No plans for coup d’etat — CDS BADEH

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62169

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THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Fresh plot afoot to Business mogul, impeach Amaechi Arisekola-Alao

•Adamawa lawmakers serve Nyako, Deputy impeachment •Pgs.5&8 notices

dies at 69

57

No plans for coup d’etat — CDS BADEH •Rumours untenable, unfounded, he says •Insists military will continue to protect democracy

A

BUJA—AGAINST the backdrop of security challenges confronting the country and insinuations making the rounds of a possible coup d’ etat, the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, yesterday, dismissed as untenable, such ruContinues on page 5

COLUMNISTS:

Believe in Allah but tie your•P.17 camel

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FG clears Oando for N264bn acquisition of ConocoPhilips' assets 9 Mr & Mrs PROTEST—90-yr-old Madam Omiekumo Numo (with walking stick), leading protests over the state of the abandoned OpumeOkoroba Road project in Bayelsa State.

VANDALISM: Scores die in 7 Lagos pipeline fire

S-H-O-C-K-E-R! Oboabona now out of World Cup 64

2 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 3

4 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014—5

POCKET CARTOON

APC EXECUTIVE: From left: National Leaders, All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ogbonnaya Onu, Muhammadu Buhari, National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun; and former Interim Chairman, Bisi Akande during the inauguration of the new Executive of APC in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

No plans for coup d’etat — CDS Badeh Continues from page 1 mours, insisting that the military would do everything to defend democracy and its growth in Nigeria.

Speaking when he received the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mike Omeri, in his office, Badeh said: “Rumours in

some quarters of a possible coup d’état in the country are unfounded.”

Affirming the commitment of the Nigerian military to the defence of the nation’s democracy, the CDS noted that “as an arm of democracy, the military as a professional group has no option but to love Nigeria and do

LIFEWORDS

those things that will ensure security and protection of lives within the nation.”

Expressing further surprise at the rumours, Badeh said that democracy has come to stay in the country and the military has no intention of truncating it.

“Why should anyone be thinking in the negative

fashion? Tell them we will not do it. Those spreading rumours of coups must be living elsewhere and not in Nigeria.

“The Armed Forces are defenders of democracy.

We are an arm of democracy, so how can an arm of democracy work against the democracy that we are part of?”

Commending the NOA

for “living up to expectation” in its activities as typified by the Centenary Flag produced by the Agency, and the coordination of the National Information Centre (NIC), the CDS expressed support for the Agency ’s programmes and policies.

These include the renaming of the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) Brigade of the Agency to Community Support Brigade (CSB) and the World Waste Bin initiative.

Earlier the CDS was presented the Nigerian Centenary Flag by the NOA boss for the Nigerian military after which he gave immediate orders for hoisting the Centenary Flag in military formations across the country.

Mr. Omeri had disclosed the Agency’s plan to launch a security awareness campaign tagged: “Do the Right Thing: Know Your Neighbour” soon.

He explained that the campaign was, among other things, aimed at

complementing efforts of the Armed Forces and also to ensure return to that age-long and celebrated value of being our brother’s keepers.

Presenting the nation’s Centenary Flag to the Defence Chief, Omeri said the flag was symbolic of the nation’s history and heritage which it seeks to pass on to future generations of Nigerians.

He expressed the gratitude of the NOA for the support and commitment of the Defence Headquarters towards the National Information Centre, noting that such was a clear statement of the Armed Forces’ dedication to the speedy resolution of the security issues confronting the nation at the moment.

Omeri further called for a day to be set aside by Nigerians to celebrate the Nigerian Armed Forces for their courage, professionalism and patriotism, pointing out that Nigerians owe the military a debt of gratitude for its selfless sacrifice for the nation.

BY PASTOR ITUAH

After months of solitude in Antarctica, Admiral Richard Byrd wrote: ‘I’m learning...a man can live profoundly without masses of things.’ What a great place to arrive at!

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

...being positive is not enough. I used to always be positive, because I was a people-pleaser. I never wanted to bother anyone or trouble anyone. I learned that more important than being positive is being yourself— Anita Moorjani

T

HE gift of life is a blessing, and when we are given a second chance at life, we are grateful.

The story of Anita Moorjani is a reminder to keep hope alive no matter what life brings.

She shares her experience from ill health to good health; while unconscious she was embraced, by a light energy of unconditional love. She continues: “It was like I didn’t have to do anything to prove myself or to be anything; I was loved unconditionally, regardless. There was no judgment whatsoever. There was only compassion. And I seemed to understand that, even in order to fulfil my purpose, I would just have to come back and live beautifully and just not be afraid to be myself.”

We’re here because we are facets of the Divine Love. And we are all connected in every way. Love thy neighbour as thyself - Ella Randle-

Fresh plot afoot to impeach Amaechi A

BUJA—ON a day that the Adamawa State House of Assembly served Governor Murtala Nyako and his deputy impeachment notices, Vanguard gathered yesterday that there are plots to impeach Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State. Both governors are of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Sources said, yesterday, that the fresh plot, being coordinated by a serving minister from the state, entails convincing the six members of the House of Assembly, who are of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to carry

out the impeachment.

Known to be opposed to Governor Amaechi, which led to the recent crisis in the state, the six legislators have not been sitting with other 25 members who are of the APC. According to the plot, the six members are to convene a sitting of the House of Assembly at a private residence or office with Evans Bipi presiding as the Speaker; a member will then move a motion for the suspension of the other 25 APC members; the motion will be adopted and thereafter

they will move for the impeachment of the governor.

The source said the impeachment plotters are expected to get the support of the administrative Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Daisy Okocha, who was appointed by NJC. It will be recalled that the Rivers State Government rejected Justice Daisy as the administrative Chief Judge of the State.

Speaking on the alleged plot, a stakeholder in Rivers State said: “President Jonathan is hell bent on removing Governor

Amaechi for reasons best known to him. This is not the first time or the second time they have plotted to remove our governor, albeit illegally. Their plot is illegal, unconstitutional.

In a legislature of 31 members, six members cannot go and sit in someone’s private sitting room and claim to have impeached a governor. That is impunity.

This is a democracy.

The Presidency should be careful not to truncate our democracy with these reckless acts of impunity all over the place.”

6—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Man docked for dousing neighbour with acid

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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BEOKUTA — A magis trate's court sitting in Isabo, Abeokuta, yesterday, remanded a 45-year-old man, Stephen Shodunke, for giving his neighbour an acid bath during a rift.

The accused, who used to live in the same house with the victim, Lateef Akinwunmi, at Ola Sheu house, Saraki, Adigbe in Abeokuta reportedly bathed Akinwunmi with acid which eventually led to loss of the victim's right eye.

According to the prosecutor, ASP Banji Sangotokun, the offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 323 (7) of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State, Nigeria, 2006.

The Investigating Police Officer, Sergeant Monday Eboh, said the victim came back from work and he mistakenly hit the accused but the accused got infuriated and poured a liquid which was suspected to be acid on the victim.

Counsel to the accused, Abinuke Abioye, prayed the court to grant bail to the accused on liberal terms.

But the prosecutor objected to the bail, asking the court not to grant bail to the accused, saying the victim was still in hospital responding to treatment.

The presiding magistrate, Martins Akinyemi, who did not take the plea of the accused remanded him in prison custody and adjourned the case till June 27, 2014 for consideration of bail.

Kidnappers kill 72-yr-old shopkeeper after taking N1.7m ransom U

MUAHIA — GUNMEN have killed a 72-year-old businessman, Chief Alex Okonkwo, in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.

Family sources said yesterday that the man was abducted on June 8. The source said after a ransom of N1.7 million was paid, the body was discovered dumped in a bush path in Olokoro community, near Umuahia on June 16.

Okonkwo, who hailed from Akata in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State, owned a popular supermarket on Lagos Street, Umuahia.

The man was kidnapped at about 8 a.m. in the supermarket by four heavily armed men. The gunmen reportedly shot sporadically into the air before they bundled the man into the booth of their Camry car and sped off.

The deceased's son, Ndubueze, said the family was later informed by a senior police officer from the Central Police Station, Umuahia that a corpse was found lying in a bush path on Olokoro Road.

Ndubueze said he went with the police officer to the spot, where he identified the remains as his father's.

He said: "I personally went with the officer to the place and I identified the body as my father's." He said he noticed a slight bruise on one of his father's thumbs.

Ndubueze also said that while in the abductors' custody, his father urged his mother to raise the money for the ransom. He disclosed that his father suffered from diabetes and hypertension before the incident. According to him, the cause of death will be ascertained after an autopsy.

He regretted that hoodlums

could commit such a heinous crime in broad daylight in the city, unchallenged, and appealed to security operatives in the state to rise to the challenge of providing security for lives and property.

Spokesman of the Abia State Police Command, Mr Geoffrey Ogbonna, confirmed the inci-

Grinding machines and other items donated to widows and orphans of slain police officers in Nasarawa State by Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) in Lafia, yesterday.

Photo: NAN.

Pregnant woman commits suicide in Edo

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

B

ENIN CITY—THERE was pandemonium in Igarra, Akoko-Edo Local Government council of Edo State, Monday, after a middle-aged woman identified as Ometere Aduga report-

dent in a telephone interview, saying investigation was still going on, adding that no arrest had been made.

Ogbonna appealed to the public to assist the command with useful information that could help track down perpetrators of the crime.

edly committed suicide.

The deceased, who is said to be two months pregnant for a yetto-be identified man, hanged herself on the ceiling fan hook without a suicide note.

An eye-witness said the victim,

Some 400 Level students of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, selling their farm produce at the front of their faculty building, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

had few days ago, visited a private hospital in the community where she was said to have told a staff of the hospital of her intention to commit suicide because of the reported pregnancy. She was said to have been counselled against it and told to report back on Monday for medical examination and more counselling.

But on the said day (Monday), she was said to have dropped her son with a neighbour with the excuse that she was going to have her bath but after waiting endlessly, the neighbour was said to have gone to check her apartment only to discover her body dangling from the ceiling fan hook.

A source at the family said: "Ometere was a very brilliant girl who was a 300 Level medical student at the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma but she was advised to withdraw on health grounds. One cannot really say what led to the suicide."

Contacted, the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Hilary Udoh, confirmed the incident, saying: "Yes, it is true but the parents said they have taken it in good faith. They are not suspecting any foul play."

4 die in Kogi auto crash

By BOLUWAJI OBAHOPO

L

OKOJA — Four per sons have been confirmed dead in a motor accident which occurred on the Okene-Lokoja road, Tuesday night.

The Kogi State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Mr Godwin Omiko, confirmed the development to newsmen in Lokoja, yesterday.

He said the accident occurred a few minutes before midnight at Ogaminana in Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Omiko said the accident involved a Peugeot 806 with number plate, Katsina JBY 84 PGT, and an articulated vehicle with number plate, QFB 108 QC. He said two other persons sustained injuries in the crash.

The commander blamed the accident on wrongful overtaking.

Omiko said that the injured persons were taken to the General Hospital, Okene, while the corpses were deposited in the mortuary of the same hospital.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 7

Scores die in Lagos pipeline explosion •Affected pipeline supplies products to Ejigbo, Mosinmi depots

BY EVELYN USMAN

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AGOS— AN unknown number of persons were said to have died in a midnight fire sparked off by an explosion from a pipeline belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Tuesday, at Ilado village in Tarkwa Bay area of Lagos.

The NNPC depot in the area is located at the Atlas Cove. The explosion was said to have been caused by pipeline vandals.

The affected pipeline supplies petroleum products from Atlas Cove at Apapa to Ejigbo and Mosinmi depots in Lagos and Ogun states respectively.

How it happened

There were, however, different accounts as to how the incident occurred.

A version had it that some pipeline vandals stormed the area at about 10 p.m, and broke two valves through which they siphoned petroleum products.

In the process, reports said one of them raised an alarm that anti-pipeline operatives were approaching, which made the vandals to flee, leaving the valve open.

The petroleum product was said to have spilled, making some residents throng the scene to scoop fuel. An explosion was said to have occurred in the process and resulted in a fire which engulfed

those scooping petroleum products.

Another version of the account said the spillage occurred while the vandals were operating and that when policemen were closing up on them, one of the vandals reportedly fired a gun at the opened pipeline, apparently to prevent the policemen from reaching them.

Officials of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, reportedly got to the scene at about 6.30 a.m. yesterday, followed by other rescue operators among who were officials of fire service and policemen.

But nothing could be done to contain the raging fire until

E

NUGU — THE management of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, UNTH, Enugu has uncovered three syndicates that specialise in defrauding job seekers of huge sums of money under the guise of providing non-existent employment in the hospital.

About N12 million was said to have been realised from the desperate job seekers by members of the syndicate, three of who are now in custody of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, in Enugu.

Briefing newsmen on the arrest of some members of the job racketeering syndicate at the permanent site of the hospital at Ituku-Ozalla, Chief Medical Director, Dr. Christopher Amah, said the suspects were apprehended following discreet investigations by a committee he set up following complaints from unsuspecting members of the public that they were defrauded by some people who promised to offer them employment in the hospital.

Two other members of the syndicate, including a porter in the hospital, have absconded. The junior hospital staff had allegedly conspired with a non-staff and defrauded some applicants to the

"Nobody dared to challenge them because if you do, they will attack or even kill. If you dared challenge them and any of them is arrested during that period, the person will be made to go through hell."

Confirming the incident, the South-West Zonal Public Relations Officer for NEMA, Ibrahim Farinloye, said the fire had been put out. He could, however, not give the number of casualties, rather, he said no corpses were recovered.

He said the pipeline was shut before the fire could be put out, adding that it had been re-opened for supply.

Kwara Police arrest fake medical doctor

BY DEMOLAAKINYEMI

I

LORIN — The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Mr Ambrose Aisabor, yesterday, paraded a fake medical doctor, Mr Adams John Ayeh, who has been on the wanted list of the Police.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Police headquarters in Ilorin, Aisabor said the suspect was an expelled medical student of the University of Maiduguri, Borno State.

The Police commissioner

Three job syndicates uncovered at UNTH

BY TONY EDIKE

noon.

One of the residents of the area told Vanguard: "All of a sudden, the vandals whose activities had abated over time resurfaced. This time around, they would come in large numbers with over 20 canoes. While some of them would be on the sea, others would dig holes around where they will pool the products and use a hose to siphon it into their trucks.

"At other times, they would fill their jerry cans, tie them with ropes with which they dragged them out of the murky waters to a new route from where they would load them onto their vehicles.

tune of N7.45 million.

A total of 34 applicants were said to have paid between N370,000 and N400,000 each to the porter and his cohorts.

Another two-man syndicate, comprising a pharmacist operating in the hospital and an unnamed civil servant, allegedly raked in N3.6 million from the applicants but one of the culprits, a pharmacist (names withheld) confessed that his group realised only N900,000 (N100,000 each) from nine applicants with an agreement to receive the balance of N300,000 from each of them after employment papers had been issued to them.

The third syndicate is made up of two senior staff of the hospital including a physiotherapist, who however claimed that he was "set up" by some members of his department. He confessed to have received N290,000 from a woman for the purpose of purchasing a land for her and not for the purpose of employment in the hospital.

Vanguard gathered that the fraudsters capitalised on the recent recruitment exercise where some positions that became vacant on account of retirement by some staff were filled by the management board.

Mr Adams John Ayeh, the suspect. noted that the fake medical doctor was arrested at the Civil Service Clinic, Ilorin while parading himself as a medical doctor and canvassing patronage.

He said: “On interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime, saying he was a rusticated student of University of Maiduguri in Borno State."

He also said the suspect would be charged to court as soon as the Police completed investigation.

The accused, Adams John

Ayeh, who clutched five medical textbooks, syringes and other drugs, told Vanguard: “I don’t go about practising, I just came to the Civil Service Clinic with my wife and the Police arrested me with this stethoscope on my neck. I bought it when I was in medical school.

“If you ask people they will tell you that medical students in their third year are allowed to own and use stethoscopes.

“It was the medical officer who came out and found the stethoscope on my neck that challenged me for using a stethoscope within his territory that led to my arrest. I was expelled in Part Four as a result of poor academic performance.”

When asked why he decided to parade himself as a medical doctor when he failed to complete the programme, he said it was as a result of temptation.

Three men arraigned for burglary, theft

BY BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

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AGOS — THREE men were yesterday arraigned before an Ikeja magistrate's court for allegedly stealing phones worth N350,000 after burgling a shop.

The accused, who are standing trial on a three-count charge of conspiracy, burglary and stealing are Taiye Nurudeen, 20; Dare Kayode, 20 and Oluwasegun Oyenuga, 22.

According to the prosecutor, Inspector Nurudeen Thomas, the accused persons, with others at large, committed the offences on May 30 between 1 am and 5 a.m at Isheri, Lagos.

Thomas informed the court that the accused persons stole mobile phones and phone accessories worth N350, 000, property of Mr Raimi Yusuf.

He noted that the offence contravened Sections 285, 307 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused persons, however, pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them.

The magistrate, Mrs A b i m b o l a Oshodi-Makanju, granted each of the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 with one surety each in like sum.

The case was adjourned till July 14 for mention.

Traffic gridlock at the City Gate on Airport Road, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

8—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Adamawa Assembly serves Nyako, Deputy impeachment notices

BY UMAR YUSUF, with agency report

Y

OLA— THE Adamawa State House of Assembly has commenced impeachment proceedings against the state governor, Murtala Nyako, and his deputy, Bala Ngilari.

Already, Speaker of the House, Alhaji Ahmadu Fintiri, has directed the Clerk of the House to serve Governor Nyako and his Deputy notices of their impeachment “for gross misconduct.”

This was even as tension had enveloped nearby Plateau State, following the bid by the House of Assembly to probe Governor Jonah Jang.

Moving the motion for the impeachment of Nyako, yesterday, the Deputy Speaker and the member representing Numan Constituency, Kwamoti Laori, said the governor had committed acts of gross misconduct in the performance of his duties as the governor of Adamawa State.

Laori enumerated 26 grounds of financial misconduct by the Governor, among which is an alleged fraudulent award of contracts worth over N8 billion through SNECOU Group of Companies Limited, a company allegedly linked to one of his wives.

move sent thousands of people into the street in protest.

The protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “Adamawa House of Assembly why impeachment now?” “The House of Assembly wants to truncate the fragile peace in the state,” “You just passed a vote of confidence on the governor and his administration, why the sudden change now?”

‘They are selfish’

However, reacting to the impeachment move, Mallam Ahmad Sajo, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, said the governor was not aware of the move and therefore it

remained in the realm of a wild speculation. He, however, described it as a “selfish move.”

He said: “Members of the House are planning something that will end up making them the sole beneficiaries, where the Speaker will be the acting governor and the Deputy Speaker becomes the deputy governor.’’

In 2008, Nyako was similarly served with an impeachment notice and has been having a running battle with the lawmakers since he left Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for All Progressives Congress, APC. There had been tension in the state following last week’s order by the House for the arrest of four commissioners

for their alleged failure to appear before the lawmakers to answer questions on the state’s finances earlier.

Invitation to commissioners

The Deputy Speaker, Laori, who presided over the House last Thursday, directed the state Commissioner of Police to arrest the commissioners for Agriculture, Lucy Ishaku; Health, Lilian Stephen; Commerce, Ahmed Gorko; and Land and Survey, Abdulrahman Shuaibu who failed to show up and bring them before the house by 10 a.m. on Monday.

The Assembly, which acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Secretary to the State Government, Kobis Thimnu, over his inability to honour the invitation, asked

him to also appear unfailingly on Monday.

The commissioner for Finance, Ibrahim Vokna, his counterpart for Works, Umaru Atiku, and the state Accountant General, Nasir Mohammed, had earlier appeared before the house.

The Assembly had, on May 27, given Mr. Nyako and his government a three-day ultimatum to pay back alleged illegal deductions from workers’ salaries and allowances of May 2014.

The development fuelled speculation in the state that the Assembly was bent on impeaching Nyako.

Speaking to newsmen on the development, Chairman, House Committee on Information, Adamu Kamale (PDP Michika), said the governor and his deputy would be served the impeachment notices, adding “ whether they reply or not, the House will sit on the matter after two weeks.”

Alleged ‘crimes’

Other charges against the governor include corrupt syphoning of N300 million public funds through a company, Hydro Source Resources Ltd in the name of constructing Mubi by-pass without mobilising to site or any construction carried out after the money was paid in full.

He was also said to have grossly violated his oath of office by the ‘outrageous’ patronage and dominance of his family and friends in the discharge of government business at the MDG’s office, SPPU and Ministry of Health.

Apart from this, Nyako also reportedly squandered N4,805,216,538.32 and N7,114,995,590.85 in 2012 and 2013, respectively, through the office of the Secretary to the State Government against budgetary approval.

The governor was further accused of gross violation of Section 120 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) through gross misappropriation and diversion of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, for personal use to the detriment of the people of the state, among other charges.

Anti-impeachment protest

Reports of the impeachment

VISIT: From left— Juan Casla, Head of Economic and Regional Integration and Cooperation, European Union, EU; Dr. Joseph Odumodu, Director-General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON; Michel Arrion, European Union Ambassador and Massimo De Luca, Head of Trade and Economics, EU, during a courtesy visit to Odumodu in Abuja.

Emefiele redeploys CBN Dep Govs

BY OMOH GABRIEL, Business Editor

T

HE Central bank of Nigeria, CBN’s governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, yesterday, announced major changes in the bank by reassigning the deputy governors. In line with his vision of entrenching a more professional and people focused central bank, Emefiele approved the redeployment of the bank’s Deputy Governors.

With the new changes, Alhaji Suleiman Barau, Deputy Governor, Corporate Services Directorate, is now the Deputy Governor, Operations Directorate. Dr. Kingsley Moghalu, who

was Deputy Governor, Operations, returns to the Financial Systems Stability, FSS, Directorate.

Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, who was in charge of FSS, is now the Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, while Dr. Sarah Alade retains her position as the Deputy Governor, Economic Policy Directorate.

These redeployments, which take effect from June 23, are expected to contribute to the bank’s vision of being the model central bank delivering price and financial system stability and promoting sustainable economic development.

Devt banking

Mr. Emefiele, during his confirmation hearing at the

Senate had said CBN, under him, shall vigorously pursue a development banking model, DBM, in addition to working hard to achieve the core mandate of monetary and price stability.

He had told the senators that DBM is a model that had been tried and tested in different jurisdictions in the world.

He had said: “In fact, in some of the frontiers and emerging markets in the world, we have seen development banking used as a tool for achieving economic growth, development and industrialisation.”

In his maiden briefing in Abuja, he had told journalists: “The vision of the Central Bank of Nigeria is to be the Model Central

Bank delivering price and financial system stability and promoting sustainable economic development.

“This vision draws inspiration from our understanding of the multiple mandate of the bank to pursue both price and financial system stability as well as provide complementary developmental functions by creating an environment for Nigerians to live better and more fulfilled lives.

“Rather than being competing goals, as some may argue, these mandates are truly complementary. In fact, price stability can rarely be adjudged a goal in itself except cast against the ultimate objective of improvement in the quality of life.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014—9

Nyanya bombing suspect's extradition complete soon —ENVOY

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LECTURE: From left— Mr. Olurotimi Aleshinloye, Head, Strategy Brand and Corporate Communication, representing Mr. Edwin Igbiti, MD/CEO, AIICO Insurance Plc; Mr. Mazi Nzem, Director, Admin and Finance, the Presidency NEPAD Nigeria; Chief Chris Ezeh, Chairman, NEPAD Business Group Nigeria, NBGN; Mrs Eniola Fadayomi, 3rd Vice Chairman, NBGN/ President, IOD, and Chief Victor Oyolu, Managing Patrner, Avis, Oyolu & Associates, at the NBGN public lecture on Insurance Industry Tools for Wealth Creation and Sustainable Economic Growth in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: Akeem Salau.

CONFAB: Delegates recommend life imprisonment for drug peddlers

BY HENRY UMORU, LEVINUS NWABUGHIOGU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

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BUJA— DELEGATES at the ongoing National Conference, yesterday, voted unanimously for life imprisonment for those who engage in the sale of fake drugs.

The conference also rejected a proposal for the amendment of the 1999 Constitution aimed at institutionalising the office of wife of the President of the country, which will be called Office of the First Lady, just as an amendment which sought to reduce the age limits for those aspiring to contest for the position of President, governors and other elective positions by five years was rejected by the delegates.

Another strong position taken by the delegates, yesterday, was that public schools taken over by various state governments across the country 42 years ago be returned to the religious missions which were the original owners.

There was, however, mild drama when women delegates protested and brought plenary to a stand still for over 10 minutes on the issue of affirmative action for them, thereby forcing delegates to vote to retain the Beijing Convention that gave 35 affirmative action to women.

The resolutions were reached during debate and consideration of the report of Committee on Social Sector with Iyom Josephine Anenih as Chairman and Professor Ruqayyatu Rufai as Deputy Chairman.

According to the committee in its report, “in returning the schools, it should be ensured that they are affordable and able to serve a wider public as was the original concept of mission schools.”

There was, however, a controversy over the

z Declare Office of the First Lady unconstitutional z Make case for teaching of ‘Nigerian History’ circumstances that led to the takeover of these schools before the vote was taken on matter.

The controversy bothered on whether or not compensations were paid to the original owners of the schools or were forcefully taken over.

A former Minister of Education, Professor Jubril who made a contribution on the issue had justified the policy, submitting that Yakubu Gowon’s administration paid compensations to the missions.

He further explained that the government was forced to assume the ownership of the schools due to discriminatory admission policies that existed then.

Similarly, former governor of the defunct North Western State, Mr. Usman Farouk, said the schools were taken over because their owners abandoned them during the Civil War and fled the northern region.

Farouk said that compensations were paid to the owners of the schools in the then Northern region.

However, the two submissions met with refutal from the Bishop of Kafanchan, Bishop Joseph Bagobiri, who put the records straight, saying that the earlier speakers were being economical with the truth.

According to him, the schools were neither abandoned nor their owners compensated and that the schools were forcefully taken

over by the government.

He said: “Mr. Chairman, I think those who have just spoken are being economical with the truth.

“These schools were forcefully taken. Since 1972, the church has not relented in asking for these schools. In the North, there was no compensation made.

“The schools still cry for justice and we will be happy if the schools are returned to their original owners.”

The conference also voted that all Almajiri schools, from primary one to junior secondary, be converted to conventional schools and voted that teaching of “Nigerian history” as subject of study be mandatory in public schools.

BUJA— THE S u d a n e s e Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Tagelsir Ali, said yesterday that the extradition process of Aminu Ogwuche, the suspected mastermind of the Nyanya bomb blasts, would be completed soon.

Ali told newsmen in Abuja that both Sudan and Nigeria had similar standards guiding an extradition process.

Ogwuche was arrested in Sudan in May following the joint efforts of the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, the National Bureau of Interpol based at the Nigerian Police Force Headquarters and Sudanese security operatives.

He said: “There is an agreement between Sudan and Nigeria. It was supposed to be revisited in the last bilateral meeting that took place in Khartoum.

“The extradition treaties have a sequence of procedures that has to be taken care of; about 17 or 18 procedures that have to be dealt with before a person can go back to his or her country.

“It is very important to wait until the procedures are finalised.”

FG clears Oando for acquisition of ConocoPhillips

BY SEBASTINE OBASI & MICHAEL EBOH

T

HE Federal G o v e r n m e n t , yesterday, gave approval to Oando Energy Resources, OER, to acquire the upstream assets of ConocoPhillips, valued at $1.65 billion (about N264 billion).

According to a statement presented to investors, Oando Energy said the approval which was given by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, and which is subject to customary adjustments, had provided an

opportunity for it to complete the transaction.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Wale Tinubu, Chairman, Oando Energy, said: “We are delighted to receive the approval of the Minister of Petroleum Resources for the completion of the acquisition.

It has been a long journey, wherein we kept faith with our strategy and executed every milestone diligently.

“This acquisition satisfies our criteria for assets in production, as well as excellent appraisal and exploration prospects. We will work hand in hand with the management team of ConocoPhillips to

immediately complete the acquisition.”

He also stated that Oando Energy will now work alongside with ConocoPhillips towards completing the acquisition by the long stop date of June 30 or shortly thereafter.

In December 2012, Oando Plc had, through its Exploration & Production subsidiary, Oando Energy Resources, entered into an agreement with ConocoPhilips to acquire its Nigerian businesses.

A statement by the company said: “Though Oando successfully acquired all funds required to complete its acquisition of

the assets, closing of the ConocoPhillips acquisition had remained subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions, including government and regulatory approval, and the consent of the Minister of Petroleum Resources.”

The company explained that ministerial consent is the mandatory final approval of all oil and gas acquisitions by the minister as required by the Petroleum Act of 1969, which states that prior consent of the Minister of Petroleum Resources is obtained before the assignment of any right, power or interest in an oil prospecting license or oil mining lease.

10—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 11

12—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Women picket oil facility in Delta

90-yr-old woman leads protest over abandoned road in Bayelsa

BY EGUFE YAFUGBORHI

W

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

Y

ENAGOA—ANGRY indigenes of Okoroba community in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, led by a 90-year- old woman, Madam Omiekumo Numo, yesterday, protested against the abandonment of the OpumeOkoroba Road project by the Federal Government.

The 10 km road project, which is to link the coastal town of Okoroba to mainland Ogbia Local Government Area, was awarded in 2011 to Mangrovtech, now known as Kakatar’ce by Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC. The project, it was learnt, was abandoned on the grounds of alleged disagreement over compensation and non- availability of sand.

The aggrieved indigenes of the community, who braved the swampy stretch of the road to stage a peaceful protest some distance away from the Opume Junction, however, noted that the decision of NDDC to award the project to the construction firm, owned by an indigene of Ogbia, was laudable.

Armed with placards, some of which read: “EFFC: Probe payment of Compensation,” “NDDC save Our Soul,” “We say No to delay,” “Enough is Enough: Give us back our road,” “Sand is not an excuse,” among others, the aggrieved indigenes led by Madam Omiekuma Numo, said they were compelled to spend about three hours trekking through the swampy road which ordinarily they would have spent less than 15 minutes on, if the work had been completed.

According to the nonagenarian, “Our people are suffering and my children have abandoned me in the village due to the bad road. I am hungry and I woke up since 5a.m., to join the three hours protest march through the muddy water on the abandoned road to show you how serious and pained we are as a people.”

ETISALAT MARKET ACCESS IN PH: From left: Ebi Atawodi, Head, Corporate Communication/High Value Events and Sponsorship, Etisalat Nig; Peter Bamkole, Director, Enterprise Development Centre and Bidemi Ladipo, Head, Business Segment, Etisalat, during the 8th edition of Etisalat Market Access in Port Harcourt, yesterday. Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke.

Why I shunned APC convention —Ikimi

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

F

ORMER Minister of Foreign Affairs and chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Tom Ikimi, has said that he stayed away from the party’s recent national convention in Abuja because the APC Governors Forum, AGF, and former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, had already predetermined the outcome of the exercise.

He said that Tinubu and the AGF hijacked the powers of convening the event from the National Interim Executive Council of the party, adding that same led to the alleged undemocratic manner through which party executives emerged.

Ikimi, in a statement, regretted that Tinubu allegedly arrogated to himself the right to decide for the party, who the national officers should be, adding that he unilaterally appointed Chief John Odigie-Oyegun as the National Chairman.

Charade

He said: “I did not attend, neither did I participate in the charade called convention. I paid N250, 000 for the form to contest for the national chairmanship on the basis of the overwhelming support I received from my state, Edo State. The form is still with me, which I will return and ask for a refund of my money. I did not step down for anybody. When it became clear to me and many others, including my supporters, that the outcome of the contest would not be determined by a free and fair vote at the conven-

tion, most of the delegates, tired and weary after waiting for more than 24 hours for accreditation all day at Eagle Square, departed. The venue was then over run by all manner of people who broke through the barriers.

Secret meetings and caucuses

my opinion, I felt strongly that if we were bound to proceed on the basis of zoning that both party offices as well as key offices in government such as President, Vice President etc., should be put on the table and zoned at the same time. My suggestion was motivated by strong information I had received of plots being hatched to steam role a Muslim Muslim Presidential and Vice Presidential ticket for the APC in the 2015 election and with specific individuals in mind as the beneficiaries."

‘’The National Interim Executive Council was never convened again to approve any of the arrangements before the convention and it was never even accorded the courtesy of a valedictory session. All that transpired thereafter leading to the convention happened mostly at secret meetings and caucuses some of which I have since become aware were convened in Europe. The party was now run as a private property.

“Tinubu operated as the core of one of these caucuses, whose membership varied from time to time within the realms of his whims and caprices. The other known caucus was the APC Governor’s Forum. These two groups hijacked power from the National Interim Executive Council, which is the body known to Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. However, it was from these two caucuses that the idea of zoning the party positions emerged. Zoning is a principle alien to our party's constitution, but if at all it had to be employed at some stage and the process democratically carried out to ensure the equitable distribution of key offices in the party and government to the different geo-political zones in the country, it is my view that the process should be open and transparent and should be approved by the Interim National Executive Council of the party. ‘’Chief Bisi Akande cannot produce any such approval. In addition and in

ARRI—WOMEN in Erhoike, host to Oil Mining Lease 30, compromising a flowstation and oil and gas well, in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State, yesterday, picketed the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, facility to draw attention to alleged neglect of the community.

Over 400 women, young and old, picketed the flowstation in defiance of disapproval by military guards from the 222 Battalion, AgbarhaOtor.

The women, who chanted protest songs were armed with placards, accusing operator of the facility of ill-treatment and shortchanging the community.

Mrs. Choice Umode, Legal Adviser to Erhoike, who spoke to Vanguard, said: “You can see the flowstation originally operated by Shell is right in the heart of the community, but these women and the rest of the community are hardly in the picture when community benefits are released. Distant communities with far less stakes get all the benefits while Erhoike gets beggarly attention."

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014—13

Lawmakers' impunity won't distract me —Oshiomhole

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

B

ENIN—GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, yesterday, said he will not be distracted in the task of bringing development to every part of the state by what he described as the impunity and disregard for the rule of law by some lawmakers in the state House of Assembly .

Speaking while inspecting the storm water masterplan project in Benin City, the governor, said: “Between now and December, we will lay asphalt on this Upper Siluko Road, it will be six lanes and between then and the middle of next year, we will put street lights on the road.

“Let me assure you, all those people who are fighting in the House of Assembly, trying to cause trouble, who want us to bring government money for them to share, we will not give them public money. We will use Edo money for Edo people. And with your prayers, we are not afraid. We know that for as long as we work for Edo people, the devil is a liar.”

Some of the residents of the Upper Siluko Road area, who responded hailed the gover-

nor for the massive drainage system and road network in the area, adding that they were firmly behind him as they see the good works his administration is doing.

A resident, Mrs. Nonye Umezurike, said: “A saviour has come to us and we are very happy. For many years, those of us doing petty business here

were finding it difficult to earn our daily bread, but God has come to our aid by bringing Governor Oshiomhole. He has answered our prayers. For years, there was no road for us to get home, we were trekking and swimming through flood, but today, even when it rains, we move on solid ground. I

know that after his tenure, his successor will also work for the people because Oshiomhole has set the precedence.”

For Mr. Augustine AjayiObanor, flood had ravaged the Upper Siluko Road area for over 40 years before the intervention of the Governor Oshiomhole administration.

INSPECTION OF STORMWATER SYSTEM: From right: Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State; Engineer Jean El Sabbagh, Project Manager and Prince Clem Agba, Commissioner for Environment, during the inspection of the stormwater system at Ewah Road and its environs, in Benin City.

2015 presidency: Delta central PDP proposes Jonathan as sole candidate

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—THE Peo ple’s Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta Central senatorial district, yesterday, proposed President Goodluck Jonathan as the sole presidential candidate of the party for the 2015 general elections.

It also passed a vote of confidence on the President; Vice President Namadi Sambo; Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State and his Deputy, Prof. Amos Utuama, SAN as well as the leadership of the party from the ward to the national levels.

The senator representing Delta Central at the National Assembly, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, who moved the motion for the vote of confidence at the rally of Delta Central PDP, which was rounded off in Ughelli North and South Local Government Areas, yesterday, said the Urhobo nation was satisfied with the PDP’s administrations in the state and country at large.

The state deputy governor, Prof. Amos Utuama, SAN, who spoke at the rally, expressed

satisfaction with the crowd at the rally, which he said was also aimed at receiving decampees from opposition political parties. Those who decamped from other parties include Chief Morrison, Chief Henry Olori, Prof. Sam Ibodje and their supporters numbering over 3,000.

Utuama noted that the PDP

was the only party amongst those founded in 1999 that was still in existence, adding that others founded the same period had gone into extinction.

Thanking President Jonathan and Governor Uduaghan for nominating Dr. Steve Oru for a ministerial

appointment, he urged the people to continue to give their support to the PDP. On his part, the ministerial nominee, Dr. Oru, thanked President Jonathan, Vice President Sambo, Governor Uduaghan and others for making his nomination possible.

Dickson wades into crisis rocking Bayelsa LGs over biometric exercise

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

Y

ENAGOA—BAYELSA State governor, Mr Seriake Dickson, has waded into the crisis rocking staff biometrics exercise in the eight local government areas of the state.

The governor, it was learnt, met with labour unions opposed to the ongoing exercise introduced by his administration to tackle payroll fraud and truancy in the councils.

Key operators of the local government system such as the Commissioner for Local Government Administration, Chairman of Local Government Service Commission and the Special Adviser on Treasury and Account attended the meeting.

Also, leaders of the National Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, MHWUN and chairmen of the eight councils were present at the meeting, held at the

Government House.

Though the governor was said to be present at the meeting, his Deputy, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd), whose office oversees the local councils, presided over it.

Stop extorting Youth Corps members, ICPC warns tertiary institutions

BY IKENNA ASOMBA

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HE Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, ICPC, has cautioned tertiary institutions across the country to desist from extorting prospective Youth Corps members under the guise of mobilisation levies, following the receipt of petitions on the matter.

Mr. Folu Olamiti, spokesman of ICPC, in a statement, said the warning followed petitions received by the commission over extortion through levies ranging from N20,000 to N40,000 from students preparing for the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme.

“Victims of this extortion are prospective corps members wishing to be mobilised for the NYSC scheme after spending two or more years at home after graduation,” he said.

According to him, the alleged extortion is purportedly to ensure final clearance for mobilisation into the August batch of the NYSC scheme.

Olamiti said the ICPC had commenced preliminary investigations in the matter and urged institutions involved to remedy the situation in the interest of the students.

“The petitions also indicated that some institutions that over-subscribed their quota for admission into the Nigerian Law School had resorted to sending only names of candidates who allegedly paid bribes or peddled influence," he said.

2015: Edo APC youths deny report of resolve to support Jonathan

BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

B

ENIN—EDO State Youth Leader of All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr. Osakpamwan Eriyo has denied reports that youths in the state had resolved to support President Goodluck Jonathan in the

2015 presidential election.

He insisted that youths in the state will not vote for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, or President Jonathan in next year's elections.

Eriyo said in an interview in Benin that it will amount to an anti-party activity for anybody in APC to support President Jonathan.

He said that they will work hard to see that an APC-led Federal Government was installed next year.

“We belong to APC and there is no way we will cast our votes for the PDP or President Jonathan. We believed in APC and we are going to win from the local to the federal levels in 2015," he said.

14— Vanguard , THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Chime to spend annual vacation in US

BY TONYEDIKE

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NUGU—GOVERNOR Sullivan Chime of Enugu State, yesterday, commenced his annual vacation.

The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Chuks Ugwoke announced this at the end of the State Executive Council meeting chaired by the Governor.

“The governor of Enugu State, Mr. Sullivan Chime has commenced his annual vacation with effect from today the 18th day of June 2014,” the commissioner said.

He said that Chime announced his vacation to the people of Enugu State and members of the council during the council’s meeting.

The vacation, according Ugwoke, will take the governor and members of his extended family to Miami in the United States of America.

The statement was, however, silent on how long the vacation will last and who will administer the affairs of the state in his absence.

Court reinstates Umeh as APGA chairman zObi, Obaze, others laud victory

BY IKECHUKWU NNOCHIRI

A

BUJA—THE leadership crisis rocking the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, further deepened yesterday, as the Abuja Division of the Appeal Court, reinstated Chief Victor Umeh as the National Chairman of the party.

In a judgment yesterday, the appellate court nullified the decision of Justice Abdul Kafarati of the Federal High Court in Abuja which earlier sacked Umeh from office.

Obi, others react

Immediate past governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi and others, in a reaction to the ruling, described the victory as the will of God and His design to bring lasting peace to All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA. Aside Umeh, the appellate court also reinstated Alhaji Sani Abdulahi Shinkafi as the National Secretary of APGA. It will be recalled that Justice Kafarati had in his verdict on January 15, directed the factional

Chairman of the party, Chief Maxi Okwu to take over the leadership of APGA from Umeh.

The court specifically ordered all the members of the National Working Committee, NWC, of the party who were elected alongside Umeh at a convention held on February 18, 2011, in Awka Anambra State, to immediately vacate their respective offices.

However, the appellate court berated Justice Kafarati on the premise that he wrongly assumed jurisdiction on the matter.

Allowing the appeal

In allowing the appeal, the appellate court held that the 1st respondent, Maxi Okwu, lacked the locus standi to challenge Umeh’s continued stay in office.

Granting the 12 grounds of appeal raised by Umeh and Shinkafi, the appellate court, in an unanimous decision, stressed that the respondent, Maxi Okwu, lacked the legal right to institute the action before the high court, considering that he was ab-initio expelled from APGA. According to Justice T.Y Hassan who read the lead judgment, “ trial Justice Abdul Kafarati should not have assumed jurisdiction to entertain the suit when there is a subsisting judgment of the Court of Appeal Enugu Division”.

The court said it was convinced that the convention that produced Umeh was held in accordance with the provisions of APGA constitution.

Verdict

Aside Okwu, Justice Kafarati had in his verdict that was setaside yesterday, declared Mr Ibrahim Carefor, Chief Dickson Ogu, Dr. Gbenga Afeni and Alhaji Abubakar Adamu as duly elected national officers of APGA, based on the outcome of a parallel convention of the Party held in Awka on April 8, 2013.

According to the trial Judge, “Umeh and Shinkafi (1st and 2nd defendants), having been expelled from the party whether lawfully or unlawfully, regularly or irregularly, cannot validly continue to occupy the positions of National Chairman and National Secretary respectively when the suit they filed challenging their said expulsion has not been decided and in their favour.”

FG issues security alert on petrol tankers zSays they may be used by Boko Haram

BY CALEB AYANSINA & FATIMAH KAREEM

A

BUJA—FEDERAL Government, yesterday, revealed that it has received intelligence report that petrol tankers might be used by the Boko Haram sect to wreak havoc in the nation’s capital.

The government also said the mission of the 486 travellers arrested in Abia State was suspicious and was being thoroughly investigated.

Coordinator of National Information Centre, Mr Mike Omeri, issued the alert

while briefing newsmen in company of representatives of security agencies in Abuja.

He revealed that the sect was planning to lay petrol tankers with Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs, and detonate it within crowd in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. Omeri said: “The Nigerian security services have received intelligence report to the effect that insurgents intend seizing petrol tankers and plant IEDs in the tankers and drive them to crowded places in Abuja.

“Against this backdrop, we hereby call on the Petrol Tankers Association to be on the red alert and advise their members to report any attempt or seizure of their vehicles to security agencies.

“In this wise, Nigerians are also advised to report any broken down tanker in any part of the territory to security agencies.

“Similarly, we are using this opportunity to appeal to the public to be on the alert particularly when they see any tanker driving dangerously.”

Enugu chief judge backs gov's power to appoint CJs governor to appoint the

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NUGU—THE Chief Judge of Enugu State and a former member of the National Judicial Council, NJC, Justice Innocent Umezulike, has voted for the power of governor to appoint Chief Judge as sacrosanct .

Justice Umezulike, OFR, who became the head of Enugu State judiciary in 2004, made the submission in his contribution to a book: “The Judicial Integrity , Independence And Reforms :Essays In Honour of Justice M.L.Uwais, GCON, CJN." The book published and

printed by Snaap Press Limited in 2006 has 26 chapters.

His contribution in Chapter Three: “Appointment of A Chief Judge of A State in Nigeria: My Experience and Ascent of Pragmatism and Constitutionalism,” contended that the position of NJC to “send only one name of the most senior judge in the list and insist that such judge must be appointed by the governor is an unwarranted obligation which NJC may have imposed on itself. It is neither supported by any law nor by the provisions of the Constitution.”

“By requiring the

Chief Judge of the State, subject to the confirmation of the House of Assembly , the Constitution obviously treats the entire process as political. And we cannot objectify a process in which the Constitution clearly treats as political. It results, therefore, that the disposition of the governor on the matter must prevail.”

Citing the scenario that happened before he became the CJ, Umezulike noted that “the rule of seniority usually exploited by the JSC and NJC in the appointing process must be abandoned. In any case, the resort to seniority as the only objective basis for the selection of a Chief Judge is a lazy approach."

Vanguard, THURSDAY,JUNE 19, 2014 — 15

2014 OUTSOURCING EXPO ORGANISED BY OUTSOURCING PRACTITIONERS OF NIGERIA, AOPN, IN LAGOS, YESTERDAY. PIX: KEHINDE BADAMOSI .

From left: Mr. Mary Uriah, Human Resources Director, Flour Mills Nigeria, Mr. Ayodele Jaiyesimi, Head, Human Capital Management From left: Mr. Keith Richards, Chairman, Promasidor Nigeria Limited, Dr. Austin and Development, First Bank Nigeria Plc., and Mr. Lere Baale, Nweze, President, Association of Outsourcing Practitioners of Nigeria, AOPN, Mr. Managing Director, Business School, Netherlands, all Panelists at the Segun Ogunsanya, MD/CEO, Airtel Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, General event.

Manager (Publications)/Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard Newspapers and, Mrs. Ify Osineme, General Manager, Vic Lawrence & Associates, during the 2014 Outsourcing Expo, with the theme "Managing the Successful Transition to Outsourced Services'' organised by AOPN, with Vanguard as Media Partner, at Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

From left: Mr. Femi Adeniran, Mr. Rama Krishna, and Mr. Sylvester Ojugo.

Mr Deji Ajayi (left) and Mr. Yinka Folorunso, at the event.

Mr. Emeka Nkwocha, Advert Manager, Vanguard Newspapers (right) and Mr Fred Odueme, AG M, Brand, Vanguard Media Limited.

Don't outsource jobs to save cost, companies told

BY PRINCEWILL

EKWUJURU

L

A G O S — COMPANIES and corporate organisations have been advised not to outsource jobs just to save cost, but should do so based on the value to be derived from the outsourced job.

Participants made the recommendation at a two-day Outsourcing Expo in Lagos with the theme: “Managing the Successful Transition to Outsourced Services.” It was organised by the Association of O u t s o u r c i n g Practitioners of Nigeria, OAPN. The participants argued that companies should embrace outsourcing as a tool that

will help improve their services.

The panelists

The panelists at the expo which included Ayodele Jaiyesimi, Head, Human Capital Management and Development, First Bank Nigeria Plc., Mary Uriah, Human Resources Director, Flour Mills Nigeria and Lere Baale, Managing Director, Business School Netherlands were of the view that companies should think of the value to be derived from an outsourced personnel and inconvenience associated with outsourced job(s) and the value the company gets, noting that companies will lose

value if they focus on cost.

The Expo resolved that when drawing the Service Level Agreement, SLA, the parties; the provider and the user should be involved so that there should be a sense of belonging where no one feels cheated.

The expo further said that even though the service provider owns the outsourced personnel, the outsourced personnel should not be treated as if he is not part of the organisation where he or she is posted to work.

Speaking to Vanguard, OAPN president, Dr. Austin Nweze, called on government to support outsourcing in

whichever way, by regulation which will serve as a legal framework as the rules will help the association sanction erring members.

Adefaye speaks

General Manager (Publications)/Editor-inChief, Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, who spoke at the expo intimated the participants of the expansion drive of the company, saying that the company has started production in Asaba, the Delta State capital, a move that will enable the company take care of the South East and South-South geopolitical zones in its distribution plan.

16 —Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

MONEY LAUNDERING: FG withdraws charges against Mohammed Abacha

BY IKECHUKWU NNOCHIRI

A

BUJA—THE AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN, yesterday, withdrew the money laundering charge preferred against the eldest son of the late military dictator, Mohammed Abacha.

Mohammed was accused of concealing the sum of N446.3 billion allegedly stolen from the national treasury between 1995 and 1998.

He was said to have received

the stolen money from his late father, General Sani Abacha, and hid same. On two different occasions, Mohammed failed to appear before the court to enter his plea to the charge.

The accused person, on April 10, told the court that he could not take his plea because he was not duly served with a copy of the charge and proof of evidence against him, a situation that led to the adjournment of the matter.

On April 29 when the case came up for arraignment, Mohammed also failed to appear

before the court on the ground of ill-health, though his lawyer begged the court to adjourn the case for two weeks to enable him attend his trial.

At the resumed sitting yesterday, the prosecutor, Mr. D.C Enwelum, told the court that the AGF directed him to withdraw the charge.

“I have been instructed by the Attorney General of the Federation to withdraw the charges as currently filed before this court.

“My Lord, he said there are

fresh facts/documents available to him that would necessitate the termination of this proceeding.

“In the circumstance, he instructed me to file a notice of withdrawal without prejudice to future cause of action that may be taken by his office. I humbly apply to withdraw the charges accordingly,” Enwelum added.

He, therefore, urged the court to okay the notice of withdrawal,dated June 17.

Sequel to a ‘no objection’ stance

by Mohammed’s lawyer, Mr. Abdullahi Haruna who further prayed the court to discharge his client, Justice Valentine Ashi,

struck out the charge.

Specifically, government had alleged that Mohammed “dishonestly received stolen property and voluntarily assisted in concealing money.”

The federal government had maintained that the charge which was withdrawn yesterday, replaced an earlier 121 criminal counts, in which Mohammed was sued alongside his alleged accomplice, Atiku Bagudu.

Besides, the government had in the subsequent charge, excluded Bagudu from trial with an indication that he was among those billed to testify against Mohammed.

According to the withdrawn charge marked CR 21-24/ 2008, the stolen money allegedly received by Mohammed, included 141,100,000 pound sterling and 384,353,000 US dollars, made up of cash and travellers cheques.

In count one, Mohammed was alleged to have between August and December 1995 at Abuja, dishonestly received $36,480,000.00 made up of cash and travellers cheques property of the Federal Government, believed to have been stolen.

Count two alleged that Mohammed, between August and December 1995 at Abuja, voluntarily assisted in concealing $57,960,000.00 believed to have been stolen from the Federal Government.

Moreso, Mohammed was in count three alleged to have between October and December 1996 at Abuja, dishonestly received $26,913,500.00 believed to have been stolen from the Federal Government.

The prosecution alleged in count four that Mohammed, within the same time, voluntarily assisted in concealing $26,913,500.00 allegedly stolen from the Federal Government.

In count five, he was alleged to have sometime in June 1997 in Abuja dishonestly received $10,000,000.00 believed to have been stolen from the Federal Government. He was, in count six, said to have, between February and December 1997 dishonestly received $87,000,000 and 41,143,000 pound sterling believed to have been stolen from the Federal government.

The federal government also accused him of dishonestly receiving, between January and August 1998, $167,000,000 and 99,957,000 pound sterling.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 17

T

Believe in Allah but tie your camel The paper provided the answer: “During the national prayer organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs in Abuja” (a Federal Ministry devoted to women’s affairs was

,

HE idea of writing a column with my title today came during my visit to Maiduguri two weeks ago. The thought was triggered by a number of related ideas. On June 1, 2014, many Nigerian newspapers used on their front pages, a picture of President Goodluck Jonathan receiving a delegation of the head of the Islamic Tijaniyya Brotherhood, led by Khalifa Sheikh Ahmed TijaniInyass, at the Aso Villa. One of the more mischievous interpretations of the visit came from THE NATION ON SUNDAY newspaper, which reported that the “popular Senegalese Muslim cleric…stormed” the Presidential Villa, Abuja “to hold special prayers for President Goodluck Jonathan in a spiritual offensive against Boko Haram”.

According to the report, the spiritual leader led a team of about 10 Islamic clerics at the prayer session and to underline the fact that it was a well-planned session, THE NATION ON SUNDAY added that Khalifa Ahmad Inyass “had been specially invited by President Jonathan in the face of ceaseless attacks by Boko Haram insurgents”.

And just in case there are raised eyebrows that Nigeria’s president was “outsourcing spiritual fortification” to far away Senegal, spokesman for the visitors, Ahmed Tijani Sanni Awalu, said previous Nigerian leaders had similarly imported the Senegalese clerics in the past: “It is a historic visit because it was done by his (the Khalifa’s) father with then President, General Yakubu Gowon and Gen. Aguyi Ironsi.

So history is repeating itself…on his (KhalifaInyass) way going home, the President requested a courtesy visit and Shehu granted that”. So it was President Jonathan that requested to be ring-fenced with the spiritual armour of prayer, Made-in-Senegal, to assist the war against Boko Haram.

So what our army, the security forces and trillions of naira, down the drain cannot accomplish, our very religiously savvy President Jonathan has wisely outsourced to Senegal, for instant solution.

Many birds can even be killed with one spiritual stone. The Boko Haram insurgency might dissolve like soap bubble, and with the 2015 elections looming, a photo-op with the leader of one of the most powerful Islamic brotherhoods in West Africa could become an iconic campaign picture. It was instructive that President Jonathan dressed to fit the occasion;not the Resource Control hat. No! He wore an Indonesian cap that would be at home in any Muslim setting in West Africa!

The second but related event was the obviously sincere expression of devoted spirituality by gesticulating women, mostly in white dresses, as presented on the front pages of many Nigerian newspapers on Thursday, June 5, 2014. As LEADERSHIP newspaper’s caption of the two pictures it carried said, these were “women praying fervently for the immediate release of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls”.

And what was the occasion?

President has made to different Christian churches in the past one year (where he was wont to making significant pronouncements about national events!), along with Muslim

Spirituality is very okay; but rational thinking and hard work are the routes for solving the social, political and economic problems thrown up by a modern, democratising and neo-colonial, capitalist society

organising a “National Prayer” session!). The religious theme was reinforced with a picture carried on page 3 of DAILY TRUST of the same day, Thursday, June 5, 2014, which had President Jonathan welcoming the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rt. Rev. Justin Welby, who was accompanied to the Aso Villa by the Primate of the Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh. Lined sideby-side, with visits that the

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clerics he hosted, imported through the good offices of Senator Ahmed Sani Yerima of Zamfara state, we will be right to conclude that the “spiritual arm” of governance in Nigeria is as healthy as it probably can be!

B

ut the business of running a democratic society is a rational affair that is not amenable to spiritual mumbojumbo. I am writing these lines

on Tuesday night/Wednesday morning. We have entered the 65th day, since the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls. As we all now know, the Nigerian military had critical intelligence four hours before the abduction and nothing was done to avert it. Similarly, for three weeks, President Jonathan lived in denial of the abductions, did nothing and his wife, Patience, on live television, made one of the most tragi-comical displays of first lady meddlesomeness in recent Nigerian history! It took the #BRINGBACK OURGIRLS campaign and the international response before the administration took any steps. And the narrative that the abductions were staged as a political stunt against President Jonathan was not vacated by the administration.

So to reduce the serious issue of governance responsibility to the stoking of a religious piety and mass hysteria, smacks of irresponsibility, denial and the unending penchant for exploiting religion by the nation’s ruling elite. Our country has been sucked into a mass hysteria of religiosity

today, as rational expressions of the life process retreated from the nation’s social and political spaces.

Those caught up in the frenzy of religiosity as photographed from the “national prayers”, might have been genuinely sincere in their devotion. But they would have better assisted Nigeria’s progress if they were part of a national movement dedicated to an interrogation of the actions and inactions of President Jonathan. It was good to pray, but it would have been better to demand more responsible governance and a full disclosure on the trillions spent on security and the bungling of the entire episode around the abduction of the Chibok girls.

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hose who organised a national day of prayers certainly know what they were doing. They hoped to manipulate the spiritual devotion of Nigerians in a particular direction, away from a rational interrogation of the rulers of the country. It was also not a coincidence that President Jonathan invited the Khalifa of the Tijaniyya Brotherhood from Senegal. They are part of a well-honed process of the manipulation of religion. The President can only go just that far in the game of deception.

It was the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who used to tell his followers to “Believe in Allah but tie your camel”.

Spirituality is very okay, you see; but rational thinking and hard work are the routes for solving the social, political and economic problems thrown up by a modern, democratising and neo-colonial, capitalist society. Those who attempt to befuddle social phenomena with mumbo-jumbo labour in vain!

Speaking out for Nigeria

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N Monday this week, an innocuous issue threatened the National Conference again threatening to divide us along the notorious fault lines of our country. We were examining the report of the Committee on Energy, chaired by former governor, Rashid Ladoja. Professor Kimse Okoko had introduced an amendment seeking the establishment of a corridor of industries in the Niger Delta, tapping into the petroleum resources in the region. When vote was called the first time, the division between nay and yea was too close to call. So a second vote saw the majority voting against the proposal. Those who lost, mainly from the Niger Delta and the South, became embittered and began to shout in anger. At that point, Bolaji Akinyemi, the deputy chairman of the Conference who presided, called for a debate before seeking a final division on the point. The first speaker was Senator Aniete Okon, who tried to douse suspicions that the industrial corridor was to be located in the Niger Delta; they would serve the whole of Nigeria, he pleaded.

For the first time in a long time, Bolaji Akinyemi called me to make a contribution. I had voted in support of the industrial corridor in the Niger Delta in the first place. And my contribution was that we should endeavor to build consensus for the development of our country; pulling away from the suspicions that underline the way we have often related with ourselves: North-South; Muslim-Christian, etc. I told the Conference that if we industrialized the Niger Delta, we would be contributing to the industrialization of Nigeria. My sense was that the emergence of such a corridor of industrialization, as proposed by Kimse Okoko, who has a radical socialist background, does not preclude the emergence of similar corridors of industrialization in other parts of our country. In any case, if we succeeded with that plan, we will take many young people off the streets and away from brigandage, because those who have a steady livelihood and can improve their lives will not likely want to destroy the sources of their livelihood. They will also be learning living and personal lessons in Nigerian patriotism.

And what might stop other Nigerians from becoming part of

that development process in the long run? As I thought about the issue deeply, I remembered that it was within the Kaduna textiles industry, which used to be the largest in West Africa, that an individual like Adams Oshiomhole emerged to learn the leadership skills which made him one of the greatest leaders of the Nigerian working class and trade union movement. He became a national icon of leadership and patriotic resistance against the injustice of the Nigerian political and economic/class systems. He galvanized hundreds of thousands of Nigeria’s working people to resist exploitation and injustice, with working people never bothering about the fact that he was not a Northerner or a Muslim. It was the leadership skills he developed from a humble beginning in Kaduna, through to the presidency of the Nigeria Labour Congress, that would open up the route for him to become governor of Edo State. After my modest intervention, people rallied and we voted by consensus to adopt the motion.

I felt an inner satisfaction that I took the right, patriotic and progressive decision to speak out and rally my colleagues to vote for the amendment. And it reinforced my position that we must always endeavor to speak for the best interest of our most beautiful country, at the National Conference and beyond. As I have tried to show in practically every single piece that I have written about the National Conference on this page, Nigerian elite groups have for too long lived in a most unhealthy suspicion of each other and this suspicion has paralyzed the basic ability to rally for the national weal.

Yet, there is no other way, other than finding the patriotic fervor to go beyond our suspicions of ourselves to be able to build a country with the tremendous potentials that Nigerian possesses. The emotions of suspicions about what is being schemed on the other side of the Nigerian divide: religious, ethnic, regional, etc. have often been so unhealthy that issues that can profit everybody in the long run, are often killed on the altars of these emotions. Nigeria matters a lot. We just have to speak out for Nigeria!

18— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 EVERY administration claims it has concerns about prison decongestion. Many conferences and seminars down the road, the prisons are more congested. The slow pace of judicial processes is guaranteed to keep them over flowing.

Minister of interior Abba Moro more than two years promised a major prison reform.

Challenges with the prisons pre-dated this administration. We also note that after the many promises Moro made, on behalf of the government, he has joined the long list of those whose speeches recount statistics on prison congestion.

His stewardship appears to end there. He recites the statistics without any emotions, diminishing the fact that the statistics are people, some of who have never been brought to trial, and some of who have spent more years in detention than they would have served, assuming they were convicted.

The commissioning of a 160-person prison in Umuezena, Anambra State, was a great occasion for Moro to lament, like the rest of us, prison congestion.

Long TTalks alks On Prison Decogestion According to him, “As a result of the congestion in prisons, it was becoming cumbersome for the federal government to properly reposition its reforms in the sector aimed at reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of the prisoners”.

He said that the government was addressing prison congestion by building more prisons. His short list of three prisons could not have qualified for “more prisons” and was definitely off the mark in dealing with congestion. The prisons in Anambra State, for example, were meant for 360 inmates. Before the latest addition, they were holding about 1,600 people.

Official statistics have about 51,000 people in prison. The number excludes detainees in police cells and other facilities. Of

the 51,000, about 36,000 or 70 per cent are awaiting trial. Some of those awaiting trial have never been charged to court. There are instances where people await trial for more than 10 years for offences with sentences of two years or less. Those affected are mostly the poor, who cannot pay for legal representation.

How would the construction of “more prisons” address these cases? The lapses that result in prison congestion follow from numerous laws that rule the nation, which have minimal considerations for the availability of judicial machineries to implement them.

People arrested for environmental offences (urinating on the street, dumping of refuse, street trading) are dumped in prison, once they are charged to court. Officials do not have time to prosecute such unimportant cases. Theft, murder, armed robbery have windier trials, if the cases ever make the courts.

The various agencies in the justice system need to address the matter urgently.

Changes in the laws, to respect human rights, and assumption of some responsibilities for prisons by States, could help.

OPINION

BY ERNEST OMOARELOJIE

ON June 11, 2013, Edo state government formally announced the ban of commercial motor cycle, better known as Okada. It gave sundry reasons (with security concerns as the major issue) for the action. The state government was also specific on the areas, mostly within the Benin City metropolis where the ban order would be enforced. The reaction that followed was not unexpected. While a large number of residents hailed the move as long overdue, others saw it as totally uncalled for. More than that, many of those who opposed the ban, bike riders and or owners in particular, felt betrayed because it came into effect despite assurances by the governor that no such action was in the plan. All said and done, the ban was put into effect with a promise by the governor, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, that the state will introduce palliative measures to cushion its effects. On Wednesday, May 14, 2014, the governor fulfilled the promise when he commissioned 300 cabs and handed them over to members of the Okada riders association. The delivery of the cabs, which is in the first phase, effectively brings to an end the politicisation of a strictly security issue.

The action of the state government which has received plaudits from a very large segment of the public has

Okada riders and a promise fulfilled also drawn considerable ire from some sectors.

While the first group commends the government for living up to its promises, the latter group is dismissive on the ground that it came a little too late even as they refused to consider the reasons for the delay.

However, while commissioning the taxi cabs, the governor explained why it took so long to fulfill the promise he made to the former Okada riders. According to him, fulfilling the promise took so long following evolving intricacies that characterised the negotiation process. As it turned out, the seriousness attached to the issue by the administration became a deciding factor which not only culminated in the fulfilment of the promise but also came handy in shelving off about 15 percent of the total cost in favour of the beneficiaries with the balance to be paid off by the government.

"Government gave 15 percent subsidy on the price of each of the vehicle and the subsidy is a grant that we are giving to each of the beneficiary. We are not expecting you to it pay back to the government of Edo state."

Apart from the subsidy, the beneficiaries will also have reasons

to be grateful to the Oshiomhole administration. In the first instance, it negotiated with the facilitating bank to reduce the interest rate charged on each of the vehicles. Thus, from the prevailing 21 percent chargeable interest rate, the bank was persuaded to accept 18 percent on each vehicle.

In the other instance, the administration also provided comprehensive insurance cover for all the vehicles.

There are other reasons members of the defunct Okada riders' s Association will remember the Oshiomhole administration for a long time to come. For one, each beneficiary is expected to pay only forty eight thousand (N48, 000) Naira as first installment in order to be given one of the cars. Thereafter, each of them are expected to produce same amount as monthly repayment bill till the debt is completely written off. What it translates to is that on the average, each beneficiary is expected to pay back two thousand (N2,000) Naira daily.

But, the beneficiaries are up in applause for the governor for another reason. In line with terms of the agreement, each of them has three years to offset the entire debt.

What it translates to is that for an average new car which requires at

least four years before developing any fault, the fortunate owners have enough time not only to repay the debt but also make enough investment for a better life. If the words of Comrade Peter Adoroh, leader of Okada riders is anything to go by, there is no doubt that the beneficiaries, at least majority of them, are ready to take advantage of the opportunity to reach greater economic heights.

The governor used the occasion to explain circumstances that made the ban inevitable even after repeatedly assuring the riders that there was no plan to effect such a ban. According to him, the decision became imperative as evolving security concern could no longer be ignored.

"I found myself taking a tough decision after repeatedly assuring the Okada riders that Okada would not be banned in the state. When I said that, I meant it. Indeed, after my second tenure election, I renewed that assurance and I know you were really shocked that after reassuring you repeatedly, you woke up one day to hear that the same governor had decided to prohibit Okada and to give you a very short notice that was less than one week. That was a tough decision for me."

*Mr. Omoarelojie, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Benin city, Edo state.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014— 19

, INCE 2011 when the Boko Haram Islamic sect transformed into a terrorist gang, targeting churches, crowded places and security establishments, I have always lived in dread of the day when they might be tempted to export their demonic activities to the South. Up till now, the Islamists have restricted their activities to their core native areas in the North East, Abuja and environs as well as selected targets in the North Central.

But on Sunday, June 15, our worst nightmare would have become a reality if not for eagleeyed security men who alerted the police of a strange polythene bag found abandoned at the gate of the Living Faith Church in Owerri at about 8.00am, the time just before worshippers usually troop in. If that bomb had gone off in the heat of service, the casualty rate would have probably been in hundreds, and the immediate effect of it would be better imagined than experienced. It is one thing for people to travel to the North and become victims of religious or sectarian violence or terrorism

over there. It is yet another for the fight to be brought to your own doorstep, especially for those who have suffered irreparable loss in the North and had to flee home.

I have said it before, and I will say it again: Nigeria will never be the same again once terrorists begin to attack any part of the South. There is pent-up anger we must never allow to let loose as a result of extension of terrorist aggression to the South. Nigeria may not survive terrorist attacks on any part of the South because it will be seen as a declaration of jihad in the predominantly Christian South. This will be more so in Igboland. It might quickly radicalise non-violent agitators like the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB and the Biafran Zionist Front, BZF. Innocent Nigerians of Northern origin earning their legitimate living might be profiled and targeted. That, in turn, could result in reprisal attacks in the North, and the country called Nigeria might be on its way to extinction. The usually peaceful

and harmless Igbo masses can turn into something else when pushed beyond their tether.

If this happens, Boko Haram and its sponsors will rejoice. We would be playing into their hands.

For the past three years, I have been at the forefront of the campaign to end the Boko Haram terrorism by all means necessary. This group is simply not a friend to anyone. It is surprising that some people in our midst have some reason or the other to develop sympathy for them to the point of offering them financial, logistical and intelligence support. Boko Haram has wrecked a large portion of the economy of the North. The evidence is pretty obvious. For the past two years, there have been large in-

Who owns the purchase price?

S

OLO: I heartily congratulate the APC on a most successful National Convention, which culminated in the election of Chief John Odigie Oyegun as the party’s First Citizen. Bravo! A better choice, none could be! APC is now set to make history.

Mac: I join in congratulating the party and the newly elected officers. I was just thinking that we should invite Professor Godfrey to come and organise a refresher course on Pol. Science 101 so that we can be reminded of the rudiments of representative democracy.

Our legislators ought to know that they are there to represent us because it is practically impossible for all of us to be there at the same time.

Solo: You are damn right! They must be told that the fat salaries and the sundry allowances they collect belong to us.

Whatever they get must be kept in trust for us.

Mac: Well, that argument is right only for strict constructionists. To the extent that we all have our different callings where we earn a living, we should allow them to keep their salaries and allowances.

After all, the labourer is deserving of his wage. Besides, he is entitled to all those summer trips abroad along with the “manno-be-wood” fringe benefits.

Again, we must constantly remember that every occupation has its hazards that must be borne by those engaged therein, which cannot be shared by those outside.

With the chamber of the legislative assembly virtually becoming a boxing arena, we cannot easily rule out the possibility of a member coming out any day with a broken head from a flying maze. And there is always the threat of Boko Haram invasion. In the event of such an invasion, the legislator can only count himself lucky if he is taken to a faraway evil forest and not killed outright. These

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are risks that cannot be shared with anybody.

Solo: OK. The points have been well canvassed and properly articulated. But where does this leave us with the purchase price of the defecting members? Should they also keep that?

Mac: Emm… We are not unmindful of the obvious fact that the legislator is expected to look continually to the people who elected him; to speak to their convictions and uncertainties; to protect their interests; and to defend his actions before them. To the extent that in a marriage situation, the bride price is paid to the family instead of the bride, the purchase price of a decamping legislator must be eaten by the generality of the electorate.

Strangely enough, these things are not hidden anymore, thanks to our electronic age. In the particular case of the “Edo Four”, Comrade announced that each of them got N50 million from the federal might. Did they quite deny this? They only spoke in a tone that suggested that Comrade was offering them N30 million not to go. This Comrade must be tightfisted. He must have some glue in those palms. How could he be offering N30 million to people who were already on display for N50 million? All the same, the “commodities” did not say what would have happened had Comrade upped his offer to say N60 million. Who can really out-give the federal might? We hear they are gearing up to offer more than N200 million as 2015 gathers momentum. Is this the type of money we are expecting those blokes to chop alone? The money must be brought home before it begins to purge them.

Solo: And whether we like it or not, that money is already becoming stale.

In the next few months, those guys are unlikely to be flamboyant in their

fluxes of Northern people, especially the youth, into Southern cities and even villages. They are mostly economic refugees.

I am more inclined to accepting the theory that the 486 people caught in a convoy of 32 buses in Abia last Sunday on their way to Port Harcourt were economic refugees fleeing from consequences of Boko Haram activities, rather than actual Boko Haram members as reported in the media. Of course, you cannot rule out the possibility that some of them might be agents and moles of the Islamic insurgency group seeking new frontiers for their devilish activities. The bombs discovered in Owerri and the six persons arrested provided credible justification for the sweep that netted these people.

When a part of the country is in violent crisis, it is natural for people dislodged from their natural habitat to seek refuge in safer areas. There is nothing strange about Northern people fleeing from the insurgents and settling in other parts of the country for safety, including Igboland and other parts of the South. In fact, these influxes have been going on since the upsurge of Boko Haram violence in June 2011. Northern youth are everywhere, providing valuable labour and earning a living in many Southern towns and cities without molestation since they have been peaceful. We must continue to provide our troubled countrymen the safe haven until the Boko Haram insurgency is defeated and those who would like to go back to their native homes can do so. But they must partner with their hosts to ensure that the enemy does not

expenditure patterns since their purchase prices are a l r e a d y commonplace.

They will recoil into their shells.

Mac: Did those decampees really need to rush to the court to prevent their seats from being declared vacant? They perhaps concentrated their attention on

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Boko Haram in Igboland?

S

It is one thing for people to travel to the North and become victims of religious or sectarian violence or terrorism over there; it is yet another for the fight to be brought to your own doorstep, especially for those who have suffered irreparable loss in the North and had to flee home

It is an established fact that the APC in Edo State has been factionalised beyond measure for some time now; ideally, no one wants to leave a house in which he is comfortable

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Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which stipulates that a member shall vacate his seat if he decamps from the political party that sponsored his election.

T

he framers of the Constitution realised that a member could be thoroughly oppressed and he would have no choice but to remain in the party. Beyond this point, a continued stay in the party would be nothing short of slavery, hence they provided that the member may not vacate his seat if his departure is as a result of a rift in his former party.

It is an established fact that the APC in Edo State has been factionalised beyond

cut the rope that hold us together and let us fall apart.

Northern leaders have a lot of work on their hands. Rather than facing it they are more interested in politics. Resolving the Boko Haram challenge, to me, is more important than politics. Without peace there will be no playing field for politics. Ending Boko Haram will benefit the North immensely.

Some disgruntled Northern leaders are seeing only a respite for President Goodluck Jonathan if Boko Haram is over. It is the North in particular and the nation at large that will enjoy a huge respite when Boko Haram is over. President Jonathan is losing some sleepless nights over the insurgency, but it is the North that is losing about everything. It is having its people running for safety in distant parts of the country and being swept into custody on suspicions of being agents of the enemy.

The discovery of the bombs in the Owerri church is a useful alarm bell. It shows that what happened at the Catholic Church in Madalla in Niger State over three years ago can happen in any part of Nigeria if we let our guards down. Every church must partner with the security agencies to learn basic strategies for preventing terror attacks. Market leaders should also meet with their members to provide precautionary measures as well as open links to the security agencies in case of terror threats.

It is better to nip terror in the bud than losing lives and property and resorting to impulsive bloody reprisals that will only worsen the situation.

measure for some time now. Ideally, no one wants to leave a house in which he is comfortable. From a distance, it is clear that the “Edo Four” lost their comfort in that Assembly since the days of the turbulent debates on the Property Tax Bill. They had been mere hangerson. That’s why the court had no problem in granting their request. They were granted an empty power, the power they already had.

Solo: The court ruling did not, however, buy them the right to behave in any way that is unbecoming of Honourable members. If they did, the House would deal with them with its Rules and there is hardly anything the court can do about that. That’s where we are now.

Mac: Come to think of it, we are faced with more questions than answers. Have these members really decamped from the APC? It appears to me that they have merely given notice of their intention to decamp. These are people who came into the party individually. At registration, they made individual applications on the basis of which they were admitted and given personalised membership slips. What justification do they have to form themselves into a trade union at the exit point?

Essentially, all those motions about: “We are fed up with the APC and we must move en-masse to the PDP… Those of the opinion say Aye, contrary say Nay” are motionless motions. They are, therefore, illegal, null, void and of no effect whatsoever. I beg to move.

20—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 21

Diaspora Nigerians contribute over 70% in growing China economy

BY VERA ANYAGAFU, PRISCA SAM-DURU & NJOKU SAINTJERRY (BEIJING)

was first situated was such a herculean experience.

“In many situations, we would commute about 21 hours journey by train from Guangzhou to Beijing and or 3 hours by flight, just to get embassy authorities consents for cases ranging from business registrations to minor consular services.”

He also acknowledged the fact that the establishment of the new consulate in Guangzhou, has enabled better business transaction between Nigerians and the Chinese.“Apart from other

C

oordinator of Good Gov ernance Initiative (GGI) and CEO, Blue Diamond Logistics, China, Mr. Festus Uzoma Mbisiogu has disclosed that Nigerian businessmen in China contribute over 70 per cent of China’s growing economy.

He also said that the Nigerian businessmen in China are the backbone of the Nation’s foreign policy with China.

Mbisiogu said this during a town hall meeting with Nigerian business community in Beijing China, urging all responsible Nigerian authorities, especially the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to ensure that the efforts made to establish a new consulate in Guangzhou to satisfy the increasing number of Nigerian-China based businessmen and women in China was not futile.

He applauded the efforts of President Goodluck Jonathan in ensuring that Nigerian-China based businessmen go about their various businesses in China in a much suitable environment. He pointed out that the building of a new consulate in Guangzhou, China has eliminated all the hurdles of having to travel as far as Beijing to process as little as business registration, thereby, dampening business progression.

He said “Before the establishment of the consulate in Guangzhou there was a long gap between Nigerians in China and their home country. The connectivity between Guangzhou and Beijing, where the Nigeria embassy

3,135.00

9.00

17.09

-0.01 0.46

106.82 -0.08 CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL SELLING 155.23 263.5961 210.6471 172.785 1.5219 0.3102 238.2836 24.9273 41.3869 28.2406 238.6351

N

igeria’s 15 million dollars (about N2.4 billion) Information and Communications Technology (ICT) venture capital fund for mitigating the sectors development needs will close at the end of June.

The ICT venture capital fund, floated by the Ministry of Communication and Technology, was inaugurated in August 2012. The Minister of Communication and Technology, Mrs Mobolaji Johnson, made the disclosure on Tuesday in Lagos at a breakfast meeting of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce. Johnsom said it was a pool fund to finance commercially viable projects and initiatives in the ICT sector.

Johnson, who declined to provide the status of the fund so far, only announced that the Nigeria Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) would anchor it and contribute about 3.6 million dollars (about N576 million).

She said that 11.4 million dollars (about N1.8 billion) would be sourced from local and international investors and that the fund would be managed by independent managers with the nation’s ICT incubation team. Johnson also said that the closure of the venture capital would be dependent on the availability of all the necessary facilities and on the approval of the Federal Government.The fund will be used to build excellent locally made innovations in ICT.

EY raises alarm over cybercrime, widespread corruption

-5.25

DOLLAR 154.73 STERLING 262.747 EURO 209.9686 FRANC 172.2284 YEN 1.517 CFA 0.3002 WAUA 237.5161 RENMINBI 24.8465 RIYAL 41.2536 KRONA 28.1496 SDR 237.8664

owns one of the largest manufacturing industry in Nigeria implored all to leverage on the high volume of business transactions between China and Africa, particularly Nigeria, and ensure continuous business prospects. ”When the president reiterated his commitment to Diaspora Nigerians especially to those of us in China by running a participatory government where the interest of every Nigerians no matter how small is protected and our participation is encouraged too.

PARTNERSHIP: From left: Mr Chris Udeji, Chief Executive Officer, adibba.com; Deborah Bosah, Public Relations Manager; Mr. Ken Esenwah, General Manager, Sales and Distribution, Smile Communications and Adedokun Olagunju, Manager, Indirect Sales during the press conference to announce technical partnership between adibba.com and Smile Communications in Lagos. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele.

167.70

113.40

diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, majority of the business transaction between Nigeria and China takes off from the city of Guangzhou, and it is quite imperative to ensure that both countries maintain a good business relationship, which the establishment of the new consulate in Guangzhou has successfully achieved”, Mbisiogu submitted.

While noting that Nigerians in China almost lost touch ith inherent gains of the growing Sino-Nigeria relations, the business mogul, who also

Nigeria’s first ICT venture capital fund closes June ending — Johnson

155.73 264.4451 211.3256 173.3415 1.5268 0.3202 239.0511 25.008 41.5202 28.3315 239.4037

CBN Exchange rate as at 18/06/2014

BY PETER EGWUATU

E

RNST & Young, EY has raised fresh alarm over the increase in cybercrime which continue to affect companies’ performance globally, even as bribery and corruption has spread across the countries in various sectors of the economy as 88 per cent of respondents in a survey conducted by EY have emphasized.

David Stulb, Global Leader of EY’s Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services (FIDS) Practice said “With high-profile cybercrime incidence making headlines on a regular basis, boards should encourage management to have a robust incident response strategy in place. Pressure on companies for timely disclosure of breaches is rising in many jurisdictions as well, so these issues require attention from the legal and compliance units. The U.S. Securities and

Exchange Commission is increasingly focused on cyber risks as they relate to the integrity of financial statements too, so audit committee members have to be alert to today’s cyber threat environment.”

The EY survey further stated that over 2,700 chief executives of companies across 59 countries including Nigeria highlighted that nearly 40 per cent consider bribery and corruption to be widespread in their countries . The survey noted that emerging risks are not being taken seriously enough, as nearly half of respondents consider cybercrime a low risk.

Regarding emerging threats, the EY’s 13th Global Fraud Survey stated that despite the apparent global consensus on the significant scale of the threat of cybercrime, almost half of the respondents (48 per cent ) considered it to represent a very or fairly low risk to their

business. These survey findings suggest that executives may not have a proper appreciation of cybercrime risks. 48 per cent respondents see hackers as the biggest concern and are underestimating the risk from organised crime syndicates as well as foreign states.

Linus Osita Okeke, West Africa Leader of EY’s Forensic/Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services, said “A comparison of the current results for Nigeria with the results of EY’s 12th Global Fraud Survey 2012 showed a significant increase in the proportion of respondents who perceive bribery and corruption to be widespread in Nigeria. 72 per cent of the respondents in 2012 perceived bribery and corruption to be widespread, whereas the proportion rose to 88 per cent of the respondents in 2014. The implication is that perceived bribery and corruption is getting worse.”

22—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

BUSINESS

To turn talent into influence, a person must prepare it with hard work, surround it with the right relationships, strengthen it by taking responsibility, and protect it with character

Talent alone not enough T

alent is never enough.

There’s no substitute for it, but there’s also no guarantee of success with it.

To turn talent into influence, a person must prepare it with hard work, surround it with the right relationships, strengthen it by taking responsibility, and protect it with character.

Preparation positions talent Author Emile Zola spoke truly when he said, “The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work.” Preparation positions you so that when opportunity comes, your talent can shine. “Talent alone won’t make you a success,” Johnny Carson once remarked. “Neither will being in the right place at the right time, unless you are ready.

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Relationships influence talent People knew LeBron James had special talent when he was a teenager. His high school basketball games were televised on ESPN. He was considered a future hall-offame ballplayer before he even turned pro. Marcus Dupree was like LeBron James, only on the football field. A running back from small-town Mississippi, Dupree had it all as an athlete: size, speed, power, and grace.

Yet despite flashes of brilliance, Dupree never made it big.

Perhaps the main reason Dupree never capitalized on his remarkable talent was his relationships. Everyone close to Dupree—his extended family, friends, and coaches—wanted to profit from his success. Instead of adding value to Marcus, they sought to extract it from him.

Without an encouraging support system, Dupree faltered the first time he encountered adversity and never fully recovered.

Date 17/6/14

R e s p o n s i b i l i t y strengthens talent The ESPN documentary, Broke, examines why so many professional athletes, despite signing multimillion dollar contracts, find themselves penniless when their playing days are over.

According to the film, “By the time they have been retired for two years, 78 percent of former NFL players have gone bankrupt or are under financial stress; within five years of retirement, an estimated 60 percent of former NBA players are broke.”

Regrettably, these athletes never learned to manage their money. Their reckless spending prevented them from enjoying the financial stability that their talent should have secured for them. They enjoyed the

Preparation positions you so that when opportunity comes, your talent can shine

The most important question is: Are you ready?”

NAIRA EXCHANGE RATES

,

momentary pleasures accompanying their ability without taking responsibility for their future wellbeing.

Character protects talent Figure skater Tonya Harding, golfer John Daly, sprinter Marion Jones, and cyclist Lance Armstrong…each of these athletes had dazzling ability, but lacked the character to sustain it. Overcome by jealousy, Harding hired a hitman to attack her rival, Nancy Kerrigan, thereby sacrificing her shot at Olympic stardom. Daly won the PGA Championship as a rookie, and the British Open a few years later, but his offcourse drinking problems kept him from winning as much as his talent merited.

Both Jones and Armstrong gave in to the temptation to supplement their natural talents with performance enhancing drugs. While the decision brought them victories in the short-run, each eventually got caught and suffered a fall from grace.

*Source: The John Maxwell Company

16/6/14

Currency DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

Buying(N) 154.73 262.747 209.9686 172.2284 1.517 0.3002 237.5161 24.8465 41.2536 28.1496 238.2842

Central(N) 155.23 263.5961 210.6471 172.785 1.5219 0.3102 238.2836 24.9273 41.3869 28.2406 239.0542

Selling(N) 155.73 264.4451 211.3256 173.3415 1.5268 0.3202 239.0511 25.008 41.5202 28.3315 239.8242

How to start a small busin MARKET YOUR BUSINESS et a website: If y o u ’ r e selling online, get your e-commerce in gear and either build a website, or have one built for you. It’s your storefront, so anything and everything you can do to make people want to visit, and want to stay, do it.

Hire professional designers: They may cost more initially, but a well presented and trustworthy site is essential. It needs to look professional and work with ease. If you are including money transactions, invest in security encryption and check that your money transfer companies are sound and reliable.

Discover your inner publicist: You might truly believe in your product or service but it won’t fly unless everyone else believes in it too. If you’re new to advertising and marketing or you dislike doing the sales pitch, now is the time to overcome such feelings and put on the publicist persona.

You need to develop an excellent short pitch to convince people they need your product or service, one that reflects the value, purpose and potential of what your business is offering. Write down this pitch in many ways until you find one that you feel satisfied says it all and is something you can say readily. Then practice it like crazy! Get interesting, eye-catching business cards.

Spend time developing excellent social media presence: This can be done well before the business is ready, increasing

G

anticipation. Use Facebook, Google+ and Twitter, and any other social media you participate in to build excitement and spread the word. You want to build a buzz so that people will begin following your progress.

Implement your

Secure space: Whether it’s an office, or a warehouse, if you need more space than your garage or your spare bedroom, now’s the time to get that. If you don’t generally need an office beyond your home, but may occasionally need meeting

marketing and distribution plans: With your product being built or services developed, and a reasonable expectation on when either is ready for selling, begin marketing. If you will be advertising in periodicals, they will need copy or images at least two months in advance of publication. If you will be selling in stores, get preorders sold, and shelf space allocated. If you will be selling online, get that e-commerce site ready to sell. If you’re offering a service, advertise in appropriate trade and professional journals, newspapers and online.

space, there are often places downtown that can address those needs. A quick Google search on “business meeting rentals will deliver plenty of rental options in your area.

Build your product or develop your service: Once you have the business all planned, financed, and have your basic level of staffing, get going. Whether that’s sitting down with the engineers and getting the software coded and tested, or getting materials sourced and shipped to your fabrication room, or purchasing in bulk and marking up the price, the building process is the time during which you prepare for market. During this time, you may discover things such as: Needing to tweak the ideas -

LAUNCH YOUR BUSINESS

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014—23

S & YOU COMMODITIES (18/6/14)

The notion of either staying small or big should not be the focus. Whether you are big or small, the key thing is GROWTH

SHARE PRICE MOVEMENT ON NSE (18/6/14) Top 5 Gainers (N) S/N

Company

Last Close

Current

1

Nestle

1,060.00

1,070.00

10.00

2

MRS

51.36

56.61

5.25

3

SIMCAPVAL

98.33

103.24

4.91

4

NB

164.42

167.00

2.58

5

Oando

23.15

25.00

1.85

Conoil

65.65

59.27

-6.38

Mobil

132.00

129.00

-3.00

3

DangCem

229.00

227.01

-1.99

4

Presco

37.00

36.00

-1.00

5

GTB

30.20

30.00

-0.20

Commodity Light Crude

Last 106.62

Change ($) +0.26

% Change + 0.24

Natural Gas

4.70

- 0.01

- 0.21

Sugar

17.43

+ 0.37

+ 2.17

Coffee

167.65

- 1.40

- 0.83

1 2

Cocoa

3,139.00

+3.00

+ 0.10

Change

Top 5 Losers (N)

How big your organisation is doesn't really matter!

ness (3)

Many a business start-up has failed by purchasing the expensive gizmos instead of focusing on the business itself

,

competitor’s stale offerings. Getting feedback - Friends and family make great resources for asking questions and getting feedback - don’t hesitate to use them as your sounding board. Needing to increase the size of your premises This happens more often than expected.

Once the stock starts piling up, you may find it ends up in your living room, bedroom and the garden shed. Think rental of storage premises if needed.

Launch your product or your service: When the product is all built, packaged, coded, online, and ready to sell, or when your services are fully worked out and ready to go, hold a

special event to launch your business. Send out a press release, announce it to the world. Tweet it, Facebook it, let the word resound to all corners of your market - you have a new business!

TIPS: Always provide value and service to those who may be your customers, even if they are not currently. When they do need your product, you want them to think of you first.

With the advent of the internet, online businesses are probably the easiest way to start and very much less expensive in terms of startup cost than an offline counterpart. Don’t be afraid to experiment with prices.

Try to add more and more great ideas as you go!

Keep learning, and be adaptable to change. Find buddies, mentors, local business-related organisations, Internet forums, and wikis to discuss the daily details of running a small business. It’s much easier for everyone to perform their core businesses well and prosper when they don’t waste time and energy “reinventing the wheel” on housekeeping.

You can also consider trading on eBay or Overstock. Most direct selling companies have low start up capital compared to a traditional brick and mortar business. You can also break even rather quickly compared to the traditional business. A franchise is a great idea although the start-up capital is way too high for most people. *Culled from WikiHow.com

BY ‘UJU ONWUZULIKE

In the end, the customer doesn’t know, or care, if you are small or large as an organisation.. she or he only focuses on the garment hanging on the rail in the store…….Giorgio Armani

W

ith the rate of change in the business world today, having the mindset or perception that one’s organisation is big or small may not be strategic and in the best interest of any organisation.

Forward looking organisations and also those that are strategic in all facets of their operations focus only on GROWTH. They keep asking the pertinent question: how do we grow the more regardless of people’s perception of our size?

We have heard and seen over the years, stories of global companies who taught they were so big, have arrived, and were invincible abound. Much to our chagrin, some of them went under due to one insidious act or the other. When we take wrong actions in organisations, they tend to create “unintended consequences”. Sadly, one or two of such can sink the organisation. We do not intend to write names of such failed global companies.

On the other hand, companies that always think they are small (and cannot make major business impact) will only succeed in limiting their business growth potentials. They may not be able to move to the next level

of growth. Today, we have lists of businesses that started small and have grown to become global players.

You might ask, if we are not to focus on being big or small, what should be our focus? The answer is simple; your focus MUST be on GROWTH. Companies that are perceived to be “big (by which ever standard) can grow more and more. On the other hand, companies that

,

Perhaps the product needs to be a different color, texture or size. Maybe your services need to be broader, narrower or more detailed. This is the time to attend to anything that crops up during your testing and development phases. You’ll know innately when something needs tweaking to make it better or to make it less like a

Any organisation that 'sleeps' when others are running may not have the growth mentality

,

are perceived to be small today can equally outgrow big companies in the future.

So let us re-shift our thinking to Growth mentality.

Any organisation that ‘sleeps’ when others are running may not have the growth mentality (“when the rate of change on the outside exceeds the inside, the end is near”).

The only way to retain control over your business is by growing, and this is because businesses and customer needs are ever dynamic and will continue to be. The truth is that “no organisation is too big to fail”.

Organisations have two choices to make, either to stay in the “Maintenance Mode” and stop growing or

to step into the “Growth Mode.”

Organisations in the “Maintenance Mode” will experience the following: Your competitors catch up with you or take up your position. Your revenue drops. Your products or services might become old fashioned. Your employee’s sense of creativity and innovation stifles.

Points to ponder: The notion of either staying small or big should not be the focus. Whether you are big or small, the key thing is GROWTH. The only way to retain control over your business is by GROWING. Have you seen any organisation that has “we have arrived” status? The answer is No. Final Note: There is no better time to grow your organisation than now. Long term growth will not be achieved by doing things the old way. It will never be achieved by “piecemeal” or analytical way of doing things, because it creates unintended consequences for the company. Most times, they are difficult to handle.

Growing an organisation requires using “Systems Thinking Approach” – where everybody’s focus is entirely on the organisation, and not on self or some parts of the organisation. Achieving this focus or goal is sometimes hard for some people, but it MUST be achieved.

Call or email us for your views or perspectives.

Email:uju@hainescentre.com Mobile: 09091142093

24 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Inflation to hit double digit by year end —Khan

By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

N

igeria’s inflation will rise to double digit by the end of this year, 2014 said, Razia Khan, an Economist with Standard Chartered Bank.

She made this prediction in a commentary on inflation figures for May released on Monday by the National Bureau of Statistics. Inflation which measures rate of increase in the prices of goods and services rose to 8.0 per cent in May from 7.8 percent in April. ”We expect inflation to continue to rise in the coming months. Given the low base Year on Year ( y/y ) Consumer Pricing Index, CPI was in single digit for all of 2013 helped by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN tightening and favourable food price trends domestically – the risk is that we see a breach of 10 per cent before the year-end.”, said Khan.

The Regional Head of Research, Africa, Standard Chartered Bank said, “Although both food and core inflation are exhibiting the fastest month to month increases seen since January, the impact of earlier two reign exchange weakness appears not to have been as pronounced as we expected.

All said, inflationary pressures are still relatively benign.

Nonetheless, there is evidence of upward pressure on prices. The increase in the CPI index seen in every month since March is a touch higher than the average for

those months using the index rebased to 2009. This does not signal an alarming degree of price pressure – it merely indicates that the trend in the coming months is more likely

to be higher, rather than lower inflation.

Market conditions remain liquid. Overnight rates continue to hover near the lower end of the corridor.

The foreign exchange rate has exhibited signs of pressure despite gains in the oil price related to events in Iraq. For now, local factors appear to

Union Bank shareholders demand dividends payout

By PETER EGWUATU

S

hareholders of Union Bank of Nigeria (UBN) Plc have demanded for dividend payout from the Board of Directors of the bank,

even as they approved the bank’s 2013 full year results and various resolutions. The shareholders made the demand at the bank’s 45th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos,stressing

that it has been long they have endured without dividend.

Addressing shareholders , the Chairman of Union Bank, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma said, “In December 2013, Union Bank finalised its three year

AWARD - From left: Bunmi Akinde, Senior Partner, Ernst & Young (EY) Nigeria; Henry Egbiki, West African Country Leader, EY and; Austin Avuru, MD/CEO, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc at the official presentation of ‘Congratulatory Letter’ from the inister of Trade, Industry and Investment to Austin Avuru (winner of Entrepreneur of the Year Award). Avuru represented West Africa at the just concluded World Entrepreneur of the Year in Monaco.

Bank Customers Association holds maiden summit

B

ank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN) has concluded arrangements to organise the maiden Bank Customers Summit as part of its efforts toward creating better understanding and mutually beneficial relationship between banks and their numerous customers.

The Summit with the theme: “Value Based Banking: Bank and their Customers” is scheduled to hold today in Lagos. Dr. (Mrs.) Sarah Alade, OON, Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria will be the Special Guest of Honour and will deliver the Keynote Address while Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim, Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation

matter more.

Given this, we remain wary of inflation risks. The rise in the oil price does not provide sufficient reassurance that Nigerian inflation will remain low and well-behaved. The amount of pre-election spending remains the key factor to watch. Should market conditions exhibit signs of even greater liquidity growth, there may be a case for more CBN tightening in response.”

and Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, The Iyaloja General would be the Guests of Honour..

The Summit which is free for all the participants will enable

bank customers in Nigeria to know their rights and privileges; know the answers to recurring customers’ complaints ; understand Central Bank of Nigeria’s

policies and how they affect them as bank customers, as well as get first hand feedback from bank customers to enhance customer retention.

Enterprise Bank organises Walk-For-Life

I

n continuation of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, which is targeted at promoting the healthy living of people in its host communities, Enterprise Bank Limited will on Saturday hold the 2nd edition of its Walk-For-Life campaign. The event is planned in such a way that it holds simultaneously across the ten regions of the bank nationwide, except in Ekiti State, where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is conducting a general election.

According to information from the Corporate Communications Department of

the bank, the Walk-For-Life exercise, which will kick off at exactly 7 a.m. will underscore and promote the importance of good health and physical fitness among staff, customers of the bank and the host communities where the bank has outlets all over the country.

Explaining the modalities for the Lagos version, which will be flagged off by Mallam Ahmed Kuru, the bank’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, the statement said that the Walk-For-Life campaign will involve participants walking through a distance of over 8 kilometres on the Lagos, Ikoyi and Victoria Islands.

strategy, which provides a clear direction for our future growth, in line with the ongoing transformation programme.

Union Bank aspires to be a highly respected provider of quality banking services, and to achieve this, the Bank has identified six core areas which are pivotal to its success , the quality of our customer experience, the quality of client base, the quality of our talent, the quality of banking platform ,our professional standards, and the quality of earnings Speaking at the AGM, Mr Shola Aboderin, President, Ibadan Zone Shareholders Association, urged UBN to implement strategic plans that would leverage returns on investments for retail investors in 2014. Aboderin said the shareholders had waited long for UBN dividend payment and needed to be compensated adequately. He said that contrary to other opinions, UBN minority shareholders invest mainly for the annual dividend payment. Aboderin, however, commended the bank for the impressive growth posted in the 2013 financial year in spite of the nation’s challenging operating environment.

He also urged the bank to intensify efforts aimed at increasing its deposit base to enhance profit and shareholders’ future dividends.

Mr Bayo Adeleke, Secretary, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, called for the rebranding of the bank to boost customers’ confidence.

Adeleke said that UBN’s service delivery needed to be overhauled and repackaged with new products lines to meet the dynamic needs of Nigerians. According to him, the board and management of the bank need to be more innovative in their approach to modern banking and the changing national business environment. Mr Matthew Akinlade, Vice-President, Nigeria Shareholders Solidarity Association, said that the bank needed to invest in technology to ensure efficient service delivery.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 25

*Students of Lagos State University protesting the hike in school fees at Lagos House, Ikeja.

VARSITY FEE HIKE: Where is our N400bn intervention fund?

By DAYO ADESULU

Vision 20:2020: Nigeria must focus on global standard of education Expert Pg. 27

Before applying

for admission to Med School Pg. 27 (1) RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Nigerian students shine at 2014 Shell Eco-Marathon Pg. 30 C MC YM KY K

M

any people, especially the wealthy, believe that quality education must be expensive. Just as many people in the middle class who are from another school of thought believe that obtaining education must not necessarily be expensive, arguing that it is the right of every citizen to be educated. However, others query this assertion saying that basically, government of a country owes its citizenry basic education as individuals who expect higher education must pay for it.

In recent times, federal and state universities have increased tuition fees astronomically leading to protests by students who argue that theburden is too much for parents to bear. Managements of these tertiary institutions insist that the needs of the institutions necessitated the increment, basing the reasons for the increment on poor funding of universities. The question begging for answer is: Where is the N400 billion

the Federal Government disbursed to various universities in 2013? What did they do with the money? Before the intervention fund, there was no fee hike in many of the universities, what then has informed the sudden hike in tuition fees in many federal and state-owned universities?

Speaking with Vanguard on phone, the Chairman of Academic Staff Union of Univer-

sities, LASU chapter, Dr Adekunle Idris said: ”It is the view of ASUU-LASU that these fees are not justifiable.

First and foremost, education is the right of every citizen of this nation. Governments at all levels have the duty and responsibility to provide education to its citizens. If any government thinks education is too expensive, it should try ignorance.

Human capital investment does not show immediately you do the investment. It is a long time investment.

It is not like building roads that people will see and start clapping for the government. Governments want what they can show on television and people will start clapping for them. In the case of education, it takes time before you can see the fruits.

"We believe that the hike in fees moving round universities is not justifiable. ASUU national believes that what is happening in LASU is a cankerworm model that if not immediately addressed, will spread across the nation.That is what is happening now. This issue of school fees has to be redressed. What goes arround comes arround. If we do not stop it in Lagos, it will spread to other universities. Olabisi Onabanjo University almost started it and it resulted into another serious crisis there. In LASU, students enrolment is dropping by the day because of the hike in fees. Government will always see that there are other needs in the society. The first need is to develop the human capital of a society and most of other things will fall in place.

"The N400 billion at the centre should translate as palliative for the people. However, we do know that it will take some time for it to be seen since it is meant for the development of laboratories, lecture halls and infrastructure of various universities. It is like a free fund to help universities.

"However, in the case of LASU, the LASU administration has not taken steps in order to benefit from the fund.

The agreement ASUU had with state governments is that for the fund to be released to any university, a budget-monitoring committee should be set up in each of the universities to monitor the use of the fund. It is the administration of each university that will use the fund and not ASUU. We were told that we should not just get the money to be wasted without supervision.

"As we speak, LASU has not set up the monitoring committee, therefore they cannot access the fund. They feel it is between LASU and the Federal Government that it does not concern ASUU-LASU. “We are not struggling for ourselves, we are struggling for the common people to be able to send their

Continues on page 26

33 1 da ys on: ASUP strik e lapses 331 days strike int o ano ther academic session into another

T

BY LAJU ARENYEKA

hree hundred and thir ty-one days-longer than an entire academic session; this is how long the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, ASUP has been on strike.

The journey: After a seven-day warning strike, the union embarked on a full-fledged strike on April 29, 2013, protesting Government’s refusal to hon-

our a 13-point agreement made with the union in 2009. The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, also embarked on its own strike on July 1, 2013 for similar reasons. The ASUU strike would go on for six months before a truce would be reached with the government.

ASUP on the other hand, seemed to have reached a compromise, as on July 10, 2013, the strike was suspended. Polytechnic lecturers went back to their classrooms as a result of the Federal Government’s promise to handle four of the 13 issues in the agreement within two weeks.

These include: release of the White Paper on Visitation to Federal Polytechnics; the completion of the constitution of the Governing Councils

Continues on page 26

26 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19 2014

Varsity fees hike: Where is our N400bn intervention fund?

Continues from page 25 children to school. We are fighting for those children who are on the streets instead of being in school. They are on the streets because of the hike in fees that the bourgeoisie have used to oppress the people.We should be given equal opportunity as it has been given to the university administrations.”

"One of the most expensive public universities is Kwara State University with tuition fee of N100,000 for 100-level students who are indigenes of the state and N200,000 for non-indigenes just as returning students pay N100,000 for indigenous students. One of its students said: "though the school is excellent in terms of facilities, but the fee is outrageous for a common man like me as I forfeited my admission earlier because we were given a week to pay this whooping amount of money.“ As at 2013, Arts students in OAU paid the lowest which was N20,000 acceptance fee, N17,000 for school fees, N3,090 for accommodation for freshers.

“Acceptance used to be just N2,000 but was increased by 200% in 2010.“ Satellites paid around N6,000 for school fees.

In May 2014, OAU science students paid N72,000 as fees, N20,000 for acceptance. It will be recalled that Senate of OAU had increased the fees payable by the new students in the Arts/Law/Social Sciences by 322%; Clinical Sciences and Pharmacy - 267% and the Sciences, -253%, claiming it was to improve the standard of the school among other reasons. Thus, a science student in OAU now pays over N95,000.“ Kogi State University fee was increased from N35,500 to N57,500. At the Lagos State University, Arts/Education students paid N193,750 in 2011 while medical students paid N348, 750. At the Uni-

versity of Lagos, the highest fee paid by 100- level students is N55,500 while the lowest is N53,500 for science and non-science respectively.

At Ebonyi State University (EBSU), the fees were N88,000 for indigenous students and N128,000 for others. Also, indigenous Law students, Medicine and Medical Laboratory pay N128, 000 just as non-indigenous students pay N150,000 besides compulsory acceptance fee of N10,000. Science students of the University of Port Harcourt pay N76,800 as school fee, N30,000 - acceptance and N19,500 for accommodation.

However, University of Benin 100-level medical students pay N114,500, while students in other faculties pay N91,000.

Federal University of Technology Minna, a fresher pays N72,000 including acceptance fee. Adekunle Ajasin University, Akongba, students pay N30,500 to N33,000 depending on the course. At University of Ado-Ekiti, 100-level students pay between N96,000 to N120, 000 while Medical students pay N200,000. On its part, University of Osun 100level student pays N105,000 as school fees and N25,000 for acceptance.

At National Open University of Nigeria, each student pays N110,000 per session. This includes tuition, Identity card, ICT, course and examination fees for

the two semesters.

Akwa Ibom State University 100-level students who are indigenes pay a total of N57,000, just as non-indigenes pay a total of N77,000 including acceptance fee of N5,000.

At Ebonyi State University, the school fee is N128,000 for non-indigenous students while indigenes pay N88,000 with N10,000 acceptance fee.

Law, medical and science non-indigenous students pay N150,000 while indigenous students pay N128,000.

At Kwara State University, 100-level non-idegenes pay N200,000 as school fee and N35,000 for accommodation.

However, indegenes pay N99,500 and N35,000 for hostel. The Olabisi Onabanjo University Ago Iwoyi, Ogun State minimum fee is N120,320 for art and N298,610 for medicine.

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso students pay N92,500 for non-indigenes and N85,500 for indigenous students.

Hundred level students at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) pay N66,990 including accommodation. Freshers at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) pay N74,550 for lower courses and N81,050 for higher courses.

for Federal Polytechnics; migration of the lower cadre on the CONTISSS 15 salary scale; and the commencement of the needs assessment of Nigerian Polytechnics. ASUP gave the Government a month.

Nothing was done. This eventually elapsed into three months, culminating in the union’s continuation of the strike on October 4, 2 0 1 3 .

When ASUP held its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting last week, hopes were up that the issues will soon be resolved in view of the intervention of the National Assembly.

However, that was not the case as ASUP-NEC, refused to call off the strike just yet.

UNN: Ovation as Bartho bows out Assessing his giant strides

BY JAMES OJO, UNN

T

HE University of Nigeria,Nsukka held a farewell ceremony to mark the end of tenure of Prof.

Bartholomew Okolo, the outgoing vice-chancellor of the institution.

The occasion had in attendance vice-chancellors from other universities, professors, religious leaders and other dignitaries. The Convocation Arena,UNN known as Ekpo Ref, was filled to capacity with invited guests, staff and students of the university.

The opening prayer was delivered by Most. Rev. G. Onah, Catholic Bishop of Nsukka,who was represented by Rev. Msgr. T. Onoyima, Chaplain, St. Peter’s Chaplaincy, UNN; followed by the national and school anthems by students from Music Dept.

Prof. O. Udeala,who was the chairman of the occasion in his opening remarks, described Prof. Okolo as a “fine and good friend."

accheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Libraries (ZODML) has equipped three public libraries at Obalende with books to enhance reading culture. Araromi Baptist Primary School and Ereko Methodist Primary School which share the same premises on Beckley Street, Obalende, Lagos were beneficiaries.

The books were donated by Stanbic/IBTC Bank, which plugged into ZODML’s 4,000 books drive to equip the libraries it is planting in schools.

Mrs Ifeoma Eziri, CEO, ZODML who lauded the partnership with NYSC, noted that each ZODML library is manned by a corps member who co-ordinates reading sessions when the pupils visit the library.

She disclosed that ZODML is hoping to establish 20 libraries before Gov. Fashola leaves office to convince the government to contribute to the initiative. Her words: “We hope that before Governor Fashola leaves, we would have 20 libraries. We want to use it as a platform to insist that the government should send certified librarians to man these libraries.”

She is optimistic that the new schools would produce more of the SS2 pupils who will write essays that will give a slot to represent Nigeria in Germany Mrs Omo-Dare, head of the

Z

*Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Jerry Gana (5th left), Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rahamon Bello and a cross section of the Governing Council members at the 2012/2013 convocation ceremonies of University of Lagos

Vanguard Learning that the different ASUP chapters will carry out a referendum this week, and convene for another NEC at Yaba College of Technology next week.

The NEC meeting will also take into consideration, the results of what stakeholders believe might be the ‘final intervention meeting’ with the National Assembly to hold on Tuesday, June 24, 2014. The June 24 meeting will also include the demands of the striking Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union, COEASU, whose members are also expected to attend. Relevant stakeholders such as the ministers of Education, Labour and Finance, as well as representatives from the salaries and wages commission are also expected to attend.

that meeting," Ezeibe said.

"What we are looking out for now is for the ministerial committee involving the release of the White paper to be set up, as well as a definite proposal as to payment in respect to the CONTISS 15 migration.

We would also like to draw up an agreement including the non-victimization clause so that the salaries being owed will be paid.

We are not even saying that the moneys must be paid before the strike is called off, but let Government tell us when the money will be paid. We are being very liberal about this; it is not a difficult situation, but a test of Government’s commitment. Let it be put in writing, and let the relevant parties sign."

in the last five years, Udeala said that the administration has had a smooth ride. In his speech, Prof. I. U. Asuzu,the Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Oye-Ekiti described Okolo as “a goal-oriented leader” who has pioneered and championed many developmental programmes.

He further stated that his vision for UNN was unrivalled in the areas of infrastucral development, promotion of staff as at when due,and the annulling of the quota system of admitting students and the principle of retaining students who graduated with first class.

"In my 33-years in UNN, I have not seen an administration as committed to the improvement of the university as that of Prof. Okolo, ” he said.

Similarly, Rev. Msgr.

Onoyima described the administration as a successful one. He, however, urged the incoming administration to work hard so as to sustain the good reputation of the institution.

ZODML boosts public schools library with books

By VERA SAMUEL ANYAGAFU

33 1 da ys on: ASUP strik e lapses int o ano ther 331 days strike into another "We hope that the issues The Coordinator of ASUP Zone will finally be resolved at session D, Mr. Anderson Ezeibe told Continues from page 25

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bank’s legal unit, disclosed that members of staff of the bank were happy to be involved in the project.

Underscoring the importance of the initiative, she said giving the pupils access to books through the library would improve their education.

She said: “Education is dependent on what you read. It helps everyone.

"We had a book drive within the bank. We told members of staff to donate books; we also fined those who came late for meetings and used the money for books. For us, we all have fun memories of libraries and we felt that it would be nice to give back.”

Mrs Angela Omo-Dare of Stanbic/IBTC Group read from a big story book, the Greedy Dog to the pupils as they listen with rapt attention. It was, however, discovered that many of the nursery pupils do not speak English and cannot read yet as they did not understand what Mrs Omo-Dare read to them.

But Mrs Eziri said in a matter of months, she is confident they would catch up.

He said: “That has been the testimony shared by pupils from five other schools in Lagos Island, where the organisation has endowed libraries.

At the inauguration, they spoke of their improvement from using the library regularly,” she added.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 27

28— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Nigerian students shine at 2014 Shell Eco-Marathon ...Show promise in building fuel-efficient cars

BY EBELE ORAKPO

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espite the deluge of neg ative publicity be-devilling Nigeria occasioned by the activities of the Boko Haram insurgents, some Nigerian students have made the nation proud in far away Netherlands through their engineering feat.

Students from the universities of Lagos (UNILAG) and Benin (UNIBEN) showed great potentials at the recently concluded 2014 edition of Shell Eco-Marathon in Rotterdam, Netherlands. They showed that given the right environment and exposure, *UNIBEN students celebrate the technical certification of their car in they can hold their own in sci- Netherlands. Inset is Nebahat Albayrak, Vice-President, Communience, technology and inno- cation, Shell Upstream International. vation as the two cars they produced passed the readire material.” of UNIBEN team: “Even quired safety and technical UNILAG Team: when we thought all hope was evaluation.

Said Segun Adebayo, 400 gone,we kept on checking The challenge of the 2014 level Mechanical Engineerand cross-checking and reedition was for students from ing student: “I feel really exworking the car based on the around the world to design, cited. Before now, we used to observations of the assessors. build and test ultra energysee this kind of innovation on I remember the day we passed efficient vehicles, vehicles Google and YouTube and we the weight test, we saw it as a that could be driven for thouused to be amazed at how far miracle. We were told we sands of kilometers on one students from developed failed and we had to go and litre of fuel. So winners are countries have gone in techrework certain aspects. We the teams that go the furthest nology. We never knew we were able to sort out all the using the least amount of would soon build cars like technicalities identified. God energy. this. Now it is not anything has been wonderful. Certain UNIBEN’s car, Tuke-Tuke, spectacular any more. While things happen that are beyond built on campus within sevhuman wisdom. When we got en months, passed all the reWe sourced other here, we got scared because quired technical evaluations, materials locally of the intensive scrutiny. We and was qualified to race in were also challenged by the also; our brake the Urban Concept category high technology deployed by while UNILAG team propad, for instance, students from advanced counduced AUTONOV II which tries.

We thank God that we was produced from participated in the Prototype eventually scaled through. category and also qualified palm kernel; the Interestingly, many of them to take part in the race. did not pass.

I feel like shedinterior fabric is Apart from making history as the first two teams from ding tears right now.” our local adire Sub-Saharan Africa to particContinuing, he said: material ipate at the Marathon, both “The whole journey startteams also joined a group of ed last year when we 10 out of the 200 teams at the came for a see-it-yourself event that participated at the tour here in The Netheropening ceremony. lands. We came to see

BY UMAR YUSUF other competitors and How we made it: study the competition. We OLA: O utgoing Professor Akii Ibhadode, were marveled at what Vice-Chancellor Team Supervisor of UNIBEN students like us were doof Modibbo Adama Uniteam, said he was surprised ing and we got chalversity of Technology (MAUthat Tuke Tuke made it lenged into building our TECH), Yola, Professor Usman against all odds. “This is our own car. The key thing in Bashir has revealed that the university presently can boast first time at this competition the marathon is the enviof 53 professors, against 30 proand we were able to pass the ronment, apart from innofessors when he took the mantechnical inspection. We vation. We were to use tle of leadership in 2009. Badidn’t know that we will come eco-friendly materials. shir, who spoke at a press conthis far with the 10 technical The weight is also a key ference to give a run down of his tests. I want to thank the Lord issue. We used fibre maadministration stated that he for what he has done, and the terial in building the feels satisfied with his scorecard persevering spirit of the Nibody. We used steel bewhile at the helm of affairs of the gerian helped us to pass the cause getting aluminum university. technical evaluation for us to was a bit challenging. We According to him, the university management, under his run. My joy knows no sourced other materials leadership also mapped out inbounds.” locally. Our brake pad, for frastructural development in the Said Adekoya Adeyemi, instance, was produced school through friends year-five Production Engifrom palm kernel and the of the institution, the Federal neering student and leader interior fabric is our local Government and grants from

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we were assembling the car, preparing for technical inspection, we saw students from great teams across the world being amazed by the design of our car. That alone gave us hope that we were good. Other teams have come here to say our car looks special and different, so I don’t feel intimidated.”

Shade Agbaje, a 400-level Mechanical Engineering student had this to say: “We entered for the Prototype category using battery electric as our source of fuel. As an engineering student, innovation is my basic driver. My reason for joining this team is because I have always loved anything automobile right from when I was small. That was my main drive for applying to study engineering in the first place. I found engineering as a good place to build my passion and dream.”

The Process: Describing the process that led to the development of AUTONOV II, Abraham Imohiosen, year-five Electrical/ Electronics Engineering student and Team Manager of UNILAG team said: “To produce the vehicle, we had to first of all identify what we needed to do.

We had to work in the mechanical electricial and material engineering units and we had to do a bit of publicity and source for sponsorship. We interviewed students of the faculties of engineering and sciences that would help with the task, and we found a few that were highly distinguished in their classes. I feel excited and proud to be representing Nigeria and my school. It has been a very engaging experience for me and other students.

Motivator: Shell Upstream International’s Vice-President, Communication, Nebahat Albayrak, took more than an official interest in Nigeria (one of her spheres of coverage) and insisted at one of her leadership team

meetings that Nigerian students should compete at the marathon. She worked closely with Shell Group and Nigerian colleagues to ensure that students from ABU, Zaria, UNIBEN and UNILAG travelled to Rotterdam in 2013 to observe Shell eco-marathon Europe for that year.

Nebahat (commomnly referred to as the other Nigerian) said: “...when we thought about this journey last year, nobody believed that we will have Nigerian satudents competing at Shell Eco-marathon Europe. I will like to personally congratulate you on this a c h i e v e ment.”

Royal Dutch Shell Plc CEO, Ben Van Beurden, who visited the Nigerian teams during the competition said: “We have been doing this for over 30 years. The fact that we have a Nigerian team here participating is an incredible milestone.

Africa is the continent of the future. It has so much potential, so much dynamism, and so much growth today that I think this actually is going to be a very important milestone going forward.”

Ike Mowete, professor of engineering/electromagnetics and Team Supervisor for UNILAG team said the competition had motivated the students into moving from laboratories to real life scenarios.

“The significance of this is that we have moved from the usual pattern of staying on the drawing board, stimulating, without getting to the physical hardware.”

For most of these students, this is the first time they are converting their designs into proper hardware. We had very brilliant students. This is the first time that they are moving from computer prototypes to the actual things.

“There are learning points for the nation from this. We should not stop here. We will ensure elements of continuity from our end.”

Outgoing MAUTECH VC gives scorecard

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across the world as a specialized institution in technolog y .

He said he has remained fulfilled because the university under his headship was able to bring about human development as a number of academic and non-academic staff that underwent courses in Nigeria and overseas which have improved their efficiency and effectiveness.

Bashir lauded the cooperation of the university community and support accorded him throughout his five year tenure without which he could not have recorded such achievements.

Bashir also said that he felt fulfilled that it was during his tenure that a number of programmes in the institution were accredited by the Na-

tional Universities Commission, NUC, as well as departmental accreditations by professional bodies.

The accreditations by NUC and professional bodies had given applicants seeking admission into the university to have confidence in pursuing such programmes, as against when the programmes were not accredited.

Commenting on the selection of Professor Kyari Mohammed as his successor, Bashir said that although his successor is a professor of History, he has been head of departments and dean of s o m e schools of the same institution, for close to 25 years.

He appealed for further cooperation and support for his successor.

Vanguard, THURSDAY,JUNE 19, 2014 — 29

Abandoned child serves in NYSC, tells his story

BY DAYO ADESULU

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Before applying for admission to Med School "History never repeats itself; man does." Barbara Tuchmann, Expert on 13th and 14th Centuries European History.

0703-322-7732 Please can you tell me the best Private University where my daughter can go to study Medicine?

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hat Professor Tuchmann said in academic language, P.T. Barnum, 1810-1891, the American Circus master, of two centuries ago, repeated in more down to earth language. According to him, "There is a sucker [fool] born every minute." If it takes God's Own Country up to sixty seconds to bring forth a fool into the world, then the Giant of Africa must be delivering them at a faster rate. Nothing proves this more than the number of applicants and parents who waste millions of naira, every year, obtaining enrollment into universities in Nigeria to read medicine when the courses are not accredited.

A few weeks ago, a wise father, unlike most whose money is burning a hole through their pockets, sent me a text message asking me to recommend a private university offering Medicine to which his daughter should seek enrollment.

To me, it was a welcome development. Only once, since this series of columns started, had a prospective student or guardian asked questions first, instead of regretting later. I was to glad to

Akinyemi Ephraim George my father picked me up after which he got married to my step-mum who started taking care of me.

"After some time, she started maltreating me because I was not her biological son.” According to him, trouble started when he was sent at a tender age to hawk. In the process, he lost some money and he was driven out to go and look for the money.

“She drove me out of the house and I could not find my way back. I cannot even remember the side of Lagos where we lived then because of my age.”

George who recalled his experience while in school said: “When I was in primary school, there was a teacher who insulted me by calling me orphan. However, the owner of Little Saints, Mrs George went to the class and confronted the teacher saying that we are not orphans but better than other children. Right there, she urged them to stop calling us orphans but rather call us the general name ‘George.’

Relating his experience on campus he said: "All my needs were properly catered for. Little Saints paid my school fees, provided food, gave me money and other needs. However, with all the love bestowed on me, I did feel emotionally disturbed once in a while, especially when I saw other parents coming to the campus to visit their children. Sometimes I had that feeling and it did affect my studies. However, the orphanage home played a perfect role in my life. They have done more than enough for me.

I have been able to acquire some skills through the NYSC SAED programme which I will practicalise. Right now, through the programme, I can do cocktail, chapman etc. I want to do my master's, take ICAN exams and be chattered. Immediately I finish my service, I will like to work and save money to enable me give back to the orphanage home and the society before I startmy own family. If it is just to bring N5,000 and a bag of rice, I will want to do something."

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ifferent people irrespective of age, sex, nationality and race are confronted with one challenge or the other in life. Incidentally these challenges are natural as there are certain things in life you can do nothing about. Just as no mortal man has the will power at birth to choose its nationality, in same vein, no child is allowed to choose his biological parents. We all grew up to know our biological parents. Whether they are poor, rich, black, white, literate or illiterate, were never our choices.

That explains why abandoned children do not reject their parents, even when some of the parents abandoned them in gutters, refused dumps or when they threaten their existence on earth. Children are simply innocent.

This brings to the fore, the experience of an abandoned boy who was picked up by the Little Saints Orphanage Home years ago. He was sponsored by the home from primary to university level.

Mr Akinyemi Ephraim George, 25 is a graduate of Accountancy at the Crawford University and presently a National Youths Service Corps member in Lagos. George bares his mind to journalists during the official presentation of gift items by the NYSC State Coordinator, Lagos State, Mrs Adenike Adeyemi to Little Saints Orphanage Home, Egbeda.

He said: “I came to Little Saints Orphanage when I was 10 years old.

I lost my parents, I could not find any of them. If I could remember the story vividly, I was staying with my stepmother. But because of the way some step mothers maltreat their wards, I was pushed out and I could not locate my way home anymore.

I was on the streets for two years because I left home as a six or seven-year-old. With the help of a policeman, I was taken to Alakara Police station where Little Saints Orphanage took me in at 10.

Little Saints took responsibility for everything about me, including my education from primary to university.

I graduated from Crawford University where I studied accounting. Now, I am doing my NYSC in Lagos.”

Asked if he knows his biological parents, George said: “Till now, I don’t know my biological parents. If I see them today, I cannot recognise them. However, if they can prove that I am their son, I will forgive them because of God and the large heart that I have. I will definitely forgive them because I don’t have a choice.

“I don’t know if they are late or not because I do not know them. The little information I am sharing with you is basically the information I got from my foster mother. “From the little story I heard, my biological father met my mother in school and impregnated her. My mum abandoned me because she didn’t want me."

Asked further the part of the country he hailed from, he noted that he was not even told the location where his mother abandoned him.

“I was abandoned by my mum and

In effect, what some of our universities, private and public, had done, and some are still doing, would be considered 419 if the criminal acts were perpetrated by ordinary con men

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assist. But before revealing the outcome of my search, let me remind our readers of the situation in Nigeria today about universities offering expensive professional courses - medicine, law, engineering, architecture - to mention the most common ones.

Provisional Approval and its Consequences The National University Commission, NUC, from time to time grants provisional accreditation to universities wanting to commence courses in certain disciplines - even when they have not fully complied with the requirements for offering those courses. Medicine and Law are the most notorious for this practice.

Unfortunately, for prospective students and guardians, the universities immediately start admitting students for those courses. Problems start, when, after the stipulated time, students have put in the required number of years, without the university fulfilling the requirements for accreditation.

In effect, what some of our universities, private and public, had done, and some are still doing, would be considered 419 if the criminal acts were perpetrated by ordinary con men.

Of the three first generation private universities [names withheld], two had established Colleges of Medicine more than ten years ago. Each of them had "graduated" at least two batches of "doctors". There is only one problem. The "graduates are inadmissible for the National Youth Service; neither can they undergo housemanship anywhere in Nigeria because the "certificates" they hold, while expensively procured, in terms of sweat, tears and money, are more worthless than tissue paper.

Yet, the authorities of those universities, pillars of society, including those who accuse those in government of corruption, have entered into a conspiracy of silence - while the scam continues.

Recently, one university placed an advertisement in a national newspaper with respect to students to which it had offered admission to read Law. After years of squabbling with the NUC about accreditation, the university closed down its Law School - leaving many students in a quandary about their future. Naturally, the university promised to find accommodation for those willing in other universities.

Visit: www.delesobowale.com or Visit: www.facebook.com/biolasobowale

30 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Cowbell’s Math contest: 68 students for final exam

BY TARE YOUDEOWEI

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TOTAL of 68 students drawn from 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory wrote the second and final stage examinations of the 2014 Cowbell National Secondary Schools Mathematics Competition (NASSMAC) in Lagos.

Of the 68 students, 34 were for the JSS3 category and the rest were for the SSS2 category. It would be recalled that 216 students passed the stage one exam, but only 68 of them scaled the screening hurdle and qualified for the final stage held at four different centres.

Fourteen of them, two each from Ekiti, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo; sat for their exam at Adna Hotel, Ikeja, while the candidates from 16 northern states gathered at Grand Ibro Hotel Annex in Abuja for theirs. The northern states at the final exam were: Bauchi, Benue, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Nassarawa, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Taraba, Zamfara and Abuja. Each state had two candidates .

Similarly, Abia, Anambra,

Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states were at the Enugu centre, Allen Suites, where two students each from the states wrote the exam. Danic Hotel, Port Harcourt, Rivers State was the venue used for the successful candidates from Bayelsa, Akwa-Ibom, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers states.

Commenting on the examinations, Mr. Andrew Enahoro, Head of Legal and Public Relations of Promasidor, said the stage is set for the national winner to emerge. He said the management was pleased with the level of commitment shown by all candidates.

According to him, the final prize-giving ceremony will hold at the Le’ Meridian Hotel, Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State on June 26. At this occasion, the best 10 students from each category at the second stage examination will be celebrated as COWBELL MATHEMATICIANS in the presence of all stakeholders including the Minister of Education.

In the junior category, Enahoro stated, the best student will win N250,000, trophy, medal and all expenses paid vacation and plaque, while the first runner-up will cart away N200,000, plaque and medal.

The second runner-up will get

N150,000, plaque and medal.

Similarly, in the senior category, the first prize winner will get N300,000, trophy, medal, plaque and laptop; first runner-up N250,000, plaque, medal and laptop; while the second runnerup will go home with N200,000, plaque, medal and laptop.

NASSMAC has evolved over the years and has continued to expand in scope with the support of the Ministry of Education at the federal and state levels.

Promasidor Nigeria Limited, through its flagship brand, Cowbell Milk has remained committed to improving the overall performance of Nigerian students in math whilst nourishing the leaders of tomorrow with wholesome healthy brands.

NOC nominates Greensprings for Youth olympics

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he Nigeria Olympics Com mittee (NOC) has nominated Greensprings School as Nigeria’s sole representative of the 2014 Youth Olympics exchange programme.

According to the modalities for the programme, the SchoolNOC Twinning Programme is one of the most important Culture and Education programmes in Nanjing 2014, which is meant to promote exchanges and communication between young people from different nations and share the diversity of cultures among the youth.

Greensprings’ selection became a reality after all the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) participating in Nanjing 2014 were invited to nomi-

nate one school from their nation to be twinned with schools in Nanjing, China.

On the formality, students from twinned schools are expected to take advantage of the tools of new media such as internet, video, blogs etc., to introduce to each other the histories, customs and cultures and education.

They are also expected to make friends, exchange gifts and even pay a visit to their twinned school. During the Olympic Games and based on what they have learnt through the study and exchanges with their twinned schools, students from Nanjing will decorate and run a booth of the World Culture Village.

UNILAG students get investment education

BY LAJU ARENYEKA ONE are the days when the university was a place only to learn how to manage other people’s money, but not how to make your own. Investment One, a wealth management company, is teaching students all over the country to make informed investment decisions for the future through its Young Investors Forum.

Speaking with journalists at one of such forums in UNILAG, Managing Director of Investment One

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Wealth Management and Trust, Mrs. Abimbola Afolabi-Ajayi said: “Our company’s focus is to provide the investor, particularly retail investors, with knowledge of the markets through several ways of disseminating market information, one of which is investment education. We hope that the forum will serve as a veritable platform to impact the university community positively and guide them in the quest to develop the entrepreneurial spirit that our dear nation so keen-

ly craves.

"We are working hand in hand with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Nigerian Stock Exchange among others, to provide quality education on how the market works.

"Students are at a time in their lives where they will soon graduate and go into the employment world, and whatever income they generate, they need to properly manage by investing in the right instruments."

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 31

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uper Eagles striker, Shola Ameobi has said that they are firm in their resolve to winning their next match against Bosina and Herzegovina, not withstanding their lackluster goalless draw with Iran in their opening group match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

He admitted that the team is now under pressure following their failure to amass maximum points against Iran in their opening game.

“We are all under pressure.

However, it’s not just Nigeria that’s under pressure. Every team that’s here for the World Cup is under pressure because it’s a big tournamentthe biggest in the World so there’s always pressure,” Ameobi said.

Eagles will face BosniaHerzegovina in their second group game of the competition on Saturday with a loss almost certain to sound the death knell for the Super Eagles.

Ameobi believes “nothing has changed” as the players of the Nigeria team always had a mindset of going all out for a win against the Bosnians.

“The Bosnia game is a game we were always going to be looking to win anyways so nothing has changed,” he said.

Ameobi who came on as a second half substitute failed to inspire the African champions to an opening day win over the three-time Asian champions.

The 32-year-old striker represented England 20 times at U21 level but is pleased to be representing the nation of his birth at the World Cup. “It’s a very proud moment for me. I am very proud to be here (in Brazil).

Unfortunately, we could not get the win in that first game (against Iran).

“We have to look at the positives. Hopefully, we can move on to the next game where hopefully, we should have more attacking options.

“We need to learn how to break teams that set up negatively against us. Iran played with ten men behind the ball.

We have to stay true to good habits and hopefully, we get the rub of the green next time.

The fact that we didn’t win is a negative for us. At the end of the day, tournament is all about winning games.

Trying to get out of this group, we have to stay positive and take the right mentality to the next game,” he said.

We're under pressure —Ameobi

Eagles can beat Bosnia — Elegbeleye T

he Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye has expressed optimism over Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup second round Elegbeleye is assured that the Super Eagles will bounce back in their next World Cup game against Bosnia.

Eagles were forced to a 0-0 draw by Iran in their first game of the tournament played at the Arena da Baizada in Curitiba, Brazil.

Though the passionate sports administrator was not impressed with the team’s performance against Team Melli, he believes the Eagles would spring up a surprise in their next match by beating Bosnia Herzegovina to brighten their qualification chances.

“Sincerely speaking that wasn’t a good result because I expected the Eagles to beat Iran. At this stage a draw is not good enough. They needed to win to make qualification for the next round much easier,” Elegbeleye told newsmen in Abuja.

“Not to worry I still believe that the boys have the quality to turn things around and bounce back and get victory in their next match against Bosnia Herzegovina.

“I have the confident that they can do it. They played and have better possession (63percent as against Iran’s 37percent) but unfortunately they did not win,” he continued.

“At this stage ball possession don’t can’t but victory does. So you need to score goals because if you don’t score goals you don’t win matches.

“The team like I said has the quality to score goals and win matches so they should go all out and prove their worth by winning the next match against Bosnia. The team needs to show in our play the zeal the Super Eagles in known for in our next match.

*Joseph Yobo

32 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

BRAZIL 2014 WO

Delicious Lizard meal!

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e are here for a short time, let’s get all the laughter we can. Because if you dwell on serious issues, you would be a patient for a hungry Doctor.

And Doctors don’t know the meaning of mercy even at the point of death. They are like the Eagles, they collect their money upfront. I am laughing all the way because the language barrier has made people go hungry and eat what they did not ask for. Imagine a supporter who asked for food but because he could not name the particular one he ended up

eating grilled lizard? The look on his face forced another to ask what he ordered for. More enquiries and sign languages led to the hotel to bring somebody who understands and speaks English. ‘’He is eating grilled lizard. It is a delicacy from China and very rich in protein”, he said. A bout of vomiting followed in the toilet. How did it happen? ‘’They told me to place my order from a book. There is grass in all of them. I picked the one I saw meat on. I didn’t know it’s lizard”, our man bemoaned, still cleaning his mouth with a white handkerchief. “chei! I don eat alangba!

Toilet for Mans, Toilet for Womans!

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he Brazilians love their language and do not give a hoot whether you understand or not. Unlike other World Cup hosts who provided interpreters, they are very few here if you are lucky to find one. That has also added to the fun of covering of the World Cup. Imagine you are pressed to urinate and you have a female volunteer to ask for direction to where you can ease yourself. After repeatedly saying toilet, toilet and no

response, one used his number six to point to my zip and she roared in laughter and directed me to the toilet. After the relief, I looked back to see a sign boldly written in English ‘’Toilet for Mans” and yet another one ‘’Toilet for Womans”.

It made me remember the road sign I saw in Warri in one of my trips to cover Warri Wolves Football Club. It read ‘’Man at working”. And on closer look, there was only one man working on the road. So, it couldn’t have been ‘’Men at work”.

Attakante! Attakante!!

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had the misfortune of covering Super Eagles first match with Iran, sandwiched by one bulky Colombian Felipe and another Brazilian at the Media tribune for Journalists. When I entered and saw their sizes, and the fact that all other Journalists were together in another row, I went back to ask for a change.

The volunteer frantically said no, no no. It has been written.

What is written cannot be rewritten”. ‘’Okay now”, I muttered and sat down with my gadgets. As the match wore on with the Eagles playing as if they were in an exhibition show, agitations grew from the crowd.

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Suddenly, a massive hand grabbed my shoulder and shouted ‘’attakante, attakante!!. What is attakante?”, I asked again trying to free myself from his grip. A volunteer came to my rescue and said that he was asking why the Eagles were not attacking. I threw my hands in the air and wondered how I could have known why they are not attakante. Imagine getting injured for a bird that was asking for $75,000 appearance fee. If they win a match they collect $10,000 and when they play a draw like the one against Iran they got $5,000.

And am being pushed and shoved in the name of attakante, attakante, attakante!!!

Half bread …

Half bread is better than none,” so a popular saying goes..

The Brazilian hotels, apparently sensing the high influx of visitors, might have been hampered by bad publicity following the preworld Cup protests applied the

spirit of enterprise in taking in visitors at reduced rates than earlier advertised.

They stationed their army of marketing canvassers with mouth watering offers. They offered free rides to such hotels to the new arrivals. It was a win – win situation for all.

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A draw as bad as a loss

he 0-0 scoreless match up posted by the Super Eagles against the Team Melli of Iran was like suffering a defeat to many Nigerians, who turned up in Brazil for the World Cup. The Mundial kicked off on June 12.

The fans, who had expected outright defeat to Iran, were virtually deflated after the last whistle, signalling the end of the match. Both teams shared a point apiece.

Many of the fans, who had arrived in Brazil for the match, wore long drawn faces after the

Eagles were forced to the goalless had wished the Eagles were able to points because they believed the Ir the weak team of group F. “What hopes are there for us agai 1-2 to ‘great’ Argentina,” asked Ike come all the way from Onitsha to ch A top Nigerian musician, known Eagles, who were pre-match favour embarrassing.

“They must do something subsequ criticisms and condemnation.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 —33

ORLD CUP FLICKS

situation, saying they o secure the vital three ranians were on paper,

inst Bosnia, which lost e Okafor, a fan who had heer the Eagles. simple as Wale, said the rites, were

uent matches to stem

Supporting Eagles without Drums, Trumpets T

he Nigerian supporters club are here in their numbers. Many Nigerians have been wondering why they did not hear them sing as they always do in their usual manner. They were stripped off their drums and trumpets and allowed them access into the stadium. President General Dr Rafiu Ladipo has been crying over the treatment meted out to a renown club that has won international awards from World soccer-governing body, FIFA. ‘’This is like letting you into the exam

hall without your writing materials”, he said. They tried to sing at the Baixa stadium in Curitiba. But they could not do much without their trumpets and drums coupled with the epileptic performance of the Eagles.

The power of soccer in ‘Sambaland’ T

he pre-World Cup protests that nearly marred the image of Brazil as a nation of ever happy people, petered out soon after the kick off of the World Cup. Instead of the protests over the huge financial resources being expended in the provision of the facilities for the Mundial, fans were trooping out in their numbers to catch fun, while the events lasted.

The emphasis has now shifted to supporting their national team to victory, particularly after the struggle to ensure a 3-1 victory over hard-fighting Croatia during the World Cup opening game.

“It’s been fun galore everywhere,” noted Emeka Odikpo, well-known radio commentator, who had logged on more travel miles since arriving Rio de Janeiro, the main ‘Samba nation’ as Brazil is referred to by foreigners.

“You need to be at the Marracana Stadium, a facility that just turned 64 on Monday, after being built for the 1950 World Cup. “You need also to be at the Copacabana Beach, as well as the statue of Christ the Redeemer, an iconic place that took not less than six years to complete,” Odikpo added.

Twists and turns T

he six hour-long trip by bus to catch up with the Super Eagles match at the Arena Da Baixada Stadium, Crutiba, can at best be described as “twists and turns”.

This is because of the virtual uncountable breath-taking turnings enroute the city. The route and its surrounding hilly environment were not only challenging, but aesthetic sites

to behold for first time visitors.

Perhaps the strength has been that drivers in the challenging route are made to drive with regulated speed.

“There is no room for speeding and careless driving on the tracks,” said a driver of one of the many operating buses, Viacao Itempemirim, on the route.

34—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 35

36 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 37

Retired Supreme Court Justice cannot be entrusted with NJC — Azinge

P

rofessor Epiphany Azinge SAN, is the immediate past director-general of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS). He recently pulled out of the institution after completing his five year tenure, but remains a Research Professor of law at the institute.

In this interview, he spoke on his achievements and challenges at NIALS. He also spoke on the judiciary, legal education and ethical standard in the profession as well as other related issues.

Excerpts:

•Prof Azinge

By DAYO BENSON in the whole world. We successfully established 20 peer reviewed journals of international standard and this is easily the best anywhere in the world. Our public lectures and roundtables were adjudged to be of the world class standard.

A lot of creativity and innovations were brought to bear in most of our public activities.

Our centenary law summit may never be replicated again for another hundred years. It was a monumental success and Mr. President personally declared it open. Our convocation lecture delivered by president Museveni of Uganda was no less impressive. In summation, NIALS under my watch built up a profile that anyone would be proud of. Naturally, I have every reason to be grateful to God for his guidance and protection throughout my tenure.

What were the most challenging experiences you had while in office?

I feared for the worst that the institute maybe recommended

LIM slams FG over siege on press

for rationalization by the Oransaye Panel. It was the most challenging experience I had while in office. But again, it was an experience that helped me in determining the strategic vision of my administration. Suddenly, I realized that the institute was not well known, not to talk of being appreciated by majority of Nigerians, Lawyers and non-lawyers.

W

hat legacy would you say you left behind?

Legacy of hardwork, team spirit, result orientedness, nothing is impossible, over 50 book published within a span of five years, international exposure and capacity building for staff, rebuilding customary law in Nigeria, developing unique methodology for socio legal research and building a crop of legal statisticians never seen anywhere before.

While you were in the saddle, NIALS launched free pro-bono clinic. Did the free clinic make any impact before you left?

Page 38

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How would you describe your tenure as the director of NIALS? Simply, I will say that my tenure was eventful, historic and successful. This is based on how well I was able to accomplish the goals I set for myself and how effectively we tackled the strategic vision we laid down as a guide for determining the set objectives of the institute. Ideally I consider it immodest to be involved in this self-appraisal because I know much could be achieved if you have gone to the institute to research into what we did during my tenure. Alternatively it would have been preferable if you took time to interview some stakeholders to find out what they think of NIALS under my watch.

In summary I believe that such performance evaluation would be more credible and honorable than a subjective assessment on my part. But all said, I am confident that history will be very kind to me and my legacy will speak for me at all times.

What would you point to as your major achievements at the institute?

There are hosts of major achievements that I cannot even begin to count. Specifically I was able to build NIALS into an international brand as far as legal scholarship is concerned. We also successfully internationalized our programme and our faculty. We produced the first set of PhD holders in legislative drafting

The pro-bono online clinic was an instant success. Many people immediately keyed into the vision that informed the setting up of the clinic. People wrote to ask legal questions which were immediately responded to. For those requiring litigation, they were invited to meet our own team of experts (who are all staff of the institute) and their cases are being processed. The unit responsible for the clinic is very busy and we are happy that we are able to offer such unique and altruistic service to Nigerians and non-Nigerians alike.

Your administration also launched on-line classes for prospective students who may not be able to attend regular lectures. What level of success did it record?

I am however supremely optimistic that it will be a resounding success because candidates who ordinarily will not be able to audit our programme because they live in

among the best in the world.

Are you satisfied with the standard of legal education in the country? If not, which areas would you want to see improvements?

I will wish for better credentials for entering law faculties and also for serious scrutiny of curriculum of law faculties to make our students well rounded and properly trained for modern legal practice.

More significantly, I propose that doctrinal teaching and learning should be encouraged so as to produce ethical legal practitioners. In accordance with trends all over the world, I advocate the process of developing problem-solving skills through multi-disciplinary project courses, which present real-world business and policy problems by exposing law students to professional practice areas. I will suggest the injection of subjects in new areas of law such as aviation law, maritime law,

The idea of NJC being headed by a retired Supreme Court Justice is fundamentally flawed and should not be contemplated at all. A retired Supreme Court Justice has nothing at stake

far flung places or outside Nigeria now have the opportunity to do so at reasonably and affordable cost.

How well has the institute succeeded in training judges to be effective in quick dispensation of justice?

The Nigeria Judicial Institute is the institution primarily charged with responsibility of training judges. NIALS only help out occasionally depending on the specialized nature of the training. We have also introduced specialized judicial track training for lawyers aspiring to go to the bench. Our thinking is that it is better to prepare aspirants to the bench for the challenges of administration of justice even before they get to the bench. On the whole, I can say without equivocation that Nigerian judges are properly trained and that is why I rate them

,

competition law, and nuclear war as electives at undergraduate levels. But it is my considered view that the study of international law be made compulsory, and if necessary, a prerequisite course at undergraduate levels. ow do you think cor ruption can be minimized, if not eradicated in the judiciary- considering the fact that NIALS is involved in continuous training of judicial officers?

The role of the NJC in this regard is highly commendable and I want to urge that the tempo be sustained. The issue of corruption has nothing to do with continuing training of judicial officers and to that extent NIALS will have little or nothing to say in that regard.

Even at that Nigeria’s judiciary remains one of the best in Continues on page 38

H

Confab’s mixed message on judiciary reform

Page 39

38—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

LIM slams FG over siege on press

By DAYO BENSON

L

awyers in the Media, LIM, has added its voice to the condemnation of a recent siege on the press, over military clampdown on the press, following their arrest and seizure of circulation vehicles belonging to some newspaper houses.

LIM, in a statement by its chairman, Mr. Charles Odenigbo, condemned the federal government over what he described as obnoxious actions against the press.

According to him, “When military officers begin to impound circulation vans of newspaper houses to prevent the circulation of newspapers, it becomes worrisome and total abuse of the rule of law. This is obnoxious, it is unwarranted and a gross violation of the fundamental rights of the citizens

Continues from page 37 the whole world and we must not demonize the judiciary because of the activities of few bad eggs. I still have implicit confidence in our judiciary and I believe that the public perception is no less charitable.

You were a member of the former CJN’s committee on reform of the judiciary. The on-going National Conference Committee on judiciary and human rights has also made some sweeping recommendations in this regard.

What is your take on this?

I was a member of the judicial reform committee under former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon Justice Darihu Musdapher GCON. I am aware of the recommendations of the committee on judiciary of the National conference and applaud them for the farreaching recommendations, even though I do not agree with some of the proposals.

Even if they are to form a point of departure, it is important that we credit them with vision and courage to move the judiciary forward.

EDITORIAL TEAM Innocent Anaba ( Head) Wahab Abdulah Ikechukwu Nnochiri Dayo Benson (Supervising Editor)

whether individuals or corporate citizens to pursue their legitimate businesses. If the military feel aggrieved in any way all that is expected of them is to reply or go to court.

This affront amounts to testing the waters for other heinous probable steps in concert.

“Nigeria is gradually slipping back into what we saw during the military era; it is very obvious that the government of the day is not very clear about the rules of democracy. Section 13 of the 1999 constitution as amended clearly states the fundamental obligations of the government includes to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of the constitution especially the provisions of chapter two which deals with the fundamental objectives and directive principles of State policy.”

He stated further that, “Ni-

•Charles Odenigbo geria practices a system of government based on the principles of democracy and social

justice. Now there are certain clear objectives or State policies that we are expected to adhere to in terms of political objectives, environmental objectives, foreign policy and much more.

Section 15 (5) states that “the state shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”

Wondering where the government derived the power to clamp down on media houses, Odenigbo said, “Section 22 of the constitution also imposes a heavy obligation on the mass media. That Section states that the press, which includes newspapers, magazines, radio, televisions and other agencies of the mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in chapter two of the constitution and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the government to the

people.”

He stated further that, “this is a clear indication that the government and their military cohorts do not have tolerance for democratic ideals and norms. A government that does not tolerate free press is not a democratic government at all; it has put on the apparel of dictatorship.

"I am really disappointed that the Special Assistant to the President on Communication and Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okukpe, could justify the action of the military on the flimsy excuse that they were searching for sensitive security documents. I am surprised that he has reduced politics to that level; there is nothing that the military is looking for. The President of Nigeria is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces and he takes responsibility for whatever happens in the country. They cannot cook up excuses to cover up for their errors.”

Retired Supreme Court Justice cannot be entrusted with NJC — Azinge Do you subscribe to the calls that the Office of the Attorney General of the federation and Minister for Justice should be separated and that NJC should be headed by a retired Supreme Court justice?

I subscribe to the idea of separating the office of Attorney General from that of Minister or Commissioner of Justice. No one has canvassed this view better than the incumbent Attorney General of the Federation Mr. Moham-

med Bello Adoke, CFR, SAN. The idea of NJC being headed by a retired Supreme Court Justice is fundamentally flawed and should not be contemplated at all. A retired Supreme Court Justice has nothing at stake and therefore cannot be entrusted with such responsibilities as is conferred by the constitution on the Chairman of the NJC. To do so is to politicise the NJC and this will not augur well for the judiciary. Successive CJN’s have discharged their duties

First ECOWAS judge celebrates 40th anniversary in legal profession

By BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

F

irst president of the Eco nomic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) Court, Justice Hansine Napwaniyo Donli, and the set of 1974 of the Nigerian Law School will June 28 celebrate their 40th anniversary in the legal profession.

In a statement signed by secretary of the organizing committee, Mr. Goke Ekisola, other members of the set that are to take part in the celebration include: Chief Robert Clarke SAN, Chief Sena Anthony and Chief Mrs Tessa Ikimi.

The event which is scheduled to take place at Wheatbaker hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos, under the chairmanship of the state’s Chief Judge (CJ), Jus-

tice Ayotunde Phillps, would also play host to Akwa Ibom CJ, Justice Indongesit Isua and Cross Rivers State CJ, Justice Dorothy EyambaIdem.

creditably and should be allowed to continue to chair the council.

How do you think high ethical standard can be maintained in the legal profession?

By ensuring that only fit and proper persons are called to the bar and by the disciplinary committee doing their job creditably well. More significantly, the public should learn to speak up when lawyers fall short of expectation.

How would you access the country’s human right record vis-à-vis the global standard and what is next now that you have pulled out as the director-general of NIALS? Our human right records are not terrible at all. It may not be up there, but it is certainly not as low as we have seen it before. I will advise that protection and promotion of human right is for all Nigerian and not for Government and the National Human Right Commission alone. With

•Prof Azinge proper sensitization and awareness, I believe we can only improve on our current rating.

As for me, I only bowed out of office as Director General. I remain a Research Professor of law and a senior Advocate of Nigeria. There is a lot of work still to be done and I have moved on to fresh challenges.

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 39

HE 2014 National C o n f e r e n c e ’ s committee on Law, Judiciary, Human Right, and Legal Reforms alongside other committees had turned up its report for the conference plenary debates and adoption on May 15th, 2014.

The 25-member committee which includes retired Justices G.A.Oguntade, T.F.Tabai, HRH LawalHassam Gumi, Abdullahi Mustafpha, Peter Akere, Adamu Aliyu, Baba Alkali Ba’aba, Adamu Bello and Veronica Ngozi Umeh; i.e. nine in all.

While there are two law professors – Auwal Yadudu and Onje Gye-Wado, there are four Senior Advocates of Nigeria, namely, Chief Charles Uwensuyi-Edosonwan , Dr Olisa Agbakoba, Femi Falana, Mike Ozokhome, Bayo Ojo. Other members are HRH Alh. Abdullahi Ibn Muhammad Askira 111, H.E Senator Kofowora Buknor-Akere, Dr Magadalyne Mbadzeridan Dura,Hajia Bintu Ibrahim Musa, Bar. Igberi Nweme, Ms Hauwa Evelyn Shekarau, Hon Olawale Oshun, Barr. Zubair Muhammad Umar and Chief Goddy Uwazurike.

Curiously, when the committee paid a visit to the current Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar to seek for her contribution on judiciary reform debate, she reminded them that some wise men had recently researched into the same matter.

Immediate predecessor Justice Mukhtar presented a copy of the report of the 28 wise men constituted by her immediate predecessor, Justice Dahiru Musdapher with four former CJNs namely, Justices Muhammadu Uwais, S.M.A. Belgore, Idris L. Kutigi and A.I. Katsina-Alu as members.

She told the Confab committee that the report was pending before the National Assembly for constitutional amendment.

That Justice Uwais panel had three other retired justices of the Supreme Court as members – Justices Kayode Eso (late), A.G. Karibi-Whyte and Umaru A. Kalgo; also had Justices Mamman Nasir, Mustapha Akanbi and Umaru Abdullahi who were former PCA. Others are Justices R.P.I. Bozimo and Rose N. Ukeje as former Chief Judges, and Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi as the then Chief Judge of FCT with former AGFs in the panel such as Chief Richard O.Akinjide SAN and Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim It also includes former NBA Presidents; T.J.O. Okpoko (SAN), Wole Olanipekun (SAN), O.C.J. Okocha (SAN), Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu (SAN) and

•Aloma

Confab’s mixed message on judiciary reform Prince Lanke Odogiyan, Esq in addition to Joseph Daudu (SAN) who was a serving NBA President then.

Other SANs in the panel are Dr. A.G.F. AbdulRazak, Anthony O. Mogboh and A.B. Mahmud. Hajiya Hairat Balogun, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, (Former DirectorGeneral, NIALS), Dr. Mamman Tahir (Former Director-General, Nigerian Law School) were also in the panel.

The terms of references of the confab committee and Uwais panel may differ in the language or expression used, but it is all about judiciary reform aimed at having transparent, quick dispensation of credible justice and above all having a judiciary peopled by men and women of integrity and honour.

It is about having judiciary devoid of corruption with little or absence of executive interference.

A cursory glance at the confab judiciary committee report gives the impression of boardroom or tea-room exercise on the grounds that neither public hearings were held nor memoranda were received from members of the public. Besides, there is no record of wider consultations with stakeholders, pressure groups (like NBA and CSOs) and members of academic community except the visit to the CJN by the committee members on April 28th,

2014.

However, the exigency of time and space constraint will make it inpracticable to place the confab judiciary committee report side by side with the Uwais panel report for detailed analysis in this discourse.

Though, the confab judiciary committee which was chaired by a former justice of the Supreme Court, Justice G.A.Oguntade spent 23 days to arrive at its decision, but it made far reaching recommendations capable of moving judiciary forward. Again, the committee made some recommendations that are capable of levying collateral damage on the judiciary if allowed to stand.

Judiciary committee For instance, the confab judiciary committee recommended that a retired Justice of the Supreme Court should be appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Chief Justice of Nigeria as the chairman of the Federal Judiciary Service Commission (FJSC) The Functions of the Commission as contained in the Third Schedule (Part 1, Section E) of the 1999 Constitution states that the Commission shall have power to advise the NJC in nominating persons for appointments to the office of CJN, PCA, Justices of the Supreme

Court and the Appeal Court.

Others include the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, a Judge of the Federal High Court, and the Chairman and Members of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, The confab committee said that the CJNs should continue to chair the NJC, in other words, a retired Supreme Court justice is now empowered to superintend over a CJN in the process of appointment of judicial officers including that of succeeding CJNs. This sounds somehow, and could breed confusion and anarchy in the system. The right to hire goes with the right to fire.

The confab judiciary committee also recommended that ‘’Retired Justices to preside over Election Tribunals as instead of serving justices” This recommendation failed to take historical account of the fact that electoral dispute since the advent of democracy in 1999 has led to heavy casualty in the judiciary. The temptation associated with adjudicating electoral dispute is so high to the extent that the possibility of being caught and sanctioned by NJC is not mitigating enough.

Besides, retired justices are not immune to corruption as well. The former NBA president, Mr J.B.Daudu had said some eminent retired justices do midwife between serving justices and litigants to sell judgements. Daudu on February 17, 2010 had during a valedictory court session held in honour of late Justice Anthony Nnaemezie Christopher Aniagolu, ”vowed to expose how politicians used “consultants” to buy election cases with “incredible sums of money.”

“We are no doubt aware that some of our colleagues including very senior counsel and at

,

T

By AHURAKA YUSUF ISAH

of the appeal over Anambra South Senatorial Election Tribunal.

The Second instance was the Akwa Ibom State Governorship Election Tribunal set up after the 2003 Governorship Election.

There were five members of the Tribunal.

Whilst the proceedings were still pending in the Tribunal, on the 10th July, 2003 the petitioner petitioned NJC alleging that four of the five members of the Tribunal i.e. the Chairman, and three others had been compromised with large sums of money as bribe.

NJC investigated the complaints through a committee set up for that purpose and found that the allegations were true and that the Chairman of the Election Tribunal and three other members received bribes during the sitting.

Dismissal for corruption They were accordingly dismissed from the Bench. One Federal High Court Judge who was not a member of the Tribunal, was also dismissed for corruption and abuse of office because he was found to have associated with one of the contestants in a corrupt manner.

Even the feud between the former CJN, Justice Aloysius Katsina-Alu and the former president of the Court of Appeal, Justice Ayo Isa Salami which almost left the judiciary prostate was borne out of the electoral dispute.

One also hope that if the confab judiciary committee’s recommendation for review of the composition of NJC sails through, such laws will not turn the council to theatre of absurd whereby the CJN will begin to lobby council members before judges can be appointed or disciplined.. The committee’s view

A cursory glance at the confab judiciary committee report gives the impression of boardroom or tea-room exercise on the grounds that neither public hearings were held nor memoranda were received from members of the public

times eminent retired judicial officers go about offering their services as ‘consultants’ particularly in election cases for incredible sums of money so as to act as conduit between his client and the election court. The end result is to facilitate readymade justice for the persons they are acting for”.

The question is, can NJC that is in-charge of disciplining erring judges also sanction retired justices if found to be corrupt while presiding over electoral dispute? The answer is no.

Take for instance; against the backdrop of 2003 general elections, two justices of the Court of Appeal, were dismissed by NJC for receiving bribes of N15m and N12m respectively. This was in respect

,

that ”the system that requires judges to turn in a certain number of cases/judgments quarterly without regard to the quality of the judgment should be discouraged”, appears counterproductive. Curiously enough, it is the same body that dwell on the matter of ‘’delay in administration of justice”.

Even before we sat for Common Entrance examination in our primary school days, we were warned that our successes would depend on ‘’speed and accuracy” If a target is not set in a system, what then becomes the measure to determine the level of productivity in that system?

•Ahuraka Yusuf Isah is the media aide to the CJN.

40 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

A

S a former military officer, Governor Jonah Jang may not be too scared of warfare. But to successfully prosecute two wars on two front-lines, is however, not what the former air force officer may have bargained for; especially when conspiracy-prone bloody civilians are involved.

On one front, the governor is enmeshed in a cat and mouse game with the state House of Assembly over what is alleged to be a plot by mischief makers in the legislature to probe the financial affairs of his administration.

Few days ago, the administration fired a memo to all appointees and government officials not to honour any invitation by the legislature without the express approval of the governor.

On the other front, the governor is enmeshed in a battle of wits with the state party chairman, Mr. Haruna Dabin over the 2015 gubernatorial succession.

Dabin, a former party apparatchik at the PDP headquarters in Abuja had for long shown his eagerness to take over from Jang in 2015.

His problem was that for more than one year, even after he had told many other people, he was unable or unwilling to inform Jang. Two weeks ago after Jang returned from an overseas visit, Dabin finally mustered courage to inform the governor and that was after Dabin’s traditional ruler had made the way for him.

Governor Jang was said to have wished the state PDP chairman well on his ambition and promised as the state party leader to provide a level playing ground. As Dabin prepared to leave, the governor was said to have reminded him of the need to resign as party chairman as he, Dabin cannot be a referee in his own contest.

And that was where a showdown between the party chairman and the governor developed as Dabin insisted he would not resign.

Before the showdown, the governor according to sources on the plateau had become uncomfortable with Dabin following suspicions that his one-time acolyte was fraternising with renegade members of the PDP mostly based in Abuja. His suspicions were fired when he, Jang led a delegation of Plateau PDP to the new National Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Mu‘azu and was shocked to see a number of Abuja based Plateau chieftains opposed to him at the national secretariat. The governor was said to have wondered how they were invited for the occasion?

So following the face-off between the governor and

2015: Jang fights back THE political landscape in Plateau State, recently distorted by sectarian-cum religious conflicts, is taking a shape of its own as the exit date of Governor Jonah Jang approaches.

Dabin last week, the governor was reported to have instructed his close aides that it was time to move against Dabin.

In view of this, the State Working Committee, SWC of the PDP had in a meeting last week asked Dabin to resign his as state chairman of the party and face his gubernatorial ambition.

Vanguard gathered that four members of the SWC had in the said meeting held at the State Party Secretariat in Jos walked out on the now suspended chairman.

Members of the SWC were said to be infuriated over the insistence of Dabin to preside over the said meeting.

A source said Dabin was asked to resign as he “cannot remain as Chairman of the Party as well as the Party candidate but when he insisted on presiding over the meeting, they walked out on him.”

Meanwhile, associates of Dabin are saying that his travail is the handiwork of party members who are hatching a plot to allow somebody from Jang’s Plateau North succeed

,

BY MARIE-THERESE NANLONG

•Jang including the Deputy Governor, Mr. Ignatius Longjan, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Titus Alams, Principal officers of the House, National Assembly members,

Associates of Dabin are saying that his travail is the handiwork of party members who are brewing a plot to allow somebody from Jang’s Plateau North succeed him

him.

Meanwhile, a signature drive for an emergency meeting of the State Executive Committee, SEC of the party was initiated last week by the pro-Jang stakeholders with the aim of neutralising Dabin.

More than 95 per cent of statutory members of the SEC

,

Local Government Council Chairmen, Local government Party Chairmen among others were said to have honoured the SEC meeting last Monday despite an SMS campaign by the Dabin camp to boycott the meeting. At the end of the meeting, a communiqué drafted by a five man team was

issued.

Before the meeting mutual friends of Dabin and Jang had pressured the embattled chairman to throw in the towel, but he apparently rebuffed the entreaties as he fought back disclaiming the SEC meeting as illegal. He had sympathy in about two members of his executive, but it was to no avail. Dabin apparently sensing the determination of the state secretary, Saleh Pam to join the forces against him, had in a statement prior to last Monday’s meeting accused Pam of trying to create disunity in the party.

Meanwhile, Dabin also summoned a meeting of the SWC of the party to hold at the secretariat at about the same time as the SEC meeting was about to take off at the Presidential Lodge. His

meeting was largely boycotted.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the SEC meeting on Monday, 16th June and read

by Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, Chairman, Mangu Local Government Area who represented elected council chairmen, the Deputy Chairman of the party, Raymond Dabo was mandated to take over the affairs of the Party as Acting State Chairman pending the outcome investigations by the Party’s Disciplinary Committee.

Muftwang in the communiqué said, “in view of the deliberate refusal by Party Chairman, Dr. Haruna Dabin to call meetings of the various organs of the Party for unduly long period and the failure to render financial accounts to the Party and instigating some members of the Party to institute a lawsuit against the Party, the State Executive Committee is constrained to suspend the Chairman pending the outcome of investigations by the Party ’s Disciplinary Committee within two weeks”.

He added, “the Party assured of a level playing ground for those aspiring for political offices in 2015 but urged people holding post which is likely to compromise the impartiality of electoral process to resign their positions”.

Dr. Dabin in his response to the developments told Vanguard: “I was not invited for the meeting I only heard it on radio. We were hoping to hold the State Working Committee meeting in the office this morning but my staff called me that the Police came in with an order to seal the office and they were asked to go home.”

Derivation: 13% too small for N-Delta — Jalogho-Williams MR. Hosanna Jalogho-Williams, an environmentalist and Chief Executive Officer of Seabridge Environmental Marine Ltd, is a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta State. In this interview, he faults the retention of the 13 per cent derivation to mineral producing areas, saying it should be increased to 50 per cent.

BY DAPO AKINREFON

WHAT is your take on the retention of the 13 per cent derivation by the National Conference committee?

Every right thinking Nigerian should know that the 13 per cent given to the Nigeria Delta region is not sufficient because of our environment. It is quite small.

The 13 per cent we talk about, what are we going to use it

for? It is not for salaries because we are talking about infrastructural development.

For example, to construct a road in the Niger Delta, it is about seven or eight times of what you use in constructing a road in the Northern region.

So, 13 per cent is nothing to us.

Every right thinking person should know that people of the Niger Delta require at

least 50 per cent and not even 13 per cent.

Would you agree that each state should control its resources to enhance development?

That is an element of true federalism and what should have been done.

I keep telling people that if the foundation is weak, there is nothing that you build on top of it that will work.

Democracy is an orbit but we are not practicing true federalism. How can that kind of government work?

What is your take on the agitation that power should shift to Delta North in 2015?

Power shift is purely a PDP verbal arrangement; it is not in a law. The PDP arrangement is that power should rotate among the three senatorial districts in Delta State.

That is a PDP arrangement, it does not apply to APC or

Continues on page 41

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 41

2015: Will Akpabio’s succession template work in Akwa Ibom?

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE

I

T is not in doubt that Akwa Ibom State Governor, Obong Goswill Akpabio, wants to be in the Senate in 2015 representing Akwa-Ibom North West Senatorial District after his eight-year sojourn at the Government House. It is also not in doubt that he wants a ‘credible successor’ who will continue with his ‘uncommon transformation agenda’ to succeed him. And finally, it is clear that he wants the lucky successor to be a product of zoning in the interest of equity, balance and justice.

The governor’s support for zoning has been ratified by the state executive committee of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as well as members of the party across the three senatorial districts and 10 federal constituencies following a series of town hall meetings held between last April and May. However, the zoning template has been opposed by a section of the PDP, which called itself Akwa Ibom PDP elders and stakeholders. In this camp are the three serving senators and former Secretary to the State Government, Umana Okon Umana

among others and they have vowed to oppose the zoning of the governorship slot to any senatorial zone, insisting that there should be a free, fair and open PDP primaries for all aspirants.

Akpabio’s ambition to occupy the Akwa-Ibom North West Senatorial seat has never been hidden. In 2012, when senators held a retreat in the state, he participated in the sittings, obviously acquainting himself with the workings of the legislature.

A happy Akpabio, in one of the sessions, hailed the level of democracy he had witnessed in the operations of the Senate where the Senate President is only one among equals.

To get the opinion of Akwa Ibomites on his ambition, achievements in the last seven years and the question of how his successor should emerge, the governor embarked on the meet-thepeople tours of his state.

Akpabio, it was gathered, had since early 2013 been concerned about the character and quality of the person that would succeed him in 2015. He was said to have raised the issue with his inner caucus members in the state. He wants somebody who will complete the projects he had started and take the uncommon transformation agenda to

,

• Akpabio

higher heights.

Things were moving according to plans until last July when rumpus occurred in the inner circle of his government and the Secretary to the Government of the State, Umana Okon Umana resigned his position. One account said he was actually forced to take the drastic decision.

Umana was one of those, who worked for Akpabio’s emergence in 2007. Until the bubble burst, Umana was regarded as the governor-in waiting and he wielded much influence in the affairs of the State. Sources said Governor Akpabio, his inner circle and leaders of the state had earlier zeroed in on Umana as Akpabio’s likely successor in 2015.

However, a twist occurred following disagreements between the governor and Umana over the headship of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Akpabio was said to have gone to Abuja, pleaded and got the support of President Goodluck Jonathan that Umana be allowed to take the slot of the Managing Director of the NDDC, which was the turn of Akwa Ibom State to fill because he was sure that Umana could deliver on the President’s vision of restructuring the commission.

Back home, Umana saw loopholes in the arrangement despite assurances from the governor that the appointment would afford him the opportunity of quickly fixing the NDDC and rejoining the governorship contest.

After consultations, Umana rejected

and the governor. And now, it is obvious that the governor will not back Umana, neither will the state PDP except the unexpected happens.

With Umana ‘black-listed’ sources said that Akpabio elected to hear directly from his people on who succeeds him, which he did through the constituencies tours.

Without the endorsement of the people, Akpabio, a stakeholder said, is afraid history might be repeated against him giving the way he became governor despite the opposition of then Governor Victor Attah in 2007.

Attah had endorsed Akpan Udoedehe and his son-in law, Udoma Bob Ekarika as governor and running mate respectively but was defeated by the grassroots people who supported Akpabio.

Thus, sources said Akpabio does not want to make the mistake of choosing a successor as Attah allegedly made.

At the constituency tours, Akpabio asked the people where they want the governorship to be zoned and the unanimous agreement was Eket.

However, the Umana camp pooh poohed the constituency tours claiming that they were stage-managed and Akwa PDP stakeholders and elders did not take part and insisted that Akpabio was bent on imposing an anointed successor on the state.

The governor dismissed these allegations as false and has been careful in managing the complexities of AkwaIbom politics so far.

The zoning template has been opposed by a section of the PDP, which called itself Akwa Ibom PDP elders and stakeholders

the option, claiming that it was clear the governor didn’t want him to become the next governor of the state. In his reckoning that NDDC MD offer is a ploy to get him out of the way while another favoured candidate is made to consolidate.

The appoinment of a seasoned banker, Emmanuel Udom, who hails from Eket, where the governorship has been zoned with reports that Akpabio is backing Udom as his successor, did not help matters.

Umana is from Uyo zone.

Sources close to the state government said Akpabio was jolted by Umana’s rejection and misinterpretation of the offer and he felt betrayed.

Ever since, a political battle line has been drawn between the former SSG

Sources said Akpabio, an Annang from Ikot Ekpene, pinned his decision to back Eket Senatorial District to produce the governor in 2015 on the need for equity since the two other districts: Uyo and Ikot-Ekpene had produced governors. Attah is from Uyo Senatorial District.

Though, some have argued that Akwa-Ibom is resting on a tripod, which comprise Ibibio, Oron and Anang and that only Oron have not tasted power in the state, a number of speakers at constituency rallies want the template for mounting the governorship saddle to remain the three senatorial districts.

Having marketed the zoning arrangement seriously across the state, it is to be seen if the template will stand as opposed to Umana’s open contest option.

Derivation: 13% too small for N-Delta Continues from page 40 other parties, but as a PDP man, I think that we should adhere to the shift of power to Delta North.

Many people think that the governor is imposing himself on the people with his Senatorial ambition.

Do you think so?

That is not true. This is an area where you find friendliness. Those are political statements and they move on the surface of the water, it does not

mean anything.

He is going to the Senate to represent Delta South senatorial district and the district is made up of three prominent tribes. That is the Itsekiris, Isokos and Ijaws. The Senate is not where anybody can run to, you need a large strength, clout, popularity and integrity to go to such a place. So, we need somebody who is popular and has interacted with the people.

So, in Itsekiri today if you ask who is more popular to go there, it is Dr

Emmanuel Uduaghan because from political calculation, it is the turn of the Itsekiris to go.

He is also the one who has the loudest voice and that is why we think he should go because most of his contemporaries are there.

He is a match the people that are there because we cannot just take anybody who has not got the political experience. I do not think it will be good for the Itsekiri ethnic nationality to allow an inexperienced person there.

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•Jalogho-Williams

42—V anguard 42—Vanguard anguard,, THURSDAY, JUNE 19 , 2014

THE MINORITY QUESTION:

Thoughts on identity, justice and politics of incorporation in Nigeria

Life after service: The raison d'etre for NPF pensions

By FRANK MBA

By JOHN EDOZIEN

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partment of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force approached the Federal Government but that request was turned Police IG, Mohammed down, ostensibly because it was argued that since the Police Force sion matters have, however, excommands the largest staff pressed fear and uncertainty that strength, having over 300,000 the setting up of the NPF Penofficers and men, its exiting the sions Limited and granting it an scheme will be counter-produc- Approval-In-Principle (A-I-P) for tive and adversely affect the fi- a licence to manage the pension nancial stability of the scheme. contributions of Police personnel The Force, however, did not give will constitute a major threat to up the fight and subsequently, the N4 trillion pension assets, in the Federal Government direct- view of the safety and professioned that administrative solutions al management of the fund. What be adopted to address the genu- an unwarranted and misplaced ine grievances of the Police within fear! the framework of the pension law.

In one of its recent publications, In line with the Federal Gov- the National Pension Commisernment’s directive, therefore, sion (PenCom) painstakingly adand in compliance with relevant dressed these concerns. It exprovisions of the PRA 2004, the plained in very lucid and conPolice High Command then set cise terms that there were no up the NPF Pensions Limited bases for such doubts and fears which subsequently applied to in view of the fact that the manthe National Pension Commis- agement and custody of pension sion (PenCom) for licence to op- assets are respectively undertakerate as a PFA, exclusively for the en by separate licenced operaForce, in order to address the tors, namely the PFAs and Penpeculiar concerns of Police offic- sion Fund Custodians (PFCs) ers. But like the proverbial cam- under the strict supervision of the el passing through the eye of a Commission. needle, the task was tortuous and seemed insurmountable. In fact, Operational the road to the accomplishment framework

There is a strong reason to celebrate the Approval-in-Principle (A-I-P) grant which has qualified it for a licence to operate as a Pension Fund Administrator that will exclusively manage the pension contributions of the personnel of the Nigeria Police Force

,

scheme better. However, even under the present scheme, some of the complaints raised above still persist. These include: under-payment of retirement benefits, low remittances and in some cases non-remittance of pension contributions as well as undue administrative protocols deliberately created by some Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs).

This paper, therefore, is at once celebratory as it is, as well, an attempt to tell the true story on why the Nigeria Police Force opted to have its own limited liability company, the NPF Pension Limited which is to operate as a Pension Fund Administrator to exclusively manage the pension contributions of the personnel of the Force.

In view of the above observations and desirous of an exemption from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) just as was done for the Military and the De-

,

of this feat was strewn with thorns and thistles but NPF Pensions Limited overcame it all.

The Commission felt satisfied that NPF Pension Limited had met all the stringent conditions required and, therefore, granted it an Approval-in-Principle (A-I-P) for a licence to operate as a PFA. Indeed, there is a strong reason to celebrate the Approvalin-Principle (A-I-P) granted which has qualified it for a licence to operate as a Pension Fund Administrator that will exclusively manage the pension contributions of the personnel of the Nigeria Police Force. Needless to say that Police Pension Funds are funds meant to settle officers and men of the Nigeria Police upon retirement, in line with the Pension Reform Act (PRA) of 2004.

Some commentators on pen-

Expatiating on the matter, PenCom made it distinctly clear that first, only the administration of RSAs of Police personnel is being transferred to NPF Pensions Limited and not cash since the money will remain in the custody of licenced PFCs. Second, that it has designed an operational framework guiding the re-assignment of Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and transfer of records of all Nigeria Police Contributors to the NPF Pensions Limited in eighteen months period.

It is worth mentioning, however, that in spite of the fact that the NPF Pensions Limited was established by the Nigeria Police Force, it is nonetheless, a limited liability company independently managed by experienced professionals who have been certified as ‘fit and proper persons’ by the Commission. Besides, the Nigeria Police have never been involved in Pension Fund mismanagement or embezzlement.

Rather, they have been the victims who have suffered severely because some Federal civil servants entrusted with their Pension Funds had stolen their money.

To be concluded

them receives! Such perceptions have led to perennial conflicts dating back from the Amalgamation and Independence.

These conflicts are based on the feeling that the dividends of a democratic governance such as good education, health care, electricity, water, food, good roads, peace, security and good governance have eluded the ethnic nationalities despite the huge human and natural resources available to them. The result is that there is anger, frustration, violence and disunity in the land. People tend to identify more with their ethnic nationalities than with their country.

The challenge of governance and development our country has faced over the years, therefore, is how to institutionalise a fair, open, transparent, accountable, responsible and responsive governance process that will efficiently, effectively and judiciously use our human and natural resources to rapidly develop our economy in a balanced and inclusive way so as to ensure that the basic needs of society are available

UST as I was the high est ranking Bendelite in that State Administration by virtue of the fact that the Military Governor was not from Bendel State, so I was by virtue of my office, the highest ranking Deltan in that pioneer Administration in Asaba, Delta State since the Military Administrator was not from the State.

And so it fell largely on me, as a very pleasant duty both as the number two man in the Administration, next to the Military Administrator, Air Commodore Ochulo, and as an indigene of Asaba to lead the dialogue and negotiation with the Asaba Community aimed at providing the infrastructure needed for the smooth and rapid take-off of the new State Government.

I was the Chairman of the Asaba New Capital Development Authority that was created to map and layout the Asaba Delta State Capital Territory, which included the GRA where most of the government’s administrative infrastructure is today located.

In all these, I Nigeria needs to urgently owed a huge debt of grati- claw back to its proper place tude to Chief Dennis Os- in history adebay with whom I maintained regular to all irrespective of ethnic becontact while on duty at Asa- longing. It is only by so doing ba. The new Administration that we can encourage and continued to provide assis- promote successfully the love tance to him and his family. of country above ethnic loyHe was extremely kind to me alties.

The task facing us is not easy and generous with his wisdom and advice. On a highly as the problem is quite compersonal note, the Edoziens plex. But we must begin the and the Osadebays have al- search and seriously apply ways enjoyed a long history remedies that will mitigate our problems. We must reduce corof close relationship. ruption and unfair appropriation and misuse of our comClose monwealth which tend to relationship worsen the feeling of deprivation and alienation by groups May God continue to bless and lead to demands for self the soul of Chief Dennis determination.

Chukwudebe Osadebay for In our development process his sterling qualities, for his we must re-embrace national services to State and country, economic planning at all levand most importantly for his els of government in order to services to humanity in genengender rapid and inclusive eral. May God also continue growth and development deto bless the family he left bevoid of the waste of resources hind. occasioned by arbitrariness in There is a perception that government spending. political processes at the FedIn fact, National Planning, eral level revolve around the until we imbibe enough disciaccommodation of the interpline in government spendests of the three dominant ing, should be made a constiethnic groups at the expense tutional provision in order to of the consideration and conforce all governments to adciliation of the interests of the here to it. Nigeria needs to more fragmented ethnic miurgently claw back to its proper nority groups. place in history. As a country, Even among the major we are losing time! groups there is no agreement •John D Edozien, OON, is the about the fairness in the level Odafe of Asaba of accommodation each of

,

AY and night, in peace as in times of crisis, they toil in spite of the elemental forces of the sun, heat, wind, rain and other adverse weather conditions.

Herculean indeed is the task of providing effective security and safety for their beloved country and people. Yet, it is true that nothing bothers these unsung heroes and long-suffering Policemen as much as their retirement benefits.

These worries are not unwarranted against a long and bitter history, better to be forgotten - a history of pension funds embezzled by corrupt civil servants, of gratuity and other emoluments not paid at all or paid belatedly in meaningless bits and pieces, or of Police retirees dying in endless queues while awaiting their benefits. Arguably, as the bitter groans and ululations of unhappy retirees from other parastatals and agencies did demonstrate, the pain and anguish suffered then were not limited to policemen alone, it was a general malaise. This state of affairs compelled the Federal Government to enact the Pension Reform Act (PRA), 2004 which replaced the old public sector operated Defined Benefit Scheme with the present Contributory Pension Scheme.

Of course, the present scheme is miles away better than the old one and many literatures have been written in praise of the Federal Government for this. Equally commendable are the efforts tailored towards making the

Being the concluding part of the opening remarks of Chief John Edozien, OON, former Deputy Governor of Delta State at the 1st Late Chief Dennis Osadebay Memorial Lecture organised by Asdev 81 Club of Asaba

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014—43

Abia distributes 1,778 laptops, 2m books to students

BY ANAYO OKOLI

U

MUAHIA— ABIA State government, yesterday, distributed 1,778 laptops to 216 secondary schools in the state and over two million exercise books to all the primary schools in the 17 local government areas of the state.

While presenting the items, Governor Theodore Orji charged parents and guardians to send their children and wards to school, saying the state’s free education was real.

Orji said his administration was determined to invest more in the education sector because of the role it plays in the development of any society.

He said his administration decided to procure the computers for the students to ensure that Abia youths were in tune with the modern technology.

He said: “The world is now in the era of science and technology and the state cannot be found wanting when others are already ahead.”

OWERRI PRISONS: Built for 500 inmates, now home to 1,900

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

O

WERRI— IMO State Chief Judge, Justice Benjamin Njemanze, has said that the Federal Prisons, Owerri, built by the colonial master in 1905 to

E

NUGU—NO fewer than 200 clergymen from the Methodist Church Nigeria, yesterday, embarked on a peaceful protest against alleged attempt by Enugu State government to demolish structures at the church’s headquarters within the capital city.

Dressed in white cassocks, the clergymen clustered around the church building located along Agbani Road, vowing to lay down their lives to ensure that the planned demolition of the house of worship was halted.

Speaking with newsmen during the peaceful protest, the Administrator in charge of the church, Uwani, Enugu, Rev. Gabriel Ogbansiegbe, denied the alleged leasing, accusing the government of engaging in political witch-hunting against

He said: “The prison complex we have in Owerri was built in 1905 for 500 inmates. But today, that prison contains, at the last count, 1,900 persons. Out of this figure, many are people awaiting trial, while very few

have been convicted.

“This shows that there is serious deficiency in our justice delivery system, as it relates to prosecution of crimes. So, something must be done about the situation.”

‘Juveniles, hardened criminals mix’

RETREAT: From left— Alhaji Bashir Sambo, representing Emir of Zazzau; Air Commodore Sunday Wukanga, Commander, 335 Base Services Group, Nigerian Air Force, and Danjuma Garba, Deputy Corps Marshal in Charge of Operations, at the Zonal Retreat for senior officers of Federal Road Safety Commission in Kaduna, yesterday. NAN PHOTO.

Judge seizes journalists' ID cards, leaves court through back door

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NUGU— AN Enugu High Court Judge, Justice Eno Oluedo, yesterday confiscated the identity cards of two News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, journalists in Enugu, following complaints by a counsel that NAN reports were published online.

Clergy, Enugu govt clash over church demolition

BY TONY EDIKE

accommodate 500 inmates, now play host to 1,900.

Justice Njemanze made the revelation yesterday, while flagging off a three-day Justice Reform Action Planning Workshop, funded by the European Union.

the church.

He said: “We heard that government is planning to pull down our structures.

For the four years I have been here, the state government has been against us. We are being marginalised. We cannot continue with a situation where government no longer respects the church.

We are not safe again.”

Contacted, the Commissioner for Education, Okolo denied any political undertone, explaining that government was not comfortable with the leasing of part of the Church land to bank without the authorisation of the governor, adding that “since the church has denied the lease, we want to demolish the fence to know who is behind it.”

Oluedo also caused the journalists, Mr. Vincent Okwor, the Zonal Manager of the agency in the South-East, and Mr. Nicholas Obisike, a reporter, to wait for the identity cards until 5p.m., before they were told that she had left for home through a back door.

She had earlier, Monday, ordered the seizure of Obisike’s notebook and mobile telephone for not taking permission to cover the proceedings of her court.

Oluedo ordered the confiscation of the identity cards following a complaint by the counsel to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, Mr. Kenechukwu Chukwuma-Eneh, about stories from the agency being published online.

According to ChukwumaEneh, the names of the judge, prosecution and defence counsel are always appearing on the internet, especially in the case involving a former boxer, Ikechukwu Okoronkwo.

He said: “I see all the stories involving Okoronkwo online and print media. I also see the two reporters following the case in the state high court, the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court.

“This is a contempt of court because they are not supposed to cover the proceedings.”

‘We always take permission’

Okwor, in his reaction, said he had always obtained permission from all the courts in the state for the coverage of proceedings.

“I wonder why this case is different. We have not published anything contrary to the proceedings in Okoronkwo’s case or any other case in the various courts in the state.

“Besides, a court is a public place for everyone to cover or visit if need be, provided you comply with its rules.”

The court was still in possession of the reporters’ identity cards at the close of work on Tuesday.

What also irked Njemanze was that young persons are held in the same prisons with hardened criminals, lamenting that there was no designated homes for juveniles.

Speaking also, the state Comptroller of Prisons, Mr. Ifeanyi Amaliri, noted that a proper reform in the judiciary without a concurrent level of informed reformation would amount to a nullity.

He said: “The prison is a collation point of all criminal activities. As I speak with you now, there is no category of inmates we do not have in this state, including terrorists.”

According to the Comptroller, some of the inmates were flown into Owerri from other states and are now the responsibility of prison officials to keep them for as long as the law demands.

Amaliri said: “In the midst of all our difficulties and challenges, we have never compromised the proper custody of these suspects.

Despite the level of congestion in Owerri Prisons, we have never had any case of jail break.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the Project Coordinator, PC, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, Mr. Ade Omofade, explained that the workshop was aimed at encouraging a strategic and sustainable approach towards the justice system as a necessary means of enhancing good governance, respect for human rights and the Rule of Law.

‘Immortalise Akunyili’

BY ANAYO OKOLI

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MUAHIA—SOUTHEast zonal chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Austin Akobundu, has said the party would encourage states in the zone to immortalise former Information Minister, late Professor Dora Akunyili.

Akobundu said in a statement yesterday: “She was undoubtedly one of the most vibrant women in the country.

“It was during her tenure

as Information Minister that the Freedom of Information Bill was passed into law by the National Assembly.

“During her watch, she pursued relentlessly the enhancement of the emolument of media workers across the nation, an area her predecessors shied away from.

“As boss of NAFDAC, Dora prioritised excellence, ensured the eradication of fake and counterfeit drugs and food even at the risk of her life.”

44—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Political parties in Rivers pledge to abide by Electoral Act

2015: Omo-Agege vows to devt business opportunities

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

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ORT HARCOURT— POLITICAL parties in Rivers State have agreed to abide by the provisions of the Electoral Act where rallies and other party activities are concerned.

Rising from a meeting with the state Commissioner of Police in

BY FESTUS AHON

U

GHELLI—DELTA State governorship aspirant in the forthcoming 2015 general elections, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, has vowed to create more business opportunities for Deltans and attract foreign investors to setup industries in the state, if elected governor.

He spoke with newsmen during the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Delta Central sensitisation rally in Oghara, Ethiope West and Ughelli, Ughelli North councils.

Omo-Agege said his government will provide equal opportunities for all Deltans to actualise their dreams in life, reiterating that his administration will pay particular attention to the creation of jobs for the people of the state.

Saying that he was not worried by the number of aspirants indicating interest in the governorship race, he noted that any Deltan who is constitutionally qualified and want to contest was free to do so.

He added that he was presently consulting with leaders and all stakeholders of the party to intimate them of his developmental plans for the state.

He expressed hope that PDP will come out stronger at the end of the primaries.

Port Harcourt, leaders of All Progressives Congress, APC; Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and other parties said they would ensure that their activities do not disrupt peace in the state.

The political parties also agreed to notify the Police five days ahead of any planned protest or demonstration for the force to make adequate security arrangements.

Boko Haram attack

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Tunde Ogunsakin, yesterday, described as untrue, rumour that there was attempt by suspected Boko Haram members to detonate explosives at the Eleme market in the state.

He urged people of the state to ignore the rumour, saying there was no truth in it.

Hearing on Owena, Ondo suits for Oct 9

BY INNOCENT ANABA

A

Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, yesterday, adjourned till October 9 to hear a motion for the consolidation of the suits by Owena Oil and Gas Ltd., against Ondo State Government over alleged conversion of its assets on the one hand, and another one by the state government against the plaintiff ’s key officers on the other hand.

The plaintiff is asking the court to merge the two suits, while the Ondo State Government is opposed to the move, while the court will hear argument on the request at the next adjourned date.

The court will, on the said date, hear other interlocutory applications in the suits.

Owena’s contention

Meanwhile, Owena Oil and Gas is contending in its suit that it was originally, fully owned by the Ondo State Government, but following a Memorandum

of Understanding, MoU, of March 22, 2001, the state government, under the then leadership of Governor Adebayo Adefarati, divested 70 percent of the company’s share in favour of one Integrated Mineral Development Company, IMD, Ltd. The company ’s Vice Chairman, Mr. Samuel Kolajo, averred in an affidavit in support of the suit that following the said divestment, IMDC embarked on a company ’s board restructuring which led to his appointment and others as the directors of Owena Oil. He said sequel to an alleged fraudulent conversion of the assets of Owena Oil and Gas by persons allegedly acting under the cover of the current Ondo State Government, he, Kolajo, on August 23, 2012, petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. He further averred that in the petition he called on EFCC to investigate and verify the authority by which N700 million held in two separate deposit accounts of Owena Oil with UBA Plc, was withdrawn by one Mr. Goke Adeniyi and

one Owena Energy Ltd. He argued that the withdrawal was made without authorisation of the company’s board members at the unilateral instance of the state government, which allegedly took over assets of Owena Oil and Gas Ltd, without recourse to the directors.

Ondo’s petition

He averred that in response to their petition to EFCC, the Attorney-General of Ondo State allegedly filed a petition to the Inspector General of Police and the Corporate Affairs Commissions, CAC, accusing IMDC of fraudulent interference in the state’s management of the company.

He said that consequently, on October 18, 2012, a suit was filed before a Federal High Court in Akure, disputing the said 70 percent divestment and the appointment of Kolajo and others as directors of the company and without prior knowledge of the suit, he and other directors filed a suit before the Lagos Division of the Court, asserting the facts of the said 70 percent divestment, which he insisted belongs to him and the other directors.

T

HE people of Ogbein-Ama community in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State have said that they will support the re-election bid of Senator James Manager, who represents Delta South senatorial district.

The Ogbein-Ama community, which spoke through its Chairman, Ogbein-Ama Political Forum, OPF, Mr. Preye Ekpebide at Senator Manager ’s e m p o w e r m e n t programme in Warri, said that the community and entire Ijaw nation was proud of him and would always stand by him to realise his dreams and aspiration.

Ekpebide described Manager as Mr. Empowerment, noting that in the history of democracy since 1999, “this is the first time an elected representative of the people is donating tricycles, motorcycles, sewing machines, hairdryers, grating machines, power generators and bundles of fishing nets to thousands of his constituents.”

He explained that the network of roads construction, bridges, canalisation projects, walkways and other capital intensive projects within the creeks of Niger Delta were all attracted by the lawmaker to the area.

By Bartholomew Madukwe

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

Ogbein-Ama community drums support for Manager

(nwamad@yahoo.com)

On Super Eagles in Brazil

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believe home-based players should make up at least 80 percent of the team. Only then can we truly begin to believe in this team again. I long for those days when home-based players used to make us believe that we can beat any team.— Ms. Fayire Ruth, Worker.

A

strong organised side! Not easy for our beloved Eagles at all. Iran had the best chance of grabbing a good start with three points. However, if the boys play with a winning mind, they are bound to do well in Brazil.— Mr. Tam-Tekena Akpofure, Businessman.

S

UPER Eagles should win their matches first, before looking at what they stand to get. I just hope that those in charge of their allowance will not distract the players by delaying their payment. With good motivation, Nigeria will do well.— Mr. Kingston Eke, Businessman.

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ANY exinternationals are suffering today as a result of exploitation by the football federation. I strongly believe that it is high time that players’ welfare is addressed. If we love our players, then let us not treat them as slaves.— Mr. Matthew Ozenua, Self-Employed.

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RAN have been boasting. It is everywhere on the web. It is a monumental disgrace that Eagles allowed them to get any point. Beware dear Eagles, this is not an empty threat. Bring your ‘A’ game; be wary of fast counter-attacks.— Mr. Okechukwu Nene, Personal Assistant.

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FF should just watch the moves of every player, including the coach himself. With this, they would know who to drop after the World Cup and who to retain. I wish the players and the coach a successful outing at the Brazil World Cup.— Ms. Nkeiruka Ikwunne, Student.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014—45

DESOPADEC commissions N21m market in Ndokwa

NBA poll: I'll run an efficient secretariat if elected — Okoye-Aniche

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BY INNOCENT ANABA

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CANDIDATE for the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, National Secretary position, Mr. Barth Okoye-Aniche, has promised to run an effective and efficient secretariat for the NBA, if elected at the association's polls slated for July.

Okoye-Aniche, a former 3rd Vice President of the association, who spoke to Vanguard on his candidature, said: “If by the support of delegates I am elected as General Secretary NBA, I will encourage division of labour amongst the Secretariat's staff/members geared towards quick and efficient delivery of services.

“I will create a quiet environment in the secretariat, thereby allowing staff/members to take up challenges and contribute their quota to the development of the association. I will restore confidence in the elected National Officers and allow them perform their constitutional responsibilities. As ex-officio member of all NBA committees, I will give unlimited touch to all the committees of NBA to enable them realise the purpose for which they were set.

“I will be up and doing in summoning meetings and Annual General Conferences when directed, in recording and keeping list of attendance and all decisions of the association, in furnishing annual returns or special reports of the association and in giving quick response to other issues or activities of the association."

Okoye-Aniche, promised to run the most efficient secretariat in the history of the association, if elected.

Mr. B. Okoye-Aniche

ROADSIDE TRADING: Traders, in defiance of government ban on roadside trading as ordered by the Special Sanitation Committee, in the ongoing Warri clean-up exercise during Effurun Market days in Delta State.

MOSOP tasks FG on implementation of UNEP report M

OVEMENT for the Survival of the Ogoni People, MOSOP, has called on the Federal Government to develop a framework for the implementation of United Nations Environmental Programme, UNEP’s report on Ogoniland.

President of MOSOP, Mr. Legborsi Pyagbara, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja, yesterday.

Pyagbara said that the implementation of the report had suffered some setback, because of the lack of coordination among the stakeholders.

It will recalled that the UNEP findings on Ogoniland were released on August 4, 2011, which confirmed local communities and civil society groups’ claims of ecological disaster in the area.

The report also showed hydrocarbon pollution in surface water throughout the creeks of Ogoniland and up to eight centimetres in ground water that

feeds drinking wells.

Pyagbara said that the report outlined specific roles of all the stakeholders to ensure the restoration of Ogoniland.

“Shell Petroleum Development Company was the dominate player in Ogoniland, but it is interesting that the UNEP did not have an isolated approach to the clean-up of the area. The Federal Government is supposed to facilitate the process by getting a framework for each player to take action in implementing the report.

“There is a role Shell is supposed to play; there is a role the community needs to play, but somebody must harmonise the process for effective monitoring,” he said.

Pyagbara called on the Federal Government to fasttrack the implementation of the report.

He said implementing the report would alleviate the suffering of the people in the region and help to restore the land polluted by oil spills.

According to him, no significant development has taken place in the land since the UNEP report was released over two years ago.

He said the government should treat the issue urgently and begin emergency measures to restore the land as recommended by the report.

“The report raised some serious concerns about water, air and other issues and we have not seen action that matches the sort of situation that was raised in the report.

We have taken our campaign and advocacy around these issues to places; we have done public protests and yet nothing has been done, ” he said.

Delta govt defends demolition of illegal structures

BY GODWIN OGHRE

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APELE—DELTA State Government, yesterday defended its ongoing demolition of illegal structures across the state, saying that it was not witch hunting anybody or group, but in the overall public interest and to pave way for the face lift, socio-economic and infrastructural development of the state.

The clarification followed outcry in some quarters that the government was biased and engaging in selected demolition, particularly in Sapele, as some new generation banks, NEPA staff club, elite private schools, shops and private residences of prominent politicians, were not demolished, while those belonging to government’s political opponents

were brought down.

The state Commissioner for Environment, Chief Frank Omare and his Transport counterpart, Mr. Ben Ibakpa, who, yesterday in Sapele, dispelled the rumour and allegation of select demolition. They urged the people to support the government’s efforts in implementing lasting developmental policies in the state.

ELTA State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, has commissioned an open stall market with fans, borehole and toilet facilities in Etua Ukpo community in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State.

The project was facilitated by the commissioner representing Ndokwa nation on the DESOPADEC board, Sir Kenny Okolugbo.

He urged the community to maintain the N21 million facility to justify the purpose of government in siting the project in their community.

The people were full of praises for Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan.

Similarly, the commissioner commissioned the two 300kva transformers installed at Afieze Kwale, including the rehabilated/ reinforced electricity distribution network in Afieze.

He tasked the people of Kwale to appreciate the Uduaghan-led administration, which he said is finishing stronger than any other state government in the country.

2015: Auchi drums support for indigene in House of Reps poll

BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE E N I N — AU C H I community in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State has solicited the support of other communities in Etsako federal constituency to reciprocate its past gestures by ensuring that its son represents the constituency at the National Assembly come 2015 on the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP platform.

The community made the appeal at a meeting in Auchi town to drum support for Mr. Hussein Garba, a son of the community aspiring to represent Etsako federal fonstituency at the National Assembly come 2015.

The gathering was attended by political and opinion leaders from the area and was presided over

by Chief Y. A. Sule, a constituency leader.

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46—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 47

Ex-Plateau PDP chairman to contest 2015 guber race

BY MARIE-THERESE NANLONG

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OS — FORMER Chair man of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Plateau State, Chief Jethro Akun, has declared his intention to contest the 2015 governorship election in the state.

Akun is from Bokkos Local Government Area in the same central zone of the state, like Dr. Haruna Dabin, the just suspended state chairman of the party who had earlier declared his gubernatorial ambition for 2015.

He told newsmen in Jos, yesterday, that he would be striving to obtain the PDP ticket during the primary election of the party.

Akun, also a former deputy governor in the illegal late governor Michael Botmang administration, said he was capable of continuing with the developmental efforts of the incumbent Governor Jonah Jang, adding that there had been no zoning of the governorship position in the state since 1979.

According to him, “everyone from all parts of the state has the right to aspire and this is a constitutional guarantee, there has never been a meeting in which the three zones have discussed and agreed to anything on the zoning."

N20BN ALLEGED FRAUD:

Jang warns civil servants against appearing before probe panel J

BY MARIE-THERESE NANLONG

OS —THE move by the Pla teau State House of Assembly to probe the alleged N20 billion fraud levelled against Governor Jonah Jang is being check-mated as the governor has warned civil servants invited by the House over the issue against appearing before the state legislature.

This was apart from the court case instituted by Yakubu Jang, the governor ’s son and Special Adviser on Special Duties seeking to restrain the Speaker, Titus Alams or his agents from probing him and his father.

However, the memorandum issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof.

Shedrack Best, banning civil servants or political appointees from honouring any invitation from the House on the issue was signed on his behalf by the Permanent Secretary, Policy and General Services, Izam Azi. The memo entitled: “No civil servant working under the state government or political appointee is allowed to hon-

our invitation from the state House of Assembly without seeking clearance from the governor,’’ read: “I am directed to inform you that henceforth, no Ministry, Department or Agency is to appear before any committee anywhere with respect to any petition unless you seek clearance and obtain approval from the governor.”

The memo was copied to all government ministries, department and agencies of the state as well as commissioners and special advisers who were asked to strictly comply with the directive.

The state House of Assembly had set up a committee to probe allegation of gross financial misconduct levelled against Jang by a group known as “Plateau Patriotic Front.”

The earlier attempt by the House to discuss the issue had brought rowdiness in plenary which disrupted the session for the day.

The governor’s son, Yakubu, had earlier prayed the state High Court to stop the lawmakers from probing his father and himself.

The younger Jang had urged the court to declare that the House of Assembly cannot entertain, hear, consider or debate a petition addressed, filed, and presented by a person who is not an elected member of the state House of Assembly.

In his written address in support of originating summons, the plaintiff ’s counsel, Sunny Odey, submitted that "where there is a specific provision for the doing of a thing or the performance of an act, no recourse will be made or had to a general provision in relation thereto. ”There is no power in the House of Assembly to investigate or inquire into the conduct of the plaintiff vide a petition signed by an unascertainable member of the public.”

Acting Chief Judge of the state, Justice Pius Damulak, is yet to assign the case.

However, Speaker of the state Assembly, Titus Alams told Vanguard: “I only heard about the issue but I am yet to get to the office where I will see the document.”

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ALINGO — THE Taraba State Government has donated 180 motorcycles to vigilante groups in the state for patrol as part of efforts to tackle security challenges.

Speaking on the occasion, acting Governor, Alhaji Garba Umar, said the donation would boost the morale of the vigilance groups and complement the efforts of the security agencies.

He said vigilance groups were critical partners in combating crime and also in the area of intelligence gathering.

Umar urged the groups to continue to cooperate with other security outfits for the overall peace and prosperity of the state.

Responding, the Deputy Commandant of the vigilance groups, Mr Iliyasu Umar, commended the acting governor for the support given them.

He promised that vigilantes would redouble their efforts in fighting crime.

He also promised collaboration and cooperation with the police in the discharge of their duties.

Lagos bakers endorse Mama Gold flour

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FUT Minna holds convocation Saturday

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INNA— The Federal University of Technology, FUT Minna, Niger State is to hold the convocation ceremony of about 7,482 students on Saturday.

They include the 2010/2011; 2011/2012 and 2012/2013 sets of final year students.

Addressing newsmen in Minna, yesterday, Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Musbau Akanji said 6,394 of the graduating students bagged the first degree, 576 bagged Masters degrees, 45 Doctors of Philosophy degree just as 467 obtained their post graduate diploma certificates.

According to Akanji, 82 of the out-going students obtained first class degrees, 1,533, second class upper division, 3000 second class (lower division) while 1,563 got third class and 216 had ordinary passes.

Taraba donates 180 motorcycles to vigilante groups

An internally displaced woman assisted by her son, drags a bag of rice issued to her at a camp during distribution of relief materials to victims of Boko Haram attacks in Maiduguri, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

Kaduna refinery to run at 100% capacity by 2015 —MD

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ANO —MANAGING Di rector, Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company, Saidu Mohammed, has said the refinery would run at 100 per cent capacity by 2015.

Mohammed made the assertion at a workshop organised by the company for energy correspondents in Kano.

The two-day workshop has the theme: “Managing Information in the Oil and Gas Industry.”

Mohammed said due to the improved operational efficiency of the company at the moment, the plant operated at 60 per cent capacity.

“Major units of the fuel section of the refinery, including the crude, fluid catalytic cracking unit has been re-streamed to provide the desired output,” he said.

Mohammed added that one of the foreign crude storage

tanks had been successfully rehabilitated. According to him, the contract for the rehabilitation of the remaining two tanks had been awarded.

He said the company had met with the host communities, adding that several water boreholes had been built for them. Mohammed said that comprehensive water project for Rido community was at its planning stage.

AGOS — LAGOS bakers and caterers, under the aegis of Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria, AMBCN, Lagos Chapter, have applauded Crown Flour for introducing Mama Gold Flour into the nation’s flour market segment.

Presenting a certificate of attestation to the company in Lagos, the association’s Chairman, Prince Jacob Adejorin, noted that the product, which had been tested and found suitable by members had gone a long way in enhancing the profit margins of members.

According to him, the association arrived at the idea of presenting a certificate of attestation to the company after the product had been tested, during the last baking exercise, carried out by the company in all the 20 local governments in the state.

While charging the company to maintain the high quality of the new product and improve on its logistics and delivery, Prince Adejorin also seized the opportunity to appeal to the company to put up a bakery, branded with the company’s colours in any of the association’s five zones in the state.

48— Vanguard , THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

SEMINAR: From left: Ambassador Abdulaziz Dankaro, Director, Consular Immigration Service, Foreign Affairs, Hon. Isa Ozi Salami, ICPC board member; Ekpo Nta, Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commision, ICPC, Professor Olu Aina and Prof. Bola Akinterinwa, Director-General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, at the ICPC one-day seminar on visa acquisition, in Lagos.

GRADUATION: From left: Mrs. Leila Fowler, founder, Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, Mrs. May Mbu, special guest of honour, Chief Sore Osibodu, executive member, Parents Teachers Association, and Mr. Femi Adesina, Managing Director/Editor in Chief, Sun Newspaper, and chairman of the occasion, at the Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls Junior Secondary School, graduation ceremony in Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau.

PRESENTATION: From left: Mrs Belinda Odeh, Principal, Government Technical College, Agidingbi, Lagos, CEO, MTN, Michael Ikpoki and Corporate Services Executive, MTN, Wale Goodluck, at the presentation of educational materials to the school during the 21 days of Y'ello Care in Lagos.

BRIEFING: From left: Managing Director, Arik Air, Mr. Chris Ndulue, Group Chief Executive Officer, Michael Arumemi-Ikhide and Deputy Managing Director, Capt. Ado Sanusi, during the airline's press conference in Lagos. Photo Lamidi Bamidele.

BRIEFING: From left: Professor Idowu Fadeyibi,Head, Burns and Plastic Surgery unit LASUTH, Rotn. Olugbemiga Olowu, District Governor D9110,Mrs. Barbara Fisher, Mission Director, Alliance for Smiles and Dr. Dele Balogun, incoming District Governor, at the Rotary and Alliance for Smiles Inc. USA, briefing on free corrective surgery for Cleft Lip and Palate defect, at LASUTH in Lagos, yesterday.

Photo: Biodun Ogunleye.

General Manager, Sheraton Rio Hotels, Brazil, Macello Moretti (right) and Heritage Bank Brand Ambassador, Zuriel Oduwole, who is in the country to launch her newest project on children education, #FollowTheBallForEducation in Brazil.

SCREENING: From left: Regional Judge, Co-Creative Director, Gozel Green, Ngozi Enekwe, Fayrouz Senior Brand Manager, Nnenna Hemeson, Regional Judge, Creative Director, Orange Culture, Adebayo Oke-Lawal and Regional Judge, CoCreative Director, Gozel Green, Chinelo Enekwe, during the screening of the nominees in the ongoing Fayrouz L’Original fashion and style competition in Lagos.

From left: Chukwuoti Jephtha, Romanus Nnamani, winners of the Legend Extra Stout Unique Dubai Shopping Experience; Emmanuel Agu, Marketing Manager, Legend, Gulder and Life, Nigerian Breweries Plc. and other winners inside a Dubai Shopping Mall, UAE.

CONTEST: Pastor Idowu Iluyomade,Head Apapa Family (right) and his wife, Pastor Siju Iluyomade (left) with winners of N5,000,000, in the God's Children got talent dancing contest, Egere Great and Ekeh Samuel, at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

Vanguard, THURSDAY JUNE 19, 2014—49

SYMPATHISERS AT THE RESIDENCE OF CHIEF AZEEZ ARISEKOLA-ALAO, WHO DIED IN LONDON YESTERDAY. Photos by Dare Fasube.

(LEFT) From left; Alhaji Bausar Haruna, Chief Imam of Ibadan; Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State; Alhaji Lateef Oyelade; Alhaji Rasheed Adesokan and Chief Lekan Alabi at the Ibadan residence of Alhaji Azeez Arisekola-Alao.

(ABOVE) Crowd of sympathisers in front of the house.

A woman that fainted being revived

A group of mourners

More sympathisers (above and below)

50 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

10 RECs for polls

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ARRING last-minute change, 10 Resident Electoral Commissioners, RECs, from about 10 states will be on ground in Ekiti State to monitor the conduct of the June 21 governorship elections.

Vanguard was reliably informed that the deployment of the RECs by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Attahiru Jega, is to avert any form of compromise.

It was also gathered that the move is to assist in the distribution and supervision of electoral materials in the various local government areas of the state.

The RECs expected to arrive in Ado-Ekiti today will include those of Lagos, Osun, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Kogi and Kwara states among others.

Importation of thugs: We'll deliver on our mandate — Police

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OLLOWING alleged of importation of thugs into Ekiti State ahead of Saturday’s governorship elections, the Ekiti State Police Command says it will not be deterred in delivering on its mandate of providing adequate security during the polls.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Victor Babayemi said: “For the politicians that are accusing one another over plans to import thugs, that is politics and we are not going to be involved.

We are not bothered by that.

Our own mandate is to provide security for the electoral process and we will do all within our power legitimately to provide that security.”

Asked what the police are doing to investigate the alarm raised, he said “we are not bothered by accusations and counter-accusations among the politicians.”

Assuring that the police would ensure a hitch-free governorship election on June 21, the police spokesperson added, “we are focusing on delivering on our mandate and that is what we are going to do.”

On who will be heading the security operations during the elections, he said, “for now, I cannot tell you but I can tell you that we are expecting very senior officers from Abuja.

PDP accuses Fashola, APC of using Lagos funds for Ekiti •It’s not true — Lagos APC said.

It also wondered “why similar directive to contribute monies is not deployed to subsidise the astronomical increment in the LASU tuition fees which has led to protracted strikes and protests in the state. We call on anti-corruption agencies to immediately get to the roots of all these.”

STORIES BY DAPO AKINREFON & GBENGA ARIYIBI

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HE Lagos State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has alleged that the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, has compelled the 57 Local Councils in the state to “contribute N25 million each, from their May, 2014 Federal allocations or borrow from banks in order to support the governorship re-election of Kayode Fayemi.

In a statement by its state Publicity Secretary, Mr. Taofik Gani, the party stated that it got hints of the alleged fraud from its “reliable sources within the council, especially in the councils where the chairmen have opted to be honest and patriotic.”

The party said “such councils are particularly averse to the move because they are indeed already cash strapped by the incessant demands by the

•Fayose

•Fayemi

Governor” The party further alleged that the “sum of N1.425 billion is expected to be cumulative contributions by the 57 Councils and a large chunk of it has been transferred into the personal account of Governor Fayemi, using a new generation bank network.

Besides, it said the collection of the N25 Million was coordinated by the Chairman, Conference 57 in the state.

The party said that it can prove that the state government has raised over N5 billion for the Ekiti governorship election with much of the monies directly from the State and Local Councils Treasury.

“We are concrete sure of our facts that N25 Million has been contributed by each of the 57 Councils in Lagos state to support Governor Fayemi’s wishful re-election,” the party

We’re not funding Ekiti— Lagos APC In its reaction, the Lagos Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, said: “They do not have anything to say rather than to continue to make insinuations and innuendos.

Ekiti is capable of handling its own affairs without anybody intervening from anywhere.

The only thing that connects us to Ekiti is that it is an APC state.

Allow PDP to express themselves, we are in a democracy. We are not funding Ekiti the only thing we are doing is to support our APC members there, that is all.”

IG orders withdrawal of police orderlies from political office holders

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HEAD of Saturday ’s election, the Inspector General of Police, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police orderlies attached to all political office holders in Ekiti State and vowed to arrest any politician found violating any electoral law.

Speaking at a stake holders’ meeting in Ado Ekiti, yesterday, which was attended by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof Atahiru Jega officials of the Department of State Service (DSS), military personnel and some of the gubernatorial candidates, he said no politician would be given the privileged of having police orderly during the election.

‘No official of government, commissioner or any politician will be given police orderly, DSS or soldier during the day of election,” adding that there will be total restriction of movement of people and vehicles during on Election Day, saying the restriction would be between 6am to 8pm.

The police boss advised voters who had registered in places far from their residence to go and sleep overnight where they

would vote.

The IGP further assured that the presence of the police would be felt in all the towns, villages and farmsteads in the state and the police would be civil in the discharge of their constitutional responsibility “We know we have some places that are very volatile, the police will go to the nook and crannies of the state,” he assured and admonished politicians to be orderly and conduct themselves in a decent manner.

On allegation that some politicians who were found thumb printing ballot papers were arrested in a hotel, the

police boss admitted that though some people were arrested by officials of DSS, they were arrested for a different offence, adding that investigation was still on.

Also speaking at the occasion, the INEC chairman assured that the body would conduct a credible and reliable election that would stand the test of time and dismissed allegation that his organization is colluding with some politicians to rig Saturday’s election He equally said INEC may not be able to provide certified copies of registers as demanded by some politicians, saying that INEC could only

give them copies of PDF electronic version of the register Jega regretted that there was no perfect technology but assured that INEC would check multiple registration In his own contribution, the PDP gubernatorial candidate, Mr Ayo Fayose said he had a wrong belief that the police authority were working for a particular candidate but for the way the police boss had spoken.

Also speaking, the state chairman of the APC,Chief Jide Awe, expressed concern overt the spate of arrests of his party men over what he described as phantom charges.

I’m not stepping down for Fayose — Bamidele

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OR the second time in a week, the Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Hon. Michael Opeyemi Bamidele has said he is not contemplating stepping down for any other candidate in the state.

Reacting to reports yesterday that he had stepped down for the PDP Candidate, Ayodele Fayose, he accused Fayose of being behind the rumour.

Speaking through a statement credited to his spokesman,

Ahmed Salami, he said he could not step down for Fayose for any reason. Bamidele said the rumour about his withdrawal from the race is Fayose’s smokescreen which he said is dead on arrival.

He said if anyone has a reason to step down at all that it should be Fayose because he (Bamidele) stands a better chance of winning the race.

The LP candidate said he is relying on better public image

and leadership virtues than Fayose whom he said has a baggage of negativity hanging around his neck Bamidele who said he has facts of how the former governor as been hiding under fictitious names to destroy his name in the media, saying his growing popularity is a source of concern to Fayose and his supporters.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 51

on the Federal Government that two things have been brought to our attention. One is that some demarcation exercise is going on without the presence of Nigerian officials.

Two, that Nigeria has not taken any steps to claim villages which the World Court awarded to Nigeria from Cameroun. The conference feels rather disturbed and is calling on the Federal Government to address those two issues.”

Resolution by delegates

•National Conference in session

Bakassi: Cameroon begins demarcation without Nigerian officials — Delegates •Claims 12 Nigerian villages

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BY HENRY UMORU

ELEGATES have urged President Goodluck Jonathan to, as a matter of urgency, intervene in the present

demarcation of some villages in Cross River State by the Republic of Cameroun without the Federal Government's consent.

Speaking yesterday after

discussions on a point of order, Deputy Chairman of the Conference, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi said: “What we need to do is for the conference to call

The resolution by the delegates was sequel to a point of order raised by a delegate representing the South-South geo- political zone, Hon. Orok Otu Duke, who informed delegates that as of yesterday, demarcation exercise was carried out in Boki, Cross River State by the Cameroun with alleged support of the United Nations, 12 villages affected and beacons have been put in these villages.

He said: “A team of people from Cameroun arrived with the United Nations and are presently demarcating the boundary between Nigeria and Cameroun.

They are in a place specifically known as Danare in Boki and they are putting in place so many beacons that do not rhyme with

what we consider as the boundary.

Senate Leader, who is representing the constituency, Senator Ndoma Egba had moved a motion in the Senate before their recess that the mix commission arrived without representation from Nigeria.

“The Senate President went ahead to grant press interview that no inch of Nigeria territory will be ceded to Cameroun. As I speak the exercise is ongoing and we have lost 12 villages where they planted beacons as of yesterday.

Senator Victor Ndoma Egba opted for us to wait till when the Senate reconvenes but the villagers have mobilised and have prevented them from continuing with the exercise.

“We have sent representation to the Attorney General of the Federation that Cameroun, Nigeria mixed commission is supposed to have representatives from Nigeria. They tried it last month and almost took Obudu Cattle Ranch.

They have come down now to Boki and God help us by the time they get to the Southern part of the state, the Bakassi area.

Another problem is that the Nigerian soldiers that arrived came and arrested Nigerians and left the Camerounians to continue with the demarcation.”

Nuclear Power: Kutigi urges delegates to be diplomatic •Cameroun, Niger, Chad alarmed STORIES BY HENRY UMORU, LEVINUS NWABUGHIOGU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

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HAIRMAN of the National Conference, Justice Idris Kutigi, has warned delegates to be careful in their choice of words during presentations.

According to the leadership of the Conference, it has become imperative to counsel delegates against the backdrop that submissions by a delegate a fortnight ago on the siting of nuclear power plants had already alarmed neigbhouring Cameroun, Chad and Niger Republic.

Kutigi, who was represented by his deputy, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, said during the consideration of the Energy Committee’s report: “Please, we are being covered live.

Let us be diplomatic in some of the things we say. One of our delegates made a comment on the floor about two weeks ago that seems to have generated some waves.

He said if we were going to set up nuclear plants we should set it up in borders of …..This has been taken seriously within the diplomatic community who were reading an implied

hostile intention against them.”

In an apparent move to calm nerves of many delegates ahead of the adoption of a recommendation to explore the nuclear power generation option, Akinyemi, who cited examples of how India and Pakistan handled their nuclear power programmes said: “Those of you who have been

to Pakistan and India will know that the nuclear sector is regarded as an important one.

The Indians and Pakistanis look for the best and brightest to manage this sector.

The poverty you see in India and Pakistan exceeds the one you see here. But they don’t mix the two. Unless you are saying we don’t have our own brightest and best.”

Two weeks ago, during plenary, a delegate, Atedo Peterside, while kicking against exploring the nuclear option of power generation cited “Nigeria’s inability to effectively manage motor accidents much less nuclear plant accidents” and suggested that if the country must explore the option it must ensure it sites the plants near Cameroun, Chad or Niger

republic.

According to him, France sited its nuclear power plants near its German borders.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Conference yesterday complained of frequent and sometimes unnecessary point of order, which sometimes do not allow for contribution during debates on very serious issues, adding that 30 delegates who had registered their names to speak yesterday could not do so.

Don’t establish Surgeon-General’s office — Delegates

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ELEGATES yesterday kicked against the planned establishment of office of the Surgeon- General of the Federation.

They urged the Conference to advise the Federal Government against what they termed unnecessary duplication of offices or creation of new bureaucracies in the health system that do not add any value to the primary task of providing quality services to Nigerians.

The move was contained in a motion by Dr Uno Uwaga, Paul Enebde, Shem Zagbayi Nuhu; Issa Aremu; Hassan Salihu Anka, Steve Daniel Aluko and 31 others. The position of the delegates came up during

debates on the report of the Committee on Social Sector chaired by Iyom Josephine Anenih with Prof. Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai as Deputy Chairman which recommended that the office of the SurgeonGeneral be established.

The delegates observed among others that despite the informed and objective analysis which served as the bedrock of the position of the committee, “a few interested parties that stand to benefit from the creation of such office appear committed to misinforming and misguiding the conference into taking a wrongful decision that would project a self-interest against democratically resolved position

on the matter. “The office of the Surgeon- General is alien to most health systems apart from those of the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada wherein the office is restricted to the armed forces, and wherein the office is not held by Medical doctors to the exclusion of others; “The establishment of this office would amount to further bureaucratisation of the structures of the health system without any value necessarily added whatsoever as the Honourable Minister of Health adequately serves as the Chief Medical Adviser of the Presidency and indeed the federation.

“A bill with the intent to establish the office of the Surgeon- General of the Federation presented to the 6th National Assembly was thrown out on the grounds that it would deepen and exacerbate the acrimonious and chaotic situation that already exists in the health sector. “Heeding the demand for the interested parties for the creation of the office of the Surgeon- General of the Federation would further deepen inter-cadre acrimony and disrupt industrial peace and harmony in the health sector with dire consequences, including the trade unions’ principled stance against such an act which might result in avoidable crisis.”

52 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 53

BITS Bits Izon Eson tops at interview for NLC General Secretary

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Lagos workers present demands to govt

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UBLIC workers in Lagos have made a six-point demand from the state government. Femi Oyenubi, Chairman Public Sector Joint Negotiating Council listed the demands as "payment of the balance of 11 per cent of teachers’ specific allowance to complete 27.5 per cent their counterparts are receiving in other states, and training of union leaders.

The union leaders demanded "That government should allot 30 percent of Lagos HOMS (state’s Housing scheme) to public civil servants in the state, and increase workers pension counterpart contribution from 7.5 percent to 15 percent like other state governments which are paying more than 7.5 percent.

Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Mrs. Florence Oguntuase, in her remarks, urged the union to ensure that the interest of both government and workers were taken into consideration adding, “We are aware of the various priorities facing the state government’s finances in its bid to make life better for the citizenry while resources are limited."

Segun Oshinowo, NECA Director General

Informal sector crucial to Nigeria's economic devt, says NECA DG DIRECTOR-General of Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Segun Oshinowo's delegation was in Geneva, Switzerland for the 103rd International Labour Conference.

He spoke to journalists on a number of issues ranging from organizing the informal sector to job creation potentials in Nigeria and other issues.

The story is presented by Labour Vanguard.

BY FUNMI KOMOLAFE HE issue being raised here is how to organize the informal sector. Of what relevance is this to the Nigerian economy and you as employers, how do you see this?

Well, the issue of informal sector is actually key to the promotion of the socio- economic development of Nigeria. As you well know, over 90% of the workforce in Nigeria operates in the informal sector. If we were to reduce the incidence of poverty in Nigeria it is extremely important that we address our minds to the basic policy option. We have to encourage the transition of enterprises and workers from the informal sector to the formal sector So, quite unlike past years when ILO focused basically on labour rights or social rights, we have a topic that is linked to the socioeconomic development of member states.

NECA is a bit experienced in the area of the informal sector. If I take your NEW project, what are the challenges of organizing the informal sector?

The interesting thing about the promotion of entrepreneurship …. that is actually what made us to move in that direction. We have a thousand and one enterprises that are run by women in the country that requires support.

We are not talking of financial support, but we are talking of how they could embrace the basic process of principle and system that would enable their businesses to be competitive. It is a very good success story for us because we started with just 10 members, but today nationwide we can boast of about 800 members and we are still touching the issue on the periphery. The next phase of the evolution will be the introduction of a Micro Finance bank and before the end of the year, the women hope to be introducing their own Micro Finance bank which will, to some ex-

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Policy objectives What of the skills — the manpower that we require to make the potentials work?. A good example of Nigeria is the formulation of our auto policy that has wonderful, beautiful policy objectives, but with manpower implication. If you want the car assembly plants to set up factories in Nigeria, where will the skills come from? Have we addressed the basic institutions that would provide the skills? These and other variables and parameters are what we need to actualize the potentials that we identified. Without them, then our potentials would amount to nothing.

You identified security, manpower and other variables to be the factors that would

tent address the basic issues of their financial challenges. I must say that those businesses would be able to attract our quest into promoting women entrepreneurship. It would be basically Micro and Small enterprises. Yes, you might want to say that some of them operate in the informal sector. So, there is still the big challenge of building up institutions or coming up with policies that would promote the formalization of the informal sector. Remember that in the promotion, or transition of the informal sector to the formal sector there are a whole lot of other things that are linked to it. The issue of promoting it, the issue of meeting the standards, There is still the big challenge of the issue of transparency of the government is the major chal- building up institutions or coming lenge because it is easier for you up with policies that would to promote businesses that are promote the formalization of the semi-formalized, or formalize it to boost the issue of tax collection informal sector in the formal sector.

My own basic worry in terms of the dis- make the Continent sustain the current position of Nigerians in this kind of a top- Africa’s global economic position. As an ic at the international level is that the com- employer, how do you think these factors position of our team does not seem to re- can be addressed from the Continent to flect the basic expertise we need that would maintain her global economic might?

I have had cause to travel by road to basically contribute to the debate because some key economic sectors in Nigeria. If this is not a purely social core issue, but we you take our road infrastructure as an there are economic dimensions to it.

I would have expected the Federal Gov- example, it is a huge challenge moving prodernment of Nigeria, in putting together a ucts on our roads in Nigeria. That is one delegation, to get the Ministry of Finance; dimension of it and the other dimension is here I am talking of someone that is of in terms of complimentary system. The quesmicro-economic disposition that can easi- tion here is that can we count on our roads ly understand all aspects of the subject. system, and the answer of course is no. In When we talk about the delegation, it air connection, you can probably identify should include persons from the Ministry about four or five economic hubs. These of Trade and Industry, somebody from Na- are issues in Nigeria when it comes to transtional Planning, and so it should not have portation ,infrastructure and this is key been a straight jacketed dominance by when you want to promote industrial develMinistry of Labour personnel. In future, opment.

,

R. Peter Izon Eson, an economist and head of research at the Nigeria Labour Congress came tops at the interview for candidates for the post of the general secretary of the NLC held at the secretariat in Abuja. The committee chaired by Ayuba Wabba, president of the Medical and Health Workers Union scored the acting general secretary, Comrade Chris Uyot second while the general secretary of the National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers, Comrade Issa Aremu came third.

Sources close to the panel disclosed the result of the interview to Vanguard but it is unclear what criteria would be finally used to select who becomes general secretary of the NLC. Other sources have questioned 'the hurry" in appointing a general secretary when NLC is due for an election next February.

we should take note of that point that in constituting our delegation to national programmes, the theme and the topics that would be addressed should inform the composition of our team to be able to give meaningful and qualitative positions to the discussion.

On our own side we do not have a problem because NECA delegation has an economist as part of our own team and the economist has been part of our discussion team on the transition of the informal sector to the formal sector. From time to time, I do consult with the economist in order to get my perspective and my contribution right on the debate.

Africa has been identified as the global economic power, but with the crisis raging on the continent, especially in Nigeria, how do you see Africa sustaining it?

Based on the issue raised, yes Africa has the potentials but it will depend on a number of factors. Those are the factors we expect our Governments to pay attention to.

First, the imperative for peace is important, because no matter how potentially rich you are, if you cannot guarantee the security and safety of your investment, then your potential amounts to absolutely nothing.

Secondly, infrastructure is key and we have huge deficit of infrastructure in Africa.

Third is the stability of our Government in terms of consistent implementation of our economic and fiscal policy in the countries.

These are the factors that must be put into considerations to make the realization of the potentials in the Continent come into reality

,

54 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19 , 2014

BRIEFS

Clinton states differences with Obama over arming Syrian rebels

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Iraq requests US airstrike on militants I

RAQ has asked the United States to conduct air strikes against jihadist-led Sunni militants who have seized key cities and large swathes of the country, Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari said yesterday.

“Iraq has officially asked Washington to help under the security agreement (between the two countries), and to conduct air strikes against terrorist groups,” Zebari told reporters in Saudi Arabia.

Militants, spearheaded by the jihadist Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and joined by supporters of executed dictator Saddam Hussein, have in the past week overrun a large chunk of northern and north-central Iraq, although their advance has since been slowed.

“A military approach

•Maliki will not be enough. We acknowledge the need for drastic political solutions,” Zebari said.

The United States spent $25 billion over several years training and arming a new Iraqi army after disbanding the Sunni-led force created by the late dictator Saddam Hussein.

President Barack Obama has sent a small number of military personnel to Baghdad to strengthen security for

•Obama the US embassy and is weighing potential military options, including air strikes, to counter the militant onslaught.

In a televised address to the nation, Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki struck an optimistic tone and vowed to teach the attackers a “lesson” — even though Iraqi soldiers abandoned their posts in the wake of the initial militant offensive.

“We have now started

our counteroffensive, regaining the initiative and striking back,” alMaliki said.

The campaign by the al-Qaida-inspired Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant has raised the specter of the sectarian warfare that nearly tore the country apart in 2006 and 2007. The relentless violence that followed the 2003 U.S.-led invasion now haunts those trying to decide how to respond.

Coast massacres: Kenyan police embark on mass arrest K ENYAN police said they arrested several suspects yesterday amid high political tension in the wake of twin massacres on the coast, claimed by Somalia’s Islamist Shebab but blamed by the president on local political networks.

The assault on the town of Mpeketoni late on Sunday and a nearby village the following night left at least 60 dead, and were the worst attacks since last September’s Shebab attack on the Westgate shopping mall in the capital in which 67 were killed.

“We have arrested several suspects,” police chief David Kimaiyo said, including the police officer in the town, the owner and driver of a vehicle used by the attackers, and a suspect accused of running fake

Shebab social media accounts.

“More suspects including leaders are being interrogated,” Kimaiyo added.

Despite an immediate claim of responsibility for

the latest carnage from the Al-Qaeda-linked Shebab, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta instead blamed “local political networks” along with an “opportunist network of other criminal gangs”.

The charges have been greeted by scepticism and confusion — but are also

Prince Felipe shuns ostentatious coronation ing safari in Africa. Felipe,

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ROWN Prince Felipe ascended to the Spanish throne at midnight yesterday, but there weren’t be any ritzy official celebrations. The economic crisis that has left a quarter of Spaniards out of work has prompted Europe’s newest king to be relatively frugal at his proclamation.

The crown prince’s father, 76-year-old Juan Carlos,

•Prince Felipe misjudged public anger at financial hardship when he went on an elephant-hunt-

Ukraine’s promises unilateral ceasefire

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KRAINE’S new pres ident yesterday promised a unilateral cease-fire as a start toward ending the fighting that has wracked the country’s east, a potential major development in efforts to bring peace to the deeply polarized nation.

President Petro Poroshenko’s plan, announced after talks with the leaders of Russia and Germany,

seen as raising the spectre of fresh ethnic violence inside Kenya.

“The emerging scenario points to a dangerous political situation that could easily escalate to violence if not well managed,” the Daily Nation newspaper said in an editorial.

would offer separatists in the eastern provinces that form Ukraine’s industrial heartland a chance to lay down their weapons or leave the country.

Yet a key question is whether Moscow has the desire and the ability to persuade the pro-Russia insurgents to accept Poroshenko’s plan. Rebel leaders have remained

defiant, but in a sign of behind-the-scenes maneuvering, some of them visited Moscow this week to meet with senior officials and lawmakers.

Poroshenko didn’t say when the cease-fire could be declared, but the country’s defense minister, Mykhailo Koval, was quoted as saying it could begin “within days.”

46, appears keen to show he’s more in tune with his countrymen — and avoid the mistakes of his abdicating predecessor.

The landmark occasion is perhaps most notable for what it won’t include: no state banquet, no foreign royals or heads of state, no ostentatious ceremonies or parades.

By royal standards, it’s humble: reception guests will be served hot and cold tapas-style nibbles, which they will eat while standing. There will be no champagne, just sparkling cava wine from Spain’s Catalonia region.

“More than anything this is a message. What they want to say is: ‘We’re in a moment when sobriety in spending shows a certain sense of solidarity in a time of economic difficulty,’” Navarra University history professor Pablo Perez Lopez said.

OTENTIAL Demo cratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton pointed out her differences with President Barack Obama over his decision not to arm moderate Syrian rebels, as neighboring Iraq struggles to cope with extremist spillover •Hillary Clinton from Syria.

“We pushed very hard. But as I say in my book, I believe that Harry Truman was right, the buck stops with the president,” Clinton said in a CNN interview.

The former secretary of state said she, along with the then heads of the Pentagon and CIA tried but failed to persuade Obama to arm the rebels fighting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, but that the White House resisted.

Clinton said it was not clear whether arming moderates in Syria would have prevented the rise of the al Qaeda splinter group, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, which has swept toward Baghdad aiming to build a Muslim caliphate across the Iraqi-Syrian border.

Germany warns EU members over jihadist threat

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ATTLE-HARDENED jihadists returning from Syr ia’s civil war are no longer an ‘abstract threat’ but a ‘deadly danger’ to Europe, Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere said yesterday.

An estimated 2,000 Europeans, including some 320 German citizens, have travelled to Syria to fight alongside Islamist rebels, he said while presenting the German domestic intelligence service’s (BfV) annual report. European governments are struggling to stop their nationals, some just teenagers, travelling to Syria where the conflict that began as a peaceful uprising to President Bashar al-Assad has become an armed rebellion is entering its fourth year. More than 160,000 people have been killed.

Saudi Arabia warns Iran against meddling in Iraq’s crisis

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AUDI Arabia gave an apparent warning to arch enemy Iran yesterday by saying outside powers should not intervene in the conflict in neighbouring Iraq.

Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal also said Iraq was facing a full-scale civil war with grave consequences for the wider region.

His remarks coincided with an Iranian warning that Tehran would not hesitate to defend Shi’ite Muslim holy sites in Iraq against “killers and terrorists”, following advances by Sunni militants there.

The toughening of rhetoric about Iraq by the Gulf ’s two top powers suggested that Tehran and Riyadh have put on hold recent plans to explore a possible curbing of their rivalry across the region’s Sunni-Shi’ite sectarian divide.

Britain under threat of Islamist attack — Cameron

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RIME Minister David Cameron warned yesterday that militants making advances in Iraq and fighting in Syria were also planning to attack •Cameron Britain.

“I’d disagree with those people who think this is nothing to do with us and if they want to have some sort of extreme Islamist regime in the middle of Iraq that won’t affect us — it will,” Cameron told the House of Commons.

“The people in that regime, as well as trying to take territory, are also planning to attack us here at home in the United Kingdom.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 55

Benefits of a Veg diet: Cholesterol – Don’t pay blood donors the good, the bad, the ugly (1) — Group T Hakeem Jimo’s N HERE is a lot of information being tossed around about cholesterol but few know actually details. Cholesterol can’t dissolve in the blood. It must be transported through your bloodstream by carriers called lipoproteins, which got their name because they’re made of fat (lipid) and proteins.

The two types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol to and from cells are low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, and highdensity lipoprotein, or HDL.

LDL (Bad) Cholesterol

LDL cholesterol is considered the “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can clog arteries and make them less

BY GABRIEL OLAWALE

Ve ggie Victory

veggienaija@gmail.com flexible. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, heart attack or stroke can result. If a blood clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, a heart attack or stroke can result. Another condition called peripheral artery disease can develop when plaque buildup narrows an artery supplying blood to the legs.

•Heart-friendly diet.

HDL -Good Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries. Experts believe HDL acts as a scavenger, carrying LDL cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it is broken down and passed from the body.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are another type of fat, and they’re used to store excess energy from your diet.

High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with atherosclerosis. Elevated triglycerides can be caused by overweight and obesity, physical inactivity, cigarette smoking, excess alcohol consumption and a diet very high in carbohydrates (more than 60 percent of total calories).

Triglyceride is the most common type of fat in the body. Normal triglyceride levels are different for females and males, and vary as you get older.

To be concluded

O amount can equate the life you save is the tone that set the stage for this year’s blood donation and fitness walk organised by the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni, UMA, in conjunction with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH. During the exercise, President of the UMA, Sikrullah Alimi urged all to donate blood voluntarily since no one knew when he could need blood.

“When you donate blood don’t even think of who is going to use it or what you will get in return for donating, all what you need to bear in mind is that you have saved a life which has a great reward from God.”

Service to humanity He, however, lamented the continuous loss of lives mostly due to non-availability of blood for victims of urgent transfusion.

“This became very worrisome for us, making it pertinent that we get involved to save lives through this effort which started last year as a result of the fact that blood is something that cannot be manufactured in a laboratory. Unfortunately, constantly, people are dying because of lack of sufficient

blood during accident, child birth among others,” he said He explained that UMA partnered with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, to supervise the process, using the systematic process while testing the blood pressure grouping, weight, height and so on.

All donated blood samples were taken to the Lagos State blood transfusion bank for screening.

The event witnessed a massive turnout of volunteers cutting across all social circles.

Nurudeen Saliu, a second time donor, revealed that; “I started donating blood last year and I feel very happy because I believe I am going to save the life of another person which I don’t know and I don’t intend to know.”

“It is sad that what we have in our environment today is tout remunerated blood donors which is not suppose to be. We want Nigerians to come out and donate voluntarily so that we can have enough blood when the need arises. “ Secretary of the Association, Dr. Luqman Adams recommended the fitness walk drive as necessary due to its multifunctional role in the overall health. “Engaging in regular exercise is something that has a lot of advantages for healthy living,” he noted.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

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Y best friend’s husband is a womaniser. She used to complain about him and I would usually console her by telling her that it will stop eventually. And then the worst just happened. The man started flirting with me. I was in their house last weekend to visit my friend and she wasn’t home. I called her and she said I should wait for her because she was stuck in traffic. And while I waited, her husband came down to say hello and before I knew it, he was flirting with me and telling me I had very nice ‘juggs’ (meaning breasts) and that he is very sure I will be a lot of fun in bed. It was very awkward and I don’t even know what to do and how to tell my friend about this - Stella The problem with situations like this is that if the man concerned is determined to make a fool of himself and risk losing his marriage, nothing will stop him. I also understand the risks involved in telling your friend about it because once you do that, she will turn against you and blame you for it. She can even go as far as accusing you of trying to steal her man. For some reason, it is in a woman’s nature to blame the other woman first before even confronting her own husband.

So this is what I suggest. Tell your friend’s husband that his advances are inappropriate and that he should stop. I hope he hears you and comes to his senses. But if it doesn’t work, then you have no choice but to go with the nuclear option. This means you will have to call your friend, tell her what happened and then just disappear from their lives, because the issue will blow up everything. It is very likely that your friend will turn against you the moment you tell her anyway so you might as well just avoid both of them altogether because the moment you speak the truth, nothing will ever be the same again, not even with your so called best friend. That is just how things are in the crazy world of adults – Uche

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John Of course you can stop now if you are happy with the size you have gained. Within six months of constant usage, one should have gained enough length and width Uche Please I want a tighter vagina. What do I do? – Angela For instant tightening, get the Liquid Sex Vagina Tightener or the Tighten it Up V-Gel. But for a long term solution, get the Orgasm Balls f o r Pelvic Exercises – Uche I need your help. Ever since I started having children, my breasts have started sagging – Eugenia Try the Pheromone Firming Bust Gel. It is a new breast firmer and sexual attractant – Uche Adults in need of these novelties can call us on 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

56—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Customs seizes military uniform, bulletproof jackets, boots in Lagos port

BY GODWIN ORITSE

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AGOS—THE Ni geria Customs Service, NCS, yesterday, intercepted some imported military uniform, bullet proof jackets, boots and other dangerous items in Lagos port.

The items were intercepted at the Port and Terminal Multipurpose Services Limited (PTML), Tincan Island port, Lagos.

Disclosing this to newsmen, while parading a suspect, Mr. Emmanuel Eko who was the importer of the cargo, Customs Area Comptroller, of the Command, Mr Folorunsho Adegoke, said that the military wares were intercepted at the terminal on examination on Monday.

According to the Controller, the suspect who claimed to be a member of the British Army and presented a Nigeria passport, had few years ago been arrested at the command for disguising as a Nigeria army officer.

The military wares included camouflage uniforms, military jackets, military helmets, berets, boots, rain coats, armored jackets, communication radio jackets, face masks, ear protectors among others.

Although, the number of the uniform seized could not be ascertained, it was however gathered that about 500 Army camouflage uniforms, 20 pairs of bullet proof jackets, 15 boots and other military items were brought to the port by the importer.

Displaying the items to the reporters, Adegoke said the military uniforms and boots, which were mixed up with other items in a white bus shipped in from Britain were discovered during routine examinations and checks by officers and men of the Command.

“It is the practice that when we have military wares, they are normally imported by military officers and they will write a letter to our headquarters to that effect, and when the goods come, they are always on ground to receive them.'

Omisore, Adesiyan, others to appear before Osun panel ...As Omisore allegedly escapes assassination

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO—GOVERNOR SHIP candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Osun state, Senator Iyiola Omisore and the Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Jelili Adesiyan, have been summoned to appear before the panel of enquiry on public peace and disturbance set up by Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

The first executive governor of Osun State, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, had petitioned the panel, blaming Omisore, Adesiyan and one Sogo Agboola, for the alleged assault on him at the Ideal Next Hotel, Osogbo during the run-off to PDP primaries.

Besides, the three-man panel headed by Justice Moshood Adekunle Adeigbe, said the panel had received eight petitions, and three were written by Senator Isiaka Adeleke.

Among other petitioners were Balogun Jenyo, Balogun Fagbemi and Balogun Agoro who had through their counsel, Barrister Tajudeen Ganikale urged the commission to investigate the declaration of Balogun of Osogbo chieftaincy title.

Barrister Ganikale, in a 27-paragraph affidavit urged the panel to summon the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Osun state, Mr. Wale Afolabi, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Osogbo Local Government.

The commission also received a 12-paragraph and 11-para-

PRESENTATION: Commissioner of Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Olusola Oworu (left) presenting the Certificate of Occupancy to Chairman, Lekki Coastal Development Area resettlement committee, Alhaji Tajudeen Jegede on behalf of Lagos State government, while the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Wale Raji, looks on during the presentation of C of Os to communities of Lekki Free Trade Zone, in Lekki, Lagos, yesterday. Photo by Bunmi Azeez. graphs affidavit sworn by Mrs. Lasisi Kafaya and Alhaji Abisoye Rasheed against one Segun Ojedapo.

Others petitioners were Dauda Ayoola and Ganiyu Oladipupo.

Omisore escapes assassination

Meanwhile, Senator Iyiola Omisore on Tuesday night escaped alleged assassination attempt in Lagos.

Omisore, according to his media aide, Diran Odeyemi, who narrated the incident at a briefing in Osogbo, yesterday

had on Tuesday campaigned in Oke-Ila Orangun, and was scheduled to return to Lagos that night but was prevailed upon not to travel at night.

Odeyemi claimed the suspected assassins stormed the Lagos residence of Omisore on Thompson Avenue, Ikoyi at about 2.00 am and asked from security men if he was in the house. He said “Otunba Omisore was supposed to leave for Lagos on Tuesday evening after the campaign in Oke-Ila Orangun but we prevailed on him not to leave for Lagos as it was late. Otunba had actually fixed a meeting with his

Labour storms Fashola’s office over new cement policy

BY VICTORAHIUMA-YOUNG

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AGOS—PROTESTING workers in the nation’s Chemical and Non-Metallic Products sector, yesterday stormed the office of Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos, rejecting the new Federal Government policy on cement production, saying it would cost Nigeria, not less than one million direct and indirect job losses.

The aggrieved labour leaders and workers, who were at the governor’s office to deliver a position paper to Fashola for onward delivery to President Goodluck Jonathan, claimed the new policy was ill-conceived, ill-advised with dire consequences for the national economy, and could not be defended outside Nigeria.

Under the aegis of National Union of Chemical, Footwear, Rubber, Leather and Non-metallic Products Employees, NUCFRLANMPE, with support from Lagos chapter of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC,

and National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria, NUTGTWN. They called on government to halt the policy because it was capable of disrupting the transformation agenda of the present administration.

Displaying placards with various inscriptions, they matched from Toyin Street, Ikeja to Lagos State Secretariat Alausa, lamenting that the policy was hasty and would worsen the unemployment situation in the country.

They implored the government to give the cement manufacturers a minimum of two years to standardize their operations, arguing that it was wrong for the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON, to suddenly introduce a new policy on cement production At a briefing before the protest, President of the union, Mr. Boniface Isok, insisted that the introduction of 42.5 standard of cement was a welcome idea if only it was al-

lowed to compete with other types of cement while leaving the choice for final consumers.

business partners in his Lagos home but he could not attend the meeting again. However, the cooks at the house called him at night that some assassins were in the house and they were asking of him,” he added. ''The cooks said that the assassins did not take anything from the house as they searched all the rooms including Otunba’s bedroom. They kept shouting where is he, where is he, and when they couldn’t find him they attacked one of the security guards.”

However, Odeyemi, who claimed that the security guards in the house were tied down when the suspected assassins operated, stated that a Police officer in the house shot one of the suspected assassins on the leg and eventually arrested him.

Tight security as murder trial of NURTW boss, Auxilliary begins

BY OLAAJAYI

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BADAN—OVER 200 Secu rity operatives, Armoured Personnel Carrier, APC, and several police trucks were at the Iyaganku Magistrate Court, yesterday to maintain law and order at the commencement of a murder case against the former Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Oyo State branch, Alhaji Lamidi Mukaila,, aka Auxiliary.

This came as proceedings on the case were stalled over inability to get legal advice from the Department of Public Prosecution, Oyo State Ministry of Justice.

The Investigating Police Officer, IPO, in charge of the case, Mr. Solomon Aruwaji, said he had duplicated the case file and sent to the DPP office at Ministry of

Justice to get a legal advice for the consolidation of the charges with others.

Auxiliary was first arraigned at magistrate court 10, Iyaganku, Ibadan about fortnight ago on a two count charge of conspiracy and murder before the case was adjourned till yesterday. Before adjourning the case to July 17, 2014, Magistrate Kehinde Omotoso, said the court would wait for the legal advice from the DPP. Auxiliary and two others, Saheed Kareem and Abu Kareem standing trial on a two-count charge of murder and conspiracy, were accused of allegedly partaking in violence that happened at Iwo Road interchange in 2011 which led to the death of scores of people, including a 500-level medical student of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Vanguard, THURSDAY JUNE 19, 2014—57

Grief, as business titan, Arisekola-Alao dies at 69

BY LEKE ADESERI, SouthWest Regional Editor, OLA AJAYI, ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH & DAUD OLATUNJI

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N line with his principle of being at peace with all men, and more importantly his philanthropic posture, hundreds of sympathizers including politicians, artisans, physically-challenged, yesterday thronged the Olowo Kekere residence of the late business mongul, Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Abdul-Azeez Arisekola Alao, following news of his demise yesterday.He was aged 69 years, and would have clocked 70 February 14 next year.

Wailings of most beneficiaries of his generosity rent the serene environment of the multibillion naira residence.

Among early callers were the Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, his deputy, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, Speaker, Oyo House of Assembly, Alhaja Mulikat Sunmonu, wife of the state governor, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, local government chairmen, Professor Daud Noibi, Chairman, Muslim Society of South West Nigeria, and many other notables.

Arisekola Alao’s younger brother, Alhaji Abu Arisekola, was too shocked to utter any comments.

When Vanguard sought for his comment, he simply said, “Gentlemen, I can’t say anything now.

I am short of words.”

The governor got to the residence around 4.25pm, while his deputy came in about 25 minutes later.

News of his death

When news of his death filtered in, his long-term photographer who later became a confidant to the late industrialist, Mr. Najeem Raheem, said people were just peddling the rumour only to confirm later that the news was true.

Most people did not know of his death until some minutes before 4 pm.

Some women who relied heavily on the late Islamic cleric for survival said; “Death has punished us in Ibadan. There is no Ibadan person who can fit into the shoes of Alhaji Arisekola. You forefathers, you are sleeping too much.”

Governor Ajimobi’s comments

Governor Ajimobi described his death as tragic, disheartening and a big blow, not only to Oyo State but also to the entire country.

The governor in a statement, said he received the news of the death of the business mogul and religious leader with shock and disbelief, saying that the passage of Alhaji Arisekola-Alao marked the end of an era in the history of the state.

“Aare cannot die as those who lived the kind of life he lived, with imprints in the lives of millions of people, never die. He lived a life that was devoted to the lives of others. It is indeed the end of an era for us in Ibadan and Nigeria in general,” the governor said.

Governor Ajimobi described the late Alhaji Arisekola-Alao as a devout Muslim, shrewd businessman and a philanthropist whose commitment to the cause of the down-trodden in society was unequalled.

“Uncle Arisekola-Alao was an upright, consistent and principled man. He called a spade by its name without minding whose ox was gored. Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland was also a pillar of support to our administration whose wise counsel had helped tremendously in the success story so far recorded by our government.

“He was a fulfilled man, fulfilled in all his earthly assignments. I am sure he died very happy with himself. Besides, Arisekola-Alao also used his God-given endowment to touch the lives of several millions of people. He was a source of joy to those who came across him.”

He commiserated with the family, friends, associates, religious leaders, the Muslim Ullammahs and indeed, the entire people of the state and prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased.

He urged them to take solace in the imperishable life devoted to humanity that he lived.

Burial Arrangements

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the PresidentGeneral of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Nigeria, NSCIA, was said to be in London.

Governor Ajimobi, according to a brief information by a former Chairman, Oyo state Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim wing), Alhaji Kamil Koyejo Oloso, who officially broke the news of the demise of Arisekola while addressing the mammoth crowd of mourners at the late Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland’s residence, had directed that a befitting burial be accorded Arisekola at a yet to be disclosed venue.

Twenty-four hours before his demise, Arisekola had visited one of his children who newly bought a house in Paris before he headed back to London.

Jonathan, Atiku, govs, others mourn Reacting to his death; President Goodluck Jonathan said Arisekola would be remembered as a great entrepreneur, noting that he “received with great shock and sadness, news

State, expressed deep shock over his death, saying however that he lived a fulfilled life.

Amosun in a statement said “It is most unfortunate that Alhaji Ariselola-Alao would die at a time when a lot of Muslims would have benefited from his generosity, but Almighty Allah knows best.”

The governor who commiserated with the NSCIA, family members of the deceased and his associates, urged them to take solace in the fact that the late Islamic leader led an exemplary life through his unwavering stance in the propagation of Islam.

Great loss to Nigerians —NACOMYO

•Late Chief Azeez Arisekola-Alao of the death of the renowned Nigerian businessman and religious leader, Alhaji AbdulAzeez Arisekola-Alao.

The President in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr, Rueben Abati, said “On behalf of himself, the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria, President Jonathan extends sincere condolences to the Arisekola-Alao family as well as the people of Ibadan and Oyo State on the passing away of the famed Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland.

“As they mourn the famous entrepreneur, community and religious leader, President Jonathan urges his family, relatives, friends, associates and dependants to be comforted by the fact that Alhaji ArisekolaAlao lived a very fulfilled life, and in passing on, leaves behind a legacy of significant and commendable achievements.

The President noted that “Alhaji Arisekola-Alao will always be remembered and honoured, especially for the remarkable entrepreneurial skills with which he established many successful businesses and created jobs for numerous Nigerians, as well as for his religious leadership and philanthropic gestures.”

It was a loss to Nigeria – Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, said the demise of Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, was a loss to Nigeria.

Atiku said in a statement that he was shocked and saddened by the death of Arisekola-Alao, saying “Arisekola was a devout Muslim and community leader. He was gener-

ous and loved his people; the quality of his humanity and compassion was unprecedented. The country will surely miss him. I visited him recently after the death of his wife and he hosted me to lunch in his palatial Ibadan home. He related well with all Nigerians,” the Turakin Adamawa recalled.

He expressed his condolences to the family and people and government of Oyo state over the loss

Arisekola’s death unfortunate — Aregbesola

On his part, Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State said his death was unfortunate, noting his death only reinforced the essence of mankind’s existence, “which is to live a good live and render service to humanity before the necessary end (death) comes. His death is sad, shocking and unfortunate. He lived a good life, a life full of positive examples. Alhaji Arisekola Alao was a notable figure, successful businessman, a consistent philanthropist and community leader.

“As Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, he demonstrated his love for peace as a religious leader and led a God-fearing life. On behalf of my family, the people and the state of Osun I convey our heart-felt condolence to the immediate and extended family of the later business doyen, the governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, the entire Muslim Ummah and the people of the state.”

He lived a fulfilled life, says Amosun

In the same vein, Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun

Also, National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations, NACOMYO, described his death as a great loss to Nigerians.

The group's National President, Kamaldeen Akintunde in a statement in Abeokuta said the Muslim community had lost a great financier and a pillar of Islam whose act of benevolence and charity cut across tribal and religious boundaries.

The statement said “Several Nigerians irrespective of religion or ethnicity have benefited from his largesse of philanthropism. Not less than a week ago, over 100 Muslim Pilgrims returned from lesser hajj which he bankrolled. I am a beneficiary of such gesture which I undertook last year.

“He had been sponsoring people for lesser hajj to witness the washing of Holy Kaaba in Saudi Arabia in every month of Shaaban. In the last 15 years Aare had been sponsoring hundreds of Nigerian Muslims to be part of the exercise. We have lost another MKO Abiola. ''The vacuum created by his death would be difficult to fill.

I can’t think of any Nigerian Muslim pillar who can readily fix and replace this phinthropist, whoe act of benevolence cut across.”.

Similarly, A senior advocate, Mallam Yusuf Ali, described his death as a blow to Islam, and business entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Ali said, “The Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and the world has lost a great leader and benefactor. Nigeria has lost a foremost business man, leader and entrepreneur whose shoes will be difficult to fill.

“Also, mankind has lost a benefactor with milk of kindness, because of his free disposition to humanity withjout consideration for race or religion. Many people will miss him dearly, especially people like us who benefitted one way or the other from his philanthropy.”

58—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Wole Soyinka @ 80 celebration loud in Osogbo

T

JAPHET ALAKAM

HE events for the cel ebration of Prof Wole Soyinka’s 80th birthday continued in Osogbo, State of Osun, few days ago at the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding (CBCIU), Osogbo, with the hosting of the exhibition of portraits of Soyinka.

With the theme Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Art Exhibition, the touring celebration which had taken off in Abeokuta last April and is expected to continue in Port Harcourt and Abuja as part of the 80-days build up towards the July 13 date of the Nobel Laureate’s birthday. The portraits were

The producer of Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Lillian Amah Aluko stated that the children workshop aspects of the birthday celebration “is very important to Soyinka because of his interest in transferring creative values to the future generation.”She added that after the two day exhibition and workshop in Osogbo, the project moves to Port Harcourt and Abuja. “ Last year, The Project WS79 train arrived in The State of Osun on 15th July 15 2013 amidst dancing and singing from the various state cultural troupes at the Centre for Black heritage and Culture, Osogbo. They were received by state functionaries at the

,

As challenging as Nigeria's nationhood is, Soyinka always stands against the agents of retrogression

produced under Living Legends project that involved leading Nigerian master painters and sculptors led by Olu Ajayi.

Soyinka was the first sitter in 2008, the project had also documented others great Nigerians such as Yusuf Grillo, Dr Bruce Onobrakpeya, Prof J.P. Clark and the Oba of Benin, Erediauwa.

At the formal opening of the exhibition, the students of Ataoja High School of Science and Christ African Church Middle School participated in an interactive session. Anchored by Linda Amadi, the interactive period of the workshop had the students shared their knowledge of the Nobel Laureate, Soyinka.

Agents of retrogression The Governor of State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who opened the exhibition noted that as challenging as Nigeria’s nationhood is, Soyinka always stand against the agents of retrogression. He described the celebrant as “the conscience of Nigeria.” Representated by Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism Oladipo Soyode Aregbesola stated: “Soyinka has transcended tribes and races, defied tyranny to become the conscience of Nigeria.”

According to Aregbesola, Soyinka “is an example of how Africans should live with integrity and honour.” He urged the youth participants of the workshop to “learn from the Soyinka example that honour and integrity are more than money and positions.” The school children also engaged in the drawing session, thereby capturing Soyinka in their own way.

,

Governor’s office which was our initial point of call and ferried to the world famous Osun Oshogbo

L-R Oladipo Soyode, Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism who represented Gov. Aregbesola and Linda Amar, workshop anchor person going through the works groove. The 79 students and Project WS officials were taken on a guided tour of the popular tourist site where they were treated to fascinating stories and awe inspiring scenery.

After the tour, the students went to the Centre for black heritage and culture where they were received by the Deputy Governor of the State of Osun Mrs. Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori, the beautiful First lady Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola and other government functionaries.

The 79 Project WS students were introduced to them and the top five

winners of the Essay competition duly recognised and applauded. The First Lady and Deputy Governor then went ahead to mentor the Students who also consisted of 1000 senior secondary school students

from various schools in The State of Osun. The Project WS plays which had been touring with the team, Wole Soyinka’s ‘The Trials of brother Jero’ and ‘Childe Internationale’ were staged to the enjoyment of the students and government officials of The State of Osun. After Project WS

delegates were given a the royal welcome, they all departed for their hotel rooms as they were expected to be guests of the First Lady at breakfast the next morning at the Government house.

The morning of July 16, the Deputy Governor Mrs. LaoyeTomori received them as well as the First Lady Alhaja Aregbesola.

Once again, they spoke to the children and applauded the effort of the project organisers.

A comparative study of Igbos and Israel in print JAPHET ALAKAM

T

HE widespread notion that the Igbo of the South Eastern Nigeria are direct descendants of the Jews has been a subject of debate. While many ascribe it to the fact that there is a connection between the Igbo and Judaism based on a critical study of their linguistic, archeological, genetic and cultural ties, some others disagree saying that it is not so as they attribute the Jewish identification among the Igbo as a result of Christianity brought by missionaries, since most Igbo people are Christians.

But what is the true story, though many writers have written on this subject matter, but the book, The Igbos And Isreal; An Inter- Cultural Study of the largest Jewish Diaspora written by Abuja based Igbo author, lawyer and activist, Remy Ilona is unique in that it is a concerted move to answer the question based on a research carried out about it.

Written with the background that a significant part of the origin of their custom emanated from the ancient Isrealities and that Jewish identification has been part of the Igbo experience, the author who is one of the few Igbo authors with profound knowledge of the Hebrew Bible and its later Jewish commentaries carried out a comparative research, studying what others have written earlier on the subject and interviewing some of the eldest priests and others at Nri, and other Igbo locations.

It is his findings that formed the bulk of the 284 pages book divided into 20 chapters.

A study of the book shows that The Igbos And Isreal; An Inter- Cultural Study of the largest Jewish Diaspora is an inter cultural study of the systematic comparism of Igbo culture to the Hebrew and Isrealites. One special attribute of the book

is the author’s ability to document and interprete some of the cultures of Igbo people, some of them which are outdated.

Chapter 1, takes a critical look at Life circle events which focusses on Igbo rituals associated with the birth of children, Initiation rites and Marriage and how it is linked to the Jewish culture.

Chapter two highlights the Comparative study of the ideas underlying Omenana and Judaism. Here, the author explains the meaning of Omenana and its importance to the early period unlike now when modernisation has eroded some of them.

He also looked at Igbo perception of God (Chukwu) where he gave evidences that indeed proved that it is similar to the Isrealites perception of the Deity.

In Chapter 3, the author highlights the rituals associated with dying and death in the topic Onwu na Akwamaozu, the various ways Igbo handle the issue and how it was practiced by the Jews.

Feasts and festivals Issues like feasts and festivals, New yam festival( Iri ji), Passover and Unleavened bread(Oriri Achicah), Sukkot (Ima Ntu), Eke Ukwu/Nkwo oru(Sabbath) and others were treated in Chapter four. Though some of them are no longer practiced in all Igbo land, there are some areas where they are observed. Chapter 5, examines some socio religious customs while chapter 6 takes a critical look at Abomination and purification(Aru na Ikpu aru) as it is done in Igbo land and its similarity to that of the Isrealites. The concept of sacrifices and offerings(Ichu Aja) as practiced in Igbo land is treated in chapter 7. Here the different types of sacrifices in Igbo land especially those similar to the Jews are addressed.

Chapters 8 and 9 looked at Classes among the Igbo and the s o c i o Religious personalities and authorities in Igbo land. While chapter 10 to 15 takes a comparative survey of the The Igbos And Isreal; An duties,. How do the Igbo Inter- Cultural Study of the largest Jewish Diaspora: p e o p l e Remy Ilona, Street to Street h a n d l e Epiccentre Stories, Washingcases of ton, DC; 2014; PP. 284 crime and other offences, irresponsible and unnatural sexual behaviours, land matters, ritual cleanliness and Dietary matters in relation to that of the Isrealites were also treated.

In Chapters 16 to 19, the author bares his findings in similarities between Igbo and Semitic manners of dress,Joining the Igbo and Jewish people and leaving them and the Igbo society in general. Finally, he concludes with what he termed Thoughtprovoking Phenomena, where he narrated some Igbo folk-lores, Igbo and Isrealite farming practices and family trees.

The book can be described as a masterful job with a scholarly attention to detail. It serves two important purpose, first it documents the cultural practices of Igbo people many which are already going into extinction and secondly it beautifully narrates the Judiac rituals, beliefs and concepts as they are practiced in the Igbo culture of Nigeria.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 59

Omeruo named in World Cup Premiership team

J

OHN Obi Mikel may have been named the Man of the Match by FIFA in the Nigeria versus Iran encounter, but Kenneth Omeruo was named in the Premiership stars that shone the brightest after the first set of matches were played at the World Cup. The team, which was picked by whoscored.com, from the Opta Index scores of each player, showed that Omeruo had a score of 7.60, to earn him a place among the top defenders at the Mundial after the opening game.

The other defenders

are Debuchy, Cameron and Evra, with Tim Howard in goal.

The midfielders are Oscar, S.Y. Ki, Fellaini and Hazard, while the attack has Robin van Persie and Campbell.

The ratings confirmed the observation of many Nigerians that Omeruo played a near-perfect game in defence for the Eagles.

The young defender has been tipped to get a recall to Chelsea next season, following his brilliant displays for Middlesbrough in the Championship last season.

Holland beat Australia in 5-goal thriller Omeruo in action against Iran.

Don’t give up on Eagles, Danagogo charges Nigerians A s the Super Ea gles prepare to face Bosnia Herzegovinia in

their second match at the World Cup in Brazil, the Honourable Minister of

Oboabona Continues from BP The defender who was wheeled out of the match against Iran and replaced by skipper Joseph Yobo was said to have sustained a big cut on his toe which makes it practically impossible for him to wear boots.

The sad news on Oboabona is coming at a time when there are fears of injury worries in the camp even as officials of the team deny their players are in good health.

Media Officer, Ben Alaiya confirmed that Oboabona had been ruled out but noted that Chief coach Keshi was still nursing hopes that the defender could still recover.

“Now, Oboabona and Gabriel Reuben are out of the games; Omeruo is just managing and we have as substitutes such players as Babatunde Michael, Michael Uchebo, Azubuike Egwuekwe and Kunle Odunlami. These are

players we may field against Bosnia and Argentina. We are in trouble”, a distraught member of the team said.

The source said that Omeruo received an injection on his thigh to enable him play against Iran on Monday.

The Super Eagles need an outright win against Bosnia who lost to Argentina 2-1 to nurse any ambition of not crashing out in the first round. Stephen Keshi had promised before the match against Iran that he was sure that Nigeria would do better than they did in South Africa by going beyond the first round of the World Cup. But the signs are ominous, danger is knocking on the door of the Eagles as many blame the technical crew for not selecting Nigeria’s best players for the World Cup in Brazil.

Gabriel probably joined the camp with injury and was retained till now where is just a number in the team.

Sports and Chairman, National Sports Commission, NSC, Dr. Tammy Danagogo has called on Nigerians not to give up hope on the team.

The minister’s plea, his Special Assistant on Media, Patrick Omorodion said yesterday, is coming on the heels of hisses and sighs from disappointed Nigerian fans following the barren draw posted by the Eagles against Iran in their opening game last Monday.

According to Dr. Danagogo, who was in Brazil to receive the Eagles and the

Federal Government delegation headed by the senate President, David Mark on arrival last week as well as cheer the team in their first match, all hope was not lost as they still have a chance to qualify from the group.

“Nigerians have every right to be disappointed because they expected their team to beat Iran. It is expected but I want to appeal that they should not lose hope but continue to pray and support the team.

Bosnia are beatable and the Eagles can come back strong.

Keshi Continues from BP the striker defied his instructions even though he was playing an unfamiliar role.

Almeria midfielder Ramon Azeez could also be axed from the starting XI after he won his third cap against Iran on Monday.

His most likely replacement will be Belgiumbased Michael Uchebo, who was preferred to Azeez in the country’s warm-up games leading up to Brazil 2014.

Skipper Joseph Yobo is expected to keep his place in the first team after Turkey-based de-

fender Godfrey Oboabona was ruled out of Saturday’s cracker as a result of a foot injury he suffered against Iran.

Yobo said that reaching a century of international caps would be an added bonus for him as he was already fulfilled to be at his third World Cup. “I’m just happy that I made it here because towards the end of the season I got injured and it was difficult for me,” he revealed.

“Any other personal achievement will be great and I will enjoy it.”

T

HE Netherlands have put one foot in the Round of 16 with a fantastically entertaining 3-2 win over Australia at the Estadio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre. The Socceroos, for their part, now stand on the brink of elimination despite an excellent performance. Louis van Gaal went into this game with an unchanged line-up for the first time since taking charge of the Netherlands, but any hopes he had of his team picking up where they left off against the Spanish were to prove in vain. Australia were the best team by a distance in a first half that was illuminated by two outstanding goals, and by terrific wing play by the enterprising Mathew Leckie.

The Frankfurt wide man caused the Dutch all sorts of problems and created the game’s first genuine opportunity after 16 min-

utes when he skipped away from his marker and picked out Mark Bresciano at the edge of the box.

Van Persie (r) with teammate

Don’t play again, doctor tells Ronaldo

C

RISTIANO Ronaldo‘s doctor is reportedly pleading with his patient not to play another game in the World Cup. With MRI’s showing serious pressure on the patellar tendon in his left knee, experienced Portuguese surgeon Jose Carlos Noronha has warned Ronaldo that playing on it could risk tearing the tendon beyond repair.

Dr. Noronha, known for

performing top-level ACL repairs and other knee operations for soccer players, believes Ronaldo needs two months off from the game immediately if he wishes to fully repair the injury to his knee.

According to quotes in El Confidential, the doctor told Ronaldo, “let your knee rest, or your future is in danger” to which Ronaldo replied, “I’m the one that says whether I’m playing or not.”

60 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Enyeama: I’m ready for Bosnia ‘bombardment' S

UPER Eagles goal keeper Vincent Enyeama has said that he expects a heavy bombardment from BosniaHerzegovina on Saturday and he will be up to the task.

The 31-year-old Lille shot stopper pulled off a game-defining save in the first half to ensure Nigeria drew 0-0 with Iran in their opening game at the World Cup on Monday.

And he said he expects to do a lot more against debutants Bosnia, who are widely regarded as “a team of strikers” led

by Manchester City star Edin Dzeko.

Enyeama has proved his class in Europe, but he faces a stern test against the likes of Dzeko, who is his country’s all-time leading scorer

with 35 goals from 63 games.

Other proven goal scorers for Bosnia are Vedad Ibisevic, the VfB Stuttgart forward, who scored the consolation goal in a 2-1 loss to Argentina to become first Bosnian to score at the World Cup. Hoffeinhem captain Sejad Salihovic is a free kick specialist having scored three of his four international goals from free kicks.

Izet Hajrovic from Galatasaray and Edin Visca of Istanbul BB have also weighed in with their own fair share of goals.

Enyeama said, “I was on holiday for most part of the game against Iran, but it would definitely be different against Bosnia, but I’m ready.

Algeria hold heads high in Brazil

D

ESPITE losing their opening match, Algeria fans were still beaming with pride at their team’s performance and status as the only Arab nation present at the World Cup. Algeria went down 2-1 to highly rated Belgium on Tuesday, yet they at least scored a goal at the finals for the first time since 1986 and were on course for a famous upset until the Europeans struck twice in the last 20 minutes.

Aware the Arab region’s hopes rest on his team, despite his own Franco-Bosnian roots, coach Vahid Halilhodzic praised his players as “heroic” and took heart ahead of the remaining Group H games against South Korea and Russia.

“We came so close to writing a glorious passage in football history,” said Algerian lawyer Brahim Kateb, 37, draped in the green-and-white national flag with a red star and crescent.

•Nadir-Belhad “I am so sad we lost, yet so proud of what we showed to the world. It is a time of many mixed emotions,” the fan added.

Algeria was also the sole representative for the Middle East and North Africa at the 2010 World Cup, though pride was dented by failing to score and finishing bottom of their group.

There has been an injection of fresh talent since then, with the 2014 “Desert Foxes” side constructed around Frenchborn players drawn from the massive migrant population in Europe.

Eagles will eclipse Bosnia — Maigari, Yobo boast

THE CAT: Enyeama soars above defenders to stop an Iranian onslaught

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Pinnick: Keshi has reached his limit

FF President, Al haji Aminu Maigari made a morale boosting visit to the Super Eagles Campinas camp on Wednesday afternoon to assure the team that the federation is solidly behind them and that he was sure that the team will make it to the next round of the championship.

He was accompanied on the visit by Chairman Technical Committee, Barr Chris Green, Chairman, Media and Publicity of the NFF, High Chief Emeka Inyama, Executive Committee member and Enyimba Fc boss, Chief Felix Anyansi Agwu, Assistant Director Media NFF, Demola Olajire, with soccer Ambassador and immediate past skipper of the national team Nwankwo Kanu as well as PA to NFF President, Jubril Nasir in tow.

Maigari said he came to reassure the team that majority of Nigerians still believe in them to deliver and the NFF board has a special place for the team ahead

T

•Aminu of their game against Bosnia Herzegovina on Saturday. “We have heard the barrage of criticisms against you by the same people who say you are the best in the world only a few days ago, but we know that it was the same thing that happened at the Nations Cup and helped to rejuvenate the team. I am certain that those who have criticized you today, will be the same people that will join to celebrate you in the coming weeks and it will be to the glory of God and the greatness of Nigeria”, he declared.

HE Executive chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Amaju Pinnick, has expressed doubts in Coach Stephen Keshi’s ability to take the Super Eagles forward.

Speaking on the backdrop of the Eagles lackluster 0-0 draw with Iran, Amaju Pinnick said Keshi fell short technically.

“I like Keshi as a person but the Eagles run up to the World cup and their first game has proven to me that Keshi has reached his limit” “He is a national hero,I celebrate him for all he has achieved with the team in such a short time but it appears he can’t move the Eagles forward unless he improves on his abilities” Pinnick faulted Keshi’s substitution and tactics in the draw against Iran.

“Can you imagine Nigeria playing high balls into the opponents half, a style of play that is no longer in use in football,to make matter

worst he brought out the creative Victor Moses for a Shola Amoebi who is past his prime” Pinnick a TV guest in a morning show also took a swipe at Nigeria referees saying they should cover their face in shame saying officials from less fancy football Nations at the World cup while there was none from Nigeria.

On the way forward,he advised the football house (NFF) to find a way of grooming members of the victorious under-17 team of 2013 to be world beaters in 2022 in Qatar.

•Keshi

OSMI launches “Inside Brazil” on TV

O

PTIMA Sports Management International (OSMI), the exclusive 2014 FIFA World Cup terrestrial broadcast rights owners for the Nigerian territory, has launched a daily magazine programme, “Inside Brazil”.

The programme is

currently aired on Nigerian television stations through the B r o a d c a s t i n g Organisations of Nigeria (BON) network. BON is the broadcast partner of OSMI for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The programme is anchored by Super Eagles ex-international,

Seyi Olofinjana. It is a daily show produced in Brazil that brings to life the experience of the FIFA World Cup. It will offer viewers the opportunity to get up close and personal with the World Cup experience and become part of the FIFA World Cup rhythms.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 61

62 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 — 63

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014

Today's Matches Colombia Uruguay Japan

S-H-0-C-K-E-R! Oboabona now out of World Cup

vs vs vs

Ivory Coast England Greece

Results Australia Spain

2 0

S

TOKE City striker Osaze Odemwingie could again be shut out from Nigeria first team after coach Stephen Keshi said he did not play to instructions when he

A

•Keshi

was introduced in the second half against Iran.

Osaze brought some urgency and creativity to the Eagles attack on Monday, but Keshi said Continues on Page 59

3 2

Spain crash

A

Keshi may drop Osaze

Netherlands Chile

More stories on Pages 31, 32, 33 & 34

•Omeruo, Reuben still injured S Nigerians are yet to come to terms with the annoying goalless draw of the Eagles against Iran, officials of the team were left biting their fingers when Godfrey Oboabona was ruled out of the remaining World Cup matches by medics.

Continues on Page 59

5 p .m.

8 p. m 11 p. m.

DOWN AND OUT: Godfrey Oboabona writhing in pains during the match against Iran. He is out of the World Cup.

Enyeama: I’m ready for Bosnia ‘bombardment’ — Page 60

FTER a humiliating 5-1 defeat in the hands of Holland, reigning FIFA World Cup™ holders Spain spectacularly crashed out of Brazil 2014 last night. They were beaten 2-0 by Chile and were left without a point after two matches in Group B Chile followed Holland to qualify for the knock-out stage from Group B. Spain thus joined Australia as the first two countries to crash out of Brazil 2014 World Cup after two straight defeats.

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Wince (6) 5 Pace (4) 8 Command (5) 9 Donkey (3) 10 Pit (4) 11 Daybreak (4) 12 Composition (5) 13 Feverish (6) 16 Ripped (4) 18 Revise (4) 20 Sphere (3) 22 Decay (3) 23 Lair (3) 24 Jetty (4) 25 Nobleman (4) 28 Disfigure (6) 30 Stationary (5) 32 Food (4) 33 Relax (4) 34 Wrath (3) 35 Forward (5) 36 Crippled (4) 37 Posture (6)

DOWN 1 Gaudy (6) 2 Unsafe (8) 3 Consign (6) 4 Offered (9) 5 Calmed (7) 6 Salver (4) 7 Gasp (4) 8 Individual (3) 14 Fat (9) 15 Noise (3) 17 Fish-eggs (3) 19 Relegation (8) 20 Lubricate (3) 21 Fragile (7) 26 Soften (6) 27 Hinder (6) 29 Hero (4) 30 Joint (4) 31 Loiter (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 3, Storm 9, Larger 10, Easier 11, Tamed 12, Sane 15, Pace 17, Started 20, Lad 21, Rapid 23, Eros 25, Tier 26, Rover 28, Spa 30, Defence 33, Itch 35, Deed 36, Medal 38, Gather 39, Saddle 40, Testy.

DOWN: 1, Gloss 2, Arena 3, Set 4, Trader 5, Red 6, Mad 7, Final 8, Breed 13, Attempt 14, Error 16, Caprice 18, Dated 19, Lit 22, Dived 24, Sow 27, Repast 28, Singe 29, Acute 31, Needy 32, Edged 34, Here 36, Met 37, Lay.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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