining streets so that the volume of water from those streets can be emptied into the Ikopba River in Okhoro.

“We have also written to the state governor, Adams Oshiomhole to come to our rescue and he has replied us.”

Residents plead with Oshiomhole

In the letter to the governor, signed by the Odionwere, Pa Samson Osarenren and five others, they said: “We, the

residents of the street now live in perpetual fear any time it rains.

“We are compelled to draw your attention, Sir, to come to our rescue and save the area from going into extinction as many houses are on the verge of caving in, if urgent steps are not taken expeditiously to address the ugly situation.

“There is no gain saying the fact that reclaiming gully sites is capital intensive, which neither community nor the local government council can shoulder; hence we are appealing passionately to include our area among the gully erosion sites, which are currently receiving attention from your government.”

Govt reacts

The governor, through his Private Principal Secretary, Yakubu Aliyu, said the director in charge of Flood and Erosion Control from the Ministry of Environment, came to inspect the gully erosion site and take measurements.

An official of the State Ministry of Environment, who spoke to Niger Delta Voice on condition of anonymity, said Edo State has over 108 erosion sites, adding “government is working on three, while the design on 30 others has been done. The Okhoro erosion site, which you have mentioned, may be one of them.”

4 — Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

U

YO— COMMISSIONER for Works, Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Ephraim Inyang, has said that some persons have embarked on a smear campaign against the state governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, because he refused their insatiable plan to continue looting the state to the detriment of the people.

He said it was surprising that despite turning the state into a massive construction site in the past five months with money released for some abandoned projects and works ongoing to turn Eket to a model city, some people could still describe Udom as a non-performing governor.

Inyang, in this interview with Niger Delta Voice, exposed the intrigues, saying that even President Muhammadu Buhari knows that Governor Emmanuel is working.

Excerpts: There are widespread rumours that all the projects that government has been boasting of are mere speculations and propaganda.

It is a difficult thing to realize that even when people see things practically, they still deny the obvious. If they are saying that Governor Udom Emmanuel has not started doing anything, it means that something is wrong somewhere.

But let us take it from this perspective. You will agree with me that when this administration came on board on May 29, contractors had abandoned some of the previously-awarded contracts because of paucity of funds. I will mention three of them that this government, on coming on board, has re-awarded.

On the Eket/Ibeno Road, work had stopped completely but Governor Emmanuel released funds by June to CCECC for the Eket-Ibeno Road and ever since, he has consistently, on monthly basis, given them money.

That was what gave me the audacity to go to Ibeno and demand that the contractor complete the project latest June 2016. I will be going back to Ibeno to see the pace of work on November 26. So if you are willing, you will go with me to Ibeno to go and see the level of work, where work had stopped, but is now near completion.

As I speak, we had issues with the relocation of poles on that road and we had to reassign someone to take out those poles to ensure completion of the job. I am saying publicly that we are expecting CCECC to deliver that job in June 2016.

They left Etinan/Eket Road untreated due to paucity of funds but Emmanuel reactivated that job and CCECC has gone back to site.

I guarantee you that if you drive through that road today, you will see CCECC back on site, working.

If you go to East-West Road, C M Y K

AKWA IBOM… LAND OF PROMISE

Why they blackmail A-Ibom gov —Inyang, Works Commissioner Ibom people?

As if that was not enough, last week Friday, I was in Nsit Atai with Mark Esset, the member representing Nsit Atai in the state House of Assembly with Otuekong Raphael Bassey, their political leader to inspect the Idiaba Road to Nnung Udoe.

Will that also be a façade?

Commissioner for Works, Mr. Ephraim Inyang

where HAMACON is working in Oruk Anam Local Government Area to connect East-West Road through Oruk Anam and Ikot Ibritam, Emmanuel has rejuvenated the abandoned project. They are in two phases. Phase 1 was stopped. The administration of Udom Emmanuel has released money to HAMAKON and they are back on site working.

Coming back home to Eket Remodeling Project, if they said what the governor is embarking on is not true, why did the government pay compensation to people? Will government just wake up and pay compensation to people for doing nothing?

If you go to Eket, from Atabong Bridge to Urua Fiong Etok, all the structures are down. Is government pulling down those structures just for the fun of it? Is it interesting to pull down structures for the fun of it? Therefore, work is ongoing for the remodelling of Eket. The doubting Thomases doubt because they choose to doubt.

If you go to Ikot Udom in Ibiono Local Government, compensation has been paid and VERINI is working.

Therefore, the 3.5km road in Ikot Udom in Ibiono Local Government is ongoing, full compensation paid and we expect to take delivery of that project in February 2016.

Talking about Mkpok-Ukat Road, we have paid from zero point through Ukat to where we have the boundary between Ukat and Mkpok, and Hensek Uwem Okoko, a son of this land is working there day and night.

He is taking part of the road from the East-West Road through Secondary School, Ukat to meet at that TJunction to enter Ukat town.

No deception

If they say all these are

Smear campaign

façade, would government be doing façade with that level of work that is going on there?

As I speak with you, the consultant just left my office.

At Tropicanna, we are taking care of the flood situation between Four Lanes/ Two Lanes through Nsikak Eduok Avenue to the front of Tropicanna. We plan to link up with the back to go to Obot Idim. What was remaining to pay for crops is N2,164,000 and government has approved it.

It has paid for other structures and Julius Berger is working on that site.

If they say the package for Uyo/Etinan, Etinan/Ndon Eyo is also a facade, when we finish this interview, you will see the final draft of the agreement between Akwa Ibom State Government and Julius Berger.

The Ministry of Justice just sent it and the Managing Director of Julius Berger will be in my office at the end of this interview to pick up his copy to move to site.

WISHTINO had already moved to site on Etinan/Ndon Eyo Road and as we speak, we are at the final stages of getting ready to go and pay compensation to the Estate valuers on Etinan/Ndon Eyo Road. Uwmedimo Billy is on that road.

On Uyo/Etinan in Isua Akpaso, too. These are valuers of repute, so, when people say they doubt what government is doing, I believe that it is by choice. But if it is in practical terms of what is on ground, there is sufficient documentary evidence for anybody to be convinced that this governor means well and is working very hard and I will say without fear of contradiction that by 9p.m., 10p.m., I am in this office.

Would it be just for fun for people to see or is it because of the scope of work that we are doing to be able to meet the expectations of the Akwa

It is so overwhelming that we are doing so much but a few people have just chosen to blackmail the governor of Akwa Ibom State.

A few days ago, we saw some sponsored stories that Udom Emmanuel is one of the nonperforming governors. I want to put it on record that even the President of Nigeria knows that Udom Emmanuel is one of the most focused governors. So, I do not know the parameters through which those people arrived at their data or conclusions.

However, I want to put it on record that with the level of funding that we are getting, government is committed to the level of work that we are doing currently. Sometimes, I wonder where he will get all the monies from when he says he will create wealth.

All those roads I have mentioned, except for the Nsit Atai Road that the drawing is ongoing, have been fully mobilized. At least, I have listed not less than eight roads.

We have mobilized for the Ikot Usop Road in Mkpat Enin; BENEX Engineering is handling the job.

We had problem with the valuer we sent there; he came out with figures that did not come across well and this government is about

... with all due respect to everyone, I believe that those, who probably would have benefited from the exorbitant cost, are the ones busy carrying the blackmail story around

transparency. I rejected those figures and demanded that we physically show up for him to convince me why those bush tracks to the village should have those figures and I tell you now, those figures have dropped by more than 80 percent and by next week, Tuesday, we are going to move in to pay.

I say without any fear of contradiction to the people complaining about compensation payment in Akwa Ibom that His Excellency’s only issue was that he did not want things done the traditional way at exorbitant cost to the people of Akwa Ibom.

He simply wanted a trend that would bring down the cost of doing business and he has saved Akwa Ibom lots and lots of money in terms of the value for compensation. Most of the earlier values brought were on the high side and he decided to use other consultants and they came forward and their figures were more realistic and with documented evidence.

Therefore, with all due respect to everyone, I believe that those, who probably would have benefited from the exorbitant cost, are the ones busy carrying the blackmail story around.

Issue of transparency

Government is determined to be transparent in the interest of Akwa Ibom people.

Akwa Ibom people must have the benefit of having government run at a realistic cost.

Therefore, if someone was doing something at N20, this government has come forward to say let this thing be done at a more realistic cost and more transparently and some people are now trying to blackmail the governor; it will not work, it will not stand because the people will see through these facts.

Consequently, as we sit here today, the compensation payment issue is transparent and if anyone has any data, not the general blanket blackmail, let him or her come with the substance.

One of the media houses said there was an issue of fraud in the payment of compensation and that my humble self, Ephraim Inyang, has a case to answer. I called a top officer there and said sir, if you publish those things, I have the right to take you to court because it is assassination of

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—5

Military curfew clashes with tradition in Bayelsa community •Natives seek permission to conduct wake keeps on Fridays •CLO protests, alleges soldiers’re intimidating, extorting villagers

By Samuel Oyadongha

N

EMBE—NIGHT life, almost like a norm among the Nembespeaking folks and other timehonoured ways of existence have taken flight from the ancient Nembe community on the Atlantic fringe of Bayelsa East senatorial district.

This followed the slamming of curfew on the coastal settlement by the military in the wake of the gruesome killing of four soldiers and a police officer, sometime in August, by unknown armed men suspected to be pirates.

The gunmen reportedly launched a surprise dusk attack on a military base in the area, which claimed the lives of the security men.

A security source told Niger Delta Voice that the imposition of the curfew in the area was a precautionary measure, a development that has turned out to be an albatross on the neck of the natives, predominantly anglers.

For the people whose homes lack modern sewage system and rely on the community convenience built at the waterfront to pass waste, it is certainly a pain in the ass.

Just as they cannot venture out on fishing expedition during the

cases of extortion, harassment and indiscriminate shooting that have paralyzed socio-economic activities in the area.

Chief James-Erioworio said: “Reports from the preliminary investigation conducted by the group showed that instead of conducting a detailed investigation into the killing of the five military personnel and reviewing security report on the possible lifting of the imposed curfew, the military personnel have turned the curfew into a money-making venture and have destroyed the economic activities of the people.

“Most of the indigenes of Nembe communities can no longer go early to fish or defecate by the water side as those caught were made to bail themselves.”

Burial ceremonies, other activities affected

•File picture of soldiers on parade duration of the curfew, 10p.m. to curfew and retire to their homes 6a.m., they are also deprived of to avoid the wrath of the military the freedom to walk to the personnel in the community. community waterfront to defecate.

The natives, according to CLO protests ‘siege’ The turn of events in the area findings, are also denied the opportunity of observing wake may have informed the decision keeps on Fridays for their of the leadership of the Civil departed ones without due Liberties Organization, CLO, clearance from the military Bayelsa State branch, to voice its anger against alleged extortion authorities.

Once dusk sets in, the residents and harassment of the natives by run against time to beat the the military deployed to the

community.

The CLO, in a protest letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Tukur Buratai, said the curfew had turned out to be a burden to the law-abiding people of the community.

The CLO Chairman, Chief Nengi James-Eriworio, said the military personnel deployed to the area have placed the communities under siege with

Kidnappers lay siege to Delta community •Collect as low as N50,000 ransom; Police hold summit

“They have hijacked the tradition of the people and limit the burial rites of the people to Friday instead of the traditional kick off on Thursday,” said the CLO chair, who, incidentally is from the area.

The group alleged that in spite of the curfew, kidnappers abducted the Manager of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Floating Station in Nembe and dispossessed him of staff salaries.

The group called on President Buhari and the Chief of Army Staff to review the curfew and call the military personnel to order, saying “the people have suffered enough from degradation, they cannot continue as if there is a war.”

Attempt to get the comment of the Coordinator, Joint Media Campaign Centre of the Joint Task Force, code-named Operation Shield, Lt Col Isa Ado, proved abortive as there was no response to the repeated calls.

Police partner traditional institution

Promising to partner with the monarch in crushing the activities of criminals, Mr. Alkali who spoke for the police, said that the Inspector General, Mr. Solomon Arase, had instructed police officers in the country to partner monarchs in their areas of jurisdiction in ensuring that crime were brought to the barest minimum.

Kidnap gang cracked •Suspected kidnappers and cultist paraded at the Ughelli Police Station . PHOTOS: Perez Brisibe

By Perez Brisibe

U

GHELLI—SUSPECTED kidnappers have seized the Urhobo community of Ughelli at Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, triggering fear in the residents.

Recounting their ordeals in the hands of kidnappers, two residents of Ughelli, Mrs. Esther Omidji and Chief Amos Efemena, who spent 13 and six days, respectively, at different kidnappers’ dens even after their relatives coughed out undisclosed amounts for ransom, said the situation was hairraising.

Modus operandi

Findings by Niger Delta Voice also revealed that the profitmaking kidnappers have narrowed their victims to mostly middle-class citizens, who pose lesser security risk to them when abducted and they collect as low as N50,000 ransom.

Operating more often than not from the hinterland, the hostage takers stalk their targets, abduct and whisk them to their dens, located in surrounding communities from where they negotiate the ransom and release of their victims.

To avoid exposing their identities, the gangsters use the

phones of their victims in their custody to negotiate for ransom.

Town hall session

Investigations showed the business became very alarming in the last few months, prompting the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, Mr. Musa Daura and Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Usman Alkali, to hold a town hall meeting with security stakeholders at the community recently to fashion out modalities to checkmate the ugly trend.

Speaking when Mr. Daura and his team paid him a courtesy visit at his palace, the Ovie of Ughelli,

Oharisi III, attributed the upsurge in criminality in Ughelli and its environs to what he regarded to as the commercial explosion of the town.

Describing Ughelli as strategically located, the monarch explained that owing to its location, persons from the hitherland, including riverine communities as far as Bayelsa State, visit Ughelli for their banking and other commercial needs.

According to him, this has brought all kinds of people into the town, thereby giving rise to every shade of criminality in the area.

As if saying that they had woken up from slumber, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, based in Ughelli, a week after the meeting, smashed a sixman kidnap gang operating between Evwereni and Ughelli axis of the East-West Road.

However, a member of the gang, identified as Ruono, escaped into the bush.

A police source hinted: “The SARS operatives succeeded in arresting five members of the gang, who confessed to have moved from Uwheru, where they had converged and administered some charms on themselves, with the intent of abducting the brother of a former employee of a member of the gang.”

6—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

AKWA IBOM… LAND OF PROMISE

By Chioma Onuegbu

U

YO—AN18-year-old newspaper vendor, Daniel Edet, whose legs were crushed, September 6, by a Police patrol vehicle, driven by a policeman attached to the Uruan Police Division, Uruan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, has allegedly been abandoned.

Edet was commuting in his motorcycle to the newspaper distribution centre at Udo Street, Uyo, when the police vehicle crashed into him. He is the breadwinner of his family.

The patrol team attempted to flee the scene, but a mob surrounded them, threatening to burn the police officers and the Hilux van following which the driver promised to take the victim to the hospital for treatment.

Police driver hits newspaper vendor, abandons him in hospital •I don’t know if I will be able to walk again — Daniel Edet, victim • I’ve already given directives on what to do —Police Commissioner

Forsaken

They took him to Life Care Hospital, Nwaniba, and deserted him thereafter.

His aged father borrowed money to handle the initial treatment at the hospital, but because the charge was very expensive, the family took him to a traditional bonesetter.

Edet’s cousin, Uduak, who spoke to Niger Delta Voice, appealed to the state government, police and wellmeaning citizens to come to the aid of the victim.

He confirmed findings that the family took him to the native bone-setter because they could not afford the amount of money demanded by the Life Care Hospital, Nwaniba, where the police driver that carelessly hit him dumped him after the accident.

Uduak said Daniel Edet’s father borrowed money to handle the treatment at the hospital before they removed him.

Journey to bone-setter's home He said: “The victim’s father, an old man, has managed to remain optimistic and calm since the incident happened.

“He managed to borrow N20,000 to pay the bone setters. The money that the hospital was demanding was too much, so the family decided to bring him to the native bone-setter. But the money they are asking for here is also too much.

“In fact, the father is so helpless now, that is why we are asking for help. Since that time, the police driver has not done anything to help.

“They only dropped him at the hospital, abandoned him there without giving anything C M Y K

•Daniel Etim at native bone healer’s the family; his father is old and he lost his mother when he was very young. He struggles to earn a living and it is the little he makes as a vendor that he uses to take care of his family.

“It is sad because I had expected the police driver to show some concern for that boy’s condition.

“I went to the scene of the accident on the day he was hit by the police team attached to the Uruan Division with their Hilux van.

“Some of the residents, who witnessed the accident, said the policemen tried to run away, thinking that Edet was dead.

How irate youths spared police officers •Daniel’s father, Charles Edet for his treatment. That is why we are appealing to people to come to assist him.”

Angst against police

A newspaper distributor, Mr. Otobong Udofia, alias Oto, who Edet works for, said he was particularly worried that the police officer, who knocked him down, has not shown concern, considering that the victim, being from a very poor background, is the breadwinner of his family.

“In fact, my wife went there last Thursday to give him little money so that he can buy food to eat.

“He is the breadwinner of

“At that point, the villagers, mostly youths, blocked the road and warned that if he dies, they will burn them (policemen) and their vehicle.

“They told me that was how the police driver, who admitted that the accident was his fault, started begging the villagers not to cause any violence and agreed that he will treat the victim and the youths believed him.

“Unfortunately, he did not keep to that promise he made to the youths. They only carried Daniel to Life Care Hospital at Nwaniba and abandoned him there.”

Nonchalant attitude

According to him, “since then, the police have not done anything about that poor boy’s

condition.

“It is sad and unfortunate that the police in the state have not shown any concern since September when the incident occurred.

“I am calling on the Commissioner of Police in the state and Akwa Ibom State government to do something to help this poor orphan. The place that he is receiving treatment is demanding over N100,000.

“Initially, we were able to beat it down to N80,000, but when I visited last time, the bone doctor said the treatment that will help him walk again will require over N100,000 because his condition is critical.

“In fact, he said Edet will stay up to August next year before he can walk again.”

My story—VICTIM

Edet, who spoke briefly, said he was on his motorcycle going to the newspaper distribution centre at Udo Street in Uyo around 6.30a.m. when the police van knocked him down.

He said: “I was going to the newspaper distribution centre that morning when the police vehicle coming from the opposite direction hit me.

“Since the day I had the accident, I cannot stand up on my legs. I do not know if I will be able to use my legs again.”

I’m doing something— Police boss

Contacted, Commissioner of Police, Mr. Murtala Mani,

assured that his command was looking into the issues, saying “I am surely doing something about that. I have already given directives on what to do.”

his father is old and he lost his mother when he was very young. He struggles to earn a living and it is the little he makes as a vendor that he uses to take care of his family

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—7

T EDO… HEART BEA BEAT OF THE NA TION NATION

B

ENIN—THE Nigerian National Association of Deaf, NNAD, Edo State, has appealed to the State Government for support to host the 2015 International Week of the Deaf, IWD, and Annual General Meeting/National Conference in Benin.

Chair of the association, Mr. Ekhorutomwen Iyobosa, said the event was the greatest fiesta of the deaf in all member countries of the federation, which Nigeria is the 114th registered member.

He said: “This year’s edition, which was earlier slated to hold from November 1 to 7, had to be postponed for about two weeks to November 24 to 29 due to what the host state branch of NNAD called logistics challenges and poor response to request for support for the all important event, especially from the state government.

“This is in spite of the fact that

Nigerian National Association of Deaf appeals for assistance the hosting right was granted to the state on a

States such as Lagos, Nasarawa, Kogi and Zamfara had competitive bidding advantages over Edo, yet the state secured the hosting right due to monumental level of development witnessed in the state under Governor Oshiomhole

platter of gold, especially considering the competitiveness and stringent rules associated with such hosting.”

The chair noted that many states such as Lagos, Nasarawa, Kogi and Zamfara had competitive bidding advantages over Edo, yet the state secured the hosting right due to monumental level of development witnessed in the state in the present dispensation under the leadership of Governor Adams Oshiomhole.

It is on this premise, he

maintained, that the NNAD national headquarters granted the hosting right to the state, which the association in Edo State gladly accepted with a promise and hope to surpass the success recorded in the last edition hosted in Asaba, Delta State.

The association lamented that as laudable as the programme is, “it is very worrisome that its successful hosting is been threatened by lack of adequate support, response and collaborations from the state government

and other stakeholders in the state.

“We have made several efforts to draw the attention of the state government to this issue, which seems to yield little or no effort.

“It is on this premises that an appeal is being made through the media to call on the state government, private and public spirited individuals and organized private sectors in the state to give all necessary supports and collaborations toward the successful hosting of this epoch-making event.”

FLOOD: In C-River school, students stand on desk, chairs •Back view

•A block

Continued from Page 1 dilapidated structure posed to the users troubled the Army in whose barracks the school is situated.

According to the staff: “We have visited the new commander and he is indeed a man of his words. We were there just three weeks ago and he sent the Army engineer here last week to see things and as we speak, estimates are being made to renovate just one block of the school.

“I really appreciate what the new GOC wants to do for the school. It will go a long way in sending a message to the state government because sincerely speaking, they have failed this establishment that has been up and running for 33 years, producing a whole lot of good C M Y K

Nigerians.”

N2.8m appeal fund

Niger Delta Voice gathered that Banjo, a batch ‘A’ 2015/2016 NYSC member doing her primary assignment at Access High School, took up the challenge of renovating the whole school herself from her meagre N19,800 allowance.

She told Niger Delta Voice that her budget for the completion of the project was estimated N2.8 million and so far, she has put in close to N400,000 of her personal funds.

Her words: “I have written for assistance to so many individuals from the time I started the paper work for the project in September,

while the real work began October.

“But I have only received N12,000 out of the over N400,000. My major challenge is funding the project to finish.

“It looks incredible, but I believe it can be achieved if I get the needed support. As you can see, the office block and the children’s block have been completed and painted too.

“That is exactly how I want the whole school to look by the time the project is completed. I am passing out April next year, so I really need well-meaning and good-spirited individuals to assist me achieve this because a lot of lives will be changed.”

Banjo is God-sent

Head Teacher of the school, Mrs. Francisca Bassey, said:

“That young lady is God-sent.

I have never seen anything like this before. She is so passionate about the whole thing, as you can see.

“Without what she had done, you will not be sitting in my office today. Why? It will be flooded and water will also be dropping from the ceiling, but her efforts has made all these possible and we really appreciate what she is doing.

“Just go round and see things for yourself. The difference is crystal clear.

Look at my deputy’s office and the other blocks. She has done a lot for this school.

“My only appeal is that other people like her won't hide or keep quiet, but lend a helping hand.“ Niger Delta Voice

investigations showed that the state government ignored several letters to it through the Ministry of Education, urging it to intervene.

A source said: “A lot of people think that the school belongs to the army, but it actually belongs to the state government and the Army has shown more concern than them.

“If not for this NYSC member, the Head Teacher and these kids will be outside or hanging around as usual.

But we thank God she renovated this office block and the children classroom.”

Officials of the Ministry of Education, Calabar, whose Permanent Secretary was recently suspended, declined comments when approached

by Niger Delta Voice.

8—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

AGENDA

MISSING BENIN CHIEF: Police, family should hunt for Ogiamien Osarobo—Prince Akenzua, Enogie of Obazuwa •Says Crown Prince, Prince Ehenede Erediauwa going through initiation rites •Oba Eweka never signed treaty with Ogiamien

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—THE Enogie of Obazuwa and Chair, Benin Leaders of Thought, BLoT, Prince Edun Akenzua, has opened up on the current anxiety in Benin Kingdom over the disappearance of the Ogiamien, saying police should investigate the matter.

Akenzua, a young brother to the Benin monarch, who recently celebrated his 81st birthday, also spoke on the initiation rites, which the Crown Prince of Benin Kingdom, Prince Ehenede Erediauwa, was presently undergoing.

Excerpts: We observed that the Crown Prince of Benin is undergoing initiation into different societies in the palace. What is the significance of such ceremonies?

They are three major societies in the palace. They Owebo, Iwegbai and Ibiwe. The Crown Prince is the heir apparent and of course, the Edaike of Uselu. By the Benin custom, they will initiate him into the Iwebo first and that is what has happened.

He is just following the tradition.

What about the issue of Ogiamien of Benin? One Arisco Osemwengie claimed he is the Ogiamien, though he is in remand in prison. What is the situation?

The court remanded Arisco because he flouted Edo State chieftaincy law, which says no individual should allow himself to be appointed as a traditional ruler or appoint somebody else other than the prescribed authority.

Anybody who did so is guilty of an offence. On the issue of the Ogiamien, we have only one Ogiamien and I know him very well, Osarobo. He was a young man in 1979 but I read in the papers that he was missing. I said if he was missing, the police should look for him.

However, if a member of that family now says they were going to appoint somebody else to occupy that position, it means that section of the family has accepted the position that the Ogiamien was dead because if he was there, you cannot go and appoint somebody else. It is the duty of the family and the police to look for him if he is missing.

To start with, no Benin chief is indispensable to the system in Benin. If one particular chief in Benin is not available, nothing says the system must stop. The mechanism that has been built into the Benin system is that there is always a way to move forward.

Yes, Ogiamien is a chief in Benin but it does not mean that if that particular chief is not there, the Benin system cannot function.

I remember this very young man, during the coronation in 1979, he was about 13 or 14 years.

There was a part he was supposed to play during that C M Y K

•Prince Akenzua coronation and I remember that some members of the Ogiamien family at that time tried to prevent him from playing that part.

They said he was too young and they told the Crown Prince then, the Oba, that they were going to appoint a regent to stand in for him to perform the role.

Why they crowned Obi of Agbor in diapers The Oba said no and he was totally against the question of having a regent similar to how he reacted to Obi of Agbor’s case.

He said if the young man does not know what to say or do, the elders should tell him and he will do it himself because the Oba was afraid that in a situation where you ask somebody to stand in, they never want to go and allow the right person to take the position when he grows up.

That was why while the Obi of Agbor was barely a year old, the Oba insisted that they crown him after which they brought him to Benin.

Therefore, that is the situation here. Some members of the Ogiamien family have been here to talk with me and they had said even if their brother, Osarobo was dead, which is not the case, then somebody from the paternal lineage of Ogiamien should answer the title Ogiamien not somebody they say is maternally related to them. Then I told them I do not know much about your lineage, you know better, go and sort it out at home.

A twist They were also talking about the treaty of Ekiokpagha I read in the newspaper they published: the Ogiamien Trumpet. They were making so much capital about the treaty in Ekiokpagha. Obviously, somebody has read Jacob Egharevba's short history of Benin and that is why he or she was talking like that.

Jacob Egharevba used the word treaty for want of a better word.

There was no treaty in Ekiokpagha. What happened in Ekiokpagha was the surrender of Ogiamien. The battle they referred to took place at Unueru, very close to that area; that was where they killed Ogiamien’s Oliha and the rest ran away. They

pursued them towards Ekiokpagha, where Ogiamien surrendered to Oba Eweka I. There was no treaty When Ogiamien surrendered, what happened there was not a treaty, but terms of surrender.

Ogiamien surrendered authority to Eweka I and requested that his name be kept and to be allowed to be one of his chiefs.

One significant thing happened at Ekiokpagha during the surrender period: he was asked to go and bring the stool (throne) which Owodo was using, which Evian, father of Ogiamien took from Owodo. He did not just seize it from Owodo, Benin people at the time invited Evian to succeed Owodo, who had died and his son Ekaladeran had left Benin.

Evian killed the monster that was terrorizing the people. There was anarchy in the kingdom, and high-powered people wanted to take over Owodo’s position. The people decided to invite Evian who killed the monster, a strong medicine and powerful man to come and act as Ogiso. So he was invited and he was acting but when Evian was about to die after many years, he told the people if he died his son, Ogiamien

should be made to succeed him.

That was when they had a quarrel and the Benin people fell out with him and the people told him we asked you to come, it is a personal honour to you because of who you were. That was why the chiefs Benin, particularly the Oliha of Benin, led other chiefs to search for Ekaladeran who was still alive. By this time, Ogiamien had taken over his father ’s position and at the time, they invited Evian to come in, they took the very stool Owodo was using to Evian and he was using it.

However, by this time, they asked Ogiamien to go and bring the stool back. He did not go personally but he sent people to bring it back. We know the story; all Benin people know the story.

How this idea came into them at this time nobody could say.

Spirit of rebellion They are talking about owning half of Benin; they came, fought and lost the battle. How can a person conquered be negotiating with the conqueror? It is not done.

When you surrender, you are defeated. It is the man that has defeated you that will give you terms.

The story I read in Ogiamien Times, that they said he will come and buy the land from us, how can you go and buy land from the people you have defeated? You buy the land from us now, you pay, whenever any Oba is succeeding, he must come and buy back the same land as you have done. Does it make any sense?

If you are selling, you are selling, if you have the right to sell land to somebody, you sell out. I mean if it was lease, it is a different situation but then before Owodo came, Owodo was the last Ogiso of Benin, there were about 25 Ogisos before Owodo came and Evian came after Owodo.

Is he saying now that the other 25 sold the land to Evian that he could now sell it to somebody

else? I do not know how they came about their story but the issue in court now has nothing to do with us. It is the government and the person that contravened the law.

If they get to court, if the lawyers are able to prove that he did not contravene, then it is good.

Is it true no Crown Prince can become Oba without wrestling with Ogiamien?

Ogiamien tried to prevent Eweka I from coming, not that they wrestled. Therefore, when he now saw Eweka’s supporters ready and armed, he and his people ran away and challenged Eweka to meet them in seven days time for a battle.

Therefore, the people bringing Eweka I went to Uzama and did the coronation and he became the Oba. Seven days after that, the Oba now said he must go and meet Ogiamien to keep the appointment that they are going to fight so he took his troupes and went there. They all now meet in the battle of Unueru, not Ekiokpagha.

Oliha of Ogiamien was the Oliha he inherited from his father; he was the leader of his own troops and after a few hours, they killed him at the battle in Unueru.

After his death, the others ran away and the Eweka troops pursued them down to Ekiokpagha where they caught up with them, that was where Ogiamien surrendered.

After surrendering, you cannot be selling or negotiating to somebody who has defeated you in a battle.

What happens in all Benin festivals: all the Igue and Ugie, everything there are all reenactment of whatever has happened in Benin. So that incident of the Oba going to fight Ogiamien and defeat him is reenacted during the coronation because that was when it happened.

Then there is one ceremony we call Ugiron, which takes place in the palace. That is also a mock battle; they re-enact the other during coronation, which is Ugieroba, performed when the Oba Ewedo moved the palace from Uzama to the present location.

He was not comfortable being at Uzama because all the elders were around him. He wanted to move away and he moved the palace to the other side. Then the Edion, they were not Edioniron, I think they were about five or so, they rumbled against Oba Ewedo.

Dickson awards Swali road contract …promises N5m part-payment for acquired lands

By Emem Idio

S

WALI— AHEAD of the December 5 governorship election in Bayelsa State, Governor Seriake Dickson has awarded contract for the construction of the dilapidated internal roads at Swali, one of the host communities to the state government that threatened not to vote for him in August if he failed to provide social amenities in the town.

The governor, who visited the community on his re-election campaign, last week, also promised to pay N5 million of the outstanding N10 million owed by the state government for lands acquired from the community for the Central Business District, CBD. Dickson commended the people for their support for his government and solicited their vote, saying he would appoint sons and daughters of the community into positions of authority when elected for a second term.

Speaking to Niger Delta Voice in Yenagoa, the elated chair of the Swali Community Development Committee, SCDC, Mr. Thomas David, expressed the community’s appreciation to the state governor for responding swiftly to the demands of the people, describing the governor ’s gesture as a welcome development.

While pledging support to the governor, Mr. David called on him to fulfill his promise to his people.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—33

C M Y K

34—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Obi vs Obiano: The bubble has burst at last THE feud between the immediate past governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi and his successor, Chief Willie Obiano, which reared its head even before the handover of the reins of power on March 17, 2014, has finally blown open.

inherited from Obi was N9 billion cash and N26 billion near cash.

He said the explanation had become pertinent because of the ground the rumour of the N75 billion was gaining, both in the social and traditional media, adding that it took the state government this long to reply to the claim in order to put the rumour finally to rest and urged the public to discountenance the claim because it does not exist.

But in a swift reaction, Obi faulted the state government’s figures, describing it as a deliberate attempt by the state government to misrepresent facts.

Mr. Valentine Obienyem, who is Obi’s media assistant insisted that Obi left over N75 billion in cash and investment, adding that the breakdown shows that N27 billion was in local currency investment; N26. 5 billion in foreign currency investment and N28.1 billion in Certified State/ MDS balances.

He said: “Even in the final handover document, Obi deducted N10 billion approved Federal Government refund, as well as the salary, pension, gratuity, money on certificates raised on contracts for the month of March which all amounted to N5 billion before arriving at the balance of over N75 billion he bequeathed his successor.

Certified statements •Governor Willie Obiano and former Governor Peter Obi discussing when the going was good

By Vincent Ujumadu

IT was not clear what led to the misunderstanding during the governorship campaigns that brought Obiano to power, but those close to the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in the state, knew that all was not well.

While some said it had to do with the management of campaign funds, others said the then Governor Obi, after close observation of Obiano shortly after the party’s primaries, felt that his choice of a successor might after all, not be the best.

Before APGA settled for its governorship candidate, Obiano was not actually in the picture.

Though Obi, who insisted on keeping his promise of ceding the governorship slot to Anambra North, was said to be considering the then Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mr. Oseloka Obaze, who is from Ogbaru in the same Anambra North senatorial zone, and Prince Idigo, a lawyer from Aguleri royal family, as his likely choice.

However, few weeks to the party primaries, Obiano, also from Aguleri, was sighted at the APGA secretariat in Awka to purchase forms for the governorship election.

Considering the fact that he retired from Fidelity Bank as the deputy managing director, the bank in which Obi served as its

chairman during Obiano’s stay in the bank, it was easy to conclude that he (Obiano) was Obi’s final choice. In a surprise manner, Obaze, who was tipped to emerge the party’s candidate, was disqualified by the screening committee on the ground that he did not possess the voter’s card, despite all the efforts he made on his return to Nigeria to get it.

Return to Nigeria Apart from the fact that Obi and Obiano worked together at Fidelity Bank, both were also school mates at the famous Christ the King College, CKC, Onitsha, and for the fact that Obiano is an accomplished chartered accountant, the people of Anambra State believed that the choice was okay for the state.

Indeed, Obi carried out the campaign as if he was seeking re-election and used the resources of the state to ensure that Obiano emerged victorious.

The main thrust of their campaign was continuity, which was why the outgoing government was flagging off new projects and paying contractors till the end of the administration.

During the handover ceremony at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Obi announced that he left over N75 billion in cash and investments for his successor, a

situation that was unheard of in Nigerian politics, because often times, most incoming governors inherit debts running into billions of naira.

But shortly after the handover and with the already existing feud between the two men, stories began to make the rounds that Obi did not leave N75 billion for his successor as stated in the handover note. In fact, a group of people from Obiano’s Anambra North, in an advertorial in some national dailies, said that rather than leave assets, that Obi left so much liabilities and a large number of uncompleted projects. They also

COUNTER CLAIMS OBI: I left behind N75 billion Obiano: I inherited N35 billion

accused Obi of employing so many people into the civil service and conducting local government elections, the first in 15 years, at the tail end of his administration.

Though the Obiano administration had kept mute over the matter for nearly two years, even when the camps of the two men engaged each other in social media war, the decision of the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Solo Chukwulobelu to address a press conference at the weekend on the N75 billion saga came as a surprise to political watchers.

It was gathered that the state government decided to blow the matter open following alleged reluctance of the state House of Assembly to approve loan request for the governor in view of the said N75 billion left for the administration by former Governor Obi. According to a government source, the state treasury is virtually empty and only borrowing can save the situation, which is why the government decided to state the facts concerning what it inherited from the previous administration.

Chukwulobelu said: “The N75 billion was not there; it was not handed over to anybody. At best it can be half truth. Instead, the state government inherited a total contract sum of N185.1 billion as liability from the Obi administration. In the real sense, what the Obiano administration

“As a financial expert, Obi went to his end of tenure event with Governor Willie Obiano and said this in the presence of all the bank MDs in whose banks the monies are lodged. In fact, as at March 17, 2014 when he handed over, he got all the certified statements of Anambra’s accounts from the banks the monies were lodged and handed them over to his successor. If they were confused on where the monies were, why would they not call Obi who kept them to explain the whereabouts to them as much as he knew?”

Obienyem said it was good that the state government did not deny the fact that before leaving office, Obi paid billions of naira for the completion of Agulu Lake Hotel, Onitsha Hotel, Awka and Nnewi shopping malls, and invested in SABMiller Breweries in Onitsha, value of which, he said, has tripled.

He added: “It is curious that the denial came at a time the state government had concluded arrangements to massively borrow money from banks and financial institutions.

“But they did not need to paint Obi black to do so, especially when the man, since leaving office, has not for a day commented on what is happening in Anambra, even with the daily drench of blame coming his way as being responsible for whatever, right or wrong, that is happening in the state for making his successor the governor, single handedly.”

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—35

Kogi poll won't fall below Jega’s standard –— INEC chairman •Deploys 76 monitors in Kogi, Bayelsa

2015: KOGI DECIDES

By Omezia Ajayi

A

PPARENTLY irked by reports alleging subservience to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC yesterday affirmed that the people of the state would ultimately decide who becomes governor.

Chairman of the commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu made the pledge when he received some security and defence chiefs led by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Solomon Arase. This was even as the commission is set to deploy 76 election monitors for the Kogi and Bayelsa gubernatorial elections.

The monitors who were drawn from different departments in the commission would receive briefing today (Tuesday) before moving to the two states.

Yakubu said the “decision about who becomes the next governor of Kogi state ultimately lies with the people of the state”, saying, INEC will continue to uphold the sanctity of the ballot.

According to him, “if 2015 was a litmus test of how far we have gone in our democratic journey, subsequent elections cannot fall below that bar”.

Smart Adeyemi’s DG, Meseko, others ditch PDP for APC

S

•Yakubu: Yakubu said he does not intend to reinvent the wheel as there are already structures on ground at the commission. “I inherited a system which I intend to strengthen and deepen. In 2011, we started what is known as the InterAgency Consultative Council on Election Security, and we are going to continue with that system to ensure adequate

security for the polls”, he added.

Earlier, Mr Arase who led representatives of the army and airforce chiefs to the meeting said the police will dominate the security space and will not allow any assault on the electoral process, while in the same vein create a space for INEC to do her job.

Awoniyi charges voters to vote for character, development

By Kingsley Fanwo

T

HE deputy governor of the state, Arc. Yomi Awoniyi has urged voters in Mopamuro to re-elect Capt.

Idris Wada as governor on the strength of his character compared to the opposition.

The Deputy Governor gave the charge after attending the 2015 harvest thanksgiving service at First Baptist Church, Ileteju, Mopa even as he described Mopa as the traditional home of the PDP. Awoniyi assured that the

vigorous governorship campaign tour embarked on by the PDP was more of a needs assessment just as he appealed to the people to be peaceful and of good conduct before, during and after the governorship election, said the PDP would win convincingly in view of the character traits of Governor Wada.

Amidst paucity of funds, Awoniyi described human and capital development as having received attention under the Wada administration, adding

that another term would enable the administration to consolidate.

Awoniyi thanked God for the successes the Wada administration has recorded so far, saying another term would break new grounds of development.

Earlier in the Church Service, Pastor Kayode Ige, of the First Baptist Church, Ileteju, Mopa, said thanksgiving should be the lifestyle of Christians, adding that it is a product of a grateful heart.

Kogi set to join APC commonsense revolution –— Adoja Organisation

By Kingsley Fanwo

A

SUPPORT group working for the emergence of Prince Abubakar Audu as governor of Kogi State, Adoja Organization has assured the former governor of victory in the November 21 governorship election, saying the State needs his intervention.

Addressing newsmen in Lokoja, Sunday, the group said it is determined to work for the termination of the Wada administration in Kogi State.

According to the Publicity

•Audu Secretary of the group, Prince Andy Abalaka, the people of

Kogi State cannot afford to be disconnected from the centre by voting for the PDP. “Nigerians have rejected PDP and Kogi is ready to join the commonsense revolution”, he said, adding, “the time for total change is now.

We have to move forward with Prince Abubakar Audu who was the Architect of Kogi development”.

Prince Abalaka carpeted the Wada administration for failing to transform the state despite the huge resources available to his government.

By Boluwaji Obahopo

OME notable PDP chieftains from Ijumu and Kabba-Bunu Local government areas at the weekend defected to the APC along with thousands of their supporters.

Amongst them were the Director General of Senator Adeyemi’s Campaign Organisation, Hon. Fehinti Dada, and former House of Representatives member, Duro Meseko who led the defectors during the elaborate reception ceremony at Iyara, the headquarters of Ijumu local government.

Receiving the defectors, the flag bearer of the APC, Prince Abubakar Audu praised their courage, saying that the wind of change that was blowing round

many states in the country has finally come to Kogi State.

He charged the defectors to bring their experience to bear for the party to win the election this Saturday. Dada, a former council chairman said they left the PDP because the party has failed the people, adding that survey has shown that PDP led administration has collapsed activities at the third tier of government in the state, as he claimed that no achievement was recorded and workers put on percentage pay.

In the same vein, former House of Representative members, Duro said they left the PDP because they can not afford to be left out in the wind of change blowing across the country.

Don’t set Kogi on fire, Wada warns Buhari, APC

T

By Gbenga Oke

HE Governor of Kogi State, Capt Idris Wada, yesterday warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) to quit the politics of intolerance and intimidation ahead of the governorship polls in the state.

The Governor also said the the harassment of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP members by the ruling party is part of the effort to gain unfair advantage at the polls coming up on Saturday.

Wada who spoke through his •Wada Chief Communications Manager, Mr. Phrank Shaibu, said it is unfortunate that President Muhammadu Buhari is looking the other way while his party engages in dirty and dangerous games to frustrate the opposition.

He said: “While on the campaign trail ahead of the 2015 general elections, President Buhari said a lot about free and fair elections, but few months after assuming office, he now pretends not to notice it when his party engages in actions that will not make the forthcoming governorship polls in Kogi and Bayelsa free, fair and credible “The opposition in Kogi State has been systematically harassed and frightened all in an attempt to skew the process in favour of the APC which now holds the reins of power at the centre. Even recent utterances by the APC candidate, Mr Abubakar Audu, in Kabba a couple of weeks ago asking APC supporters to kill any PDP hoodlum, actually set the tone for the harassment that PDP supporters are currently suffering in Kogi State”.

The PDP warned President Buhari and the APC that any attempt to rob the people of Kogi of their votes will be met with stiff resistance.

Rigging will have grave repercussions –— Ozigi

By Kingsley Fanwo

T

HE Governorship candidate of the Peoples Progressive Alliance, PPA, Mr. Emmanuel Enesi Ozigi, has warned against any attempt at rigging the November 21 governorship election in Kogi State, saying such act may have grave repercussions.

Speaking through the Media and Publicity Committee of his campaign organization, the businessman cum politician

said this week’s election represents the defining moment for the future of Kogi State. He said every stakeholder in the election should ensure that the rules governing the polls are maintained and honoured to ensure that the voice of the people prevails.

“On November 21, a new chapter will be added to the history of Kogi State as the people head to the poll to elect the next governor of the state", he said.

36—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—37

No parallel NLC in Delta —Ofoeyeno

By Emma Amaize

A

SABA—CHAIRMAN, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Delta State, Mr David Ofoeyeno, has said that there was no parallel NLC in the state, adding that anybody parading himself as chairman of an analogous union was deceiving himself.

Ofoeyeno, who spoke to Vanguard in Asaba, said: “Let me correct the impression, there are no two NLCs in Delta State. As you can see, you came to the Labour House, which is the office of labour in the state and I think there is one NLC in Delta state and it is led by my humble self.”

There has been tension in labour circles in the state over a parallel NLC led by Mr Willaims Akporeha, a member of the Joe Ajaeros faction of the union, which is at loggerheads with the national leadership led by Ayuba Wabba.

Ofoeyeno said: “What happened is that there is a self-acclaimed chairman, who believes that because of the incident that happened at the

national level in the NLC following the outcome of the previous election, he could still be parading himself as a parallel chairman. But I think, as at today, NLC is one, both in Delta State and at the national level.

“When you look at the union per se, we have about 46

industrial unions that are affiliated to NLC and as at today, only two unions, NUPENG and another one, are claiming that they are not satisfied with the last election held at the national level.

“However, in Delta State, all the unions participated in the election, even my predecessor,

who was the former NLC chairman in the state, inaugurated the committee that conducted the election, so it is not true that in Delta State there are two NLC factions. There is just one NLC; there is no divided NLC in Delta State.”

BRIEFING: From left: Bose Eitokpah, Capacity Building Programme Manager, Niger Delta Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta, PIND; Dr. Dara Akala,Programmes Director, PIND and Mr. John Onyeukwu, Deputy Chief of Party, USAID Nigeria Strengthening Advocacy and Civic Engagement, SACE, during the Niger Delta Development Forum media chat, in Asaba,Delta State. Photo: Nath Onojake.

C-River alleges plot to blackmail Ayade C

ROSS River State Government has said that it had uncovered a plot by persons it described as reactionary elements, to blackmail the state governor, Senator Ben Ayade and cast doubts about the activities of his administration, however, well intentioned.

A statement by the Special Assistant on Media and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Christian Ita, said the people who have made blackmail their stock in trade, have in the last five months tried to distract Governor Ayade, essentially on social media, but all to no avail.

Ita said: “It will be recalled that shortly after Ayade unveiled his signature projects, aimed at economically repositioning the state, this group of blackmailers took on the governor, describing the projects as unrealisable. But a few months down the line, with construction work ongoing at the project sites, they began shopping for fresh issues to tar or muddy the initiatives.

“The antics of this group took an all time low, especially when supposedly private text messages between the governor and IPAC chairman in the state were mischievously caused to be published in the media.

C M Y K

“If the intention was to embarrass the governor, it failed woefully, as it raises

issues of ethics and morality on how a private telephone conversation could be

maliciously made an item in the media, all in a desperate bid to malign the governor.”

Edo 2016: Airhiavbere confident of winning APC ticket

By Gabriel Enogholase the party had consolidated its hold

B

ENIN—FORMER Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate in the 2012 election in Edo State, Major-General Charles Airhiavbere (retd), now a member of All Progressives Congress, APC, has expressed confidence that he would be the choice of his party, in the 2016 governorship election if all the delegates from the 192 Wards in the state were given the opportunity to pick the party’s flag bearer.

Airhiavbere, who fielded questions from journalists, weekend, in Benin on the occasion of the 7th anniversary of Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s government, also commended the governor for creating a strong political platform which can defeat other political parties in the 2016 governorship election.

He said: “The platform created

by Oshiomhole is strong and tenable and one upon which the APC as a party should allow all aspirants to contest to fly the party's flag in the 2016 governorship election.

“The APC was in opposition before the March 2015 presidential election. Before then,

in Edo State; the governor’s crowd of supporters and the relevance of the party in the state have been deep-rooted even in opposition, before that election. So, I believe that the party has the impetus required to win the 2016 election.”

The APC governorship aspirant said he was confident that if all the APC delegates from the 192 wards in the state were given the opportunity to decide who governs them and to pick the candidate for the governorship election, he would be the aspirant of choice.

Shekarau hails opening of Edwin Clark Varsity of Tertiary Institutions in

By Egufe Yafugborhi

W

ARRI—FORMER Kano State governor and immediate past Education Minister, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, has described the opening of Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Delta State, as a godly act considering the age of the founder.

Shekarau spoke in his keynote lecture at the maiden matriculation and installation of the founder, Chief Clark, as chancellor of the private university granted license in May this year to operate in Kiagbodo, Burutu, Delta State In the lecture titled, The Role

Nation Building, Shekarau noted that at nearly 89 years of age, with his personal accomplishments, there was no doubt that Clark was not driven by profit motive when he decided to set up the university.

He said: “The overriding passion was to leave a lasting legacy of giving more Nigerians the opportunity to gain requisite manpower through formal education for nation building.

That also underscores his commitment the to sustained unity of Nigeria because a university fosters unity within and among nations."

Edo Works Commissioner lauded on performance

B

E N I N — T H E governorship aspiration of Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s Commissioner for Works, Mr. Osarodion Ogie, received a major boost weekend, when he received an ovation after presenting the activities of his ministry before stakeholders, at the 7th anniversary ceremony of the governor in Benin City.

Others who impressed the public also were the Chairman of the state Economic Team, Mr Godwin Obaseki, who is eyeing the seat of the governor and the state Commissioner for Environment, Prince Clem Agba.

Those who had earlier described some of Oshiomhole’s Commissioners as rubber stamp were shocked with the robust and articulate manner the commissioner for Works, Mr Ogie, presented the activities of his ministry to the stakeholders following earlier rumours that he may not be able to speak to the public if eventually he emerged candidate of the party.

It was learnt that the governor may have tactically

Monarch seeks inclusion in Delta State Traditional Rulers Council

T

HE traditional ruler of Ejeme-Unor Kingdom in Aniocha-South Local Government Area of Delta State, HRM, Obi Godwin Nzemeke, has celebrated his 27th year coronation anniversary with an appeal to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to address his non-inclusion as member of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council.

Obi Nzemeke, at the event, which had in attendance, a cross section of traditional rulers and their chiefs, including that of Siembiri Kingdom, HRM Pere, Dr Charles Botu, government officials and representative of the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, Chief, Edwin Uzor, among others, regretted that as a royal father and prescribed authority of the custom and tradition of his community and also the head of Adofi dynasty comprising 11 other communities with autonomous custom and tradition, he was yet to be included as a member of the state's traditional rulers council.

38—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

NSCDC faults tanker driver on bribery allegation

NB, contributing to economic well-being of Enugu State, says Ugwuanyi

By Victor Ahuma-Young

G

OVERNOR IFEANYI Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, has pledged the support of the government and people of Enugu State to Nigerian Breweries Plc, NB, saying the brewery giant played a lead role in the economic and social well-being of the state.

The governor spoke when he visited the company’s Ama Brewery alongside his Deputy, Cecilia Ezeilo, Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Edward Ubosi and other members of the state cabinet.

According to him: “Ama Brewery is a symbol of economic, social and infrastructural prosperity of our beloved Enugu State. It is critical to the industrial development of our state because of the countless jobs it provides and supports and the remitances it makes to government. Enugu State is also a beneficiary of your numerous Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, interventions which provide a better life for our people.”

The governor expressed delight at the prospects of engaging the management of the company to discuss areas of similar interests and to proactively manage concerns to ensure smooth operations for Nigerian Breweries in the state.

He added: “Let me assure you that the government and good people of Enugu State is solidly behind you. We pledge our commitment to the growth of this company which translates to growth and development of our state and people.”

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive

By Victor Otigbu

B

ENIN CITY—THE Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Edo State has denied demanding bribes from the driver of a petroleum tanker, in Ekpoma, Edo State.

It was learnt that officials of the Edo State Command had Friday allegedly requested an undisclosed amount of money as gratification, after accusing the driver, identified as Zakari, of conveying illegal petroleum products.

It was also gathered that the driver was intercepted by the security operatives on Benin-Auchi road and was asked to present the way bill of the product, which he allegedly did.

But the spokesperson for the command, Mr. Ogbebor Efosa, who described the allegation as an attempt to smear the image of the security agency, said that the command had established a case of diversion of petroleum product.

Efosa, in a statement, explained that the truck was loaded for Lagos and was to offload at Ijora, according to the way bill, but was found in Auchi.

He also dismissed the claim that the tanker was shot at by NSCDC officials, adding that one of the tyres was deflated to prevent the driver from escaping with the vehicle, after he fled into the bush.

of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Nicolaas Vervelde welcomed the governor and congratulated him on the speed of interventions in the state, especially for flagging off the construction of three roads around the brewery area.

Mr. Vervelde highlighted the significant contributions of Ama Brewery to Enugu State

and informed the governor of the support the company needed for its projects, including the planned expansion of the operational capacity of the brewery.

He stressed that “to realize the plans we have, we require a conducive environment, community support and social infrastructure. It is in this respect that I request the

partnership of the Enugu State government and our immediate communities as we go forward.”

He added that success for Ama Brewery directly translate to success for Enugu State: “Our philosophy of winning with Nigeria mandates that when we succeed, all our stakeholders will also benefit and win.”

I'll improve standard of education in Nigeria —Minister

By Innocent Anaba

M

INISTER OF State for Education, Prof.

Anthony Anwukah, has pledged to improve the standard of primary, secondary, polytechnic and teacher education in the country.

The minister who spoke at a reception held for him in Imo State, noted that education was critical to achieving the change promised by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Anwukah in a statement by his media aide, Chinonso Nwangwu, weekend, said that as the Minister of State for Education, his schedule of duties include primary, secondary, polytechnic and teacher education in the country.

He promised to make this aspect of Nigerian education responsive and focus-driven in line with the challenges of the 21st century, even as he called on all stakeholders in the educational sector to take advantage of the opportunity for change provided by the president and support his change mantra.

The minister thanked the government and people of Imo State for rallying round him during the ministerial screening

at the Senate.

The Deputy Governor of Imo State, Mr. Eze Madumere, who represented Governor Rochas Okorocha,said that the minister was instrumental to the success

of the free education from primary to tertiary level enjoyed in Imo State by indigenes and nonindigenes.

He appealed to the minister to replicate same at the Federal Government level.

How we contained spread of Bird Flu, by commissioner

By Elizabeth Uwandu

A

SABA—POULTRY farmers in Delta State have lost about N8 million to the deadly Avian Influenza (Bird Flu).

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mr. Austin Chikezia, who made this known in Asaba, said the state has successfully contained the resurgence of the highly pathogenic Bird Flu, which affected no fewer than 5,661 poultry birds that were culled to prevent the spread of the disease.

The commissioner who was represented by his Special Assistant, Mr. Pius Okonjo at the opening of a one day workshop for poultry stakeholders on the resurgence of Avian Influenza, announced that Delta State recorded six outbreaks of the Bird flu in backyard poultry farms and a live bird market, all occurring

in Delta North senatorial district.

“It took the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural resources, Delta State and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to control and contain these outbreaks,” Chikezie said, adding that a total of 5,661 poultry birds were culled to prevent the spread of the disease, estimated at over N8 million.

According to him, three out of the six farms have been compensated by the Federal Government, while the remaining three are being processed.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Charles Diai, called on all stakeholders in the poultry industry to take advantage of the training to learn skills and update their knowledge on the prevention and control techniques that are used in containing the disease.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

What is your view on the Golden Eaglets?

K

eep that Team together, if possible, just few changes more training, 3 years from now they can take on the world best and beat them to be the greatest.

So kudos to these our Eaglets. Mr Jaiyeola Bagbansoro, Businessman C M Y K

N

FA should keep these boys together from Under 20 to super Eagles. They should keep them together instead of spending the money for stupid things. These boys are materials. Mr Uzor Martins, Aviation Consultant

T

he players are doing a very good job. I just wish our football authority, that is the NFF, would keep these boys together and ensure that they do not get scattered or dissappear into thin air. Mr Eworitse Wyse, Worker

I

am proud of the set of boys we paraded at the junior world cup.

Nigerians should celebrate them. I have no doubt that these boys will dismantle our so called Super Eagles if they should play against them. Mr Ime Okon, Lecturer

T

he boys have really made many of us proud, especially with recent poor outings of our Super Eagles. However, I wonder why they are yet to be rewarded

by President Buhari.

Mr Obafemi Destiny, Self Employed

T

his goes to show that because we have used men for junior national teams, we have never made any impact till date.

And that is also part of the corruption that we need to destroy before it destroys our national team.

Mr Akanbi Johnson, Self Employed

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—39

MAN seeks low interest rates for manufacturers

By Marie-Therese Nanlong.

J

OS— President of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, MAN, Dr. Frank Jacobs, has called on the Federal Government to look into the inappropriate interest rates being charged manufacturers who obtain loans for businesses, saying the development was crippling businesses in the country.

He said repositioning the manufacturing sector would revive the sector and create employment for the teeming population, in line with the agenda of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Jacobs, who spoke with journalists in Jos while in the city for the formal re-launch and unveiling of the new NASCO cornflakes, also lamented Nigerians’ mindset towards made in Nigeria products.

According to him, "unemployment will not be addressed that way.

Companies are closing down due to inadequate finances and inappropriate interest rates which are as high as 23 per cent are not favourable to manufacturers. Lack of power is also affecting the sector.

“We need a downward review, even as the mind-set of Nigerians who do not patronize Nigerian made products is also crippling the sector as we cannot address unemployment this way.

Manufacturers need conducive operating environment.”

He commended the NASCO Group for the feat achieved in re-launching its products at a time when many manufacturing companies were finding it difficult to remain afloat, adding that the occasion was a wake up call to other manufacturers to continuously try to improve the quality of their products.

Similarly, the President, Nutrition Society of Nigeria, NSN, Prof. Ngozi Nnam, whose society endorsed the re-launched products, urged Nigerians to patronize the NASCO Group as its products were suitable for people of all ages and were of high values.

Earlier, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NASCO Group, Dr. Attia Nasreddin, disclosed that the company dated back to 1963 but noted that the first NASCO cornflakes brand was introduced into the country’s market in 1985.

C M Y K

Boko Haram kingpin arrested in Borno

By Ndahi Marama

M

AIDUGURI — TROOPS of the Nigerian Army, yesterday, arrested a Boko Haram kingpin, Mr. John Trankil, at a cattle market in Maiduguri metropolis.

The Army in a statement signed by its Media Coordinator, Operation Lafiya Dole, Colonel Tukur Gusau, said: “Preliminary investigation revealed that nine of them sneaked into Maiduguri, armed with AK-47 assault rifle each and a Hilux vehicle laden with 20 Improvised Explosive Devices meant to be detonated at some

selected targets in the city.”

It said the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole, Major General Yusha’u Mahmood Abubakar, commended the efforts of the troops and renewed call for the troops and the public to be more vigilant and security conscious, particularly at all check points, markets, worship centres, motor parks and schools.

In a related development, troops of 21 Brigade, Nigerian Army, while on offensive operations on Boko Haram terrorists location, with the support of the Nigerian Air Force, discovered and

destroyed the terrorists’ Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and rocketmaking factory along BamaGonin Kurmi, on the outskirts of Bama town in Borno State.

Col Gusau said items recovered from the terrorists include gas cylinders, welding machine, pipes and poles, locally made rocket shells, large quantity of assorted chemicals, unprimed IEDs and various technical and laboratory equipment suspected to be stolen from schools’ laboratories around Bama before they were dislodged from the area.

INVESTITURE: From left: Second Vice-President, Institute of Directors Nigeria (IoD, Chief Chris Okunowo; President/Chairman of Governing Council, Mr Samuel Yemi Akeju; Founder/Chairman, First City Monument Bank, Otunba Olasubomi Balogun and his wife, Olori Abimbola, during the institute fellows investiture evening, in Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau

Our 180 millionaires promo'll provide customers opportunity of a life time —Dangote

By Princewill Ekwujuru & Bartholomew Madukwe

L

AGOS— DANGOTE Industries Limited, yesterday, said its promo of 180 millionaires in 90 days would provide no fewer than 3,783 customers across the country the opportunity of a life time.

The promo, which will run for three months, has prize money in excess of N300 million.

Executive Director, Stakeholder Management and Corporate Communications of the company, Mr Mansur Ahmed, who stated this at a forum in Lagos, explained that Dangote’s focus was to touch the lives of people by increasing the affordability of their basic need.

“We have been working and improving on the quality of cement in the country. We are constantly improving measures to make sure that the cement gets to the door of our customers.

Our effort today is to deliver this cement wherever you want it,” he said.

Ahmed noted that the promo

was the biggest by the company, saying: “We want to make sure that many Nigerians have a changed level. More importantly, we have partners and we want to share the success with them.”

Group Chief Marketing Officer of the company, Mr Oare Ojiekere, said the end users of Dangote cement were the target of the promo, since they had historically bought the product at high price.

He said: “We are entering the holiday season. At this time, everybody needs money. In this difficult season, Dangote cement will empower Nigerians with much needed cash to do more and make the best of a tough situation.

Our primary targets at this promo are the block makers, masons, bricklayers, building contractors and home owners.”

Explaining details of the promo, Ojeikere said: “To be part of the promo, all it requires is for the customer to buy a bag of cement and cut out the token at top right of bag. Five tokens will make one entry in the draw. ‘’Each entry of five tokens must be attached to a piece of paper with the participant’s name, phone

number and address, placed in a sealed envelope and dropped off at a designated Drop Centre.”

He further revealed that 400 Dangote locations and all Access Bank branches nationwide would function as drop centres for the entries.

Tarzoor vs Gov Ortom: Appeal Court to deliver judgement this week

By Peter Duru

M

AKURDI — THE Court of Appeal, Makurdi Division, will this week deliver its ruling on the appeal filed by Benue State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate in the last general elections, Terhemen Tarzoor, challenging the judgement of the state’s governorship election petition tribunal.

The Justice Elizabeth Karatu-led tribunal had, about two months ago, dismissed the petition of Tarzoor on the grounds that Governor Samuel Ortom of All Progressives Congress, APC, was validly nominated by his party to contest the governorship poll, contrary to the contention of the petitioner.

At the Justice Garuba Mohammed-led appellate court, weekend, counsel to the PDP governorship candidate and appellant, Mr. Adebayo Adenipekun, SAN, urged the court to upturn the judgement of the trial court because it was repugnant to natural justice, equity and good conscience.

On his part, counsel to Governor Ortom, Chief Adeniyi Akintola, SAN, urged the court to dismiss the appeal for incompetence.

In his ruling, Justice Mohammed reserved judgement in the appeal to a later date but not later than next Thursday, the terminal date of the appeal proceedings.

He said the parties would be duly informed of the scheduled day for judgement by the court registrar.

NIPSS partners Defence Hqtrs to curb proliferation of small arms

By Marie-Therese Nanlong.

J

OS —THe National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, has partnered the Defence Headquarters to curb the proliferation of small arms and ammunition in the country, the Institute’s Director General, Prof.

Tijani Mohammad-Bande, has disclosed.

Speaking, yesterday, at the institute’s conference hall in Kuru, near Jos, where he briefed journalists ahead of the graduation ceremony of the institute’s Executive Course 37 participants, Bande noted that

the institute was playing a crucial role toward ensuring permanent peace in the country.

He noted that two years ago, solutions had been proffered to support the fight against insurgency as the institute had submitted researched works and recommendations toward finding lasting solution to the insurgency and issues bordering on the security of lives and property.

The director general also stated that a total of 63 course participants would be graduating in the event, which theme is “Repositioning the Nigeria Education System for Global Competitiveness,” slated for Saturday, November 21.

40—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

NAFDAC TOURS FAIR: From left— MD, Eleojo Peters Foods, Mrs Eleojo Peters; Computer Analys, Enuwa Agada; Miss Linda Ike; Chief Public Relation Office, Mrs Christy Obiazikwor, and Chief Regulatory Officer, Mrs Solaja Edith, all of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, during the agency's officials inspection tour at the Lagos International Trade Fair in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: Biodun Ogunleye.

GUINNESS: From left— Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Peter Ndegwa; Corporate Relations Director, Mr. Sesan Sobowale; Supply Chain Director, Mr. Cephas Afebuameh, and Marketing and Innovation Director, Mr. Gavin Pike, all of Guinness Nigeria, during an engagement session at its Ikeja brewery, Lagos.

PRESS WEEK: From left— Former Chairman, Oyo State SUBEB, Professor Soji Adejumo; veteran journalist, Elder Bode Oyewole; former Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Kehinde Ayoola, representing Engr Oluseyi Makinde, guest speaker; Chairman, Correspondent's Chapel, Oyo State's Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Pastor Ola Ajayi, and Mr. Peter Idowu, during a public lecture by the Chapel on Youth Participation in Politics: Prospects and Challenges, as part of activities marking their press week, delivered by Makinde. PHOTO: Dare Fasube.

BURIAL: From left— President, Urhobo College Old Boys Association, UCOSA, Lagos, Andrew Okotie; Igho Okor; Managing Director, White House Hotel, and ex-National President of UCOSA, Dr. Austin Eruotor; and National Vice President, UCOSA, Professor Joseph Abugu, at the burial of Eruotor's father at Okpara, Delta State.

POULTRY EXCO: From left— The new Chairman, Poultry Association of Nigeria, PAN, Lagos Chapter, Deacon Francis Toromade; Mr. Adetoyi Olabode; Alhaji Lanre Bello, and Mrs. Olabisi Hamilton, all members of the association, during the inauguration of 2015/2017 executives of the association at Oko-Oba, Agege, Lagos.

HERITAGE'S LEADERSHIP CONFAB: From left— President, Guardians of the Nation International, GOTNI, Dr. Linus Okoria; Political Counselor, Embassy of the United States of America, Mr. Shawn Flatt; Deputy General Manager, Government Relations & Communications, Total Nigeria, Mrs. Sonye Allanah, and Divisional Head, Innovation & Products, Heritage Bank Limited, Mr. Tobe Nnadozie, at the just-concluded Emerging Leadership Conference in Abuja, sponsored by Heritage Bank.

POLO AVENUE: From left— Boutique Manager, Titilola Akinkugbe; Executive Director, Jennifer Obayuwana, both of Polo Avenue, and Cofounder/Brand Manager, Florian London, Tola Adeagbo, at the Polo Avenue fashion series pop-up sales event in Lagos. PHOTO: Akeem Salau.

TRINITY INT'L @ 20: From left— Chairman, Establisihment Committee Board member, Dr. Femi Oyinsan; Director of Education, Mrs Olufunmi Aderinoye; Dr. Aderanti Adedayo, and Chairman, Board of Government, Pastor Samuel Olatunji, all of Trinity International College, at a briefing on the school's 20th anniverssary celebration, at Ofada Road, Ogun State. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—41

C M Y K

42—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Bayelsa poll: Elders warn against deployment of soldiers to rig election

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

ENAGOA—AHEAD of the December 5, Bayelsa State governorship election, the Bayelsa Elders Council, BEC, has urged the Federal Government to be cautious in the deployment of troops, especially soldiers, insisting that their presence should be purely for lawful security duties.

BEC also warned that any attempt to manipulate the December 5 election in the state would reverse the gains of democracy in the last 16 years.

The body also called on all the political parties in the state to ensure that they abide by the peace accord signed between their candidates and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in the interest of peace.

The council, which gave its blessing to the incumbent governor, Mr Seriake Dickson, after he presented his administration's scorecard in the last four years, noted that another four years will enable the governor to consolidate on peace and development in the state.

In a communique at the end of its meeting in Yenagoa, Chief Francis Doukpola, and Chief Thompson Okorotie, the Chairman and Publicity Secretary respectively, said BEC

would resist any attempt by the Federal Government or any of its agencies to ignite a crisis in the state in the name of politics.

BEC stated that in as much as it welcomes deployment of soldiers to the state for the December 5 election, the noble idea should not be politicized.

It warned the Federal Government and its agencies against toying with the existing peace in the state,

adding that such moves will be counter-productive.

The communiqué reads: “In the interest of peace and security of the state, council urges all the political parties to ensure that their candidates, leaders, and followers are of good conduct in accordance with the peace accord signed between the candidates and INEC, and not to disrupt the prevailing peace in the state, before, during or after the

election of December 5, 2015.

“Council welcomes deployment of soldiers to Bayelsa State for the election provided they are purely for lawful security duties.

“Council also resolved to advise against the proposed dissolution of the Amnesty Programme by December 2015 by the Federal Government as such a move will have far reaching security implications in the Niger Delta region.”

MEETING: Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade (left) and Mr. Jiao Jinmiao, Commissioner, Henan Provincial Government after a meeting in Zhengzhou, China.

APC warns banks against granting loans to Rivers govt

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— ALL Progressives Congress, APC, in Rivers State has called on banks to ignore any application for loan from the state government.

Chairman of the party in the state, Dr Davies Ikanya, alleged that the state government was already making moves to borrow another N10 billion after the N30 billion it obtained some months ago.

Ikanya said that any bank that grants loans to the government would be seen as working against the good of the state, adding that the election of the governor had already been nullified by the tribunal.

Meantime, Special Assistant to the governor on Electronic Media, Mr Simeon Nwakaudu, in a statement, had dismissed the allegation that the government was moving to get a fresh loan as tissues of lies when it was first raised by the party, saying it was part of efforts by the APC to divert attention from the success of the state government so far.

Bayelsa polls: Shekarau joins Dickson on campaign Predicts victory for PDP

By Samuel Oyadongha

Y

ENAGOA—FORMER Kano State governor, Mr Ibrahim Shekarau, yesterday, predicted victory for Governor Seriake Dickson and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the December 5 election in the state.

Shekarau, who made the prediction in KolokumaOpokuma, when he joined Dickson in continuation of his community-to-community tour, said he felt convinced that the PDP would win the election based on what he said was the unusual crowd that came out to receive the governor and their endorsements.

He said he was proud to see such a crowd comprising of youths, men and women who left other activities to meet Dickson and that their support was a measure of the governor ’s popularity and acceptance, adding that the PDP remains the party of the people in the state.

The former Education Minister had accompanied Dickson on a boat cruise through the River Nun to communities in KolokumaOpokuma Local Government

Area of the state comprising Igbedi, Okoloba, Sabagreia, Odi, Sanpou, Opokuma and Kaiama.

“It is evident that the ‘contriman’ governor is well loved by his people and going by what I have seen

here today, he will win the December 5 election. I believe it will just be a formality,” Shekarau said.

....As 2,000 kinsmen of Bayelsa governor dump PDP for APC

By Emem Idio

Y

ENAGOA—WITH barely three weeks to the governorship election in Bayelsa State, over 2,000 kinsmen of Governor Seriake Dickson in Sagbama community of Sagbama Local Government Area, yesterday, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to All Progressives Congress, APC. Receiving the decampees to

APC in Sagbama during the flag-off of the 2015 governorship campaign, Chief Timipre Sylva, the APC governorship candidate, said his mission was to “rescue the state from poverty and under- development from the hands of Governor Dickson.”

Sylva, who lamented that the Dickson administration had impoverished Bayelsans, promised that his administration would empower youths and create gainful employments for

the teeming youths.

APC, Sylva said, was on a revolution in the state to install potable water, electricity and good roads as he decried insecurity and act of kidnappings in the state.

Accompanied by his running mate, Elder Wilberforce Igiri and his wife, Sylva told his Sagbama supporters that, he would restore 24 hours electricity in Yenagoa before the expiration of his tenure as governor.

Labour laments high tariff, erratic power supply

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

N

ATIONAL Union of Chemical Footwear Rubber Leather and NonMetallic Products Employees, NUCFRLANMPE, has decried the high electricity tariff and erratic power supply in the country, despite huge investments in the sector without corresponding improvement.

NUCFRLANMPE, in a communiqué at the end of its National Executive Council, NEC, meeting in Benin City, Edo State, called on the Federal Government to fix the power sector as a matter of urgency.

The union also called on the government to rehabilitate the existing refineries in the country and build new ones to end the perennial scarcity of products

and the negative consequences of importation of refined products.

Lamenting the resurgence of fuel scarcity across the country, NUCFRLANMPE insisted that only improved local refining capacity in the country could end the national embarrassment of importation and scarcity of products.

China plans multi-billion dollar investments in C- River

E

FFORTS by Cross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade, to attract investments to the state have received a major boost in China with a province, Henan, making a firm commitment to invest billions of dollars in the state.

The Henan Provisional Government unveiled its plans to invest in Cross River at a meeting between its Commissioner, Mr. Jiao Jinmiao and Governor Ayade in Zhengzhou.

The planned investments include an industrial city where cars and spare parts would be manufactured.

The Chinese are also committed to building power plants, bonded warehouses and distribution centres in the state.

Plans for the development of a huge manufacturing base and modern infrastructures in the state were also firmed up.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—43

I'm eternally loyal to Jonathan, Dokpesi vows •Says APC plot to destroy PDP will fail

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

R

ADIO and television mogul, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, yesterday, affirmed his eternal loyalty to former President Goodluck Jonathan and disowned reports of his apology to Nigerians on behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for fielding

the former president as its candidate in the last presidential election.

Noting what he described as the plot by the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, administration to bring the PDP to its knees by knocking members against one another, Dokpesi said the PDP would on the contrary be strengthened in the face of such persecutions.

At a press conference to herald the recent PDP National Conference, Dokpesi was reported to have faulted the decision of the PDP to abandon zoning as a major factor for the PDP’s loss in the last election.

Renouncing the reports in a statement personally signed by the PDP chieftain, Dokpesi said: "To be sure these reports were clearly deliberate and

Abia checkmates street trading in Aba

T

HE Abia State Government, yesterday, said that the environmental sanitization exercise going on in Aba which is being enforced by the Aba Urban Renewal Office, was only aimed at restoring decency and decorum to the city.

The government said street trading and street hawking cause a lot of menace both to traffic flow and environmental decency and poses a great risk to the life of the traders and that is why government has provided alternative market places for these illegal street traders.

Nowhere in the world is the culture of street trading tolerated

anymore, therefore, Aba traders and residents must cooperate with government agents in the efforts to sanitize Aba and bring decorum to the city and its markets and desist from actions that could lead to confrontation with constituted authority.

The state government said it was making the appeal sequel to the incidents that have been occurring in Aba in the last couple of days where miscreants and illegal street traders have tried to resist the instructions and directives of the officials of the Aba Urban Renewal Office, leading to some misunderstanding between the

illegal street traders and the government officials.

Government wants to reemphasize that the mission of sanitizing Aba and reinventing the ancient city, which is being executed through the Aba Urban Renewal Office, is one cardinal policy thrust which the current administration is p u r s u i n g w i t h passion, dedication and every sense of duty. Therefore, the street traders must adhere to the government directive to relocate to the newly constructed GoodMorning Market, along East Street, by Ngwa Road.

mischievous misrepresentations of what I said at the press briefing. Luckily both the video clips and audio are available.

"Let me state very emphatically and without any equivocation that I am not only an unrepentant admirer, supporter and die hard follower of former President Jonathan but indeed a party member whose support for the other Presidents produced by the PDP in its sixteen years, the saddle is a self evident truth and there for all to see.

"I am for emphasis, very proud of the achievements of former President Jonathan in many sectors of our national life and I am of the conviction that with time Nigerians will see and accolade to a man who ruled the country with a sincerity of purpose but who, owing to combination of extraneous factors has been completely misunderstood.

"I am equally proud of the democratic gains of the PDP governments as state and national level, the independence of the Judiciary and stability the polity enjoyed until the advent of the insurgency of Boko Haram whose phenomenon is now dying arising

from efforts initiated by the last central administration.

"What I said at the media briefing was that PDP governments were run by human beings who are not perfect and may have made mistakes. I cited the example of the party’s zoning agreement nationwide which buckled in the face of incumbents who had preferred and pliant candidates and went on to subvert the people’s choice in who to represent them leading to defeats at the polls, I tendered an apology to PDP members nationwide for actions like that.

"I am aware of the various efforts by the APC Government to undo the PDP and set its members against one another in order to pave way for a one party state in Nigeria. This, like other similar evil machinations are day dreams that will not see the light of day.

"The PDP can only but wax stronger being the only political party in Nigeria that is not a gathering of strange bed fellows like the APC whose lifespan is only a matter of the expiration of its burrowed time. I call on all PDP members nationwide to discountenance the misleading reports as the party has no apologies to offer anyone for its years of rule at the centre and a majority of the states."

44—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

THIS WEEK November 16 -22, 2015 World Antibiotic Awareness Week aims to increase awareness of global antibiotic resistance and to encourage best practices among the general public, health workers and policy makers to avoid the further emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance.

November 17, 2015 World Prematurity Day is observed on 17 November each year to raise awareness of preterm birth and the concerns of preterm babies and their families worldwide. Approximately 15 million babies are born preterm each year, which is defined as babies born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed.

Science World

First uterus transplants to begin in US

S

URGEONS in the US have announced that they will begin trialling uterus transplants in the coming months in order to help women who no longer have a uterus fall pregnant. This is the first time the procedure will be performed in the US. The procedure will match women who have had their uterus removed due to illness or damage, or who were born without one, with a donated organ. After the recipient has had one or two children, the uterus will be removed again, to prevent her from having to remain on anti-rejection drugs the rest of her life.

While organ transplants have been going on for decades, uterus transplants are relatively new on the scene. Because a uterus isn't essential for survival, it wasn't considered an equally high priority by most medical researchers as organs like livers and hearts.

But with tens of thousands of women in the US alone unable to have children due to not having a womb, there's been strong interest in the procedure.

Back in 2014, a woman in Sweden became the first to give birth with a transplanted womb after receiving the donation from an unrelated 61-year-old, and at the end of September the UK announced that it would perform the procedure on 10 women as part of a trial.

PRESENTATION : From left- Lekan Adekoya (with crutches); Ayoifeoluwa Ayodele ; Isaac Joseph-Osumah; Wife of Lagos state Governor, Mrs Bolanle Ambode ; Semilore Kosoko ; Basirat Adam; CEO, Stanbic IBTC Group , Mrs. Shola David-Borha and Executive Director, Irede Foundation, Chrystal Chigbu, during the “Out For A Living “ initiative of Stanbic IBTC Group held in Lagos over the weekend.

Moving beyond handicap for children without limbs

By Sola Ogundipe

A

SK a child how much that child can do or how far he or she can go without a limb. That child would probably tell you that there is not much that can be done or not much distance that can be covered by someone that is missing a limb.

Lekan Adekoya would give such answer. On January 29, 2015, the 12-year-old and his brother were knocked down by a learner driver while trying to motion to the driver that was reversing the car. Although his brother escaped with minor injuries, teenaged Lekan was not as lucky. He suffered traumatic damage to his left leg which had to be amputated. A lover of mathematics, Lekan became confined to crutches; his ambition to become a lawyer truncated.

Commercial motorcyclist Basirat Adam's answer to the question would be similar. A JSS1 student at State Junior High School, Lagos, she suffered similar fate as Lekan. Basirat who lives with her grandmother in Agege area of Lagos was walking by the roadside one day when a commercial motorcyclist, a.k.a.

Okada, ran into her.

She suffered serious trauma that led to amputation of her left leg. But despite her injury, Basirat remains undeterred in her ambition of completing her education.

The English Language-loving student still hopes to become a medical doctor in future. She required a prosthetic limb, but the cost has been beyond her parents.

United by a common predicament of congenital or acquired limb deformities, these five children have longed to live their dream

Three-year-old Semilore Kosoko would give a similar answer. Born with a malformed femur that led to amputation of her right leg, Semilore's plight elicits empathy.

Currently in Kindergarten 2, she was taken by her parents from their home in Berger area of Lagos to live with her grandmother in Ijoko in Ogun State, just to ward off the stigmatisation and stereotype associated with her condition. All Semilore re-

quires is a prosthetic of the right leg to enable her walk and build up her psyche. However, it's too expensive for her family.

When 7-year-old Ayoifeoluwa Ayodele, was born, she had no fingers. Ayoifelowa, a Primary 2 pupil that loves mathematics with a passion has ambition of becoming a pilot and teacher. But struggling with the aura of stigmatisation and stereotype associated with her condition is a stumbling block. There is no argument that a pair of cosmetic gloves would boost her confidence tremendously. Unfortunately, her parents cannot pay for one.

Six-year-old Isaac JosephOsumah who was born with multiple congenital amputations of the leg and fingers has always required help to be as independent as possible. In layman's terms, he was born without one leg and some fingers in one hand. With such deformities, Isaac is really in need of aid to be physically functional. Currently residing with his parents in Ketu, Lagos, he had been hoping for a miracle. The only snag is that such aids are far too expensive for his family.?

United by a common predicament of congenital or acquired limb deformities, these five children have longed to live their dream. Last weekend, that dream began to come true.

At an event tagged "Out For A Limb" - a social service event spearheaded by Stanbic IBTC Group in collaboration with Irede Foundation, and specially designed to empower children with congenital and acquired limb Continues on page 45

Maternal deaths fall by 44% in 25 years — UN

By Chioma Obinna & Gabriel Olawale

A

NEW United Nations agencies and the World Bank Group report has revealed that maternal deaths dropped by 44 percent in 25 years globally. The report showed that the deaths dropped from about 532 000 in 1990 to an estimated 303 000 this year.

The new report carried out by four UN agencies including WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, United Nations Population Division and the World Bank Group noted that the drop noticed under the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs equates to an estimated global maternal mortality ratio, MMR, of 216 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births, down from 385 in 1990. Maternal mortality is the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth or within six weeks after birth.

Reacting to the report, WHO Assistant Director-General, Family, Women's and Children's Health, Dr Flavia Bustreo stated

that the MDGs triggered unprecedented efforts to reduce maternal mortality. According to Bustreo, over the past 25 years, a woman's risk of dying from pregnancy-related causes has nearly halved. "That's real progress, although it is not enough. We know that we can virtually end these deaths by 2030 and this is what we are committing to work towards."

Maternal death rate On his own part, Executive Director of the United Nations' Population Fund, UNFPA, Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin said achieving that goal would require much more effort. "Many countries with high maternal death rates will make little progress, or will even fall behind, over the next 15 years if we don't improve the current number of available midwives and other health workers with midwifery skills." He stressed that,“if we don't make a big push

now, in 2030 we'll be faced, once again, with a missed target for reducing maternal deaths."

The new report contained in the Trends in Maternal Mortality: 1990 to 2015 is being published simultaneously in the medical journal The Lancet.

The report also noted the need for countries to ensure access to high-quality health services during pregnancy and child birth to help save more lives.

It showed that despite global improvements, only nine countries achieved the MDG 5 target of reducing the maternal mortality ratio by at least 75 percent between 1990 and 2015.

Those countries are Bhutan, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Iran, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Maldives, Mongolia, Rwanda and Timor-Leste.

UNICEF Deputy Executive Director, Geeta Rao Gupta said as we have seen with all of the health-related MDGs, health system strengthening needs to be supplemented with attention to other issues to reduce the deaths.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—45

Complan tasks dieticians, nutritionists on malnutrition

Moving beyond handicap for children without limbs Continues from page 44

By Gabriel Olawale

W

ITH an alarming statistics of 40 percent of hospitalised patients having malnutrition, Nigerian dieticians and nutritionists have been urged to take the bull by the horns and address the clinical crisis by proffering interventions via preventive measures that would guarantee adequate diet as well as therapeutic measures.

Making the call during a scientific symposium organised by Kraft Heinz makers of ''COMPLAN super milk'' recently in Lagos with the theme: "Malnutrition in Hospitalised Patients: "A Situation of Hidden Hunger and Macronutrient Deficiencies", a renowned dietician from the Dietetics department, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Patience Chima described malnutrition in hospitalised patients as a condition of global importance with Nigeria not spared.

Chima canvassed dietary advice and nutritional supplementations as solutions to overt malnutrition and malnutrition of patients during admission.

Citing several cases of patients who come in to the hospital with obvious malnutrition and several cases of patients that come in without being malnourished but later developed malnutrition during hospital admission, she identified macronutrients especially protein and overt caloric deficiency as principal culprits lacking in the patients.

Chima noted that malnutrition in patients increases stay in the hospital, brewing from steep reductions in muscle strength and respiratory function, decrease in physical fitness general apathy and fatigue.

Medical Detailing Manager-Nigeria

Kraft Heinz Company, Mr. Victor Rowland in his keynote address on “Interventions from kraft Heinz at preventing and managing malnutrition in hospitalised patients” described the role of the company at ensuring optimal nutrition for the populace as part of its corporate social responsibility.

He said formulations in specific company brands may help to address the condition as both a preventive and therapeutic intervention. Complan, he said, is a complete meal in a drink which has been recommended by doctors and dieticians for several years.

The drink is formulated with a balanced mix of 23 essential nutrients and essential amino acids and key micronutrients.

deformities. each of the children received prosthetic limbs and education endowments of N1.5 million. Executive Director and Founder, Irede Foundation, Chrystal Chigbu, gave a rendition of how she was motivated to set it up based on her personal challenge, and how it became a life-transforming initiative that was benefiting the lives of many.

"I'm married to Azubike Chigbu. My daughter, Beulah has a congenital limb deformity, is amputated and uses prosthesis. The Foundation focuses on children that have been amputated either as a result of congenital issue or trauma.

"It started in 2012, and we hope to continue to do this so that society will learn to properly relate with people with

CONFERENCE: From left; Mrs. Patience Chima, LUTH ; H.O.D, Dietetics, Gbagada General Hospital, Adeola Gbadega; Medical Detailing Manager, Nigeria, The Kraft Heinz Company, Victor Rowland; Country Manager, West and Central Africa, Vincent Egbe; and Dietician, Reddington Hospital, Iti Upamanya, at a Scientific Symposium organised by The Kraft Heinz Company recently in Lagos.

disability and also ensure that when we have related with community at large. We have an aligned vision with Stanbic IBTC Group. "We encourage the children by providing them with prosthesis and life coaching and mentoring to enable them live their lives sufficiently. "In the outreach, there were five children, but five more are in the pipeline. The beneficiaries are children that cannot afford to get the prosthetic limbs. Those with no fingers are recieving cosmetic gloves. The prosthesis was accompanied with an educational plan of N1.5 million each to be held in a Trust fund account for their schooling."

Flagging off the activity with a walk, Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Mrs Bolanle Ambode, decried the large population of children without limbs as a result of congenital dysfunction, accidents or security incidences associated with society.

"Any society with a large population of amputees especially within the ranks of its children and youths who are expected to take productive roles in future, certainly cannot achieve muchin most departments of life," she remarked. Noting that Nigeria just won soccer glory in the Under-17 World Cup in Chile through a group of young lads, she pointed out that it was because the young footballers had their limbs intact, but lamented that some are not that lucky.

"The situation that these young ones have found themselves, largely for no fault of theirs, is both pathetic and heartbreaking.

For reasons beyond them, they are in this unfortunate condition." Ambode said even though the children's situation may be considered pitiable, it certainly was not the end of the world.

Speaking earlier, the Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Group, Mrs Sola David-Borha said it was part of their corporate social responsibility.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

P

LEASE I need your advice. I just broke up with my fiancée of five years and it was really painful. It still is painful. I think about her every day. I just met another girl around a month ago and we started dating.

But my siblings keep telling me that this new relationship will not last because it is a rebound relationship. But I really like this girl. Now I don’t know what to do – Francis Hello Francis. I don’t think you should worry too much about the whole rebound issue. Uncomfortable things happen to everybody at different times in their lives and people still move on. You have to move on and dating someone else can help you do that. It is said that it takes a person up to two years to recover from a broken heart when a relationship ends. Two years is a long and miserable time if you choose to be alone within this period.

So dating someone now can really help you move on.

The whole rebound situation becomes an issue if you are not able to manage your emotions well such that you let your past failed relationship affect the new one negatively. But if you are able to compartmentalize well and leave the past in the past, you will do just fine – Uche Good day Mr. Edochie. Please I want to reorder a product I bought from you many years ago. I have forgotten what it is called but it is basically an artificial penis that men can wear when they cannot get an erection. I cannot find the last one – MrOgbu You must be talking about the Penile Extension but you forgot to mention the size you want. It is currently available in 6 inches and 10 inches. Call the numbers below to place your order and tell them what size you prefer – Uche Hello sir. I have been using the Stay Hard Prolong Cream you recommended for me last year to treat my premature ejaculation. Thanks again for your help. I am also reading that there are supplements that can also help a man last longer too. Please how does it

work and is it something I can take even with the Stay Hard Prolong Cream that I am using? Funso Hello Funso. Yes there are supplements out there that can prolong sexual activity for men and stop them from ejaculating too early. Examples are Libigrow and Rhino 7 but that is not all they do. In addition to helping you last long, they will strengthen your erections, help you have sex several times a night without getting tired and Rhino 7 also acts as a penis enlarger when used over a period of time. And yes you can combine any of them with the Stay Hard Prolonging Cream if you choose to.

No issues there – Uche My wife always complains of tiredness at night and this stops us from being intimate when I desire it. Please what things can help us? Thank you - Chikodili Tiredness after a long day at work does affect people’s sex lives. It is all part of being human. Consider giving her a massage after shower. It can help give her a bit of energy and put her in the mood to try. Massage oils like the Kamasutra Pleasure Garden Massage Oil and the Sensuos Massage Oil Eucalyptus Mint are both laced with pheromones which make adults want intercourse when they perceive it. So you can try any of these. Energy drinks like the Spanish Fly can also help with energy and arousal – Uche Hello. I am the 62 year old grandpa that had a chat with you some time ago about my erections not being what they used to be. You recommended Rhino 7 for me and now I am back and firing away like a virile young man. Just wanted to say thank you – MrEmordi You are welcome. And that is it for today. Adults in need of these treatments/novelties can call 08171912551, 08027901621 or 07086754515 for help or visit www.zeevirtualmedia.comZee Virtual Media delivers all over Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com-Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

46—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

US inmates, halfway to home countries

By Vera Anyangafu

T

Students'power

N

EWS about the senseless massacre of innocents in Paris, France, last Friday naturally eclipsed other significant events on the twenty-four-hour agenda of news around the world. Not even the news about the killing of Jihadi John, Kuwaitiborn Mohammed Emwazi, could compete with the massacre in Paris. Jihadi John was the first face of ISIS to find space on television screens around the world. He was the ISIS man who on television beheaded hostages of the blood-thirsty organization he represented. Last week, US drones wrote his obituary.

The other piece of news that went viral on the Internet and featured in US media was the event that unfolded at the University of Missouri, my alma mater. It was the resignation of Timothy Wolfe, president of the three-campus University of Missouri system. Hours later, the chancellor of the main campus in Columbia, R. Bowen Loftin, also gave notice that he will quit. Both top officers of the university had to go because of how they, especially Wolfe, flagrantly mismanaged the issue of racial tensions which were tearing the university apart.

The undercurrent of racism and its attendant tensions had been simmering over the years at the Mizzou campus in Columbia, but the authorities appeared to turn a blind eye and instead got busy with what they must have adjudged to be more important administrative issues. Last September, the president of the students association at the university, Payton Head, complained about some white students yelling racial slurs at him. The authorities did not take up the issue in any substantial way. Some faculty joined the protests against the overt racial tensions, but the authorities paid little attention. In October, a group of students known as Concerned Student 1950 (the year a black student was first admitted to the university) began protests and demanded that t h e administration handle the issue before it got out of control. Once again, the authorities only took judicial notice of their complaints and no more.

T h e r e a f t e r, Jonathan Butler, a black student went on hunger strike to bring attention to the issue, yet the administration Students did not give have the right more than a nod to express about the issue at stake. their views The tempo of on issues the on-campus protests and they consider crisis reached its fundamental climax when a group of Africanto their American wellbeing Mizzou football players joined

the protests. They were unequivocal about not participating in their scheduled game unless the president quit. Their white colleagues backed them. And their coach, Gary Pinkel, cast his lot with his players.

That was the moment the authorities woke up from their administrative reverie and recognized the seriousness of the problem.

But then it was too late for Tim Wolfe to save his job. For the footballers to boycott the game would have cost the university more than $1million, in addition to other intangible losses.

Wolfe had to go, for the Mizzou football team is a strong revenue-earning force for the university, and the African-American students form the bedrock of that team that is prominent in college football in America.

It was a situation where the students used their power to force action by the system, and won. That action is currently having silent repercussions across the board in the US where college athletics is a huge revenue earner among universities, all of which are currently experiencing financial downturn.

Three salient issues, among others, easily stand out on this matter. First, it shows the extent to which the US democratic culture is reflected on its campuses. Students have the right to express their views on issues they consider fundamental to their wellbeing. In my university, as in most universities, we have students represented on the Board of Trustees, the highest governing council in the system.

Silencing the voice of students The voice of students cannot be silenced.

Sometime last year, a student started a petition to prevent the state governor from being invited to speak at the university’s commencement (convocation) ceremony.

No one penalized or victimized her for that effort.

Equally informative is that in spite of how much we can criticize the Mizzou authorities over failing to live up to expectation, they did not go the extra mile to invite the police to quell the students’ protests, as easily as the case in most developing nations where the first option for university authorities is to use force to disband any form of students’ protest. I recall the sad days of “Ali Must Go” in Nigeria of the 1970s when the university authorities, with the support of Obasanjo’s military government, used all manner of force to brutalize students who were legitimately protesting the hike in the cost of university education.

Another important issue in the Mizzou saga is what appears to be the most common disease among university administrators anywhere in the world.

Typically conservative, they oftentimes fail to take action and become uncommonly indolent in the face of serious issues affecting their students. You would think that a person in the office of Mizzou presidency would be the first to respond to an issue as serious as the clamour for the authorities to do something about the increasing incidents of racism on campus.

No. He waited until the situation completely got out of control. Indeed, reactionary university administrators are found all over the world.

The country which has almost a quarter of the world’s prison population is also required to carefully consider public safety in deciding whether to reduce an inmate’s sentence. Subsequently, the country’s Department of Justice strongly supports sentencing reform for low-level, nonviolent drug offenders, and probation officers are expected to work hard to ensuring that returning offenders are adequately supervised and monitored.

Also, the FBI Director, James Comey reportedly stated that the release comes amid a surge in murders and violent crimes in many cities around the US, stressing that no one seems to be able to explain increases of 30 per cent to 50 per cent in murders in a wide variety of cities with little in common and that his concern will cause him to be thoughtful about ongoing moves to reform the nation’s criminal justice system.

HOUSANDS of US inmates are halfway to various home countries, following the new rules from the US government's sentencing commission to give freedom back to people who are sentenced for non-violent drug crimes.

Analysis of report shows that the changes come as part of an effort to reverse long jail terms for non-violent offenders, who make up about half of the federal prison population. Many of the prisoners were released from federal custody, and are halfway to various home countries, while a few more awaits freedom. Inquiry into the new development revealed that the release is the biggest of its kind in US history, and up to 46,000 of the country’s 100,000 drug offenders may have qualified for release.

Righting the wrongs: It is worthy of note that far too many people have lost years of their lives Vanguard to various countries sentencing laws born of the CLASSIFIED failed drug war.

Confirmation of name MADUBUIKE—I, Although, a large number I hereby state that am formerly known and of African citizens seem the bearer of both addressed as Miss overjoyed by the new Okpala Obiora Madubuike Uloma, sentencing guidelines, Izuchukwu and now wish to be known some wonder if the new US Okpalanwankwo and addressed as Mrs. government’s decision to Obiora Izuchukwu. All Uche Uloma. All give back freedom to former documents former documents inmates who were given remain valid. General remain valid. General harsh sentences in nonpublic please take public please take violent drug crimes, is worth note. note. receiving accolades.

ITENI—I, formerly AGBRO—I, formerly However, research disclosed that under the known and addressed known and addressed new US sentencing as Vivian Iteni, now as Agbro Eloho Faith, guidelines, about one third now wish to be known wish to be known and of the inmates who are and addressed as Mrs. addressed as Mrs. almost halfway home are Okpeterme Eloho Vivian Emebradu. All mostly foreign citizens, and upon release, will be Faith. All former former documents deported to their various documents remain remain valid. General countries. valid. General public public please take The decision to free the please take note. note. inmates, especially those convicted for non-violent EDOKO—I, formerly OROK—I, formerly drug crimes, is in an effort known and addressed known and addressed by the US government to as Edoko Peace as Comfort David ease prison crowding and Matilda Chime, now Orok, now wish to be lessen harsh penalties for wish to be known and non-violent offenders. known and addressed

Non violent offenders Many US cities have seen homicide rates increase over the past year, and as such, some law enforcement officials worry a surge of exconvicts could exacerbate that trend.

Reports also disclosed that the first wave of early releases have about two years trimmed from their original prison serving terms, and many more inmates will be eligible for release November, 2015.

Notably, the release seems the biggest of its kind in the history of the country, although President Obama’s administration has been working to tackle what he sees as a lack of fairness in the system, many are concerned that such a large prisoner release could lead to an uptick in crime in the country.

as Comfort Sunday Itina John. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

E N Y I N N AY A — I , formerly known and addressed as Miss Enyinnaya Grace, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Okpanya Grace. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

AGBEBIRE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Hannah (Anne) To r i s h e m u g b o n e Agbebire, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Hannah (Anne) To r i s h e m u g b o n e Reuben. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

addressed as Edokobi Peace Matilda Chime.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Confirmation of name

This is to inform the general public that some of my documents carried the name Olugade Oladotun Ariyo, while others carried Olabanji Oladotun. The two names belong to one and the same person. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

ADVERT HOTLINE 01- 4544821

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015—47

Fuel crisis worsens despite NNPC’s assurances

Under Buhari’s watch, there'll be no diversion of public funds

•NNPC distributes 31% of fuel demand in 2 days

—Minister

By Emmanuel Elebeke

•As Kachikwu meets marketers Wednesday

T

Clara Nwachukwu, Michael Eboh & Grace Udofia

T

HE FUEL crisis witnessed across the country worsened in Abuja, yesterday, despite assurances by the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, that the country has adequate supply of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as fuel, to meet the demand of Nigerians.

Some motorists, who spoke to Vanguard described the ongoing scarcity as the worst in recent times, stating that the country had never had it this bad.

This was even as the NNPC and its subsidiary, the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company, PPMC, disclosed that it has distributed 25.044 million litres of fuel across the country, over the last two days, between November 14 and 15, 2015.

Country's product demand With the assumption that Nigeria’s PMS consumption is 40 million litres per day, NNPC and PPMC’s distribution of 25.044 million litres represents a shortfall of about 54.96 million litres for the two days and an equivalent of 31.3 per cent of the country’s product demand.

Giving a breakdown of PMS distribution for the two days, the NNPC, in its Daily Dispatch Report to Filling Stations, revealed that Suleja depot, which is the loading point for petrol stations in Abuja and neighbouring states, distributed 7.179 million litres of PMS to oil marketers, the highest quantity distributed in the country for the period.

Filling stations lifted 4.931 million from the Kano depot; Gombe depot distributed 3.663 million litres to oil marketers; Kaduna depot distributed 2.471 million litres, while filling stations received 2.312 million litres from Gusau depot.

Others are Minna depot — 0.225 million litres; Satellite Depot, serving Lagos State and environs — 2.165 million litres; Ilorin depot — 0.303 million litres; Ore depot — 0.111 million litres; Ibadan depot — 0.766 million litres and Aba depot, serving most of the eastern states — 0.918 million litres.

CEREMONY: From left, Rivers State SSG, Kenneth Kobani; NYSC Rivers State Co-ordinator,Ngozi Nwatarali, and Timothy Opurum, during the closing ceremony of the 2015 Batch B Stream 1 Orientation Course, of the NYSC, yesterday, in TAI Local Government Area, Rivers State. Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke estimated 40 million litres daily national requirement.

The report comes ahead of a scheduled meeting on Wednesday between the NNPC Group Managing Director, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu and oil marketers to discuss outstanding issues relating to products distribution in the country.

But in a quick response, the NNPC spokesman, Mr. Ohi Alegbe, in a telephone interview with Vanguard yesterday, hinted that the 40 million litres may be spurious, which marketers used in making subsidy claims.

According to him, NNPC is required to statutorily supply up to 50 per cent off the national requirement, which it has been fulfilling.

Statutory requirement He said: “What we are doing is to supply 50 per cent of the national daily which is our statutory requirement. What this means is that 40 million litres is the big subsidy question and we may not be consuming up to the estimated 40 million litres.”

He added: “By the time we block all the loopholes, including those products taken outside the country, we will be able to determine the true national daily requirement.”

Meanwhile, Alegbe also disclosed that Kachikwu will be meeting with marketers on Wednesday to discuss outstanding distribution issues, Excess adding that the delay in the However, the volume, in payment of the over N413 billion excess of 25 million litres fall far approved for the payment of short of the much touted subsidy is due to appropriations

by the National Assembly.

Marketers disagree However, some of the marketers who spoke to Vanguard in confidence insisted that the daily national requirement is more than currently estimated by the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, PPPRA, managers of the subsidy regime.

They noted that with the current estimation at 30 million litres daily, the country may continue to suffer intermittent shortages in petrol supply.

Import allocations According to them, “Somebody upstairs felt Nigeria was not consuming as much as 40 million litres and reduced it to 30 million litres, which is what PPPRA also based their import allocations on.”

Notwithstanding the actual daily requirement, they argued that the main reason why scarcity may persist is because “Depot owners do not have money to bring in more products, and NNPC cannot meet demand. Even the supply they make are to only major marketers and depot owners on throughput arrangement with them, where they store the products until marketers are able to come truck them.”

In spite of the sufferings faced

by Nigerians, the Federal Government is yet to make any comment on the crisis apart for the claim made last Friday by the NNPC that the country has enough quantity of PMS to meet the demand of the country.

The large queues which had

become a constant factor in almost all the petrol stations in Abuja also took a turn for the worse, as motorists spent several hours on the queue before they could gain access to the petrol stations.

At the Conoil petrol station right opposite the NNPC Headquarters in Abuja, it was chaos and confusion, as the queue stretched several miles to about four streets round the petrol station, while the Total petrol station, also opposite the NNPC headquarters, despite been shut as at the time Vanguard visited the area, still had large of number of vehicles waiting for the station to commence selling.

In Gudu Area, in Apo District of Abuja, long queue of motorists was seen at the Total filling station, while African Petroleum (AP) was shut down and would not dispense the product.

Mega station At the NNPC mega station at Zone 1, in the Central Business District, a motorist described the queue as unprecedented, as large number of vehicles besieged the petrol station. Nearby, Forte Oil was shut and was not selling, while Oando was selling to motorists albeit with long queues.

At the NNPC mega station, Katampe, along the Kubwa Expressway, the queue of motorists stretched about three miles. MRS petrol station at Gwarimpa along the Kubwa Expressway was shut; Conoil and Oando, still along the expressway, was shut, while Gegu petrol station at Dutse was selling with long queues of vehicles.

HE MINISTER of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has dismissed as a contrived distraction the alleged fraud in the Treasury Single Account, TSA, and the rumoured diversion of the TSA funds to bankroll elections in Bayelsa and Kogi states.

In a statement isued in Abuja, Monday, by Special Adviser to the Minister, Segun Adeyemi in Abuja, the Minister said if those behind the accusation had allowed themselves some measure of honesty, they would have realized that there has not and there will be no such impunity under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. ‘’It is understandable that the psyche of those who are making the frivolous allegations concerning the TSA has been badly affected by the impunity that permeated the country under the immediate past administration, when unappropriated funds were freely used to finance elections and the public till was seen as an extension of personal piggy banks.

Scandalmongers ‘’But the lies that have been wilfully disseminated by scandalmongers over the TSA cannot and will not fly, because it was precisely to put an end to such impunity that Nigerians voted massively for President Muhammadu Buhari, who has an unblemished reputation for integrity, due process, transparency and the rule of law,’’ he said.

The Minister, however, assured Nigerians that no one had tampered with the TSA funds, saying though the TSA was initiated under the previous administration, the reason it had begun to enjoy a new lease of life and attract national attention was because of the political will and transparency demonstrated by President Buhari. ‘’Those behind the rumour that a single company, Systemspecs, made N25 billion from charging one per cent of TSA funds through the company’s software, Remita, may need to return to elementary school to get some lessons in arithmetic."

48 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

M

AMA HID Awolowo was a business woman and successful for that matter. This was attested to by Chief Obafemi Awolowo himself in one of his books when he said, “She is a resourceful business woman; and in this regard, she is a worthy upholder of the traditions of her mother (Madam Elizabeth Oyesile and grandmother, Chief Adebowale Oyegunle) both of whom were successful traders.”

The tragedies in her life The three major tragedies in Mama’s life would certainly be the death of three out of her five children in her lifetime.

1. The first of her children to die was her first son, Olusegun Awolowo, a lawyer and father of Olusegun Awolowo Junior, who died in 1963 at the age of 24. He died in a ghastly motor accident.

2. Another tragedy struck Mama again in 2011, when her fourth child, Otunba (Mrs.) Ayodele Soyode, the mother of Vice President’s wife, died on Sunday, April 10, 2011, at the age of 66. She was said to have died of complications from cancer.

Certainly for someone who was already advanced in age, this could be devastating.

3.Mama was still probably recovering from the death of Otunba Mrs. Ayodele Soyode, when death came visiting again to her only surviving son, Chief Oluwole Awolowo.

He died in March 2013 in a far away London hospital. He was said to have died of complications from a motor accident he had in 2006.

When Oluwole Awolowo died, Mama was inconsolable. She was said to have wailed ‘Oh Wole, my dear son! Why now! Is it a sin to live long? My parents lived long, why should longevity becomes a curse in my own case?”

Mama also wailed to the clergymen who came to break the news of her son’s death to her as she said: “Bishop, you said I would not witness any more unfortunate incident. Bishop, you said I would not witness any sorrow again. Bishop, you said I would not witness any more pain.”

Running her household Mama, as the matriarch of Awolowo’s clan, had some personal staff working with her directly.

Mama was the head, she had a manager who was in charge of all the staff.

The manager, Alhaji

•Dideolu Estate Victoria Island ... one of her estates in Lagos.

HID Awolowo: Lagos mourns one of her business moguls

By Monsuru Olowoopejo, with Agency report Osinaike reported directly to Mama but he is in charge of all other staff in the compound.

After the manager are Mama’s secretaries. They are two in number. There are also two drivers, two nurses, three cooks working for Mama.

There is also a steward who doubled as cleaner and who also pushed Mama around on

the wheel chair. There are electricians who take care of all electrical work in the household. Another person takes care of the two generating sets in the compound.

Among her business ventures in Lagos are: 1. Dideolu Stores, which consists of all her shops where they sell wholesale drinks – She was a sole distributor for Nigerian Breweries Plc and Guinness Nigerian Plc. She was also a major distributor of cement.

2. Dideolu Estate is the real estate of the Awolowo’s managed

by Mama, even when her husband, Chief Obafemi Awolowo was still alive.

3. At least, there are three Dideolu Estates in Lagos - Dideolu Estate, Ikeja, Dideolu Estate, Ogba and Dideolu Estate, Lekki.

There are also many locked-up shops at Apongbon, Lagos Island that belong to Dideolu Estate.

Original plans for the 100th birthday Mama, no doubt, was looking forward to her 100th birthday celebrations on November 25, 2015. To this end, she had instructed her grandchildren to organize a week long activities to mark the milestone. As a matter of fact, that Saturday, September 19, 2015, that she died, there was a meeting of the centenary planning committee in the compound.

The centenary committee consists of Mama’s two surviving children – Rev. (Mrs.) Tola Oyediran, Dr. Tokunbo Dosumu and her grandchildren.

The week long activities would have involved Mama’s alma-maters – Saint

Continues on page 49

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 — 49

HID Awolowo: Lagos mourns one of her business moguls Continues from page 48 Saviour’s (Anglican) School, Ikenne, Saint Peter’s (Anglican) Faji School, Lagos and Methodist Girls’ High School, Broad Street, Lagos.

Mama’s royal family background – Owobagbe Liyangu Akarigbo Ruling House of Sagamu and Obara Ruling House of Ikenne – were also booked to play a significant role in the centenary celebration.

There was also supposed to be a day of praise songs by different choirs as part of 100 years celebration of Mama.

The Apostolic Church, where Mama’s mother, Deaconess Elizabeth Oyesile Adelana, was a staunch and founding member, was also booked to play a role in Mama’s never to be centenary celebration.

Ogunde Troupe, were also billed to stage a play to honour Mama on her 100 years on this terrestrial earth.

Unfortunately, however, Mama died 67 days to her 100th birthday celebrations, where all these activities and more were billed to take place.

Some of these activities will still take place before or on November 25, 2015, certainly without Mama. Because on that day, rather than Mama dancing to symphony of music to mark her centenary birthday, she will be interred into mother earth.

Her burial site Barring any unforeseen circumstance, Mama’s remains will be interred on Wednesday, November 25, 2015, beside her husband inside Awo’s Mausoleum right inside the family compound in Ikenne.

Mama’s final resting place has already been created beside that of her husband and covered with a sheet of glass.

Ambode leads sympathisers Governors Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos state and his Oyo state counterpart, Abiola Ajimobi are leading citizens of their states to the final burial events for Mrs Hannah Idowu Dideolu, HID, Awolowo as the event commenced.

She died on September 19, and the rights which started with lying in state at her Park Lane residence in Apapa

•Lying in state .... Former governor of Lagos State, Lateef Jakande (middle), his wife, (right) and another guest at the wake. yesterday is expected to climax with the internment scheduled for the 25th when she would have been 100 years old.

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Sunday joined scores of residents at the Lying in State of late Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, at the family’s residence in Park Lane, Apapa Speaking shortly after the rites, Governor Ambode said mama Awolowo’s demise was a great loss to Lagos as she was a major force in the development of trade and commerce in the state.

“For the fact that the final burial rites of mama is commencing in Lagos state signifies that this is a loss to the whole of Lagosians and the mere fact that we are remembering Mama from Park Lane also shows that she’s been a major bastion of commerce and trade in the whole development of Lagos state.

“For us, this is a major loss to Lagos, it’s not even about the Yoruba race alone. So coming here is just to show that together we would remember mama for every good thing that she’s been, she’s been very humble, very generous and like Papa always said, she was indeed a jewel of inestimable value”, the Governor said.

Jakande, Osoba, Adebanjo, others eulogise HID Awolowo Former Governor of Lagos and Ogun State, Alh. Lateef

Jakande; former governor of Ogun state, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and other dignitaries yesterday also visited the Lagos home of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo to pay their last respect to his late wife, Hannah Idowu Dideolu, (H.I.D) Awolowo.

Other dignitaries, who attended the Lying in State and service of Songs Mrs Awolowo, were Mrs. Abba Folawiyo, former SurveyorGeneral of Lagos State, Mr. Joseph Agbenla,Leader of the Pan-Yoruba social Group, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo and others.

They all took turn to eulogise the late H.I.D Awolowo.

I hope her death will unite Yoruba Nation — Osoba Osoba told Vanguard after

the service of Songs, that the late H.I.D was one of the greatest women God blessed the nation with and called for the unity of the Yoruba nation.

His words “She was one of the greatest women of this nation. One thing I will never forget about her was her food. Her food was always delicious. Any time we have dinner with Mama and Papa Awolowo, we used to lick our tongues all night.

“In her life time, she was the head of the home. Papa seeded the home to Mama.

Papa never sat at the head of the table. He seeded it to Mama,’’ Osoba added.

On the Yoruba nation, the former governor said “We are going through a dangerous and trying time in Yorubaland. I pray that if only for the memory of Mama, we should all bury our differences and come together.”

H.I.D Awolowo lives forever — Jakande

Governor Ambode said mama Awolowo’s demise was a great loss to Lagos as she was a major force in the development of trade and commerce in the state

Alhaji Lateef Jakande, first civilian governor of Lagos state, who attended the service of songs for the late matriarch, recalled her managerial skills as the chairman of Nigerian Tribune Newspapers.

According to him, “She was a great woman. We have very few women of her calibre. Her integrity and industriousness would be missed. She was the moving spirit in the Nigerian Tribune. I will say that HID Awolowo lives forever.”

We have missed one of the stars of her generation —Adebanjo Afenifere Chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo described the late H.I.D as: “The mother of the nation. She was one of the blessings GOD gave to Nigeria. All the achievement of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo couldn’t have been possible without her contribution. In fact, her late husband acknowledged it.

“She was very loyal and an enterprising woman who shares the view of her husband. She stood by her husband all through. When late Chief Awolowo was in prison, she stood firmly by him.

She was a role model. We have missed one of the stars of her generation. I pray that God will bless Nigeria with another HID.” She was a jewel of an estimable value — Grandson Also describing her grandmother, Olusegun Awolowo said; “She was a jewel of an estimable value and that is what she remained to all of us. Mama lived through Nigeria’s history.

When she married Late Obafemi Awolowo, my grandfather, she married everything about him.”

On what he would miss about her, he said; “The fact that she is no more because she was the embodiment of the family. She held the family together. She was always available and that is what we will miss.”

50—Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Continues from Page 5

to the demands of the agitators and international best practices on such issues instead of resorting to use of force against them.

The traditional rulers called on the President to address issues of marginalization and neglect which are some of the things the pro-Biafra groups are complaining about.

I’ll be alive to actualize Biafra —Uwazuruike Leader of MASSOB, Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, yesterday, charged members of the movement to remain steadfast and focused in the revolutionary struggle, saying the nonviolence method adopted by MASSOB had become a source of worry to the socalled northern sociocultural group, Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, and the Nigerian military.

Uwazuruike insisted that there was no going back in his bid to actualize Biafra now or never, stressing that he is in the struggle for freedom not for any other person but for his own children who he said desire a free country where their lives and property can be guaranteed for security.

The MASSOB leader, who spoke through the Deputy National Director for Information, Mazi Chris Mocha, weekend, at a special meeting of Enugu West Senatorial District, in Nachi, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, lamented that since Nigeria got her independence in 1960, it had never guaranteed security of lives and property of Ndigbo, a situation which he claimed persuaded him to seek independence of Biafra.

Army warns against felony, threatens to use force The Nigerian Army, yesterday, said that it would not hesitate to use necessary force within its Rules of Engagement, ROE, to suppress any insurrection,if directed by President Buhari .

To this effect, it warned agitators for actualisation of Republic of Biafra, saying that it would not fold its hands and watch them endanger the security of the country, Reviewing the Nigerian Army Rules of Engagement at the 81 Division Officers Mess, Victoria Island, the

General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Major General Isido Edet, said the Nigerian Army was constitutionally obligated to, among other things, suppress insurrection and act in aid of civil authority to restore order when called upon to do so by the President.

He said: “It is in the public domain that certain elements are agitating for seccession. Though they have been counselled by elder statesmen that such exercise is not for the good of Nigerians because we have gone through that lane before. We had a civil war and in some areas we are yet to overcome the consequences of the civil war. For people to start talking about the dismemberment of the country is the most unfortunate thing at this point in time in our country. ‘’The Nigerian Army would like to send an unequivocal warning to all and sundry, more specifically, to all those threatening and agitating for the dismemberment of the country, those committing treasonable felony and arson as well as wanton destruction of lives and property that once the army is deployed, we shall apply ROE to the letter.”

He, however, wished that the present situation in the South-East region of the country would not degenerate into a situation whereby the army would be deployed, saying it could lead to the enforcement of its ROE to the fullest.

He also warned officers and soldiers not to take sides in any conflict or aid and abet any act of arson, vandalism or unprofessional conduct, threatening that anyone found culpable would face the consequences.

Major General Edet also assured Lagosians that there was no cause for alarm over report on the influx of terrorists into the country, disclosing that the 81 division was fully at alert.

Edet’s warning to the Biafran agitators was also re-echoed by the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, which in a statement

by Army Director of Public Relations,Colonel Hamza Gambo, regretted that activities of MASSOB, IPOB and other affiliate groups have led to an increased sense of insecurity across the regions.

Also, the General Officer Commanding the 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army, Hassan Umaru, said

RELAUNCH: From left, Managing Director, Nutricima, Mr. Eelco Weber; Chairman, Nutricima, Mr. Tunde Oyelola; Group, Corporate Affairs Director, PZ, Mrs. Yomi Ifaturoti and Brand Ambassador, Nunu, Omoni Oboli at the relaunch of Nunu milk, in Lagos

Biafra: Nigeria remains one nation, says Buhari at a press conference in Maxwell Kobe Cantonment, Rukuba, Plateau State, yesterday that “the Nigerian Army would like to send an unequivocal warning to all and sundry, more specifically to all those threatening and agitating for the dismemberment of the country, committing treasonable felony and arson as well as wanton destruction of lives and property.

“Once deployed, we shall apply the ROE to the latter.

It is, however, hoped that such circumstances would not arise that we should be deployed on such operations because, within the ambit of the law, we shall apply the ROE to the fullest,” he said.

FG must halt ProBiafra agitations —Makinde Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Rotimi Makinde, however urged the Federal Government to halt the agitations because they are politically motivated.

His words: "As a patriotic Nigerian, I condemn in strong terms the potential threat to Nigeria’s unity as a result of the activities of some pro-Biafra groups, which I believe is politically motivated by some treacherous individuals.

"Nigerians have put behind them the ugly memories of 1967 to 1970; Nigeria was the theatre of a cruel and bloody civil war that is commonly known as Biafra War. The conflict allegedly originated from internal crisis such as tribalism and political failures of the civil government after the independence, as well from external influences by the

ex-colonial powers. The war, which ended with Biafra surrender, confirmed the military as holder of power starting a long period of political dominance in Nigeria history.

"Unfortunately, those who are currently behind the protests are youths who have little or no idea of what the war cost Nigerians as well as the collateral damage the country suffered as a result of the 30 months war. Although I believe very strongly that the campaign was being driven by just a few people, though it is true that, majority of the Igbo people do not share this secessionist view.

We must restructure Nigeria now —Okorocha To curtail the pro-Biafra protests and other problems in the country, Governor Okorocha called for the immediate restructuring of the country. Okorocha gave the advice, yesterday, in Abuja while delivering a lecture on "Managing Change in a Democracy" during the FRCN 2015 Annual Lecture.

He said it was worrisome that since the nation’s independence in 1960, it is still battling with how to coexist as one nation devoid of all the numerous problems of ethnicity and religion.

Okorocha, who also spoke of his meeting with leaders of the secessionists MASSOB said Nigeria must wake up from its present position, which he described as a sleeping giant to begin to do things like most other nations of the world who take the issue of their citizens seriously.

“There is a major issue

that we must address urgently in Nigeria and that is the issue of unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Today, I must say that the only force holding Nigeria is God because all the qualities and qualifications of nations that have broken, all of them are here and all the characteristics of a broken nation are in Nigeria. Look at the insurgency in the North-East, the crisis in the South and the last election we had, yet we are still together, it means that God is not done with us yet, we must thank God but we must also not take this grace of God for granted.

“Our main problem is tribalism and sectionalism, some few months ago when President Jonathan was in power. Some people from the South-South and the Christians said it was their time. Today it is President Buhari and some local Nigerians will say it is the time for northerners and Muslims. No nation can develop in that manner.

“When the issue of MASSOB came, they ended their rally in Owerri three days ago in Imo State and it was meant to be the main rally where the catastrophe and destruction will happen.

The information came to me that MASSOB was coming to Imo State. With the consent of the President and the Service Chiefs, I said no shooting, give them proper escort. So they were followed with armoured tanks and military vehicles and they went round, prayed at every junction and ended up in Imo State without a drop of blood.

“But in the night, my chief of staff told me that he got a call from somebody that the leadership of MASSOB wanted to see me, so I

called Mr. President and intimated him and he said I should go ahead and receive them. So by 11 pm MASSOB arrived my house. When they came in you could see people that for a very long time did not care to take their bath and the first stood up to say ‘I am Late Dr. so, so and so, another said ‘I am late Barr.

Or Late Chief so, so and so’ and I told them that I don’t communicate with dead people since they have ‘late’ attached to their names. But they told me they have their reasons.

“They said that some of them were killed in the North-East and they ran back home, they are not doing anything and most of them are orphans and their children cannot go back to school and nobody cares to listen to them. They also told me that they were part of the Niger Delta that caused the problems there but when they gave them amnesty, they were not given after surrendering their arms.

Third, they told me that in Lagos they locked up their shops and the traditional ruler said they should jump into the lagoon. Number four, that they have more than 160 corpses of their members litered all over the country without burial. Number five, they said they want God to hear them. When I asked if it is the reason they want to declare a nation, they said they want everybody to know that the issue that led to Biafra is still there. It is an ill wind that blows nobody any good, sometimes our leaders have a role to play because every unemployed youth in this country is a time bomb.”

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 — 51

Hollande vows to destroy ISIS •Urges grand coalition in Syria

•As Kenya, Uganda step up security

F

RANCE is committed to “destroying” the so-called Islamic State group after Friday’s deadly attacks, President Francois Hollande has said.

He said he would table a bill to extend the state of emergency declared after the attacks for three months and would suggest changes to the constitution.

He also appealed for a single coalition including the United States and Russia to eradicate Islamic State militants in Syria after bloody attacks on Paris.

Speaking during a joint session of both houses of parliament, Mr Hollande said the constitution needed to be amended as “we need an appropriate tool we can use without having to resort to the state of emergency”.

Other measures he said would be pursued included: 5,000 extra police posts in the next two years and no new cuts in the defence budget; Making it easier to strip dual nationals of their French citizenship if they are convicted of a terrorist offence, as long as this did not render them stateless;Speeding up the deportation of foreigners who pose “a particularly grave threat to the security of the nation” and pushing for greater European action against arms trafficking and greater penalties for it in France.

Mr Hollande said he would travel to meet US President Barack Obama and Russian Vladimir Putin in the coming days to discuss action against the group.

At a G20 summit in Turkey, world leaders promised tighter co-operation in the wake of the attacks.

Mr Obama said the US and France had made a

F

•French President, Hollande addresses a special session of the French Parliament yesterday. new agreement on intelligence sharing but said US military advisors thought sending ground troops to combat Isis would be a mistake.

He reiterated his opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad remaining in power but said “our enemy in Syria is Daesh [IS]”.

He promised more resources for the security forces and said the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier would be sent on Thursday to bolster the military campaign against IS. Meanwhile, the US-led coalition destroyed 116 fuel

trucks operated by ISIS in eastern Syria in one day, US defence officials say.

A Pentagon spokesperson said the trucks were hit in a single air strike near the ISIS held town of Albu Kamal.

The coalition has targeted fuel trucks before, but a coalition official said this was the most they had hit at once.

Black market trade in oil is one of IS’ most important sources of funding.

It is believed to make about $500m (£329m) a year from the oil industry in territory under its control.

US states halt taking Syrian refugees

S

EVERAL US gover nors have said they are putting on hold programmes to resettle Syrian refugees in their states.

Governor Rick Snyder of Michigan said he was suspending the acceptance of new refugees until a security review could be completed.

Alabama, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Indiana and Massachusetts issued similar statements on Monday.

The decisions come in the wake of the attacks in Paris

which killed 129 people on Friday evening.

The militant group Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the killings.

Seven of the perpetrators died in the attacks, and one of them is thought to have been a Syrian who entered Europe via Greece with migrants.

Millions of Syrians have fled to neighbouring countries and to Europe, and the US has promised to take about 10,000 Syrian refugees in the next 12 months.

Wife of Australian ISIS recruit pleads guilty

T

HE wife of one of Australia’s most notorious extremists, Mohamed Elomar, has pleaded guilty to supporting overseas terrorism.

Fatima Elomar, 31, was intercepted at Sydney Airport in May last year as she tried to board an international flight.

Cash, camouflage gear and medical supplies were found in her luggage.

In a brief court appearance, she pleaded guilty to supporting incursions into a foreign state with the intention of engaging in hostile activities.

Mohamed Elomar

Five Africans killed in Paris attacks

travelled to Syria and then Iraq in 2013 to fight with socalled Islamic State (IS).

Court documents reportedly detail text

messages between the couple in which Ms Elomar begs her husband to return home for medical treatment after being shot.

Suu Kyi returns to Myanmar parliament

M

YANMAR’s Aung San Suu Kyi has returned to parliament after her party’s landslide election victory in legislative elections held last week.

She was mobbed by journalists as she arrived at the parliament on Monday, but declined to make any comment as she takes a low-profile approach to

victory.

Aung San Suu Kyi is constitutionally barred from top political office but has vowed to rule “above” the next president, whom she will select following her National League for Democracy’s formidable win in the November 8 polls.

The NLD defeated the current army-backed ruling party.

IVE Africans are be lieved to have been among the 129 people killed in the Paris attacks.

Moroccan architect and teacher, Amine Ibnolmobarak, aged 29, has been named by the Moroccan Times newspaper as one of those killed at the Carillon bar.

Two Tunisian women, sisters from near Bizerte aged 34 and 35, were also killed, according to France’s BFM TV. They were celebrating a friend’s birthday.

And two Algerians were killed, the official APS news agency said, citing diplomatic sources as saying the victims were a woman aged 40 and a man aged 29.

Two Senegalese nationals also died in the attacks,

according to Senegal’s media.

Meanwhile, Kenyan and Ugandan security forces have stepped up patrols in the wake of the attacks on Paris.

Uganda’s army spokesman Lt Col Paddy Ankunda said that the “threat of terrorism is real”.

The head of Kenya’s police, Joseph Boinnet, echoed those comments on Twitter and called for the public to be alert.

Both Uganda and Kenya have experienced attacks by the Somalia-based militant Islamist group al-Shabab.

In April this year 147 people died when a university campus in the Kenyan town of Garissa was attacked. .Uganda’s police spokes-

man Fred Enanga said that police have “heightened the level of alertness” and that they are working with the military “to ensure that all Ugandans and visitors are safe”.

Kenyan and Ugandan soldiers are part of an African Union force in Somalia which is helping the government battle al-Shabab.

Kenya’s Defence Minster Raychelle Omamo expressed solidarity with the people of France.

“What is important is that we continue to work hard to eliminate this threat, to continue to work as a collective to further the cause of peace, stability of good will and of freedom in our countries,” she told the BBC’s Focus on Africa radio programme.

African migrants shot dead in Egypt

E

GYPTIAN police have found the bodies of 15 African migrants who appear to have been shot dead in the northern Sinai Peninsula, officials say.

Unconfirmed reports say most of the victims were Sudanese.

It is not yet clear who attacked the group, near the town of Rafah on the border with Gaza.

There is constant tension in the area, where the Egyptian army is trying to crush an insurgency by the Islamic State (IS) militants.

Eight migrants were found alive but wounded in the incident on Sunday, the Associated Press news

•Wounded African migrant being taking to the hospital at the city of Al Arish. agency reported.

Jihadists based in the North Sinai region stepped up their attacks after the military overthrew Islamist President Mohammed Morsi in July 2013.

A state of emergency has

been in force in the area since October 2014, following an attack by the ISlinked group Sinai Province. It is unclear whether the killing of the migrants is related to the unrest.

Angolan rapper accused of rebellion against govt

A

rapper is among 17 activists who have gone on trial in Angola’s capital, Luanda, charged with preparing acts of rebellion and plotting against the president and state institutions. Luaty Beirao was arrested in June with book club members discussing a book about nonviolent resistance.

Mr Beirao recently ended his five-week hunger strike in prison.

Their arrest prompted protests in Portugal and condemnation from human rights groups.

Human Rights Watch’s Zenaida Machado urged Angolan judges to “show independence and not permit this trial to be used as an instrument to silence the government’s critics”.

The rapper, also known by his stage name

Ikonoklasta, has been an outspoken critic of the government, calling for a fairer distribution of the country’s oil wealth.

Since the end of the conflict in 2002, Africa’s secondlargest oil producer has witnessed an economic boom, but critics of the elected gov-

ernment say the wealth has only benefited a small elite.

The detained activists, who belong to a youth movement, had previously held demonstrations demanding the resignation of President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who has been in power for 36 years.

Mali arrests financier of terrorist group

M

ALI’s army has ar rested Alaye Bocari, a leading financial backer of an Islamist militant group responsible for an expansion of deadly attacks in the West African nation, military and defense sources said on Monday.

The attacks carried out by the Massina Liberation Front (MLF), led by radical preacher and jihadist Amadou Koufa, have helped shift Mali’s three-

year-old Islamist conflict from the remote desert north ever closer to its populous south.

Bocari is among Koufa’s close collaborators according to intelligence gathered by the military, said army spokesman Colonel Souleymane Maiga.

“He was arrested on November 13 in the region of Mopti by an army patrol acting on information given by the population,” he said.

52 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 ARIES: AS the saying goes “time waits for nobody” it’s important you guard against unnecessary procrastination capable of putting you at tight corner soonest. Be loving.

TAURUS: IT’S better you conclude what you’ve been doing for a while rather than starting something new you don’t know when to finish it. Be more family minded.

GEMINI: IF careless remarks are made by you today, it would back-fire at resumption of work tomorrow morning.

Those who are eager for romantic attention will have their dream coming true. Be more loving CANCER: IF you wait too long before an important (financial) decision is taken, you may find yourself keeping date with what you don’t bargain for.

LEO: Placement of the Moon influences your associates to become more self-assertive. If you take good advice you’ll fare better. However, it’s important you don’t forget your tomorrow with others.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

T is not uncom I mon to find man reeling out a catalogue of why he could not do anything. It is an abnormal condition, he will say. But if we must face the truth,

Is any condition normal? man will be nothing without challenges confronting him.

Do you think God couldn’t provide everything for us?

Why do you think

TERROR MUDA

God commanded us to have dominion over all things?

Everyone of us have a huge sense of satisfaction anytime we overcome

in “Scavenger Elite”

a major challenge.

That is the joy.

There is no normal condition anywhere. But the condition will be normal when the man is normal.

Think about it!

By Lanre Kehinde

VIRGO: BETTER than yesterday and luckily for you, opportunity to rectify mistakes made yesterday may come today to the betterment of your finances. Don’t try to buy love with money.

LIBRA: BETTER than yesterday as you will be at a more comfortable place today and suddenly discover that your hope is alive. Venus bring you money SCORPIO: ROMANTIC Venus at positive angle may bring matters-of-the heart related temptation through friends. But your best bet now is moderate ambition.

SAGITTARIUS: The best bet for you is to consolidate on progress you made yesterday and look for best way to pacify your new friends.

CAPRICORN: EVERYBODY needs other people’s co-operation just like you today but you will not be compelled by situation to dance to others’ tune; meaning that you can do things your own way and rightly expect success.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in “HEY’

By Andy Akman

AQUARIUS: THOSE of you willing to give others the needed co-operation will be in better position to consolidate on progress you have made recently. Don’t allow sex to distract you.

PISCES: WATCHOUT for minor and avoidable but costly mistake within your working arena, especially if you are in charge of other people’s money. If you develop new romantic liaison today, it may not last.

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 about me?

Dear Joshua, You have done many people’s horoscope; what about me? I want you to kindly analyse my star and tell me everything about my self. Please take note that I value my health and career than any other thing.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Babatunde, Lagos.

Dear Babatunde, What space can take will be given to you here-under.

Star Signs that hosted both your natal sun and moon are members of very strong star signs-health wise. Scorpio, in particular, has unusual survival ability. That is to say, even when health related challenges come, your survival endowment will always see you through.

Your major challenge is from your constant worries about too many things, especially on career related issues. Business miscalculation can be another source of health related challenge. You will agree with the fact that both constant worries and business miscalculation can affect one’s circulatory system.

Other things to watch-out for include: Urine-genital-organs, minor accident (fire), bones dislocations, a few other times, skin infections and, of-course, fever. Always take care of the stomach. Please take note that all these are mere warnings as there is nothing fatalistic about them; a good guard, though.

Oil related Neptune was the closet heavenly body to the sun when you were born at positive angle to Pluto in Leo. Thus, having things to do with oil along your career/ business lines is not by accident.

Then preponderance of water element and fixed quality in the distribution of the planets when you were born are favourable to commercial involvement with anything liquid.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 , 2015—53

C M Y K

54 —Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

Ikeme: It wasn’t difficult replacing Enyeama Super Eagles goalkeeper in this interview with fifa.com, says it was not difficult replacing Vincent Enyeama in goal for the Nigerian side. people and build a sort

B

ERTI Vogts included you in a Nigeria squad in 2007, but you didn’t make your debut until this year.

What happened?

Ikeme: I got invited into the squad and got injured before the squad was due to meet up, so I couldn’t join up. So it was unfortunate I didn’t get to get started a bit earlier. I suppose everything happens for a reason though, so it was probably my time to come in when I did.

So, over seven and a half years passed. Did you think the ship might have sailed for you?

I never thought the ship had sailed. I had been playing regularly for a while and felt like I was doing quite well. I thought it might come, but the timing of this call-up was more of a surprise as we’d only played one game in the season and it was a strange time to get the call. That’s why I was more surprised.

How did this call-up come about?

Basically, I got a phone call from the club asking me if I was interested to speak to the coach.

Obviously I said yes! I gave coach Sunday [Oliseh] a call and had a chat with him. He told me he was thinking about including me in the next squad and it went from there. I thought then maybe he’d call me, maybe he won’t, but then the following week I was included in the squad.

During the chat, he told me what his plans were.

Obviously he had just taken over, so he talked about his philosophy and how he wanted to be going forward. It was just to see if I was interested and what he’s looking to do for the future.

What was it like walking into that Nigerian dressing room for the first time?

It’s pretty strange really because, you know, I’m not a kid. You don’t know too many of the players. It’s not nerve-wracking, but it’s a bit first-day-of-schoollike. You try to get to know

of relationship, but you’re also trying to impress the coaches at the same time and prove to everyone that you should be there.

In terms of the dressing-room environment, how does the Nigeria’s differ from the clubs you’ve been involved with in England? Is it, generally speaking, the same?

It’s definitely different.

There’s a lot more singing and dancing, especially on the way to the game. Everyone’s singing on the bus. It’s a bit different than going to a local game here, where most lads are quiet on the coach going to a game, listening to their own music.

Everyone with Nigeria gets involved singing and dancing on the way to the game.

Did you join in?

Of course! You have to.

They drag your headphones off you if you don’t!

Does that permeate into the stands as well?

The fans are brilliant.

They sing and dance and you can hear them during the game. When you look in the crowd after the match you still see them dancing, singing, cheering especially if we win. It’s a bit more of a carnival atmosphere and it’s different to playing back in England, where it’s quite edgy with rivalries between the supporters and stuff like that. It’s a different experience, but it’s enjoyable.

How difficult has it been for you to replace the legendary Vincent Enyeama?

I wouldn’t say it was difficult. I was always aware that Vincent’s been the No1, captain and been an unbelievable goalkeeper for Nigeria, probably one of the best African keepers to ever play the game. I don’t really want to try and emulate someone else. I want to do it my own way and be the best I can be. I know people always want to compare goalkeepers to each other, but I’m just trying to concentrate on what I do and do the best for Nigeria.

•Carl Ikeme

2018 FIFA World Cup

Eagles, Egypt, Ghana wary of upsets E

•Asamoah Gyan

GYPT head a number of African heavyweights with plenty to do to advance from the second round of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. The Pharaohs suffered a shock 1-0 loss away to Chad in the first leg of their tie last week but will have home advantage today to help them erase the deficit.

Ghana, Algeria and Nigeria also came away from road trips with surprise results as they were all held by opponents they had been expected to beat.

Captain Asamoah Gyan is in determined mood to make amends.

“We know we were not up to the task in the first game so we will make sure we turn things around, “ he said.

While Nigeria did not concede in their first leg with Swaziland, the Super Eagles will be concerned by their lack of goals.

Coach Sunday Oliseh was rocked by the retirement of striker Emmanuel Emenike last month and he must

quickly find a forward line that will provide a cutting edge.

Oliseh played with three strikers against Swaziland and he brought on Obafemi Martins and Kelechi Iheanacho in the second half. It will be interesting to see how he sets his team up for the game in Port Harcourt.

Elsewhere, Mali face a shock elimination unless they can overturn a 2-1 deficit against Botswana. Mali have finished third in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2012 and 2013 and were heavy favourites to knock out the Zebras.

Senegal should see off the challenge of Madagascar, who achieved a superb 2-2 draw in the first leg but are unlikely to be able to resist the Teranga Lions on their own ground.

The 14 overall winners will join the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Guinea, Morocco, Uganda and Zambia in the group stage, which kicks off next October.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 — 55

CHAN: Eagles face tough test, says Oliseh S

UPER Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh has predicted a tough tournament for his team, after it was drawn in group C with Tunisia, Guinea and Niger Republic in the African Nations Championship.

The Eagles qualified for the tournament after edging out Burkina Faso on a 2-0 aggregate.

Oliseh argued that all the countries that qualified for the tournament, billed to start January 16 in

U-23 AFCON just 12 days away

T

HE 2015 Africa U23 Cup of Nations – which will serve as the continent’s qualifiers for the 2016 Olympic Games – kicks off in 12 days’ time in host nation Senegal.

The tournament, previously known as the CAF U23 Championship, will begin on November 28 and run until December 12.

It features eight teams divided into two groups of four which will play in a round-robin format. The top two teams from each group will progress into the semifinals, which will be followed by a third-place playoff and the championship final.

Rwanda have top quality home-based players and it will not be easy for all the teams. He called for early preparations.

“From the line - up of the 16 participants, you will know that it will be a tough journey for everyone, “ Oliseh was quoted by Super Eagles’ official twitter account.

“Our group will be very competitive, we will make sure we prepare very well for the competition.

“For us, we will begin to plan and prepare for this competition after Tuesday’s game against Swaziland.”

Nigeria won the bronze in the third edition hosted by South Africa.

Salami Continues from BP his team’s final match against FC Taraba yesterday after the game was rescheduled due to heavy rain the previous day.

The Nigeria ‘B’ international, who has also featured for Enyimba, Shooting Stars and Sunshine Stars, will be presented with a special award named after legendary Nigeria all-time goals record scorer Rashidi Yekini.

His goals have earned Wolves a ticket to feature in next year’s CAF Champions League after they finished a s runners-up to

Eagles

Continues from BP for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Swaziland held starstudded Nigeria to a scoreless draw in the first-ever meeting between the two teams on Friday in Lobambo.

Today’s kick-off is 4pm Nigerian time at the Adokie Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.

The Southern Africans were resolute in defence and limited their more famous opponents to just a handful of chances for their enthusiastic fans to later celebrate a confidence-boosting draw.

The Eagles midfield again lacked creativity and so forcing the strikers like Odion Ighalo and Obafemi Martins to fall back deep to be part of the game.

Swaziland coach Harries Bulunga said his team are still capable of upsetting the three-time African champions in front of their own fans.

“We still believe. Our defence was superb (in

the first leg), but we were not that sharp upfront,” Bulunga said.

“We’re underdogs, no one expects us to win, but we can fight against the big dogs.

“It will be difficult to stop them from scoring especially as they are playing at home. They will come at us, most of their stars did not shine as expected, and so they will now want to impress.

“We will be patient, but we will stop them because my boys are determined even though they are not professionals.”

Coach Sunday Oliseh admitted his team were not at their best in Swaziland.

“We can’t give any excuses, we did not bring out ‘A’ game to the pitch,” he said.

Captain Ahmed Musa said they will step up their game to guarantee their passage to the next round of the qualifiers.

“We are home and we will do much more and that means Swaziland have to be ready for us,” said the CSKA Moscow forward.

“We have put the draw in Swaziland behind us, that is in the past. We know the importance of this second leg, what we need is victory, that we are going for and that we will get to progress in the qualifiers.”

Swaziland are set to miss two starters from last week’s 0-0 draw Mbabane Swallows attacking midfielder Felix Badenhorst is nursing a hamstring after he suffered a cut that needed stitches in the game and Royal Leopards Simunye midfielder Mxolisi Lukhele has a shoulder complaint.

Eagles midfielder Rabiu Ibrahim is nursing a knee injury and he is not likely to start as Oliseh plans to ring some changes for this clash.

L

AKOWE Lakes Golf and Country Estate came alive yesterday as participants at the 5th Edition of the prestigious Southern Sun Ikoyi Annual Golf Tournament competed for various exciting prizes on offer. This year ’s edition held to support the Arrows of God Orphanage saw Mr Tim Maguire coming tops with 41 stableford points alongside other winners who were rewarded with amazing prizes at the cocktail prize giving held in their honour. Other participants were also rewarded at a raffle draw held at the event According to General Manager, Southern Sun Ikoyi, Mr. Mark Loxley, “this event is in line with our annual Corporate Social Responsibility philosophy of giving back generously to the society that has supported our business and helped us grow.

It aims at bringing our corporate clients and guest together to end the year in grandeur. Since the Tsogo Sun brand is renowned for its style, class and flair, the game of golf fits in perfectly as it promotes style, class and social well being” “We have had tremendous support from our tournament sponsors again this year as more partners came on board to identify with our laudable cause. Southern Sun Ikoyi’s business partners are second to none and are always very generous in supporting this event especially with the challenging trading conditions witnessed in the country this year.” Mr Loxley noted This year’s winner of the Golf Tournament, Mr Tim Maguire praised Southern Sun Ikoyi for organizing a wonderful tournament and also expressed gratitude to everyone for a wonderful day as it was one he really enjoyed.

Swazi coach

•Oliseh champions Enyimba.

Salami’s closest rival was Tunde Adeniji, who scored 16 goals for Sunshine Stars.

Last season, Mfon Udoh of Enyimba netted 23 goals to set a new all-time goals record in the league.

Thrills as Maguire wins Southern Sun Golf

Wike Continues from BP laboured to a draw in the first leg in Lobamba.

However, coach Sunday Oliseh is hopeful that his wards will be on top of their game this afternoon when they face the Swazi team at the Adokie Amesiemaka Stadium.

“Rivers State Government pledges $20k per goal against S w a z i l a n d . #SoarSuperEagles,” national team handle tweeted.

Secretary to the Rivers government Kenneth Kobani who delivered the Governor’s message urged the team during training yesterday to do all it takes to ensure victory.

Continues from BP and Odion Ighalo as a major threat to his side’s ambition but insists emphasis will not be on the trio but the whole team.

“Obviously, Nigeria will come out hard on us and the Eagles will want to impress in front of their home fans. But we’ll be patient to play our game. Everybody knows that we are not professionals, but we’ll play good game,” said Bulunga.

“We’ll also be mindful of the threats posed by Musa and Ighalo who are dangerous players and more importantly, Martins who plays in America, he is a deadly player in front of goal.

We always watched him

how he scored goals for his MLS club.

“The plan is not to stop these players individually, but we plan to stop the whole team, “ Bulunga said.

“There are no more minnows in football again. We’ll go all out to score in this match, unlike what happened in the first leg. We need to score this time around. We’ll be adventurous because we’ve surprise in stock for the Super Eagles, “ he concluded.

Nigeria have managed to score just three goals in their last four matches, a weak form they will want to mend at the Adokiye Amesiamaka Stadium today.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015

My local boys ‘ll stop your galaxy of pros – Swazi coach S

WA Z I L A N D national team coach Harris Bulunga

Eagles in a must-win match against Swaziland Kick-off: 4p.m.

S

UPER Eagles are condemned to beat Swaziland today in Port Harcourt to advance to the league stage of the qualifying tournament

•Bulunga

Swaziland gets goat promise to beat Eagles no chance against Nigeria

Continues on Page 55

B

ACK in Swaziland, a fan has promised the team a goat if they return home unscathed from the match, which the Eagles are under pressure to win.

“The boys surprised us.

A lot of people had written them off saying they stood

Salami wins hotshot award

W

ARRI Wolves striker Gbolahan Salami has finished as the goal king of the Nigeria league for the 2014/15 season with 17 goals.

Salami scored twice in Continues on Page 55

but they proved them otherwise. I was very impressed by Sihlangu and if it happens that they play well in Nigeria, I will talk with my family and do something by presenting a goat to the team as promised,” said Jonase Vilane an official of Madlenya Football Club

Today’s World Cup qualifying Fixtures

READY TO GO••• Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa (l) tries to beat a Swaziland opponent during their first leg meet in Swaziland

Score a goal get $20,000, Wike tells Eagles

R

•Salami

believes his ‘amateur’ team can upstage Nigeria in today’s 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifier in Port Harcourt.

The southern Africans held Sunday Oliseh’s men to a 0-0 draw in Lobamba on Friday and must get a win or a scored draw to progress to the next stage of the qualifiers to Russia.

Bulunga identifies the trio of Obafemi Martins, Ahmed Musa Continues on Page 55

IVERS State governor, Nyesom Wike has pledged $20,000 per

goal as he urged the World Cup qualifier in Super Eagles to beat Port Harcourt.

The Super Eagles visiting Sihlangu of Continues on Page 55 Swaziland in their 2018

Rwanda Cameroon Ghana Nigeria Congo Egypt South Africa Ivory Coast Tunisia Burkina Faso Algeria Cape Verde Senegal Mali

v v v v v v v v v v v v v v

Libya Niger Comoros Swaziland Ethiopia Chad Angola Liberia Mauritania Benin Tanzania Kenya Madagascar Botswana

2:30pm 3pm 4pm 4pm 4pm 5:30pm 6pm 6pm 6pm 7pm 7:15pm 8pm 8pm 8pm

QUICK CROSSWORD

T OD AY'S PUZZLE ODA

FRI DAY'S ANS WERS FRID ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Shriek (6) 5 Debase (6) 8 Scare (8) 9 Ooze (4) 10 Toupee (3) 12 Managed (5) 15 Total (3) 17 Meadow (3) 18 Tear (3) 19 Spring (3) 20 Rascal (5) 21 Sort (3) 22 Cur (3) 23 Skill (3) 24 Watch (3) 26 Had (5) 29 Stray (3) 33 Secure (4) 34 Story-teller (8) 35 Combined (6) 36 Pact (6)

DOWN: 2 Dog (5) 3 Border (4) 4 Saying (5) 5 Thick (5) 6 Method (4) 7 Farewell (5) 10 Squander (5) 11 Clearing (5) 12 Freight (5) 13 Heathen (5) 14 Fear (5) 15 Malice (5) 16 Manufacturer (5) 25 Long (5) 27 Declined (5) 28 Heron (5) 30 Perch (5) 31 Adroit (4) 32 Paddle (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS Across: 1, Urge 4, Wit 6, Taut 8, Advent 9, Nobody 10, Had 12, Vogue 14, Learn 15, Tried 18, Appeal 20, Unison 24, Laden 26, Enrol 28, Wider 30, Ply 32, Bigger 33, Animal 34, Mean 35, Din 36, Lees.

DOWN: 2, Radio 3, Execute 4, With 5, Tend 6, Table 7, Undergo 11, Ace 12, Via 13, Era 16, Ill 17, Dud 19, Pensive 21, New 22, Initial 23, Nor 25, Awl 27, Organ 29, Evade 30, Prod 31, Yarn.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. Phone: Newsroom: 018773962. Deputy Editor: 01-4548355. Advert Dept Hotline: 014544821. Abuja Advert Hotline: 09-2921024. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Ag.Editor: EZE ANABA. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.

C M Y K