PDP senators can't stop Amaechi— NDUME

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62610

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

TSA'll Several cripple trapped in Lagos NSITF, building NHIS, collapse, five ITF

rescued — NECA •See pictures and 8

**

story on Page 7

COLUMNISTS:

N150

New INEC Chairman, 9&51 HoS emerge

EK’s Brutus cut •P.19

NBC and NTA: Regulator and broadcaster in the 2015 elections •P.17

•New HoS, Winifred Oyo-Ita

•New INEC Chairman, Prof.

Mahmood Yakubu

PDP senators can't stop Amaechi— NDUME

By Henry Umoru & •Says Senate belongs to APC, not PDP Joseph Erunke •PDP senators threaten walkout, to review pact with Saraki BUJA —AHEAD of A today’s screening of •Anyanwu submits report on Amaechi, others today former Governor of Rivers Chibuike Rotimi •We're not against Amaechi, says Ogba, ethics committee member State, Amaechi; Senate Majority

Leader, Senator Ali Ndume, yesterday, lampooned senators elected on the platform of his former party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, saying that the 8th Senate belongs to the All Progressives Congress, APC. According to him, the PDP should note that it has become a minority, a Continues on Page 5

Mr & Mrs

MAIDEN COUNCIL OF STATE MEETING—From Left (Front Row): Former CJN, Justice Muhammadu Uwais; former Head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan; former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida; Speaker of the House of Reps, Yakubu Dogara; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; President Muhammadu Buhari; former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon; former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar; Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, and others after the maiden National Council of State Meeting, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

2—Vanguard, Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 22,, 2015— 3

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4—Vanguard, Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015—5

POCKET CARTOON

PEACE MEETING—Representatives of Fulani herdsmen being registered by an unidentified policewoman for the peace meeting between Fulani herdsmen and their host Yoruba farmers, convened by the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Leye Oyebade at the State Police command headquarters, Eleyele Ibadan, yesterday. PHOTO: Dare Fasube.

PDP senators can't stop Amaechi— NDUME Continues from Page 1 situation where the majority would always have its way, warning that PDP cannot disqualify Amaechi based on what he described as triviality instead of the constitution.

He added that Amaechi has not been convicted by any court of law.

Ali Ndume boasted that the Senators will determine the fate of Amaechi and not the report of Senator Samuel Anyanwu-led Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, adding that Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu would not have presided yesterday because APC ministerial nominees were being screened, which explained the adjournment.

Ndume spoke amid strong indications, yesterday, that PDP and APC senators will flex muscles today over Amaechi. While the APC senators have insisted on screening and confirming Amaechi for a ministerial appointment, the PDP Senators have not shifted grounds on the position they took on Tuesday to frustrate the screening of the former governor.

Today, Chairman, Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Senator Samuel Anyanwu (PDP, Imo East) will submit the reports of his committee on petitions against the nominees including Amaechi.

According to a PDP Senator, who spoke with Vanguard, the report will be up for discussion and votes will be taken in

IT'S UP TO YOU

BY AYO ADIO

A

N inheritance is good but positive words spoken into one's life guarantees a life of splendour. Words create our reality, because a mouth only speaks repeatedly what the heart is filled with.

It's up to you.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

There is a thin line between the impossible and the possible - that is determination -David Emenike

I

F you really want to achieve a goal, you would have to classify your long and short term goals.

You will determine if this goal actually is a real possibility. For example, if you really want to be a professional basketball player, yet you’re 30 yearsold and 5’0'’ tall, maybe you need to bring yourself back to reality. Or if you feel destined to be an actor yet you aren’t willing to move to a location or large city where the film industry thrives, then you may need to rethink things. Be honest about your limitations.

SAYINGS OF OUR PEOPLE

Y

OU can't be short when you are tall and can't be tall when you are short.

support or against Amaechi being screened and cleared.

The senator, who noted that if the voting favours that Amaechi be screened as opposed to their collective decision, they would as a caucus stage a walk out and allow the APC senators do what they want to do.

PDP senators to review pact with Saraki

The Senator told Vanguard that the PDP Senators who formed an alliance with Senate President Bukola Saraki prior to his election and which led to his emergence were planning to review the unwritten agreement.

On whether the PDP senators were aware that if the Senators failed to screen or reject Amaechi

by October 29 upon the expiration of the 21 w o r k i n g - d a y constitutional deadline, the former governor would automatically become a minister, the Senator said “we will not allow that to happen” as PDP Senators.

The Senator continued: “The report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions will be laid tomorrow (today) and there will be voting on whether or not to accept that Amaechi be screened.

The voting will determine the way forward and if the voting says he should be screened because APC wants and PDP as a caucus thinks we should not screen Amaechi and if the APC insists, PDP Senators will stage a walk out.”

Another PDP Senator, who spoke with Vanguard, said that the issue has to do with 21 working days which is like a month, adding that the position of PDP Senators is about the law and the society,

adding that the National Assembly is a theatre of politics, but as law makers, they must be cautious.

According to the Senator, the PDP senators were standing on Section 66(h) which stipulates that when indicted by a panel, the person cannot occupy any public office.

Section 66(h) says: “No person shall be qualified for Membership of National Assembly and Right of attendance if he has been indicted for embezzlement or fraud by a judicial Commission of Inquiry or an Administrative Panel of Inquiry or a Tribunal set up under the Tribunals of Inquiry Act...”

For the third time since it began the screening of ministerial nominees, the Senate on Tuesday, postponed the screening of Amaechi.

We're not against Amaechi— Sen Ogba

Also, a member of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions, Obinna Ogba, has denied allegation that the committee was against Amaechi's confirmation.

He equally debunked insinuation that the delay in releasing the report of investigation on Amaechi, which resulted in the delay in his screening was as a result of sharp division among members of the committee on the report.

Reacting in an interview, yesterday, with Vanguard, in Abuja, Senator Ogba, who represents Ebonyi Central in the National Assembly, under PDP, insisted that there was no disagreement among members of the committee.

We will determine Amaechi’s fate not Anyanwu’s report – Ndume Answering questions from Journalists, yesterday, on the issue, Ndume said Amaechi would be cleared.

His words: ‘’The Ethics and Privileges report is not the determinant of Amaechi’s fate. It is the Senate. Even if they write their report, it has to be laid before the Senate which will decide on the report. It is not the report that will decide the fate of Amaechi.

“Whatever the Committee recommends to the Senate, it is the Senate that will decide.

And I have told Nigerians several times that this Senate belongs to APC.

We have PDP senators that are in the minority. We are practising democracy in a changed environment. That is to allow the minorities to have their say. But you know that the majority will always have its way. We have 58 senators, the Senate President excluded, and they have 48 Senators.

“And Amaechi is an APC candidate and the constitution is very clear.

Until there is conviction, you are considered innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt by a competent court of law.

Unfortunately, you cannot confirm or disqualify Amaechi, we are the only ones that can do that. And PDP cannot disqualify Amaechi based on triviality. It must be based on constitutionality.”

On why the plenary was suspended, Ndume said: “The Senate President has a pending case before the Appeal Court which judgement was suspended indefinitely.

We, therefore, thought that the lower court will suspend today ’s (yesterday’s) sitting as the Senate President has to be in court by 10.00am. He is the Presiding Officer and this is an extraordinary period because we are screening ministers who are predominantly APC. So, that was why we said this screening should continue with the Senate President presiding. So, we are continuing tomorrow (today) by God’s grace.”

When told that the Deputy Senate President was supposed to have presided in the absence of the Senate President, the Senate leader said: “This is not a normal day because we are screening APC nominees and there are issues surrounding it.

The Presiding Officer is the Senate President who

started the screening and we said we would continue after taking a day off and continue tomorrow (today)”.

Speaking on the senators’ solidarity with the Senate President at the tribunal, Senator Ndume said: “It was not a solidarity as such. This Senate does not belong to Saraki, Senator Ali Ndume or anybody. The Senate is an institution, an independent arm of government and should be respected and strengthened. Besides, if the President takes his time to submit the (ministerial) list, which Nigerians patiently waited for why will Nigerians not be patient with the Senate to wait for its conclusion? And why don’t you take us on issues other than these trivialities? Suppose we had said we are suspending the screening till next week, we have the right to do that.

“But the constitution is guiding us that we have to do this within 21 working days. And we are still within the 21 working days. It is not 21 days, it is 21 working days. And our working days in the Senate plenary is three days in a week. So, if you are talking about 21 working days, it means that the Senate will do this within seven weeks because we sit for plenary Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. That is three working days. It means that logically, we can do this up to seven weeks.

"The ministries have not been streamlined yet to know where they are going. I don’t even see an issue out of it. I was thinking that by now, we will be talking about ideas not about people and events. It won’t move this country forward. We are supposed to be talking about the screening details."

6—Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

10 injured as NURTW clash in Owo over leadership

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By Dayo Johnson

KURE—NO fewer than 10 persons were seriously injured yesterday, following a bloody clash among members of National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, at Owo area of Ondo State.

Vanguard gathered that a faction of the union attempted to forcibly take over the leadership of the union and the incumbent resisted it.

For over four hours, commercial activities in the ancient town were disrupted as a result of the clash.

The union members shot sporadically while they attacked themselves with cutlasses, charms and cudgels, even as those injured were rushed to different hospitals within the town.

Shop owners and residents around First Molac Hotel and Ehinogbe Street where the clash occurred, fled in different directions as the clash became fierce.

Reports had it that the attempt to forcibly take over the leadership of the union may have been initiated by politicians in the town, ahead of next year’s governorship election in the state.

Vanguard gathered that the target of the faction of the union was to chase away its leadership, led by Kolade Jasper Leader of the faction with nickname “Jungunnu” had reportedly been parading himself as the new chairman, using motorcyclists, popularly know as Okada riders, as his escorts It was gathered that Jungunnu allegedly led his boys to First Molac Hotel area where the Akure car park is located and attacked the union leaders.

The timely intervention of mobile policemen who rushed to the scene, prevented the clash from resulting in loss of lives.

Normalcy was later returned to the ancient town as families of those injured took them to hospitals for treatment.

Contacted, NURTW chairman, Kolade Jasper, said he had not received any letter from the national leaders that the local chapters of the union should be dissolved.

Police spokesman, Femi Joseph, who confirmed the incident, said normalcy had returned to the town but pleaded with members of the union to maintain peace.

Youths lynch suspected robber in Imo O

By Chidi Nkwopara

WERRI—ONE of the fourman armed robbery gang that had been terrorizing Ihiagwa in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State has been lynched by angry youths.

The deceased, who was identified as Mr. John Nkwocha, was beaten mercilessly into a coma by youths in the community but was later rushed to a nearby hospital where he eventually died.

The late Nkwocha, according to Vanguard investigations, was a native of Okwu Amaeze Obibiezena in Owerri North Local Government Area of the state.

A concerned villager from Amaeze who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Vanguard that the deceased was a trained motorcycle mechanic, who had a shop at Amaeze “He later abandoned his workshop and went into commercial motorcycle transportation business. He also abandoned this transport business and later joined a doubtful group that has now led to his death,” the villager recounted.

Although the villager expressed happiness that the community of bad boys had been reduced by one, he, however, said the police had stepped into the matter.

When contacted on his mobile

phone, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, a deputy superintendent of police, confirmed the incident.

“Yes, it is true that a suspected armed robber was lynched at Ihiagwa last Tuesday. The deceased and his gang were in the town to carry out their

nefarious act but were caught in their track,” Enwerem said.

He said the others beat a tactical retreat and scampered into safety when they were chased by angry villagers, pointing out that the deceased was not so lucky as he was caught and given jungle justice instantly.

“His lifeless body has been

deposited in the morgue and the command has already started serious investigation into the matter,” the PPRO said.

He appealed to anybody that might have any useful hint on how the police would nab fleeing members of the dead man’s gang to feel very free to reach him or the nearest police station.

Participants at the 3rd Polio Day National Para-Soccer tournament in Abuja.

Court remands woman over alleged murder of brother in-law L

By Onozure Dania

AGOS—A 29-year-old woman, Obiageri Oriuwa, was yesterday arraigned before a Lagos High Court sitting at Igbosere over alleged murder of her brother in-law.

The defendant who is a trader, is facing a count charge of murder preferred against her by Lagos State.

Oriuwa, who is a mother of three, residing at Olodi Apapa, Ajegunle suburb of Lagos State, was docked before Justice Raliat Adeniyi.

Lagos State prosecutor, Rotimi Oduntola, told the court that the defendant committed the alleged offence on January 28, 2014.

She said the defendant allegedly stabbed one Ikechukwu Oriuwa to death as the deceased asked her the reason she put on a generator in her shop and locked it up throughout the night, which led to fire that almost burnt down the house.

Oduntola also alleged that while the argument was ongoing, the defendant picked up a knife and stabbed the deceased on his chest and arm, which led to his death.

According to the prosecutor, the offence is punishable under section 221 of the

criminal law of Lagos State, 2011.

However, the defendant, who was weeping inside the dock, pleaded not guilty to the charge against her.

In view of her plea, the prosecutor urged the court to remand the defendant in prison custody and asked for a trial date.

Consequently the judge

adjourned the case to January 27 and February 1, 2016, for trial and ordered that the defendant be remanded in prison custody, pending the conclusion of the trial.

Police nab 3 suspected pipeline vandals in Lagos L

By Ifeanyi Okolie

AGOS—THREE suspected vandals operating at Ilado and Takwa Bay Islands in Lagos State have been arrested by operatives of Inspector General of Police Special Task Force on Pipeline Vandalism, recovering 118 jerry-cans and two speed boats.

Vanguard gathered that the suspects, including a 20-year-old woman, were identified as Adebanjo Anthony, Moturayo Lateef and Ola Omosowome.

They were said to have been arrested at separate locations when the operatives raided Agbagbtu, an area in Ilado, which is notorious for pipeline vandalism.

Sources disclosed that 20-yearold Lateef was arrested while siphoning PMS from a pipeline belonging to Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC,

into some jerry cans, while Omosowome and Anthony were apprehended on water while heading to the scene where the products were being siphoned.

When Vanguard interviewed the suspects, Omosowome and Anthony, they said they were hired by a man to transport the jerry cans to a spot where the pipeline was broken but were intercepted by the police.

Anthony, who is 20-year-old and a native of Igbokoda area of Ondo State, told Vanguard that he was not into pipeline vandalism.

He said: “ I am a boat boy and I don’t brake pipeline. I work for who ever contracts me to work for him. Though people usually contract me to transport petroleum products for them, but I do not think it is illegal. ‘’On the day I was arrested, a man, approached me at Liverpool

Jetty in Apapa, where I worked and asked that I and Omosowome follow him to Igbelejo Island and help him transport some jerry cans to Agbagbot Island, which is very close to Atlas Cove. ‘’On our way, we were intercepted by the police and they areested us. I told them that I was only contracted to transport the jerry cans and not involved in pipeline vandalism but they are not buying my story."

However, the commander of the task force, CSP Valentine Olumese, while confirming the report, stated that the suspects were arrested, following a tip-off on their activities.

He explained that he received an intelligence report that vandals had broken a pipeline at Agbagbotu which is very close to Atlas Cove Jetty.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015—7

COLLAPSED BUILDING: Rescue workers clearing the debris of a three storey-building, which collapsed at No. 87, Odunfa Street, on Lagos Island, Lagos. Photos: Diran Oshe.

From left: General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Management Agency, LASEMA, Mr Michael Akinde, Director-General, Safety Commission of LASEMA, Mr Faud Oki, and Director-General, Duties, Mr. Olusegun Magus-David, at the scene of the collapsed three-storey building in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

Sympathisers and rescue workers at the scene.

Several feared trapped, 5 rescued from collapsed 3-storey building in Lagos Building already marked for stability test—LSBCA

By Olasunkanmi Akoni/ Monsur Olowoopejo/Ufuoma Tiveruahor

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AGOS—‘’MY sister called me that she was under the debris, by the staircase, that was at about 2:30pm. Later, she called again to say that the place was very hot and that she was getting weak. She is still there struggling for breath.

But the rescue workers are unable to get to where she is.’’

This was the distraught reaction of Mercy, a relative whose sister was trapped in the three-storey building that collapsed yesterday at Odunfa Street, CMS, on Lagos Island.

Aside from Mercy's sister, several others are still feared trapped in the building.

However, five persons, including an 80-year-old woman and a 15year-old boy, were rescued from the rubbles of the collapsed building at about 1:45pm.

Vanguard gathered that the building, described as ‘civilian

Barracks” caved in at about 9 am, after several warning sounds of distress.

It was gathered that some residents, especially occupants on the third floor, escaped through the window, jumping unto an uncompleted building beside it.

When Vanguard visited the scene, residents and bystanders could not ascertain the number of persons still trapped in the building.

The residents confirmed that they received phone calls from residents still trapped beneath the rubbles but no one had been confirmed dead.

At the scene, the combined team include Police, Army, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, federal and state fire service, Lagos State

Building Control Agency, LSBCA, and Lagos Safety Commission, were on ground to manage the situation.

Sources said that the octogenarian, who was rescued over four hours after the collapse, was conveyed to the General Hospital, Lagos Island, for medical care by Lagos State Ambulance Service, LASAMBUS.

Eyewitnesses account on how the building caved in

One of the residents, Mr. Saidi Balogun, who witnessed the incident said: “I left my room after receiving a call from my mechanic shop. Standing outside the building, less than five meters away, the building caved in.’’

Another resident, identified as Fatimah Usman, who lived and owned a shop in the building, said: “I ran and called my husband who was inside when the building collapsed. I didn’t know how he escaped. I just saw

him few minutes after the building had collapsed.’’

Mrs. Enitan Ayinla, while narrating her own side of the story, said: “I was forced to scale through the window into a nearby uncompleted building.

“Three pupils were standing this morning and talking to themselves, so, I called one of them and asked what they were talking about and she said our building was making some sound and has cracked.

“I had just a wrapper on my body and told my husband what the children said. He told me to dress up and go downstairs to check the area that was cracked.

We were still at the staircase when we heard a loud bang and the building collapsed. It was through the uncompleted building beside us that my husband and I escaped.

“People have been calling us that they were in the building and they said the heat was much.

We were seven who escaped from the building.”

According to LASEMA’s boss, Micheal Akindele, the four persons earlier rescued sustained minor injuries and were taken to Lagos Island General Hospital.

He said they had not been able to ascertain the number of occupants in the building, adding that no one could confirm whether or not people were still in the rubble.

Assistant Director, Federal Fire Service, Mr. Okon Macaulay, said the distressed structure was responsible for the collapse, adding “initially we rescued about four people that were slightly injured from the building.”

Residents accuse govt officials

Some residents also accused government agencies in-charge of conducting integrity tests of collecting bribes from landlords.

They also insisted that they had complained to the owners, the Onibudo family, over the state of the building but they failed to embark on repairs.

Responding, General Manager, LSBCA, Shola Aderibigbe, said the building was marked for integrity test and 14 days ultimatum was served on the building.

8—Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Buhari appoints Oyo-Ita as Ag Head of Civil Service

By Emman Ovuakporie

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B U J A — PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Mrs. Winifred Ekanem OyoIta as Acting Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, with effect from yesterday.

This was contained in the letter conveying the President’s approval by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Engr.

Babachir Lawal, in which the President expressed “appreciation for the meritorious Service to the nation during his tenure as Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.”

Until her appointment, Mrs. Oyo-Ita, was the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, and hails from Odukpani Local Government, Cross River State.

According to the letter, her appointment is “a testimony of Mr. President’s implicit confidence and trust” in her ability to discharge the responsibilities of the office of Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

FG vs Saraki: CCT rejects application to adjourn case indefinitely

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

... As Saraki storms tribunal with 34 Senators, 50 lawyers

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BUJA—THE Code of Conduct Tribunal, CCT, sitting in Abuja, yesterday, declined request for an indefinite adjournment on the 13-count criminal charge pending against the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki.

The Justice Danladi Umarled tribunal refused the application which Saraki made yesterday through his lawyer, Mr. Mahmud Magaji (SAN).

However, the tribunal adjourned the case till November 5 to await the outcome of the appeal that the embattled Senate President lodged before the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal.

Meanwhile, at the resumed sitting of the CCT yesterday, Saraki, who stormed the court with 34 Senators and 50 lawyers, initially declined to mount the dock, anchoring his decision on the fact that a higher court is already seized with the res of the case against him.

However, he was eventually compelled to enter the dock by the tribunal sequel to an application by the prosecuting counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN).

Jacobs said: “My Lords, when a matter is called where arraignment has taken place, the first thing is for the accused person to go into the dock. I, therefore, apply that the accused be directed to move into the dock.”

Relying on Section 122 of the

SARAKI AT CCT: Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki (middle); his Deputy, Senator Ike Ekweremadu (left), shortly after Senator Saraki's case at the Code of Conduct Tribunal in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: Gbemiga Olamikan.

Evidence Act, Saraki’s lawyer, Mahmud Magaji (SAN), argued that CCT was empowered to take judicial notice of the proceeding pending before the Court of Appeal.

He told the tribunal that the higher court had already heard the appeal and reserved its judgment.

“My Lords, going by Supreme Court decision in FRN vs Ibekwe, a situation like this, the lower court has to exercise certain restraint and await the outcome of the decision of the Appeal Court,” Magaji insisted.

His argument was countered by the prosecuting counsel, Jacobs, who maintained that

Saraki could only draw the attention of the tribunal from the dock.

The tribunal upheld Federal Government’s position and directed Saraki to mount the dock yesterday.

“The accused person must take his proper place,” Justice Umar ruled.

At that juncture, Saraki, who was sandwiched by over 34 senators that attended the proceeding yesterday, entered the accused box.

The prosecuting counsel, thereafter, notified the tribunal about what had transpired between Saraki and Federal Government at the Appeal Court.

He told the court that

TSA 'll cripple NSITF, NHIS, ITF —NECA

By Victor AhiumaYoung

T

HE umbrella body for employers in the country, Nigeria Employers Consultative Association, NECA, yesterday in Lagos, warned that the newly introduced Treasury Single Account, TSA, policy by the Federal Government would cripple the operations of selffunding and service-rendering parastatals with statutory responsibilities to deliver public goods and services.

Specifically, among others, NECA contended that the responsibilities of Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, NSITF, that manages the Employee Compensation Scheme, ECS; Industrial Training Fund, ITF, responsible for training funds reimbursements and National

Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, that are saddled with payments of capitations and other obligations to health management organizations, HMOs, and, in effect, care providers had been highly curtailed by TSA. Director-General of NECA, Mr. Segun Oshinowo, at a gathering of stakeholders, called for the exemption of NSITF, ITF, NHIS and similar bodies as done to Bank of Industry, BoI, Bank of Agriculture, BoA, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, FMBN, to enable them deliver effective services to the public.

According to him: “The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, issued a circular directing all deposit money banks to implement the ecollection platform deployed by the Federal Government to

support the collection and remittance of all government revenue to a consolidated account domiciled with CBN. “This marked the beginning of the full implementation of Treasury Single Account, TSA, system in Nigeria.

Adavantages

“Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, NECA, as the voice of business commends the initiative as it provides the mechanism for proper monitoring of government receipts and expenditure.

“We do not doubt that the TSA will help to block most, if not all, leakages that have been the bane of the growth of the economy.

“The only snag in the new dispensation is that the activities of self-funding and

service-rendering parastatals, with statutory responsibilities to deliver public goods and services, have been highly curtailed if not paralysed.

Calls for exemption

“The funds of these agencies should not be treated as revenue to government as the acts setting them up mandates the agencies to render annual income and expenditure on the funds under their custody.

“We, therefore, canvass that the exemption that has been given to agencies such as Bank of Industry, BoI; Bank of Agriculture, BoA, and Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, FMBN, should be extended to similar agencies and parastatals.”

Saraki had on October 6, filed a notice of appeal before the appellate court.

Jacobs stated that though the appellate court previously slated October 19 to deliver its verdict on whether or not Saraki’s trial should go on.

He said: “That day, we went to court by 2p.m. and were told that the judgment was not ready.

“In view of the fact that we are still awaiting the judgment of the appeal court, there is need for the prosecution to respect the integrity of the court of appeal and to uphold the best practice of the profession.

“Since the higher court said it would deliver the verdict within the next one week, we urge your lordships to adjourn this matter by giving us two weeks to come back.

“We are not unmindful of the section that provided that this kind of case should not be stayed.

But in any event that this tribunal overrule us, we want to put it on record that our witnesses are here and are ready to testify.”

While supporting FG’s request, Saraki’s counsel urged the tribunal to also toe the line of the appellate court and adjourn the case indefinitely.

Ruling on the issue, Justice Umar declined to grant indefinite adjournment as he was prayed to do by Saraki, saying he would only allow the parties to return before the tribunal in the next two weeks.

“Adjourning the matter indefinitely will not be right as the defendant (Saraki) may likely become too relaxed. Let us do what is right,” Justice Umar held.

The tribunal then fixed November 5 and 6 for the parties to return to report the outcome of the appeal and for hearing of the case against Saraki.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015—9

INEC spent N109bn on 2015 elections

By Jude Opara

A

PRESENTATION: From left— Deputy Editor, Mr. Felix Okweji; Director, Research and Programmes, Mr. Kunle Oseni, both of Lagos Indicator Magazine; Former Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN); former Special Adviser on Public Health, Dr. Yewande Adesina, and Publisher of the magazine, Mr. Olatunji Oke, during the presentation of copies of the booklet on Ebola, entitled Combating the Ebola Scourge: The Lagos Approach, to Fashola in Lagos.

SGF under fire over ‘provocative’ thanksgiving service remark

By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor

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BUJA—INDICATIONS emerged, yesterday, that Secretary to Government of the Federation, SGF, Mr. Babachir Lawal, had come under fire from the Presidency over a claim he made during a thanksgiving service in Abuja last Saturday.

Lawal, who assembled top party and Christian leaders for a thanksgiving service in Abuja had paid glowing tribute to All Progressives Congress, APC, National Leader, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu and the former Acting National Chairman, Bisi Akande, as being responsible for his nomination to Buhari for appointment as SGF. He also said that his choice as a Christian would not have been possible if the nomination had been left to Northern leaders to make.

At the event attended by the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Lawal said: “I am Secretary to the Government today because those people (Tinubu and Akande) that I mentioned were the very first to put the idea in the mind of the President.

“They were the ones that made it possible because if it has been left to northerners, it is doubtful if they will take a Christian man as Secretary to Government of the Federation.”

However, sources said that barely two days after Lawal had made the remark, angry Muslim leaders and northern elite, who felt insulted by his claim, stormed the Presidential Villa and complained to President Muhammadu Buhari, asking him to discipline the SGF for being careless with his speech.

The Northern leaders’ delegation, Vanguard learned,

Northern gov leads protest to Buhari Presidency angry, may sanction SGF was led by a northern governor, who is said to have the ears of Buhari and he spoke on behalf of the aggrieved persons, drawing the attention of Mr. President to the implications of Lawal’s statement on them and the Presidency.

The governor is said to have told the President that the northern leaders interpreted Lawal’s statement to mean that they do not like their Christian brothers and sisters, a claim that has the potential to cause more crisis in the country.

A top source told Vanguard that Buhari, who was very uncomfortable with the statement credited to the SGF, had summoned him as soon northern leaders came to lay their complaint and asked him to explain what he meant.

Buhari is said to be angry with Lawal for insinuating that it was the duo of Tinubu and Akande who recommended him for the post of the SGF when he (Buhari) did not even consult them before appointing him (Lawal) into the top position.

One source said that Buhari

was so upset with Lawal that he might sanction him over the act, which he considers as unexpected of a top public officer of his cadre given the tension such outburst was capable of generating in the country.

At press time, it was not immediately clear how Buhari intends to sanction Lawal.

Efforts to speak with Lawal on the development proved abortive as calls to his mobile phone did not connect, suggesting that it might have been switched off.

FG explains challenges of Lagos-Ibadan road project

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B A D A N — T H E Ministry of Works has said that the contractor handling Section II of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway reconstruction and expansion project, Reynolds Construction Company, RCC, was facing challenges of finance, adverse weather and impatience of motorists.

Mr. Nelson Olubakinde, the representative of the Ministry, told newsmen in Ibadan: “The construction company (RCC) is facing challenges of finance, weather, especially rain, and impatience on the part of road users often resulting in accidents within work location.

“For instance, during the rainy season, artwork and asphalt work laying are usually suspended.”

The construction contract, valued at N96.3 billion, commenced on June 4 and had a completion date of July 3, 2017.

Olubakinde, however, said that the construction effort was under Public Private Partnership, PPP, arrangement with Motorway Assets Limited as leasee, while the ministry was the guarantor.

“The consultants to Motorway Assets Limited is the INTERCON Partnership Consulting Engineers,” he added.

Speaking on the standard of the job done, Olubakinde said that new methods in road construction had been brought to bear on the project.

He said: “For example, apart from the fact that the thickness

of the road has been enhanced, it has also been expanded to ensure free traffic flow.”

He also said the project, themed Rehabilitation, ReConstruction and Expansion, had reached 25.98 percent completion in spite of the challenges.

The ministry ’s representative also said apart from ensuring the stability of the project, a sub-section of the road had been opened for use in the last one year to pave way for correction of any defect.

The other end of the road from Shagamu inter-change to Lagos is being handled by Julius Berger Plc, with RCC in charge of the other end to Ibadan.

BUJA—THE Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, yesterday, said it spent N108.8 billion on the 2015 elections.

This information was contained in the 2015 General Election Report the commission presented to stakeholders and members of the public at the Electoral Institute.

Meanwhile, INEC has assured that the gains and lessons of the 2015 polls will go a long way in repositioning the electoral body ahead of the scheduled Kogi and Bayelsa states governorship elections in November and December, respectively.

Outgoing Acting Chairman of INEC, Mrs Amina Zakari, who gave the assurance at the presentation of the report, said since the conduct of the 2011 elections, INEC had continued to improve on subsequent ones.

She said the number of post-election cases which dropped from 1,290 in 2007 to 732 in the 2011 attests to the remarkable improvement, adding that from available records the number had further dropped in 2015.

She said: “According to available statistics, the number of election petitions, after the 2007 general election, stood at 1,290; after the 2011 general election, the number came down by almost half, with a total of 732 election petitions filed.

“Following the 2015 general election, the number of petitions further scaled down to 611. It is, therefore, expected that the incidence of nullified elections will be correspondingly low.”

Zakari, who noted that election was not an event but a process, said the commission would continue to improve on the modalities.

According to her, the commission had recorded a lot of feats, including the use of the card reader and conducting an election where the incumbent lost to the opposition.

10—Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Court dismisses suspects' application on LFTZ’s boss murder

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—JUSTICE Raliat Adebiyi of a Lagos High Court sitting at Igbosere has dismissed the application filed by the community leaders of Okunraye in Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos State seeking to stop the Police, Inspector General of Police, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, for further arrest and detention of the indigenes over alleged murder of Mr. Tajudeen Disu, Managing Director of Lekki Free Trade Zone, LFTZ, Limited, on October 12.

Other respondents in the suit are Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, DSS, Special Anti-Robbery Squad, Dangote Group and Ibeju Lekki Local Government.

Justice Adebiyi dismissed all the prayers sought for by the applicant except one seeking to serve all respondents in the suit.

He said granting such application would lead to breakdown of law and order, and adjourned the case to November 10.

LCCI tasks new members on ethics

By Naomi Uzor

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HE Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, yesterday, urged the 160 newly-inducted members to be committed to the ideals of high ethical standards and responsible corporate citizenships.

The President of LCCI, Alhaji Remi Bello, made this call, adding that the chamber had a code of business ethics to which all members subscribe.

He said: “I wish to underline the commitment of LCCI to high ethical standards, integrity and good corporate governance.

“I enjoin you all to be committed to the ideals of high ethical standards and responsible corporate citizenship.”

VISITS: From left— Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly, Senate, Senator Ita Enang; House of Representatives Majority Leader, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila and Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly, House of Representatives, Mr. Kawu Sumaila, during a courtesy visit the House Leader in Abuja. PHOTO: Gbemiga Olamikan.

Lagos begins aggressive enforcement of traffic laws Donates N150m to Adamawa, Borno, Yobe ByOlasunkanmi Akoni

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AGOS State Government, yesterday, said it had begun intensive enforcement of traffic laws, just as it declared war on men of the underworld who seize traffic situations to rob unsuspecting citizens.

Also, the state Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Ganiyu Johnson, has declared what he termed “zero tolerance for potholes” across the state while also establishing a task force to execute patching of bad spots.

Meanwhile, Lagos State government, yesterday, made a donation of N50 million each to Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states, worst hit by activities of the Boko Haram sect, just as Governor Akinwunmi Ambode condemned the insurgency in the North-East.

Governor Ambode, who made the donation at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, spoke at a press conference he addressed in company of his colleagues from Adamawa, Senator Bindo Jibrilla; Borno, Alhaji Kashim Shettima; Sokoto, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal; Abia, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu; and Yobe, Alhaji Ibrahim Geidam.

He commiserated with the governments and families of those who either lost their loved ones or had been displaced from their homes by terrorists' activities.

He said they were not alone in their current plight as the prayer of every Nigerian is for the insurgency to end so as to enable them return to their normal lives.

Potholes repair

On the matter of potholes, Johnson, who disclosed the new move at a meeting with the management staff of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and its sister

agencies, announced the constitution of 40 gangs to execute the maintenance and patching of roads with a mandate to drastically improve commuters’ experience across the state.

Tinubu vs AIT: Counsel says

no sign of settlement Suit referred to CMC; adjourned till Nov 16

By By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Jane Echewodo

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AGOS—JUSTICE Iyabo Akinkugbe of a Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja was, yesterday, told that there was no indication that parties in the N150 billion libel suit filed by All Progressives Congress, APC, leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu against Daar Communications Plc, owners of Africa Independent Television, AIT, were out for settlement.

Mr. Ayo Adesanmi, counsel to Tinubu, in response to an observation made by the court, disclosed that both parties had exchanged pretrial conference processes and that in view of the circumstances, no intention to settle had been shown.

Tinubu had dragged the television house to court, claiming damages over alleged documentary entitled Lion of Bourdillon, ran by the television house, which the politician claimed lowered his reputations in the eyes of the public.

He said the documentary was politically sponsored to

tarnish his reputation in public eye.

However, the trial judge adjourned the suit to allow the parties exhaust the option of settlement at a pretrial conference.

When the matter came up September 30, Justice Akinkugbe adjourned the matter till yesterday for further directives.

On April 1, the trial judge granted an interlocutory injunction restraining AIT from further airing the documentary, pending the determination of the libel suit.

In line with his submission, Tinubu’s counsel urged the judge to refer the case for commencement of trial since both parties had exchanged pre-trial conference forms.

However, Justice Akinkugbe referred the parties to the Case Management Conference, CMC, maintaining that if during the conference the parties could not reach a compromise, the case would be referred to a trial judge.

She, therefore, adjourned the matter till November 16 for further directive.

He noted that all the engineers in the ministry would participate in the exercise, which targets all parts of the state.

N500m suit: Court orders processes served on Metuh

By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Jane Echewodo

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USTICE Oluwatoyin Ipaye of a Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja, yesterday, ordered the service of all processes including the motion for interlocutory injunction on Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, spokesman, Chief Olisa Metuh, in the N500 million defamation suit by Alhaji Lai Mohammed of All Progressives Congress, APC. At the resumed hearing of the case, the court, after hearing Wahab Shittu for the claimant, ordered the service of the processes and adjourned further proceedings till November 17 for report of service and the hearing of the pending application for interlocutory injunction filed by Mohammed.

The ministerial nominee and spokesman of APC had filed the libel suit asking for N500 million as special and general damages against Metuh.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 , 2015—11

Tension as Oyo CP summons Fulani herdsmen, farmers •We don't want Fulani herdsmen to graze their cattle at night—Farmers

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By Ola Ajayi

BADAN—A meeting of farmers and Fulani herdsmen was summoned by the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adeleye Oyebade, yesterday, to checkmate the cold war between the two groups.

While speaking on behalf of other farmers from Saki West Local Government at the meeting which was well attended by the stakeholders, a representative of the farmers, Mr. Owoade Idowu, said: “We don’t want the Fulani herdsmen to graze their cattle at night. The CP should also prevail on our traditional rulers to stop accepting the herdsmen into areas where crops are grown. ‘’We found out that our traditional rulers do collect gratification from them. This should stop. The Fulani are their visitors and we are their people.

They (traditional rulers) should be fair to us too. ‘’We are fed up with the whole issue. In fact, we are considering leaving Saki West area to relocate to Benin Republic.”

Reacting to the allegations, the Oniro of Otu, Oba Sunday Oyetunde Adepoju who applauded the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adeleye Oyebade for the unprecedented step he took in laying the controversy to rest argued that there is no traditional ruler in the state that collects meat or money from the cattle rearers.

According to him, he also had

been a victim of the herdsmen when their cattle ate up his crops.

He expressed the willingness of the traditional rulers to continue living peacefully with the Fulani saying, ”We are not driving them away but they should stop threatening, raping our women or harassing us with security agents on our own land. ‘’We would prefer this kind of meeting to hold every three months so that the CP can be abreast of unfolding development. We also don’t want the herdsmen to graze at night.

We will prefer this kind of meeting to involve the real cattle

owners because as we are talking here now, they are with their cattle and they don’t listen to their leaders.”

In his own comments, Mr. Fehintola Sunday from Iseyin said the town is mostly affected by the unholy attitude of the Fulani herdsmen.

Speaking on behalf of the Fulani herdsmen, the Serkin Sasa Sardaunan Yamma, Alhaji Haruna Yasin, who spoke through an interpreter, cautioned all his kinsmen to check their animals and stop grazing on the farmers’ farmlands.

He said: “I warn all Fulani

herdsmens to stop their cattle from destroying other people’s farms and crops. Nobody will be happy seeing his crops being destroyed by your cattle. Also, all night grazing of animals should stop henceforth.”

The CP specifically told all the representatives of farmers and herdsmen that they will be held responsible if there was any violence again.

He warned the cattle rearers that if they are caught with AK 47 rifle, he would treat them like armed robbers,addingthathewonderedwhat the herdsmen use such weapons for.

OONI: Ife traditional rulers accuse some

king-makers of fraud

By Gbenga Olarinoye

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SOGBO—PROCESS leading to the selection of the new Ooni of Ife for the vacant stool is getting messier as some traditional rulers in the ancient town yesterday accused the king-makers of alleged inducement to favour a particular candidate.

A statement by the “New Dawn Ife Kingdom Obas” by Oba Layiwola Adereti, Obawara of Iwara, Oba Adesiyan Mayowa, the Eyenla of Amula Ife, and Oba Adeoye Adefarakan, the Oloyere of Oyere- Ife, chairman, secretary

and publicity secretary respectively said the selection process was unacceptable to them.

The statement read in part: “We, the entire members of the New Dawn Ife Kingdom Obas are compelled by the recent unfolding events in the Royal Court of Ife, Ile-Ife to make our position clear. ‘’We take this unique opportunity to explain to the public that the messy situations arising from the purported selection of a new Ooni of Ife as carried out by the so called King-makers after the demise of our highly respected Monarch, His Imperial Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Okunade Sijuwade Olubuse II, the Ooni of Ife is alarming.

“It is a known fact that a successor to the throne of the Ooni must

evolve since there must not be vacuum in the exalted post for long. ‘’However, in selecting a candidate for the throne, due process must be followed.

Starting from the nomination by the Ruling House whose turn it is to produce a candidate for the stool up to his selection by the King-makers as well as approved by the government.

“We believe that the selection of a new Ooni of Ife by the Kingmakers should follow the due process as laid down by the combined effect of the 1957 and 1980, Ooni of Ife Chieftaincy Law and Declaration respectively."

Fayose, Jega canvass quality education at ABUAD's convocation

By Rotimi Ojomoyela

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DO EKITI— GOVERNOR Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof.

Attahiru Jega, yesterday, calledforareformintheeducation sector that will involve learning and character.

Commending the founder of AfeBabalolaUniversity,ChiefAfe Babalola,SAN,forhisinnovation and vision which propelled him to establish the university on the two virtues, the duo said this wouldgoalongwayinsharpening the minds of future leaders for better governance and value reorientation.

Speaking at the 3rd convocation ceremony of the university, Fayose said there is no alternative to holistic education that would not only impact knowledge, but would imbue graduates with characters thatwouldtranslateintodesirable changes in the society.

At the convocation, Jega bagged honourary doctor of Public Administration, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, was conferred with the honoraryDoctorofLetters,former ICPC Chairman, Justice EmmanuelAyoola,wasconferred withtheDoctorofLawandBishop Matthew Kukah bagged Doctor of Letters of the institution.

Akure monarch forbids Eze-Ndigbo from wearing crown

By Dayo Johnson

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KURE—THE Deji of Akureland in Ondo State, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi yesterday listed conditions for truce with the estranged Eze Ndigbo of Akure, Gregory Iloehike.

One of the condition was that the Igbo leader is forbidden from wearing any form of crown henceforth.

Oba Aladelusi gave the conditions during a meeting Governor Olusegun Mimiko had with him and the Akure Council of Chiefs in Akure on the lingering crisis.

The governor had earlier met with the Igbo leaders led by the embattled Eze Ndigbo, Iloehike at the governors office.

Ileohike was said to have denied disrespecting the Oba and pleaded with the governor to help resolve the over one-week crisis.

Other conditions include that the Eze Ndigbo must apologize for his unruly behaviour in at least three national dailies and on air.

“That the Igbo leader must write a letter of apology to Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi and the Deji-inCouncil.

“That the title ‘Eze Ndigbo’ must be reviewed and replaced with a noncontroversial honorary title and that the Igbo Leader must comply with all the earlier directives of the palace.’’

Dr Mimiko, however, apologized to the Oba on behalf of the Igbo Leader.

12—Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

A-IBOM GOV POLL: Tribunal nullifies election in 18 LGAs Orders INEC to conduct re-run

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

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BUJA—THE Akwa Ibom State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, sitting in Abuja, yesterday, cancelled the governorship election results in 18 local government areas, LGAs, in the state. A three-man panel of Justices at the tribunal, headed by Justice Ishaq Umar, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct re-run elections in the affected LGAs. The tribunal said it was satisfied that a total of 566, 436 voters in the areas were disenfranchised during the governorship election that held in the state on April 11, 2015. According to the tribunal, section 108(2) of the Electoral Act, empowered it to, in view of circumstances that surrounded the governorship election in the 18 LGAs, nullify the outcome and order INEC to organise a re-run.

Specifically, it listed the LGAs where INEC must conduct a rerun poll as: Etim-Ekpo, Uyo, Ibesikpo, Onna, Ikono, Oruk-Anam, Uruan, Ibeno, Ibiono Ibom, NsitIbom, Nsit-Ubium, Ini, Oron, Nsit-Atai, Etinan, Udung-Uko and Eket.

Though the petitioners, the All Progressives Congress, APC, and its governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State, Chief Umana Okon Umana, alleged that the governorship poll was fraught with manifest irregularities, the tribunal, maintained that the alleged electoral anomalies and non-compliance with the Electoral Act, were not enough to warrant outright nullification of election results from all the 31 LGAs in the state.

“This petition partly succeeded.

INEC is hereby ordered to conduct a re-run election in 18 LGAs. There will be no order as to cost.

Parties are to bear their cost,” the tribunal ruled.

Preliminary objections: Earlier,

the tribunal dismissed preliminary objections that were raised against the petition by Governor Udom Emmanuel and his party, the PDP. The two respondents had urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition for want of merit.

They contended that the APC did not field a valid candidate at the poll. The respondents argued that the notice APC gave to INEC before it conducted its primaries that produced Umana as its governorship candidate for the April 11 poll, failed to meet the compulsory 21 days stipulated by the Electoral Act. The tribunal overruled PDP on the premise that the issue of nomination of candidate for an election was a pre-election matter that was outside its mandate.

Meantime, the petitioners,

through a total of 58 witnesses produced in the course of the proceedings, told the tribunal that the governorship election was a sham.

Besides alleging that electoral materials were hijacked by armed thugs, the petitioners, told the court that election did not hold in many parts of the state. The petitioners contended that what obtained in Akwa Ibom State on April 11 was a partial election, alleging that figures were merely allotted to the PDP candidate. The APC urged the tribunal to go ahead and determine whether in view of the weight of evidence it tendered against the election, including seven video recordings, governor Udom could be said to have secured majority of the lawful votes cast,

to warrant his declaration as winner of the election.

Among those that testified before the tribunal that governorship election did not hold in the state included the former governor, Chief Obong Victor Attah, and former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Don Etiebet.

The petitioners prayed the tribunal to set aside the Certificate of Return that was issued to governor Udom and order a fresh election in the state.

Nevertheless, in its judgement that lasted over seven hours, the tribunal, held that the allegations that the petitioners raised against the governorship election were criminal in nature, stressing that it ought to be proved beyond every reasonable doubt.

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ENIN—WITH the nation’s refineries, especially the Port Harcourt Refinery Company, PHRC, coming back on stream, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, yesterday in Benin, said the country’s crude oil would be processed to meet immediate domestic needs.

Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, who spoke at this year ’s NNPC Health Safety and Environment, HSE, day, with the theme, HSE Best Practice, Pathway to Business

By Festus Ahon & Ochuko Akuopha

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SABA—ELECTION Petitions Tribunal sitting in Asaba, Delta State, yesterday dismissed the petition brought before it by the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the Delta Central Senatorial District election, Mr. Halims Agoda, challenging the victory of Senator Ighoyota Amori in the 2015 polls.

The tribunal held that Amori of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, was duly elected in the election held on March 28, to represent the senatorial district.

Delivering his judgment, Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Muhammed Umar, said the petition lacked sufficient proofs, saying Agoda was unable to prove his case beyond reasonable doubt.

While saying that the petitioner was unable to satisfy the burden of proof, Justice Umar said Agoda’s inability to properly address his case as provided for in the Electoral Act, as amended, had hampered his petition.

Agoda had dragged Amori to the petition tribunal, alleging that the exercise was riddled with fraud.

NUPENG calls off strike

By Jimitota Onoyume

DINNER: From left: Mr. Ele Peters, Chief Executive Officer, Clovers Nigeria Limited; Mrs. Mary Akpobome, Executive Director, Heritage Bank Limited; Mr. Ahonsi Unuigbe, Chief Executive Officer, Petralon Energy and Umar A. Mustapha, Chief Executive Officer, Momar Energy Trading Limited, all Heritage Bank guests at the Opening Dinner sponsored by the bank during the just concluded 21st Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), which held in Abuja.

Nigeria’s crude oil'll be processed to meet domestic needs —KACHIKWU

By Gabriel Enogholase

Delta Election Tribunal upholds Amori’s victory

Sustainability, also said NNPC would modernize its health, safety and environment management standard and performance records to promote health, safety and environmental awareness.

Dr. Kachikwu, who was represented by the Managing Director, Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, Abubakar Mai-Borno, said safety at workplace was vital for productivity in the sector.

“It is with great optimism that we are foreseeing our refineries soon coming back on-stream. PHRC, for

instance, has demonstrated great drive in meeting the federal government’s desire for our refineries; whence our crude will be processed in order to meet our immediate domestic demands," he said.

He insisted that lessons must be learnt from recent incidents on the BP Oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and Chevron’s Brazil Offshore which occurred due to breach of safety rules and observance, noting that these incidents were accompanied with monumental financial and human losses.

“We must, therefore, tow a conscious path in structuring

safety rules, guides, observance and best practices in NNPC. When these are emplaced, then, our assets, both human and material will be secured and guaranteed,” he said.

According to him, the outcome of these initiatives “ would include higher productivity, reduce risks accidents and damages to the environment, while promoting sustainable development for future generation. This visible commitment is an important driver that ensures that every staff, including other stakeholders, own their HSE responsibility.”

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ORT HARCOURT— NIGERIA Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers , NUPENG yesterday called off its strike that had crippled fuel supply to the state and its environs A communiqué by the State Chairman, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, Mr Chika Unuegbu , the Port Harcourt zonal Chairman of NUPENG, Mr Godwin Eruba and others, said at a stakeholders meeting in the office of the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mr Kenneth Kobani, the management of Weatherford, agreed to withdraw the letters of redundancy issued 20 members of NUPENG and Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, pending conclusion of negotiation between the firm and the unions.

According to the communiqué, “it was also resolved at the meeting attended by representatives of the state Police Commissioner, Department of State Service, DSS and leaders of PENGASSAN.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 22,, 2015— 13

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16 —Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Police arraign 20 pro Biafra supporters for treason Court remands them in prison, adjourns to Oct 27

By Jimitota Onoyume & Francis Igata

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ORT HARCOURT—Police have charged 20 pro Biafra supporters who were part of the protest by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Monday, in Port Harcourt, among other things, for treasonable felony at a Magistrate's court in Port Harcourt.

Chief Magistrate Andrew Jaja remanded the suspects in prison custody and adjourned the matter to Tuesday October 27 for their counsels to argue issues bordering on their bail application.

Those arraigned in court were : Benson Sunday (21), Emmanuel Ali (25), Ukeme Monday (32), Chibuzo Ezechina (33), Charles Eze (29), Egbo Okechukwu (24), Chibona Ifion (47), John Douglas (20), Ezenwa Alphonus (51), Wori Endurance (30), Chinomere Nwolu (25), Henry Eze (36),Friday Uzunwa (22), Igodo Abio (34), Akaniyene Uwem (22), Eni Iboro (27), Obinna Stephen (26), Monday Ocha (37), Obinna Ibekwe (27), and Kingsley Ezengorie (24) They were charged for treasonable felony after allegedly destroying the national flag hoisted at the premises of a bank during

their protest and chanting hate songs against the Nigerian state.

The three- count charge against them read in part, “…on October 20 2015, at about 2:00p.m., at Ikwerre Road in Port Harcourt, the suspects and others now at large, did conspire amongst yourselves to commit felony to wit: Treason and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 37(2), of the criminal code, Cap C38, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2004. “… on same date and time did without lawful authority VISIT: Enugu State governor, Rt.Hon.Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (7th left), flanked by members of demonstrate and chant war song Tax Appeal Tribunal, Enugu, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Enugu, yesterday. that Hausa is not part of Biafra, Photo: Govt. House, Enugu which caused panic in the neighbourhood, instilled fear on Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2004.” provided security for the be charged to court. reasonable grounds with intent to They were not allowed to take plea.

Tuesday, Judtice Onunwo, who protesters, intimidate or cause panic within the but they were all represented by spoke to the Vanguard on wondering why a handful state and thereby committed an offence different counsels. the development at the of persons would be punishable under section 37(1) of the Chief Magistrate Andrew-Jaja said court , said those arrested arrested and charged to criminal code, Cap c38 laws of the that though there were arguments from were innocent. court over the protest..

Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2004. various counsels to grant them bail, he According to him, Police “…all the suspects and others now at was not convinced. So, he ordered that large on the same place and time, did they be remanded in prison custody till wilfully and unlawfully damage the October 27 when each of the counsels Nigeria flag, which was hoisted at will address the court on their bail Zenith Bank Plc. Ikoku Branch in Port application.

Harcourt, and thereby committed an State counsel, Ayo A. Ajaghe, who EANTIME, THE said it was unfortunate offence punishable under section 451 prosecuted the case argued against media aide of that the party would make of criminal code, Cap c38 laws of the their bail applications, saying that the Rivers State governor, such unsubstantiated magistrate's court lacked Mr. Simeon Nwakaudu allegations. powers to hear the matter. and the All Progressives He said it was an According to the counsel, Congress, APC , in the indication of a drowning the offence for which they state have been engaged party that had lost were charged was in hot exchange of words relevance in the state. treasonable and attracts over the protest by IPOB. He said the allegation capital punishment if While the APC in a by the APC showed that convicted. statement by its state the party allegedly had He said they should not Publicity Secretary, Mr. questions to answer on be allowed to go because Chris Finebone accused the protest, stressing that they were allegedly the state government of the state government had moving to tear the country sponsoring the protest in no hand in the protest. apart. the state,using media “It is rather unfortunate Vanguard gathered that aide to the governor, Mr. that the Rivers State APC another batch of 24 persons Nwakaudu to mobilise the has descended to an all were brought to the state protesters, allegedly from time low in their lack of CID for similar offence. It neighbouring states, decent political is not clear when they will Nwakaudu on his part engagement by introducing ethnicity into their false allegations.

"The leadership of HE MAGISTRATE'S Service, DSS, Tuesday, also Rivers State APC Court,Wuse 11, denied the leader of deserves our sympathy sitting in Abuja, has IPOD lawyer access to his and help as they are refused to release Nnamdi client despite subsisting suffering from acute Kanu, Radio Biafra Director court order allowing him political rejection as he is yet to meet the bail access to his lawyer and syndrome. conditions. physician.

"They have been In a telephone interview, According to IPOD’s deserted by the people yesterday, his lawyer, Mr. lawyer, Mr. Egechukwu and the entire nation is Egechukwu Obetta, told Obetta, ”the filing of paper aware that they are neckVanguard that ,” he has not work in line with his been been released." bail condition is in deep in corruption and subversive politics.

The Department of State progress.

APC exchanges hot words with Rivers gov's media aide

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....Bail conditions not met

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22`— —17 “T[he]…passiveness of the media regulator, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to challenge…bias and effectively regulate the broadcast media is not fully consistent with regulatory framework for the elections or international standards requiring the state controlled media to ensure fair and equitable access by contesting parties” – European Union Election Observation Mission

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AST week in Abuja, the European Union’s chief election observer for the 2015 Nigerian elections, Santiago Fisas, released the Final Report of the European Union Election Observation Mission. The 58page report touched on several issues that were relevant to what, arguably, was the most important elections held in Nigeria, since the 1999 transition to civil rule.

The stakes were very high indeed and as the report pointed out: “the campaigning environment was extremely competitive and tense. Incidents were reported in all parts of the country resulting in more than 160 people killed in electionrelated violence…” Furthermore: “issue-based campaigning was overshadowed by negative tactics, with increasing use of inflammatory language, hate speech and religious, ethnic and sectional sentiments and appeals” [Pg. 5]. On the place of the media in the elections, the EU report stated that “the steady growth of private outlets and use of social media contributes to a pluralistic media environment overall”, even when the broadcast media continues to be dominated by federal and state governmentcontrolled media “which primarily serve incumbents’ interest”.

State-owned broadcaster On that point of the state-owned broadcaster, the EU mission monitored the NTA and FRCN, the broadcasters with the widest coverage and the report stated clearly that: “both provided extensive exposure of PDP and its officials (the President and Federal Government). On NTA news, coverage of PDP and its officials totaled 84%, which contrasted with APC’s 11%.

A similar pattern was identified in FRCN’s news, and in NTA’s editorial programmes. More extreme uneven coverage was identified in some state-controlled radio stations, with over 95% of airtime allocated to incumbent governors seeking re-election.

Advantage over opponents: Thus federal and state government controlled media gave incumbents clear advantage over their opponents”[Pg. 5]. The EU EOM’s quantitative analyses of the NTA and FRCN showed that they were clearly biased in favour of the PDP and the incumbent government: “of the overall prime-time news coverage dedicated to presidential candidates, NTA and FRCN allocated to President Jonathan 85% and 77%, respectively.

Inequalities were even more apparent in other NTA primeC M Y K

NBC and NTA: Regulator and broadcaster in the 2015 elections time programmes that almost exclusively covered only the ruling party, incumbent president and government, merging formal official functions with campaigning” [Pg. 24-25]. The report also exposed the crude bias of the private broadcaster AIT, which was part of the NBC-NTA triangle of very vile propaganda, against the opposition but especially the opposition presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari. And this is the heart of the matter!

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), is the regulatory body for Nigerian broadcasting and by law, is expected to ensure that broadcast organisations strictly adhere to standards of objectivity and professional ethics in their electoral and other outputs. But in the lead to the 2015 elections, NBC became partisan and was therefore unable to regulate, enforce the rule or sanction offenders like AIT, because the Director-General of NBC himself, Emeka Mba, was a staunch supporter of President Goodluck Jonathan. He laboured under the delusion that he had presidential cover and was under the wings of Jonathan’s SGF, Pius Anyim as well as being very close to the Diezani Allison-Maduekwe.

Genuine public service broadcasters: Against this backdrop, NBC lost focus and became very much part of the problem. Similarly, Nigeria has not been able to position the NTA and FRCN as genuine public service broadcasters, in the tradition of the BBC, SABC or CBC. In those traditions, the public service broadcaster is dedicated to the national good, and is not operated as the propaganda mouthpiece of the regime or administration in power. In the Nigerian setting, the appointment of the leadership of these organisations takes place in a context that obliges them by

It is heartening to note that the EU EOM report noticed the fact that: ‘Positively, some private media provided overall balanced and fair coverage of key contesting parties'

tradition and practice, to operate a groveling tendency of servitude.

The activities of the president and his wife become the most important items of day-to-day news, while in the election season the stations are turned into handmaidens of the electoral interests of the incumbent leader and his political party.

In a season of change, Nigeria has very vital decisions to make about the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the NTA and FRCN. The NBC’s leadership today is very much part of the baggage of the Jonathan period and that brings into sharp focus the need to shield

the institution from the type of crude partisanship exhibited in the lead to the 2015 elections.

NBC should play its regulatory role; able to hold broadcasters to their obligations as well as being able to sanction violators of the Nigerian Broadcasting Code as they relate to election coverage.

That means that the DirectorGeneral of the NBC must never be part of the media team of the incumbent president or become so obviously biased in favour of an incumbent. As the EU EOM report clearly showed, NBC’s “passiveness” handicapped its ability to “challenge…bias” and

it could not “effectively regulate the broadcast media” during the last elections. Similarly, a decision has to be made about running the NTA and the FRCN as genuine public service broadcasters dedicated to the best interests of Nigeria through a firm fidelity to the best professional practices that eliminate crude partisanship in favour of incumbent administrations. A government committed to positive change in the way Nigeria is run must have a serious interest in placing these national institutions on the very best footing possible. As we saw in the 2015 elections and even before, these media outfits’ partisan coverage makes it difficult for them to have any real credibility with the Nigerian people. That can be changed for the better. It is heartening to note that the EU EOM report noticed the fact that: “Positively, some private media provided overall balanced and fair coverage of key contesting parties” [Pg.6].

Nigerians are in debt to media outfits that stood for democratic consolidation and accurate reportage of elections which, in the final analysis, led to the peaceful transfer of power in our country.

Borno enters post-insurgency reconstruction mode

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AST Saturday, Kashim Shettima, the Borno state governor, went on an inspection tour of Auno, Jakana and Beni Sheikh. These are communities on the Maiduguri-Damaturu highway, where the Borno state government commenced the rehabilitation of communities and the reconstruction of infrastructural facilities that were destroyed, burnt or vandalised by the Boko Haram insurgency.

Some of the projects inspected included primary health care centres and staff quarters for doctors, nurses and other health workers; rebuilt and modernised primary schools; the residence of the district head; a central mosque; a general hospital; a local council secretariat that was being reconstructed; magistrate’s court; an office complex for the Federal Road Safety Commission; an upper area court; divisional police headquarters, even boreholes. In all, a total of sixteen project sites were visited in the Kaga local government area of Borno. And that area was chosen for the first phase of a reconstruction process in liberated and reclaimed communities of Borno state. The next phase of the reconstruction process will be taken to Bama, GwozaanaAskiraUba. Last month, I was in Maiduguri and was privileged to witness a meeting the governor held with officials tasked with the mobilisation of the logistics for the reconstruction of these different communities. There were pictures tendered which showed the extent of destruction of infrastructure by the insurgents.

They went all out to vandalise and burn offices; residences and even boreholes in the communities that they occupied in the years of the insurgency. The reality is that these were communities that were underdeveloped in the first

place and which the insurgency had consciously vandalised and tried almost successfully, to return to the Stone Age. That is why the commencement of reconstruction and rehabilitation of these communities has become a major step in the direction of a postinsurgency era in Borno in particular and the Northeast in general.

Time for definitive step: The Borno government has decided that given the balance of forces today, leading to the massive degradation of the insurgency as well as the commitment of the Buhari Presidency to end the insurgency by the end of the year, the time has come to take the definitive step in the area of reconstruction. To this end, thousands and thousands of blocks are being molded, with working people becoming busy in Borno in providing the vital needs to reconstruct communities and basic infrastructure to resume life in these communities.

Functional service delivery The central plan is to modernise public infrastructure; and ensure functional service delivery in sectors like healthcare delivery; water supply; education and other essentials of life and helping to bring the people rapidly to modernity. Many of these are farming communities and the government has also procured agricultural machinery and basic implements that will be used in a massive agricultural revolution that is planned to become central to the re-commencement of community life in all the areas that were destroyed by the insurgency.

I think the Borno state government has chosen a most auspicious time to begin the reconstruction of these

communities. There is a very positive environment nationally, with a government at the centre that is committed to a rapid ending of the insurgency and which is also not hostile to the Borno state government. The regional situation is also favourable, with the cobbling together of a serious regional military alliance that will close in of the insurgents from all directions to eventually flush them out.

And finally, there is an international ambience that is also very conducive to the return of peace; the Americans are introducing troops in regional countries as well as intelligence gathering capabilities that will assist the regional force just as the international community is pledging funds to assist in the rehabilitation and reconstruction process.

The end of the insurgency is very close (never mind the desperate bombings of soft targets which only underline the strategic weakness and degradation of the terror organisation) and a window of opportunity has opened for the people of Borno and the Northeast to begin to contemplate life in a post-insurgency era, with its own very unique and exacting demands. The easier part will be to rehabilitate infrastructure while the more long lasting issues will be about the people who were traumatised; those that suffered physical and emotional damage, especially women and the very young and the long term issues of de-radicalisation and reintegration of former terrorists back into communities.

Borno’s government has taken the tentative first step into the future that hopefully will be one of peace and development, but it is going to be a very long journey indeed.

18 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015 VICE President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, recently disclosed the intention of the Federal Government to set up a communication centre to provide adequate information to counter the violent propaganda of Boko Haram Islamist insurgents.

The nation’s second citizen made the disclosure when a team of American government officials led by the United States Special Envoy on CounterTer rorism Communication, Mr Rashad Hassan, visited his office at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

According to the Vice President, when the outfit is set up it will provide a platform for government information managers, clerics, civil society organisations and youth groups to interact in a positive manner to exchange information and ideas that will counter the propaganda being churned out by extremists.

There is no doubt that Boko Haram is able to lure thousands of gullible

Countering Boko Haram propaganda youths into its ranks through the use of age-old tools of war: brainwashing and propaganda. It only stands to reason that the nation should devise adequate responses to their odious mind games. Every war involves both the use of weapons to overwhelm the enemy and the deployment of packaged information to win over the minds of the populace to support the war effort.

It is one of the oddities of the war against Boko Haram that Nigeria has waited this long before realizing the need to launch a massive propaganda

campaign against the evil ideology of Boko Haram and the saboteurs providing them with support and sponsorship both within the civil populace and the security forces. This is yet another indication that the war against terror which Nigeria took up with massive deployment of soldiers from 2013 was not approached with full gusto as was the Nigerian civil war. Boko Haram, on the other hand, went into their quixotic venture without leaving any stone unturned.

Full propaganda engagement will mobilize Nigerians behind the efforts

OPINION Adopting Innoson as Nigeria's auto brand

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By Chukwudi Enekwechi

LL over the world countries are usually identified or associated with brand names of the products they manufacture. This practice has been long established in most industrialised countries, and many examples abound. For instance, Germany is synonymous with Mercedes, Volkswagen BMW and other hardware like Caterpillar. United States of America is notable as the manufacturer of Ford, Chevrolet and airplanes (Boeing). United Kingdom is known with Rolls Royce. Sweden has Volvo as its brand, while Peugeot is the brand associated with France. Apart from automobiles, there are numerous articles of trade or products that are promoted as brands for different countries.

It is worthy of note that these brands are not essentially official products of the various countries, but the mere fact that they are manufactured in those countries automatically the state provides all the necessary support for the product to thrive within and outside the country. In fact, as part of their strategic economic policy, commercial attaches of various countries in foreign embassies are mandated to use their paraphnelia of office to promote products manufactured in their home countries.

Therefore, in the spirit of the “change” agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, there is the need for the incoming ministers, mostly in trade and investment, industry and foreign affairs to design a co-ordinated blueprint that will enable

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their various ministries promote indigenous brands like INNOSON vehicles abroad. To do this, it is important that all necessary incentives are provided for the company to grow to international brands like Ford, Mercedes, Volvo and Peugeot. We must realise that INNOSON has made Nigeria proud as the first indigenous automobile manufacturer which vehicles are being exported abroad presently. As a nation, we can indeed utilise the INNOSON brand of vehicles to dominate the West African sub region and this comes with other multiplier effects.

There is no gain saying that trade has become a tool in diplomacy. This is even a historical fact if we remember the roles UAC and other multi-national companies played in the years before and after independence. It can therefore be said that the benefits derivable from such partnership between state and her indigenous companies like INNOSON are innumerable.

While the company will repatriate foreign exchange to the country from its sales abroad, the image of the country will also be boosted as other countries will easily give credit to the country were the products originated from.

INNOSON has employed over 15,000 Nigerians

Also, government and the people will reap from the numerous job opportunities that will result from the productive activities of INNOSON. The need to urgently set machinery in motion towards realising this objective of adopting INNOSON as Nigeria’s official auto brand cannot be over emphasised. With our dwindling oil fortunes and the federal government avowed commitment towards the diversification of the nation’s economy, one sector that ought to be supported fully, apart from mining and agriculture is the automotive industry. Apart from the direct jobs this sector is capable of creating for our teeming youths, the multiplier effects such as the supply of spare parts, rubber, plastics and other ancillary industries will greatly impact on the nation’s economy positively.

Additionally, by kick starting and giving full support to companies like INNOSON, Nigeria will position herself as an industrial hub in West Africa, and the entire African continent as a whole. It is possible and all that is required is a strong political will to achieve it.

There is no doubt that our over reliance on oil as the major source of revenue has retarded out progress, and put the nation’s economy at risk, especially in the light of current global oil glut. The good news however, is that as a nation we have companies like INNOSON that have over the years invested billions of dollars in the nation despite obvious challenges such as in epileptic power supply and lack of adequate infrastructure.

This approach goes to show that such investors have abiding faith in the growth and

of the Federal Government to overcome the insurgents. It will also expose the evil of Boko Haram ideology and whip up total citizen commitment towards bringing it to an early end and preventing a future resurgence.

But propaganda alone cannot keep insurgency and extremism at bay. The increasing loss of confidence of sections of the Nigerian population on the state and the system’s ability to look after their welfare, provide them with adequate security, guarantee their freedom as distinct groups and assure them justice and equity must be looked into. These are the roots of not just Boko Haram insurgency but also other separatist agitations now rearing their heads, especially in the South.

No amount of counter-propaganda will instill abiding faith of Nigerians in their country until the system is reformed to make Nigeria a happier place for ALL its citizens.

development of the nation. It must be acknowledged that the only way to sustain investors' confidence in our economy is for government at all levels to provide the enabling environment and necessary incentives for companies such as INNOSON. With the huge number of unemployed graduates in the country, only a boisterous private sector can help government curb the scourge of unemployment. If we use INNOSON which has employed over 15,000 Nigerians in their company as a barometer to gauge how impactful the private sector will help the growth of the country’s economy, it immediately demonstrates that if government support is increased, it will lead to expansion on the part of the companies.

Therefore, as the new ministers settle in, it is expected that they will collectively help to fastrack the vision of President Buhari to lift Nigeria from the abyss of unemployment, hunger and want by supporting indigenous auto motor companies like INNOSON in their industrialisation drive.

It is gratifying that INNOSON has already expanded the frontiers of its operations to other West African countries and the only way this can be sustained is through government patronage.

In fact, a policy should be enacted to make it mandatory for all government ministries, departments and agencies to buy only made in Nigeria vehicles, such as INNOSON. Once this is done, it will serve as an elixir for them to redouble their efforts at factory expansion, and this no doubt comes *Mr. Enekwechi, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Abuja.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 22,, 2015— 19 Send Opinions & Letters to: opinions1234@yahoo.com

EK’s Brutus cut

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HIEF Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, the self-styled Ijaw leader is one of those I describe as “Nigeria’s surviving problematic elders”. Others in his group include Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Professor Ango Abdullahi and the rest. These elders won’t allow this nation and its people be in peace.

They are always raking the muck instead of staying home to watch TV and play with their great-grand children.

EK has said a lot in the past fifteen years. When he clocked 86 in 2013, he loudly declared that at his age he was free to say whatever he liked.

In an article here, I advised that it was now that he was 86 that he should stop saying anything he liked. I never knew the day would come when he would turn his buccal ammunition on his own self-adopted “son”, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. Even I was shocked when the 88 year-old, who prides himself as a “speaker of the truth”, granted an interview recently and joined in the chorus of calling Jonathan’s government “corrupt”.

He said even drivers became very wealthy and lived in palatial mansions.

Jonathan’s government was well branded as being a bit loose in its attitude to corruption. But for EK, a man who was in the centre of gravity of the Jonathan years in power to come from the backyard after GEJ lost power to join the lynch mob in casting a stone on him … I call it the “Judas cut”. It is the height of perfidious treachery by a man who should be hiding his head in shame as one of those who, through their uncontrollable mouth diarrhoea, contributed in bringing down GEJ. Julius Caesar would exclaim: “Even thou, O Brutus!”

EK, a former Senator and Federal Commissioner for Information, bounced back from obscurity through his role in the tribal wars between the Ijaw and Itsekiri, which raged between 1998 and 2005 or so. He was a warlord for the Ijaw side. I first encountered him in December 2001, when a summit was organised to create an agenda for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Port Harcourt. Clark, ebullient and imposing as ever, loudly declared: “I am not a nationalist. I am Ijaw leader”.

Since that day, even other Ijaw leaders wilted under his stare and conceded that post to him. EK’s main weapon is that he is a powerful megaphone. He uses it effectively to shoot down his perceived enemies. He has used it against the Igbos, Yorubas, Northerners, other groups in the South-South, and now, against Jonathan. Maybe one day, he will turn his own gun on himself.

Clark was chiefly instrumental for denying former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili the chance to emerge as successor to President Olusegun Obasanjo, or at least, vice president to his successor. It was Clark who told Obasanjo that Odili was an “Igbo man” masquerading as a SouthSouth candidate. Obasanjo eventually dragged a surprised Jonathan who was running for a

It is being speculated that EK’s trumpeting of corruption in the GEJ government could be a prelude to a possible move to the new “greener pasture” watered by those he only recently took great pleasure in calling dirty names

Innocent at home, guilty abroad ERE the law of comparative abroad?

We remember James Ononefe Ibori – advantage to be fully operational, W Nigeria would have benefited convicted former Governor of Delta State, tremendously from an arrangement where its criminal cases would have been firmed out to Britain and America.

There could be no better way of resolving all those high profile cases of assassination, murder, kidnapping, treasury looting and the white-collar crimes that have been lying in our courts. There would also have been no better way for President Muhammadu Buhari to give some biting teeth to his avowed war on corruption.

As currently structured, Nigeria’s criminal justice system is ponderously frustrating; and totally skewed against the state, which appears pathetically powerless against its own laws, no thanks to the cynical manipulation of the elite.

In simple truth, Nigeria is fast becoming the safest haven for high profile crimes and big-time criminals as it readily provides the best investment climate for crooks.

And incidentally, most good things go together. So innocently had Diezani Alison-Madueke, Nigeria’s immediate past Petroleum Resources Minister, travelled to Britain to access that country’s superior health-care for her alleged cancer case; when that same country’s superior justice system picked her up on bribery and money laundering allegations. The sharp-witted ex-Minister did not also forget to ask Nigerians to do for her, that which they do best – pray for her by fire and thunder! That’s one area where we enjoy some comparative advantage.

Madam’s experience is reminiscent of a rather disturbing trend that is fast developing in Nigeria: despite recurring anti-corruption storm, foreign capitals have always provided the opening of the corruption theatre of war. Why is it that people are innocent in Nigeria but guilty

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who got his judicial reward in London for proven sleaze after a Nigerian court under Justice Marcel Awokulehin had cleared him of all charges.

The case of Diepreye Alamiesiegha followed that same trajectory. His travail started in London, where the Metropolitan Police arrested him, even as a sitting Governor of Bayelsa State in 2005 from where he reportedly jumped bail and returned to Nigeria, where a sham impeachment process hallmarked his trial and conviction. Before his death last week, the British authorities were asking for his extradition back to Britain to resume his trial.

The ongoing saga of Buruji Kashamu, who is currently a Senator from Ogun State, also started in the United States of America.

As they say in the colloquial, “Niger Delta no dey carry last”. The funds in contention in the proven sleaze involving Ibori, Alamiesiegha and the alleged one involving Alison-Madueke are all Nigerian money. The salient question is: why do we show less enthusiasm than foreign countries in the recovery of our own stolen money and in punishing the offenders?

We are not in a hurry to forget that on 23 February 2012, Albert Stanley, then 69, the former head of the US Contracting Firm of KBR, was sentenced to 30 months

The anti-graft war faces a serious paradox: Nigerians hate stealing but you dare not punish their sons and daughters engaged in it

second term as governor of Bayelsa State into the race as Umaru Yar’ Adua’s deputy.

When, as Vice President, Jonathan’s father died in 2008, it was Clark that in Otuoke told the world as Ijaw leader and Jonathan’s “father ”, that the “ war ” the Ijaw militants were waging against Nigeria in creeks was “over”. Since that day, even Jonathan started seeing him as his father whom he always consulted before taking crucial decisions.

In 2011 when Jonathan was preparing to run for president, the Igbos received another dose of Clark’s vitriol. He advised Jonathan to go into an alliance with the North, saying that Igbos had “no electoral value”. He even formed an alliance with the late Dr. Olusola Saraki’s Northern Union. But it was the Igbos that came to GEJ’s assistance because the North decided to gang up against him and produce their candidate in the person of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Igbos disqualified themselves from running for president or vice president in any political party and proceeded to give GEJ the largest block electoral mandate they ever gave anyone dead or alive. The Igbo votes proved decisive for GEJ in 2011 in that if they had given them to Atiku, GEJ would have lost.

Jonathan recognised their contributions and brought out the Nigerian army to give Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu a 5-star presidential burial to the chagrin of those other Nigerians who feel the army belongs to them alone.

Next, EK turned his guns against his former allies, the North. Clark and his younger Ijaw sidekick, Mujahid Asari Dokubo,

contributed in the total rejection of GEJ in the North in 2015 through their unrelenting barrage of insults and teasing of Northern leaders. It helped in boosting Buhari’s mass appeal in the North, and the subsequent loss of the election by GEJ. Yorubas were periodically insulted by Clark especially over the anti-resource control stance of some of their politicians and alliance with Buhari. Clark was chiefly blamed for perceived appropriation of GEJ’s presidency by the Ijaw ethnic group to the exclusion of the rest of the Niger Delta or South-South that agitated for it over the years.

Instructively, it was Jonathan’s Ijaw Bayelsans that were the first (and the only group in the South East and South-South) to massively defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) a couple of months after GEJ lost power. It is being speculated that EK’s trumpeting of corruption in the GEJ government could be a prelude to a possible move to the new “greener pasture” watered by those he only recently took great pleasure in calling dirty names.

As Jonathan’s “father” while the Otuoke lecturer was in power, Clark’s house crawled with favour seekers. He became enormously powerful, influential and wellheeled. He had Jonathan’s ears twenty four hours a day. Perhaps, he was too busy wheeling and dealing politically and otherwise to call GEJ’s attention to the fact that drivers were building palatial mansions.

I wonder what EK expects us to do with this particular piece of “truth” which he has chosen to tell only when the party was over.

imprisonment over bribes offered to N i g e r i a n officials for the award of contracts.

Between 2001 and 2004, the US Firm paid $180 million to Nigerian officials to secure $6 billion contracts for Bonny Island Liquefied Natural Gas, LNG, Project.

Apart from the term of imprisonment, Albert Stanley was also required to pay $10.8 million in restitution under the judgment, which was handed down in Houston Federal Court. Stanley pleaded guilty to violations of the Foreign Corruption Practices Act and conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. KBR and its parent body, Halliburton, also agreed to pay $579 million fine after pleading guilty to corruption charges in Nigeria.

What is most confounding is that years after the bribe givers have been languishing in jail back home, the bribe takers in Nigeria are moving about in full freedom, accumulating national merit awards and chieftaincy titles of all description.

Enter the German Firm of Siemens, AG: In 2008, Siemens agreed to pay a penalty of $1.3 billion to the US and German Authorities who accused the Firm and three subsidiaries of paying bribe money to Nigerian officials. The Germans came to Nigeria, bribed Nigerians and they are being punished in their country for doing so. Nigerians who took the bribes are here in Nigeria being rewarded. What an irony of fate!

All we are getting from the EFCC is, “We will get to the root of the scandal and prosecute whoever is found to have soiled his hands”. After all these years, we are still trying to get to the roots while the foreign governments have since uprooted

the entire tree and they have burnt the tree and its roots to fire their criminal justice system. And their engine of social justice is moving very smoothly.

The anti-graft war faces a serious paradox: Nigerians hate stealing but you dare not punish their sons and daughters engaged in it, thus lending credence to the ugly aphorism that one man’s terrorist is another’s freedom fighter.

Things get further worse when we milk ethnic emotions to justify sleaze and threaten thunder and brimstone should an accused be rightly punished.

The war against corruption is on.

Failure is not an option. There is no escaping the inevitable conclusion that a situation in which the West is leading the crusade to recover Nigeria’s stolen assets, while Nigeria watches hopelessly from the sidelines, is nauseating. Our judiciary cannot exculpate itself from the ensuing confusion and any accusation of weakness.

Still more deleterious is that situation where we are unable to account for repatriated loots. See how shamelessly the recovered Abacha loot has been re-looted over and over again? Is it not more comforting and cost-effective to leave the loot where it is rather than transferring them to bigger thieves?

We must be resolute without any regard to the perceived status of whoever is accused or the tantrums of his misguided people, including some community and religious leaders. All told, Nigeria has no choice but to totally reform its people and its criminal justice system.

20—Vanguard, Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015 — 21

Banks sack 10, 612 staff over fraud

By Emma Ujah

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EPOSIT Money Banks in the country sacked a total of 10, 612 staff over various forms of fraud last year.

The Managing Director, MD, of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC, Alh. Umaru Ibrahim, disclosed this in an address at the annual seminar for business editors and Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria, which ended in Ilorin, Kwara State, yesterday. He regretted that in spite of several measures put in place by the banks, fraud cases were on the rise in the industry, a situation which he said calls for more vigilance by banks’ managements and regulators.

His words, “Sections 35 and 36 of the NDIC Act 2006 mandate all deposit-taking financial institutions to send returns on frauds, forgeries and other financial malpractices to the corporation on a monthly basis.

said. Alhaji Ibrahim blamed the incidents on the prevalence of contract staff and weak Information and Communications Technology, ICT in the banks.

“It was also discovered that temporary staff, clerks and tellers accounted for 64 per cent of the frauds and forgeries in 2014 which required urgent attention to improve the electronic payments controls, IT security, human capital and integrity profiting, as well as, motivation of staff,”

he noted. The MD admitted that the development in the industry required urgent regulatory intervention in order to achieve the much desired financial discipline in the banking sector and to consolidate on the gains of the various reforms in the industry in line with the wave of change of the present administration.

He, however, pointed out that the understanding and support of all

stakeholders were necessary to realize the objectives of the financial inclusion strategies adopted by the regulators and operators in the nation’s banking system.

The MD said that with the level of success recorded by the e-banking platform and the mobile money payments system initiative, the industry could only strive to improve on whatever it required to make the on-going revolution a reality in Nigeria.

He charged the media to take more interests in the electronic banking and Mobile Money payments initiatives in order to actualize the banking inclusion efforts of both regulators and operators in the industry.

Incidences of fraud “They are also expected to notify the corporation on any member of staff that has been dismissed or have their appointments terminated or advised to resign or retire on grounds of financial infractions. It is worrisome to note that the banking system had continued to record very high incidences of fraud and forgeries in recent years. A total of 10, 612 of such cases were reported in 2014 as against 3, 786 cases in 2013, which showed an increase of 183 per cent.”

According to the NDIC boss, the amount involved in the 2013 fraud cases stood at N21.80 billion, which increased to N25.61 billion in 2014. Actual loss, he disclosed, rose from N5.76 billion in 2013 to N6.19 billion last year. “The types and nature of frauds and forgeries were largely web-based (on-line banking/ATM card related, fraudulent transfers/withdrawals of deposit frauds and suppression of customer deposits amongst others,” he

121.65

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45.46 CURRENCY BUYING

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DOLLAR 196 196.5 197 POUNDS 302.6828 303.455 304.2271 EURO 222.4992 223.0668 223.6344 FRANC 205.8824 206.4076 206.9328 YEN 1.6468 1.651 1. 6552 CFA 0.3218 0.3318 0.3418 WAUA 276.4495 277.1548 277.86 RENMINBI 30.8561 30.9308 31.0099 RIYAL 52.2611 52.3944 52.5277 SDR 276.7912 277.4973 278.2034 KRONA 29.8271 29.9032 30.9793 CBN Exchange Rate as at 20 /10 /15

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From left: Peter van den Hoek, Vice President, Market Development, Africa; Andrew Bailey, Managing Director, BASF West Africa; Laurent Tainturier, BASF Senior Vice President EUE - CIS, Middle East & Africa; Joan Maria Garcia Girona, Vice President and Head of Business Centre, South Africa & Sub-Sahara.

...As Jumia Nigeria fires over 200 staff •Retained staff face 20% pay cut

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By Jonah Nwokpoku

IGERIA’s online retailer, Jumia.com.ng has sacked about 200 of its staff. Vanguard gathered that the management summoned an emergency meeting of all the affected staff on Friday, October 16 and promptly dismissed them citing economic hardship and need to reduce operational cost.

Narrating how the sack was carried out, one of the affected staff who spoke on the condition of anonymity told Vanguard: “We understood that they had directed the unit managers to compile the list of all those to be fired. So on that Friday morning, all of us were summoned and asked to come out of our offices with our personal belongings.

When we came out, the Managing Director told us that things have become rough for the company because the economy is no longer favourable to them.

He said there was need for them to reduce operational cost because the business model which Jumia operates is no longer profitable. After then we were asked to go in and drop our laptop computers and leave the premises.”

“All affected members of staff are Nigerians and all those retained are expected to have their salary cut by 20 per cent,” the staff added. According to the staff, no prior notice or termination letters were handed to them. The source disclosed that the online retailer has been struggling financially since January this year up to the point of relying on one of its investors, to pay their staff’s salaries.

It was also gathered that the German owned online shop’s trouble started after its former Director of Finance,

All affected members of staff are Nigerians and all those retained are expected to have their salary cut by 20 per cent

Anupam Sharma allegedly made away with over N850 million belonging to the company in 2014. Another staff who also preferred not to be named blamed the financial trouble Jumia found itself on the financial recklessness of its managers. She told Vanguard that the company ’s managers kept hiring expatriates who get paid substantial amount but only work for a couple of months and then leave.

In addition, she said, the company is bedeviled by poor management by its expatriate managers who lack proper grasp of the complex Nigeria market.

Recall that despite over $200 million funding chest, the pioneer online retailer has yet to turn profit since launch.

Jumia.com was the first online retail shop that launched in Nigeria in 2012.

It is a subsidiary of German based internet company, Rocket Internet which also owns other e-commerce start-ups in Nigeria including, online marketplace, Kaymu.com, online vehicle marketplace, Carmudi.com, taxi hailing service, EasyTaxi.com, online property marketplace, Lamudi.com, food ordering marketplace, HelloFood.com and online hotel booking platform, Jovago.com.

22—Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

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The more work you do at the beginning of the start-up phase, the more heartache and grief you'll save in the long run

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Avoiding wastage in startups

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UILDING a start-up is like falling in love. You find the “perfect one”, you lose all sense of reason, and judgement flies out the door.

You’re likely to make mistakes.

The problem with the startup culture is this irrational blindness, and it leaves a trail of wrecked start-ups.

Everyone knows that building a start-up is tough, but many entrepreneurs are not analysing their own start-ups with enough objectivity. If you don’t want to waste your money (or life) on a failed start-up idea, then you need to ask the following questions.

If you are battle tested before the battle begins, then you are in strong shape for survival The very first thing you want to do to your start-up is try and kill it. If your start-up is going to fail, like 90 percent of start-ups do, then you want it to end earlier rather than later. When you emerge into the market, your competitors will be trying to kill you anyway.

Do unto your start-up what your competitors will do unto you. If you are battle tested before the battle begins, then you are in strong shape for survival. Try and kill the start-up. Will it die? If the answer is “no,” then put your heart into it, and do it.

Funding Do you have enough financial backing to design, build, test, and market? How far will your money take you?

Take a longview with your funding strategy.

Your capital should include a sufficient amount to take you to a comfortable point in the possibly distant future beyond the marketing phase.

Do you have a realistic capital requirement? Capital requirements are a big issue that you need to tackle early on. Ideally, you can build a scalable business with no

funding. Is there a compelling exit strategy?

Every investor wants to know how to move out of the opportunity if it starts to smell funny. As you shape your business plan, be sure to devise an exit idea for the investors. They’re going to be looking for it.

Product Is there something that distinguishes my product/ service? Why does the world need your product? If it’s not somehow different or better than the next widget, no one is going to look at it.

Do I have an innovative product/service? When smart investors look for their next project to fund, their eyes are trained to identify first movers - products that sparkle with innovation.

These are the kinds of products or services that explode into industries with unshakeable power.

Innovation may be a buzzword, but it’s still important.

Does this product/service solve a real problem?

Successful products and services solve real problems.

Market Are there strong barriers to entry? The barriers to entry are any obstacles that make it hard for a start-up to enter the market.

Start-up entrepreneurs know that the going will be tough. It’s important to consider how easy it is for others to replicate your product, mimic your idea, or steal your intellectual property.

The worst thing that can happen is to pour your life energy into an idea only to have it stolen, copied, and sold - whisking market share right from underneath your feet. Choose a niche in which the barriers to entry will form a strong defence against future competition.

Generally, the more work you do at the beginning of the start-up phase, the more heartache and grief you’ll save in the long run. It seems oddly sadistic to try to kill your own start-up - an idea that you’ve incubated and cherished for so long. Even though you’re biased in its favour, try to take a step back. Give it the cold and calculating stare, moving through each of these questions.

BUSINESS NAIRA EXCHANGE RATES (21/10/15) Currency DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

Buying(N)

Central(N)

Selling(N)

195.98

196.48

196.98

302.8479 222.5157 204.6575 1.6322 0.3207 276.4944 30.8626 52.2599 29.8218 277.1941

303.6205 223.0834 205.1796 1.6364 0.3307 277.1998 30.9418 52.3933 29.8979 277.9013

304.3932 223.6511 205.7018 1.6405 0.3407 277.9052 31.021 52.5266 29.974 278.6085

Commod Light Crud

Natural G Sugar Coffee Cocoa

Tips for succeeding in business

By Richard Branson

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AM often asked how I got to where I am, and how the Virgin brand achieved all that it has.

While, there are no shortcuts to success, certain attitudes and actions can help. Here are my top 10 tips for doing business the Virgin way: Follow your dreams You will live a much better life if you pursue your passions. People who work on the things that they love usually enjoy life more than everyone else does, simply because they are chasing their dreams.

Do some good If you aren’t making a difference in other people’s lives, you shouldn’t be in business - it’s that simple.

Companies have a

responsibility to make a difference in the world: They owe this to their community, their staff, their customers, everyone. The amazing part is that doing good is also good for business.

Believe in your ideas Give your venture everything you’ve got. A passionate commitment to your business and personal objectives can make all the difference between success and failure. If you aren’t proud of what you’re doing, why should anybody else be?

And don’t get suckered into blindly pursuing profits and growth. If you stay focused on being the best at what you do, it’s more likely that the rest will follow.

Have fun along with your team members Fun is one of the most

important - and underrated components of any successful venture. If you’re not enjoying yourself, it’s probably time to call it quits and try something else. If your employees are engaged and having fun, and they genuinely care about your customers, they will enjoy their work more and do a better job. Hire people who look for the best in others, who lavish more praise than they dole out criticism, and who genuinely love what they do.

Don’t give up On every adventure that I have undertaken - whether it was setting up a business, flying around the world in a balloon or racing across an ocean in a powerboat - I have faced difficult moments when the easiest thing to do would have been to throw in the

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015 — 23

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& YOU

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Gas

COMMODITIES (21/10/15) Last 44.86

Change ($) -1.43

% Change -3.09

2.39

-0.08

-3.31

14.03

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-0.21

120.70

-4.05

-3.25

3,161.00

-41.00

-1.28

towel and walk away. But you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve by tenaciously sticking to your goals. When you fail, get back up, brush yourself off and try again.

Listen, take notes and keep setting new challenges If you don’t write down your own (and others’) spontaneous ideas, they can vanish in the blink of an eye.

So be sure to keep track of your goals: make lists. And remember to listen more and talk less. You’ll be amazed at the obstacles a listening culture can overcome.

Delegate and spend more time with your family The art of delegation is one of the key skills that entrepreneurs must master.

Be sure to “hire to your weaknesses.” Bringing on people who can do the tasks you aren’t particularly good at can free you up to plan for your company’s future.

This strategy also allows you to spend more time with your family, which is really the most important thing of all. And don’t forget to ask your family for input on your

While there are no shortcuts to success, certain attitudes and actions can help

latest big idea - like I should have done before we launched Mates condoms, for instance.

Communicate and collaborate Keep it simple, and above all else, work and play with others. Mushrooms might grow when they are kept in the dark and fed a diet of dung, but that strategy doesn’t work with people.

The Apple co-founder Steve Jobs and companies like Pixar built open work environments that invited intermingling and the sharing of visions - you need that atmosphere too.

Get out there Don’t sit in front of a screen all day. Switch everything off and venture out into the world regularly. If you’ve been neglecting this part of life, start with your own backyard, then expand your field of vision.

With so many fascinating people to meet, exciting adventures to embark upon and rewarding challenges to undertake, there’s no time to lose. As the saying goes, life isn’t a dress rehearsal.

Do what you love As long as you are surrounded by the people you love and you’re doing what you love, it really doesn’t matter where you live or how much money you make.

When we are on Necker Island, my family tends to spend most of our time in the kitchen together. If you have a roof over your head and a partner you love, you really don’t need too much more. *Branson, founder of Virgin Group, contributed this piece on Entrepreneur.com

Discovering the right opportunity at the right time will lead to the growth of one's business

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Discovering growth opportunities in your organisation “If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking”...George Patton

R

egardless of the industry we play, at one time or the other, we may have asked this pertinent question: how can we discover more opportunities for business growth? That question goes to show that organisations are looking for one opportunity or the other to improve their results.

In reality growth opportunities are not magical; they abound in the things we see every day, things we discuss about and things we do. Interestingly, we all live in the same environment, see what everyone sees, hear about the needs of people the same way others do. As an organisation, your ability to think and act differently what others have seen from a ‘generalised perspective’ should be your focus and that is where opportunities for growth stem from.

Discovering the right opportunity at the right time will lead to the growth of one’s business. What will fuel the discovery is one’s ability to think differently.

Discovering of opportunities So the key question to ask is: is your organisation ready to discover opportunities others would have seen but were not able to see it as one due to their limited way of thinking? Like Albert Szent-Gyorgyi said “Discovery consists of seeing what everybody has seen and thinking what nobody else has thought”.

This is true and it gives a competitive edge. SzentGyorgyi was simply encouraging individuals and organisations not to join the bandwagon and conform to what everyone else is doing but rather to sit back and think of how to do things differently.

Remarkable results always come when an organisation stands out from the crowd and not conforming to their old ways of doing things.

Interestingly, we have countless areas of opportunities in and around us. When we see or hear about a customer

BY ‘UJU ONWUZULIKE

In reality growth opportunities are not magical; they abound in things we see every day being treated poorly, processes being too cumbersome, approvals taking longer time than necessary, heavy bureaucracy, lack of customer feedback system, lack of employee welfare, etc., what comes to our mind?

Someone might see it as mere problems that will fizzle out with time, another will see it as a time to sit back, think and do things differently for his or her own organisation. The later is more positioned for growth.

Truly, leaders have a major role to play in helping their organisations stand out.

They are also expected to build more of future businesses for their organisations and concentrate less on day today managing of the businesses.

But having leaders that will help their organisations stand out and to also build future business may not be possible without a commitment to be more strategic. They must be committed to be more strategic in both their thinking and their actions.

Apart from the leaders, the collective employees must also learn how to be more strategic

in their thinking and actions.

Naturally people were not born strategic thinkers; we were born with our ‘biological thinking’. This is why often times we hear bosses telling their subordinates to be more strategic.

Any time I hear such comment, I always pause to ask myself: how will they become strategic if they have not been taught? Strategic thinking is a broader, disciplined and more innovative way of thinking and is being learnt as a skill.

One major barrier that will always come in the way of discovering new opportunities for the organisation is the silo mentality. This happens when individuals or certain units/ departments in an organisation decide not to share useful information or collaborate with others in the same organisation.

Business growth Apart from hampering new opportunities, it affects productivity, reduces efficiency and employees’ morale and at the end of the day the organisation suffers. There is no way an individual or unit with such a silo mentality will proffer any opportunity for business growth.

T r a d i t i o n a l l y , organisations have encouraged analytical way of thinking, where the parts(including some units/ departments) are primary and the whole (the entire organisation) is secondary.

Silo mentality festers because people in the workplace are jostling for resources, recognition and approval at the expense of others and the entire organisation. But really, forward looking organisations have moved from analytical way of thinking to systems thinking – where the whole (the entire organisation or country) is primary and the parts secondary.

Importantly, in systems thinking, cross functional teamwork is encouraged and this is where discoveries for opportunities are hatched.

There is no ‘either/or’ solution to discovering new opportunities but so many ways.

C M Y K

24 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

TSA’ll boost economy —Okonta

By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

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CHARTERED Accountant and former Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, Chief Fred Okonta, has applauded the presidency for the bold initiative of implementing the Treasury Single Account, TSA which according to him would boost the economy.

He made this known at a seminar in Abuja with the theme: “Effective Public Financial Management System: The way forward.”

According to Okonta, “The Treasury Single Account will encourage most of the banks to resort to their traditional role of core banking and this will create the enabling environment for SME’s to thrive thereby boosting the Nigerian Economy in the long run.” He also stated that the Federal Government should sustain the plugging of all possible revenue leakages with a view to enhancing Government revenue profile and then advised that possible savings from these efforts should be utilised to SIGNING - From left: Head, Quality Assurance, Slimtrader,Yemi Adegoke, Founder, Chief Executive Officer, reposition the power sub-sector and non-oil exports.

SlimTrader, Femi Akinde, Chief Marketing Officer, Interswitch, Cherry Eromosele, Group Managing Director, He said: “The Treasury Single Account will not Interswitch, Mitchell Elegbe and Chief Strategy Officer, Interswitch, Jonah Adams, during the $1million invest- lead to distress in the banking subsector as public ment agreement signing between Interswitch and Slimtrader in Lagos. sector funds which were affected by the new policy constitute less than 10 per cent of total bank deposit in the Nigeria economy.”

According to the financial expert, the bankers committee has also underscored this point by stating that the banking industry has remained strong after banks’ compliance with the TSA directive which lapsed on September 15th, 2015.

She noted that while the country any type of electronic channels to

By Babajide Komolafe has recorded some progress provide financial services.

HE number of adults in “For e-banking technologies to towards its financial inclusion Nigeria with access to be successful, she stated, goal, there is more work to be financial services has increased “financial institutions must done. She said among other to 60.5 percent from 53.7 percent consider several critical factors things, the federal government CONOMIC experts and investors will in three years. including: Understanding the and stakeholders should; create gather next week for the annual investors’ Head, Financial Inclusion customers’ needs; organisational and sustain enabling conference of FBN Capital to examine how to reSecretariat, Central Bank of flexibility; availability of resources, environment via good policies, for invent the Nigerian economy.

Nigeria (CBN), Mrs Temitope systems security; having multiple innovative technologies to cater According to a statement by FBN Capital, the Akin-Fadeyi disclosed this in integrated channels; e-channels to the unbanked; harmonise theme of this year’s event is “Reinventing the Ilorin, Kwara State, at the annual specific marketing; systems identity schemes; enhance Nigerian Economy: Beyond the Rhetoric”. seminar for business editors and integration, support from top financial capability of citizens; and The event will feature a number of leading Finance Correspondents management and; good customer expand digital channels for economists and business personalities, including Association of Nigeria (FICAN) services.” financial services.

Daniel Altman, former economic advisor to the organised by the Nigeria Deposit British government and creator of the Baseline Insurance Corporation (NDIC).

Profitability Index (a global tool for assessing the Speaking on the progress made attractiveness of investing in markets around the since 2012 when the CBN world); and Jonathan Berman, a proven strategic launched the National Financial advisor to numerous global Fortune 500 companies Inclusion Strategy, she said that on entry and operations in emerging and frontier the percentage of adult

By Emma Ujah in Ilorin He said that analysis of reported markets. Also headlining the event will be Mr. population without access to fraud cases in 2014 indicated that Point Bismarck Rewane, CEO, Financial Derivatives YBER hackers have been financial services have reduced of Sales Automated Teller Machines Company Limited; Dr. Ayo Teriba, CEO, Economic identified as a major challenge from 46.3 percent in 2012 to 39.5 and mobile banking were the major Associates; and Ms. Barbara Barungi, Lead facing e-banking in the country. percent this year. The National avenues by which cyber criminals Economist, African Development Bank.

Speaking at the 2015 Annual Seminar Financial Inclusion Strategy is defrauded banks and their customers.

According to Mr. Kayode Akinkugbe, the organized by the Nigeria Deposit aimed at reducing the percentage “The success rate of attempted Managing Director of FBN Capital, “Over the last of adult population without access Insurance Corporation, NDIC, in Ilorin, fraudulent transactions rose from a four years, we have examined key aspects of Kwara state, Mr. Ibrahim Shazali of the to financial services to 20 percent Nigeria’s economic development and our attempt Bank Fraud Section of the Economic and mere 3 per cent to 80 per cent in the by year 2020. space of one year,” Mr. Shazali to transition to a regional economic power house.

Financial Crimes Commission described In a paper presentation titled, disclosed , adding that the monetary This year, we will consider how Nigeria can truly “E-Banking and Financial hackers as organized criminals that daily value of from N485 million in 2013 to re-invent itself and capitalize on the momentum of work towards attacking banks’ data Inclusion”, Akin-Fadeyi stated N6.2 billion. its current political transformation.” systems. that, “financial inclusion is He however said that the amount The conference will take a deep-dive into the “Nigeria as a developing country is achieved when adult Nigerians was less than one per cent of the total Nigerian economy to examine how the new have easy access to a broad range particularly exposed as we are in an volume of successful –e-banking administration can respond to the fiscal challenges emerging economy experiencing rapid of formal financial services that transactions in the period under of the nation, the key reforms that have to be tackled meet their needs at an affordable economic growth while simultaneously review. drawing from the successes of similar frontier and dealing with underdeveloped IT and cost”, adding that, “financial The EFCC chief noted that the emerging countries, and the reality of the Nigerian inclusion enables underserved legal infrastructure. This creates two problem of cyber crime was not growth opportunity within the context of the current major problems for Nigerian banks: they people and communities to have peculiar to Nigeria and that banks only operating environment. An evaluation of the are highly susceptible to electronic attacks access to financial services that needed to be more proactive in central bank’s monetary policies and their and they do not have the necessary legal would: enhance their economic protecting their systems from hackers effectiveness in a weaker global macro environment opportunities; boost productivity protection to deter and prosecute and ensure due diligence on will also be explored, as well as the new roles the offenders,” he said. in various sectors and contribute applicants before employing them. private and public sectors can play in providing According to the EFCC officer, hackers to economic development.”

The measure he said was very critical financing solutions for growth. have even created websites where She said that electronic banking because, according to him, hackers In September, FBN Capital was recognized as (e-banking) is key to financial criminals can go and learn how to hack usually operate as syndicates and the 2015 Best Africa Investment Bank by the Africa into the data of other organizations and inclusion as it encourages could go to the extent of sponsoring Investor Group. The firm has also received the innovation in delivery of financial that the situation was so bad that when the employment of their members in award for Best Investment Bank in Nigeria 2015 some successfully hack into the cyber products/services to otherwise order to steal the highly technical and

by Global Finance Magazine for the fourth financially excluded populations. systems of a bank they would share confidential information necessary to consecutive year, and the World Finance Banking information with other criminals to The concept of e-banking, she access the bank’s cyber systems.

Award for the Best Investment Bank in Nigeria defraud the affected banks. noted, “is derived from the use of 2014.

Adults with access to financial services now 60.5%

FBN Capital investors’ confab discusses re-inventing Nigeria’s economy

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Hackers are headaches to e-banking —EFCC chief

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Vanguard, THURSDAY,

CONFERENCE: From left; Prof. Udi Ojiakor, British University of Dubai; Engr. Dayo Oladebeye, Deputy Rector, Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti; Mrs Olufunke Ige, Registrar Lagos State Polytechnic; Mr Bamidele Ezekiel, Deputy Rector, Federal Polytechnic Ado Ekiti; Mr Folorunso Ogunsan, Head, International Relations and Partnerships, Executive Trainers and Mr Odubo Tonbra, Registrar, Niger Delta University at an ongoing Higher Education Conference organized by Executive Trainers in Dubai UAE.

Why Nigerian students patronise foreign schools

By Dayo Adesulu

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HE number of Nigerians who go abroad for studies is on the rise. The trend is visible at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels and the destinations are varied and diverse. United Kingdom, United States of America and Canada are the most popular choices.

However, students are also opting for Central and Eastern Europe where they believe tuition fees and living costs are low. Besides, with the proliferation of United States and United Kingdom university branch campuses in the Middle East, Asia, Ghana and South African, Nigerian students see it as best alternatives.

Annually, Ghana alone, gets N160 billion of Nigerian students’ funds, while Nigerians spend over N80 billion on education in the United Kingdom. For example, in 2014, about 75,000 Nigerians were said to be studying in Ghana, paying about US$1 billion annually as tuition fees and upkeep, as against the annual budget of US$751 million for all federal universities. The amount was about 70 per cent of

ESUT disowns illegal Gboko campus PG. 27 C M Y K

the total allocation in 2008 to all federal universities.

In 2011, there were 17,585 Nigerians studying in UK universities, about 1,000 more than the 16,680 registered in the 2009/10 academic session, making Nigeria’s student population the third largest from non-European Union countries, trailing 39,090 recorded for India and 67,325 for China, according to statistics provided by UK Council for International Student

Affairs.

According to statistics from the British Council, since 2002, the number of Nigerians being educated in the UK increased by over 75 per cent. That number was generated in 2006 and so it can be expected that the percentage is higher given the

S

Harnessing waste mngt value chain can increase revenue — Idowu PG. 29

—25

Government spent more than N900 million to sponsor 150 students abroad last year; nearly 10 per cent of the 14.14bn allocated to Nigerian universities.

Average tuition fees of some selected countries (excluding living expenses) for undergraduates are: USA $8,000; UK 19,000 pounds; Singapore $4,000; Malta $20,000; Malaysia $1,000; Ireland 6,000 Euro.

When converted to Naira, Malaysia is N130,000; UK N1.4m; US N1.04m; Malta N2.6m,etc.

In 2010, Nigerian students spent to the tune of N246 billion on UK education sector. Just as Nigerian students in 2012, spent over N1.5 trillion on students studying abroad, the Exam Ethics International, a nongovernmental organisation said.

According to the U.S. Embassy Educational Advising Center (2011), Nigeria sends more students to the United States than any other country in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria currently has over 6,500 students studying at over 733 institutions in all 50 states of the United States and the District of Columbia.

Only ten days ago, the governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike said he had within last four months paid about N1.4 billion on Rivers students studying at foreign universities on

Continues on page 26

Safety in schools: Matters arising

By Tare Youdeowei & Kelechukwu Iruoma

Nigeria sends more students to the United States than any other country in sub-Saharan Africa

continued dilapidation of the Nigerian education system. In a 2007-2008 list of countries sending students to the U.K, th Nigeria ranked 8 .

The Director of the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB), Mrs. Hindatu Abdullahi once said in 2012 that the Federal

OCTOBER 22, 2015

CHOOLS, after the home, should be a safe haven for children, students: young and old. Parents upon sending their children to school, the level regardless, expect that they return adequately educated and most importantly, in one piece, unscratched, unharmed.

Schools promise these, attach a sizeable fee to it and have parents enrol their children. Some, after inspection of the premises and others couldn’t care less. With the agreement in place the ball starts to roll.

Students, among themselves, sometimes commit petty crime, misdemeanour at the best: petty theft, battery, bullying etc. which are prevalent in primary and secondary schools. Public schools, be they federal or state owned, have higher incidents of these crimes for reasons beyond the scope of this particular story.

Tertiary institutions on the other hand have, in addition to the earlier mentioned petty crimes, rape,assault and killings. The

latter usually related to cultism.

Lending credence to this is Chief Security officer, CSO, of University of Nigeria, Nsukka Campus, Mr. John Eke, who stated, in an interview that: “some of the crimes committed by students on campus include: rape, stealing in hostels and lodges, fighting, among others.”

These might seem like trivial issues that are few and far between but it would be recalled that on April 14-15 2014. Over 200 girls were abducted from Government Secondary School, Chibok,while boys were hacked to death. Till date some have not been seen, those released or rescued tell of the horrid things that transpired.

Focus on safe schools Safe schools are a human security issue and in the words of Prof. Peter Okebukola, former Executive Secretary Nigeria Universities Commission and Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Governing Council of Crawford University, no safe schools, no

future for the world. He provides three compelling reasons for asserting a focus on safe schools.

“There are at least three compelling reasons for asserting a focus on safe schools. Without safe schools, our dream of harnessing the power of education for achieving goals in health, food , employment, environmental, energy, security, among a miscellany of other subsets of human security will come to nought. Without safe schools, Education for All will remain a pipe dream so also attainment of post-2015 global development goals. Without safe schools, quality education yearned by all countries of the world will be hindered. The terminal point of the logic is:no safe schools and no future for the world.”

Here, Vanguard Learning comes in. One of the most important promises made by schools is safety of the children, students, while they are in the school or within a stipulated set of hours. The issues are; are

Continues on page 26

26—Vanguard, THURSDAY,

OCTOBER 22, 2015

Why Nigerian students patronise foreign schools Continues from page 25

VISIT: From left; Mr Laolu Oguntuyi, Director Technical and Vocational Services, Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board(LASTVEB); Mr. Peter Anyim, Special Adviser to the governor of Kaduna State on Vocational Training and Skills Acquisition; Engr Olawumi Gasper, Executive Secretary LASTVEB, and Dr. Young Usen, consultant on vocational matters during a courtesy visit to LASTVEB.

Safety in schools: Matters arising Continues from page 25 these promises being kept? Are schools safe? Are there basic measures put in place by schools to steam and if the need arises, bring under control, attack from terrorists, hoodlums, thieves, etc.? And most worrisome, why do schools not benefit from public security, policed, like courts, government houses/ offices?

Addressing schools and public security, schools being policed, Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Police Command, DSP Joe Offor, explained; “Security is not only when you see a policeman in uniform. Every place you have human beings in the country is policed seriously. At times you may not see the presence of the officers but if unruly actions are about to take place, officers will surface.

Capital offences In courts the presence of police is not just for security but also a symbol of authority, a forewarning to people present to keep them from misbehaving.

Judges and magistrates are policed in Nigeria and all over the world because they mostly handle capital offences. The accused sometimes try to threaten the judges, as such there is a Judges Protection Unit.

“Public schools in Nigeria are equally policed. They cannot be tampered with. The difference is that children, psychologically, cannot handle police presence, that is uniformed police. They will be constantly distracted. As such, we do not send uniformed police to primary and secondary schools. That does not mean the area is without security or is not policed.

“Higher institutions do not have children. The students in higher institutions are generally adults or youths. I do not know of any higher institution that would admit anyone less than 15 or 16 years of age. Being that students in higher institutions are generally adults, they can engage in activities that are

prejudicial to their colleagues, that may undermine the security of their colleges. Whenever a member of the institution has a run-in with the law, the police comes in through the institution’s security department. There is no university that does not have a security unit. Universities have security units and porters posts occupied by police officers only.”

On the part of private schools, their measures in making schools safe and keeping their part of the bargain Mr. Ebuka Ughamadu, Director, Caro Favoured Schools, a primary and secondary school in Awodi-Ora, Lagos, disclosed that; “Our head of security, who is in his mid 40s, is a trained security personnel who was a contract staff with a security outfit. For a permanent arrangement we hired him. He has staff that work with him.

Nevertheless, security is for everybody, it is everybody’s concern. Not because we have trained guards that we would rest our oars. It is a thing that everyone needs to be involved.

The teachers and students are continually being educated on security. We have gone as far as teaching the learners Security Studies, getting them informed about the society at large, what they need to do when faced with certain security challenges. In as much as no one is perfect, we are continually working towards keeping the place safe.”

For Tertiary institutions, CSO Eke of UNN, enthused; “We face a lot of challenges in ensuring that the university community remains serene. Normally, security is a complex issue. In any environment, especially in a university community. Lack of

We are teaching the learners Security Studies, getting them informed about the society at large

necessary resources is a big challenge to the security officers in school. It makes it difficulty to combat crime. Not all the universities have security equipment. There are so many things that we need to do but we don’t have the equipment to implement the tasks effectively.

“Schools do not have security posts, what we have is security department. Security is quite different from what we have now.

We had a security post, like a police station before, but there was a riot which made the school close it. What we have now is security department.”

On creating a police station on the university campus, CSO Eke said, it would be a good idea, but however noted that it could also be a problem. “We have ways and strategies in which we handle students. The police use force, which is not good. That was one reason why the police station was closed down because of the way students were harassed.

Nevertheless, Members of State Anti Robbery Squad, NSCDC and the police usually parade round the school campus, at night especially.”

Constant policing Following the words of Mr Ughamadu, which have been generally accepted as the truth, security is everybody’s concern.

In this light, even though areas are constantly policed, as provided by DSP Offor, the onus is on every school to augment security within its walls.

The cost of getting a trained security personnel from the average security outfit ranges from N30,000 to N50,000, depending of the educational qualification of the officer.

Prof Okebukola proffered measures that schools can individually take to help themselves augment public security in his article, Safety against extremist individuals, groups; Doing what is Right; “Physical screening of the perimeter of the school against intruders with installed and functioning CCTV coverage.

government scholarships. A member of the British Parliament, Mr. Iain Stewart, three years ago predicted that there will be nearly 30,000 Nigerian students in the UK by 2015, and this accounts for seven per cent of the total UK university population.

Nigerian students are extremely coveted by the English educational system because they not only bring in billions, but the students apparently do very well, meaning very good business for the U.K. which sells its educational system not just in Nigeria, but across the world.

Despite the huge cost of schooling abroad, more Nigerians are joining the quest to acquire foreign education with reasons ranging from a higher standard of education, to job opportunities, and a higher standard of living.

The increase in the number of students travelling abroad had initially been attributed to the parlous state of Nigerian universities. Obviously, there is some truth in this, considering the frequency of industrial actions, paucity of funds, dilapidated state of infrastructure and the lack of manpower in the public universities. The rapid growth in the number of private universities in Nigeria, which offer a relative measure of stability, should have stemmed the tide in the number of those going overseas to study. This has not happened, clearly indicating the presence of a broader set of drivers that are contributing to sustaining interest in foreign education.

What are the major reasons for this capital flight on students and best brains as they are likely to settle abroad after graduation.

For many stakeholders, the development could be attributed the to the decay in the country’s educational sector and the incessant strikes which had disrupted schools’ calendar.

Lack of admission space: Every year about 1.5 million school leavers sit for compulsory entrance examinations into 150 public and private universities whose approved carrying capacity is 600,000 students.

Source: World University News.

Personal motivation is also a key consideration. For some, it is a means to enhance their career prospects at home; for others, a route to starting a new life abroad. In the first scenario, it does appear that the companies who offer top paying jobs in Nigeria have a preference for holders of foreign degrees.

Indeed, such companies regularly attend job fairs in Europe and North America, hunting for Nigerians who studied abroad, to come and work in Nigeria. This trend may well continue as more international firms are seeking investment opportunities in emerging economies such as

Nigeria, as growth in the advanced economies remain slow. This can only motivate more individuals to seek that extra edge which will give them a fighting chance for the best jobs.

The UK post study work permit was an attraction for many international students. The law has now been amended by the UK government but that has not caused a substantial reduction in the number of Nigerian students travelling to the UK for higher education, though it appears to have had a more significant impact in India. Canada and Australia are recent examples of countries that are now using such post study work permits to promote their countries as study destinations, and there already is growing interest in those destinations.

Isaac Oghenekaro, who recently embarked on his second degree at the University of Exeter said: “The primary motivation for going abroad for my second degree, was to get more specialist knowledge in my field of study.

With London being one of the top financial centres in the world, it offers me a unique opportunity

UK schools are well funded, they have better facilities and their teaching method is superior to what we have in Nigeria to learn more about finance in a very practical manner.”

Jessica Abdukareem who had her three degrees abroad said that the prior motivation was because her parents wanted her to do so. However, she realised as her educational career progressed that: “Classes are much smaller, Very focused on real world application and networking, and education here is much more expensive.”

Citing better teaching method as her reason for wanting to study in the UK, Stella Effiong said: “I want to further my education in the UK because their schools are well funded, they have better facilities and their teaching method is superior to what we have in Nigeria. Schools in Nigeria can be at par with UK schools if only they are well funded and adequately equipped.”

Steve Ndubueze isn’t satisfied with the standard of education in Nigeria and prefers to study in the UK for better understanding of her course. of study so as to increase her chances of becoming successful in life.

Vanguard, THURSDAY,

OCTOBER 22, 2015 — 27

Four UNILAG students bag national honours

By Elizabeth Uwandu

V

EXHIBITION: From left; Mr. Afolabi Imoukhuede, Chief Executive Officer, SkillUp TVET Limited, Engr Mansur Ahmed, Group Executive Director, Dangote Group, Mrs. Olusola Oworu (Representative of Babatunde Fashola, Former Governor, Lagos State), Eric Ogbugo, Overall Best Graduating Student (2015) and Mr. Adebola Williams, Co-founder, Red Media Africa at the 2015 SkillUp Academy Graduation Ceremony held at LCCI Conference and Exhibition Center, Ikeja, Lagos.

Fashola reiterates need for technical, entrepreneurial skills

By Dayo Adesulu

I

N a bid to inspire technical education among the Nigerian Youth of today, SkillUp TVET Limited, an Industry-Backed Technical Skills Competency Development solution firm recently held a graduation ceremony for its students at an event which took place at the LCCI Conference and Exhibition Center, Ikeja, Lagos.

The graduation ceremony themed: Beyond Skills Training: Innovation for Economic Inclusion & Sustainable Development was witnessed by leading Nigerian Chief Executives, Captains of Industries, Development

Organisations as well as Top Government Officials as 3 graduating sets were awarded certification in this years’ Young Technician Program: Plumbing Ambassador (9 Graduands), Employability Industrial Trainings for Rivers State Youths (45 Graduands) and 2015 SkillUp Boot Camp (58 Graduands).

In his opening remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, SkillUp TVET Limited, Mr. Afolabi Imoukhuede, expressed the company’s sincere gratitude to worthy partner organisations ARM Properties Plc, Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Rivers WorldBank SEEFOR Project and other Industry partners who have provided Job Internships and Employment offers to the

graduands and also assisting in actualizing the SkillUp Dream - ‘Developing Nigerian Youths into Competent Enterprise Builders and Wealth Creators’.

Imoukhuede commended the efforts of the young graduands and further charged them to aspire for more even as they receive their certification. “These successful graduands have throughout their time with us learnt discipline through shared hard work, they have gained the knowledge principles of their trades, horned their practical competencies through the application of these principles in their workshop practical and job internships and have today joined the league of other SkillUp Ambassadors who are daily living their dreams’ he said.

ESUT disowns illegal Gboko campus

T

HE Management of Enugu State University of Technology (ESUT), has dissociated itself from the illegal Gboko Campus operating in the name of the University, describing it as a “degree mill.”

A letter signed by the ViceChancellor, Professor Luke O. Anike and addressed to the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Julius A. Okojie, stated that the Institution currently had no campus outside Enugu State, in keeping faith with the Commission’s directive that all satellite campuses of universities be closed down.

The Vice-Chancellor’s letter said that ESUT was alarmed and had to make the clarification with the recent story under the heading: “FG Bans 57 Universities, Sanctions Others”, published by THIS DAY, on page 10, where the University was listed as being among the affected universities. It stressed that ESUT, for the avoidance of doubt, had its main campus at Agbani, with other campuses in Enugu and Nsukka.

The University warned members of the public to desist from patronising such on outfit as its own, saying that anybody dealing with the said “Gboko Campus,” did so at his/her own risk.

It also called on the relevant law enforcement agencies to

arrest and prosecute any operators of the so-called Campus. Part of the letter reads: “That Management of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology hereby urges the law enforcement agencies to arrest and prosecute any operators of the so-called Gboko Campus."

IT provides low cost solutions — VC

T

HE innovative use of information technology in providing low-cost solutions to support strategies in advancing the world economy has been stressed. The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Olusola Oyewole, stated this at the maiden Applied Information Technology (AIT) 2015 International Conference, themed, “Emerging Trends in Applied Computing”, held in the University. The Vice-Chancellor said the conference was an international forum for the presentation of technological advances and research results in the fields of Computer Science, Information Technology and

other allied research, adding that it was also opening a window for researchers within and outside computing to adapt to the paradigm. According to him, “The conference would bring together leading researchers, engineers and scientists from around the world. We warmly welcome authors who submitted their research papers to AIT 2015, to share the valuable experiences with fellow scientists and scholars around the world.”

Represented by the Dean, College of Physical Sciences (COLPHYS), Professor Oluyemisi Eromosele, the ViceChancellor stated that FUNAAB was known for knowledge for development.

ICE Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Rahamon Bello has expressed joy over four of her students, Dawodu Kehinde,Thontteh Opeyemi, Osamor Chukwunwike and Dr. Oyekunle Ajoke, who received the President Honours Award for their exemplary works during the National Youth Service Corps.

Receiving the ex-students, the VC, Prof. Bello told those present, that the award is a testament that something good can come from the institution as out of over 60 recipients of the national awards, four came from the university.

In his words.”This is coming at a time when everybody believes that nothing good can come out of the university system and particularly the University of Lagos that has received negative information in recent times as out of over 60 recipients nationwide, four emerged from this institution.”

While presenting the students to the VC and senior staff of institution, the DSA expressed praised for the students in distinguishing themselves from the crown and bringing honours to the school.

He also gave brief summary of what the ex-students did to receive the president honour awards.

According to him, Kehinde, a Batch B 2012 corps member was deploy to Kwara State and posted to a rural community in UBE Junior Secondary School He did extra mural lessons for the students and built a corpers lodge in the school to solve the problem of accommodation and enhance the security of corps members.

For Opeyemi, the Prof. said, her desire to make an impact started at the camp where she was a member of the Camp Quarter Guards.

And after, the orientation exercise, she was posted to Gifted Prime Secondary School, Gurara, LGA in Niger State where she was deployed. There, she did the following: Renovating and painting of the Local Government Corpers Lodge, Donation of well equipped first Aid Boxes to public schools in the areas.

NOUN graduates not qualified for NYSC—Prof. Akeusola

By Kelechukwu Iroma

T

HE Former Dean of the School of Arts and Social Sciences at the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, and currently, the Provost, Michael Otedola College of Primary Education, Epe, Lagos State, Professor Olu Akeusola has said that graduates of NOUN are not qualified to participate in National Youths Service Corps programmes.

Speaking with newsmen, he said, “We have the tendency of misinterpreting concepts. NOUN is not meant for regular students. It is not meant for anybody that has just finished his secondary education.

NOUN is a flexible programme meant for adults – meant for the working class. It is for people who have sufficient experience, but want academic knowledge and certificates to back up what they are doing.”

He revealed that, “NOUN got it wrong when they started admitting students that are JAMB drop-outs—people who are unable to go to conventional universities through JAMB and also fresh secondary school graduates. Automatically, they would be agitating that they want to serve, after all, they are graduates.” Prof. Akeusola said this as some NOUN students want to stage a protest as to why they are eliminated from participating from NYSC

Undue project delay unacceptable — BMC

T

HE Alternate Chairman, Budget Monitoring Committee (BMC), a Sub-Committee of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)’s Governing Council, Dr. Olusiji Sowande, has charged contractors working on the projects under the NEEDS Assessment Intervention Fund to match speed with quality, stressing that the University would not entertain any undue delay or extension of delivery date.

Dr. Sowande, a member of Council, gave this charge during the inspection of on-going projects with members of the BMC and officials from the Physical Planning Unit (PPU) of the University. Speaking on the Academic Building Complex, sandwiched between the Directorate of Public Relations, the Directorate of Internal Audit Building and the Sports’ Complex, the Acting Director of PPU, Arch. Babatunde Anasanwo, said the complex comprised two block-storey building, which would be integrated as one complex. He said Block A part of the building is expected to house teaching facilities, lecture halls and seminar rooms while Block B is office accommodation, and the project has an execution period of 36 weeks.

On the 250-seater Computer Laboratory, Arch. Anasanwo said the contract had been awarded with an execution period of 30 weeks. He added that the building is made up of a large open hall that could accommodate 250 people, nine office spaces, a large electrical intake room, a server room and several convenience.

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The complications around Amaechi — Sen.Amori SENATOR Ighoyota Amori represents Delta Central in the Senate. In this interview, he spoke on the controversies surrounding the delayed screening of Rotimi Amaechi as a ministerial nominee by the Senate and the death of former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha. Excerpts:

I

By Joseph Erunke

S it true that PDP s e n a t o r s are against the screening of Rotimi Amaechi as a ministerial nominee?

The Senate set a rule in line with the Constitution of this country for screening or clearing a candidate or a nominee of Mr President. So when the president, on September 30th, submitted the first list of 21 names, Amaechi’s name was there.

We allowed any member of the public who has anything against any of the nominees to submit a petition and based on this, there were several petitions from people.

Those petitions were presented on the floor of the Senate and in keeping with the tradition of the Senate, these petitions were referred to the Ethics and Privileges Committee to examine and report back to the Senate.

Some of those petitions have been treated.

Report of the committee The one from Kaduna and I know another one from somewhere have been treated and they have reported back to the Senate and based on the report of that committee these people have been subjected to screening of the Senate and have been cleared.

But Amaechi’s case assumed this dimension because of the complexity of the petitions against him. When a nominee is having impediments, it’s not something you can rush, because the same Nigerians will condemn the Senate if we rush to clear him. In the case of Amaechi, those impediments are there, the petitions have not been concluded, the ethics and privileges committee is still looking at the petitions.

Until they finish their work and turn in their report and the Senate debates the report , we can’t proceed.

In the interim, there are still ministerial nominees of Mr.

President that have not been cleared. There is still time and we have even invited members of the public that anybody who has anything against the nominees, please come and say so that by the time the Senate finishes the work, nobody will come and say oh, why did you clear Mr B, when so and so is against the person. Amaechi belongs to that category.

But the insinuation really is that PDP senators mostly from the South are impeding his screening!

Southern senators are not instrumental to what is happening. Let the committee come out with its report then the Senate will now know the next thing to do.

Do you see any link between the death of Chief

Amaechi’s case assumed this dimension because of the complexity of the petitions against him

*Amori: Nigeria failed Ibori, Alamieyeseigha DSP Alamieyeseigha and reports of alleged plans to resurrect his case in the United Kingdom bordering on corruption?

Alamieyeseigha was a Nigerian who fought for resource control, he is the hero of the Niger Delta, he is the governor general of the Niger Delta and Bayelsa State in particular. He came to this world to play his role and he did very well.

I am in sympathy with his family, I really don’t know what took him but man is born to die. Death may have chosen to take him at the time it took him. There are a lot of stories, whether it was as a result of the so called threat of extradition, which Britain has denied...

DSP had nothing to fear.

Of course you have read that the man died a poor man and

that he has just one house apart from the house in his village. He didn’t have any house anywhere. But you see, people made a lot of stories about him.

I have had the experience of knowing what the British do once Nigeria delivers any of her citizens to the UK. They must extract something from him, that is exactly what they used against James Ibori and so, I believe that it’s not something we should pray for. What the British are doing to Nigeria, Nigeria cannot

do the same to British citizens. So, Nigerians should properly examine themselves.

It is cheap to just take your citizen and throw to the British government for them to just harass and treat the person anyhow while you cannot do same to a British citizen. Of course, you cannot ask a British citizen to be extradited from the UK to come and face trial in Nigeria.

So, it’s a shame on our part and we should be very careful, we should not clap at it at all.

Commissioner for Education, Delta State Political Adviser to the governor Commissioner for Water Resource Senior Political Adviser to governor Senator, Delta Central

1999-2003 2003-2005 2005-2007 2007-2014 2015-date

Dickson, Sylva trade words over performance

By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

G

OVERNOR Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State and his predecessor, Chief Timipre Sylva who are locked in combat in the forthcoming election were yesterday engaged in a war of words over who performed better as governor.

Chief Timipre Sylva, who governed the state between 2007 and 2011, has also described as “dangerous meddlesomeness” the alleged sponsorship of bias and fictitious reports against the APC by the PDP led administration. He affirmed

Dickson: I performed better than you

Timipre: No you did not

that the action has shown that the PDP lacks variable campaign strategy for the forth

former governor and APC candidate as laughable saying

coming governorship poll.

Dickson, on his part, described the claims of the

Continues on page 33

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015—33

My govt ‘ll always respect traditional institution – Wada K

2015: KOGI DECIDES

Wada needs second term to consolidate —Idris

By Boluwaji Obahopo

F

ORMER Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, has said that Governor Idris Wada needs another four years to consolidate on his ongoing projects scattered across the 21 local councils of the state.

Idris, who made this known while speaking at Odo-Ere, headquarters of Yagba-West Local Council of the state, also said that the governor has performed creditably well to deserve another term.

He therefore called on the people of the State to vote en mass for the PDP candidate to enable him do more for the people of the state.

Also speaking, the Governor Wada who said he has delivered on his mandate for the first term, urged the electorates to reciprocate the gesture by voting for him at the November 21 governorship election.

“We have done a lot in the last few years in office, we have provided education, electricity, health care service. We have completed some of the projects we embarked on.

We are going back to consolidate on what we have done”.

OGI State Governor and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in next month’s governorship polls, Capt. Idris Wada, has assured traditional rulers of continued support to ensure they perform critical roles of ensuring peace and stability in their domains.

The governor gave the assurance while addressing the paramount ruler of Egbe, HRH Oba Ayodele Irukera at his palace, on Tuesday. He hailed the royal father for enthroning peace in his area.

According to the governor, it is imperative to empower the traditional institution in order to ensure effective partnership for societal development.

“Since the inception of my administration, I have maintained a close relationship with our royal fathers because they are critical partners in our

traditional rulers in the state unlike some leaders who always try to subdue the royal fathers. Our government shall continue to tap from the knowledge of royal fathers and I want to assure them of the continued security of their offices.’’

The governor who later addressed thousands of party supporters at the Ajaforunti Unity Square, said Egbe will continue to be a centre for academic and healthcare excellence, assuring the people of the local government of increased patronage, if re-elected into office.

At Odo Ere, the governor who was received at Okutadudu thanked the people of the local council for their continued support.

*Wada effort at ensuring peace and unity among our people. Under my administration, we have shown tremendous respect for

APS endorses Ozigi, PPA candidate

A

By Kingsley Fanwo

POLITICAL interest group in Kogi, Alliance for Power Shift has endorsed the candidature of Mr. Emmanuel Enesi Ozigi of the Progressive Peoples Alliance, PPA for the governorship polls. The group, through a communiqué issued in Lokoja, yesterday, described Ozigi as “a vibrant leader who has paid his dues in the business world through dynamic business leadership”.

“After assessing the candidates from the Central and Western zone of the state, we have come to the conclusion that Mr. Emmanuel Enesi Ozigi possesses all the requisite competence to move Kogi State forward.

“The PPA governorship aspirant is a dynamic leader and an accomplished business mogul who has contributed immensely to the development of the state through the organized private sector. He has launched a number of initiatives to curb corruption in Kogi State.

“To us, it is unacceptable to be offering us the chance for power shift in 2019 as we believe that now is the time to shun money politics and vote for a governor who will work for the development of the state.

“We are of the view that power is never freely given. Kogi East has continued to produce every governor since 1991. As a tripod, it is expedient for other Senatorial District to produce the next governor of the state in the spirit of ethnic and religious balancing, peace and unity.

“In Ozigi, we see a selfless leader, successful business leader, a great

Dickson, Sylva trade words over performance Continues from page 32 the APC is a house of commotion without a campaign strategy.

The Dickson campaign organisation, the Restoration Campaign Organisation, in a statement signed by the Director of Publicity, Hon. Jonathan Obuebite, said the claims by the Timipre Sylva Campaign Organisation that the PDP does not have any tangible achievement to campaign with ahead of the December 5 poll is laughable.

According to Obuebite, “it is Sylva that does not have what to campaign with.”

Obuebite said, “while the PDP had set up its campaign secretariat and structures several weeks back, it is now the APC is trying to do same with so much controversy still trailing its last governorship primary and the selection

of a running mate for its candidate.”

He added that the orgy of violence and gangsterism that characterised the tenure of Sylva and the seeming suspicion of Bayelans would make the APC look stupid when they begin their campaign as most communities where their terror machine once scared people would reject them.

Obuebite, who served as member of the State House of Assembly, called on those serving on the Sylva Campaign Organization to first seek the forgiveness of God and apologise to Bayelsans over his misdeeds before attempting to seek their mandate.

“Dickson’s overwhelming performance since he came on board has already given him a higher advantage as his victory is already sure,” he said.

philanthropist and an excellent manager of resources who can remove the state from the peg of underdevelopment and create jobs for our youths as well as improve education, healthcare and infrastructures. If we miss this golden chance of electing a competent and prepared governor, it will be a great loss to our generation”.

Siasia picks Digitemie as running mate

By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

S

ILOKO Siasia the standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Movement PDM yesterday unveiled his running mate, Mrs. Irene Opuene Digitemie, a retired civil servant from Akassa in Brass council area of the state as well as his manifesto.

Siasia, younger brother of former Nigerian international football star and coach of the nation Under 23 team, Samson Siasia, described himself as the real change which according to him, Bayelsa desires.

Speaking during an interactive session in Yenagoa, Siasia identified unemployment as the bane of the state and promised to create 30,000 jobs in his first year in office as well as making accountability and *Digitemie: Running with Siasia transparency the mantra of his trade and facilitate the export of administration. our goods.

“As governor, I will be “We would empower civil accountable to the citizens of society groups to complement Bayelsa. I make no excuses. I will government institutions in all areas be fully responsible for all that through training and mentorship. happens under my leadership. The These are parts of what we will do people of Bayelsa will have a leader in tackling the high rate of who listens and is respectful.” unemployment in the state.

Promising to tackle “Again is education which is the unemployment head on, he said: pre-requisite for building a strong, “Unemployment is taking its toll sustainable future and it is the on our youths. We have over 85 per bedrock of our development plan. cent of Bayelsa youths unemployed.

“Illiteracy and ignorance How do we create employment for reduces human confidence and our teeming youths that have self-esteem and impedes the become disillusioned? ability of an individual to effectively “Our government will create 30, contribute to the society. For this 000 jobs in one year, attract 5 reason, we will place a very high fortune 500 companies to invest in priority on education so that this critical sectors in Bayelsa. We would generation will be 21st century build a new deep-sea port to bring compliant.

34 —

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Dance unlimited as Dis Fix breaks stereotypes of disabled

By Prisca Sam-Duru

A

SIDE having some disabled Nigerians participating in the paralympics , it is obvious many people are unaware that there are more abilities in disabilities than they know of. Who would have ever thought that these people who were hitherto regarded as helpless citizens, could engage in very energetic dance styles?

And who would have ever thought that they could be this relevant in the performing arts?

The dance show put up on 16th and 17th October at the Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos, in which disabled persons danced alongside the nondisabled, was really an eye opener.

Tagged Dis Fix, the dance project was organised as part of UK/Nigeria 2015-2016 programme featuring over 30 projects at 80 events all aimed at increasing collaboration between young people in Nigeria and the UK, through the arts.

Dis Fix, a ground breaking dance performance featured three exciting dance companies ; Artistic CoDirector, Candoco Dance Company, UK, Pedro Machado; Director, QDance Centre, Qudus Onikeku and Director, Ijodee Dance Company, Adedayo Liade from Nigeria .

The dance aimed to “Use dance to shift people’s perceptions around disability, from something that requires fixing or evokes pity to a more positive, life affirming, independent and hopefully, eyeopening perspective.”

• Action captured during the rehearsal of Dis Fix Earlier during a sneak preview of the performance held at QDance Centre, Lagos, the mixed dancers wowed audience with extraordinare dance moves . First to hit the stage was Iwalewa by Qudus. It had 10 dancers comprising both disabled and nondisabled.

Iwalewa according to Qudus, "Means Yoruba conception of beauty which is in the character of not just humans but things. Rather than think of disability, we talk of beauty and of course their ability."

Qudus said working with the

disabled was a "Challenging experience, aesthetic wise. But easy becasue I believed everyone can dance. The show challenges people’s perception about culture, religion and society."

Next was Study For C by Candoco which had a male and female dancers. They stormed the stagewithblackcolouredoutfitswith rough inscriptions such as, 'Better to die on your feet than to live on your knees', 'The violets on the mountainshavebrokentherock' etc.

"Its exciting as we came here and met great artistes.Nigeria dancers

are very dynamic and have great discipline and enthusiasm but lack opportunities." said Pedro Machado, adding that " I'm glad to be collaborating with Liade and Qudus. Learnt a lot coming to Nigeria, the bond, chemistry that exits betweentheartistsareamazing and I wonder if it is same in other companies."

Lisonilojo a 25 minutes dance by Liadehadtwodisabledwhodanced with the dance expert. Liade explainedthatthewordcouldsimply be interpreted to mean that life should be taken easy.

JP Clark, Odia to herald Lagos poetry festival

By Japhet Alakam

R

ENOWNED Nigerian poet, JP Clark, and Odia Ofeimun are among some of the biggest names in the global literary space, poetry and spoken word, expected to entertain poetry lovers at the maiden edition of what can be described as the first true Lagos International Poetry Festival which kicks of this weekend in Lagos.

The five-day festival, which kicks off on the 28th of October with an opening cocktail party at Freedom Park , Lagos, will feature school visits, three masterclasses, six panel discussions, four performance events and a special conversation session with Prof.

J.P Clark at the J.P Clark Center, University of Lagos.

Other poets expected at the event include, Nick Makoha, South African writer/winner of the 2015 Brunel University African Poetry Prize; and the

Nigerian, Lola Soneyin, Inua Ellams, TJ Dema, Wana Udobang, Titilope Sonuga, Dami Ajayi, Chuma Nwokolo, Sage Hasson, Jumoke Verissimo, Akeem Lasisi, Chijioke Amu-nnadi, Natalia Molebatsi, Uche Peter Umez, AJ Dagga Tolar, Iquo Eke, Adesola Fakile, among others.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos in the build up to the festival, Efe Paul Azino, convener and director of the festival said that

Our objective is to create a space that spurs, harnesses, and allows for the flourishing of the growing army of talent within the genre who are showing more than a passing commitment to poetry

• L-R, Efe Paul Azino, Festival Director, Edem Vindah, Corporate/ Brand manager NBL, Titilope Sonuga and Paul Onwuka of NBL

they are doing everything in their power to ensure an exciting first edition.

Azino who unveiled some of the programs in the line-up, disclosed that the festival with the theme “Borderless Words”, would be “geared towards exploring poetry’s capacity to break racial, ethnic, gender, language and cultural divides, and help forge creative collaborations across the continent” According to Efe Paul Azino, this is a great time for the arts, especially poetry which in the last few years has been dancing from the fringes to the mainstream. “Our objective is to create a space that spurs, harnesses, and allows for the flourishing of the growing army of talent within the genre who are showing more than a passing commitment to poetry.”

The festival, will hold in several venues, including Freedom Park, University of Lagos, Muson Centre, Bogobiri House and the African Artist Foundation –all in Lagos.“Continuing, Azino added that in the last two decades, poetry, especially the performance variant, had been experiencing a resurgence across the African continent, from Lagos to Nairobi and Johannesburg, where enthusiasts gather to listen to poets riff on anything everything.“The broad objectives of the festival, he remarked, were to contribute to the breeding of young, emerging voices through workshops and livelihood through workshops; to engender conversation on the furtherance of the art as a means of expression and livelihood through panel discussions, as well as create

shared performance space for poets from Nigeria and the UK.“ One of the guest poets, Titilope Sonuga, who, aside performing her poetry, would also be involved

in teaching the master classes said “The festival presents a very fantastic opportunity for me to perform in Nigeria and also meet and engage other poets at the same space.”

The festival which will change the face of poetry in Lagos is sponsored

by Nigerian Brewery and supported

by Freedom Park. Speaking at the briefing, Corporate/Brand Manager of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Edem Vindah who stated that the festival affords them another opportunity to partner with another section of art said, “over the years, we've been supporting the entertainment, sports, literature and art, eg the annual creative writing workshop by Chimamanda, NAL competition, Multina dance all etc, and now we are supporting poetry.”

Ugwuanyi for LIMCAF 2015 Gala/Award night

By Japhet Alakam

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HE Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, will be the star attraction at this year's Grand Finale Exhibition / Gala and Award night of Life In My City Art Festival (LIMCAF), steadily growing pan-Nigeria youth empowerment project. The 2015 Grand Finale Exhibition which opened on Monday 19 October will end with a Gala and Award night on Saturday 24 October at the Nike Lake Resort Hotel Enugu.

Gov Ugwuanyi who will be the chief host, will be making history as the first State Chief Executive to personally grace this steadily growing pan-Nigeria youth empowerment project domiciled in Enugu.

The highlight of the award which started in 2007 will be the presentation of prizes to twenty five young persons which will be given out in a colourful ceremony by distinguished art personalities and other prominent citizens.

According to LIMCAF’s Art Director, Ayo Adewunmi, who

released the names of members of the national juror committee headed by Prof. Tonie Okpe of the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, the jury will be saddled with the task to select the 25 winners in the four categories of national prizes on offer.

The four categories are the Overall Best Prize as a category all by itself, and the Best Painting/Mixed Media/Drawing Prize, the Best Sculpture/Installation/Ceramics Prize, and the Best Graphic/Multimedia/Digital Art Prize.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Why I'm reviving African folktales — Ini Ite Ubong Ini Ite Ubong is setting the pace for the rebirth of Africa’s story-telling tradition, though in print, with the release of her maiden book, EkÍñ Ñke, which is a collection of Ibibio folktales. The wife and mother is one of the few Nigerians who fear the oldest literary genre risks being rendered extinct by our growing craze for cartoon movies. A University of Lagos Masters degree holder in Literature with a first degree in English and Literary Studies from the University of Calabar, Ini who started out as a journalist, in this interview, says folktales must be sustained at all cost as they are an embodiment of timeless values.

By Josephine Agbonkhese HAT inspired the choice of folktales?

I didn’t sincerely set out to write folktales. I had a habit of reading stories such as Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood for my then five-year-old daughter. One night, as I opened the book to read for her at bedtime, she requested, ‘Mama, tell me Ibibio stories.’

I agreed but I didn’t see any Ibibio story online to read to her, so, I told her what I could recollect from my childhood.

That, made me realise that we needed folktales as readable materials.

Story-telling has been the earliest form of art in the society. The stories are handed down from generation to generation. In the course of writing this book, I realized that the place of folktales has been taken over by different cartoon programmes with Eurocentric thrust. We need not let this happen because our stories are an embodiment of our time- Ini Ite Ubong less values as a people. They speak about our heritage. They speak about our ing in our strength and weaknesses. They speak society. We about our fears and faith. They speak about learn about our beliefs. Our stories are a reflection of the essence our world views! Our stories are reflecof love, hontions of who we are. esty, hard Folktale therefore, is a tacit celebration work, peace, of our culture and heritage as a people. bravery and Since the enabling environment for the sympathy to performance of these tales is fast eroding, others. The stories use both animals and we may as well pass them on in print. people as protagonists, to depict the core This is a dying genre in our society; values of Ibibio people and by extension, don’t you fear a book such as this risks the core values necessary for all mankind. poor patronage?

I strongly believe that if we can live toI agree with you that the folktale seems gether in harmony and love, our society to be dying, but it isn’t dead. In an age would experience peace, prosperity and when Eurocentric views and values have abundance. eaten deep and almost eroded the pecuLooking at the contemporary Nigerian liar norms that distinguished us, it is most and in fact, African society, what would needful that we create a cultural re-awakyou say makes this book a must-read or ening for our tales. qualifies it as a handbook for a healthy lifestyle?

Cultural The stories highlight the desirable and reawakening undesirable characteristics of people and animals. There is no room for an evil doer I do not fear poor patronage because the to escape punishment. They teach lessons values in the book are timeless. The val- on what is morally acceptable. We practiues touch the souls of all human beings. cally witness the consequences of greed, The readership is not restricted because pride, selfishness, inordinate ambition and the book is written in English but spiced covetousness. Vices such as stealing, disowith Ibibio words. bedience, corruption, wickedness are not How would you describe its contents? condoned. If the people can abhor evil, The stories touch the lives of not just our society can have a semblance of parathose of African descent but all humanity. dise.

In the world of these folktales, we see Did you ever feel like giving up writhuman beings and animals as active in- ing this book at any time? What kept you habitants of the earth - living in harmony. going nevertheless?

We are also exposed to timeless values There were times I felt tired. But the vithat can point the way forward in our con- sion of having the book out kept me gotemporary world. We need to remember ing. In addition, there were trusted peothat, despite the dramatic changes in the ple who kept asking for the book. world, the laws governing life and the Do you envisage this book becoming universe haven’t changed. part of the syllabus for schools?

I learned it is enriched with plenty of Yes. This book has the potential of being wisdom and lessons. Tell us more about used by schools. It can redirect the young that? ones to hold firm time-tested values by The stories teach us lessons on the ben- avoiding all things that are morally and efits of communal living which is fast fad- ethically wrong.

W

—35

36—Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Aisha Buhari advocates for reproductive health and rights

By Gabriel Olawale

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By Sola Ogundipe

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IFE of the President, Mrs. Aisha Muhammadu Buhari has restated her vision to complement efforts of the Federal government to reduce maternal and child mortality in the country.

Buhari who spoke at an event on the sidelines of the 70th UN General Assembly in New York, pledged to continue to advocate for the sexual and reproductive health of the girl child, and empower her with information on her reproductive rights.

The side event with the theme “A long-term Strategy to Improve the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, RMNCAH, and Nutrition Status in Nigeria” was a platform to engage the international development community to increase support for health related sectors in Nigeria.

Buhari, who was represented by the Wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osibajo, stated: “Every year in Nigeria, 33,000 women could be saved from pregnancy related deaths, 800, 000 children could be saved from dying within the first five years of life and 260,000 could be saved from dying within the first 28 days

Ebola persists in semen

MEETING: From left- Executive Director, UNFPA, Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin; wife of the Vice President, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo and Permanent Secretary, FMOH, Mr Linus Awute, during the 70th UNGA in New York, recently. of life. up the availability of relevant life increase their awareness and “These lives are lost due to saving high impact interventions demand for life saving health preventable causes and we are for women children and services. committed to ensuring that the adolescents. In recognition of the Executive Director, UNFPA, statistics reduce significantly. So roles of communities and families Prof. Babatunde Osotimehin, today I raise my voice with yours on health outcomes. Buhari said UNFPA and the international as an advocate for RMNCAH and promised to work with existing development community would Nutrition”. “networks at the community level work with stakeholders to As part of her commitment, she to promote the participation and accelerate the health and quality will support efforts of relevant involvement of women and of life of women, adolescents and government institutions to scale young girls in activities that children in Nigeria.

HE Ebola virus can persist in semen samples of men that test positive for Ebola nine months after onset of symptoms.

A preliminary study in the semen of male survivors in Sierra Leone, has found that some men still produce semen that test positive.

The report in the New England Medical Journal, conducted by the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health and Sanitation, the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. All of the men who were tested in the first three months after their illness began were positive.

More than half of men (65 percent) tested between four to six months after their illness began were positive, while one quarter (26 percent) of those tested between seven to nine months after their illness began also tested positive.

The study is following this group of men, retesting at intervals to understand how long virus persists in semen, and will explore which factors may be associated with persistence of virus. After each test, the men are provided with their test results along with counselling, advice about appropriate hygiene and practising safe sex, and condoms.

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Y wife and I are sexually mismatched. When I want sex, she doesn’t want it and when we eventually have sex, we are doing it as if we are not interested in what we are doing. It is as if sex with each other is an uncomfortable activity that we are struggling to get through – Obiechina Hello Mr Obiechina. This kind of problem requires both of you to visit a sex therapist. Simply talking to one of you alone will not solve the problem. Men and women have different expectations from their love lives and these expectations don’t always match reality. This is why when you are getting into a new relationship, you must first assess the situation. You have to understand your partner and what their romantic needs and limitationsare and then find a way to meet them half way. Your partner has to do the same for you as well. When both of you commit to fulfilling each other’s romantic needs, it is easier to succeed as a couple. So this has to be done together– Uche I have read a lot about Prosolution pills in your numerous publications. I am already taking VigRx Plus and I am just wondering what the difference is. Should I switch to Prosolution? Miles Prosolution and VigRx Plus are very similar products because they are both penis enlargers that also help men with ejaculatory control, firmer erections and staying power during intercourse. So if you are using VigRx Plus already, you don’t need to change – Uche It seems you have so many performance supplements for men now that I don’t know which one to take. My problem is that I am 58 years old and I am suffering from weak erection and low libido. I am also diabetic and I have had it for a long time now. Please is there a treatment that can work for me? Joseph Yes Joseph there are many supplements that will work for you but the one that I will recommend specifically because you are diabetic is Libigrow. With Libigrow, you can get back your firm erections and a renewed desire

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOMBER 22 , 2015—37

12 Ogun youths for Green Awareness workshop in Europe

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VISIT: Flag Officer Commanding, Headquarters Nigerian Naval Logistics Command, Oghara, Delta State, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Gumiriwu Ofik, (5th left); HRM, Samson Omene, Ovie of Mosogar, Delta State (5th right), when officers and men of the command paid a working visit to the Mosogar Traditional Council in Mosogar, Delta State.

Labour issues industrial action notice to P-Harcourt DISCO

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

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RGANISED Labour has issued an industrial action notice to Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, PHEDC, over alleged increasing unfair labour practices including disengagement of over 26 workers without due process.

Labour has accused the management of among others, promoting casualisation of workers and apathy to unionisation contrary to extant Labour laws, International Labour Organisation, ILO, and other standard codes General Secretary of the National Union of Electricity

Employees, NUEE, Joe Ajaero, said labour and its allies would soon resume the suspended action against PHEDC, which services Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa states, after officials of the Directorate of State Services, DSS, in Rivers State, earlier in August, allegedly forced the suspension of an industrial action declared against the company.

Ajaero said that labour had already taken the matter up with the Director-General of DSS, warning that should the DSS or any other security agency meddle into issue of industrial relations that did not concern such agency,

it would face the wrath of organised labour.

He said: “We are putting the management of PHEDC on notice that we will soon resume an industrial action that will take different shapes. We are not going to give them an exact date. We are going to swoop on the company unannounced. We are already meeting and strategising towards it. As long as the issues are not addressed, PHEDC will continue to suffer. There are two persons or groups that are licensed to play a role in a work place. There is the one that got the licence from Cooperate Affairs Commission, CAC and the other one that got its own from the Registrar of Trade

Union, RTU. Both have certificates to operate. So until the issues of unfair labour practices are sorted out in PHEDC, labour will not stop troubling the management. We are prepared for the long journey no matter how long.”

The union had claimed that since the unbundling and privatization of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN Plc, and the zone (comprising of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Rivers states) was taken over by PHEDC it had failed to do the needful to ensure that workers put in their best for better service to consumers.

Gov Emmanuel reads riot act to school heads over mismanagement of subventions

By Chioma Onuegbu

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YO—GOVERNOR Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has threatened to dismiss principals and heads of primary schools in the state who are found mismanaging subventions to schools.

Emmanuel made the threat following widespread allegation of embezzlement of subventions by heads of primary and post primary schools in the state.

It was learned that the development forced the state government to stop the monthly lifeline which was instituted to sustain the free education policy of the state.

Speaking in Uyo after restoring the funds to schools, Emmanuel warned school heads in the habit of

C M Y K

mismanaging the fund to stop forthwith or risk prosecution and dismissal from office.

He said: “This government will not tolerate any further mismanagement of subventions given to schools and any school head guilty of this will not be

spared. This administration is committed to zero tolerance to corruption. This must be a standing practice to all public officers in the state. I assure you that this government will lay proper foundation for empowerment of future leaders.

I charge basic education administrators to ensure holistic implementation of the policy by curbing indiscipline among pupils and students including loitering, hawking and violation of school ethics during school hours.”

Oshiomhole reshuffles cabinet

By Simon Ebegbulem

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ENIN—GOVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has reshuffled his cabinet in a minor shake-up, following the sacking of four commissioners last month.

In the new arrangement, Mr Isimeme Iriogbe, former Commissioner in the Ministry of Oil and Gas, was moved to the Ministry of Transport;

Saturday Uwulekhue, from Ministry of Transport to Ministry of Oil and Gas. Aanena Jemitola who was former Commissioner for Arts and Culture, is now heading the Ministry of Women Affairs; Mr Abdul Oroh, from Ministry of Agriculture to Ministry of Commerce and Industry, while Macdonald Obasuke was moved from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to Ministry of Arts and Culture.

Mr. Washington Osifo, who was the Commissioner for Higher Education, now heads the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources, while Joseph Okojie, who was sworn in on Monday, takes charge of the Ministry of Agriculture.

The minor cabinet reshuffle was announced in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, CPS, to the Governor, Mr Peter Okhiria.

WELVE youths who emerged from the 1st National Green Essay Competition, organised by the wife of Ogun State governor, Mrs Olufunso Amosun, have left for Europe for a 9-day Green Awareness Training Workshop on the basics of a sustainable environment. The competition held in 2014, which was open to all secondary school students in Nigeria, was based on her book titled, Green Education for the Youth.

The workshop in Europe is designed to broaden the knowledge of the 12 GEFTY Ambassadors on environmental issues and develop a responsible citizenry capable of arresting further degradation, deforestation and climate change issues. It will also expose the youths to job opportunities in solar energy, waste management, recycling and environmental sustainablility.

Delta govt, UNDP train 50 youths in multiskills devt

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ELTA State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, has trained 50 youths in five entrepreneurial programmes, as part of efforts towards empowering unemployed youths in the state.

The training which ran for five consecutive days, involved training in cosmetology, make up, generator repair and maintenance, hair dressing as well as barbing.

The state Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Mary Iyasere, said the 50 youths were drawn from the three senatorial districts of the state in line with the recommendation and directive of the UNDP. The trio, Mrs. Iyasere, Dame Patience Ogbewe, UNDP representative in Delta and Mr. Patrick Isichei, the Director, Small and Medium Enterprises, in the state Ministry of Commerce and Industry, who presented starter packs and certificates to the beneficiaries, said the programme was in tandem with the state government and UNDP's drive to empower youths and take them off the streets of Delta State.

38—Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

UNTH STRIKE: ARD president alleges

NAS donates to leprosarium, orphanage

harassment, threats

By Elizabeth Uwandu

By Francis Igata

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NUGU—FOLLOWING the indefinite strike action called out by the Association of Resident Doctors,ARD,University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital,UNTH, Ituku Ozalla, Enugu State,its President, Dr. Ifedinso Ugwuoke, yesterday, cried out to relevant security

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HE NATIONAL Association of Seadogs, NAS, aka Pyrate Confraternity, recently, in an effort to alleviate the plight of the less privileged, donated items to the following groups: Tuberculosis and Leprosy Referral Centre, Eku, Ethiope, East, LGA; the St. Annes Orphanage Home, Effurun and the Federal Local Prison, Okere, South, LGA, all in Delta State.

Giving the donations, NAS Rainbow Deck said, the donations were pursuant to the 2015/2016 “Sayle Chart” coupled with the need to give “a helping hand to these sets of people in alleviating their suffering and conditions.”

The leprosarium and prisons received items such as books to the orphanage library, beverages and toiletries, bags of rice, clothing materials and children's toys. Others are electronic gadgets, cartons of noodles, juice, bags of rice, garri and cooking utensils, bicycles, foams, fez caps and T-shirts, disinfectants and baking flour.

Receiving the items on behalf of the leprosarium and orphange, Mr. Okoro James and Rev. Sister Immaculate Onyenakasa, thanked the Pyrate Confraternity for remembering them always.

They in turn promised to judiciously deploy the items to the benefit of the inmates.

At the federal prisons, the warder received the items to deliver the goods to the Comptroller.

agencies over alleged harassment and threats occasioned by the stance of the union to shut down medical services at the tertiary hospital.

It would be recalled that the foremost teaching hospital in the South East geopolitical zone, was last Monday,described as a facility where simple ailments transmute to complex diseases.

ARD President, who spoke to Vanguard on the phone in a shaking tone,said,”I have been receiving anonymous calls from people threatening my life and that of my family. One of the callers asked me what I want in UNTH. If I am not careful, it will cost me something very dear.

“As a result, I have evacuated my family into hiding. I am

....Kidnap of doctors worries Imo Police

By Chidi Nkwopara

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WERRI—IMO State Police Command says the recent kidnap of three medical doctors that came to offer free medical services to the sick and hapless people in Isu Local Government Area of the state, is giving it sleepless nights.

Already, the Commissioner of Police, CP, Mr. Taiwo Lakanu, is personally leading the onslaught against those that kidnapped the former Chairman of Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Edo State Chapter, Dr. Phillip Ugbodaga and his colleagues.

The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, who stated this

yesterday, in an exclusive chat with Vanguard, also said that “some overt and covert actions are being taken to ensure the release of the kidnap victims.

“Since the news of the kidnap of the three medical doctors, operatives of the Command have been working on all leads. The CP is leading the operatives on rescue operations and the leader of the fleeing gang, who escaped by whiskers, is now known and the heat is on the criminals”, the PPRO said.

Mr. Enwerem explained that the sports utility vehicle, used by the kidnapped victims, as well as the three telephone handsets belonging to the suspects, were also recovered from inside the vehicle.

“While the command is making

concerted efforts to ensure the safe rescue of the victims, the command has mobilized over 500 security operatives, working in conjunction with local securities, hunters, and youth groups, to source information that would lead to the exact location of the kidnapped victims”, the PPRO said.

He affirmed that “the command is in constant communication with the immediate members of the victims’ families”, stressing that with the measures so far taken, the release of the kidnap victim was assured.

“We are discouraging payment of any ransom, while assuring members of their families that we will not rest on our oars to ensure the freedom of the victims," he said.

OTL mulls petroleum, infrastructure policies

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ISCUSSIONS AT this year ’s, Oil Trading and Logistics Africa Downstream Week, the 9th Edition, will focus mainly on the nation’s petroleum and infrastructure policies.

Against this backdrop, the theme of the conference, holding from October 27 - 29, at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, is, 'Fuelling Economic Growth through Petroleum Policy and Infrastructure.'

A statement by the Chairman of OTL Africa

Downstream, Mr. Emeka Akabogu, also said the conference, widely acknowledged as the most important downstream event on the continent, will bring hundreds of delegates, expert speakers and strategic exhibitors.

The three day event will see in-depth discussions and analyses of issues, policies and market trends affecting downstream petroleum on the continent.

Akabogu noted that for

Nigeria, the event could not have come at a better time in view of the successful conclusion of the general elections and the emergence of a new government.

He said: “Government is also deliberately engaging with industry to get a first-hand understanding of key issues.

OTL Africa Downstream 2015 is, therefore, poised as a most crucial gathering as the country prepares for a new direction in downstream petroleum.

his is democracy in action, to me, this is what political office holders need to emulate.

Even as the Senate president he still appeared before the tribunal. He is winning because the case has been adjourned till next month end. -Mr. Emma Egbe, Worker

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On Senat e President/CCB matt er Senate matter

hey should keep on trying, they failed on the wife and this time around, it is either succeed on destroying his perceived 2019 ambition or they make it easy for him to get there. They are already making it easier. -Mr. Ezinwanne Tochukwu, Businessman

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ho is a saint? To the best of my knowledge, almost all the senators have case to answer.

What we are saying is that they are after Saraki because he smartly grabbed the highest seat of the Senate which is not ok with some of APC members. -Mr Vitus Amah, Businessman

I

hope the Igbo people would drop sentiments and applaud President Buhari’s impartiality, objectivity and obvious non interference of the judicial process that led Saraki into the witness box. -Mr. Jaiyeola Timmy, Freightforwarder

“The OTL Africa Downstream Week focuses on the full value-chain for downstream oil and gas in Africa with a strategic conference, an exhibition and the annual OTL Downstream Industry Dinner.”

Sectors and services represented at the event include petroleum products refining, trading and marketing, shipping, logistics, terminals and storage, retail, brokerage, among others.

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

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targeted because I said the truth.

The people attacking me are beneficiaries of the ills going on in UNTH.” ARD had, last weekend, during a press conference at their Common Room at UNTH, explained that the association having exhausted all known avenues to salvage the rot in the tertiary hospital, decided to shut down medical services following the flagrant refusal of the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Christopher Amah to implement a written and signed agreement with Ref No: UNTH/CMD/R98C/Vol.204 dated September 15, 2015 to pay resident doctors their skipping allowance approved by the Head of Service to the Federation, which other teaching hospitals in the South East geopolitical zones are paying in full.

Part of their grievance read: “We have decided to embark on an indefinite strike over the entire failure in the system. The aim for which this tertiary hospital was established - service, research and training- have failed totally. A UNTH that is on strike is better than a UNTH that is not on strike.

The hospital has been turned to a money collecting centre where patients are made to pay for oxygen that was not used."

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whole Senate Presi dent of Nigeria in the dock, thank God for this day because some persons may still be deceived that they are untouchable.

The war has commenced from the APC and with as high a person as the Senate President. -Mrs. Florence Foluke, Teacher

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he no-nonsense President Buhari is only four months on the saddle, steering the boat of the country to safety.

Now I am proud to be Nigerian we cause we have started moving in the right direction. Miss Anasithesia Ezeka, Graduate

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 , 2015—39

53 dead, 100,000 displaced in 2015 flood, says NOA boss, Omeri L

By Boluwaji Obahopo

OKOJA—THE National Orientation Agency, NOA, has disclosed that 53 persons lost their lives in eleven states across Nigeria due to the 2015 flood disaster.

NOA also revealed that 100,420 persons were displaced between August and September this year as a result of the flood disaster.

Director General of NOA, Mr. Mike Omeri, disclosed this yesterday at Koton/Karfe, Kogi Local Government Area of Kogi State during a public enlightenment/sensitization programme for people within the flood-prone areas of Kogi State.

Omeri said the alert given by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency of excessive flooding in 2015 are real.

He said: “The unfortunate effect of flood disaster had served as an eye opener to Nigerian government, the effects of global warming and climatic change are already in the country.

“We cannot hold back the rains and the floods because they are not within our control, but we can take practical measures in ensuring our personal safety and the protection of our property from

the ravaging effects of flood.

“This is why today ’s programme is very apt as it provides the platform for us to remind ourselves of the dangers of flood and to take practical measures to secure our lives and

properties.”

Omeri, who assured that the federal government was fully committed to the welfare of the flood victims, implored them to remain patient and be vigilant.

In his remark, the Ohimege of

KotonKarfe, HRM, Alhaji Abudulrazak Isa Koto, appealed to the Federal Government to come to the aid of victims of flood disaster in his domain, adding that their living condition was already pathetic.

MEETING: Mr. James Houston, Director-General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii, President, NBCC, Prince Dapo Adelegan, MD, Chemical and Allied Products, CAP, Plc., Mrs. Lara Elemide and Deputy President, NBCC, Mr. Akin Olawore at the NBCC breakfast meeting in Lagos.

Enemies blocking release of Kogi bailout fund —Wada L

By Boluwaji Obahopo

OKOJA—GOVERNOR Idris Wada of Kogi State, Tuesday, blamed the delay in the release of the N51 billion bailout fund to the state on some enemies working against the interest of the people of the state.

Wada accused them of deliberately frustrating the efforts of government at assessing the bailout fund meant for the payment of outstanding local government workers and teachers in the state.

The governor stated this at the palace of Agbana of Isanlu land, in Yagba East Local Government Area of the state, Oba Aaron Ikuborije, during his campaign in the area.

“We (government) had completed the necessary documentation needed to assess the fund but could not get the money because of the activities of “some wicked” people,’’ he said.

The governor, however, said he would continue to strive to ensure the release of the money, despite the plot by the said people who took delight in making life difficult for the beneficiaries of the bailout fund.

“I have already met with President Muhammadu Buhari and the governor of Central Bank, Godwin Emefiele over the issue, and they all assured me of

the release of the money,’’ he said.

Wada also said the government had drawn N8 billion of the N20 billion bond approved for it, adding that the money was being spent on 12 projects across the

state.

He, however, implored the people of the area to vote for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the forthcoming election to ensure continuity of the projects.

Wada said: “If a new government that did not share the developmental vision of my administration is allowed in, many of such projects could be stopped and the people of the state would be worst hit."

Customs bars journalists from C-G's Kano visit brought about suspicion in media were contained by the heavily

By Abdulsalam Muhammad

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ANO—JOURNALISTS in Kano were yesterday barred from covering the visit of Customs Comptroller-General, Col. Hamid Ali who was on an official visit to the state.

The visit of the Comptroller General, who was represented by the Deputy Comptroller General, John Atte, was shrouded in secrecy by the service which

circles.

Reporters, who stormed the Kano office of the Customs and Excise, located along Club Road, were humiliated by the tall order allegedly handed down by its spokesperson, Duru Emmanuel Okechukwu, and prevented them from accessing the heavily fortified office at Bompai GRA. Stern-looking officers at the gate were not ready for a tea party as attempts by reporters to gain access

armed guards who successfully bundled out no fewer than four journalists who tried spiritedly to gain access.

“We are under strict instructions to keep intruders away, and I’m afraid reporters are not welcome for this event,” an Inspector explained.

Kanocameunderspotlightrecently, following high profile seizures by the service from Chinese businessmen who were discretely released weeks after.

Plateau Assembly approves Lalong's bid for N10bn loan

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

J

OS—GOVERNOR Simon Lalong of Plateau State has received the State House of Assembly’s nod to access a N10 billion loan from Excess Crude Account, ECA, to be used specifically for developmental projects in the state.

The governor had earlier

communicated the House seeking approval to access the loan and at Plenary and on October 13, 2015, the House mandated its Committee on Finance to invite the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Accountant-General to appear before it to give details of the projects the state intended to expend the loan on.

The House yesterday during its

plenary, approved the request upon receiving the report of the Committee.

The member representing Mangu South constituency, Mr. Emmanuel Dakas, said that the state had no choice but to access the loan to enable the completion of abandoned projects by the previous administration.

36 ministers too much for Nigeria—Rep

By Peter Duru

M

AKURDI—A member of the House of Representatives, Mr. Mark Gbilah, has stated that the appointment of 36 ministers by an administration in one fell swoop is too much for a government that needs to cut costs.

Gbilah, who represents Gwer/Gwer West federal constituency, suggested an amendment of the section of the 1999 Constitution which provided for the appointment of ministers from each state of the federation in order to create room for staggered appointments of ministers from states.

The lawmaker, who spoke to reporters yesterday in Makurdi, said there was need to trim down the numberofministerialappointees at a time, so that the cost of governance could be reduced.

He said: “Our Constitution is rather ambiguous in the issue of Ministerial appointments.That provision says we require one Minister from each state of the federation in an administration, but it did not say it should be all at one time."

Red Cross trains 200 widows in skills acquisition

B

By Suzan Edeh

AUCHI—NO fewer than 200 widows who lost their husbands to activities of insurgency in the North East are to be trained in various aspects of skill acquisition by the Nigeria Red Cross society to improve their living standard.

Speaking with newsmen in Bauchi, the National Deputy coordinator of Disaster Management of the society, Mrs Sarah Simon, said the widows were selected from various internally displaced person’s camps in Bauchi, Borno and Yobe states.

She said the beneficiaries would be trained in skills such as hairdressing, tailoring, knitting and soap making, among other trades.

Simon said the trainees would be given tools and other necessary support to start up their businesses after the training in order to empower them economically.

40 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

SECURE HEALTH: From left— President of I Will Give, a pan-African social enterprise, Dr. Lola Dare; German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, and Executive Director of DSW, Mrs Rebate Bahr, at the launch of the global programme on Secure and Resilient Health Sector at the recently-concluded 70th United Nations General Assembly.

Lagos, Mr. Ifedi Ndukwomfa; Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, and Executive Director, Personal and Business Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Obinnia Abajue, at the commissioning of the bank's Cash Centre at Orile-Coker Market, Lagos.

FCMB/PAN AUTO SCHEME: From left— Managing Director/ Chief Executive, Peugeot Automobile Nigeria, PAN, Limited; Mr. Ibrahim Boyi; Head, Retail Assets, Mr. Olajire Awofisibe; Retail Head, Abuja & North Region, Mr. Sunday Egele, and Product Manager, Auto Loans, Mr. Hassan Ninalowo, all of First City Monument Bank, FCMB, Limited, during the launch of FCMB/PAN Auto Loan Alliance Scheme in Abuja.

PROFESSIONAL BODIES: From left— Mr. Olusola Adelakun, new Chairman; Mr. Gabriel Fasoto, National President; guest lecturer, Otunba Moses Adeyemo, Deputy Governor of Oyo State, and Mr. Bimbo Alagbe, outgoing Chairman, all of Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, during the association's lecture, investiture and awards in Abeokuta. PHOTO: Wunmi Akinola.

FASHION & ART: From left— Mrs Rosemary Aimankhu, CoOrdinator, Fashion ArtFusion; Mrs Khadijah Junaid, Executive Director, CIG Motors; Mr. Ifedayo Olarinde, Freeze; Mr. Austin Aimakhu, Luzol, Fashion Designer, and Mr. James Ngene, Red Onion Media, at a briefing on the forthcoming Fashion ArtFusion, in Lagos.

IBTC CASH CENTRE: From left— Trader at Orile-Coker Market,

FREE HEALTHCARE: Executive Secretary, Lagos Mainland Local

Government, Mrs Omolola Essien (3rd right), and other officials, delivering a speech at the free healthcare/distribution of drugs at Bola Tinubu Complex, Ebute Meta, Lagos, yesterday.

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VISIT: Mrs Bolanle Ambode, wife of Lagos State Governor (middle) and executive committee members of the National Guild of Medical Directors and their wives, when they made a courtesy call at the State House, Marina, Lagos.

SCHOLARSHIP: From left— Victor Ukwat, GM Sales; Hakeem Adekoya, LG representative; Adebayo Mark; Olagunju Suliat, both scholars; Sule Bichi, MD, Red Star Express; Moses Daniel, scholar; Ngozi Ochokwu, Marketing Manager, Red Star, during the firm's sholarship presentation to Unity Junior High School students, in Lagos.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 22,, 2015— 41

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42—Vanguard, Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

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BITS Bits

Court adjourns NLC’s case to Dec 11

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HE National Industrial Court, NIC, has adjourned to December 11, 2015, the case instituted by Ayuba Wabba led faction of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, against the Ajaero led faction.

Labour Vanguard gathered when the case came up Thursday, October 8, following the discussions at the August 19, meeting in Abuja, Wabba faction’s lawyer gave notice of the discontinuation of the matter, on the ground that the factions had settled their differences.

But when one of the leaders of Ajaero faction who was in the court, told the court that he was not aware that parties had settled their differences, but that he was aware that the parties were talking, but no final settled reached.

Consequently the court adjourned till December 11.

Textile union tasks govt on NIPSS

N

ATIONAL Union of Textile Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria, NUTGTWN, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari Administration to change the under-utilisation of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, and make ensure government uses some of the policy recommendations from the Institute General Secretary of the NUTGTWN, Issa Aremu, gave the advice during a study visit to the union’s secretariat, Kaduna, by course 20 participants of policy strategy and leadership course, PSLC), NIPSS, Kuru, Jos. He said “I use this opportunity to call on President Buhari to change the story of underutilisation of NIPSS and make sure his government uses some of the policy recommendations from the Institute. No doubt NIPSS is a policy bank for all the ideas that will assist this administration to realize its three-point noble agenda namely; security, anticorruption and economy."

*A cross section of members of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and its Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, counterpart, in a recent protest.

Trade unions losing relevance as pretentious leaders hold sway

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

T

HERE is a saying that if the employers of old were fair, probably, there would not have been need for trade unions. In Nigeria today, it is earlier to say that if labour leaders were true to tradition and culture, probably employers would be fair to the workers.

If the likes of Pa Michael Imoudu, Wahab Goodluck and their piers were to wake up today, they would not only weep, they would be extremely disappointed and disillusioned by the kind of autocratic and self- centred, corrupt and pretentious leaders running trade unions in Nigeria. While many of them have become multi-millionaires and bourgeoisie to the detriment of the workers, the workers who they ought to serve are walloping in abject poverty depending on their semi-god labour leaders for survival.

Abject poverty The labour leaders own palatial houses all over the town and own chains of expensive cars, but the workers cannot even afford to buy bicycles. Mostly affected are elected presidents of unions who have turned the unions into their personal estates and have reduced the general secretary or secretary general, as the case may be, to errand boys that can be disposed off at will.

Exceptions: Only few unions such as Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, NASU, National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE and National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria, NUTGTWN, that can be said to be run in a way close to the cul-

ture and tradition of trade unionism.

In those days when trade unions were trade unions, Presidents of the unions were part time officers of the union, who came to union’s secretariats sparingly while general secretaries of unions were the full time staff.

The general secretaries were employed by the unions as executive officers to run the unions and implement the decisions reached by leaders of the unions mostly members of the Central Working Committee, CWC, and the National Executive Council, NEC, made up of elected officials of the union led by the president.

The practice was to shield elected officers from their employers who might decide to haunt and victimize them.

The general secretaries were the eyes of the unions and employers respected and feared them because they had no control over them. Employers then would think twice before embarking on retrenchment exercise or casualisation of workers. No employer dire sack union’s leader or de-unionise workers because the consequences were better imagined than experienced. The employers feared and respected the unions because the unions had integrity and respect.

But today, the trade unions have lost the fear factor, the respect and the integrity of old because of the corrupt, selfish and callous 21st century presidents of unions whose greed for material wealth and affluence know no bound.

Using secretaries: Their stock in trade is to ensure that they have a general secretary they can manipulate, humiliate, threaten, and who must dance to the tune of their music. Otherwise, such a general secretary will not last.

There are reports of where some general secretaries are asked to write their resignation letter and

hand over to the president who could include the effective date anything the president wants.

After pocketing the secretariat, most of these presidents will amend the unions’ constitutions to become autocrats and semigods using their position to enrich themselves to the detriment of the workers and the unions.

They not only determine how the union’s money is spent, but also, spend it the way they want. When they are not in the office, the union goes into slumber.

Victimization: Some of these presidents do not end their destructive tendencies at the secretariat, they go to the factories to hunt and victimize perceived antagonists.

Reports abound of how some of these presidents caused management to either retrench workers or send them out on punitive postings. They have also been known to have use retrenchment, or downsizing exercise of management to sell the workers’ rights for personal aggrandizement.

To worsen the matter, some of these presidents devise different

... today, the trade union has lost the fear factor, the respect and the integrity of old because of the corrupt, selfish and callous 21st century presidents of unions whose greed for material wealth and affluence know no bound

strategies to perpetuate themselves in power beyond the law.

While some fraudulently extend their tenures, others transmute from president to general secretary.

These presidents are armchair unionists, or better still, labour contractors who in the name of union president, hardly go to their primary place of assignments.

They do not know the pains and challenges facing shop floor workers. While all forms of unfair labour practices such as casualisation, outsourcing, contract staffing and poor remuneration pervade in their sectors, they have become experts presiding negotiation for the retrenchment of workers.

It has become so bad that many employers do not ever consult the unions before conducting retrenchment exercise hence the unions have become reactionary organisations with empty threats.

To further humiliate the unions, some of the employers now either de-unionise the workers outrightly, or retrench them before re-engaging them as casuals or contract workers without allowing them to participate in union activities.

Tribalism: Some of these 21st century presidents have not only turned the union into tribal organisations engaging in ethnic recruitment to destabilize the secretariat, but in their bid to weaken the secretariat, have form the habit of posting out of relevance vibrant and promising secretariat staff.

Secretariat staff Some of these presidents are today occupying unions’ positions and as well as management positions. They preside over the unions’ meetings where issues affecting workers are discussed and ways forward probably agreed on, and at the same time, they seat with other top management staff to discuss how to probably, undermine the unions.

What a shame!

The bad news is that some employers now budget for and pay unions without having any union or its elected officials in their organisations. It is called protection fees to ensure that the company is not disturbed. By implication, the employer or employers have paid to indulge in all forms of unfair labour practices.

Workers in such companies will complain and lament endlessly while the presidents and his cohorts smile to the banks every month.

What these bourgeoisie 21st century presidents have succeeded in doing is to give the Nigerian employers licence to enslave and dehumanise the Nigerian workers. The consequence of this is that workers in both public and private sector are today working without being paid their monthly salaries and allowances.

44—Vanguard, Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

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46—Vanguard,THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

My ministerial nomination not because I’m Okorocha’s in-law — Prof.

Anwukah

Drama at Tribunal as APGA chairman disowns his publication

By Anayo Okoli

•As he faces Senate ethics committee over petitions

U

MUAHIA—There was drama, Monday, inside the courtroom hosting the Abia State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Umuahia, when the Chairman of the main opposition party in the State, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Rev. Augustine Ehiemere openly disowned a newspaper publication bearing his name and signature, saying he was not the author and that he was not aware of it.

APGA had in some advertorial publications in a national daily, [not Vanguard] protested the decisions of the of the national and state assemblies tribunals, most of which had gone in favour of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and accused the justices of the tribunals of being compromised.

The publication pointedly accused the judges of the Election Petition Tribunal of having been bribed and compromised with property in far away America in return for favourable judgments for the PDP candidates.

In one of the publications by APGA signed by the Chairman, the party had alleged that “huge sums of money in form of gratification have exchanged hands between the PDP leadership in the state and cronies of the justices.

"Some of the judges were allegedly responding in line with the dictates of the lucre as evidenced in the current dismissing of all petitions filed by our party against the PDP candidates. The bribe funds, we understood, were delivered to the judges outside the country and through proxies in order to leave no traces.”

By Henry Umoru & Joseph Erunke

A

BUJA—FORMER Vice Chancellor and ministerial nominee from Imo State, Professor Anthony Anwukah, yesterday,said his nomination by President Muhammadu Buhari was based on competence rather than his relationship with the state governor,Rochas Okorocha.

He said the appointment was based on the president’s belief that he can deliver services to Nigeria contrary to reports that it was because he was the governor’s inlaw.

Speaking yesterday,in Abuja,when he appeared before the Senator Samuel Anyanwu-led Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions to defend petitions written against him by a group from the state,Prof. Anwuka insisted that he was not the candidate of the state governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha because he was his in-law.

The nominee, though admitted that he was indicted by a panel set up by the state government to probe his tenure between 2000 and 2005, he said the panel chairman, Professor Anyawu was among the 25 candidates that contested to be vice chancellor with him,saying the alleged indictment which he said,was quashed by a Federal High Court in the state,was done out of vengeance.

He told the committee that the white paper by the panel which indicted him was later declared null and void by a Federal High Court.

Answering question on whether he was an in-law of Okorocha, Anwukah said he had known the governor for over 20 years long before they became in-laws, stressing that he was nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari on personal grounds.

He said:”Though I am going to represent the people of Imo State if I am cleared to become a minister, I was nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari on my person.''

Integrity Questioning the character and integrity of the justices of the tribunals, APGA had in one of the publications, called for the “trial,

Maidoh's family marks third year anniversary

T

HE family of late Justice Augustine Nwaneamaka Maidoh will mark the third year anniversary of his death with a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday October 25 2015 at All Saints Catholic Church, Onicha Ugbo in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta state at 9.00am. Late Maidoh was appointed a judge in 1976 and President of the Customary court in 1993 where he retired in 1997.

jailing and execution of the judges,” saying, “there should be no space for corrupt judges in the present Nigeria. It is not enough to just retire them, they must be tried and if found guilty, jailed or even shot to death as the people of Ghana are asking their President to do,” PDP reacted.

Worried by the weighty allegation, lead counsel to Governor Okezies Ikpeazu, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), at Monday ’s sitting of the

governorship petition, drew the attention of the tribunal to the publication, which he said was “uncharitable” and could “denigrate the integrity of the tribunal.”

Based on Olanipekun’s report, the Chairman of the governorship tribunal, Justice Usman Bwala asked for the chairman of APGA to hear from him. But sensing danger, Ehiemere attempted to sneak out of the court hall but was

prevented by PDP lawyers and supporters.

When he was confronted by the tribunal chairman on the publication, the party chairman denied knowledge and authorship of the publications which bore his names and signature.

Justice Bwala frowned at such publications and cautioned all the parties in the petition to refrain from sponsoring uncharitable publications .

SOUNDING: From left, Managing Director, GSK Pharmaceuticals, Mr. Lekan Asuni; Executive Director, Business Development, NSE, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri; Managing Director, GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc,Mr. Dayanand Sriram; Legal Director and Company Secretary, Mr. Uche Uwechia, and Sales Director, Kayode Adebiyi , both of GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc, during GSK Consumer Nigeria Plc's sounding of the closing gong, at the Nigerian Stock Exchange, yesterday.

Anambra targets N3bn monthly IGR

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA—ANAMBRA State government says it is targeting monthly Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, of N3 billion as one of the measures to strengthen the state’s economy.

The state deputy governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke, in a paper he presented at the ongoing 14th Joint Planning Board/ National Council on Development Planning meetings at the Professor Dora Akunyili W o m e n Development Center, Awka, said the state government h a d reorganized the structures of its revenue sources by plugging all the leakages

and deploying robust ICT platform that would guarantee efficient revenue collection and accountability.

According to him, with the measures taken, the state’s IGR had improved from about N500 million monthly IGR it inherited from the previous

administration, to N1.3 billion, within a period of one year.

He added: “This is just the beginning. Our target is to hit the N3 billion monthly mark He added: “This is just the beginning. Our target is to hit the N3 billion monthly mark.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015—47

Air Force, varsities, institutes brainstorm on armament production

By Luka Binniyat

K

ADUNA—THE Nigerian Air Force, NAF, yesterday gathered academics in rocket science and aerodynamics, explosive experts, drone designers, firearms makers, satellite engineers, instrumentalists and others into a brainstorming session to work out ways of using local content in making armaments to fight insurgency in the country.

The experts brought together

by NAF Research and Development Unit, under the Air Force Institute of Technology, AFIT, were mainly professors from some Nigerian universities and their counterparts from some government-funded research institutes.

Professor Emmanuel Ezuogu, Provost of AFIT, told newsmen: “This is post-seminar meeting of critical stakeholders. As you can recall, we had a seminar yesterday (Tuesday) with some of the service chiefs in attendance.

“Today ’s (yesterday)

roundtable is sequel to the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, that the Air Force signed with some 13 research institutes and universities.

“The aim is to find solutions with some of the challenges the Air Force is facing in some of its equipment in the face of the ongoing problems of insecurity.

“We hope to find homemade solutions to our problems using local content. This will save us the task of going back to the equipment

manufacturers; the protocol involved and save scarce foreign resources.”

Participating varsities, agencies

Some of the universities that sent in their specialists are Federal University of Science and Technology, FUT, Akure; FUT, Bauchi, FUT Minna.

Others include Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria; Lagos State University, Lagos, LASU, and Kwara State University.

Government agencies

present included Space, Travel and Propulsion Institute, STPI, Lagos; Nigerian Air Space Development Research Agency, NASRDA, Abuja; Defence Industrial Corporation, DICON, Kaduna, and Electronic Development Institute, Awaka.

Also invited were experts from Sheda Science and Technology Complex, SHESTCO, Abuja, and National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, NASENI.

... as Police reiterate prohibitions of sales, usage of fireworks in Borno, Yobe

By Ndahi Marama

M

AIDUGURI—BORNO and Yobe states Police commands, yesterday, reiterated their stance against the sales and usage of fireworks (knock-outs/ bangers).

The directives were contained in statements by the Police Public Relations Officers, PPROs, of the two sister states, ASP Isuku Victor and Toyin Gbadegesin, respectively.

The statements read in part: “The prohibition of the sale and use of fireworks is still in force and the public is hereby reminded that any use of fireworks before, during and after this Yu l e t i d e

season is prohibited.

“Any violation of this order shall be viewed as security saboteurs and offenders shall be arrested and prosecuted in the courts of law.”

The commands said the re-echoing of the prohibition was in view of the approaching Yuletide.

The use of fire crackers, according to the police commands, constitutes threats to security operatives and law abiding citizens of Borno and Yobe states.

N100m donation yet to reach Adamawa IDPs

By Umar Yusuf

Y

OLA—A cross section of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, living in various camps in Yola, Adamawa State capital, have appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on Governor Muhammadu Jibrillah to release money donated to them by Alhaji Mohammed Indimi, a Maiduguri-based business tycoon.

The IDPs in separate interviews, complained that they were yet to receive any amount from the said donation.

Governor Jibrillah, in August, had announced that a philanthropist, Mohammed Indimi, had donated and handed over N100 million cash to him for the IDPs in August.

Contacted, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Jibrilla, Mr. Yohana Mathias, confirmed that the governor had received the money and handed it over to the President, American University of Nigeria, Yola, Dr. Margee Ensign.

Wada’s cabinet intact—FORUM

By Boluwaji Obahopo

L

OKOJA—CABINET members of Governor Idris Wada of Kogi State have dismissed reports of their defection to All Progressives Congress, APC, ahead of the November 21 governorship election in the state.

The cabinet members, who spoke under the aegis of Forum of Commissioners and Special Advisers, said they remained resolute to deliver votes for their boss, Wada, on election day.

Spokesperson of the forum, Abdulrahman Wuya, described the report in the national daily (not Vanguard) as desperation of the opposition party, laced with malice to cause disaffection between the governor and his cabinet members.

He said: “Desperation on the path of the opposition is responsible for this imaginary report.

“We wish to state categorically that no commissioner in the administration of Idris Wada has left or planning to defect from Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.”

Sokoto indigenes move to recall senators over ministerial nominee

By Charles Kumolu

I

NDIGENES of Sokoto State, on the platform of Sokoto Citizens Forum, have said they might consider sensitizing the people of the state across the three senatorial districts on the likelihood of commencing the recall of Senators Aliyu Wammako, Ibrahim Gobir and Ibrahim Danbaba over their perceived indisposition to the choice of Mrs. Aisha Abubakar as minister.

Secretary General of the group, Malam Isah Suleiman, told newsmen in Sokoto that Aisha had the prerequisite experience that would be useful to

Nigeria at this period of financial crisis.

His words: ‘’We condemn, in the strongest of terms, the position of Senator Aliyu Wamakko, Senator Ibrahim Gobir and Senator Ibrahim Danbaba on our ministerial nominee.

We shall soon initiate the process of their recall. ‘’In this era of dwindling oil revenue, Aisha will bring to bear her expertise as a financial guru in diversifying our economy. She is a rare gem, a princess from the caliphate, whose nomination attracted applause from the length and breadth of this great country.”

48—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

•Adegbonmire, SAN

•Chief Ekwunoh

•Lasbury-Asuk

Our expectations from incoming AGF — Lawyers AS Nigerians await the emergence of a new Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), stakeholders in justice sector have numerous expectations from the incoming number one law officer. These include: Judicial reform, appointment of judges, awaiting trial of suspects, funding of the judiciary, speedy dispensation of justice, among others. Vanguard Law & Human Rights spoke to lawyers on the issue. Excerpts:

By Dayo Benson & Bartholomew Madukwe

N

EW AGF should ensure that justice is expeditiously done- Niyi Adegbonmire, SAN Whoever that will be the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) should look at issues begging for attention.

One of such issues is judicial reform, in terms of how it operates in our various courts.

He will need to ensure that justice is expeditiously done.

The second thing is the appointment of judicial officers.

The Attorney General should also pay attention to that to ensure that those appointed to the bench are credible persons.

Insurgents should be given speedy trial- Patrick Okolo, SAN There are lots of criminal cases awaiting prosecution. Many Boko Haram suspects have been arrested and they are in detention without trial. That is why the international community is worried about how we observe human rights in this country.

Today we have about 1,600 lawyers; they are on the streets doing nothing. So these Boko Haram suspects should be brought out and be prosecuted so that those that are to go to jail will go to jail and those that are to be killed will be killed.

But we detain them without trial. If somebody has given his

Oniru St ool: Court fixes Stool: December 9 for hearing C M Y K

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confessional statement, what are we waiting for? Once these Boko Haram suspects are arrested, they should be taken to court in the next four hours.

Incoming AGF should work towards eradication of snail-speed justice administration and replacement thereof with fast-track system

Now there is no record of any conviction. These are things that the coming AGF should address urgently to raise the name of Nigeria.

New AGF should be assertive— Goddy Uche, SAN I expect the incoming Attorney General to be above board.

I do not want to indict the former AGFs. But with all respect to them, they have been so much on the side of government.

The AGF should be an adviser to the government and must be grounded. He must be a man of integrity. The new AGF should be able to put his foot down and say no to the president, if the president wants to formulate a bad policy.

New AGF should properly guide Buhari on fights against corruption- Chief Morah Ekwunoh The acclaimed anti-corruption mantra of President Mu-

hammadu Buhari, naturally, presents his Attorney-General, more than any other Minister, as the mirror, litmus test, shining light and beacon through which success in tackling, among others, the hot issue of hydra-headed monster of crushing corruption which, no doubt, has not only eaten deep into our national fabric but has left the country, most regrettably, at a tipping point, will be evaluated.

President's tenure To this extent, the new AGF should immediately hit the ground running, with his eyes on the ball throughout the President’s tenure, by, inter alia, properly guiding him and his reformative administration towards the paths of relentless fights against corruption in all its shapes and forms.

Although this should not be in a soldiering form, as is obtainable in the military.

Particularly, the new AGF should look at the area of financial votes for the judiciary, since situations where heads of our courts at both federal and state levels go capin-hand and often on bent

Continues on page 49

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015—49

Our expectations from incoming AGF — Lawyers Continues from page 48 knees to the executives for disbursement of their muchneeded and constitutionally entitled and allocated funds, which clearly infringe on the independence and efficient operation of the judiciary.

Also, the incoming AGF should work towards eradication of snail-speed justice administration and replacement thereof with a fast-track system, since the aphorism of justice delayed being justice denied is immutable and also towards elimination of corruption within the judiciary, since in the words of Lord Denning, “a corrupt judge poses the greatest danger to the society.”

Danger to the society In summary, the AttorneyGeneral should know and appreciate, more than anybody else, that failure or success of the President, mainly in the fight against corruption, depends on him and his office, which can in the end leave his name etched in gold, infamy or ignominy when history dissects President Buhari’s second coming.

The incoming AGF should have regard for public interest- Ezekiel Lasbury-Asuk Essentially the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and in fact any nation state is pivotal in the dispensation and execution of Justice.

Hence, members of the legal profession have certain expectations of the prospective appointee for the said post with regard to the qualities he should have as this Ministerial position is also referred to as the office of the Nation’s principal legal officer.

One of the succinct expectations is that the prospective appointee is expected to ensure that administration of public affairs is in accordance with the law.

Hence, legal professionals

EDITORIAL TEAM Innocent Anaba ( Head) Wahab Abdulah Ikechukwu Nnochiri Dayo Benson (Supervising Editor) 08056180119

dayobenson@yahoo.com

George anticipate the appointee for the office of the Attorney general of the federation would have his/her primary focus on upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all persons in society regardless of their political, social and/or economic status are treated equally before the eyes of the law.

Level of immunity Also, whilst it is acknowledged that the nation’s grund norm grants the Attorney General some level of immunity, it is expected that he/she exhibit some level of regard of public interest and policy in the conduct of legal proceedings especially that of criminal proceedings.

Where the Attorney General executes his/her constitutional prerogative it should be done in a manner that is transparent in the eyes of the nation at large and builds up the faith of confidence of our legal system.

Another expectation is that the appointed Attorney General should put in place certain policies and execution

Duties of a lawmaker

Nwoke measures to ensure that matters presented before the court are prosecuted in a diligent, innovative and efficient manner. For instance, the existence

Attorney General of the Federation should be someone who possesses the requisite knowledge to ensure that things are kept in order

The number one issue preoccupying judiciary since democracy is full independence. The judiciary is a separate arm of government and should be kept away strictly from politics.

This is one of the reasons why some schools of thought would say that the bench is being politically affected.

Take for instance, the Katsina Alu and Ayo Salami case, it was strictly politically influenced which is not meant to be so. The judiciary still remains the only reliable arm of government. The moment the judiciary collapses the country ceases to exist. The new AGF should ensure that the judiciary is strictly kept away from politics and see that justice is done in everything.

Secondly, the judiciary has to work hand-in-hand with the legislature. We have laws in this country but the problem is its implementation.

of advanced forensic scientific measures in the presentation of evidence. This, in fact, can potentially open an economic avenue for experts and specialists who will like to offer their services to the ministry of justice. Perhaps, it will be an avenue for job creation.

Furthermore, the prospective minister should ensure that all matters emanating from his office are thoroughly reviewed.

New AGF should ensure that the judiciary is purely kept away from politics — Ibisi George I am expecting someone who would bring about expeditious dispensation of justice in this noble profession, someone who would allow justice prevail and bring about changes in the judicial system.

Considering the pedigree of President Muhammadu Buhari and his appointments so far, I strongly believe that he is going to appoint as Attorney General of the Federation someone who possesses the requisite knowledge to ensure that things are kept in order.

I see no reason why a nonlawyer should be a senator. At least 90% of the senators should be lawyers so that they can come together with the judiciary and make good laws.

One of the duties of a lawmaker is the consequence of any law that is to be made, which a non-lawyer will not know.

AGF should ensure that the Federal Government does not breach commercial contract obligations- Ralph Nwoke The new AGF should ensure that criminal matters filed by the Federal Government are properly prosecuted by competent counsel who must not necessarily be state counsel.

I would also want to see more federal high courts, especially in cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt where you have a lot of matters before the Federal High Court.

The AGF also needs to ensure that the Federal Government does not breach commercial contract obligations.

Breach of contract obligations is responsible for unnecessary litigations and very high judgment debt obligation of the Federal Government.

50—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015 Sylva Ogwemoh SAN, mother's Requiem Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Agenebode, Etsako East LGA, Edo State. Photos by: Bartholomew Madukwe

Judges, Lawyers extol virtues of SAN’s late mother

By Bartholomew Madukwe & Anyaegbu Mary-Jane

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HIEF Judge of Edo State, Justice C.O. Idahosa, has said the late Mrs Felicia Ebodeamhe Ogwemoh, mother of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Sylva Ogwemoh lived a good life with worthy legacies, just as the Edo State Attorney-General & Commissioner for Justice, Mr Henry Idahagbon, described her death a painful one.

These legal personalities were among dignitaries who witnessed a requiem mass held in honour of the late Ogwemoh, held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Agenebode, Edo State.

Others at the mass were Justice Tom Yakubu of the Court of Appeal, Enugu, Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, Lagos and his wife, while a Supreme Court Judge, Justice Walter Onnoghen was represented his wife, Nkoyo.

Lawyers from the Lagos branch of Nigerian Bar As-

sociation, NBA, were led by their Chairman, Mr Martin Ogunleye, to the event.

In a condolence message, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Idahosa, who was unable to attend the event pointed out that the late Ogwemoh left worthy legacies and lived a good life.

“However for myself, my wife and family and on behalf of all Hon. Judges and entire staff of Edo State Judiciary, I hereby convey our heartfelt sympathies to you and the entire members of your family,” Justice Idahosa said.

Edo State AG, Idahagbon, noted that even though the deceased was 90-year-old, “it was never without pain to lose such a beloved one.” He urged members of Ogwemoh family to be consoled with the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled and accomplished life and is now taking her welldeserved rest in perfect peace.

In a tribute to her mother-in-law (late Ogwemoh), Mrs Priscilla stated: “I learnt

a lot from you particularly in the area of being hospitable and entertaining visitors. I remember how compassionate you always were and how you could not bear to see people in pain.

“Besides your generosity, kindness, care and compassion for those around you, I will always remember you as someone with a good heart and a great capacity for tolerance and perseverance.”

National Association of Catholic Lawyers- Lagos Archdiocese, on their part, prayed that the memories of late Ogwemoh bring comfort to all members of the family.

“We, the National Association of Catholic LawyersLagos Archdiocese, offer our deepest sympathy on the transition of your mother. The Association will book Masses for the repose of her soul. May the soul of your mother and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace,” they asserted.

Mr. Sylva Ogwemoh (SAN) and wife, Mrs Priscilla.

Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court in Lagos and wife, a Supreme Court Judge, Justice Walter NkanuOnnoghen represented by his wife, Mrs Nkoyo.

Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch, Mr. Martin Ogunleye and Chief Judge of Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice Dan Abutu.

Oniru Stool: Court fixes December 9 for hearing

By Onozure Dania

J

USTICE Morenike Obadina of a Lagos High Court sitting in Igbosere has adjourned the hearing of the disputed Oniru Stool to December 9 and 10, 2015.

The date was fixed due to the absence of the counsel to Oba Idowu Abiodun Oniru, Mrs. Mary Bassey.

According to the judge, B a s s e y letter to the court stating that she was ill and would not be able to make it to the court and asked the court to adjourn the matter to that date when she would be able to appear before the court.

The claimants Counsel Chief Olusegun Raji who was displeased with the attitude of the defendant’s counsel said that this is the second time the counsel would be delaying the trial. At the last adjourned date Justice Obadina had awarded a cost of N25,000 against Oba Abiodun for persistent delay in a suit challenging his eligibility as the Oba Oniru of the Victoria Island Lagos.

The judge imposed the

penalty on the defence counsel when the matter which was slated for commencement of hearing was stalled due to their inability of the defendants to file amendment statement of defence.

Raji, in his submission before the court, said the matter was slated for trial with all his witnesses present in court but that the defence applicants have stalled the matter again.

He further stated that the counsel to Oba Abiodun has failed to comply with the order of the court directing her to file her amended statement of defence and pay the cost of N25, 000 to the claimants before the adjourn date.

“My lord, this matter is slated for trial today as at the last adjournment my learned friend for defence did not file his amended statement of defence. The court also awarded cost against them and we have not been paid. We are bound by the records of your lordship,” Raji said.

In the statement of claim before the court, Oba Abiodun allegedly con-

nived with non-relations or outsiders to manage the Oniru Chieftaincy family properties.

“The claimant averred that in order for defendant to allegedly and fraudulently do away with the family properties, they deliberately registered a company called City Property Development Limited and Chieftaincy Family Property Company Limited with all his children, siblings and associates as members and Directors.

“The claimant averred that in order to have exclusive control and monopoly of the entire Oniru Chieftaincy family properties, Oba Abiodun inaugurated a committee in 1991 which comprises his children, siblings and friends/associates with the exclusion of claimants and their relations." tagged: Oniru Private Estate management Committee (project),” it stated.

The claimants argued that Oba Abiodun, on his own volition, disposed major part of their family land to third parties without awareness, consent or family approval.

Former Military Administrator of Ogun State, Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin and wife, Chief Modupe.

Members of Leading Light Concept taking the deceased away for burial at her family home in Agenebode, Edo State.

Children of the deceased: From left- Mrs Mary Ogwemoh-Ofuenyi, Sir Anthony Ogwemoh, Mrs Clara Kadiri, Mr. Sylva Ogwemoh (SAN), Mrs Angela Musa, Miss Paula Ogwemoh, Mr Paul Ogwemoh and Mrs Theodora Solana.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015—51

Buhari proposes Yakubu as new INEC chair Amina Zakari, Soyebi, four others as national commissioners

By Ben Agande & Levinus Nwabughiogu

A

BUJA—PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday, moved the National Council of State to remedy the legal hiatus in the composition of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, with the appointment of a new national chairman and five new commissioners.

The new national chairman proposed by the president and adopted by the National Council of State is Professor Mahmood Yakubu, a former executive secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND, who also served as the Assistant Secretary, Finance and Administration of the 2014 National Conference.

Other national commissioners proposed by the president and endorsed by the NCS were, Dr. Antonia Taiye Okoosi-Simbile (North Central), Alhaji Baba Shettima Arfo, (North East), Dr. Mohammed Mustapha Lecky (South-South) and Prince Soyebi Adedeji Solomon (Southwest).

Mrs. Amina Bala Zakari, the acting national chairman was also endorsed for another term to represent the North-West as national commissioner.

Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State who briefed newsmen following the emergency NCS meeting said the action was to avert the legal loopholes in the composition of the commission given the fact that only one of the 13 statutory national commissioners was left in office. The commission needs a minimum of four national commissioners to form a quorum.

“The situation in INEC as at today is such that demands this emergency meeting to approve the nominations by Mr. President, because the law requires a minimum of four commissioners to form a quorum in INEC, which is not the case today, because the tenures of 11 of the national commissioners of INEC had expired,” Governor Tambuwal told State House correspondents following the NCS meeting.

“The Council has agreed to stagger the confirmation of this appointment of Commissioners of INEC in view of the situation we found ourselves presently whereby the tenures of individual commissioners expired almost the same time.

“So, to avert future occurrence of such a situation the Council has agreed that the next 6 of the Commissioners should be submitted to the Council subsequently for its approval.

These names have been approved and would be transmitted to the NASS for

confirmation,” he said.

Kogi Bayelsa elections

Asked if the forthcoming governorship elections in Kogi and Bayelsa States featured at the meeting, the governor said it was not a matter for the council, adding that the new INEC chair and his team have the responsibility of conducting the elections.

“I have said earlier on that we needed a quorum for the commission to function and that is why Mr. President in his wisdom summoned this emergency meeting for us to approve these names. So, I’m sure it is the new chairman that will now supervise and conduct the elections in Kogi and Bayelsa”, Tambuwal said.

Commendations

Meanwhile, the Council also hailed the former INEC chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, on the success of the 2015 elections.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, disclosed this to State House correspondents yesterday.

He said: “The council noted and commended Prof. Jega for his laudable activities as the chairman of INEC. “The President directed that the secretariat should note the commendations. A letter of commendation may later be sent to the former INEC boss.”

Meanwhile news of the development calmed frayed nerves in the commission headquarters yesterday as a number of senior staff who spoke to Vanguard welcomed

the news.

Reacting to the development, a director in the commission who does not want his name in print because he is a civil servant said the appointment was a welcome development.

“It is a welcome development because the commission needs a substantive head to consolidate on the gains made by the former chairman especially as it prepares for the coming elections in Bayelsa and Kogi states.

Since this is the first election to be conducted under President Buhari, there is the need to have a substantive leader in place. It is cheerring news for us in the commission,” he said.

Another staff of the commission, Nicholas

Agbambu, said with the appointment of the chairman and other national commissioners, President Buhari has demonstrated that he is ready to build on the achievements of the former chairman.

Another staff of the commission in the research department, said the appointments will bring credibility to the conduct of the forth coming elections.

“There would have been a very serious credibility problem if the elections were to be conducted with the acting chairman presiding over it. With the full complement of the commissioners now, things will be better in the commission as they will bring in their wealth of experience to bear on the conduct of the elections,” he said.

The new election managers

By Charles Kumolu & Gbenga Oke

Prof. Mahmood Yakubu

sum N284. 9 billion between 2008-2010 as against the N178.0 billion collected between 19942007.

He was the chairman of the Federal Government’s Committee on Needs Assessment of Nigerian universities.

He was at the Confab where he served as the Assistant Secretary, Finance & Administration.

Mr Solomon Adedeji Soyebi – Ogun State (Southwest)

T

HE six men and one woman proposed by President Muhammadu Buhari to oversee the Independent National Electoral Commissio, INEC, are not strange to public service having held strategic offices in the past.

Prof. Mahmood Yakubu – Chairman (Bauchi) Yakubu, a professor of political history and international studies, was the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND. He is an expert in guerrilla warfare, terrorism and counterterrorism and hails from Ilella in Bauchi State.

Yakubu is a lecturer at the Nigerian Defence Academy where he teaches War and Society in Pre-Colonial Africa.

He was seconded from the NDA to the Federal Ministry of Education from where President Musa Yar’Adua appointed him as the first academic to head the TETFUND. Under him, TETFUND witnessed a meteoric rise in the collection of Education Tax Receipts when it collected the

Mr Solomon Soyebi Mr. Solomon Adedeji Soyebi once served as the acting chairman of INEC after the tenure of Professor Maurice Iwu in 2010.

Until his appointment as acting chairman, he was a national commissioner in charge of operations at INEC. Soyebi has a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Ibadan.

He served as a school principal in various schools for about 20 years before he was first appointed as a commissioner.

He had in the past served as as Resident Electoral Commissioner in Osun, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Kano and Lagos States.

Dr. Mohammed Mustafa-

Lecky – Edo State (SouthSouth) Mustafa-Lecky , who is a former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, was born 61 years ago in Auchi.

He attended the University of California and Harvard University courtesy of a scholarship from the Bureau of External Aid for Education.

He had his post-doctoral work at Harvard School of Public Health.

His job as a demographic expert has taken him to Switzerland, South Africa, Botswana, Congo, Namibia, Sierra Leone and several other countries.

In December 2004, he was appointed interim Executive Secretary of the NHIS. His appointment, which was confirmed in January 2005, was however cut short less than two years into his tenure under clouded circumstances but he was subsequently found not wanting of any act of impropriety.

He is presently the Executive Secretary of Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria, HERFON.

Amina Bala Zakari Amina Bala Zakari – Jigawa (Northwest) The acting national chairman is a pharmacist and hails from

Jigawa State.

Zakari schooled at Queens College, Lagos and the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria following which she worked as a pharmacist in various hospitals from 1983 to 1996.

She served at the Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA as Secretary of Health and Human Services and Social Development and Agriculture and Rural Development from 2004 – 2007.

Her consultancy services involved MDAs, MDGs and the private sector.

Other qualifications obtained include, Certificate in Managing Drugs Supply for Primary Health Care from MHS Amsterdam in 1997, Certificate in Project Management 1998, Certificate in Senior Management from Crown Agents London in 2005 Certificate in Executive Education in Business Management from Harvard Business School. She was first appointed as a national commissioner by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2010.

Dr. Anthonia OkoosiSimbine (North-Central) Okoosi-Simbine, who represents the North Central geo-political zone, is a researcher at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, NISER, Ibadan.

She has a number of seminal publications on public policy and development to her credit.

Alhaji Baba Shettima Arfo – Borno (Northeast) Shetima hails from Borno State. He is representing the North-East in the commission.

52 – Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Amuneke hails rampant Eaglets G

OLDEN Eaglets coach Emmanuel Amuneke has praised his players for their impressive display in a 5-1 demolition of hosts Chile, which advanced them into the round of 16 of the FIFA U17 World Cup. He said his players made the hosts uncomfortable in the midfield and forced them out of their style.

“It is true we were effective up front, but we also knew how to block their passing game, forcing them to

play uncomfortably in the midfield,” he said.

“My players understood the transition game, that is when to attack, when to defend.

“We also prepared them mentally, it is not easy to play against the host. Chile has a god team, but today they lost against the best team. I believe they can qualify for the next round.”

Nigeria play Croatia in their last group game on Friday by 12 midnight Nigerian time.

O

NE of the nominees for the Sports Man of the Year in this year’s Nigerian Sports Award, Aruna Quadri improved his chance of clinching the prestigious diadem after claiming the Portuguese Super Cup with his new club Sporting Lisbon.

QUADRI, a two-Time winner of the Ball Sports Award of the Nigerian Sports Award was in fine form when he marshaled the resurgence of the Lisbon-based team against his Former club, GD Toledos at the weekend.

For four years while at GD Toledos, Quadri singlehandedly prevented Sporting from winning the Portuguese Super Cup but after pitching his tent with the Lisbon-based side, the 2014 ITTF Star Player was instrumental to the team’s

We’re wasteful, says Chile coach win their final group

C

HILE U17 team coach Miguel Ponce has stated that his team played well against champions Nigeria Tuesday night, but lost because they could not put away the chances they created.

World Cup hosts Chile fell 5-1 to Nigeria loss and may now need to

•Ponce

game to advance to the knockout stage of the tournament.

Ponce admitted his players find it difficult to cope with the physical presence and the speed of the coach Emmanuel Amuneke-led team.

“I told the kids: Nigeria respected us more than the result shows. They took measures to avoid us playing quickly, they knew to wait for us and scored after patient plays, they did not keep us in our goal for the whole game,” he said.

“It is true there were physical differences, especially when it came to speed, but it is also true we were not able to

Eaglets

Continues from BP comprehensive 5-1 victory over hosts Chile and progressing to the knockout stages in the process. A goal within 30 seconds by star man Samuel Chukwueze set the tone for a straightforward win, with the diminutive No8 grabbing a second in the second half after he had earlier been fouled for Kelechi Nwakali’s to score from the spot, and before he was felled for Victor Osimhen’s successful spot kick conversion.

Chile grabbed a consolation, before Funsho Bamgboye saw his marching orders, with Osimhen’s late header adding some gloss to the win, despite Nwakali missing his second penalty of the match after Chukwueze

had been fouled in the penalty area for a third time.

The Nigerians were remarkably quick out of the blocks, opening the scoring after 22 seconds.

Victor Osimhen, fresh from his goal in the opening game against USA, sprinted down the left and slid the ball across the Chilean penalty area. The onrushing midfielder slammed home with ease.

He then played a big part in the second Nigeria goal, sprinting onto a long upfield clearance and tapping the ball past the sliding Juan Jose Soriano in the penalty area. The Chilean defender ’s challenge brought down the Nigeria No8 and Nwakali doubled the lead.

2015 NSA: Quadri enhances profile with Portuguese Super Cup

•Amuneke

reclaiming of the title at the weekend.

In what looked likehomecoming for Quadri occurred when he led Sporting against GD Toledos in the Portuguese Super Cup. From the five matches played, Quadri won two of them to give Sporting Lisbon a 4-1 win to reclaim the trophy to the Lisbonbased team.

According to Quadri, the win really meant a lot to Sporting as the fans celebrated throughout the night. “It was not easy playing against the team I had featured in for more than three seasons. But as a professional I must do my job to ensure that my team claims the victory. I am happy winning my first title with Sporting, which also has my compatriot, Bode Abiodun,” he said.

Provide enabling environment for growth of tennis, The sponsor of the sisters(Serena and SAN advises govt annual event, Barrister Venus), and represent

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

A

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Barrister Babatunde Fashanu has urged government to provide infrastructures for sports especially tennis so that Nigerian tennis players can compete favourably with other international stars.

The legal practitioner gave the advise at this

year ’s grand finale of a week long tennis tournament tagged ‘Alhaji Taslimat Alake Fashanu Tennis Classic’ organised by the Tennis section of the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja.

Nigeria in international tournaments.

He added the competition was originally meant for children but adults were later included two years ago.

ARS 5 starlet dreams Barcelona

BY PRECIOUS UBANI

E

YO Christopher, the 16-year old striker for team Port Harcourt

Chukwueze

Continues from BP The hard-running midfielder’s well-taken strike was the third-fastest goal in the history of the competition, exceeded in speed only by Brazilians Fabinho at Korea 2007 and Celso at Peru 2005, who took only nine and 14 seconds respectively to find the back of the net.

“Seriously?” asked the smiling and softly spoken Chukwueze when told by FIFA.com of his achievement. “I had no idea, but it’s an honour to know that my name is part of the history of a World Cup. I never imagined anything like this. It makes me feel proud.

“I know I did well today, but I still have a lot of work to do to improve,” said Chukwueze, a product of the Diamond Football Academy. “I try to base my

Fashanu, a tennis player, said the tournament was put in place to discover young talented tennis players who will go on to become great players like the American Williams

game on that of Arjen Robben, who can run with the ball at speed, score goals and set them up too.

I want to be an all-round player like him.”

The youngster served early notice of his striking prowess at the 2013 Iberian Cup in Estoril, when, at the age of only 14, he scored the small matter of 12 goals in seven matches for Nigeria’s U17s.

That same year he followed the Golden Eaglets’ triumphant progress at the U-17 world finals in UAE closely, looking on in awe as compatriot Kelechi Iheanacho played a starring role and collected the adidas Silver Boot: “He showed a lot of power and quality and he’s now with Manchester City.

at the recently held Airtel RisingStarsSeason5football tournament has said he dreams of playing for European powerhouses, Barcelona or Arsenal some day in his career.

Speaking after the competition which he emerged as highest goal scorer, Evo said, “I really dreamofplayingfortheSuper Eagles and for big clubs such as Barcelona or Arsenal.”

He spoke of the impact the AirtelRisingStarscompetition has had in youth football in the country. “After qualifying for the finals, my team members felt so happy and motivated.

The encouragement we got from

the ex-internationals, the spectators and Airtel Nigeria showed that they believe in us that is why they gave us such opportunity to display ourtalents”.SaidChristopher Evo who emerged the Highest Goal Scorer in the tournament, said.

Hesaidthesoccerclinicalso allowed them to see their areas of weakness and how they could improve.

The skilful player who scored three goals in the competition noted that apart from improving his skills, the tournament gave him opportunity to make new friends and to know more places in Nigeria.

Adamu Continues from BP when he was banned from all football activity for three years.

He was banned over claims he asked for money in exchange for World Cup votes.

Adamu’s suspension expired in October 2013.

He was a high-ranking

government official for Nigerian sport for 20 years and was once considered to be a leading candidate to succeed long-serving Issa Hayatou as president of the Confederation of African Football.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 22,, 2015— 53

C M Y K

54 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

Muller plots Bayern's Arsenal revenge

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HOMAS Muller says Bayern Munich will produce an improved performance against Arsenal when they have the benefit of playing in front of their own fans.

Pep Guardiola’s men fell to a 2-0 Champions League defeat at the Emirates Stadium last Tuesday after conceding late goals from Olivier Giroud and Mesut Ozil.

The win for Arsenal leaves Group F wide open with just three points separating all four sides, although Bayern remain top, level with Olympiacos on six points.

A positive result for Bayern when they welcome the Gunners to Germany on November 4 will put them in a strong position to qualify and Muller is optimistic about his team’s chances.

“We lead our group and have a home game,” he said. “We know it won’t be easy - it is the same team who beat us.

“Only the location changes but we know that we are strong at home. With the fan support we can come away with more points than we did here.”

The 2014 World Cup winner feels Bayern had good spells in the match against Arsenal and refused to criticise goalkeeper Manuel Neuer over the mistake which led to Giroud’s opener.

Muller continued: “Manuel is confident enough and also I don’t blame him. He kept us in the game once or twice and these kinds of situations are never easy.

“Football at this level is never a clear thing. It is always close. We had the game under control, especially in the part of the game where they scored.

“We had chances of our own and the second half was especially good from us. The first 30 minutes also - only the 15 minutes before the break were problematic for us.

Neuer not to blame for Bayern defeat – Guardiola

B

AYERN Munich coach Pep Guardiola denied goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was at fault for Tuesday’s defeat to Arsenal.

Bayern’s 12-match winning streak in all competitions came to an end in London after Neuer’s late error helped Arsenal to a 2-0 Champions League victory in Group F. Neuer misjudged San-

•Neuer C M Y K

ti Cazorla’s free-kick and the German international was caught out of position as substitute Olivier Giroud headed home the 77th-minute opener.

Mesut Ozil sealed the points in stoppage time but Guardiola refused to blame Neuer, who had produced two brilliant saves to deny Ozil and Theo Walcott earlier in the match.

Police arrest three as fans clash in Manchester

T

CONTEST . . . Arsenal’s defender Nacho Monreal (L) vies against Bayern Munich’s forward Thomas Muller during their UEFA Champions League match at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal won 2-0. Photo: AFP.

HREE football fans have been arrested after violence broke out in Manchester city centre, police have confirmed.

Footage of groups of supporters clashing near Sinclair ’s Oyster Bar emerged just four hours prior to Manchester City ’s Champions League game with Sevilla at the Etihad Stadium yesterday.

Hooligans are seen throwing chairs, glasses and a bicycle at a rival group, before attempting to force their way through barriers around the exterior section of the bar.

“3 x Polish football fans arrested for a violent disorder following the incident at Shambles Square earlier this evening,” Greater Manchester Police later confirmed via Twitter.

Chelsea were denied a penalty — Terry J

OHN Terry feels Chelsea should have been awarded a penalty in the 0-0 Champions League draw with Dynamo Kiev.

Cesc Fabregas was seemingly brought down by Dynamo defender Sergiy Rybalka inside the area during the opening 45 minutes at the Olympic Stadium, but referee Damir Skomina opted not to blow his whistle.

“We kept a clean sheet which is a positive and it is not a bad result, but I think we deserved to win,” Terry told the Chelsea website.

“The first half was a lot better than the second. We created a few chances, Willian’s free-kick hit the bar, and there was the penalty that for me maybe was one, that wasn’t given.

“We were unlucky not to score and we are disappointed not to win, even if they had a couple of halfchances as well. We came here to win the game and there were some good performances.”

The draw in Kiev, together with Porto’s 2-0 win at home to Maccabi Tel Aviv, leaves Chelsea third in Group G with four points from three matches played.

Terry though is confident they can progress to the knockout stages if they win their home games.

TUSSLE . . . Dynamo Kiev’s forward Artem Kravets (R) vies with Chelsea’s defender John Terry during their UEFA Champions League match at the Olympic stadium in Kiev. Maqtch ended goalless. Photo: AFP

Schmidt: It was not a normal game

R

OGER Schmidt de scribed Bayer Leverkusen’s thrilling 4-4 draw with Roma as “everything but a normal game”, though he was delighted with two late goals.

Kevin Kampl and Admir Mehmedi struck during the final six minutes as Leverkusen and Roma shared the spoils in a seesawing battle in Champions League Group E. Leverkusen raced out to a 2-0 lead by the 20-

minute mark thanks to a Javier Hernandez brace, but Daniele De Rossi scored twice before halftime to level proceedings.

Roma continued where they left off in the secondhalf as Miralem Pjanic and Iago Falque put the Italian visitors 4-2 ahead with 17 minutes remaining, only for Leverkusen to successfully rally courtesy of Kampl and Mehmedi.

Speaking afterwards, Schmidt said via

•Schmidt UEFA.com: “It was everything but a normal football game. That’s why coaches, players and spectators come to the stadium.''

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 22,, 2015— 55

C M Y K

Vanguard, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2015

FIFA investigates Adamu F

ORMER FIFA E x e c u t i v e Committee member, Dr Amos Adamu is under

Eaglets whitewash H Chile 5-1 OLDERS Golden E a g l e t s continued their impressive start to their

FIFA U-17 World Cup title defence by completing a Continues on Page 52

investigation by Fifa’s ethics committee, it revealed on Wednesday.

Adamu is alleged to have breached Fifa’s code of ethics but world football’s governing body did not provide any more details.

The 62-year-old was a member of Fifa’s executive committee for four years until 2010,

Continues on Page 52

•Adamu

UEFA C/Leagie Results Arsenal BATE B/Leverkusen Dinamo Zagreb Dynamo Kiev FC Porto Valencia Zenit

2 0 4 0 0 2 2 3

Bayern Munich 0 Barcelona 2 Roma 4 Olympiakos 1 Chelsea 0 Maccabi 0 AA Gent 1 Lyon 1

FIFA U-17: Results USA England Chile Korea Rep.

2 0 1 1

Croatia Brazil Nigeria Guinea

2 1 5 0

Glo League Results CELEBRATION: Golden Eaglets celebrate their 5-1 victory over Chile

Amuneke hails rampant Eaglets — Page 52

U-17 World Cup: Chukwueze scores fastest goal I

T took Nigeria’s Samuel Chukwueze no more than 25 seconds to write his name in the tournament record books on Tuesday, scoring a quick-fire goal that put

the Africans on the road to a 5-1 defeat of hosts Chile and into the last 16 of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2015.

Continues on Page 52

El-Kanemi Abia Warriors Wikki Tourists Heartland Dolphins N/United Shooting Stars Kwara United

1-2 2-0 2-1 1-0 2-1 0-0 1-0 1-1

Giwa Lobi Stars FC IfeanyiUbah Sharks Kano Pillars Enyimba FC Taraba Bayelsa United

Fixtures •Chukwueze

Australia Belgium Argentina Ecuador

v v v v

Mexico 9 pm Honduras 9 pm Germany Midnight Mali Midnight

QUICK CR OSS WORD CROSS OSSWORD

T OD AY'S PUZZLE ODA

FRI DAY'S ANS WERS FRID ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Grasp (4) 4 Obscure (3) 6 Trouble (4) 9 Untruth (3) 10 Surround (8) 11 Unfortunately (4) 14 Prohibit (3) 16 Pity (5) 19 Bewildered (8) 21 Cut (5) 23 Deluded (8) 24 Penniless (5) 27 Tear (3) 31 Cat-noise (4) 33 Copied (8) 34 Owing (3) 35 Respect (4) 36 Brown (3) 37 Story (4)

DOWN: 2 Position (4) 3 Bucket (4) 4 Dead (8) 5 Encounter (4) 6 Fight (5) 7 Sicken (3) 8 Kingdom (5) 12 Deride (5) 13 Fish (5) 14 Coach (3) 15 Not ever (5) 17 Living (5) 18 Avoid (5) 20 Verdict (8) 22 Material (3) 25 Ooze (5) 26 Challenged (5) 28 Droop (4) 29 Woman (4) 30 Tolerate (4) 32 Regret (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Morass 5, Defeat 8, Horrible 9, Shoe 10, Add 12, Messy 15, Day 17, Roe 18, Eke 19, Ace 20, Arena 21, Ale 22, Awn 23, Rat 24, Dud 26, Titan 29, Hid 33, Edit 34, Earliest 35, Propel 36, Dither

DOWN: 2 Ovoid 3, Airy 4, Sable 5, Dress 6, Fuss 7, Aroma 10, Award 11, Dread 12, Meant 13, Spent 14, Yearn 15, Death 16, Yield 25, Under 27, Ideal 28, Acrid 30, Issue 31, Step 32, Mist.

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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