KABIRU MARAFA, MODU SHERIFF: Showdown in Senate, PDP today

...towards a better life for the people

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VOL. 25: NO. 62699

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

N150

KABIRU MARAFA, MODU SHERIFF:

Showdown in Senate, PDP today A

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor, Ben Agande & Joseph Erunke

•Senator Marafa faces suspension over alleged unparliamentary conduct •Ex-PDP ministers in fresh rally against Sheriff, threaten armageddon

ASIODU LECTURE— From left: Former Minister of Petroleum, Chief Philip Asiodu; foremost industrialist and Chairman of the occasion, Chief Chris Ogunbanjo and former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, at the first Philip Asiodu Lecture, held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday. See page 14 for more.

BUJA—THE P e o p l e s Democratic Party, PDP was, last night, teetering on the brink, following the threat of mass abandonment of the party in the wake of the ascension of Senator Ali Sheriff as the new national chairman of the party.

In the National Assembly, Kabiru Marafa, a senator (APC, Zamfara Central) at the forefront of campaign for emergence of Senator Ahmed Lawan as Senate President during the campaign for

Lagos strange killer disease: Laboratory test shows measles virus 11

$2bn Malabu oil deal probe: NIS JOB SCAM:

Adoke writes Osinbajo, defends transfer of cash

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EFCC quizzes Abba Moro, 2 others

TARABA: Why we upheld PDP's victory •P.9 — S-Court

Delta hospital stockpiles corpses in the open See Inside

Mr & Mrs 17

COLUMNIST P.20

YINKA ODUMAKIN

Magufuli:

Africa's real face of change C M Y K

the seat, may face suspension today in the Senate.

The planned suspension of Marafa will follow recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions, which investigated him over alleged disparaging comments against the Senate and by extension, the National Assembly.

Two senators, Isah Misau, APC, Bauchi Central, and Matthew Urhoghide, PDP, Edo South, had petitioned the Continues on Page 5

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Mohammed Abacha not party to deal

CONFERENCE: From left, Oba Adesesan Oguntayo, the Ajalorun of Ijebu Ife; Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro; Mrs Olabowale Ademola, Lagos State Head of Service; Otunba Femi Deru, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, President; Mrs Yetunde Onanuga, Ogun State Deputy Governor, Deacon Titus Soetan, ICAN Vice President and Mr Rotimi Omotoso, Registrar/CEO, ICAN at the 10th Western Zonal Conference of ICAN, at Ijebu Ode.

$2bn Malabu oil deal probe: Adoke writes Osinbajo, defends transfer of cash to Malabu Claims huge sum from settlement belonged to Malabu Says FG only entitled to $210m signature bonus Insists settlement was done in Nigeria’s interest Mohammed Abacha not party to deal

By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor

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BUJA— AS the controversy over the $2 billion Malabu oil deal resurfaces, the immediate past Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Mohammed Adoke, has said his office facilitated the settlement agreement between feuding parties and the Federal Government in the interest of Nigeria.

Adoke, yesterday, dispatched a detailed explanation to the Vice President, Mr Yemi Osinbajo, on how the decision to settle out of court between the parties involved in the multi-billion deal was reached and why the Federal Government of Nigeria was paid a pittance of $210 million out of the $2 billion.

Adoke’s explanation comes on the heels of his invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to explain how the decision to pay a whopping sum of money to certain individuals and entities named in the Malabu oil deal was reached, who determined the ratio of sharing and why the government got a negligible fraction of the huge payout.

Vanguard learned, last night, that Adoke and many other top Nigerians, including a former National Security Adviser and Finance Minister, might be summoned to speak on their roles in the sharing of the cash, which many believed went into the hands of vested interest and largely short-changed the Federal Government of Nigeria.

But Adoke insisted in a six-page document obtained by Vanguard

that he acted in the overall best interest of Nigeria to prevent a protracted litigation that would have left Nigeria in a bad shape and lowered its image, given the international dimension the matter had assumed before his appointment.

The former Justice minister insisted that any responsible Attorney General of the Federation would have done what he did to safeguard the interest of the country and avoid a liability that potentially stood against it.

Adoke stated that given the threat from Shell to sue the government over loss of over $2 billion and the loss of investments, he had to encourage a definitive resolution between the parties, who had expressed an intention to settle out of court but were untrusting of each other, given their antecedents.

He said as at the date of the settlement in 2006 and the resolution agreement in 2011, OPL 245 had been exclusively vested in Malabu and subjected to the conditions spelled out in the allocation of the oil bloc.

According to him, the interest of the Federal Government at the time of the resolution in 2011 was to ensure the payment of the signature bonus on the bloc and that the bloc was developed to enable the country earn revenue through royalty and taxes.

FG only entitled to $210m signature bonus

Part of the letter read: “That consistent with Nigerian law governing oil and gas and the

allocation of oil blocks, the signature bonus due and payable to the FGN amounting to $210 million was duly paid and acknowledged.

“The taxes and royalties associated with oil produced from the block are also now being paid.

This is contrary to the lies and misinformation being peddled that Nigeria was short changed in the transaction.

“That at all times material to the resolution of the disputes between Malabu/Shell/FGN and one Mohammed Sani, who now claims to be Mohammed Abacha, was not a party to the transaction and did not disclose any personal or family interest in OPL 245 to the administration of Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar or to the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“That Mohammed Abacha did not participate in the negotiations leading to the resolution or settlement agreements; that Mr. Abacha surfaced only after the tripartite resolution of the matter between Shell/Malabo and the FGN to request that the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation should prevail on the main shareholder of Malabu to respect their interests in Malabu by paying them part of the proceeds."

Adoke said it was wrong to assume that the money accruable for Malabu belonged to the Federal Government and asked those who thought so to perish their thoughts.

He said: “It is, therefore, incorrect and contrary to as widely claimed in some quarters, that the money paid to Malabu, which was only warehoused in an escrow account, was meant for the Nigerian Government and that the country was, thereby, shortchanged.

“Malabu, as title-holder of the oil bloc, merely dispensed of her interest in it as allowed by law. This, indeed, is the case with similar oil blocs allocated to several notable Nigerians who also disposed of their interests to oil multinationals and are enjoying the proceeds without any eyebrow or allegations of corruption.”

Appeal to vice president

While absolving himself of any wrongdoing in the matter, Adoke asked the Vice President to use his office to protect the office of the AGF from mischief makers and politicians.

He also drew the attention of the Vice President to the fact that Shell and other firms involved in the deal had breached the laws of their home countries, either by nondisclosures and or tax evasion, Nigeria should assist such countries to ascertain the truth and not to criminalise public office holders to satisfy what he called "narrow interests" of shareholders fighting over the assets of their company.

Oct 1 bombing: Court suspends Okah’s trial Hospital in Abuja.

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

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BUJA — THE Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, yesterday, suspended the trial of the alleged mastermind of the 2010 Independence Day bomb blast that killed 12 persons at Eagle Square in Abuja, Mr. Charles Okah.

Justice Gabriel Kolawole deferred the trial till March 10 to enable Okah, who is facing a terrorism charge alongside one Obi Nwabueze, to recuperate from knee surgery he underwent at the National

Owing to the surgery, Okah, who has been in detention at Kuje prison, Abuja could not attend the court proceeding.

Justice Kolawole earlier ordered the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Solomon Arase, to provide tight security around the hospital where Okah is receiving treatment.

Charles, who is a younger brother to ex-leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, Mr. Henry Okah, who had since been convicted by a South African Court, had on October 6 attempted to commit suicide while his trial was going on.

APC lawmakers decry unemployment rate

By Ikenna Asomba

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AGOS — FEDERAL lawmakers elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, yesterday, decried the alarming rate of unemployment in the country, noting that it was a ravaging disease facing the nation’s economy.

They spoke in Lagos, at the opening of a six-month programme, tagged: Empowerment and Wealth Creation Scheme, organised by the lawmaker representing Kosofe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rotimi Agunsoye, in collaboration with the Nationwide Apprenticeship Scheme for Technicians, Artisans, Entrepreneurs and Agroprenuers (NASTAEA), for 200 youths in Kosofe Federal Constituency.

The legislators lamented the rising youth and graduate unemployment in the country, stating that it was gradually becoming an abnormality that must be arrested.

Those who raised concern were Rotimi Agunsoye, Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District; Sen. Gbenga Ashafa and Majority Leader, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Speaking at the event, Agunsoye said: “Nowadays, our young people often lack the requisite job skills and experience for specific job openings and would most often be unqualified and unsuitable for the available jobs and unable to build careers in certain fields.

“The consequences of unemployment has led to a societal menace, directly affecting through the fabrics of the entire Nigerian state.

Living without an adequate source of income makes life extremely frustrating."

On his part, Senator Ashafa lauded Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State for establishing the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, urging other states of the federation to emulate him by establishing such ministry in their various states.

Also, Gbajabiamila commended Agunsoye’s approach to empowerment of his constituents in Kosofe, pointing out that empowering over 200 persons meant employing a thousand people because of the multiplier effect.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—5

POCKET CARTOON lost his mother. The letter further indicated that the senator would be back at the weekend and would be ready for hearing anytime this week. “ After the chairman spoke, newsmen were asked to leave after which the committee immediately went into a closed door session.

Vanguard gathered from a member of the committee, who declined to be named, that the committee recommended suspension of the senator.

Why I wasn't there — Marafa VISIT—From left: Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello; Minister of State for Solid Minerals, Abubkar Bwari and Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi; during a courtesy visit to the governor in his office in Minna, yesterday.

Showdown in Senate, PDP today Continues from Page 1 Senate last week, alleging unparliamentary conduct against the senator.

He is accused by the petitioners of making comments and publications in national dailies that demeaned the reputation of the National Assembly.

Six senators warn Marafa

This came as six Senators, including Tayo Alasoadura (APC, Ondo Central); Peter Nwaoboshi (PDP, Delta North); Rafiu Ibrahim (APC, Kwara South); Obinna Ogba (PDP, Ebonyi North); Isa Misau (APC, Bauchi Central) and Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi (APC, Niger North), warned Marafa that the Senate would no longer tolerate disparaging remarks against it and the entire National Assembly.

At the committee’s sitting in Abuja, yesterday, investigating his alleged

uncomplimentary conduct, Marafa, who was expected to appear to defend himself over the allegation, failed to appear.

Before the committee began sitting, Marafa told Vanguard on telephone that he would honour the committee’s invitation to defend himself, even as he said he got the committee's invitation to appear through a text message from an unknown number. But Marafa was conspicuously absent throughout the one and half hours that the committee sitting lasted.

During the sitting, Senator Matthew Urhoghide (PDP, Edo South), told the committee that Marafa, in several interviews with some national dailies, alluded to claims by the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo that the National Assembly was corrupt. He expressed disappointment over such accusations against a reputable arm of

IT'S UP TO YOU

BY AYO ADIO

Y

OU have not lived until some persons can say that if not for you their life would have been worthless. It’s up to you.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

A problem is a chance for you to do your best —Duke Ellington

T

HE hardships you face are not things to run from. It isn’t that we are looking for a hard life, but when difficulties come despite our best efforts, it could be an indication that life is telling us to look on the other end of the scale. You may find that the degree to which you are having outer hardships matches the degree to which you’re unfolding in a much higher level in life. Remember, doing the best at the moment puts you in the best place for the next uplifting experience.

SAYINGS OF OUR PEOPLE You cannot plant yam and harvest cassava; afterall, the stomach can only vomit what it swallowed.

government saddled with the onerous task of ensuring good governance in the country.

According to him, Marafa made statements that infringed on the rights of the lawmakers and the legislature at large.

He said: “On January 27, the electronic media was inundated with accusations by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and I saw it as an affront because facts were misplaced and I felt demeaned because of his deliberate attempt to malign us. I was not bothered about Obasanjo’s claims but on February 7, Senator Marafa granted an interview and what he said are in tandem with the claims of Obasanjo.

“I don’t think the 8th Senate has expressed any element of greed or recklessness. These are not friendly terms, they are despicable; so he should be called to explain how corrupt the Senate is. The committee should ask him why he colluded with Obasanjo to bring the reputation of the Senate down."

Senator Urhoghide added that Marafa further made several unguarded statements about the Senate, including the constitution of standing committees, selection of new senators as heads of committees and proposed purchase of vehicles among others, and urged the Senate to invoke its Standing Rule by punishing Marafa to serve as deterrent and forestall a recurrence of similar statements from other lawmakers.

Committee chairman, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, said the committee would deliberate on the issue and report to the Senate on Tuesday for the appropriate action to be taken. He said: “I got a letter dated February 17 from Sen. Marafa, signed by his legislative aide, indicating that the senator was out of town to condole with Sen. Suleiman Hunkuyi, who

Speaking on why he failed to appear as earlier assured, Marafa later claimed he was not invited.

He described the submission of the clerk that he was duly invited as unfortunate because, according to him, the only invitation he received from the committee was duly responded to, stressing that he was not invited to the Monday sitting.

He said: “Being a member of the ethics committee for four years, I know the importance of the committee. I am ready to appear if I am duly invited.

I respect the institution of the Senate and I will do everything to project its image positively.

“I have no reason to reply the text messages of the clerk apart having responded to a formal letter of invitation. I got the text inviting me to the committee’s hearing for Thursday, last week, which I replied. I called him again on Wednesday evening and he did not pick his call.

Since then, I did not hear from anybody. Today, I received a phone call from the clerk asking whether I am coming for the hearing.

“I asked when he invited me to the meeting and he said he sent a text to me when he could not reach me. I went through all my phone messages and I did not see any text from him at all. I challenge the clerk to show me any evidence that he sent any text to me.”

Marafa said it would be unfair on the part of the committee to recommend any drastic action against him without hearing from him.

Ex-PDP ministers on warpath Meanwhile, with former PDP ministers threatening dire consequences ahead of a meeting today, the Board of Trustees, BoT at the end of a meeting, last night, again rejected Sheriff as the national chairman of the party, saying he was not a suitable person to lead the party.

The meeting of the BoT, the second in as many weeks, came ahead of today’s meeting of former ministers who held office on the banner of the party and are spearheading the move to force Sheriff out. The

anti-Sheriff campaign which was initially spearheaded by ministers who served under President Goodluck Jonathan was, yesterday, expanded to include all former ministers who served PDP presidents from 1999. Remarkably, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, a former minister who served under the Jonathan administration frontally accused former President Jonathan for the crisis in the party, saying he lacked the initiative to reposition the party while in office.

Meanwhile, Sheriff yesterday vowed not to resign and denied allegations of being a sponsor of Boko Haram, saying he was rather a victim of the militant Islamist group even as he threatened to sue one of the former ministers who accused him of being a sponsor of the violent group.

Speaking while taking over affairs of the party, Sheriff gave fillip to assertions that the term of the outgoing National Working Committee, NWC would be extended when he rebuffed questions on whether he would step down next month. The term of the NWC which he is to head is expected to end on March 21.

It was also alleged yesterday that the move to position Sheriff as national chairman was part of a plot by a new South-South governor working in cahoots with a colleague from the South-West to return members of the National Working Committee, NWC at the next national convention of the party.

“The plan is to cede the presidential ticket to the North and allow a member of the outgoing NWC emerge national chairman and they have simply enrolled Sheriff into the plot,” a former minister told Vanguard last night.

Rejecting Sheriff at the end of a meeting of the BoT last night which was presided over by acting chairman, Senator Wali Jubrin, the elders said they would offer a viable solution that would end the crisis.

“In a well attended meeting of the BOT, the board as a conscience of the party is still strongly of the view that Senator Ali Modu Sherrif is not a suitable candidate as

chairman of our party. We have resolved to propose a viable solution to this matter,” he said.

Although Senator Jubrin did not expatiate on what the viable solution is, Vanguard gathered that members of the Board were to meet with members of the party in the National Assembly as well as governors elected on the platform of the PDP. A notice issued by chairman of the strategy committee of the PDP Ministers Forum, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode disclosed yesterday that today’s meeting would not be limited to only ministers who served under President Jonathan.

His words: “The PDP Ministers Forum, under the able leadership of Alhaji Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, former Minister of Special Duties, will meet at 11.00am on Tuesday at NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja to deliberate on how to move our great party forward in view of recent developments.

Contrary to some media reports, membership of the PDP Ministers Forum is not restricted to only Ministers that served between 2011 and 2015 and the meeting that will hold on Tuesday is not just for the Ministers that served under President Goodluck Jonathan. The meeting is for ALL PDP Ministers that are still in the party and that served between 1999 to 2015.”

Blame Jonathan for this — Gbagi Gbagi speaking on the crisis in the party said last night that it would be a turning point for the party for good or for bad even as he faulted President Jonathan for the crisis.

“Jonathan is a man that cannot be predicted and he has come out to say that he does not have a hand in it but people don’t believe him because if he had done what he was supposed to do before he left, the party would not have been in this situation.

“By the time Mu`azu left if Jonathan had appointed someone from the NorthEast instead of Secondus, the party would not have been in this situation.”

On expectations ahead of today’s meeting, he said: “If we are not able to resolve

Continues on Page 11

6 —Vanguard, TUESDAY FEBRUARY 23 , 2016

Lagos starts anti-child molestation campaign tomorrow ...Tasks AfricaBuild 2016 organisers on building collapse

By Funmi Ajumobi, Lawani Mikairu & Josephine Agbonkhese

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A G O S — GOVERNOR Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State will be launching the state’s official campaign against child molesters tagged “Lagos State End Violence Against Children Campaign” in partnership with the United Nations Children Fund, UNICEF, tomorrow in Lagos.

Disclosing this yesterday, in Lagos, the Commissioner for Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation, Hon.(Mrs)Lola Akande, said the move was in furtherance of its commitment towards curbing all forms of violence against children, a phenomenon which she decried was increasingly becoming rife across the country.

While hailing the existing Child Rights Laws in the country, the Director, Child Protection, United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, Mrs Roseline Akinroye, in her remark, however called for a review of the various penalties, reiterating that only stiffer penalties would nip in the bud the menace more effectively.

Meantime, the state government has called on organizers of the maiden edition of AfricaBuild fair and exhibitions to address the menace of collapse buildings which is traceable to poor quality and inappropriate use of building materials amongst other factors.

Lagos State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr Ganiyu Johnson, made this call during the first AfricaBuild 3 days exhibitions in Lagos which had more than 16 European and 3 African companies exhibiting their building and construction products.

Johnson, who was represented by Mrs E. Omokore, Deputy Director, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Lagos State said the evolution of the “Built Environment” cannot be separated from that of building materials and available technologies.

LASU CRISIS: Students, shuttle operators, NURTW clash over levies •8 vehicles vandalised, as Ambode, VC, SUG President wade in the planned increment.

•‘How female student died'

By Monsuru Olowoopejo

Students Union Government, SUG, on Tuesdays and another AGOS—ACTIVITIES on N200 to the NURTW and the Lagos-Badagry RTEAN for every trip.

According to reports, the Expressway were yesterday halted for hours after students of the Lagos transport unions kept the SUG in State University, LASU and the the dark over the planned shuttle operators clashed with increment. The SUG normally members of the National Union of would have directed the shuttle Road Transport Workers, NURTW operators to comply with the and the Road Transport Employers development.

Worried by the increment, it was Association of Nigeria, RTEAN, at the Iyana-Iba motor park over learned that the operators informed the students who visited increase in loading levies.

It was learned that the ever the motor park to plead with the busy road was blocked while the unions to shelve the planned increment. clash lasted.

But on arrival at the park, one of Vanguard gathered that the clash started at about 11 am after the the students identified simply as members of the Union informed the Shola said the union members shuttle operators that the loading attacked the students with machete levies had been increased from and broken bottles.

He said that this infuriated the N200 to N1, 000 and that the students who directed the shuttle increment took immediate effect.

Sources said the shuttle operators not to pay the new levy. operators plying LASU-Isheri and In retaliation, the Unions damaged Lagos-Badagry expressway used over eight shuttle buses that to pay their weekly levies to the joined the SUG to kick against

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It was learned that the students blocked the road in a bid to recover their buses from the union and press home their demands.

Ambode,VC, SUG president wade in

having another meeting to resolve the issue.

The reason for scheduling the meeting for Thursday, a SUG official told Vanguard was because the Student union would be conducting their election.

Death of female student: LASU clarifies issues

Meantime, the University authorities have said the Another student, who pleaded organisers of the party at which anonimity narrated that normalcy a 200 level female student died returned after the state governor, earlier in the month did not Akinwunmi Ambode, the Vice inform the university of the Chancellor, Prof. Olanrewaju event.

Fagbohun and officers from the The university said this in its Ojo Police Station and the SUG official bulletin obtained in President, Adeyemi Onikoro Lagos. waded into the crisis.

It identified the late student Sources close to the office of the as Miss Omolara Gbadeyan of governor, said that a top official the Department of Industrial from the governor’s office called Relations and Personnel the leadership of the transport Management, Faculty of unions, directing that the issue be Management Science. resolved immediately.

According to the bulletin, Few minutes after normalcy Gbadeyan attended a party returned, a meeting was held at hosted by the History and the office of the Divisional Police International Studies Students Officer of the Ojo division where Association on February 11 at all the parties were asked to an Event Centre at Igando, maintain status quo until Igando/Ikotun Local Council Thursday when they would be Development Area.

It said that the organisers of the party did not inform the university authority or seek its approval for the event.

According to the university, this is contrary to the rules and regulations of the institution.

“The university authority received the shocking news after the sad event had occurred and immediately swung into action,” the bulletin said.

It said the management directed the health service department and the Security unit, Students Affairs Division, to carry out detailed investigation on the incident.

According to the bulletin, the incident was reported to the police while the body of the deceased was deposited at the CLASH: Students of Lagos State University, LASU and members of National Union of Road Transport morgue of the Lagos State Workers, and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, clashed over transport fares at the University Teaching Hospital LASU bus stop yesterday. The school gate after the fracas yesterday. Photo by Biodun Ogunleye.

(LASUTH).

It said that autopsy was being carried out to determine the cause of the death and a detailed statement would be released by the university authority as soon as the

By Innocent Anaba granted by Ecobank to the appeal and set aside the exinvestigation was concluded. parte order made by Justice Honeywell.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof.

AGOS—THE Court of Yunusa had issued an interim Yinusa.

Lanre Fagbohun, commiserated Appeal sitting in Lagos, order, limiting Honeywell to N15 Olanipekun urged the with the family of the deceased yesterday, reserved judgment in million weekly withdrawals from Justices to see the appeal as a on behalf of the entire university the appeal by Honeywell Group, the company’s account.

“Save Our Soul’ from the and wished the departed soul asking the court to vacate an Dissatisfied, Honeywell appellant”, adding that the eternal rest. order limiting its financial appealed and prayed the court activities of the Honeywell Fagbohun advised students to transaction.

Group had been paralysed as to set aside the interim order. remain calm and law abiding The appellate court also At the hearing of the appeal a result of the ex-parte order as they go about their academic reserved for judgment Ecobank’s yesterday, the 3-man panel of granted by the lower court. and other activities dutifully. cross appeal bordering on the Justices presided over by Justice Opposing the appeal, counsel The SUG president, Adeyemi same subject matter.

Sidi Bage reserved judgment to Ecobank, Ogunba, SAN, Onikoro and the Public Justice Mohammed Yunusa of after counsel to Honeywell Chief argued that it was a Relation Officer of the Students a Federal High Court, Lagos Wole Olanipekun, SAN and that misconception that the appeal Union, Fatai Adebanjo however had on December 14, 2015 of Ecobank, Mr. Kunle Ogunba, by Honeywell was as a result debunked the claim that the granted the interim order in the SAN, adopted their briefs of of ex-parte order granted by students were protesting, suit between Ecobank Plc and arguments. the lower court, stressing that saying; “We have a new LASU Honeywell Group.

Adopting appellant brief dated the ex-parte order had been now. We do not engage in such The suit is sequel to an alleged December 24, 2015, Olanipekun, varied by the lower court on activities anymore.”

N3. 5 billion unpaid loan facility SAN, urged the court to allow December 4, 2015.

Court reserves ruling in Honeywell appeal against bank

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 7

NUPENG canvasses tougher penalties against pipeline vandals L

AGOS—THE Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, yesterday called on the Federal Government to impose tougher penalties against petroleum pipelines vandals.

The South-West Chairman of NUPENG, Alhaji Tokunbo Korodo, made the call in Lagos.

He alleged that some known vandals would walk the streets freely two months after arrest, adding that such scenario was ridiculous.

Korodo said that such vandals would begin to threaten those that tipped off relevant authorities to effect their arrest.

“The punishment for vandalism of petroleum pipelines is weak.

One discovered that if these vandals are caught within two to three months, he or she will become a free man.

“These criminals will now come back and start threatening those that gave information for their arrest.

“As the chairman of NUPENG South-West, I have led a team to arrest pipeline vandals but when I realised that after few months, those vandals will come back as freemen, I withdrew.

“They used to come and meet me and would say: Chief, we

By Innocent Anaba

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STAKEHOLDERS MEETING: From left; Mr Femi Falana, SAN; Osita Nwajah, Director, Public Affairs, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Ibrahim Mustafa Magu, Acting Chairman EFCC at the stakeholders meeting with Association of Democratic Lawyers at EFCC Lagos Zonal Office in Ikoyi, Lagos, yesterday.Photo by Akeem Salau. know where your children are schooling; we know your wife’s shop; if you leak our secret again, we will kidnap them.

Korodo urged the government to investigate some officials of NNPC. He alleged that some “bad eggs” among the NNPC officials were collaborating with the vandals to siphon

petroleum products.

“In the past, if Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, (PPMC) pumped 500,000 litres of water, all the water would get to destination without a drop siphoned.

“But, today, if PPMC pumps 500,000 litres of petroleum, it will be very hard to receive 50,000 litres out of it. About 450,000 litres

would be siphoned by these vandals.

“How do they know the actual time they are pumping these products if not that there are saboteurs among officials of PPMC?” he said.

Korodo said that if the government could impose tough penalty against these vandals, they would desist from the act.

Fayose’s opposition to TSA, ploy to defraud, APC alleges ...As gov approves N236.9m as car loan

By Rotimi Ojomoyela

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DO-EKITI—THE All Progressives Congress in Ekiti State has said Governor Ayodele Fayose’s opposition to the Single Treasury Account policy of the Federal Government was a deliberate ploy to conceal fraud.

The party, which described Fayose’s conduct as very

strange, said he remains the only governor opposed to the transparency policy of the Federal Government that all other governors had keyed into to save their states from fraudulent practices among government officials.

The party, which was apparently reacting to Governor Fayose’s widely publicised opposition to the Treasury

Single Account (TSA) introduced by President Muhammadu Buhari, alleged that Fayose’s ulterior motive to defraud the state, may have informed his aversion for accountability in financial matters.

Governor Fayose had last week, told the Federal Government to perish the thought of imposing the TSA

Alake blames economic down-turn on collapse of SMEs

By Daud Olatunji

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BEOKUTA—THE Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo has urged the Federal Government to tackle the dwindling economy through a boost to the Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, SMEs.

TARIFF HIKE: Court dismisses NERC’s application for stay of proceedings

Oba Gbadebo, who decried the failure of the nation’s SME sector, argued that virile and viable enterprises would jumpstart the economy with salutary effects.

The monarch stated this yesterday, in his Ake Palace while heralding the activities for the 30th edition of the annual Lisabi Festival scheduled for Monday 29th February to March 6. The theme of the Festival is, “Creating Wealth Through Small and Medium Enterprises.”

He added that the failure of the SMES sector which had been the largest employer of labour had worsened the rate of unemployment in the country.

The monarch therefore emphasized the need for

government and the private sector to focus on the nation’s SME sector.

Earlier, Globacom Business Director, Ayo Ogunranti in his own speech at the occassion commended Oba Gbadebo for his relentless efforts in repositioning Egbaland for cultural and economic advancement.

Ogunranti described SMEs as the engine room for moving the economy forward.

Chairman of the Lisabi Festival Committee, Chief Rasheed Raji noted that the annual celebrations of the event has ensured the unity of the various peoples of Egbaland.

Other events lined up for the programme will include booming of guns at the Olumo rock and football competition on Monday 29th.

on states, pointing out that it was not in the position to counsel or force any state to accept policies that are not working for it.

The APC, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, in Ado-Ekiti yesterday, stated that “TSA is aimed at ensuring that all government earnings are paid into a single account to ensure accountability and check fraud unlike in the past where several government’s accounts were scattered in many banks to perpetrate frauds.

Gov approves N236.9m as car loan for workers

Meantime, governor Fayose has approved N236.9million as car loan for 773 Ekiti workers The State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Toyin Ojo who made this known in Ado-Ekiti, said the loan, which ranges from N80,000 to N1.5million will be paid in full to the beneficiaries.

He said grade level of the 773 beneficiaries was taken into consideration in approving the loan for them.

The Finance Commissioner said applicants who could not meet up with the screening condition of 50 percent of their net pay set by the State government would be considered as soon as the condition is met.

AGOS—A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, yesterday, refused an application by Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, seeking to stay further proceedings in the suit challenging the hike in electricity tariff by Distribution Companies, DISCOs. The suit was instituted by a lawyer and rights activist, Toluwani Adebiyi, following which the court had restrained parties to maintain status-quo.

It will be recalled that NERC and DISCOs had gone ahead on February 1, 2016 to hike tariff in electricity, despite the subsisting order.

NERC had asked the court to stay proceedings until its appeal against two previous rulings delivered by the judge was heard and determined by the Appeal Court.

Justice Idris had in one of the rulings barred NERC from implementing any upward review in electricity tariff pending the hearing and determination of the suit.

The other ruling has to do with the dismissal of NERC’s preliminary objections to the suit.

However, while dismissing the application for stay of proceedings for lacking in merit, yesterday, Justice Idris held that contrary to the claims of the applicant, there are no indication that the appeal has been listed for hearing at the Appeal Court.

He said, “It is clear that the applicant has an application before the court seeking for an extension of time to compile and transmit its record at the Appeal Court.

“There is also another motion for leave to rely on the same record of appeal in this present appeal. However, there is no indication that the application has been listed on the cause list or that it had been heard or adjourned for hearing.

“In the circumstance, this court cannot grant a stay of proceedings on an incompetent appeal which is awaiting regularisation at the Appeal Court. On the whole, the application lacks merit and is dismissed accordingly,” the judge said.

The court also awarded N10,000 cost in favour of the plaintiff.

After the ruling, there were arguments among parties in the matter on which application should be taken by the court.

8 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—9

Taraba gov'ship poll: Why we upheld PDP’s victory — S-Court A

BUJA — THE Supreme Court, yesterday, said the All Progressives Congress, APC, and its governorship candidate in Taraba State, Aisha Alhassan, had no locus standi to challenge the nomination of Governor Darius Ishiaku by his party.

The court made the declaration while giving reasons for dismissing the appeal of APC and Ms. Alhassan in its judgement on February 11.

No more intervention fund for stockbrokers —AMCON

Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, who read details of the judgement, said the appeals and cross appeals had no redeemable substance.

The court held that the governor was duly sponsored by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to contest in the election, adding that evidence brought before it had confirmed Mr. Ishiaku’s membership of the party.

“The matter is very simple, the apex court has ruled on

matters of this nature at different occasions. There is no way a candidate of another political party, who did not participate in the primaries of another political party, could suddenly rise to challenge the conduct of such an exercise.

“It is, therefore, clear that the appeals and all the cross appeals against the election of Governor Darius Ishiaku of Taraba State have no redeemable substance,” Mr. Rhodes-Vivour said.

The court also declared that the Taraba State Governorship

Election Petition Tribunal grossly misdirected itself by upturning Mr. Ishiaku’s victory.

The tribunal had nullified the governor’s election and went ahead to declare Ms. Alhassan as the duly elected governor of Taraba.

An appeal by Mr. Ishiaku set aside the tribunal judgement, prompting Ms. Alhassan and the APC to approach the apex court, which dismissed their appeals and affirmed the validity of the governor ’s election.

By Nkiruka Nnorom

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AGOS— As prices of equities continue to plummet on account of the recent lull in the stock market, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), yesterday, said it was not considering another bailout for stockbrokers in line with recent calls by the stockbroking community.

The corporation also assured that being a key shareholder in the market, it was ready to work with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to deepen and make the market more professional as well as ensure that it bounced back in the interest of all stakeholders.

Managing Director of AMCON, Mallam Ahmed Kuru, made the disclosure when management team of the corporation paid a courtesy visit to the NSE to sound the trade closing gong.

Recall that the stockbrokers through their umbrella body the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) and the Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), had called on the Federal Government to create an intervention fund of about N200 billion to be accessed by market makers to shore up the market and stop it from further decline.

Speaking through the Acting President of the CIS, Oluwaseyi Abe, and ASHON chairman, Mr. Emeka Mmadubuike, the stakeholders said each market maker should be availed between N1 billion and N10 billion to help them carry out their functions effectively.

However, while responding to questions, yesterday, at the end of the closing gong ceremony, Kuru said forbearance for stockbrokers was a closed issue.

SUMMIT: From left, Alhaji Mohammed Bulangu, Managing Director, Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited, a subsidiary of SIFAX Group; Mr. Nseobong Akpabio, Assistant Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, Minister of Transportation, at the 2016 Nigerian Shippers’ Council/Tell Magazine Maritime Summit, in Lagos.

We won’t allow 2m IDPs to go home now —Dogara As UNCHR calls for domestication of rights of refugees

By Emman Ovuakporie & Johnbosco Agbakwuru

A

BUJA — SPEAKER of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, yesterday told the United Nations High Commission on Refugees, UNCHR, that the government would not allow the over two million Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, to go to their various homes as the atmosphere was not conducive for them to live.

The Speaker also said Nigeria was committed to the protection of rights of IDPs, and was working on domestication and ratification of the UN Kampala Treaty on the rights of refugees.

Dogara stated this when he received a delegation from the UNCHR in his office, even as he told the guests that the House of Representatives was putting all legislative structures in place to ensure that the rights of IDPs were protected at all times.

Dogara in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Turaki Hassan, said efforts were in top

gear by the relevant committees to conclude all work on the document and submit it in plenary for further legislative action.

“The bill for the proposed North East Commission and the Kampala Commission are before the commission and sooner or later, the report will be brought before the House in plenary for consideration and hopefully we’ll pass it and in no distant time, it will be ratified," he said.

He also informed the delegation that the House, in recognition of the plight of IDPs and the need for their rehabilitation and resettlement, and to find lasting solutions to the problem, set up a committee that was in charge of IDP related issues, as well as passing a bill to set up the North-East Development Commission.

He further told the team that it was not acceptable for the over two million displaced persons to be asked to return to their communities until the causative factors were sorted out and security provided in the affected areas.

He said: “There is no way we

can do that unless we bring the conflict to an end and it makes no sense, absolutely no sense, for anybody to insist that people displaced should go back to their communities, knowing that chances are there that they may be attacked and then the conditions that gave rise to the crisis are not totally eliminated.”

The speaker also noted that there was no way that democracy could thrive if the lives of citizens were not secure.

“As it is said, democracy is a promise that deals with life and the pursuit of happiness. All other promises of democracy cannot come through unless there is life so that is the most important promise of democracy,’’ he said.

Earlier, leader of the UNHCR delegation and Assistant High Commissioner in charge of protection of rights of refugees and IDPs, Mr Volke Turk, urged the speaker to expedite action on the domestication and ratification of the UN convention on the protection of the rights of refugees in the

Maritime industry can generate N500bn yearly — Amaechi To audit concessionaires, review reform agreement

By Godfrey Bivbere & Godwin Oritse

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AGOS— MINISTER of Transportation, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, yesterday expressed optimism that the maritime industry has the capacity to generate N500 billion revenue yearly for the nation.

Amaechi, who said this, yesterday, during a one-day summit organised by Tell Magazine and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in Lagos, noted that the shipping sub-sector was a major aspect of the maritime industry that was crucial to the economy and could be the second revenue earner for government.

The minister also said the Federal Government had commenced moves to audit the port concession exercise 10 years after, with a view to ascertaining their compliance to the port concession agreement.

The nation’s port terminals were concessioned to private terminal operators to improve port infrastructure as well as improve the efficiency of port operation.

Amaechi, who was also at a meeting with terminal operators, said depending on the outcome of the audit, the concession agreement would be reviewed.

The former governor of Rivers State said the petroleum industry, which had been the mainstay of the economy, depended largely on shipping, without which the product evacuation would be impossible. He also identified shipping as the backbone of oil and gas production and marketing.

He said: “Statistics have shown that over 80 per cent of global oil trade is transported by ships, while in the case of Nigeria, it is 100 per cent.

“The shipping sub-sector of the maritime industry is estimated to be worth over $3 billion annually. It is, therefore, expedient to stress that transport is demanddriven and government in its commitment to shipping, will consider growth and development of the industry.”

He urged the Executive Secretary of the NSC, Hassan Bello, to organise a stakeholders forum before July to move the sector forward.

10—Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

Abductors of ex-NDDC boss, Aguariavwodo’s mum demand N200m ransom 2 earlier kidnap attempts had failed

By Perez Brisibe

U

GHELLI—FIVE days after an 8-man robbery gang abducted the octogenarian mother of exManaging Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, they have reportedly contacted the family, demanding a ransom of N200 million for her release.

Mrs. Sarah Aguariavwodo, who is in her 80s, was whisked from her Ogbe Street residence, Okpare-Olomu, Ughelli South Local Government Area, to an unknown location at about 11:30p.m. last Tuesday after two previous attempts to kidnap her failed.

Confirming the ransom demand, a senior officer of the Department for State Services, DSS, in the area who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the kidnappers actually called one of the daughters of the victim on phone with their demands.

“We are doing everything possible, with other security agencies, to ensure that she is released safe and sound,” the source added.

Meanwhile, some women at Okpare-Olomu took to the streets of the town to protest the abduction of the octogenarian, whom they said is one of the oldest women in the community.

Adultery: Man beats wife to death in Ebonyi

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI—IT was a sad weekend in Ndubia Inyimaegu community in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, following reports of the death of one Jacinta, who was allegedly beaten to death by her husband, James Uguru, over adultery.

Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, ASP George Okafor, revealed that the suspect had angrily beaten his wife to stupor when the deceased stopped him from chasing after her alleged lover boy.

The Lagos-based Uguru was said to have become suspicious of the wife’s alleged promiscuity following rumours making the

rounds on the matter in the community whenever he visits home to see his family.

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ALABAR—LUCK, yesterday, ran out on one Daniel Etim-Okon, a member of a six-man gang that specialises in transformer vandalisation in the Calabar metropolis, when he was apprehended by a vigilance group at Dan Archibong Street in Calabar south.

Vanguard learned that Daniel and his gang had been terrorising the area for months C M Y K

with the said lover before the ugly episode.

According the police spokesman, the suspect has been arrested as efforts were on to arrest the said lover boy.

… and the phone rang

It was learned that trouble started when the couple was discussing in the sitting room and suddenly a phone started ringing in their bedroom. As the husband made to go for the phone, his wife held his waist, preventing him from moving.

Vanguard gathered that as he was being prevented from entering the bedroom, the wife’s alleged lover ran out from their bedroom. His wife’s insistence that he should not chase after the man made him vent his anger on her.

A source said: “He started punching the woman, who eventually collapsed and was

CARGOES: People and goods heading North from Lagos. PHOTO: Joe Akintola, Photo Editor.

Septuagenarian wants divorce over lack of sex He sleeps around—WIFE

A

septuagenarian, Mr. Tajudeen Giwa, has asked an Ikorodu Customary Court in Lagos State to dissolve his marriage of over 40 years

We'll save this 40-yr-old marriage—COURT

because his wife ignores him and denies him sex.

The petitioner is also alleging that his 63-year-old wife, Karimut, has become a threat to

Man killed over N100 debt in Ebonyi

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI—ONE Onuigbo Nwankwoeke of Onyikwa Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area in Ebonyi State was, weekend, reportedly killed by his kinsman, one Michael Ochaya, 50, while trying to recover N100 debt owed him by the suspect.

According to the state police spokesman, ASP George Okafor, who confirmed the incident, one Nwabueze Nwedu reported to the police that Mr. Onigbo Nwankwoeke went to his brother’s house to demand N100 owed him by the suspect, Micheal Ochaya, but died in the process.

ASP Okafor told journalists that Mr. Nwedu also told the

police that when late Nwankwoeke got to Ochaya’s house and demanded for his money, “the wife of Mr. Ochaya gave the N100 to Mr. Nwankwoeke, but the husband forcefully collected the money back and tore it. In the process, a scuffle ensued leading to the death of the said Micheal.”

He also said that what killed Mr. Nwankwoneke were the heavy blows that Ochaya landed on his chest, which knocked him off his feet, leading to his sudden death.

Vanguard learned that the corpse had been deposited at Onueke General Hospital for autopsy.

Okafor said investigation into the incident was on to ascertain the cause of the incident.

Transformer vandal nabbed in Calabar

By Ike Uchechukwu

rushed to the hospital where she was confirmed dead.”

Vanguard further gathered that the suspect, while in Lagos, had been suspecting the wife of having an extra-marital affair

as they constantly vandalised transformers on Palm Street, Chamley, Victor Akan and its environs, carting away armoured cables and other vital components.

A member of the vigilance group told Vanguard that they decided to form the group when their transformer was vandalised for four consecutive times within a week.

Vanguard learned that the suspect was handed over to

Etim-Okon police at Atakpa Divisional Station, while moves were on to nab the other gang members.

his life and usually incites their seven children against him.

He said: “Karimut does not care for me again; she denies me my matrimonial right to sleep with her. She gangs up with our children against me, to the extent that they threaten my life on her behalf.

“I am fed up with the marriage and I no longer love her,” the petitioner, who resides at 1, Idiorogbo Village, Itokin Road, Ikorodu, told the court.

I don’t want divorce—WIFE

In her response, Karimut, said that the allegations by her husband were false.

She said although her husband did not care well enough for her and their children, she did not want to divorce him.

Karimut told the court that the petitioner usually slept around with other women and always threatens to chase her and the children away for no good reason.

“My husband is not reasonable and is very inconsiderate,” she claimed.

The couple has seven children: four males and three females, with the oldest male child aged 39; oldest female, 36 and youngest child aged 16.

In her ruling, the President of the court, Mrs Omolara Abiola, said that the court would do everything within its power to save the marriage which is more than 40 years old.

She said: “This court is more focused on saving marriages.

And it behoves it to try to secure this union than to dissolve a marriage of such age, with seven children, most of whom are above 30.”

Fire guts N5m property in Abia village

By Ugochukwu Alaribe

A

BA—PROPERTY worth over N5 million was gutted by fire at Umuafor village, Obingwa council area of Abia State, weekend.

An eyewitness told Vanguard that the inferno, which occurred at about 7a.m., consumed all the buildings and shops in the expansive compound as most of the residents had earlier left their homes for their business places.

Although no life was lost in the incident, the residents are at a loss as to the cause of the inferno when there was no electricity supply, which could have ignited the fire.

One of the landlords, Jamike Eguzo, told journalists that he was at his poultry farm away from the compound when he received a call that his building was on fire, but before he got home, the entire buildings and shops had been consumed.

Though men of the Fire Service later put out the fire, Head of Abia State Fire Service, Mr. Victor Gbaruko, could not be contacted for comments.

An official of the agency, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said some property could have been saved had the residents contacted the service earlier.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—11

Showdown in Senate, PDP today Continued from Page 5 tomorrow (today) that would be the final nail on the coffin of the PDP.” I won’t resign, says Sheriff Meanwhile, Sheriff speaking shortly after he formally took over as the chairman of the party, said he would not succumb to the widespread calls by some members of the party that he should resign his position, noting that doing so would not be in the interest of the party, especially members of the National Executive Committee who drafted him to reposition the party.

While apologizing to those who felt aggrieved by his emergence, Senator Sherrif however cautioned that their grievances cannot be solved on the pages of newspapers.

He acknowledged that the time ahead is testy but promised that he would deploy all resources at his disposal to ensure that all members of the party, especially founding fathers, are brought back to the fold to make the party

great again.

“The time ahead is certainly not going to be easy. We are aware of the high expectations from Nigerians for us to give the party a new focus. Our party is a party that has an avalanche of qualified people who can proffer solution to our problems. We accepted to serve not because we are the best, but because we have been identified to be capable of doing the task ahead.

“I will carry everybody along. I have come to form a partnership with party men and women. The wrangling that is going on is normal but we will overcome. I will contact everybody that matters in the party because we have the same goal which is rebuilding the party to its enviable height” he said.

The PDP chairman said he would consult with the founding fathers of the party with a view to bringing them back to the fold.

Speaking on the persistent allegation that he is a sponsor of the Boko Haram sect, Senator Sherrif pointed out that those accusing him of being sponsor of

Boko Haram are actually the real sponsors because he is a victim of Boko Haram atrocities.

He said he would sue the former spokesman of the Jonathan Campaign organization for calling him a Boko Haram sponsor on national television .

“I was never a sponsor of Boko Haram. Yes, I was governor when the issue of Boko Haram started and I was also part of the people that brought it to an end within five months. Former President Umaru Yar`Adua ordered that the security agencies should ensure that there was no resurgence of the Boko Haram sect. Nobody who is in a position of authority and knows the truth will ever accuse me of being a Boko Haram sponsor. Policemen who were involved in the killing of their leader were charged to court. People like Femi FaniKayode who accused me of being a Boko Haram sponsor will not go scot-free this time around.

Speaking on his plans for the party, Senator Sherrif who said he would unveil his plans after he has been fully briefed by the

secretary and treasurer of the party however promised that as a founding member of the All Progressive Congress, he would do the same things they did to make the APC acceptable to Nigerians to make PDP regain power.

Asked whether he would leave at the expiration of the tenure of the outgoing NWC which is next month, Senator Sherrif said the decision was not his to take.

Earlier in his remarks, the erstwhile acting national Chairman of the party, Prince Uche Secondus flayed opposition to Sheriff ’s emergence saying that the outcry arose from the panic of those in the APC. “This is one chairman that is known all over the world. His name sends hope to some people while to some, it sends fears.

There is earthquake in the camp of the APC that is why they have come with all sorts of appellations.

This is a man who has been a governor for two terms, he was a senator, he was the chairman of the Board of Trustees of a political Party. He has achieved so much in a short time” he said.

Meanwhile, the meeting of the PDP BoT was ongoing at press time yesterday.

WAEC allegedly demands N1.85m to process list of best students

By Abiodun Alade

T

HE West African Examination Council, WAEC, has allegedly demanded N1,850,000 to process the list of best students for 2014/2015 May/June Senior Secondary School Examination.

This was contained in a letter

by WAEC to a non-government organisation, Edubox, which requested for the list in order to reward the students.

In a letter dated December 8, 2015, sighted by Vanguard, Chief Executive Officer of Edubox, Mr. Sanusi Tosin, wrote WAEC, requesting for the list of the students.

The letter read: “The above named organisation (EDUBOX) hereby request, from your establishment, the list of the best outstanding students in the May/June West African Examination Council for the 2014/2015 academic session in each of the states in Nigeria.

“It is the aim of the organisation to reward these students, with the purpose of inspiring the younger generation. This platform, also, will be used to empower youths that are aspiring to go further in their educational pursuit.”

WAEC’s response

The examination body, in a letter dated January 20, 2016, asked the organisation to draw a N1,850,000 bank draft for it to process the data of the students.

WAEC’s letter read: “Please, refer to your letter dated December 8, 2015 on the above subject.

“This is to inform you that the cost of processing the data is

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N1,850,000 only. Kindly draw a bank draft in this sum in

favour of the West African Examinations Council to enable

Lagos strange killer disease:

By Chioma Obinna

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AGOS State Government, yesterday, confirmed that the blood samples of victims of the epidemic of febrile rash illness that claimed the lives of over 20 children in Otodo Gbame community in Eto-Osa Local Government Area of the state showed measles virus.

Giving an update at a briefing in Lagos, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, said all the blood samples taken to the Central Public Health Laboratory, Yaba, tested positive for IgM, a blood marker for recent infection with

us process your request.”

The letter was signed by Dr. O. F. Dacosta, the Officer-inCharge, Test Administration.

Meanwhile, in a telephone chat, Mr. Tosin said his body was disappointed by WAEC's request. He said that an officer of the Council called him few days after submitting his letter, asking him if the organisation needs the hard or soft copy of the result.

He said: “I told the officer that we will be glad if we can have both. We were shocked to receive the letter from WAEC demanding this sum of money.”

He added that the demand had hindered his organisation in executing the project as WAEC was yet to furnish it with the names because it has not paid the money.

Efforts to get WAEC's reaction proved abortive at press time.

Hearing on assault on Lagos journalist for March 16

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS—JUSTICE Abdulazeez Anka of a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has adjourned to March 16 hearing on a suit filed by Lagos State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, against the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Mohammed Ndalati and eight others, over alleged assault on one of its members, Otunba Yomi Olomofe.

When the matter came up before the court yesterday, the judge told the applicant to effect service of the motion papers to all the respondents and adjourned the case till March for hearing.

NUJ had filed the suit against NCS over the assault of Olomofe at Seme border post of NCS last year, asking for N500 million as special and exemplary damages for the violation of the applicant’s rights.

The applicant is seeking reliefs from the court on the grounds of the vicious beating, the bodily and internal injuries inflicted on him.

The applicant wants the court to declare that such an act could have resulted to the loss of his life and were capable of breaching his right to life.

He supported his motion with a 28-paragraphaffidavit and a written address. Olomofe, who is the Editorial chairman of a local news magazine in Badagry, Lagos, instituted the suit through his counsel, Mr. Jiti Ogunye.

Laboratory tests show measles virus

measles virus.

He added that four throat swaps and one blood samples investigated at the virology reference laboratory, LUTH, indicated the presence of measles virus through polymerase chain reaction, PCR, technique.

He attributed the epidemic to poor environmental sanitation, lack of potable water in the area and missed immunisation in the area.

According to him, the result of the water samples analysed at the Drug Quality Control Laboratory yielded several pathogens, an indication that

the well water is not safe for human consumption.

To this end, the ministry will tomorrow despatch another combined team of experts from the ministries of Environment, Health and other relevant agencies to conduct proper assessment of the environment.

The commissioner also disclosed that the ministry had directed all local government areas to take inventory of all slums in their areas to ensure prompt response and prevent epidemic outbreak.

He said: “We are taking census of slums in Lagos

because the number of deaths was unusual. It must have been complicated by malnutrition.

“The area was not designed for residential purposes, but was a reclaimed land. That may have been the major reason why the children were missed during immunisation.

“Right now, awareness and community sensitisation is ongoing. Active case search is also ongoing.

“Members of the public and health workers are to report any strange illness to the nearest health facility or call 08037170614, 08055281442 and 08023169485.”

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

IGP orders redeployment of all DPOs in Delta

By Kingsley Omonobi

A

B U J A —F O L L O W I N G their alleged inappropriate behaviours to members of the public, who they should be protecting and other professional misconduct, Inspector General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase, has ordered the redeployment of all Divisional Police Officers, DPOs, in Delta State command.

Vanguard gathered that the IG was alerted to the misconduct of the officers by members of the public through the recently established NPF Complaints Response Unit, CRU, which is a multi-platform reporting mechanism through which citizens’ complaints, concerns and queries are addressed with dispatch.

Briefing newsmen on the occasion of the 100 days of the establishment of the CRU, yesterday, Force Public Relations Officer, Mrs Olabisi Kolawole, said: "Beyond the feedback of inappropriate behaviours by police officers, is the reassurance of police commitment to prompt, efficient and public oriented service delivery to the different segments of our society.”

She added that CRU should not be misconstrued as a demonization of police activities but a wakeup call to key into international best

practices and reflect strongly, the change agenda and policing strategy of the IG. On the successes recorded by the complaints unit within the period, the FPRO said: “CRU operations have led to disciplinary action against officers up to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police, while several officers have been redeployed from their duty posts including DPOs by the police

command.”

Emphasizing that an Assistant Commissioner of Police was also being investigated, she said that if the officer was found wanting, he may face prosecution, adding that 16 others were facing disciplinary action for misconduct, while a traffic warden had been dismissed.

She said that majority of complaints received by the

CRU through its multiplatforms were received from Lagos State with 424 cases, representing 33 per cent while Imo, Jigawa and Kebbi states had two each.

“The telephone is the most used medium with 1, 587 calls, Whatsapp-215 calls, sms – 70 messages, e-mails – 83, Twitter – 70, facebook – 33, while Blackberry and hardcopy petitions were five complaints each,” she added.

FACILITY TOUR: Cross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade and Gerhard Frainer, Managing Director, Liebherr-Werk, Austria, during a tour of the company's production facilities in Austria

Militants threaten blow-up of more oil installations

By Egufe Yafugborhi

W

ARRI—NIGER Delta Avengers, the militant group which claimed responsibility for blowing up the Forcados Terminal Pipeline in Delta State, recently, has served notice of attacks on more oil installations in the region until the Federal Government addresses its grievances.

The group vowed: “Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, Forcados terminal is our latest casualty.

There are many more to follow in the days and weeks ahead.”

The group, in a statement obtained in Warri, said that it was prepared to reduce Nigeria’s daily oil production and supply to zero barrel if its agitation was ignored.

“The same factor that brought about the Niger Delta arms struggle is fast resurfacing as the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is poised to exterminate Niger Delta people for being benevolent enough to allow the nation’s mono-economy thrive on our oil.

“We are being oppressed, pushed to the wall on various fronts, which is why we have picked up the challenge to be the outlaws this government C M Y K

will have to contend with till daily production of oil is reduced to zero in the Niger Delta, so government can use the oil from the North to run

Nigeria’s mono-economy.

"We believe that Nigeria can practice true federalism where our resources will be controlled by us and used for

our own good. The reverse is the case today, where the goose that lays the golden egg is killed along with the egg,” they said.

Abe’s campaign office set ablaze

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— SUPPORTERS of an ex-militant leader have allegedly set ablaze the campaign office of Senator Magnus Abe in Bori, Gokhana Local Government Area, Rivers State.

Community sources said this was after soldiers allegedly invaded the Yeghe residence of the ex-militant

leader.

Details were hazy at press time. But community sources said that the residence of the ex-militant leader was razed during the military operation.

An sms to the spokesman 2 Brigade, Captain Eli Lazurus, had not been responded to at press time.

But a top security source said that there was a massive

troop redeployment to the communities.

Media aide to Senator Magnus Abe, Mr Parry Benson, also declined comment when contacted, promising to get back to this reporter.

The ex-militant leader had earlier accused Senator Abe of using soldiers to harass him ahead of the rerun election slated for March 19.

Edo 2016: Court restrains Orbih-led PDP from conducting congresses

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—AN Edo State High Court sitting in Benin, yesterday, restrained the leadership of the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, led by Chief Dan Orbih, from conducting the party ’s congresses until the hearing of the substantive matter brought before it.

It will be recalled that Mr Ehi Osula, from Ward 12 Oredo, and others, had approached the court in Benin, urging it to declare as illegal, the continued stay in office of the current leadership of the party whose tenure expired on September 24, 2015.

But despite the suit, the Orbih-led PDP allegedly concluded plans to conduct congresses across the 192

wards in the state for February 24, 2016, ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

The claimant, through his counsel, Matthew Edaghese, asked the court to restrain the Chief Orbih-led exco from conducting the congresses until hearing of the motion on notice.

Trial judge, Justice Ikpomnwen in his ruling, granted the injunction and adjourned further hearing till February 29, 2016.

Wike orders check on violent crimes in four LGAs

R

IVERS State governor, Mr Nyesom Wike, has directed security agencies in the state to clamp down on cult activities and violent crimes in four local government areas of the state.

Also, Governor Wike announced the suspension of the Caretaker Committee Chairmen of Abua/Odual, Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas for failing to mobilize their stakeholders to attend the Special Security Town Hall meeting for Orashi region.

The governor urged youth groups in Omoku to support the security agencies to checkmate the activities of cultists in ONELGA. Addressing thousands of Rivers people at Omoku, yesterday, during a special Security Town Hall meeting, Governor Wike said that the meeting which had in attendance security service commanders and the Commissioner of Police, was aimed at restoring peace to Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, ONELGA, Abua/Odual, Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas of the state.

Visa MicroFinance Bank marks 6yrs community banking

V

ISA MicroFinance Bank Limited has celebrated its six years of operations in Nigeria. The bank, since it was licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2009, has actively engaged in the economically active poor in Nigeria to avail them credit facilities to support their businesses.

A statement by the bank said that in its six years of operations, it has grown to be a choice microfinance bank for the Abuja community.

It said that it has invested in the local community and has partnered various stakeholders in its quest to develop an indelible positive footprint.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the bank engaged in road shows, thanksgiving service, and customers’ appreciation fora.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—13

Ubulu-Uku erupts in joy as 15-year-old succeeds slain monarch U

By Festus Ahon

BULU-UKU Kingdom in Delta State which has been mourning the murder of its former king, HRM Edward Ofulue III, by suspected Fulani herdsmen, has erupted into jubilation following the installation of his 15-year-old son as the new king of the kingdom.

He was installed as HRM Chukwuka Akaeze I. The new Obi was, yesterday, presented to the Anoicha South Traditional Rulers Council.

The young monarch was earlier presented to the members of the royal family before his presentation to the council of elders at the palace.

The brief ceremony which attracted prominent citizens of the kingdom, including the member representing Aniocha/ Oshimili constituency at the House of Representatives, Mrs. Onyemaechi Mrakpor and the President-General of Ubulu-Uku Development Union, Jones Ofunne, the chairman of Aniocha South council, Mr. Isaac Anwuzia, traditional chiefs and title holders in the kingdom,

religious leaders, women, youths and other stakeholders of the agrarian community, brought back the joy of the people.

Secretary of the Palace, Mr Joseph Obazei, who spoke on the importance of the ceremony, said it was a memorable day in the history of the kingdom.

Obazei said the new king was not even looking up to the position in the near future because his father was young and vibrant, until “this unfortunate event occurred.

“The kingship has now been thrust on him and he has taken up the mantle of his late father.

Ubulu-Uku people are very happy that somebody has ascended the throne because the king never dies. When it appears that there is no king, there is already a king. That is what has just happened.”

According to Obazei, there were not too many rites in the installation of a new king. He said: “By our tradition, you can wake up in the morning and see the heir apparent sitting on the throne issuing

commands which must be obeyed. That will tell you that something happened in the

Y

ENAGOA—A leak in an underwater gas pipeline belonging to Nigerian Agip Oil Company, NAOC, has been reported at Kalaba community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

According to a field report by the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria, ERA/FoEN, the incident occurred on Saturday.

The report, by Mr Morris Alagoa, Head of Field Operations at ERA/FoEN, states that the gas leakage was coming from an underwater gas pipeline beneath Taylor Creek.

ERA/FoEN, a civil society group, noted that the gas leaking at high pressure was causing giant bubbles in Taylor Creek which serves as the sole source of water for the communities.

The report quoted the Paramount Ruler of Kalaba community as also confirming the incident.

“What we are seeing is the bubbling of gas leaking from NOAC's pipeline.

This was discovered in the early hours of Saturday. I got to hear about it first when some children were shouting that oil was C M Y K

bubbling and that there was a leakage.

“As a trained field monitor, I also came around to see what was happening in the environment, whether what I heard was true.

When I paddled down here by canoe, I discovered that it was true, gas was actually bubbling.

“Incidentally, this Creek is our only source of drinking water and where we carry out almost all domestic activities. Right now, the water is polluted.

“As a monitor of the environment, I promptly informed the ERA/FoEN because, that is the organisation we know that has been helping us to reach out to Agip whenever such things happen,” the report said.

It advised the oil firm to immediately deploy to the site and shut the source of the gas leak to forestall further pollution of the environment and exposure of residents to toxic associated gas.

USAID, Coca Cola budget $2m for water in Nigeria

By Princewill Ekwujuru

N

IGERIA’S rural communities will be beneficiaries of $2 miilion from the US Agency for International Development Mission office in Nigeria, USAID/Nigeria and Coca Cola Africa Foundation in the third phase of its Water Development Alliance, WADA, programme for safe water and hygiene facilities in public schools and hospitals.

During the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding for the WADA III programme, in Lagos, USAID Director to

ascended the throne of his father and now he can begin to give directives to the town.”

PRESENTATION: Obi of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom HRM Chukwuka Akaeze I (middle); Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Area, Mr. Isaac Anwuzia (left) and the ViceChairman, Mr. Stephen Asikawili, during the presentation of the monarch to the Aniocha South council of Traditional Rulers at the council secretariat in Ogwashi-Uku, yesterday.

Photo: Festus Ahon.

Underwater gas leak reported in Bayelsa

By Samuel Oyadongha

night and something has happened now.

“So this young man has

Nigeria, Michael T. Harvey, said: “Today, we are consolidating a special partnership, one in which a private firm has joined with a U.S. government agency to contribute to a priority set by the government of Nigeria.”

Dr. Susan Mboya-Kidero, President of the Coca-Cola Africa Foundation and Women’s Economic Empowerment Director for Coca-Cola Eurasia and Africa, said that the positive impact of the programme to the communities the company serves across Africa was an imperative for the CocaCola Africa Foundation.

14 —Vanguard, TUESDAY FEBRUARY 23 , 2016

Senate c’ttee flays FCT over dirt, gives 21-day deadline for clean-up

By Joseph Erunke

A

BUJA—SENATOR Dino Melaye-led Senate Committee on Federal Capital Territory, FCT, yesterday, queried the FCT administration over dirt in the capital city.

To this end, it has given the authorities concerned, a 21-day ultimatum to clean up the area, saying failure would incure the wrath of the committee.

It particularly gave the Abuja area councils the deadline to clean up parks, markets and the entire FCT or face the committee ‘so punishment.

Melaye, APC, Kogi West) handed down the order when the committee met with chairmen of the six area councils in the FCT. Melaye said the FCT was too dirty to be the seat of power and a capital city stressing that no state capital around the world was as dirty as the FCT. He said: “This committee is giving you three weeks to clean up the metropolis, the environmental sanitation in the FCT particularly the area councils especially AMAC is poor.

“You see heaps of rubbish on the road side, Abuja is the pride of Africa, we cannot let this continue.

“After three weeks if you don’t clean up the FCT we will clean you up: you cannot be collecting revenue from the market and the market will be very dirty.

“You go to our parks and it is an eye sore. Two weeks you won’t clean the parks and you are generating money from that park, and when they ask you will say there is no money.

“We are very serious about cleaning up the city within three weeks, clean up Abuja, especially the satellite towns.”

Melaye queried why a lot of money was being generated from markets and parks and yet they remain very dirty.

FIRST PHILIP ASIODU LECTURE: From left; Chief Philip Asiodu, former Minister of Petroleum; Ms. Arunma Oteh, Vice President and Treasurer of World Bank and guest lecturer; Chief Chris Ogunbanjo, foremost industrialist and chairman, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary General, at the 1st Philip Asiodu Lecture Series, at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday.

Oteh seeks diversification of Nigeria’s economy L

AGOS—VICE President and Treasurer of the World Bank, Ms. Arunma Oteh, yesterday, called on the Federal Government to diversify the country ’s economy from oil in order to boost its earnings.

Oteh, made the call at the Philip Asiodu Lecture Series with the theme; ‘The Proper Role of Oil in the Context of Accelerating Growth and Development in Nigeria’ in Lagos.

Merits of diversification

According to her “Diversifying Nigeria’s economy away from oil is urgent for two reasons. First, despite Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth over the past decade, it lags behind on human development and competitiveness indicators. A broader based, more inclusive economy is needed to effectively transmit as much oil wealth as possible into improving the wellbeing of all Nigerians.

Over dependence on oil revenues

“Second, Nigeria’s over dependence on oil revenues for its economic growth and government budget makes it highly susceptible to oil price volatility. Furthermore, the future of oil industry will be shaped by climate change and environmental concerns which require a global transition from fossil fuels to a cleaner, renewable and efficient energy sources.”

She stated that the role of oil in accelerating Nigeria’s development is to provide it with

financial resources to make strategic investments to diversify its economy. “Success requires a strategic vision of the future, establishing sound development plans to achieve that vision, effective implementation, and ongoing monitoring of the implementation to ensure that the desired objectives are achieved.

Strategic vision

Nigeria must establish a strategic vision of what it wants the economy to be in future and continuously re-evaluate that vision in the face of a rapidly evolving world” she noted.

She stated that the development of the country should imply excellence on fronts that will shape the quality of life and welfare of the people, stressing that “despite the high growth of the Gross Domestic Product, GDP in the past decade, it still suffers from sustained underdevelopment evidenced by ‘less-than-adequate performance’ in human development and economic indices, “including high income equality, security challenges in the Niger Delta, violence in the parts of the North east and mismanagement of public revenues.”

Oil sector challenges

According to her “The oil sector challenges include pro-cyclical fiscal policies, weakening of the agricultural sector, and governance that has been characterized by weak institutions and lack of transparency.”

The World Bank VP stated that listing of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) besides growing the capital market; it would also be an important way to strengthen accountability and transparency of managing state-owned enterprise.

3 major shipping lines quit Nigeria as freight rates crash

By Godwin Oritse, with agency report

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AGOS — FOLLOWING a crash in freight rates, three major shipping lines have withdrawn their vessels and diverted same to other routes in the past four months.

Due to crashing freight rates, it has become unprofitable for shipping lines to operate along the Asia-West Africa routes.

The shipping firms, Nippon Yusen Kasha popularly known as NYK Lines (operated by Japanese), Taiwan’s Evergreen Line, and Messina Line, were forced to withdraw from the West Africa route due to growing losses as a result of the twin jeopardy of low freight rates

and declining volumes.

The top Japanese shipping line had operated the AsiaWest Africa service, which it dubbed WAX, alongside Hapag-Lloyd and Gold Star Line (GSL).

The service featured two calls in Nigeria, Lagos-Apapa and Lagos-Tincan.

Evergreen Line has also announced the withdrawal of its vessels from the Asia-West Africa route, which had regular calls at the Lagos Port Complex Apapa.

Hull Blyth Nigeria Limited, which acts as shipping agent to Evergreen Line confirmed the withdrawal of the service to the media.

Managing Director, Hull Blyth, Christian Holm, said: “After three years of serving the

market, Evergreen decided to discontinue their service due to losses sustained due to widening disparity between rate levels and costs.

"Rate levels, especially from Asia, have fallen over 50 per cent in the period with the cost levels remaining disproportionate.”

Speaking in similar vein, Chairman, Shipping Association of Nigeria, (SAN) Mr. Val Usifo, described the development as a dire situation.

He said: "The withdrawal of shipping services by these firms does not affect Nigeria alone but the entire region.

“It is a serious situation; it is not only that the traffic is down, the freight rates have virtually collapsed. Importers are finding it difficult to pay for their imports because of the restriction in dollar."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23 , 2016—15

BIAFRA: MASSOB accuses FG of killing

agitators to destabilise S-East •Lauds Governor Fayose for supporting Kanu and non violent Biafra agitators

Hails Fayose for defending Nnamdi Kanu

By Francis Igata & Ugochukwu Alaribe

A

BA—MOVEMENT for the Actualization of the Sovereign States of Biafra, MASSOB, yesterday accused the federal government of trying to create instability in the former Eastern Region through alleged killing of pro-Biafra protesters to provoke the people into another civil war.

The group threatened to drag the government to the International Court of Justice, ICJ, at the Hague, Netherland over perceived incessant killings of pro Biafra protesters.

MASSOB’s National Director of Information, Sunny Okereafor, told Vanguard that the alleged killings of pro Biafra protesters by security agents had become unbearable, and the group had decided to take necessary steps to tackle the situation.

According to him: “MASSOB is worried at the rate at which defenceless pro Biafra agitators are being killed. It is unheard of to have soldiers shoot people who were gathered for prayers.

We believe it is a strategy to incite the people of the South East and South-South to war.

These are antics we know too well. We refuse to be deceived.

The people of the former Eastern region have been thoroughly provoked. MASSOB will not keep quiet at these senseless killings and have decided to let the international community know about the atrocities being committed by Nigerian security agents.

“MASSOB have concluded plans to take our case to the International Court of Justice, Hague. We have compiled our evidences on the killings and the dramatis personae. Our group will not keep quiet on these acts of killings of innocent citizens.”

Okereafor, berated political leaders, particularly the governors of the South East zone for allegedly failing to speak against the killing of defenceless agitators in their states, describing it as an act of cowardice.

Govt's planned dialogue deceptive

Meanwhile, the group has described government efforts at dialoguing with its members as insincere, hypocritical and deceptive.

In a statement to newsmen in Enugu, MASSOB Leader, Uchenna Madu said:”Federal Government through her several agents had clamoured for a peaceful dialogue to effect the release of Nnamdi Kanu whose arrest and detention has C M Y K

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu would be released to an Igbo leader of our choice after their report and intimate meeting with the presidency."

Detained leader of Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and Director, Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu (middle). exposed and battered the deteriorated image of Nigeria before the International community since October 2015.

“Though many groups and persons which claim to represent the Biafra agitators in the dialogue have failed because of their selfish and

group interest, why have they not met the real leadership of Biafra agitators held on December 22, 2015 in Enugu in the house of a prominent and respected Igbo leader with representatives of Federal Government with the Directorate of Military Intelligence Abuja and other

Igbo Leaders who are genuinely rooted in Igbo course.?

“The FG representatives assured us that based on their findings, observations, interactions, feelings and grievances of Ndigbo during the weeklong tour which climaxed with meeting of the leadership of Biafra agitators; they assured that

The statement added: “MASSOB has hailed Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State for his staunch support and defense of Nnamdi Kanu and non violent Biafran agitators. Governor Fayose’s sympathy on Biafra and outburst against Buhari-led administration which exhibited religious, ethnic and personal hatred has proves him as a true nationalist who has the interest of the people at heart.

“MASSOB also condemned the silence on Igbo Governors and Senators on the plight of Nnamdi Kanu and other Biafran Agitators.

Some Igbo Governors and senators are stooges and cowards.

We doubt if Igbo blood of braveness and eloquence run in their veins. The northern and western Governors/senators openly and secretly collaborate and work with Boko-Haram and Odua People’s Congress, OPC, respectively for the interest of their ethnic blocks but their Igbo counterparts are always shying away as cowards."

CENSUS 2017: No amount of financial challenge can

stop us —Commissioner

By Emeka Mamah & Francis Igata

E

NUGU—THE second phase of the Enumeration Area Demarcation, EAD, for the 2017 National Census began in the 29 states of the federation and Abuja yesterday, even as the National Population Commission, NPC said not even the financial challenge facing the country would stop next year census.

The 21- day exercise will end on March 14.

A Federal Commissioner in NPC and former Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Festus Uzor, who made this known in Enugu, blamed controversies associated with past census exercises on poor conduct of EAD. Uzor told newsmen that “considering the fact that the 2017 Census will be biometric based, and will seek to capture the facial impression and finger prints of persons during the period, any hope of gaining advantage through manipulation of EAD will at best be an illusion that cannot be realised as only persons physically seen will be counted and their biometrics taken.”

According to him, the EAD would take place in one local government in each of the 29 states, explaining that it was “imperative to divide the whole

country into small units that can be easily covered by a team of enumerators,” as “one of the core preparatory activities for the census exercise. The EAD constitutes the foundation on

which the entire census architecture stands. As you all know the strength of a building including its finishing is dependent on how well the foundation is laid.

“It forms the basis for the planning and execution of the census project. A faulty foundation cannot produce a solid building, no matter the finishing and the decoration."

ELECTION RE-RUN: APC tasks INEC, IGP on overhaul of activities of personnel in Imo

By Chidi Nkwopara

O

WERRI—ALL Progressives Congress, APC, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the Nigeria Police High Command to overhaul their activities in Imo State, ahead of the re-run elections in the state.

Speaking through its Okigwe senatorial candidate, Mr. Benjamin Uwajumogu, the party also claimed INEC was dominated by loyalists of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP. According to him: “INEC has never conducted any credible election in Imo State. The Commission even imported about 75 people, who are related to a high raking PDP member in the Senate for the conduct of the botched polls.”

Uwajumogu insisted that APC would not stand idle and watch as its opponents worked hard to rig the election.

While claiming that about two persons were reportedly killed ahead of the re-run election, the APC stalwart also lamented that

no arrests had been made in connection with the murder of the two citizens.

He urged the Inspector General of Police to overhaul the divisional police commands in the senatorial zone, saying “There will be no re-

run election in the state if the INEC and police divisions were not overhauled. It is also interesting to note that all the people ferried into Imo State for the election, were never approved

by INEC Chairman.”

Information gap, bane of His words; “This retreat is to LASU's devt develop an action plan to foster

L

By Elizabeth Uwandu

AGOS—VICE Chancellor, Lagos State Universitiy, Professor Lanre Fagbohun, has said information gap is the bane of past administrations, saying there is need to bridge the gap which caused friction in past.

He made this known at a twoday retreat with the theme; Fostering Community-wide Quality Assurance in Lagos State University for Efficient Service Delivery and Academic Excellence. The retreat was aimed at building a consensus among stakeholders in LASU on quality standards for teaching, research, community engagement and service delivery.

quality culture in academic, administrative and technical service delivery, initiate the process of developing a quality assurance manual for the varsity and to initiate a plan for elevating the global ranking of the varsity.

“My vision is to ensure that LASU achieves excellence such that by the next global or national ranking, it would come out tops. LASU, like every other institutions, has challenges, so it is not that we are not forward going but gap in information."

Speaking on the theme, Prof.

PeterOkebukolasaid:“Qualityassurance and control are two key ingredients needed in the operation and success of the varsity system."

16 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—17

Naira firms up at parallel market, as banks sell at N308 per dollar causing demand pressure in

Probe'll clear air on $470m project, says ZTE

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A

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor & Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

AGOS—A significant drop in demand for foreign exchange in the parallel market segment has firmed up the Naira value against US dollars yesterday, with Bureau de Changes, BDCs, selling at N370/USD1, showing about 6.0 per cent appreciation for the local currency which had traded at all time high exchange rate of N395/ USD1 last weekend.

Vanguard monitor of the market in the past two weeks indicated that the sharp rise in the exchange rate within the period was largely fuelled by speculations that official devaluation was underway, while scarcity would persist for a long time.

Dealers who had sourced from their suppliers at rates as low as N300/USD1 and would have sold

at a good margin of 10 per cent (N330/USD1) were apprehensive that shortages of supplies from Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and other major sources would push replacement rates beyond the 10 per cent mark-up.

Consequently, they resorted to maximizing the opportunity by pushing for extra-ordinary margins as much as possible, sending the exchange rate to the peak point of N395/ USD1.

However, one of the dealers on Victoria Island, Lagos, who spoke to Vanguard yesterday, expressed confusion on market situation as many of them had foreign exchange in stock but could not determine the appropriate price due to supply distortions.

He also said demand was no longer as high as they expected since last week, leaving them

with foreign currencies without enough buyers willing to pay the high rate.

Meanwhile, there was indication that importers who were forced to go to the parallel market, following their inability to get CBN sourced funds, may have been forced to fall back to the underhand dealings with banks who offered them foreign currencies at rates far higher than CBN determined rates but equally far lower and better than the parallel market rates.

The apex bank sold US dollar at N197 for eligible imports through the banks who in turn offer same to the importers at about N199/ US1 officially.

But most importers do not get the foreign exchange they bidded for through the banks at the official rate, a situation which had pushed them into the parallel market, thereby coursing

NIS RECRUITMENT SCAM: EFCC

Moro, 2 others

that segment.

This demand pressure in turn pushed the parallel market rate to an all time high, which again forced the importers back to the banks, but this time on new terms, outside CBN rules.

Some of the importers who spoke to Vanguard said the banks now charge them as high as N308/ USD1.

It was also learned that the banks have been hiding the exchange rate from customers such that when customers fill their Form “M”and request to know at what rate the transactions would be calculated, banks officials would say that they needed to get instructions from their headquarters in Lagos, as a guise to keep the rate from the customers. Included in the high unofficial rates are other charges

quizzes Abba

Seeks to recover N600m collected from candidates

By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor

A

BUJA—THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission yesterday took into custody, the former Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, and two others over the ill-fated 2014 recruitment into the Nigerian Immigration Service, which led to the death of no fewer than 20 job-seekers.

Also taken into custody and interrogated along with the former minister was the then permanent secretary in the interior minister,y Fatima Bamidele, and a director in the Immigrations, Fire Service, Prisons and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, simply indentified as Ibrahim.

A top source in EFCC confirmed that Moro and the two others were likely to be detained for a while and might be taken from there to court.

The source hinted that the EFCC had gone far with the investigation into the recruitment saga, which ruined Nigeria’s image and was prepared to proceed with pressing charges against the key actors of the scam.

“This is the final stage in our investigation of Abba Moro and the permanent secretary who worked with him as well as the director in the NIS board.

“It is very likely that they would not be freed this night and it is possible we will charge them to court over their involvement in the scam,” the source said last night.

It will be recalled that during the controversial nationwide recruitment on March 15, 2014, each of the candidates was

BRIEFING: From left: Mr Ade Shonubi, MD/CEO,Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc, NIBSS;Mrs Funmi Saliu, Acting Head, Banking Services Division, CBN; Sola Agboola, Assistant Director, BPSD Banking & Payment System Department,CBN and Mrs Christabel Onyejekwe, Executive Director, Business Development, NIBSS, at the briefing on CBN electronic payment incentive scheme efficiency awards in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Akeem Salau. made to pay a compulsory recruitment fee of N1000 to an ICT firm said to be promoted by top politicians, who cornered close to N600 million from poor Nigerians.

But of the amount, only a paltry sum was later declared into the coffers of the NIS from the huge proceeds, leading to the launch of a probe by the EFCC, whose operatives are eager to know who owns the ICT firm, what the money generated was used for and whether the former minister and his officials benefitted from the money.

The scandal, which led to the death of about 20 applicants in various recruitment centres across the country, involved over 520,000 Nigerian gradu-

ate applicants who paid N1, 000 each to be qualified to take the test.

After the NIS tragedy, several Nigerians demanded the resignation or dismissal of Mr. Moro and the then Comptroller-General of Immigration, David Parradang, as well as their criminal prosecution for involuntary homicide.

The anti-graft had earlier quizzed the ex-ComptrollerGeneral of the NIS, Parradang, on the same matter shortly after he was removed from office

by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Parraddang and Moro have been trading blames over the tragedy, pointing accusing fingers at each other.

BUJA—A probe by the House of Representatives into the $470 million National Public Security Communication System, NPSCS, project will reveal why the project is not adding value to the lives of Nigerians, in addition to finally laying to rest public misconceptions about the project.

This is the position of Mr. Hao Fuqiang, Managing Director of ZTE Nigeria, the telecoms firm that handled the project.

His words: “We welcome this probe because we are sure we will come out clean. We have consistently maintained that the project was fully completed and final tests completed. The acceptance certificates are available for scrutiny.

“We are also proud that we built and delivered one of the most sophisticated security communication tools for the Nigerian government and Nigerian people. We believe the probe will unravel why the equipment were left unutilized and allowed to waste."

Fuqiang, who noted that this was the third probe of the project, said his company would co-operate fully with the authorities, and expressed the hope that “government will do all within its powers to resuscitate this very important project.”

Recall that former Managing Director of NigComSat, Timasaniyu Ahmed- Rufai, told the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee to Investigate the Award of CCTV Cameras in Abuja and Lagos during the public session that the project was fully completed by ZTE but that the Federal Government failed to operate and maintain it.

Cybercrime Act not to regulate Internet —NCC

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By Prince Osuagwu

AGOS—THE Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, yesterday said the Cybercrime Act was not meant to regulate the Internet or Over The Top, OTT, service providers, also known as disruptive technology, but to ensure that everybody was responsible for his act on cyberspace.

OTTs are service providers riding on the network of telecom operators to provide value added services such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn, BBM, among others.

The Director of Public Affairs of the Commission, Mr. Tony

Ojobo, at the Social Media Week forum in Lagos, said the Act was put together to ensure a healthy and responsible internet activity.

According to him, regulating the Internet or OTT will stifle creativity and innovation, and reduce the accelerated growth Nigeria is already recording in new media development across the world.

However, he noted that with the new act, every operator, traditional or OTT, would now be responsible for what was put out in the cyberspace through their platform.

“It is now their challenge to deploy technology that would check espionage, fraud, hackers and all other unwholesome activities that may come to the cyberspace through their platforms,’’ he said.

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 ELECTRICITY distribution companies (DISCOS) across the country in conjunction with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) were already executing the new tariff they had imposed on Nigerians earlier this year before the intervention of the Senate, last week stopping them from further implementation until the outcome of a public hearing that would be carried out by its relevant committees.

The Senate had based its decision on the biting economic hardship arguing that it was unrealistic to increase electricity tariff, with the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, saying that Nigerians were already on “life support”.

The Senate also mandated its Committees on Labour and Power to meet with the relevant agencies of government and find a lasting solution, and in the meantime, to conduct public hearings on the matter in oder to come to an informed final decision.

We appreciate the wisdom in the in-

Lifting the electricity tariff burden tervention and subsequent action taken by the Senate and urge all parties to key into this window of mutual understanding in resolving the issues.

Without prejudice to the outcome of the public hearing and the meeting between the legislative committees and the government agencies, we urge the parties to take into consideration the salient facts surrounding this logjam.

First, the DISCOS have continually lamented the poor state of the electricity infrastructure they inherited coupled with the harsh operating environment which, they said, have made development and effective serv-

ice delivery nearly impossible. They have also argued that Nigeria’s electricity tariff is one of the lowest in Africa.

Consequently, they believe that for the services to improve, commensurate tariff needs to be paid to enable them and the government increase investments in electricity infrastructure re-development.

But it appears an unfair logic to collect money from the consumers before offering required services. We believe that the DISCOS should invest in their businesses, provide reliable power supply and charge a justifiable

tariff to recoup their investment.

We suspect that the DISCOS apparently discovered a huge gap in their due diligence for the acquisition of interests in the electricity business only to resort to remedial actions after committing their funds.

Unfortunately this is not the time to impose additional burdens on the weary purchasing power of the average Nigerian neither is it a convenient time for government’s financial intervention given our dwindling revenue.

Part of the middle ground to be reached could include rigorous interrogation of how they arrived at the new tariff, the actual cost of delivering electricity to the consumers and an equitable profit margin.

Government can still intervene through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in a form of concessionary loan or even government’s non-controlling temporary equity investments in the DISCOS to free consumers from the harsh cost of infrastructural investments.

OPINION Itsekiri nation and politics of sur viv al (2) surviv vival Continued from yesterday

ByBobson Gbinije

T

HEN, the Itsekiris were trapped between a Local Scylla and a National Charybdis – they were trapped between the “IZON RENAISSANCE” a New National Reconciliation Drive and a New Transition Programme. But they were able to wriggle out of the serpentine political convolution.

In contemporary history, the Jewish State of Israel has been prosecuting an internecine and interminable war with the Palestinians since 1938 after the Balfour Declaration, and the Jews in their “ZIONIST” stance have stopped at nothing and will stop at nothing towards protecting their political and socioeconomic rights within the ambit of the Middle East.The Itsekiris have been doing same.

Their dogged commitment to their principles of Itsekirism and other protean strategies supported by former Governor James Onanefe Ibori saw the coming in of former Governor Emmanuel Ewenta Uduaghan (an Itsekiri) as governor of Delta State. This is a gargantuan political plus for the Itsekiri people and their masterful hold of their political lebensraum. But what is now the next line of action now that Uduaghan has served?

They survived the death of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh, Chief Alfred Rewane, Chief O.N Rewane, Chief

Begho and other Itsekiri political giants too numerous to mention.

Whither goeth the Itsekiri Nation after the demise of Ogiame Atuwatse II? Recently, specifically on the 12th December, 2015 the 20th Olu of Warri Ogiame Ekenwoli I was crowned as the Olu of Warri. The Itsekiri people, Deltans, Nigerians, Africans and the Diasporic Itsekiris are pregnant with great expectations. We need not stand on the necromancer’s rhomboid or be deft in Egyptological Metempsychosis to know that the new Olu of Warri Ogiame Ekenwoli I will all-embracingly excel by the grace of Divine Afflatus. He is the 20th Olu of Warri and the spirituality of the number is cocooned in the auguries of sacrificial acceptance. This will make his reign a more peaceful and successful one.

The number 12th which is the date he was crowned, in terms of numerical spirituality entails celestial authority. He therefore has the support of the elements, the Itsekiri people (vox populi vox dei) and positive spiritual vibrations. These blessings can only be pragmatically manifested if he dwells in the truth, love and fear of God. The Ogiame Ekenwoli I is no doubt aware that some periods during the reign of Ogiame Atuwatse II Warri and its environs was befuddled by wars, tribal hatred, atrabilious and acrimonious social climate precipitating the siege mentality and superiority complex amongst Itsekiris and her neighbours. We beseech the new

Ogiame to spread his hands of fellowship to all and sundry in Warri, Delta State and beyond. Itsekiris as well as her neighbours must realise and heed the admonitions of Alexander Pope “The old order changeth yielding place to the new”. The Itsekiris must realise that minorities all over the world only succeed when they have a functionally peaceful and effectively friendly relationship with the majority ethnic groups within their political compass. Politics is a game of numerical superiority and they cannot go it alone. They have to start by extending her hand of friendship, fellowship and the olive branch of total and genuine reconciliation to her neighbours who I believe will be willing to reciprocate her God-fearing and mutually beneficial gesture.

The tiresome principle of systematic indoctrination of Itsekiris, Warri Urhobos, Ijaws etc to hate themselves must be discarded and in its place a regenerated doctrine of love and brotherhood implanted. The new dispensation calls for the shedding of old prejudices. Let Itsekiris go out and form political alliances with the Ijaws and Urhobos and vice versa. The real Urhobo, Itsekiri and Ijaw heroes will emerge from the perfect conducting of their political affairs in the new dispensation. No longer men and women who feathered their political and economic nest and thrived in belligerency and hatred, but men and women who came all out to lift the Itsekiri Nation from the great political labyrinthine valley of stand-offishness and hate.

It is said that “men who move mountains must start by removing small stones first”.

Let all well meaning Itsekiri sons and daughters rally round the Olu of Warri Ogiame Ekenwoli I to actualize this clarion call. John L. Motlay the great essayist said “deeds, not stones are the monuments of the great”. Ogiame has started building blocks of peace and friendship in Delta State. He recently graced the 99th birthday celebration of the Owhorode of Olomu Kingdom with his brilliant presence were he interacted with traditional rulers of other parts of Delta State and beyond. This is a step in the right direction and we hope all other traditional rulers will continue to extend their hands of brotherhood to him thereby consolidating the relationship between their various peoples.

During the 45th coronation anniversary of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi the newly crowned Ooni of Ife Arole Oadua Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II visited the Alaafin at the Methodist Church, Apaara where he held his coronation anniversary thanksgiving. It was the first time since 1937 that an Ife monarch will visit an Alaafin.

This new song of reconciliation to enable us move forward must be the melodic refrain of all Itsekiris and I know their neighbours will not sing a different lyric.

Let the Itsekiri nation be subsumed, drenched and bedraggled in this mellifluous rhythms.

Concluded *Mr. Gbinije, a social critic, wrote from Warri, Delta State.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBURARY 23, 2016— —19

Oyegun’s and APC's goofs

By Sunny Ikhioya

A

PARTY that rode to power through the popular sentiments of the people now crying sabotage, what an irony.

Maybe Femi Aribisala was too hasty in his comment of Tuesday February 2016 when he said; “When the incredible issue of a missing/counterfeited 2016 budget arose some weeks ago, I was expecting to hear from APC that Goodluck Jonathan was to blame. Surprisingly, that did not happen. Instead, blame was traded between the Presidency and the National Assembly”.

That same day, this is what Chief John Odigie Oyegun, APC national Chairman said to the press: “APC members were not concerned about the positions.

We are concerned about the internal sabotage that is going on in a lot of the PDP filled positions which are critical to our national growth and development”. This was captioned under the headline; “Head of parastatals sacked due to sabotage by PDP positions - Oyegun”, Vanguard of 16th February’ 2016. The members of the APC are still afflicted by the ‘I know it all syndrome’, so they have refused to come down from their high horses to assess where things have gone wrong. They are averse to criticisms and that has blighted their ability to see things the way they are supposed

to be. The contradictions in the party was foretold right from the onset, all that was needed is a leader that can properly blend these competing interests towards a common goal. The president has not been able to do much in that area.

Unfortunately, John Oyegun who is an acclaimed seasoned administrator is doing much worse. “Conscience is an open wound”, according to Uthman dan Fodio, “only the truth can heal it”. For as long as Oyegun and his APC hawks continue to shy away from the truth and continue to defend the indefensible, we will continue to witness such blunders like the 2016 budget. We must not confuse the rot in the Civil Service with that of the PDP. We have said it before that, there will be no genuine change in this country if it does not address the the rot in the Civil Service and other government agencies.

President Muhammadu Buhari wasted six months placing people he deemed fit into strategic positions and when he thought everything had been done perfectly, he announced his ministerial cabinet. To him, the ministers do not have much to offer apart from the occasional noise making and that has contributed to this fiasco. If Oyegun and his colleagues are afraid to tell the President the truth as it is, then it is very unfortunate. The people are

RIGHT OF REPLY: ByEkanpou Enewaridideke

I

WOULD have been too incapacitated to spot the Python in her cruel articles but for the strength garnered from His Royal Majesty Haile Selassie I, the Emperor of Ethiopia, who contends that: ‘Throughout history it has been the inaction of those who could have acted, the indifference of those who should have known better and the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most that has made it possible for evil to triumph.’

Jonathan, Tompolo and Asari do not deserve the acidic and abusive language deployed by Tabia Princewill in her serially illogical articles. Prominent people in leadership positions always attract critical commentary from different people, though some purely borne out of envy. Having gained prominence in different fields, it is inevitable that they would be praised and minimised differently by people as Michigan I awakens readers to, captured in my own book A Sail in the Dark: In every field of human endeavour, he that is first must perpetually live in the white light of publicity. Whether the leadership be vested in a man or in a manufactured product, emulation and envy are ever at work. In art, in literature, in music, in industry, the reward and the punishment are always the same. The reward is widespread recognition; the punishment.

Fierce denial and detraction...’ True as this sounds, criticism should be based on issues, not on the personality as the Princewills of this world, hysterically excited by the approaching coronation, are wont to do without remorse and intellectual decorum.

The articles of Princewill betray acidic mindset in the deployment of language, intolerance and bigotry. She has a pen illogically conditioned to minimise Jonathan and Tompolo. When a writer becomes intolerant, vindictive and bigoted as pointers of his/her directional principle, issues are obfuscated. With deliberate obfuscation which appears C M Y K

ready to make sacrifices, no matter the burden that is placed upon them but they must see clearly that the government is fighting for their interest. When the people in government have gone on a wrong path and are humble enough to admit it, and offer apologies to the people that voted them into power, that is nobility. Nobility is not of the ordinary, it belongs to a higher class of people and it is earned either by birth or individual/ personal efforts. Nobility requires that you rise above petty interests, it requires that your goal must be for the common good and when that happens, it earns the reciprocal respect from the people but when you choose to force or ram it through the throats of the people, you are courting the opposite reaction of nobility. Oyegun and his men must choose to be noble both in their words and actions.

The challenges of Nigeria as a country goes beyond rhetorics, it requires a clear head and objective mind

The challenges of Nigeria as a country goes beyond rhetorics, it requires a clear head and objective mind to access a pathway but we cannot access the path to success if we keep looking for excuses. The solutions are there but the path that the APC has chosen is the wrong one.

Change does not require rocket science to bring it about, set the right examples and the people will follow. So far, President Buhari has been using the Obasanjo model of globe trotting as his foreign policy focus and we all know what happened to Obasanjo and his gobe trotting adventures. He left governance for Abubakar Atiku and by the time he realised what was happening, the foundation for the implosion of the PDP had been laid. Let nobody deceive anybody, the fall of the PDP started from the Obasanjo era, there was no ingenuity on the part of anybody, the PDP had been programmed for failure for a very long time. We must learn from history. President Buhari is toeing the same path. He has not found time to remain on ground to supervise what is happening, as a result, the 2016 budget has been messed up for him and they now shout sabotage.

They should look in the mirror and discover the saboteurs of the government. If after one year in government they are still laying foundations, how long will it take to mobilise and to build. It is right time for the APC team to engage in rigorous debates and evaluations on the right course

of actions to be taken to direct the ship of state.

For starters, they should be humble and not maintain a superior stance over their fellow country men. They must not think that it is only in their midst that solutions can be found to the challenges confronting this country and they must stop over heating the polity. They did it while they were in opposition and they are doing it now even in a government that they are in control of. Imagine this statement from John Oyegun; “We have lost very important resource rich states to the PDP. No matter how crude oil prices have fallen, it is still the most important revenue earner for the country.”. The party is screaming about corruption and stealing of government money, tell me how the ordinary folks from the Niger Delta states will view such statement from the head of a political party that is supposed to be fighting for our common interests. We have said that until we identify the sources of the APC funding during the last elections, the equation on corruption in this country cannot be balanced because, they matched the PDP dollar for dollar, naira for naira and force for force during the elections.

It is also important for the APC to note that if you rubbish an arm of government to which you belong, you are also alluding same to yourself. *Mr. Ikhioya, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

Still on sunset and a coronation priceless to Princewill, readers are WEANED ON HALF-TRUTHS, and halftruths are agents of dislocation and retrogression in society. I bare my mind this way because I am always nauseated

by Princewill’s obsession with intolerance and bigotry in her analyses. However much as I hate intolerance and bigotry in any guise, Soyinka is a better teacher to reawaken Princewill whose regression to a zealot is glaring. In his essay published in National Interest of 25 March 2000 entitled ‘Under the sign of an iconoclast’, Soyinka unequivocally declares thus: ‘I declare myself yet an implacable enemy of bigotry, intolerance and all agenda of mind-closure. A plague on the Taliban and their kind, on zealots of every colour and creed’.

The man called Tompolo currently verbally assaulted by Princewill and others is the latest news in town.

Tompolo’s company accounts were frozen by the Federal government and promptly he took EFCC to court but no media hysteria greeted this. The media woke up when EFCC brought up a case of N13 billion against Tompolo in respect of the temporary site for the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko. Again he wrote and deflated the claim of EFCC in an advertorial using verifiable evidence. No media drama attended Tompolo’s rejoinder. Then again EFCC brought up a N35 billion naira case of moneylaundering against Tompolo and others in a Federal High Court, Lagos. On the appointed day of the summons he did not turn up in Court. Promptly, a bench warrant was issued for his arrest. The

With deliberate obfuscation which appears priceless to Princewill, readers are weaned on half-truths, and half-truths are agents of dislocation and retrogression in society

media went wild and hysterical in the presentation of this order to arrest Tompolo. It became a dance of buzzing showy creatures buzzing to claim the honeycomb.

Top on the buzzing creatures were Ayiri Emami and Michael Johnny who appeared captivated by their selfacclaimed patriotic assignment of newspaper persuasion and pressure on Tompolo to surrender, the two patriots carrying open minds unassailed by the words of Sir Francis Bacon that: ‘if a man begins with certainties, he will end in doubts, but if he will be content to begin with doubts, he will end in certainties’.

With the bench warrant and the destruction of piplelines in the Niger Delta, the buzzing creatures began to finger Tompolo as the mastermind. Tompolo was also prompt and clear in his denial of the pipeline vandalism, thus asserting himself once again as the agent of peace, not destruction, despite the conspiratorial drama to incriminate him in any possible way.

To the buzzing showy creatures, Tompolo is a fugitive, on the run from the law like biblical Jonah. Tompolo does not consider himself a fugitive but one who has just appropriated the age-long wisdom of tortoise who refused to visit Lion in his ill state because he (tortoise) could only trace the inward footprints of visitors to lion’s house without any visible outward footprints. The fugitive in Tompolo disappears when the outward footprints to the abode of Lion become visible and traceable.

For thousand years to come the memories of President Muhammadu Buhari’s last Presidential chat would live with Nigerians – a captivating Presidential chat resoundingly applauded by all patriots. In the Presidential chat the oracle of impunity was gaudily decorated and empowered to disobey valid Court orders as regards incarceration of personalities without bail.

And today as revealed by Hon. Rotimi Amaechi (Minister for Transport) with empowered pride and impunity, there are

ploys to cancel the statutorily established Nigeria maritime University, Okerenkoko, without valid reasons beyond political vindictiveness. The Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, was established to address the educational backwardness of the Niger Delta but now the existence of this University is being threatened by the APC-led government of President Muhammadu Buhari. Yet no buzzing showy creatures are seen or heard.

At this time the coronation-seeking exceptional writer Prinewill, labouring for the only available Nobel prize for literature in the hands of the APC-led government, blessed with the rare gift of ‘verbal fluidity’ and compositional illogicality, would not journey to Okerenkoko and verbally chastise the Federal Government for that waiting meaningless move in a country where the bulk of the oil comes from the developmentally impoverished Niger Delta. Not even Emami Ayiri and Michael Johnny, the great patriots, activists par excellence who laboriously prepared the Presidential seat for President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2015 general election and for which they have become the PINEAPPLES of President Buhari’s eye, would not flamboyantly hug the pages of national dailies and mouth their sincere concern or developmental passion for the Niger Delta; or must we now Pencil them down as selective, showy profiteering occasional commentators on Niger Delta issues? That these perpetually theatrical buzzing creatures keep hermetically sealed lips on a matter that affects the destiny of Niger Deltans, they are indeed patriots who should not be denied the waiting coronation. For Princewill specifically, hers would be the APC NOBEL PRIZE FOR LITERATURE for selective verbal fluidity and unimpeded compositional illogicality. *Mr. Enewaridideke, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Akparemogbene, Delta State.

20—Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBUARY 23, 23 2016

Magufuli: Africa's real face of change

I

WAS in Accra this past week and saw a Toyota van with inscription "APC". I initially thought an APC official from Nigeria was in town. But upon looking closely, I saw it was "All Peoples Congress" with a broom as its logo.It then dawned on me that the rumoured CHANGE in Nigeria must have inspired some Ghanaians to form their own APC hoping their change would birth.

That is the kind of influence events in Nigeria could have on our neighbours near and far. In any case,Ghana and Nigeria have always rubbed on each other. Not many people know that the man who led Ghana to independence, Kwame Nkrumah would not have gone to University abroad but for the influence of our own Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe who mentored him and gave him a note to his old colleagues in Lincoln where he enrolled in 1938. Nkrumah eventually boarded a ship to America from Lagos.

Looking in the wrong direction We shall come to that another day but suffice it to say for now that Ghanaians who are looking up to Nigeria for CHANGE at the moment are looking in the wrong direction.They should focus their attention on Tanzania where President John Magufuli who was elected last November is really showing that CHANGE is possible in Africa, Someone has already coined a verb: to magufulify – “to render or declare action faster and cheaper; to deprive (public officials) of their capacity to enjoy life on taxpayers’ money; to terrorise lazy and corrupt individuals in the society".

Comparisons are also being drawn to the enigmatic Rwandan president Paul Kagame, whose country is seen as a hope of East Africa, calling the latest actions by Magufuli the “Rwandanisation" of Tanzania.

Shortly after his election, Magufuli declared there would be no celebration of Independence Day on 9 December because it would be “shameful” to spend huge sums of money on the C M Y K

celebrations when people were dying of cholera. Instead, the day has been set as a national day of cleanliness, and the money will go toward street-cleaning services. He has said everybody should pick up their tools and clean their backyards. The death of "only" 74 people would mean nothing in many African countries.

Boko Haram roasted 86 people in one day in Borno last month with no official reaction, Magufuli did not "order" Tanzanians to go and clean their environment,he led by example when he picked his own shovel.

Terrible condition During his first official visit to the Muhimbili Hospital, and seeing the terrible condition it was in, he ordered over 200 million shillings marked for “parliament parties” be used to pay for beds for people lying on the floor and sharing beds.

A few days later 300 beds were delivered. He dismissed the governing board and got a new team in place, and within days the broken MRI was fixed.

Three days after his inauguration, Magufuli announced a ban on all foreign travel by government officials.

They have been instructed to instead make regular visits to rural areas to learn and help solve problems facing everyday Tanzanians. All tasks that required officials to travel abroad would instead be done by high commissioners and ambassadors who are already in place.

He has tightened the budget

Magufuli should go beyond personal examples and build the institutions of Tanzania so that these reforms will not leave office with him

with restrictions on all firstand business-class travel to government officials, except the president, vice-president and prime minister.There will be no more workshops and seminars in expensive hotels when there are so many ministry board rooms available.

He cut down his inauguration party from $100,000 to $7,000 and sent the extra money to the hospital in disrepair.

Tanzanian was to have a large delegation to the last Commonwealth Head of

Government Meeting. The delegation was preparing for a jamboree when Magufuli looked at the unwieldy list of 55 and pruned it to only four and saving the country millions of Shillings.

When Magufuli had to travel 600km to Dodoma, from Dar, to officially open parliament he didn’t order a private jet – instead, he chose to drive.

He reportedly told parliamentary leaders that the people of Tanzania want him to solve their problems and not make speeches. He has not been complaining about how bad things are but showing how better they can be.

In the course of elections, he promised to work for the people. He has not adjusted his promises as he told parliamentary leader"Now is the time to work and I as your president, will walk the talk in delivering all that I promised during the campaigns”.

He has not gone out of Tanzania to be telling the world that Tanzanians are bad people or hiring officials whose job responsibility is lying to the people , what he is doing in Tanzania is already spreading the fame of his

country around the globe.

His actions are already finding echoes in surrounding countries and putting politicians under pressure.

"The disgustingly conspicuous and gluttonous consumption — at the expense of taxpayers — displayed by our legislators and top civil servants is making Tanzanian President John Magufuli look like a saint," columnist Rasna Warah wrote in Kenya's Daily Nation newspaper.

The 56-year-old former school teacher, industrial chemist and former works minister comes with a bag of integrity. "He was for many years minister for works, supervising execution of mega projects worth trillions of shillings, but was never implicated in any corruption scandal,” Joseph Warioba, a former prime minster and veteran CCM politician, told AFP news agency. “He could have been the richest politician in the country" A note of caution though, Magufuli should go beyond personal examples and build the institutions of Tanzania so that these reforms will not leave office with him.

...Wake up Nigerians!

By Hillary Okoronkwo

R

ECENT health challenges had some of my close friends wondering if I am being chocked up by my unrelentless concern for how badly Nigerians are being treated.

That claim cannot be further from the truth. I actually want to die kicking about oppression and nothing can change or stop that.

Let me digress a little bit please.

Exactly seven years ago, I attended the funeral service of a great Nigerian. Yes, he was so great and you may not have heard about him.

He is Professor Kalu from Ohafia in Abia State. He was an accomplished Nigerian, an author of 15 books, a father of three great children, a husband whose steps were ordered by the Lord.

Economic refugee I met Njideka, a University of Nigerian medical doctor who is an economic refugee like myself at the funeral.

Njide married a Nigerian American citizen and relocated to America for greener pastures and love. Not necessarily in the order stated above!

Njide has been receiving my regular fiery emails critiquing the stench in Nigeria. I had spoken to Njide several times over the phone but never met her in person until that day.

Njide was at the funeral in Chicago. I attended the funeral in a decent outfit. A simple well tailored outfit with

a nice Nordstrom shirt measured and tailored for me.

Immediately after the funeral, I was introduced to Njide. She looked at me in disbelief and actually remarked that she expected to see me in a rebel red beret and not dressed so decent.

This was a classic case of the foolishness and idiocy of Nigerians. She supposed being outspoken and sharing your strong views is an exclusive hallmark of the poor.

A few years ago, I was in a political strategy meeting on how to defeat John Kerry here in Michigan. The tactician wanted volunteers to gather on a strategic corner to welcome John Kerry who was the democratic presidential candidate running against George W Bush with signs welcoming him to Bush country (Michigan).

Based on the time of John Kerry's arrival, a few of us volunteered. Among my fellow activists was the immediate past Attorney General of Michigan and his wife. He actually ran for Governor afterwards.

We were not a rented crowd.

We had our daily jobs but were simply activists who wanted our political wishes to come true and we worked very hard for it. Under normal circumstances John Kerry had no business visiting Michigan, a democratic stronghold a fews days before the presidential election. John came to Michigan because he was afraid Bush will defeat him here.

John was supposed to be campaigning hard in the swing state of Ohio. He ended

up winning Michigan by a very small margin but lost Ohio by a little over 20k votes.

We concluded that we helped George Bush win reelection in a significant way.

We kept Michigan up for grabs until the election day.

John could have been campaigning in Ohio on the day he visited Michigan.

Unbeknownst to me then some of my friends do not know that their voice actually counts but is missing in the discourse. They want to appear cool and dignified in the face of stench and injustice.

I think they are crazy but I still love them.

Greatest mistakes They are making one of the greatest mistakes of their lives and if there is indeed a judgement day, God may use my services to cross examine them. I promise to be very brutal and uncompromising.

At least, you have the privilege of knowing in advance!

Can I count on your voice today? If you don't know what to say, I am here to help.

If your silence is a grand design to preserve yourself so that you will receive your long deserved share of the rotten national cake, you are so mistaken.

If you are afraid of being labelled a "Wailer" by Femi Adesina and his vuvuzelas, you are in good company.

Femi Adesina's principal, our current president, Buhari "wailed" for over 30 years.

-okoronkwoh@aol.com

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

Firms to close down on raw materials scarcity —MAN

By Naomi Uzor

M

ANUFACTURERS As sociation of Nigeria (MAN) has expressed fears that many of its member companies will close down production at the end of the first quarter of this year.

This is due to raw materials scarcity hitting them hard.

In an exclusive chat with Vanguard, the President of MAN, Dr. Frank Udemba Jacobs, said that since the introduction of foreign exchange restrictions policy by the apex bank almost eight months ago, their members find it difficult to import their raw materials.

“The recent policy statement of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has not really augured well for manufacturers. To an extent, we seem to agree with the reasons behind the decision of the CBN, mainly the dwindling crude oil price in the international market but sometimes, the policy seems to be like throwing the child out along with the bath water, in the sense that our members raw materials could not be purchased or sourced.

The policy denied them foreign exchange to import their raw materials and we are concerned that before the end of thisquarter,itispossiblethatmany of these companies will be out of business, because by then, they would have run out of their raw materials, most of themhavecome to make presentation to us that they aregoingtoclosedownunlessthere is a change in the policy from the CBN” he said.

Accordingtohim“the recent state-

From left: Managing Director, Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Mr. Adeola Adetunji, Mr. William Steuer, Acting US Consul General and Mr. Michael T. Harvey, USAID Nigeria Mission Director after the announcement of the US$2M new water partnership between The CocaCola Africa Foundation and USAID, in Lagos. mentbytheCBNthatmoneydeposit banks can now receive foreign exchange into domiciliary account of customers; it’s cheering news in the sense that some of the smaller industries might be able to transfer money in order to buy their raw materials.

“The decision also to stop the funding of the exchange is again a good decision, it’s a step in the right

last year, it takes a long time for new policythrustofthenewgovernmentto comeoutespeciallywiththelongdelayinthe appointmentofthecabinet, all those things throw the economy into a state of uncertainty for a very long time and it becomes difficult for my members to predict the economy to be able to plan their businesses.

UBA earns ISO/IEC 20000-1:2011 certification

P

AN African financial services group, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has earned the prestigious ISO/ IEC 20000-1: 2011certification from the British Standards Institution (BSI).

The certification which was awarded to UBA after a process and systems audit, recognizes businesses that are able to link and execute business and IT objectives effectively through the implementation and consistent maintenance of service management requirements.

“This certification validates our commitment to delivering quality services, using the best in class technology and processes,” said Phillips Oduoza GMD/CEO UBA Plc. An ISO 20000 certification involves integrating all IT component services, processes and peopleintoasingleinter-operableand interdependent system via best practicestandards,toensuremaximum realization of business objectives,resourceoptimizationand continual improvement.

Also speaking on the certification, Lanre Bamisebi, Chief Information Officer, UBA said it shows that UBA’s IT Processes are mature and robust for speedy and effective service delivery.

“Withacustomerbaseinexcess of eight million, we are consistently investing in technology as a strategy to improve efficiency in service delivery and enhanced customer experience across all channels” he stated.

NIBSS, banks spend N400m on epayment incentives

By Babajide Komolafe

T

HE Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) and banks in the country $119.05 3.30 have spent over N400 million to pro$2,846.00 10.00 vide incentives to promote adoption of $12.60 0.08 electronic payment in the country.

Managing Director/Chief Executive $34.70 1.69 Officer, NIBSS, Mr. $31.75 2.11 Ade Shonubi disclosed this yesterday CURRENCY BUYING SELLING while addressing a press conference on US DOLLAR 196 196.5 197 the forthcoming Ef276. 4776 277.1829 277. 8882 POUNDS ficiency Award or216. 4428 216.995 217. 5471 EURO 197.5209 198. 0248 198.5287 FRANC ganised by the com1.7041 1.7084 1.7127 YEN pany to reward and 0.3124 0.3224 0. 3324 CFA recognize outstand272.818 273.5139 274. 2099 WAUA ing stakeholders in 29.8008 29.8773 29.9538 RENMINBI 52.2458 52.379 52. 5123 RIYAL the promotion of 28. 9971 29.0711 29.145 KRONA electronic payment.

272. 4792 273. 1743 273. 8694 SDR He said, “The banks have spent CBN Exchange rate as at 22/02/2016 over N400 million as

C M Y K

direction,wearehopingthatthatsame fundsthataresavedshouldbechannelled into the productive sector by allowing the real sector to get their foreignexchangetoimporttheirraw materials, that is one of their major challenges.”

“We are also faced with the challengeof changeingovernment,becausenormallywhengovernmentis changedlikeithappenedinNigeria

— 21

incentives under electronic payment incentives scheme.

“The electronic payment incentives scheme (EPIS) is an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bankers Committee, and the banks in Nigeria to promote electronic payment in Nigeria.

In the month of December we had 18 million transactions on our platform. That is jus for one month.

On the average we do about 15 million transactions in a month

“There were series of activities around it that started over a year ago. One of the first thing is when we were refunding cash back to people, and at the end of the month, you receive some amount of money for using your PoS, and then we had adverts.

Recently, we have inaugurated a loyalty scheme where you can collect points, so that as you use your card you get points and also those in the shops that are manning the devices, at the end of the month they can get some points to encourage them to push people to use their cards and other means of payments. This week we go to the next level which is to recognise institutions, financial and public, those over the last 12 months, in 2015, have been active in the electronic payment space. There are quite a lot of categories and it would take place on Thursday.”

Commenting on the impact of the electronic payment incentives scheme on the level of epayment

transactions in the country, Shonubi said, “In the month of December we had 18 million transactions on our platform. That is jus for one month. On the average we do about 15 million transactions in a month. Before now it was much lower than that. So clearly the numbers are moving up.

Providing details of the transactions, he said, “In terms of volume in January 2015, our instant payment platform was doing 4.2 million transactions per month, by December it was 8.3 million, almost double. Point of Sale (PoS) transactions was about 2.5 million in January 2015; it ended the year at 3.9 million. For cheques, we were doing about 1.1 million in January 2015.

So when we talk about the adoption, when we look at the numbers, it has been going up in terms of transactions per month. So we feel part of what has helped is this incentives scheme and the awareness that goes with it.”

22 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

GTB remain the most efficient bank in the sector, with above peers return on equity, cost-toincome ratio and loan-to-deposit ratio

, INVESTOR'S

,

GTB 2015/16:

Sober reflections, moderate expectations

By Emeka Anaeto, Economy Editor

B

ANKS may be returning huge profits and seemingly good performance but 2015 and perhaps 2016 would not be for galloping growths.

Several things have happened so far since last year in the economy in general and the banking industry in particular to warrant some sober reflections and moderation in expectations.

As the banks prepare their financial reports for the full year 2015 Vanguard Investor’s Forum would continue to ex-ray some of the key operators in line with both expectations and facts on ground.

One of the top three in the industry by many parameters is Guaranty Trust Bank, GTB. So far the bank has enjoyed the best investor sentiments in the stock market just as its brand equity has been robust in the real market, all largely due to its good financial performance over the years.

GTB’s third quarter, Q3 2015, results showed a consistency in strong year-on-year net interest income quarterly growth at average 14 per cent. But on the contrary, non-interest income has been much more volatile despite a cumulative year-to-Q3 ‘15 rise of 9.0 per cent. Some financial analysts attribute this to the impact of the volatility seen in net gain/losses from financial instrument held-for-trading.

The spike seen in the bank’s loan loss provision have weighed on the bank’s cost-to-income ratio, with year-to-Q3 ‘15 increase of 130 bases points to 46.1 per cent. Nevertheless, this deterioration was contained by the cumulative pre-tax profit which rose 14 per cent against the corresponding period in 2014. The impact of the distressing economy last year could be seen in the bank’s credit size and deposit base. The bank’s loan book and deposits base have seen contraction in both 2015 Q3 and Q2, a reversal of the growth delivered in Q1 and all other previous periods.

2015 and 2016 forecast performance Some of the analysts have forecast a 2015 year end close of 1.0 per cent and -2.5 per cent for loan book size and deposit size respectively. However, one of the analysts, Investment One Financial Services, forecast a

growth in profit before tax reflective of expectation of gains from financial instrument heldfor-trading given the contraction seen in yields.

The bank’s management had revealed in its Q2 2015 investors’ conference call that the bank will be building positions in money market and financial institutions instruments over the remaining period of the year.

Forecast PBT for Q4 2015 is put at N28 billion adding up with nine month figure of N92 billion to produce N120 billion, a marginal rise of about 4.5 per cent over 2014 figure.

Analysts’ also forecast profitability growth rate to be subdued in 2016 reflective of moderate loan book growth with expectation of a contraction in net interest margins given the current liquidity easing. This would be accentuated by increased provision following CBN directive and expectation of weakening asset quality in the face of fragile macroeconomic headwinds. GTB remain the most efficient bank in the sector, with above peers return on equity, cost-to-income ratio and loan-to-deposit ratio.

GTB’s business plans However in its 2015 plan GTB hopes to have a sustainable profitability and returns with return on equity expectations at 25 per cent. The bank also hoped to have quality credit records amidst worrisome bad businesses in the economy. However in its plan for the half year 2015 it hoped for Non-performing Loan, NPL, of “less than 5.0 per cent” indicating a challenging situation.

The 2015 plan also hopes to have operating cost efficiency to lead to cost-to-income ratio below

In its 2015 plan GTB hopes to have a sustainable profitability and returns with return on equity expectations at 25 per cent

45 per cent.

In general the bank plans to leverage technological advancement to keep cost low while committing to growing its retail business as a way of lowering cost of funds and improving margins.

Beyond its core businesses GTB also planned to increase subsidiaries’ contribution to group’s PBT during to period while focusing on optimizing revenue and minimizing cost of all subsidiaries.

Corporate development and size: GTB has subsidiaries in Ghana, Gambia, Cote d’Ivoire, Liberia, Sierra Leone, United Kingdom, Kenya with subsidiaries in Rwanda and Uganda; and GTB Finance B.V. Netherlands, the special purpose entity used to raise funds from the international financial market.

As part of its expansion strategy, the bank has identified some leading African countries it intends to operate in, and in the medium term achieve top three operating status.

To this end, the bank intends to adopt a focused sub-Saharan expansion plan by growing its footprint across the African continent. The growth will take place through a combination of organic and acquisition strategies.

The corporate banking segment covers corporations with turnover in excess of ¦ 5 billion. The products offered include current accounts, deposits, overdrafts, loans and other credit facilities, foreign currency and derivative products offered to large corporate customers.

The bank’s portfolio in this segment is dominated by the following sectors: manufacturing, telecommunications, construction and energy (upstream, downstream and midstream). The customers in this segment are companies with a strong corporate governance structure and well structured

•Segun Agbaje

operating processes.

In the commercial banking segment the bank’s business covers companies with a turnover between ¦ 250 million to ¦ 5 billion. The products offered to this segment include current accounts, deposits, overdraft, loans and other credit facilities and foreign currency services.

After the Corporate Banking segment, commercial banking represents the second largest segment in terms of loans &

advances, and deposits.

The retail banking segment covers private banking services with the following products: individual customer current accounts, savings deposits, credit and debit cards, consumer loans and mortgages. The bank focuses on ensuring that all the required resources to facilitate customer acquisition, management and retention are deployed. GTB also play strongly in the small and medium enterprises, SME, segment.

The services here also includes current accounts, deposits, overdrafts, loans and other credit facilities, and foreign currency services for small and medium size enterprises and ventures.

GTB’s executive pulse: Managing Director/CEO of the bank, Mr. Segun Agbaje, attributed the performance to the continued support of its customers, the commitment and hard work of its staff, management and board, and the prioritization of strong corporate governance standards in the bank’s systems and procedures.

Agbaje explained that the aggressive pursuit of key objectives for the year 2015, which are focused mainly on adding value to all stakeholders and improving customer experience were yielding positive dividends and reflecting heavily on the bank’s performance.

KEY FINANCIALS (N’ billion) Net Interest Income Non Interest Income Operating Income Operating expense Profit before tax Profit after tax Total Assets Loans and Advances (Net) Total Deposits

Sep-15 120.1 56.4 165.9 73.8 92.1 75.2 2,458.45 1,281.66 1,634.18

Sep-14 105.3 51.1 148.8 68.1 80.7 66.7 2,235.23 1,161.52 1,578.15

”% 14% 10% 11% 8% 14% 13% 10% 10% 4%

KEY RATIOS Sep-15 ROE (Post tax) 25.86% ROA (Post tax) 4.16% Net interest margin 8.22% Cost-to-income ratio 44.51% Loans to deposits 80.07% Liquidity ratio 43.95% Capital adequacy ratio 20.76% NPL/Total Loans 3.16% Cost of risk 0.65% Coverage (with Reg. Risk Reserves) 141.19%

Sep-14 26.37% 4.10% 8.21% 45.78% 73.60% 42.96% 18.36% 3.25% 0.77% 120.84%

AGENDA CULT KILLINGS: Residents flee, social life grounded in Rivers community

People can brand Tompolo criminal but Ijaws honour him —Chief PAGE 24

Godspower Gbenekama PAGE 26

VOL. 1: No. 82

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

“As a matter of fact, I can categorically tell you that there is no water in this hospital. All the water facilities are dilapidated, which you can see for yourself. I had to go out of the hospital’s premises in the night to the riverside to fetch water for my wife.”

Leader of Bomadi Legislative Assembly, Hon Bekes Tonprebofa, who was a patient in the hospital, last year, complained bitterly about the state of the facilities, appealed to the state government to do the needful in the hospital.

Contacted on phone, Commissioner for Health, Delta State, Dr. Nicholas Azinge, said he was not aware of the development and promised to investigate the matter.

Why they keep corpses outside—Karetimi

•Patients in the hospital

•Corpses stacked outside the morgue

By CHANCEL BOMADI SUNDAY

B

OMADI— MORTUARY attendants at the 44-yearold Bomadi General Hospital, Bomadi in Bomadi Local Government Area, Delta State, stack corpses on improvised wooden platforms after embalmment and bizarrely abandon them to the vagaries of the weather, day and night.

The eyesore, according to our investigations, is due to lack of space to preserve the dead bodies in the hospital’s overflowing mortuary.

Meanwhile, patients have expressed disgust at the dilapidated condition of the health-care facility plagued by rats and mosquitoes, which has heightened the fear of Lassa fever and Zika virus in the riverside community.

When Niger Delta Voice visited the morgue, our reporters saw embalmed corpses covered with blankets deserted.

Efforts to speak with some of the doctors were futile, as none of them agreed to comment on the situation.

Workers, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said they were under pressure on daily basis because of the challenges faced by patients.

They called on government to resuscitate the hospital, which is the only government healthcare facility in the area.

Rats struggle for bread with me—Lawyer

A lawyer and human rights activist, E.U Opukiri, whose C M Y K

•Barrister E.U Opukiri

•Front view of Bomadi General Hospital

U-N-B-E-L-I-E-V-A-B-L-E:

Delta hospital stockpiles corpses in the open *Morgue overflows with dead bodies *Patients sleep with rats in the sickbay – Chief Karetimi, Chair, Bomadi LG *We’ll investigate—Dr. Nicholas Azinge, Commissioner for Health wife was on admission, narrated his experience: “I am a barrister of nine years in the bar, I came to this hospital because of the health of my wife and my experiences here in these two days are pathetic.

There was no electricity and water in the hospital premises, a state government hospital for that matter.

“In the night when the rechargeable lamp we were using went off, rats came out in large numbers and spread

everywhere. Some of them came specifically for the bread I bought for my wife, dragging it with me.

“Out of fear, I took the bread and made it a pillow at the head-side of the bed. I was, however, uncomfortable with it because of its shape and so I decided to put it in a cupboard-like shelf there.

When I opened the shelf, I saw that it was a haven for rats.

There were so many rats that I became afraid being aware

of the prevalent Lassa fever caused by rats. We could not sleep at night these two days we were there,” he said.

Opukiri said: “Again, the hospital morgue too is an eye sore; our revered and deceased parents are dried right outside in the sun like Bonga fish, which is right there (pointing to the morgue). Therefore, I want government to intervene in this health facility immediately.

Chair, Bomadi Local Government Area, Chief Oluwole Karetimi, who spoke to NDV, said the health facility required complete renovation/ rehabilitation, adding that government has not upgraded it since its commissioning in the early 1970s.

Karetimi asserted: “I appeal to the state government to undertake complete renovation and upgrading of the hospital. We are aware that patients sleep with rats and mosquitoes during the night because of its state.

“The Lassa fever that we are talking about is a disease carried by rats. Now that we cannot assist the state government because of financial incapability, we appeal to the Hospital Management Board, HMB, Asaba and our amiable governor to quickly come to our aid.”

On the dead bodies kept outside the morgue, he said: “Corpses are now placed outside the mortuary because of space, which also needs upgrading. The primary health-care centre too needs attention.

Again, if people keep their dead in the mortuary for more than one, two years as reported, then, the management of the hospital should formally write to the families concerned and give mass burial to such corpses if they refuse to take them.”

Not a good omen —Royal father

Traditional ruler of Kpakiama urban community, Chief Ambakederemo Bunu, who expressed dismay that corpses litter the outside of

Continues on page 25

24 — Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

RIVER… TREASURE BASE OF THE NATION

CULT KILLINGS: Residents flee,

social life grounded in Rivers community

•One of the persons killed by the cult group

*Police deploy troops

By DAVIES IHEAMNACHOR

O

MOKU — ELEVEN days after the violent clash between two rival cult groups, which allegedly claimed 23 lives at Omoku in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, ONELGA, Rivers State, the oncebubbling community is now a ghost town.

Niger Delta Voice investigation revealed that most of the residents and business owners had fled their homes to neighbouring communities for fear of being caught in a crossfire.

The quiet settlement known for its reveling nightlife was, penultimate Friday, turned into a killing field by members of Icelanders and Sailors, two rival cult groups supposedly locked in a supremacy battle.

According to a community source, who lost four cousins in the latest skirmish, the crisis that had been raging for about two years assumed a dangerous dimension during and after the last governorship election.

Killed in the orgy of violence were 19 -year-old Felix Philip, a second-year student of Federal Government College, Omoku, 15-year-old Christian Chisom, Mr. Oneil Ordu, Emeka Ahiakwo, Mr. Ekwala Ugoji and his wife. Mr Tony Okara, Nwaudo Ajie and Ahiakwo Ajie.

A resident of the area, Mr. Rafters Osere, said, “after the

THE TEAM Emma Amaize, Editor Jimitota Onoyume Samuel Oyadongha Simon Ebegbulem Gabriel Enogholase Festus Ahon Egufe Yafugborhi Emmanuel Una Akpokona Omafuaire Godwin Oghre Tom Moses Chioma Onuegbu Ike Uche Davies Iheamnachor Emem Idio Brisibe Perez Theresa Ugbobu Ochuko Akuopha Barnabas Uzosike Nath Onajoke Chijioke Nwankpa C M Y K

killings, business owners are relocating out of Omoku. You can hardly get where to buy something, it is really biting hard on us. The usual nightlife in the area has disappeared. In addition, commerce has ebbed to an all time low. People are living in great fear and we do not sleep again.”

•One of the deserted areas in Omoku

•Ladi, a fashion designer, one of the victims

Fear pervade community

Osere disclosed that the people of the area were living in fear following the threats of more attacks by the warring cultists, with some of the chiefs already on forced exile.

“Life is now nasty in Omoku, life is no more valued in Omoku, the ancestral home is now deserted and looks like a grave yard because of threats from the boys that they will visit the community again to

BAYELSA… GLORY OF ALL LANDS

By SAMUEL OYADONGHA

Y

ENAGOA—ARMED men suspected to be sea robbers now take advantage of the unusual thick blanket of fog on the waterways to lie in wait and kidnap VIP passengers, rob river travellers and cargo boats at riverside communities of Bayelsa State.

However, the Federal Government recently handed over gunboats to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, to tackle cases of pipeline vandalism and other criminal activities on the waterways.

The governor, Hon Seriake Dickson, has also warned criminal elements to stay away from the waterways of the state, saying that government and security agencies in the state were collaborating to protect the lives and property of Bayelsans, as well as safeguard national assets.

Investigations by Niger Delta Voice showed that the activities of the sea pirates were causing fear among travellers to the hinterlands of the state.

A source said that visibility on the waterways is less than 50 yards lately, making traveling a risky venture.

Worse hit are passenger-

•17-year-old Master Chisom, an SS3 student cause more havoc “We need a stakeholders’ meeting so that we can

•Felix Philip, student of Federal Government College, Omoku dialogue on the way forward for Omoku community and

the entire ONELGA. I urge everyone to ventilate their grievances; we do not want more killings in ONELGA. We know that politicians worsened the situation.

“If the political class were proactive, the problem would have been resolved.

Therefore, we need a round table meeting where the differences would be resolved.

The politicians are the architect of what is happening here today,” he said.

RED ALERT: Sea bandits hide under fog to ambush Bayelsa travellers *FG deploys gunboats; Dickson assures Bayelsans of safety boats scheduled to leave the jetties at about 6.30 am -7.00 am when the entire river and mangrove forest are enveloped by mist, which makes visibility near impossible.

According to a boat passenger, Tonye, “This is no doubt a trying period for passengers and boat drivers given the windy and tricky

nature of our creek.

“The hazards on the waterways are much, especially during the early morning trips. You see drivers not using compass, but relying on their instinct and knowledge of the route to get to their destination without a hitch.”

How they strike

He added: “Most of the criminal elements operating in the creeks hide under hazy atmosphere to carry out their nefarious trade. Once these hoodlums lurking in the mangrove hear the sound of boats approaching, they come out in pursuit firing gunshots to force the boat

AKWA IBOM… LAND OF PROMISE

Leave our land alone, community tells A’Ibom govt

By TOM MOSES

U

YO — INDIGENES of Eniong Offot in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State have vowed to resist alleged plan by the state government to demolish their homes and take over their ancestral land.

Secretary of Eniong Offot Village Council, Elder Patrick Archibong, who spoke with NDV during the community protest in Uyo, the state capital, said it would amount to “dictatorship” if the government forcibly acquired their land without reaching agreements with them.

Describing the government plan as “evil and anti- people,” he wondered what would become the fate of his people and generation yet unborn given the fact that the previous

administration of Obong Victor Attah had between 1999 and 2000 acquired massive portion of their land for road construction and other developmental concerns.

“If government takes over this remaining part of Eniong Offot called Urua Ntiat again, it means our village identity would vanish automatically and we will no longer have land to plant. Also, our children will not have a place to call their own and will have no place to build their homes like their counterparts in other communities,” he asserted.

A villager said the current administration did not consult the people before contemplating to take over their land, but the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Chief Uwem Ita Etuk, could not be reached for comment at press time.

Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 25

CROSS-RIVER… THE PEOPLE’S PARADISE

•One of the residential buildings gutted by fire at iwuokpom Ibeno

•Some of the fire victims taking refuge in an uncompleted building

By CHIOMA ONUEGBU

O

TON IWUOCHANG— VICTIMS of the recent separate fire inferno at Otong Iwuochang, a shanty- fishing settlement and Iwuokpom, both in Ibeno Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State have cried out to the relevant government agencies to come to their rescue.

Some of the over 1000 victims rendered homeless in the Otong Iwuochang incident are taking refuge in uncompleted buildings and others sheltered

by Good Samaritans within and outside the community.

A victim and boat operator, Mr. Bassey, told NDV that he had already gone to bed when the shout of fire by neighbors woke him up and he rushed out of his house only to find out that fire had engulfed almost all the houses.

Another victim, Anwing, a father of nine children while recounting his loss, said: “I lost many properties to the fire, my houses, sewing machines and fishing materials were burnt in the fire. The fire burnt my money too.”

Damage incalculable — Community leader

Chair of the community, Mr. John Eshiet, said: “The level of damage and what the victims are facing is immeasurable. The impact is very high, we are predominantly anglers here and the fishing equipment like fishing gears, outboard engines, paddles that we use to fish and earn a livelihood were lost in the inferno. Right now, they are relying on help from people that come to visit and sympathize with them.

“We, the community leaders have donated food items such as bags of rice, garri, and other items like clothing to them, but that cannot cushion the effect because of the number of persons, affected, an estimate of one thousand people, including children.”

NDV learned that the chair, Ibeno local government area, Hon Henry Ekpeukoh, visited the camp, last Friday, and later sent food items through an emissary to the victims, while the deputy governor sent representatives.

At Iwuokpom community, property owner and spare parts dealer affected by the fire, Elder Bassey Udua, lamented: “We did not know how the fire started. Nobody could explain or understand it. Apart from C M Y K

AKWA IBOM… LAND OF PROMISE

A’Ibom communities’ fire victims grumble *Oton Iwuochang, Iwuokpom leaders solicit govt assistance my spare parts shop, the fire razed belongings of my tenants in other shops, as well as the building inside where some tenants live. The fire was so serious that we could not remove anything. But I thank God that no life was lost.”

Continuing, he said: “Unfortunately there has been no government help and no fire service came when this happened. We only tried on our own to quench the fire with water and sand, but it did not help. Therefore, we lost everything. More than N15 million worth of goods was destroyed in my shop alone and to rebuild this entire place will cost not less than N20 million.”

We‘ve not seen any govt official since the incidentIwuokpom Village head of Iwuokpom, Obong Okon Sunday Akpanowong, who sympathized with the victims at both villages, however, blamed government and oil multinational, Exxon Mobil for alleged insensitivity to the plight of the people.

Unfortunately there has been no government help and no fire service came when this happened. We only tried on our own to quench the fire with water and sand, but it did not help.

His words: “Mobil does not take good care of the environment of Ibeno. In their own facility, immediately they see any sign of fire, they will rush with their fire equipment to quench the fire but if it happens outside their jurisdiction, they do not do anything to help the people.

Government too knows very well that Ibeno is a fishing community right from time immemorial, so their focus should have been to establish a well equipped fire service station here.

“We are not lazy people, we are great fishermen; we don’t depend on government job alone because it is not enough for everybody, so we should be encouraged. Since this fire incident, here in Iwuokpom, government has not come to sympathize with the victims. As the village head of Iwuokpom, I am still waiting for government to come and commiserate with them.”

Meanwhile, the lawmaker representing Ibeno/Esit Eket in the state House of Assembly, Hon Usoro Akpanusoh, last Tuesday, raised the matter on the floor of the House under matters of urgent public importance, expressing fear that the fire outbreaks were becoming a yearly occurrence in the area.

Reacting, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, who sympathized with the victims on behalf of the House, called on the fire service to always live up to expectation by registering their presence in remote communities in the state, especially fishing settlements in order to avert such disasters in future.

8 C-River communities groan under water scarcity

By IKE UCHECHUKWU

I

N Y I M A — WAT E R shortage has hit eight communities in Yakkur Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Investigation by Niger Delta Voice revealed that most of the boreholes and overhead tanks supplying water to Mkpani, Ekori, Nko, Inyima, Asigga, Ugep and others have become moribund.

It was learned that water supply to the communities come from the Cross River State Water Board substation at Itigidi in Abi local government area, which is under the Cross River State Water Board Limited, CRSWBL. Clan head of Inyima , Eval Ferdinand Eyo, who lamented the suffering of his people, blamed the situation in his community on vandals that destroyed its overhead tank in a communal clash sometime ago.

“No effort has been made by government to resuscitate the facility to restore normal water supply since then. The few existing boreholes have gone moribund except one which is functional at the moment and cannot serve the entire community,” he said.

He, therefore, appealed to government and agencies responsible for maintenance and repairs of the boreholes to come to their aid to avert possible outbreak of water borne diseases in the area.

Also speaking with Niger Delta Voice, a resident of one of the affected communities, Mrs. Evelyn Sampson, said, “The situation has compelled

both mothers and children to travel long distances in search of water daily.”

She told NDV that the brooks in the area, overstretched on many occasions, went dry and urged government to rise up to the challenge.

Concerned residents have appealed to the Cross River Water Board Limited and Yakuur local government council to intervene before it assumes crisis-proportions.

Okada riders make brisk business The development it was gathered has opened a window of opportunity for commercial motorcyclists, otherwise known as Okada riders, many of whom have since become to water vendors because of the high demand for the commodity.

Currently, a 25- litre jerry can sells between N40 to N60 and eight jerry cans attract between N250 to N600 naira depending on the distance.

A commercial cyclist turned water vendor, Raphael Out, said the cost per jerry can is determined by the distance covered.

“I cherish this business because it is a high revenue earner for me unlike when I was conveying passengers,” he stated.

A source at the Cross River Water Board Limited, who preferred anonymity, disclosed that the outfit would fix the boreholes in due course.

He, however, explained that the board would not take responsibility for those willfully damaged by vandals.

U-N-B-E-L-I-E-V-A-B-L-E:

Delta hospital stockpile corpses in the open Continues from page 23 the mortuary, said it could lead to outbreak of both air and water-borne diseases and called on government to quickly intervene and save lives of the rural dwellers.

He also noted that the presence of rats in a government health-care facility at this time of Lassa fever disease was not a good omen for the people.

Relocate mortuar y – Community chair On his part, chair, Bomadi community, Hon. Stephen Muturu, said, “A situation whereby those on sick bed

always see corpses that are carried through the wards to the mortuary is not palatable.

Government should shift and fence the mortuary and construct a road from the fence at the backside to carry dead bodies.”

State intervention urgently needed- Councilor Supervisory Councilor for Health, Hon. Lawrence T. Timbor, in his reaction, observed that the general hospital’s mortuary needed expansion because it was too small for an area that is fast growing, as compared to the time government built it.

26 — Niger Delta Voice, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

AGENDA

NIGER DELTA VOICE PHOTO PANORAMA

People can brand Tompolo criminal but Ijaws honour him —Chief Godspower Gbenekama

By EGUFE YAFUGBORHI

W

ARRI — IJAW leader and Ibibenimowe (Chief Mobilizer) of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri SouthWest Local Government Area, Delta State, Chief Godspower Gbenekama, says people could call the former Niger Delta militant leader, G o v e r n m e n t Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, a criminal, but to the Gbaramatu-Ijaw man, he is more than a leader.

“People can call Tompolo, the Ibeebidouwei of Ijaw nation (Someone who wants the good of Ijaw nation) criminal or somebody, who has eaten all the federal government’s money, but at home in Gbaramatu, he is still revered. They (Tompolo and Federal Government) were business partners; they should settle the issue amicably instead of dragging everybody into it,” Gbenekama stated in the concluding part of his interview, last week, with Niger Delta Voice in Warri.

Emblem of Ijaw struggle

His words: “For me Tompolo is more than a Gbaramatu leader. He is a symbol of Ijaw struggle.

He has tried his level best to attract development to our area. He is also standing in for federal government as far as vandalisation and crimes in the waterways are concerned. I stand in solidarity with him.

“That is not to say I condone illegality. He has made enemies in the course of fighting for federal government. If you have issues with him, sort them out amicably so that the people in Gbaramatu do not have to suffer. They can look for soft landing for him. That is what we are saying.

Gbenekama noted, “When these business transactions were on, I was no party to it, but I know that this young man made a lot of enemies so that what is happening could as well be the handiwork of those bent on getting their pound of flesh.”

C M Y K

Chief Godspower Gbenekama According to him, “He (Tompolo) actually frustrated the economic lives of some people who were criminals; I stand in solidarity with him. He has also said he would respect the law under a due process. It is for the federal government to keep faith and make him believe there is no hidden agenda in this whole saga.

Because what we find these days is somebody arrested for one thing, tomorrow, 1001 extraneous things come up and you are not given the right freedom.”

Tompolo fought oil thieves

The Ijaw leader, who urged the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli I, in the first part of the interview to call the Ajuwaoyiboyami of Warri Kingdom, Chief Ayirimi Emami, aka Akulagba, to order, remarked: “The Tompolo that is now a bad boy in the eyes of the Federal Government helped the Delta Waterways Security Committee to succeed. “ “People that he could listen to and people that could listen to him were in that committee. Are we not aware of the fact that even when Ayiri was the committee chair, Tompolo was going about burning and destroying illegal refineries, boats, chasing illegal bunkering syndicates and all that?

“Besides, any perceived success recorded by his

(Ayiri’s) committee could not have been by his input alone. As far as am concerned, Tompolo has assisted every agency concerned with bringing sanity to the waterways and he is still assisting until tomorrow. It could not have been Ayiri alone.

“All of us worked to ensure peace and security reigns in that axis, I was born and have lived in that area; I have never seen any of these people claiming credit on security in the area come near our kingdom. I only see the aura and power of Tompolo ensuring that people were not stealing, kidnapping or cooking illegal oil arbitrarily,” he said.

On the current fate of the Nigerian Maritime University, NMU, Okerenkoko, does he entertain fears about the Federal Government’s Gas City project at Ogidgiben and Gbaramatu Sea Port, especially with the Ijaw/ Itsekiri rancon, he said, “The Gas City in Madangho (Itsekiri) and Deep Sea Port (Gbaramatu), two arms of the Export Processing Zone, EPZ projects are good to go.

“The Interface Committee for Ugborodo and that of Gbaramatu agree on how the stakes should be.

Those fomenting trouble should be prepared for a backlash on any disruptions they are bringing into the project.”

Conspiratorial alliance’ll fail

According to him: “The purported inflammatory news on the Marine University in Gbaramatu, if it is being dreamt in the coven must not be allowed to happen in the real world. Niger Deltans, Ijaw, nay Gbaramatu people say that this government does not have Niger Delta at heart.

How do you explain that a school approved to have commenced September, last year, with a temporary site in place, whose permanent site is already under construction, is now removed or relocated to where we do not know?"

SPORTS COMPETITION: From Right, Mr. Philip Nwankwo (Principal), Mrs. Betty Efekodah, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan (Proprietress/Founder), wife of former Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and Hon. Fred Oho, chairman of occasion, at the 2nd Annual Inter-House Sports competition of Master Care International School, Asaba, Delta State.

Pupils of Master Care School at the event. Photos: Nath Onojake.

VANDALISM: Thugs vandalize campaign bill boards in Rivers State.

PRESENTATION: Hon. Festus Okoh, Minority Leader, Delta State House of Assembly, presenting N300,000 to Prophet Joseph Igbodo, Founder, Job’s Orphanage Home, Agbor. With them is one of the orphans.

FREE MIDICARE: International Conference of Admin Workers, ICAW, offers free medical care to villagers at Adim, Biase Local Government Area, Cross Rivers State.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 27

,

Although we are cautious on Nigeria – the consumer environment remains challenging as disposable income dwindles and operating costs escalate

FORUM

,

Guinness' N10bn CP to boost shareholders' value — Standard Chartered Stories by Peter Egwuatu Y cutting cost of short-term funding, the N10 billion commercial paper, CP, floated by Guinness Nigeria Plc is expected to drastically cut the companies cost-to-income ratio and resonate in profitability.

Mr. Seni Adetu, former MD/ CEO of the brewing giant, had stated last year after the release of the first quarter result that the company was affected by the impact of exchange rate devaluation, inflation, an increased share of value brands, together with the phasing of costs.

Also the quotation of the CP on the FMDQ would give investors’ more options in the face of instability in the equities market.

Standard Chartered Capital & Advisory Nigeria Limited , which sponsored the listing of the N10billion Series 2 and 3 Commercial Paper Issuance for Guinness Nigeria stated that the listing will further boost liquidity.

The listing follows the establishment of a N10 billion CP programme in April 2015 and the successful issuance of the combinedN10billlion 182 day Series 2 and 268 day Series 3

B

issues in November 2015.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Peter Ndegwa, the Managing Director/CEO of Guinness Nigeria, said “ We are very pleased with the successful quoting of this Commercial Paper issuance for Guinness Nigeria Plc and the support received from FMDQ OTC and our advisors to enable this. The quoting of this CP has allowed us successfully diversify our short

term funding sources at a reduced cost whilst delivering value to our shareholders. We will continue to access the CP markets for optimal funding as ideal windows open for Guinness Nigeria to access funds from a varied pool of investors.” Leke Ogunlewe, CEO of Standard Chartered Capital & Advisory Nigeria Limited added: “Standard Chartered is proud to have sponsored this Commercial Paper

listing on FMDQ OTC for Guinness Nigeria Plc. The listing follows the successful issuance of the Series 2 and 3 transactions in November and should herald improved liquidity for both instruments. We believe this is the beginning of many more opportunities to support institutional growth for our clients and the continuous development of the economy at large.

However, Guinness also said that its decision to list on the FMDQ is to increase its visibility which will in turn lead to increased demand of future issues. Guinness Nigeria had earlier this month released its financial results for second quarter ended December 31, 2015 with profits nosediving by 66% from N3.3 billion in Q2’14 to N1.1 billion in Q2’15.

ACQUISITION: We recommend a ‘BUY’ for GSK Nigeria — Rencap

T

HE move by Suntory Beverages & Foods Limited to acquire GSK Nigeria’s drinks business could benefit shareholders in the long run.

It will be recalled that on 25 January 2016, GSK Nigeria announced that it had received a non-binding offer from Suntory to acquire GSK Nigeria’s drinks business, which bottles and distributes the Ribena and Lucozade brands.

The financial terms of this

transaction remain confidential; however, GSK Nigeria disclosed that Suntory has commenced its due diligence review.

According to Renaissance Capital, Rencap “Although we are cautious on Nigeria – the consumer environment remains challenging as disposable income dwindles and operating costs escalate – we believe the deal could benefit shareholders directly with a potential 40 per cent extra normal 2016

FLOURMILLS OF NIGERIA PLC Q3 2016 RESULT - FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (NGN BILLIONS)

dividend yield, on our estimates.

As a result, and given the difficulty of accessing FX for portfolio flows, we believe GSK Nigeria is the best way to play the current situation. We upgrade our rating to BUY (from Hold) and maintain our N40 TP.” Continuing it stated “Nigeria is still tough. We recently met with various management teams of consumer companies in Nigeria. Our key takeaway is that nothing has improved. The hope that better security in the North would lead to the region being tapped into has not played out.

Consumers remain extremely price sensitive and access to FX remains an issue. One operator told us it applied for FX in October 2015, but was allocated less than 5 per cent of its requested amount in January 2016. Cost inflation for the operators continues to escalate and pricing power has become limited. GSK Nigeria noted that it attempted to raise the price of a Ribena SKU from NGN50 to NGN55 in November 2015, but had to reverse the price rise when

volumes dropped dramatically.” “ But if you are stuck in Nigeria, play GSK Nigeria. Although we remain cautious on the Nigerian consumer sector, we are cognisant that it has become increasingly difficult to get money out of the country” it noted.

Commenting on the possible 40 per cent extra normal dividend yield, Rencap said “Currently Ribena and Lucozade contribute 55 per cent to GSK Nigeria’s revenue. The remaining 45 per cent is split between the pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare portfolio.

This transaction will be carried out at the subsidiary company level, thus GSK Nigeria and shareholders will benefit directly.

We believe it is likely that a good portion of the proceeds from the sale of the drinks business will be distributed as an extraordinary dividend. On our estimates, this implies a spike in the 2016E dividend yield to 40 per cent . As a result, and given the recent pullback in share price, we upgrade GSK Nigeria to BUY from Hold.

Stock Market Outlook (Feb. 23 – Feb. 29)

A

GAINST the backdrop of the weaker market breadth and activity observed last week, the Afrinvest Weekly Sentiment indicator declined to 2.4 from 2.5 the previous week. Full Year earnings and dividend expectations remain the only short to mid-term drivers of the equities market and analysts at Afrinvest generally expect earnings performance of quoted companies to sway market momentum as they trickle in.

Other macro sentiment drivers, particularly related to exchange rate adjustments and impulse from budget 2016 implementation, appear farfetched in the interim. Thus Afrinvest analysts expect the market to continue to trade sideways; driven by dividend-positioning and short term active trading. The analysts reiterated medium term investment case for equities while still considering prices attractive.

COMPLAINTS & INVESTIGATIONS

Send complaints or enquiries about any quoted company, issues, products and services of any capital market operator or agency to vanguardinvestorsforum@gmail.com. We investigate and publish with feedback

28 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

Nigeria earns N3.6trn from oil in 11 months

By Michael Eboh

N

IGERIA earned about N3.549 trillion from the oil and gas sector in eleven months, between January and November 2015, according to data obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. In an analysis of receipts in the Federation Account, the CBN, in its Monthly Economic for November 2015, said oil revenue accounted for 54.73 per cent of total federallycollected revenue of N6.484 trillion during the period, while non-oil revenue of N2.935 trillion made up 45.3 per cent.

On a month-by-month basis, the CBN report revealed that from January to June, the country earned N486.4 billion, N359.7 billion, N364.6 billion, N286.2 billion, N267.2 and N285.6 billion respectively, while N369.4 billion, N314.9 billion, N265.2 billion, N271.1 and N278.3 billion were earned in July, August, September, October and November 2015 respectively.

Gross federally-collected revenue for January 2015 stood at N692.1 billion; February, March, April, May and June recorded N554.8 billion, N808.7 billion, N472.2 billion, N462.5 and N462.6 billion respectively. For the months of July, August, September, October and November, gross federally-collected revenue stood at N679.3 billion, N682.6, N543.9, N478.2 billion and N646.6 billion respectively.

Further breakdown of components of gross oil revenue, the CBN disclosed that Nigeria earned N822.2 billion from crude oil and gas sales; Petroleum Profit tax and Royalties fetched N1.39 trillion; while N1.241 trillion and N91.7 billion came from domestic crude oil/gas sales and other unlisted items respectively.

Specifically, in November, the CBN said from the gross federally-collected revenue, a net distributable balance of N388.59 billion, excluding Value Added Tax and other transfers, was retained in the Federation Account.

It added that the retained amount was distributed as follows: the Federal Government N191.99 billion; states N97.38 billion; and local governments N75.08 billion, while the balance of N24.14 billion, was shared among the oil producing states as 13% Derivation Fund.

It also explained that from the VAT Pool Account, the Federal Government received N8.67 billion; while state and local governments received C M Y K

N28.89 billion and N20.23 billion, respectively.

It said: “In addition, the sum of N7.00 billion was distributed as Exchange Gain as follows: the Federal Government N3.46 billion; state and local governments N1.75 billion and N1.35 billion, respectively.

“The balance of N0.43 billion was distributed to the oilproducing states as 13.0 per cent Derivation Fund.

Furthermore, the sum of N6.33 billion was received by the Federal Government in respect of the 15th equal installment refund by the NNPC. “Overall, total allocation to the

three tiers of government, from the Federation and VAT Pool

From the VAT Pool Account, the Federal Government received N8.67 billion; while state and local governments received N28.89 billion and N20.23 billion, respectively

Accounts, in November 2015, amounted to N459.71 billion, compared with N380.48 billion, in the preceding month.”

Continuing, the CBN said the N646.56 billion gross federallycollected revenue in November, was lower than the monthly budget estimate by 20.7 per cent, but exceeded the receipt in the preceding month by 35.2 per cent.

The CBN attributed the shortfall in gross federallycollected revenue relative to the monthly budget estimate to the decline in receipts from oil revenue during the review month.

•Refinery

Freezing output won’t help prices — Goldman Sachs

By Sebastine Obasi

T

HE agreement between Saudi Arabia and Russia as well as other countries to freeze production will have “little impact on the oil market as proposed, while there remains high uncertainty that it even materialises,” Goldman Sachs Group Incorporated has said.

This is coming a week after Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, embarked on a diplomatic shuttle to get Saudi Arabia and Russia to agree to production cuts in order to shore up oil prices.

Kachikwu has been trying to convince the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, to convene an emergency meeting before the cartel’s scheduled meeting on June 2, 2016.

However, Goldman Sachs reiterated its stand that oil prices will remain volatile while

being bound to a range in the coming months until inventories stopped rising.

Oil is trading near a 12-year low as record stockpiles continue to swell more than a year after the OPEC decided to keep pumping to defend market share amid a global glut.

Coupled with record Russian output and U.S. shale fields producing more oil and gas than previously estimated, prices could slide below $20 a barrel before the rout is over, Goldman insisted.

“While an agreement could create the perception that more could be achieved, such as production cuts, we believe this would not be sufficient to set a floor on prices as they will only stabilise once inventories stop building,” it said.

The bank predicts that stockpiles may stop increasing in the second half of this year.

A broader reduction in output would be self-defeating as

shale producers could boost output in 80 days when prices start to recover, it further added.

Brent for April settlement was little changed at $32.19 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange at 2:34 p.m. Singapore time, while West Texas Intermediate for March delivery traded at $28.95 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation thinks a production cut will occur “sooner or later,” economist Barnabas Gan, said in a report last weekend. OPEC may call for an emergency meeting as early as March, as the slump in oil prices squeezes profit margins, he said.

“We think that a production cut in the major oil producers will happen in 2016,” said Gan. “This event, coupled with demand growth to stay positive, would rally both WTI and Brent to our year-end forecast of $50 a barrel.”

NCDMB seeks extension of local content to other sectors …As Galadima becomes PTDF Acting scribe

T

HE Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, has expressed the hope that the Local Content policy would be extended to other sectors of the Nigerian economy to maximise the inherent gains.

The outgoing Executive Secretary of the Board, Mr. Denzil Amagbe Kentebe, in a statement, weekend, expressed the hope during the formal hand over to the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Patrick Daziba Obah, as the Acting Executive Secretary, last Wednesday. This comes as erstwhile Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, PTDF, Mr. Femi Ajayi, weekend, handed over to the Fund’s General Manager, Education and Training, Mr. Aminu Galadima.

Kentebe and Ajayi were among the 26 chief executives of federal agencies and parastatals, sacked last Monday by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Despite the legion of criticisms of lopsidedness and growing pressure to change them, Kentebe defended that he chose to continue with the personnel, policies and initiatives inherited from his predecessor, Dr. Ernest Nwapa’s for continuity purposes and urged his successor to continue in the tradition. Kentebe, who was appointed in May 2015 by former President Goodluck Jonathan, noted that the oil and gas industry is the lifeline of the nation, adding that the Board through its policies had increased opportunities for Nigerians participation in the industry.

Kentebe, who spoke at the Board’s headquarters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, was quoted as describing his term in office as short, eventful and enlightening. While thanking former President Jonathan for appointing him, he also commended President Muhammadu Buhari for retaining him in the position for a while. Also commenting, the Acting Secretary, Obah, commended Kentebe for his services to the Board, particularly for granting access to all staff and ensuring that they worked assiduously to achieve the Board’s objectives.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 29

Miners caution against sycophancy, cabals

By Gabriel Ewepu

A

BUJA — MINERS under the auspices of the Progressive Miners Association of Nigeria, PMAN, have called on President Muhammadu Buhari to be cautious of sycophants and cabals in the solid minerals sector, as he moves to diversify the economy.

The National President, PMAN, Mr. Sunny Ekozin, who made the call during an interaction with journalists in Abuja, said the President should exert his constitutional authority over the sector for positive growth and development.

Ekozin alleged that in 1995, when the Ministry of Solid Minerals came on board, some fraudulent persons under the association of Solid Minerals Exporters of Nigeria, cornered about N500 million which late Gen. Sani Abacha gave as stimulus for the sector.

He said: “Based on the current administration, solid minerals and agriculture are the major sectors that can diversify the economy. To us as practitioners in the sector, we know the in and out of the mining sector, and it holds the key to the economic diversification of Nigeria from oil and gas.

Abysmal performance “We believe that the unbundling of the Solid Minerals sector can be a reality, and also we want the highest office of the land to know that when the right thing is done the sector can diversify our economy.

“For the abysmal performance of the sector in terms of contribution to the Gross Domestic Product, GDP, of the country indicates that the right thing has not been done in spite of the stimulus and funding of the sector.

“There are fundamental problems within the sector and our leaders are not given the true position of things so as to take the right decisions and measures because of sycophants. The fundamental problem includes lack of ownership responsibility.

By the constitution and Minerals and Mining Act, the administration of solid minerals is vested on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Until President Muhammadu Buhari asserts his political will, this sector will remain comatose. All the noise and politicking is going to be stage-managed by the cabals that are in the shadow. If the President takes ownership sanity will come to the sector.”

•Oil vessel

FG forecasts zero fuel subsidy in this year

By Michael Eboh

T

HE Federal Government has said that the novel price modulation mechanism currently in place will ensure that it records zero expenses on fuel subsidy in 2016.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachickwu, said this last week, at the 45th Convocation Lecture of the University of Nigerian Nsukka, Enugu State.

He spoke under the theme: The Petroleum Industry and the Future of the Nigerian NationalOil Resource Management and the Implication for National

Security & Economic Survival.

Kachikwu said the zero fuel subsidy will be sustained based on prevailing modified pricing template for petroleum products, which has eliminated extraneous

Large chunks of vandalised pipelines are being recovered which will supply more crude to the refineries

cost elements.

According to him, “Without necessarily removing subsidy the government will spend zero amounts in subsidy in 2016. This may sound unbelievable to some people but that is part of the change agenda of the present administration of President Mohammadu Buhari.”

He also disclosed that large chunks of vandalised pipelines are being recovered which will supply more crude to the refineries.

The Minister enthused that despite the difficulties of yesteryears, the oil and gas industry in Nigeria is primed for greater achievements in the months and years ahead as a result of landmark reforms being engendered and activated by the present administration.

Seven Energy secures $100m equity capital

S

EVEN Energy International Limited, an integrated oil and gas company in Nigeria, said it has secured $100 million of new equity capital.

This capital is comprised of $50 million from existing shareholders of the Group, including Temasek, Petrofac, Capital International Private Equity, Standard Chartered, International Finance Corporation and IFC African, Latin American and Caribbean Fund, by way of an open offer.

The deal also includes $50 million invested by the IDB Infrastructure Fund II, sponsored by the Islamic Development Bank and other institutional investors. The IDB Infrastructure Fund II, with a target fund of $2 billion, invests in infrastructure opportunities across Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

Existing pipelines The fund is managed by ASMA Capital Partners B.S.C. (c). The Chief Executive Officer of ASMA, Stephen Vineburg, will join the Board of Directors of Seven Energy.

These additional funds enhance Seven Energy’s liquidity as it completes the gas pipeline that integrates its existing pipelines in the south east of Nigeria over the next few months.

When completed, Seven Energy will own and operate a flexible gas transportation network which reaches from Ukanafun and Ikot Abasi in

the west to Calabar in the east. This will enable the Group to deliver more gas to Nigeria’s growing domestic market for power generation and industrial consumption.

Seven Energy’s total investment in gas production, processing and distribution infrastructure is over $1 billion. The Group is currently delivering total gas volumes in excess of 110 million standard cubic feet per day, MMcfpd, to three power stations, a cement plant and a fertilizer factory.

As the power stations - Alaoji, Calabar and Ibom, complete their commissioning work and electricity transmission infrastructure, the Group forecasts gas deliveries to increase to 200 MMcfpd over the coming year.

Seven Energy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Phillip Ihenacho, said of the equity investment: “I am pleased by the continued support shown by our leading shareholders and the vote of confidence in our business plan demonstrated by the investment from the IDB Infrastructure Fund II. Seven Energy is now established as a significant participant in the rapidly developing Nigerian gas market.

Our gas deliveries have more than trebled during the course of 2015, and are currently running in excess of 110 MMcfpd. This new funding enables us to complete our current development phase, enhancing our pipeline network which will be capable of transporting 600 MMcfpd of gas to the growing regional market.”

Kachikwu outlined the central objective of the ongoing oil and gas reform agenda to include: *increasing revenue for the country through sales of petroleum and petroleum products and taxes on profitable enterprises; *maximising value added on the crude oil and gas to establish linkages with other sectors through local processing; *establishment of gas based industries thereby stimulating economic growth and development, and; *providing employment opportunities for Nigerians.

He said further: “Significant improvement in governance macroeconomic and fiscal policies are key to harnessing oil and gas resources for the sustainable development of Nigeria through enshrining transparency and accountability, empowering good governance and transparency in expenditure and revenue management.”

Convocation lecture The NNPC GMD also noted that the ongoing reform is designed to create competitive framework for public private partnerships anchored on durable financial investments.

He expressed appreciation to the management of UNN for considering him worthy to deliver the convocation lecture, adding that as an alumnus of the university, he will continue to contribute his quota to the growth and development of the University. “Whatever I am today UNN contributed immensely to it,” he said.

In his remarks, the Vicechancellor of UNN, Prof Benjamin Ozumba, said the 45th convocation lecture was unique because the lecture was delivered by a guru in the petroleum industry, who had within a record time transformed the oil sector.

Describing Kachikwu as the pride and beacon of UNN, the Vice-Chancellor noted that University is glad to welcome a super lion and one of the profound thinkers in Nigeria.

30 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

Firm unveils security bulbs for facility monitoring

By Chris Ochayi

A

BUJA — A security firm, Selective Security Limited, has unveiled sensitive electricity bulbs fitted with video cameras and radio transmission facilities, designed for surveillance and also provides footages of crime scenes, especially attacks on oil and gas pipelines.

The light bulbs, which include E40 Intelligent and Ping Pong, are produced by a French firm, Ledex Company, and distributed by a partner in Nigeria, Cited Development Limited.

The products were introduced in Abuja, by the Executive Director, (Technical) Ledex, Paris, Mr. Paul Kerkhofs.

The bulb can be installed and connected to photos within the light emitted by the bulb. A link up can send the video stream to a server near the site under surveillance, such as banks, embassies, schools, sensitive locations like pipelines and monitor any crimes, attacks and accidents.

At the presentation of the products, the Managing Director and Chief Executive, Capt. Dayo Ogunleye, urged the Federal Government, state governments, embassies, oil and real estate companies as well as banks, schools, airports, sea ports and hospitality service providers to invest in these products.

Ogunleye said the low-cost product can simultaneously light business premises,

. Solid minerals facility

provide footages of crimes, prevent possible attacks, monitor accidents and can be

The need for products, events/ activities in consonance to the goals and those that cannot but fight against global warming became indispensable

used as public address system when connected with FM station via network.

According to him, “You may recall that the advocacy for a sustainable environment only began to gain momentum couple of years ago. The United Nations in an attempt to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all and to in the long run transform the world, introduced SDGs -Sustainable Development Goals. Thus, the need for products, events/ activities in consonance to the goals and those that cannot but fight against global warming became indispensable.

“Climate change is now affecting every country on every continent. It is disrupting national economies and affecting lives, costing people, communities and countries dearly today and even more tomorrow.

“Climate change is a global challenge that does not respect national borders.

Emissions anywhere affect people everywhere. It is an issue that requires solutions that needs to be coordinated at the international level and it requires international cooperation to help developing countries move toward a low-carbon economy.

“In 2015, the French government presented this innovation in Paris for the COP-21 delegations from 180 foreign countries as an energy model to fight against global warming.

“We believe that this will give us a major competitive advantage in the market.

These products are designed by three French companies to help towns and local authorities keep their operating cost down.

“They are made in France to ensure optimal quality, reliability, durability, and production costs are available in a basic version with five optimal versions to meet the needs of different countries, places, urban densities and city lighting policiesrecommended. They are a great tool for the European Union-recommended sustainable for Africa cities and energy transition policies.”

Petroleum minister confirms participation in OLEF 2016

N

IGERIA’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, is said to have confirmed his participation as the Guest of Honour and Host Minister at the Silver Jubilee and 25th edition of the Annual Oloibiri Lecture Series and Energy Forum, OLEF. The event, which is scheduled to take place on March 3, 2016, at the PTDF Towers Auditorium in Abuja, is also expected to host the Secretary-General, Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, Mr. Abdallah El-Badri, and Nigeria’s Senate President Bukola Saraki, as special guests.

The Oloibiri Annual Lecture Series focuses on oil and gas policy development in

Nigeria, in commemoration of the first oil well drilled in 1956 in Nigeria by Shell D’Arcy at Oloibiri, Ogbia, Bayelsa State.

It is a platform that attracts participants from the government, regulatory agencies, heads of industry practitioners at all levels, as well as other key stakeholders from around Africa.

The Chairman, SPE Nigeria Council, Mr. George C. Kalu, said in a statement that this year ’s edition will bring together experienced exploration and production, E&P experts, who will provide insights on advances in Nigeria’s oil and gas activities aimed at mitigating the effects of low oil prices for the sustenance of the industry.

Other speakers at the event

are: MD/CEO, First E&P Development Company, Mr. Ademola Adeyemi-Bero; Director, Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, Mr. Modecai Baba-Ladan; and Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Company, SNEPCO, Mr. Bayo Ojulari.

Others are Managing Director, ExxonMobil Nigeria, Mr. Nolan O’Neal; Group Executive Director, E&P, NNPC, Dr. Maikanti K. Baru; and Chairman, Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria, PETAN/Managing Director, Oildata Inc., Mr. Emeka Ene. According to the Chairman, Planning Committee, Mr. Francis Dike, the Energy Forum, which runs concurrently with the annual

lecture, seeks to educate stakeholders handling energy issues in the nation’s financial and allied industries, for public benefit; and provide opportunities for professionals to enhance their technical and professional competence.

Nigeria is a key player in the global energy equation and an influential member of the OPEC. On the other hand, the Society of Petroleum Engineers, SPE, is the largest individual membership organisation, serving practically every professional working in the E&P segment of the global oil and gas industry.

SPE also provides a global forum for the exchange of technology to meet the world’s energy needs.

NEMSA plans synergy with other agencies

By Chris Ochayi

A

BUJA — The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency, NEMSA, has reiterated its preparedness to collaborate with other relevant agencies in its quest to clean up the electricity environment.

The Managing Director, NEMSA, Mr. Peter Ewesor, who disclosed this while speaking with Vanguard in Abuja, said his Agency is determined to make the sector safe for stakeholders and electricity consumers in the country.

Ewesor, who promised to establish relationships with the Fire Service, Consumer Protection Council, CPC, and the media, said: “Just like I have always said, there is no one agency in any part of the world that can singularly accomplish all its mandates without synergy with other agencies.

According to him, “If you look at Consumer Protection Council, for example, they are to seek redress for consumers dissatisfied with services. But for the power sector, we are giving them those technical supports. If a community has a failed network or a failed system and they want to seek redress, they will need somebody who can carry out forensic analysis on such a situation of what happened when a transformer failed.

“Transformer can fail as a result of manufacturer ’s defect; transformer can fail as a result of bad installation. But we have the technical expertise to determine what happened.

“With the fire service, we are equally doing joint collaboration on fire incidences because you know most times, once there is electrical fire the first thing people say is that it is electricity and then they give you some scenarios.

“When you look at things as an expert who has the adequate knowledge and experience, you start asking; can this be an electrical fire?

They tell you it is a surge because if you say there is a surge that has caused the fire in one building in an environment, that surge cannot just be peculiar to just only that house, the surge, people too would have felt the experience too in other houses.

“So when we are investigating we find out what actually caused it because there are other instances that could have caused the fire.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—31

Executive Insights: Forex abuse, bane of economic growth

By Abdulsamad Rabiu, CON

T

HE Nigerian Dream, if there ever were such a notion, is facing its greatest challenge in recent times.

With a less than one year old government in place with an enormous task to ensure a fair economic and social justice system which caters to all and a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources whilst combating corruption.

A huge drop in crude prices, dwindling FX reserves, continued import dependence, increased national and state debt amongst others has led to a state of economic anarchy. Despite these economic headwinds, I believe the Nigerian people and government have been presented with a unique opportunity for us to re-evaluate ourselves - from our consumption habits to rent seeking behavior in line with current realities. Things may seem harsh at the moment but nothing good comes easy.

Reducing wastage Led by a determined President Buhari, eliminating corruption, reducing wastage and checking leakages in the system at the government level has become a frontburner issue. As a private investor, the currentsituation, whilst it presents huge challenges also comes with equally huge opportunities.

There are key areas looking for investment in agriculture, manufacturing and infrastructural development which Ipredict will be the key drivers of Nigeria’s revival. Arguments have been put for and against the notion of devaluing the currency but is that really the issue? Does devaluing the currency without first creating the necessary conditions to stimulate local production suit our import dependent country at this time?

Ultimately, private investors have to make a genuine, concerted effort to support the government’s effort, build capacity to develop local industries and give back to this economy rather than just looking for ways to exploit the system to the detriment of the many. These actions are not only crippling the economy but are also unpatriotic.

I am however hopeful because our government is conscious of the fact that Nigerians are expecting a lot. They are ready, willing and in a position to help realize our potential. We have the human capital, land, natural resources, so it is just the will that we need. With good leadership, everything else will fall into place. We also have a president that is very anxious to ensure Nigerians get value for money without corruption and with the highest level of integrity. That one person makes all the difference. I am quite hopeful, confident, and optimistic that things definitely will

improve for this country. We deserve that.

The Foreign Exchange dragon rears its ugly head - again… It is disheartening to know that despite all the money that accrued to the government during the oil price boom in recent years, we find ourselves yet again in this position.

To be quite frank, the current FX situation is bad. Even the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and other organised private sector operators have raised alarm over the unfavourable forex situation. There are lot of issues from regulatory to rent-seeking behavior that need to be dealt with decisively. Whilst the Federal Government is doing everything to protect the Naira, there are Nigerians – corporates and individuals alike who are grossly undermining the government’s position – sometimes with the aid of regulators – knowingly or unknowingly. On one hand, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) claims to be safeguarding the currency in line with the Federal Government’s resolve to protect the Naira but on the other hand, the lack of a trans-

There are many persons and corporate entities who are aware of the goingson in the Nigerian FX market but are afraid to speak out because of the perception that those involved are too powerful

parent exchange rate policy and inequitable distribution of foreign exchange to all players in key sectors meant to boost local production only worsens an already bad situation.

Whilst some manufacturers are experiencing extreme difficulty sourcing foreign exchange for legitimate business operations within Nigeria, others are getting FX to set up operations in other countries.

Production capacity For instance, last year we opened our ultra-modern Obu Cement factory which is by far the most technologically advanced in the country at the moment and are already in the process of doubling our total production capacity across all our cement plants in Nigeria. We have so far expended money raised from our offshore sources to the tune of over USD300million for CCNN expansion and our 2nd line at Obu with little or no allocation forthcoming from the Central Bank.

It is rather ironic that a similar competitor in the same industry, who incidentally is the market leader, is allocated huge amounts of Nigeria’s hard earned and scarce FX from the official market for its operations in Congo. I do not know if there is an official policy to that effect but I was baffled, as were numerous Nigerians, to learn through a publication of FX allocation returns by First Bank of Nigeria in ThisDay Newspaper of Tuesday, February 16, 2016 (page 11) of that allocation whilst other operators in the same industry have received far less or nothing at all during the same period for verifiable and viable investments within Nigeria.

It begs the question, “Were other plants by that operator across Africa built with Nigeria’s money?” How has that impacted the country’s economy in return? If this is true, then it needs to be checked as we cannot have a situation where Nigerian industries are being shut down, workers are losing jobs daily

and resources badly needed to develop our economy are being taken out of the country to grow other economies to the detriment of ours.

If this transaction was done through a “Form A” like the publication suggested, then it is just money that has gone out from the country which can be rerouted into the country for other purposes.

More alarming is the fact that over 50% of Nigeria’s FX allocations through the banks are going to less than 50 companies going by the figures published by the banks on Foreign exchange allocations. Are manufacturers expected to continue developing local industries when some regulators are unwittingly encouraging anti-competition activities by giving unfair advantages to a single operator or are key institutions now in the firm grip of a cabal made up of a few who can strong-arm the Central Bank and Federal Government to do their bidding because they have become ‘too powerful’?

I understand that President Buhari directed, through the CBN, that the returns of FX allocations be published periodically despite significant push-backs from vested interests. We now know he means well.

Different criteria for operators Without doubt, there are many persons and corporate entities who are aware of the goings-on in the Nigerian FX market but are afraid to speak out because of the perception that those involved are too powerful but if no one brings these issues to the fore, there is absolutely no way we can progress.

From recently released data, the disparities and inequalities in allocation have only become too obvious. Does the CBN have different criteria for operators in the same industries or are we seeking to firmly entrench an Orwellian system in the country? Maybe they need to explain this to Nigerians. The system needs fixing and corporatized money laundering activities under a legal umbrella of any sort must be checked or else it would lead to grave systemic issues for the economy.

I have heard some analysts say Nigeria may be faced with a “Zimbabwe situation” sooner than later but there is no basis for comparison. The differences are very clear – Nigeria still has the capacity to earn Foreign exchange from noncrude exports. There are still private investors like BUA Group who are willing to invest within Nigeria and boost local capacity and industry. It may take a while to get there but with the programmes

Send your reactions to: news@vanguardngr.com

being put in place by the current government coupled with proposed investments in infrastructure, we will surmount these challenges.

The silver lining is the opportunity presented to start looking at other areas to grow the economy and stimulate national development. The government also needs to urgently step up its communication with all stakeholders on its projects and plans for the economy. It has never been a question of to devalue or not to devalue but on what basis a devaluation may occur. If we do not put our house in order and set up frameworks and policies to enable the common man feel the positive effects of a devaluation programme, then we may be in for another ‘SAP’ period.

Recently, I was asked where I saw the BUA Group in the light of the current economic situation.

My answer was simple; “We are confident in the current government’s ability to turn things around and we will continue to invest in Nigeria.”

Our business strategy has been hugely successful despite the difficulties in the operating environment.

Foreign exchange Over the past 3 years, we have gradually divested from business areas that were largely dependent on foreign exchange and importation of raw materials in favour of businesses that we could source at least 90% of the raw materials needed for production locally whether in infrastructure, manufacturing or the agribusiness and foods sectors.

We are fully concentrating on our core businesses including agriculture, mining and manufacturing that are less FX dependent, require mostly locally sourced raw materials and have potential for export and have made huge investments in other areas including sugar and cement totaling over 1.5bilion dollars within the past 3 years alone.

As for new businesses, we are looking to open an integrated steel complex as well as explore opportunities in petrochemicals.

We however remain confident that we are well poised to take advantages of new opportunities that may arise in the current business climate.

I also wish to use this opportunity to call on well-meaning Nigerian individuals and corporate citizens to come together and join hands in protecting what we’ve got and making this country better. Nobody will do that for us – not the international financial organisations and not the rent seekers looking for opportunities to milk the country of her resources. Together, we can succeed and change our nation’s fortunes so that future generations will have a country to be proud of – one in which a Nigerian dream can finally be realized.

NOTE: This is the first part of a series by Abdulsamad Rabiu CON, billionaire industrialist and chairman of one of Nigeria’s largest Foods & Infrastructure conglomerates, BUA Group.

32— Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 SCORPIO : Both financial success and emotional satisfaction are closed to you than before. Those of you travelling because of maters-of-the-heart are in for an exciting romantic day Those of you who are ambitious (career-wise) will succeed after few struggles.

SAGITTARIUS: Many members of your opposite sex will go out of their ways to attract your romantic interest.

This is the wrong time to engage on unnecessary argument.

Been your lucky day you are expected to take good advantage today.

CAPRICORN: If you priority is love, much of it would come your way as desired. But here is a better day for more ambitious in the business world. Don’t allow anybody to deceive you over money.

AQUARIUS: Those of you with secret admirers within your working area will have the needed opportunities to make the needed moves. Resist the temptation to deceive others.

PISCES: Although matters-of-the-heart may give you cause to smile broadly, if care is not taken, you would cause friction that can’t help you r case at work. This is the wrong time for unnecessary scheming within your working arena.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

About History

By Richard Eromosele

H

ISTORY is defined as the study of past events.In order words, history is simply the study of actions and

inactions of some individuals.It is the study of what some men and women do in other to shape the world.It is the

TERROR MUDA

story of men and women who dared.History is the narrative of the exploit and conquest of men

in “Scavenger Elite”

and women who are led by their convic-tions.Some people make history, some write it and some read it.If the history of the world is to be written today,where will you be placed?

By Lanre Kehinde

ARIES: Those of your who are red-blooded for romance may have an exciting and satisfying day. Happenings within your social circles must be taken more seriously.

TAURUS: Confrontation may come your way in the circle but the heavens are working favourably for you. Some doses of romance is not too much for you on a day like this.

GEMINI: Provided you don’t allow your innate ability to be as diplomatic as necessary desert you, things work favourably for you to the betterment of your finances.

CANCER: Many of you will be in sentimental mood and exhibit strong romantic desire openly. But then, if care is not taken, you may be carried away to the detriment of your finances. Serious minded lovers are in for happy day.

LEO: Whatever anybody says or does, you will have both your say and way. Venus and Jupiter may tempt some of you to embrace illicit (or secret) romance within your base of operation.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in “HEY’

By Andy Akman

VIRGO: Planets at positive angles may tempt you to join some of your friends who are already on-board of merry making train. Watch your health.

LIBRA: Minor financial success you record today can lead to something bigger and good in the near future; as good luck will smile at many and induce love of luxury, merry, making and romantic association. Genuine lovers will need to be on guard against deceit from new admirers.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat tr ological datee and place of bir th ttoo the As Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What’s my Horoscope ?

Dear Joshua, I want you to give me my comprehensive horoscope, especially what my special gift is.

Which day of the week was I born? Where were my natal planets and their meanings? Who am I? Bawa, Kano.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Dear Bawa, There is no space for comprehensive horoscope but what you’ll have here -under is answer to your questions/ You were born on a Thursday and your special gift is LEADERSHIP quality.

YOUR HOROSCOPE DATA Day Of Birth: Thursday Sun Sign: Virgo: Sun in 20th Degree of Virgo Moon Sign: PISCES: Moon on 10th Degree of Pisces Mercury in 16th Degree of Libra Venues in 5th Degree of Scorpio Mars in 13th Degree of Cancer Jupiter in 6th Degree of Pisces Saturn in 5th Degree of Aquarius Uranus in 2nd Degree of Virgo Neptune in 11th Degree of Scorpio Pluto in 10th Degree of Virgo North Node in 6th Degree of Leo South Node in 6th Degree of Aquarius Quality and Element Cardinal and air star signs hosted two planets each fixed and earth three each, no planet in fire while mutable and water star signs hosted five planets each.

Push-full influence = 20% Non- push-full element = 80% Final dispositor = Lucky Jupiter General Analysis Just 20 per cent of push-full influence in your chart can deceptively present you to others as a soft (or even timid) person but practical Virgo that hosted nothing less than three heavenly bodies when you were born and Astrological aspects between Mercury (mental focus) and aggressive Mars in you r chart are pointers to the contrary.

Yes! You are highly intelligent and your mind works the same way detective’s minds do. It is true, there are little contradictions between your inner self and your emotional being as indicated quality, water element and Virgo characteristics.

One moment, you can be very emotional, exhibiting temper with stinging tongue but a few hour later you are amiable, easy going, friendly and compassionate. You are the adaptable type who will see changes as sources of good opportunities.

LEADERSHIP quality is one of your greatest gifts from God. placement of your natal sun (basic-selfhood) and moon (your emotional being) in Virgo and Pisces respectively mean that characteristics of both Virgo and Pisces are highly pronounced in your inner-self.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—33

Oporoza Guest House belongs to us, not Tompolo —Delta community

By Emma Amaize

W

ARRI—THE people of Oporoza, traditional headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area, Delta State, have said that the Oporoza Guesthouse, listed as “Tompolo House,” which the Federal High Court, Lagos, recently ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to confiscate, belongs to the community and not the former militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo.

Ibibenimowe (Mobilization Officer) of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Chief Godspower Gbenekama, who spoke to Vanguard, said: “Oporoza Guest House, which is the only building opposite the palace of the Gbaramatu monarch referred to as ‘Tompolo House’ by the EFCC had never been owned by Tompolo and we are surprised that the agency is misleading the Federal High Court, Lagos.

“It is owned by the community and that was why when the Joint Task Force, JTF, in the Niger Delta bombed it under the same erroneous assumption in 2009, the community went to the Federal High Court, Asaba, to seek damages.

“The community was taken aback by the destruction of its lodging known as Oporoza

Guest House and other houses, including the palace of Gbaramatu monarch, and the Federal High Court, Asaba, in its judgment recognised that the guest house belongs to the community. The JTF killed a young man, Atu Keniye, lodging in the guest house during the mindless bombardment.

“The Federal High Court, Asaba, about two and a half years ago, ordered the

Federal Government to pay the community over N99 billion as damages for the destruction. Government did not appeal the judgment and has not paid us until date.

“I speak as the Mobilization Officer of Gbaramatu Kingdom. We read in the newspapers that the Federal High Court, Lagos, gave the EFCC a goahead to seize our property.

That is why we are crying out because we know it is illegal

to seize our property when we have not committed any offence.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Oporoza Guest House is a habitation where every Oporoza son, who does not own a house in Oporoza, the traditional headquarters of the kingdom, sleeps when he comes home. It is a monument of pride to us and that is why we had to rebuild it after the military's bombing in 2009.”

BRIEFING: From left: Dr Olanike Oduwole, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Lagos State; Lola Akande, Commissioner; Mrs Alaba Fadairo, Director, Child Development and Mrs Roseleen Akinroye, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF, at a press briefing on the forthcoming launch of Lagos State End Violence Against Children Campaign, coming up tomorrow, in Lagos. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele.

Edo 2016: Crisis brews in APC over delegates list

By Gabriel Enogholase

B

ENIN—AHEAD of the All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship primaries slated for March or April 2016, the party has said that it will adhere to the 2014 delegates list, even as it assured party faithful that the conduct of the exercise will be transparent, free and fair.

State Publicity Secretary of the party in Edo State, Mr Godwin Erhahon, in a statement in Benin, said that the National Chairman of the party, Chief John OdigieOyegun, had already assured that the list of delegates elected at the 2014 congress remains intact and sacrosanct.

Vanguard gathered that the leadership of the party in Edo State had been in Abuja in the last one week trying to impress on the national leaders of the party why the 2014 delegates list should be altered. It was, however, learned that the national leadership of the party refused to shift grounds on the issue.

Erhahon’s clarification was sequel to allegations that attempts were being made by some officials of the party in the state to alter the

C M Y K

2014 delegates list to accommodate those not qualified for the delegate conference.

A chieftain of the party who spoke to Vanguard on condition

of anonymity, alleged that a particular party member from Oredo Local Government Area of the state, was busy suspending and removing members of the party and

substituting the names of those who have died and were part of the 2014 delegates list with a view of supporting a particular governorship aspirant to emerge as the party’s flag bearer.

I've no quarrel with Oshiomhole over Obaseki —Shuaibu

By Simon Ebegbulem

B

ENIN—THE member representing Etsako federal constituency in the House of Representatives and Governor Adams Oshiomhole's political son, Mr Philip Shuaibu, has denied claims that he was at war with the governor over the latter’s preference for Mr Godwin Obaseki as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the state.

He said at a well-attended meeting of members of his constituency: “I am on the same page with my father, the governor, on the choice of Obaseki. My brother, Osarodion Ogie and I will use our structure to work for Obaseki because we will not allow any body to rubbish our governor.”

The lawmaker was reacting to

rumours that he and other persons were at war with the governor over the latter ’s preference for Obaseki as governorship candidate of the APC. However, Shuiabu, who

spoke at Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area of the state, when he hosted APC leaders in the area, said: “I am with him in this project. I can never differ with my father (Oshiomhole) in this project."

A-Ibom to facilitate issuance of C of Os to SMEs

By Chioma Onuegbu

U

YO—AKWA Ibom State Government has said that it will facilitate the process of issuing Certificates of Occupancy, C of Os to enable Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, SMEs, in the state to access funds for their businesses.

Executive Chairman, Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation, AKICORP, Dr. Elijah Akpan,

stated this during a meeting with the management of an Uyobased consulting firm, Anieno Associates, recently appointed by Bank of Industry, BoI, as a Business Development Service Provider for the South-East and South-South zones.

Akpan said it had been observed that the issuance of C of Os has continued to constitute a major hindrance to SMEs in the state in accessing loans over the years.

DESOPADEC boss goes tough on corrupt staff

By Tare Youdeowei

M

ANAGING Director of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Olorogun Williams Makinde, has threatened to sack any staff who uses his name to perpetuate corruption in the commission.

The MD handed down the warning when he played host to DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum who paid him a courtesy call to notify him of the group's planned protest to demand that all outstanding certificates be paid in full.

Makinde, who said he was worried by rumours that some staff of the commission were alleged to be collecting 10 percent from the contractors, advised them to report any staff who tries to collect bribe from them to him and vowed that such staff would be showed the way out of the commission to serve as deterrent to others.

Burutu council impeaches two principal officers

By Onozure Dania

B

URUTU—THE Legislative Arm of Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State, has impeached two of its principal officers and two members suspended for plotting to remove the leadership of the legislature.

The impeachment proceedings presided over by the leader of the House, Mr. Frank Adokeme and unanimously adopted, was signed by 12 councillors and it saw the Deputy Majority Leader, Mr. Godspower Timikoru, Chief Whip Mr. Doti Government impeached and suspended indefinitely for plotting to remove the leadership of the House.

The House also suspended two other councillors, Mr Godspower Akiefa and Mr Anthony Gbafade, indefinitely alongside the principal officers for allegedly holding nocturnal meetings with intent to remove the leadership of the House.

The House elected a new Deputy Majority Leader, Mr Owotorufa Peretubo following his nomination by Trust Edumogiren and seconded by Felix Akila while Frank Tamigbe was elected as the new Chief Whip.

34—Vanguard, TUESDAY,FEBRUARY 23, 2016

UNN honours ACF Chairman, Commasie, Obi of Onitsha, others •Ohanaeze condemns killings

By Emeka Mamah & Chinenyeh Ozor

N

SUKKA—THE 45th Convocation ceremony of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, has been rounded off with the inauguration of the Ooni of Ife, His Royal Highness, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, as the Chancellor of the first indigenous university.

Other highlights of the occasion included the conferment of honourary degrees (Honoris Causa) on the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, the former Inspector General of Police and Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie, Ambassador Godwin Alaoma Onyegbula, Prince Arthur Eze and the former Chief Judge of Enugu State and chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Justice Eze Ozobu.

Igwe Achebe, Onyegbula and Coomasie, the Sarduana of Katsina and Garkuwan Hausa, were conferred with Doctor of Public Administration, Hon. DPA, each while Prince Eze, OFR, was conferred with Doctor of Business Administration, Hon DBA, just as Eze Ozobu bagged the Doctor of Laws, Hon LLD. Coomassie added colour to the ceremony when he was led to convocation arena by all the members of the Executive Committee of the ACF, including Senator Abubakar Girei, Ambassador Adamu Mohammed, Col. Mohammed Abdu, Mohammed Ibrahim, Brig. General Mohammed Usman and the Turaki of Barde, Ambassador Ibrahim Mai Sule as well Maj. General Ike Nwachukwu, rtd, and other leaders of Ohanaeze

Ndigbo.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Benjamin Ozumba announced that about 2,341 graduands were admitted to higher degrees and diplomas comprising 325 candidates in the postgraduate diploma category; 1,597 candidates in the Masters degree category

and 419 candidates in the doctorate classification.

Furthermore, 19 professors including the former Vice Chancellor of the UNN, Frank Ndili, El Anasui, Cornelius Ezekwe, Louis Umeh and Sammy Izundu Agajelu were conferred with the title of

Professor Emeritus.

Others included P. o.

Okonkwo, Nene Obianyo, J. C. Azubuike, Johnie Oli, Peter Ebigbo, Uchenna Megafu, C.O Okogbue, J. C. Amazigo, Cajetan Okeke, Charles Okafor, E.C. Okafor J. N. Adichie and Silvanus Anika.

MWUN warns against unapproved strike over planned sack of workers by NPA

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

L

AGOS—FOLLOWING reports that Dockworkers are planning to down tools and shut ports operations across the country to protest alleged plans by the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, to sack no fewer than 3,700 of their colleagues, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, MWUN, has warned the workers against any unauthorized industrial action.

President of the Dockworkers’ branch of the union, Mr. Adewale Adeyanju, who gave the warning yesterday while addressing district officers of the union, said the leadership of the union was handling the issue of the purported approval by the Minister of Transportation to NPA

to disengage about 3,700 Tally clerks and onboard security men in the ports nationwide.

According to him, if there was need for industrial action, the union would declare it and prosecute it, saying: “The leadership of the union does not belive the minister has given the approval for such a sack because job creation is a major programme of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government.

The government cannot therefore be looking for how to create jobs on the one hand, its agency will on the other hand be throwing workers into the unemployment market because of the negative consequences of joblessness.

So, I want to warn you to ensure that there is no disturbance in the

ports, whether protest or strike that is not approved by the union. We are concerned by the unfortunate report, but we have to follow due process. We are in a very volatile situation economically. We believe the government cannot take antiworkers action that jeopardizes the industrial peace in the ports.

Within the next few days, I will go round the port formations across the country to inform everybody of the need to maintain peace and allow the leadership of the union to handle it. People should not take laws into their hands.”

Prayers were, however, offered against the planned sack of the workers, with workers present praying to God to remove any person who plans to sack their colleagues from work.

Abia govt, PLWHIV/AIDS want more funding Subsidy Reinvestment and seek support from international for NACA Empowerment Programme, funding agencies to sustain the

U

By Francis Igata

MUAHIA—ABIA State Government and Persons Living With HIV/AIDS, PLWHIV/ AIDS, have called on states and the Federal Government to evolve alternative means of funding the activities of the National Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, NACA, in the country.

They spoke against the backdrop of the scrapping of

SURE-P, a federal government’s agency that was responsible for the funding of NACA activities.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. John Ahukanna, said the scrapping of SURE-P posed serious challenge for the various tiers of government to explore alternative sources of funding the agency.

Ahukanna said with the winding down of SURE-P, it was necessary for the government to

subsidization of the treatment for the PLHIV/AIDS. He spoke when the Head of Corporate Communication Unit, Project Implementation Unit of NACA, Stella Agbim, visited him in his office to formally commence an inspection of the agency’s facilities in the state.

He said the state would continue to partner NACA in catering to the needs of the PLWHIV/AIDS in the state “whether SURE-P is there or not.”

Ohanaeze women pray for Nigeria's unity

By Chinonso Alozie

O

WERRI—THE National Executive members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Women Wing International has prayed to God to forgive Nigerians whatever sins they have committed.

The interdenominational prayer meeting, which was held at the Victory Chapel, Government House Owerri, Imo State, was followed by fasting, praise and worship.

In her remarks, the wife of the Imo State Governor, Nneoma Rochas Okorocha, urged Ohanaeze Women Wing to be steadfast in their mission and vision and continue to seek divine intervention for peace and unity in Nigeria.

She said: “I am emotional to what is happening today.

It is not ordinary, what is happening today is divine.

I love my God because He is everything. The position of east is very key, if Nigeria must move forward. For everywoman to begin to carry out this change, it must start from your bedroom. You must let your husband know the need for worthiness. For that reason, there is need for us to come together as women. This gathering is not ordinary, it is divine.

Nigeria is waiting for the women, in the sense that she has the ability to arrange her home”.

The wife of the Governor also observed that “God loves Nigeria that is why He has not allowed us to divide."

By Bartholomew Madukwe (08102479985) nwamad@yahoo.com

PEOPLE SPEAK

On Ikpeazu as Abia governor

T

hank God, Abia peo ple opened their eyes. For long we need development and Ikpeazu will do it. Please, Abians should support him and let him carry on with the good work he has started. Mr Martin Onuigbo, Worker

O

kezie remains Abia Gov until 2023 when Aba must have been reconstructed for a new Abia State Capital.

God bless the judiciary and Abians in general. Mr Onyebuenyi Uche, Businessman

T

hank God Governor Ikpeazu won not just the election but at the court.I am sure that my mum will get her salary and my school fees too is settled because he will encourage most Abians to go to school. Miss Atuegbu Cassy, Self Employed

M

y own expecta tion from Ikpeazu as governor of Abia State is that the court cases for the governors should last up to one year. This will put them on their toes and they will serve the masses. Mr Okie Darlington, Graduate

I

think this change is what we voted for. It started with the judiciary system following the manner at which justice came at last.

The fight against corruption started from a better point, I am sure other sectors will soon get theirs.

Mr Emenonye Chukwunyere, Self Employed

W

ell, since it is the apex court that saw Ikpeazu as the winner of the 2015 governorship election in Abia State, let every other persons wait till the next election to be able to vote him out, if he fails to perform. That is just how it ought to be.

Miss Ify Kelvin, Student

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 35

600,000 children in Jigawa under-fed — UNICEF

By Aliyu Dangida

N

O fewer than 600,000 out of 1.1 million children below the age of five in Jigawa state are malnourished according to statistics released yesterday by the United Nations International Children Fund (UNICEF).

The organization Chief Nutritionist in Nigeria, Mr. Arjan de-Wagt, made the disclosure when he led other partners on ‘Improving Nutrition in Northern Nigeria” on a courtesy visit to Gov. Muhammad Badaru in Dutse.

Addressing journalists shortly after the special session with Governor Mohammad Badaru Abubakar at government house Dutse yesterday, the Nutritionist said the team was pleased by the response of the state Executive on how the two sides can work harmoniously to address the ugly situation.

The figures presented by the team before the state Executive indicated that 600,000 out of 1.1 Million children under five years old in Jigawa state are stunted far more than the national average, which is 63 percent malnourished.

Adding that 165,000 children from six 6 to 59 months are severely malnourished and are nine times likely to die. “Without treatment, an estimated 32,000 of these are likely to dies this year”.

“In our latest statistics, Jigawa has the highest number of malnourished children in the country which means half of its

children are affected. 102,000 children from zero to six months do not get exclusive breast feeding.

“Breast feeding is the most effective intervention to prevent malnutrition and save lives,” DeWagt said.

The chief nutritionist also said that 650,000 children from six months to five years did not receive Vitamin A supplement.

According to him, 117,000 of the 265,000 pregnant women in the state do not also take iron

supplement during pregnancy to prevent anemia.

He stressed the need for the federal and state governments to put in place ‘nutrition coordination and planning mechanism’ as intervention measure to curb malnutrition and save lives.

De-Wagt said that UNICEF had in the last five years been working in 15 out of the 27 local government areas of the state to improve the nutrition status of children and mothers.

He said the work was being undertaken by UNICEF in conjucntion with other partners such as the Save the Children and Action against Hunger (ACF).

He said that over 40,000 children’s’ lives were saved in the state through treatment and various interventions undertaken

by UNICEF and its partners.

In his response, Gov. Badaru, who described the situation as ‘ worrisome and pathetic’ promised to take drastic

VISIT: From left: Kaduna Business Development Manager, Adejimi Ogunfowora; FCT Business Development Manager, Seyi Adediran; Branch Coordinator, Tony Okafor; Kaduna State Commisioner for Finance, Alhaji Suleiman Abdu Kwari and MD/CEO, Jide Orimolade, all of Law Union and Rock Insurance company, during a courtesy visit to Kaduna State governor.

INEC reverses self, declares PDP winner of Kogi senatorial re-run poll

By Boluwaji Obahopo

L

O K O J A— T H E Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC yesterday reversed itself in Kogi State and declared Ahmed Ogember winner of Kogi Central senatorial rerun election earlier declared inconclusive.

Ahmed Ogembe of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, was leading with 45,468 votes, while Senator Nurudeen Abatemi of Peoples Progressive Alliance, PPA, pulled 31,163 and Dr. Moses Wokili of Social Democratic Party, SDP scored 9,966 in the Saturday re-run But INEC declared the Central election inconclusive following the cancellation of 20,000 votes which affected two polling units

of Otutu ward in Okene Local Governmebt Area and Karaworo and Esuha and Inozomi wards in Adavi LGA. Though no reason was given by the electoral umpire, but the commission, however, reverse itself and declared Ahmed Ogembe winner of the poll Speaking over the event,

Ahmed Ogembe said he was not surprise as he knew that INEC erred in the first instance by basing their judgment on the submission of the presiding officials for the affected wards who have initially submitted their respective results.

He, however, stated that he will use the opportunity to represent

Borno prepares fresh 4,500 IDPs for schools

By Ndahi Marama

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AIDUGURI—AS Borno State government intensify efforts at reopening schools in the state, the State’s Relocation Committee (SREC) yesterday commenced

the evacuation and transportation of 4,506 Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs from Government College to Bakassi camp in Maiduguri metropolis.

Addressing journalists yesterday at Government College, Maiduguri, the

Ishaku sacks 7 District heads for seizing IDPs' lands

By John Mkom

J

ALINGO—GOVERNOR Darius Ishaku of Taraba State has suspended seven district heads for allocating lands belonging to Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, to unidentified persons within their domains.

The governor suspended the

his people at the upper chamber of the National Assembly to fight for the interest of his people and see how Ajaokuta Steel company located in the senatorial district is revived.

Ogembe also said his victory have shown that his party, PDP, has rebounded in the state.

However, the Kogi East

district heads after a meeting held at the government house in Jalingo Taraba state capital over security reports that indicted the chiefs.

The traditional rulers were at government house Jalingo to congratulate the Governor over his recent victory at Supreme Court, but were shocked when Governor Ishaku turned the

courtesy call into security meeting.

Sources close to the governor revealed to Vanguard that the governor could not wait for another opportunity than yesterday to move against the indicted chiefs as the security information before him were capable of igniting yet another communal crisis in the state.

Commissioner of Education, Alhaji Musa Inuwa Kubo, who doubles as SREC Chairman, disclosed that the Bakassi camp has the basic facilities for family size tents, water and security to accommodate and protect the lives of 4,500 displaced persons from the college.

He said the relocation committee was satisfied with the IDPs’ willingness to move to Bakkasi camp on Damboa – Biu road.

His words: “I have already addressed the IDPs on their relocation from this college to a camp at Bakassi Housing Estate.

In the camp, there is adequate water supply, there are toilets; and we have also collaborated with the military and other security agencies for a smooth relocation exercise that had been delayed for over two months.

Save us from Fulani herdsmen, farmers beg FG

By Peter Duru

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AKURDI— NIGERIAN farmers, under the aegis of Association of Small Scale Agro Producers in Nigeria, ASSAPIN, yesterday pleaded with the Federal Government to take immediate action to stem the unending attacks and killings of famers in parts of the country by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

They cautioned that if prompt action was not taken to address the issue the country faced the prospect of a steady decline in food crop production and its attendant food shortages.

Speaking yesterday in Makurdi, the Benue state capital, at a three day sensitization meeting on the ‘Right to Food’ bill, ASSAPIN National Coordinator, Mr. Charles Adu lamented that the prices of food had skyrocketed because of low yields from farms due mainly to attacks on farmers by the herdsmen.

Group commends re-election of David mark

By Etop Ekanem

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ELTA State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has described Senator David Mark as the centre of unity between the North and southern part of Nigeria.

Onuesoke made this remark in Otukpo, Benue State while commending Senator David Mark on his weekend victory at the Benue South Senatorial district re-run election.

Onuesoke, who was present at Otukpo to observe the election as a director, NETWORK FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE (n4gg) said the choice of David Mark by the electorates was the right thing in the right direction because the National Assembly of today needs the experience of leaders like David Mark.

He said the victory of David Mark was known to so many of them right from the beginning of the race going by his outstanding performance as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing not just Benue South, but Nigeria as a whole.

36—Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

FOR PA OJUTIKU: From left— Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr.

Idiat Oluranti-Adebule; Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District 1, Dr. Yinka Ayandele; Lagos State First Lady, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode, and former Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sarah Sosan, at the entertainment of guests during the celebration of life of Pa. Vincent Adereti Ojutiku in Lagos.

DANFOSS: From left— President, Turkey, Middle East & Africa, Leif Flojgaard; Business Development Manager, Africa, Omoyele Sunday, and Regional President, Turkey, Middle East & Africa, Levent Taskin, all of Danfoss Company, during the unveilling of the company in Nigeria, yesterday.

HERITAGE BANK: From

METHODIST OLD BOYS: From left— Vice President, National, Mr. Victor Rotimi Buraimo; Chairman, Mr. Yinka Adeola; Principal of the School, Very Rev. David Oyebade; 1st Vice Chairman, Maj.-Gen. Shina Ogunbiyi (retd); General Secretary, Mr. Wale Fadairo, and 2nd Vice Chairman, Mr. Segun Fowode, all of Methodist Boys High School, Lagos, Old Boys Association, during association's Crystal Group (1969 to 1976 sets) re-union in Lagos. PHOTO: Bunmi Azeez.

AWARD: From left— Mr. Obi Madubogwu, Mr. Emeka Rollas and Prophet

Jeremiah Omoto-Fufeyin, of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministries, at the presentation of Nollywood Award of Execellence to Prophet OmotoFufeyin during his 44th birthday in Warri, Delta State.

CAC LECTURE: From left— Mr. Dupe Derby; Hajia Laraba Shuaibu,

Director of Human Resources, Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, and former NBA Lagos Branch Chairman, Mr. Alex Muoka, at a lecture organised by the commission in Lagos.

left— Divisional Head, Cowry & SME, Heritage Bank, Davidson Regha, and Mr. & Mrs. Olusesan Oyemade, when the bank hosted loyal customers to a Love-Up Valentine dinner in Lagos.

MR. GALA: From left— Senior Brand Manager, Snacks, UAC Foods, Mrs Folasade Abiola; Harrison HarrySong Okiri, Gala Brand Ambassador; Proprietress, Modupe Cole Memorial Childcare & Treatment Home School, Mrs. Florence Kayode; Brand Manager, Snacks, UAC, Mrs. Martha Kayode, and some inmates, during UAC Foods' visit at Akoka, Lagos.

MI-TRIBE: From left— Vice President, General Merchandise, Konga.com, Oreoluwa Odusanya; Head of Communications, N&N Retail Solutions Ltd., Anju Kamlani, and Founding Partner, John Rhoda, Mr. Michael Akindele, at a press conference on the new mi-Tribe A-500, a product of Konga.com and mi-Fone, in Lagos. PHOTO: AKEEM SALAU.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 —37

SYRIA: US-Russia brokered ceasefire to start at weekend

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HE US and Russia have announced that a planned ceasefire in Syria will come into effect at midnight on 27 February.

Their statement said the truce did not include socalled Islamic State (IS) and the al-Qaeda-linked Nusra Front.

World powers had on 12 February agreed a truce to come into effect within a week, but that deadline passed and scepticism remains over the new plan.

Violence has continued unabated in Syria, with 140 killed in bombings in Homs and Damascus on Sunday.

Obasanjo condemns Ugandan election

O

LUSEGUN Obasanjo, former Nigerian president and leader of the Commonwealth observer delegation to the Ugandan presidential election, has criticised the exercise.

Obasanjo, whose team had 11 members and Amos Wako of Kenya as the vice president, said the poll “fell short of meeting some key democratic benchmarks”. He said he observed infringement on freedom of assembly and movement, as well as stifling of campaign of opposition candidates.

Before the election, Obasanjo had promised to report his findings

“without fear or favour”, saying: “As observers, we hope to see a transparent and credible election process.

Our eyes are open, and we will report what we see without fear or favour.

"Our assessment will be our own, and we will aim to be as constructive as possible.” On Saturday, Yoweri Museveni won a fifth term in office in an election described by international electoral observers as lacking in transparency.

He polled 60.75 percent of the votes to defeat his closest rival, Kizaa Besigye, who polled 35 percent of the votes.

More than 250,000 Syrians have died in the conflict which began in March 2011.

Some 11 million others have been forced from their homes, of whom four million have fled abroad including growing numbers who are making the dangerous journey to Europe.

The joint Russian-US statement said the truce applied to “those parties to the Syrian conflict that have indicated their commitment to and acceptance of its terms”.

This excluded IS, Nusra and “other terrorist organisations designated by the UN.” Air strikes by Syria, Russia and the US-led coalition against these groups would continue, the statement read.

It said that armed opposition groups taking part would have to confirm their participation by midday on 26 February.

Russian and Syrian planes would halt any attacks on the armed opposition groups.

Obama to honour Nigerian scientist, 104 others

D

EJI Akinwande, a professor at the University of Texas, Austin, is one Nigerian scaling hurdles, pushing boundaries and breaking stereotypes.

Akinwande has been identified by President Barack Obama, as one of the recipients of “the highest honour bestowed by the US government for science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers.”

Cameron warns against leaving EU

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AVID Cameron has warned that leaving the European Union “could hurt working people for years to come” as he put the case for staying in the EU to MPs. He said the choice was between an “even greater Britain”bystayingin,ora“leap into the dark” by exiting.

There were thinly veiled swipes at Boris Johnson, including the PM ruling out the idea of a second referendum. More than 100 Conservative MPs want to leave the EU, including some ministerssatalongsidethePM in the Commons.

Alongside 104 researchers, he will receive the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers in Washington DC later in the year.

“These early-career scientists are leading the way in our efforts to confront and understand challenges from climate

change to our health and wellness,” Obama said while announcing the winners.

Continuing, he said: “We congratulate these accomplished individuals and encourage them to continue to serve as an example of the incredible promise and ingenuity of the American people.”

Saudi Arabia: 32 Shia muslims on trial for spying for Iran

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AUDI Arabia has put on trial 32 people, almost all of them members of the kingdom’s Shia minority, accused of spying for Iran, local media reports.

The defendants face charges including treason, establishing a spy ring with Iranian intelligence and passing on sensitive data on military zones.

Most of the 32 are from Saudi Arabia’s restive Eastern Province, with one an Iranian national and another an Afghan.

Tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran have escalated in recent weeks.

Saudi Arabia broke off diplomatic relations with Iran in early January following the storming of its embassy in Tehran by protesters angered by the execution of a prominent

Saudi Shia cleric and three other Shia.

Saudi officials insisted Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr was guilty of terrorism offences, but Iran’s supreme leader said he had been executed solely for his criticism of the Sunni monarchy.

The defendants who went on trial at the Specialised Criminal Court in the capital Riyadh on Sunday were detained in 2013, Saudi media reported.

They include several well-known figures in the Shia community who are not involved in politics, including an elderly university professor, a paediatrician, a banker and two clerics, according to the Reuters news agency.

Salesians of Don Bosco partner VIS to tackle illegal migration

By Vera SamuelAnyagafu & Prisca SamDuru

I

NTERNATIONAL migration is a global phenomenon that is growing in scope, complexity and impact.

People keep moving around, with several and various motivations. Global mobility is rising, making migration more complex, with serious impacts on migrants, their families, their countries and the host countries.

All these have contributed to international migration becoming a priority for the international community, one of the most important issues in the world, both nationally and internationally.

This phenomenon of migrations affects, worries and destabilizes the political and public opinion of the entire world as well as Nigeria. Trafficking in human beings is the business of the horror that always revolves around the phenomenon of illegal immigration; abandonment at sea of boats that ferry the migrants towards the Italian coast, is just the latest.

As part of efforts to stop the ugly trend, a group known as Salesians of Don Bosco and International Voluntary Service (VIS) are currently working out modalities to implement the project “Preventing Illegal Migration and Human Trafficking in Nigeria”.

International migration The Director, Project and Development of Salesians of Don Bosco, Rev. Fr. James Ekanem spoke on the group’s commitment to address issues of international migration, preventing and combating human trafficking and illegal migration, among others.

He said, “The overall objective of this project is to enhance the capacity of the Government of Nigeria in preventing and combating human trafficking and illegal migration in order to maximise the development potential of the migrant and to create a single framework, common to all subjects and institutions (stakeholders) operating in the target areas in order to take joint action to address the problem at the root.

The Specific Objectives are to create through adhoc projects, socio-economic conditions that can help to counteract and/or to reduce the underlying motivations

of the individual and family migration. The primary target group of the program will consist of children and young people, so as to limit the phenomenon of Unaccompanied Migrant Minors and to increase the effectiveness of development projects on a personal basis e.g. through training, guidance and inclusion in the formal and informal labour market, start-up of income-generating activities, of microenterprises, etc.

He hinted that the programs are centred on promoting the value of life through “Don Bosco Life Choices”, “Youth For Life and Advocacy Programme”, promoting social justice through our gender equality by making sure girls are involved in our education policy, qualitative and skilled education that empowers young people through our

Technical Schools and Institute of Technology (Jobitech) It is also committed towards the integral transformation of children and young people who are victims of ethnic and religious conflicts, widespread poverty and abuse of human rights into i n t e l l e c t u a l , knowledgeable, skilful and competent individuals, morally upright, socially committed and spiritually inspired citizens imbued with authentic Nigerian values at the service of Nigeria and the world today and tomorrow. With the mission to educate, train, form, inspire, promote the 3S (selfsufficiency, self reliance and self employed) among youths for a productive transition into adulthood, the group is set to empower young people towards human, social and spiritual growth in line with the goals of the ICD.

38—Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

leakages from unmaintained oil and gas pipelines, agricultural chemicals and fertilizers, mining activities which release a lot of toxic chemicals like mercury; oil/gas exploration, emissions into the air, infiltration in ground and surface water; all combine to make water unfit for human consumption. Also, e-waste, including plastics, cadmium, arsenic and lead pollute the environment. When you burn refuse, you are creating dioxin and furan,” he said.

Modern technology/ICT

*From left front row: Prof. Babajide Alo (DVC, Academics & Research); Prof. Oladele Osibanjo (Keynote speaker); Prof Duro Oni (DVC, Mgmt Services) 4th left and others at the conference.

More people die from polluted water than from all forms of violence — Forum

By Ebele Orakpo

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LOBALLY, two million tons of sewage, industrial and agricultural waste is discharged into the world’s waterways. At least 1.8 million children under five years die yearly from water-related diseases (one every 20 seconds.)

Over 50% of world’s hospital deaths are occupied with people suffering from illnesses related to contaminated water and more people die as a result of polluted water than are killed by all forms of violence including Boko Haram.”

This was the submission of Prof. Oladele Osibanjo, keynote st speaker at the 1 International Chemistry Conference held at the University of Lagos last week.

Addressing participants at the event, the CEO of Jawura Environmental Services Ltd, noted that although chemicals are part of the problem, they are also part of the solution.

According to him, “About 71% of the earth surface is covered by water and about 1% of this is fresh water. Much of this fresh water is not fit for use due to polluting anthropogenic activities. So only about 1% of the world’s fresh water is easily accessible but it is not evenly distributed around the world and therefore we have vulnerable groups who cannot have access to this water.”

He disclosed that increasing demand for clean fresh water caused by continued population growth, C M Y K

urbanization, rapid industrialization and expanding and intensifying food production, are all putting pressure on water resources and increasing the unregulated or illegal discharge of contaminated water within and beyond our national boundaries.

Sustainable development Defining sustainable development as development without disruption, Osibanjo asked: “As people who live in UNILAG, is the lagoon near you cleaner now than when you came in 30, 40 years ago?

All the wastes from the laboratories and elsewhere go in there."

He noted that “1.6 billion people lived in water-stressed areas in 1995 and 2.8 - 6.9

billion people are projected to be in water-stressed areas by 2050.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) raised an alarm a couple of years ago that the next world war will be caused by water scarcity with countries going to war over access to fresh water resources.”

Osibanjo who spoke on: Chemicals and waste contaminants in water; Challenges to sustainable development, highlighted various human activities that pollute the waterways.

“Overland flow, refuse disposal, industrial effluents, vandalisation of pipelines,

Lagos Assembly vows to ensure completion of Lagos HOMS Projects

By EBUN SESSOU

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Childhood lead exposure is estimated to contribute about 600,000 new cases of children with intellectual disability every year

“The birth of ICT is a sweet and sour story. These products contain a lot of hazardous wastes - heavy metals, organic pollutants etc, and we just dump them. When you turn on your mobile phone or computer 24/7, it gets hot but does not catch fire because the plastic has been impregnated with magnesium flame retardant.

“When you burn them, you release these cankerworms into the environment, polluting it. When you get exposed to flame retardants and e-plastics in electronic waste, you have a lot of health disorders like cancer, goitre and even diminished intelligence.

“Today, four-year-olds are having cancer and we attribute it to wicked people or spiritual attack. These are some of the problems when we don’t take science into consideration.

Nigeria is the e-waste capital of Africa, generating 1.1 million metric tons of e-waste per annum.

He said when cattle graze around such places and people eat the meat, the chemicals get into the body system and the environment "and we become endangered.

In the US, it was noticed that

traffic policemen were more aggressive than other policemen because of the fumes they inhale while on duty.

The World Bank in 1991, warned that at least 60% of Nigerians die from waterrelated diseases. I am not sure if that has changed because not many people have access to clean water. Most rivers are not drinkable, non-fishable and non-swimmable."

Questions: "How many of our pipelines still contain lead? How many children get exposed to lead?

Some children misbehave and we blame it on poor upbringing; lead exposure may be the cause. So there are a lot of things for scientists to unravel to help the environment. Childhood lead exposure is estimated to contribute about 600,000 new cases of children with intellectual disability every year," Osibanjo said, regretting that a litre of petrol costs about N86.00 while a litre of clean bottled water, is aboutN200 "so it is cheaper to fuel your car in Nigeria than to drink water; something is wrong. We have polluted the waterways so we have to pay more."

In his welcome address, the LOC chairman, Prof. Oluwole Familoni said the forum was for both staff and students to present their works annually.

“It is also a forum that will bring together international figures from different parts of the world to give our students an opportunity to see what reputable people are doing.”

The event with the theme: Chemical Sciences Solutions to global challenges, attracted the crème-de-la crème of UNILAG, students as well as international scholars including Prof. Olayinka Asekun, Head of Chemistry Department.

HE Lagos State House of Assembly through its Committee on Housing has said that it will ensure the completion of Home Ownership Mortgage Scheme (HOMS) projects embarked upon by the immediate past administration in order to provide accommodation for its teeming population.

This was disclosed during a two-week oversight function of the committee recently.

Among the areas visited were Amuwo Odofin, Mushin, Gbadaga as well as Ilupeju Lagos HOMS project sites.

Speaking during the visit, the committee chairman, Olanrewaju Layode, said the committee decided to embark on the oversight function to address the complaints of some of the recipients of the ambitious projects and see the progress made so far by the Ministry of Housing and the contractors handling the

projects.

According to him, the oversight function is part of the efforts made by the legislators to ensure dividends of democracy are extended to the citizenry, adding that although, there is tremendous progress on the project, there is room for improvement.

On the procedures for occupation, he said, there is need to complete the agreement with the contractors in terms of payment before it is leased out. He also noted that the petition that had earlier been submitted by some Lagos residents through the Consumer Protection Agency will be looked into.

On the Gbagada Lagos HOMS estate, Layode expressed his dissatisfaction and noted that the committee would look into the situation.

“We will call on the Ministry of Housing to explain what really happened in Gbagada. We will call on the concerned individuals before we write our reports,” he said.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 39

Stakeholders solicit cooperation for Abule-Egba flyover bridge construction

By Kingsley Adegboye

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TAKEHOLDERS who gathered at a meeting for the construction of a flyover bridge at Ebule-Egba in Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos last week, have called for cooperation between the host communities and Messrs.

Craneburg Construction Company, contractor handling the reinforced concrete dual carriageway flyover for successful completion of the project expected to be completed in 16

months.

The project is a grade separation system consisting of two-lane dual carriageway reinforced concrete flyover bridge and two-lane roads on either side of the grade with signalized intersection. The project is aimed at reducing traffic gridlock at Abule-Egba/ Oja-Oba junction, reduce travel time, improve road connectivity as well as improve socioeconomic activities along Lagos/ Abeokuta Expressway.

The scope of work include earthworks, flyover structure

consisting of bridge and retaining walls, construction of asphalt concrete pavement, provision and installation of street lighting and

The project is a grade separation system consisting of two-lane dual carriageway...and two-lane roads

Environmental sanitation: Rotary club of Ikeja donates materials to Ipodo market

service duct, traffic signal light as well as construction of drains and culverts.

Speaking at the stakeholders’ meeting that had in attendance government officials, political leaders, Royal fathers, Religious leaders, market women, political groups, representatives of National Union of Road Transport Workers as well as youth leaders, Lagos state Commissioner for Works & Infrastructure, Ganiyu Johnson, an engineer, said the reason for the meeting was to let communities from Abule-Egba, Agege, Ifako-Ijaiye, Ojokoro and Alimosho areas witness the take off of the flyover project.

Johnson stated that before now, the government was aware of the problem of gridlock at the

By Kingsley Adegboye

I

N a bid to curtail the spreading cases of diseases like Lassa fever and Zika virus in its community, the Rotary Club of Ikeja, a humanitarian organisation, last week donated environmental sanitation and cleaning materials worth several thousands of naira to Obada Ipodo market, Ikeja, Lagos.

Mr. Tosin Kadiri, President, Rotary Club of Ikeja, while speaking before the presentation of the items, said the gesture was borne out of a need assessment carried out in the market, which revealed the absence of refuse disposal bins and a refuse collection centre for refuse disposal in the market, adding that such donations are part of the culture of his club.

According to him, the recent out break of LASSA and Zika disease calls for serious concern to all especially when the World Health Organisation stated that about 2.4 billion people globally live under highly unsanitary conditions, pointing out that poor hygienic behaviours has led to high exposure risks of incidence and spread of infectious diseases as being witnessed today.

Disease free environment He said the club in its efforts to compliment the government in achieving disease free environment decided to donate the environmental sanitation materials to the market such as large waste bins, rakes, brushes, nose covers and other cleaning materials.

“We are mindful of the challenges and

President, Rotary Club of Ikeja, Mr. Tosin Kadiri (2nd left), members of the club with market men and women during the presentation of the materials. the council in order to mitigate environmental issues with disease. the shortages and prevent diseases spreading all over According to him, the council p u p i l s the place because of filthy in furtherance of this f r o m environments, which is awareness recently undertook going breeding rats and other the fumigation of Computer as far as rodents. We decided to Village to get rid of rats in the Ogba embark on the exercise assist market. He thanked the club for their the market people cope with for its over 20 years of education. the situation”, Kadiri said. partnership in the council as Receiving the materials on well as expanding the behalf of the Iyaloja of the programme to Ipodo market, the Secretary General market.Ebuloku however of the market, Mr. Bamidele stressed the need for more Green expressed gratitude to government partnership with the Rotary Club of Ikeja for the club in the area of building coming to their aid in tackling more primary schools and sanitation problems in the junior secondary schools in market. In his remarks, the representative of the Executive Secretary of Ikeja Local Government Area, Dr. Mathew E b u l o k u commended the philanthropic gesture, stressing that the donation was in line with the council’s zero tolerance to HIV/ AIDS and Lassa disease as well as a furtherance of the awareness against the spreading of the

junction, and the pain people were going through, adding that in tackling the problem, governor Akinwunmi Ambode decided to award the contract for the construction of the flyover bridge.

Disclosing that this type of project usually comes with pains, he said it is to alleviate the suffering of the people while the project lasts that the government embarked on the rehabilitation of Ogundele Road, Ekoro Road, adding that as the project progresses, more inner roads within the project axis will be opened up to reduce traffic from Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway.

Urging the people to bear with the contractor over the hardship they will go through in the course of the project, the commissioner also urged the people to cooperate with the contractor for successful completion of the project.

Johnson who disclosed that the flyover bridge will be managed by traffic light, told the contractor to patronise people from the host communities for the supply of materials such as sand, granite, cement, iron rods and others for them to have sense of belonging in their communities.

In his contribution, Mr. Abiodun Tobu, Chairman, Committee on Works, Lagos House of Assembly, while congratulating the host communities for the laudable project, said “What we want from you, is your cooperation with the contractor in the course of the project. My appeal to you is to give the contractor maximum cooperation and bear with the contractor while the project is in progress”. Mr. Bisi Yusuf, representing Alimosho Federal Constituency, said “This is the dream of the people of Alimosho Local Government Area because we have the highest number of votes at every governorship election in the state.

40—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

PATRONAGE: Local auto assemblers plead with govt •As Ben Bruce calls for support

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TAKEHOLDERS in the automotive industry have urged government to ensure it supports local auto assemblers by way of patronising their products and services, just as Senator Ben Murray-Bruce called for total support for made in Nigeria automobiles.

Senator Bruce explained that he was campaigning for local manufacturers because of the industry's importance to the nation's economy, adding that he had on his own purchased some units of locally assembled vehicles from Innonson Motors.

Speaking in Lagos on his 60th birthday party, Bruce commended the introduction of the ‘Made in Nigeria’ Innoson cars, disclosing, however, that he has already bought three of the cars at the cost of N3.6m each, with about 50 senators following in his footsteps by placing orders for some of the cars too.

On different occasions, the stakeholders reasoned that since government is a major purchaser of brand new vehicles, a deliberate policy to direct its orders from local auto assemblers would go a long way in ensuring the success of the new auto policy.

It would be recalled that when the National Auto Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) was introduced in 2013, some auto companies were forced to set up

porters of Fully Built Up FBU vehicles.

Oseme noted that the “budget as it is today does not have policy measures to discourage importation of used cars”, which is a major step towards making a success of the revised auto policy.

Auto industry analyst, Dr. Oscar Odiboh, bemoaned the sorry state of the auto industry, even as he noted that Innoson Motors is only one of the many auto companies that are down-sizing staff.

He said: “The reality on ground is affecting everybody. I know of a company that has sacked half of its work force, some others are busy converting staff from full time employment to contract staff, even when it is against the labour law to do so.

•Engr. Aminu Jalal, DG, National Automotive Design and Development Council, NADDC plants, with PAN Kaduna re-investing in its plant. VON, Lagos and Innoson in Nnewi were the other two prominent names that made headlines. PAN started the production of 301 and 508 sedans and luxury sedans respectively, while Innoson produces IVM 6490, an SUV and IVM 500 bus among others.

Chairman, Automobile and Allied Sectoral Group of the Lagos

Chamber of Commerce and Industries, LCCI, Dr. Oseme Oigiagbe, noted that though low patronage was a factor adversely affecting the local auto industry, the foreign exchange crunch is also a major issue.

He called on government to encourage local auto assemblers through the 2016 budget by way of ensuring that they are given priority in patronage against im-

Local auto sector "When government says companies should not down size, how do you want them to pay their staff when you don’t buy vehicles from them?” he asked.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Guild of Motoring Correspondents, GMC, a pressure group in the local auto sector, Mr. Frank Kintum reasoned that the auto industry plays very important roles in the economy of any country.

According to him, the Federal Government should at all times pay premium attention on issues affecting the industry as “a healthy auto industry serves as a catalyst for the growth of all other sectors, aside its contribution to the GDP.” Kintum said: “Don’t forget that in Nigeria, we rely heavily on road transportation for both passenger and cargo movements. Hence, it is only reasonable that the government takes more seriously the implementation of the auto policy so that the country benefits in terms of value added while making use of this means of transportation. We commend the National Assembly for its promise to patronise Innoson vehicles, but it should also consider other local auto assemblers.

The importance of the auto industry cannot be over-emphasised, as it is a major employer of labour, significant contributor to GDP, as well as a chief facilitator of technology transfer among others.

According to the International Organisation of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (IOMVN), the auto industry is the greatest engine of economic growth, just as the industry is a key sector of the economy of all major powers in the world.

FAW J5 Tipper takes construction sites by storm

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HE FAW truck J5 Tipper models-290/340 are no doubt among the best in their segments but not much is yet known about the vehicles which are assembled in Nigeria by Perfection Motor Limited at the company’s facility located in Ikeja, Lagos.

The J5 tipper models have carved a niche for themselves in many countries before entering the Nigerians market FAW J5 Tipper is at home on construction sites, offering more power, payload weight and torque than most other tippers in its category in the Nigerian market.

Simple technology The FAW J5 Tipper comes with simple technology that makes it easy to be on the road without eating deep into the owner’s pocket.

Apart from the fact that FAW tipper and other FAW trucks are assembled in Nigeria, which makes availability of parts and maintenance very easy, FAW C M Y K

tippers boast the best in class buckets which take a heavier load, quality clutch and double coin radial tyres.

As a leading vehicle in its class, FAW tipper comes either with Fuller 9js135, 9 forward, one reverse, or RTD-115 09C, 9 forward, one reverse transmission system. Unlike its competitors that come with complicated technology, which make maintenance very difficult, FAW tipper comes with Euro 2 technology which Nigerian technicians are very used to.

General Manager of Perfection Motors Company Limited, Mr. Adrian Fourie said “we decided to retain the Euro 2 engine arrangement as the mechanical injector pump and injectors are easier and more cost effective to maintain, repairs can be done along the road without the need for computerised diagnostic equipment.

According to him, FAW Tippers and range of trucks are money making machines and will always make a return on investment. Dealership network, according to him, are to be

•FAW J5 Tipper established in Kano, Kaduna, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

With 6x4 drive type and 32000 kg GVW, FAW tipper stands out among the competition while delivering between 290 horsepower to 340 horsepower.

Built for all terrains, the FAW tipper is equipped with FAW 457 percussion welding rear axle while delivering maximum torque of 1350/1200-1600 Nm/r/ min, which is very impressive.

Another advantage of FAW tipper is its suspension which is

the flat spring type while type of cad lifting mechanism is manual hydraulic, enhancing it's road handling and adaptability to different terrains. It comes in a single cab.

FAW J5 Tipper is cab is flat roof, semi-floating cab with new designed interior while its fuel tank of 400 litres is suitably made to execute the tasks at construction sites and extending the refuelling intervals. Taking into congnisance the impressive features of FAW, it was no surprise that FAW branded trucks are selling fast to con-

struction companies, haulage operators and companies in the general road transport business.

Perfection Motors Company Limited, as the official representative of FAW in Nigeria, has in stock three different models of the FAW brand-the J6 tractor head, J5 tractor head and the J5 tipper.

FAW Group is a global leader in the vehicle manufacturing industry with a 60-year history of innovation. Founded in 1953, FAW employs 120,000 people around the world and sells products in over 70 countries.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 41

By Theodore Opara

Jaguar Land Rover siblings dominate nomination for World Car Award J a

AGUAR Land Rover has secured an impressive six nominations at the prestigious 2016 World Car Awards, including two for the ultimate prize.

The Jaguar XE sports saloon and Land Rover Discovery Sport premium compact SUV are among the finalists vying for the coveted title of 2016 World Car of the Year and are both finalists in the World Car Design of the Year category.

Recently, these two models were also honoured as finalists in the South African Car of the Year competition, for which a winner will be announced in March.

In addition, the all-new Jaguar XF saloon has been nominated in the World Luxury Car category and the Range Rover Sport SVR – the fastest and most powerful Range Rover – is the sole SUV representative in the World Performance Car category.

refined Ingenium diesel engine and lightweight construction contribute to fuel efficiency of up to 4.2 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions as low as 109g/km. Land Rover Discovery Sport is the world’s most capable and versatile compact

SUV, combining a bold and progressive exterior design with practical 5+2 seating.

“Jaguar Land Rover’s commitment to design and engineering excellence is recognised and acknowledged across the globe,” said Finbar

McFall, Jaguar Land Rover Global Product Marketing Director. He added, “these nominations provide further proof, if it were needed, that we are building highly desirable vehicles that can compete with the very best our industry has

to offer.”

The World Car Awards has a 73-strong jury of international automotive journalists with finalists across five categories selected by secret ballot.

Three shortlisted vehicles in each category will be revealed at the Geneva International Auto Show on 1 March 2016 before the winners are announced at a prize-giving ceremony at the New York International Auto Show on 24 March 2016.

•Jaguar Sport car

Brilliant achievement “Jaguar and Land Rover are enduring British brands that have never been stronger or more popular", said British journalist Mike Rutherford, the director and vice chairman of the awards. “For Jaguar Land Rover to have secured six nominations across four categories is a brilliant achievement. No other automotive manufacturing group has so many finalists at the 2016 World Car Awards,” he added.

The Jaguar XE is the first mid-size saloon to feature an aluminium-intensive architecture and is the most aerodynamic Jaguar ever made. Its drag coefficient of 0.26, clean,

Autoredo: We provide complete auto solutions A UTOREDO, a frontline trader in the automotive business with presence in Europe and the Middle East, is set to make its impact more felt in the Nigerian market with its offering of passenger and commercial vehicles as well as genuine spare parts.

Speaking in Lagos recently, a Business Development official of the company, Anthony Onyeakazi stated “we are automobile providers of all kinds, ranging from passenger vehicles to commercial vehicles, industrial equipment and spare parts with head office in Bel-

gium”.

He added that the Dubai office is fully fortified to cater for the needs of the Middle East and Africa market. Beyond Nigeria, he said his company has a strong presence in African countries like Angola, Mozambique, Somalia, Ethiopia etc.

Onyeakazi further explained, “we are very strong in auto conversions such as ambulances, municipality waste vehicles, agricultural vehicles, military vehicles, police vehicles and other special purpose vehicles."

Autoredo, he added, has a stock of over 800 vehicles

which helps us meet the immediate needs of fleet buyers.

“So, we don’t have issues when it comes to stock, we have the capacity to meet volume orders,” he said.

On the Nigerian market, he said “ we are constantly expanding our frontiers in the Nigerian market, we deal mainly with fleet buyers and corporate organisations, we are renewing our interest in the Nigerian market which has huge population”. He added that “as a Nigerian, I also want to ensure the country benefits from the products and services of-

Automedics provides interactive platform for motorists

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UTOMEDICS has p i o n e e r e d Nigeria’s first 24/7 Interactive Voice Response (IVR) service to support motorists and technicians who need help in respect of the vehicular assets in their custody.

The group said at the launch that “because all the hundreds or thousands of calls to this T1 line, which you can test immediately, 01-440-66-66 (this is a line that will accommodate 140 callers simultaneously), will be initiated by motorists and mechanics; there can be no better platform to target adverts (like car loans, vehicle insurance, lubricants and other auto products/services) to

(L-R) Autimedics MD/CEO Kunle Shonaike with COO, Gbola Oba.

automobile-using/dependent end users than this innovative IVR service.”

Automedics Ltd is a wellknown value-adding agent to motorists and practitioners of the automotive maintenance/

repair industry in Nigeria; especially through our popular live and interactive automobilesolution-providing radio programme, through which thousands of motorists in Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Ilorin

and Abeokuta (these are the cities where the Automedics radio show is broadcast daily or thrice weekly) and auto technicians weekly get help to resolve problems afflicting vehicles in their possession.

"To place conventional audio advert(s)/jingle(s) of your business to the hearing of the thousands of motorists that will call into the IVR service from its launch on the 3rd week of January, 2016, or get a speciallybranded corporatesponsored FREE call option integrated for your brand in the IVR architecture, kindly let us arrange a meeting to that effect," said, the Chief Operating Officer of the company, Gbola Oba.

fered by Autoredo.

He noted that the auto industry in Nigeria is not fully tapped and it needs more players to be able to meet the demand. "We have done a research on the Nigerian market and we know that the market is price sensitive, and Nigerians have special taste for automobiles,” he said.

On what makes his company stand, he said: “We stand out because of the quality of services we offer our customers, our stock level is very high and we can meet any volume of orders.

We also have strong delivery and logistics network from Dubai, Europe and Far East Asia.

Speaking on spare parts, the Autoredo man says “we provide only OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) parts, and we can deliver immediately if an order is placed via air freighting or water transport. Genuine spare parts have pass numbers, so we don’t deal in anything else.”

Autoredo Middle East, based in Dubai, UAE, which feeds the Nigerian market, is the market leader for export of Japanese, Korean, American, German and European vehicles and their genuine parts.

The company provides a large number of original brands under one roof with personalized 24/7 service along with highly competitive prices and is currently exporting to over 50 countries worldwide from Dubai for the past twenty five years, and has developed a reputation for quality products and competitive pricing.

42—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

I saw was against my character, I was quick to tell my friends so two years after I left as a minister, I knew my spirit was never in PDP, I never attended any of their meetings since 2012, so it was obvious for PDP that I was exiting and I was just watching events and noting the weak points of that administration in terms of my security because lot of things happened to me between 2012 and 2014; a lot of things happened, I became a target.

Given your background in the NNPC, what is your take on suggestions of corruption in the corporation and what is your assessment of the anti-graft war of the government?

I am proud of the staff of NNPC, especially those who are in these operations departments. I equally know that there are some bad eggs, especially in the PPMC side of it.

GODFATHERISM IN EDO:

Oshiomhole won’t spoil his name — OGIEMWONYI ENGR. Chris Ogiemwonyi, erstwhile minister of state for works is one of the governorship aspirants on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Edo State. In this interview he reviews the political developments in the state and his objective in the contest. Excerpts:

Oil and gas expert

•Ogiemwonyi: I joined the APC when PDP was still very strong

By Mike Ebonugwo

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HAT informed your decision to venture into politics?

If you look at the records in the federal service in terms deliverables, it is evident that having served our country at the level I did, putting 34 years into the federal service and it is acclaimed generally that I did pretty well, the next obvious thing is to bring my expertise to serve at the state level. So, I am encouraged to give back to my people all I acquired at the centre.

Do you genuinely consider yourself sufficiently qualified to succeed the incumbent who many believe will be leaving a big shoe for his successor?

No doubt the ComradeGovernor has done well, especially against the backdrop of where he met the state when they came on board.

Strong credentials He is going to leave huge landmark and whoever succeeds him equally has to be a man of same character with extra to offer.

How do you intend to weather the storm likely to be engendered by the public declaration of your ambition and what are your chances?

If you look at the people and the aspirants today, I am happy to see a good number of them have very strong credentials; that they are equally very capable. I am happy that for the first time Edo State will be fielding their first eleven, a couple of them are my friends. You know, I see about two or three that have the same type of credentials I am bringing

on board. Again, among these equals you still have a captain you know in terms of who you are in terms of acceptability. So rivalry will be there but again the people will equally make a decision that out of every number one will still have to lead and the rivalry is good for electioneering as long as it is done without thuggery, without fighting and you allow a level playing field.

But where people will be uncomfortable is when you notice there is undue favouritism, undue interference and I think that is what we should say no to.

So, what is your stance on rumours that Governor Oshiomhole has hand-picked a successor?

Oshiomhole is one man who fought godfatherism; he is an apostle of good governance, he is an apostle of one-man-one vote. Oshiomhole is one of the reasons why I joined APC because he has some characters similar to mine, one of them is being very courageous. I don’t

Oshiomhole is one man who fought godfatherism; he is an apostle of good governance, he is an apostle of oneman-one vote.

Oshiomhole is one of the reasons why I joined APC

think he will do it because he fought those who were godfathers to give light to this state. He made a name through that one-man-one vote mantra, I don’t think too soon he will jump ship to now start saying a different thing. Of course, people are now saying this is what he is doing, the man is too fine to do that. Again, Oshiomhole has one vote, the people are more, the people will use their franchise to vote the persons they want.

Some allege that you are a fair weather politician on account of your defection from the PDP? I joined the APC when PDP was still very strong. I joined APC in 2014 with a PDP president in Abuja. Don’t forget they would have taken life out of me if they had wanted but it gets to a point in a man’s life to take some crucial

decisions. The day I joined APC, I remembered I received about three phone calls from three federal ministers asking me: ‘Chris my brother, this is a very big risk you have taken; our guys are not happy’. But I tell you one thing, I believe in myself, I believe in destiny, that what I will be I will be and one day I will die, so in terms of being called a fair weather friend, I am not. I joined the PDP when I left NNPC after my retirement; I worked with the government at the centre as a staff of NNPC, I had good relationship with the PDP that was the government we were serving. However, I saw the dirty dealing in the party, I saw the opaqueness of the party, I saw the high level of impunity in the party, I saw the highest level of corruption in the party and what

The truth is that the problem of NNPC was that of leadership, the last six years that they worked under President Jonathan, Diezani ruined that company.

She was madly in charge. As an architect, she never worked as an engineer anywhere, she was just a maintenance staff. So, without the in-depth experience of being an oil and gas expert, she wanted to be on the driver seat.

For the second question you asked about the anti-corruption crusade of the Federal Government, when the President was coming in I said one thing, this is one man I have worked with as a very young engineer when he came into the Ministry in 1975/76.

It is not a tea party to probe or to look into activities done years ago but let’s look at the last seven to eight years in order to track down the criminals. The anticorruption should equally beam their search lights into all the various MDAs.

How Buhari can rescue the naira — Iwata, VP, S-South Chambers of Commerce CHIEF David Iwata is the President of Sapele Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Deputy President South South Chambers of Commerce and Industry. In this interview he bares his mind on the state of the nation and proffers solution to Nigeria’s socio-economic and political challenges.

Excerpts:

By Godwin Oghre The Naira is a critical aspect of our economy .The major problem OW will you react to claims of the country is on the exchange in some quarters that the value of our currency against President is slow? others .The naira value shall be Nigerians describing the in the region of N400 to N500 president to be slow are myopic, to a dollar very soon. impatient and full of ignorance.

What do you think should be Their reflection does put into done to remedy the situation? consideration the depth of By deliberate and urgent destruction and corruption by sustainable non-oil export past governments even before campaign and huge capital 1999. injection that must be borrowed What is your take on the by the federal government and nation’s currency? the State governments for further

H

on-lending to the private sector of every State, particularly to those involved in exports. If the federal and State governments embark on this, will be the saving grace for the naira to gather strength to make it achieve an appreciation against other currencies.

What about petroleum?

The Federal Government must encourage massive processing of refined petroleum products through availability of modular refineries, particularly for pms, diesel and kerosene because the dollar is heavily depleted by the input of refined petroleum products.

The federal government should

Continues on page 43

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—43

Lalong’s housekeeping methods on the plateau stressing they will focus on agriculture, tourism and mining as well as intensify efforts on investment to create employment.

Reading the communiqué on behalf of the participants, the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mr. Rufus Bature added that Government will continue to work and improve its collaboration with development partners for the good of the State.

He said, “In view of the dwindling resources, government agencies must look inward to expand the sources and amount of IGR. Three key areas of comparative advantage namely; agriculture, tourism and mining will be focused on.

“Investment will be intensified to create employment, boost its revenue base for sustainable development. To succeed in the implementation of the five-point Policy Thrust, we will work towards a robust relationship with the Legislative arm of government.

GOVERNOR Lalong is applying every rule in the book to navigate the difficult economic challenges of governance.

By Marie-Therese Nanlong IKE many of the other 35 governors in the country, Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has been worried by the seeming paucity of funds to carry out his promises to the electorate. What may, however, be separating him from the pack is his seemingly innovative approach to the challenges.

Though a lawyer, his first approach was to adopt common housekeeping techniques including cutting down on cost of governance.

The governor initially delayed the appointment of the full complement of political officers as he only appointed a few officials including the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, Director of Press and a sprinkling of other essential aides.

He, however, delayed the appointment of commissioners until more than six months after his inauguration.

Having finally appointed the 17 Commissioners, streamlining the Ministries and providing them with the latest model of Ford vehicles; the Governor still insists that the State is in dire need of funds explaining that the allocation from the federation account is getting lower each month hence the need to look inward and seek new ways of improving the internally generated revenue.

To make the message sink in, the State Government in collaboration with the German International Corporation, GIZ

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organized a four-day retreat for members of the State Executive Council and other government officials to impress on them the need to deliver effective service in an era of dwindling resources and maximally improve on the IGR. The retreat held at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru saw participants being exposed to ways of governance with limited resources and Resource Persons like the Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi among others sharing their experiences in governance.

Addressing the participants at the opening ceremony of the event, the State Governor, Simon Lalong tasked them to hit the ground running and engage in critical thinking which will ensure tangible and progressive development in the State.

Processes and procedures

•Lalong: Cutting cost of governance

The Rescue Administration in the State is taking one more step in her match towards bequeathing a durable and virile State to the next generation

Speaking on the theme of the Retreat tagged: “Delivering Effective Service in an Era of Dwindling Resources”, he urged them to key into his aim of creating enabling environment that will grow the State’s economy adding that the economic challenges have compelled the Government to see ahead, look ahead, prepare ahead and be ahead, if they

How Buhari can rescue the naira — Iwata Continues from page 42 make sure that all exports of crude oil are done by Nigerian ship owners so that the earning for operating our crude oil outside our shore should flow into Nigeria.

What will you comment on the forex market?

The Central Bank should without delay allow non-oil exporters to repatriate their export proceeds and sell to their own buyers at a rate to be determined between the buyer and the seller.

They should make a deliberate policy to allow banks to grant loans to entrepreneurs who have non-oil import projects without the stringent money deposit banks being asked to issue in return treasury bills of 100% of the amount they want to give to the importer. What we currently have now by CBN rule is that it is the commercials banks that are

bearing the consequences of lending to entrepreneurs instead of the CBN. As such about N300b made available for the banks for one year now has not been touched, the money is still with CBN. How will this affect the flow of imports and exports?

Imports are dwindling and exports are at zero point. The custom revenue target for 2015

is about N980b but they have a deficit of N240b.

The custom is attributing this to the policy of CBN placing a ban on the importation of 41 items, discouraging importers and encouraging exporters, a situation which creates employment for the citizen in other countries.

•Iwata: Nigerians describing the president to be slow are myopic

desire to make the kind of positive pact the government seeks to make.

According to him, “The Rescue Administration in the State is taking one more step in her match towards bequeathing a durable and virile State to the next generation. This can be achieved as we pursue the accomplishments of the goals we have set to achieve.

Tangible deliverables “Our success is a function of how informed we are of the policies, programmes and action plans of government, couple with our abilities to interpret and translate them into tangible deliverable for our people.

“The tangible and progressive development we seek demands continuous knowledge driven action, which saves cost and maximizes opportunities. Our economic challenges have compelled us to see ahead, look ahead, prepare ahead if we desire to make the kind of impact we seek.”

At the end of the retreat, the participants resolved to look inward and expand the sources and amount of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR of the State to improve on the dwindling resources accruable to the State.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the event, they highlighted the areas of focus in improving the State’s revenue

“The role of the Civil Service in the delivery of the five-point Policy Thrust is critical therefore, the reform of its processes and procedures become imperative.

Government will continue to work and improve its collaboration will development partners.”

The participants further resolved that the peace and security being the bedrock of development will be achieved and sustained and welfare of the citizens improved upon to arrest the decay and give everyone a sense of belonging.

However, the State Deputy Governor, Prof. Sonni Tyoden who declared the event closed called on the participants to examine their values, “be accountable to Government and God.” Meanwhile, the participants unanimously agreed thus, “We the members of the Plateau State Executive Council will be committed to; and be driven by the fear of God, accountability, integrity, innovation and harmonious coexistence of our people.

“We will strive to offer selfless and effective service to our people even in the face of dwindling resources and will remain focused on the development of the State in line with the five point policy thrust of the Rescue administration.”

Speaking on his experience at the event, the Senior Special Adviser to Governor on Media, Mr. Mark Longyen said “The retreat was apt and timely considering the current dwindling financial allocation from the federation account.

44—Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

Declare maternal, newborn and under-5 deaths national emergencies, FG told

By Sola Ogundipe

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OWARDS contributing to the economic growth, social and gender equity and democratic governance in the country, the Federal government has been urged to declare maternal, neonatal and under-5s deaths a national priority emergency and to urgently design an action plan to address the maladies.

Making the call, representatives of public and private sector stakeholders in health and development who gathered in Abuja for an inaugural Summit on accountability for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, RMNCAH, said that unless there is political will and priority among the local, state, and Federal governments, implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs, will remain unachievable.

The Summit titled: "Accountability Now: Advancing RMNCAH, was organised by the Federal Ministry of Health, and co-sponsored by Champions for Change based at the Public Health Institute; the Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria, HERFON, and Women Friendly Initiative.

Communique: In a jointly signed communiqué, participants noted that the national maternal mortality ratio of 576 deaths per 100,000 live births constitutes a national emergency.

Reproductive health needs They lamented that one out of every five Nigerian children dying before their fifth birthday is unacceptable and called on government at all levels to prioritise the reproductive health needs of women, children and the youths of Nigeria in her health agenda for 2016-2019. The Summit participants recommended, as deliberate government policy, domestication of the National Health Act nationwide, while allocating more fund to health, education and other social services.

"We leave with a renewed sense of commitment and joint accountability to achieve our goals of ensuring access to the full range of health services and supplies for sexual, reproductive maternal and adolescent youth health in Nigeria.

“We further commit to collaborate with the government and each other to share lessons on what works and what doesn’t to share our shared goals.”

Presenting the keynote ad-

Lagos, UNICEF launch VAC campaign Feb24

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SUMMIT:- From left: Dr. Emmanuel Abanida of the Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria, HERFON, and the National Programmed Manager, PATHS2, Mr. Mike Egboh, presenting the Summit Communique to Director, Dept of Family Health, Dr. Balami Wapada, during the RMNCAH Summit held last week in Abuja. dress while launching the global mobile “Da Subject Matter”, Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, who was represented by the Director, Department of Family Health, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Balami Wapada, admitted that the present maternal mortality indices provided by the 2013 National Demographic Health Survey, NDHS, was a far cry from the global target of 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030.

"We need to reduce this ratio by a minimum of 88 per cent in the next 15 years. Newborn mortality rate needs to be reduced by at

We need to reduce MMR by a minimum of 88 per cent in the next 15 years. Newborn mortality rate needs to be reduced by at least 68 percent and under-5 mortality rate by at least 80 percent

least 68 percent and under-5 mortality rate needs to be reduced by at least 80 percent.

"Although we were able to quickly contain the Ebola outbreak, our health system still needs more strengthening and we shall continue to strengthen the system. Adewole said government would integrate health services delivery/ monitoring and evaluate health services for availability, accessibility and quality in every setting.

AGOS State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode will be in attendance as the Lagos State government in collaboration with UNICEF launches the Lagos State Violence Against Children, VAC, campaign tomorrow February 24, 2016.

The event which holds at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island Lagos is in direct response to the Presidential Launch of the Year of Action to End Violence Against Children in September 2015.

Lagos is the first state to launch its own VAC priority response.

President Muhammed Buhari had called upon all states to launch their own priority actions to respond to the shocking findings from the Nigeria Violence Against Children Survey. Lagos State Priority Actions sets out the short-term and long-term strategies to be implemented by Lagos state in response to the findings of the VAC survey.

Also to grace the occasion is the UN Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) on Violence Against Children, Ms. Marta Santos Pais.

Others include UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Jean Gough; US Mission in Nigeria Dehab Ghebreab , among others.

KIDNEY DISEASE: Expert highlights preventive strategies are required.

"Pain killers should only be used when they are required.

For example when there is a case of surgery, fractures where they are recommended to kill the pains. There is also the need for people to test themselves when they are diagnosed of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity and once there is protein in the urine it is an indication that must not be swept under the carpet."

By Chioma Obinna

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ITH the rising incidences of kidney diseases among Nigerians, expert has warned against unnecessary use of pain killers, consumption of fatty foods and high intake of salt.

A Senior Consultant Nephrologist at the Transplant Institutes, Apollo Hospitals, India, Prof. Devendra Pumar Agarwal who was a guest lecturer at a 2-Day Continuing Medical Education, (CME) organised for Nigerian doctors in Lagos

by Apollo Hospitals, stressed the need for people to focus more on prevention of kidney disease than treatment and management of the disorder.

He said many patients die as a result of late presentation and lack of finance to facilitate prompt medical intervention.

Agarwal, an experienced

Prof. Devendra Pumar Agarwal Nephrologist, said controlling dietary lifestyles would go a long way in cutting down the number of Nigerians that comes down with the disease.

Emphasising the dangers in the abuse of pain killers, he explained that pain killers should be used only when they

Normal pains

“For normal pains like headache, leg pain among others, paracetamol should be enough to take care of the problems.

There is no need taking stronger pain killers.

If the pain is severe you can use tramadol.

To prevent the problem, Agarwal who has been involved in 3,000 kidney transplants, recommended the need for people to change their

lifestyles. "Today, all over the world, life is generally very stressful due to certain situation. Some say it is as a result of family disintegration, many families no longer live together and this has brought about stress. Smoking is directly link to lung cancer and other problems but now it is directly linked to kidney problems also.

So if you are a smoker stop it, reduce stress, go for morning walks, and take less salt and fat in your diets.

Speaking on the CME, Country Manager, Apollo Hospitals, Nigeria, Rakesh Jalla, said the programme was organised for Lagos doctors and non-doctors to highlight the problem as well as enlightened them on prevention strategies.

"We earlier planned for doctors but we decided to extend it to the general public by adding an extra day.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016—45

We did our best to save Charity Dazan — FMC

Let’s end silence on Endometriosis — ESGN

By Sola Ogundipe

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N line with its commitment to bring succour to women living with the challenge of Endometriosis in Nigeria and West Africa as a whole, the Endometriosis Support Group Nigeria, ESGN, has called for the breaking of the silence surrounding the disorder.

Speaking while briefing the media on the 2016 activities of the Group, Medical Director, Nordica Fertility centre, Lagos, Abuja & Asaba, Dr Abayomi Ajayi, said the most effective way to fight the scourge was to speak out.

He said endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb is found elsewhere – most commonly on the ovaries, in the recto-vaginal septum, bladder and bowel.

“That tissue behaves like the lining of the womb, bleeding every month, and can cause severe and chronic pain.

Explaining that this year’s theme is “End the Silence” Ajayi observed that any woman of reproductive age who is free of the trauma of endometriosis should count herself especially lucky and continue to count her blessings.

“Often dismissed as ‘ women’s troubles’, Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, yet a lack of research and funding means sufferers can live in severe pain, unable to work or socialize”.

He noted that the hidden toll and extraordinary neglect of the disease affects millions of women around the globe, causing many to suffer a life of pain and debilitation and sometimes infertility, and that many doctors and specialists do not know what it is.

“Each year we join our partners all over the world to wear yellow so our sisters, daughters, granddaughters and great granddaughters won’t have to suffer in silence. The journey is quite far but we are glad that the consciousness is increasing.

As part of activities for this year are the Endo Walk 2016 in Abuja and Lagos on the 18th of February and 5th of March 2016 respectively, followed by a Physician Roundtable comprising medical experts to discuss endometriosis with doctors in Nigeria on April 8, 2016 at the Civic Centre, Lagos. A fund raising/Endo Gala Night on April 9, 2016 will wrap up the activities.

By Gabriel Olawale

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HE management of the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Ebute – Metta, Lagos, has said the hospital did its best to resuscitate Charity Dazan, the final year student of Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, who was referred from the Yaba College of Technology Medical centre, on February 12, 2016.

Reacting to a position paper issued by the National Association of Polytechnic Students, NAPS, over the death of the student, FMC’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Harrison Etim, explained that efforts to resuscitate the patient proved abortive as she stop breathing

BRIEFING: From left: Ms Omolara Amubieya of CosseTTL; Medical Director/ CEO, Nordica Fertility Centre, Lagos, Asaba & Abuja, Dr. Abayomi Ajayi; Ms Esther Odiete, Counsellor, Nordica Lagos and MD, Brand Shepherd, Mr Dotun Adebowale, during the media briefing on activities of the Endometriosis Support Group to mark the 2016 Endometriosis Week

within 10 minutes of arrival.

Presenting the sequence of events leading up to the incident, Etim, who described as unfortunate, the sequence of events trailing the death, noted: “Charity was rushed to our hospital in poor condition at 1.10am on Wednesday and was admitted with case note file No:338202. She was accompanied by a nurse from Yaba College of Technology.

Emergency care “On presentation, she was very pale, cold and clammy, anxious and gasping.

We commenced emergency care immediately, vital signs done, temperature was 35*C. Patient was feeble, respiration - gasping, blood pressure was undetectable, oxygen therapy was commenced immediately.”

Further, he said an intravenous infusion line was set up and blood sample collected for blood transfusion, but noted that all efforts to resuscitate the patient proved abortive as she stop breathing at 1.20am, within 10 minutes of arrival.

“No amount was demanded or collected before attending to late Charity Dazan. The corpse was taken back by the same ambulance that brought her to the hospital. “ It’s unfortunate that misinformation about sequence of events have caused extra pain to relatives and friends of the lady. We continue to provide efficient health care services within available resources,” Etim explained.

In its position paper, NAPS had demanded compensation to the family of the deceased and voluntary resignation of the FMC Medical Director.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

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HAVE a lot of sex…I mean, A LOT of sex. It all started three years ago when I turned seventeen.

I passed my JAMB but my mother could not afford to send me to the university. So I stayed home and I was very depressed. Having sex with different people made me feel good, wanted and worth something.

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46 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

We’ll make life uncomfortable for Sanchez —Iniesta

Suárez has score to settle with Arsenal

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NDRES Iniesta has urged his Barcelona team-mates to disruptAlexis Sanchez’s rhythm in the early stages of tonight’s match against Arsenal.

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UIS Suárez’s love affair with the back of the net is still going strong. He is the top scorer in Spain with 25 La Liga goals, which also puts him out in front in the European Golden Shoe rankings, and has netted in his last seven appearances, which have yielded no fewer than a dozen goals.

Over and above his prolific scoring exploits, expert observers are also quick to praise Suárez’s tireless pressing when the opposition try to bring the ball out, which plays a key role in helping Barcelona to win back possession high up the pitch. We also mustn’t forget another of his qualities, his unselfishness: the Uruguayan is not hell-bent on finding the net himself and is just as happy setting up his strike partners, as shown by his high assist count.

Other impressive Suárez attributes are his physical prowess and sturdiness, which enable him to hold off defenders and help explain why he is rarely

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Pogba: We’ve nothing to lose against Bayern this tie, but that can be

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Suarez injured, despite being one of the players used most often by Luis Enrique.

The 29-year-old has only missed seven games this season and none of them were because of injury: two were through suspension, while he was rested for the other five. Nevertheless, even though he himself hasn’t been blunted, he is aware that fatigue threatens to take its toll on Barça and may have had a hand in their laboured performance in

Las Palmas. As he put it afterwards, “It’s no excuse, but everyone knows we’ve had a lot of matches in the past month and a half."

AUL Pogba says Ju ventus “are not favourites” against Bayern Munich, but “that can be an advantage”.

The Bianconeri take on the German giants in Turin tonight, the first leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie. “This season they have a great team, with players with great individual skills who can make the difference at any time.

“But we are Juventus, we are a great club. We are not favourites to win

an advantage for us as well.

“We have nothing to lose. We could have finished first in the group, but the most important thing was to qualify."

Koscielny tips Gunners to Leagueholders Barcebeat Barca lona in London on Tues-

A

RSENAL defender Laurent Koscielny believes the Gunners can cause a huge upset and defeat the reigning Champions

Barca not far from perfection —Wenger

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RSENAL boss Arsene Wenger has admitted that Barcelona “are not far” from perfection ahead of today ’s Champions League last16 first leg at the Emiirates Stadium.

“No team is perfect, but

Barcelona are not far from it,” he said at a Press conference, UEFA.com reports.

“We need to take our chances. We will have less of the ball than against Hull, but we have to make the most of

“What makes Alexis so dangerous is that he is unpredictable,” the Barcelona captain said.

“When he dribbles, when he attacks, he is a very strong player. He’s got skill and when he has the ball he always creates doubts. In that sense, we have to try to make him feel uncomfortable on the field and try to minimise his strengths.

“I also think that the type of players that their coach or that Arsenal look for are very similar."

it.

“They have top strikers. Maybe they look like they are having a little bit less possession at the moment because they used to have Xavi [Hernandez] in midfield."

day, but insists the team must defend well as a unit in order to achieve such an aim.

Speaking to Telefoot, the France international said: “They are the best offensive armada in Europe and the world.

“We have to take pleasure in the match and give 100 per cent to get a good result at home.

Yes, it’s possible to beat them. We have a great keeper in Petr Cech and when it comes to defence it’s not just the back four."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016 — 47

LMC shifts Enyimba, Nasarawa, Akwa matches

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ATCH Day 2 fix tures involving three clubs in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) have been rescheduled and will now hold on March 16, 2016.

The fixtures are Akwa United versus Ikorodu United, Enyimba International versus Shooting Stars and FC Ifeanyi Ubah vs Nasarawa United.

Salihu Abubakar, the Chief Operating Officer of the League Management Company explained that the Match Day 2 fixtures were put on hold at the instance of the clubs involved in continental competitions. Match Day 3 fixtures involving the three clubs will accordingly be played on March 23, 2016.

“The clubs were already not in the Match Day 3 fixtures due to their continental fixtures holding on the weekend of February 26-28 but we have received representations from officials of the three clubs pleading to be allowed to focus on their continental fixtures”, Abubakar explained.

Lulu, Ogunjobi

Continues on B/P

Ogunjobi, a former chairman of the technical committee and former general- secretary, Bolaji Ojo-Oba. The accused persons were said to have mismanaged about N1.3 billion while in office between 2006 and 2010 in the eight count charge brought against them by the EFCC. Presiding Judge, Justice Evoh Chukwu, while dismissing their application said the defendants were bound by the Public Procurement Act (PPA) and as such should defend themselves in the charge levelled against them by the anti- graft agency.

“Let me on unequivocal term say that NFA or NFF which manages football in Nigeria enjoys the patronage of the Federal Government of Nigeria either collective or through the National Sports Commission.

“The NFF status is not an act of the National Assembly but it must be subject to the laws of Nigeria.

This is particularly in a case where the money being expended is tax

A

S part of early preparation for the 4th Okpekpe 10 kilometer Road Race holding on May 7 at Okpekpe, Etsako East Local Government Area, Edo State, one of the indigenes, yesterday announced his plan to sponsor some Nigerian athletes to defeat the Kenyans this year.

The Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami’s Special Adviser, Barrister Sylvester Imhanobe, an author of different law books and a former lecturer with the Nigeria Law School, said he has identified some local talents at the Old

Okpekpe indigene wants local athletes to beat Kenyans Parade Ground, Abuja that could breast the tape before the Kenyans.

He said that “I practised this morning. I go to the old parade ground in Abuja here to practise and I have identified some local athletes that I will sponsor to come and run in Okpekpe. This is because we must beat the Kenyans.”

NairaBet donates bus to Shooting Stars

I

T was celebration galore inside the Shooting Stars FC’s office in Ibadan Sunday when one of the leading betting companies in the country, NairaBet, presented a brand new 32seater coaster bus to the Oluyole Warriors.

*Action recorded during an NPFL match

I did not insult sports minister —Oshonaike A

NATIONAL table tennis player, Funke Oshonaike, has cried out over a statement credited to her in some sections of the media that she insulted the payers’ money and not one of a limited liability company.

“The provision of section 60 of the Public Procurement Act (PPA) covers NFF and having said that, it followed that all the defendants are bound by the provision of the PPA,” the Judge ruled.

On whether the third accused person (OjoOba) had any case to answer since he was not a board member of the NFF, the Court insisted that the NFF General Secretary had much to answer because the NFF status bestowed on the General Secretary all the administrative work of the NFF Secretariat.

“By the provision of the law, the third defendant might be privy to the dealings of the NFF in normal situation. This is equally brought by the provisions of Article 42, 61, 65 and 66 respectively; what is more is that article 62 of the status defined the role of the third accused.

“It is obvious that the third accused is an active member of the NFF and does not need to be a board member to have been charged with other accused persons,” he said.

minister of sports, Solomon Dalung.

Oshonaike who spoke to our correspondent from her base in Hamburg Germany on Monday denied ever making abusive statements against the nation’s number one sport citizen.

The ping ponger apparently furious about the development said it was unfortunate that some journalists misquoted the live interview she had last week

Rio 2016

Continues on B/P

(NOC), Engr. Habu Gumel who revealed this yesterday in Abuja also said the Asian country has accepted to kit the Nigerian contingent to the global fiesta.

Gumel who is also the president of the Nigeria Volley Ball Federation (NVBF) spoke during the closing ceremony of a Three-day Coaching Course the federation organized in conjunction with the embassy of Japan in Nigeria.

According to him, the gesture is in line with the effort of his reign both as the NOC and NVBF boss to improve on the nation’s sports development. He further stated that the country has been assisting in the training of coaches of the NVBF. “I requested and they have accepted to provide kitting for our athletes who will be travelling to

with a national television station.

She said: “I did not travel to Sudan and during the live interview; I explained how painful it was for me to have missed the tournament.

“I also said I decided not to go because I was yet to get an outstanding ticket refund and also because I already qualified for the Olympic Games.

“The advise I gave the authorities was that they should please support

the game and encourage the players because the country is blessed with lots of talents.”

Oshonaike stressed that it was a shock to her that people have been calling her from Nigeria and other parts alluding that she insulted the minister.

“I never did and will not do such a thing. I have been representing the country for over 25 years and I know things that are not right to be done by an athlete."

Rio for the Olympics. In fact this has been happening because when we were going to China I made a request and they gave to us free of charge as well as during the games in London.

Now that we are going to Rio, they have accepted and in fact by May the items will be in our embassy in Tokyo from where it will be airlifted and distributed to our athletes.”

In is remarks, Deputy Head of Mission of Japan Masaya Otsuka said the training arrangement was put together through the friendly relationship between the NVBF president and his Japanese counterpart.

He further revealed that the programme equally falls within the Japanese government’s ‘Sports for Tomorrow’ programme committed towards Tokoyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic games.

Mikel Continues on B/P

more regular under Hiddink.

“From day one, since Guus has come in, the atmosphere has changed,’ the 29-yearold Mikel said. “The players feel more relaxed, people know what their jobs are and people are getting on with their jobs in a more relaxed way. And a way they can perform very well.

“He has given responsibility to people and expects them to thrive on it and make sure they do it in way where they feel comfortable. I think that is what the players are showing now.

“When you come into the training ground, the players are more relaxed, he doesn’t get into people’s business, he gets on with his own thing and players feel very comfortable and know exactly what to do

Presenting the bus was the chairman of the company, Otunba Akin Alabi, said his love for the club informed his decision, saying government could not do it alone considering the present economic condition of Nigeria.

“I have been supporting Shooting from my boyhood days,” he said, adding, “I have been praying for an opportunity to do more and I am happy that the time has finally come.

“This bus is just the beginning of what NairaBet intends to do for Shooting Stars, as there are plans to make it bigger.”

Alabi assured that more sponsorship packages would be unveiled before the end of the week as he continues his support for the club. so when he gets on the training pitch, he doesn’t need to speak.

“We all know what he wants and it is the same when we go into a game.”

The Nigeria star said like most of the Chelsea players he will want Dutchman Hiddink to stay beyond this season.

“I want him to stay,” he said. “It is the choice of the owner, the club and the board. They will have to decide. But if you speak to the players, 98 or 99 per cent of them want him to stay so I mean, we are very happy, we are performing well and let’s hope this continues.

“It depends on the board and it depends on Guus if he wants to continue. He has said that he is here until the end of the season but you never know, he might change his mind. If the club want to appoint him fair enough. His record speaks for itself.”

Vanguard, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2016

You have case to answer, court tells Lulu, Ogunjobi

BY JUDE OPARA, Abuja

LMC shifts Enyimba, Nasarawa, Akwa matches —P.47

F

ORMER President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdulahi and three of his former board members yesterday lost in their bid to stop the corruption charges brought against them by the Economic and Finan-

cial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja had ruled against the no- case-submission filed by Amanze Uchegbulam, a former first vice president of NFF, Taiwo Continues on page 47

Mikel hits at Mourinho room is a lot more reagain laxed because caretaker

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE:

Suárez has score to settle with Arsenal -P.46

S

UPER Eagles mid fielder Mikel Obi has again thrown jibes at former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, saying the London club’s dressing

manager Guus Hiddink minds his own business.

Mikel mostly warmed the bench during Mourinho’s second coming, but he has been a lot Continues on page 47

*DAUNTING: Counou Paterne of Akwa (L) and Chigozie Michael of Sunshine during their league match at the Akure Township Stadium...

Courtesy LMC Media

*Suarez

Tonight’s Champions League games

Arsenal v Barcelona 8:45pm Juve v Bayern 8:45pm

Rio 2016: Nigerian athletes to camp in Japan

BY JUDE OPARA, Abuja

A

RRANGEMENTS have been concluded to camp some

T OD AY'S PUZZLE ODA

Nigerian athletes to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in the Republic of Japan.

FRI DAY'S ANS WERS FRID ANSWERS

President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee

*Mikel

Continues on page 47

QUICK CR OSS WORD CROSS OSSWORD ACROSS 2 Belief (5) 7 Strand (5) 8 Stadium (5) 10 Inset (5) 12 Mineral (3) 13 Condition (5) 15 Middle (7) 17 Menace (6) 19 Shelter (3) 20 Smallest (7) 23 Call (4) 25 Lean (4) 26 Came (7) 30 Shrub (3) 31 Remorse (6) 34 Stretch (7) 37 Scorch (5) 38 Mine (3) 39 Animal (5) 40 Start (5) 41 Guide (5) 42 Material (5)

DOWN 1 Nativity (5) 2 Box (5) 3 Reiterate (6) 4 Heroic (4) 5 Demur (7) 6 Skulk (5) 9 Stray (3) 11 Liberate (7) 13 Endure (5) 14 Fragrance (5) 16 Born (3) 18 Neatest (7) 21 Prickle (5) 22 Combine (5) 24 Inconsistent (7) 27 Manage (3) 28 Stop (6) 29 Eject (5) 32 Circumstance (5) 33 Heron (5) 35 Hog (3) 36 Nobleman (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 2, Solid 7, Snip 8, United 9, Adage 11, Her 13, Dig 15, Iris 16, Hem 18, Jeer 19, General 20, Huge 22, Mean 23, Lasting 25, Seer 27, Hot 28, Mere 30, Tit 31, Did 33, Badge 36, Revoke 37, Foil 38, Great.

DOWN: 1, Enter 2, Spa 3, Lea 4, Due 5, Wig 6, Belie 10, Glen 11, Highest 12, Ringlet 13, Deleted 14, Granted 16, Heath 17, Meant 18, Jam 21, Ear 24, Iota 26, Eider 29, Rigid 32, Cow 33, Beg 34, Die 35, Eft.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. Phone: Newsroom: 018773962. Deputy Editor: 01-4548355. Advert Dept Hotline: 014544821. Abuja Advert Hotline: 09-2921024. E-mail: editor@vanguardngr.com, news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) Editor: MIDENO BAYAGBON. Phone: 01-7742861, All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos.

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