Economy can't sustain subsidy

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62476

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ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

POLICE RECRUITMENT:

Buhari directs IGP to reduce police orderlies attached to individuals >>9

Jonathan didn't perform, but Buhari must prove he's a saint — Balarabe Musa >>8

Economy can't sustain subsidy — KACHIKWU, NNPC BOSS •Says supply of petroleum products'll be stable •Urges speedy deregulation of oil and gas sector •US pledges to support reforms in NNPC

By Clara Nwachukwu, Michael Eboh, Ediri Ejoh & Prince Okafor

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AGOS— THE Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr Emmanuel Kachikwu, and other stakeholders argued, yesterday, that fuel subsidy was an unsustainable drain on Continues on Page 5

Cash crunch: 22 states apply for bonds — NEC >>53 Buhari names Fowler FIRS boss >>54 Mr & Mrs

NEC MEETING—From left: Governors Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara); Darius Ishaku (Taraba); Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) and Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto State) during the National Economic Council meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday.

COLUMNISTS: The new foreign exchange rules •P.17 C M Y K

Trump: The new Ooni Sijuwade's era ends, focus shifts to American succession See inside cowboy •P.19

Mikel snubbed me in London —Oliseh •Back Page

2 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

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POCKET CARTOON

CONFERENCE—National Association of Energy Correspondents (NAEC) held its 2015 August Conference at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday. From left: Mr Tunji Oyebanji, Chairman/MD, Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc; Mr Venkataraman Venkatapathy, Mr Muda Yusuf, DG, Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Comrade Francis Johnson, PENGASSAN President at the occasion. Photo: Shola Oyelese.

Economy can't sustain subsidy — KACHIKWU, NNPC BOSS Continues from Page 1

the economy and called for speedy deregulation of the nation’s oil and gas sector.

The NNPC, GMD said: "Subsidy creates distortion in government revenue distribution as a result of round-tripping and unnecessary carryover of expenditures every year in a way that is difficult for government to control or sustain.”

He disclosed this while presenting a keynote address titled “Energy Crisis and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: The Way Forward”, at the National Association of Energy Correspondents (NAEC) Conference held at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday.

The NNPC boss, who was represented by Mrs Bolanle Ashafa, Acting Managing Director of Nigeria Engineering and Technical Company (NETCO), said deregulation would encourage domestic

private sector participation and inflow of foreign investments.

He contended that deregulation will also provide a fair deal for Nigerians from the abundant petroleum resources, through fair product prices for consumers, full cost recovery, and reasonable margins for operators.

He said: “Subsidy accounted for 20 per cent of the federal government budget in 2013. Implementation of the policy will entrench efficiency in product usage, product availability and effective competition among investors, hence ending products shortage.

“However, critical enablers such as security of supply and d i s t r i b u t i o n infrastructure must be assured to guarantee the availability of the petroleum products at affordable prices.”

Kachikwu said that the corporation was fully committed to reforming

IT'S UP TO YOU

BY AYO ADIO

E

XCUSES are the blankets of failures. Blaming everyone else but yourself; not taking responsibility is what makes most people fail. It’s up to you.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Compassion is the basis of morality — Arthur Schopenhauer

B

E kinder towards other people. In life, the way you behave and think towards others seems to have a huge effect on how you behave towards yourself. Judge and criticize people more and you tend to judge and criticize yourself more. Focus on the positive things in yourself and in the people around you. Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.

existing refineries, to boost domestic petroleum products supply.

He said that the refineries had been restreamed, but were yet to attain optimal capacity in production.

“Removal of price control mechanisms is deemed imperative to ensure full growth of the sub-sector, by allowing private stakeholders to complement the effort of government in developing the industry,” he said.

On fuel supply He reassured Nigerians that NNPC would continue to maintain stability in the supply and distribution of petroleum products nationwide. He added that the Nigerian oil and gas industry would be transformed for greater efficiency and sustainable growth, through market reforms, diversification of the revenue base and monetisation of the natural gas resources.

“We will focus on the need to address infrastructure constraints, to ensure sustainability of gas and petroleum products supply and distribution nationwide. We will be tackling infrastructure gaps and promoting inclusive growth, as well as capacity building,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr Deji Haastrup, the General Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs, Chevron Nigeria Ltd., said that the cost of executing projects and services in the industry, remained high in spite

the dwindling price of crude oil.

Haastrup also identified oil theft and illegal refineries as other challenges facing the industry in Nigeria.

On his part, Comrade Francis Johnson, National President, Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) stated that for deregulation to be sustainable in the oil and gas industry, there must be entrenchment of consistent, stable and globally comparable policy and institutional framework.

Meanwhile, Chairman, Managing Director, Mobil oil Nigeria plc, Mr. Tunji Oyebanji, stated that the regulated prices of petroleum products can't sustain the country’s economy.

According to him, “a sustainable downstream sector would liberalize pricing, produce large scale investments, competitive landscape, create technology tools (that involves pricing, control systems), support services, making NNPC an effective competitor and not a regulator, ensuring safer trucking and operations, encourages antimonopoly legislation, consumer protection and product quality.

Moreover, the implications of subsidy removal will bring about: possible increase in the pump prices, significant reduction in government expenditure, increased confidence from the international community in the Nigerian economy, improved transparency and accountability in the downstream sector for all stakeholders and increased competition

and investment in the sector by players.

US to support Nigeria in reforming NNPC In a related development, the United States Government, yesterday, promised to support the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, in achieving its set goals and objectives, especially in its resolve to institute the reforms agenda of the Federal Government.

The US envoy to Nigeria, Ambassador James Entwistle, who disclosed this in Abuja during a courtesy call on the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Kachikwu, noted that the US will provide all the support required to turn around the fortunes of the NNPC. According to him, though the job of the GMD of NNPC is about the most challenging job in Nigeria, the US is convinced that Dr. Kachikwu has the skills, training and requisite experience to lead the oil and gas industry in Nigeria towards the path of growth and s u s t a i n a b l e development.

Entwistle pledged the readiness of the US to work with the new Management of the NNPC in achieving the Federal Government’s reform agenda in the oil and gas industry.

My mission — Kachikwu Commending the US for the pledge of support, Kachikwu reiterated the determination of the new NNPC management to implement the spirit and letter of President Muhammadu Buhari’s reform agenda in the petroleum industry.

According to him, the new NNPC would be driven by a deep sense of commitment to service

delivery anchored on the principle of transparency, efficiency, people, purpose and profit.

“My mission is to redirect and re-energize the work force for greater value addition and I believe that the NNPC, given the right leadership has what it takes to achieve this objective,” he said.

Kachikwu, had a few days ago, promised to usher in a new dawn of transparency through the periodic publications of the NNPC financial transaction, insisting that transparency must be the watchword of every staff in the new NNPC. He maintained that the new NNPC of his dream is a Corporation anchored on the foundation of transparency.

Kachikwu had further stated that the change in the NNPC would be anchored on three key issues of people, processes, and profit, adding that the people element was key to the success of the other two elements which was the reason personnel motivation was dear to his heart.

He charged the staff to break away from the old culture and bring creative solutions to the numerous challenges facing the Corporation, stating that with the kind of change he has in mind the staff could not afford to continue with business as usual.

He challenged staff not to obey any directive from him or any superior officer that runs contrary to the rules, adding that President Muhammadu Buhari will not ask him to do anything shady just as he himself would not ask any staff to carry out any unlawful duties.

He further advised the staff of the Corporation to see themselves as the drivers of the changes required to bring about the new NNPC.

6—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Fire razed Sarafoam company's factory at Happy Home Avenue, Kirikiri Industrial Estate, Kirikiri, Lagos State, yesterday. PHOTOS: Bunmi Azeez.

Hotel manager accused of stealing guest’s $7,500

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—AN acting manager of a Lagos hotel, Ogbu Christopher, was yesterday brought before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrate’s Court sitting at Oyingbo, over alleged theft of $7,500 belonging to a guest, who lodged at the hotel.

The defendant, a 37-yearold, manager with ARC Reception Hotel, located at Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos, was alleged to have committed the said offence on April 10, at about 4p.m.

The prosecutor, Inspector Cousin Adams, alleged that the defendant broke into the hotel room, where one of the guests, Peter Ibeano, had lodged and took the said money.

He told the court that the defendant committed the offence when the guest saw off a visitor.

He was arraigned on a three-count charge of burglary, intent to steal and stealing.

Magistrate Helen Omisore granted the defendant N500,000 bail, with two sureties in like sum and ordered that the sureties’ means of livelihood and residential addresses be verified by the court’s prosecutor, adding that the sureties must furnish the court with three years tax payable to Lagos State government.

The matter was adjourned till September 7 for mention.

Man allegedly bites off another's lip over refusal for sex

By Bartholomew Madukwe

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AGOS—A 27-year-old man, Saidi Abubaka, has been charged before an Isolo Magistrate’s Court, Lagos, for allegedly biting off the lip of another man, one Abubakar Abdulahi, 25, for refusing his sexual advance.

The accused was said to have committed the offence at Ago Palace Way, Okota, where the defendant and complainant reside.

According to the police, Abubakar was arrested for his

involvement in indecent act by forcing his victim into unlawful sex and assault.

It was gathered that the matter was reported to the police at Okota Division. He was arrested and allegedly confessed to committing the crime.

Abubakar was charged with indecent act, conduct likely to cause breach of public peace and assault under the Criminal Code.

The prosecutor, Mr. Abayomi Abass, informed the court that it was not the first time Abubaka was involved in

sexual assault of males.

Abayomi told the court that the accused had been arrested on two occasions by the police for harassing and molesting males for sex.

However, when the charge was read to the accused, he pleaded not guilty.

Presiding magistrate, Mrs Y. R. Pinheiro, admitted the accused to bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.

Meanwhile, the matter has been taken over by Magistrate Joy Ugbomoiko, following the transfer of Pinheiro.

180 children abducted in Akwa Ibom community

By Chioma Onuegbu

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YO—THE paramount ruler of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Edidem Solomon Etuk, has lamented the incessant abduction of children in the area, saying no fewer than 180 had been kidnapped in the last two years.

Edidem Etuk spoke, yesterday, during the ongoing sensitisation campaign against child abuse, child abandonment, child labour, trafficking and baby factory, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare for Etinan federal constituency, comprising Etinan, Nsit Ubium and Nsit Ibom Local Government areas.

The royal father, who was represented by the village head of Ikot Inyang Ete, Eteidung Andrew Essien, called on the state government to declare a state of emergency in the area.

He attributed failure of the

communities to confront suspected bandits over the worrisome trend to weak laws and legislations.

He said: “In the last two years, 180 children have been abducted from communities in Nsit Ubium local government.

One of the abductions was carried out successfully right in front of my palace.

“Other local government areas have similar experiences, but Nsit Ubium Local Government Area appears to be the flashpoint. I fear that the perpetrators are members of our communities.

“Let me emphasise that child

kidnapping should attract capital punishment, just like murder or armed robbery. Also the idea of child trafficking is a heinous crime and everyone should be involved to fight it.

“Even self-help efforts by our communities to confront the bandits are sometimes frustrated by weak laws and legislations as well as some agencies and groups, who hide under the guise of enforcing fundamental human rights.”

He expressed worry as to what the future holds for children endangered by the same people that should protect and safeguard them.

3 docked for alleged impersonation, visa scam

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—THREE men were yesterday arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court over alleged impersonation and forgery of visa documents.

The defendants are Ononinu Chidubem, 23; Obiorah Oyeachonakwum, 35, and Taniform Forben, 27.

They are facing a threecount charge bordering on conspiracy, impersonation and forgery preferred against them by the police.

The prosecutor, Idowu Oluwole, a Superintendent of Police, told the court that the defendants, with others still at large, conspired amongst themselves to commit the alleged offences sometime in February, at American Embassy 2, Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island.

The prosecutor also alleged that the defendants, with intent to obtain American Non Immigrant Visa, falsely impersonated themselves as Nollywood actors and actresses.

Magistrate Owumi Martins granted the defendants bail in the sum of N50,000 each with one surety each in like sum and adjourned the matter till September 16.

NDLEA nabs man with 135kg of Indian Hemp in Aba

By Eric Ugbor

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BA—THE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in Aba, Abia State, yesterday caught a man with 135kg of Indian hemp, which he brought in from Benin.

Commander of the agency in Abia State, Mr. Bamidele

Akingbade, disclosed this to newsmen in Aba, while parading the suspect.

He said the suspect, Emmanuel Ogbonna, who was arrested in a hotel, was linked to Aba’s newest drug spot— the Black Kingdom.

Akingbade said the suspect evaded arrest on his way from

Benin with police emblem on his car windscreen and police uniform in the vehicle.

When NDLEA personnel accosted him, the suspect lock of his car and acted as if he was being kidnapped. But when the crowd learned he was resisting arrest, they helped NDLEA personnel to overpower him.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—7

By Evelyn Usman

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AGOS—CONTROVERSY is currently trailing the death of a 22-year-old man, who was allegedly set ablaze by his landlady and her children in the denselypopulated Ajegunle area of Lagos.

The deceased, simply identified as Emmanuel, reportedly went to ease himself in the early hours of Tuesday, leaving his father and sister inside their one-room apartment.

His sister, who had waited endlessly for his return, went to check on him in the toilet situated at the boys quarters of the building on Alafia Street.

She reportedly found her brother on the ground with his body on fire. She raised an alarm, which attracted tenants.

Two hospitals were said to have rejected Emmanuel. He reportedly breathed his last after writhing in pains.

While the deceased's family alleged that Emmanuel was set ablaze by the landlady and her children, the latter, who is on the run, alleged that the former intended to set the building ablaze but was caught in his own web.

Feud

Investigation by Vanguard revealed that there had been a lingering quarrel between Emmanuel’s family and the landlady. It was gathered that both parties had been to the Ajeromi Police Station several times to settle quarrels.

A resident, who spoke on strict condition of anonymity when Vanguard visited, blamed policemen at Ajeromi for not nipping the situation in the bud until it led to Emmanuel’s death.

According to the resident, “I blame policemen at Ajeromi for the death of this young man.

Emmanuel’s father and the landlady have reported their misunderstandings to the police several times. Nothing was done to bring a lasting solution to the quarrel. Had they acted when they were supposed to, this would not have happened.”

Although the resident could not tell exactly what happened that fateful night, he said: “I woke up with the alarm raised by some tenants that night. We were told that it was the deceased that lit the fire.

“However, the question is how is it possible judging from the distance between his apartment and where the fire was said to have been lit? This is what the Police should look into.”

Another resident, who also spoke with Vanguard, said: “How come he sustained fire burns if he was in his room?

How come only the window of the affected room was gutted by fire if he did not intend to set the building ablaze?

Landlady allegedly sets tenant’s son ablaze in Ajegunle He was burnt while setting fire to my house—LANDLADY

As neighbours blame death on police negligence “Many are of the view that the petrol could have spilled on him as he struck the match.

Besides, he was alone at the scene of the fire.”

Police sources hinted that the landlady, whose identity could not be immediately ascertained, had bolted, adding that effort was on to apprehend her with a view to commencing investigation into the matter.

At press time yesterday, operatives at the homicide section of the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Department, SCIID, Yaba, had taken over the investigation.

By Samuel Oyadongha

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The house where Emmanuel was allegedly burnt to death.

2 killed, several injured as miscreants clash in Lagos

By Evelyn Usman

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AGOS—TWO persons were reportedly killed and several others injured in a renewed clash between factions of touts, otherwise called agbero, in Oshodi area of Lagos, yesterday.

Several vehicles were also destroyed by the warring factions with some shops looted.

Vanguard gathered that fight broke out, Wednesday, around Ayoni Bus Stop, between Mafoluku and OrileOshodi factions, over toll collection.

It was alleged that OrileOshodi faction invaded Mafoluku section and began

to collect toll from tricycle operators, an action that was seen as affront by Mafoluku faction.

A heated argument which led into a fight ensued, during which two persons, suspected to be from Mafoluku faction were killed.

The swift intervention of policemen from Akinpelu and Makinde brought the situation under control, following reports of a reprisal attack.

Some of those injured were reportedly rushed to Our Saviour Hospital and other private hospitals around the vicinity.

Eyewitnesses said some of the warring factions stormed

one of the hospitals, when news that members of their rival faction were being treated there reached them. The hospital staff fled.

A bakery located on 52, Mafoluku Road was also destroyed by the hoodlums, while a phone accessory shop at Omilade Bus Stop was set ablaze.

Eyewitnesses said one of the injured, who was rushed to a hospital, bled to death as none of the staff could attend to him.

At press time yesterday, a combined team of conventional and Mobile policemen, including OP MESA and National Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, were sighted patrolling the area.

Fayose’s wife pays 11-yr-old accident victim's bills

Tope Ogundana.

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ELIEF came the way of an 11-year- old boy, Tope Ogundana, an accident victim, who was admitted at the emergency ward of the state Specialist Hospital, Ikole Ekiti on Wednesday, as wife of the state governor, Mrs.

JTF arrests 21 suspects over crude oil theft, kidnapping

Yeyisetan Fayose, settled his medical bill due to the inability of the parents to do so, yesterday.

Tope’s ordeal coincided with the visit of the governor ’s wife, who was in the hospital in continuation of her programme of offsetting medical bills of some indigent patients in some major hospitals in the state.

Mrs Fayose, who was apparently attracted by the cry of mother of the boy, Mrs Blessing Ogundana, for assistance, immediately ordered the management of the hospital to commence the treatment of the boy with a promise to offset all his medical bills.

Blessing, who was full of joy over the gesture, rolled on

the ground several times in appreciation of the assistance from the governor ’s wife.

She also thanked her for saving the life of her son.

Presenting cheques to other indigent patients in the hospital, Mrs. Fayose attributed the success of the programme to the support of her husband, Governor Ayodele Fayose, saying “I have no regret to say, as I usually do, that I have no other pet project but to give full support to all the projects embarked upon by my husband.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of Hospital Management, Dr David Aina, said it was the policy of all the hospitals in the state, as directed by the governor, not to reject any patient who came for treatment.

ENAGOA—THE Joint Task Force in the Niger Delta, code named Operation Pulo Shield, yesterday, said its operatives have arrested 21 suspects for various criminal activities in the region, ranging from oil theft, kidnapping, piracy to illegal oil bunkering.

Spokesman of JTF, LtCol Ado Isa, who disclosed this in a statement issued in Yenagoa, said the suspects were arrested along Ughelli, Warri and Orerokpe communities in Okpe and Ughelli North Local Government areas of Delta State.

Items recovered from the suspects, he said, include rolls of stolen armoured cable, two circuit breaker, twelve cutouts, and two saw blades.

“Other items are bags of substances suspected to be Indian hemp,” he said, adding that the items are in the custody of JTF for preliminary investigation before handing them over to the prosecuting agency.

Isa also disclosed that its troops deployed to Oka pipeline in Ikpoba Okha LGA of Edo State discovered a hose connected to an illegal bunkering truck with number plates EDO BEN 117 ZN. He said the truck, loaded with 16 plastic tanks of 1,500 litres capacity each was filled with illegally refined AGO. He said: “The products, estimated to be about 24,000 litres, is suspected to have been illegally siphoned from NNPC pipeline.

“The vandals fled prior to the arrival of the troops while the truck is in the custody of JTF for further investigation.

“The JTF troops also apprehended an illegal oil bunkering tanker laden with 33,000 litres of substances suspected to be illegally refined Automated Gas Oil, AGO. “Five suspects were arrested while trying to flee the scene.”

8—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Police begin establishment of crime data bank

By Esther Onyegbula

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AGOS — THE Nigeria Police has commenced the development of crime and incident data bank to ensure that crime suspects in Nigeria do not escape the law.

The innovation would allow the Nigerian Police to acquire and maintain the criminal profile of suspects, convicts, ex-convicts and persons of interest as well as aid speedy resolution of crimes.

The project will also assist employers of labour to carry out discreet background check on their employees.

According to the project developer and Managing Director of Hardcore Biometric System, Mr. Kizito Ofonagoro, an information technology engineer, the project would allow the Police to build criminal profile of all offenders.

He said: “The project is about developing a crime and incident database for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to help compile data of every one who has committed a crime or involved in one in any part of the country. The purpose of the database is to give a broad over view into the criminal history of any persons in Nigeria.

“It would allow the NPF build criminal profile of continuous offenders, thereby establishing patterns which will aid the much precision needed in criminal investigation. It would also allow the NPF perform finger-print dusting on crime scene, weapons and other crime scene artifacts which can be used to conduct searches on the data and provide matches.

“By maintaining a forensic history of spent weapons casings, the NPF will have additional means of identifying weapon used in multiple crimes. It would also help promote international co-operation between the NPF and other international agencies such as embassies, high commissions, Interpol, United Nations. The database would also be linked to Nigeria Immigration Service, identifying illegal immigrants and locating them."

Jonathan didn't perform but Buhari must prove he’s a saint —Balarabe Musa Doubts Buhari's sincerity to confront corruption

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

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BUJA — SECOND Republic Governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, yesterday, doubted the ability and sincerity of President Muhammadu Buhari to confront the endemic problem of corruption in Nigeria and put an end to it.

Musa, who spoke in an exclusive interview with Vanguard in his Kaduna home, said President Buhari had already lost the moral right to prosecute the anti-corruption war by restricting the probe of corrupt officials to those in former President Jonathan’s government.

The former governor made it clear that Buhari had shot himself in the foot by deliberately limiting the war to Jonathan’s era, thereby making some highly corrupt persons to escape and carry on as saints.

Musa noted that while Buhari and Jonathan were not on the same page when it comes to leadership, Buhari must prove that he is not being surrounded by highly corrupt persons while looking out for those to be prosecuted for graft.

Musa said it was a tragedy to have made Jonathan the president of Nigeria given the fact that he neither had the experience nor the competence to rule Nigeria.

He said: “In the first place Jonathan should not have been the president of Nigeria because he lacks both the competence and the experience to run the country successfully. Nigeria is not a place to train on the job because unlike in America where there is a set standard in place, it is the leader who sets the standard in Nigeria.”

While blaming former President Olusegun Obasanjo for the emergence of Jonathan on the leadership saddle of Nigeria despite his leadership shortcomings, Musa said Buhari must prove that he has what it takes to move Nigeria a notch higher.

Musa added: “We don’t dispute the fact that Jonathan should not have been made the president of Nigeria at the time he was brought in but the point remains that Buhari must also prove that he is the saint he has portrayed himself to be.

“But my fear is that there are so many corrupt persons around Buhari and in APC and PDP while he has deliberately decided to limit his probe of corrupt persons to only those who served under Jonathan.

This is very sad and a clear

evidence of selective trial of opponents.”

Musa stated that for Buhari to be taken seriously in the fight against corruption, he must examine and convince himself that he is sincere and ready to conduct a fair trial of corrupt persons irrespective of

their party affiliation and status in society.

He pointed out that while he would not mention names of corrupt persons, he was convinced that there were many corrupt persons in both APC and PDP who are even more dangerous than former

President Jonathan.

He said: “I will advise Buhari to convince himself that he is morally and politically capable to undertake the responsibility of cleaning up Nigeria. I will ask him to constitute a government of national unity involving all the political parties in Nigeria in the task of rebuilding Nigeria.”

TRAINING: From left, Mr Paul Uduk, MD, Vision and Talent Ltd; Mr Obaji Obaji, Assistant Director, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, Enugu; Mr Oluwasesan Oyedele, Assistant Manager, Operational Risk, Central Securities Clearing System Nig Plc; Mr Joe Wilson, Senior Consultant, Vision and Talent and Mr Aliyu Baba, Management Assistant, NDIC, Bauchi at the leadership excellence training, in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele

Metering: NERC queries DISCOs over non-compliance with CAPMI

By Chris Ochayi

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BUJA— THE Nigerian Electricity Regulation Commission, NERC, has threatened to sanction the Distribution Companies, DISCOs, over their failure to implement the Credited Advance Payment for Metering Implementation, CAPMI. The NERC, in a statement in Abuja, yesterday, vowed that it will embark on enforcement for noncompliance.

According to the statement, “the commission has given the distribution companies a seven-day ultimatum to show cause why action should not be taken and sanction meted on them for non-compliance, stemming from violation of the provisions of the licence terms and conditions.

This is contained in a letter to the defaulting utilities, namely Port Harcourt, Abuja, Yola and Enugu distribution companies. Others are

Ibadan, Ikeja, Eko and Benin.

The warning read: "The commission considers your actions as manifest and flagrant breaches and, therefore, requires you to show cause in writing within seven days from the date hereon, why enforcement should not be commenced against you and sanctions meted accordingly for noncompliance with the terms and conditions of the license granted you and the order on Credited Advance Payment for Metering Implementation.”

The order introducing the CAPMI scheme became effective May 14, 2013, in which NERC directed that the scheme should commence and be implemented at the same time in all the distribution companies. Furthermore, the DISCOs were to redeploy meters under the scheme to willing customers, including the

installation of same within 45 days from the date of the payment by any customer.

In the letter to the DISCOs, NERC noted that it had been observed from public consultation and monitoring exercises carried out by the commission to ascertain the implementation level, that the DISCOs either failed or neglected to fully implement the CAPMI scheme.

Condition 2(1) of the terms and conditions of the licence granted the DISCOs provides as follows: "The licencee shall comply with the conditions of this licence and the requirements of the licenced business as set out in the act and regulations approved by the commission in accordance with the commission’s statutory duty to monitor all licencees.”

They also have been found to be collecting money from customers for credit meters not minding whether they opted for the scheme, including not publicising the scheme thus giving misleading information to customers.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—9

Buhari directs IGP to reduce Police orderlies attached to individuals Warns IGP, PSC against extortion during recruitment Says B'Haram insurgents'll be defeated soon

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By Levinus Nwabughiogu

BUJA—PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has issued a stern warning to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP and the Police Service Commission, PSC, that he would not tolerate extortion from unemployed Nigerians in the forth-coming Police recruitment.

The President, who noted the practice as an emerging culture, said it was totally unacceptable to him.

Speaking during a meeting with officials of the Ministry of Police Affairs and the Police Service Commission at the Presidential Villa, Buhari said that those in charge of recruitment and training in the Police must be above board and eschew every form of extortion and underhand dealing.

He said: “You must ensure that the recruitment process is transparent. Those who will conduct the recruitment must be above board. It should not be heard that they receive gratification or extort money from those who want to enlist in the police.”

defeated soon — Buhari

Meanwhile, President Buhari has reiterated the determination of his government to defeat Boko Haram insurgents “soon.”

He said with the renewed vigour showcased by the Nigerian military and her counterparts within the Lake Chad Basin, improved logistics, equipment and training, victory was assured.

Buhari gave the assurance while in audience with the Chadian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Special Envoy of President Idriss Deby, Mr Mousa Faki Mahamat.

The President said, however, that Nigeria and Chad must be prepared to make more sacrifices to end the scourge of Boko Haram since they were at the “very heart of the insurgency.”

“We will sustain our effort, and the insurgents will be defeated soon,”Buhari vowed.

Also speaking, the visiting Special Envoy of the Chadian President, Mahamat, said President Deby appreciated the leadership being shown by President Buhari in the war against terrorism.

He added that his visit was a solidarity one to the fight against terrorism, saying the insurgents

have already been defeated.

He said: “We also appreciate the diligence shown in appointing a commander for the Multinational Joint Task Force, and President Deby believes that the fight will end in a few months.

Our people rely on us to end the insurgency, because economic development is being hampered.

"This fight has to come to an end. My coming here is to reaffirm our full commitment.

Beyond the number of troops earlier announced, Chad is still ready to commit more soldiers.

The enemy is weakened already.

Let’s stand firm and neutralize them.”

Prune Police orderlies attached to individuals

The President also directed the Inspector-General of Police to prune the number of policemen attached to dignitaries, and redeploy all policemen withdrawn from the role to regular police duties.

The President, who noted with concern the stagnation of policemen on a particular rank for many years, instructed the PSC to review the current structure of the police and make recommendations on how the problem can be solved to boost the morale of serving policemen.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr James Obiegbu, while briefing Buhari on the activities of the ministry enumerated some challenges facing the Police.

According to him, the challenges included inadequate police personnel, dwindling finances and non-rehabilitation of police training schools.

Similarly, Chairman of the PSC, Mr. Mike Okiro, who expressed gratitude to the President for giving approval for the recruitment of 10,000 police officers, said the country needed to have more than the 305,579 policemen and women to effectively secure the country.

B'Haram insurgents'll be

VISIT: President Muhammadu Buhari (right) and Chadian Special Envoy, Chad’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat during a visit to the President, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

Visa to ISIS chief: FG to query ambassador to Lebanon

By Soni Daniel & Victoria Ojeme

A

BUJA— As the panel raised

by President Muhammadu Buhari to probe how a wanted terrorist obtained visa in Beirut to travel to Nigeria commenced its work, the Federal Government is considering summoning its ambassador to shed light on the development.

Specifically, the Charge de Affairs in Beirut is needed to clear the air on how the wanted man, Ahmed Al Assir, secured a Nigerian visa, who issued it to him and why.

A top official of the Foreign Affairs Ministry in Abuja confirmed to Vanguard that the ministry had sprung into action to get to the root of the matter, which she described as ‘very embarrassing’ to the government and people of Nigeria.

It was learnt that the decision to summon the envoy arose following the discrepancies contained in the man’s

documents.

Although key government officials looking into the matter have sufficient reasons to believe that the visa used by the man who also goes by the name Rami Adbul Rahman Taleb, was forged in order to escape arrest, they are worried about the implications of such development to the Nigerian visa and the image of the country.

A source said: “We have gone far in carrying out the president’s directive to probe how the man came by the Nigerian visa but we want to be sure that the assignment is completed with accuracy and that the outcome will be able to block any attempt to tarnish the country’s image.

“We are thinking of summoning our Charge d'Affaires in Beirut if at the end of the day the materials we have on the ground are not enough to give us all the answers to the questions raised by the Presidency on the matter.

“On the other hand, if what we have is able to give us a breakthrough to what we need,

then, we may not ask the envoy to come over to Abuja for more information on the issue.”

Asked whether the Federal Government was contemplating recalling its envoy from Beirut over the development, the official said it was a mere summon to enable the official to assist the government in the current probe and nothing more.

Vanguard learnt that the probe team headed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Bulus Lolo, had already questioned many key officials of the ministry in and outside Nigeria with a view to submitting a comprehensive report on the issue to the Presidency.

Contacted, spokesman for the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Mr. Odeh Ogbole, confirmed that investigation into the matter had commenced in earnest but declined to give details of what had been done. He also refused to say who had been summoned or not.

Crashed copter: AIB releases manifest

By Lawani Mikairu & Daniel Eteghe

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AGOS — THE Accident Investigation Bureau , AIB, yesterday released the names of 12 people including the six victims on board the Bristow Helicopter that crashed in Lagos last Wednesday.

The six victims are Chukwuma Erise, Chidi Ukwunta, Ita Ekpeyong, Chris Abua, Joseph Wyatt (Captain) and Peter Kayode Bello( co-pilot).

According to Mr Tunji Oketunbi, General Manager, Public Affairs, AIB, “the Accident Investigation Bureau today (yesterday) released the passenger manifest for the helicopter that crashed last week in Oworonsoki area of Lagos, Nigeria.

“Please find below the names of the passengers and the crew on the manifest of the ill-fated flight. They are: Ita Ekpeyong, Joshua Emekeme, Dolu Ebiejuara, Onoriode Onojete, Chukwuma Erise, Solomon Udeh, Chidi Ukwunta, Iniala Opaimi, Chris Abua, Chukwudi Onah, Joseph Wyatt (Captain), Peter Kayode Bello (co-pilot)” “The Sikorsky S76 C+ helicopter crashed into the lagoon in Oworonsoki area of Lagos on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 shortly before landing at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos. The helicopter marked 5N-BGD and operated by Bristow Helicopters departed SEDCO oil platform offshore en-route Lagos airport.”

It will be recalled that the Flight Data Recorder and Corkpit Voice Recorder, CVR, were recovered last Friday by the AIB, after two days of frantic search for the two items that will aid and quicken investigation of the crashed helicopter.

Oketunbi had said last Friday that “the Accident Investigation Bureau announced that the flight recorders, popularly known as black boxes, to the Sikosky 76 helicopter that crashed into the lagoon in Oworonsoki area of Lagos on Wednesday 12 August, 2015 have been recovered.”

10 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Group dissociates Ambode from alleged website scam

By Dapo Akinrefon

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AGOS—A group, Lagos Indigenes Network Organization, LINO, has dissociated Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode from the alleged N78m website scandal rocking his predecessor, Babatunde Raji Fashola.

Some groups loyal to Fashola had accused Ambode as the brain behind the revelations especially since the information detailing the contract which has generated widespread criticisms from concerned Nigerians was made available by the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, an organ of the Lagos State Government.

In a statement, LINO’s Executive Secretary, Mr Fouad Ade- Basorun said since his swearingin on May 29, Ambode has busied himself with developmental projects in the state and has no spare time to tarnish the image of his predecessor.

The group, which said it takes strong exception to those linking the governor with the revelations also described the report as sad, adding that those involved in the saga were mischief makers trying to cause chaos in the polity.

FALOMO CONTRACT REVOCATION: Our case, by Afriland properties

By Jonah Nwokpoku

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AGOS—FOLLOWING Wednesday’s revocation

by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, of the concession granted by the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation, LSDPC, to Afriland Properties for the redevelopment of the Falomo Shopping Centre, Ikoyi, the management of the concessionaire, Afriland Properties Plc has denied any wrong doing, saying the award of the contract followed due process.

The firm, through its Managing Director, Uzo Oshogwe, rejected the claim that the concession terms were detrimental to Lagos state and its residents and that it only made a payment of N50 million for a 50-year lease of the government-owned land.

The statement said: “Though the authenticity of these reports is unconfirmed, Afriland strongly refutes the suggestion that it has engaged in any misconduct or that the transaction is in any way detrimental to the people and government of Lagos State. ‘’We are strongly committed to creating a world class project, which will act as an economic magnet for central Lagos, creating opportunities for Lagosians has been structured to ensure ongoing value will accrue to Lagos State and to Lagosians. The contract was negotiated transparently and in accordance with best practice.

“Afriland Properties Plc and the Lagos State Development Property Corporation, LSDPC, acting on behalf of the Lagos State government, established a Special Purpose Vehicle, SPV which is jointly owned by the parties for the specific purpose of the Falomo project. Under the

Lagos APC blasts Bode George over call for Tinubu, Fashola probe

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

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AGOS—THE All Progressive Congress, APC, Lagos Chapter has berated Peoples Democratic Party,PDP chieftain, Chief Olabode George over his call to President Muhammadu Buhari to probe former governor of Lagos State Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his successor, Babatunde Fashola.

The party asked George to keep quiet for now and continue to lick the wounds inflicted on him by the defeat his party suffered at both the National and the state levels in the just concluded federal elections.

APC State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, yesterday, said George like the Lagos PDP Chairman, Tunji Shelle was woken up from a chronic

hallucination after suffering a devastating defeat in the hands of APC. “Why is Bode George finding it difficult to believe that the game is over for him in Nigerian politics talk less of Lagos State? Who will tell Bode George that nobody takes him serious again in matters of Nigerian politics? Who will persuade Chief George to quit politics now in his own interest?

“Did he know that the President has full knowledge of his dubious activities in Lagos during the campaigns? Chief Bode George spoke about the cost of projects in Lagos, but the question is this: what does a hut builder know about LekkiIkoyi Bridge? What does this carpenter know about gold?''

terms of the agreement, the SPVFalomo Shopping Centre Development Company Ltd – was granted a concession to, among other things, develop, build, operate and maintain the Project on a Build, Operate and Transfer, BOT basis.”

According to the statement, “Afriland paid N50million to LSDPC as an expression of interest

in the redevelopment project.

The LSPDC will receive a 35 per cent interest in the SPV for its land contribution and through this significant Equity Holding, will continue to receive significant ongoing value. ‘’Afriland is obliged to fund the entirety of the development costs which is projected to exceed N30 billion without

recourse to the taxpayer.

“The new facility will comprise a state-of-the-art shopping mall, office complex and generous parking facilities. Afriland has consistently adhered to the terms of its agreement with LSDPC, as outlined in the MoU and Joint Venture Agreement that were signed and executed by the aforementioned parties.”

Students paralyse activities as LASU crisis worsens

LASU SHUTDOWN: The main entrance of Lagos State University, barricaded by protesting students

By Monsuru Olowoopejo

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Senior Staff Association of Nigerian University, SSANU and Non-Academic Staff Union, NASU to allow full academic activities commence in the school ended in deadlock.

Speaking on behalf of the students, the spokesperson for the LASU Student Union, LASU

AGOS—ACTIVITIES at the Lagos State University, LASU were yesterday paralysed by National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS. According to reports, efforts by the school’s security officials to prevent the students’ from shutting down activities in the school proved abortive.

When Vanguard visited the school at about 3:30 pm, the gates were under lock, as the students’ barricaded the entrance.

By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Vehicles of some people who Bartholomew Madukwe came to the school for banking or AGOS—GOVERNOR academic reasons were stopped Akinwunmi Ambode of from leaving the school premises.

Banners were hanged at the Lagos State, yesterday, asked a gates by the students, stating their Lagos State High Court sitting demands before the gate could be in Ikeja to vacate an order stopping the coronation reopened.

Their demands were: ceremony to fill the vacant stool “Immediate reopening of LASU of Ayangburen, the traditional Senate building, Resumption of ruler of Ikorodu.

The Ayangburen stool became full administrative work in LASU, No to holding of Senate meeting vacant about a year ago, on outside the school premises, No to August 1, 2014 after the passage victimization of LASU staffs, No to of Oba S.A.A. Oyefusi.

The vacation judge on the lock-out of LASU management and case, Justice Olabisi No to prolong semester.”

Ogungbesan, last Friday The students argued that the gates will not be reopened until the stopped the coronation state governor, Mr. Akinwunmi ceremony to fill the vacant stool Ambode visit the school to address scheduled for last Saturday.

However, the coronation the challenges.

It was learned that the students’ ceremony reportedly took place resulted into the action after several as fixed.

The judge had restrained the meetings with the Vice Chancellor, governor or anyone acting under Prof. John Obafunwa and the school unions-Academic Staff his authority from going ahead Union of University, ASUU and to crown the Odofin of Ikorodu,

Mr. Fatai Adebanjo lamented that many who should have graduated from the school have been forced to spend extra years due to the continued face-off between the management and the unions.

Nobody was ready to speak for the school authority.

AYANGBUREN: Lagos wants order stopping coronation lifted

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Chief Kabiru Shotebi, as the new Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom.

Ambode, represented in court by a state counsel, Mr. S.A. Quadri, urged the court to reverse the order, describing it as one made in error.

According to Quadri, the ex parte application that led to the order is an abuse of court processes, and the order was made after Shotebi had been given the staff of office.

He told the court that former Governor Babatunde Fashola on May 26, 2015, installed Shotebi as the new Ayangburen, after Shotebi was presented to him at the 17th meeting of the State Executive Council held on May 25, 2015.

Quadri explained that contrary to the facts presented before the court, the event which took place on Saturday was not the coronation per-se but a mere social gathering to celebrate Shotebi’s instalment as a monarch.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 11

We’re destroying Fayemi’s legacies of debt, others – FAYOSE

Baba Sala recovering fast – UCH

By Ola Ajayi

By Dapo Akinrefon

I

T

HE Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, has dismissed former Governor Kayode Fayemi’s claim that his government was destroying his predecessor’s legacies.

Fayose said what was being destroyed were huge debt, unpaid salaries, white elephant projects, bad governance and alleged corruption left behind by the All Progressives Congress, APC, government of Dr. Fayemi, noting that “no responsible government will sustain a legacy of over N86 billion debt that was incurred on projects with no direct bearing on the welfare of the people.”

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Governor Fayose said it was necessary for Fayemi’s negative legacies to be destroyed, adding that; “Even in the APC, the ex-governor’s legacy is being destroyed.

“Today, Fayemi has been ostracised by those who assisted him to office because he has betrayed all of them. Does he then wants us to sustain the legacy of serial betrayal of his benefactors?

If he served Ekiti and its people well, why was it that he was roundly defeated in all the 16 local councils in the state in the June 21, 2014 governorship election?

“Today, Ekiti State is under the yoke of debt, courtesy of Fayemi’s mismanagement of the state's resources and what we are destroying are those legacies of mis-governance he left behind.

We won’t only destroy his legacy of mis-governance and betrayal in

VISIT: Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, Hon Najeem Salaam (2nd right); Senator Adamu Abdullahi (3rd left); Senator Babajide Omoworare (2nd left); Senator Gboyega Dada (right); Deputy Speaker, Osun Assembly, Hon. Akintunde Adegboye (left) and other Assembly members during the visit of the Senate delegation to the Assembly, yesterday.

Ekiti, we will also make sure that Other defendants are the Police people like him will never taste and Nigeria Civil Defence Corps, power in the state.”

NCDC. But Fayose, who spoke through Estate residents sue Fayose, his Chief Press Secretary, Mr claim N20m damages Idowu Adelusi, said the residents Meantime, residents of were free to go to court adding Irewolede (Fajuyi) Estate in Ado- that; “They will meet us there.”

Ekiti, have sued Governor The residents recalled that after Ayodele Fayose and Ekiti State their lawyers’ letter to the Housing Corporation over illegal Commissioner of Police and eviction from their homes. copied to the Attorney General

TRIBUNAL: Isiaka, PDP move to call more witnesses

By Daud Olatunji

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B E O K U TA — T H E Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ogun State and it’s candidate, Gboyega Isiaka who are petitioners in the ongoing Governorship

FG tasks exporters over bankable proposals financing is attributable to

By Dayo Johnson

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KURE—THE Federal government yesterday tasked those seeking export facility to package bankable proposals.

Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Olusegun Awolowo threw the challenge while speaking in Akure during a one-day Bankers-Exporters forum.

It also called for a single digit interest on loans to Small and Medium Enterprises SMEs for easy accessibility.

He observed that in spite of the large presence of conventional and specialized banks, access to finance still constitute a major challenge to business successes in the country.

According to him one key factor responsible for dearth of export

and Commissioner of Justice, some traditional rulers intervened at the alleged behest of the governor in what the residents saw as a face-saving device in a clear case of illegality.

At the meeting, the governor gave November 31, 2015 ultimatum to residents to pay up or lose their houses to interested buyers. No date has been fixed for hearing.

disinclination of banks to lend to exporting businesses due to inability of Small and Medium Enterprise SME exporters to provide collateral for loans .

Awolowo, who was represented by the Director, Special Duties in the commission, Olajide Ibrahim said that inadequate knowledge of export business on the part of bankers is another key factor.

“A lot of SMES are complaining that they don’t have the finance, and banks complain too that most of the proposal the SMEs are bringing to them are not attractive enough and are not bankable proposals and cannot fund them.

Speaking on the way out of the dwindling revenue in the oil sector, Awolowo said that the federal government has identified 13 non oil export to replace oil and we want to put effort behind these 13 products and categorized them into three sections to replace oil.

Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, have filed an application seeking to call more witnesses.

Isiaka dragged the Al Progressives Congress, APC and its candidate, Governor Ibikunle Amosun before the tribunal, challenging his victory at the April 11,2015 governorship election in the state.

Amosun, APC and Independent National Electoral Commission are first, second and third respondents respectively in the petition.

Isiaka and his party had

filed the application, dated August 18 and had served all the respondents , praying for an order of the court granting leave to them to bring and move the application outside the prehearing session.

He has also sought for leave of the court to use the Sworn Witness Statement of one Benjamin Ibikunle and report of inspection on electoral materials used for April 11 election, amongst other prayers.

The petitioners have so far called seven witnesses.

Ogun Assembly sets up 20 standing committees

By Daud Olatunji

A

BEOKUTA—THE Ogun State House of Assembly, yesterday, constituted 20 Standing Committees to oversee the affairs of Ministries, Departments and Agencies in the state.

According to the information Officer of the Assembly, Lawal Jamiu, the committee was constituted so as to ensure smooth running of legislative business in the State.

According to the statement,the constitution of the committees was sequel to the presentation of the report of Selection Committee on the constitution of House Standing Committees, by the Vice Chairman and Deputy Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo.

BADAN—FOR the second time within three days, there was serious concern about the health of foremost Yoruba comedian, Moses Adejumo, popularly called Baba Sala who was rushed to the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan last Saturday.

His son, Emmanuel had to quickly clarify that his father was alive and even demanded for pounded yam on Tuesday.

Though, it was reported that the octogenarian was still alive and bubbling with life, some social media were yesterday awash with a rumour that his health worsened.

Several Nigerians especially residents of Ibadan were worried about his health status and were making calls to know about his condition.

But, the Public Communication Officer of the teaching hospital, Mr. Deji Bobade again reaffirmed his earlier comments that Baba Sala was fast recovering. He said this in a telephone interview yesterday evening.

He also said in a text message that, “Papa is recovering very fast. He needs to rest to ensure full recovery in good time.”

Another close associate of the comedian said his health was stable, adding that those writing rubbish in social media did so based on the initial uncertainty that surrounded his health.

As at the time of filing this report, there was calm at the hospital where the comedian is receiving treatment.

12—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Delta communities shut flow station over alleged breach of agreement W

By Emma Amaize

ARRI—YOUTHS and women of Kokodiagbene, Okerenkoko, Akpatagbegbe, Akpataegbemu and Omadino, Warri South-West Local Government Area, Delta State, yesterday, shut down the operations of the Nigeria Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, in the Jones Creek oil field.

They ordered the workers to vacate the flow station, thereby shutting in about 250,000 barrels, which is the daily crude oil production from Jones flow station.

The host communities were reportedly enraged that Nest Oil Plc, a major contractor to NPDC and Neconde Energy, breached an earlier agreement to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with them before hooking up their pipes to the well- heads.

Spokesperson of the Jones Creek Communities, Sheriff Mulade, who confirmed the shutdown of the flow station, accused the oil firms of skirting their corporate social responsibilities to the host communities and advised Nest Oil Plc to pull out of the area to avoid crisis.

According to him, “Our position is that Nest Oil Plc has not lived up to expectations. The

company dumped the earlier agreement reached between the communities in the presence of security agents. They are hiding under the cover of security agencies to enter the area and operate. Therefore, we are appealing to the Federal Government to call NPDC/ Neconde to order, to avoid the escalation of the crisis. What they are doing is because of the security presence otherwise they would not have violated the agreement. We are calling on NPDC and Neconde

managements as a matter of urgency to call for a meeting to discuss their Freedom to Operates, FTOs, in the area; otherwise they should pack out of our communities. These two indigenous firms have fragrantly and fraudulently entered Jones Creek without permission from the communities.”

A villager also told Vanguard, “Nest Oil Plc, an indigenous oil firm reneged on the undertaking after we agreed that they could embark on construction work and lay pipes but secretly embarked on

the hook up, which the communities uncovered. The leaders of the communities ordered the shutdown of the flow station because the companies have not been honest to them, as their entry into the area was fraudulent in the sense that there was no MoU with the communities before operations.

Besides, the companies continue to lie to the communities that they will engage them. Until now, the communities have remained in the dark. The communities do not know their fates.”

VISIT: From left: Deputy Managing Director, Arik Air, Capt. Ado Sanusi, Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sean Hoy and Chairman, Arik Air, Sir Joseph Arumemi- Ikhide, during a visit to Arik Air head office in Lagos, by the Irish envoy.

Okowa advocates establishment of mini refineries

By Festus Ahon

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SABA—GOVERNOR Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, has called for the establishment of mini refineries to check pipeline vandalism and illegal refining in the country.

Okowa who spoke when the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, FUPRE, Professor Akii Ibhadode, paid him a courtesy call, said the establishment of mini refineries in different areas of Niger Delta would ensure that the 450,000 barrels of crude oil meant for local consumption were refined locally.

He emphasised that all avenues to reduce illegal refining of petroleum products and pipeline vandalism must be harnessed, saying; “we look forward to having effective and efficient mini refineries so that our people will be better encouraged to follow due process in refining petroleum products, rather than vandalizing our pipelines and seek to get crude from the local provisions that NNPC provides on a daily basis for refining.

“I am aware that at the moment, about 450,000 barrels are supposed to be left locally for the purpose of refining, but because we have not been able to attain an efficient process of refining our products, they will not be able

to approach Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, in any manner to be part of the companies that utilize the 450,000 barrels.”

The governor who commended FUPRE for its efforts at having

mini refineries, noted that “it is good to hear that the University of Petroleum Resources is doing something towards having micro and mini refineries, unfortunately, our people approach the whole process of crude refining in a crude

manner and rather than getting the crude oil from appropriate sources, they have undertaken to vandalise our pipelines and that has not helped us as a state."

Otuaro tasks community leaders on peace

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By Festus Ahon

SABA—DELTA State Deputy Governor, Mr Kingsley Otuaro, has warned community leaders against acts capable of threatening the peace of the state.

Otuaro who gave the warning after suspending the three candidates; Ophoni Okubokeye, Akuna Ebigbongha and Tissa You Angele, contesting for the

chairmanship of the Ojobo community in Burutu Local Government area of the state, said the state government would not tolerate any act of lawlessness.

Urging them to forego their ambition in the overall interest of the community, he said the decision was necessitated by the heat being generated by the election which was adjudged inconclusive.

The Deputy Governor who spoke during a meeting with some of the community stakeholders at Asaba, said one of the candidates had been parading himself as the elected chairman thereby causing confusion in the town.

He said the full weight of the law would be invoked on anyone that undermined the peace and security agenda of the state government.

Odubu condoles with Borno govt over death of Deputy Gov had taken positive steps to

B

ENIN CITY—MORE Condolences have continued to pour in for the late Deputy Governor of Borno State as his counterpart in Edo State, Dr. Pius Odubu, described the death of the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Zannah Umar Mustapha as a monumental loss to the state and indeed Nigeria.

Edo State deputy governor, Dr. Pius Odubu in a statement in

Benin signed by his Chief Press Secretary , Kelly Odaro, said the deceased will be missed by all.

Odubu described the death as tragic and urged the bereaved family to take solace that the late deputy governor was a man of impeccable character who lived a life worthy of emulation.

He said Alhaji Zannah Umar Mustapha was a dependable ally of the Governor, and together, they

ensure speedy development of the state in spite of the challenges.

“The late deputy governor made profound contributions at several fora where he represented the Governor and the state, and he gave the impression of a man who had a deep passion for his state and a great insight on how to move the state forward.

Rivers govt begins payment of arrears to pensioners

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— GOVERNOR Nyesom Wike of Rivers State said yesterday that his government had commenced payment of arrears owed pensioners in the state The governor who disclosed this in Port Harcourt, said all of them would have been paid before the end of next week.

He said he ordered the Ministry of Finance to commence payment immediately, noting that it was unfortunate that a state such as Rivers could owe pensioners between six and eight months arrears.

The governor who spoke through his media aide, Mr Opunabo Nko-Tariah, assured that his government would give priority to civil servants and pensioners welfare, saying “the governor has cleared all the arrears owed pensioners and has given a directive to the State Ministry of Finance to ensure that all pensioners get every naira owed them by the state government."

5 winners emerge in Startimes trip to Germany

By Emma Elebeke

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BUJA—FIVE lucky winners have emerged in the StarTimes first draw in the ongoing Win a Trip to Germany promo.

Fifty winners also emerged from the draw for LED TV prize and 100 winners for 2. 5 KVA generators.

At the end of the draw, 200 winners for Solar 5 smart phones also emerged.

The winners are to travel to Germany free of charge to watch the Bundesliga matches at the expense of StarTimes.

Speaking at the event, the Public Relations and Communications Manager, StarTimes Nigeria, Mr. Israel Bolaji, explained that the promo was a testimony of StarTimes’ commitment to celebrating its Nigerian customers in marking its five years operation in the country.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—13

I left N10bn for my successor —AMAECHI

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— FORMER Rivers State Governor, Chibuike Amaechi has said he left a balance of between eight to ten billion naira for his successor, Governor Nyesom Wike In a statement from his from his media office yesterday, the former governor denied that he handed over an empty treasury to his successor.

The statement by the former Governor ’s media office, yesterday, revealed that a total of N7.5 billion cash was left behind as balances in the State Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, account with Skye Bank, FAAC account with Zenith Bank, balances with Access Bank and funds in the State reserve fund account in First Bank.

“This is besides other balances in the state Government House account with Zenith Bank and other government MDA accounts, like the Bureau for Public Procurement, BPP. By the time you pull all these together, we are looking at readily available cash in the region of eight to ten billion naira left for the Wike administration.”

“It’s also pertinent to point out here that former governor Amaechi also left economic assets worth tens of billions of naira for the state. Just like cash, the assets store value. These assets that are scattered in diverse sectors of the economy were developed or built or procured with revenue that accrued to the

state during Amaechi’s tenure.

The assets belong to Rivers State, not Amaechi. Some of these assets are presently yielding revenue to the state coffers, and many can be easily and readily converted to cash, if the State so desires.

“It is therefore disingenuous and fraudulent for Wike to claim that Amaechi left an empty treasury in his bid to justify the N30 billion loans he collected under 30 days in office. Rather than this puerile and silly distraction of always pointing accusing fingers at Amaechi, Wike should come out to explain to Rivers people what he took the loans for, account for and justify every kobo that has been spent

from the loans”, the statement concluded.

But media aide to governor Nyesom Wike, Mr Opunabo NkoTariah, described the claim by the former governor as another tissue of lies, stressing that if he left what he claimed how come civil servants, pensioners , footballers, contractors were owed by his government.

He said even students on the state scholarship program overseas were almost sent out of the classroom over unpaid fees, adding that the issue was not all about empty treasury alone as properties in Government House, Port Harcourt were allegedly looted before the handover date of May 29..

Governor Wike had consistently maintained that he met a completely empty treasury when he took over as governor.

Only on Wednesday, while trying to justify why he took a total of N30 billion bank loans from Zenith and Access banks under 30 days in office, Wike had through his spokesman, Opunabo InkoTariah told a radio station in Port Harcourt that he met an empty treasury when he took over government.

However, Amaechi has openly put a lie to Wike’s claim, saying he left billions of naira in cashandeconomicassetsforRivers State.

RAFFLE DRAW: From left: Regional Director, FESTAC Business Area/Lagos Market, Skye Bank, Mr. Henry Owie, Head, Retail Banking Group, Skye Bank, Nkolika Okoli, one of the winners in the N1 million category, Badagry branch, Mr. Okoro Donatus and Head, Customer Engagement, Skye Bank, Yewande Soyannwo, at the bank's “Reach For The Skye” reward scheme raffle draw at Alaba and Aspamda International markets, Lagos, yesterday.

Rivers residents groan over power outage As PHED, labour face-off enters day three

By Jimitota Onoyume

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ORT HARCOURT— RESIDENTS of Rivers State yesterday continued to groan over the blackout that has enveloped the state since Wednesday following ongoing face-off between organised labour and the management of Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, PHED, over labour issues.

Officials of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and its affiliate; National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE, had Tuesday declared an indefinite industrial action against PHED in the four states of Rivers, Akwa Ibom,

Cross River and Bayelsa over alleged unfair labour practices.

When Vanguard visited the Moscow road office of PHED yesterday, the protesting NLC members were seen at the premises picketing the office and

demanding among others, a recall of some staff sacked they claimed violated labour laws.

Some of the residents of Port Harcourt who spoke on condition of anonymity, said urgent steps should be taken to resolve the

problem, saying “they should resolve this matter quickly because we the consumers are the ones paying the bills. They will still bill us for the period of the strike that we did not consume electricity. So they should resolve urgently “

Amaechi loses bid to stop probe of his Justice Amadi said Governor administration administration.

Wike was empowered by law In his ruling yesterday, Justice

P

By Jimitota Onoyume

ORT HARCOURT— JUSTICE Simeon Amadi of a Rivers State High court, has dismissed the suit filed by former Governor Chibuike Amaechi challenging moves by Governor Nyesom Wike to probe his

Amadi said the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry set up by Governor Wike to look into aspects of the administration of the former governor was not established to investigate the personal life of the former governor

to open the books of former governments in the state since the actions affected the lives of people of the state.

Continuing, he said the 30 days set aside for the commission to conclude its job did not in any way rob the former governor of fair hearing, noting that it could be extended.

He said since the governor had not filed any memorandum before the commission or appeared before it he could not allege denial of right to fair hearing.

Council warns owners of abandoned vehicles on Warri roads

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ARRI—OWNERS of abandoned vehicles along the roads in Warri, Delta State, have been given the third week of September 2015 to remove them from the roads or face evacuation/seizure, authorities of Warri South Local Government Council have warned.

The one-month ultimatum affects all those operating motor parks along unauthorised places along the road, indiscriminate placement of billboards along major roads and streets as well as trading along median of roads.

The Warri South Council Supervisor for Environment, Mr. Kenneth George, gave the ultimatum while supervising the evacuation of refuse along Okere Market Road, Okumagba Estate Roundabout, Airport Road by Delta Careers College, Mciver Market Roundabout, Odion Road, Cavegina Primary School, Ukpokiti junction and Esisi Road, all in the Oil City of Warri.

According to Mr. George, as part of plans to rid roads in Warri of refuse and abandoned vehicles, a Special Environmental Sanitation Task-force headed by him had been set up by the council to ensure compliance.

Pa Samuel Ebbah dies @ 82

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A SAMUEL Oboraguono Ajuwanwan Ebbah of Ekragwa Quarters, Eku, Delta State is dead. He died on Sunday, August 9, 2015 at the age of 82. He died after a brief illness. He is survived by wife, children, grand children, greatgrand children, brothers, sisters, cousins, nephews, nieces and in-laws.

Burial arrangements will be announce by the family later.

Late Samuel Ebbah

14—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

BILATERAL TIES:

Irish envoy plans trade mission

By Francis Igata

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NUGU—THE Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sean Hoy, has announced that his country would enter into bilateral trade discussion with Nigeria to enhance economic development of the two countries.

Ambassador Hoy, who paid a courtesy call on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State at the Government House, added that an Irish trade mission is billed to arrive Nigeria in September to enter into the trade discussion with the country.

The ambassador paid tribute to Nigerians for conducting successful free, fair and credible election and for a classy fight that culminated in the eradication of Ebola disease in the country.

He expressed happiness over how the country handled Ebola challenge and the general elections.

2015 POLLS: INEC alleges impersonation

of ad hoc staff

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA—THE Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Anambra State alleged, yesterday, that many people, who were not ad hoc staff during the 2015 general elections were allegedly impersonating genuine ones to defraud the commission.

The state Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Mr. Edwin Nwatarali, who reacted to Wednesday’s invasion of the commission by over 500 youths, claiming that INEC had not paid them after participating as ad hoc staff during the election, said it was either most of the people could not provide the information necessary for them to get their money from the banks, or they were fake.

He said: “We used over 21,000 ad hoc staff in Anambra State and after the elections, we sent the information they provided to the banks for their payments.

Unfortunately, some of them provided incorrect information, such as using bank accounts that were not their own, and on verification, the banks returned

the money because the information did not match the names.

“After several efforts to correct them failed, we invited those who claimed that they have not been paid to our office for proper verification. When the verification started two weeks ago, we

discovered that many of them could still not provide correct information and some even came on a day their local governments were not supposed to come.

“We also discovered that as the verification continued, more people were coming and when we provided a format for them to

follow, most of them could not provide bank details, where they worked during the election, telephone numbers, among other information, which were indications that those who came to our office were just writing names of people for the purpose of claiming money.

Buhari tasks civil servants on change National Productivity Centre to Uwemedimo Edet Asomugha, project put in place machinery for him Engr. Saleh Dunoma, Ajibola

By Eric Ugbor

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RESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari yesterday tasked civil servants to brace up for the planning and implementation of the change contemplated by his administration saying he will personally hold them responsible for the change project.

Speaking yesterday at the 2015 National Productivity Day and conferment of National Productivity Order of Merit award in Abuja, President Buhari vowed to personally drive the productivity crusade in the country and directed the

to launch the Productivity Movement in Nigeria.

The president who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Clement Illoh, assured that the National Productivity Centre will be encouraged and empowered to ensure the Implementation of this directive as well as to carry out its mandate of ensuring a productive nation.

Those honoured at the occasion include Corp Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission, Boboye Olayemi Oyeyemi, Permanent Secretary,Ministry of Communication Technology, Dr. Tunji Olaopa, Mrs.

Olasehinde Olabode, CP Marcus Danladi, Ijeomah Azubuike, Danliti Yahaya Isah, Comrade Lateef Idowu Oyelekun, Boboye Olayemi Oyeyemi, Anthony Chinwuba Ani, and Dr. John Alfa, while the organisations are Lubcon Limited and Artee Group.

His words: “We shall dedicate ourselves of the ideals of resilience, integrity, excellence, standards, goodwill, accountability, good governance, patriotism and productivity. The time has now come for all hands to be on deck to work assiduously towards a new improved, recharged and productive Nigeria”.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 15

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16 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 —17

The new foreign exchange rules growth…and that the naira will only be temporarily assisted by such artificial manipulations.

I have also discussed the new policy with many regular citizens; and I’ve heard countless tales of decent people being massively messed up and inconvenienced.

Some have had to cancel, postpone or truncate holidays or business trips because they can’t quickly

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ARLIER on this month, foreign exchange transfer rules suddenly changed and became extremely complicated and draconian. There was no notice period or visible consultation process. The Central Bank simply issued a series of terse “with immediate effect” announcements that sounded like military decrees.

The General Public was informed that these stringent new measures were being launched to shore up the weak naira and prevent money-launderers from sabotaging our economy. But I’m not impressed. Frankly, I am VERY angry.

Why am I seething with fury?

This new policy is more wicked than fruitful…in the sense that it hits the less advantaged hard and isn’t likely to achieve desired results; I therefore urge Mr President to think again and scrap it with immediate effect!

Blameless individuals Because many blameless individuals like me (who have honest occupations or commercial interests, modest incomes and morally justifiable overseas expenses) were caught completely unawares…and are now going to suffer much more than the economic saboteurs whom this new policy was invented to thwart.

Why is this crackdown harming the innocent more than it harms the guilty?

Because big-time crooks can afford to deposit vast sums in different locations and already had gazillions of pounds/dollars/euros, etc, safely stashed in foreign countries when the new policy was activated…unlike small fries like me who can only occasionally afford to transfer small amounts abroad.

I have discussed this new policy with several bankers; and most feel that the new policy is unsustainable, unfair to their customers and antiC M Y K

Foreign mortgages

*President Muhammadu Buhari transfer sufficient funds for their overseas bills.

Others cannot purchase basic items – secondhand cars and groceries, for example – that they used to import from Cotonou and Beyond, to sell in Nigeria.

I, meanwhile, have been told that I can no longer buy sterling here and then transfer it to the UK, via my domiciliary account, to cover

costs - rent, utilities, council tax and so on – that are linked to my London residence.

I don’t expect you to weep for me at a time when the average Nigerian has more pressing concerns than esoteric foreign exchange regulations and can’t enjoy luxuries like international travel. But I’m human, so I’m weeping for myself!

I grew up in Britain and

Power supply improvement

A

LMOST everyone to whom I’ve recently spoken – diehard political opponents of President Buhari included - agrees (grudgingly in many cases!) that the electricity situation has improved significantly in the past couple of months.

In my family compound in Port Harcourt, there have been so few power outages in recent weeks that my mother and I can’t believe our luck.

Absolute fortune After years and years of spending an absolute fortune on generator diesel, we are now spending a fraction of what we used to spend. And we are thrilled and relieved.

This change has greatly boosted the disposable incomes of individuals and companies. And since there has been no new power sector initiative in recent weeks, I can only assume that

love almost everything about Britain but moved to Nigeria on a patriotic impulse 15 years ago. And I’ve struggled to survive and thrive here…and to cope with a plethora of tough and painful Naija realities.

Being able to escape to a gentler environment from time to time has kept me going psychologically.

Furthermore, my son and siblings still live in the UK. So for all sorts of reasons, I cherish the little sanctuary I stay in during my regular visits to London. And the thought of losing it depresses me so much that I am seriously considering the possibility of shifting my base back to the UK and getting a job there, so I can earn pounds instead of naira and keep my UK home.

PHCN staff are simply operating more efficiently.

Does Buhari deserve the credit for the status quo?

I may be wrong, but I say “ yes”. I think that he has projected a stern, principled, no-nonsense image - and

atmosphere - that is inspiring trepidation and encouraging government employees to remember that they are public servants and fear the consequences of incompetence and do their jobs properly.

The new pilgrimage policy

Ironically (given the Government’s claim that its new policy is aimed at fraudulent fat cats), many of the folks who are wellresourced enough to have acquired foreign mortgages – or to have bought foreign properties outright – are beneficiaries of the ill-gotten gains that flow from corrupt practices.

The Bottom Line is that if you are prosperous enough (via legal or illegal means) to own a property abroad, the new policy will not create major problems for you…Whereas if you are financially-challenged and a mere tenant who is renting because you can’t afford to get a mortgage or buy outright, you will be punished.

Long story short: This new policy is more wicked than fruitful…in the sense that it hits the less advantaged hard and isn’t likely to achieve desired results. I therefore urge Mr President to think again and scrap it with immediate effect!

I

WAS delighted when I heard that President Buhari has taken the bold step of refusing to bankroll Muslim and Christian pilgrimages because I have never understood why The State should sponsor trips to Mecca and Jerusalem.

Governments do not have infinite resources and should not get sucked into religious observance issues, which are an essentially a private matter.

If you or I want to piously journey to some Holy Land to nurture our souls, fine. Very laudable. But such trips are not compulsory and we should pay for them ourselves because our spiritual wellbeing is nobody else’s responsibility.

Furthermore, many “pilgrims” were dubious cronies of governors, ministers, and other grandees…who did nothing but shop, womanise, drink heavily or scour markets for tradable commodities when they reached their destinations.

Kudos galore to Buhari for courageously shrugging off this burden and insisting on prioritising his core duties: Destroying Boko Haram, developing infrastructure, sorting out education/health, fighting corruption, etc, etc,

Responses to: donzol2002@yahoo.co.uk or to 0802 747 6458 OR 0811 675 9752 (texts only).

PLEASE KINDLY NOTE THAT UNLESS YOU REQUEST ANONYMITY, YOUR COMMENTS MAY BE PUBLISHED, WITH YOUR NAMES AND CONTACT DETAILS ATTACHED.

18 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 Penultimate week, the Council of Legal Education released the bar final examination results conducted between April and May this year.

The council is statutorily charged with the responsibility of conducting final bar examinations for prospective lawyers who are subsequently called to the Bar after fulfilling certain conditions both in character and learning.

A breakdown of the results indicates that 1,805 out of 5,588 who sat for the exams failed. This failure rate in the institution that provides future man-power for an arm of government is quite disturbing. It is more worrisome that a higher percentage of those who were unsuccessful in the bar exams came from the rank of those who had to re-sit. Out of 2,736 candidates in this category, a total of 990 still failed. The other 875 candidates who did not pass in their first attempt added up to the

By Michael Egbejumi-David

S

OMETIME in 2014, the governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, secured a loan from the World Bank. Also, he secured three further loan facilities from two local commercial banks. One of the loans, N13.2 billion, through Ecobank, was to allow the governor pay contractors owed. The other two loans of N1.03 billion and N1.14 billion, through Fidelity Bank and Ecobank respectively, were intended to enable the governor meet its Edo State Basic Universal Education 50% counterpart-funding obligation. Governor Oshiomhole was very happy. His Commissioners were equally happy.

To cross the very last hurdle, Oshiomhole had to obtain the formal consent of the Federal government. He needed the Ministry of Finance to issue him a ‘Letter Of No Objection’ to enable the various monies to be released to him. And so, happily, on December 9, 2014, Oshiomhole dispatched a letter to the Finance Ministry asking it to do the needful. He assured the ministry that the loans will be paid back through the World Bank disbursement.

The Finance Ministry declined Oshiomhole’s request. The rejection letter was signed by one Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

In that rejection letter, the ex-Finance Minister stated that Edo State was already dancing too close to the edge financially.

Okonjo-Iweala, a former Vice President of the World Bank then compounded matters by giving the governor a short lecture in finance. First, she informed Oshiomhole that World Bank’s rules forbid the use of its

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High failure rate in Law School figure of failure recorded this year.

The poor performance is a reflection of the quality of products churned out by various universities' law faculties. In the recent past, the Council of Legal Education had withdrawn the accreditation of some law faculties that could not meet the required standards, such as well-equipped law libraries, quality academic staff including professors and conducive lecture halls, among others.

Successive directors-general of the school had lamented falling

standards in legal education in the country. The longest serving DG of the School, late Chief J.K Jegede, SAN, was the first to raise the alarm.

Such a concern is not out of place because the quality of lawyers produced now will determine the quality of judicial officers the nation would be saddled with.

That is why stakeholders should come together to salvage the situation before it is too late.

This is imperative especially when it is viewed against the backdrop of the crucial role of the

OPINION Rewarding Adams disbursements and other facilities to be used to offset commercial loans. Then she pointed out to the governor that using a concessionary facility (as that from the World Bank was) of 25 years with a 5 year grace period at 1.25% interest to pay for commercial loans of 23 months at 18% interest rate is dumb.

Well, brother Oshiomhole’s ego was well and truly bruised; his pride wounded and prostrate like the Greek economy. This is perhaps why the governor has been hugging the news, singing the blues. To him, the name Njozi Okonjo-Iweala has become mud.

When the opportunity presented itself, Oshiomhole ensured he got himself unto President Buhari’s little committee to look into the Excess Crude Account matter. But it is only Oshiomhole’s voice that you hear and that voice has been strident and venomous.

Okonjo-Iweala as the immediate past Finance Minister in truth is one of the logical persons to address some of the issues about funds and misappropriations. But, to my mind, this has got to be done within the confines of a formal, official investigative process. Oshiomhole has however opted for the popular media to do his thing. He has become completely obsessed. He harangues with the fervour of a newly ordained, halftutored evangelist. His charges against, and attacks on Okonjo-Iweala steadily became invidious and personal.

If you close your eyes, you would think that we are back to the military era.

I haven’t been keeping a diligent scorecard, but by my last count, Oshiomhole has accused Okonjo-Iweala of skiving off with $20 billion, then $30 billion, then $10 billion, then $2.1 billion. At one time, he threw in N720 billion. For good measure, he later claimed that Okonjo-Iweala took $1 billion from the Excess Crude Account to fund exPresident Jonathan’s failed campaign.

On his return from the USA as part of Buhari’s entourage, Oshiomhole was back to his old bone. Without any prompting, he declared that American officials told him that a former Minister stole $6 billion. Six billion dollars! It even hurts my fingers just typing that sum of money.

Before the spit could dry off Oshiomhole’s lips however, the Americans denied his claim. On 29 July 2015, through its State Department spokesperson, the Americans said nobody held a discussion with brother Oshiomhole not to talk of telling him that a Minister stole $6 billion. He was asked to name his source. The Americans further advised that Oshiomhole should not drag the USA into Nigerian petty politics.

Since then, Oshiomhole has recoiled somewhat. What has happened instead was that on 13 August 2015, Oshiomhole was rewarded for his hatchet job. Because we still don’t have a Finance Minister, Buhari asked the National Assembly to approve a World Bank loan of a whopping $75 million for Edo State. The National Assembly duly complied. Mission accomplished. The governor is smiling again.

But nobody seems to care what this kind of huge debt does to the future of a largely non-

judiciary not only in a democratic dispensation but in nation building as a whole. Every democratic society thrives on the rule of law, equity and justice.

The alternative to this is anarchy.

Because the judiciary is the last hope of the downtrodden, the quality of lawyers produced, some of whom would later become judges, should be a collective concern. A lasting solution should be proffered by the Law School rather than mere lamentations.

The Nigerian Law School should ensure that its own standard is not compromised. The Council of Legal Education should insist that law faculties that fail to measure up to its requirements are barred from sending students for admission to the Law School.

Students for re-sit exams at the Law School must be made to attend pre-examination tutorial classes since the refusal to do so has been identified as their major undoing.

productive State like Edo. Even Oshiomhole admitted that he couldn’t raise any worthwhile revenue internally because there are not enough taxable entities in his domain. He blamed it on Okonjo-Iweala of course. And when asked why he borrowed so much money, he said it’s because OkonjoIweala and the PDP looted the federal treasury. Breaks your heart, doesn’t it?

It would appear Oshiomhole has been rewarded for his role in a grand strategy to whip up ugly sentiments in the land. I say this because there seems to be an orchestrated effort to demonise some folks and turn the population and public opinion against them.

It is akin to giving a dog a bad name before its extirpation.

Some people seem to be working overtime preparing the ground for the unfurling of a yet unclear agenda. Just a few days ago in River State, the boss of the State Security Service, Musa Daura, effected the arrest of the State’s Resident Electoral Commissioner.

As this was being done, Mr Daura vowed to “clamp down on saboteurs.” Eh? Saboteurs?

Meanwhile, the River State election matter is still in court!

Well, dark clouds are gathering overhead again. The brightness, the gaiety, the positive energy and the promise that hitherto prevailed are been gradually sucked out of Nigeria. These days, it’s all negative news, negative insinuations, menacing pontifications, hysterics, uncertainty and dire foreboding. If you close your eyes, you would think that we are back to the military era.

*Dr. Egbejumi-David, London.

wrote from

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015— —19 Send Opinions & Letters to: opinions1234@yahoo.com

Trump: The new American cowboy

I

F the United States (US) were not the most powerful country in the world which can change the course of human history. If its President were not the most powerful politician in the universe with the largest military. If American policies and actions would not affect world economy. If it were not a nuclear power with an arsenal that can sink the world . I would have been contented sitting down to enjoy the one-man comic act called Donald Trump.

He is the egoistic multi billionaire estate mogul, businessman and leading Republican Presidential aspirant who when he opens his mouth, which is quite often, his words pour out in unrestrained torrents. This week, as he basked in even higher ratings, he rationalised his knack for speaking before thinking things through “No one tells me what to say. I go by my heart. The combination of heart and brain.”

Trump is vanity incorporated.

He revealed in his book TRUMP: SURVIVING AT THE TOP that he visited his 118-room house in Palm Beach no more than two dozen times in the years he had

owned it. He said of this and other items including yachts he acquires “the same assets that excite me in the chase often, once they are acquired, leave me bored…For me, you see, the important thing is the getting…not the having” With a knack for saying the most outrageous things like claiming that Mexicans and immigrants are “bringing drugs, and bringing crime, and they are rapists”. He dismissed Senator John McCain’s rating as a war hero, and mocked US Secretary of State, John Kerry as an incompetent man who “goes into a bicycle race at 73, falls down and breaks his leg.”

Trump is a street fighter who obeys no rules while his opponents want a normal ring with rules; for many of his supporters, this is his strength and the weakness of other contestants.

In bulldozing his way through the primaries, he calls the Kentucky Senator “The moron Rand Paul” while he says of Jeb Bush; son and brother of two former Presidents “He’s stiff. The guy can’t even talk. He has zero energy. You would fall asleep

interviewing him”. With each ranting, his popularity seems to grow. This week, the Fox News national poll put him at 25 percent, that is a 13-point lead over his nearest opponent, Ben Carson who has 12 percent, Ted Cruz, 10 percent, Jeb Bush, 9 percent and the rest thirteen contestants having between 1 and 6 percent.

As far as Trump is concerned, he has won the Republican primaries which may pitch him against the Democrat candidate whom he assumes will be Senator Hilary Clinton. So he opens fire declaring her a “highly complex person who can’t help going over the edge. She just can’t stay true to herself.” With his rating women very low, he assumes he will defeat her, so he takes a shot at President Barrack Obama whom he claims is hated by every country “Obama is going to like me, very, very much because when he’s done with his term, he will be at my golf courses, because I have the best

Trump is a street fighter who obeys no rules while his opponents want a normal ring with rules; for many of his supporters, this is his strength and the weakness of other contestants

When will this decimation of Imo state stop?

By Clement Udegbe “The paradox of our time in history is that we have more degrees but less sense, more titles but less respect, more knowledge but less judgment, more experts yet more problems, more medicine but less wellness.” ----- George Carlin.

HE demand for autonomous communities will never stop, especially in Imo State, the more they create the more attractive it becomes for the agitators to ask for more and we are gradually atomicized into such tiny pieces of people, that do not qualify for an autonomous community properly so called.

In the South East geo-political zone, the estimated population of the states are Imo, 4.8 Million; Anambra, 3.8 Million; Enugu, 3.8 Million; Abia 3.5 Million, and Ebonyi, 3.5 Million, and these should be higher for the respective states when we receive the up-dated figures from the National Population Commission.

Ebonyi and Anambra has modest autonomous communities of 139, and 177 respectively, Enugu, 203; Abia 300, while Imo has the highest number of 670 Autonomous Communities, and Traditional Rulers. The result is confusion, as politics, greed, and unbridled desire for power lead to all kinds of squabbles over who becomes the Eze when one dies, or who will be able to fund the creation of an autonomous community, thus, the people unwittingly, played into the hands of politicians, and their rich cronies.

Today, we have many who want to first receive the staff of office as Traditional Rulers, before they start looking around to find a community they will rule. They

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plant intrigues, deceptions, dissensions, rebellions, and disunity in the old kingdom,in order to achieve their purposes-to break the kingdom and become Eze. Respect for culture and tradition, in older kingdoms are thrown over board, character and integrity of those who want to become Eze, matter only but a little, no pedigree, no conscience, as corruption in the government offices and the legislature climb on top themselves , dividing the whole place into tiny structures that will not be able to stand any pressure from politicians or criminals.

What is happening in Imo and Abia States in the name of creation of Autonomous Communities is becoming a travesty. While Abia has worked on it as it seems, by pegging the creation of autonomous communities, Imo is struggling with it, because of politics of a new innovation of His Excellency, called the Community Development Council, CDC, followed by Community Government Council or CGC, complicated by his new foray with the APC, with its many implications. In Imo, we have the four tiers of government, namely, the Federal, State, Local Government, and Community Development Centre.

Now that he has secured his second term, let the panel report be released, and implemented to stop the continued decimation of Imo State

golf courses in the world. He is going to go off to greener pastures, I guess.”

Even without the Republican primaries haven taken place, the boastful Trump not only assumes that he would succeed Obama as American President, but that he would have a successful first term in office. He told American talk show host, Chuck Todd “In four years, you’re going to be interviewing me and you’re going to say ‘What a great job you’ve done, President Trump.”

Trump’s programmes include criminalising abortion except in cases of rape, incest or where the woman’s life is in danger.

He sees the Iran Nuclear deal as a bad contract which he would use his expertise as a businessman to neutralise.

On ISIS, he boasted like a typical cowboy starring in a Hollywood Western “We go in, we knock the hell out of them, (we) take the oil”. He expanded his thought process in his programme; American troops will be sent to fight ISIS and “(We) will take away their oiland use the profit from the oil sale to help the injured US soldier”. In his imperial mindset, he seems to shut out the reality that ISIS has no oil, and that it is the responsibility of the Americans to take care of their troops, including the injured.

He wants to reduce social spending, take on China and Japan whom he claims are ripping off America, and impose heavy tax on firms exporting jobs.

Except for the indigenous minority Indians, all other Americans or their forebears were immigrants. Trump’s main programme is directed at

Ordinarily, this innovation is plausible, as it should bring governance to the real grass roots, but the questions of funding, and budgeting for such structures not provided for in the constitution, the pressure it foists on the dwindling funds and fortunes of the state in the face of low price of oil, and fall in revenue from the Federal Government, its negative impacts on the constitutionally backed Local Government Administration, make it necessary that Imo should revisit and reconsider pegging the creation of Autonomous Communities.

I sympathise with those who want to be High Chief, Low Chief, Double Chiefs, JPs, etc, but I do not agree that every titled person, or friend of the Governor, must become an Eze or Traditional Ruler . If that is allowed, very soon, all the hamlets, streets, and roads in Imo will become Autonomous Communities. Those who have succeeded to build good houses, and own a few cars, will convert their kindreds into Autonomous Communities, and install themselves as Eze, or Igwe of their fathers houses ! This is why decimation of Imo with the current abuse of the creation of Autonomous Communities must stop.

IMO State Autonomous Community Law NO 1 of 2012 Volume 36, gazette officially on the in,2012, prescribes the conditions for the approval of Autonomous Communities.

Some of the requirements include that “the EZE has been educated up to at least the School Certificate level or its equivalent”; The recognition of a person as the EZE or the withdrawal of such recognition shall be published in the Government Official Gazette;The Governor at any time after the date of publication in the Official Gazette of the recognition of an EZE of an autonomous community shall issue a certificate of recognition to the EZE. Furthermore, under the law establishing the CGC, a community must have the following minimum requirements to be recognized

immigrants. He wants to deport all undocumented immigrants estimated at over 11 million with 60 percent of them being Mexicans. In doing so he said “We're going to keep the families together, but they have to go”.

He said illegal immigrants caught will be detained until repatriated while people who overstay their visas, will be held by local officials until the Federal authorities arrive.

He also wants to end birthright citizenship; there will be no automatic citizenship for children of illegal immigrants. He also hopes to abolish the Obama Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act under which immigrants would be granted conditional residency, and after getting better qualifications, full residency.

Clearly, under a Trump presidency, things will be quite tough not only for Americans and undocumented immigrants, but also for the rest of humanity as American policies would be unpredictable, predatory and scornful of poor countries. A President Trump would set more fires across the world like George Walker Bush, and generally make the universe, a more insecure place.

Certainly, there will be the lighter side, for instance, he may call Queen Elizabeth II ‘an old girl’ who should vacate the British throne for Prince George, her great grandson!

Trump is the Republicans nightmare. If he does not win their primaries, he says he will run as an independent candidate. Either way, he will reduce their chances against the Democrats.

as an autonomous community:Five thousand population or more; Administrative block of not less than 10 rooms;Community hall; Market; School(at least primary school;Church/ Churches. Fact is many of the Autonomous Communities created from 1999, do not qualify, but politics, and corruption, will not let them be merged, for a better structure and administration of the state. In order to harmonise some of the anomalies in the creation of Autonomous Communities, government set up a Panel on autonomous communities and traditional rulers headed by Hon Justice T.E.Chuemeka Chikeka in 2013, to ascertain whether all the autonomous communities in IMO State were ab initio qualified to be given autonomous status in accordance with the law that was in force when they were created. The Panel was further charged by the Governor to identify all traditional rulers who have been recognised but were not qualified to be recognised in accordance with the relevant law, as well as identify all traditional rulers who have been involved in or committed acts which are incompatible with their status as monarchs. Governor Okorocha also charged the Panel to make recommendations which in the opinion of the Panel will enhance the effectiveness of the autonomous communities and the traditional institution in IMO State. The Panels were asked to submit their findings within three months .The panel has since submitted its report, but we are yet to read or hear about the White paper on their findings and recommendations, perhaps in order to allow the use of that report for political gains and nothing more.

Now that he has secured his second term, let the panel report be released, and implemented to stop the continued decimation of Imo State. *Mr Udegbe, a legal practitioner, wrote from Lagos.

20—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

‘I belong to everybody...?’

By Ebele Orakpo

Oil thieves retreat as Navy smashes 78 illegal refineries

By Jimitota Onoyume, Port Harcourt

T

HIS certainly is not the best of times for operators of illegal refineries in Rivers State as men of the Nigerian Navy Ship, Pathfinder, are already making good their threat of putting them permanently out of business. In fact, in the last two months, 78 illegal refineries have been smashed in various creeks in the State.

According to Commander Shuwa A b d u l r a h i m Mohammed of the Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder in the state: “The heat is already on oil thieves and those running illegal refineries in the state. The anti-oil theft war is on, no compromise”.

He said his men will not relent until all illegal refiners are flushed out.

“We will smoke these oil thieves out of their hideouts. They will have no peace unless they change from this illicit act,” he told newsmen at the base.

Illegal refineries His men have continued to comb all parts of the creeks for oil thieves. Last Saturday while the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral IbokEte Ekwe Ibas was at the Naval Ship Pathfinder, Commander Mohammed’s men were at Oloma community smashing illegal crude oil refineries.

Base Operations Officer, Nigerian Naval Ship Pathfinder, Commander Innocent Chidi Ejiofor, said they go on daily patrol with gunboats on waterways fighting these oil thieves.

“The Base regularly deploys gunboats for daily patrols and show of force along Port Harcourt and Bonny Channels as well as within creeks in our area of operations. On August 5, 2015, NNS PATHFINDER deployed two gunboats to Onne axis and Bolo area. The Gunboat Team located a large illegal bunkering C M Y K

Tank farms being destroyed in Rivers creeks by naval men site along NAFCON Creek, Onne axis. Three active illegal crude oil refineries, three storage tanks, one containing about 10,000 litres and the other two each containing about 5,000 litres of substance suspected to be stolen crude oil and, another three ground storage tanks each containing about 2,000 litres of product suspected to be illegally refined AGO were discovered at the site and were set ablaze in situ,” he said.

Commander Ejiofor said they also smashed a storage tank farm and drums containing a total of about 700, 000 litres of illegal crude around Cartharwn channel and Bile axis recently.

He said the oil thieves had also started storing stolen crude at underground tank farms, adding that the ones found were also destroyed during the Cartharwn channel operation. Four of those destroyed had about 50,000 AGO. In Ogbobolo creek, Bolo area of Eleme local government of Rivers State another batch, five illegal refineries, 15 storage tanks bearing about 50,000 illegal crude oil were also destroyed. Also smashed were another 15 tanks containing 750,000 illegally refined AGO Rear Admiral Ibas said the Navy was already building capacity to enhance its operations.

He said though the Navy cannot reach all the

locations where wellheads, pipelines and oil facilities are this will not limit its effort at tackling the problem.

The Naval Chief said the Navy was going to raise the number of check points on the waterways to see that stolen crude will not be taken out of the country.

He further warned his men to be committed in this renewed effort against crude oil theft, vowing not to spare anyone caught aiding and abetting oil thieves.

“I think you may have the records of the efforts put in by the navy last year by reducing crude oil theft drastically from about 1.2 million barrels a day to something close to 250, 000 barrels – that was achieved last year.

“But again the Navy is not even in the position

We will smoke these oil thieves out of their hideouts; they will have no peace unless they change from this illicit act

to reach some of the locations where the wellheads, pipelines and facilities are being vandalised. But we take responsibility for whatever is missing perhaps through the open seas.

“You have asked what effort the Navy is going to put in place. I think we are really finding our strategies, our patrol strategies to ensure that we create more check points, so that when you steal whatever you have to steal, you cannot have access into the open sea.

We will not tolerate that, and the Navy has never tolerated its personnel conniving to wreck the nation. If we get any personnel such a person will be sanctioned appropriately, ” h e said.

He said the Navy will continue to destroy vessels and boats caught conveying illegal crude, stressing that this will discourage many from going into the nefarious business.

“The navy has a responsibility of stopping the menace. If we do not destroy these things in situ it means you are releasing the boats to be taken back again. So the Navy cannot be held accountable.

“So for now, while noting the impact on the environment, we will continue to do that which will deter them from continuing with their nefarious acts, “ he added.

‘B

UT wait oo, what is this talk about President Buhari favouring the part of the country where he got more votes than the part where he got less?” asked David, a commuter in the Mile Two-bound bus as people discussed a statement credited to the President during his visit to the US. “Yes, I heard him with my two ears and watched the video with my korokoro eyes. I was shocked to say the least,” replied Uka. “But what do you expect? That is only natural. Do you honestly expect him to favour those who did not want him and therefore refused to vote for him above those who spent money, time, energy etc., to campaign and vote for him? Please let’s be real for once!” said Tom. “Bros, you can bring up that argument of favouring one group above the other if and only if the resources he will use to favour them in terms of development will come from his personal pocket, otherwise, he will be making a grave mistake,” said Uka. “God bless you my sister!

That is one thing we have failed to understand.

President Buhari is now the father of every Nigerian, whether you voted for him or not. As a father, he is not supposed to play the favouritism game,” said David.

“Ok, let me use your analogy. Have you not seen where a father favours one child above the other, especially a child that is close to him and obeys him? It is a common practice,” said Tom. “Good, but can you tell us where such favouritism leads such families, especially when the father is no more? It breeds hatred amongst the children,” said Fred.

Replied David: “Yeah, that father is free to favour a child above the other, that is his prerogative; it is his money and he can spend it whichever way he deems fit. But in the case of our President, the resources he will be handling are not his personal property; they are our common wealth that should be distributed equitably. So, that talk should not have arisen in the first place.”

Said Rita: “The man tried to balance his reply.

Most times we are too quick to judge without

listening to the whole speech. He was asked how he intended to approach the Niger Delta issue ‘ with particular reference to the amnesty, bunkering and inclusive development.’

“The President said the constituencies that gave him 95 per cent votes will enjoy greater favour than those that gave him five per cent. He added that this is a political reality which he considers as being fair.

But he also conceded that under the Constitution, no state can be excluded from government, adding: ‘So even if I want to show gratitude to those constituencies that heavily voted for me against those that did not even vote for me, they have the protection of the government and I have made an undertaking that I belong to everybody and belong to nobody.’

That’s what the man said. So why do they want to crucify him?”

Said Fred: “Nigeria is not an animal kingdom.

Campaigns are over, elections had been lost and won, and now Buhari should be the father of Nigeria and not just the father of those that voted for him. He can appoint his party members and those who voted for him into political positions but when it

Elections had been lost and won, and now Buhari should be the father of Nigeria and not just the father of those that voted for him comes to sharing dividends of democracy in terms of sharing our common wealth, voting pattern should not come in at all. After all, the wealth no be im personal property to be shared according to his whims and caprices.”

“I dey laugh in pidgin English oo. Let him try that and see. So because some people did not vote for him massively, he will go to their back yard, collect wealth and use it to develop those that voted for him? It will not work!” said David.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

From left: Divisional Head, Retail Bank, Richard Madiebo; Regional Bank Head, Apapa Regional Bank and Promo Committee Chairman, Obaro Odeghe; Head, savings Group, Janet Nnabuko and Head, National Sales Force, Chief Ejimoforbiri all of Fidelity Bank Plc, at a press conference to kick-off the Fidelity Save4 Shelter Savings promo in Lagos.

Nigerian banks risk losing N31.45bn to exposure on Afren’s financing

By Peter Egwuatu

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IGERIAN banks involved in syndicate financing of Afren Plc’s onshore and offshore activities are at risk of losing $185 million (N31.45 billion) to exposure following doubt in the company ’s ability as a going concern.

Renaissance Capital Research, in its report released yesterday said “Afren is in administration and in this note we explore the

possible implications for Nigerian banks. We conclude that Zenith Bank is in the most comfortable position, followed

by Access Bank, and then Stanbic IBTC.” According to Afren documents, Nigerian banks have at least a $185mn principal exposure to Afren.

Zenith Bank has $100mn (N17 billion) to OML26, $5mn (N850 million) to Ebok; Access Bank has $50mn (N8.5billion) to Okwok/OML113 (Aje), $5mn

( N850 million) to Ebok; and Stanbic has $25mn (N4.25 billion) to Ebok.

According to Rencap “From our discussions with Zenith management and Renaissance Capital’s oil & gas analysts, we believe that of all the banks with credit exposure to Afren, Zenith is in the most comfortable position.

The asset is producing, located onshore, and has a low operating cost – which

implies that its production economics still make some sense at currently low oil prices. The February 2014 facility is primarily secured by a charge over Afren’s interest (via FHN 26 – the SPV) in OML26, and its cash flows.

According to Zenith management, other Afren creditors do not have claim to OML26. We do not think Afren plans to sell this asset and our oil & gas analysts believe that

— 21

its cash flows should be sufficient to repay the loan, valuing the asset at $114mn.”

Rencap in the report, said “According to Access management, it has a firstranking lien on the Okwok and Aje fields, though we note that some of the bank’s claims are subject to counterparty consent. Both assets are offshore and not producing. While most of the $50mn was spent developing Okwok, Aje is expected to produce first, by late 2015; Okwok production could happen in 2016/2017. At $50/ bl, our oil & gas analysts value Okwok negatively at $161mn and Aje at $45mn, implying 90% potential credit recovery for Access (facility recovery value largely dependent on Aje).”

Rencap further stated that Ebok is located offshore and is Afren’s largest producing field. Afren has a $300mn syndicated facility from a series of local and international banks on this asset. “While the loan was originally secured using Ebok reserves, cash flows and material contracts, the creditors’ rights were relegated via an inter-creditor agreement on 30 April 2015, when Afren secured lifesaving interim funding of c. $200mn. This implies that in a liquidation scenario, the providers of the interim funding have a superior lien to the Ebok creditors and bondholders. At a $50/bl long-term oil price and at 15% WACC, our oil & gas analysts value Afren’s share in Ebok at $158mn unrisked NPV, leading us to conclude that the creditors would likely have to write off this exposure” it noted.

Nigeria, Egypt, Australia, 3 others sign MoU on marine certification $3,080.00

84.00

$10.51

-0.08

B & E DATA: $46.88 0.28

41.00 CURRENCY DOLLAR

BUYING

-

0.20

CENTRAL

196 196.5 POUNDS 307.0732 307.8566 EURO 216.4232 216.9753 FRANC 201.2114 201.7247 YEN 1.5761 1.5801 CFA 0.3113 0.3213 WAUA 273.6312 274.3293 RENMINBI 30.6433 30.7219 RIYAL 52.2402 52.3735 SDR 274.0472 274.7463 KRONA 28.9902 29.0642

197 308.6399 217.5274 202.238 1.5841 0.3313 275.0273 30.8005 52.5067 275.4454 29.1381

CBN Exchange Rate as at 20/ 08 /15

By Godwin Oritse

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HE Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, (NIMASA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, (Mou) with Egypt, Australia, Bahamas Vietnam, and Dominican Republic on the certification of cadets.

The agency has also concluded plans to sign the same deal with Singapore, Luxembourg and other European countries with a view to ensuring cadets or mariners who want to upgrade their certificate can do so with ease.

Disclosing this to Van-

guard in Lagos, the President of the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners, (NAMM), Captain Ade Olopoenia said the collaboration is one of the requirement of the International Maritime Organization, (IMO) Olopoenia said that the IMO requirement stipulates that countries work modalities of recognising each certificate so that seafarers can either work on board vessels belonging to the collaborating country or take career advancing examinations.

With the signing of the agreement, Nigerian seafarers are now allowed to

write some of their examination in the United Kingdom.

He explained that partnership is about the Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention drafted in 1978.

It established such things as the requirement for 4 years of experience for a Master 1600

The collaboration is one of the requirement of the International Maritime Organization, (IMO)

gt license.The big change came in 1995 when the US Coast Guard approached the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and asked it to amend the convention.

Significant changes were made at the convention.

The STCW 95 amendments did not have to be ratified like the original convention because it was an amendment to an existing convention.

“The amendments, however, completely re-wrote enforcement related to the Convention, and more importantly created an STCW Code (similar to the USCG licensing regulations) that set stringent standards for mariners to meet.” he added

22—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Civic Centre Towers in Victoria Island

Civic Centre Towers: Birth of an ‘intelligent’ office space

By Yinka Kolawole

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HE Civic Centre Towers, an intelligent structure, has opened for business to offer high quality office space in Lagos, located by the Civic Centre on Ozumba Mbadiwe road in Victoria Island, in the nation’s commercial nerve centre.

The iconic 16-storey office building offers 9,172 square meters of first class offices, with individual floor plans measuring 682 square metres.

It also boasts of a central elevator core with four elevators and large bays, which provide for maximum flexibility in developing highly efficient floor plans. It sits on the stretch of land along Ozumba Mbadiwe bordering the Civic Centre and other upcoming developments like the Marriot Hotel and shopping mall.

Standard office design The building which sits on a primespace measuring 6,070.99 square metres, with a foundation deeply rooted on 45 metres beneath the bed of coastal rock, is purposely built to last for more than 100 years.

The structure’s first-class standard office design includes nine-foot high ceilings, floor-to-floor exterior glazing and state of the art building systems. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the Five Cowrie Creek from all floors. Even the lowest office floor offers unobstructed views of the creek and a parking lot, which is secured

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on a three-level parking facility.

Unique features of the building include its central location, 24-hour security, onsite management, a fitness centre, on-site parking, meeting room facilities, a Mezannine plaza and recycling programme.

Intelligent building The Civic Centre Tower was designed as an information technology-enabled building.

The features include: Central communications tower; VSAT and broadband enabled; IT core/ infrastructure convergence; Enabled IT room and dedicated space for IT equipment of all tenants; Elevated structural floor above actual floor to create a hidden void for the passage of mechanical and electrical services; Access card enabled entry to various floors; Security and Safety ensured by CCTV Systems; Automated high sensitive fire

It is located where tenants have no need to bother about the inconvenience of the perennial traffic snarl in Lagos

and intruder alarm; Lighting control; IP Network, Wireless, Wi-Fi and more.

The features save tenants cost with infrastructure convergence, dedicated server space for tenants, space savings with common IT area which leaves the tenant to focus valuable CAPEX on other vital needs rather than IT infrastructure. There is also the advantage of security of IT infrastructure with the provision of firewall security for each tenant.

Perennial traffic snarl The structure provides the unique opportunity of alternatives to normal road transportation. It is located where tenants have no need to bother about the inconvenience of the perennial traffic snarl in Lagos. The location presents an option of either driving, going by air – with a helipad next door, or waterways transportation with a jetty next door on the other side of the building.

Strategic location: Apart from having an incorporated retail space on the Mezzanine floor for a full service restaurant and coffee shop, CCT is strategically located next door to The Civic Centre which houses facilities for conferences, meetings and also a premier boat club jetty and various retailers. It also has an on-site secure threelevel parking facility for authorised monthly, hourly and daily users as well an onsite building management

Mr. Jim Ovia, Promoter of Civic Centre Towers office equipped with janitorial, maintenance and security services.

Also within the vicinity of the Towers are shopping facilities such as the Grand Plaza on Adetokunbo Ademola, The Palms Shopping Centre and Shoprite.

Ample opportunities In addition, ample opportunities exist around the location for recreation with occupants able to take a stroll to Bar Beach or taking a boat ride out of Five Cowrie Creek around Lagos visiting several interesting coastal locations.

The multi-billion naira

complex also has the advantage of proximity to amenities such as 5-Star hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and Schools within the commercial hub. With its dramatic height, the Civic Centre Towers forms a dramatic pivotal point for the street scene and will benefit from the ongoing transformation of the Ozumba Mbadiwe Road and area.

The Civic Centre Towers is promoted by Mr. Jim Ovia, one of Nigeria’s foremost entrepreneurs, with investment portfolios in the capital market, banking and finance, real estate, oil and gas, marine, and hospitality and tourism, ICT, among others.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 —23

Activities of rice importers hindering local production — Perm Sec

By Jimoh Babatunde

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HE Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Arc. Sonny Echono, was in Lagos recently for the inauguration of the Nigerian Agric Business Group. He took time out to talk on the vex issue of rice waiver, the Growth Enhancement Scheme and the efforts of the ministry in creating jobs through youth empowerment as well as what they are doing in terms of agric financing. Excerpt: On the issue of waivers for rice Let me state that the federal ministry of agriculture is not in the business of waivers, we are primarily engaged in increasing local production of all our stables and cash crops.

However, we do recognised that in certain critical sector current production is below the demand for these products and in order to exercise some elements of control and to mitigate what we observed as reckless importation into the country, we sort approval and put in place a system of quotas for two main commodities to ensure that the total quantities of those commodities brought into the country fall within what is established as the supply gap, which is the difference between the demand and what we produced locally.

The big elephant has to do with rice and it is because we had a situation where we had a rice policy approved by the government in May 2014, under the policy there is some incentives for those who are investing in rice production and milling in the country.

That policy prioritised these segments in the two tier tariff structure that was put in place under the policy.

The policy first of all directs that an inter-ministerial committee comprising the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, Finance and the National Planning Commission should come together in partnership with stakeholders in the sector like rice farmers, rice millers and other markets organisation to establish the supply gap.

And once that supply gap is established to allocate quotas to the two main segments. The first segments are the rice millers and investors, and the other segment are the rice traders.

The policy also established two tariff regimes, a lower tariff regime for those who are investing and producing rice here as well as those who are milling it. While those who are just trading and importing rice pay higher tariff.

What the inter-ministerial committee did was allocate quota in 2014. When this became opera-

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VISIT: L-R: Mr. Nimit Jain, General Manager, Pearl Universal Impex ; Mr. Pranshu Goel , Director, Pearl Universal Impex; Niger State Governor , Abubakar Sani Bello; Mr. Pulkit Jain, Chairman, Pearl Universal Impex ; Mr. Jibril Bokani Usman ; Mr. Ramanathan Srinivasan and Alh. Isa Damisa,District Head of Luma during the visit of Niger State Governor to Pearl Universal farms recently. tional, based on set pre-determined criteria, however, a few companies , many of them foreign decided to import way beyond what was allocated to them and wanted to pay the concessionary duties that was applicable to those who are investing and milling rice here, because they have some level of investment and milling activities.

But, the rider to this is that the moment you go beyond the quota allocated to you, you automatically fall into the group of those who are just traders and importers of rice and this what they have been trying to avoid paying.

We are taking a firm position that those who imported in excess of their approved quotas must pay the appropriate levies and that is what is going on.

There is no sacred cow, there are no waivers for anybody in this regard and we are together with the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank and the Nigerian Customs service . We are compelling

them to pay the right duties to Nigeria.

On the economic impact of the rice importers action The impact of their action is like an economic warfare , because I want Nigerians to understand what is at play here through the reckless importation of one company that imported more than 4000 trailer loads of rice.

The impact of that is simple, it

We are taking a firm position that those who imported in excess of their approved quotas must pay the appropriate levies and that is what is going on

is an attempt to destroy the entire milling industry in this country if they do not pay duty, because by not paying duties they are able to dump rice in the country.

Their dumping price will be lower than the production cost of rice by Nigerian rice millers, because they have not paid the appropriate rice duties, which means the Nigerian rice millers will not be able to compete.

We are not even talking about the qualities of the imported rice, which are just rice released from silos after eight years. We also have similar rice in our silos here in Nigeria , but what they do in those countries and what we also do is to sell such rice to our feed mills, our poultry industry.

After storing rice for about eight years, you begin to worry about the nutritional contents of the stock, but what we normally do is to turn those rice to feeds both for poultry, fish and other sectors.

But you know some Nigerians

and other unscrupulous business men knowing such rice are sold at huge discount, go there to buy and bring them to Nigerians to eat.

Besides these concerns, there is economic warfare of trying to now make rice milling unprofitable in Nigeria and that way wipe out the entire milling capacity we have, because they will not be able to compete at the dumping price.

So, what is the backward effects of this?, if our rice mills cannot operate and many of them actually were closing down or suspending operations , it means they cannot buy rice paddy that is produced by Nigerian farmers, which is our primary concern.

And if they do not buy rice paddy from our farmers, not only will the farmers suffer loses, it will discourage them from farming in the next season, so the moment they stop producing in the following season you are now going into a full a circle, because the gap which we have carefully planed to be closing each year until we become self sufficient and begin to export, will now widen because the farmers will run away from production since they can not sell and the rice miller can not mill.

So this is just a dumping price to ensure that Nigeria millers cannot mill and Nigerian farmers will be discouraged from farming and we will now go back to them and their countries to import our rice 100%.

This is a serious business and we are taking it very seriously and we are not open to any compromise on this matter. They will pay the right duties and government will ensure they do that. I have the support of Mr. President on this regard.

On availability of enough rice paddy in the country Precisely, this is the danger that we face and why we are taking this measure. Throughout the period that this debate was going on, we had huge paddy all along the rice producing states from our dry season farming that we implemented lasts year, from November – January.

Pearl Universal Impex invests $100m in rice cultivation

A

major importer of rice in the country, Pearl Universal Impex , is set to commit one hundred million dollars into the cultivation of 7,500 hectares of rice farm and construction of two rice mills in Niger state.

The chairman of the company, Pulkit Jain, who disclosed this while receiving the Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello , at the farms recently said they will be creating 4000 direct jobs and 20000 indirect jobs through their outgrower scheme.

Pulkit Jain, said they intend to grow rice three times a year on the land. “We have some challenges, such as the bad road here. But we’re bringing $2 million of our own money to invest

in the road, bringing the total of the entire project to $100 million.

Jain disclosed that the company has been a major importer of rice in the country with imports of 350,000 metric tonnes of rice annually in the past, but chose to invest in cultivation and milling of scientifically tested, high yielding varieties of rice in order to achieve the Federal Government’s target of achieving self-sufficiency in rice production.

Jain added that the company is also in the process of setting up integrated rice mills with parboiling and drying facilities in Borgu and Bida local government areas of the state, each with paddy processing capacity of

150,000 tons per annum.

“We will also support the out grower farmers in Niger state by providing them with technical know how, improved seeds, fertilizers and pesticides and subsequently procure high quality paddy from them to feed 100% capacity of the rice mills.”

He said to underline their commitment that the company in June this year started a pilot scheme to determine the variety of rice most suitable to the region at a 500 hectares of land in Saminaka, a community situated around Swashi Dam in Borgu local Government Area of the state.

While noting that the study is being managed by reputed

international agriculture experts, he disclosed that they already employed about 50 youths, “ and once the project is stabilized, is expected to create 4000 direct jobs 20000 indirect jobs to community farmers which will benefit from the Company’s Outgrower’s Scheme.

“With proper irrigation and soil management, it is possible to grow three crops of high yielding rice in a year”, said Mr. Pulkit.

The governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, who promised to facilitate the construction of the road among other things, said the state would continue to be a good host and a facilitator and also promised a continuous support from Niger State government.

24 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

As Buhari leads Nigerian delegation to Commonwealth Business Forum:

Nigerians urged to exploit opportunities offered by anti-graft policies Stories by Naomi Uzor

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resident Muhammadu Buhari is expected to lead Nigeria to the first forum of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, CWEIC holding alongside the meeting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government, CHOGM in Malta in November.

The CWEIC, formally known as the Commonwealth Business Council was transformed into the CWEIC with a specific mandate to promote trade and investment among Commonwealth countries. The CWEIC is expected to host the business forum which is expected to offer opportunities for commonwealth members to exchange and project their businesses.

“The forum convenes Heads of Government, senior ministers, government delegates and the private sector in one place to discuss business opportunities and policy making,” Abdul Quadir Hamza, the head of Business Development of the CWEIC said in a letter appointing Puffa Nigeria Limited as its partner to lead the Nigeria business delegation to the forum which is expected to be attended by the heads of government, 1,200 business leaders and ministers from across the Commonwealth.

Urging Nigerian business persons to take the opportunity of the forum to project themselves in the light of the unhindered opportunities being given to entrepreneurs by the Buhari administration, Mr. Joseph Ambakederimo, CEO of Puffa Nigeria Limited said: “The fight against corruption launched by the Muhammadu

Buhari administration offers a special opportunity to all kinds of business persons to compete favourably with their local peers

and international competitors and the Commonwealth Business Forum offers all those who had been so marginalised

project

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DONATION: From left, Regional Operations Director, Lagos Region, Airtel Nigeria, Oladokun Oye; beneficiary`s father, Mr. Olumide Alfred and Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Airtel Nigeria, Chinda Manjor during the presentation of cheque by members of Airtel Employee Volunteer Scheme to the family of Esther Alfred Inumidun. Esther Alfred Inumidun, 5 months, was diagnosed of hole in the heart and she has been flown to India for surgery.

Skills development can create 10,000 jobs monthly —Ezeh

By Franklin Alli

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arly this month, Maximum Career Success International (MCSI) held a free seminar for the unemployed, people who are working but unsatisfied with their present jobs and students, in Lagos.

The one day event which attracted more than 60 participants was facilitated by experts in career development the likes of Dr. Chika Ezeh,

he Consumer Protection Council will begin a consumer education television programme today (Thursday) to equip consumers with the necessary skills for their market interactions. The Council, in a statement, disclosed that the new move was designed to raise the bar of consumer education for Nigerian consumers to assume their rightful kingship position in their interactions in the market place.

The public enlightenment, which it said would rent the airwaves beginning from this week, would commence with the television programme on the network of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

According to the Council, the programme, tagged Consumer Voice, which will be broadcast by 8pm every Thursday, will

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to

By Jonah Nwokpoku

Managing Director of the

If you are not working in the area you should be, you can never be productive because some jobs are like using your left hand to write a three page essay

CPC begins Consumer Voice on TV

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in the past themselves.”

Exhibition: Stakeholders to explore trends, opportunities in food processing

debut on Thursday, August 20, 2015. The agency pointed out that the programme would treat topical consumer issues weekly, pointing out consumers’ rights and responsibilities as well as arming them with the necessary skills for an informed consumption.

The new leadership of the Council had on assumption of office about two years ago identified low consumer education as one of the causes of consumer lethargy in the country and has been introducing a number of initiatives to correct this.

To ensure the sustainability of the new effort, the Council was able to secure some support from an international development partner, the Ford Foundation, to build an ultra-modern audio visual studio within the premises of its headquarters in Abuja.

company, and Engr. Lucky Nwosa, a director at National Office for Technology Acquisition, NOTAP. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ezeh, stated that there are three ways people see their jobs: “Work, profession or calling.

She explained: “People who see their jobs as work, work just to earn salary; those who see their jobs as profession, works do better themselvesby investing their money to develop themselves while people who see their work as a calling are the best in the category because they use their talents to make money, earn higher and are satisfied with their jobs.”

She advised the audience that rather than labouring for others for years without nothing to show for it, without adding value to the business., and always demanding for pay rise and complaining that the economy is bad, “You can use your talent or hobby to earn your living, you earn higher and you don’t feel you are working.

She called on Nigerians to develop their in-born skills or talents, estimating that it can take more than 10,000 people off unemployment markets every month.

xperts in food processing, packaging, plastics, labelling and print industries will gather at the 2015 Propak West Africa International exhibition to be held in Lagos to explore innovative trends and seek solutions to the challenges confronting the sector.

The exhibition which is billed for September 1 – 3, 2015 at the Landmark Convention Centre, Lagos will feature over 70 exhibitors from West Africa and internationally.

According to the organisers of the exhibition, Propak West Africa, “The show will encompass and showcase the most current, futuristic solutions and highlight leading trends that are rapidly changing the packaging, printing and labelling industries.”

They noted that participants at the exhibition should expect to “access international, innovative and industry leading solutions, capitalize on extensive networking opportunities with international and local experts, attend dedicated and interactive seminar streams and come for three full days to gain revitalised strategy at the only platform that attracts the most decision makers in West Africa’s packaging, print, plastics and labelling markets.” They added: “At FoodPro West Africa, Digital Print West Africa, Pro-Label West Africa, Print West Africa and Pro-Label West Africa you will gain first-hand information, strategies and benchmarking knowledge from the array of global and regional brands and industry giants who are dominating their industries.”

Speakers at the exhibition opening will include prominent industry experts including: “Winston Jackson Ailemoh, Head of Marketing Director at Pfizer (Nigeria, Ghana & East Africa) ; Parthesh Dave, Head of Packaging – Africa, PZ Cussons, Josephine Ataboh, R&D Manager, Personal Care, West Africa (Product & Packaging), Unilever Nigeria Plc; Solomon Makanjuola, Packaging Development Manager, Promasidor Nigeria Ltd and Waheed Bakare, Packaging Development Manager for Central Africa, Reckitt Benckiser.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—25

DEAP Capital set for strategic turnaround, appoints Esan as CEO

By Peter Egwuatu

D

SEMINAR: From left, Chiagozie Nwizu, MSME Advisory Manager, Diamond Bank Plc;

Ogechi Chuma Otteh, Chief Executive Officer, One Centre Limited; Nnamdi Ezeigbo, Chief Executive Officer, SLOT Systems Limited; and Nkem Okoro, Regional Manager, Festac Region, Diamond Bank PLC at the Diamond Bank 58th MSME seminar, in Lagos.

Afren’s insolvency: Bondholders could recover 6% of their principal —Rencap

By PETER EGWUATU

R

ENAISSANCE Capital, Rencap has disclosed that Afren Plc has been placed in administration, predicting that bondholders could recover 6 per cent of their principal if the company ceases to exist.

According to Rencap Research “We see little likelihood that Afren can continue as a going concern. We therefore terminate coverage of Afren (previously Sell, TP GBP0.00), and our previous rating, TP and estimates can no longer be relied upon.

On this note, we look at the implications for its other stakeholders and industry players and review asset valuations for Afren using a $50/bl oil price as our base case. We conclude that bondholders could recover up to 6 per cent of their principal, assuming local partners remain supportive and other nonbank creditors receive nothing.”

Limited upside potential for

bondholders Continuing, Rencap said “We see the chances for bondholders to recover any significant value as quite low, and mainly associated with a sharp turnaround in oil prices, a failure of banks to recover their own loans and a supportive stance on the part of partners in key assets. We think all these conditions look unlikely to hold true (at least in the short term, as far as oil prices are concerned), so our main conclusion is that bonds are too risky, regardless of the price. Our base case is 6 per cent recovery for the bondholders (at $50/ bl oil prices), although we see downside risks owing to possible headwinds from local partners. We expect the highest recovery of credit for OML26 (100%), while Ebok creditors could be left with little or nothing, as they rank second in terms of lien, after the bridge note holders.”

Lekoil and Seplat chance to

expand their portfolios On Lekoil and Seplat chance to expand their portfolios, Rencap said “We see an opportunity for Lekoil (BUY, TP GBP0.50, CP GBP0.21) to increase its ownership in OPL310 (in which Lekoil holds a 30% stake), together with the other local partner and operator, Optimum Petroleum Development (not covered), on attractive terms. We think Seplat’s (BUY, TP GBP2.65, CP GBP0.90) appetite for new deals is not as strong as even nine months ago, when it was in active negotiations with Afren.

“However, if Afren’s restructuring continues for many months, and Seplat makes progress with National Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables and resolves the legal disputes around OML53 and OML55, we can see it taking part in some of the potential deals on Afren’s portfolio, possibly with another partner,” Rencap noted.

Reclassification: SEC to deregister erring stockbroking houses

By Nkiruka Nnorom

T

HE Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, has warned that the registration of capital market operators that fail to meet up with the August 31, 2015 deadline for reclassification/reduction of their function or mergers and acquisitions willbe cancelled byOctober2,2015.

TheCommissionstatedinacircular to allcapitalmarketoperators,termed, “New Minimum capital Requirement: Extension of Notification and Procedure for Reclassification/Reduction of Registered Functions, Mergers and Acquisitions” posted on its website, that deregistered dealing members would have to apply for fresh C M Y K

registration to operate in the market.

The Commission had approved different capital base for different categoriesofmarketoperatorsin2013 aswellasgeneralrestructuringofthe entire market. Under the new structure, the Commission recommended three categories of

Deregistered dealing members would have to apply for fresh registration to operate in the market

brokers, which include brokerdealers, brokers and dealers.

The new capital base approved

by SEC requires issuing houses to up their paid-up capital from N150 million to N2 billion, while that of broker dealers was increased from N70 million to N1 billion. That of clearingandsettlementagencywas increased from N500 million to N1 billion, while that of registrars was increasedfromN50milliontoN500 million. Underwriters who had a minimum capital base of N100 million are now required to have N2 billion while fund portfolio managers’ capital base was increasedfromN20milliontoN500 million, and corporate sub-brokers capital base rose from N5 million to N50 million.

eap Capital Management & Trust Plc has commenced move for strategic turnaround to return to profitability as Mr. Jacob Oyebola Esan III, takes over as the new managing director/chief executive officer.

The shareholders of the company had at an ExtraOrdinary General Meeting (EGM) held on Thursday, 6th August, 2015 at the Lagoon Restaurant in Lagos elected the new board members with a clear mandate of steering the company back to profitability. The board members immediately after the EGM retreated for a short meeting during which they made a choice of Jacob Esan as the new MD|CEO. As part of the strategic turnaround plan the shareholders mandated the new Board of Directors to negotiate with individual creditors and secure agreements for the conversion of non-bank debts to ordinary shares of company at a price to be determined by the directors and agreed with the creditors.

According to information made available to Vanguard,

the directors are also to restructure any part of the existing non-bank debts of the company that the creditors are unwilling to convert into ordinary shares in the company, into restructured deposits to be repaid out of the future cash flow of the company over a maximum period of three (3) years starting from January 2019.

The directors were further authorized to initiate and conclude discussions and negotiations with prospective investors to recapitalize the company through the raising of additional equity. Part of the process will also include entering into discussions with interested parties, company or companies, interested in any scheme of merger, acquisition or any combinations thereof.

The new board also received the authority of the shareholders to, if and when deemed necessary, raise additional capital whether by way of public offering, special/ private placement, rights issue or other methods, through issuance of shares, global depository receipts, convertibles or nonconvertibles, medium term notes, bonds and or any other instruments.

Fidelity Bank supports home ownership with N115m

By Nkiruka Nnorom

F

IDELITY Bank Plc has earmarked N115 million to support Nigerians that desire to own new homes across the country through a new promotional campaign tagged, ‘Save 4 Shelter ’ promo.

The promo, according to the bank, is expected to run for six months, and will be drawn on monthly and bi-monthly basis where rent support winners and star prize winners of duplexes respectively will be produced.

200 winners are expected to emerge throughout the duration of the promo and is open to all Savings Account customers of the bank.

Three duplexes located in Lekki Lagos, Port-Harcourt and Abuja will be won at the bi-monthly draws, while a total of N35 million rent support will be won at the monthly draws at average of N5.5 million per month.

The first winner in the rent support category will cart away N2 million; second prize winner in the category will win N1 million, while the third prize winner will go home with N500,000.

Giving details at a press conference to unveil the promo at the bank’s Head Office in Lagos, Mrs. Janet Nnabuko, Promo Manager, said that a total of three duplex winners, 42 rent support winners and over 120 consolation prize winners will emerge at the end of the promo.

To qualify for the bi-monthly draw and be legible to win one of the duplexes, she said that all that is needed is for the customer to open a savings account and grow the balance to N50,000 or top up existing savings account with N50,000.

Qualification for the monthly draws that entitle customers to win any of N2 million, N1 million or N500,000, requires a customer to also open a savings account and grow the balance to N20,000 or top up an existing account with N10,000, she said.

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Obaro Odeghe, General Manager, Apapa Region, Fidelity Bank Plc, who is also the Committee Chairman, Save 4 Shelter Promo, said the promo is the fifth in the series and falls in line with the bank’s overall strategy and financial inclusion of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

26—VANGUARD, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

The story of my betrayal, by Gov. Dickson BAYELSA born former policeman turned politician Serikae Dickson prepared himself in public advocacy through his training in law school after quitting the police. Dickson started his political advocacy from the left and had the distinguished record of being the only state chairman of the Alliance for Democracy, AD in the South-South to produce a senator, members of the House of Representatives and the House of Assembly at the onset of democratic rule in 1999.

He fought the establishment as then represented by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP till he was enticed into government by Governor Goodluck Jonathan who he served as Attorney General. Entering into government, however, did not stop his life of political

struggles especially after he translated from the executive branch in Yenogoa to the House of Representatives. For most of his time in the House he was on edge as he became a proxy object in the political warfare between Governor Timipire Sylva and Vice President Jonathan.

Against all permutations from the political leadership in Yenogoa as directed by Governor Sylva, he won re-election in 2011, and the following year served Governor Sylva the ultimate comeuppance when with the unpretentious support of President Jonathan, he snatched the PDP ticket from him.

Taking over the Bayelsa Government House, however, did not mean the end of his life of battles as he confessed during two interview sessions conducted in Yenogoa and Lagos.

Dismissing the recent wave of defections from the ruling PDP, he said “what I survived in the last three years from higher and more dangerous quarters is far more dangerous than all these decamping put together!”

Now pitched in the battle for re-election, Governor Dickson counts the good luck of President Jonathan as one of his props asserting that Jonathan, who weaned him from his wars against the rightwing establishment remains supportive of him as ever. Even more, he cites his development credentials on ground as the leverage he would use to overcome what he describes as the latest conspiracy against him.

Excerpts:

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor and Samuel Oyadongha

W

HY are your colleagues in the PDP running away from your party?

Yes some leaders of our party are decamping but you have to understand their background.

Almost all of them who are decamping want to be governors and these persons know that within PDP they have no way of becoming governorship flag bearers of the party. For them it means going to another platform to fight for Governorship ticket to contest the election. But APC in Bayelsa is not a party on ground and do not be deceived, even at national level they are crumbling.

You will see PDP will rise again very soon. APC in Bayelsa is a political party that has no membership following but has only Governorship candidates; the members are only governorship aspirants. Where was APC when we conducted the House of Assembly election?

How many APC legislators do we have in Bayelsa?

Project for project This is a PDP state, this is a PDP stronghold. Two factors come into play, ambition which is legitimate as long as they do not resort to violence for we are brothers and sisters and friends and I remain their governor.

We are waiting to see who their candidate will be that can match’ the talk na do Governor project for project, vision for vision, ideas for ideas. We are waiting for a very robust campaign.

Apart from those who are going in because of their ambition, we will see what happens after their primaries because I have not done anything bad to any of them, it is all politics and some are just calling a dog a bad name.

You are also aware that our party for the first time lost power at the centre and I think it is immoral for the people who have been nurtured by the PDP over the years to defect. Many decamp because of personal

•Gov Dickson ambition and to be available for federal appointment. Well, we can only wish them well.

The way our former President left office, I believe the next election is not about me or PDP. It is about the dignity and pride of Ijaw nation, a people who have been humiliated at the federal level like this because they say we are few and our people who should hold the home base are the ones jumping ship. I do not have any problems even with the leader of the opposition party in the state, the former governor. He is my friend and brother but his politics is what I disagree with.

But his own case is even understandable because he was there as part of the formation of the APC for whatever personal reasons. But people who stayed with us till we did elections should know APC does not need them.

Where were they when APC was battling to get votes and register their party to secure votes for their president? They think because we have lost, the Ijaw

nation should be humiliated and they are not going quietly. They are the ones that are taking but the good news is that the ordinary people of Ijaw nation will rise up and say no to this display of greed of the highest order where people cannot subordinate their own personal greed for position at the federal level for the common good.

Your opponents say you are tight fisted We are getting less than 25% of the allocation that we used to get when I started. So, almost everything that we receive goes to service the cost of running government to the extent that for some months, three, four months, that I even don’t receive any allowance because that is a sacrifice that we must make to enable us meet our basic obligations, firstly to our workers.

You cannot be owing workers and be paying contractors because they are politicians.

That is wrong. That is unpatriotic. That is criminal. In any case, if someone is saying that he did a job and that we are

owing and we cant pay, is the man who gives you a job an enemy? It is ingratitude. As a matter of fact, what is going on in Bayelsa is political betrayal of the highest order. It is a harvest of ingratitude.

All of them are my contractors.

All of them! And they didn’t come begging. We sent for them, that

I feel bad at what some of these people are doing, but it would not stop me from being good and nice, it just teaches me more about the capacity of human beings for ingratitude and for evil

they are stakeholders to support them. I have run a more inclusive government than any other governor I have seen in Bayelsa.

As we speak, Alaibe has his own nominees serving in the government at all levels, commissioner level, special adviser level all levels.

I feel bad at what some of these people are doing, but it would not stop me from being good and nice, it just teaches me more about the capacity of human beings for ingratitude and for evil because individually, I have done nothing against any one of them.

Individually, I have been good to each and to all of them. I have consulted them on government policies and decisions more than they would ever consult any other person.

The picture they are painting is propaganda, just to justify their treachery and betrayal.

Take for example, Stella Dorgu, when I left to become governor and my seat in the House of Representatives was vacant and I introduced her to her people for the first time and against all opposition, I garnered support to send her to the House of Representatives.

Senate position Now she wanted to go back to the House of Representatives and because the Senate position was coming to my local government and she expressed interest for the Senate but the other gentleman is a better Senate material. Now looking back I think we made the right decision in going with him because she has truly brought out her true colours.

If I were her, this is a time that she should have stood by me and by the party that gave her the opportunity to go to the House of Representatives.

Why is it that you faced serious opposition in your contests in 2012 and now 2015?

Elections are political contests.

What I managed in 2012 was even worse than the present

Continues on page 27

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—27

PLATEAU: Rumbling on the Plateau GIVEN the desperate efforts of former Governor Jonah Jang to ensure he handed over to only a trusted lieutenant, it is not surprising that his failure has now led to a faceoff between him and his successor, Simon Lalong.

•Lalong: Plateau State governor

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

T

HE opening shot in the face off between the two regimes was recently opened when the transition committee constituted

by Governor Lalong who came to power on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC submitted its report. The report was replete with allegations of financial misdeeds.

The committee which had the incumbent deputy governor of the state, Prof. Sonni Tyoden as chairman was made up of 12 Central Committee members and 188 other members broken into 27 sub-committees, each handling a given aspect of government operation.

Implementation of recommendations Having received the report of the committee, Governor Lalong had promised to implement its recommendations. The decision has, however, led to bickering between the two major parties in the state, the All Progressives Congress, APC and the Peoples Democratic Party and also, between officials of the incumbent government and those of the preceding regime.

Prof. Tyoden while presenting the report to the governor had disclosed that the “State has been rendered prostate” and advised that the new government “should take the hard decisions that will be required to correct the

•Jang: Former governor of Plateau State

mistakes of the past and reposition government for the arduous task of rebuilding Plateau.”

Speaking on the finances of the state, Prof. Tyoden said that Jang left the state on his exit with a debt of N222.3 billion.

“The sum of N747.65 billion could be said to have been expended on Plateau State citizens, in the last eight years.

The Central Bank of Nigeria remitted the sum of N2 billion to the coffers of Plateau State Government for the benefit of small and medium scale industries in the state.

“However, about 90% of this amount which was remitted to the state on the 17th of March, 2015 was drawn in two days (between 24th and 26th March 2015), for unexplained expenditure, without a single small and medium scale enterprise in the state benefitting from the money, yet the handover notes dated 29th May 2015, stated that the government was yet to access the fund.

“Various sums totalling N6.1 billion were transferred from the accounts of SUBEB, SURE-P and Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, to State Government accounts, without justifiable explanations on how the funds were used. On the 27th of May 2015, four political appointees of a certain government Agency who were not entitled to severance allowances as specified by the

Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission, illegally paid themselves the sum of N30million, severance allowance.

“The hand-over notes received from the proceeding government claimed the level of indebtedness of the government was N103.9 billion as of May, 2015. Our findings put the figure at N222.3 billion. What was left as credit in all the government accounts put together was N93million.”

The Jang government had claimed to have spent N8.6 billion on the New Government House but the committee put the

A quick look at the compositions of the sub-committees reveals that they were deliberately selected and made up of persons that have grudges with the immediate past administration

figure at N16.4 billion and remarkably, that work is still ongoing. The sum of N28.2 billion was raised from the capital market on the eve of the departure of the former government ostensibly to refinance existing state loans in three commercial banks.

Responding after receiving the report, Governor Lalong commended the committee for what he described as the revelations made by the committee.

“We will strive in our efforts to address the many issues begging for attention, to be conscious of time and the expectation of our citizenry. Our strong desire and determination is to provide the needed leadership and give the people qualitative service that will outlive this administration and return governance to its proper place.

“Government will without delay study and commence the implementation of the recommendation of the committee with a view of repositioning government for the important task of delivering on the mandate given to her.”

However, the former governor, Jang who has since transited to the Senate described the allegations contained in the report of the transition committee as untrue, insisting that he left debts and liabilities of only N103.9b.

In a statement signed by Mrs. Olivia Dazyem, former Attorney General and Commissioner for

Justice in the last administration, he said, “The new debt figure paraded by the committee is mischievously manufactured, the comprehensive breakdown of the debt is well documented in the handover notes and leaves no one in doubt, the committee should go back and study the handover notes properly.

The committee’s report is “a clear distortion and manipulation of facts, aimed at personal vendetta, witch-hunt and smearing the good name and achievements of the outgone PDP government led by Sen. Jonah Jang.

Allegation of lopsidedness “A quick look at the compositions of the subcommittees reveals that they were deliberately selected and made up of persons that have grudges with the immediate past administration.”

She dismissed as baseless the allegation of lopsidedness and selective distribution of facilities and services, in which the Committee claimed that 80% of projects were located in a particular section of one senatorial district and advised the APC government to “focus on development and stop picking holes with the giant strides of the Jang’s administration” She maintained, “the bar of governance in the state has been raised high by Senator Jang, and the Plateau people now use it as a yardstick to measure all succeeding governors, and Continues on page 28

The story of my betrayal, by Gov. Dickson Continues from page 26 situation. All my colleagues in the National Assembly, including my senator, Senator Lokpobiri, all of them supported Sylva and I weathered a lot of opposition. It wasn’t personal, it was all politics, ambition, political calculation.

That is why when I became governor, I worked with all of them.

Take Senator Lokpobiri, my senator at the time I was contesting for governor. He never supported me. Now he wanted to go back to the Senate, but my people said no, you have done two terms, let someone else go.

That is now a political offence. ‘I wanted to be senator, you didn’t support me. I wanted to go to the House of Representatives you didn’t support me. I wanted to go to House of Assembly, you didn’t support me, therefore, I am going to APC.’ That is what is happening.

So, will you keep nominees of those you call betrayers in your government?

I have a large political heart.

What I have managed in the last three years, the details will come out when I write my memoirs. It is only a politician with a large

heart, a politician who has the grace of God and a politician who has experience and tact that could have survived what I went through. What I survived in the last three years from higher and more dangerous quarters is far more dangerous than all these decamping put together! So, I am not moved because I am used to it.

Personal attack I am used to surviving tempests, I am used to managing storms. What I see as a personal attack from the APC will not scratch me.

I managed in a state House of Assembly where I did not have one single member for three and a half years. All the members in the House of Assembly from 2012 when I took over till June this year were all put there by Governor Sylva. Yet, with the incitements, with the conspiracies, with the impeachment plans from highest political levels.. that should give you an idea as to our experience, our tact and capacity to manage tendencies.

28—VANGUARD, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

ANTI-GRAFT WAR: Nigeria needs death penalty — KAKA SENATOR Sefiu Adegbenga Kaka, former deputy governor of Ogun State and principal officer at the Senate of 7th Assembly in this interview at his Ijebu Igbo residence, Ogun State, advocated for death penalty to boost the anti-graft war.

He also among others spoke on the reasons the All Progressives Congress (APC) is in crisis and why it is too early to asses President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

By Bashir Adefaka

O

N his assessment of President Buhari’s performance 12 weeks after and comments that he is slow Those who are in a hurry because of the word ‘change,’ are making a very grievous mistake.

They are being unfair to Buhari and the nation. Probably, they are enemies of the country because for over 16 years we had some people in power who did not know what to do other than to plunge the nation into a very bad situation to the level of bankruptcy, then they expect Buhari to become a magician within 45 to 100 days, or even one year. I think they should give Buhari the room to do what is right and what is expected of him.

On Buhari’s anti-graft war and probes For Buhari, it is no probe, no performance. If they want Buhari to close his eyes to what happened in the last 16 years and move on as if nothing happened, definitely, Buhari will not be able to perform. So, he will have to be methodical, dig deep into their atrocities and bring many of them to book to serve as deterrence to others.

Resilient manner Anything short of that, no serious person will take Buhari seriously. So far, the man is being methodical. He has been going about it in a resilient manner and they should give him chance to dig deep and bring to book the nation’s wreckers.

On fears that ethnic differences in the country could lead to war We will not go to war. The war we can go to is war of sanitation, which I believe and pray that God gives Buhari the courage, wisdom and good health to prosecute successfully because the thing is enormous.

If it will involve all of us, who at one time or the other had been in government, bring us to book.

It will be a necessary sacrifice.

Yes, you may not necessarily go to jail or be killed but bring the

loot back to the table so that life will be more abundant for the people.

And if you see Buhari’s style, you will discover a true change.

Usually, when new government comes on board, they don’t want to use the old cars used by the past government. I see no reason our recurrent expenditure should be more than the capital expenditure. A situation where we spend over 70 percent on recurrent is very bad. And what accounts for it is that many of the items being recycled in the budget every year are expenditures that ought not to be.

Recently, you heard the President saying that over N400 billion was to be expended on just six armoured cars. He said no to buying new cars and declared that he would use old ones used by the former President.

As a member of the 7th Assembly, did you ever sit down in a session to change the Senate Rule?

That is one of the areas that I will not want to dabble into but posterity will never forgive us if we fail to discuss it. I knew that the principal officers set up a committee and there is standing rule by which, at a particular point in time, they review. In fact there was an attempt under Senator Ita Enang to review the entire rule. I wouldn’t know whether it was concluded or not,

For Buhari, it is no probe, no performance. If they want Buhari to close his eyes to what happened in the last 16 years and move on as if nothing happened, definitely, Buhari will not be able to perform

•Kaka I must be frank with you.

On the leadership crisis in the National Assembly and the issue of party supremacy Yes, the party is supreme within the structure of the party and its cocoon. By the time you move away from the party and get into the larger society, which is the entire nation, it is the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that will be at play.

Party supremacy The supremacy of the party is with respect to the constitution of the party. The supremacy of the nation is in respect of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. And the constitution of any party is meant for the party. It has little or no bearing to that of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. So, the parties can have their internal mechanism for whipping their members into line but once they get to the larger society, the game change is inevitable.

If there is any manoeuvre they want to make, they ought to have done it in-house so that when they get to the main arena, they will try to mouster enough support to ensure that their views are respected by the others.

Sincerely speaking, when you look at what we have in more advanced democracies, you find people voting against their parties on some critical issues when the national interest becomes more important. It has happened. During the recent economic meltdown in America, people voted across party lines.

But here in Nigeria, for 16 years, we were where the PDP brought us because we allowed them to impose what they called

'family affair' on all of us. Any time atrocities were committed, you would hear Obasanjo say, “Don’t worry, we would solve that. It is a family affair.” A family you have one person removing the chairman of the party at will. Not one, not two, not three and yet it is a family affair. If it is a family affair, there must be collective decision and everybody must have equal opportunity to contribute toward that decision.

So, we should stop being hypocritical. Rather than weighing down the nation, whichever situation we find

ourselves, we should find a way of moving forward. Happily enough, all the personalities involved, both the in the Senate and the House of Representatives, are very qualified to occupy those positions. I have my respect for all of them.

If for whatever reason something has happened, rather than wasting the time of the nation or creating unnecessary heat for the system, they can device a means of addressing it ensure that the nation doesn’t suffer.

PLATEAU: Rumbling on the Plateau Continues from page 27 Lalong must live up to this expectation from the people of the state.

“The committee itself clearly reveals its inadequacies, in view of its recommendations for set up of a more specialized technical or audit committees to conduct further investigation. This therefore means that the report is at its best a draft that lacks the relevant technical and professional inputs. How can such a draft report be implemented?

“While we are not opposed to inspection of the previous administration’s activities, any such exercise should be done within the ambit of the law, due process and fair hearing.”

Responding to Dazyem’s statement, the new administration in another statement signed by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr. Emmanuel Nanle said “Government is not surprised at the effrontery of the former Commissioner to justify

the venality that has typified the state of Plateau under the Jang’s Administration.”

He observed the said report is just a summary presentation of the reality which the Jang’s government struggled to conceal with the “last minute contraption packaged as a handing over note to the discerning Plateau Citizen.”

His words, “The desperate quick response of Barr. Olivia Dazyem even before the full disclosure of the Transition Report is at best, the antic of a drowning man who will grab at any straw.

“The Jang Administration cannot be a judge in their own case, Government only plead with them to be patient until the report is made public to the citizens of Plateau before they have their own defence but until then let the people of Plateau be the Judge in this matter and like the saying goes; let them not be quick to plead not guilty before the charge is read and the question concerning their pleading is asked by the Plateau people.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—29

Extortion at our international airports Dear Sir,

P

ERMIT me to use your widely read newspaper to call on the authorities of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS, Customs and other security agencies attached to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos to check the extortion of passengers by their staff working in the airport.

These corrupt officials manufacture’ all sorts of tricks to intimidate and extort money from passengers, especially first’- time travellers.

Recently, one of my sisters travelled to India for further studies. She got her Yellow Card at the designated health facility belonging to Lagos State Government at Broad Street, in Lagos Island. She had all the vaccinations required by the Indian High Commission for persons visiting their country. But at the airport, some persons masquerading as health officials rejected the Yellow Card and almost prevented the girl from travelling. They claimed that the Yellow Card she obtained at Broad Street was fake because it didn’t have the Coat of Arms and Nigerian Flag.

They demanded N5,000 to issue her a

‘genuine’ Yellow Card. Confused, the girl who didn’t have enough money, pleaded with them and they gave her their ‘genuine’ Yellow Card after collecting N2,000 from her.

A few days later, we were at the airport again to see off two youths travelling to the United States. These dubious officials started demanding all sorts of documents until I threatened them.

At the Immigration Desk, the two boys were turned back because according to Immigration satff, one of them was under-aged and was being trafficked by the older Cousin. They demanded a letter to the effect that the boy was not being trafficked which I quickly wrote and gave to them.

Although they accepted the letter, they still demanded for gratification.

If Buhari’s anti-corruption crusade will be effective, he must also beam his searchlight on our airports because these corrupt officials paint the country black. It is only in Nigeria that these so-called officials will ransack your luggage in the name of checking for contraband items. Can’t we use scanning machines as they do in other countries to check for such prohibited items? *Jude Uzoma, Lagos Island

Okowa as a liberal team player Dear Sir,

I

T is no longer news that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State recently travelled out of the country for about two weeks. His absence from the state brought to the fore his liberal nature and team player disposition which has defined and aided his successful political career. He seemed to have stressed that “In the event of my unavoidable absence from the State, I have a capable hand in my deputy, Otuaro to stand in for me”.

Dr. Okowa, had before May 29, 2015, never been Governor of any state including his own Delta State.

Shockingly, he allowed his Deputy, Otuaro, to preside over the first Executive Council meeting to be held under his tenure. Not many would do that. In the build-up to that event, there was tension in the heart of managers of the situation. The Executive Council (EXCO) Chambers, once the exclusive preserve of previous Governors for State functions, was still the venue of the meeting. “How would His Excellency, the Governor feel?” was the refrain.

A call put across to Governor Okowa put paid to the matter. The response calmed nerves: “Is that why you called? The State must move on please, even when I am away. Let him go on, please”. Otuaro thus held sway, presiding over the EXCO meeting, proving his mettle in a calm and collected way.

Okowa did not have to shift the

meeting so he must preside over the historic meeting himself, thus demonstrating his confidence in Otuaro who he severally referred to during the electioneering campaigns as his friend.

Truth be told, this more than cordial relationship between Okowa and his deputy Otuaro provides a remarkable template for the Nigerian nation with many hiccups in Governor and Deputy Governor relations. Having been used to something different in the previous years, the new positive development was a marvellous thought.

Okowa’s confidence in Otuaro since assumption of office has not been a misplaced one. Prior to Okowa’s last travel out of the country, Otuaro had negotiated peace between Urhobo/ Isoko communities and the Nigeria Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, leading to the resumption of oil activities. Today, his peace advocacy has produced results in the other rifts between communities and other companies in what gives hope for the peace building plank of Okowa’s SMART agenda.

The Okowa/Otuaro cordial and understanding relationship calls on us all, irrespective of political leanings, to be part and supportive of their team for the prosperity of all Deltans.

Bulou Kosin, Special Assistant to the Deputy Governor of Delta state on Communication and Press Asaba.

Subsidy removal

Those clamouring for the perpetuation of this evil called fuel subsidy are the immediate beneficiaries of this economic sabotage. Billions of naira that should be for economic development are being filtered away daily into the pockets of these senseless, heartless, selfish and unpatriotic Nigerians in the name of subsidy! Of what use is the so-called subsidy if the actual ‘relief ‘of the subsidy is not getting to the masses it is intended for? If the ‘subsidised’ PMS could sell most of the time for N200, N250,N300 per litre, what use is the subsidy? Please let’s do away with this economic sabotage called ‘subsidy’!

Mike +2348063897516

NASS leadership crisis

From what is happening in the country now, it is obvious that only President Buhari is fighting for change in the country. The rest of us are fighting for our pockets. For transparency, the opposition parties should produce the Speaker and Senate President. This will guarantee proper checks and balance. I keep wondering why the All Progressive Congress, APC, and Sen. Bola Tinubu don’t want to accept Saraki and Dogara as Senate President and Speaker. If the president can accept them, who are we not to. Please let us all embrace this wind of change.

Uduebor Osaro. +2348059826021

Buhari’s visits to Obama

Why must President Buhar visit Obama ? Since Obama became American President, his recent visit to Kenya makes it the fourth time he has visited Africa without coming to Nigeria! President Buhari should not have visited him because President Obama does not have solutions to Nigeria’s problems. Why do Nigerians feel so inferior to the white race? Our leaders and politicians should do what is right and stop all these embarrassment they are giving to us.

Romanus Ndehigwo +2348024209181

Abuse of tax holiday funds

It was alleged that the Finance Minister, Dr, Ngozi Okonjo- Iweala, wrote a letter to the NIPC Executive Secretary, Saratu Umar, to appraise her on the apparent abuse of tax holidays.

Through this fraud which has been going on unchecked in the past five years, the nation has lost billions of dollars. The question is, why must the Minister wait till the twilight of Jonathan’s administration to lodge the

complaints, given the fact that allegations of massive bleeding of the treasury through dubious waiver under her watch have been flying around for sometime? This is a sad development in the history of Nigeria and of course an indictment on Okonjo Iweala whether she likes it or not.

Anonymous wrote in from Abuja, FCT

Nigeria’s economy and corrupt officials

From all these revelations, it is certain Nigeria has been bled real dry by unscrupulous people aided by unpatriotic officials. President Buhari’s administration must get to the root of these matters and bring the culprits to justice to discourage others who are bent on destroying our economy. People must realise that it is nolonger going to be business as usual. Let me admonish all compatriots to embrace the wind of change that is blowing across Nigeria by doing the right thing in the interest of Nigeria and all Nigerians.

Solo Aloba.+2347052624455

Dr. Ngozi Iweala’s comments on governors

It is shameful that the former Minister of Finance, Dr, Ngozi Iweala continues to blame the governors for failing to save for the rainy day when she also failed to do same for the federal government as Coordinating Minister of the Economy. This is a case of pot calling kettle black. Truly, if a surplus budget was run at the federal level, she would have had the credibility to blame others or to say they did not listen to her advice, but rather, the federal government under her watch ran huge deficits. Indeed it is a clear case of not showing credibility of good leadership.

Barr Anthony 0.

0bi,...2348056009586 0nitsha

Nigeria’s refineries and our crude oil

It is a shame that among all the oil exporting countries, Nigeria remains the only one that is importing petrol.

The blame goes to the Peoples Democracy Party,PDP, which left the country’s economy prosrate after 16 years of its misrule, despite the fact that our crude oil sold for over 100 dollars per barrel for most part of that period that the party held sway at the centre. To tix the rot in the system, the Buhari presidency requires prayers and understanding.

Anonymous +2347052624455

SAYINGS OF OUR ELDERS A leader is not a person who can perform better than his people, but someone who can inspire his people to perform better than himself.

Simon Adewale08056180103, Send us your Sayings of Our Elders. They must be African sayings or proverbs. Biblical or English proverbs are unacceptable.

Address your sayings to: The Co-ordinator, Sayings of Our Elders,Vanguard Media Ltd., PMB 1007, Apapa,

30—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

GITEX 2015: Nigeria to showcase young tech startups

By Emeka Aginam

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HE National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, is concluding arrangement to showcase pool of young Nigerian technology startups at Gitex 2015 at the country’s Pavilion.

Slated to hold October this year at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the theme for GITEX Technology Week 2015 is, ‘The Internet Future of Everything.’

At the capacity building

forum, Nigeria will be promoting its technology startups through NITDA to leverage on the main theme by featuring an army of young innovators delivering revenue, solutions across sectors including Education, Healthcare, Agriculture, Security, Oil and Gas, and the Retail Industry among others.

To ensure full participation of the public and private sectors as well as the education/research institutions, NITDA has embraced multi-sector

stakeholders in the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) charged with ensuring the country’s successful participation.

The GITEX local organizing committee headed by Dr. Vincent Olatunji, will provide the framework and implementation activities for participation of stakeholders inside the Nigerian Pavilion at Gitex 2015; promotion of local startups; projection of the country ’s vast and untapped IT potential, among others.

Kogi State governor, Captain Idris Wada, receiving his Expression of Interest Form at the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja yesterday

I’m confident of victory at tribunal – Maku

By Emmanuel Elebeke

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FORMER Information Minister and the governorship candidate of All Progressive Grand Alliance in the April 11 elections in Nasarawa State, Mr. Labaran Maku, says he is confident of victory at the electoral tribunal sitting in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.

He said that citizens of the state should expect the state to be the first to get justice in this new dispensation. The former minister made the declaration yesterday during a press briefing on the conclusion of their presentations at the electoral tribunal in Abuja.

Maku told the media that at the close of the tribunal presentation on Wednesday, the electoral body (INEC) failed to close its case without a single witness before the tribunal, after filing 25 witnesses and boasting of having enough evidence to counter APGA’s claim of massive irregularities during and after the election.

His words, “rather than bringing the witnesses forward, INEC withdrew its case because its witnesses turned hostile and were not prepared to testify under oath. After all the entries, reviews of witnesses, presentation of documents and motions, claims and counter claims, I am more certain and convinced that Al-Makura ought not to have presented himself abinitio to be sworn in as governor of Nasarawa state.

“I think it is unfortunate that the electoral act and the constitution allow people who rigged elections to be sworn in as opposed to the constitution in 1979, when electoral petitions were C M Y K

handled before swearing in. For me, the electoral body that proclaimed AlMakura the winner could not present the witnesses it said it had. It was evident that INEC and APC went for a reckless and fraudulent mutilation of results.”

According to him, ‘Most of the adhoc staff recruited

by INEC were APC members, so they did all the damage because if you conduct a survey in the state you will observe that seven out of 10 people will tell you APGA won the election”.

Rotary moves to curb maternal, infant mortality problems

By Chris Ochayi

R

OTARY Club of Nigeria, District 9140 has sealed a mutual partnership with some Rotary clubs in Germany, Austria and the United States to embark on a vigorous campaign aimed to tackle the rising problems of maternal and infant mortality rate in the country. Chairman of the Project Implementation Committee of the Rotary Club District 9140, TransEkulu, Enugu, Mr. Eric Igweshi, said in a statement in Abuja that the club embarked on the project to show its concern for the alarming increase in maternal and infant mortality cases in the country.

He said the Rotary Club was collaborating with the Enugu State Ministry of Health and the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace in the project and have selected five hospitals to benefit from a comprehensive action plan.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 31

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Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—35

‘Even men can breastfeed’

By Gabriel Olawale

D

O you know that the creation of mankind gives both men and women equal opportunity to play the role of breastfeeding? Are you a man? How have you been contributing to breastfeeding you children? Experts say even men can breastfeed a child.

According to the experts, breast milk is best for your baby, and the benefits of breastfeeding extend well beyond basic nutrition. Apart from containing all the vitamins and nutrients your baby needs in the first six months of life, breast milk is packed with disease-fighting substances that protect your baby from illness. That is experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.

In the views of the President, Society of Perinatal Medicine of Nigeria, SOPMON, Prof. Godwin Ajayi, the breast tissues of both sexes are made up of the same component to perform the same purpose.

Fundamental tissues “The breasts of a woman and those of a man are made up of the same fundamental tissues. They both have fat tissues, glandular tissues and connective tissues, the only difference is the ratio of distribution and that is under the hormonal influence.”

Ajayi who addressed nursing mothers during the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Baby-friendly Initiative” to mark the World Breast-feeding Week noted that women’s breasts are bigger than men’s because they have more estrogen to produce milk.

It is just a simple transfer of the benefits the father got from his mother and environment back to his baby

• A man breastfeeding his child.

“It does not have any adverse effect to the father or the baby just that the whole world has not started looking at it from

that direction. It is just a simple transfer of benefits the father got from his mother and environment back to his baby.”

Ajayi further noted that the only way to get man interested in the issue of exclusive breastfeeding was by making them understand that they also can play the role, Ajayi explained that in developing countries like Nigeria, one way parents can help their children is to breastfeed them properly so that they can do well in school and not be a victim of drop out. “A study carried out by a colleague of mine in Central Africa, showed that breastfeeding babies every 20 minutes makes their polartine level to be very high.”

“In advanced countries, some women even go into business of producing milk and store it to be given to others because of the beauty of it, just like the way women are selling their placenta and urine in advance country to produce hormones that are being marketed,” he added.

Speaking, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Community Health & Primary Care College of Medicine University of Lagos, Dr. Tolulope Olufunmilayo said that the benefits of breastfeeding infants are enormous as it helps the children to survive and withstand infections, provides critical nutrients for the early development of their brains and bodies, promotes bonding between mother and baby, has a lifelong positive effect on health and reduces chance of obesity in later life.”

CHI, Tetra Pak unite to fight child malnutrition

By Chioma Obinna

W

ITH the 2013 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey revealing that 80 percent of Nigerian children suffer from nutrition deficiencies, particularly from Iron, Zinc and vitamins, one of the indigenous producers of high quality fruit juice, CHI Limited is partnering with Tetra Pak, a global food processing and packaging solutions company to explore opportunities for feasible food & beverage solutions in an effort to fight malnutrition amongst children in Nigeria. This is coming on the heels of a new survey which showed that over one third of Nigerian

children are malnourished to the extent that their physical growth is measurably reduced compared to children in peer countries.

As part of efforts to alleviate malnutrition among these children, the joint initiative between CHI Limited & Tetra Pak will develop feasible solutions for providing healthy nourishment for Nigerian children.

To achieve this, the companies will undertake an in-depth assessment of the ground realities of the nutritional requirements and the need gaps specific to children in Nigeria. This partnership will provide a platform for the involvement of relevant major

stakeholders, institutes, governmental and non-governmental organisations for the delivery of nutrition solutions to the Nigerian children.

Speaking, Chairman of Chi Limited, Mr. C.G Vink noted that “Child nutrition is important to our country’s future and being a proudly Nigerian company, we are committed to putting in our best to the building and shaping a healthy and brighter Nigeria.”

Also, Chief Executive Officer of Tetra Pak, Mr Dennis Jönsson, said “Tetra Pak has partnered with governments, customers and other public and private partners to support school feeding programmes around the world for more than 50 years.

Community pharmacists back FG on drug distribution guidelines

By Chioma Obinna

C

ONTRARY to views of some stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector on the newly introduced National Drug Distribution Guidelines, NDDG, by the Federal Government, Community Pharmacists are backing the Federal Government drug guidelines, insisting that, the implementation of the guidelines would eliminate counterfeit medicines and restore sanity in the chaotic drug distribution chain.

The pharmacists under the auspices of Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, ACPN, Lagos State branch, also advised other stakeholders to embrace the full implementation of the guidelines as it would provide quality medicines to Nigerians.

Speaking during its Public Sensitisation and Awareness campaign on ‘Drug Use’ for motor park operators at the popular under bridge Ojuelegba, Lagos, to mark this year’s Pharmacy Week, the Lagos State Chairman of ACPN, Pharm. Biola Paul- Ozieh dismissed insinuations that the implementation would increase the cost of medicines.

According to her, the NDDG has come to stay and gray areas should be corrected by the Federal Ministry of Health that way Nigerians will be the beneficiaries.

“Community Pharmacists are all for NDDG. It is not true that drugs will become very expensive. It is far from the true. Drugs are not going to be expensive rather we are going to have coordinated drug distribution system.

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“Other nations of the world have done this and it is working. Drugs being expensive is not due to the fact that when you do the right thing drugs will become expensive. When Drugs are taken or distributed through the right channels, what will happen is that the patient and the public will have access to quality medicines, quality care and quality drug channels.”

Eliminating open drug markets She maintained that the NDDG will completely eliminate open drug markets and drugs will no longer be sold in the buses, open market places and in portfolios. “It only makes drugs to be in the hands of people trained or licensed to distribute drugs.”

Paul – Ozieh called on the regulatory authorities, to rise up to the challenge and dismantle open drug markets as well as ensure that the guidelines are implemented to the letter.

“Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria, PCN, and the national Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control should be on the trail of unregistered premises and the federal taskforce under the auspices of NAFDAC is supposed to take down all illegal premises where fake and counterfeit drugs are distributed. These two regulatory bodies have the mandate to clear the country of illegal premises and make sure that drugs are only sold through registered premises.

We call upon them to have political will to protect the public by doing their jobs.”

“The NDDG is in tandem with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. That is why we are calling upon PCN to do an audit and NAFDAC to make the federal taskforce on fake and counterfeit drugs work.”

Speaking on misuse of drugs among Nigerians, Paul – Ozieh who noted that the enlightenment programme was part of their activities to bring information on drugs to Nigerians, raised alarm on the level of drug abuse in the country.

Declaring that the level of drug abuse was unacceptably high in the country, she said they now see more people abusing codeine and other drugs like tramadol. She blamed the high incidence of non communicable diseases such as kidney problems on possible drug abuse by Nigerians.

“The incidences have proved irrational use of medicines and it is not good at all. That is why we are calling on the Federal Government to do the needful and we are calling on regulatory authorities, NAFDAC and PCN to begin to do the proper regulations. The laws have already said that open drug market is not acceptable in our clime. So the regulatory agency should stand up to their duties and sanitize the chaotic distribution channels.” She urged Nigerians to always patronise registered premises for their drugs as well as consult their pharmacists on their drug needs.

36—VANGUARD, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

themselves with their songs. If you listen to songs by Afrobeat king, Fela, Bob Marley, Onyeka Onwenu and other music legends, you will notice that their songs usually talk about their lifestyle, personal experiences, love life and the society.

So, artistes should learn to make good songs like the legends.

Nigga Raw said, “ when I read the report online, I noticed that some of the songs were banned based on either their lyrics or visuals. Some were banned because of the content of the songs. I think NBC is in a better position to explain why they banned the songs.”

“I will like to say that this action will help the industry to watch what they sing because there are authorities that will still screen

By Benjamin Njoku & Iyabo Aina

F

ANS and stakeholders in the music industry have continued to react following reports that the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, NBC has barred at least 18 hit songs from Radio and TV play in the country with some describing the action as a welcome development, while many others frowned at it.

The regulatory body allegedly released the list of the barred songs during the week. But reacting through its twitter account, nbcgovng, NBC has denied barring the songs. It said, “ our attention has been drawn to a list of Not to be Broadcast songs circulating online. The NBC did not officially issue the said NTBB. You are advised to disregard this list as such content was never issued by this commission. It’s strictly meant for broadcast stations, who are our licensees and for public consumption,” the commissioned insisted.

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Among the affected songs are Wizkid‘s In My Bed, Fans Mi by Davido (featuring American rapper Meek Mill), Olamide‘s Shakiti Bobo and Iyanya‘s collaboration with Don Jazzy, Gift.

Others are Tony Montana

by Naeto C featuring D’banj, Oyari (Dr Sid and Tiwa Savage), Gbese (Lil Kesh), Ibadi (May D), Tesojue (Reminisce), Yayo (Phyno), Lomo (Jhybo) and Pre‘s The Girl.

Foreign songs NBC also banned 3 foreign songs including Nicki Minaj‘s Anaconda, Post to be by Omarion featuring Chris Brown and Jhene Aiko and Ace Hood’s collaboration with Rick Ross titled Bugatti.

Most of the banned songs are already big hits, and will continue to get played in night clubs, and on websites across the world.

They will also remain on cable platforms like Hip TV, MTV Base and Soundcity.

NBC memos to the station heads say, the labelling reflects how the commission’s officers categorise the music.

Free-to-air channels are not allowed to broadcast music containing vulgar lyrics, obscene scenes and violence.

According to the commission, Davido’s Fans Mi was banned for promoting ostentatious lifestyle, drug trafficking and indecent exposure. The Nigerian Drug law Enforcement Agency,NDLEA, had also expressed concerns about the video.

Meanwhile, many fans and stakeholders have been

reacting to the development.

For RnB singer, Darey ArtAlade, NBC has its reasons for barring the songs from airplay. “I can’t comment because I’m just hearing about the ban. But NBC has its reasons for taking such decision,”Darey said.

Also, reacting in the same vein, female drummer, Ara said, “I think that it’s the best thing to do. Reason being that some of the lyrics of these songs are not good for our kids.

And my advice is that there should be songs meant for nightclubs just as there is need to do songs for the consumption of the general public. The affected artistes should learn to portray

Coke Studio unites Yemi Alade with Kenyan Acts

their work. My advice is that the affected artistes should be mindful of what they put into the public domain.

Some fans also commented on the development, noting that the ban was long overdue.

“Good, but where have they been all the while. These songs shouldn’t have been given production approval in the first place. Good riddance to bad rubbish,” Ola-Oreofe Oluwasola reacted.

But for Yusuph Kazeem Oladipupo, there is nothing wrong with Olamide’s Shokiti Bobo, just as Jimoh Olawale urged NBC to spare the popular song.

Nigerian artistes top AFRIMA nomination list

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 —37

SINGING FOR FAME

...as Hon Sergius Ogun takes talent hunt to the grassroots

By Benjamin Njoku

W

ORRIED by the incessant migration of Nigerian youths to Libya and other parts of the world in search of greener pastures, a member of the National Assembly, Hon. Sergius O.Ogun has initiated a move to stem the tide.

Hon. Ogun, representing Esan North-East/ South-East Federal Constituency of Edo State at the National Assemby last weekend launched a musical talent hunt project to discourage the ugly trend.

The project , “ SOO Live The Dream” which kicks off from 17th of September through 20, is being organized by Dihoo Records. It’s the first of its kind in the country, introducing an array of innovations in talent hunt that will give the grassroots participants a rare opportunity to kick start their individual career in music.

Speaking at a pre-event media parley, in his country home, Uromi, Edo State, during the weekend, Hon. Sergius said the maiden edition of the project is geared towards promoting gainful and socially accepted enterprise among the youth population of Esan North-East/ South-East Federal Constituency as well as to jump start the careers of music-oriented members of within the target population.

“One of the sectors that have really shown some inspiring growth in Nigeria is the entertainment industry, and the youths are the energy behind this sector that not only brings

•Hon. Sergius recognition and honour to the country but also, adds a lot of value to the economy,” My dream is to discover budding talents in singing and music production in my constituency. We don’t have to travel to Libya or any other part of the world to make it in life. You can stay in this constituency and we will help you nurture your talent and make you one of our national superstars,”he said.

Speaking further, Hon. Sergius noted that one of the promises he made to his constituency is to empower the youths and “SOO Live The Dream” is one of the platform that will be used to launch the careers of the next super stars in the country and Africa at large.

With thousands expected to participate in this competition, singing their hearts out to prove their mettle in different genres

of music, a panel of Judges comprising Muyiwa Asenuga,aka Nomoreloss, Sydney Shocker, Monique D Vibes and Elcee McEDwards would be saddled with the difficult task of complimenting and criticizing the contestants in their search for true talent.

According to CEO of Dihoo Records, Morgan Uwadileke, who will be present at every stage of the competition. “ we will be looking forward to meeting the next act that will pen down the chance of a lifetime record deal with the music outfit.”

This maiden edition of SOO Live The Dream” is open to persons between the ages of 18 and 30, as long as they are natives of Esan North-East/ South-East Federal Constituency of Edo State. Audition for the show, according to the organizers, holds on Thursday,

September 17 through 18.

During the auditions, it will be at the discretion of the judges to choose 20 candidates who will go on to the next level of selection called the performance screening.

On Saturday, September 19, the performance screening will hold, during which 10 exceptionally talented contestants will be selected to slug during the grand finale.

Seven of the 10 contestants will be determined by the judges while three would be saved’ by he audience who would be guided to choose their three favorite contestants from the remaining 13.

Unlike other talent hunt shows where the winner takes all, organizers say, the show will afford the 20 contestants an opportunity to attend a one-day seminar, where heavy industry players will coach them on the business of being a recording artiste, music promotions and legal frameworks free of charge. The grand prize winner will walk away with a cash prize of N200,000 and an allencompassing record deal with Dihoo Records, while the 1st and 2nd runner-up will get a promotional contract that would see each of them recording two singles that would be promoted locally along with cash prizes of N150,000 and N100,000 respectively.

Battle for Adasounds’soul tM,ULTI-TALENTED singer, Kejo Queen a.k.a Adasounds is the mostsought after female singer in Nigeria at the moment. Two record labels, Star Records owned by Nnamdi Ubah and OJB Jezereel Amazing works are at daggers drawn over who signs her up.

According to sources, Nnamdi Ubah is determined to outdo OJB Jezreel in his bid to sign the sexy singer up no matter what it takes after OJB outsmarted him! Before now, Adasounds had inked a mouth watering deal with Ubah’s Star Records. However, everything fell apart as soon as legendary music producer, OJB steeped into the picture.

“Many people may not know it but OJB Jezreel has veered into music consultancy. He is the CEO of Amazing Works and a good number of artistes ranging from 9ice and Ruggedman have passed through his school. He recently heard Adasound’s works when she was working in the studio with Puffi T and was instantly struck!

“He sent his PA to her with his card for a meeting. Adasounds would have totally ignored him but because of the weight of his name in the industry. They held a meeting and to every one s shock, Adasounds has personally informed Uba of her decision to quit Star Records.

Coke Studio unites Yemi Alade with Kenyan Acts

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FTER being crowned the Best Female Artist in Africa at this year’s MTV Africa Music Awards – “Nagode” and “Johnny” singer - Yemi Alade is back on Coca-Cola Coke Studio Africa TV show for a second time. This year, Yemi has been paired with top Kenyan acts representing afro pop and genge genres on the Coke Studio TV show - set to premiere soon.

Yemi Alade, worked on a Coke Studio Africa mash-up collaboration with Sauti Sol, the successful Kenyan music group, which recently attracted international media attention after having President Obama dance to their song Sura Yako, during his recent Kenya visit. The Yemi and Sauti Sol collaboration is produced by Cobhams •Yemi Alade Asuquo, who also produced Avril and M.I on the show’s new season. The product of the collaboration was such magic that Yemi and Sauti Sol headed straight to the studio to record another song, right after their

recording at Coke Studio Africa.

Yemi, a brilliant performer, has also worked with Kenya’s genge king - Jua Cali aka Baba Yao, in song collaborations produced by respected Nigerian producer Masterkraft who has also worked with several top Nigerian acts including Flavour, Banky W, Olamide and Wizkid.

Yemi, well-known for her choreographed dance and flamboyance in African fashion and music struck instant chemistry with rapper, Jua Cali. The rapper, who is a firsttimer on Coke Studio Africa, has mega Kenyan hits like “Ruka”, “Kiasi” and “Bidii Yangu”. The two artistes had their music produced by Nigerian producer Masterkraft in the show’s new mash-up format. Yemi’s “Tangerine” and Jua Cali’s “Kwaheri” include some of the songs that have been mashed up on the show. Music fans across Africa will listen to their collaborative performance, first on the season premiere of Coke Studio Africa!

•Adasound

38 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

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Samsung’s SUHD TV gives viewing super experience from any angle

By Prince Osuagwu

T

V technology has evolved rapidly over the past few years particularly since smart TVs hit the market, changing the way we view the world. The rapid advancement in television technology is indicative of an increased desire for engagement, to connect, unwind and particularly immersive viewing experiences. With smart TVs, users could check news, weather, stock prices and view YouTube videos. Users could also connect PCs with LAN cables and view content on the big screen. It even had support for USB flash drives. Over the years, not only did the design evolve, OEMs began adding distinctive features that will differentiate their products from others. TVs are now two-way communication platforms, compared to the early years.

Although Samsung was among the first few companies to develop a smart TV with its Samsung Pavv Bordeaux TV 750 launched in 2008, allowing users to access web information, share photos and connect with family and friends through their social media accounts, it is however in recent times, innovating fast into the TVs of the future.

Recently, the company introduced into the Nigerian market what it described as the world’s first curved SUHD TV that marks a monumental leap into the future of television viewing, setting a new standard in premium UHD content and elevating consumers’ viewing experience to new levels.

Innovative features The TV is exquisitely packed with the most exciting and innovative features that have taken entertainment several notches higher with several electrifying features.

The SUHD TV Nano-Crystal Semi-Conductor transmits different colors of light depending on their size in order to ensure the highest purity and light efficiency available today.

This technology provides for a wide range of more accurate colours, availing viewers with twice the adjustment points and 64 times more expression than conventional TVs. In simple terms, the SUHDTV displays a wider spectrum of nature’s colours, which are reproduced more accurately so that the image on the screen looks closer to real life than ever before.

With the curved design, the SUHD TV JS9500 features Samsung’s Chamfer bezel

C M Y K

design, adding more depth to the TV screen, and the elegant frame makes the TV look like a piece of art when mounted on the wall.

The curved screen gives viewers a wider field of view.

Samsung’s expanded Curved Soundbar line-up features a sleek, clean design that complements Samsung’s Curved TVs from 48-inches to 78-inches,

providing an immersive listening experience whether it is wall or table mounted.

Other intriguing features of the SUHD TV include Enhanced Smart Hub, fast play and return, and Octa-core Processor. The Quick Connect feature automatically searches for Samsung mobile devices nearby and connects them via BLE

(Bluetooth Low Energy) technology, seamlessly sharing content from a mobile device to a TV and vice-versa with just one click. Users can now watch live broadcasts or recorded programs on their mobile devices, anywhere on their home network, even when their TV power is turned off.

SUHD TV

Android One partnership that cuts down N100k Infinix phone to N17k for Nigerians

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By Jonah Nwokpoku

F you are very smart, the next time you are buying the Infinix Hot2 smartphone, valued at about N100,000, you would get it at a mere N17,000. That is however, if you navigate to the Jumia online store.

This is the beauty of the partnership between Google, MTN, Jumia, and Infinix, in Google’s Android One programme which was recently unveiled in Africa through an exclusive launch of Infinix Hot2 device on the Jumia online store.

According to the partners, the launch makes it possible for the Nigerian consumers to have the Smartphone device valued at N100, 000 at N17, 500 exclusively on jumia.com.ng.

The Chief Executive Officer of Jumia Nigeria, Jeremy Doutte said: “As the 15 per cent market shareholder of Smartphone sales across Nigeria, Jumia Nigeria is indeed committed to being a world-class organization and maintaining its status as Nigeria’s number one online retail store.

In every sense of the word, more than ever before, the company is set to drive the implementation of its e-commerce model in its first-ever partnership with Google, Infinix and MTN to encourage technological innovation in Nigeria via the introduction of Android One in the form of

the Infinix Hot 2 mobile phone. This partnership brings Jumia closer to accomplishing its ultimate goal of placing one Smartphone in the hands of every Nigerian.” He added that, “Jumia will continue to drive and make premium technological equipment available to Nigerians at an affordable price.”

Google has just introduced an a f f o r d a b l e Smartphone in six African countries to enable low-income earners to gain access to an interconnected device. Nigeria is the first to sell the device, which will be followed by Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Egypt, and Morocco in the coming weeks. The price for the Hot 2 phones starts at N17, 500, which makes it a steep markdown from other Smartphones.

Hot2

In Huawei’s Y3, comes mid-range Smartphone with high end credentials

Huawei Y3 Richard Udofia

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ITH the introduction of the Huawei Y3 smartphone in Nigeria recently, it has been a smooth ride into the heart of the ever sophisticated mobile device users in Nigeria.

Huawei Y3 is a stylish dual sim android smartphone with an elegant matte finish, flawless curve design, and single hand control. It sports a 4.0-inch capacitive touch screen with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, 16M colours, and an LCD WVGA screen display screen coated with scratch-resistant glass. It runs on Google’s Android Operating System – 4.4 Kit Kat – on a 1.3 GHz QuadCore Processor. It also provides 512MB RAM and 4GB ROM. The handset is equipped with a 5MP rear and 2MP front camera with Dual LED flash, autofocus and Geo-tagging. A front camera is also provided for crisp video calling, making the Y3 as versatile as any offering from Huawei’s competitors. Voice command capabilities on the Y3 lets users make calls and compose text messages handsfree.

Network support At just 11.2mm thin, the Y3 weighs 130g, yet manages to pack many other key features such as 3G Network Support, Bluetooth 4.0, micro USB v2.0, GPS, FM Radio, Wi-Fi hotspot, DLNA, Accelerometer, HTML browser, SNS integration and a 1730mAh battery with power saving technology. Given the phone’s configuration, the battery is expected to deliver up to 2 days of battery-life with moderate use.

Offered in a simple yet fashionable design, the HUAWEI Y3 comes in 6 exciting colours – in other words, there is definitely a choice for everyone!.

Appraising the device performance recently, Senior Marketing Manager for Huawei Consumer Business Group, Mr. Olaonipekun Okunowo, said that “While Huawei Y3 sits firmly as a mid-range mobile phone, it comes packed with strong highend credentials. And while it will cost much less than the flagship phones of Huawei’s main competitors, it pushes the boundary on value delivery given its relatively lower price tag.”

40—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Change: Aisha Buhari reiterates commitment tablets and syrups production by 34 per cent and monthly turnover by over 40 per cent”.

PZ Cussons, while receiving the award for impactful contribution to economy through backward integration, the General Manager, External Affairs, PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC, Mohammed Tahir, said the company in partnership with Wilmar Singapore, has made investment to restore Nigeria’s status as world-league player in the global palm oil industry and involves backward integration through upstream investments in plantations, as well as in refining and downstream distribution.

By Naomi Uzor

T

HE First Lady of Nigeria, Aisha Buhari, has said that since Nigerians has voted for change, they should be rest assured that positive change will soon be witnessed in the country.

Aisha who spoke through the former Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Mrs. Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire, at the 2015 LCCI commerce and industry awards, said, her husband, President Mohammed Buhari, is ready to serve Nigerians and to bring positive change to the country.

“Since Nigerians has voted for change, positive change will soon come to this country, my husband is ready to serve and make the change come to reality, very soon, we will all live to see the goodness of our great country” she said.

Speaking at the award ceremony, the Chairman, Mopson pharmaceutical, Dr. Michael Oyebanjo Paul, who was presented with the award for excellence in the use of intervention funds, said the company has emerged as a success story in an environment where lending to SME and micro businesses remain unattractive to creditors.

Downstream distribution

•Aisha Buhari According to the Bank of Industry (BoI), Mopson did not only liquidate its borrowed funds timely, but was able to utilize the fund to transform the company leading to its emergence as one of the key players in the Nigerian

pharmaceutical industry within a short space of time.

BoI said “With the SMEs intervention funds, Mopson was able to increase number of its employees by 30 per cent, increase output and capacity of

Young ladies to participate in Nigeria teens and twenties audition

By Dotun Ibiwoye

Y

OUNG ladies and their m a l e counterparts in Nigeria between the ages of13-25 years, now have the platform to become acclaimed actresses and actors being the first of its kind in Nigeria and subsaharan Africa.

Bob Manuel Udokwu, Senior Special Adviser to Anambra state governor on Creative Media, is the production consultant to the Nigeria teens and twenties audition which is a project that enables talented teenagers to be groomed to become great actors.

The project is expected to generate over 2000 direct and indirect employment to youths nationwide. It will enable 50 people that are chosen to be camped for a few days and taught the rudiments of screen acting by professionals.

The auditions are not for

actors only, scriptwriters will also be screened and selected, which will be produced by Kneol Productions and Entertainment.

The CEO, Kneol Productions and Entertainment, Nwankwo Emmanuel Obiora (NEO) and Oluga Kingsley Chiemerie said that the Nigerian teens and twenties audition will hold across major cities in Nigeria annually.

According to Obiora: “For years in Nigeria and around Africa, we have observed the cries and complaints of young people, lamenting disregard of their acting skills and the withering of their dreams of becoming the next Nollywood superstars.

“We want to give these teenagers and young people a chance to become the future of the Nigerian and African movie industry through the auditions. Our youths will finally get the opportunities

they crave to prove to the world that they can be the future of the African movie scene under the right guidance.

“In a country where the talent and skills of young people are nurtured and channeled to progress, the sky will be the starting point. The audition will

The organizers said the firm has made a strong mark in the use of locally sourced materials to develop and produce unique consumer products for the local markets and has consistently aligned with government policy to execute backward integration programmes where Nigeria demonstrates a comparative advantage, noting that, the company recognizes that agriculture will continue to play a huge role in Nigeria’s large and diverse economy and has

hold in 20 states in Nigeria.

The States are Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, katsina, Kwara, Lagos, Oyo, Rivers and Abuja.

“It will hold in the 20 States to reduce the travel burden for applicants in different locations. If your state is left out, kindly register to the nearest State as your audition location. Everyone will be given equal opportunity

L-R: Alex Ekubo,choreographer; Ebube Nwagbo, Nollywood actress and MelvinOduah, winner, Gulder Ultimate Search, runner-up Mr Nigeria and BigBrother Africa, all brand ambassadors of Nigeria Teens and Twenties Audition

invested heavily over the years in landmark backward integration projects.

The President of LCCI, Alhaji Remi Bello, noted that, the award was held to celebrate excellence, best practices in corporate governance, value-addition, backward integration achievements, innovations, corporate social responsibility and high standards of business and professional ethnics.

“Our awardees of today have distinguished themselves in various and diverse spheres of enterprise. They symbolize the hope and promise of a prosperous Nigerian economy.

The selection process was rigorous, painstaking and evidence based” he said.

Other companies that won awards in different categories are, DHL global forwarding Nigeria, Hygeia HMO, First Consultants Medical Centre, MTN, La Campagne Tropicana resort, Actis Nigeria, Friesland Campina WAMCO Nigeria, Flour Mills of Nigeria, The Nigeria inter-bank settlement system PLC, Unified Payments Nigeria, Premium Pensions, Pal Pensions, Cornerstone Insurance, Mansard Insurance, UBA, Diamond bank and Fidelity bank.

Fifty people will be selected from the auditions and will be camped for a few days and taught the rudiments of screen acting by professionals.

Six overall winners will emerge, three persons from each of the teenage and twenties category respectively.

The 50 finalists will be registered with the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and will subsequently feature in movies alongside established professionals.

“We need to find young creative writing minds. Those interested in script writing, should submit a summary of at least two stories on the day of the audition at the various centres.

"The best five scriptwriters will be selected; the scriptwriters will be part of the production crew when productions of the movies begin because we believe that every writer has a better picture of the story written.

"The story should not be less than 150 scenes, scripts with lesser scenes will be considered on reasonable or creative grounds".

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 , 2015—41

Hope, as Anglican Church visits IDPs camp in FCT

•Cross section of bishops of the anglican church

By Caleb Ayansina

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BUJA - It was like the Sunamite widow of the biblical story, waiting for death to knock after taken the last meal with her son. They sat in groups eagerly await any passerby that will come with some consumable stuff.

The place littered with makeshift structures they made by themselves to serve as house where they laid their heads at night with their heart in their mouths (both the young and the old) due to bad experience of war they had passed through.

At any roar of motor engine, they rushed out to see what was happening whether to run for safety or move forward to receive the widow ’s mite brought to them by well meaning individuals or group.

At the Gwoza/Bama IPD camp in Durumi, Abuja, it was so glaring, the devastating effect of terrorism on the people of Nigeria, as the main population of the camp were mainly women children and youths.

This situation no doubt compelled the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) to visit the camp

with some relief materials like; food items, wrappers and

We want you to be patient with government as they try to solve the problem, so that, soon enough you will go back to your homes and live your normal life

beverages worth over N2.5 million.

Speaking at the occasion, the Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev Nicholas Okoh told the displaced people to bear with the government and see the problem as problem of all.

“We are here as the church because we believe that the condition of this people is not alright. We are here to encourage them, so that they will have patient with the government, as they prosecute the Boko Haram war.

“It is Boko Haram that has brought you here, it is not only

Virginpride: Celebrating girl-child chastity

By Esther Onyegbula

A

t a time when the pride of pure maidenhood which is fast becoming obsolete, a non-governmental organisation Virginpride is organising a program to prove and showcase that maidenhood is expected to be a period of grooming girls into a desirable women.

According to the organiser of the event, Nkechi Odebiyi, the program is a prove that, virginity is still as sacred as it was intended to be, irrespective of the lies and manipulative tendencies of some unrealistic men folk who

went about telling innocent girls that virginity is primitive and that no man will want to marry a virginity; a big heresy, from those who just want to satisfy their burning uncountable sexual urges.

This celebration is a simple act of consolidating the fact that, the sacredness of a maiden is in her sexual purity, and for the ability these girls to maintain that, in a society that has no regard for virgins, is a show of strong character on her path.

Odebiyi noted that “We celebrate them for swimming against the moral tide and remaining pure, it really

calls for celebration, to encourage the girls to keep onto their decision till they say I do. The beauty of this celebration is that, the maidens come with their parents to the celebration; it is evidence that it is a family joy and pride. it goes a long way to encourage the girls to hold on to their decisions to remain sexually pure till they get married. For those of them in the university, anytime there is sexual pressure on them, they remember that they have vowed before parents and friends, it helps them to remain strong.

Their commitment cards

contain their watch word. “I will not do until I say I do” I also encourage parents to encourage their girls to be part of these purity activities.

What we hope to achieve with this celebration is to, first keep on reminding our young virgins that they are precious before God, that they are the ones really correct as against what their friends are saying.

The program which will hold on August, 22, at Chevron Recreational centre, Gbagada Lagos, according to organisers will exposes our girls to the realities and dangers of premarital activities.

your problem, it is the problem of everybody. We want you to have patient with the government as they trying to shutout the problem, so that, soon enough you will go back to your homes and live your normal life.

“We know that it is not a good thing for people to be bringing food for you, especially as you are farmers having your own work, you are not lazy people.

“But the situation is that you have to manage for now, government is trying to do everything possible to ensure that you go back to your home, because this is not your home and there is no way you can be comfortable here as you feel back home.

“We pray that this problem we soon be over, so as you stay here, pray for the government, pray for the soldiers, pray for the whole country that peace be reign all over the country.

That those who kill will stop killing, those who kidnap should stop kidnapping, those who steal should stop stealing so that we will be able to have a happy and better country.”

Terror groups The Primate also used the occasion to call on the Federal Government to intensify efforts in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency, warning that if the terror group is left unchecked, it could affiliate with international terrorist organisations.

Okoh urged government to move faster and prosecute the war in order to bring an end to the wanton loss of lives and property in the country.

He said, “We want government to move faster and prosecute the war. The more we delay the more Boko Haram becomes big thing and the more they have link with the international terrorist, so the earlier we over run them the better. We know that government is trying to settle down, but people are dying, it requires that speed be introduced so that the battle is put behind us.”

Responding, the Secretary of the Gwoza and Bama IDPs Camp, Durumi Area 1 Abuja, Bala Yusuf from Borno State commended the Church for the gesture, expressing hope that the terrorism would soon be over. “How we found ourselves here, we don’t know that we can still see help like this, but what we believe on is that whatever that has beginning must have an end,” he said.

42—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 , 2015

Big invention starts with discovering yourself — Eudoka

By Anino Aganbi

L

At the opening of Yomi Casual, Lekki

I make designs that haven't never been seen before — Makun

By Anino Aganbi

L

AGOS-Ace designer, Yomi Makun, CEO Yomi Casual recently launched his new line of designs thereby celebrating his new office in lekki axis. This has enabled him regain proximity to his clients.

Everybody wants to look their best at all times. For a lot of people out there, when you think designers, think YC. Present at the opening of his new place where prominent artists, friends, guests and loved ones.

He stated that “While I was in Surulere, I was dreaming of coming to the Island. The planning and putting together of this place took me 3-4 months.

A lot of my models were not able to come due to other engagements. Every design you find in the show room are designs you have never seen before. Although my newest collection will be coming out next month. My next collection is titled “Envy”. I do make clothes for women, but on a low key. Am not really announcing it yet. For women who love to wear YC, it is not official yet. I would branch fully into women collection when I think the time is right”.

He further stated that “My expectations in terms of turn-out has left me impressed because I

know there are big events happening all around while I keep hoping for the best in terms of sales. I hope that in the next one year I would be able to double my rent and I also hope to have a one on one relationship with all my clients now that I have moved to their zone. The thing about growth is you need to move closer to where your clients are as they won’t come to you. I have showcased in some fashion show but I have never had a solo show. I should be hoping to have my own fashion show soon but we are still looking for sponsors.

I am a very creative person so what I have in mind is not the regular fashion show everybody

does. It is extremely different and will cost a lot of money”.

“Personally, I have grown past the stage of cutting , I am in the creative department. When push comes to shove, I will get the scissors and do my cuttings personally. So it is not like I can’t cut. I make it a point of duty to help out every day no matter how little or much my orders may be.

My boys know it is very difficult to place me. I am good at what I do, as I studied fashion in the University. For now, I do not do mass production but streamline each cloth to suit each person. I am aiming at people seeing my brands in top boutiques in Lagos”.

Right: Yomi Makun, CEO, Yomi Casual and guests

AGOS— Eudokas place, recently held its batch c 2015 graduation ceremony. It is generally known for its beauty and spa saloon.

These graduates have truly put in their best to enable step out into the world as beautician.

Pastor Ifeanyi adviced each graduating student that they needed God to enable them become elevated in whatever station of life they may find themselves.

He stated that anybody who got promoted is bound to fall but when God elevates you, you can only go higher. He commended them on their efforts and urged them to put in their very best in making the most out of what they had learned.

CEO, Eudoka’s place, Eudoka Ahubelem Nwosu while speaking at the event revealed that at the end of each session, there is always something new to add. I still hold on to the fact that there can never be another yesterday. So with each session God has always been my strength. There is always something new to add, new ideas, and new innovations.

Graduation party Eudoka stated that “Each time a graduation party comes up, the next thing I think of if the release of giants that will join in the making of a better Nigeria. With the drought of jobs available, it is necessary that the private sector takes over. The beginning of a big invention starts with going to discover yourself. Leaving this place, everybody will go home with what they have learnt here and use it to uniquely find solutions that can benefit individuals in the country Nigeria”. ‘’Going by their jobs, you would know that they really know their onions and can only get better on the job. They are well equipped to face life out there and there is no better time than to just face it. Confidence and self belief is the key. There is no how you are thought, you would learn more on the field with raw naked exposure when you are there, you are there.

That’s when you know you have learnt it or not. You cannot keep vocalizing. Certain circumstances apply in the real war front. When soldiers keep rehearsing it is a different ball game. Sometimes out of fear, they forget what it is they have learnt. The earlier they are released out, the better”.

Speaking further, she stated that”With the previous sets, I keep saying there can never be a better yesterday. The previous experiences were wonderful but this one is awesome. There is always something new. We are growing in knowledge and can only get better. It gets better every day. I realized that they are all like fertile soils. They can only produce great and I know that. I believe that once the grass is greener, the animals will stay and graze. As long as we keep updating ourselves, introducing new innovative ways to pass down this message of learning, of expanding their minds into creativity, you can be sure that the sky is our starting point”.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 43

MAIKPOBI TO ROLI-OGBEBOR Call

for repeal of new DESOPADEC law unrealistic

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By Emma Amaize

A R R I — N AT I O N A L Coordinator of Host Communities of Nigeria, HOSTCOM, Prince Okareme Maikpobi, has said the sevenday ultimatum, given to Delta State Government by NigerDelta activist, Chief Rita LoriOgbebor, to abrogate the newly signed Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC law is impracticable.

Chief Lori-Ogbebor had in Warri, Wednesday, warned that she would drag the state government to court if it failed to repeal the law within the stated time, insisting, “No law supersedes the laws of the constitution of Nigeria. The law, which guarantees 13 per cent derivation made it clear that the 13 per cent is strictly for the development of oil producing communities. There is no ambiguity to it.”

National chairman of a bloc of HOSTCOM, Bishop Mike Emu, Delta chapter chairperson, Benjamin Iwetan, former Commissioner in the state, Comrade Newuwumi Omolubi, Itsekiri National Youth Council president, Esimaje Awani, among others, joined Chief LoriOgbebor in making the demand.

However, Prince Maikpobi, who is also the national chairman, Board of Trustees,

Community Development Committee, CDC of Oil and Gas Producing Communities in the Niger-Delta, yesterday, said, “The law has been signed, all we want is reflected in the law. Host communities are happy with the law as it is today. Areas of concern to us have been the timely release of fund and the governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has assured that he will implement the law to the letter.”

Maikpobi, who spoke to Vanguard, asserted; “Chief LoriOgbebor’s call for repeal of the law is not realistic. We had canvassed this position before at the federal level, we took it up at the Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal and Allocation Commission, RMFAC. But their position is that oil communities are not part of the three tiers of government for the purpose of revenue sharing. We all know it

is federal, state and local governments and the state created DESOPADEC to hold the 13 per cent derivation fund in trust for the oil communities.

The ideal thing is to pay the total 13 per cent to the oil communities. That is our position, but frankly speaking, there is no approved structure for such disbursement without passing through the state government."

DONATION: From left: Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, Dr. Pius Odubu, Deputy Governor, Edo State and Alhaji Umoru Oyarekhua, during the donation of 5,000 copies of Continuous Assessment booklets to Edo State Government by Alhaji Oyarekhua in Benin, yesterday.

Uvwie crisis worsens as councillors suspend acting LG chairman

A

By Festus Ahon

SABA—THE political crisis in Uvwie Local Government Council, Delta State, has taken a new dimension following the indefinite suspension of the council acting Chairman Mrs Stella Dabona, by the councillors.

The councillors in a statement of affirmation and confirmation of the suspension order, said; “upon a motion duly moved by Hon Onoriode Emesone and seconded by Hon Martins Akporehe ordered the leader of the Legislative arm, Hon Raymond Ebimiwei to take over as acting chairman of the

council.”

The councillors in the statement endorsed by 13 of the 15 councillors alleged that the suspended acting chairman violated the orders of House thereby impinging on the integrity of the legislative arm.

Meanwhile, the suspended acting chairman, Mrs Stella

Dabona, yesterday resumed office against the orders of the council.

According to dependable sources, she resumed office amidst tight security.

The sources, who pleaded anonymity, alleged that the State Police command provided security for the suspended council boss.

In another development, the Delta State House of Assembly, condemned the purported

OIL EXPLORATION: Delta community demands

N10bn compensation from SPDC, NPDC

O

By Ochuko Akuopha

LEH—THE people of Uzere community, Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta

State, yesterday, demanded N10 billion compensation from Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC and Nigeria

Police want 2 UNIBEN staff charged to court over alleged theft Assistant Inspector General of

B

ENIN—NIGERIA police force has ordered Mr. Umar Otokiti ‘m,’ Chief Security Officer of University of Benin, UNIBEN, and one Osayande Osaro be charged to court for alleged conspiracy, breaking and entering and stealing.

This was contained in a letter addressed to Dr. Emmanuel E.I Irabor of the department of chemistry, UNIBEN titled: “Police

suspension of the Acting Chairman of UvwieLocalGovernmentCouncil,Mrs StellaDebonabysomecouncillorsand ordered that the status quo be maintained within 24 hours.

Addressing a press conference immediately after yesterday plenary of theHouse,theDeputyMajorityLeader of the House and Chairman Adhoc Committee on investigation of local government affairs in the state, Hon Oboro Preyor, also ordered that a proof ofcompliancebeforwardedtotheClerk of the House by Monday next week.

investigation report; RE: case of false information, unlawful seizure of properties and breaking and entering” dated August 14, 2015 with REF NO: AR:5390/ ZN.5/ZIB/VOL.1/35 and signed

by ASP Patience Omokaro, second-in-command, zonal intelligence bureau for: officer in charge, zonal intelligence bureau, zone ‘5’ headquarters, Benin City through the directive of the

Police zone ‘5’.

The police in its investigation stated that: “Umar Otokiti admitted that he was instructed by the management of the University of Benin to ensure Dr. Emmanuel Irabor was ejected from his official residence allocated to him by the university since he had been suspended in line with the university rules and regulations."

Petroleum Development Company, NPDC for loss of lives and damage to ecosystem’ arising from 55 years of oil exploration in the area.

The people, in a statement through Columbus Oguname, described the community as “highly traumatized”, decrying its alleged neglect and marginalization by the managements of the companies.

Reiteratingthatthecommunitywas the second place in Nigeria where oil wasdiscoveredafterOloibiriinBayelsa State, Oguname lamented that “for 55 years of oil exploration in Uzere and the huge resources tapped from her bowels, the place is neglected and left seriously underdeveloped."

Edo'll give priority to girl-child education, says Iara Oshiomhole

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN CITY—FIRST lady of Edo State, Mrs. Iara Oshiomhole, has assured that the state will give priority to the girl-child education as educating the girl child is akin to educating the nation.

Mrs Oshiomhole gave the assurance, at the 2015 edition of the Nigerian Girls Guide Association National Camp Meeting in Benin City.

She said, “Edo State is a strong believer in the training of the youths, especially the girl child and we believe strongly that whenever you educate a girl, you educate the family and you have educated the nation.

“So, I want to thank you for what you are doing here and I urge you to keep it up. I am very happy to be here in your midst today (yesterday). I have heard a lot about the Girls Guide Association and I came here today to see what you have been doing and I am pleased with what I have seen here today.”

Mary Ahon for burial August 22

T

HE burial of late Mrs. Mary Eyikimi Ahon has been slated for Saturday 22 August, 2015.

A statement by Mr. Moses Ahon said the lying in state/ funeral service will hold at Odumere quarters, OriaAbraka, while entertainment of guests would follow immediately at Umiaghwa Primary School, Oria Abraka.

There will be a service of songs at EkrerhavweAgbarho, while outing service holds on Sunday, August 23, at St Joseph’s Chosen Church of God Int’l, Jessa Street, after DELSU Campus before Grammar School, Abraka.

Late Mary Ahon

44—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

TRIBUNAL: Nnamani presents 400 witnesses

Abia Election Tribunal admits card readers’ report for guber election

today

By Francis Igata

E

NUGU—OVER 400 witnesses will today, take the box in the continued hearing of the petition brought before the National Assembly Election Tribunal sitting in Enugu by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Change, PDC,for Enugu-East senatorial district, former Governor Chimaroke Nnamani.

Nnamani is challenging the declaration by Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, of Senator Gil Nnaji of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as winner for the EnuguEast senatorial district which had elicited widespread protests in Enugu metropolis.

It would be recalled that INEC lawyer, Mr. Benson Ibezim, had last Tuesday, stunned the tribunal when he rejected a certified true copy of the commission's document, saying it could not be admitted in evidence for doubtful authenticity and competence of the INEC Legal Services Department to endorse the said document.

Ibezim, Counsel to INEC, third respondent in the petition, who was in the habit of agreeing to every submission by counsels to the first and second respondents, Senator Nnaji and the PDP, respectively, told the tribunal that he was “in the same boat” with the two respondents in objecting to the admission in evidence of a certified true copy of the card reader polling unit accreditation report, even though it was signed by the Director of Legal Services of the electoral commission, which he was representing.

Counsel to the petitioner, Mr. O. Jolaawo, who had earlier tendered four documents for admission in evidence without objection by the respondents,

By Anayo Okoli

U

M UA H I A — I N continuation of hearing in the petition filed by APGA governorship candidate in Abia State in the last election, Dr. Alex Otti, the tribunal has admitted in evidence, certified true copies, CTC, of the Card Reader Voter Accreditation Data printout for the election tendered by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. The documents were in respect to the governorship election in Obingwa, Osisioma, Isialangwa North, Ugwunagbo and Umuahia North local government areas of the state being contested by APGA and its candidate.

The commission also tendered the CTC of the certificate it issued for the data print-out.

The documents were tendered by Mrs. Abimbola Oladujoye, Head of Data Management Unit of the I n f o r m a t i o n Communication Technology, ICT, department of the commission.

Oladujoye represented the Director of the ICT department, Mr. Chidi Nwafor, who was subpoenaed by the tribunal to produce the documents.

The two documents were admitted in evidence and marked exhibits PWC 1 and 2, respectively.

had further sought to tender in evidence the card reader polling unit accreditation report generated by the Information and Communication Technology, ICT, Department of INEC for the Presidential/ National Assembly elections and signed by the Director of Legal Services of INEC. This was, however, met with the stiff objections of the lead counsel to Senator Nnaji, Mr. P.I.N. Ikwueto SAN, and that of

the PDP, Mr. P.M.B. Onyia, saying it did not meet the requirements of the evidence act as the INEC Director of Legal Services, who signed the document was not competent to do so, not being an ICT expert.

In his ruling, the tribunal chairman, Justice Adewara agreed with the petitioner that the certified true copy of the report was accompanied by authentication certificate, dated

15th May 2015 and signed by Mrs. Nnenna A. Essien, Head of Section, Data Warehousing, ICT Department, INEC Headquarters, Abuja, as required by Section 42 of the Evidence Act. He held that unlike the case relied upon by the respondents in objecting to the admission of the report in evidence which was not backed with the authentication certificate, the petitioner complied with the requirements of Section 84 of the Evidence Act.

Communities fight over Ekwulobia prison land ownership

By Enyim Enyim

O

NITSHA—INTERCOMMUNAL clash is currently looming in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, following a fresh dispute between Ekwulobia community and Ezinifite community over the ownership of the land where Ekwulobia prison was built.

Barely two months after the

dreaded Boko Haram prisoners were transferred to the prison, the Ezinifite – Aguata community, Wednesday, told reporters that the land was given freely to the Federal Government in 1983, without compensation.

According to the traditional ruler of Ezinifite Aguata, Igwe Bob Orji: “What happened was that during the regime of the Igwe that I succeeded,

NBA tasks NASS on laws protecting electricity consumers

By Eric Ugbor

A

BA—THE Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Aba Chapter, has called on the National Assembly to make laws banning electricity companies from extorting residents through estimated bills and fixed charges.

The newly elected NBA Chairman, Aba, Mr. Ken Nwakamma made this call during an interview in his office in Aba. He said that it was not enough for the National Assembly to make a resolution which had no legal backing, adding that when made into

law, it would reduce the rate of extortion of residents.

“I commend the National Assembly for thinking about power generation and supply payment issue. It is one area that has affected industries, companies and individuals adversely and we should not allow that to continue.

“It is not enough for the National Assembly to make mere pronouncement on this issue. They should present a bill to cover this area, pass the bill into law, so that the idea of giving Nigerians estimated bills and fixed charges would be outlawed."

the Ezeugo 11 of Ezinifite, he was so close to the then Vice President Alex Ekwueme. So Ekwueme approached him to show him a piece of land where an 80bedroom medium security prison would be built.

“Ekwueme did not go to Ekwulobia because of an alleged face-off between Oko town, the then vice president's hometown and Ekwulobia people.

“The then Igwe consulted the villagers and they willingly donated that land to the Federal Government without collecting any payment as compensation from anybody. That was around 1982 and 1983.

“I still remember that in the year 1960, I attended a march-past at Aguata field, which was now made up of Aguata, Orumba North and Orumba South council areas and when we got to a structure called Ekpe, which is like a long wall, we immediately knew that we had entered Ekwulobia. But that boundary mark had been destroyed.”

But reacting to his claims, Igwe Emmanuel Onyeneke of Ekwulobia town countered that the Ezinifite Aguata people were only being clever by half, adding that the land never belonged to the community.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

On Buhari’s fight against corruption?

G

ood! Those who want equity should come with clean hands.

Those who have joined the train change should be above board. Anyone found guilty, will spend his entire life in jail. -Mr. Austin Emy, Student

P

lease, do not also forget oil subsidy file. Now Nigerians in leadership positions will learn forever how to balance forces when you are in power. Mr. President should fight corruption, since he can force Boko Haram to their knees in less than six months. -Mr. Emeka Onuigbo, Engineer

L

et PMB fight corruption, irrespective of the status or party of anyone.

That’s when the change we are all clamouring for can come to pass. Whoever that is called should defend himself before the anti-corruption panel. -Miss Rose Okonta, Student

I

t will be a blow on the nation’s integrity, if we continue to have corrupt people more in the system as leaders. Such cleansing is needed and I give PMB kudos for not allowing himself to be distracted on this course. -Miss Nenye Anyambuba, Worker

T

he president should be very sincere in dealing with these corrupt bed fellows. A start is very needful as it will divulge the secrets of so many corrupt politicians. Saraki will unveil the misdeeds of some of his colleagues including the president. -Mr. Adarerhi John Ese, Worker

L

et him among our pol iticians that have not stolen be the first to cast a stone. This is why I am glad to have Buhari as the President and feel the freshness of a good president and not all these contaminated and corrupt ones. -Mrs Loveth Chekwube, Event Planner

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 45

Shettima laments Boko Haram scourge Devastated over deputy's death, appeals to co-govs for aid

By Simon Ebegbulem

M

AIDUGURI—BORNO State governor, Kasheem Shettima, yesterday lamented the tragedies that had befallen the state, saying over 500,000 persons had died in the state as a result of Boko Haram insurgency in the past five years.

The governor, who cried that he did not know why insurgency and untimely deaths were ravaging his state, lamented further that apart from Edo, Nasarawa and Osun states, other governors of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who pledged assistance to the state, had failed to redeem their pledges.

Governor Shettima disclosed this yesterday at Government House, Maidugiri, when Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State and President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Ayuba Waba, paid him a condolence visit over the death of his deputy, Alhaji Zannah Umar Mustapha.

Oshiomhole, who expressed shock over the death of the late deputy governor, said he decided to visit Maidugiri to pay condolence personally to the governor and family of the deceased because he didn’t want to call the governor on the phone, considering the close relationship between him (Shettima) and his late deputy.

He said: “The governor is very close to his deputy, we are aware that some governors and their deputies do have their tension, some have their differences if they greet at all. But I know that my brother virtually on every activity he delegates his deputy to stand for him and in such meetings, you can see his intelligence, his humility and loyalty to his boss and to his people. His voice on issues of security of this state is very clear.

“I readily appreciate how much the governor will miss somebody he has worked with closely. May God be the husband and father of the family of the deceased. Our heart goes to you in our prayers.

May this sort of pain never happen again.’’

Responding, Governor Shettima, who described Oshiomhole as a detribalized

Nigerian, said: “Sometimes, we ask why these pains are happening to us, we recently lost a senator, the senator representing Borno, barely two months ago, now we have lost the deputy governor. ‘’Over 500,000 persons have lost their lives in the past five years due to Boko Haram insurgency.

Sometimes, we ask why are we suffering all these. But there is nothing anybody can do than to look up to God.

B

EGINNING from September 1, 2015, any truck which failed to meet up with the specifications of road worthiness by the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, would not be allowed to lift petroleum products from depot/tank farms nationwide, Corps Marshal Boboye C M Y K

“In the politics of the last dispensation, despite the fact that his area is in the South South, we won in Edo State due to the doggedness of Oshiomhole. In Borno, in Sokoto, in Katsina, in Bauchi and many states in the North, we all attached ourselves to Buhari and that was why we survived. ‘’So we appreciate your concern Mr Governor and God will bless you and the people of Edo State for this love shown to us.”

RESIDENCY/AWARENESS PROGRAMME: Deputy Registrar, Technical Services, of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Mr. Abel Asein welcoming the 2nd Deputy Vice President of ICAN, Alh. Rasak Jaiyeola (2nd right); Dean of Management Sciences, Bells University, Prof. John Bello (2nd left); Deputy Vice Chancellor, Bells University, Prof Olusegun Areola and member of the governing Council of ICAN, Mr. Sunday Bammeke at the Residency/Awareness programme for students organized by ICAN at the Bells University, Ota.

‘Those contesting against Wada are political jesters'

By Kingsley Fanwo

T

HE Senior Special Assistant I to the Governor of Kogi State in charge of Mopamuro Local Government Area, Bolaji Olore, has described aspirants contesting the PDP governorship ticket with the incumbent as political jesters who had lost touch with realities in the state.

This came on a day thousands of enthusiastic PDP supporters stormed the national secretariat of the party at Wadata Plaza yesterday in solidarity with the state governor, Capt. Idris Wada, who picked the nomination form to re-contest for a second term.

Speaking with Vanguard in his office at Mopa yesterday, Olore

EXPLOSIONS: FRSC moves to check trucks’ road-worthiness

By Evelyn Usman

‘’Governor Oshiomhole was here in Maidugiri on the foundation-laying ceremony of APC, it was there that we resolved the issue of the flag of APC and he played a very prominent role in making that decision. Most of our people have high regards for him. He is a detribalized Nigerian. ''His mother is still alive and a practising Muslim. He is a beacon of hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Oyeyemi has said.

Oyeyemi, who disclosed this while flagging off a 2-day safeto-load training for officers deployed to depots and tank farms, said the agency had deployed 212 of its personnel to depots and tank farms across the country, with a charge not to compromise, irrespective of who the owner of the failed truck was.

said the governor had justified the mandate given him by the people of the state in 2012.

“As far as we are concerned, Capt. Idris Wada has been able to sustain the tempo of development started by our former governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris. ‘’He has been able to impact

the agricultural sector. Our farmers are now happy with their level of productivity as we are gradually moving towards food sufficiency in the state.

“The ongoing Kogi State Teaching Hospital, Anyigba, when completed, will dwarf many teaching hospitals constructed by the Federal Government.''

NASS principal officers' privileges should be removed — SEN NDUME

By Ndahi Marama

M

AIDUGURI— SENATE Majority Leader, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, has called for the removal of privileges accorded principal officers of the National Assembly.

Senator Ndume, who disclosed this in an interactive session with newsmen in Maiduguri, said if the privileges were removed, it would make the office less attractive.

According to him, the Senate president is just one among equals, and as soon as principal officers lose their offices, they lose all the privileges.

While disputing that there

was crisis in the Senate, Ndume said: “It is just the coming together of like minds, based on interest.”

Ndume insisted that with the emergence of the new principal officers in the senate, they had put all their differences aside to ensure justice and good legislative procedures.

The senate leader said Nigerians would witness a rapid legislative transformation.

Senator Ndume said the senate was changing from what he called “Analogue legislation to digital era”, where the business of the senate would be communicated to each senator a day before any plenary to enable senators prepare at least a day before the sitting.

Desist from aiding land grabbers, Mbu warns cops

By Evelyn Usman

L

AGOS—ASSISTANT Inspector-General of Police in-charge of zone 2, Onikan, Lagos, comprising Lagos and Ogun state Police Commands, Mr Joseph Mbu yesterday, warned senior police officers to desist from aiding land grabbers in both states, threatening to deal with any one found culpable.

This is just as he described President’s Muhammadu Buhari’s approval of 10,000 Nigerians to be recruited into the Nigerian Police as a welcome development but was quick to add that back ground checks and screening of prospective personnel at zone 2 would be thorough, with a view to ensuring that miscreants were not recruited.

Speaking to journalists shortly before he went into a closed door meeting with the Commissioners of Police, the Deputy Commissioners of Police and other senior officers of the Lagos and Ogun state commands, Mbu said activities of land grabbers were gradually assuming an alarming rate in both states.

US, UK, Canada, others recognise Nigeria PTE Academic CBT in English

By Dayo Adesulu

G

LOBAL Ivy League universities have thrown their weight behind the computer-based test in English Language conducted by the Nigeria Pearson Test of English Academy.

The essence of the endorsement is that if any Nigerian student seeking admission or work abroad sits for the English Language computer-based test at the PTE Academic and passes, the result would be accepted by any Ivy League university of the world.

Speaking with Vanguard, Pearson’s Director of Resources, and Sales in Nigeria, Mr. Vitalis Nwaogu, who disclosed this in Lagos, said: “All Australian universities now accept the test, as do a large number of higher education institutions in Canada and the United States.''

46—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

FRSC SAFE-TO-LAND TRAINING: From left—Corps Commander Imoh Etuk, Corps Public Education Officer; Mr. Augustine Ipor, Corps Commander, Administration and Strategy; Mr. Olefemi Adewale, Executive Secretary, Depot and Petroleum Product Marketers Association, and Assisatnt Corps Marshal Nseobong Akpabio, Zonal Commanding Officer, Zone RS2, all of Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, at the flag off of a twoday safe-to-load training for its officers, on deployment to depot and tank farms to check road worthiness of trucks, yesterday. PHOTO: Evelyn Usman.

VISIT: From left— Olori Odun and Olori Ladun, late Oba Okunade Sijuwade II, Ooni of Ife's wives; and Chief Godswill Akpabio, Senate Minority Leader, during the lawmaker's condolence visit.

CIA'S INDUCTION: Dr. Goddy Idaminabo, President, Chairman of Council, Chartered Institute of Administration, CIA (left) presenting a certificate of membership as a Fellow of the institute to Ammuna Ali, during its induction ceremony in Lagos.

FCMB PROMO: From left— Mr. Agana Okiemute, Deputy Coordinator of National Lottery Regulatory Commission; Mr. Akpan Eyo, former Director of Local Government Service Commission in Akwa Ibom State; Mr. Akpan Joshua, winner, First City Monument Bank millionaire promo, and Mr. Okey Ezeala, Regional Director, South-East/ South-South, FCMB, during the grand finale in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

WEDDED: From left— Alhaji Musbaudeen Mustapha, bride's father;

Mrs Nihinlola Afuwape, groom's mother; Mr and Mrs Adedapo Afuwape, couple; Otunba Afuwape Olarenwaju, groom's father and Mrs Kafilat Mustapha, bride's mother, at the couple's wedding at Ikoyi Marrige Registry, Ikoyi Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO: Akeem Salau.

NIPSS WORKSHOP: From left— Ambassador Sunday Dogonyaro, Executive Director, African Policy Research Institute; Mrs. Amina Oyagbola, Human Resources Executive, MTN Nigeria; Professor Tijani MuhammadBande, Director General, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS; and Mr. Danladi Kifasi, Head of Service, at the Scenario Planning for National Change workshop at the Institute, at Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.

B R E A S T FEEDING WEEK:

VISIT: Pa David Olasunkanmi, Olokolo of Okolo (middle); Wolfgang Pfeiffer, HarvestPlus’s Global Director, Product Development and Commercialisation (right), and his team, during a visit to the HarvestPlus’s model village in Okolo in Eruwa area of Oyo State.

C M Y K

From left—Dr. Joseph Iyoha, Medical Director, Holy Trinity Hospital, Ikeja; Mrs Vanessa Osahon; Mrs Ivy Adekoya, both nursing mothers, and Mrs Mary Agbadebo, Chief Matron of the hospital, during a sensitisation programme organised by Forthright Manufacturing Company on the importance of water to nursing mothers to mark this year's World Breast-Feeding Week. With them are Mr. Segun Alabi, Head, Corporate Affairs (standing left), and Mr. Moses Umoru, Business Development Executive (standing right), both of Forthright company.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—47

C M Y K

48 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 49

C M Y K

50 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 51

C M Y K

52 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Vanguard CLASSIFIED OKORO—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Cynthia Akpofure Okoro, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Arike Aderinola Akpofure Sidiquat Junaid. All former documents remain valid where I work and general public please take note.

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Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 53

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CASH CRUNCH: 22 states apply for bonds — NEC

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

B U J A — N AT I O N A L Economic Council, NEC yesterday revealed that a total of 22 States have applied for the Federal Government of Nigeria bonds to raise money to remedy their indebtedness to commercial banks.

Of this number, 11 States have successfully been screened by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN and Debt Management Office, DMO. The Council also hinted that the Excess Crude Accounts accruals for sharing amongs States were $2.207.

Briefing Journalists at the State House after a session chaired by the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, the NEC represented by 4 governors of Anambra, Kwara, Jigawa and Ogun states, stated that the transaction was a “funding avenue provided by the federal government” to assist indebted States.

The governors who fielded questions from State House Correspondents intermittently also hinted that the Council also looked at the dwindling oil prices, the CBN new policy on exchange rate.

“The Council received briefings on developments in the Power sector, from the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, the Director-General of the Debt Management Office, Mr. Abraham Nwankwo, Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu and also from the Ad-Hoc Committee of the Council on the management of the Excess Crude Oil Account.

“The Director-General of the Debt Management Office told the Council that based on the approval of Mr. President on the plan

to restructure bank loans of States into FGN Bonds in order to address fiscal imbalance, twenty-two (22) States had submitted reports and applied for restructuring as at August 19, 2015.

“The Director-General also said the Debt Management Office had requested the States to reconcile figures with the banks and have been jointly authenticated with the banks as at June 30, 2015.

“As at August 14, 2015, out of the 22 States that have applied, FGN Bonds have been issued in respect of the loans of 11 States. The bonds were issued to 14 banks after submitting the reconciled figures and other required documents for the restructuring.

“DMO is now reviewing the additional submissions

by States in the second phase of the programme.

“The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance reported to the

Council that the current Excess Crude Proceeds stand at US$2.207 billion as at August 2015 “CBN Governor briefed the Council on the state of the economy and exchange rate of the Naira. He attributed the situation to some of the following: “Declining oil price which put a drag on the foreign reserves; Exchange rate movements and pressure on the domestic currency; Inflation and tight monetary policy.''

BRIEFING: From left; Mr David Edwards, MD, Mandilas Nigeria; Lola Masha, Country Manager, OLX Nigeria; Stephen Gladwin, GM, Mandilas Nigeria and Mayokun Soremekun,Business Development Manager, OLX during the OLX/ Mandilas partnership press conference at Mandilas HQ, Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau.

Focus on families, as Jehovah’s Witnesses' convention starts

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TARTING this month and continuing till December 20th, Jehovah’s Witnesses every weekend will be featuring resources that will assist families throughout Nigeria to be stronger and more united. This is the focus of their 2015 three-day annual regional convention with the theme “Imitate Jesus!”

Currently going on around the globe, the series of 259 conventions

scheduled to hold at 29 locations in Nigeria will begin on Friday August 28. It will be presented in 17 Nigerian languages in addition to English, French and American Sign Language. The programme is scheduled to begin 8:20 am. each day.

According to the statement made available to the press by the spokesman of Jehovah’s Witnesses Convention for Lagos and Ogun states, Mr. Ademola Adeagbo, all is now set for the commencement of the three-day spiritually enlightening convention in four different locations in the states.

“Jesus, the founder of Christianity, is widely considered as one of the most influential and significant men who ever lived. As Christians, a core belief of Jehovah’s Witnesses is that Jesus lived his life as a model for us to follow. The ‘Imitate Jesus!’ convention will examine Jesus’ life, as outlined in the Bible, and

emphasize how all— regardless of their background, lifestyle, or religion—can benefit in practical ways from his example and teachings. A highlight of the programme will be the keynote address on Friday morning, entitled ‘Concealed in Him Are All the Treasures of Wisdom,’” Adeagbo said.

Jehovah’s Witnesses from more than 1000 congregations around Lagos and Ogun states are already extending printed personal invitations to everyone in their neighbourhood.

The convention will begin in the southwest during the weekend of September 4-6 at Jehovah’s Witnesses assembly halls located at Ibereko Village, Badagry, Lagos and along Idi-Iroko Road, Ota, in Ogun State.

Other locations hosting the convention in Lagos and Ogun states are Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at Daluwon, along MoweOfada Road, Ogun State and the one at Ajibona Village, Lekki, Lagos.

54—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Wada picks nomination form

By Henry Umoru & Fanwo Kingsley

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HOUSANDS of enthusiastic supporters of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday, stormed the party ’s national secretariat at Wadata Plaza in solidarity with the state governor, Idris Wada, who picked the nomination form of the party to contest for second term in office.

Supporters of the governor from the 21 local government areas of the state were in celebratory mood at the secretariat with pump and pageantry, despite the decision of the governor to make it a low key event.

Vanguard learned that the governor was caught unaware as many of the supporters had arrived Abuja since Wednesday.

The emotional governor expressed surprise at the show of support by Kogi people, and promised to keep serving the people of the state in his capacity as the governor.

FG, UNICEF to save 1m malnourished children

By Funmi Ajumobi

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HE government of Nigeria has partnered UNICEF to save over a million children and 200,000 acutely malnourished in the past six years through its community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition, CMAM, programme.

In a statement by Doune Porter, Chief of Communication Nigeria, CMAM was piloted in Gombe and Kebbi States in 2009 and has now been introduced in 11 northern Nigerian states where malnutrition poses the greatest threat.

According to UNICEF Nigeria representative, Jean Gough, CMAM treats acutely malnourished children aged from six months to five years, on an outpatient basis and more than 830,000 children have been cured in the programme with the cure rate currently standing at 85 percent.

DPR seals 22 fuel stations in Jos

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

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OS—THE Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, in Plateau State has clamped down on fuel stations in Jos and Bukuru for noncompliance with official price for fuel and conniving with black marketers to defraud consumers.

So far, DPR has sealed 22 fuel stations during the routine checks carried out since Monday to ensure that marketers complied with the directives of giving fuel at government price and selling same with sound pumps.

DPR’s Operation Controller in the state, Idris Abubakar,

hinted that DPR was working to ensure sanity in the downstream sector, saying the state had no fewer than 55 illegal stations not complying with relevant directives in their modes of operation.

He assured that appropriate sanctions would continuously be meted out on defaulters, so they could comply and do the needful in their operations.

Head, Retails Outlet and Marketing, Mr. Shehu Yusuf, who led the team on an inspection, tour to fuel stations in Jos North and Jos South Local Government areas, assured that illegal operators would be flushed out for the masses to benefit from the downstream policy.

Some of the visited stations were sealed over noncompliance with the government approved price of N87 per litre, selling PMS products in jerry cans to black marketers, selling with faulty or adjusted pumps, among other offences.

Shehu said: “We are sealing the fuel stations because most of them are not complying with the government price but sell at their desired price.

“Some stations sell at N97 and some even above 100 even when their pump price read 87.”

Meanwhile, the exercise has caused temporary fuel scarcity in the city.

Glo honours Soyinka

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AMOUS folk singer, Tunji Oyelana, is coming back from London, where he has been in the last couple of decades, to join contemporary stars lined up to entertain guests at an event being organised

by Globacom in honour of Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.

The grand event, scheduled to hold at The Convention Centre, Eko Hotel, Lagos, on August 28, will also feature A-list artistes such as Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo, popularly known as D’banj; Emmanuel Bezhiwa Idakula, Bez; Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions, BAP, revered for their Broadway musical drama, and Footprints of David Art Academy.

Deeper Life holds youth camp

T FORUM: Dr. Isaac Thompson Amos, Chief Executive Officer, Thompson & Grace Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Lagos (middle), welcoming Professor Philip Abiodun, Professor of Child Health, Paediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH, Benin (right), and Dr. Olarewaju Falodun, Senior Consultant Physician/ Dermatologist, National Hospital, to the Scientific Forum on Infant & Child Health, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.

Buhari names Fowler FIRS Chairman

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA—PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has appointed Dr. William Fowler as the Executive Chairman of

the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS. President Buhari also named Mr. Aliyu Gusau as DirectorGeneral, Budget Office of the Federation to replace Mr. Bright Okogwu.

Delta Deputy Speaker tasks journalists on flood campaign

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HE Deputy Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Mr. Friday Osanebi, has urged journalists to intensify flood enlightenment campaign through vigorous sensitisation to check casualties and property loss.

He said the call became imperative considering the importance and urgency of the issue, as every stakeholder must be adequately mobilised to ensure that people living in flood-prone areas are informed.

Osanebi made the call,

yesterday in his office, when he played host to the leadership of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, and representatives from Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE; Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria, RATTAWU; Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria, NPAN, and Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, led by the NUJ National Vice President, Mr. Edwin Ogude.

Fowler served as the Chief Executive Officer/Executive Chairman, Lagos State Board of Internal Revenue between 2005 and 2014.

He had his higher education in the United States, where he obtained a Bachelor ’s degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin and a Master of Business Administration from the California State University.

Fowler, who holds an Honorary Doctorate Degree of the Irish International University, is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria and the Business Management Association of the United Kingdom.

Before joining the service of Lagos State Government, Dr. Fowler worked in the banking sector for about 20 years with long stints at Credit Lyonnais Nigeria Limited and Chartered Bank.

HE National Youth Success Camp of Deeper Christian Life Ministry will commence on Tuesday, August 25, across the nation and Africa.

The camp, which draws to a close on Saturday, August 29, would be attended by hundreds of thousands of youths, who would be provided free lodging and feeding.

National Co-ordinator of the programme, Dr. Peter Elias, who disclosed this in a statement, said the convener of the Success Camp and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor W. F. Kumuyi, started the annual programme 30 years ago as a free vacation school to assist students of secondary schools and colleges in Mathematics.

Foursquare's convocation

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BA district of Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria will hold its 4th convocation at its district headquarters in Iba Housing Estate tomorrow and the day after.

The District Overseer of Iba, Rev. Dan Olumefun, said all are expected to attend as the teachings would be of great help.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 55

C M Y K

56 — VANGUARD, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Shawwal 29, 1436 A.H.

AHMADIYA CONFERENCE 2015 IN LONDON

Ahmadiya World Leader, Mirza Hazrat Masroor (middle) and other delegates from various parts of the world including Nigeria in London.

There is nothing like Jihad with sword in Islam — Amir Fashola ...As world leaders assemble in UK

By ISHOLA BALOGUN

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HE Amir Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Nigeria, Dr.Mashuud Fashola has reiterated that jihad with the sword was not part of Islam, adding that all acts of

insurgency and terrorism were not part of Islam and perpetrators should not be regarded as Muslims.

Dr Fashola reaffirmed this position while fielding questions from newsmen during a breakfast meeting

MTA taking the lead in religious broadcasting

I

N 1994, the world Islamic leader, late Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih, the IV, of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at established Muslim Television Ahmadiyya, MTA International, a satellite television station based in London.

The feat was achieved principally for the propagation of true Islamic teachings globally which has been misunderstood by greater number of people. Prominent among these misunderstanding are the concept Of Jihad, the role of women and the Islamic mode of dressing to mention a few.

The mass media notably television has been the major tools used by the west to achieve these misunderstandings through it terrestrial and satellite broadcast to millions of people.

Arguably, this trend was informed by the submission of religious commentators that Religion has been the most intense worldview-shaping phenomenon in history, and it will continue to be in the 21st century and beyond. PascalEmmanuel Gobry, a writer and

fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center,as well as Qasim Akinreti, an online broadcast journalist with voice of Nigeria are among these religious commentators.

A closer look at the avalanche of religious television stations across the globe will testify to this. There are over 166 religious television stations globally, less than 20 are fully Islamic broadcast outfits, with major presence in the U.S., UK, Canada, France, Greece, EL Salvador, Brazil, Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Iran and Iraq.

Paradoxically, the Vatican and Pakistan have a state religious broadcasting stations.

The prophet said that there is blessing and reward in where Muslims are gathered

with journalists at the organisation’s world co nference holding in Oakland farm, London yesterday.

“T here is nothing like jihad with the sword in Islam.

We have said this before and we will continue to say it. “ “We, the Ahmadiyya is like the vanguard of promoting peace in the world.

Quoting from the hadiths, Dr Fashola said, “The Prophet never encouraged preaching Islam with violence, but by praying for the enemies to have a change of heart, by preaching with wisdom and good deeds. Anyone who go against this precept is not a follower of the Prophet and therefore cannot be a Muslim.

You have to be kind and generous to people.”

He disclosed that delegates from the over 200 countries where Ahmadiyya is established around the world would participate in the conference, adding that the United Kingdom, Minister of Transport, Lord Tarik, Vice President of Serria Leone, Victor Foe, Ugandan Minister of Defence, among other world dignitaries would attend the event.

“So, it is fun to have this kind of large gathering of over 200 countries where Ahmadiyya is established.

Again the environment is serene and comfortable.

“The prophet said that there is blessing and reward in where Muslims are gathered".

It is great to have people of different culture and races here for this conference, Dr Fashola said.

Ahmadiyya World leader, Mirza Hazrat Masroor

From left: Alh Qasim Akinreti, Assistant Director News, Voice of Nigeria,Nigeria; Yakub Abubakar, Ghana; Ubadah Asalam, Liberia; Victor S. Goerge, Liberia; Alh Abdullah Balajo, Gambia and Muhammed Salaudeen, Togo, delegates from different countries in Africa during the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Jalsa 2015 holding at the Baitul Futuh, London, United Kingdom.

Sunkami Ajao, Reporter, MITV; Alh Qasim Akinreti, Asst Director News, Voice of Nigeria; Mallam Naseer Bajwa, Imam Baitul Futuh Mosque, London; Mr Tunde Okunola, GM, MITV and Salimullah Kahlon, MTA Int'l, Africa Project at Baitul Futuh Mosque, London.

35,000 Muslims gather in UK for Ahmadiyya world conference

By ISHOLA BALOGUN

N

O fewer than 35,000 delegates from all parts of the world are in London, United Kingdom, for the Jalsa Salana organised by Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.

The annual assemblage which is the 49th in its series opens today in Oakland farms, Hampshire, UK, otherwise known as Hadeeqatul Mahdi with delegates coming from all parts of the world including Nigeria.

The two-week annual event which will be declared open by Ahmadiyya World Leader, Mirza Hazrat Masror Ahmad will afford participants to grasp religious benefits, broaden their knowledge about Islam and deepen their understanding of Allah.

The Nigerian delegation will be led by the Amir, Head Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Dr Mashuud Adenrele Fasola. Others include Dr Saeed Timehin, Lagos Co-Chairman, Nigeria Inter - Religious Council,

NIREC, Lagos State; Dr Abdul Ghani Enahoro, the former President, Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association; Qasim Akinreti, Assistant Director, News VOice of Nigeria among others.

Vanguard newspaper and the National Mirror will cover the event for the print medium while MiTv will give life broadcast of the event.

Lectures Eight lectures on Islam, community development and global peace have been outlined for delegates, international peace

award and award for excellence for Ahmadiyya Muslim Students across the world have been slated for the event.

The highlights of the Islamic conference are the global address by the world Islamic leader, head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, on the state of Islam, the growth of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, need for international peace among other issues.

Media collaboration

Over 55 million viewers are set to watch the live telecast of the three day conference with collaboration with national broadcasters globally notably Ghana , Sierra leone, Uganda, Tanzania and Muri International television, Mitv,Nigeria. The print media will also be represented by Vanguard and National Mirror newspapers.

The event can be viewed on the website www.alislam.org,and followed on social media platforms

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 — 57

Shawwal 29, 1436 A.H.

Learning from Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w)

A

s Allah’s Prophet and Messenger, he delivered the message, explained it and applied it on himself and on his household. As a human being of excellent morals and character, we pattern our behavior and character after his example. Allah praised His prophet’s high morals and exalted character and said: “ You are indeed on exalted standard of character and morals “Al-Qalam 68: 4.

To be truthful, honest and sincere. The act of honesty guides to righteousness and that leads to paradise. We also learn to be humble, never to glorify him in place of the Creator rather call him the servant of Allah and His messenger. We learn to be kind, gentle, patient and tolerant.

Spreading useful knowledge is all a trait imparted by the Prophet on Muslims.

Do good always even to those who offend you, give alms to the poor, help the needy without expecting any material reward in return. Also, every Muslim must also work hard and do their job to the best of their ability, not to harm others or offend them in any way for selfish gain. Muslims are also taught to follow his example as a husband , a father , a friend , a teacher and a ruler. He emphatically warned that a Muslim is the brother of another Muslim; he does not wrong him but helps him .

Therefore we learn from Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) how to develop morals and good character . He was truthful and honest and people trusted him because he deserved their trust. He did not lie or cheat and always kept his promise . He was nicknamed : As-Sadiq , Al-Ameen ( The one who is truthful and the one to be trusted ) . A person does not get to that level by words , his actions and his character must be such that people would believe what he says and would trust his word .

To illustrate the importance of being truthful and not lying , the Prophet (s.a.w) said : ( For truthfulness guides to righteousness , and righteousness guides to paradise . A person keeps on saying the truth till he is written with Allah a truthful person ; and lying We learn guides to wickedness , from and wickedness guides to Hell . A person keeps on Allah’s lying till he is written with prophet Allah as a liar ) .

The prophet of Allah the true was not arrogant. He was meaning humble and never of elevated himself and treated everyone with patience respect . He said to his as an companions : ( Do not glorify me like the active Christians glorified the process of son of Mary, but say: the servant of Allah & His perseverance messenger ) . and Therefore we learn to be humble and not look struggle down at others . This requires confidence and Taqwa ( GodConsciousness ) . We are all Allah’s creation : if I

have more in money or knowledge or prestige , it is because Allah allowed my effort to succeed . Someone else may have not been so lucky . But each person has some merit and was given something good

by Allah . It is much better to cultivate that good side , rather than ridicule or look down at other people’s deficiencies .

The prophet of Allah was kind , patient and tolerant . He was not harsh or severe .

He did not use bad language or curse . He did not get angry or loose his temper . It is this gentle , kind nature that attracted others to him and made them love him and obey him . They loved the man as well as the messenger . They learned from him and they learned from his example *They became better human beings by associating with him *This is the mark and influence of a true and genuine person . You can feel his presence by observing those around him . How much did he impact their lives and did he change it for the better or worse . Prophet Muhammad ( PBUH ) had and still has the ability of improving the lives of so many people , that is a testament to his genius and great character and influence .

The prophet of Allah cared about spreading useful knowledge and teaching morals and proper behavior by example .

He was very keen on instructing the young minds because he knew that they represented the future.

Teachers and educators His companions were young men , who in turn became the teachers and educators of future generations . The Prophet (s.a.w) said: (The best amongst you is he who learns the Qur’an and teaches it to others) . He emphasized the importance of knowledge that helps as one of the few things that will continue to benefit us even after we die and all our deeds cease .

We learn from Allah’s prophet the true meaning of patience as an active process of perseverance and struggle , not passive acceptance , nor giving up . We accept the fate that Allah has willed for us , and work through our difficulties and trials , in order to change our fate to another fate that Allah may will for us . We do not blame “ our fate “ , nor “ accuse our misfortune “ or become lazy and say “ it is useless , we cannot do anything about it “ .

The Prophet of Allah struggled throughout his life and withstood the ridicule and abuse of the Kuffar ( unbelievers ) in Macca ; then the hypocrites and Jews in Madinah. He lost his sons in early infancy and lost three of his daughters.

He lost his faithful wife. He lived the life of a poor person. The house of Muhammad hardly had any food except water and dates . He did not complain , but was patient and had absolute trust in his Lord. He said : ( Patience is a light ) : meaning a light that increases one’s faith ( since patience is half the faith as related in one tradition ) . Or , it may mean that patience fills our heart and replaces our anxiety and uncertainty with calm and assurance that we are not alone , and that Allah is with us and knows what we are going through.

To be continued

58—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Lessons from Ghana

By Ben Murray Bruce

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Y heart was really burdened this past week by the news from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, IITA, that Ghana has overtaken Nigeria as the world’s largest exporter of yams.

Nigeria has a larger population than Ghana, along with a larger land mass of which a substantial part is very arable. So why is Ghana, with less human and material resources, overtaking us, with more human and material resources?

According to Dr. Nobert Maroya, IITA’s Project Manager for its Yam Improvement for Income and Food Security in West Africa project, the reason Ghana has overtaken Nigeria is because Ghana is more organized.

Map of Ghana

Map of Nigeria

trees and in less than 20 years they overtook Nigeria and became the world’s largest exporter of the product before being overtaken by Indonesia.

We used to be one of the world’s largest exporter of cocoa in the Foreign glorious days of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Western Region. institutions Today we have regressed and are If I was tempted to doubt Dr. not even among the top three Maroya, my doubts disappeared exporters of the product. Even when I saw a comment by a with crude oil, which brought us Nigerian to the story when it quick money and which many appeared on nairaland.com. A have blamed for making us lazy certain Oleri Smith commented and dependent, we have also thus “Don’t mind those IITA displayed this trait of people, what is IITA doing to put mismanaging our competitive Nigeria back into exporting advantage over our competitors. yam.” I was taken aback by such Nigeria used to comfortably be the largest crude exporter in the African continent, but various experts have opined that Angola would overtake Nigeria as Africa’s largest oil exporter next year. Some experts have pointed out that Angola has already overtaken Nigeria. Why do we seem to be losing ground on so many fronts? I think the answer lies in the fact that our peculiar type of federation attunes us to think of revenue sharing Sen. BEN MURRA Y BR UCE rather MURRAY BRUCE than revenue a comment, but on second generation. thought, I should have seen it coming. There is such a loss of Revenue responsibility in Nigeria that generation Nigerians, old and young, are So, as our focus is on sharing very eager to cast blame on others for things that should be their whatever revenue we have,no responsibility. The IITA is a non one is interested in generating profit organization set up by well revenue and the few people who meaning foreign institutions with have a mindset of generating the aim of helping African nations revenue are not encouraged to do increase their capacity to feed so because no one wants to themselves and yet we have generate revenue for greedy and Nigerians getting angry at them lazy leaders to share. While our for a challenge that is not their leaders have a ‘give me, give me, fault and for which they are trying give me, my name is Jimmy’ to render assistance. Talk about mentality, they forget that givers looking a gift horse in the mouth! never lack because they have a What is it about Nigeria that we production mentality but takers seem to be losing out in areas in always need because they have which God in His infinite wisdom a consumption mentality. We has given us ability and have a Revenue Mobilization resources? Just like yam, 50 years Allocation and Fiscal Commission ago, Nigeria was the world’s and a Federation Account leading exporter of palm oil and Allocation Committee which are then Malaysia sent experts to two of the most active bodies in Nigeria to learn about our palm Nigeria which are always in the oil industry. Those experts news because we are obsessed returned to Malaysia with with consumption and sharing. seedlings from Nigerian Palm oil Where is the Revenue Generation

Commission, where is the Federal Account Requisition Committee?

Nigeria has reached a stage in which no one wants to produce but everyone wants to consume and we must change this or we will continue to lose grounds to smaller African nations. And the way to change this is to start with our youth. We must train up a new generation of Nigerian youth who have a productive mindset and not a consumptive one. Have you noticed, for instance, that all our youths ever think of doing once they graduate from University is to look for a good job? If everybody wants a job and nobody wants to start a business, then who is going to be working for who?

We cannot build a nation with only white collar citizens? We need entrepreneurs, artisans, blue collar workers. What we have now is just a craze for paper qualifications so that we can acquire jobs and sit in an office as employees. Nations do not grow like that. And this is the main reason why employers are discriminating between degree holders and Higher National Diploma holders.

The original idea was that

Many Nigerians are unaware that Ghana’s economy is growing faster than Nigeria’s and climaxed at an exponential 15 per cent growth in 2011 and a projected eight per cent growth in 2014

universities would be the institutions that would produce professionals like doctors, lawyers, engineers and architects who would, as entrepreneurs, go on to set up shop in their various professions, and that polytechnics would be the institutions that produce vocational and technical people who would set up Small and Medium Scale enterprises.

Graduates of the Social Sciences and the Arts were to gravitate into the civil service and the Ivy League, while those from technical institutes would be the artisans and in that way society was to function without gaps.

Qualified technicians But with the way our society has gravitated towards the worship of paper qualification, all these ideas which were in the Second National Development Plan of the Gowon Administration were jettisoned and everyone did what was right in their own eyes until we have come to this sorry state where engineers sit in the Federal Ministry of Works undertaking purely administrative tasks and all the work has to be contracted to Julius Berger who has to fly in technical staff from Germany because there is a dearth of qualified technicians in Nigeria.

Such is the degeneration in Nigeria that if you need builders, electricians, tailors and other skilled artisans, you are better off hiring citizens from Nigeria’s neighbouring nations! Even worse is our agricultural industry.

Our banks prefer to provide capital to fund consumption rather than production which is why they will lend to a business or individual that wants to import foods such as powdered milk, processed beef, tooth picks and fisheries which can be sold quickly and profitably, rather than a business or individual who wants to set up a farm or an agro based industry.

Going back to yam, Nigerians who used to love pounded yam now eat poundo yam (yam flour) and I was surprised to find that many elite Nigerians prefer to eat imported poundo rather than locally made ones. Our elite who grew up on pap, ogi and eko, would now not touch any porridge except it’s Quaker oats. As a child, I ate Nasco corn flakes and it was

delicious and nutritious and most of all it was made in Nigeria. Today, our elite will not touch cornflakes except it us Kellogs!

I have been to Ghana, which has now overtaken us in Yam exports, and I see the patriotism in that nation which is lacking in Nigeria. If you are in Ghana, one of your first culture shocks would be that a large proportion of Ghanaians wear made in Ghana textiles which they will stylishly sew into the latest styles from The West.

You see men with suits made out of ankara (local textile also known as wrapper, the kind made popular by Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala) or kente (a popular Ghanaian traditional fabric. Their women even make tights and spaghetti dresses out of ankara!

It is clear that the Ghanaians have adopted Western culture and modified it to suit their conditions and environment.

They produce a lot of what they consume and are exporting the excess. This is why their institutions of learning now attract elite Nigerian families who send their children to secondary schools and universities in Ghana. As at 2014, there were over 75,000 Nigerians studying in Ghana after paying a collective school fees of over $1billion.

Education in Ghana is geared towards building entrepreneurs and the nation has a Ghana Entrepreneurs Foundation and has placed such a premium on entrepreneurship that they have a Ghana Entrepreneurs Hall of Fame into which they induct the most active entrepreneurs every year.

Entrepreneurship inclination In a study published by the European Journal of Business and Management, it was revealed that over 23% of Ghanaian University students have an Entrepreneurship Inclination. And it is not just in yam that Ghana is dominating.

In 2014, Ghana exported over 42,000 tonnes of vegetables to Europe. Ghanaian banks, on the prompting of the Ghanaian government, are lending huge funds to vegetable farmers which has enabled them to increase their yield and quality.

Many Nigerians are unaware that Ghana’s economy is growing faster than Nigeria’s and climaxed at an exponential 15 per cent growth in 2011 and a projected eight per cent growth in 2014. In 1981 we asked Ghanaians to leave Nigeria in the popular ‘Ghana must go purge’.

Yes, the Ghanaians left Nigeria.

They did not just leave, they left Nigeria behind. So, what are the lessons Nigerian can learn from Ghana?

The first and most important lesson is that we must shift our focus from revenue allocation to revenue generation. Just like Nigeria, Ghana has a revenue agency called the Ghana Continues on page 59

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—59

Again, Rotimi Amaechi in the spotlight

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By Maxi Gogo

HE media has recently been flooded with reports, advertorials and all sorts about corruption in Rivers State, accusing former governor, Chibuike Amaechi, of fraud, unlawful enrichment and conversion of state funds apparently in a bid to force the hands of President Muhammadu Buhari against Amaechi whose immense support and contributions towards the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last presidential elections cannot be overemphasized.

While there has been a robust defense by the Amaechi camp on the issues raised, many opposed to the former governor mostly believed to be of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Rivers State have insisted on putting Amaechi in the spotlight with the smear of corruption. In view of Amaechi’s achievements in Rivers State as governor, it seems awkward that people from his own state would come up with such spurious allegations, though clearly instigated by his political enemies. The expanded and reconstructed roads, flyovers and bridges, the revamped education sector which was taken over from Local Government authorities to raise the standards, the establishment of a proper Agriculture sector with the Songhai farm and other productive farms across the state, a total overhaul of the State’s healthcare sector with functional Primary health centres in all LGAs, power generation particularly the decentralization of power distribution points with the construction of various power sub-stations. All these and more they seem to have forgotten.

Accountability meetings A man with such purpose for the growth and development of his state and people wouldn’t do a sudden 360 degrees if he had the chance to do it already within his first seven years of service or even while he served as Speaker of the State House of Assembly for two tenures. His transparency was also seen in the constant stakeholders’ accountability meetings, town hall meetings where he conferred and answered questions from the people directly and in their domains, as well as acting on feedback generated from followers and supporters on social media as regards issues of the state.

Being the closest link from Rivers State to the Presidency, Amaechi who consistently spoke

up and s t o o d against injustice meted out to the state by the erstwhile Goodluck Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike Jonathan administration should indeed be George Feyii and former hailed and not painted as the Commissioner of Finance, villain. One of such injustices was Chamberlain Peterside.

It read in part “...the sale of this the ceding of Oil Wells from Rivers State to other neighbouring states, equity (70 per cent) was thereby directly dwindling the particularly informed by the resources and revenue due to the following considerations: the State. As chairman of the Nigerian federal government had Governors’ Forum, Amaechi also commenced a privatization stood against irregularities in process to unbundle the Power governance and was never on the Holding Company of Nigeria side of one political party against (PHCN) to drive efficiency, … another, but for one Nigeria and Need to engender efficiency in a better nation; he brought the the management of the power governors together and acted in assets so that its benefits could be felt by the generality of the people one accord.

Now let’s review the allegations of Rivers State, … the state brought against this man, the government does not have the response and why we the people requisite manpower to manage and indeed the presidency the facilities, and … the need to should strive to be on the right augment revenue in the face of path no matter how loud the dwindling federal allocation to the opposition wails. The desperate state.” move by the opposition to tarnish Amaechi’s image and place him Requisite out of favour with the federal manpower government he helped installed, pushed his accusers to draw Another unverified and hasty, uninformed and jaundiced distorted claim by the accusers conclusions. On the supposed was that funds were transferred fraudulent sale of power projects from the power assets sale and conversion of its proceeds, proceeds accounts with Access the so called Integrity Group only Bank Plc to the accounts of three outlined the sale and failed to do private companies calling it ‘a its home work on the proceeds glaring case of stealing…’ which subsequently has since Meanwhile the response by been captured in the 2014 Amaechi’s people clarifies that, Appropriation Law of the State as “the companies that were one of the sources of revenue to erroneously portrayed as fronts for fund the 2014 budget. This looting the funds were actually inclusion was explained in the those that bought the US Dollars reply signed by former Secretary and made remittances of Naira to the Rivers State Government, equivalents into the Rivers State Revenue Account with Zenith Bank.”

Firstly, “Payments of the assets were made in several tranches between 2012 and 2014; All proceeds of the sale made in US Dollars were lodged in the Rivers State Power Assets Sale Account with Access Bank; the USD proceeds were sold to willing buyers at a rate higher than the prevailing CBN rates at the time, and the Naira equivalent lodged by the buyers into the Rivers state revenue account at Zenith Bank.”

The response also explained that the funds were used alongside Those petitioners others from other revenue sources to finance various government and their sponsors projects and activities and clearly trying to tarnish attached a statement of account of the State for the relevant period Amaechi’s image as proof. should have a Other rumours that such entities rethink and desist like RISONPALM, SUPABOD (now SPAR) AND OLYMPIA from the lowly act

contract and fraudulent diversion of funds. The police conducted an investigation on the matter and came up with a report. Following the failure of the project, the Rivers State Government according to the response

by Amaechi’s camp “executed a memo of Agreement on May 9, 2014 with VMSWILLEMEN consortium for the completion of the Justice Adolphus Karibi Whyte Hospital on a build, Operate and Transfer basis.”

On the third allegation of unlawful enrichment of Messers Collect (Nig) Limited, it is now clear that the tenure of Skye bank PLC as revenue consultant ended in Ex-Rivers governor, Rotimi Amaechi December 2014 and HOTEL (Radisson Blu Olympia) Collect Solutions Limited was were sold by the Amaechi appointed as the new consultants administration has also been with a mandate to further increase debunked. These previously the monthly revenue from N7.5b moribund entities were leased or monthly where Skye Bank got it concessioned but never sold, and to from the average of N2.5b would revert to the state when Amaechi became governor. government at the end of the lease According to the response by the period.

Amaechi team, “Appointment of revenue consultants is within the powers of the state government Joint and Amaechi’s administration venture only exercised that power in Also, the claim that the Amaechi appointing Collect solutions administration kept mum over the Limited. Having been duly failure of Clinotech Diagnostics appointed, the consulting to fulfill its part on the Public company is entitled to its Private Partnership it signed with remuneration.” the Rivers State Government for the building and operation of a Promotion of mega Specialist Hospital in Port excellence Harcourt is totally false. The first blunder by the petitioners is Those petitioners and their referring to Clinotech as a sponsors trying to tarnish separate entity from Clinoriv. The Amaechi’s image should have a government signed a MoU with rethink and desist from the lowly Clinotech, not Clinoriv. Clinoriv act, but rather hold the current was only coined to reflect the joint Wike administration in Rivers venture. The second mistake was State to account. Yes, for Governor claiming that the former governor Wike to account for all the billions awarded a fresh contract to of naira collected by his Clinotech on the same project. administration since May 29, This is wrong as the contract was including the N30billion loan he not awarded twice. The State collected within 30 days in office.

Executive Council simply For Wike to account to the people suspended the 60% to 40% joint of Rivers State just like former venture between Clinotech and governor Amaechi did when he the State Government and was in office. We must promote awarded it as a turnkey contract excellence in Rivers State typified to Clinotech with direct (100%) by former Governor Chibuike funding by the government.

Rotimi Amaechi. This distraction However, on Clinotech’s failure of trying to pull Amaechi down to keep the agreement, Rt. Hon. and erase his lasting laudable Chibuike Amaechi, then legacies in Rivers State cannot Governor reported Harrison and will not fly.

Ofiyai, CEO of Clinotech to the •Gogo is the Secretary-General then Commissioner of Police of Rivers Peoples’ Forum(RPF) alleging a case of breach of

Lessons from Ghana Continues from page 58 Revenue Authority, but unlike its Nigerian counterpart, the GRA is tasked with generating revenue for Ghana. We need to have a sober reflection on that in Nigeria.

Another lesson we can learn from Ghana is to reorder our education sector where we are not so focused on paper qualification only but are producing entrepreneurs, civil servants and skilled technicians who can staff our service industry. This will have the long term effect of overhauling our economy and moving it from a consumptive to

a productive pattern.

But most importantly, we must put machinery in motion to revamp those industries in which we previously had comparative advantage. If at one point we were the world’s leading exporters of Palm Oil, Yam and Groundnut, we can build our capacity to come back to the top again. We have the people and the land. What we need is the will.

•Ben Murray Bruce is the Senator representing Bayelsa East in the Senate and the Chairman of the Silverbird Entertainment Group.

60—Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

LMC to present opportunities in club sponsorship to corporate CEOs T HE League Management Company (LMC) on Monday took the first major step in a strategic initiative aimed at sensitizing Corporate Nigeria about opportunities in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

A major objective of this initiative aimed at expanding the revenue generating capacity of the 20 clubs in the league is that sponsorship of all 20 clubs are to be made available to leading Nigerian companies willing to partner or affiliate with the passion of majority of Nigerians.

The discussion also explored the possibilities of enlisting NPFL Clubs that will meet capital market requirements in the Nigeria Stock Exchange as a means of expanding their capital base and impact positively on the operations of the club as well as make Nigerian club football attractive Mr Shehu Dikko, LMC Chairman and 2nd Vice President of the Nigeria

Football Federation (NFF) was in the Federation’s delegation to the Nigeria Stock Exchange for the Closing Gong Ceremony

by Super Eagles Coach, Sunday Oliseh and spoke about this new direction when he met with chieftains of the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) led by the Chief Executive Officer, Oscar Onyeama on the sidelines of the event. Other NSE top shots present during the discussion were Bola Adeeko, Head, Corporate Services Division, Adeolu Bajomo, Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology and Mohammed A Mohammed, Head of Asem Listings Sales and Retention.

Dikko was throwing further light on LMC’s call for legislation to levy sponsorship of European leagues by Nigerian companies for the accelerated development of the local league.

He said the LMC was desirous to have Nigerians buy into the ownership of the clubs in

Oliseh Continues from BP including text messages to Obi’s number but he never responded to any.

The former international who reluctantly spoke about the issue of Obi revealed that he has no bias against anybody adding that under him, the national team will not favour or malign any Nigerian player.

“Well this issue is an enigma and we have been trying to understand it but I am in the dark personally, and with my assistants we spent time about 11 days in and around Europe talking to players, watching games. We contacted each of the players, call them up, call the clubs and eventually met with the players.

“I went to England on a Thursday and Chelsea was just coming back, we had fixed our visit to coincide with the end of their tour before they played Arsenal. I contacted Obi Mikel, called him on phone four

times, the phone kept on ringing nobody picked it up, I sent him an SMS and got no response. But I called Victor Moses the phone rang three times and he picked it up and I spoke with him, told him to concentrate on his game. After the game he came to my hotel and we met and I told him my plans for the national team. I left to Liverpool to meet the other player and I spent about six hours to go there and back but there was no response from Mikel until I returned here. I think it was yesterday (Wednesday) that I saw a missed call, so at the moment I don’t know what the situation is. For me everybody is the same and will be treated the same.”

He also gave words of encouragement to the home based players by stating that any of them that proves his worth will be given the opportunity to play, if they were better than their foreign based compatriots.

FIFA appoints Pinnick Organizing Committee member

N

From left, LMC Chairman and NFF 2nd Vice President, Mallam Shehu Dikko, CEO of the NSE, Oscar Onyeama and NFF President, Amaju Melvin Pinnick the League and solicited the support of the Nigerian Stock Exchange chieftains in this regard.

“We have a strategic proposition that seeks to pool potential commercial partners for all the 20 clubs with a partner assigned to a club and the LMC will offer across board benefits on its platforms to all the sponsors who in turn will be expected to work with their club partners to develop opportunities for mutual benefits”, the LMC Chairman told his audience.

He re-echoed his comments at the recent workshop at the Lagos Business School which drew attention to capital migration from the

domestic football league to overseas clubs.

“We have been faced with the contradiction of companies like Chivita making a kill in the market from the huge population of the country and investing it in a club in England while denying our youths here the opportunity of being engage profitably through our league clubs. That product is not known in England and we face the double tragedy of having the contents of their advertisement featuring foreign players being fed to the public and overshadowing our own players”, lamented Dikko.

From the NSE was an expression of interest in the potentials of the

NPFL and a promise to leverage on their professional resources and contacts to create a platform for the league body to interface with the corporate leaders.

“The problem of the football sector is that there is not sufficient information available to the business community not just on its operations but also on the existing and potential opportunities and this is where we can work with you to engage the business leaders”, said Mohammed A. Mohammed.

On the strength of this proposition, the NSE promised that the LMC would be given further opportunity to showcase the League to Corporate Nigeria at the CEOs’ dinner in early September

Blame me Continues from BP Watford of England forward, Odion Ighalo but included some relatively unknown players invited.

Addressing the sporting press in Abuja, Oliseh who was accompanied by his assistants insisted that he selected the team based on a lot of factors including current form and expected individual contributions to the qualification of the country for the continental fiesta.

“Well it is not you that will take responsibility if anything happens, I will, but I don’t know about understanding or not understanding the list. The list is there but I think it is the coaching crew that will decide

who is going to play, we can make the list and send it out to the whole of Nigeria and say look send in your own vote, it is not a reality show, it is a football game.

Personally as far as we are concerned we have worked very hard to put this list together and let me say that everybody is a Nigerian, nobody has a preferential treatment, if you’re invited you play.”

Also speaking about the goal keeping area, goalkeepers trainer, Aloy Agu said the goalkeepers invited including team captain, Vincent Enyeama all have the experience to give a good account of themselves during the match.

On the need to invite

younger goalkeepers to understudy Enyama who has given his retirement signal, Agu said; “if you look at the list, Akpeyi is there, we cannot bring everybody in at the same time, it is one after the other and at this moment in time, we also need experience because when you want to build a solid future you also need experience for people to understudy, Karl is doing well and at this point in time we need people that are doing well so that we can get the result we are looking for. In as much as we want young goalkeepers to come in, we also need to tap from the wealth of experience of the older keepers.”

IGERIA football recorded a huge applause on Thursday after world football –governing body, FIFA, announced the appointment of the President of Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick as a Member of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Organizing Committee.

In a letter dated 14th August 2015 and signed by FIFA Secretary General, Jerome Valcke, the world body wrote: “We are very pleased to inform you that you have been appointed as a member of the Organizing Committee for the FIFA U20 World Cup. Please accept our sincere congratulations on this nomination.

“We wish you success and enjoyment in this role at FIFA and look forward to welcoming you soon in Zurich.”

The late astute administrator, Patrick Okpomo, was Member of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Organizing Committee.

Joel Continues from BP Tanzania in just over two weeks time.

According to reports by , the Nigeria international is feeling pains in the flexor muscles of the left thigh and results of further tests carried out Thursday to know the extent of damage and the number of days he will have to spend on the sidelines were still being awaited.

Joel Obi joined Torino from Inter Milan in the first week of July but has struggled to remain fit since his arrival, with the attacking midfielder undergoing individual training few weeks after completing the switch.

It was thought that his ailment was a thing of the past after featuring for 22 minutes in Torino’s 4 - 1 win over Pescara in the Italian Cup last weekend, until this latest setback.

The 24 - year - old’s last international appearance for the Super Eagles was against Scotland in a pre - World Cup friendly in May 2014.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015 —61

I’m here to keep winning titles — Pedro C

HELSEA have com pleted the £21million signing of Pedro from Barcelona on a four-year deal.

The Blues swooped with the Spanish winger on the brink of moving to Premier League rivals Manchester United.

Pedro, 28, expressed his delight upon arriving at Stamford Bridge after a year out of favour with the Catalan giants.

He said before training with his new teammates: ‘I am very happy to be here. I am very excited to start my adventure at Chelsea and I am here to keep winning titles.

‘Thanks to the club and the supporters for giving me the opportunity to put the blue shirt on.’

Pedro was quick to nail his colours to the Chelsea mast by chang-

ing his Twitter cover photo to a section of Blues supporters with a banner reading ‘Pride of London’.

Pedro becomes Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho’s fourth new signing of the summer after Asmir Begovic, Radamel Falcao and Abdul Baba Rahman.

United looked to have sealed the deal to take Pedro to Old Trafford, with executive vicechairman Ed Woodward travelling to Barcelona to tie up the deal.

However, Sportsmail understands the World Cup winner was underwhelmed with United’s advances, his camp unaware of Woodward’s trip.

Mourinho stole a march in the chase by calling up the winger personally to convince him to move to west London.

S

LAVEN Bilic is rel ishing the arrival of Alex Song as the midfielder closes in on a return to West Ham. West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan on Wednesday revealed that Song is on the verge of a move to Upton Park, with the Barcelona midfielder due to undergo a medical before the deal can be completed.

Bilic is backing the former Arsenal man to make his presence felt in the London club’s midfield once again after impressing during a loan spell last season.

“You’ve seen the chairman’s statement on Alex Song, and we’ve agreed the terms. Now

•Pedro

Wolfsburg monitor ´tired´ De Bruyne

•De Bruyne

W

OLFSBURG hope rest will enable Kevin De Bruyne to get back his best after a disappointing performance against Eintracht Frankfurt.

The Belgium international has been subject to intense speculation during the close-season after a stunning 2014-15 season in the Bundesli-

ga, with Manchester City said to be leading the way for his signature.

De Bruyne - who pledged his future to Wolfsburg during the Sport Bild awards on Monday - struggled during the club’s 2-1 win over Frankfurt last weekend, and was substituted with 15 minutes to play by coach Dieter Hecking.

He was also given time off from training on Wednesday, something Hecking insists was for his own good after showing signs of tiredness this week.

“Kevin is a bit tired at the moment because so much activity is there,” Hecking is quoted as saying by Bild.

“It is a problem that it still affects him, and we are trying to bring him into the best condition.”

•Song it’s subject to the medical.” said the former Croatia coach.

“We are really confident that he will pass that and everyone agrees, football people across the country, that

EICESTER City find themselves in illustrious company at the top of the Premier League follow-

ing their first two games of the season.

Ahead of Saturday ’s clash with Tottenham at the

Sandro completes € 26m Juve move

•Sandro

ORTO have con firmed that full-back Alex Sandro has joined Juventus for a fee of € 26million.

Juve announced that the Brazil international arrived in Turin for a medical earlier on Thursday.

Primeira Liga side Por-

he was brilliant last year.

“If we can get him playing like that across the whole season he could be crucial.”

Pochettino wary of in-form City L

Leonardo Ulloa celebrates scoring Leicester ’s winner against Stoke City

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Bilic relishing Song´s West Ham return

to subsequently released a statement on their official website confirming the sale of the 24-year-old to the Serie A champions.

It brings an end to a four-year stay in Portugal for Alex Sandro, during which time he has collected two league ti-

tles with Porto.

Juve subsequently confirmed Alex Sandro has signed a five-year contract.

Massimiliano Allegri has been busy adding to a squad that won a Serie A and Coppa Italia double last season.

King Power Stadium, Claudio Ranieri’s side are one of just four teams - along with Liverpool and the two Manchester clubs - to have claimed maximum points so far.

A 4-2 win over Sunderland and a 2-1 victory at West Ham have provided Leicester with a firm foundation upon which to build as they bid to avoid a similar relegation scrap to last season.

The Midlands club, who brought in Swiss international Gokhan Inler this week, are on a run of four home victories in the league and have not won five on the bounce in the top flight since 1984.

In addition, Leicester have never opened a season in the top division with three victories, meaning Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino is expecting a tough encounter.

“They’ve started very well,” he said. “I think they played very well last season, they signed some very good players, got good organisation.

“Ranieri has a lot of experience in football and they’ve started the season very well.

“We expect a very tough game against Leicester.”

Pochettino should feel relatively confident heading to Leicester, with Harry Kane having netted a hat-trick in a 4-3 win when the sides last met at White Hart Lane back in March.

62 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015—63

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Vanguard, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2015

Falconets return to camp tomorrow T

HE U-20 Women National Team, Falconets, will return to camp on Saturday as

preparations begin for their 2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup third round qualifying

Continues on Page 60

•Dedevbo

Mikel snubbed me in London – Joel Obi doubtful for Oliseh Tanzania S

STORIES BY JUDE OPARA, Abuja UPER Eagles Chief Coach, Sunday Oliseh yesterday explained why he left out Chelsea of England midfielder, John Mikel Obi from his

list of players invited for the forthcoming 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tanzania.

Oliseh who revealed this at a media parley in Abuja said he made several phone calls Continues on Page 60

T

ORINO midfielder Joel Obi is doubtful for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Continues on Page 60

...Says blame me if Eagles fail S

•Mikel •Oliseh

UPER Eagles Chief Coach Sunday Oliseh yesterday defended his 17-man list of foreign based players, stating that he will take responsibility if the team fails to get a favourable result in the 2017 Africa

Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tanzania on September 6.

Many analysts have been picking holes on the list which excluded some of the in-form players including Continues on Page 60

•Obi

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S PUZZLE

FRI DAY'S ANSWERS FRIDAY'S

ACROSS 1 Scheme (4) 4 Edge (3) 6 Block (4) 9 Friend (3) 10 Bewildered (8) 11 Revise (4) 14 Serpent (3) 16 Command (5) 19 Lively (8) 21 Dissuade (5) 23 Harmful (8) 24 Taut (5) 27 Loiter (3) 31 Remedy (4) 33 Diligence (8) 34 Rabbit (3) 35 Intense (4) 36 Mournful (3) 37 Incline (4)

DOWN 2 Seem (4) 3 Argument (4) 4 Opposed (8) 5 Manufactured (4) 6 Javelin (5) 7 Youth (3) 8 Living (5) 12 Island (5) 13 Temptress (5) 14 Help (3) 15 Leaf (5) 17 Sewer (5) 18 Scope (5) 20 Claimed (8) 22 Tease (3) 25 Escape (5) 26 Slumber (5) 28 Overlook (4) 29 Employer (4) 30 Stuff (4) 32 Fish-eggs (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Scream 5, Demean 8, Frighten 9, Drip 10, Wig 12, Coped 15, Sum 17, Lea 18, Rip 19, Spa 20, Rogue 21, Ilk 22, Dog 23, Art 24, Eye 26, Owned 29, Err 33, Safe 34, Narrator 35, United 36, Treaty.

DOWN: 2, Corgi 3, Edge 4, Motto 5, Dense 6, Mode 7, Adieu 10, Waste 11, Glade 12, Cargo 13, Pagan 14, Dread 15, Spite 16, Maker 25, Yearn 27, Waned 28, Egret 30, Roost 31, Deft 32, Wade.

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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Abuja Advert Hotline: 09-2921024. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Editor: MIDENO BAYAGBON. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.

C M Y K