Ceasefire deal with Boko-Haram: Negotiaitons continue despite killings - FG

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62256

FALLING OIL PRICE: CBN moves to protect economy 8

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Tinubu's loyalists line up three men as Buhari's running mate 7

CEASEFIRE DEAL WITH BOKO HARAM:

Negotiations continue despite killings — FG •Says Boko Haram'll keep promise to release Chibok girls •Sect sacks Adamawa Village, many killed, houses razed •We'll no longer reply critics on abducted girls — PDP

By Kingsley Omonobi, Henry Umoru & Umar Yusuf

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BUJA—NEGO TIATIONS between the Federal Government and representatives of the Boko Harm Islamic sect on the release of 219 abducted Chibok girls will continue today in Chad.

Continues on Page 5

COLUMNISTS:

Workers' welfare: Has Labour lost the plot?

•P.40

Buhari: •P.46 What’s new?

Mr & Mrs GOWON @ 80—From left: Gov. Jonah Jang of Plateau State; Gov. Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo; Mrs Victoria Gowon; former Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon; President Goodluck Jonathan; his daughter, Eruabai; mother of the President, Mrs Eunice Jonathan; Senate President, David Mark and former Vice-President, Dr Alex Ekwueme, at Gen. Gowon's 80th Birthday Thanksgiving Service In Abuja, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

Edo Govt, PDP bicker How Lagos Govt spent N160bn World over Ize-Iyanmu Bank loan — Fashola•P. 9 clinic's blast •P. 12 C M Y K

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POCKET CARTOON

VISIT—All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Aspirant, General Muhammadu Buhari (3rd right); Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State (4th right); his Deputy, Mrs Titi Laoye-Tomori (2nd right); former Speaker, House of Representatives, Alhaji Bello Masari (3rd left); former Bayelsa State Governor, Timipre Sylva (4th left); Senator Hadi Sirika (right); Prince Tony Momoh (left); Osun APC Chieftain, Senator Bayo Salami (2nd left)and others, during a courtesy visit to the governor at Government House, Osogbo, Osun State.

CEASEFIRE: Negotiations continue despite killings — FG Continues from page 1 This came as government declared that it had no reason to doubt the sect’s promise to release the girls against the backdrop of alleged breach of ceasefire agreement by the sect.

Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, last Friday, announced that Boko Haram had agreed to a ceasefire and instructed all the field commanders of the troops to observe the ceasefire.

A top military source, who confided in Vanguard, said: “It is true

that the sect demanded the release of some of their fighters and the Federal Government is ready to meet some of their conditions to secure the girls' freedom. There are high hopes that the girls will be released; the military is ready to move in and bring out the girls when this is done. Already, the Federal Government has put machinery in motion to receive the girls once they are released."

On the ceasefire agreement reached by the terrorists and military, the source said that so far,

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

Peace with contentment is great gain. Make sure that your life ends up in an all-round profit.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

From today onwards, I am going to strive for the greatest purity of soul, that the rays of God’s grace may be reflected in all their brilliance —St. Faustina Kowalska

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IFE is full of miracles if we are open to see the many things in our lives to be grateful for. This is where grace comes in beautifully. Grace connotes a lot of things to different people; it could be the disposition to being generous or helpful and a general feeling of goodwill to all. From a spiritual perspectives, it is Divine Love and protection bestowed on an individual, or the state of being sanctified by the favour of God. I recall childhood experiences of it being a short prayer of blessing or thanksgiving said before or after a meal. And every now and then it’s being used to describe seemingly effortless beauty or charm of movement and a pleasing personality for its refinement.

A person who lives beautifully has respect for all life, is considerate of others and recognizes their divinity and freedom to exist as himself/herself and this also includes animals. Go about your day with appreciation for the things in your life and you’ll be amazed how those things you seek will add more abundantly.

the military is maintaining its part of the agreement, adding that the attacks allegedly carried out by the group in Borno and Adamawa at the weekend were being investigated to ascertain those responsible.

Following the ceasefire agreement announced by the Chief of Defence Staff, the Defence headquarters has put Commanders of troops in the epicentre of the insurgency on standby as there were indications that the over 200 girls of the Government Girls Secondary School Chibok, Borno State, abducted on April 14, 2014, by the terrorists group would be released tomorrow.

Coordinator of the National Information Centre, Mr. Mike Omeri, at the weekend, confirmed that negotiations were going on with Boko Haram “especially as it concerns release of the Chibok girls and the general insecurity in the North East and also the need to rescue all other captives of the terrorists.

Already, the terrorists have announced a ceasefire in furtherance of their desire for peace. In this regard, the government of Nigeria has, in similar vein, declared ceasefire”.

No more comments — PDP Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Adamu Muazu said, yesterday, that he has handed over critics of the Federal

Government on the issue of the girls to God. Muazu accused the opposition of politicising the matter, saying that the PDP will no longer answer critics on the issue.

On his twitter account, yesterday, Muazu said: “We will refrain from making further comments on this issue but let Allah judge all of us on this issue of #PoliticsOfChibok. The opposition had crossed the line on the Chibok abduction and many other issues, it is no longer necessary to join issues with them. It is true that in politics, all game is fair game, but there are certain lines that should never be crossed and one of such is the Chibok issue.

“We were told a certain political party has turned the plight of our abducted Chibok daughters to a political issue. How very sad. Dear Nigerians, our great party is tired of responding to pettiness, lies and propaganda. We have better things to do than that."

Gunmen sack Adamawa village In a related development, gunmen suspected to be insurgents have attacked Sina Village in Michika Local

Government area of Adamawa State.

The attack, according to residents, occurred Saturday night as the insurgents in their hundreds emerged from the bush and started killing and burning houses, cars, domestic animals and other property.

A community leader in Michika, Dr. Caleb Filli said the insurgents burnt down all houses in the village, forcing residents to flee.

According to him, the gunmen in their hundreds descended on the village shooting indiscriminately and burning houses. He said he could not ascertain the number of those killed at press time.

Michika and Madagali

areas had been under the control of Boko Haram insurgents since early September, even as efforts by the military to retake them, have proved abortive.

Dr. Filli called on the Federal Government to ensure that the ceasefire agreement includes the withdrawal of Boko Haram fighters from the areas they occupy, adding that the ceasefire will not be meaningful unless it paves way for residents to return to their homes.

He lamented the suffering of thousands of displaced residents living as refugees in other places, leaving behind their farms and businesses."

Gowon, true elder statesman — Jonathan A

BUJA—PRESI DENT Goodluck Jonathan has described former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gown (rtd), as a true elder statesman, whose commitment during the civil war was to keep Nigeria one and not to crush an enemy.

Jonathan made the remarks, yesterday, during a thanksgiving service at the National Ecumenical Centre, Abuja, to mark Gowon’s 80th birthday.

He stated that the celebrator, Gowon, was a good example of a genuine elder statesman, accommodating even his enemies in the interest of peace and unity of the country.

According to him, Gowon further demonstrated his commitment to Nigeria’s unity after the Nigerian civil war, with his Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation programme.

“As a patriot and Head of Government then, and was prosecuting the civil war, he did not see the Biafran side as a thing that must be crushed.

“Gowon saw the war as a struggle of Nigerians and his emphasis was ‘how do we keep Nigeria

together.?

“It was not ‘ we must crush them or we must defeat them’. Of course, that was why the slogan, ‘To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done,’ came up and of course, ‘Go on with one Nigeria’.

“His commitment is to unite this country, to keep Nigeria one, not to win a war, not to defeat an opponent, not to crush a rebellion.

“For him, it was ‘how do we make this nation as indivisible body?’’

Jonathan noted Gowon’s effort to galvanise Nigerians into prayer for unity and his cooperation with succeeding administration to develop the country.

“He hardly misses Council of State meetings. If we call for Council of State meeting and Gowon is not there, it must be for something inevitable,” he said.

The president congratulated the celebrator for his birthday and thanked God for keeping him young and active at 80 years.

He specifically thanked Victoria, Gowon’s wife for giving her husband peace at home which he

said accounted partly for his sound health at 80.

Responding, Gowon thanked Nigerians for the encomiums poured on him and advised that they call on God in time of need, as God would never disappoint them.

He said without the cooperation, prayers and advice of Nigerians, he would never have been able to achieve what he achieved in life.

The former head of state said that his life had been characterised by ups and downs, but his faith in God had strengthened him to do what was right in the sight of God and man.

“And that is what I would like every Nigerian to always do.

“If you are in trouble or in area of joy and festivity, always put everything to God, because I can assure you, without Him, you would never be able to succeed,” he said.

In a goodwill message, the President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pstor Ayo Oritsejafor, said that Gowon was being celebrated for his humility, simplicity and gift of prayer to the country.

6 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

35-yr-old nabbed for stealing LAWMA uniform

By Esther Onyegbula

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AGOS—THE Police have nabbed a 35year-old man, Ali Jaafaar for allegedly stealing Lagos State Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, uniform and an international passport belonging to one Ibrahim Alhassan at Idi Araba, Lagos.

The Police also arrested a 20-year-old gateman, Abdullahi Usman, for allegedly stealing properties of his employer at 20, Alhaji Azeez Street Ago-Okota in Lagos.

It was learnt that after the close of work, the victim parked his Kia truck with, registration number, DF352APP in front of his residence at 13 Haruna Street.

Vanguard learned that when he woke up in the morning, ready to go to work, he discovered that his LAWMA uniform, MP3 and international passport he left inside his truck had been stolen.

Goods, property worth N1bn burnt as fire guts shop in Owerri

By Chidi Nkwopara

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WERRI—GOODS and property estimated at about N1 billion were yesterday consumed by a raging fire that gutted a two-storey building at Lobo Extension, Owerri.

Although no life was lost in the incident, Vanguard gathered that the traders who owned foam shops were in their respective residences and most occupants of the building had left for Sunday service when the fire started.

A Volvo station wagon vehicle, vital documents, including certificates and archival artifacts, were reportedly lost in the inferno, while many were seen weeping u n c o n t r o l l a b l y, bemoaning their fate.

Seven workers die in Ogun steel firm's accident

By Victor Ahiuma-Young & Bose Adelaja

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O fewer than seven workers have died, following an industrial accident in Phoenix Steel Mills Limited, Ogijo-Remo, Ogun State.

Already, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity has shut the section of the company where the accident occurred at about 2:00am on Sunday, October 12, pending full investigation into the accident.

According to eyewitnesses’ account, the melting machine was over loaded with input that added extra pressure beyond its melting point, forcing the substance from the furnace to splash on the workers at the platform.

It was learned that the victims, who were writhing in pains, were immediately rushed to a private hospital at Ikorodu in Lagos, though they were still talking.

They were said to have been referred to a specialists hospital in Lagos due to complications, where they later died.

Vanguard gathered that consequently, four officials of the Factory Inspection Department of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, led by the Assistant Director of Factories, Mr. Ogunmoko Babatunde

Ogunmuko, last Friday visited the company and in accordance with section 38 of the Factory Act, shut the section where the accident occurred.

The Ministry officials requested and took away some documents from the company.

Director of Factories in the Labour Ministry, Mrs Nofisat Arogundade told Vanguard that the accident was unfortunate and that the

Ministry had mandated the management of the company to put certain measures in place before the shut section could be opened.

She lamented that steel companies in Lagos were lacking in basic safety standard, adding that the department was planning to bring operators of the companies together to educate them on necessary

safety and other measures.

Executive Director of the company, Ajit Amtey, said the company was sad and very sorry about the accident.

He narrated how the company immediately rushed the victims to a private hospital in Ikorodu where they were referred to some specialists hospitals in Lagos to ensure their survival.

Ajit added the company had set up an inquiry into the cause of the accident, insisting that necessary measures would be put in place to forestall future occurrences.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS CAMPAIGN WALK: From left; Oyeronke Oyetunde, General Manager, Regulatory Affairs, MTN Nigeria; Rachael Oniga, Nollywood actress; Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, Wife of Lagos State governor; Ms. Nonny Ugboma, Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation; Mrs. Gloria Nobert Young and Mr. Nobert Young, both Nollywood stars during the MTNF Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign Walk, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Husband beats pregnant wife to death in Enugu

By Austin Ogwuda

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NUGU—MEN of the Enugu State police command have arrested a man for allegedly beating his pregnant wife to death.

The suspect, Mr. Ozoemena Nwankwo, of Akpawfu village in Nkanu East local Government Area of Enugu State, was described by neighbours as a notorious wife beater.

State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, said in statement: “The deceased wife, identified as Ndidi Ozoemena Nwankwo became a victim on that fateful day and unknown to her that the episode will signal the end of her existence on earth.

“It was gathered that on that fateful day, October 17, 2014, at about 10pm that the husband of the deceased who has been described by sympathizers as wife beater, allegedly turned his alleged four months pregnant wife into a punching bag over a yet-to-be established issue between them. The beating allegedly caused her injury on the right leg as well as consequent unconsciousness which brought about her being

rushed to a nearby hospital where she eventually gave up the ghost.

“Meanwhile, the corpse has been deposited at Agbani General Hospital, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State for autopsy just as

Ozoemena Nwankwo, the suspect, has been arrested.

“The police operatives were trying to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident, although the suspect is yet to come up with reason or reasons behind the

dastardly act but is seriously regretting the act which has led to the death of the wife.

“While regretting the action, he was quoted to have said that he did not know the action (beating) would result in the death of his wife.”

Ogun community raises alarm over activities of Fulani herdsmen

By Daud Olatunji

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B E O K U TA — K E T U community in Yewa North local government area of Ogun State has raised an alarm over the activities of Fulani herdsmen, which have led to the death of no fewer than 20 people.

The community, which comprises four villages, including Eggua, Ijoun, Ebute and Ohunbe, said its people were no longer safe and, therefore, petitioned Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, over the matter.

It also vowed to mobilise its people to vote against the governor in 2015, should he fail to address the security situation in the area.

The community in an open letter

addressed to the governor, by Secretary-General of Ketu Advancement Front, Joseph Bankole, said:”By our record, over 20 people had been killed as at February 2014.

“Suffice to say that the victims and their towns had been made available to the State government and the state House of Assembly.

“We like to note with regret that since Tuesday, December 17,2013 that the MoU was signed, the state government has shown no commitment towards its implementation.

“With about seven months for the tenure of the state governor to end, we have come to the conclusion that the APC government is a woeful failure to Ketu people.

“We have decided to write this open letter to reiterate our resolve to galvanize our people towards defining a common course of action as well as mobilising them against any government that is insensitive to our yearnings and aspirations as we approach another general elections, the same way we did to the last government.

“Lastly, it is imperative to also put the issue of APC on record for posterity sake as we did with the last government.

“It is against this backdrop that we declare the APC government a total failure to the people of Ketu constituency as well as pas a vote of no confidence on the party while we await to unfold further steps to be taken.”

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 7

Tinubu's camp lines up three men for Buhari’s running mate

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

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SSOCIATES of All Progressives Congress, APC leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu are lining up three possible running mates for MajorGeneral Muhammadu Buhari (retd) should the former head of state prevail in the forthcoming presidential nomination convention of the party.

The synergy between Team Buhari and the Tinubu camp was formally brought to public light last Wednesday when many of Tinubu’s political associates, including his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu got prominent presence at Buhari’s public declaration for the presidency in Abuja.

The three prospective running mates, according to Vanguard sources are Prof. Yemi Osibajo, a former commissioner in Lagos State, Senator Ajayi Borofice presently representing Ondo North in the Senate and Mr. Wale Edun, a former commissioner in Lagos State.

Two other choices in the consideration of Team Buhari, the immediate past governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and another former governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo were said to have been taken off the radar by the Asiwaju forces on account of political differences.

The intrigues in the relationship between Dr. Fayemi and Tinubu reached a crescendo last week when Tinubu absented himself from the commissioning of the Ekiti State Government Liaison House in Lagos. On the scheduled day of the commissioning, the APC leader was said to have become invisible, sources close to the development told Vanguard, a fact that seemed to underline the increasing political disconnect between the once close men.

The projection of the three men, Borofice, Osibajo and Edun by the Tinubu camp follows the rejection by the mainstream of the party of a Muslim-Muslim ticket that would have seen a BuhariTinubu ticket. Sources say that Tinubu may have lately withdrawn himself to that fact and is now believed to be preparing himself to position his own man to be a possible number two man for the country.

The consideration of Osibajo Vanguard learnt is based on the twin factors of his relatively clean character and respect in the Christian community. Osibajo, who served as attorney general and commissioner for justice in the Tinubu cabinet has won a respectable image as a senior pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God. He is said to be fairly close to Pastor Enoch

Adeboye, the general overseer of the RCCG. Those rooting for him say that positioning him on the ticket would balance any insinuation on the country drifting towards an Islamic path as some critics of Buhari have sought to assert.

The consideration of Senator Borofice, it was learnt, was aimed at strategically breaking up the

hold of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the Ekiti/Ondo axis, where the PDP is presently known to have set its foothold.

“By bringing out Borofice, who is about the only APC senator elected official in the Ekiti/Ondo axis, we can push for presence in the two states given that the PDP is in control of those two states,” a close associate of Tinubu

said at the weekend.

Edun, who is reported to be the third person under consideration served as commissioner of finance for the two terms Governor Tinubu between 1999 and 2007 and he is said to be in position to bring relative youth to a presidency under Buhari’s watch.

“Our consideration of Edun is on the need of young blood given

that Buhari is now of age and would need, young savvy men to keep him in track,” a source said.

Both Osibajo and Borofice were acclaimed at Buhari’s declaration.

Edun’s presence at the event could not be confirmed at press time. One other prospective nominee, Senator Olurunnimbe Mamora Vanguard learnt was like Dr. Fayemi not being favourably considered by the Tinubu camp ostensibly because of his independent trait, which reportedly came to fore in the testy days leading to Governor Babatunde Fashola’s certification of a second term ticket in 2011. Mamora was also present at Buhari’s event.

INVESTITURE: From left; Mr Nnamdi Okonkwo, MD/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc; Mr Godwin Emefiele, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN; Mrs Debola Osibogun, President/Chairman of Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria CIBN; Mr Ifie Sekibo, MD/CEO, Heritage Bank and Mrs Tokunbo Martins, Director, Banking Supervision, CBN during the conferment of Honorary Senior Members of CIBN on Okonkwo, Emefiele and Sekibo during the 2014 CIBN Investiture held at Federal Palace Hotel on Saturday in Lagos. Photo by Lamidi Bamidele.

$9.3m arms deal: Reps commence hearing on alleged $50,000 bribe given to PDP lawmakers ethics and privileges to debate on the motion by

By Emman Ovuakporie

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BUJA—MEMBERS of the House of Representatives Committee on Ethics and Privileges will on Wednesday commence hearing on an alleged $50,000 bribe given to Peoples Democratic Party,PDP lawmakers to stall a motion on the seized $9.3 million arms deal in South Africa.

Vanguard investigations revealed that the hearing which was initially scheduled for Wednesday, last week could not hold as the major participants did not show up at the venue.

It was also reliably gathered that Aliyu Madaki, APC, Kano, who on the floor of the House admitted that he told a journalist that PDP lawmakers were given $20,000 and not $50,000 as reported had insisted the hearing must be done in public.

Some PDP lawmakers, who spoke to Vanguard under the condition of anonymity said “once

a sensitive motion is killed the opposition would raise dust but when APC lawmakers kill a motion nothing is said”.

A lawmaker from the South South region said, “Last week a motion on further amendment to the Electoral Act motion was killed on the floor of the House

by APC members and this did not raise any dust but once it is PDP, then there will be allegation that money has exchanged hands.

“Our members should change from this perception of things as it is killing democracy in Nigeria”.

Another lawmaker from the South West simply said ”What do you expect at this period of the 7th Assembly? We are going to play politics on the floor of the House till after 2015 elections, so expect more allegations”.

Vanguard recalls that the House had on September 24 mandated its committee on

investigate Madaki’s allegations and submit its report within two weeks.

The deadline expired on October 8 but because of the Sallah holidays, the committee could not start the probe.

If found guilty of peddling false allegations, Madaki may be suspended from the House for a minimum period of two weeks.

The chairman of the committee on rules and business, Rep. Albert Sam-Tsokwa ,PDP, Taraba, had raised a point of order bordering on breach of privilege on September 24, accusing a member of bringing shame to the House over the $50,000 bribery allegation.

Citing order 8, rule 20 of the House Rules, the Taraba lawmaker complained that he was embarrassed by stories in some of the nation’s dailies on the walk-out by the APC members on September 23 plenary, indicating that PDP members in the House were given $50,000 each to stall

Abdulrahman Suleiman Kawu to investigate the $9.3 million arms deal involving two Nigerians and an Israeli.

Sam-Tsokwa had said “As the House chairman of the rules and business committee, this issue is not to my knowledge.

No money was received by any member of my party or myself” Although, Sam-Tsokwa did not mention anybody’s name, he alleged that the story was the handiwork of a member of the House, adding that the news story breached his privilege as a member of the House.

To the surprise of members, Madaki however admitted that he made the bribery allegations and confirmed that he told a journalist that he heard on good authority “that PDP members were given $20,000 each.”

He said what he told the journalist over the telephone about the bribe was that he was aware that each of the PDP member was bribed with $20,000 but not $50,000 as reported.

8 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

By Leke Adeseri, South West Regional Editor & Michael Eboh

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HE immediate past governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Kayode Fayemi, yesterday debunked claims of financial recklessness levelled against his administration, saying that the state is indebted to the tune of N36.317 billion as at October 15, 2014, when he left office, against an indebtedness of N57 billion.

Reacting to allegations by the present governor, Mr. Ayo Fayose, who put the state’s debt profile at N57 billion, Fayemi said the total loan package comprises N28.485 billion internal loan and N7.83 billion foreign loans incurred by previous government since the days of the old Ondo State.

He said Ekiti State’s internal loan include inherited loans from previous government and outstanding balance (debt) of the bond taken at the capital market.

In spite of this, Fayemi stated that the Federal Government is owing the state the sum of N17.711 billion, which include N10.839 billion due from construction of federal roads; N4.012 billion being refund on Paris Club and N2.859 billion, being amount due on ecological projects.

According to him, if the Federal Government would graciously effect part of this payment, the debt profile of the state would have been greatly reduced.

Fayemi said, “It is our belief that Fayose was hasty in making a pronouncement on the state of the state’s finances and other matters without first going through the handing over note which contains explicit details of government transactions and financial situation. Nothing can be more mischievous and irresponsible than this.

“While Fayose alleged that the state account was in red, the state bank balances as at October 15th stood at N1.931 billion. This comprised N1.464 billion (state account) and N466.934 million (local government account).

Also the Bond Sinking Fund Account balance as at September stood at N3.019 billion.

“Nothing could be farther from the truth than Mr. Fayose’s allegation that none of the MDA’s account had up to N1 million. For instance, the Ministry of Agriculture’s account is in the excess of N90 million, while the MDG account has close to N1 billion.

“There is no responsible leader in Nigeria today that will not acknowledge the poor state of the country ’s economy, a development that has made it difficult for the Federal Government to meet its obligations to the federating states. In the last two years, states on many occasions have had to leave the monthly FAAC meetings empty handed, like they did last week. This is in

Fayose, Fayemi bicker over Ekiti indebtedness zIt's N36.31bn, not N57bn — FAYEMI addition to a huge reduction in the amount given to the states.

In his reaction to exgovernor Fayemi’s position on the state’s debt profile, the Special Assistant to Governor Fayose on Information and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka said; ‘’We are not going to engage in exchange of words with those who served in the immediate past government because it is obvious that they are only being clever by half. ‘’Most importantly, joining issues with Ex-Governor Kayode Fayemi and his wounded men will not bring food to the tables of Ekiti people. ‘’However, for the sake of clarity, it is important to state, once again that outstanding sum of N21.2bn was left from the bond taken from Bond Capital market and Agric Loan, N15.5bn from loans taken from various banks, N3.2bn as unpaid workers salary for two months, N2.4bn unremitted monthly deductions from workers salary for four months, N700m as unpaid subventions to parastatals and tertiary institutions, N400m as unpaid workers leave bonus, N3.2bn as unpaid pensions and gratuities (despite that the fund was deducted from Local Councils monthly allocation), N850m as unremitted withholding taxes and other deductions. ‘’As at the time we were compiling our report, over N10bn was discovered as indebtedness to contractors and more discoveries are still being made because projects were awarded at highly exorbitant cost, with roads awarded at over N1bn per kilometre.

zFayemi is being clever by half – Govt

LAUNCH: From left; Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, Executive Vice Chairman, Mobil Producing Nigeria; Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Board Member of the Elumelu Nigeria Empowerment Fund; Da Jacob Gyang Buba, Gbong Gwom Jos; Anyim Pius Anyim, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; and Tony O. Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings during the launch of the Elumelu Nigeria Empowerment Fund to revitalise the economies of post conflict and disaster communities in Nigeria at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

WHO to declare Nigeria Ebola free today

By Sola Ogundipe, Chioma Obinna & Gabriel Olawale

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HEAD of the World Health Organisation, WHO, declaration of Nigeria as an Ebola Virus Disease free country today, Nigerians have called for extension of the leadership shown in the Ebola containment to other areas of national development, particularly, the troubled health sector.

Last week, the global health body, had given notification of its intention to officially declare Nigeria Ebola free today following the none detection of new Ebola cases

in the country after the requisite 42 days of active surveillance.

The announcement which is expected to be made by WHO subcommittee on surveillance, epidemiology, and laboratory testing is eagerly being awaited by not just Nigerians but the entire world.

Just last Friday, the WHO declared Senegal Ebola free nation and commended the prompt and efficient response to the epidemic.

Reacting to the development in Lagos, some stakeholders in the health sector who hailed the much awaited recognition however warned that while celebrating the new

Falling oil price: CBN moves to protect economy

By Babajide Komolafe

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HE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN is set to unveil policy measures that would protect the economy from the recent decline in price of crude oil.

CBN Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele disclosed this in Lagos at the investiture of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, CIBN. He said, “I am aware that price of crude oil is dropping and that presents some form of vulnerability to Nigeria. I can assure you that the fiscal authorities and the monetary authorities are taking actions to ensure that we take steps that will help Nigeria to withstand the shocks that we see. A

number of actions will be unveiled, in fact some have already been unveiled, and more will be unveiled by both the monetary and fiscal authorities to ensure that Nigeria continues to remain strong, healthy to be able to support growth and development in Nigeria.”

Speaking on the theme of the investiture, “Making Nigeria a major destination for foreign direct investment”, Emefiele said that the CBN in order to encourage both local and foreign investments, is introducing a broad spectrum of financial instruments to boost sectorspecific enterprise areas in agriculture, SMEs, manufacturing, and oil and gas.”

He noted the flow of FDI into Nigeria has changed in the last

decade unlike the situation in the 1990s when the average FDI inflow was $1.5 billion per annum. This he said is due to “difficult, but necessary, structural and macroeconomic reforms, which have been implemented in the country since the return to democratic governance in 1999.

“It is not surprising therefore that Nigeria has become a leading destination for FDI in Africa. In fact the country has received direct investment of over $67 billion since the return to democratic governance,” he said.

He said CBN has contributed to laying the foundation for a vibrant economy that attracts FDI. This he said has been anchored on promoting policies that sustain the country’s hardearned macroeconomic stability.

status of Ebola free nation there is need not to relent in the fight against the dreaded disease.

They also reminded the Federal Government not to forget some Nigerians who paid the ultimate price in order to make Nigeria Ebola free.

In his views, DirectorGeneral of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Prof.

Innocent Ujah pointed out that the strategy put in place and leadership brought to bear led to the containment of Ebola in Nigeria.

Ujah called for extension of the commitment to other healthcare services.

His words, “Also, one thing that we should not forget is that unless we continue with research we would not go anywhere. We should not relent in our jubilation over the declaration. We should not forget that this Ebola virus can come back again. So we must be in position of preparedness so that not just Ebola but all other outbreak of diseases can be curtained.

“I advise that Nigerians should continue to practice good hygiene lifestyle and they must have confidence in the medical doctors to be able to render quality health service as it was demonstrated during Ebola saga in which America want to come and learn from us how we did our contact tracing and eventually contain the outbreak. The sensitisation must not stop,”he stated.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 9

How Lagos spent N160 bn World Bank loan — Fashola L

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

AGOS State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, yesterday, gave a breakdown of how his administration expended the N160 billion World Bank loan it acquired, saying the state maintained a healthy debt profile.

Fashola, who spoke during his commemoration of 2,700 days in office and achievements in the last 100 days, in Alausa, Ikeja, said long overdue refund would go a long way in reducing the debt profile of the State, which he said the Federal Government recently published to mislead the public.

He said, “Recently, our political adversaries issued statements that we have borrowed N160 billion. What they have not told you is what we are doing with the money."

Enumerating his government’s activities within the period under consideration he said; “In the last 100 days, we have commenced work on providing street lighting on the Muritala Muhammed Way in Yaba. This is 10 kilometres of public lighting which will be completed by the end of this month. On Eko Bridge, Carter Bridge, Ikorodu Road, Lekki-Epe Expressway and every street and highway where there is street lighting in Lagos, it is the Lagos State Government that supplied the poles, the bulbs, the diesel and the maintenance.

“The only major highway we are not managing for street lights is the 3rd Mainland Bridge. Fire engines, to secure lives, rail transport from Okokomaiko to Marina, with four stations of eight kilometres completed, and work heading to Marina, with piles appearing near the Eko Bridge every day are the places your Government is spending money. The expansion of the Lagos Badagry Expressway to a

10-lane highway is another place where your Government is spending money.

“What the voodoo economists will not tell you is that N51 billion of certified works, done on Federal Government Roads by the Lagos State Government, is owed to our Government by the Federal Government and is not yet paid. If we had N51 billion, what we would borrow will be reduced by that amount. If they take up projects, like rehabilitating the expansion joints on the bridges built in Lagos when she was the Federal capital, our burden will reduce. If they provide electricity to schools and hospitals, the cost of Government will reduce.

“Whatever the case, let me assure you that your state can repay every debt that she has contracted; in order to provide services for you. This year our 2009 bond for N50 Billion fell due for repayment. We paid without any problem. After payment there is still a balance of N82.3 billion

in the Consolidated Debt Service account, which will continue to grow because of the monthly savings we make into it, in readiness to pay our three outstanding bonds of N57.5billion, N80billion and N87.5billion which are maturing in 2017, 2019 and 2020 respectively.

“Your state is safe, its finances are secure. It has a Fitch International credit rating of BB-, stable with a positive outlook, which is the same as that of the Federal Republic. Just last month, Fitch upgraded the state’s National Long-Term rating from AA to AA+ with a stable outlook which is an indicator of the financial resilience of Lagos. What further assurance of stability can you ask for? “This is the only state in Nigeria with that rating. This is possible because an APC Government runs this state.

“This is the fifth largest economy in Africa, please remember that when you go out to vote. It is not

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN (3rd right), his Deputy, Hon. (Mrs.) Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (3rd left), Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu (2nd right), first Civilian Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande (2nd left), his Wife, Alhaja Abimbola Jakande (left) and Justice Ishola Olorunnimbe (right) during the commemoration of the 2,700 Days in office of the Fashola Administration at Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday.

Alleged N1.36bn debt: Court restrains Murtala’s son

By Innocent Anaba

A

FEDERAL High Court sitting in Lagos has restrained Mr. Risqua Mohammed, son of late Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, from making withdrawals from his accounts in any of the financial institutions in Nigeria.

Trial judge, Justice Saliu Saidu, who granted a mareva injunction, ordered that Muhammed and his company, AMG Petroenergy Limited, should not tamper with their funds in any financial institution in Nigeria pending the determination of a debt recovery suit against them by Guaranty Trust Bank, GTB. GTB in the suit against the defendants (AMG and Muhammed) over their alleged multi-million dollars credit facility is contending that they have refused to re-pay same despite repeated demands.

a place to experiment with beginners. So when next the voodoo economists come to you about debt, remind them that they said the same to you in 2003 when Lagos issued the first state bond of N25 Billion and drew N15 Billion to build roads and schools that are still there. Tell them that Lagos has paid that debt. When next they tell you about debt, tell them that private companies, who have no responsibility for security, for water supply, for public health, for road construction and many other public services are borrowing in excess of what Lagos has borrowed.

“When next they come to tell you about debt, remind them that they approved the borrowing. And if they ask you about debt still, ask them to account for over N2 trillion spent on fuel importation without appropriation, and to explain what happened to $20 billion. "

Ruling on an ex-parte application by GTB’s counsel, Mr. Norrison Quakers, SAN, Justice Saidu restrained the defendants jointly and severally by themselves, directors, agents, servants, privies, trustees, nominees, proxies, subsidiaries, companies, related companies or otherwise any person, natural or artificial, howsoever called from tampering, withdrawing, drawing down, transferring, dissipating, paying out to or issuing in favour of any person or persons whether natural or artificial either wholly or in part, the sum of N1,365, 470, 643.46k while interest continues to accrue at the bank’s lending rate standing to the credit of defendants’ account held with any financial institution within Nigeria pending the hearing of motion on notice.

The ban in an affidavit in support of the suit deposed to by one Tolulope Fadipe, averred that on May 18, 2011, GTB granted

two import finance credit facilities in the sum of $40 million to the defendants, with an additional existing term loan of N630 million..

The credit facilities were said to

have been for the purpose of financing the establishment of local letters of credit in favour of NLNG, NNPC/PPMC and NGL to fund the payment of Gas/ Condensate/Naphtha lifted based on allocation to the company by the Federal Government.

Ikeja Disco to install 500,000 pre-paid meters in 3 years

L

AGOS—THE Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, IKEDC, yesterday, said it will roll out 500,000 electricity pre-paid meters to customers in the next three years.

The Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Abiodun Ajifowobaje, who made this known in Lagos said that the installation would commence by December.

He said the IKEDC will ensure effective metering of customers currently without meters to stop estimated billing, adding that the company was faced with challenges of adequate meters and insufficiency of energy from the national grid.

Ajifowobaje, however, said that IKEDC was working out modalities for a lasting solution to the problems, noting that the company had established a customers’ forum” in all its business units. He said that the forum would enable IKEDC to interact with its customers on their electricity challenges with a view to finding solutions.

The CEO said that the IKEDC was currently receiving between 350 mega watts and 450 mega watts of electricity instead of a daily energy supply of 1,250 mega watts from the national grid., adding, I am, however, happy to report that IKEDC is involved in talks with several partners to explore supply from embedded power generation, independent power projects and other sources, to improve supply.

We are equally working on a robust metering model that will promote transparency in billing and eradicate energy theft to improve power supply to customers."

Lagos guber 2015: My chances are bright —Leke Pitan

L

AGOS – Governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Leke Pitan, yesterday, said his chances of winning the party's ticket to run in the 2015 election in Lagos remain very bright.

Pitan who spoke in Lagos, ahead of the party’s primary election scheduled for November 15, said that his experience politically placed him in a good position, not only to clinch the party ticket, but also to make the state proud.

He said that there was no indication in the party that any

aspirant would be imposed on the others, adding, “To me, it is a non-existent issue, I don’t believe in the fears and insinuations that people have raised. Nobody has talked to me directly to step down for anybody, that is the honest truth.”

Pitan said that it was natural for party stalwarts and leaders to have their favourites among the aspirants, noting, "To the best of my knowledge, there will be primaries, I don’t see these insinuations as something one should lose sleep over. Until I see it, feel it, then I will react. What I am aware of is that (the party)

executives will form the electoral college that will vote at the primaries for various cadres”.

He, however, noted that the wrong notion about consensus needed to be cleared in that people took consensus to mean imposition. He said,“Until we stress this, the notion out there will continue to be that once they say consensus, it means imposition; even party leaders need to get that clear. When they say consensus, it is not that leaders will sit among themselves and decide that one aspirant should step down for another.'

10— Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

APC, PDP at war over alleged voters' register manipulation

By Ola Ajayi

I

BADAN – THE ruling All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, are on war path over alleged manipulation of the voters registration exercise which just ended.

The parties are at loggerhead over alleged bribing of an official of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Iseyin Local Government to register about 1,500 eligible voters in favour of the APC. While the PDP insisted that there was a foul play, the Iseyin Local Government Caretaker Chairman, Alhaji Saheed Adejare Yusuff and Chief Layi Omokunmi, the APC chairman in the council described the allegation of bribing the INEC official with N2.5 million as unfounded and baseless.

Yussuff wondered how it would be possible to register more than 1,500 people for the APC where security operatives were monitoring and ensuring there was no malpractices of any sort.

••bicker over Amosun’s performance

By Daud Olatunji

A

BEOKUTA—THE People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ogun State, have disagreed over the performance of the state governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, since his assumption of office three years ago.

The PDP which spoke through a former Minister of Mines and Steel and a governorship aspirant, Chief Sharafa Ishola, and a chieftain of the party, Dr. Biyi Otegbeye, said Amosun has performed below the people’s expectation.

But, in a swift reaction, the APC through one of its chieftains, Chief Monsuru Hassan-Shatoke, insisted that the performance of the governor would earn him second term election.

While Ishola spoke shortly after he obtained the expression of intention form for governorship at the party Secretariat in Abeokuta, Otegbeye gave his remarks in Ilaro during an empowerment programme.

Sycophants won't derail me again —Fayose A

By Gbenga Ariyibi

DO Ekiti – Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, yesterday, reminiscenced on how he left Government House, eight years ago, due to high wired politics of the time, saying his coming back to the same office had the hand of God in it.

Speaking during a thanksgiving service at the Deeper Life Praying Camp, Ajebandele, Ado Ekiti, yesterday, Fayose narrated how he was allegedly persecuted for an offence he did not commit and how he was incarcerated at Ikoyi Prisons for 45 days during his trial by the Economic and Financial Crimed Commission, EFCC. At the service which was attended by the former Oyo State governor, Otunba Alao Akala, traditional rulers and prominent politicians, Fayose said he had learnt his lessons, adding that this time around he would not allow sycophants to mislead him. His words; “My return to government is not common in history. It is a rare miracle. During the seven and half years of my political wilderness, I was taken to Court at least 59 times over what I knew nothing. This is besides the 45 days I spent in Ikoyi Prisons.

“My security and political aides like Chief Dayo Okondo were incarcerated for three and half years without committing any offence. I won’t allow sycophants to derail me again.

All my property were left in the Government House because I had to run for my dear life. So, this time my mission is to look after Ekiti people and not to fight anybody. . I will not allow this position to go into my head

or use it to oppress anybody. I don’t have anybody in mind to punish or any political battle to fight.”

Fayose who said he has forgiven his traducers and others who plotted his removal from office in 2006, noted, “Having a second chance is very rare. If this time has been in Bible days, my name would have been one of the names to be recorded as those who God gave a second chance."

He equally pledged to treat the traditional rulers with utmost respect and commended them to speak their minds against those he claimed had planned with some officials of the judiciary to stall his inauguration.

In her testimony, wife of the Governor, Feyisetan disclosed how God revealed the second coming of her husband to her.

Mrs. Fayose said, ”God revealed to me that my husband, Mr Ayodele Fayose, will return as the Governor, but He never told me the time. God told me that our return would be done in such a way that will beat the people’s imagination. At a time, I prayed to God to please push my husband out of politics. Later, God told me that He will leave him there for him to prove His power.

“After we left, Gen Tunji Olurin came, then Segun Oni and afterwards Governor Kayode Fayemi and today God has manifested His power. This is not by our power or strength, but by the grace of God”.

Mrs Fayose said her husband facilitated her closeness to God 19 years ago, when he took her to Deeper Life Bible church,

“where I found God because I was deep in worldliness in terms of dressing and behaviour.

Today, God has taken my life and I thank Him for restoring our lost glory”.

In his sermon, the Pastor in charge of the church, Pastor Jacob Asubiojo, spoke on the need to pray always, saying there was need to give thanks always.

In a letter addressed to Governor Fayose, the General Superintendent of the Church, Pastor Williams Kumuyi, urged the Governor to rule the State with the fear of God and imbibe the tenets of “integrity, openness, transparency and prudence in the discharge of his duties.”

Ekiti Court of Appeal sitting

L-R: Former Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Bisi Akande, Kwara State Governor, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed and National leader of APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu at the funeral service of the late wife of former Governor of Kwara State, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, Mrs Elizabeth Adebayo in Oke-Onigbin, Kwara State.

Furore over Mimiko’s defection deepens in Ondo

A

By Dayo Johnson

KURE—THE furore generated by the defection of Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, deepened, weekend, following irreconcilable differences in the composition of the state executives of the party.

Some leaders of the party in the state led by the state Chairman, Ebenezer Alabi, insisted that the agreement reached with the governor by their national leaders, without their input on sharing of party positions was unfair and unacceptable to them. They reportedly conveyed their displeasure to President Goodluck Jonathan who directed the Senate president David Mark to have a second look at the agreement and iron out the differences.

Consequently the Senate president led reconciliation and

integration committee and the Ondo State Working Committee of the party will hold another round of talks this week to iron out grey areas in the defection agreement with governor.

Vanguard learnt that the meeting scheduled to hold in Abuja was postponed to this week because of the inauguration of the Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose.

It was learnt that in the said agreement the governor was to present candidates for the positions of the state chairman, secretary, treasurer and youth leader within the state Working Committee. But the State Working Committee members are insisting on holding on to the position of the state chairman while the governor can have other positions.

Their insistence is sequel to the fact that it is strategic and significant to the old PDP in the determination of candidates of the party in next year’s election.

The SWC also believed that the

candidature issue determines how 2016/17 gubernatorial candidate for the state will emerge.

Governor Mimiko is leading his team to the talk while the state Chairman of the party, Hon Alabi, would lead the team of old PDP members. In Dr Mimiko team are Director General of National Sports Commission, Gbenga Elegbeleye, former Information Commissioner in the state, Dr. Eddy Olafeso, former Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the late Dr. Olusegun Agagu, Chief Segun Adegoke and former Ambassador to Austria Prof Olu Agbi.

In the team led by Alabi are a former governorship candidate of the party, Chief Olusola Oke, a former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Chief Victor Olabimtan, Presidential Adviser on Amnesty Affairs, Kingsley Kuku, former Defence Minister Tokunbo Kayode, SAN, former state chairman, Dr Tayo

Dairo, BOT member, Dr. Olabode Olajumoke and business mogul Jimoh Ibrahim.

Vanguard gathered that two leaders from the south who are not comfortable with the governor's leadership of the party which they knew would jeopardise their chances in the 2016/2017 governorship election are behind the furore the defection is generating. The leaders are out to ensure that the governor does not have the nerve of the party in the state so as to avoid his stooges emerging thereby putting the old PDP members at a disadvantage.

It was learnt that their fight is to ensure that the southern part of the state produces the next governor which the governor is not in support.

With the nomination forms in the custody of the old PDP in the state, the fate of aspirants coming from Labour Party to the PDP remained uncertain as the collection of the forms terminates at the end of this month.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014—11

Delta LG poll: Ijaw warns against fresh crisis in Warri

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—FIVE days to the October 25 local government election in Delta State, the Warri Ijaw Peace Monitoring Group, WIPMG, yesterday, cautioned the Itsekiri ethnic nationality not to cause “another round of crisis” in Warri.

WIPMG, in a statement by its chairman, Chief Patrick Bigha, alleged that the Itsekiri had appropriated the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chairmanship tickets in the three Warri local government areas. The group said: “There will be trouble if they deny the Ijaw the opportunity to present a candidate, especially in the Warri North and Warri SouthWest constituencies.

“As it stands now, the PDP flag bearers in the October 25 election in all the three Warri local government areas are

Itsekiri. They are hell bent on grabbing all the House of an-

other round of crisis in view of the forthcoming local

government election and the 2015 general elections.”

I

DECLARATION: Olorogun O'tega Emerhor (middle), Delta APC 2015 governorship aspirant being presented by Delta APC Chairman, Prophet Jones Erue (2nd left) and Deputy Chairman, Dr. Cyril Ogodo, while party chieftain, Chief Ovie Frank Kokori and Delta Central Zonal Chairman, Chief Adelabu Bodjor, cheer on during Emerhor's declaration of his aspiration, in Asaba, Delta State. Photo: Akpokona Omafuaire.

Osagie calls for amendment of EFCC Act

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—THE Minority Whip in the House of Representatives, Mr. Samson Osagie, weekend in Benin City, Edo State, said there was need to amend the Act establishing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to stop it from being used by the Presidency to witch-hunt the opposition.

This might not be unconnected to the last week's arrest of the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Mr. Uyi Igbe, Majority Leader, Philip Shaibu, and Chief Whip, Folly Ogedengbe, by EFCC over alleged forgery.

The lawmakers were arrested by the EFCC last week but were granted bail last Wednesday.

They were accused of allegedly forging the signature of the PDP lawmaker, Rasaq Momoh, during the impeachment of the deputy speaker, Festus Ebea.

Osagie, who also is a senatorial aspirant of All Progressives Congress, APC, in Edo South senatorial district, said: “I visited them at the EFCC office on Wednesday where they were detained after honouring their invitations on Tuesday and my findings were startling. After the initial argument as to the competence of the commission to inquire into the regularity or otherwise of the impeachment in the House of Assembly, reason prevailed on the part of the commission and the three were released

2015: Only God gives power —Ekere

on bail to us. However, let me state as a long standing legislator that contrary to what some PDP aspirants want to make the world to believe with respect to the EFCC establishment Act, it could not have been the intention of the National Assembly which enacted the EFCC Act to empower the commission to inquire into the internal affairs of the legislature at any level, especially with respect to the election and removal of principal officers of the House where there are no direct financial crimes been committed. I think, at this stage, it is worth looking at to amend the EFCC Act in a manner that the Presidency or the ruling party cannot use such agencies against the opposition. Of course, we have had to amend the law setting up the commission in the past to strengthen it in order to tackle corruption cases. I believe strongly that it is also high time we had a re-evaluation of the EFCC Act in order to ensure that the commission doesn’t become an agent of oppression of people in the society. I also believe it is time that we looked at that Act again to remove any area of ambiguity which the EFCC will want to hide under and be used as a political

tool by the ruling party.

“It is laughable that the commission could allow itself to be used to harass and intimidate serving lawmakers when, as a matter of fact, there are several cases in the courts seeking to resolve several issues that have been raised with respect of the crisis in the EDHA. It is fitting to situate the issue before the EFCC in proper perspective and to raise certain posers.

"First, when did it become a law that a supposed anticorruption agency to inquire into the allegation of forgery of signature for the removal of a principal officer of a legislature when the allegation did not contain issues of possible economy and financial crime. Second, if the intent to have EFCC to investigate the allegation of forgery was

to verify whether or not the complainant is the owner of the signature, why is the Nigeria Police, whose officers are only on secondment to the EFCC, not directly involved in the matter?

Third, should the EFCC not advice itself that issues of this nature are only capable of making the public perceive it as an agency of government that offer itself for used by the ruling party to intimidate and harass opposition members. Can it be safely argued by any rule of interpretation that impeachment or removal of any principal officer under any circumstances that do not display any economic or financial crime will attract the intervention of any anti-corruption agency?”

MMEDIATE past deputy governor of Akwa Ibom State and leading governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, Mr. Nsima Ekere, has reminded contestants that it was only God that has the final say on the outcome of the race.

Speaking at Word Tabernacle, Uyo, during the dedication of little Se-Ema-Ekediong, daughter of President of Coalition of Akwa Ibom Youths, Obong Iniobong John, yesterday, Mr. Ekere said he was looking up to God as He alone would decide the winner of the contest.

His words: “It is God that has the final say.

God gives power to whoever He wants. The matter is in the hands of God, not in man. When God wants to anoint a man, He does not need permission from anybody because He is the supreme being. That is why I look up to God as the author and finisher of my faith.”

Ekere, who hinted that he would go into ministry after his tenure as governor to encourage Christians to hold firm to God, said: “I tell people that when I finish this particular mission that you are sending me on, I will retire from public service and go to the pulpit. I will share testimonies because the story of my life is a testimony. If I share it, I will encourage Christians to hold firm to God. “

12 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Edo govt, PDP bicker over Ize-Iyanmu clinic's blast

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—EDO State Government and Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, weekend, engaged in war of words over the explosion that allegedly rocked the clinic of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu's wife, Saturday night.

While Pastor Ize-Iyamu and the state chairman of the PDP, Chief Dan Orbih, alleged that the blast was masterminded by agents of All Progressives Congress, APC-led government in the state with a view to eliminating PDP leaders, the state government described the allegation as laughable, declaring that “it is regrettable and shameful that the PDP leaders have resorted to plotting attack against themselves to deceive Nigerians after they invaded the legislators' quarters to kill APC lawmakers.”

This came as the state Police Command, confirmed the blast and warned politicians in the state to stop heating the polity in the interest of peace in the state ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

According to the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Foluso Adebanjo, preliminary investigation showed that the improvised explosive device, IED, was thrown into the clinic from outside.

He also disclosed that the IED had been recovered by the Bomb Disposal Unit for analysis while “some suspects” had been arrested.

Adebayo said: “On Saturday, the command received an information that about 10:30pm, there was an explosion at Denins Osadeby avenue in Benin city where Shalom dental clinic belonging to the wife of Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, is located. The special anti- bomb squad and patrol vehicles were immediately drafted to the scene of the incident. Preliminary investigation revealed that explosive suspected to be improvised explosives device, IED, made of two Tiger batteries of 1.5 volt; each connected to log wire were thrown into the mini estate from outside.”

The statement urged “political gladiators ahead of the 2015 elections to prevail on their supporters to put the interest of the good people above personal interest”.

Ize-Iyamu who briefed newsmen at the scene of the incident said, “last night at about 10:40 pm I got a text from one of the tenants that a bomb had been thrown into my wife's clinic. So, I immediately called a tenant who told me that it just happened. I called the security agencies and rushed there. I actually found that a bomb was detonated here (at the gate).

The security agencies were able to see the wire that was used from across the road; it was a white wire and a masking tape.

“The target obviously was my wife’s clinic but the bomb detonated right at the gate, the security guard, I was told, was patrolling the compound when the incident occurred. If he was here (gate) he would have been killed instantly, but luckily he was far away. The Director of the Department of State Service, DSS, the bomb deposal men also came. I want to say categorically that I am not surprised at what happened even though the dimension was sudden. I say categorically that I hold the government.

In a swift reaction, the gov-

ernment through a statement

by Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Louis Odion, said, “the claim of a bomb attack and subsequent reckless press statement by a self-styled “Pastor”, Mr Osagie Ize-Iyamu, is another phase in what clearly has become the desperation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to spread falsehood and sow fear in the minds of the people of Edo State with a view to simulating a crisis.

“No sooner had the purported “bomb attack” been reported by an online medium with further claim of bomb explosion within Government House, than Mr. Ize-Iyamu quickly called a press conference to point fingers at the government as the mastermind of the explosion at the clinic owned by his wife.

“For the avoidance of doubt, we wish to state that the report of bomb explosion at the Edo Government House is patently false. By Ize-Iyamu’s ludicrous account and his haste to accuse government of culpability for a supposed crime yet to be investigated, we are persuaded to believe he is merely acting out a script. It is laughable indeed that any sane man will be targeting an obscure clinic that is, at best, now moribund.

“Mr Ize-Iyamu’s wild allegation fits into PDP’s jaded style of stage-managing assaults on its agents to be used as pretext by its thugs to attack officials of Edo State Government and agents of the APC. Again, Mr Ize-Iyamu’s reference to cultists being engaged against PDP is ironic and laughable. Even as full-time president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Oshiomhole was known for his non-violence philosophy. On the contrary, Edo people know those with the history of cultism and violence dating back to their school days.

“Against the backdrop of this latest purported attack on his wife’s clinic, which we believe was stage-managed, we wish to alert the Police to put Pastor IzeIyamu and his close-travelers under close watch as allegations of this nature had always been the prelude to staging an attack on APC members in the state in the past.

“Again, we call on the PDP to look within its ranks to get to the root of the attack on a former member of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr Rasaq Momoh. We also call on the Police to thoroughly probe top leaders of the PDP for the attack on the Edo state Legislative Quarters penultimate Saturday” it stated.

L-r: Dr. Festus Okubor, Chief of Staff, Government House, Asaba; Prof. Amos Utuama, Deputy Governor, Delta State and Sir Paul Evuarherhe, Head of Service Delta State.

Oil spill: Indigenes vow to rebuild Ikara community

By Godwin Oghre

S

APELE—The people of Ikara Community (near Ologbo), Ikpoba/ Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, have vowed to jointly rebuild their community that has been ravaged by oil pollution following ruptures in the oil pipelines of the National Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, passing through the community.

Chairman of the com-

munity, Mr. Lawrence Anirejuuoritse Wilbert, and the Secretary, Boyowa Eyejamuro, who spoke on behalf of the community at the inauguration of its executive committee, also called on the oil company to expedite action on the clean-up of the area and make adequate compensation to the community, in compliance with relevant statutory guidelines.

The Elders’ Council, which was also inaugurated, has Pa. Samson Uwan-

ikone as Olara-Aja (oldest man), Pastor Orits Arthur Egbiwe (Secretary, Elders’ Council) and Chief John Eyajamure (Elders’ Spokesman).

Other members of the community executive committee include, Mr Austin Uwanikone (Public Relation Officer, P.R.O), Bawo Dickson (Financial. Secretary), David Omonedo (Assistant. P.R.O), Jemide Julius Temisan (Provost) and Atsedosan Otse Eg-

biwe (Auditor), They described the spillage as having caused, “Monumental lost of aquatic, domestic and agricultural lives,” warning that the company must not violate or bye pass the necessary statutory measures to be followed in remedying the plight of the people, as doing so would not sustain the good relelationship existing between the community and the company."

2015: Okowa insists on governorship

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru & Joseph Erunke

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BUJA—AHEAD of his public declaration, today, for the Delta State 2015 governorship contest, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has ruled out a return to the Senate, saying his only consideration is to be governor of the state.

Senator Okowa, in an interview in Abuja, also dismissed as speculative claims that one of the frontline aspirants had been anointed by the mainstream of his Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for the ticket.

Asked if he would consider returning to the Senate if denied the gubernatorial ticket of the party, Senator Okowa said: “That is off the line because I have focused my mind on being governor and so I can’t be thinking of the Senate.

I have focused my mind on being governor; that is what I want, that is what I pray for, that is what I am going for, and that is what I go to campaign for. So, there is no question of returning to the Senate; that is already off the line for 2015. I believe, very candidly too that I would not be denied the ticket. I believe that we are going to have a free and fair process because the party has promised so, because I know that is what my state will wish, and in a free and fair process, I am very hopeful that I will emerge.”

On speculations that he could be disadvantaged by the reported endorsement of one of the frontline aspirants by the mainstream of the party.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014—13

Impeachment: Onyebuchi seeks re-instatement at Enugu High Court

By Austin Ogwuda

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on the recommendation of a 7man panel of investigation which purportedly investigated His Excellency on acts which do not constitute gross misconduct in the performance of the functions of his office as the Deputy Governor of Enugu State.”

The former Deputy Governor is also seeking for “a declaration that the purported Notice of Allegation of misconduct served on him as a preparatory step to his removal by the defendants was unconstitutional, null and void and of no effect whatsoever, having regard to the provisions of Section 188 (1)-(9) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as

amended)”.

He also asked the court to declare that the motion passed by the defendants on July 22, 2014 calling for the investigation of the allegation of misconduct against him “is in contravention of Section 188 (1)-(9) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to that extent, the said motion is unconstitutional, null, void and of no effect whatsoever.

“A declaration that Section 188 of the Constitution is not a weapon available to the Enugu State House of Assembly to subject or police the plaintiff for any wrong doing not committed in the performance of the functions of his office as Deputy

Governor.

“A declaration that the Allegations of Gross misconduct as contained in the Notice of Allegations of Gross Misconduct dated 22nd July 2014 and served on the Plaintiff by the 1st -24th Defendants do not constitute gross misconduct as envisaged by the provisions of Section 188 of the Constitution to warrant the 1st – 24th Defendants to invoke their powers under S.188.

Meanwhile, no definite date has been fixed for hearing on the motion seeking for substituted service on the defendants but Vanguard reliably gathered that the case had been assigned to Justice Ngozi Emehelu.

NUGU—IMPEACHED deputy governor of Enugu State, Mr. Sunday Onyebuchi, has gone to an Enugu State High Court seeking re-instatement.

Lagos lawyer and human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, is leading a five-man team of lawyers in the suit number E/373/2014 in which the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr. Eugene Odoh, and 23 other lawmakers as well as the new Deputy Governor, Pastor Ifeanyi Nwoye, are joined as codefendants.

He is praying the court to determine “whether the Enugu State House of Assembly could initiate removal or impeachment proceedings against the deputy governor of Enugu State for the purposes of removing him from office when he had not committed a gross misconduct in the performance of the functions of his office as Deputy Governor of the state.

“Whether the allegations contained in the “Notice of allegation of gross misconduct in the performance of the functions of the office of the Deputy Governor of Enugu State Re: Sunday Onyebuchi”, dated 22 July, 2014 by the House of Assembly to wit: (a) Abuse of office in that he flouted the resolution of the House of Assembly which prohibited maintenance and operation of commercial livestock and poultry farm within residential neighborhoods in Enugu, by maintaining and operating CONDOLENCE. l-r, Ede of Onitsha, Dr Mike Areh, Anambra State governor, Chief Willie Obiano, and commercial farm in his official former Chairman Police Service Commission, Chief Simon Okeke, condoling with Iddu family, Onitsha on quarters and (b) that he the death of their sister, at Ogbeabo, Onitsha on Saturday. refused to represent the governor of the state when directed, (i) at the flag-off of the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge in Onitsha by the “So I know I have something President and Commander-inunique to impart to the people Chief of the armed forces His of the state because of my rich Excellency President Goodluck

By Soni Daniel didn’t work out that time. background as a two-term Ebele Jonathan, on the 11th day “I strongly believe that Imo Senator, a businessman and of March, 2014 and (ii) at the BUJA—A Peoples State being the heartland of long standing history in South East Governors forum Democratic Party the South East will work well philanthropy in my state and held at the Lion Building governorship aspirant in Imo and serve its people if the right Nigeria.”

Enugu, on 6th day of July State, Senator Ifeanyi leadership is in place.

Reacting to the ceasefire 2014, constitute gross Ararume, has advanced “In our educational system, recently signed by Nigeria and misconduct in the performance reasons he was running to the governor we had that time, the Boko Haram sect, Ararume of the functions of his office as take over the mantle of Chief Achike Udenwa did his lauded the Federal Deputy Governor of Enugu leadership of the state from best. But you know governance Government for brokering the State thereby enabling the Governor Rochas Okorocha. and government are a peace deal with the insurgents Enugu State House of Addressing journalists in continuum because at that in far away Saudi Arabia.

Assembly to invoke its powers Abuja, Ararume pointed out time he did his best and I felt He said given the delicate under Section 188 (1-9) of the that the inability of successive that those things that he tried nature of the matter, the Constitution to initiate removal governments in the state to to do are things that we can President deserved kudos for or impeachment proceedings resolve the lingering build on to further develop the achieving the feat. against His Excellency, Sunday development challenges state.

“The first is to congratulate Onyebuchi, the Deputy facing the people propelled “Nearly eight years after, Mr President. I know what it Governor of Enugu State. him into the governorship those problems are still is; it is not easy to achieve this “Whether Enugu State House race. unsolved and because the state feat. If you know what is of Assembly lawfully exercised He said: “I really want the is still in dire need of help and happening globally now, you its powers when it voted and opportunity to be able to our people believe that I have will congratulate our purportedly removed Sunday salvage the “heartland of what it takes to bring answers to President. Wherever you have Onyebuchi, the deputy Igboland.“ For me, I had the their problems. That is why I am this kind of insurgency it is not governor of Enugu State, acting aspiration first in 2007 but it in the race. easy to deal with.”

IMO GOV RACE: Why I want Okorocha's

job —ARARUME

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Enugu professionals back Chime, Nwobodo for Senate

By Francis Igata

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NUGU—ENUGU State professionals, operating on the platform of Enugu Professional Forum, EPF, have thrown their weight behind the senatorial ambitions of Governor Sullivan Chime and his Chief of Staff, Mrs. Ifeoma Nwobodo.

Rising from its monthly meeting yesterday in Enugu, the EPF, in a communiqué signed by interim President, Nebechi Ugo and Secretary, Tony Ugwu, also approved the processes that led to the emergence of Mr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as the consensus candidate of the PDP for next year’s governorship election in Enugu State.

The group said both Chime and Nwobodo earned its endorsement due to their “exceptional performance and exemplary professional approach to issues pertaining to g o v e r n m e n t , governance and political administration since they came into office, "As a lawyer and administrator, Governor Chime has, through his unprecedented achievements in office, redefined public administration and good governance at the state level. He has been able to show that with good vision, clear conscience, selflessness and the commitment expected of a true professional, real and enduring changes can be brought to the lives of the people of a state, even one as poor as Enugu,” the group said.

The EPF also said Mrs. Nwobodo had applied her professional experience and knowledge as a Chartered Accountant and administrator to ensure that Governor Chime’s lofty vision for Enugu State was accomplished, even in the face of severe financial challenges.

14—Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

80TH BIRTHDAY BANQUET IN HONOUR OF GEN YAKUBU GOWON IN ABUJA

From the left, Niger Delta Development Minister, Chief Steve Oruh; Power Minister, Prof. Chinedu Nebo; Petroleum Minister, Mrs. Diezani AlisonFrom left: General Yakubu Gowon; his wife Victoria; Vice President Madueke; Agricultural Resources Minister, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina and others, Namadi Sambo; daughter of the celebrator and former Vice President, Dr. during the interdenominational church service to mark Gen. Gowon's 80th Alex Ekwueme, cutting the birthday cake. birthday celebrations at the National Christian Centre, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida.

Cross section of worshippers during the Interdenominational Church Service to mark Gen. Gowon's 80th birthday celebrations at the National Christian Centre, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida .

Chairman Organizing Committee, Prof. Jerry Gana (left) sharing some documents with the Primate of All Nigeria, Archbishop Nicholas Okoh and the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan (r) during the Interdenominational Church Service to mark Gen. Gowon's 80th birthday celebrations at the National Christian Centre, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida 19/10/2014

From left: Former Head of State, Abdulsalam Abubakar; Victoria Gowon; Kano State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna; celebrant, Yakubu Gowon and Vice President Namadi Sambo at the birthday dinner, in Abuja.

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Pic 1 From left: Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; Vice President Namadi Sambo and General T. Y Danjuma, former Minister Of Defence, during the 80th birthday banquet at the International Conference Centre, in Abuja, weekend.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 15

Erelu Abiola Dosunmu bags Doctorate at Crescent Varsity's Convocation

2 The Crescent University, Abeokuta, weekend, held its sixth convocation for award of degrees, prizes and conferment of honorary degrees.

Pic.1. l-r: Vice chancellor of the institution, Prof Hassan Okeleye, presenting award of Doctor of Science, D. Sc. Business Administration to HRH Erelu Abiola Dosunmu.

Pic. 2. l-r: Prof Hassan Okeleye, confering the Award of Doctor of Science, D.Sc, Political Science and International relation on Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi, Emir of Gummi .

Others are, Prof Ibrahim Gbajabiamila, Dep VC, and Dr V . Sreenivasulu, varsity Libarian Pic. 3. l-r: Chiefs Adesoji Ajayi-Bembe, Obanikoro of Lagos, Ch T. A Yusuf Akinlaja, Olorogun Atebo of Lagos and Ch Mukaila Lawal,Oluwa of Lagos & Apapa.

Pic. 4. l-r: Miss Ademide, HRH Oba Dokun Thompson, Oloni of Eti-Oni Osun State, HRH Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, and Mrs Rose Clarke Pic. 5. l-r: Oba Adesoji Mefoworade, Olumoyero 11 of Mefoworade, Oba Adebolu Fatunmise, Adagba of Iyafoworogi and Oba Adekunle Adebowale,Agbolu of Agboluaje of Ife all representatives of Ooni of Ife on the Photos: Biodun Ogunleye occasion .

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Unity schools resume as workers suspend strike

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

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TUDENTS of the 104 Federal Government Colleges, FGCs, otherwise known as Unity Schools, will resume academic and other activities today, following weekend's suspension of the four week old strike over unpaid salary arrears among others.

However, the workers through their union, the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, have called for the removal of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. MacJohn Nwaobiala.

Announcing the suspension of the strike, Secretary General of ASCSN, Mr. Alade Bashir Lawal, said the suspension of the industrial action followed the release of the sum of N527,643,444.00 (five hundred and twentyseven million, six hundred and forty-three thousand, four hundred and forty-four naira) by the Federal Government now being C M Y K

used to pay the first batch of the promotion arrears to staff of the Federal Ministry of Education.

In a statement, Mr. Lawal said, “besides, there have been appeals by wellmeaning Nigerians including the Honourable Members of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Service Matters who met with the union and the management of the Federal Ministry of Education, October 17, 2014 in Abuja and emphasized the need for the Ministry to pay its staff all their outstanding entitlements.”

On the call for the removal of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. Nwaobiala, the ASCSN Secretary-General claimed the negative attitude of the permanent secretary towards the welfare of the Ministry’s workers and the ignoble role he played by treating welfare issues with levity provided the ingredients that fuelled the industrial action.

16 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

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IGERIANS and their democracy are unique. If elsewhere people delight in the capacities of their government to deepen their liberties, broaden opportunities, our democracy is delivered as structures, visible and tangible. We call them dividends of democracy.

The lure of dividends, a throw back to the days the economy supported companies making returns to shareholders, has created an array of expectations. People expect democracy to translate to instant wellbeing. Politicians egg them on in their desires for a better life, which politicians paint in rosy strokes, but often do not deliver.

Where people expect employment, health services, rural development, education, governments point to peace and unity (currently eluding many parts) as dividends of democracy. More dividends of democracy manifest in renovated schools, repainted hospitals, more vehicles for the judiciary and security agencies.

These are celebrated as if their impacts would in a wave wipe out the deep-seated

Awaiting Dividends Of Democracy issues distracting the country. One of them is the tendency to deny the people their rights to choose, especially their leaders.

Choice as a foundation of democracy is reflected in the importance and regularity of elections. The decisions about leaders must be made in fairer setting and in ways that produce leaders whose acceptability derives from the processes.

Equating physical developments with dividends of democracy could result in disregarding the more important aspects of democracy and by extension accepting any form of rule, as long as it builds better roads and bridges. Democracy is deeper. Civil

rule and the liberties it has brought since 1999 are reminders of the unexplored possibilities of democratic governance.

Democracy awards us vast liberties which our Constitution enunciates. We must expand our peoples’ rights to life, to ownership of property, to participation in the economy and most importantly, their participation in politics. The rights to security of lives and property are facing challenges; they should be tackled more decisively.

Rights have prospered or withered in various measures in the past 15 years. Nigerians like to be heard, they have been talking. Is anyone listening?

More people are agitating for rights to participate in their governments. Others want re-structuring, to award the States and local governments more powers. Would Nigerians be free to live wherever they wish? Democracy should induce more economic competition among Nigeria’s federating units and improve lives. Would the current review of the Constitution address these?

Democracy is about the people. The consistent exclusion of the people in decisions about them is undemocratic. It is at the centre of agitations that question the relevance of democracy and minimises people’s stake in Nigeria.

Our governments would not be democratic, when they are neither about the people nor for the people.

OPINION

By Constance Shumba

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IGERIA recently overtook South Africa to become the continent’s biggest economy, hosting the World Economic Forum in May 2014 and showcasing the potential of the countr y. While commentators and locals alike celebrate the recent growth, many remain pragmatic about the journey Nigeria must take to sustain it – including ensuring the basics such as education, health and infrastructure are in good order.

Many health professionals have recognised the challenges facing health services in Nigeria as well as other African nations, stemming primarily from a lack of awareness of common public health issues as well what kind of help and care is available to them. Strong, passionate and dedicated health professionals are needed to address these overwhelming challenges, especially those who have a strong understanding and a desire to take a new approach to public health across sub-Saharan Africa.

In the past, public health has been considered a specialised field staffed only by medical professionals. Now, more people from other sectors (such as business and education) have started to understand the multiC M Y K

Boosting healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa disciplinary nature of public health, the need for collaboration and the role that a diverse range of professionals can play in developing a 21st century public health system in Nigeria that is truly fit for that purpose. The University of Roehampton recently launched a new online programme, a Master of Public Health, MPH, for those currently embarking on a public health career as well as for other professionals who are showing a growing interest in what is an important field emerging in the country.

The online MPH programme increases access to those who want to make a difference in their country and learn best practices from others around the world without having to leave their city or country. In addition, the diverse expertise of people from different professions and different countries helps broaden the way public health issues are assessed and provides the opportunity for others to suggest new solutions to old problems.

Increasing the number of public health professionals in the country will significantly improve its ability to review important public health issues and tackle new challenges in a timely and appropriate manner as

they arise, such as the growing threat of Ebola currently in West Africa.

This would be good news for the people of Nigeria, many of whom are often misdiagnosed.

Many Nigerians also succumb to common health conditions each year, like malnutrition, malaria, HIV and AIDS and tuberculosis. With proper health education, promotion, programme design, implementation and evaluation from public health professionals, these common health issues could be better controlled.

Only a couple months ago, the Public Library of Science, PLOS, published a report showing that the growing influence of Westernisation could mean a new wave of public health issues for Nigeria. By becoming wealthier, better educated and more urbanised, regions of Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries are gaining the attributes that would more commonly be associated with Wester n societies – noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension as well as injuries – requiring the

skills and knowledge of a much more diverse public health department than ever needed before.

However, the future of health care looks promising if the right support from government and partnerships with non-traditional groups in the private sector are secured. In a sector where morale has been traditionally low for a number of reasons, there is every opportunity for new employees coming through the ranks to effect a change, champion the cause and help make Nigeria and other African countries a healthier, flourishing place to live and prosper.

Education will play an important role here, not only in aiding public health workers in their quest to prevent disease and combat poor quality of life, but also in raising awareness of the field itself, demystifying the profession, and encouraging a stronger uptake of programmes and careers related to public health. The influx of new people into this crucial profession is quite literally the shot in the arm that health care in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa needs to continue its positive momentum. *Ms Shumba is a faculty member, University of Roehampton, London.

Investment conferences chart way forward

OCTOBER 20, 2014

By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

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he three tiers of government shared N5.92 trillion from January to September through the monthly statutory allocation.

Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in its bid to defend the naira sold $26.1 billion through the bi-weekly Retail Dutch Auction System (RDAS).

Analysis of the monthly statutory allocation through the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) reveals that the three tiers of government shared N1.91 trillion in the first quarter. This rose by 7.7 percent to N2.07 trillion in the second quarter, but fell by 6.2 percent to N1.94 trillion in the third quarter.

Experts have however predicted an 18 percent decline in statutory allocation to the three tiers of government in the fourth quarter due to the persistent decline in crude oil

FG, others share N5.92trn in 9 months •Experts predict 18% decline in Q4 prices.

Meanwhile, the CBN, in an effort to defend the naira sold $26.1 billion through the bi-weekly Retail Dutch Auction System from January to September. The apex bank sold $9.5 billion in the first quarter, $8.2 billion in the second quarter and $8.4 billion in the third quarter. The $26.1 billion sold in nine months exceeded the total amount of foreign exchange sold

through RDAS in 2013. Last year the apex bank sold $25.37 billion.

The huge foreign exchange sale notwithstanding, the naira depreciated by N1.22 kobo at the interbank market within this period.

From N162.58 per dollar in January, the interbank exchange rate rose to N163.8 per dollar by September 30th.

The huge foreign exchange sale however undermined the nation’s

INAUGURATION - From left: Chairman, Ammasco International Limited/Awardee, Alhaji Mustapha Ado Mohammed; Managing Director/CEO, Bank of Industry (BoI), Mr. Rasheed Adejare Olarewaju; Executive Chairman, Innoson Group/ Awardee, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma; Executive Director, Large Enterprises, Alhaji Mohammed Alkali and Executive Director, Small and Medium Enterprises, Mr. Waheed Olagunju, during the inauguration of Some BOI Customers into BOI Hall of Fame in Lagos.

foreign reserves, which fell by $3.37 billion from $42.99 billion in January to $39.62 billion at the end of September. The fall in reserves was in spite of 13.9 percent increase the nation’s earnings from crude oil in the first half of the year. According to the quarterly economic report of the CBN, oil revenue rose to N3.6 trillion from N3.12 trillion in the second half of 2013.

Thus experts predicted that with crude oil prices maintaining a downward trend, with the inevitable effect on oil revenue, revenue into the federation account would fall in the days ahead while the decline in external reserves will persist.

According to Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Financial Derivative Company, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, “If oil price declines to $86.4 per barrel (pb) and production is at two million barrel per day (bpd), oil revenues will decline by over 33 percent. The fiscal deficit will be N2 trillion or 2.21 percent of GDP. Net federation distributable revenue will decline by 33 percent from N4.5 trillion to N3 trillion. Weaker oil earnings will causes further risks for Nigeria The same prediction was expressed

by Razia Khan of Standard Chartered Bank. She said, “Weaker oil earnings raise risks for Nigeria. The oil price has remained below $100 per barrel for much of the past month. Since August, weaker revenue has also pointed to the likelihood of lower oil output. Nigeria’s medium-term budget plans assume a rise in the benchmark price of oil in 2015 at the same time that sensitivity to oil earnings is likely to be elevated. Any shortfall in oil output from the 2.39

Continues on page 18 C M Y K

18 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Cover Story

The Basic Guide to Starting your Business Part 2

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CONFERENCE - From left Mr Mayowa Babatunde, Coordinator, Bristow Uplift; Dr Lola Salako, Founder, SEBECCLY Cancer Care and Anthonia Oghoghorie-Ugono, Bristow Helicopter Nig Ltd at a press conference on the Bristow Helicopters partnership Initiative with SEBBECCLY Cancer Care held in Lagos on Friday. Photo Lamidi Bamidele.

million barrels per day assumed in the 2014 budget raises the level of price sensitivity above the $77.50 benchmark price that is currently assumed.

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igeria has little buffer against downside risks, with only $4.1 billion in its Excess Crude Account (ECA) in September. The elections will increase pressure to speed up budget implementation, with further downside risks to both the Excess Crude Account and foreign exchange reserves.

In its latest Economic Bulletin issued last week, FDC also warned, “”The fall in oil prices could spell major

FG, others share N5.92trn in 9 months economic problems for Nigeria.” The Bulletin explained that at current prices of approximately $90pb, government revenue for October will drop by seven percent to $7.03 billion. The fiscal deficit will rise to $1.39 billion (3.3 percent of GDP) and the External Reserves will deplete to $36.83. At current official exchange rate and RDAS foreign exchange sales, the naira will be mispriced by approximately 2.9 percent in October. A further decline of oil prices to $80pb (just $2.5 above the

‘My agenda for Paint Manufacturers Association’ – Aluko

By FRANKLIN ALLI Newly elected Chairman, Paints Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Rotimi Aluko, the new chairman of the Paints Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMA) said part of his agenda is to strengthen relationship with the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to ensure enforcement of standards in the Nigerian paints industry.

This is coming on the heels of the revelation by informed industry sources that there are over 1800 informal paint manufacturers in Nigeria whose substandard operations cannot be controlled. Aluko spoke at the 2014 Annual General Meeting of PMA in Lagos.

Aluko who is the managing director of Voda Paints Limited said that under him, PMA will C M Y K

aggressively fight against product adulteration and engage in aggressive membership drive. “Members are expected to help in this regard. The more we are the merrier. We will energize membership across the country.’

Aluko added that the association will step up PMA’s permanent secretariat by empowering it for good performance. “There is need for commitment by members,” he said. On Challenging environment, he said competition from imports is killing, saying “20 percent duty on imported paints is not enough to compensate for the hardship that local paint manufacturers are going through”. In his own remark, the outgoing chairman, Engr S.I. Tella who is the CEO of IPWA Plc said the power sector is still in a terrible state a year

Nigerian Federal Governments budget benchmark oil price of $77.5pb for 2014) would cut government revenue to $6.25 billion, push the deficit to 3.7 percent and deplete external reserves further to $33.36 billion.

“At this point, the naira will be mispriced by 3.9 percent if the CBN continues to defend it at the expense of the External Reserves. FAAC disbursements will nosedive and more money will be needed to fund the deficit.

Erosion in reserves will put the currency under immense pressure, and the CBN is likely to further tighten monetary conditions and bring the issue of currency adjustment back to the front burner. Nigeria‘s import dependency makes any decision on the value of the currency a rather intricate given that general elections are barely four months away and the attendant consequences of any downward adjustment will not just be economic, but political." These predictions are already playing out in the foreign exchange market. Last week the naira depreciated by 50 kobo at the interbank market, as the interbank exchange rate rose to N165.2 kobo from N164.7 the previous week. This however translated to N1.2 depreciation when compared with the closing rate of N163.8 per dollar at the end of September. Similarly, the external reserves had lost $210 million in October as at Thursday last week, falling to $39.41 billion from $39.62 billion.

loved ones; it will be a compass that will guide you on your journey into the world of entrepreneurs. There is no better time to start your own business than now. These same steps have worked for me and I dare say are still working for me, and I am confident they will work for you and everyone that reads this book.

WHAT IS BUSINESS? Before you start a business, it is very important to understand what a business is in order to avoid making mistakes that can be very detrimental. The term business is very broad and can be vague; for some it is any activity or trade with the sole aim of making profits. On the one hand, it can be said to be the occupation, work or trade in which a person is engaged in.

On the other hand, a business can be defined as “an organization that provides goods and services to people who want or need them”.

,

1 What is not business? ne might wonder the importance of knowing what is not business, but this is necessary because you need to know the kind of business you should not go into, and businesses that are prohibited by law. Not every business is a genuine one and I will be taking you through a list of businesses you must not be found doing.

The mentality of a business man: There’s a saying in the good book which reads thus “by their fruits you shall know them”. The same applies to business men; they possess certain qualities and mind sets that make them stand out.

Consequently, before you start a business you need to be adequately sure that you possess the die-hard mentality of an entrepreneur to withstand the challenges that will arise.

Who is an entrepreneur?

Over time various definitions have been given to the term, but I will be teaching you the difference between an entrepreneur and a businessman, the boundless and countless opportunities open to an entrepreneur, the traits and characteristics of a successful entrepreneur. In short, everything you need to know if you want to be not just a business man but also an entrepreneur.

Your readiness to be your own boss: A lot of people embark on a journey without fully preparing for it, and as such they are knocked off balance by the slightest wind that blows.

No warrior goes to war without his arms and it’s only a stupid farmer that goes to farm without his hoe. At the end of this topic, you would know if you are ready to start a business and peradventure you are not, you would be taught steps that will help you to be both mentally and financially ready.

1 The basic steps: In this chapter I will be taking you through the steps that you cannot overlook, if you want to have a successful business. These include: conceiving an idea, planning, funding, structuring, location, training and so much more.

I am of the sincere opinion that this would be more than just a book for you and your

Before you start a business, it is very important to understand what a business is in order to avoid making mistakes that can be very detrimental

,

When many people think of business careers, they often think of jobs in large wealthy corporations, but for the entrepreneur, a business is any activity aimed at creating and keeping customers. There are basically two ways to carry out a business: 1. Sell goods (physical things like books, toys, cars, houses, etc).

Sell services (intangible things like nursery education, legal services, health care, insurance, etc).

Many business-related careers though, exist in small businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and educational settings.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 19

Nigeria needs help from within and outside

Nigeria is a country blessed with intelligent people. It is a country where every man and woman likes to express himself or herself loud and clear. Nigerians anywhere in the world like to hold their heads high. That was when the economy was booming.

But even now, Nigerians despite the economic situation are the same, proud and always assertive.

The nation is besieged by a murderous group from within and outside, further compounding the already bad economic situation in the country. The security challenges facing the nation have relegated the need for more focus and attention on the economy to the background. It is about how to secure the country. While Boko Haram has taken hold of the North-East, kidnappings and other heinous crimes have taken

hold of the South-South and South-East. Ritual killings is now rampant in the SouthWest and in the Middle Belt, communal clashes and rampaging Fulani herdsmen have combined to bring about a reign of terror on the people.

With wicked Sawyer importing ebola into the country, another dimension has been added to the reign of terror in the country.

In all of these, untimely death is visited on the ordinary Nigerians. Those in position to stop these messengers of death are engaged daily in blame games.

Many are feeling that the government is not doing enough to curtail the situation.

No responsible individual in power who sees the kind of carnage, the kind of macabre murders taking place in Nigeria will be mindless not to care.

This situation has overwhelmed the capacity, the thinking faculty, ability and experience of top security personnel. They indeed need help and the support of those who understand the present circumstance.

Nations face challenges every so often. Whenever such challenges are daunting and beyond the capacity of those in charge, they call for help. The present set-up in the military is not trained to fight terror. They probably know only conventional war. War on terror globally is more of intelligence gathering, information sharing and effective communication of position of the suspected enemies of the state through effective monitoring. As it

stands, intelligence gathering machinery of the military, police and DSS seem very weak. War on terror is not about the superior weapons used by the enemy, it is the element of surprise in the attack that makes the difference.

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his administration should swallow its pride and arrogance as it needs men and women with the requisite expertise in intelligence gathering, as well as experts in communication to help and teach Nigerian security

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n April 28 we published this article in which I said that Nigeria needs help from within and from outside the country.

Events of the last three weeks have shown that help from outside to contain the monster called Boko Haram is imperative.

Boko Haram taking over some towns in the NorthEast with the military pleading helplessness connotes that all the reserved army in Nigeria be recalled. This is what I said in April.

Governor Nyako see is doom and sectionalism. Boko Haram is not a phantom thing, it is real. The families that have been affected by the insurgency cut across tribe, religion and state. Boko Haram is not just a North-East problem, it is a Nigerian problem. We need men and women who think Nigeria to help solve this problem. It is not a matter of playing the blame game, it is not a party affair, and Nigerians must rise above this parochial thinking to tackle the evil that has befallen the nation.

The President must take the

The President must take the first step by calling those who can help to a round table and seek their cooperation

forces. Here is where the reserve army is needed.

There are Nigerians who were patriotic enough to help keep Nigeria one during the civil war. Some of those military experts are still alive, there are those who are retired but not tired who can help. The benefit of the wisdom and experience of these retired generals who see Nigeria as an entity is needed now.

Nigeria, however, does not need the services of retired generals like Murtala Nyako who is retired and tired. All what these tired people like

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first step by calling those who can help to a round table and seek their cooperation. This is the time for the President to be firm and show that he is in charge and has the capacity to defend the rights of every Nigerian no matter where he comes from. The President must call for sober reflection on what has been happening and put his finger on where he has not acted as a President. The President must muster courage to face whoever stands in the way of progress in the country. He must as a man, look at every woman who is

doing the wrong thing in the face and say stop or get fired and if such a woman refuses, should be fired.

Developed democracies are where they are today because leaders in those countries are accountable. They stand to say no to evil. They stand and allow institutions to fish out criminals and punish them.

When people know that if they do wrong they will get caught and duly punished, crime and criminality will reduce.

The reasons in democratic practice why majority surrender their sovereignty to a few elected officials is that government is responsible for the safety and welfare of citizens and any time the citizens are being killed or their welfare is being abused, government must take some kind of action. What is happening now in Nigeria has gone beyond the stage of blaming government and politicians. Some Nigerians have come to believe that Boko Haram is politicallymotivated, some say it is religiously-motivated; the question is, if it is religious, why should Muslims be killing Muslims and not just Christians and non-Muslims?

Nigerians must now realise that “Boko Haram is now out to prove that it can kill and get away with it. It has gone beyond religion, politics and ideology. It is a belief: ‘I can kill people and I can get away with it and let me show you I can do it.’ That is what it is now”. Nigerians must rise up to the occasion and face this one challenge in unison.

Business & Economy

Traffic forces LCCI to retain Trade Fair at TBS

BY NAOMI UZOR

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he Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, has said it will retain the Tafawa Balawa Square (TBS) as venue for the 2014 Lagos International Trade Fair, due to traffic gridlocks on the Mile 2 and Lagos Badagry Expressway axis.

Speaking at the media briefing and unveiling of goodwill ambassadors for this year’s edition of the fair, Chief Olawale Cole , Chairman, Trade Promotion Board of the LCCI, said the chamber ’s decision to remain at the TBS for the 2014 fair is connected

to the on-going road projects in the Mile 2 and Lagos Badagry Expressway axis.

He stated that the chamber has critically analysed the progress of work on the projects and found it not conducive for the hosting of the fair at the international trade fair complex as human and vehicular traffic in that axis remain terrible.

He said the chamber is proud to note that it has consistently hosted the fair for the past 27 years and the 2014 edition will be the 28th to be hosted by the chamber, adding that, the theme of this year’s fair is “Promoting the Nigerian Economy as a Preferred Investment Destination” and will hold from Friday 7th November to Sunday

16th November at the TBS. According to him, in keeping their promise and commitment to the world, the chamber will do all within its power to continue to provide economic and commercial bridges between local and international investors and will continue to provide a platform to broaden the horizon and scope of investment opportunities.

“It is a great privilege and honour for me to announce to you, our worthy Ambassadors: 2face, Ice prince, Brymo, Vector, Martin Mabutho, Kunle Afolayan, Olisa Adibua, Toolz Oniru, Matthew Ohio, Lerin Davis, Toke Makinwa, Funke Opeke

and Evangeline Wiles. We are proud to have them as our

esteem partners and am sure together we can promote Nigeria as the preferred investment destination,” he said.

ACTIVATION - From left: Mr Toba Ogunsami of pan Ocean Oil , Joseph Ajagba , Winner of Refigerator, Rotimi Arogundade, Senior Area Sales Manager, Nigerian Breweries Plc ,Rotimi Ayeni, Senior Brand Manager, Legend and Life Beer, during the Legend Taste and Tell activation in Lagos.

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20 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Business & Economy

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

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he Federal Government has announced the approval of N220 billion intervention Funds to support the over 120 youths that successfully went through the pilot phase of the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, FIIRO, National Techno entrepreneurs Initiative training.

The President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, made the announcement while delivering a keynote address at the opening of the 2014 Investment and Technology Week organized by the FIIRO. The National Techno entrepreneurs programme is an initiative of FIIRO that targets the empowerment of 2,000 unemployed Nigerian youths annually on FIIRO technologies in partnership with NEPAD Youth Initiative.

Represented by the VicePresident, Namadi Sambo, he enjoined financial institutions and funding agencies such as Bank of Industry, BoI, Bank of agriculture, BoA, NERFUND and SURE-P to work closely with FIIRO in order to provide prospective investors with low

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FG approves N220bn for National Techno-entrepreneurs scheme interest facilities.

He also enjoined other tiers of government to seize the opportunity by working closely with FIIRO in order to adopt and adapt the developed technologies to the available raw materials in the states and FCT. He noted that the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs, is very important in any nation that aspires towards selfsufficiency, adding that this administration since inception has taken decisive steps to stimulate growth and revamp the real sectors of the economy.

“MSMEs are the innovators; the wealth creators, drivers of the economy, as well as employment generators and have the potential of growing to large corporations tomorrow. I am happy to know that FIIRO in fulfillment of its mandate has demonstrated its commitment to the growth of MSMEs, not only through the transfer of its developed technologies, but through its

programme on the acquisition of entrepreneurial managerial skills for effective management of these enterprises,” he said.

The president stated that

FIIRO through the Investment week and other projects being pursued, has demonstrated its commitment to assist in revamping the economy in line with the vision 20:20:20

LUNCHEON - From Left; Prof Lateef Sanni, Immedate Past President, Nigerian Institute Food Science and Technology, [NIFST], Dr Chijoke Osuji, National President Nigerian Institute Food Science and Technology, [NIFST], Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Bank of Industry, Prince Gbolahan Lawal, Lagos State Commissioner for Agric, and Mr Paul Gbenedo, Managing Director, Flour Mills, During the Inaugural Luncheon for Chief Executive Officer of Food Industries, Allied Organization and Regulatory Bodies, Organised

by Nigerian Institute Food Science and Technology, [NIFST], held in Lagos. PHOTO; Kehinde Gbadamosi

and Transformation Agenda of the federal government, through the transfer of locally developed technologies to would-be entrepreneurs, industrialists and micro small and medium scale enterprises.

“With a population estimate of 165 million people, majority of whom are youths, it has become imperative to device creative and responsive means to tackle unemployment, and by extension, youth restiveness, which has become prevalent in our society in recent times.

“At the inception of this administration in year 2011, in a bid to stimulate growth, revamp real sectors of the economy, improve education and healthcare delivery services, we embarked on an aggressive campaign geared towards infrastructural development, with emphasis on increased power generation and ensuring the security of lives and properties.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 21

Business & Economy

Tourism can achieve the Nigeria of our dreams — NTDC

By NAOMI UZOR

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he Nigerian T o u r i s m Development Corporation (NTDC), said weekend, that tourism can help the country achieve the Nigeria of its dreams.

Speaking at 2014 Symposium/Luncheon of the hotel, tourism and entertainment group, tagged: “The Needs of the Tourism Industry in Nigeria”, organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, the Director General of NTDC, Dr. Sally Mbanefo, said, tourism can help the country achieve the Nigeria of its dreams, not only for the present but also for generations to come by turning its dependence on diminishing oil revenue to tourism sustainable revenue for poverty alleviation and jobs creation.

She also appealed to

the private sector to adopt tourist sites and develop them as part of their contributions to the development of domestic tourism in Nigeria,

adding that, there is need to develop domestic tourism, not just for paid travelers alone, but leisure infrastructure in our

CEREMONY - FROM LEFT: Vice president ARC. Namadi Sambo, Director General, Federal institute of industral research, Oshodi (FIIRO) Dr Gloria Elemo, Minister of Industry, Dr Olusegun Aganga and Managing Director\CEO, Bank of Industry (BOI) Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa explaining some points to Vice president at BOI stand during the opening ceremony of the FIIRO investment & technology week 2014 in lagos.

Aganga commends BoI’s contributions to industrial growth

BY FRANKLIN ALLI

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HE Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, has extoled the contributions of Bank of Industry (BoI) to industrial growth in Nigeria.

Aganga, who spoke recently in Ilorin during his pre-commissioning visit to the Cold Roll Mill project of Kam Industries, Ilorin, said the bank has justified its establishment over the years via its adequate financial grants to viable and promising indigenous industrialists.

The minister, urged more qualified Nigerians to access the loans at the BOI noting that industrial revolution remained one of the economic thrusts of the government of President Goodluck Jonathan.

According to him, “we always require more funds to create the much needed enabler, to give enough money to fund industries in Nigeria.

The BoI is rendering great assistance in this respect.” Speaking at the event, the Managing

various communities for citizens who cannot afford to travel.

“NTDC and government in general are aware that

Director of the BoI, Rasheed Olaoluwa while justifying the lifeline given to the Kam Industries, said the industries had over the years maintained the required standard and regulations of would be beneficiaries of the loan of the bank. Besides, while lamenting the dearth of many applicants for the BoI loans he gave explanations on how the loans could be easily accessed, praising the Federal Government for creating enabling environment for the bank.

Olaoluwa noted, “The bank of industry is the leading development finance institution in the Nigeria. Over the years, we have financed several development projects. We have financed close to 2,000 projects all over the country in several sectors.

“The other day we compiled statistics and the number we got was in the tune of N692billions in total loans we have granted to date. In the process we have created approximately one million job opportunities. The way to access finance from

Bank of Industry is very simple. We have a website: www.boing.com, we have a lot of information in that website such as the various sectors that we support, the various products and ways in which we can apply.

“For instance we say there are three simple processes: we have the application form, questionnaire and you need to engage at the end of the day with our analysts. We have seven zones. In addition to the head office in Marina, we are in Lagos, Akure, Asaba, Enugu, Bauchi, Kaduna and Abuja.When you want to take a loan from the Bank of Industry, it is important that as a promoter, you have a sound business model.

“The way we assess business model at the Bank of Industry is to ask you a few critical questions: first the product you want to bring to the market; second, what is the target market (who are you going to sell the product to?); third, what stands your product out or what is you value preposition?

developing our local tourism industry for domestic consumption will not be an easy task as it is no longer a secret that more and more Nigerians that can afford it travel abroad every day.

Government can no longer fold its arms and continue to watch the daily capital flight that leaves our over 4,279 hotels and numerous restaurants dry ” she said.

She noted that Nigeria must put in place a mechanism through which benefits can be derived from all derived from all departures, adding that, NTDC is coming up with a recommendation to government on how domestic tourism can benefit from this.

The President of LCCI, Alhaji Remi Bello, who was represented by the Director General, Mr.

Muda Yusuf, said, called on government to pay attention to the supporting services sectors like aviation, transport, modern technology that powers electronic transactions and security in our attempt to promote tourism in Nigeria, adding that, if the country must promote tourism in Nigeria, these sectors must be well fixed.

“Apart from the string of the Ebola Virus Disease that was near an epidemic, the Nigerian tourism industry has also suffered from the scourge of insurgency that has sent fears into potential foreign tourists to Nigeria. However, with the right r e g u l a t i o n s , infrastructure and requisite investments, Nigeria’s tourism sector can get stronger ” he said.

22 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Banking & Finance CitiBank to advise AMCON on what method to adopt in selling the banks. On their part, the advisers recommended that the banks be sold to local and foreign investors.

By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

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ccess Bank Plc has been awarded the International Organization for Standardization, ISO, 22301:2012 certificates for ‘Societal Security - Business Continuity (BCM) Management Systems.’ The award was presented to the bank by the British Standard Institute, BSI, after about three months of rigorous business impact analysis across all the departments of the bank.

Speaking during the presentation of the certificate in Lagos, Group Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank, Mr. Obinna Nwosu, said the certification is based on international best practices deployed by the bank to manage business continuity.

According to him, the ISO 22301:2012 specifies requirements to plan, establish, implement, operate, monitor, review, maintain and continually improve a documented management system to prepare for, respond to and recover from disruptive events when they arise.

FCMB launches MasterCard with cash rewards

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irst City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited, has commenced a special offer to reward customers who use its Debit MasterCard for cash withdrawals, purchases or online payments within and outside Nigeria, with cash and unique gift items such as iPadminis and android phones.

The special incentive, which comes in two categories namely; Issuance/Activation and Usage and tagged, FCMB MasterCard Offer, commenced in September and will run till end of October, 2014. Under the Issuance/ activation category, a customer issued an FCMB MasterCard for the first time receives unique FCMB customised pens and key rings instantly, upon the activation of the card.

For the Card Usage category, a customer who spends up to N500,000 (five hundred thousand naira) within Nigeria to effect transactions on Point of Sales (PoS) or via the internet, gets up to 1.5% cash back on total spend directly in his or her account. In addition, a total spend of N2, 000,000 (Two Million Naira) and above outside Nigeria on PoS, ATM or the internet, will be rewarded instantly with gifts such as an iPad-mini, a Microsoft surface, an android phone, amongst others.

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n Wednesday 15th of October, financial journalists anxiously awaited a statement or announcement from the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) concerning the sale of Enterprise Bank to HBCL Investment Services Limited (HISL).

The day marked the end of the deadline for the HISL, promoted by Heritage Bank Company Limited (HBCL), to pay the 80 percent balance of its N56 billion bid price for the acquisition of Enterprise Bank. On September 11th, AMCON had announced the company as the preferred bidder, ahead of Fidelity Bank, which emerged as the reserved bidder).

Upon the announcement HISL, made the first payment of 20 percent as stipulated in the share purchase agreement (SPA).

To seal the acquisition, HISL had 15 days to pay N44.8 billion, and there were apprehensions in some quarters that the company may not be able to come up with such money within the required 15 days.

In apparent response to these concerns, Ifie Sekibo, Managing Director/Chief Executive, Heritage Bank, told journalists, “Efforts are ongoing to ensure that the balance of 80 per cent is also paid in line with the terms, conditions and time frame specified by AMCON”. Thus, at the close of business on Wednesday 15th, the question on the mind of industry observers and financial journalists was, “Has Heritage made the payment? The situation became turbo charged by 6.00pm that day, as mixed signals emerged from AMCON and Heritage Bank. While bank officials who spoke on condition of anonymity and the bank’s PR agency confirmed to journalists that HISL has made the final payment, AMCON’s spokesman, Kayode Lambo told journalists that AMCON is yet to see the money in its account. This led to a dilemma for financial journalists on what story to write for the next day.

While some decided to wait till AMCON confirm the payment, some, decided to write the story based on information from

•Sekibo, MD/CEO Heritage Bank

Heritage Bank & Enterprise Bank: Acquisition that defied industry standard

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Access Bank gets ISO 22301 BCM Certification

We don’t want a misfit or a mismatch in that space, and so, we are not shy to say we are fit for it

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both parties. Thus, the financial industry went to bed, with uncertainty about the Heritage Bank bid to acquire Enterprise Bank.

The uncertainty, drama and suspense over the fate of the bid were however brought to an abrupt end 10.30am Thursday October 16, when AMCON released a terse email titled, “AMCON confirms payment for Enterprise Bank”. The email stated, “We hereby confirm that HBCL Investment Limited has paid the required balance for the purchase of Enterprise Bank. As per the Share Purchase Agreement, the agreed completion phase now commence, this includes seeking all regulatory approvals”. This effectively ended the rigorous and competitive process for the sale of one of the nationalised banks sold to AMCON by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) in 2011.

From intervention to nationalisation Enterprise Bank was formed

to assume the assets of the defunct Spring Bank, a product of the merger of six banks during the 2006 consolidation exercise. The legacy banks were ACB International Bank Plc, Citizens International Bank Plc, Fountain Trust Bank Plc, Guardian Express Bank Plc, Omega Bank Plc, and Trans International Bank Plc. Spring Bank however struggled due to a series of factors, chiefly corporate governance issues, and infighting among majority shareholders of the legacy banks. Thus, it was severely affected by the impact of the global financial crises of 2008.

As a result it was one of the eight banks taken over by the Lamido Sanusi led CBN in 2009, with the appointment of a new board to stabilise and recapitalise the bank. When it was obvious that the bank, alongside Bank PHB and Afribank, would not be able to meet the September 2011 recapitalisation deadline, the CBN revoked their licenses, and handed them over to NDIC. The Corporation on its part formed Enterprise Bank, Mainstreet Bank and Keystone Bank to assume the assets of the three banks.

They were thereafter sold to AMCON, which appointed its own management and injected N680 billion into the banks, with the promise to sell the banks within three years.

The process of selling the banks started in 2012, with the appointment of Renaissance Capital and

A wild goose chase While this was going on, Mr. Ifie Sekibo and some investors were busy chasing a banking license, to revive the defunct Societe Generale Bank. Their efforts came to fruition February 2013, when the new Bank, Heritage Bank, commenced operations. Their immediate preoccupation was how to verify and settle depositors of SGBN, gain public acceptance and confidence, with the hope of pursuing their organic growth plan through branch expansion. But they had to battle the intense competition in the industry, and the unprecedented tight monetary policy regime of the CBN, as well as non favourable policies like the gradual removal and reduction of CoT. The bank however had the luck of the rapid adoption of electronic banking services in the industry and the increased public acceptability courtesy of the cashless policy.

According to industry standards, Heritage bank is still at infancy stage. And infants are not expected to attempt what adults do.

Thus few gave the bank any chance to succeed when information emerged that the Bank was among those bidding to acquire Enterprise Bank. Not with the likes of Diamond Bank, Fidelity Bank Standard Chartered Bank, Sterling Bank Plc, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc contending for the same prize. With such formidable competitors, the bid by Heritage Bank was dismissed as a wild goose chase. More so, one of its competitors was so determined to win that it employed regional sentiments and political influence of one its shareholders, to win political support for its bid.

This however did not deter the management of Heritage Bank. “We should not shy away from it. We want to make that move because of the strategic fit, because we have been through restructuring and reorganisation of this, and the government and current management of Enterprise Bank in restructuring and putting that organisation together. We don’t want a misfit or a mismatch in that space. And so, we are not shy to say we are fit for it. Sekibo said in response to pessimism about Heritage’s bid for Enterprise Bank.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 23

Banking & Finance

BDCs appeal to CBN for increased forex sale Stories by BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

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ureaux De Change in the country has appealed to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for an increase in the weekly sale of foreign exchange to each operator.

The BDCs also asked the CBN to extend its occasional intervention in the foreign exchange market to their sector, so as to reduce demand pressure at the retail end of the market. Speaking under the aegis of Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), the BDCs lamented that while over 2000 operators have laboured to comply with the N35 million mandatory caution deposits, the $15,000 weekly sale to each BDCs by the CBN is inadequate to cover operating costs.

“Considering the difficulties that BDCs are currently facing, due to the volume of the weekly sales granted to BDCs as against the associated costs in the business, we

are strongly suggesting that the CBN should consider increasing the weekly sales to BDCs from $15,000 to $50,000, the Association said in an appeal letter to the CBN

Governor.

Making a case for extension of CBN forex intervention to BDCs, the Association said, “ Given the ever increasing demand of

DISCUSSION - From left : Mr. Austin Avuru, Chief Executive Officer, SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc; Mr. Michael Larbie, Chief Executive Officer, Rand Merchant Bank West Africa; Mrs. Oluwatoyin Sanni, Group CEO, UBA Capital Plc and Chairman of the Session; Barr. Uche Val Obi, Chairman Capital Market Association/Managing Partner Alliance Law Firm; Mr. Oscar Onyema, Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange; and Mr. Eguarekhide Longe, Chief Executive Officer, AIICO Pension Limited, during the panel discussion on “Transformation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange” at the Capital Markets Solicitors’ Association, 2014 Annual Business Luncheon, held in Lagos.

US$ as against the rigidity of the weekly official sales to BDCs, we have noted that a good number of our members hardly meet up their demands from endusers. Now, to assist in achieving the aim of exchange rate stability in the events of increase in demand of dollar and static sales of $15,000 to a BDC, we are suggesting that, for now, the Central Bank should consider granting our sub- sector periodic sales intervention as it does to Banks. For instance, on 24th September, 2014 by Retail Dutch Auction System, the CBN sold a total of N350 million to Banks, while on 29th September, 2014 and 8th October, 2014, totals of N500million and N400million respectively were also sold to banks making a sum of US$1.250billion within a period of 13 days.

Statistically speaking, the sum of $15,000.00 is sold to a BDC per week,

giving a total of about $37,500,000-00 to BDCs per a week.”

The Association also appealed to the apex bank to reduce the mandatory caution deposit to N15 million from N35 million, to free up cash for BDCs to meet day-to-day operations. “After the expiration of the deadline for the payment of the increased caution fee of N35million, we noticed that a good number of Bureau de Change Operators could no longer conveniently carry out their weekly trading due to lack of cash.

“To avoid the possibility of such BDCs closing shop even after having made the effort to pay their caution fees, we are sincerely pleading that the Central Bank should consider the possibility of reviewing the caution fee from N35million to N15million in order to financially empower the BDCs to carry on their weekly trading”, it said.

Coordinated approach critical to financial education for entrepreneurs - Experts

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inancial experts have said that a coordinated and integrated approach is critical in the provision of financial education for entrepreneurs.

The experts spoke at a roundtable recently organised by Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and Barclays Bank. The experts noted that more and better synergies among all players in the financial environment are needed, and it is also important to shift mentalities and develop a real entrepreneurial culture.

The debate was organised to discuss how to deliver more efficient financial and entrepreneurial education and to identify alternative approaches of providing the right skills and services to entrepreneurs. Among other things the debate revealed that entrepreneurs, who often lack the financial literacy skills required for the complex business decisions they face, need to better understand their financing needs and options, and to be aware

of the support and services available to them.

In his opening remarks, Othmar Karas, MEP stressed that “Entrepreneurial spirit and basic economic knowledge needs to be already instilled in children and students.

The earlier they learn about debt, savings and

credit, the less likely they are to struggle in the future and the more likely they will become active and productive participants of the economy ”.

Manos Schizas, Head of SMEs Affairs at ACCA said “The evidence on the effectiveness of financial literacy interventions is clear: success is elusive.

Skye Bank employees renovate schools, donate materials

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mployees of Skye Bank Plc have embarked on various corporate social responsibility projects in the bank’s host communities across the 36 states of the federation. The projects which are basically in the education sector, seek to improve learning and teaching in public schools.

According to a statement, the projects which will benefit 39 host communities in the current year are being undertaken in line with the United Nations Educational and S c i e n t i f i c

Organisation’s (UNESCO) policy on World Literacy day, following the adoption of ‘Literacy Day’ by the employees as a foundation of their support for schools and learning.

The employees said their objective was to establish the link which connects the trend of literacy, supporting schools with educational resources and improving on the reading culture of students which ultimately will affect productivity and national development in the long run.

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24 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Corporate Finance

Sterling Bank to raise $320m fresh capital UBA , MoneyGram launch new outbound money transfer service

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igeria’s money transfer business landscape entered a new phase last week as Africa’s global bank, the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and global Money Transfer giant, MoneyGram launched the first outbound money transfers in Nigeria while Phillips Oduoza, UBA GMD/CEO became the first person to carry out MoneyGram outbound money transfer service from Nigeria.

The newly launched MoneyGram outbound money transfer service allows Nigerians to send money abroad through any UBA branch in Nigeria or Africa while the funds are received in dollar or the currency of the receiving country. With this service, Nigerians can now send money to countries like UK and USA from Nigeria. The Nigerian will send money in Naira, the person receiving in UK or USA; will receive it in pounds or dollars. The outbound money transfer service allows Nigerians to send money in Naira to over 200 countries around the world by simply walking into any UBA branch in Nigeria or in the 18 other African countries where UBA has operations outside Nigeria or through any other MoneyGram Agent Bank.

The launch event which held at UBA’s head office in Marina, Lagos, was hosted

by UBA’s GMD/CEO, Phillips Oduoza, who had a live demonstration of how the service will work by sending money from Nigeria to Ghana. He sent Naira, which was received in real time in Ghana Cedis by the CEO of UBA Ghana. The transaction was witnessed by the media and other assembled guests both in Ghana and Nigeria via video link.

Speaking during the event, UBA’s GMD said the new UBA and MoneyGram outbound money transfer service will boost trade and business between African countries as many Nigerians who do business across Africa, no longer have to move around with cash as they can easily transfer money to their business partners in other African countries or in China, Europe and America to pay for goods and services bought.

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here are indications that Sterling Bank Plc plans to seek shareholders approval to raise up to $200 million in debt or equity.

It was also gathered that the mid-tier bank plans to issue up to 19.8 billion naira ($120.3 million ) worth of shares to a strategic investor via a private placement at N2.65 per share.

Information gathered was that the bank

would hold Extra-Ordinary General Meeting, EGM before the end of the year to get shareholders’ nod for fund raising.

The bank posted gross earnings of N91.63 billion for the financial year ended Dec. 31, 2013 against N68.86 billion achieved in 2012. Its profit after tax stood at N8.28 billion, compared with N6.95 billion posted in the comparative period of 2012, an increase of 19 per cent.

It will be recalled that shareholders of Sterling Bank had in April, 2014 approved the bank’s plans to

raise new capital through a private placement.

The shareholders gave the approval at the bank’s 52nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos.

According to the shareholders, the private placement should be raised by the creation of an additional eight billion ordinary shares of 50k each.

The shareholders also approved the payment of 25k dividend per share declared by the bank.

Shareholders said that they would support the capital raising exercise. Umar said

CEREMONY - From right: The Co-Managing Director of Azura Power Holdings Limited, Mr. Sundeep Bahanda; the Group Head, Power, Energy and Media Sectors of First City Monument Bank, Mr. Dele Faseemo; Executive Director, FCMB Capital Markets Limited, Mr. Tolu Osinibi and the Bank’s Head, Communications/CSR, Mrs. Uchenna Mojekwu, at the foundation laying ceremony of the Azura-Edo Power plant in Edo state.

that the bank needed to increase its share capital to finance value creation projects.He also said that enhanced shareholders’ funds would increase the bank’s lending limits.

Sunny Nwosu, National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), said that the capital exercise would improve the bank’s return on investment. Nwosu said that the bank would not be able to finance big business with a small capital base. “If our capital base is not robust, we will not be able to finance big businesses. “ISAN support for the bank’s robust financial muscle stems also from the need for Sterling Bank to be repositioned toward benefiting from the anticipated business of government’s transformation agenda,” he said.

Another shareholder, Balogun Okelana, called on the bank to improve on its cashless policy through deployment of more Point Of Sales (POS) terminals across the country.Okelana said that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN’s) stringent laws and regulations had affected the growth of the banking sector.

He said that CBN laws and regulations “are killing banks and businesses in the country.”

Fitch upgrades ETI viability rating to ‘B’

By PETER EGWUATU, with Agency Report

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itch Ratings has upgraded Togobased Ecobank Transnational Incorporated’s (ETI) the holding company of the pan-African Ecobank group) Longterm Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to ‘B’ from ‘B-’ and Viability Rating (VR) to ‘b’ from ‘b-’.

Fitch further stated that the bank’s outlook is stable, stressing that its IDRs was based on its intrinsic creditworthiness as reflected in its VR. The upgrade of ETI’s VR and Long-term IDR reflects its stronger capitalisation following Nedbank’s (BBB/ Negative’) acquisition of a 20 per cent stake in the group in October

2014. Upon acquisition of the stake, Nedbank converted USD285million outstanding subordinated loans, which were accounted for as regulatory tier 2 capital, into equity and injected an additional USD208million.

Due to the debt conversion and capital increase, ETI’s Fitch core capital ratio improved to around 16 per cent (from 10.2 per cent at end- full year, FY13) and double leverage declined materially to around 104 per cent (from 143 per cent at end-FY13). Regulatory tier 1 and total capital ratios have also improved to around 16.4 per cent (FYE13: 13 per cent ) and 17.3 per cent (FYE13: 16.3 per cent) respectively.

The upgrade reflects Fitch’s assumption that ETI will maintain high capital ratios and low double leverage.

Furthermore, in Fitch’s opinion, with Nedbank and Qatar National Bank (QNB; A+/Stable) becoming strategic shareholders,

ETI’s access to capital for its ordinary operations has significantly improved.

QNB’s stake stands at 17 per cetn. As a leading panAfrican banking group, ETI has fully fledged banking subsidiaries in 36 countries across the region. These countries are either not rated or have low ratings (between ‘B’ and ‘BB-’). Fitch considers ETI’s operating environment volatile and challenging, which has high influence on the VR. Fitch also views financial market developments and regulatory frameworks as weak in most of these jurisdictions.

Around 40 per cent of ETI’s assets are in Nigeria (BB-/ Stable) where its 100 per cent owned main operating subsidiary, Ecobank Nigeria, is based. Therefore, the group’s prospects are, to a large extent, linked to those of its Nigerian operations, which are improving following several years of

under-performance. Fitch expects internal capital generation to improve, given ETI’s strong profitability trends. ETI has to date proven its ability to deliver consistently strong and diverse earnings from its subsidiaries.

Although past performance has been hampered by high loan impairment charges, mainly in Nigeria, these are forecast to decline with improving asset quality.

Following large write-offs its NPL ratio fell to a low 4.2 per cent at end of first quarter 2014, 1H14, which although positive, can be variable given its exposure to emerging industries and lowrated sovereigns. Fitch believes ETI will benefit from substantial synergies with Nedbank and QNB. These could be in cross-border banking as well the sharing of technical skills, strong governance practices and risk management expertise.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 25

Corporate Finance

CIS advocates development of multiple exchanges

By AMARACHI OBIORA

T

he Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, CIS has called on its its members to initiate plans to develop multiple exchanges as a way of developing the capital market and the economy in general.

The President of CIS, Mr. Albert Okumagba, gave the advice during

the programe tagged “Brunch with President” organised by the institute in Lagos at the weekend.

According to the President, “When the institute visited the Minister of Agriculture in Abuja, he said that we should begin to plan on establishing multiple exchanges that will help boost the economy. So, we are expecting to see multiple exchanges in the nearest future and that will mean enhancing our

income and boosting the market and economy in general. Already, we have been discussing with the Minister of Agriculture on how to develop the commodity exchange. By the time we get multiple trading platforms, we would begin to see high volume and value in our business.” Okumagba stated that “Brunch with President “has started bearing fruits as we have been engaging various

agencies of government and other organizations .This is the second in the series and is aimed at improving the capital market and the society at large.”

The President thanked all members of CIS and encouraged members to participate in commodity exchange and other trading platforms. “We should think of how we can bring telecoms, power, and agro allied based companies into the capital

market and also how we can connect different stock exchange platform and other trading platforms in order to make us as professional institute. At

the end of all these, we can see that it will improve the income capacity of the average stock brokers and also move the institute away from what we can call dispair to prosperity whether the market goes up or down” he noted.

Registrars Institute advocates transparency in information mgt

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

R

egistrars in the capital market have been advised to devise

acceptable ways of managing information flows to investors in a transparent manner as it is key to boosting investors’ confidence.

Speaking at the launch of African Prudential Registrar ’s E-registrar Solution, ERS, in Lagos, Mr. Walter Ogogo, Registrar/CEO, Institute of Capital Market Registrars, ICMR, said that information management is a key aspect and way of entrenching of corporate governance in the market.

“We are talking about information and the way registrars perform their functions. The way shareholders will access information without anything that will seem as if there is something secret going on.

These are the things that make up good corporate governance and in building a veritable capital market; it must be hinged on four pillars of corporate governance. This will increase investors’ confidence,” he said.

“Investors confidence has to do with the perception of investors on the programmes, decisions and financials of the regulators, operators, the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, and the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE. “How does the investing public perceive the various stakeholders and by the time their perception is measured, we come up with the word – investors confidence and with good corporate governance, I know that investors confidence will continue to soar in the country,” he added. Also speaking, Mr. Bola Ajomale, Managing Director/CEO, NASD, said that it is important registrars give shareholders accurate and timely information on happenings in their companies as this would aid in making good investment making, which would in turn boost their confidence.

26 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Commodity Index Oct 3,- Oct 9, 2014

Oct 10- Oct 16, 2014

Micro-Finance

SMEs in Nigeria still lagging behind — Ohuabunwa

Novus Agro Nigeria Commodity Index

Stories by PROVIDENCE OBUH

Market

Commodity

Dawanau Market Kano State

Igbudu Market Delta State

Maikarfi Market Kaduna State

Mile 12 Market Lagos State

Mutum Biyu Market Taraba State

Relief Market Anambra State

Drum Beans (Olotu) Garri (White) Groundnut (Edible) Maize (White) Rice (Imported) Sorghum (Red) Soya Beans Drum Beans (Olotu) Groundnut (Edible) Maize (White) Onion (Violet) Palm oil (Red) Rice (Imported) Sorghum (Red) Soya Beans Garri (White) Groundnut (Edible) Maize (White) Onion (Violet) Palm oil (Red) Sorghum (Red) Soya Beans Drum Beans (Olotu) Garri (White) Groundnut (Edible) Maize (White) Onion (Violet) Palm oil (Red) Rice (Imported) Sorghum (Red) Soya Beans Drum Beans (Olotu) Garri (White) Groundnut (Edible) Maize (White) Onion (Violet) Palm oil (Red) Rice (Imported) Sorghum (Red) Soya Beans Drum Beans (Olotu) Garri (White) Groundnut (Edible) Maize (White) Onion (Violet) Palm oil (Red) Rice (Imported) Sorghum (Red) Soya Beans

Wholesale Measure 100kg 60Kg 100kg 100kg 50kg 100kg 100kg 100Kg 100Kg 100Kg 100kg 25Lt 50Kg 100Kg 100kg 50Kg 100Kg 100Kg 100Kg 25Lt 100Kg 100Kg 100kg 60Kg 100kg 100kg 100kg 25Ltr 50kg 100kg 100kg 100kg 100Kg 100kg 100kg 100kg 25Ltr 50kg 100kg 100kg 100kg 50Kg 100kg 100kg 100kg 25Ltr 50kg 100kg 100kg

Price(N) 16,250 4,600 15,950 5,550 9,000 6,625 10,000 25,000 17,500 11,000 19,167 5,800 12,000 14,000 14,500 6,500 20,000 3,600 10,000 5,500 4,900 12,000 26,000 5,500 17,000 5,000 15,000 6,250 10,000 7,000 13,000 12,000 5,000 13,500 3,200 9,000 5,500 9,500 4,500 12,000 27,500 4,167 28,667 7,050 10,167 5,000 8,400 12,167 18,000

Retail Measure Price(N) P/Kg(N) Tier 403 165 Tier 260 140 Tier 398 193 Tier 139 55 Tier 400 133 Tier 165 64 Tier 250 112 Paint bucket 1,100 297 Paint bucket 775 221 Paint bucket 450 131 4.58Kg 1,558 340 Bottle 200 267 Paint bucket 1,100 301 Paint bucket 500 144 Paint bucket 600 186 Tier 190 114 Tier 450 194 Tier 80 31 Bottle 170 227 Tier 110 42 Tier 300 119 Paint bucket 1,000 270 Paint Bucket 300 103 Paint bucket 750 227 Paint bucket 280 72 2kg 500 250 Bottle 210 292 Paint bucket 800 195 Paint bucket 400 104 Paint bucket 500 182 Tier 400 152 Tier 250 134 Tier 450 196 Tier 100 37 Gallon 1,200 240 Tier 700 318 Tier 120 44 Tier 350 133 Paint Bucket 992 261 Paint Bucket 300 103 Paint Bucket 833 278 Paint Bucket 367 99 Bottle 180 240 Paint Bucket 900 220 Paint Bucket 500 125 Paint bucket 683 180

KEY: W - Wholesale; R - Retail; N - Naira; P/kg - Price per kg; Kg ² Kilograms; Lt ² Litre Source: Novus Agro Nigeria [Email: info@novusagro.com Tel: +234-1-4538127

Last Week W(N) 14,800 4,300 15,400 5,700 9,000 6,000 10,000 25,000 17,750 11,000 18,000 5,800 12,000 14,000 14,500 6,500 20,500 3,600 10,000 5,500 4,800 12,000 26,000 6,700 21,800 5,900 16,200 6,000 10,000 7,200 12,100 12,000 6,000 13,000 2,850 9,000 5,500 9,500 4,250 12,000 25,000 4,000 29,000 7,300 11,000 5,000 8,475 13,000 18,000

R(N) 370 250 365 145 400 150 250 1,100 788 450 1,500 200 1,100 500 600 190 465 80 170 143 300 1,000 340 900 292 510 220 800 430 530 400 250 450 100 1,200 700 120 350 850 330 800 350 180 900 500 600

Variance W(N) R(N) 1450 33 300 10 550 33 -150 -6 0 0 625 15 0 0 0 0 -250 -13 0 0 1167 58 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -500 -15 0 0 0 0 0 100 -33 0 0 0 0 -1200 -40 -4800 -150 -900 -12 -1200 -10 250 -10 0 0 -200 -30 900 -30 0 0 -1000 0 500 0 350 0 0 0 0 0 0 250 0 0 0 2500 142 167 -30 -333 33 -250 17 -833 0 0 -75 0 -833 0 0 83

C

hairman, A f r i c a n Centre for Business Development Strategy and Innovation (ACBDSI) Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, has decried slow pace of growth of SMEs in Nigeria when compared to other countries in the continent.

Ohuabunwa said this at a press briefing ahead of the National Summit on Entrepreneurship and Innovation (NSEI), scheduled to hold on November 20 and 21, 2014 with the theme: “Entrepreneurship, Job Creation and Poverty Reduction” and organised by ACBDSI. He pointed out that the country’s business density which stood at 0.91 as at 2012 and 0.32 in 2004 is behind, compared to developing economies as Uganda

1.7; Tunisia 1.52; Malaysia 2.28; South Africa 6.54 and Singapore 8.04.

To this end, he said that the introduction of entrepeneurship education in the universities is a step in the right direction, saying, “We expect that faculty members and students in our universities will seize this opportunity to interact with both public and private sector drivers of entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

“Global development is entering a phase where entrepreneurship will increasingly play a more important role. An analysis of sources of economic growth by World Bank (2013), finds that the biggest differences between developed and developing economies are in innovation performances.

It

emphasizes that while Entrepreneurship and Innovation are very critical for economic growth, they have also become increasingly important for addressing major development challenges, such as the ones related to inclusion and sustainability.

“There is therefore, the urgent need to conscientiously transform the structure of Nigeria’s economy by propelling positive industrial trends through growth in the small and medium scale industrial group, and eventually in the large scale manufacturing sector. “This can be achieved only through strategic partnership among key stakeholders – governments and their agencies, well-meaning private sector organisations and individuals, particularly innovative service providers,” he said.

Nutricima unveils Olympic powdered milk, apple flavoured drink

N

utricima Limited,

penultimate week, unveiled Olympic Powdered Milk and ready-to-drink Olympic Apple Flavoured bottled drink to join the popular Olympic Evaporated Milk.

Speaking at the official launch of the new products, Managing Director, Nutricima, Mr. Suneel Vasudevan, said, “This launch is a new phase of our journey aimed at empowering consumers in Nigeria and across West Africa. Olympic milk is the first of our key brands and we have strengthened it as an added-value beverage that consumers can access in various formats,” he said.

Head of Marketing, Nutricima, Mrs. Wande Oluwasegunfunmi, said that the new products under the olympic milk portfolio have been improved to give consumers the value they can get for their money. “The 500ml ready to drink apple flavoured drink is

made from the best quality European apples and is highly refreshing.”

However, Peter Okoye, popularly known as PSquare is now the new brand ambassador for the product.

According to Okoye, “Among thousands or perhaps millions of people in the entertainment industry, I feel honoured to be chosen as the brand ambassador. The deal means a lot not just to me but also to my fans.

If a brand isn’t worth it I have nothing to do with such brand. The fact that I am ready to work with this brand is an

indication of its top quality.

“I am not going to sit down and relax. I am set to come up with creative ideas the same way I handle that of P-Square, I will put in 100 per cent effort. ” The event was attended by Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji; Chairman, Nutricima Limited, Chief Kola Jamodu (OFR); Vice Chairman, PZ Cussons, Mr. Tunde Oyelola; Exofficio of Nutritional Society of Nigeria, Dr. Bartholomew Brai including top executives of Nutricima Limited.

NNEW observes IDGC 2014 On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170 to declare 11 October as the International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC).

This is to bring to the fore, the rights and unique challenges of the girl-child all over the world. This year ’s theme will focus on “Empowering adolescent girls: Ending the cycle of violence”.

In a statement by the president of NNEW, Mrs. Lola Okanlawon, the

network decried the wave of communal and religious conflicts all over the world which have adversely affected the girl-child. Among other heinous crimes committed against the girl-child in Nigeria, the kidnap of 276 female students on 14 April 2014, from the Government Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, Nigeria by Islamic terrorists remains traumatic. More than 200 students are still missing.

26 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Commodity Index Oct 3,- Oct 9, 2014

Micro-Finance

SMEs in Nigeria still lagging behind — Ohuabunwa Stories by PROVIDENCE OBUH

C

hairman, A f r i c a n Centre for Business Development Strategy and Innovation (ACBDSI) Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, has decried slow pace of growth of SMEs in Nigeria when compared to other countries in the continent.

Ohuabunwa said this at a press briefing ahead of the National Summit on Entrepreneurship and Innovation (NSEI), scheduled to hold on November 20 and 21, 2014 with the theme: “Entrepreneurship, Job Creation and Poverty Reduction” and organised by ACBDSI. He pointed out that the country’s business density which stood at 0.91 as at 2012 and 0.32 in 2004 is behind, compared to developing economies as Uganda

1.7; Tunisia 1.52; Malaysia 2.28; South Africa 6.54 and Singapore 8.04.

To this end, he said that the introduction of entrepeneurship education in the universities is a step in the right direction, saying, “We expect that faculty members and students in our universities will seize this opportunity to interact with both public and private sector drivers of entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

“Global development is entering a phase where entrepreneurship will increasingly play a more important role. An analysis of sources of economic growth by World Bank (2013), finds that the biggest differences between developed and developing economies are in innovation performances.

It

emphasizes that while Entrepreneurship and Innovation are very critical for economic growth, they have also become increasingly important for addressing major development challenges, such as the ones related to inclusion and sustainability.

“There is therefore, the urgent need to conscientiously transform the structure of Nigeria’s economy by propelling positive industrial trends through growth in the small and medium scale industrial group, and eventually in the large scale manufacturing sector. “This can be achieved only through strategic partnership among key stakeholders – governments and their agencies, well-meaning private sector organisations and individuals, particularly innovative service providers,” he said.

Nutricima unveils Olympic powdered milk, apple flavoured drink

N

utricima Limited,

penultimate week, unveiled Olympic Powdered Milk and ready-to-drink Olympic Apple Flavoured bottled drink to join the popular Olympic Evaporated Milk.

Speaking at the official launch of the new products, Managing Director, Nutricima, Mr. Suneel Vasudevan, said, “This launch is a new phase of our journey aimed at empowering consumers in Nigeria and across West Africa. Olympic milk is the first of our key brands and we have strengthened it as an added-value beverage that consumers can access in various formats,” he said.

Head of Marketing, Nutricima, Mrs. Wande Oluwasegunfunmi, said that the new products under the olympic milk portfolio have been improved to give consumers the value they can get for their money. “The 500ml ready to drink apple flavoured drink is

made from the best quality European apples and is highly refreshing.”

However, Peter Okoye, popularly known as PSquare is now the new brand ambassador for the product.

According to Okoye, “Among thousands or perhaps millions of people in the entertainment industry, I feel honoured to be chosen as the brand ambassador. The deal means a lot not just to me but also to my fans.

If a brand isn’t worth it I have nothing to do with such brand. The fact that I am ready to work with this brand is an

indication of its top quality.

“I am not going to sit down and relax. I am set to come up with creative ideas the same way I handle that of P-Square, I will put in 100 per cent effort. ” The event was attended by Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji; Chairman, Nutricima Limited, Chief Kola Jamodu (OFR); Vice Chairman, PZ Cussons, Mr. Tunde Oyelola; Exofficio of Nutritional Society of Nigeria, Dr. Bartholomew Brai including top executives of Nutricima Limited.

NNEW observes IDGC 2014 On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170 to declare 11 October as the International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC).

This is to bring to the fore, the rights and unique challenges of the girl-child all over the world. This year ’s theme will focus on “Empowering adolescent girls: Ending the cycle of violence”.

In a statement by the president of NNEW, Mrs. Lola Okanlawon, the

network decried the wave of communal and religious conflicts all over the world which have adversely affected the girl-child. Among other heinous crimes committed against the girl-child in Nigeria, the kidnap of 276 female students on 14 April 2014, from the Government Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, Nigeria by Islamic terrorists remains traumatic. More than 200 students are still missing.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 27

28 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 29

30 —Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 31

32 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Homes & Housing Finance

FG plans tax relief to cut housing costs

T

he federal government is set to unveil an initiative that will enable producers and suppliers of building materials enjoy tax relief and other concessions aimed at bringing down the cost of housing development in the country.

Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi, said in Abuja, that with the concessions, producers and suppliers of building materials are expected to reciprocate through reduction in the prices of the materials.

She said the housing ministry will collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Finance on the concession to be granted to local and imported building materials producers and suppliers. She added that the ministry is collaborating with domestic producers for the supply of building materials to estate developers at factory prices.

‘S ‘Sttaf afff housing loan board needs better funding’

A

former Head of Service of the Federation, Mr Stephen Oronsaye, has called for increased funding of the Federal Government Staff Housing Loan Board (FGSHLB) to enable it fulfill its mandate.

Oronsaye made the call in a documentary by past Heads of Service of the Federation, in which they unanimously called for improved and continuous funding of the board, on the official commissioning of housing estates funded by FGSHLB. He noted the relevance of the board, saying it has played a major role, despite the paucity of funds which has plagued it over the years.

“They’re still providing loan facility to civil servants to own their houses. The board has done very well, in the sense that, if you go back in history, they have maintained appropriate records on those who have benefited and how these people have been paying. For the board to function properly, the Head of Service will have to make a case to higher authorities for better funding.

C M Y K

•One of the housing projects of Lagos HOMS

Lagos deploying technology to ease homeownership Stories by YINKA KOLAWOLE

T

he Lagos State government is adopting the use of technology in several ways with the aim of boosting homeownership for residents of the state.

Governor Babatunde Fashola stated this recently in Lagos at a forum that brought together various stakeholders in the real estate sector.

According to him, this is evident with the automation process of consent to land titles, which enables him to sign electronically thus easing land approval system in the state. In addition, he noted that unveiling of the Lagos State Home Ownership Mortgage Scheme (Lagos HOMS) website has ensured that residents can easily apply to own a house under the scheme in a transparent manner.

“We are going a long way with technology. The automation policy is really progressing as I can sign land occupancy anywhere online.

Lagos HOMS is on the website, you don’t need to come to the government house or know anybody to be successful in the homeownership. It’s part of our commitment to efficiency and transparency,” he said.

Fashola asserted that Lagos HOMS underpins his

administration’s effort to create a sustainable financing mechanism that could provide affordable homes for the middle class. He said the scheme is a typical sustainable affordable housing strategy, adding that by the scheme’s first anniversary it would have produced equal number of housing units which the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) had struggled to produce in its 22

years of existence.

The governor noted that his administration took a number of practical painstaking steps to ensure that the homes were affordable in every respect because allotees could pay over a period of 10 years, instead of once. “It is affordable because the interest rate will not exceed 9.5 percent whatever happens to the Nigerian economy. Every mortgage payment you make every

month is not into a bottomless pit, but towards owning your own home, just use your mortgage calculator to determine the size and type of house you can afford,” he said.

According to Fashola, the state is not indebted in any way in the provision of the houses, but developed them based on “Build to deliver at cost recovery model” in addition to using tax payers money. He said this has made it imperative for all Lagos residents should endeavour to pay their taxes, noting that is the only way by which government could generate enough funds to execute more of such projects. He noted that one of the sustainable mechanisms instituted by the state to drive the scheme is the monthly savings of N500 million from the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).

Fashola also stressed the need to understand the difference between low cost housing and affordable housing, noting that the former is nearly impossible since construction inputs like financing, materials and skills are not low cost. He particularly frowned at the situation whereby residents were asked to pay a two-year rent in advance in an economy where they receive their salaries in arrears. “We see it as wrong when a society pretends that all is well when people are asked to put forward two years rent in advance when they are getting monthly wages in arrears something is wrong.

And if we are also comfortable with it there is something wrong with us,” he stated.

Enf orce compulsor Enforce compulsoryy building insurance la ws, e xper ocat es laws, exper xpertt adv advocat ocates

A

n expert has called for full implementation of insurance laws regulating the construction and building industry in Nigeria, to check incidence of building collapse in the country.

Managing Director/CEO of Kresta Laurel Limited, Dideolu Falobi, made the call at the annual lecture of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), held recently at the University of Lagos. He asserted that if the insurance sector adequately plays its role, incidences of building collapse would be minimized in the country.

Falobi noted that though there are enough laws regulating the construction and building industry, lack of implementation is hampering effective and efficient performance of practitioners and stakeholders. “The issue is insurance and/ or lack of it. Whenever I hear of building collapse, an elevator crashing in flight or not working properly, vehicular accident, hospitals that are not hospitable, fire accidents, and so on, the questions I ask are what role did insurance play?

Do we have enough legislation on insurance?

Were existing Acts or laws pertaining to insurance

in place? If yes, are they strictly enforced?

If yes, are other professionals allowed to play their roles?

“The Occupiers’ Liability Insurance under the Insurance Act, 2003 and the Lagos State Building Control Law, 2010 require all owners or occupiers of public buildings, whether private or public, to provide compensation in events of bodily injury, death and property damage to the business users and members of the public in case of building collapse, fire, earthquakes, storm or flood. A public building in this case is a building that is not 100 per cent used by the owner for residential purposes, according to the Nigeria Insurance Act, 2003. But how many of buildings in this category are insured? Even for those that are insured, how many owners and undertakers engage professionals to ascertain the integrity of such buildings before the policies are issued? It is my personal opinion that should the insurance industry be up and doing, the nation will surely fare a lot better than it is now,” he stated.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 33

Business & Economy

Symrise to invest N100m in Nigeria subsidiary

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

S

ymrise, a global supplier of f r a g r a n c e s , flavourings, cosmetic active ingredients and raw materials as well as functional ingredients, has said that it will invest about €500,000 translating to N104.5m in its Nigeria subsidiary.

Symrise's Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Heinz-Jürgen Bertram, who made the disclosure during the official launch of its subsidiary in Lagos, said that subsequently, the company would increase its investment in the country.

He also said that Symrise will use the market insights from its presence in Nigeria to serve both local and multinational customers with products specifically tailored for the West African market. ”Symrise can look back on a long history in the Nigerian market. Both segments, Scent & Care and Flavor & Nutrition, have been active throughout the whole country for nearly 30 years. During that time, Symrise has gathered a deep understanding of local markets by continuously sending fragrance and flavor experts to Nigeria. It has also built longterm relationships with customers. Establishing its own company in Nigeria is thus a logical step”.

Betram noted that the company has a long term plan for Nigeria adding that Symrise will go into full production in the country with the next six years.

Continuing he said, “Symrise has also successfully grown its representation in Nigeria for

over three decades through our longstanding agent, Allied Technol Systems Ltd. Now, we have decided to intensify our presence and commitment and to establish our own legal entity, while continuing to be supported by and collaborate with Allied Technol. Symrise

is known as a company with a long-term set of goals. I am sure that today’s opening is just the first step of our involvement here in Lagos.”

He pledged that with its local infrastructure, Symrise will be able to offer customers closer support as well as faster, more

AWARD - From Left;Alhaji Garba Bello Kankarofi; Registrar, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON); Mr Allen -Ose Ediale, Leader/CEO Shepherdfield Network Media Crest with Mrs Ediri Ose Ediale, Executive Secretary ADVAN;And Mr Kola Oyeyemi,ADVAN President at the 2014 ADVAN Award for Marketing Excellence held in Lagos. PHOTO BY AKEEM SALAU.

FEMA takes count of displaced persons for relief materials

By FAVOUR NNABUGWU

T

he FCT Emergency Management Agency, FEMA has identified some Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs camp at Sabon Kuchingoro, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory and commenced head count for onward distribution of relief

materials to them.

The Director, FEMA, Alhaji Abbas Idriss who spoke to Vanguard in Abuja said the head count was necessary in order to ascertain the number of those involved and what needs there were.

Idriss said without the head count exercise, statistics of number of women, aged,

Enterprise Bank assures customers on AMCON divestment

T

direct dialogue to anticipate and satisfy their needs and market requirements. “The company in Lagos will also enjoy support through frequent visits from experts and managers from the Europe, Africa, and Middle East Region”.

he management of Bank Limited has reassured its customers that the emergence of HBCL Investment Services Limited (HISL) as the new owners of the bridge bank will not in any way disrupt its operations but would rather strengthen its ability to provide better services to its customers.

A statement from the Corporate Communications Department of the bank during the week said customers of the bank would continue to enjoy excellent service delivery, irrespective of the imminent change of ownership, following the full payment of the bid amount of N56billion by Heritage Bank Limited. According to the bank, “the transparency and successful sale of the bank

by AMCON should serve as a guarantee to our esteemed customers that the combination of the two banks is a step in the right direction

that will ensure increased potentials for further value addition to all stakeholders.”

Undoubtedly, the synergies of combining Heritage Bank’s aggressive market focus and technology orientation with Bank’s legacy and branch networks would produce a highly customer-centric institution.

All structures, it continued, have already been put in place to engender a seamless transition to a new financial institution that will distinguish itself as a bank of preference in the industry. The bank encouraged everyone, including customers of the two combining entities to fully embrace the emerging bank.It will be recalled that Bank Limited came into being August 5, 2011 following the intervention of National Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) in Spring Bank Plc and the subsequent takeover by AMCON.

children and men would not be known which could obstruct fair distribution of relief materials.

According to the Director, ‘Now that statistics have been gotten, we have started making arrangements for relief materials. We have also contacted our stakeholders in the Health and Human Secretariat and also the Water Board to provide health and water facilities for these IDPs”.

“The IDPs camp is a make shift one and consist mainly of indigenes of Borno State who have had to flee their homes due to insurgency in the NorthEast. Some of the inmates who spoke to FEMA officials told harrowing stories of how they fled their homes and made their way to the Federal Capital Territory”.

The Director further said the Minister of the FCT, Senator Bala Mohammed is concerned about disaster management and IDPs are a result of conflicts in some parts of the country, so there is no question about us ensuring that they are catered for and provided with the basic necessities to ameliorate their plight.

Google’s revenue falls short despite curbing price declines

G

oogle Inc’s revenue fell short of Wall Street’s expectations as growth in Internet advertising slowed in the most-recent quarter, offsetting a modest improvement in ad pricing, sending its shares down about 3 percent.

The search engine’s total number of ads, or paid clicks, expanded by 17 per cent in the third quarter. That was down from the 25 per cent growth rate that Google delivered in the second quarter.

But online advertising rates, which have been mired in a multi-year decline, moderated slightly in the third quarter, declining 2 percent year-on-year. That marked an improvement from the 6 percent decline in “costper-click” or CPCs in the second quarter.

Shares of Google fell 2.7 percent to $510.11 in extended trading on Thursday.

Google posted $16.52 billion in revenue for the three months ended Sept. 30, compared to $13.75 billion in the year ago period. Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters I/ B/E/S were looking for revenue of $16.57 billion in the latest quarter.

Sterling Bank explains support for social media awards

S

terling Bank has attributed its decision to support the 2014 Social Media Award, Africa to the need to recognize and celebrate excellence, creativity and the impact of social media on human socio-economic development through its tools and platforms by individuals and organizations across the continent.

The Bank’s Group Head, Strategy & Communications Mr. Shina Atilola in a statement said that the Award also provides the platform for the Bank to further consolidate its position as a leading light in the Social Media space.

Mr. Atilola added that the Bank cannot overlook the importance of social media in today ’s society and the increasing role it plays in the lives of people on a daily basis, hence the need to identify with the Award.

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34 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Interview

Excerpt: What is the nature of NASD's operations in capital market?

We started what I can describe as a new market last year and in that one year, we have been quiet, but very effective progress has been made and as we move on, we thought it is good to share our experience and let information about our activities get to the public so that they can know that there is a market like this. In the first year, we focused mainly on building structures. We focus mainly on building structures and interestingly, before we came in here, we were talking about building structures and laying foundations that would outlive us. That is what we focused our first year on.

Right now, we’ve got quite a few of those structures right, we have gotten lots of our operations right and now, we have started seeing trades in our activities. The focus of our market is to look at unlisted securities. Securities that are not traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), to a large extent, are tradable on our platform, especially the shares that are not publicly listed but are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Before now, there was no market for unlisted securities, which means there were black markets trading going on and with black market trade, there is no transparency. There is no way you can capture the volume, price and a lot of the time, the shareholders are the ones that suffer, because they get virtually any kind of arbitrary price.

So our mandate from SEC was to set up a market that C M Y K

NASD allows investors to buy, sell unlisted shares in organised manner — Ajomale can trade and capture all the securities that are not being traded on the NSE. So, in our first year, indeed this year, which is really our year of operation, we started off in July last year, but really the real business started at the beginning of this year and in this year, we have done a little over N1 billion in deal. It might not sound like a very big number when you look at the amount that is being traded on the NSE, but that is after fifty years of existence.

This is our first year of operation, in fact, less than our first year of operation. We can see that we have a business module that works and we can see that there is a certain advantage to the nation.

What we also found out is that a lot of our service is not only to manage or regulate the companies, but it is to give investors the opportunity to buy and sell their shares in an organized manner.

Am sure you know people who bought into private

•Bola Ajomale

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M

r. Bola Ajomale is the Managing Director/CEO NASD Plc, a promoter of a trading network that eases secondary market trading of shares of unquoted public companies in Nigeria. He recently Ajomale, in company of some of the company's management team, paid courtesy visit to Vanguard, during which he highlighted the roles of the exchange and steps it is taking to boost activities in NASD, especially in the area of organising the market in a transparent manner and curbing malpractices.

BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE, PETER EGWUATU, NKIRUKA NNOROM & PROVIDENCE OBUH

Before now, there was no market for unlisted securities, which means there were black markets trading going on and with black market trade, there is no transparency.

,

placement in the 2006 to 2009 period, many people bought into some shares and then found that those shares are not being traded on the NSE and so they didn’t know where to go and so they are left holding these piece of paper.

We are creating a market for those ones to be able to trade but a lot of people don’t know that the market exists and so it makes sense for us to have some kind of coverage of the market, of the trades that are going on and as the

awareness grows, more and more people admit to it that they can trade their shares and they will begin to enquire and begin to trade them.

What is the difference between your services and that of the NSE? We are more like a parallel stock exchange, and so stockbrokers are registered to trade on our market, just as they are registered to trade on the NSE. So we provide market for shares that are not publicly quoted. At the moment, we have 77 brokers registered with us. We have settlement banks that settle trade that happen on our market, just like we have some settlement banks that settle trade on the NSE. We have six settlement banks in our structure. We are a smaller market, and already, we are a mini market and we do not seek to regulate the companies. We seek to derive an opportunity for investors to be able to see a price and for them to be able to transact their shares.

Will you say that there has been a turnaround in the stock market after the crash few years back?

We are not the NSE; we are like a parallel exchange. I would say that there was a time when Nigerians believe that the only way the market

•Bola Ajomale

moves is for prices to go up. That is not true. Fortunes change sometimes, the prices goes up and sometimes they go down, that is part of life.

It is not a bad thing, it may be a repricing because sometimes some stocks are over- valued and is also necessary for us to bring prices down.

Sometimes, the prices go down because the company has declared a bonus. When you see a company declaring a one for one bonus, for instance, you don’t expect the price of the shares of that company to be the same as it was before the bonus was declared. There has to be some adjustment in the price at the market.

So prices can go down for different reasons. If a price goes down, it is not necessarily a bad thing.

There was a time when the general economy was depressed and crashes happened all over the world. Nigeria to a certain extent was insulated from that. We did not suffer as much as other countries, but our prices went down because the market was dominated by foreign investors and when the foreign investors pulled out their money, it affected our market as well.

So that is what happened. I think there has been a very good recovery on the NSE. I am not speaking for the NSE, because I am not working there. The reason why I am saying this is that I will tell you how it affects my own market.

There was a depression at one stage and a recovery at another stage.

Last year or the year before, the prices went up by a 40 percent appreciation on the index, which means some companies did well.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 35

Interview

Our Legal and Compliance Officer, certainly has to answer a lot of that but the general view I will tell you is that we monitor and have a direct

,

Market infraction is one of the factors eroding investors’ confidence in any securities market, what is NASD doing to address this confidence eroding factor?

relationship with all the brokers in the market. We have a very close eye on what is going on but I will also say that we are building a market

There is a rule that says only stockbrokers can transfer shares, but you have registrars transferring shares. That is an infraction and that is going on right now

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where there wasn’t one before.

So, everything about the Over the Counter, OTC market is being taken care of.

Before now OTC is not regulated. So, you can see that we are coming from a 100

There has been argument about getting the multinational oil companies operating in Nigeria and telecoms to list on the NSE and some believe that legislation should be put in place to force them to list. As a key operator in the capital market, do you think they should be forced to seek listing and if you think otherwise, what is NASD doing to bring them to the OTC market?

First and foremost, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has registered three other markets. We have the commodity exchange, we’ve got two other capital market and they also have the capacity to act as full exchanges.

Really, I think the legislation will be looking the wrong way and creating a wrong

,

This year, some companies have recorded 500 percent year-to-date.

Some have lost 200 percent but some have gained 500 percent. So, fortune will change on the market and they will continue to change.

The market has recovered to a certain extent and how does this affect us? The way it affects us is that what affects one market in some form or the other affects the other. If your neighbour’s house is burning, you are going to feel some heat and if it turns rosy for your neighbour, somehow, it is going to affect you as well. When prices go down on the NSE, what tends to happen is that people generally look at their portfolio and they say which investments are good, which is bad and you see increase in activities of people reviewing their portfolio. No matter whether they are listed or unlisted securities, people will look at what they are holding and say which do I sell, which is in trouble or safe and they will do it for not only securities that are traded on the NSE, they will do it for securities that are traded on the NASD, as well as any other market and that is how it affects us.

percent infraction market and the ones that are coming into our end of the market are the ones that do not have infraction. That is what I will tell you on a general note because there is a rule that says only stockbrokers can transfer shares, but you have registrars transferring shares.

That is an infraction and that is going on right now. The only shares that are not being transferred by registrars are the ones that trade through NASD market, so the whole idea behind the set up of NASD is to curb infractions.

Basically for us, we start by trying to indoctrinate brokers in the way we want them to do business because we are looking back at the past and trying to avoid mistakes of the past. We are trying to change their orientation and say ‘look, we do not want you to do business like this’. In fact, we try to make sure that they do business in open and clean manner devoid of a whole lot of what was there in the past, so that is what we are trying to do. For us, it is all about creating liquidity and transparency, everything the broker does has to evolve round liquidity and transparency. Whatever we do, we look at the market, we are always monitoring the market and trying to see if there is any infraction and if there is any, we call the broker, we have rules set up and a disciplinary committee set up to monitor things, if there is any infraction, the disciplinary committee will see to it. So far, there has not been any reason for the committee to do anything, perhaps the market is still young, but we have our eyes on the market and if there is any infraction, we will come down heavily on the broker.

For us, it is all about creating liquidity and transparency, everything the broker does, has to evolve round liquidity and transparency

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monopoly if it says all companies must go and list on this one market. Such legislation should not be that all of them should list on one market, but that all companies should be free to choose which market they want to list on. Having said that, I am very careful about insisting that once a company is successful, it must share its wealth with the populace because that is what we are saying; that once you become successful you must share.

Nobody is saying once a company loses a certain amount, Nigerians should donate money to them, nobody is saying that and if it does not work the other way round, I think it might be a bit difficult for us to really argue that you must share your company once you are successful. In addition, keep in mind as well that a company can avoid being a certain size if it wants to, simply by splitting its business. Instead of having one company, it will have 10 different companies that are doing different things; it will incorporate them into 10 different companies and it will be one tenth of the size and it will be below your threshold, whatever threshold that you come up with. Imagine a bank with 200 branches, each state is a different bank because they want to avoid being that size; it’s possible to do that. I think we should be careful in setting those thresholds of saying once you hit a certain level of profitability or once anything happens, you must share. I think it will penalize success and therefore, we need to really rethink that module. If a company is given pioneer status, then that is to encourage growth and that is the benefit you are reaping from the economy. I think at the expiration of that period, there must be some conditions at the end of it; I think we omitted those conditions when we were giving them that initial pioneer status. It may be difficult for us to go back and change now with

legislation. I also believe that if we create that kind of legislation, we may be making Nigeria to seem to be a difficult country. Remember, there is assessment worldwide as to ease of doing business and one of the key criteria that they use in determining ease of doing business in any country is the ability to hold contracts and the contract to be defendable.

That is one very key criteria that people use in assessing ease of doing business; it will relegate Nigeria because one minute, you’ve told them ‘take this on no further conditions’ and five years down the line we are now coming back to say ‘you are too successful, I have to give you conditions’. People might start looking at us and wondering, is this how they do business?

There are many considerations that we have regarding this, but I do believe however, that successful companies should pay their taxes. I have no problem whatsoever if you assess tax on each industry depending on how the industry is structured.

For the religious industry for example, there is no tax whatsoever, but for the health care industry, there is a certain tax regime. For the petroleum industry, there is a certain tax regime. I have no problem if the telcoms industry has a different tax regime. I don’t see any problem with that. The agriculture sector for example should have a different tax regime as well; the telcoms also should have different tax regime and I have no problem with that. I think any responsible corporate citizen would gladly pay the taxes.

Regarding sharing ownership, my own position is that you do not force people to share ownership, I will share ownership of my company with whom I want to share it with. I am not obliged to share it with everybody I don’t believe I in.

C M Y K

36 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

he court has no doubt its process has been abused. It has been misled coram Abang J and Buba J on the issue of settlement breaking down and obtaining orders ex-parte while cases are pending in court with orders subsisting.

Hon. Justice I.N. Buba, 29/9/ 2014, PUNCH, October 3, 2014.

Mr Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, is not a run-of-the mill lawyer.

Even among Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SAN, he occupies the front rank. As a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, he would be expected to stand, at all times, as a shinning example to others. So, when this story broke, my first reaction was shock. Then, it occurred to me that it is human to err. The statement credited to the learned SAN last week, led to several questions in my mind.

The major one being: Is this case tainted with malice and ethnicity? Has the erudite SAN been inadvertently caught in a web which had its origins in a group from across the Niger, working, at first through the Ministry of Aviation, and now AMCON, to seize BiCourtney’s assets and auction them to the syndicate?

On Sunday, October 5, 2014, Jide Ajani, enterprising SUNDAY VANGUARD Editor, on page 48 of the paper, writing under the title, N50BILLION DEBT CONTROVERSY: The BiCourtney, AMCON tango”, had done a wonderful job of

Is AMCON/Bi-Courtney case tainted with malice and ethnicity? – 2 reporting how the two parties ended up in the legal tussle now making the headlines and which had resulted in verbal exchange, outside the court premises, between Dr Wale Babalakin, Chairman, BiCourtney and Mr Olisan Agbakoba, both SANs. For me, it will be difficult to imagine two more perfect gentlemen in the Nigerian bar. So, it was time to travel.

One of the benefits of being a rolling stone in Nigeria, as media practitioner, is that you gather a great deal of confidential information which those glued to the office can never match. And, this writer is nothing but a rolling stone – twenty-eight states visited, so far this year; and still counting.

Those who want to read the bare facts can consult Jide Ajani’s piece. This is about the “facts behind the facts” of the case and I had an interview with “Deep Throat”, an insider.

Perhaps, if Babalakin and Agbakoba are aware that they are being set on a collision course by a syndicate whose objective is to seize the MM2 and the new Domestic Airport, by means fair and foul, generally the latter, they might shake hands and be friends at last.

At this point, it is vital to exonerate President Jonathan from any complicity in this assault on Bi-Courtney and Wale Babalakin. He is probably unaware that an ethnic syndicate is using Federal government agencies and officials to fight their own dirty war for their own selfish reasons. Unfortunately, if the

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T

“

MCON and BiCourtney had its origins in one of those instances in which some individuals looked around and decided that President Obasanjo had given the biggest “Cash Cow” in Nigeria to “his” brother

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courts should decide in favour of Bi-Courtney, his government stands to forfeit the airport built with a loan.

“So for a good gentlemanly vice, I think I must take up with avarice”, said Lord Byron, 1788-1824.

Nothing wrong with that – as long as it does not involve wanting to take what someone else had legitimately acquired. According to Deep Throat, the battle between

AMCON and Bi-Courtney had its origins in one of those instances in which some individuals looked around and decided that President Obasanjo had given the biggest “Cash Cow” in Nigeria to “his” brother, Wale Babalakin, when he was granted the concessions to develop MM2 and the old GATT Aviation Airport and to collect a stream of revenues from several sources, at once, for several years to come. The “imbalance” must be redressed – one way or the other.

Unfortunately, the last years of Obasanjo’s administration saw two of “his” brothers as Ministers of Aviaition – the last was Mr Femi Fani-Kayode.

There was no chance to move against Bi-Courtney.

Yar’Adua’s government also provided very little opportunity to make a move.

The syndicate had to wait until Jonathan appointed Ms Stella Oduah as Minister for Aviation. With “their” sister in the saddle, the first step was taken. In violation of an agreement between the Federal government and BiCourtney, the Ministry embarked on the reconstruction of the GATT Aviation Airport – using public

funds. In addition, revenues due to Bi-Courtney were withheld – in a bid to ensure its failure. Two examples will illustrate the point that all the actions were deliberate. Jide provides the facts.

The Federal government had serially disobeyed the decisions of a court of law and an Arbitration panel, on which it was fully represented, which awarded Bi-Courtney N132 billion. In addition the Federal government has also refused to hand over the GATT Aviation Airport to Bi-Courtney as ordered. Altogether, Federal government impunity is the immediate cause of the entire problem. But, the Federal Executive Council does not act without advice from the Ministry involved. Under Oduah, not only Babalakin, but indigenes of the South West were fully aware of her ethnic agenda and some cried out then. Was she acting out the script of the syndicate which wanted a piece of the action at the airports? If not, why would a Federal Minister go all out to ruin a private investor who had raised domestic airports to global standards? Could she be so totally blind to the message this sends out to the global investment community?

E-Commerce Property portal, Lamudi records 116% half year growth Stories by JONAH NWOKPOKU

L

amudi.com, a property website focusing on emerging markets has recorded 116 percent growth between April and September this year. The company disclosed this in a statement marking its first anniversary.

It said, the number of listings on the website now totals more than 670, 000 properties to buy or rent, spread across 28 countries around the world.

Despite increasing competition over the online property space within the emerging markets, Lamudi said it has significantly grown its operations within key regions, including Africa.

In the statement, the online company noted that, “In Nigeria, Lamudi has grown

C M Y K

rapidly over the past year to be become the largest online property portal in terms of number of listings.”

It added that, “the company has also focused on education, launching a market leading real estate journal which is now most-read online source of property information in the

country.”

Global Co-Founder and Managing Director, Lamudi, Paul Philipp Hermann, said: “Our goal from the very beginning has been to deliver a high-quality property portal in markets where searching for real estate online is a relatively new phenomenon.

In all those markets we want to establish Lamudi as the market leader.”

Also speaking on the growth, the Chief Executive Officer of Lamudi West and Central Africa, Allie Morse said: “We are excited to be the number one portal for property in Africa, only one year after

launch, and look forward to growing alongside the continent’s real estate sector.”

On his part, Managing Director of Lamudi Nigeria, Obi Ejimofo said: “Househunters in these regions should not be overlooked; as the internet becomes more widespread, they are seeking out the same services that are already commonplace." more established markets.

LCCI unveils Kaymu boss, others as ambassadors T

he Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI has unveiled the Managing Director of the online marketplace, Kaymu.com.ng, Evangeline Wiles, amongst others, as Goodwill Ambassador in preparation for the 2014 Lagos International Trade Fair.

The LCCI Goodwill Ambassadors are inspirational people who

share a commitment with the chamber of commerce and industry to develop and promote the Nigerian economy. They possess widely recognized talent in the business, arts, sciences, literature, entertainment, sports or other fields of public life and will help generate public awareness and understanding of trade, commerce and development causes, as well as inspire

broad, positive, committed action in support of LCCI and LITF’S mandate and priorities.

In a speech, the Chairman of the Trade Promotion Board, Chief Dr Michael Olawale Cole said: “The Goodwill Ambassadors have put the country first in everything they have done. I will not be surprised if some of them are considered for national honours”.

Wiles, in her acceptance speech thanked the Chamber for deeming her worthy of being selected.

“The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry is known for promoting trade and entrepreneurship,which is at the core of Kaymu’s business model.I am committed to promoting SMEs in my service as an LCCI Goodwill Ambassador,” she stated.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 37

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38 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Anenih remains Edo political oracle PAGE 6

Confusion in Rivers’ schools over Ebola equipment

CELEBRITY KENNETH GBAGI: The world of Delta’s huge investor PAGE 8

PAGE 2

VOL. 1: NO. 19

TUESD A Y, OCT OBER 114, 4, 20 14 TUESDA OCTOBER 201

LIVING ON THE EDGE: This aged storey-building, along Robert Road, Warri, Delta State, is filled with tenants, who seem to see no looming

calamity. PHOTO: Egufe Yafugborhi.

Power brokers in South-South states

By Emma Amaize

C

URRENTLY , the South-South geopolitical zone does not have a consensus political leader, probably because of the multifaceted dynamic forces in the zone. However, there are movers and shakers whose actions and idiosyncrasies have not only shaped, but continue to outline governments in their respective states.

In Bayelsa State for instance, neither C M Y K

President Goodluck Jonathan nor Governor Seriake Dickson is considered the most powerful political figure in the state. The big gun is astonishingly a close pal and schoolmate of the President. He is His Royal Highness, King Amalate Johnnie Turner, Obigbo Mikimiki I, Obanema of Opume, Ogbia, Ogbia Local Government Area.

In Akwa Ibom, regardless of what was thought to be the loss of power by

former governor of the state, Obong Victor Attah, given the state of affairs between him and his successor, Governor Godswill Akpabio, Attah still remains the most revered political leader in the state.

Although the politics in Delta State is quite animated, it can be said that the political lord of the state is the former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark.

However, the national chairman of

Urhoho Political Forum, UPF, Chief Ighoyota Amori, senatorial aspirant, Mr. Solomon Edoja and others, said the most powerful political living figure in the state is the governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

Between Governor Chibuike Amaechi and Minister of State (Education), Ezenwo Nyemson Wike, it is still uncertain who the political

Continues on Page 2

2—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Confusion in Rivers’ schools over Ebola equipment RIVERS… THE TREASURE BASE OF THE NATION

Continues from Page 1

By Davies Iheamnachor

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ORT HARCOURT:— THERE was apprehension in many government secondary schools in Rivers State after resumption, last week, when some students complained that their schools were not supplied with Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, protective facilities, as directed by the Federal Government and refused to resume studies until they are provided.

When Niger Delta Voice visited Emohua, Ikwerre and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas, three days after resumption, it was observed that while students had resumed in some schools, others bluntly declined, citing the absence of Ebola testing apparatus.

Head teachers, who spoke to our reporters, bemoaned the attitude of students that declined to resume, saying late resumption would affect academic performance and pleaded with them to start, as there was every indication that the government would provide all needed facilities in the fight against Ebola.

Why we won’t resumeStudents Some students seen in the communities visited, maintained that they would not recommence academic activities until they were sure their schools were suitably ready to control and prevent Ebola outbreak.

Principal of Community Secondary School, CCS, Rumuekini in Obio/Akpor local government area, Rivers state, Mr. V O Enyindah, said the virus had generally been defeated in the country, but regretted that it had affected the academic calendar to an extent.

Enyindah asserted, “I thank the governor for the proactive actions he took to ensure that the virus was stamped out of the state. The state government has released the equipment needed in our school, although we are yet to receive our own.”

Another teacher who corroborated his statement, said, “We have not gotten the equipment in the government schools in the entire local government, but we just got call to send representative to the zonal board in that reC M Y K

Powerbrokers in SouthSouth states

One of the Primary Schools in Rivers State visited gards. Before then, as we resumed on Wednesday as directed by the government, we had none of the equipment, so we took other remedial actions on our own.”

Emergency management Commenting on how he handled the situation in CCS, Rumuekini, Mr. Eyindah said, “I bought some disinfectants like hand sanitizers, dettol, izal and soap, which I instructed the students to use in disinfecting the classes before they entered. The sanitation team was also instructed to clean up the environment to maintain good hygiene.

“I ensured that every student that was in school that first day of resumption was tested to know if the temperature was high through ordinary hand touching. I believe that by Monday, the school will be having its own Ebola testing kit, so every student that comes to school will be tested on arrival before such student will enter the school premises.

“As a way of getting an Ebola-free school in the community, I have already warned all the parents not to allow their wards come to school when they are sick.”

Academic calendar affected Head teacher in State School 1, Rumuji, Emohua, Mr. Edmond Ohaka, expressed worry that the term had already been affected and that could affect academic performance.

Ohaka, also the Secretary of Association of Primary

School Teachers of Nigeria, AOPSHON, Rivers State wing and immediate past chairman, Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT, Emohua, said,

”Because the number of weeks that this first term will last has reduced, we started

Continues on Page 7

leader of the state is. But political pundits believe that the leadership baton of “The Treasure Base of the Nation” will be decided in 2015.

In Cross River, Governor Liyel Imoke is indisputably the political generalissimo.

For Edo State, despite the political ascendancy of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, national chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Board of Trustees, BoT, Chief Tony Anenih, is the commanding officer in the state.

There might not be a consensus leader for the geo-poitical region at present, but the 2015 general elections will certainly streamline area of influence.

This edition of Niger Delta Voice examines politics of the region.

Iyase, Enigies‘re brothers— HRH Igbinudu EDO...

HEARTBEAT OF THE NATION

By Simon Ebegbulem

U

DO—THE Iyase of Udo in Edo State, HRH, Ekhoeutomwen Igbinudu, has clarified that his community had no axe to grind with the Enigies in Benin Kingdom and that his loyalty to the Oba of Benin remains unwavering.

I don’t want problem HRH Igbinudu, who was reacting to the controversy generated by a recent report in Niger Delta Voice on the sovereignty of Udo in Benin kingdom, said, “Some people said I tried to compare myself to the Oba, but I did not because I believe we are all subjects of the Oba, representing him wherever he sends us. Nobody is next to the Oba. But I want to say that the Enogie and the Iyase of Udo are all brothers, I do not want any problem.

“The publication of September 9 says that I compared the Odionwere and the Enogie, which is not true.

Enogie have their own dukedom and every village under the Enogie has

Odionwere and those Odionwere are under the Enogie.”

Enigie has no lifespan — IDU AKENZUA The Enogie of Oghobaghase, HRH, Idu Akenzua, who reacted on behalf of the Enigies in the kingdom, asserted, “Firstly in Benin Kingdom, Enigie are not appointed, they are born as Enigie or invested with their title by the Oba of Benin.

“Appointment has tenure of office or life span, but Enigie titles have no life span. They are perpetually from father to eldest surviving son forever, following in the principle of primogeniture that governs the Benin monarchy.

“Secondly, it is not true that the Iyase of Udo is more powerful than the Enogies because of the exploits and awesome prowess of one of its progenitors.

“At best, the Iyase of Udo enjoys the status of an Enogie, albeit falsely; but most importantly, it is not a hereditary title founded on the principle of primogeniture or from father to eldest surviving son.

“The title rotates between the Iyase of Udo and the Uwangue of Udo. Where any Iyase of

Udo transgresses the Benin monarch, the paramount ruler and overlord of Benin Kingdom, or becomes an enemy of the Oba, for whatever reason, the Oba transfers the title to the Uwangue and confers him with the powers to administer Udo. “The day may not be too far now when the title may even pass on to the Eribo if there is any such title there.”

THE TEAM Emma Amaize, Editor Jimitota Onoyume Samuel Oyadongha Tony Edike Simon Ebegbulem Gabriel Enogholase Festus Ahon Egufe Yafugborhi Emmanuel Unah Akpokona Omafuaire Godwin Oghre Tom Moses Chioma Onuegbu Ike Uche Davies Iheamnachor Emem Idio Emmanuel Okolie Brisibe Perez Barnabas Uzosike Nath Onajoke Chijioke Nwankpa

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014—3

Duku harps on peace in oil communities DELTA...

FINGER OF GOD

Jonathan’s friend, HRH Amalate Turner calls the shots in Bayelsa BA YELS A ...

BAYELS YELSA THE GLORY OF ALL LANDS

By Festus Ahon

U

G H E L L I — CHAIRMAN of the Association of Community Leaders of Nine OilProducing States in Nigeria, Delta State, Mr. Patrick Duku, has charged communities in the state to embrace peace, a basic ideal of the group, to attract more government presence and benefits from oil companies operating in the state.

Addressing newsmen shortly after a meeting with stakeholders in Ughelli, Duku said the body was out to unite all community leaders for the purpose of peace and development and to collaborate with national and international organisations for the promotion of amity and sustainable development of the oil-producing states.

Calling for the active involvement of communities’ leadership in the activities of the association, Duku reiterated the determination of the organisation to continue to draw the attention of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC to the plights of the people of the communities.

He disclosed that the association formed because “there is no organised body, no voice to articulate and address issues of concerns to the communities in the Niger Delta region.”

By Samuel Oyadongha & Emem Idio, Yenagoa

Y

E N A G O A — ORDINARILY, the President and Commander-inChief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who hails from Bayelsa State, could best be described as the most powerful living political figure in the state which he hails from, but exact opposite is the case.

The astonishment is not that the governor, Hon Seriake Dickson, who is eying a second term in office has built himself an independent political structure that has vanquished that of President Jonathan or that of former gover nor, Chief Timipre Sylva, now an APC chieftain, had performed an overnight political wonder.

It is also not that former governor-general of Ijaw nation, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, has pulled the rug under President Jonathan.

The bombshell is that the man, who calls the shots in the state is unarguably a retired permanent secretary in the state civil service, His Royal Highness, King Amalate Johnnie Turner, JP, Obigbo Mikimiki I, Obanema of Opume, Ogbia.

He is a childhood buddy and school mate of President Jonathan.

How he installed Gov Dickson

OBONG VICTOR ATTAH: Father of new Akwa Ibom AKWA IBOM...

LAND OF PROMISE

By Tom Moses & Chioma Onuegbu

U YO—AKWA-IBOM State comprises three major

ethnic nationalities - Ibibio, Annang and Oron, which separately had produced top shots that served the state and nation distinguishably in different capacities, including military, civilian governors, ministers and senators.

Continues on Page 4

King A. J. Turner The royal father, it was, who pulled Hon Dickson from the House of Representatives to contest for the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, governorship ticket after the then incumbent governor, Timipre Sylva, was shut out of the leadership of the party.

Informed sources told Niger Delta Voice that the royal father’s Abuja residence was the rallying point for the anti- Sylva forces, under the Restoration movement, which perfected the ousting of Sylva from Creek Haven, the Bayelsa Government House.

Government House, Yenagoa

Not the noisy type Amalate Johnnie Turner was born, September 30, 1956 at Opume community, Ogbia to the royal Kulo, Bugo, Latei, Orukari, Ineyougha, Koko and Yekorogha group of Houses all in Nembe, and the influential Efamo group of Houses in Opume.

He is not the boisterous type even though he has the ears of the President and could reach him at the shortest notice.

King Turner ’s lifelong endeavours and unflinching commitment to duty have been long acknowledged and commended by those who have worked closely with him and had the privilege of interacting with him on different issues.

and all those who consider him as somebody committed and responsive to their needs.

Beyond his recognised contributions to the improve-ment of his immediate community, King Turner is courteous, a trailblazer and model of good leadership.

King Turner’s relevance in the political scene of the state, according to analysts, is hinged on his reputation as an unbiased conciliator whose vast knowledge of the intricacies that define political moods is incontestable.

“This is one of many reasons why his wise counsel is sought after by many, both within and outside Bayelsa state,” said a close associate.

He was an avowed supporter of the defunct Green Movement, the campaign machinery of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan when he was governor of Bayelsa state, which later metamorphosed into the Restoration outfit that scuttled Sylva’s second term bid.

Why he’s loved Within his Opume community, King Turner enjoys fabulous veneration, his kingdom

Unassuming life In spite of his towering stature in the politics of the state, King Turner has maintained a

simple life that has mostly been marked by continued focus on meeting the responsibilities that he carries as a monarch and a respected personality in the state.

The king’s consistent efforts to live up to these responsibilities are evident in his commitment to service, which Niger Delta Voice learnt, has helped to yoke the Restoration team. …his prevailing power King Turner, who is the main financier of Dickson election, has continued to be dominant in the socio political development of Bayelsa state in particular, and Nigeria in general, considering his role as a traditional ruler, entrepreneur and a leader of thought.

He remains an influential personality in the Restoration of the administration of Governor Seriake Dickson, where he serves as chairman and latter has never failed to extol his support and leadership qualities at any given state function he (Turner) attends.

C M Y K

4—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

OBONG VICTOR ATTAH: Father of new Akwa Ibom

Obong Victor Attah Continues from Page 3 The big guns include a twotime Chief of Air Staff, Air Commodore Nsikak Eduok, former military administrator, Idongesit Nkanga and former governor, Obong Victor Attah.

Engendered unity However, Obong Attah appears to be the most respected political leader in the state and this is not unrelated with his copious exceptional contributions to the development of the state and involvement in both local and national affairs.

Besides his fight for resource control in the Niger Delta, which won him names like ‘Apostle of Resource Control’ and ‘Advocate of Resource Control,’ what really commended him to the people was that his administration nurtured the unity existing today among the different ethnic blocs in the state.

For that reason, Obong Attah is perceived by many as a detribalized, generous, accommodating, principled and visionary leader, who laid the solid foundation for the physical and economic development of the state.

The Ibom International Airport, Le Meridien Hotel and Golf Course were among projects put in place by his administration.

Creation of Akwa Ibom Available record showed he played very significant role in the creation of Akwa Ibom state, about 27 years ago, which is C M Y K

traceable to his genial relationship with the then military president, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd). The singular act won him the name, ‘Father of new Akwa Ibom.’

Highly trusted As far as Akwa Ibom state is concerned, the people do not only respect Attah for his past achievements, they have strong belief and trust in his capability and competence to handle and defend their interests whenever the need arises at any level of governance.

His competence and intellectual capabilities informed the people’s decision not only to choose him as one of the delegates to the recently concluded National Conference, but as the leader of that delegation, and the call by the former Nigeria Governor’s Forum to lead them to the same conference, further attests to the fact that his admirable leadership qualities go beyond the state.

He was also selected as the Chairman of the Committee on Devolution of Powers simply because of the recognition that he has the ‘I can do attitude’ and admirable leadership principles.

Achiever His laudable achievements informed the grand reception organized by the Akwa Ibom people, recently,

where he (Attah) was formally proclaimed the Leader of Akwa Ibom people at the Asan Ibibio ground.

The recent conferment of the traditional title of Mkpisong Ibibio on Obong Attah by the traditional institutions in 21 of the 31 local government areas of the state also speaks volume of the acknowledgement of Obong Attah as an iconic personality and the most powerful living political leader in the state.

Folks speak Former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Major-General Edet Akpan (rtd.), who spoke with the Niger Delta Voice in Uyo, extolled Obong Attah for his protuberant role in the creation of Akwa-Ibom state, design of the structure and developmental blueprint of the state and his strong conviction in the sustenance of the unity of the various ethnic nationalities and tribes in the state.

He also eulogized him for his generous vision and leadership style, especially his disposition to the clamour that all the three senatorial districts of the state should be accommodated in the leadership and governance of

the state for equity and fairness to prevail and for setting the pace of development of the state, which the present administration, as piloted by Akpabio, has emulated.

Benevolent leader Acknowledging Attah for his flowering leadership role in the state, governorship aspirant and the immediate past Commissioner for Finance in the state, Obong Bassey Albert, said he is a true and magnanimous leader that has continued to toil for the realization of the dreams of the forebears of Akwa-Ibom state.

The banking guru expressed high regards for Obong Attah for his liberal disposition to would-be leaders by encouraging even those who sought to take over from him, Governor Akpabio inclusive, to remain in office and campaign without discrimination and victimisation as is the case with most leaders.

His Lordship, Bishop Samuel Akpan, Obong Umanah Okon Umanah, Obong Insima Ekere, all governorship hopefuls in the state nodded their heads to Attah’s unsung contributions to the sociopolitical and economic development of the state, leading to his continued relevance and acceptability across the various tribes and ethnic nationalities in the state.

2015 to determine who runs Rivers' politics pens within the party in the state.

RIVERS… THE TREASURE BASE OF THE NATION

The battle within This probably explained why some governorship aspirants recently rallied a group, Save Rivers PDP to lobby that the state executive be replaced with a caretaker committee on grounds that the former was serving the interest of the minister.

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— RIVERS state is symptomatically different from other states in the South South region when it comes to politics.

You could without fear of contradiction single out one person as the most influential politician in other states of the region, but in Rivers, it is a different ball game.

The unpredictable state of affairs is as a result of the rumbling political divide in the state.

Governor Chibuike Amaechi came on board as governor of the state on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP. Nonetheless in the middle of his second term in office, he parted ways with the party, voyaging to the All Progressive Congress, APC, an audacious stroke that has made the APC the ruling party in the state with the PDP as a sturdy opposition.

Wike Governor Rotimi Amaechi Amaechi’s power Unmistakably, on matters of governance,Amaechi exercises the final authority by virtue of his position as governor of the state. It is surefire that he is a resilient and influential politician.

Political loyalty But when Niger Delta Voice sought the views of citizens on who is the strongest and most influential politician in the state, many from our observation, spoke largely from the slant of their political allegiance.

Some asserted that the upcoming general elections will determine the most powerful politician in the state, adding that at the moment, the focus should be identifying the most powerful persons in the two top contending political parties.

Between Amaechi, Wike They said that within the APC, Governor Amaechi calls the shots and is the rallying point, while within the PDP, the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, is the issue. Wike is believed to have the state structure of the PDP in his firm grip, so he determines very largely what hap-

2015 holds the ace “Rivers state does not have this type of ‘almighty’ political leader you find in some other states. So this issue of who is the most powerful politician in the state should be looked at from the angle of the weight the person exercises within the two top parties”, a resident, Fred Kpeba said.

Another resident, ThankGod Friday, said if the state government had remained the way it came, a PDP state, it would have been easy to say Mr. A or B is the ultimate factor in the politics of the state.

“However, as it stands now the election in 2015 will answer the question of who is the most powerful politician in the state,” he added

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014—5

CROSS RIVER… THE PEOPLE’S PARADISE

Imoke, Cross River’s man of power *His political empire, strategies; larger-than-life status

By Emmanuel Unah

C

ALABAR—SINCE his assumption of office in 2007, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, has fully metamorphosed as the political C in C of the state.

His calm appearance could be deceptive to those who do not know him closely, but anybody conversant with his persona knows that his political influence is not just within the confines of the state, but up to the nation’s capital, Abuja, where he is a strategic player in the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

He did not acquire this larger than life political status overnight. It was built through several decades of consistent and deliberate planning, spreading of goodwill and reaching out to people in divergent strata of society.

Self-effacing beginning His background as the son of Dr Samuel Imoke, an acolyte of Nigeria’s first President, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, who rose to become the Minister of Education in the First Republic, also contributed to the power Imoke wields today.

Senator at 27 In 1992, at the age of just 27, he was elected Senator representing the Central Senatorial District of Cross River state above notable contenders for the position and this feat was majorly based on his father’s reputation in the society.

Political dynasty He learned the ropes from then and in 1996, he and his

INSET: Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State friend, who later emerged governor of the state, Mr. Donald Duke pitched tent with the DPN and before that era crumbled under the military regime, they had built a political structure across the state with Imoke as the principal driving force of the political empire.

When in 1999, Duke became governor of the state; Imoke was seen as the force behind the throne. He, Duke and Gershom Bassey were the arrowheads of the dynasty and Imoke ensured stability of the

Duke administration in the state even when he was functioning in Abuja as Special Assistant and later Minister of Power and Steel to President Olusegun Obasanjo.

When it was time for Duke to vacate office in 2007, having served two tenures, it was obvious that the next person to step into his shoes was Imoke and this he did effortlessly, as there was no serious opposition to him. But, it is not clear Bassey will step into Imoke’s shoes with unfolding political develop-

Duku harps on peace in oil communities DELTA...

FINGER OF GOD

By Festus Ahon

U

GHELLI—CHAIRMAN of the Association of Community Leaders of Nine Oil-Producing States in Nigeria, Delta State, Mr. Patrick Duku, has charged communities in the state to embrace peace, a basic ideal of the group, to attract more government presence and

benefits from oil companies operating in the state.

Addressing newsmen shortly after a meeting with stakeholders in Ughelli, Duku said the body was out to unite all community leaders for the purpose of peace and development and to collaborate with national and international organizations for the promotion of amity and sustainable development of the oilproducing states.

Calling for the active involvement of communities’

leadership in the activities of the association, Duku reiterated the determination of the organisation to continue to draw the attention of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to the plights of the people of the communities.

He said the association was formed because “there is no organized body, no voice to articulate and address issues of concerns to the communities in the Niger Delta region.”

ments in the state.

His style He has rallied support from all and sundry, including opposition parties whose presence is hardly felt due to his preponderant power in all sections of the state.

Imoke is consistently seen as the political father of the state and anything he wants done is achieved with microscopic struggle. It is his singular decision that the governorship position should be zoned to the Northern senatorial district of the state by the PDP. Though, the decision did not go down well with many stakeholders, nobody had the impudence so far to challenge him.

Refusal to anoint successor Even when over 20 persons from the north are jostling to succeed him, he has refused to anoint any one of them which would have facilitated an easy ride to Government House for such a person.

He has continuously insisted that such an action would be immoral and tantamount to trivializing the position of governor. Reiterating this position, October 1, while addressing stakehol-

ders during the state’s Merit Award ceremony, Imoke said those waiting for him to anoint them as his successor would have to continue to wait until he swears in the new governor without their ambition coming to fruition.

According to him, the office of governor is such an important position that the person occupying it takes charge of the affairs of millions of people and should, therefore, not be toyed with, just for personal interest.

He said though the position has been zoned to the northern part of the state, the contestants from that zone must go out and sell their vision to the party organs and people to enable them make an informed decision and elect who they consider fit to occupy the position.

The new Cross River ”The challenge we faced to build the new Cross River should not be forgotten and if today we make a governor by appointment, the governor will owe allegiance to his masters.

“Today I see public office holders becoming contractors, beneficiaries of everything with nothing left to trickle down to the people.”

C M Y K

6—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

EDO...

HEARTBEAT OF THE NATION

By Simon Ebegbulem

Anenih remains Edo political oracle

B

ENIN— THE Iyasele of Esan land and chairman, Board of Trustees, BoT, People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, is the most powerful living political leader in the present day Edo state.

Though, there are other persons of influence in the state such as two- time former governor of the old Bendel State, Dr Samuel Ogbemudia and Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Anenih has created a niche for himself when it comes to the politics of his home state.

He was instrumental to the emergence of former governor, Chief Lucky Igbinedion in 1999. He fell out with Igbinedion during the second term of his administration and vowed to wrestle power from him.

His war with Igbinedion factionalized the PDP in the state but he was able to make Prof. Osarhiemen Osunbor governor in 2007.

However, at the moment, the PDP in his native state is in tatters, particularly with the emergence of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as governor, first under the platform of the Action Congress AC, later Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, and now, All Progressives Congress, APC, after forging alliance with other parties. It was the infighting in the PDP that provided the cannon fodder for Oshiomhole’s conquest.

From 1999 till date, there is no decision by the PDP in Edo state that will see the light of the day without getting the endorsement of the man known as Mr. Fix it. It is popularly said that though Anenih is from Edo Central senatorial district, that is the Esan area, but he can fix a councillor, who has shown loyalty to his leadership in South and North, the other two senatorial districts in the state hassle-free.

Oshiomhole’s confession During the early days of Governor Oshiomhole in office, he buttressed the fact thus: “When I was in the NLC as President, then I use to interact with Anenih a lot because of my fight with the government. I recall that each time our people in Edo wanted to hold a Local Government election, some of my close friends and brothers from Edo North will come and appeal to me to talk to Anenih to either make them chairman or councillor.

“But I use to ask them how can that

Benin City

Chief Tony Anenih be possible because the man is not from our side, he is from the Central, they will tell me that it does not work like that, that without going to Uromi to prostrate you cannot get even the position of a ward leader in your area.

“And I asked them, are you not going to vote, if the leaders of our area decide on candidates, how is he going to change it? They will always lecture me that I do not understand the chief, that without him, nothing will be possible and that I should go and beg on their behalf,” he said.

As a matter of fact, Oshiomhole tested his own bitter pills in the hands of Anenih during his first few months in office when he had to go to Abuja with the state budget to get approval from the ‘leader’.

Oshiomhole was handicapped then because the PDP dominated the state House of Assembly. He had to stoop low to conquer. The father and son relationship went sour after Anenih openly scolded Oshiomhole. The comrade governor went on all-out attack thereafter and succeeded in deposing the PDP leadership in the House.

How he outfoxed Obasanjo A special uniqueness of Anenih is that he is known to be a long distance runner in politics unlike many politicians, who easily give up when hard times faced them. When he was removed as BoT chair by Obasanjo, he recoiled for a while, strategizing on how to hit back.

Propitiously for him, he got his pound of flesh during the Jonathan presidency when he was assisted by other influential persons to arm-twist Obasanjo to resign as BoT chairman.

He sprang back a second time. …don’t treat rebels gladly He is known to reward loyalty, but hardly forgives when you betray his trust. Today in Edo state, there are people who have suffered politically and are still suffering because they were not loyal.

People like the current Secretary to the Edo State Government, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, former governor of the state, Prof. Osarhiemen Osunbor, Senator Domingo Obende, Senator Yisa Braimoh, Senator Ehigie Uzamere, Lucky Igbinedion and many others, had all experienced the angst of Chief Anenih.

Despite the attempt to stop other aspirants from contesting the PDP 2007 governorship primaries against the “anointed” Prof Osunbor at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Ihonvbere defied Anenih’s instruction by going to the stadium to run for the primaries. Anenih never forgave him, particularly after Ihonvbere hauled over the coals on him for purportedly skewing the primaries in favour of Osunbor.

Though Ihonvbere later worked for the emergence of Osunbor, Anenih made sure that even with Ihonvbere’s influence at the presidential villa, Abuja; he was not made a minister or given any appointment that matched his sacrifice in the party. Ihonvbere’s glaring marginalization in the PDP led to his exit from the party to the APC today.

Apostle of no vacancy Anenih accused both Osunbor and

Delta govt, DESOPADEC, others get 28-day ultimatum from HOSTCOM

By Brisibe Perez

U

GHELLI—THE Host Communities of oil and gas, HOSTCOM, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, has given a 28-day ultimatum to the management of the Delta State Oil C M Y K

Producing Area Development Commission, DESOPADEC, the Nigeria Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, and Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to intervene on the deplorable state of roads at Afiesere and Agbarha-Otor communities.

The group, in a statement by its chairman and secretary, Mr. Agwarive Pender and Mr. Shikaleke Okiemute, respectively, said the road had long been damaged and efforts made to seek attention of the state government and the interventionist agencies to rehabilitate them yielded no result.

Igbinedion of forming parallel PDP structures in the state and might not have forgiven them till date. The moment you are not loyal to him as governor of Edo state, the soft- spoken leader would tell you that there is vacancy in Osadebey Avenue, which is the seat of power in the state, but once you are loyal, he will equally tell others that there is no vacancy in Osadebey Avenue.

How Igbiendion survived Ex-governor, Igbinedion, was able to clinch his second term ticket because he played the game with the ‘leader,’ but moved to the trenches to battle him politically during the tail end of his administration.

How Oshiomhole displaced his structure But with the coming of Oshiomhole, Anenih can only boast of influence within his PDP in Edo state and not the entire state any more. Oshiomhole, who watched Anenih from afar while he was NLC president, came to dig out the political structure of the ‘leader’ through his war against godfatherism in the state.

Anenih tested defeats in the hands of Oshiomhole in all the elections held since 2007 in the state, but has been able to hold grip on his senatorial district. Though Oshiomhole won his re-election in the entire 18 local government areas of the state, including Anenih’s domain, the PDP leader still has control over the senatorial and House of Representatives seats in Edo Central.

Never- say- die spirit Anenih may not be finding it cool due to the influence of Oshiomhole in the current politics of the state, but anybody that knows him, recognizes that the leader never gives up. For him, 2016 is just tomorrow and he is unquestionably waiting long-sufferingly and strategizing on how to pay Oshiomhole back by re-installing a PDP governor in the state.

As BOT chairman of the PDP, his influence in national politics is still soaring and sure, he will have the wherewithal to battle the APC in his home state come 2015 and 2016.

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014—7

Confusion in Rivers’ schools over Ebola equipment A senior teacher in the school explained there was uneasy calm, but confirmed that the school was yet to receive the Ebola equipment.

He said some private schools in the area had gotten it because they were compelled to do so, adding, “government will soon send equipment to us, so students should come back for studies.

“Definitely, some weeks have been lost so the scheme of work will not be covered adequately.”

Mr. Edmond Ohaka, Headteacher, State School I, Rumuji Continues from Page 2 teaching as we resumed on Wednesday. There is now pressure on the teachers because we need to cover the scheme of work for the term.”

Test kits provided On the issue of Ebola test tools, Ohaka said State School 1, Rumuji, UBE and other secondary schools in Emohua have all gotten the Ebola testing and precaution materials provided by the state government.

His words: “We are ready to fight Ebola in our school. We have people who have been trained by the government and we have received the equipment the school needs.

“Last week, I invited all the parents for a meeting; we also sensitized them because controlling Ebola will not only be in the school. So we have to encourage them to maintain good hygiene at home.

“The union in the local government wanted to stop us from resuming because on the

resumption day, we have not gotten the equipment, although with understanding, they allowed us, but we now have the equipment.

Government on its own has provided everything needed to fight Ebola. Every school in Emohua has all the facilities.

“I think Ebola is no more a case in the local government. I thank the governor of the state for being very proactive in handling issues relating to students’ health and welfare,” he asserted.

Students boycott school At Ikwerre local government area, particularly Government Secondary School, Aluu, the case was a bit different. The students were yet to fully resume for academic activities when Niger Delta Voice visited.

A student who Niger Delta Voice encountered at the school gate said, “We are yet to start, we are afraid to come back now because of no Ebola equipment.”

Commissioner Parker speaks Reacting to the mix-up, Commissioner of Health, Rivers state, Dr. Sampson Parker, said government had provided facilities for over 1,206 schools in the state and urged the head teachers to go to their zonal offices and pick the kits meant for their schools.

“We partnered with the Ministry of Education and have provided sufficient materials that will go round the schools in the state. The ministry is vigilant in case of any challenge. I do not know why students do not want to resume studies,” he stated.

NUT chairman pleads for understanding In the same vein, the state chairman, NUT, Mr. Godfrey Wogu, implored teachers in the state to resume academic activities, saying that government was determined to provide all the necessary facilities needed in the schools.

“The directive is with immediate effect. All teachers in the state are expected to resume school on Monday the 13th October, 2014. Any teacher who fails to resume school on the said date will be sanctioned,” he said.

Clark

Clark, political VIP in Delta *Amori, Edoja, Ofa, others disagree … pick Uduaghan, Ibori *No political leader in Delta— KOKORI

DELTA...

FINGER OF GOD

By Festus Ahon, Egufe Yafugborhi & Brisibe Perez SABA—FORMER Federal Commissioner for Information and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, is unquestionably the most powerful political leader in Delta State.

The only other living politician that would have stopped him in the state is the former governor, Chief James Ibori, but unfortunately, his arrest and incarceration for money laundering abroad, has created the opportunity for Clark, one of his formidable foes, to have a field day.

A

Political Mecca Last month, September, Kiagbodo, the home town of Chief Clark in Burutu Local Government Area of the state was turned to a political Mecca as politicians, particularly those seeking elective positions,

trooped in large numbers to the elder statesman for consultations.

From the former Minister of State for Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Mr. Tony Obuh, Obarisi Omo Agege, Mrs Esther Uduehi and so on, there was no day since the 2015 general elections climaxed with the release of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, timetable for primaries that one or two governorship aspirants and aspirants for other elective offices, would not visit Chief Clark to seek for his support and blessings.

In fact, even when some people did not know that the man, who spends most of his time nowadays at Abuja, has returned to the nation’s capital city, some governorship aspirants, including Mr. Andrew Warri, trailed him to Abuja to receive his blessings.

For many politicians in the state, the anointing of Chief E.K Clark is the beginning of

Continues on Page 8

DELTA LG POLL COUNTDOWN: Why we want to rule—IKPOKPO, EDEMA,ETAGA covenanted children of God, can go into politics and come out clean. “

By Emma Amaize & Egufe Yafugborhi

S

OME chairmanship aspirants in the October 25 Local Government Area election in Delta State have spoken on why they want to govern their respective Councils.

Service PDP standard bearer in Isoko South, Mr. Itiakpo Ikpokpo, aka Malik, “We can no longer depend only on allocation from the Federal

Itiako Ikpokpo Government, we need to invest as a people, this will create employment for people. I am convinced about this and this is why as a servant, I want to render service to my people.”

Mofe Edema Integrity Former chairman, Warri South Local Government Area, Mr. Mofe Edema, who is seeking a comeback on PDP platform, said, “I have been there before and I dare say the

Etaga people are the better judges of my track record.

“However, this time around, I am in the race to show to both believers and unbelievers that good Christians, who are

Transformation Paul Etaga, also PDP candidate in Ughelli South, said: “My mission to lead Ughelli South council is to bring about positive transformation for the people and environment.

“I will ensure conscientious harnessing of resources available to the locality for even development of infrastructures and human capital.”

C M Y K

8—Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

CELEBRITY KENNETH GBAGI: Golden Tulip

The world of Delta’s huge investor Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi

W

ARRI—STUNNED by the audacity of a young Midwesterner, who mobilized workforce to a swampy location near his habitation, on Deco Road, Warri, more than two decades ago, a former military governor of the defunct Midwest Region, confronted the fellow to find out if he understood the enormousness of the task he had undertaken.

To the retired military officer, it was a staggering undertaking for a single individual to reclaim the marshy land and so he interrogated the guy, who stood before him on his identity and what exactly the Federal Government wanted to do with the property.

The gentleman flabbergasted him the more when he told him that he was the chairman of GKO Properties Limited, which had bought the land and that it was not a government project.

On the once boggy location stands, today, the biggest shopping mall in Delta state, known as Robinson Gbagi Plaza, which provides means of livelihood for over 3,500 Deltans.

Venture capitalist extraordinary The man, who had the farsightedness to provide the leading trading centre for Deltans in the oil city of Warri, years ago, is criminologist, lawyer and former Minister of State (Education), Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi. He proudly calls himself a trader.

To those who know him, Gbagi’s confidence in the state is unflinching. His investments speak for him. From the shopping mall, he built the Woodridge Hotel, Effurun, near Warri and had also set up a cluster of companies, including paint, water and pet-preform producing factories in the state.

He recently added the first five-star hotel, Golden Tulip and the first digital cinema in the state, managed by Silverbird to the unending list.

Uduaghan attests to his prowess The state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, saw and C M Y K

noted the single-mindedness of the man, who is among those seeking to take over from him in 2015, many years ago. And in August, last year, when Gbagi visited him (Uduaghan) at Government House, Asaba, he said, “Kenneth Gbagi is one of the highest investors, if not the highest indigenous investor, in Delta State.”

He thanked Gbagi for his faith and continuous investments in the state and urged other well placed Deltans to emulate him.

Why I want to rule Delta Speaking to Niger-Delta Voice, Olorogun Gbagi, a leading Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, gubernatorial aspirant from the Delta Central senatorial district, said, “What is extremely missing in our life today is character, people have become characterless without integrity.

“That is what I want to bring

back to the state. I have been involved in building and I will continue to build the state. That is what I want to do in Government House, Asaba.”

On his grilling by the former military governor, he said it was a fact that he was confronted by the retired army officer he commenced work on the swampy site, over two decades ago and “I told him I bought the place and wanted to develop it, he thought I was a contractor executing a project for government and wanted to know more about the project. I told him and he was marvelled.”

According to him, “I am a trader and realized that one of the greatest problems people had in Warri was getting shops to rent, that was what gave rise to my decision to build Robinson Plaza, Warri with over 500 shops, named after my father, and today, over 3,500 families are eking out their daily bread from the place.”

Gbagi added, “I was renting the shop for N2, 000 but people were subletting it for N90, 000.

Till tomorrow, my joy and happiness is seeing that people are

Chaotic planning threatens Uyo—EX-COMMISSIONER

By Tom Moses

U

YO— FORMER Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Akwa Ibom State, Professor Charles Akpan, has raised the alarm over looming disaster in Uyo, the state capital, in 10 years, resulting from faulty design.

Professor Akpan, currently Head of Department, Civil Engineering, University of Uyo, told Niger Delta Voice, shortly after presenting the 41st Inaugural Lecture of the university that the state government was not following the proper plan of the city put on ground in 1989 by the administration of a former governor, Godwin Abe. The don, who extolled the ex-governor for the wonderful structures he put in place in the state in 1989, said unless the state government re-planned and gave the city a facelift, the disaster was bound to occur, adding that he had discussed the establishment of multi car parks and railway lines with some government officials to check the ugly trend.

The don, who commended the former governor for giving Uyo shape, said, “If he did not do those Ring Roads in 1989, you would not have them today because by the time we started building, there would have been so many buildings on the rightof-way that you might have to knock down some and spend up to N5 to N10 billion on compensation to the owners.

“Go to Mbiabong area behind Shelter Afrique; when I was the Commissioner for Lands, we planned that area. People are just building carelessly; you cannot put pipe or electric pole anyhow.

The streets are too narrow.

“Ten years from now, people will not be able to move round Akwa Ibom State, as there is no provision for parking around the city. People will be stuck in traffic for four or more hours as is the case in Port-Harcourt.”

benefiting from it.

With the shopping plaza, over 3,500 persons were automatically removed from the jobless market and the hopelessness of the situation to put food in their mouths.”

Employment for Deltans He asserted, “Golden Tulip alone is employing over 350 persons, the cinema has not less than 30 persons in gainful employment. Thousands of people go there to ease pressure. There is paint, water factories, pet-preform factorieswhat you blow to produce bottle and so on. The totality of staff there is no fewer than 260.

“The old Woodridge is being renovated with a view to starting a school, Saint Thomas Moore Schools as soon as possible.

“I believe in Delta; I will not run to anywhere. If I had taken these investments to Lagos, the returns would have been phenomenal. But I want them to be in Delta State.

“I know I was born to bring joy to mankind and change the situation of things around me, which is what I want to do in the state.

“God is biased towards me in this regard and I do not want to fail Him. That is why I am determined to provide leadership as governor of the state.”

Clark, political VIP in Delta Continues from Page 7 victory. Even National and State Assembly aspirants outside Chief Clark’s constituency still visit him to seek for his support.

This is a pointer to the fact that the Ijaw leader is undeniably very powerful and influential in the politics of the state.

The search for the most powerful living politician in state expectedly provoked divergent views. Niger Delta Voice spoke to cross sections of Deltans.

Former NUPENG General Secretary, Chief Frank Kokori, said, “No one in Delta state fits this description of being most influential, what we have in government are opportunists.”

Uduaghan, Ibori influence However, some politicians rate the state governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan higher than Chief Clark in terms of political powers and influences. Of course, there is no gain saying that the governor is also very powerful and influential given the fact that he holds the ace in state PDP. But even at that, the governor himself still rallies round Chief Clark for support and blessings in the day to day running of the state.

Despite Ibori’s absence, some persons see the former governor as more powerful and influential than Clark. They hold strongly that Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan and others exercising political influence in the state, except Chief E. K Clark, are all

products of Chief Ibori.

According to them, even in his incarceration, politicians were being air lifted to the United Kingdom, week after week to seek, for the blessings and support of Chief James Onanefe Ibori. So one can better imagine how dominant he would have been if he was in the shores of this country.

But Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the Governor, Chief Ighoyota Amori, asserted ,”The governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan is the most influential politician in the state because he is the head of the government of the state.

Whoever is a politician comes under his leadership.

“There is no way anyone can be more influential than him coupled with the fact that he influences political decisions in the state. The next person is Chief Edwin Clark, who has a national reach in terms of politics.”

For the former member representing Ethiope Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Solomon Edoja, “Politics is all about governance and the governor, Dr. Uduaghan, being the number one citizen and head of state is the most influential because he influences all the decisions in the executive and legislature through the State House of Assembly.

“Personally, I think the governor fits this position as the most influential.”

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 39

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We are not legislating total ban on tobacco — Senate ….As BATN calls for balanced regulation Stories by PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU

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he Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has said that the National Tobacco Control bill, NTCB is not meant to ban or chase away legal tobacco companies, but to regulate manufacturing, consumption and promotion of tobacco products in Nigeria.

Meanwhile the British American Tobacco Nigeria, BATN has called for balanced regulation.

According to Okowa, “It is not our intention to drive away the legal industry but to make them operate in a responsible manner for the sake of the health of our citizen as the hearing will strengthen the bill to address some issues confronting the health system adding that the bill is not seeking outright ban on smoking but to restrict and control tobacco smoking. We are not legislating for total ban.”

In his opening remarks, the senate President, Senator David Mark said the bill seeks to protect future generation of Nigerians from the devastating health, social economic and environmental consequences of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke amongst others.

According to him, “the tobacco regulations bill as we all know has been on the floor of the Senate for some time now and anything that has such effect on the public health deserves the right awareness and attention.”

In the same vein, the British American Tobacco Nigeria

(BATN) has reiterated its support for the passage of balanced regulation for the industry. The company made its position known during the public hearing for the National Tobacco Control Bill at the National Assembly in Abuja The Director of Corporate

and Regulatory Affairs, BAT West Africa, Mr. Freddy Messanvi said that BATN has always supported the passage of a balanced and evidence based regulation of the tobacco industry in Nigeria.

According to him, “Through co-operation between BATN and regulatory agencies, we

AWARD - From Left: First place Winner, Aniema Udokang; Third Place Winner, Bassey Itam, Group Managing Director, Dufil Prima Foods Plc Mr. Deepak Singhal and Second Place Winner, Semiya Modashiru at the 2014 Indomie Independence Day Award in Lagos recently.

Promotional items branding gaining ground in Nigeria — Dugo CEO

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he Chief Executive Officer, Dugo, a brand promotion items company, Mrs. Ngozi Nzegwu said the use of promotional items is gaining momentum in the marketing mix in Nigeria. She said while traditional advertising platforms such as TV, Newspapers, magazines and billboards among others are becoming expensive and hardly create the bond and experience for customers, it has become the tool for

building brand awareness.

“Brand awareness is the most common use for promotional items. Marketers also use promotional items to facilitate employee relations and events, tradeshow trafficbuilding, public relations, new customer generation, dealer and distributor programs, new product introductions, employee service awards, not-for-profit programs, internal incentive programs, safety education,

Nigeria can survive if it markets itself well — NIMN boss

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have achieved reduction in the incidence of illicit trade from over 80 per cent to around 20 per cent today”.

Messanvi pointed out that any proposed regulation must not force the legal and regulated businesses out of operation and leave the market at the mercy of

he President and Chairman- in-Council of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, NIM, Ganiyu Koledoye, said Nigeria can survive if it markets itself well to the world.

Koledoye made this assertion during the luncheon of the Manchester Business School, MBS Alumni of NIMN branch in Lagos.

The NIMN boss said although Nigeria presently may not be renowned for making the best cars, fabrics or agriculture, but the one thing Nigerians will be known for will be marketing Nigeria’s potentials.

Drawing analogy from the British, he stated that Britain after the suffering of their founding fathers established factories including the railways and today are relying on marketing to power their economy. He observed that British companies are investing in different

parts of the world, a feat that has kept the country’s economy afloat.

Speaking further, the NIMN president said trhat from November 4 to 6, 2014Nigerian Universities and polytechnics will come together in Enugu to see how in three weeks the academia and the marketing industry can integrate their thinking to move the country forward. Contributing, Dr. Chukwunyere Chukwu, Chairman of MBS Alumni branch of NIMN who dwelled his speech on the peace that has pervaded the institute after the assumption of office of the incumbent president of the institute, noted that that NIMN has seen its rough times, and has become united, thereby making policy statements that can advance marketing in Nigeria and Nigerians in general.

customer referrals, and marketing research,” she stated.

She continues: “The days of high saluting of advertising in the papers so that you can be seen is gone. These days when recession hits the globe and marketing budget Nigeria is not immune. So, it is what you see and touch and feel that gives you the lasting impact. So, that is where promotional products and whatever tools of expression to keep your brand in the face of your clients play a greater role. Promotional items branding is a constant reminder to build. I call them the gifts that keep giving.”

Nzegwu also explained that worldwide, the use of promotional items has been embraced by government officials and political parties and their candidates as well as Non-Governmental Organisation. “Promotional items are also used in politics to promote candidates and causes. Promotional items as a tool for non-commercial organizations, such as schools and charities are often used as a part of fund raising and awareness-raising campaigns.

Julian’s Luxury opens flagship outlet

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ulian’s Luxury, Nigeria’s premier high end luxury and lifestyle brand has opened a distinctive and elegant vitrine in Lagos.

Julian’s Luxury is the nation’s first private sale and “by appointment only ” luxury brand. It offers the most exclusive luxury products from the world’s most renowned and prestigious luxury brands to a decidedly affluent and savvy clientele. The company’s range of products includes watches, jewellery, writing instruments, leather goods, luxury perfumes and accessories.

The company is home to luxury watch and jewellery brands like Richard Mille, Chopard, Franck Muller, Backes & Strauss, Manufacture Royale, Bovet Grisogono, Badollet, Omega, Chatila, Jacquet Droz, Montegrappa amongst others; and a line of luxury perfumes from Amouage and Clive Christian.

Star the winner is: Achu clinches car, N10m cash

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he maiden victor of Nigeria’s first music game show, ‘Star The Winner Is’ Michael Achu has been officially crowned winner, where he was presented a 2014 Volkswagen CC car as well as the sum of N10million. The exquisite event, which held at the Nigerian Breweries Bar, Iganmu had in attendance the likes of Uti Nwachukwu, host of the game show, Bryan Okwara, Yaw, Dotun Kayode, Temi and Mannie of cool FM, Destiny Amaka, OluwaseunP amongst and others. Contestants of Star The Winner Is as well as their friends and family all gathered to witness Micheal’s glorious crowning while amidst smiles and exhilaration he expressed his happiness. ”This is totally a dream come true for me and my family. I have tried so many times to succeed in my music career but failed, and I am very grateful that at last my persistence and perseverance has paid off, I can't thank Star Lager and Nigerian Breweries enough,” said an elated Michael.

Apart from Michael’s Ten Million Naira and brand new car prize, he also earned a recording contract with Universal Records. Speaking on this achievement, Michael said, “When I was informed about the Universal Records deal, I had to pinch myself severally because I thought I was dreaming. My dreams have indeed come true”, said an overtly excited Michael.

40— Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 Email:lesleba@lesleba.com, lesleba@gmail.com Blog page:www.lesleba.com/blog2 Website: www.lesleba.com Tel:0805 220 1997

Workers’ welfare: has labour lost the plot? billions of dollars annually.

Surprisingly, Labour have inexplicably become mere spectators of unbridled treasury looting, blatant miscarriage of justice and impunity in public administration; consequently, the working class has largely been reduced to wandering flocks of sheep with well nourished but careless shepherds.

Nonetheless, the question is how successful is Labour been in its pursuit of realistic minimum wages and the sustenance of fuel subsidy.

The May-Day speeches of Labour Leaders on Friday, 1st May 2009, for example, were strident on the demand for a reasonable minimum wage that would give some measure of dignity to the rank and file of Nigerian workers nationwide. In that instance, the Unions demanded that the N7,500 ($50) existing minimum wage be increased to N50,000 ($333)/month. In reality, demands for between 2-20% wage increases are not unusual in better managed economies elsewhere, but a demand for almost 600% wage increase at a go would be unusual, and any agreed minimum wage would generally recognise the adverse impact of inflation on the purchasing power of all income earners.

Inspite of an abiding annual inflation average of over 6%, the N7,500 minimum wage remained the same for over 10 years, with the consequent loss of over 60% of its purchasing value. It was therefore not difficult to recognise that workers had become poorer

before a higher minimum wage-level of N18,000 was adopted later in 2010. Similarly with average annual inflation rates of over 8% since then, the current minimum wage has also lost over 40% of its purchasing value, consequently, inspite of bountiful Naira supply as well as declared foreign exchange surplus in the National Treasury, the lowest paid workers, who constitute the majority of our population have equally become severely deprived.

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abour Unions in modern day nation states have the prime objective of enhancing and protecting the social and economic welfare of the working class, who invariably constitute, by far, the majority of the population.

Thus, where such Unions lack focus, knowledge and unity, the working class maybe left with the short end of the stick by the oligarchs and entrepreneurial class who control the factors of wealth creation in any country.

On the other hand, Labour Unions which are knowledge driven, focused and united would have the capacity to protect the rights of workers and engender equity in resource allocation and may also wield significant political power in a nation’s administration; the United Kingdom’s alternate government, the Labour party is a fine example of the strength of Organised Labour.

Indeed, Trade Unions were also a critical force in the agitation for our nation’s independence from British colonial rule. Regrettably, with the attainment of independence and the later advent of military dictatorship, Labour was deliberately fractionalised and compromised, to become a mere shadow without its former awesome authority; indeed since after the failed campaign for the validation of 1993 elections with the betrayal and eventual capture and incarceration, without trial, of Frank Kokori, who was Secretary General of NUPENG, Organised Labour seems to occasionally find its voice on issues relating to minimum wage levels and the sustenance of the nationally disenabling economic strategy of subsidising fuel prices with

Fu r t h e r m o r e , experience has taught us from the time of the Udoji Salary Review that such ‘benevolent’ wage increases also drive the rate of inflation rapidly

,

The workers’ situation would obviously be much worse where some states are unable to pay the N18,000 minimum wage or where government owes several months salary arrears; regrettably, there is no overt evidence of Organised Labour’s intervention to speak out or remediate the plight of the ordinary worker in such instances.

However, Labour and indeed those Nigerians with a conscience would agree that N50,000 ($400) is probably more appropriate as minimum wage with the severe

infrastructural deprivations in our social and economic environment, where a one room abode in a ‘face me I face you’ apartment may cost as much as N10,000/month.

Nonetheless, if some states are incapable of paying N18,000, how does one expect them to pay N50,000; besides, with annual inflation rate still hovering around 8%, over 40% of a N50,000 minimum wage would also be lost to inflation within 5 years without a wage review!

Furthermore, experience has taught us from the time of the Udoji Salary Review that such ‘benevolent’ wage increases also drive the rate of inflation rapidly. So if nominal wage increases is not the answer, how then can Labour defend the existing purchasing power of its members if it is inappropriate to advocate for significant wage increments to ameliorate workers’ deprivations?

Indeed, if quantum increases could ultimately make the wage earner and the economy worse off, then it is imperative that we consider the relevance of less nominal income actually buying more without fuelling inflation; for example, if N18,000 current minimum wage actually commands a value of about $110 at an exchange rate of N160=$1, the same wage rate would command the purchasing value of $220 if the Naira exchange rate is N80=$1.

In other words, the stronger the Naira the more enduring would be the purchasing power of the presently paltry minimum wage and the better it is for the average worker. The

Business & Economy

question then is how can the value of the Naira be improved against the dollar? We do not advocate that a benign rate be adopted by fiat; all that is required is for the Naira to be given a fair chance to determine its own level without the insistent atavistic intervention by the Central Bank, when it continuously floods the market with fresh Naira values and instigates an embarrassing market surplus to compete against the rationed dollar supplies of the Apex Bank when it substitutes Naira for dollar allocations. But, are the Unions interested in such enduring solutions to the issues of low wages, inflation and workers’ welfare? The answer to this question is out there in the wind!

Similarly, a Naira exchange rate of N80=$1 will immediately also abolish any further payment of wasteful fuel subsidies, so that such funds could be more appropriately deployed to remediate our infrastructural deficit so that the masses will enjoy better facilities for education, health, transportation, nutrition, etc.

Indeed, Labour leaders are aware that the economic contradictions that impoverish our people are instigated by the inexplicable unyielding burden of surplus Naira despite heavy government debt accumulation and an alleged scarcity of funds to grow our economy.

Curiously, Labour remained mute even when the immediate past CBN Governor, Lamido Sanusi wilfully confessed to government’s continuous folly in placing deposits at zero percent with banks, only to return thereafter to borrow from the same banks and pay double digit interest rates for money the Apex Bank intends to keep as idle funds.

Save the Naira, Save Nigerians!!

CWG extends IT academy to more countries

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU

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ommitted to providing qualitative training to fresh graduates and prepare them for job market across African countries, Computer Warehouse Group, CWG, has extended its training academy to its other operational bases in Accra, Kampala, Port Harcourt and Abuja, with plans to incorporate Cameroon by the first half of 2015.

With the extension into new frontiers, it is expected that beneficiaries of the Academy would better be prepared for the global job market.

The goal of the CWG Academy is to bridge the workforce knowledge gap in Africa by equipping fresh graduates with the required skills that will make them employable or become successful entrepreneurs.

With over 500 graduates from the Academy, about 85 percent, according to the company have been employed in leading companies such as IBM, CWG, MTN, Standard Chartered Bank, StanbicIBTC, Chevron, Cadbury, Etisalat, Ericsson and Unilever among others, while about 10 percent have opted

to become technology entrepreneurs.

Outlining the future plans of the project, CWG boss and Entrepreneur in Residence at CBS, Mr. Austin Okere said that the project which started modestly as a means of maintaining the steady supply of high skilled engineers to the CWG enterprise has grown to become a succour for ambitious trainable youths, who would otherwise be locked out of reaching their full potential. "The industry has come to be dependent on our highly trained and qualified graduates."

Omoh Gabriel Babajide Komolafe Clara Nwachukwu Peter Egwuatu Yinka Kolawole Favour Nnabugwu Godwin Oritse Godfrey Bivbere Michael Eboh Franklin Alli Ebele Orakpo Ifeyinwa Obi Rosemary Onuoha

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Group Business Editor Deputy Business Editor Energy Editor Asst. Business Editor Snr Bus. Correspondent Insurance Correspondent Maritime Correspondent Maritime Correspondent Energy Reporter Industry/Agric. Reporter Energy Reporter Maritime Reporter Insurance Reporter

CONTRIBUTORS Princewill Ekwujuru Nkiruka Nnorom Jonah Nwokpoku Naomi Uzor Providence Obuh LAYOUT

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Media/Marketing Capital Market E-Commerce Industry Micro Finance Graphics Department

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Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 41

Vanguard CLASSIFIED

L-r: Efe Oseragbaje, Adogbeji Oseragbaje, Akpomudiare Oseragbaje and Mr. Kingsley Oseragbaje, all children of Chief A Ben Oseragbaje (APOLLO) at the burial of Mr Johnson Ameye Ite Oseragbaje, elder brother to Chief A Ben Oseragbaje at Arhagba-Okpe, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday. The photograph was wrongly captioned by our sister publication, Sunday Vanguard, yesterday. We regret the error.

Kwara gov assures on return of schools

By Demola Akinyemi

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LORIN—KWARA State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, weekend, assured that the government would return the missionary schools to the owners as being demanded by churches and Christian denominations after the law had been repealed in the state assembly.

The governor who spoke against the backdrop of protest by some Christians in Ilorin demanding that government should return their schools to them, explained that government would be contravening the law to return the schools without the law being passed. He said the government had reached out to the State Assembly seeking the repeal of the 2006 education law which

would give the government power to return the schools to their owners.

Ahmed said “There are two types of schools; the first one is government-owned and the second one is privately owned but government-grant aided.

The government-owned are straight-jacketed; the grant aided ones had entered into agreement with the government under Kwara State Education Law on how grant-aided schools

48 bag first class at Unilorin

By Demola Akinyemi

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LORIN—THE University of Ilorin has said it would be graduating another 48 first class graduates at this year ’s convocation ceremonies. This is contained in a statement by

Christians urged to pray for nation's peace

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

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OS—DESPITE the security challenges in the north-east zone, Christians in the region have been urged to continue to pray for the restoration of peace in the area. Religious leaders in the region were also charged to preach faith, spiritual discipline, transparency and integrity which will make the congregation stand firm in the time of challenges.

These were the views of Apostle Ochogwu Shedrack while addressing participants at the first stage of auditions on Success Bible Quiz, SBQ held for students from Bauchi, Adamawa, Kaduna, Kogi and Nasarawa states.

Shedrack who is the leader of the Campus Outreach Ministry, also emphasized the need to maintain transparency and

are supposed to be run.

Once you build a school either a faith-based, community-based, individuals or groups and you desire to seek for grant aiding by government, then it would be run under Kwara State Education Law on grant aiding of schools. And those schools give the proprietors limited power and give government limited power.

This is how schools have been run so far."

cordial working relationship among Muslim and Christian youths in the region.

While announcing that the event was in preparations for quiz competition which is coming up soon, he said the various categories of the competition include gospel music, memory verses, Bible recitation, dancing and Bible quiz.

Also speaking, the Patron of Success Bible Quiz, SBQ 2014 version, Amb. Yemi Mathew commended the organizers and said the exercise will add value to the spiritual life of the youths and make them more responsible as believers.

He challenged all Christian leaders in positions of leadership to always support projects that are people oriented, tailored towards enlarging the Kingdom of God.

the institution’s Deputy Director, Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun.

According to the statement, the 48 First Class materials are among the 5,421 graduates who will be receiving their first degrees in various disciplines at the convocation, which is the 30th in the series. The UNILORIN's spokesman stated that 1,190 are graduating with the Second Class Upper degree; 2,814 graduands with the Second Class Lower degree, 1,068 with the Third Class degree and 84 will get the Pass grade.

Akogun added that 18 Diploma graduands, 642 Masters degree, 106 Ph.D and 142 postgraduate Diploma graduands will also graduate during the ceremony.

Giving the analysis of the graduands in the statement,Mr Akogun said,”A further breakdown of the performance of the graduands shows that 12 of the First Class graduates are from the Faculty of Engineering; 11 are from the Faculty of Physical Sciences; nine from the Faculty of Life Sciences; six from the Faculty of Agriculture and five from the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences."

OGBOJI—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogboji Onyekachi Ethel, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ojeogu Onyekachi Ethel. All documents bearing former names remain valid. Universal Basic Education Board, UBEB and Ebonyi LGA and general public should please take note.

EMEGWALI—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Benedicta Emegwali, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Benedicta Komone. All former documents remain valid.

WAEC, NYSC, DELSU and general public please take note.

ADEFISOYE—I, formerly known and addressed as Mr. Idowu Oloruntoba Sunday, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Adefisoye Oloruntoba Sunday.All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

ADEFISOYE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Bolarinwa Eunice Abidemi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adefisoye Eunice Abidemi.All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

WILLIE-THOMAS —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Augustina Oludo Onah, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Augustina Oludo Onah Willie-Thomas. All former documents remain valid. University of Port Harcourt, US Embassy, Marymount University USA, Setonhall University USA and general public, please take note.

AGWUONUOHA—I, formerly known and addressed as Agwuonuoha Esther Adaugo, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Agwu Esther Uche.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

O G U N S E OLAGOKE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Zainab Omolola Ogunse, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Zainab Omolola Ogunse-Olagoke. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Addition of Name BENAEBI—I, formerly known and addressed as Labo Pius, now wish to be known and addressed as Labo Benaebi Pius.

All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

UEBARI—I, formerly known and addressed as Mr. Uebari Leelee Toki, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Leelee Toki Mieyebo. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC, Nigerian Law School, Rivers State University of Science and Technology and the general public please take note.

G O D D AY — I , formerly known and addressed as Oliseneku Ossai Godday and Oliseneku Oyemike Excel Godday, now wish to be known and addressed as Oliseneku Oyemike Excel. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

NWIDUUDEE—I, formerly known and addressed as Mr. Nwiduudee David Lekara, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. David Lekara Mieyebo. All former documents remain valid. NYSC, Rivers State University of Science and Technology and the general public please take note.

A N U G WA — I , formerly known and addressed as Miss Chinyere Blessing Anugwa, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chinyere Blessing Ugboaja. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

KALU MBA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Chinyere Kalu Mba, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chinyere Jeroh.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

DURU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Clementina Chigozie Duru, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Clementina Chigozie Soko. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

EFORDILI—I, formerly known and addressed as Joseph Obianua Efordili, now wish to be known and addressed as Engr.

Godwin Obianua Inneh. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

NJOKU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Njoku Peace Chinyere, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Igwe Peace Chinyere.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OBIJIAKU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Happiness Anurika Obijiaku, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Happiness Anurika Ikegwuani.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

HALILU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Fatima Ibrahim Halilu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Fatima Ibrahim Halilu-Muhammad.

All former documents remain valid. National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Headquarters and general public please take note.

IBRAHIM—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Maimuna Ibrahim, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Maimuna IbrahimAliyu Madaki.

National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Headquarters and general public please take note.

ONYEMEKARA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Prisca Ifunanya Onyemekara, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Prisca Ifunanya Oji. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

FOR ENQUIRIES, CALL ADVRT HOTLINE: 01-8737025, OR 08025781478, 08035449960

42 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

107 senators failed to return since 1999 — NDOMA-EGBA

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

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B U J A — S E N AT E Leader, Chief Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, said weekend that 107 senators have failed to return to the Senate since 199, noting that this has robbed the Red Chamber of the desired experience and stability.

Ndoma-Egba, who stated this while fielding questions on why he wanted to go back to the senate, noted that experience was a necessary weapon in the art of legislation as was evidenced in the leadership of the senate led by Senator David Mark, which had led to its stability.

There had been stiff opposition from the Cross River State government and the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, against the re-election of Senator Ndoma-Egba and the adoption of the House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Appropriation, John Owan Enoh, for the Cross River Central senatorial district.

The Senate Leader, who said that he had attracted 76 projects to his constituency, said: “From 1999 till date, we have only two senators who have survived.

They are Senators David Mark and Bello Gwarzo.

“Secondly, Nigeria lost 107 senators and we did not notice.

All the institutional memory of the 107 senators lost, had been eroded. When memory is eroded,

FORUM: Mr. Olusola Teniola, CEO, Internet Solutions (left) and Mr. Austin Okere, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CWG Plc during the Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria, ATCON’s Executives and Regulators’ Forum held in Lagos. capacity is equally eroded.

“In the United States, if about four or seven senators lose their position during an election year, it is an upheaval but here in Nigeria, there is no election year that we have up to 30 senators who would return to their position.

“This development constitutes massive hemorrhage, massive erosion of institutionalization.

What have we benefitted from the experience of David Mark and Bello Gwarzo? The senate had achieved stability and peace.

“Before 2007, during the musical chairs era, some days you could

even have two senate presidents, one presiding over plenary in the morning and the other emerging before the session.

“However, from 2007, because we have these two very experience senators who started since 1999, now at the helms of affairs in the senate, we have stability in the upper chamber. There has been no scandal since 2007 and Nigeria had benefitted a lot from that stability. The stability in the senate also stabilized the polity.

“I am re-contesting next year because it will be in the interest of the polity for us to continue with

the stability and fortunately, I have been part of the leadership that had provided this stability.”

On the allegation that he was stingy, he explained that he never liked to dramatized the act of charity like some of his political opponents do, adding that he was always with the people, while his opponents would be with government officials.

He advised those interested in the senate seat to campaign on issues, show what they had achieved or the projects they had attracted and stop attacking his personality.

Fashola, Asiodu task Nigerians on climate change, healthy living

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

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AGOS—A renowned environmentalist, Chief Philip Asiodu, has stressed the need for citizens in the country to pay serious attention to measures geared towards mitigating potential threats of climate change, especially in a coastal city like Lagos State.

According to Asiodu, the whole planet is under stress due to global warming.

This came as Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State urged individuals, corporate organizations as well as stakeholders to further collaborate with government to promote healthy living among residents in the state and the country at large.

The duo gave the charge weekend, while addressing participants at the 2014 annual “walk for nature”, held in Lagos State House, Marina, organized by the state government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, NCF, for the fifth consecutive year.

The walk, according to the organizers, aims at raising the level of awareness of residents to what may be done to reduce the C M Y K

Editors to honour late Remi Oyo tomorrow

inevitable exposure of climate change, among others.

Asiodu, who is the President of NCF, stressed that small island states were more prone to the damaging effects of a warming planet than those in the interland.

He said: “The impact of a rising sea level means loss of lives and properties for many people living on small islands.

“The importance of Lagos as a coastal city and as the economic nerve centre of the most populous country in Africa makes it imperative to pay serious attention to any potential threat to the economy of the state.

“All actions aimed at sensitizing the populace to the dangers of climate change and what they can do to reduce their exposure to its effects is part of the strategy for mitigating the damaging consequences.”

He added that agenda 21 of the Rio Convention recognized the plight of the earth’s coastal areas and the need for the areas to be developed in sustainable fashion.

Fashola, who was represented by the Special Adviser on the Environment, Dr. Taofeek Folami, said: “Lagos as a coastal

city is beset with myriad of challenges such as illegal dredging, illegal land reclamation and sand mining activities which has threatened sustainability of the coastlines, resulting in surges, flooding and general negative environmental consequences, including physical alterations and destruction of coastal habitats, flooding, erosion, pollution and continued threats from rising sea levels.”

He, however, reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustainable coastal area management, through effective implementation of various strategies and techniques to control flooding, ocean surge, illegal dredging, among others.

Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello, who was represented by Engr.

Hakeem Ogunbambi, Permanent Secretary Office of the Environmental Services in the ministry, said: “It is high time we had a rethink and review our strategies towards the management of coastal and marine issues, realign our implementation plans and partnership as well as redirect our

efforts towards new set of goals.”

He urged residents to support government to preserve nature by embracing the message of the walk for nature programme to encourage walking to safeguard the environment.

IGERIAN editors will file out tomorrow to honour their former president, Dame Oluremi Oyo, who passed away on October 1, 2014, aged 62.

Tagged ‘Media Afternoon of Songs and Tribute in Honour of Remi Oyo,’ the event comes up at the Media Centre of the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Iganmu, Lagos, starting at 4p.m, and closing at 6 p.m.

Organized by the Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE, Diamond Award for Media Excellence, DAME, and NAN, the special programme will afford editors the opportunity to go down the memory lane about the woman who led them for two terms (four years), and brought dignity and respectability to the NGE. The afternoon will be characterized by hymns, Bible reading, prayer for the Oyo family, exhortation, testimonies, and others.

“It’s a solemn opportunity to pay tribute to the memory of the woman who served the NGE, journalism, and indeed, Nigeria well,” says Femi Adesina, president, Nigerian Guild of Editors.

“Let the tribesmen and women of Dame Oluremi Oyo (editors) turn out in their numbers to honour the deceased, and comfort her family,” Adesina added.

SAN condemns judges’ lobby for inclusion in election tribunal

By Bartholomew Madukwe

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Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Emeka Ngige, has flayed the judiciary for not playing its role to ensure a better electoral process and condemned judges who lobby to be included in election tribunal.

Ngige, who spoke at the 7th Annual Law and Social Development Lecture of Bamidele Aturu & Co., noted that often, the judiciary was susceptible to manipulation, in terms of composition of tribunal members.

He said: “The judiciary has a tremendous role to play. It is the

judiciary that actually makes or mars any electoral process. If an election is badly conducted, it is the judiciary that will call the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to order.

“It is also the judiciary that can defend a properly conducted election. The problem we have now is that the judiciary is not playing that role.”

Noting that some vested interests played parts in ensuring that certain judges were nominated to election tribunal, Ngige pointed out that what would mar the success of the 2015 general elections was a repeat of situations where a judge lobbied his Chief Judge for inclusion in election tribunal.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 43

•Gov. Amaechi, Mama G presenting the Best Movie of The Year award to Iyabo Ojo

•From (R-L) Nkem Ike, AY at the event

BON awards: How Liz Benson, Jeta Amata stole the show

By BENJAMIN NJOKU

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EGENDARY Nollywood actress-turnedEvangelist, Rev. Liz BensonAmeye and celebrated film maker, Jeta Amata who have been missing in action for some years now, returned to the social scene last Thursday night at the sixth edition of Best of Nollywood Awards which held inside the Banquet Hall of Government House, Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

Liz Benson, started acting from childhood and her first break out role was in the soar away 1994 movie, “Glamour Girls.” She disappeared from the screen several years after she remarried her Bishop Great Emeya husband. But to the surprise of many, the ageless actress reappeared at the awards night amid fun fare.

Benson who clad in purple-

colour gown was one of the veteran actors honoured with the Life-time Achievement Awards for their immense contribution to the development of the nation’s motion picture industry at the event. Others were film makers, Oga Bello, legendary Kannywood actor, Kasimu Yaro. and Nobert Young.

Also, making a surprise appearance at the event was the celebrated director, and producer of the controversial film, “Black Gold”, Jeta Amata who has been missing in action in recent times.

Jeta stormed the event venue, looking fabulous and bright, accompanied by two white ladies. All eyes turned and fixed on him as he stepped into the hall. He, however, acknowledged his absence from the social scene when he remarked while presenting an

•Liz Benson(standing) exchanging pleasantries with Gov. Amaechi award that, “ I’m glad to see Liz Benson again and all the Nollywood stars in attendance.”

Hosted by Fred Amata and OAP, Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi, the awards attracted Nollywood stars, including Patience Ozoukwo, Kenneth Okonkwo, Oga Bello, Yinka Quadri, Nobert Young, Emem Isong, Iyabo Ojo, Ayo Adesanya, Bimbo Akintola, Chinedu Ikedieze, Bob ManuelUdokwu, Dickson Iroegbu, Jeta Amata, Ejiro Okurame, Moyo Lawal, Nkem Ike, Judith Audu and Fati Zenna.

Also, in attendance were top comedians Okey Bakassi who

Wizkid, 2face thrill fans at first ever int’l concert

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Face and Wizkid has definitely left a mark in Ghana with their first ever international performance of their collabo track, “Dance Go – Eau De Vie” The Hennessy Artistry 2014 headliners gave fans and party lovers a run for their money as they performed the Hennessy Artistry 2014 theme song along with a number of their hit tracks.

2Face who performed monster tracks like African queen, Spiritual healing, True Love, Implication among other hit tracks called out StarBoy, Wizkid to the stage as they both performed “Dance Go” amidst loud screams from excited fans.

The concert which held at the Accra International Conference Centre last night, Saturday, October 18th later saw Wizkid close the show with label mate, L.A.X as they performed hits, Ginga, Caro, Show Me the Money among other hit songs. The duo moves to Lagos this week for another edition •2face and Wizkid of the Hennessy Artistry club tour.

C M Y K

emerged Best Actor in Igbo movie, Ayo Makun (AY) and Gbenga Adeyinka 1st.

The big winners on the night were popular Yoruba actress, Iyabo Ojo, rising stars Ivie Okujaye and Tope Tedela. Ojo’s latest movie which centered on child abuse, ‘Silence’, emerged the Best Movie of The Year, while Ivie Okujaye and Tope Tedela won the coveted Best Actress and Best Actor in Leading Roles respectively.

Interestingly, Ojo’s first daughter, Priscilla Ojo, also emerged the Best Child Actress in the movie “Silence”. Also, other winners were Femi Jacobs

(Dream Walker) and Rita Dominic (The Meeting). They both clinched the Best Supporting Actor and Actress respectively. Veteran Yoruba movie actor, Yinka Quadri won the Best Actor in the leading role (Yoruba) award while Ayo Adesanya picked the Best Supporting Actress (Yoruba) honour.

Most promising actor

Abdulateef Adedeji and Ijeoma Agu won the Most Promising Actor and Actress; Daniel K Daniel and Linda Ejifor picked Revelation of The Year Male and Female; Olamide Davids’ astounding performance in “Black Silhouette” fetched him the Best Child Actor In Movie award.

Desmond Elliot, who clinched the Amaka Igwe Director of The Year award with the movie, “Apaye”; Best Kiss In A Movie award went to Majid Michel and Beverly Naya (Forgetting June); Movie with the Best Social Message (Our Difference); Movie with the Best Special Effect (A Mile From Home); Best Use of Make Up (Cobra); Best Use of Food (Being Mrs Elliot). Best Sound and Best Screen play awards went to Render To Ceasar, Best Production Design (Osunfunke) and Best Short Film (Brave).

44 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 PISCES; Although your personal ideas are very reliable and capable of bringing success, you will need to be as co-operative as possible to achieve your desire.

ARIES; It is important you take your sources of making money very seriously. Both hard work and element of luck will work favourably for you.

TAURUS; Placement of the Moon will encourage you to become a little bit aggressive; here is a day when your leadership ability will assist many.

GEMINI; The Moon’s placement can force agitation on the minds of some of you but if keep your head above the cloudy atmosphere you will not have anything to fear.

CANCER; Young-at-heart among you may be greatly excited today and for the next few weeks; if you take good decision on your love life you may enjoy it.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

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deadline is the time within which we must do something. It is the time we have to do what we have chosen to do or what we are expected to do or compelled to do.

Unfortunately, most people associate deadline with

Giving yourself a deadline journalism. This should not be.

Everyone that aspires to be somebody in life must imbibe the practice of deadline.

The major difference between a mere wish and a goal is that a wish is an open cheque that

TERROR MUDA

has no definite time for it to be cashed whereas a goal has time frame for its execution. But for fear of failing, most people will gladly set deadline for attaining their goal. Be a sportsman. Be sincere to yourself. If you have

in “Never say goodbye”

given everything and you still couldn’t meet up with your deadline, adjust it forward.

In everything, set a deadline for yourself.

Just be sincere. No body will kill you for not meeting up with your deadline.

By Lanre Kehinde

LEO; Here is an ambitious day for many of you. The more practical you are about your reasonable desire the better for your cause. Be more family minded VIRGO; Good luck will knock at your door. Although it is good to plan ahead, you have to take advantage of now that presented good opportunities.

LIBRA; Keeping both your personal and other people secrets will do you lots of good today. Then tomorrow is your big day; prepare yourself accordingly.

SCORPIO; Here is a day when your closeness to the influential people can be source of assistance to both yourself in particular and your group in general. And then your love life is getting better. Exhibit loving maturity.

SAGITTARIUS; Take your health more seriously than before. However that is not to say you have to ignore your responsibilities at work. Respect your senior colleagues CAPRICORN; The influence looks more favourable to you now. You will certainly become more enterprising to the betterment of your cause. Right now nobody can ignore you.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

AQUARIUS; Those of you who are more observant within your base of operation will have more to gain. Prepare to take good advice from the veterans within your base.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat tr ological datee and place of bir th ttoo the As Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

Good health for me?

Dear Joshua, I have never gone through any major sickness since I was born but it is always good to know, especially as people are saying that those that do not fall-sick often can die the very first time such happen. Can they be right? Please tell me about my financial prospects.

Mujidat, Benin.

Dear Mujidat, They are wrong. And you have no cause to fear. Actually my findings here pointed to your hard beginning-health wise. If you ask your parents they would tell you much than you think you know about yourself Leo and Scorpio that hosted your natal Sun and Moon are members of few strongest Star signs available (when talking of health/life and death). Thus you are well endowed.

Although as both the Sun and Moon were at loggerheads when you were born you must have gone through some tough times health-wise, especially when you were younger, very great ability of Scorpio to survive and good aspects the planets enjoyed during your birth hour are indications of good health for you. And as your age advances so also your health will continue to improve.

Then concentration of many heavenly bodies in health related Virgo is another pointers to good health. However that is not to say you will go through adulthood life without any health related challenges but when they come you have what it takes to survive and be back on the road to sound health.

What to watch out for include TOOTHACHE, the chest/ back, stomach and at very advanced age may come circulatory system related challenge. Being a female Scorpio born person always pay good attention to gynaecological related ailments and fever is common in this part of the world.

But then all ailments mentioned here are mere warnings (although to be taken seriously) nothing fatalistic please!!!!

Although you can be generous, kind and loving you are not the extravagant type. Thus you are reliable and can make success of your family purse. You are practical analyst with respect for your family dignity, therefore putting aside money for raining days comes natural to you Occasionally you think that money don’t come as faster as desired by you but it comes eventually after a few lesson.

Luckily for you Libra that hosted your natal planet of desire (Mars) is money and partnership/marrige related.

Thus money will find it way into your life either personally or via joint efforts between you and your husband.

VIRGINIA

HOME & ABROAD

dadadekola@yahoo.com

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 45

PDP leaders in Delta vow to resist imposition of candidates

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Churches, agencies formulate response to Ebola outbreak

By Sam Eyoboka, with Agency Report

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O respond to the Ebola Virus crisis in West Africa, which has taken more almost 4,500 lives, the World Council of Churches, WCC, brought to the table representatives of Christian aid organisations and United Nations’ agencies to learn from each other and up their efforts.

The WCC consultation, held recently in Geneva, Switzerland, affirmed a greater role for the churches and faith-based organizations in helping to stop the epidemic.

Dr. Pierre Formenty, an epidemiologist and the coordinator of the WHO’s campaign against Ebola, while addressing the WCC consultation, said it was a situation where everyone needs to work together: politicians, media, communities, faith organisations. We all have to do something. If one fails, everybody will fail,” said Formenty, stressing that faith organisations in Africa have a huge role to play.

• A Church activity in progress

during burial rituals, an occasion which poses high risks of spreading the disease. The speakers said that while it is necessary to prevent the spread of the virus, support to families and communities is also essential.

It was stressed that women should be empowered in their response to Ebola. The impact of virus especially on children and women was discussed at length at the event.

Influence of Statistics shared at the the Church consultation showed that 4.5 Participants stressed that million children under the age of churches and other religious five are living in areas affected by communities not only have a constant and influential reach to the grassroots populations to offer practical advice about hygiene and safe funeral practices but can also directly address the deeper cultural and religious roots of

By Victoria Ojeme widespread stigma and discrimination that have he Nigeria Ambassador accompanied the epidemic. to Cuba, Ambassador Dr. Gisela Schneider from the Laraba Bhutto has disclosed that German Institute for Medical the Cuban government is yet to Mission, who was in Liberia a few remove Nigeria out among the weeks ago, shared observations countries with Ebola. from her visit. “Christian hospitals Bhutto who spoke to Vanguard are highly vulnerable,” she said. in Havana,said the Mission had “This is why ‘keep safe, keep made request for Cuba to look working’ is an important slogan into removing Nigeria from the we promote for the health workers list of quarantine countries. serving Christian hospitals. She "We have sent two reports said “people working on the backing that Nigeria is no longer ground need a great amount of among the countries with the encouragement, training, spread of Ebola, but we have not mentorship and support.” had any response from them, so Schneider added that while it we are waiting, but the Minister is important to increase health facilities that reach the household of Health in Cuba doesn't think level, it is “crucial to empower that the report is enough evidence local communities to take care of to remove Nigeria from quarantine because Cuba is themselves.”

Christoph Benn , former advisor working with the World Health to the WCC for its programme on Organisation on the Ebola issue.

"The Minister of health in Cuba health and healing said the WCC, feel removing Nigeria from churches and ecumenical quarantine can only be done organisations need to take full when the WHO has satisfied the responsibility in not only helping Nigerian report," she argued. to curb the disease but in Bhutto also called on ECOWAS communicating the right countries to come together in message, in raising awareness combating the deadly virus. and challenging the stigma " This is not to say that the battle attached to Ebola.”The is over because a lot more still consultation also highlighted the needs to be done in order to help sanctity and dignity of the dead our sister countries in West Africa that are still grappling with

the Ebola virus. Children and women constitute 75 percent of survivors and victims.

WCC General Secretary, Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit noted that: “Churches and faith communities have a vibrant role to play in addressing stigma issues, promoting preventative messages and compassionate alternative burial ceremonies and rituals. He said Churches should provide psychosocial and pastoral counselling to the traumatised as well as support the over-stretched health-care providers.

Nigeria still on our list of Ebola nations — CUBA

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•Ambassador Laraba Bhutto combating the virus.

"This situation also calls for our joint response and action, and Nigeria, under the auspices of the Economic Community of West African States has made funds available towards eradicating the Ebola Virus Disease", she added.

Speaking on number of documented Nigerians immigrant who lived in Cuba, Ambassador Bhutto said Nigerian population in Cuba is very small since government is the only employer of labour.

"There are forty three Nigerians in Cuba, the bulk of these are students, about seventeen are post graduate students reading Medicine in different areas of specialties.

OME leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta State, have vowed to resist any attempt to impose a governorship candidate on the party.

The leaders on the platform of concerned stakeholders in Delta PDP at a meeting, said however that they had been informed by a presidency source that “President Goodluck Jonathan will determine who wins the party nomination and not any other person.”

A source at the meeting, said those that attending meeting warned that “If the Urhobos lose the governorship ticket of PDP, especially if the winner is imposed on the basis of zoning as being suggested, the block votes of Urhobos will be lost to President Goodluck Jonathan.”

In the 2011 elections, Delta Central (Urhobo) garnered 824,000 votes (59.8%) of the total votes for President Jonathan, while Delta North (Anioma) garnered a lowly 149,000 votes (10.8%).

President Goodluck Jonathan faces a tough reelection battle with the emergence of the All Progressive Party, APC, which is threatening PDP’s hold on the central government.

In 2011, voter turnout in South East and SouthSouth was 65.8% and 67.96% respectively.

If he and the party must hold on to power, there must be an increase in voter turnout in the 2015 presidential election in these geopolitical zones.

The meeting recalled that Urhobos of Delta Central Senatorial District through Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, had taken a decision that the Urhobos would present a candidate of their choice to run for the office of Governor.

According to them, they had been out of power in the state for eight years and their representation in the PDP federal government had been limited to a mere two appointments compared to Delta North which had over 14 appointments.

I will recontest if my people want me to — SENATOR

By Joseph Erunke BUJA—SENATOR representing Delta Central, Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, weekend said he was still waiting for his people to direct him on what to do in 2015, insisting that his the people will direct him on whether to re-contest the Senatorial election or another office in the 2015 general election.

Speaking in Abuja Aguariavwodo said: “I will do whatever my people want me to do, for now, they have not said anything.”

He insisted that contrary to insinuation that he would not return to the Senate , since his emergence was merely aimed

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at completing the tenure of late Senator Pius Ewherido, Senator Aguariavwodo noted that “there is no zoning in my place, we are the same people and the same ethnic group. So, there is no zoning of any sort. You can come from anywhere, so the issue of rotation does not arise that somebody should be barred on that basis.”

Aguariavwodo, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatisation, said unless the Ajaokuta and Delta steel companies were revitalized, the nation’s hope of having 100 percent made in Nigeria cars in no distant time would be a mere dream.

Akwa Ibom SSG to resign today, may join gov race

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HE Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government, Mr Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, will resign his appointment today.

Emmanuel, who has been under intense pressure from different quarters to contest the 2015 governorship election, appeared to have heeded the pleas and is set to declare his governorship ambition on Tuesday.

Speculations had been rife that the former banking top shot who became SSG less than a year ago was set to succeed Governor Godswill Akpabio whose second term expires in 2015.

But with his resignation and declaration scheduled for Tuesday in Uyo, he has put paid to those speculations, in a move that will receive the commendations of indigenes and residents of the state.

46—Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

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N Wednesday, October 15, 2014, former military head of state, retired Major General Muhammadu Buhari, made his much awaited declaration to run for the presidency on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, at the Eagle Square, Abuja. It was the fourth time since 2003 when he broke into the quadrennial vocation of seeking to rule Nigeria again.

As usual, the crowds were there, in large numbers, most of them from Arewa North, confirming the well-known fact that he has a cult following in the Muslim section of Northern Nigeria. Buhari has taken his place along with the late Chief election. The veteran presidential Obafemi Awolowo and Dim aspirant is someone we all know, for his Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu as “good, bad and ugly” attributes. a great Nigerian beloved at the level of The question: “What is new ” is fanaticism by people of his ethno- paramount both for Buhari and his coreligious section. All three ran for contestant for the APC ticket, former Vice president of Nigeria several times but President, Atiku Abubakar, who has also failed to make it because they could not been a presidential candidate on two manage to extend their charismatic previous occasions. The same will not appeal beyond their primordial bounds. apply to newbies, Governor Rabiu Buhari has contested against three Kwankwaso and (if he will run)and Peoples Democratic Party, Aminu Tambuwal.

PDP, presidential candidates.

Unfortunately, Buhari and In 2003, he made his debut his handlers did not against an incumbent, address the issue of “what President Olusegun is new ” during his Obasanjo, who was seeking declaration. He merely re-election. In 2007, he went reeled off his usual coup against Governor Umaru day-like speech, accusing Yar’Adua, his fellow Katsina the president he wants to indigene. And in 2011, he replace of “election was up against an ethnic The APC and rigging”, running down Minority candidate, Dr the economy, inability to fix its candidates Goodluck Jonathan, who was the power situation, also an incumbent trying his must be ready dividing the polity, inability hands for the first time in a to provide security and to tackle the nationwide presidential run. presiding over a corrupt Already, the PDP has PDP and its regime. unanimously okayed Then, he proceeded to candidates President Jonathan for a list, equally in an second term. Buhari is with superior intellectually lazy manner, hoping to be nominated from things he hopes to intellectual his APC party to square up accomplish if he gets our engagement to the president. mandate: protection of lives So, what is new from Buhari, way beyond and property, pursuing an you may ask? The APC is a economic policy that would much more formidable Alhaji Lai promote prosperity and political party than all the Mohammed’s employment, quality platforms that Buhari has education, agricultural trite market used in the past. It currently productivity for food has 14 states under its belt, woman-like security, reviving the the highest the opposition has industries, developing the name-calling ever got. But the ruling PDP solid minerals sector and still has 21 states with propaganda restoring integrity in Anambra, under a strong PDP governance by fighting ally, the All Progressives corruption.

Grand Alliance, APGA, I call it intellectually lazy making the 22nd, with the because anyone can sit possibility of more states down and produce this joining before the next speech within 30 minutes

Buhari: What’s new? and use it to campaign in India, Pakistan, Russia, Afghanistan, Algeria, Uganda, Nigeria, almost everywhere. Very little was done to analyse each of the sectors and proffer fresh ideas that will inspire uncommitted members of the APC (and Nigerians at large) to see Buhari as a better choice than the others. Perhaps, his supporters will argue that this was a mere declaration for president and the details will come later when the main show begins. That had better be so.

The APC and its candidates must be ready to tackle the PDP and its candidates with superior intellectual engagement way beyond Alhaji Lai Mohammed’s trite market woman-like name-calling propaganda. The late Chief Awolowo produced superior opposition throughout his political career by investing so much in brainpower and periodically analysing the political, social and economic situations of the country. He made “predictions” and they came true, thus earning him the title of “sage” which his admirers still call him. Many people opposed Awo till he died, but even his most ardent political opponents respected his depth. Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu described him as “the best president Nigeria never had”. It was not a mockery. It will take a lot more than empty name-calling to bring down a sitting Nigerian president like Jonathan.

And make no mistakes about it: President Jonathan and his party, having run the country for slightly more than four years, now have unlike in 2011,figures and facts with which they will try to woo the uncommitted voter to vote for continuity rather than change.

They don’t even need to engage Lai Mohammed in street verbal exchanges.

The incumbency factor will be heavy on their side. For the opposition to stand any chance, it must be ready to engage the achievements and failures of the

Jonathan administration TRUTHFULLY and show how they would do it better if given a chance. Obvious lies or deceptive postulations may backfire.

For instance, Buhari got it wrong when he said the economy is “going down”.

This flies in the face of known facts. The economy is actually “going up”, based on figures from the Central Bank of Nigeria, the National Bureau of Statistics, the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and the various international rating agencies. It is no longer news that Nigeria is now the largest economy in Africa and the 26th largest in the world; and that the economy is growing at a much faster and higher rate than Buhari left it in 1994, thanks to a strong team of world class technocrats powering that sector.

Buhari actually ran an economy in which there were no essential goods in the shops to buy!

But it can also be argued that the dividends of economic growth are not yet being felt by the generality of Nigerians. Jonathan had better tell us how he intends to make the people feel the growth in 2015 and beyond when the campaigns begin. A sound opposition party and candidate will tell us how they will grow the economy at even faster rate, while getting the people to feel its impact. It will not dispute the fact that the economy is growing just to demonise the sitting regime and score cheap points to deceive those who are ignorant.

Buhari knows better than to say power generation in Nigeria was 4,000 megawatts in 1999. That was a needless lie! It was less than 2,000 megawatts.

In 16 years, the PDP Federal Government took it to nearly 5,000 megawatts after reportedly spending some $20 billion or so. Is that satisfactory? I say NO. But why lie when the truth will do? Is that how you will fight corruption?

Elections have gotten better under President Jonathan both at state and federal levels, and election winners have been sworn-in irrespective of their political parties. Our democracy has grown. Someone who has lost elections three times in a row may not admit that.

He may justify himself by complaining of “rigging”.

Buhari needs to change tactics. He must come out of the North because North and West alone cannot give him victory. If he proceeds to 2015 with the old tactics of the three lost elections,the result should be obvious even before the election holds.

OPINION Lessons from the Ebola epidemic

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By Dike Kalu

VAILABLE reports indicate that Nigeria has been successful in containing the Ebola virus disease following a serious threat from an infected LiberianAmerican that flew into Lagos airport from Liberia where the disease is rampant. I hope that Nigerians will not go overboard in celebrating their country’ssuccess since the danger is not yet over, not with the disease still ravaging nearby countries in parts of West Africa. Nevertheless,it will be unfortunate if we do not show our appreciation to the government for her efforts so far in preventing the Ebola disease from spreading in Nigeria.With about 180 million Nigerians, the thought of the likely disastrous consequences of the Ebola virus not being contained in the country is mind-boggling.

So we of the Virtual University Without Walls of Nigeria say, thank you to the Nigerian Government, especially the Health Ministry; thank you to the International Organisations that donated funds and priceless expertise,

and thank you to the many faceless individuals that did the vital spadework in the fight against the spread of Ebola virus in Nigeria.We appreciate your contributions; we appreciate your help.

The Ebola epidemic should be a wake-up call to Nigeria. Her success, so far, in the Ebola virus battle demonstrates, in part, that while we may be just a developing country, Nigeria has the manpower,and Nigerians have a latent will that can be mobilized to do whatever is necessary to build and address their needs.However, in order to be able to harness this latent will efficiently and successfully,the government has to give Nigerians the tools they need to do the work necessary to advance the country.

Fighting Ebola virus is not feasible without the advances that developed nations have made over the years and continue to make in science and technology.

Accordingly, well-meaning Nigerians have been stressing the need to upgrade the state of science education

in the country, apparently to deaf ears. The deplorable state of science in most Nigerian secondary schools after 54 years of political independence is not only a shame, it is also anti-development.

The Western world has known for a long time that science and technology are proven instruments of development. Consequently they’ve incorporated these enterprises into their culture; they avidly support them in any way possible, and they constantly use the technological fall-outs from science to raise the standard of living of their people. It is similarly imperative for Nigeria to also incorporate science and technology into her culture if she is really serious in her efforts to develop the country.

In order to uplift Nigeria from her present state of underdevelopment, for a start, it is incumbent on our governments and on Nigeria’s intelligentsia and elites to do whatever is necessary to upgrade our secondary school science, which is the seed-corn of technology. *Prof. Nta-Kalu is of the Virtual University Without Walls.

—47 Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014—

By Josephine Babatunde

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OMETIME in 2005, a friend took ill at workplace in one of the federal parastatals in Lagos and had to visit the staff clinic. An experienced doctor after thoroughly examining him put his finger on the cause of his sickness by correctly diagnosing malaria. The doctor prescribed an anti-malaria drug for treatment and because the medicine was out of stock in the clinic’s pharmacy, the patient was asked to procure it outside. As a matter of fact, the doctor specifically asked him to ensure that he buys from a particular pharmaceutical store in Apapa, where he was at least sure of the authenticity of the drug. Our dear friend on the contrary decided to patronize a pharmacy in his neighbourhood. This singular decision nearly cost him his life: for the next three months, he found himself in hospital gravely sick and passing out blood in his urine.

According to another doctor who handled his case, his kidneys were almost damaged by the drug he took to cure his malaria, which turned out to be fake. Our friend survived but he was just one of the few lucky ones!

This story captures vividly the dangers that our people face every day as they go about procurement of prescription and non-prescription drugs. Some innocent citizens have had their lives cut down in mid trajectory just in search of good health or in

the seeming treatment of a simple ailment. However, this is where the performance of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control, NAFDAC, has become a game changer. Nobody can seriously deny the fact that NAFDAC was brought into national consciousness by the impressive performance of the former Director General, the late Dora Akunyili. So eye-catching was her performance that doubts began to grow if her successor would be able to fit into her supposedly big shoes.

But, any such doubts have long been consigned to the waste bins with the appointment of Paul Botwev Orhii as NAFDAC DG in 2009.

The incumbent chief executive of NAFDAC has simply taken the organisation to the next gear, especially in three major areas, namely: fighting drug counterfeiting, promotion of public health and the growth of local drug manufacturing. By employing the use of cutting edge technologies, Orhii has taken the fight against the wicked drug counterfeiters, as it is said, to their own home turf. And with each passing day, he is squeezing life out of the merchants of death and putting them out of their nefarious and very deadly business. Thus, consumers can verify the authenticity of the medicine or food they are about to purchase immediately by simply sending a text message

,

NAFDAC, counterfeiting and public health

It is now apparent that many of the deaths attributed to wrong diagnoses in our hospitals in the past bear a direct nexus with administration of counterfeit drugs

,

via a mobile phone in the very store they are.

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he beauty of the Mobile Authentication System, MAS, is such that it places the power of identifying the wholesomeness or otherwise of a particular drug or food in the very hands of the consumer. This entails the use of scratch card placed on the pack of a drug or can of food and sending a short code on MTN, Glo or Airtel networks. Guess what? It works like magic as the consumer will there and then receive a reply indicating that the item is genuine or not. How one wishes our dear friend who nearly died after swallowing a few anti-malaria tablets had the privilege of this scientific and self-operating method of drug and food authentication!

There is also the Regulated Products Verification Programme, RPVP, a product of one of the many NAFDAC’s collaborations with other organisations. This system

can also help consumers to authenticate the product at the point of purchase. They can text, browse or call to verify the scratched off electronic product code or use the in-store instant sensor station for scanning. In any pharmacy where the electronic trays are installed, when drugs are placed on it a red beep signifies a fake product while a green beep confirms the product as authentic.

The third anti-counterfeiting device admirably introduced by NAFDAC is the hand-held Truscan device, which aids onthe-spot testing of drugs and food products, to verify how genuine they are without recourse to the conventional laboratory. The beauty of this device is that it can detect fake drugs and food products right at the ports of entry and in no small measures has helped NAFDAC in checkmating the dangerous and unpatriotic activities of counterfeiters.

Generally, with these cutting edge technologies NAFDAC clearly have beaten fake drug peddlers and manufacturers to their own game. Not only has the policing role of NAFDAC significantly improved, the old method of closing down businesses based on suspicions and other whimsical nuances has given way to a more scientific and effective way of tracking counterfeiting in the country.

It is also to the credit of NAFDAC under Orhii that many of the indigenous pharmaceutical companies that have been lying comatose because of the flooding of the country with imported substandard drugs are back to

This adversarial style of politics

By Hamisu Abubakar

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HEN the All Progressives Congress, APC, was born in July 2013, it raised hopes that it would play the role of Nigeria’s major opposition party in the best tradition of a presidential democracy. Even among members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, there was agreement that the peoples’ interests are best served with a virile opposition that will constructively criticise government’s programmes and policies.

In the past 15 months, however, those ideals have been thrown to the dogs. Instead of providing a platform for canvassing alternative viewpoints, the APC is rather redefining ‘opposition’ as hate politics. The amalgam of four opposition parties has become a scare-monger instead and a conclave for the manufacture and distribution of lies and rumours of doomsday. More worrisome is its relentless effort to subvert the government and public good.

In its manner of opposition politics, the APC leadership has thrown caution to the winds, hounding rival parties with lies, blackmail and offensive comments simply because it wants power in the country in the next elections. Because of the desperation to oust the ruling PDP, the statements churned out by its leaders have become more and more alarming, and sometimes verging on the extraordinary.

For instance, the party’s newly-installed National Chairman, Chief John OdigieOyegun, took the rhetoric to a frightening height at a recent rally in Osogbo, saying the APC would form a parallel government if the conduct of the 2015 elections was not credible. To many Nigerians, it was not a mere political rant and a gimmick to spur support for the party at the Osun governorship election, it was simply a call to anarchy, a seditious statement that has C M Y K

the potential to subvert our hard-earned governors of Lagos and Rivers States whose contribution mainly centred on democracy.

For the APC, every issue provides an coordination of the various volunteer groups opportunity for political mischief and lie- that sprang up to assist in managing the peddling. As I write, the party is still stirring crisis.

It is difficult to understand Lai its pot of controversy over what it contrived as “the monumental Malabu oil scandal.” Mohammed’s argument, and what political Its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai capital he intends to get from the argument Mohammed, said half of the $1.1 billion and why he prefers to draw the lines of party paid to Malabu Oil and gas for oil field affiliation in that humanitarian issue in OPL 245 by two oil majors was allegedly which Nigeria has received collective commendation across the world? used to bribe Nigerian It can only be for parochial officials, who in turn used the reasons. Like in every issue of this proceeds to buy private jets nature in which people’s welfare and armoured limousines. must be considered first, Jonathan Raising issues where none has played down the political exist, Lai was basically leanings of governors of those amplifying a rumour being states. Like the war on insurgency peddled around in Abuja beer which was started in states parlours, likening it to the managed by APC governors, Halliburton and Siemens Opposition efforts to eradicate Ebola in bribery scandals under the Nigeria were not waged with Obasanjo presidency. parties are partisan political considerations With Lai Mohammed, it is in mind. Truth be told, if credit all in a day ’s work to veritable must be given at all, the Jonathan manufacture one controversy administration has fully earned a week. Recently, he said think-tanks it and it is not something Lai President Goodluck Jonathan and solution Mohammed should be hysterical and the PDP should not take about. centres that full credit for the country’s The week before, it was the successful containment of the evolve ideas mindless attack on President Ebola Virus Disease, EVD. To him, “a collective effort” which seek to Jonathan and the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, should not belong to the President by APC chieftains over improve Federal Government alone. the unfortunate issues involving As usual, Lai Mohammed was society and Nigerian cash for the purchase of lying and trying to distort the facts as laid bare by the find solutions arms seized by the South African authorities. The incident had President who had alluded to sparked off vituperations from the to get around the defeat of Ebola in Nigeria APC which veered into religious as the fruit of bi-partisan national politics by dragging the names of cooperation. In spite of that Cardinals Olubunmi Okogie and statesmanlike speech, Lai challenges John Onaiyekan, past Presidents Mohammed preferred a of CAN in an effort to dent the special credit to the APC

full business with all its positive implications on the economy of the country. By operating at full or near-full capacity, these companies are not only now running on profits and creating investor prosperity but also reducing the rate of unemployment in the country.

Even then, the greater dividends are located in the improving healthcare delivery and the general wellbeing of our people.

It is now becoming more apparent that many of the deaths attributed to wrong diagnoses and perhaps negligence in our hospitals in the past indeed bear a direct nexus with administration of counterfeit drugs.

Those who know the current NAFDAC boss, with his very rich background of international experience and connections are, however, not surprised with the sterling performance that he is posting on his job. This can only explain why President Goodluck Jonathan did not really vacillate about rewarding him with a second term in office. That Orhii is quietly grinding out huge achievements without unnecessary controversies and orchestrated media attention speaks of a much focused public servant. One hopes that he will deploy his renewed tenure to come up with more innovations about emplacing an entirely wholesome medicine regime in Nigeria and thus consolidate on the good job he began in his first tenure. The ball is certainly in Orhii’s court. *Ms. Babatunde, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

image of the present occupier of the office, Ayo Oritsejafor, who is said to have an interest in the company operating the aircraft leasing company involved in the matter, but who has been cleared of personal involvement in the matter?

It did not matter that the delay in purchase of the arms meant so much for our continuing fight against insurgency and restore security to every inch of its territory: Lai Mohammed and the APC were only interested in denigrating the nation before the world.

Is there ever anything that the President Jonathan administration does that receives commendation from the APC? Nothing!

Rather, the APC revels in its pastime of uncouth criticisms that most times verge on treason and subversion –actions deliberately masterminded to cause a legitimate government to fail in order to topple it. To make the APC comments laughable, it has refused to see its own contradictions and warped ideology of political subversion in the name of opposition. Is it a coincidence that, at a time the war against insurgency is heightening, the APC is the only political party in Nigeria that offers apologies on behalf of Boko Haram, and goes ahead to denigrate the nation’s fighting army in an effort to discourage them?

According to an opinion elsewhere, “opposition parties are veritable think-tanks and solution centres that evolve ideas which seek to improve society and find solutions to get around national challenges. They don’t threaten war, anarchy and lawlessness if they lose a future election. They are not known to engage in activities to pull down a government; they only sell their ideas to the electorate. They seek ways to solve the problems of the country, rather than becoming a problem for the country.”

The APC, from all practical purposes, is not an opposition party but a conglomeration of desperate politicians eager to subvert their fatherland and its government. *Mr. Abubakar, a political analyst, wrote from Kaduna, Kaduna State.

48—Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Questions on indictment, impeachment and eligibility IT was in a season of anarchy when Governor Ayodele Fayose was removed from office in 2006 in an impeachment procedure that was largely believed to be political. Now the issues arising from that act have turned into an issue following the celebrated second coming of Fayose to the Ado-Ekiti Government House

By CHIOMA GABRIEL

Judicial Commission of Inquiry or an Administrative Panel of Inquiry or a Tribunal set up under the Tribunals of Inquiry Act, a Tribunal of Inquiry Law or any other law by the Federal and State Government which indictment has been accepted by the Federal or State Government, respectively.

Impeachment as contemplated

by Section 182 (i) (h) of the Constitution is like an indictment under Criminal Law Procedure

AMID judicial controversy of all sorts including a pending court case questioning his eligibility due to indictment and subsequent impeachment in 2006, Ayo Fayose was on Thursday sworn in as Ekiti State governor for the second time. His inauguration has raised dust over the eligibility of an indicted and impeached elective official to •Fayose: Back on the beat after controversial impeachment in 2006 contest another elective office in Nigeria.

However, the contest the election” election, had sued Fayose over action against his alleged ineligibility to contest (138(1)(a)) Fayose by a group of But indicted and the election.

Ekiti political They had asked the court to impeached public officers activists styled as the have jettisoned this determine whether Fayose was E-11 has spurred constitutional provision qualified to contest by virtue of commentaries on and have gone ahead to his impeachment in 2006 and the eligibility of continue to seek election whether he was right to have impeached political allegedly given certain false in different capacities. office holders Attempts by opponents information to INEC about his contesting or to stop Fayose from state of integrity. Both the INEC holding office. It is contesting the and the Peoples Democratic Party understandable for governorship election in (PDP) were joined in the suit. supporters of But the plea by the lead Ekiti failed .

Governor Fayose to For one thing, the issue counsel to the claimants, Mr cry wolf given the of ineligibility is a pre- Norrison Quakers (SAN) for fact that nearly all election matter as ruled accelerated hearing of the case other high profile by the Supreme Court in before the election was not political office the case Farouk Salim vs. acceded. holders impeached •Omisore: Impeached as Dep-Gov So, Fayose went ahead to Congress for Progressive •Musa: Impeached in 1981 in the country who Change (2013) LPELR- contest and win the election. sought office again But since he won, there have SC. 160/162. The were not impeded. been judicial crises in Ekiti. All “...person whose election is Supreme Court of Nigeria held but impeachment does not in Senator Iyiola Omisore was questioned was, at the time of that after an election has taken manner of allegations including impeached as deputy governor itself constitute a criminal trial. the election, not qualified to place, the right of an aspirant to sacking of the court and beating Fayose was impeached and but successfully proceeded to the file a case in the High Court or up of judges by thugs dominated removed from office by the Senate while before him, Federal High Court under media reports leading to the House of Assembly of Ekiti State Governor Balarabe Musa was Section 87 (10) of the Electoral collapse of legal proceedings in impeached as governor of the on October 16, 2006 after a panel Act becomes extinguished. Mary Ekiti until after the inauguration. of inquiry, set up by the House Old Kaduna State in the Second Was Fayose really indicted?

Peter Odili, J.S.C., illuminated of Assembly in accordance with Republic but contested the According to US-based the position of the law thus: section 188 of the Nigerian Although relatively presidential elections of 2003 Nigerian lawyer Akinwole But since election has taken constitution, found him guilty of and 2007. new, the term Ogunlola, indictment is fast place already, the right vested on embezzlement.

Fayose’s The constitutional anybody to file a suit to challenge becoming a deadly political disqualification for anybody who impeachment/removal from office “indictment” in of mass the eligibility of a candidate who weapon has not been overturned by any aspires to be governor in Nigeria Nigeria is fast disenfranchisement in the hands supplies false information in an is spelt out in Section 182 of the court in Nigeria. Could this have travelling along the affidavit or document submitted of Nigerian politicians. stopped him from contesting in Constitution of the Federal “The framers of that to the Independent National the last election? same destructive Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Constitution did not realize at Electoral Commission is Under the 2010 Electoral Act, amended). Section 182 (1) (h) of track that we must extinguished. However, a the time that Nigerian politicians the Constitution provides that political opponents or political not be trusted with such parties are empowered to all stand up against pressure group, known as E-11, could nobody is qualified to be additional power as we parading members like Chief challenge the election of a governor if he has been indicted imminent abuse by Segun Oni, Senator Babafemi immediately began to witness for embezzlement or fraud by a winning candidate in an election Continues on page 49 Ojudu among others before the if the: the politicians

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014—49

Those who endorsed Jonathan hate him —Tsav •Says he should‘ve been impeached by now if lawmakers were working ALHAJI Abubakar Tsav, an elder statesman and a retired Commissioner of Police, in this interview expressed sadness that President Goodluck Jonathan’s rumoured second term ambition has been made pre-eminent over the security challenge in Nigeria by those who recently adopted him as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) consensus presidential candidate.

He also spoke on other issues.

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

should learn from developed democracies where politicians THE build up to the 2015 are so concerned about selfless general elections has service. been characterised by Absence of rule of law desperation on the part of Another reason for it is the near politicians. Since this is absence of rule of law in Nigeria. becoming a pattern in Nigeria’s When people commit all sorts of politics , what is your advice ? crime in the name of politicking It is bound to happen because and go free, others will not be many politicians are in politics discouraged from doing so. because of what they can make Since 1999, nobody has been for themselves. They are so committed for electoral offences. concerned about making money No one has been convicted for and getting positions. So people armed robbery and shot. should not be surprised that this So these armed robbers have has been the pattern since 1999. become party thugs and It is very unfortunate. If our chieftains in their respective founding fathers who played states. Sadly, these armed politics in the days of (late Chief robbers-turn thugs and party Obafemi) Awolowo were to come chieftains have become the so back now, they would weep over called leaders. But if our laws what is happening. were effective, people will be very conscious of their The politicians of ways. today have no But the sad thing is conscience, all they that for one to be a are concerned about politician in Nigeria, he is to get political must be above the law. power. They don’t That is why all manner mind using any of things go on in the kind of means to get name of politics. When there. Those in (late President Umaru positions of Musa) Yar’ Adua came, authority have he was particularly regrettably failed to concerned about the rule give the nation the of law. The man was true meaning of even against himself democracy. I want because of his belief in to advise those the rule of law. We seeking for political experienced this when offices to know that he obeyed court it is only God that judgements against the can give power.

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Political governorship elections. power President Goodluck Political power Jonathan’s recent should not be passmark on his regarded as a do-orleadership of the die affair. It should Those who country has been be done with interpreted as a human face. Politics endorsed justification for his should be played Jonathan rumoured second term like a game of ambition. That do you football. The reason don’t love make of that? for the present him. And It is very funny. How desperation is they are can someone who sat for because politics is an examination claim to being viewed as an not doing passed without enterprise, where that for the have being assessed? people make so good of Nigerians should be the much money. ones to appraise That is why this Jonathan. You can see everyone is that under him, the interested in the country country has witnessed job. Our people

the highest rate of insecurity.

There is lawlessness everywhere and unchallenged corruption. No one has been convicted for corruption, while impeachment threats are being used to frustrate governors. For the President to say that, it shows that he is taking Nigerians for granted. He has committed so many impeachable offences and our legislators, who hardly perform their watchdog functions, have done nothing about it. The $9.3million arms deal is an impeachable offence in any country where the rule of law is obeyed and where the legislators are up to their duties.

They are taking us for granted because Nigerian don’t hold their leaders accountable.

What is your take on PDP’s adoption of President Jonathan as its consensus presidential candidate?

I have said it earlier that our political leaders are not interested in serving the interest of Nigerians. Their focus is on how to rig elections and embezzle money. If they were concerned about the nation, they would not have been carried away by the prospects of getting political power instead of saving the country from collapse. Those, who endorsed Jonathan don’t love him. And they are not doing that for the good of this country.

They are leading the man astray.

Some of those supporting him

•Tsav: Political actors are selfish

are governors, who want a second term while others want to go the Senate. They are doing that because of their selfish interests.

It is very unfortunate that we don’t have leaders. If we had leaders at different levels of the society, no one would endorse Jonathan now considering the urgent need to restore security in the country. The Chibok girls have been missing for the past six months. Nothing has been done about that. They have even forgotten about them. Some of the people supporting Jonathan are even mocking the girls and their parents. Some of them have said that the girls are not missing.

Those around the President are not telling him the truth about the mood of Nigerians concerning the state of the nation. They are

only deceiving him by endorsing him in the face of national challenges that require attention.

You rose to the peak of your career in the Police Force. Can you tell us how right it is for the Federal Government to purchase arms clandestinely?

There are many things involved in this matter. Maybe someone is using that method to launder money. Perhaps, the person wanted to divert the money for his own personal use.

Otherwise, if you want to buy arms, the arms dealer must have an account. And the money should be transferred through the dealer’s bank account. And if such must be done it must be according to all known legal procedures of arms purchase.

Questions on indictment, impeachment and eligibility Continues from page 48 impeachments upon impeachments and threat of impeachment as an instrument of political blackmail and intimidation in the hands of unscrupulous lawmakers? We have even witnessed situations where our lawmakers meet at club houses or night parties and came out with questionable impeachment announcements.

Although relatively new, the term “indictment” in Nigeria is fast traveling along the same destructive track that we must all stand up against imminent abuse by the politicians before it becomes too late.

Hope for the opposition?

Despite being sworn in, political opponents of Fayose believe the act of impeachment/removal from office in 2006 can still have some political career disability on him.

These opponents are optimistic that the newly sworn-in governor who was removed from being governor would still be thrown out for abusing public trust as no legal remediation have taken place.

It should also be recalled that Iyiola Omisore was also impeached and removed from office as a deputy governor of Osun State but subsequently contested three elections to the Senate and subsequently the governorship of Osun State last August.

Speaking then on the implications of a onceimpeached Omisore contesting governorship election, Albert Adeogun, a lawyer and chieftain of PDP had said: “Let me correct that impression clearly and legally.

The so-called impeachment was nullified by a Court in Osun State. While efforts were being made to impeach him, he went to the Court and there was an injunction restraining the House of Assembly from going ahead with the impeachment but because the so-called lawmakers were lawless, they refused to obey the order of the Court and went ahead and impeached him.

50 — VANGUARD, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

BRIEFS US, four EU countries join call for truce

Ebola:Obama cancels travel plans to consult cabinet members

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RESIDENT Barack Obama delayed acting on immigration and an attorney general nomination this fall to dodge the politics of the midterm campaign season. But there was one topic he could not push aside — Ebola.

The past week’s jarring Ebola developments have put a spotlight on the president’s management skills just as he was earning praise for acting militarily against Islamic militants.

In recent months, Obama caught criticism for going golfing immediately after speaking about the beheading of an American, and for attending a fundraiser after an airliner was shot down in Ukraine. This time, as the Ebola threat hit home in America, the president suddenly cleared his schedule, canceling travel and ap-

pearances to consult with Cabinet members and talk with world leaders about how to contain the epidemic. By Friday, he had named a point man for the U.S. response just as the clamor for an Ebola “czar” was nearing fever pitch.

“They are resisting their usual impulse to

hunker down and wait it out,” said Jim Manley, a former top aide to Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid who has in the past consulted with the White House. “This time they’ve decided to switch gears if only because it hasn’t worked in the past.” The week began with the news that a

•Obama

nurse in Dallas had become the first known case of Ebola being transmitted within the United States. By week’s end, a second nurse had been diagnosed, and the hunt for possible exposures expanded from Texas to Ohio, from multiple domestic airline flights to a cruise ship denied a port-of-call in the Caribbean.

White House officials say the president’s approach this time reflected the unfolding, real-time developments that needed ongoing decisions to help reassure an increasingly alarmed public. Seeing the issue spiral, White House press secretary Josh Earnest acknowledged “shortcomings” in the federal response and Obama himself had to call on his government to react in “a much more aggressive way.”

Rousseff hits opposition had ahead of runoff O PPOSITION candidate Aecio Neves is heading into the final week of Brazil’s presidential race with a razor-thin lead in polls, but it’s the incumbent Dilma Rousseff who appears to be gaining momentum in the homestretch.

After a sudden surge before and after the firstround vote on Oct. 5, Neves is struggling to retain the momentum that gave him a slight advantage in recent polling.

He leads Rousseff by 2

percentage points in the most closely watched opinion polls, within their margin of error.

Recent surveys show that support may have peaked for Neves, an investor favorite, and his disapproval numbers are rising amid a barrage of attacks by the Rousseff campaign.

The number of Brazilians who say they would never vote for Neves rose 4 percentage points this week to 38 percent, according to a survey by the Datafolha polling firm. Rousseff ’s rejec-

•President Rousseff tion rate came down one point to 42 percent in the same poll, which also showed her approval rating on the rise.

The tight race has turned ugly with the

candidates swapping accusations of corruption and economic mismanagement as they scramble to sway the 6 percent of voters that remain undecided and others not firmly committed.

In a testy television debate on Thursday night, Rousseff alluded to a 2011 incident in which Neves was pulled over and refused a breathalyzer test.

Neves, who has managed to play down a reputation as a party-loving playboy, acknowledged the incident and

Catholic synod disappoint gay right activists

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AY advocacy groups in the United States have responded with disappointment after Pope Francis’ attempt to extend a more welcoming hand to gays and divorced Catholics was turned aside by a synod of bishops in Rome at the weekend. But some observers suggest that the synod itself points to major movement within Roman Catholic Church at a time when the definition of family is changing in Western society.

A draft report of the synod had called on Catholics to “accept and

•Pope Francis value” homosexuals as people who had gifts to offer the church. But the language was walked back so that the final report said only that “people with homosexual tendencies must be welcomed with respect and

delicacy.”

Tellingly, neither paragraph – in the original draft or the final draft – was approved by the necessary two-thirds of the synod. Conservative bishops rebelled against the original wording while more liberal bishops were seen as voting against the final version to keep the issue alive.

With the failure to approve that paragraph of the report, next year’s general synod must take it up again. DignityUSA of Boston, which supports the gay Catholic community, saw the synod as a missed opportu-

nity. “Unfortunately, today, doctrine won out over pastoral need. It is disappointing that those who recognized the need for a more inclusive Church were defeated.”

New Ways Ministry of Maryland registered similar disappointment but added that the synod’s “openness to discussion provides hope for further development down the road, particularly at next year’s synod, where the makeup of the participants will be larger and more diverse, including many more pastorally-oriented bishops.”

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HE United States and four European coun tries jointly called on Saturday for an end to violence in Libya. The governments of France, Italy, Germany, Britain and the United States said in a statement that they “agree that there is no military solution to the Libyan crisis” and expressed dismay that calls for a ceasefire had not been respected.

Dozens of people have been killed in Benghazi in days of fighting between Islamic militant groups, including Ansar al-Sharia, and pro-government forces led by former General Khalifa Haftar, who began an offensive on Wednesday.

The joint statement voiced concern over Haftar’s offensive and said Libya’s “fight against terrorist organizations can only be sustainably addressed by regular armed forces under the control of a central authority.” Libya has failed to build up state security forces and disarm former rebels who helped remove Muammar Gaddafi, who ruled the country for 42 years until his downfall in 2011.

The United States and its four European allies also condemned Ansar al-Sharia and said “Libya’s hard fought freedom is at risk if Libyan and international terrorist groups are allowed to use Libya as a safe haven.”

Egypt, Sudan to coordinate on Libya unrest

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GYPTIAN President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi said Sunday his country will work with Sudan to support Libya’s military against Islamic militants in a bid to restore stability to the two countries’ wartorn neighbor. El-Sissi’s remarks came at the end of a two-day visit by Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir.

The chaos in Libya is a top foreign policy concern for Egypt, which has seen cross-border attacks by Islamic militants. Libya’s new government has accused Sudan of arming “terrorist groups” in Libya, a charge Khartoum denies.

El-Sissi said Sudan and Egypt agreed to coordinate efforts to achieve stability in Libya through supporting state institutions, primarily the military.

Al-Bashir said his country “sees eye to eye” with Egypt on bilateral and regional issues. The two leaders said they want to move past recent strains in relations over divergent views over shared water resources and borders.

A dam constructed by Ethiopia threatens to reduce Egypt’s share of the Nile, challenging a colonial-era agreement that has given most of the water to Egypt and Sudan. Sudan is not against the dam, while Egypt has been lobbying to reduce the impact of the project on its share of the river.

Battle for Kobani intensifies

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HE fiercest fighting in days shook the Syrian border town of Kobani overnight as Islamic State fighters attacked Kurdish defenders with mortars and car bombs, sources in the town and a monitoring group said yesterday Islamic State, which controls much of Syria and Iraq, fired 44 mortars at Kurdish parts of the town on Saturday and some of the shells fell inside nearby Turkey, according to the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. It said four more mortars were fired on Sunday.

The month-long battle for Kobani has ebbed and flowed. A week ago, Kurds said the town would soon fall. The United States and its coalition partners then stepped up air strikes on Islamic State, which wants to take Kobani in order to strengthen its position in northern Syria.

The coalition has been bombing Islamic State targets in Iraq since August and extended the campaign to Syria in September after Islamic State, a group that espouses a rigid interpretation of Islam and initially fought Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s forces, made huge territorial gains.

Raids on Islamic State around Kobani have been stepped up, with the fate of the town seen as an important test for U.S. President Barack Obama’s campaign against the Islamists.

—51 Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014—

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52 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

—53 Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014—

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54 — Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

Enyimba condemn Kaduna to relegation E

NYIMBA FC kept up their hope of winning the Glo NPFL league by beating Kaduna United 1-0 at the Kaduna Township Stadium.

A cagey opening played out in the middle spread out in the 15th minute when Mfon Udoh nearly profited from a mix up and a poor clearance to put Enyimba a goal up.

The League’s top scorer failed to direct his shot into an empty net with goalkeeper, Raymond Katung, displaced after rushing a clearance from a back pass.

Enyimba kept the pressure on the host and Udoh twice came close to scoring his 18th of the season but a good defensive block denied him on both times.

Kaduna responded with some with a good passing move that ended with Akueme beating Femi Thomas in Enyimba’s goal but captain Chinedu Udoji cleared the danger.

Akueme once again came close to scoring against his old side but his header off a Suleiman Musa corner kick came off the post.

The second half resumed with both teams wasting half chances with no real threat to either goalkeepers.

Kadiri Ikhana made two second half substitutions and one among them Bobby Sokari gave them the lead.

Sokari dribbled through the right half of the Kaduna United defence and finished with ease past Katung.

Shortly after Emeka Nwanna profited from a defensive mix up between Katung and Samaila Suleiman but his shot was cleared off the line by Peter Ambrose.

Kaduna United failed to muster any real attempt to level things up as Enyimba back-line lead by Chinedu Udoji and Emmanuel Anyawu kept them at bay.

Three minutes of time added on was played after regulation time but Enyimba held on to pick a well deserve three points.

The three points dropped at home has all but confirmed Kaduna United’s demotion to the Nigeria National league.

C M Y K

Okon explains why Falcons are winning

By Ben Efe, Windhoek

S

ON THE PROWL: Udo jumps over a Kaduna United defender before slotting home the winner.

Keshi’s sack very appropriate — Laloko

By Solomon Nwoke

V

ETERAN coach and former Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Kashimawo Laloko has described the disengagement of the Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi as ‘very appropriate’.

The former coach of the Gambia national team blamed Keshi for his woes saying that Keshi is the

architect of his own fortune adding that, “he ‘lost’ his head immediately after winning the African Nations’ Cup in South Africa 2013.

“He got to the top and forgot how he got there.

He had very good players that should have made the teams but he chose to shut the door at them. He had been in constant fight with some players whom he said are disrespectful and stubborn.

“All over the world, great players are known to show off , so, this is where the expertise of a good coach comes to play; to manage such traits to his advantage,” Continuing, Coach Laloko went memory lane to remind Keshi of his days in the national team and how he was causing disaffection in the team and the subsequent sanctions he earned for himself. “But he was tolerated by his coaches.”

•Keshi

UPER Falcons coach, Edwin Okon said his selection of players was based only on individuals who are hungry for success and it was the reason the team has faired well at the 9th African women championship so far.

With only two games to go, coach Okon is optimistic that the Super Falcons will achieve their objectives in the tournament, which is to qualify for the FIFA Women World Cup and win the trophy for a record nine times. He attributed the team’s doggedness to the winning mentality of the players.

“I only selected players who are hungry to play and not those who do not feel challenged. During our camping in Abuja there were local and foreign-based tested players we had to drop, because they weren’t up to the task.

“If you look at the team; we have mostly homebased players. This is because I believe in exposing grassroots talents who are yearning to make a name for themselves and country ,” said Okon The Falcons were the least prepared team for the AWC. They only had two weeks of serious work as a team compared to Ghana who had a playing tour of Japan and South Africa that had a series of warmup matches ahead of the tournament.

“We didn’t have the kind of preparation we wanted partly due to the unsettled nature of the NFF back in September. But our chances are very bright against our rivals like Ghana, South Africa and Cameroon."

...It was a necessity, says Ibru

By Jacob Ajom

A

•Kenneth Omeruo (l) in action for Nigeria.

one time mem ber of the board of the Nigeria Football Federation, Emmanuel Ibru has said that the disengagement of Super Eagles caretaker coach, Stephen Keshi by the Nigeria Football Federation was a necessity. In a chat with Sunday Vanguard Sport in Lagos, Ibru said Keshi’s sack has provided the country with an opportunity to start afresh.

“Keshi’s disengagement was bound to come.

It was unfortunate that the whole country was

calling for his sack. It had reached such a stage that it became necessary for the NFF to put him away in order to concentrate on the task ahead,” Ibru said.

Continuing, Ibru noted, “The call for his sack had become too loud that it was already causing a lot of distraction to both the NFF and Keshi himself.

It was good he was laid off when they did so that he would be at peace with himself. His continuous stay would not have been good for either side.”

Now that the Keshi factor was out of the way, Ibru said it is an opportunity for the NFF to plan

on his replacement and how to take Nigerian football to the next level.

“They must go for the best hands. But what they should ask themselves is, what kind of coach do they want? What is in place to make him succeed?”

On the new consortium of coaches headed by Amodu Shaibu for the remaining two matches of the 2015 Afcon qualifiers, he said, “Amodu has a decent record with the national team and he has been around for sometime. But it would be unfair to give Amodu a mandate that he must qualify for the Nations Cup.

Vanguard, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014 — 55

2015 Nations Cup: It’s mission possible — Amodu N

IGERIA caretak er coach Shaibu Amodu has said the Super Eagles could still qualify for next year ’s AFCON despite the difficult position they find themselves.

As a result of CAF’s regulation for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Nigeria need to score three goals in Brazzaville on November 15 and not concede more than one to steady their ship for Morocco.

This is because they lost 3-2 to the Congolese in Calabar on September 6, and should both teams finish on equal number of points, CAF will take into consideration the team that scored the most away goals in the fixture involving both teams.

Once Nigeria hit three goals in Pointe Noire and do not concede more than one, all they need do to qualify is defeat South Africa in Uyo on November 19 to qualify for the final tournament.

With Nigeria’s best legs certain to be part of the fight for shirts for the

Congo match, Amodu believes it is a mountain that could be surmounted.

“If Congo came here and scored three goals, nothing stops us going to Congo to score three or more goals,” he declared.

“We have done it before. We will do it again.”

The present situation is no less daunting, but Amodu is not ruffled In April 2001, then NFA sacked Dutchman Johannes Bonfrere with Nigeria’s 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifying ship in troubled waters.

They brought in Amodu, with Stephen Keshi and Joe Erico as his assistants. They needed to win all of Nigeria’s last three matches of the campaign to be sure of a place in Korea/Japan.

Ever confident of his own ability, Amodu led the team to turn back Liberia 2-0 in Port Harcourt, hammer Sudan 4-0 in Omdurman and dismiss Ghana 3-0 in Port Harcourt to qualify for the World Cup.

Uche, Martins Continues from BP the team that will be announced by interim coach, Amodu Shuaibu for the November fixtures.

A list of 24 players is expected to be announced before the end of October and sources have reliably informed that there will be some changes to the teams Nigerians have been used to under Keshi.

“Most of the players from Keshi’s team will still be there but the likes of Haruna, Obasi, Iheanacho, Martins and Uche will be included provided they aren’t injured before the final list is compiled,” a reliable NFF source disclosed.

If eventually these players are invited, it will sound like a good music to the ears of most Nigerians as they have always clamoured for their invitation to the national team.

The Super Eagles are

third in qualifying group A with four points in as many games, and play Congo and South Africa in their last matches, with Amodu Shuaibu incharge on an interim basis after Stephen Keshi was asked to step down from his interim role.

Keshi has had a running battle with Villarreal striker Ikechukwu Uche hence his continued absence from the Eagles under Keshi, his last appearance being the final of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.

The ‘Big Boss’ alluded to Obafemi Martins as being too old, while also alluding to Kelechi Iheanacho as being too young.

Chinedu Obasi was invited a couple of times but never made the team due to injuries and passport issues, while Haruna Lukman was never given a look in by the ‘Big Boss’.

Chairman League Management Company (LMC), Hon. Nduka Irabor, presenting the League Bloggers Award (LBA) Manager of the Month of September Award to Enugu Rangers coach, John Obuh, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, on Sunday, October 19, 2014.

World Weightlifting Championship: Nigeria enters 14 lifters

N

IGERIA is to make a strong presence at the World Weightlifting Championship which comes up early next month in the city of Almaty, Kazakhstan.

According to the official website of International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Nigeria has made a final entry of eight female and six male lifters for the championship which is billed to run from November 4-16.

The all-important championship which is a Rio 2016 Olympic qualifier is attracting over 500 weightlifters from different parts of the world.

A board member of Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) Mr. George Aluo said yesterday that the country ’s lifters are ready to do the nation proud in Kazakhstan as they did at the Glasgow 2014 Com-

monwealth games.

Aluo who is the chairman, media committee of the weightlifting body, however expressed worries over the inability of NWF to call her lifters to camp barely three weeks to the championship which is the most important event on the IWF calendar.

According to Aluo: “Its unfortunate we are not in camp yet less than three weeks to the world championship. In spite of this setback, our lifters are ever-ready to do the country proud. They did it in Glasgow at the 2014 Commonwealth games and they are battle-ready for Kazakhstan. This is one competition where we cant afford to fail because if we do, then we wont be able to be part of the weightlifting event of Rio 2016 Olympics. And as we all know, weightlifting is one sport where Nigeria has very strong medal potentials if only our lifters are encouraged.”

Why we prefer a foreign coach — Pinnick

BY JUDE OPARA, Abuja

T

HE Nigeria F o o t b a l l Federation (NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick has explained why his Board prefers a foreign coach to replace the last indigenous coach,

Stephen Keshi who was relieved of his assignment last week by the federation.

Pinnick while speaking on a radio programme in Abuja said the steady downward slide of football in the country has necessitated the decision which he insisted was to rescue

Keshi Continues from BP tional team job.

A close source in the Ethiopian FA, who did not want to be identified, told africanFootball.com that Keshi was expected in Addis Ababa this week to continue talks on the possibility of taking over the national team.

“He is expected in Ethiopia late this week,” revealed the source.

Ironically, Keshi denied Ethiopians the chance of qualifying for their first-ever World Cup last year when the Super Eagles beat them

both at home and away in a final play-off.

Last week, the NFF fired Keshi after the country’s laboured campaign to qualify for next year ’s African Nations Cup in Morocco.

“We hope we can get him because he is a high profile coach who has won AFCON with Nigeria and also took them to the World Cup.” Keshi, who has already coached Togo and Mali, is expected to salvage Ethiopia’s Nations Cup hopes as the team currently lies third in Group B with three points from four match-

the beautiful game from total collapse.

The president who also spared a thought for the domestic league and its poor state explained that the coach when engaged would work with some experienced Nigerian coaches with the intention to to expose

es, three points behind second-placed Mali.

Algeria has already qualified for the tournament proper after hitting 12 points.

Ethiopia’s remaining matches are away in Algeria and then at home to bottom team Malawi next month.

The source further said Ethiopia officials are not comfortable with Portuguese coach Mariano Barreto who only managed a 3-2 away win over Mali in Wednesday ’s 2015 AFCON qualifier, but has lost 99 per cent of the team matches including build-ups.

them to some techniques of dynamic game.

new the

Gullit Continues from BP across some contacts to sound out Gullit for the top coaching post.

“The Nigerian contacts in Europe are first to sound out Gullit whether he will be open to handle the Super Eagles and if he would be available,” a top source said.

“It will be only after this contact that other considerations like the duration of the contract and the personal terms of Gullit would be tabled.”

The 52-year-old Gullit last coached Russian club Terek Grozny in 2011. He has most recently worked as a TV pundit for SuperSport and BBC. He has coached English Premier League clubs Chelsea and Newcastle United as well as Dutch side Feyenoord and Los Angeles Galaxy in the MLS. He led Chelsea to win the FA Cup in 1997 and is best remembered for his “Sexy Football”.

VANGUARD, MONDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2014

NPL Results Akwa Bayelsa Crown El Kanemi Gombe Heartland Nasarawa Sharks Kaduna Utd Lobi

2 3 0 3 1 1 1 4 0 2

Dolphins Taraba Rangers Nembe Giwa Warri Kano Sunshine Enyimaba Abia Warriors

1 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 1 1

Uche, Martins, Iheanacho set for Eagles return C

F

ORMER Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, is expected in Ethiopia this week to finalise discussions with the country’s FA on the vacant na Continues on Page 55

•Keshi

Nigeria targets Gullit

HINEDU Obasi, Haruna Lukman, Kelechi Iheanacho, Obafemi Martins and Ikechukwu Uche are set to be invited for the Super Eagles’ last qualifying matches for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations against Congo and South Africa.

The players couldn’t get into Stephen Keshi’s teams despite their impressive performances for their respective clubs and despite incessant calls to have them included but it seems all five of them will be a part of

Continues on Page 55

Keshi expected in Ethiopia for contract talks

N

•Uche

•Martins

•Iheanacho

2015 Nations Cup: It’s mission possible — Amodu •Pg.55

IGERIA Football Federation (NFF) officials have initiated moves to sound out former Dutch coach Ruud Gullit as the country’s new coach.

The NFF have made it clear Shuaibu Amodu will only be in charge of the Super Eagles for two AFCON qualifiers against Congo and South Africa next month after which the country will hire a foreign coach.

The officials have

•Gullit moved quickly with the plan to engage a top foreign coach by getting Continues on Page 55

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

DOWN ACROSS 1 Calf (6) 4 Tally (5) 2 Rivulet (6) 7 Snare (6) 3 Knock (3) 9 Sorrowful (3) 4 Masculine (4) 10 Through (3) 5 Grown-up (5) 12 Clear (5) 6 Hairstyle (8) 13 Insect (4) 8 Fairy (4) 15 Repulse (5) 11 Respect (9) 17 Come (6) 14 Region (4) 19 Argument (4) 16 Fuel (4) 20 Womaniser (5) 18 Part (4) 22 Consume (3) 21 Disused (8) 24 Warned (7) 23 Rip (4) 27 Sheep (3) 25 Pitcher (4) 28 Pointed (5) 31 Unaccompanied (4) 26 Food (4) 29 Ungenerously (6) 33 Meal-course (6) 30 Cheat (6) 35 Roost (5) 32 Entertainment (5) 37 Lofty (4) 34 Melt (4) 38 Stitched (5) 36 Paradise (4) 39 Spike (3) 40 Managed (3) 41 Material (3) 42 Moaned (6) 43 Started (5)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Fair 4, Cad 6, Tart 9, Ape 10, Distance 11, Stab 14, Dim 16, Berth 19, Demeaned 21, Beret 23, Disabled 24, Dwell 27, Ten 31, Jolt 33, External 34, Tie 35, Deer 36, Pad 37, Deem.

DOWN: 2, Avid 3, Rite 4, Confined 5, Deep 6, Taste 7, Apt 8, React 12, Edged 13, Amaze 14, Dab 15, Merit 17, Reply 18, Handy 20, Deserted 22, Tan 25, Wrote 26, Later 28, Help 29, Prod 30, Safe 32, Lie

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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