Boko Haram abducts 91 again in Borno

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62172

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TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

CBN cuts dollar sales to BDCs by 70%, raises capital base 9

Eight-page pull-out inside

Boko Haram abducts 91 again in Borno

BY NDAHI MARAMA

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AIDUGURI—AT least 91 persons, were said to have been abducted by suspected Islamic militants between Thursday and Sunday from the Kumanza,Yaga and Dagu, Damboa and Continues on page 50

•60 women, children, youths among

I buried former Customs officer, daughter alive

— Herbalist 7 COLUMNIST: Muslim/ Muslim presidential disaster for the APC

KANO BOMB BLAST—Policemen stand at the scene of a bomb blast at the School of Hygiene in Kano. An explosion

•P.17

ripped through the parking lot of the school, leaving eight people dead and many others seriously injured. AFP photos.

I'm not desperate for office, says Gov Fayemi Story on Page 5,9 & 11

How we'll beat 70 insurgents killed in Borno air raid Argentina — Keshi •Suicide bomber kills 7 64 in Kano school 8 C M Y K

Mr & Mrs

2 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 3

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4— Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014—5

POCKET CARTOON

Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II (M), at Sultan of Sokoto's Palace in Sokoto, yesterday. Photo: NAN.

I'm not desperate for office, says Fayemi

BY HENRY UMORU, JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU, DAPO AKINREFON, CHARLES KUMOLU & GBENGA OKE

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DO EKITI — DR Kayode Fayemi, out-going governor of Ekiti State, yesterday reiterated that he would not challenge the result of last Saturday's governorship election in the state because he is "not desperate to remain in office," even as commendations poured in on him from far and wide yesterday.

Fayemi made the disclosure when he received the governorelect, Mr Ayo Fayose, in his office in Ado Ekiti, saying, “I will not challenge the result of the

election because I am not desperate to remain in office. Elections must not be seen as a do-or-die affair.”

He said Fayose’s victory had assisted in “strengthening and deepening” democracy, especially in Ekiti State and the country at large.

He added that “election by its nature generate tension and hot exchange of words, but to me, once the whole exercise is over, all those involved should take such with calmness and stop all acrimony.

“It is my belief that we must all start imbibing attitudes that will make us avoid activities that can threaten our peaceful coexistence. We must also avoid the bad loser syndrome.

“I believe we need to build this democracy to a mature end, rather than

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

Have courage for the great sorrows of life, and patience for the small ones. And when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake —Victor Hugo

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

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HEN we lose something, even a loving re lationship that was special to us, the pain of our loss is not in the fact that the person, position, or possession is gone from our life... it’s not impossible to lose something we never owned — Guy Finley What we actually lose is an image, a carefully constructed mental picture of ourselves long-secured in place by someone or something that helps us to see ourselves - or feel good about ourselves - the way we imagine ourselves to be. And with that person, position, or possession no longer in place to sustain that image, our pain is in the loss of that imaginary self.

But, who you really ‘t lose anything because your True Nature is onewith the whole timeless goodness of life. And it’s not impossible to lose yourself!

When you know you can’t really lose anything or anyone, if you understand there is no real division between you and the one you love or, for that matter, between you and love itself, then the heartache of loss simply ceases to exist for you.

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pull it down.”

Fayemi promised not to be distracted by the defeat, saying he would continue to work for the people of the state until Oct. 15 when he would hand over to Fayose.

Commendations pour in

AN outpour of commendations from home and abroad, including from normally hostile political quarters, yesterday, greeted the Saturday ’s quick concession of victory by the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi to his opponent after the gubernatorial election in the state.

Fayemi, the All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate’s acceptance of defeat and his pledge during a visit on him by governor-elect, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, not to appeal the result of the election were generally commended as an unprecedented act of political gallantry. Fayose who won the election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, visited Fayemi in the Governor ’s Office in AdoEkiti, yesterday.

The Presidency, the PDP, chieftains of the PDP, high level political office-holders, were among those, who commended the maturity that the out-going governor brought to bear in admitting defeat.

Commendations also came from the United States Mission in Nigeria, Afenifere Renewal Group, former Senator Roland Owie, some delegates to the National Conference, to Fayemi and Fayose for the peace they brought to bear following the release of the election result.

The PDP in its commendation said Fayemi “exhibited the spirit of sportsmanship propagated and practiced by the PDP and President Goodluck Jonathan” even as it

called on politicians in the country to “imbibe the same spirit and jettison all forms of bad loser syndrome especially ahead of the 2015 general elections.”

On its part, the Presidency through the Senior Special Assistant, Public Affairs to the President, Dr. Doyin Okupe described Fayemi as the face of the new leadership Nigerians deserve.

Okupe in a text message to Vanguard said: “Fayemi is a gentleman with unassailable democratic credentials. He has a solid pedigree and has behaved true to type. It does not matter what the leadership of his party feels, he is the face of the new leadership Nigerians deserve,” Okupe said.

In his reaction, Chief Mike Ozekhome said, Fayemi’s acceptance of defeat and congratulation of Fayose is phenomenal and unprecedented in the history of elections in Nigeria.

“Methinks Nigeria is beginning to experience a new democratic dawn where losers congratulate winners and concede defeat. It means we can get it right if we have good and decent people at the helms of affairs.

“Gone are the days when politicians attempted to use electoral tribunals to subvert the popular will of the people. Vox populi, vox dei - the voice of the people is the voice of God. I commend Fayemi for allowing the votes of Ekiti people to count; for not subverting the will of the people. He is a youthful statesman. He certainly has a very bright future ahead of him.”

Yinka Odumakin said: “The crushing defeat of Fayemi is equally unprecedented in the annals of elections in Nigeria. A sitting governor not winning in one LGA in a free and fair election gives no room for contest. Fayemi must be commended still for being pragmatic within hours.”

The Jonah Jang faction of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, NGF, in its message said Fayemi showed political maturity by putting Ekiti first before self.

The forum also congratulated Mr. Ayo Fayose of the PDP on his victory.

Anenih commends Fayose, Fayemi

Chairman, Board of Trustees, BoT, of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, in the same tone applauded Fayose on his election and commended the incumbent, Fayemi for conceding defeat and congratulating the governor-elect on his victory.

Anenih in a statement paid glowing tributes to Fayemi’s statesman-like act and urged other people who aspire for elective public offices to emulate him.

The statement read in

part: “I congratulate Mr Ayodele Fayose on his well deserved victory, which is a reward of hard work that he invested in the electioneering as well as his steadfastness in identifying with the grassroots people of Ekiti State.

“I commend Dr Kayode Fayemi of the APC for demonstrating a good game spirit by accepting the result of the election as having flowed from a free and fair electoral process that was witnessed by election observers across the 16 local government areas of the State.

“On a national scale, it is quite significant that for the first time in the annals of election in our Fourth Republic, allegations of rigging, violence and other malpractices did not feature in the conduct of a governorship election."

National Chairman of the United Peoples Party, UPP, Chief Chekwas Okorie said that the sagacity displayed by Dr. Fayemi was a welcome development as it was strange in the country’s political history.

He said: “It is not in our kind of country for people to concede defeat. I commend him for his sportsmanship."

What Fayemi did is commendable — Aturu

Legal practitioner, Mr Bamidele Aturu said: “I think it is commendable because what he has done should encourage other politicians to do same when they lose elections clearly. If you know that you have been clearly beaten in an election, why should you not go round and concede victory? Because of Fayemi’s civil society pedigree, he has not disappointed, he has done what he is expected to do”.

It’s a mark of statesmanship —Akeredolu

Also, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, said Fayemi’s decision to concede is “unprecedented and a sign of good sportsmanship. It is a mark of statesmanship and people will do it where they have had a free and fair election. From Fayemi’s statement, it is clear that the APC holds the view that

the result of the election represented the will of the people.”

Speaking further, he said: “If the election has been free and fair, every good statesman would concede victory. This is what he has done and we all must praise him and acknowledge the high moral ground on which he now stands on”.

Afenifere Renewal Group

The Afenifere Renewal Group on its part said the election has set a landmark that elections need not be a do or die affair but reflection of democratic choice.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kunle Famoriyo, the group applauded Fayemi, and the governor-elect, Fayose, for the rare show of sportsmanship displayed during the election and after the result was announced.

Ogboru lauds Fayose, Fayemi

A chieftain of the Democratic Peoples Party, DPP in Delta State, Chief Great Ogboru on his part commended INEC, President Jonathan and the two major contestants for their effort in ensuring a hitch-free election.

“An election reflecting the will of the people of Ekiti State is a victory for all. His Excellency Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi has etched his name in the sands of time as a civilised democrat by accepting the people’s verdict.

Nigeria surely needs such a great man in our continuing quest for greatness,” he added.

US commends INEC, others

The U.S Mission in Nigeria has congratulated INEC, security agencies and electoral stakeholders for the successful conduct of the June 21 gubernatorial election in Ekiti.

A statement issued by the embassy in Abuja, yesterday, commended INEC for overseeing “a credible, efficient process”, which it said, by all accounts, reflected the will of Ekiti voters.

6—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Cult clash claims 2 in Ijebu-Ode

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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BEOKUTA — TWO per sons have lost their lives, Sunday evening, in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State during a clash between two rival cult groups.

Also, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, simply identified as Razaq was kidnapped after he was attacked at his residence in Oketun Street, Itantebo.

Vanguard gathered that the assailants stormed a private hospital where Razaq was being treated and reportedly shot sporadically into the air to scare the people before they took him away.

Our correspondent gathered that some members of Black Axe masterminded the killing of two members of the Eiye cult group in a reprisal attack.

It was further gathered that one person was killed at Osimore Street while the other one was shot dead at Ajegunle Ijada area and his head chopped off after which his headless body was later carried away.

One of the victims has been taken to his home town, near Ijebu Ode for burial.

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, told Vanguard that the command could confirm only one person was killed.

According to him, "it is only one person that we can confirm that was killed. The clash was between Eiye Confraternity and Black Axe. “The Commissioner of Police, Ikemefuna Okoye has called for a meeting with DPOs in two major areas in Ijebu, Obalende and Igbeba."

Husband seeks divorce over wife’s obsession with parties •Court dissolves 4-yr-old marriage over husband's waywardness

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LORIN — ONE Salim Wahab of Okelele area, Ilorin, yesterday, asked an Ilorin Area Court to dissolve his marriage due to his wife’s obsession with parties.

Salim, 33, said his wife, Mariam, had turned into a party freak, spending every weekend attending parties and other social events, thereby neglecting her matrimonial duties.

“My wife always has ceremonies to attend and will never spend her weekends with me and our only child, instead she will go to parties with her wayward friends," he told the court.

According to him, the marriage, contracted in 2009, is blessed with a child, named Quadri.

“My lord, I want an end to this marriage because I cannot cope with a woman that loves parties more than her family," the husband begged the court.

The wife, however, objected to her husband's request for divorce, saying that she was still interested in the marriage.

“My husband always wants me indoors, I promise to quit attending parties and spend more time with my family," she said.

Mariam also prayed the court to give them time to reconcile their differences.

The presiding judge, Mr Yusuf Abdulkareem, acceded to her request and gave the couple up to July 24 to reconcile.

Court dissolves 4-yr-old marriage

band's waywardness.

The presiding judge, Mr Yusuf Abdulkareem, in his judgment, dissolved the marriage and issued a certificate of divorce to the petitioner.

Bose, 30, a resident of Sango Area, Ilorin, had asked the court to dissolve her marriage to her husband for his waywardness.

She told the court that Abiona was fond of parading different sets of ladies and kept lying to her that the la-

dies were just friends.

“My husband prefers his girlfriends to me because he always buys recharge cards for them," Bose claimed.

The petitioner also alleged that her husband preferred spending much of his time with his concubines outside and would abandon her at home. She said the marriage was contracted in 2010 and had yet to produce any child.

Bose, who urged the court to dissolve the marriage, said:

“My husband respects her external ladies more than me, his housewife, and I cannot continue to suffer in an 'unproductive marriage'."

The respondent did not oppose the petition, but urged the court to grant Bose's application.

“I wish her well as she prefers to go and try another man since I am not trustworthy," he said, and urged the court to grant the prayer without any claims.

Man, 33, flees after killing creditor over N1.3m debt

BY GODWIN OGHRE

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APELE— THE Police in Yenagoa has declared a 33-year-old man, Ebiapadei Gariki, wanted over alleged murder of his creditor, one Peter Akpojemraye Onuoghujuovwo, aged 24 years, to escape paying a debt of N1.3 million. The incident happened in Aghoro community, Bayelsa State.

Ebiapadei Gariki, now at large, reportedly killed his benefactor in order to escape paying back the money he allegedly borrowed from the deceased, but luck ran out of him when a friend of the victim, who accompanied him to demand the repayment of the debt managed to escape and reported the incident to the victim's family, who in turn called the Police.

A family source said the vic-

The suspect, Ebiapadei Gariki. tim, who hailed from Aladja, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State and traded in sawn timber, gave the N1.3 million to the suspect to supply him timber.

When the supply was not forthcoming, the victim de-

cided to go after the debtor in Aghoro community, in Bayelsa State to demand his money or the supply.

The source further said that upon getting to Aghoro community, there was a heated argument between the victim and the suspect which resulted in fisticuffs.

Two days later, the victim and his friends were in a boat along a nearby creek when they saw the suspect pulling behind them. The suspect later overtook them, blocked their boat and shot the victim at close range.

In the process, his friend escaped and was able to find his way back to Aladja and informed the victim's family.

A senior Police officer attached to the Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying the suspect would be apprehended and brought to book.

Also, an Ilorin Area Court, yesterday, dissolved a four-year-old marriage between Bose Abiona and her husband, Akin, over the hus-

3 youths killed at birthday party in Jos

BY MARIE-THERESE NANLONG

J

OS — SOME members of the Special Task Force, STF, keeping the peace in Plateau State have allegedly shot and killed three youths and injured an unspecified number at a birthday party, Sunday night, at Nyango Gyel, Bukuru Low-cost Area of Jos South Local Government area.

A resident, who did not want to be named, said the youths who attended the party had an argument over “some issues” and this prompted the owner of the joint

to call in members of the STF stationed in the area.

According to the resident, “immediately the STF members arrived, they started shooting at the youths, killing three persons and others were injured.”

Another resident, who identified himself as Rintim, said the incident was pathetic, adding that the shooting was uncalled for as the youths were not armed but some were only drunk.

He called on the commander of the STF, Major-General David Enetie, to investigate the matter and ensure that those who carried out the act are brought to book.

An overloaded truck with firewood along Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Photo: Lamidi Bamidele.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 7

I buried ex-Customs officer, daughter alive — Herbalist

BY EVELYN USMAN

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AGOS — EMOTIONS ran high, yesterday, at the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja, following the startling confession of a 64-year-old herbalist, on how he buried a 68-year-old retired Customs officer and her 10-year-old adopted daughter alive in a shallow grave behind his shrine in Ajuwon, Ogun State.

The suspect identified as Alhaji Olatunji Azeez, who was paraded by the command's boss, Umar Manko, showed no sign of remorse as he said he committed the act in order to prevent the victim from demanding N9 million he used to prepare concoction for her.

Trouble started for the retired Customs officer, one Mrs Angela Kerry, who resided at New Oko-Oba area of Lagos, following her inability to give birth.

In her search for possible solution, she was reportedly introduced to the suspect who confessed to have carried out series of rituals and also prepared concoctions for her to no avail.

Apparently disappointed, Kerry was said to have demanded the refund of N9 million earlier collected from her by the herbalist last month, consequent upon which he invited her to his shrine at 9, Wadoye Street, Ajuwon to collect the money.

Unknown to Kerry, who went in company of her adopted daughter, the herbalist had a sinister motive up his sleeves.

How mother, child were buried alive Narrating how he buried both mother and child alive, the suspect who claimed to have three wives and five children said: "She provoked me to anger. I did what I did because I considered her an enemy who was out to kill me if I did not act fast.

"It all started five years ago when she was introduced to me by her friend, one Lizzy. She was attacked spiritually and I helped her out. She came again over a similar attack and I also prepared some concoction which saved her. She told me that her family members were after her and I said she needed to fortify herself.

"Three years ago, she revealed that she has not been able to give birth and had not been pregnant for one day. I told her it would be impossible since she had reached menopause but she objected, saying many prophets had told her God could do it.

"Along the line, she said she wanted to sell her property at Omole, that she wanted to travel abroad to be away from her family. After selling the property, I discovered so many

The suspect, Alhaji Olatunji Azeez pastors started coming around here to get a share from the money realised. In fact she told me that she had paid N15 million to some pastors already.

"Then I told myself that if I did not act fast, these people will collect everything from her. I had to tell her to bring N9 million to prepare some concoction for her pregnancy, even though I knew it was impossible for her to get pregnant.

"She gave me N9 million. But after nine months, she came back saying nothing happened and demanded a refund. That was where trouble started.

I managed to pay her N 3.5 million and begged her to be patient for the balance.

"Then she charged into my temple one Friday demanding that she should be paid that day. I told her I won't pay her and that if she had gone to the hospital and the treatment failed could she have demanded a refund. She threatened to deal with me if I did not pay her, saying she would show me she was in the force.

"I told myself that this is war because I remembered she once showed me a gun at her apartment. I knew it was not a mere threat because she said she would kill me and nothing would happen. That threat provoked me. I knew that when two people are fighting, the first to attack will emerge winner.

The plot "So, I decided to act fast before she tarnished my image. I pacified her to come back next day for the money. When leaving, I told her not to come with the daughter.

"After she left, I told myself I needed to act fast. I went to a building at the back of my shrine where I dug a hole. I spread a mat on the hole and laid a white cloth on it, exactly the way it looks in my shrine.

"When she came next day, I told her to go inside the building that we needed to pray before we talk about the money. She asked if the prayer was for the pregnancy and I told her it was for fortification.

"I warned her not to take her daughter along but she refused. I did not argue any further because I did not want my plan to fail.

"On getting inside the building, I asked her to stand on the white cloth and immediately she did, she fell inside the hole and landed on her buttocks. All I heard when she fell was yeh! When she fell, I said I have seen the end of my enemy and I have gained victory.

"The daughter did not say a word. She just stood watching. I had to cover the hole with over 40 buckets of sand.

"After covering the hole, I asked myself what to do with the little girl. I left the room, locked it from outside. When I came back at about 6.30pm, I met her on the sand. I quickly removed my jacket and

The late Mrs Angela Kerry poured about 30 bucket of sand to cover her. Next day, I went to get two bricklayers to cement the place."

The arrest Describing the act as callous, the command boss explained that after committing the crime, the suspect took her Toyota Camry vehicle to a dealer’s workshop to sell.

But the bubble burst when the victim’s

Mrs Angela Kerry's daughter relatives reported at New Oko-Oba Police Station that Mrs Kerry was missing.

The policemen, he said, traced the victim’s car to a dealer’s workshop where two persons were arrested, adding that their confessional statement led to the suspect’s arrest.

"We have been able to recover the decomposed bodies and the victim’s travelling bag containing her personal effects and that of her daughter from the shallow grave he buried them in," Manko said.

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Ibru seeks reversal of Oceanic Bank's sale

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BUJA—MRS Cecilia Ibru, former Managing Director of the defunct Oceanic Bank International, yesterday, prayed an Abuja Federal High Court to reverse the sale of the bank to Ecobank Plc, and the takeover of Aero Contractors Ltd by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON. Ibru’s counsel, Dr. Ted Iseghohi-Edwards, argued that the bank and airline were not among the assets she forfeited to the Federal Government during her 2010 plea bargain with the government.

She had joined the Attorney-General of the Federation and the AMCON as co-defendants in the suit.

The plaintiff is, therefore, seeking a court order compelling the Federal Government to implement her plea bargain as specified in the agreement she signed with the government in 2010.

ASUP/ COEASU STRIKES: Stakeholders meet

BY LAJU ARENYEKA

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HERE were indications, yesterday, that the strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, ASUP, which enters its 336th day today, and the striking lecturers of colleges of education who had stayed at home for six months, may return to their classrooms soon.

This was because stakeholders in the education sector are optimistic that a meeting between the National Assembly Joint Committee on Education and ASUP and COEASU holding today could break the deadlock in the negotiations for amicable settlement of the issues in dispute.

Relevant stakeholders such as the ministers of Education, Labour and Finance ministries as well as representatives from the salaries and wages commission are among those also expected to attend the meeting.

Soldiers kill 70 insurgents in Borno air raid zAs suicide bomber kills 7, injures 20 in Kano

BY NDAHI MARAMA, ABDULSALAM MUHAMMAD, CALEB AYANSINA & FATIMAH KAREEM

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AIDUGURI—OVER 70 suspected Boko Haram terrorists, who participated in separate attacks on Chuha I, Chuha II and Korogilim villages of Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State last weekend, have been killed in an air raid, with support from ground troops of the 7 Division, Nigerian Army, sources and residents have said.

This came on a day a suicide bomber blew himself and seven others up at Kano School of Hygiene Technology along Gida Murtala-BUK road yesterday, while 20 persons sustained life-threatening injuries.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government, yesterday, said it had mobilised emergency services to the site of the Kano bomb blast.

It would be recalled that more than 40 people, including teenagers, were killed weekend when suspected Islamist militants, otherwise known as Boko Haram, attacked three villages in Chibok, razed down houses, shops and vehicles before carting away foodstuffs and livestock.

Vanguard gathered from reliable sources that with the quick intervention of the military on ground and airstrikes, over 70 of the terrorists, who were fleeing towards Sambisa Forest after the onslaught on innocent villagers, were killed.

A resident’s tale

A resident of Korogilim, one of the villages that suffered the deadly attacks, Mr. Joshua Yakubu in a telephone call, confirmed the incident, which he said took place on Sunday morning. He said the terrorists, who were moving in a convoy, were attacked by military operatives while attempting to flee after their deadly mission in three Chibok communities.

The resident said: “I want to inform you that we are happy with the gallant effort displayed by the military for quick intervention which led to the killing of dozens of terrorists who wreaked havoc in our communities

SUICIDE ATTACK: Policemen at the Kano School of Hygiene, scene of the suicide attack that killed eight persons, yesterday. AFP PHOTO. over the weekend as almost all of them were wiped out.

“Initially, when we started hearing sounds of explosions on the outskirt of our villages, we thought the end of the world had come.

We later confirmed that the explosions were from troops targeting fleeing terrorists that attacked and killed many of our people.

“I was among those that took courage and visited the scene of the bombardment yesterday, where we saw many dead and mangled bodies of the terrorists lying on the ground and hanging from tree branches and shrubs.

“In fact, they were more than a hundred dead bodies.

The food items they looted during the attacks were scattered all over the scene.

People are trooping in to see things for themselves.”

Confirming the killing of the terrorists in a text message yesterday, Director, Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, said: “Yes, it happened.”

Suicide bomber in Kano

Meanwhile, a suicide bomber, yesterday, blew himself up at Kano School of Hygiene Technology located along Gida Murtala-BUK road, killing seven, while 20 persons sustained lifethreatening injuries.

The victims of the blast were new intakes of the school undergoing screening.

Kano State Commissioner of Police, Adelenre Shinaba, revealed that eight vehicles

parked within the premises of the state-owned tertiary institution were damaged.

He said the incident occurred around 2.05p.m. when new students of the College were undergoing screening.

The commissioner disclosed that a suspect was apprehended at the scene and ruled out car bombing in this latest attack by the insurgents.

He said: “Every lead seems to point at suicide bombing.

Unlike our previous experience, none of the vehicles parked inside this school caught fire and there is no hole around to suggest a car bombing. All leads are still open for investigation.”

Blood, bodies

The Commissioner further disclosed that lifeless bodies of the affected students had been deposited in the morgue, while the injured were receiving treatment at an undisclosed government hospital.

The explosive triggered pandemonium in the area as security agents, who arrived the scene cordoned off the busy highway, resulting in traffic snarl.

The scene was littered with shattered windscreen as human blood doted the school premises.

The Public Relations Officer of the school, Mallam Muhammad, revealed that mangled bodies of victims were recovered from the scene with polythene bags, adding that “it was a terrible sight

to behold when we came for rescue.

“We were conducting screening for our new intakes when a suicide bomber penetrated the orderly queue and blew himself up.”

FG reacts

The Federal Government, through Coordinator of the National Information Centre, Mr. Mike Omeri, who disclosed this, yesterday, during the routine briefing on the abducted Chibok schoolgirls and security situation in the country, in Abuja, also appealed for public understanding on the imposition of curfew in the crisis-prone states.

Omeri said: “Emergency services have been fully mobilised to the scene of the incident, while investigation is still ongoing. Government expresses displeasure at these continuing acts of senseless killing of innocent persons, which has yet to benefit anyone.”

“It should be noted that curfew are purely for security and safety purposes.

The public is hereby implored not only to obey, but also adhere strictly to curfew periods,” Omeri urged.

He revealed that two persons found loitering around Aba prisons in Abia State have been arrested and handed over to troops in the state for further investigation.

The suspects, who were arrested by the officers of the Nigerian prisons around the Aba prisons are Sani Sule and Idris Rume.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24 2014—9

EKITI POLLS: Senators rain praises on Fayemi

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBARAKWU

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ENATORS and former senators, yesterday, poured commendations on Governor Kayode Fayemi for conceding defeat in last weekend’s governorship election and also joining in the outflow of encomiums on Fayemi.

Senate Leader, Chief Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), led the praise among his colleagues in commending Governor Fayemi’s disposition, describing him as a rare breed that had introduced a new dimension into the nation’s politics by being a sitting governor that immediately conceded defeat after election.

Senator Ndoma-Egba, who also congratulated the governorelect, Ayo Fayose on his victory, commended Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for a successful conduct of the Ekiti polls, which he said “is a test-run for the 2015 elections because this is a prelude to what we expect next year.”

According to him, Fayemi has brought “a new dimension” into Nigerian politics by conceding victory to Fayose when it became clear that “the people have spoken.

“I particularly commend Governor Fayemi for his uncommon sportsmanship and statesmanship. I congratulate Fayose for his resilience and fortitude and also, the Ekiti people for their enthusiasm by coming out to speak clearly through the ballot.”

He urged the Governor-elect to forget past rancour and work with all stakeholders to uplift Ekiti State.

In congratulating Fayose, Owie said: “I congratulate your dear wife for her sacrifices and support, especially when the power of evil organised your ouster from government in your first coming as governor.

“As St. Stephen said, do not hold their guilt against them but leave them to God. Vengeance belongs to God. I also congratulate my brother Governor Fayemi for his reaction to the result of the elections. Fayemi has showed that he is a child of God and has a good wife, Lady Fayemi.

“Above all, I congratulate the leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, by not imposing any candidate at the primaries in Ekiti.

“I urge President Goodluck Jonathan and our National Chairman, Muazu, to ensure that internal democracy that took place during Ekiti primaries is entrenched at all levels of the party primaries for 2015 general elections.”

Former Senator representing Anambra North, Senator Emma Anosike said that the action of Governor Fayemi was an indication that he loved his people and respected their wishes.

Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti Satte.

Senator Anosike, who was Chairman, Senate Committee on Senate Services, in an interview with Vanguard said: “I want to in good time

commend Fayemi for being a good sportsman, and this has shown the kind of person he is and that he has love for his state.

“For some people, they will go ahead and fight and by the time you are fighting, the grass will suffer and the grass in this case is the state. He has said if it is your wish that Fayose be your governor, so be it.

“He has called Fayose and congratulated him. He has told everybody in Ekiti State to go ahead and support his brother.”

Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Ita Enang said what Governor Fayemi did was an indication that the country was moving forward and that the stability in the nation’s election process was catching up with everybody.

Senator Enang said the election was won by INEC and PDP, noting that the result of the Ekiti election showed a

complete departure from the election conducted in Anambra State.

Senator Kabiru Marafa, representing Zamfara Central Senatorial District, said that the action of the governor was an indication that he was the people’s servant.

Senator Marafa who is an APC Senator said: “It is a good thing. It shows that he is an educated person and that he is into politics to provide leadership. Nigerians need to learn from Fayemi.

“By conceding victory, he showed that he is the peoples’ servant and that election is not a do-or-die affair.”

On his part, a chieftain of PDP in Ekiti State, Senator Ayo Arise, commended the governor’s gesture, saying “I salute him. I salute his courage.”

CBN cuts dollar sales to BDCs by 70%, raises capital base

BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

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HE Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, yesterday reduced the volume of weekly foreign exchange sales to Bureaux De Change, BDCs, by 70 percent to $15,000 per BDC. In a related development, CBN announced a 250 percent increase in the capital base for BDCs to N35 million from N10 million.

In addition, the mandatory caution deposit was reviewed upward to N35 million from $20,000 per BDC, while the licensing fee was raised to N1,000,000 from N100,000.

Application fee and annual renewal fee was pegged at N100,000 and N250,000, respectively.

The apex bank also banned ownership of multiple BDCs, and said that membership of the Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria, ABCON, would no longer be a compulsory licensing requirement.

“All existing BDCs and those currently operating with a Final Approval Letter are required to comply with the requirement on mandatory cautionary deposit by July 15, 2014, while all current applications are expected to comply with these new requirements,” the apex bank said.

Though the 70 percent reduction in volume of foreign exchange sales to each BDC is yet to be formally announced, Vanguard was reliably informed that the implementation would commence this week.

The increase in capital base and other requirements were announced through a press release by Mr. Isaac Okoroafor, for the Director of Corporate Communications.

CBN stated that the new licensing requirements were introduced to ensure that only genuine companies operate BDCs. This, it said, followed observation of deficiencies in the operations of BDCs. The statement said: “CBN has observed, with grave concern, the deficiencies in the operational effectiveness of

BDCs, which runs counter to the aforementioned objectives.

“In particular, the bank has observed the following unintended outcomes: avalanche of rent-seeking operators only interested in widening margins and profits from the foreign exchange market, regardless of prevailing official and interbank rates; weak and ineffective operational structure, resulting in the subsector completely abandoning the objectives for its establishment; “Depletion of the country’s foreign reserves, in view of the unusually large number of BDCs; potential financing of unauthorised transactions with foreign exchange procured from the CBN window; gradual dollarisation of the Nigerian economy with attendant adverse consequences on the conduct of monetary policy and subtle subversion of cashless policy initiative; and inadequate level of minimum paid-up capital; “Prevailing ownership of several BDCs by the same

BRIEFING: From left— Mrs. Sola David-Borha, Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc; Mr. Yusuf Abdurrahim, Managing Director/CEO, Nigeria Commodity Exchange, and Dr. Mohammed Santuraki, Managing Director, Bank of Agriculture, at a briefing on the launch of a pilot electronic warehouse receipt system for the exchange in Lagos, yesterday.

PHOTO: Joe Akintola, Photo Editor.

promoters in order to buy foreign exchange multiple times from the CBN Window, which is clearly related to the low level of capital requirements for licensing BDCs. “The required minimum paidup capital of BDCs is set at N10 million. While the capital requirements of all other CBNregulated entities have been reviewed upwards over the years, the one for BDCs has remained the same.

“The CBN’s expectation is to have BDCs that are properly structured, effectively regulated, and well-capitalised to meet the objectives for which operators are licensed.

“The CBN’s expectation is to have BDCs that are properly structured, effectively regulated, and well-capitalised to meet the objectives for which operators are licensed.

“In particular, CBN envisages the following: the emergence of well-capitalised and structured entities that can effectively perform the roles of BDC in the economy; partnership between BDCs and renowned companies engaged in inward and outward money transfers in Nigeria.

“It is in expectation of this collaboration that CBN on June 18, approved the Guidelines for International Money Transfer Services in Nigeria.

“Under the guidelines, Western Union, MoneyGram and RIA Financial Services have been authorised to carry out inward and outward money transfer services in Nigeria; “Creation of robust and sustainable business franchises that are not dependent on rentseeking activities, but are properly situated to compete in the foreign exchange market, and deliver superior values and returns.”

10—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

OAU crisis: ERC condemns closure of varsity, fee hike

BY LAJUARENYEKA

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HE Education Rights Campaign, ERC, has condemned the authorities of the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife for closing the University after students’ recent fee hike protests.

In a statement, the National Coordinator of the ERC, Mr. Hassan Soweto said: ‘We demand the immediate re-opening of the University and reversal of the hiked fees. We also call on the University Management not to victimise students for taking part in the peaceful protests. This unfortunate closure was announced by the University Senate on Wednesday 18 June 2014. We believe this is one closure too many. ''The closure was uncalled for, despotic and vindictive. The students were peaceful and orderly and there is no evidence that a single University property was damaged during the protest.”

Fashola swears in new aide

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OVERNOR Baba tunde Fashola of Lagos State yesterday swore in Mr. Folorunsho Folarin-Coker, as his new Special Adviser on Central Business Districts, CBD. It was a short but elaborate ceremony held at the Exco chamber, Lagos House, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.

Improve on our achievements, Fashola tells workers BYOLASUNKANMIAKONI& MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

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AGOS—GOVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, yesterday, said there is the need to sustain and improve on the current

achievements in the state after his exit in 2015.

Fashola, who said the stakes have already been raised for his successor, urged civil servants in the state to continue to improve on their work and do all they can to sustain the

achievements recorded since 2007 beyond 2015.

Fashola made the call while addressing thousands of state civil servants at a lecture and award ceremony to commemorate the grand finale of the 2014 Public Service Week, at

HANDING OVER: From Left; Mr. Akorede Odubote, Special Adviser on Rural Dev. Mr. Babatunde Hunpe, HOD (Rural Electrical) Engr. Abiola Olowu, Vice Chairman Ibeju-Lekki LCDA Hon. Dapo Salami, Baale Okunfolu Chief Tajudeen Lawal at the handing over of complete fishing gears to Artisanal fishermen in Lagos East Senatorial District at Okunfolu Beach, Ibeju-Lekki. Photo by Kehinde Gbadamosi.

the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.

The governor, while reminding the workers that it was the last time he would address them as governor of the state, charged them not to allow his exit by May 2015, affect the standard of service that has earned the Lagos Public Service accolades across the country.

The governor, who commended the public servants for their co-operation since the inception of his administration, said the achievements recorded could not have been possible without them, stressing that he was proud to be the head of the team.

According to Fashola, “It has been a pleasant journey which is on its final curve into its eighth year. I have enjoyed working with you. You have shown that impossible means nothing here. Impossible is the excuse for not trying, and we have become the team to beat”.

While noting that other states in the federation are aiming to better the achievements in Lagos, Fashola urged, “there is competition, other states have woken up, they want to see what Lagos is doing, what they do not tell you is that they want to overtake Lagos.

“The competition is now close, we must continue to innovate and raise the stakes for ourselves, and we must never lie at ease”.

Nigerians not ready for revolution — KOKORI

BY ABDULWAHABABDULAH

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AGOS—FORMER Secre tary General of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG,

Chief Frank Kokori, yesterday said he doubted if Nigerians would ever stage a revolution capable of engendering positive change in the country. He also regretted that pro-democrats did

not come to power following the June 12 struggle.

The former labour leader who said he was traumatised by the death of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the presumed winner of the aborted

N47bn fraud: Notice of appeal stalls Akingbola, aide’s trial

BY ABDULWAHABABDULAH

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AGOS—JUSTICE Lateef Lawal-Akapo of an Ikeja High Court yesterday adjourned further hearing in the N47.1 billion theft charge against former managing director of defunct Intercontinental Bank Plc, Dr Erastus Akingbola and his aide, Bayo Dada due

to his pending application before the Court of Appeal, Lagos.

Justice Lawal-Akapo subsequently adjourned the matter till July 11, 2014 for argument after Akingbola’s counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, informed the court that the defence had already filed an application asking the court to stay further hearing in the trial and that the appeal court has fixed July 3 for hearing of the case.

He submitted that it will be in the interest of justice for the lower court to wait for the outcome of the proceedings.

Same applications were also filed by Akingbola’s co-defendants — Mr. Bayo Dada, Gener-

al Manager of Tropics Securities Limited.

According to the lawyer, the application was premised on Akingbola’s appeal against Lawal Akapo’s ruling on May 2, 2014 where the court assumed jurisdiction of the criminal case, adding that application for stay had been served on the prosecution and the defence was waiting to file its reply on points of law.

He, therefore asked the court for an adjournment and also to vacate the July 24 and 25 trial dates fixed for the matter.

Counsel to the second defendant (Dada) Professor Taiwo Osipitan, SAN, aligned himself with Olanipekun’s submissions, adding that the court should adjourn pending the hearing and determination of the suit at the Court of Appeal.

Opposing the application, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission counsel, Mr. Godwin Obla insisted that the practice encourages day-today hearing of cases before it.

June 12, 1993, presidential election, noted it was sad for him and other progressive in the country that despite numerous economic and political challenges that have characterised the nation’s polity, capable of engineer protests, many Nigerians always chosen the non-participant observation option.

Kokori made the pronouncement at the briefing he held in Lagos to announce the launch of his book “Frank Kokori: The struggle for June 12” to commemorate his 70th birthday.

He said this was more glaring when the struggle for June 12 mandate was on, as Nigerians expected to stand firm for the defence of democracy “chicken out at the middle of the deep sea.”

He said, “In 1998, when I was hosted to a reception in United States, some groups called me aside and told me that since Nigerians failed to support the nationwide strike action launched by NUPENG and PENGASSAN over the annulment of June 12, it will be difficult for Nigerians to revolt against tyranny in future and I agreed with them.

“Abiola was never my friend, I choose to go that way in the defence of democracy and my personal principle of equity and fairness. During that time, at a stage I was abandoned by the labour but NUPENG and PENGASAN stood by me.” Kokori said.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014—11

Policemen not in haste to depart Ekiti after polls — DIG

BY GBENGAARIYIBI

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DO EKITI—POLICE have warned those who may want to foment trouble after the gubernatorial election in Ekiti state to have a rethink, as the head of the team deployed to Ekiti State for the election, Mr Bala Magaji Nassarawa has said that his men and officers are not in a hurry to leave the state.

The Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar deployed 12,000 men and officers of the police to monitor the governorship poll, including six commissioners and three Assistant Inspector General of Police(AIG) to the state.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti yesterday, the Deputy Inspector General of Police , Mr. Bala Magaji, Nasarawa said his men would be still be on ground for post-election duty.

“However, I wish to advise in the interest of the general public, that if any one, group of people or political party has any grievances or objections to the conduct of election, such complaints should be channeled to the appropriate quarters.”

The police boss lauded the people of the state for their peaceful conduct and civility during the Saturday’s election.

Nasarawa , who promised that the police will repeat the

unblemished records in the conduct of Ekiti poll in the August 9 governorship poll in Osun State, said his men would henceforth make it impossible for poll riggers to have a field day during elections.

He said; “May I recall that in the build up to the election, we gave assurances to the good people of Ekiti State, the residents ,electoral stakeholders, election monitoring groups, local and international observers and of course, the

entire nation that the police will leave no stone unturned, in ensuring a very credible, peaceful, crisis-free and widely acceptable election in Ekiti.

“As we are mindful of the familiar disruptions and occurrences that generally mar the conduct of similar elections, our proactive approach made it practically impossible for hoodlums or criminals to break the law or violate the electoral process”.

The Police Commissioner in charge of the elections, Mr

FAYOSE VISITS FAYEMI: From left— Director General, Ayo Fayose Campaign Organization, Dipo Anisulowo; Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; and Governor-Elect, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, during a courtesy visit to the Governor's office, in Ado-Ekiti... yesterday.

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DO EKITI—EKITI State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi and governor-elect, Mr Ayodele Fayose met in the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti yesterday and promised to forge a unity among themselves and the people of the state.

Fayemi, at the meeting attend-

ed by associates of both men said his decision to congratulate Fayose should not be taken as strange given his determination to protect democracy.

Fayose in commending the maturity of the outgoing governor said his concession was a strange concept in Nigeria even as he charged his supporters not to taunt the outgoing governor

who he commended for making his marks in the development of the state.

“They said my congratulatory message to the Governor-elect is unafrican or unNigerian. I don’t think it was so because that was what I was expected to do as a democrat.”

“As an elected officer, I have no choice than to respect the

Ekiti polls fallout: Prepare to leave govt house, Osun PDP tells Aregbesola

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

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SOGBO—WITH last Saturday’s victory of Mr Ayo Fayose of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP in the Ekiti state governorship election, Osun state chapter of the party has advised governor Rauf Aregbesola to start preparing to quit the Abere government house as the party would defeat him in the August 9 governorship election in the state.

The state chairman of the party, Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa said in a statement issued in

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AGOS—MRS Adi jat Adeleye-Oladapo, member, Ogun State House of Assembly (APC Ifo constituency), has called on women to participate actively in politics, in order to fulfil the 2015 Millennium Development Goals.

Adeleye-Oladapo spoke in Lagos yesterday.

She said that more women should contest elective positions to achieve the 35 per cent affirmative appointive positions in line with UN recommendation.

“More women should be encouraged to contest elections; though there is hope because we have more women in the Houses of Assembly and House of Representatives, they are not enough.

NIEPA boss pleads for institute to remain autonomous

BY DAYO JOHNSON

Fayose, Fayemi meet

BY GBENGAARIYIBI

Aduba, reiterated the intention of the Force to curb some reported cases of overzealousness on the side of his men, saying they would be more civil than what was experienced in Ekiti in the future election.

Aduba, pointed out that whoever suffered harassment in the hands of the police during the election should forward such complaint to the police headquarters in Ado Ekiti for proper disciplinary action against concerned officers.

Ogun lawmaker wants women in active politics

Osogbo yesterday that the victory of Mr Ayo Fayose of the PDP in Ekiti state in the last Saturday’s election was a pointer to PDP’s victory come August.

He said the visit of some leaders of the All Progressives Congress APC to former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola could not save Aregbesola and APC from imminent failure in the election.

According to him, the people of the South West geo-political zone are tired of the APC rule, saying this was evident in the Ekiti state governorship election.

Olaoluwa who sympathized with senator Bola Tinubu over the

loss of the APC in Ekiti state also urged Aregbesola to prepare to leave the government house, saying the party would take over from him soon.

“We understand the horrible situation the loss in Ekiti has put the APC and only that can explain the desperation in wooing Prince Oyinlola whose mandate they stole through the court. APC leaders must be jittery about the chances of the party ahead of August 9, 2014 Governorship election in Osun state and 2015 general elections. The truth is that their time is up in the south west” Olaoluwa said.

wishes of the people. ''Our democracy is fragile and we have to do whatever we can as leaders to strengthen and deepen it the more.”

“Ekiti is also unique. We all have ties dated back to centuries, so we are not disagreeable in any way”.

They, however, agreed to set up a committee to draw a report for smooth transition of power on October 16, 2014.

The governor said he would continue to identify with any action that would make Ekiti progress in all spheres.

Commenting on the acrimony existing between members of the two political parties, APC and PDP, Fayemi said: “What caused those things were the fact that we were playing politics. All is power struggle. We wanted to take from the same basket, but today, we have taken it with equanimity.”

“So, I congratulate the governor-elect because what we are doing today is a lesson for us that in whatever we do as leaders, we have to consider the overall interest of Ekiti people.”

“Today, Ekiti is victorious.

We have shown the world that politics can be played with decorum and restraint. But I have to continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people until October 16, so we have to plead with our supporters to exercise restraint.”

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KURE—AUTHOR ITIES of the National Institute for Education Planning and Administration, NIEPA, has called on the Federal Government to reconsider its stand on the proposed merger of the school with National Teachers Institute, NTI. Rather, it pleaded that it allow it to remain as a standalone parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Education.

Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NIEPA, Ondo, Dr. Peter Kolawole Ojedele made the appeal yesterday.

Ojedele said educational planner must be an integral part of national development planning and the function of the institute should not be subsumed under that of NTI, if the country should grow and progress.

According to him, the school established by the Federal ministry of Education in collaboration with UNESCO, International Institute for Education Planning (UNESCO, IIEP) Paris in 1992 is the only institute that has the mandate to build capacity of planners and managers in the education sector.

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Terrorists masquerading as herdsmen —Jonathan K

ADUNA—PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerians to join hands with the Federal Government to address the challenges of terrorists masquerading as pastoralists to cause mayhem in the country.

Jonathan made the call in Kaduna yesterday while declaring open an international conference on Security and Development Challenges of Pastoralism in West and Central Africa.

The President, who was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, said that the insurgents were exploiting the conflict between pastoralists and farmers to perpetrate terror.

He said the intensity and dimension of the conflict over the last few years had reached an alarming proportion with attendant and unfortunate loss of lives and property.

He said: “This conflict, unfortunately, has been predominant in Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue and Taraba

States. Some other states in North are also exposed to such challenges.

“Such challenges had also been reported in the southern part of the country.

“The state of conflict continues to pose serious threat to the nation’s security, stability and economic development. We are

all aware of the threats posed to the nation by the activities of insurgents.”

According to him, terrorists are capitalising on the lingering pastoralists-farmers’ conflict to form a hybrid type of insurgency where they masquerade as pastoralists to wage war against

EXCO MEETING: From left: Bayelsa State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chairman, Col. Sam Inokoba, (rtd.); Governor Seriake Dickson and Speaker Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Mr. Konbowei Benson, during the PDP state executive committee meeting, in Yenagoa.

NSE to delist UTC, Daar Communications, 19 other firms

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HE Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, has announced plans to delist UTC Plc, Daar Communications Plc and 19 other quoted companies from its daily official list.

According to the Exchange, some of the companies were being delisted for failing to file their quarterly and annual financial reports and account with the NSE, while some other ones failed to regularise their listing status after being given time to do so.

The companies being delisted for non-rendition of their financial accounts include UTC Plc, FNT Cocoa Processing Plc, G. Cappa Plc, Big Treat Plc, Mtech Plc, Daar Communications Plc, Starcomms Plc, Nigeria Wire and Cable Plc and West Africa Glas Industry Plc. Others are IPWA Plc, Rokana Industry Plc, Afroil Plc, Adswitch Plc, Pinnacle Point Group Plc, Goldlink Insurance Plc and Investment and Allied Insurance Plc. Those being delisted for not regularising their listing status include Jos International Breweries Plc, Golden Guinea Plc,

Capital Oil Plc, Nigeria Sewing Machine Plc and Stockvis Plc. In a statement announcing the delisting, the Exchange said that the decision was taken on June 2, 2014 by the Quotation Committee of the National Council, pursuant to the provision of the Greenbook, (Listing Rules), specifically

Clause 15 of the general undertaking.

It further stated that the action became necessary in order to protect the investing public from trading in securities of entities with no current information on their financial status, adding that it would take effect three months from the date of the notice.

MOSOP hails London Court ruling on Shell The statement by media

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

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the state.

The president expressed happiness that the objective of the terrorists had not been fully realised owing to the resilience of the pastoralists.

“Such a development, should it materialise, would be at a great cost to our country,” he said.

ORT HARCOURT— MOVEMENT for the Survival of Ogoni People, MOSOP, has hailed the judgment of a London Technology and Construction court on Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited.

MOSOP, in its statement, said the judgment held that Shell should “be liable for damages inflicted on individuals and communities even if the cause of such damage was sabotage done to its infrastructure, if it has failed to take enough steps to protect the assets, including pipelines from vandalism as well as tampering.”

aide to the president of the Ogoni apex body, Mr Bariara Kpalep, said Bodo community in Gokhana Local Government Area, Rivers State, had secured the ruling in the suit brought against Shell over the 2008, 2009 oil spill in the community.

“The ruling is not only courageous and relieving, but also represents a new judicial movement towards holding Shell accountable for its decades of ecological war on our people. The decision is unambiguous and passed the message that Shell can no longer mask behind sabotage to deny the Ogoni and other oil bearing communities their inalienable right to safe and clean environment."

2015: Delta guber aspirant identifies causes of poverty

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governorship aspirant in Delta State in the 2015 election, Dr. Andrew FoubiriWarri, has said that poverty in Nigeria was caused by lack of inclusiveness in governance.

He spoke during a visit to Isoko nation, where a socio-political group adopted him as its sole candidate for the governorship poll in Irri, Isoko South Local Government Area of the state.

“Nigeria is blessed with natural resources particularly Delta State which is one of the states that has the highest allocation," he said.

He promised to follow the footsteps of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, who, he said, has successfully implemented his adminiatration's three-point agenda.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 13

C M Y K

14 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 15

C M Y K

16— Vanguard , TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

DEFECTION: Court decides fate of 5 govs today zOrders Okorocha to appear July 3

BY IKECHUKWU

NNOCHIRI

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BUJA—THE Federal High Court sitting in Abuja will today deliver judgment in the suit seeking to declare the seats of the five governors that defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC, vacant.

Justice Gabriel Kolawole adjourned the matter for judgment after all the parties adopted their final briefs of argument.

Those PDP urged the court to sack from office were Governors Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers, Alhaji Magatakarda Wamakko of Sokoto, Alhaji Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano and Alhaji Abdulfatai Ahmed of Kwara state, who were all listed in the suit as 2nd to 6th defendants, respectively.

The Federal High Court, also yesterday, ordered Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State to appear before it on July 3

alongside the Attorney General of the state, Mr. Chukwuma Ume. The duo were summoned after their counsel yesterday, claimed that they were briefed separately by both the governor and the state AG, to appear before the court on the same matter.

The All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, filed the suit seeking to declare his seat vacant, following his defection to the All Progressives Congress, APC. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, was also cited as the second defendant in the suit praying the court, to declare the seats of the former PDP governors vacant.

The party said that going by the express provisions of sections 177 (c), 221 and 222 (c) of the 1999 Constitution, the court, ought to declare the governors as ineligible to remain in office having defected to the APC. It is seeking “A declaration that by the combined provisions of

section 177 (c), 221 and 222 (c) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) the 2nd6th Defendants who were elected under the platform of the plaintiff cannot continue to enjoy the mandate given to the plaintiff by the people / electorate of the respective states as the 2nd - 6th defendants have defected to the APC. “A declaration that in the absence of any division known and recognised by law in the plaintiff, the 2nd6th defendants who were elected under the plaintiff’s platform have vacated or forfeited their seats forthwith upon their defection to APC. “A declaration that having combined provisions of section 87 of the Electoral Act 2011 (as amended), section 177 (c), 221 and 222 (c) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) the 2nd - 6th Defendants defection from the Plaintiff to the All Progressives Congress, APC, the offices of the 2nd6th defendants have reverted to the plaintiff.

Nigeria spends N1.3trn annually on food importation —Minister

BY CHRIS OCHAYI

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BUJA—THE Supervising Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Arch. Dairus Ishaku, has disclosed that Nigeria was spending N1.3 trillion annually on importation of food into the country.

Ishaku, who revealed this while speaking at the reception held for 100 Niger Delta youths trained in Israel in various fields in agriculture at Israel Skills Acquisition Centre, ISAC,

yesterday, in Abuja, charged the trainees to put their knowledge into practice in order to boost food production in the country.

Describing the trainees as future economic elite of the Niger Delta, in the face of recent crude oil discoveries around the world, the minister said: “This is particularly a likely scenario in view of the recent survey which shows that Nigerians spend N25.5 billion daily in purchasing food.

“The amounts to a hefty N9.3 trillion annually, 86 percent of which is spent on food grown in the country.

Only N1.3 trillion or a mere 14 percent of the total expenditure is spent on imported food.”

“This means that you will be part of, and definitely, reap from, this huge domestic food market. So, I strongly urge you to remain focused on and get fully involved in the agricultural sector, using your newly acquired skills to navigate it profitably.”

LASAA to create platform for devt of outdoor advitising

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AGOS—LAGOS State Signage & Advertisement Agency, LASAA, has concluded plans to host Africa’s biggest signage and billboard exhibition, so as to create a platform for the growth and development of signage and outdoor advertising in the State, Nigeria and Africa.

A statement by the agency said the event titled: the Signage and Outdoor

Conference and Exhibition Africa, said the forum would hold on June 25 and 27 respectively in Lagos.

Managing Director of LASSA, Mr. George Noah, said the exhibition, is expected to take Nigeria’s blooming outdoor industry to new heights.

His words: “The objective is to provide a veritable platform for the growth and development

of signage and outdoor advertising in Lagos State, Nigeria and Africa.

The event is expected to attract from within and outside the country, industry regulators, consultants, designers, researchers, brand managers, media buying agencies, event companies, suppliers, manufacturers, exhibitors in the signage, digital signage, retail signage solutions, outdoor media as well as screen and digital printing industries.’’

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 17

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OLA Tinubu is standing on the horns of a dilemma. He became the godfather of the APC out of burning personal ambition to seek greener political pastures for himself in Abuja. The APC calculus is to present a Northern presidential and Southern vicepresidential ticket against the PDP’s Jonathan/Sambo ticket in the 2015 presidential election.

If that APC vice-presidential candidate is not Tinubu himself, then all bets are off as far as Tinubu is concerned. However, the prospect of a ticket with Tinubu as vice-president is already ensuring that the APC is badly in need of aspirin.

An APC vice-president that is not Tinubu poses grave political danger to Tinubu. It means Tinubu has been sowing for somebody else to reap. If that person happens to be Yoruba, he or she could quickly become a contender for Tinubu’s muchvaunted position as the Asiwaju of South-West politics in Nigeria. That is the reason Tinubu schemed against Mulikat Akande becoming the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Therefore, all systems are “go.” Tinubu must be APC’s vice-presidential candidate by hook or crook. If not, it is most likely Tinubu will end up by scheming against the APC in the coming presidential election.

Truncated democracy The first imperative is to ensure that the chairman of the

A Muslim/Muslim presidential disaster for the APC electing a new APC chairman, Odigie-Oyegun was rigged into the office. APC governors went along with this charade out of fear Tinubu might otherwise lose interest in the APC and deny it of valuable South-West support. The lie was sold to the convention that all other candidates had agreed to step down for OdigieOyegun. As a result, he was declared the new consensus chairman of the party.

Ikimi’s exposure However, Tom Ikimi refused to play ball. He not only boycotted the convention, he announced that the whole thing was 419, ACN style. Ikimi declared that the election was rigged principally by Tinubu, who he claimed “unilaterally” appointed Odigie-Oyegun as

,

,

Those whom the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad. The APC plan for a Muslim/Muslim ticket in this day and age in Nigeria is nothing short of madness

APC must be someone Tinubu can manipulate. Therefore, he insisted that Bisi Akande, the former ACN chairman wellschooled in Tinubu’s gamesmanship, must be retained as APC chairman.

Those were the days when Tinubu’s word was law in ACN. But now in APC, he got into a shouting match with Tom Ikimi, who insisted the APC chairman must come from the SouthSouth. Tinubu lost out to the new power-brokers of the APC governors.

Bisi Akande resigned and the post was zoned to the South-South.

Then phase two of the battle began. Tinubu needed to ensure that the APC chairman is not his new arch-enemy, Tom Ikimi, a known Atiku Abubakar man. So he shopped for a more malleable alternative. He finally settled on John OdigieOyegun, former governor of Edo State. But when the permutations were done, Odigie-Oyegun could not be assured of victory in a democratic poll. The answer, therefore, in typical Asiwaju fashion, was to truncate democracy in APC. Tinubu engaged in backroom deals whereby, instead of

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party-chairman. Said Ikimi: “I did not step down for anybody.

When it became clear to me and many others, including my supporters, that the outcome of the contest would not be determined by a free and fair vote at the convention, most of the delegates, tired and weary after waiting for more than 24 hours for accreditation all day at Eagle Square, departed.”

Ikimi went further to reveal that the entire scam is designed to pave the way for a Muslim/ Muslim APC presidential ticket with the Asiwaju himself as Muslim vice-presidential candidate. Hear Ikimi: “I felt strongly that if we were bound to proceed on the basis of zoning that both party offices as well as key offices in government such as President, Vice President etc., should be put on the table and zoned at the same time. My suggestion was motivated by strong information I had received of plots being hatched to steamroll a Muslim/Muslim Presidential and Vice Presidential ticket for the APC in the 2015 election and with specific individuals in mind as the beneficiaries.”

This plot is not just thickening: it is also

unraveling. Tom Ikimi is not just an ordinary member of the APC. He is one of the foundingmembers. As a matter of fact, he presided over the negotiations leading to the merger of the different parties that make up the congress. So what we have here is more than speculative. It is coming from one of the APC insiders.

APC delusion Femi Fani-Kayode also left the APC for the same reason.

Stating publicly the reason for his departure, Fani-Kayode declared: “I am a devout and committed Christian and I cannot remain in a party where a handful of people that have sympathies for Boko Haram and that have a clear Islamic agenda are playing a leading role. This is made all the more untenable when some of those people are working hard silently and behind the scenes to impose a Muslim/Muslim ticket on the party for the Presidential elections next year.”

Those whom the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad.

The APC plan for a Muslim/ Muslim ticket in this day and age in Nigeria is nothing short of madness. It will not fly. It will not only be rejected outright

by Nigerians, it will tear the APC apart. Indeed, it is already beginning to do so. Bola Tinubu cannot be elected vicepresident of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He cannot even win a free and fair election in Lagos today.

That is how unpopular he has become in his South-West heartland. It did not help matters that he was quoted as insulting virtually all Yoruba traditional rulers. The defeat of sitting APC governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, by opposition PDP candidate, Ayo Fayose, is surely handwriting on the wall. Tinubu cannot deliver the South-West to the born-to-rule Northern cabals of the APC. It is amazing how the political ambitions of some individuals can completely blind them to the political reality of present-day Nigeria. A situation where some terrorists are holding the

country and 219 Christian girls hostage by insisting that Nigeria must become an Islamic Republic does not permit the scheming of a political party that insists power must return to the North to present a presidential ticket where both the president and vice-president are Muslims.

This would surely be interpreted by Christians and Muslims alike as capitulation to Boko Haram. It would also confirm the suspicions of some that the APC is sympathetic to the Boko Haram cause.

Abiola/Kingibe precedence The argument that the Muslim/Muslim ticket of Abiola/ Kingibe was accepted by Nigerians in 1993 is disingenuous. That ticket was accepted because the presidential candidate, Abiola, was from the South; and he was running against Bashir Tofa, another Muslim but from the North. 2014 is not 1993. A Muslim/Muslim APC ticket today would combine the insistence that power must return to the predominantly Muslim North, with yet another political incendiary; the Islamisation of Nigeria according to a Boko Haram agenda.

This would not only fail, it would be politically disastrous.

It would ensure that the 2015 election will be fought on religious grounds. It would then become apparent to everyone, Christian and Muslim alike, that Nigeria needs to be protected from the APC. The very fact that major powerbrokers in the APC are even seriously entertaining this idea is eloquent testimony that the APC is up to no good. The religious situation in Nigeria today is particularly delicate, especially given the malicious bombing of churches and killing of Christians by Muslim insurgents in the North. How then can a political party that aspires to rule the entire country be so insensitive to the prevailing situation?

Elections are not about choosing between the best

alternatives. Most times, they are about choosing between bad alternatives. The PDP and the APC are both lousy options. If we had the druthers, we would say “a plague on both their houses.” Unfortunately, they are the only viable choices available to Nigerians in the coming elections. Forced to choose between the two, there can be no question that the PDP is by far the lesser evil.

APC sectarianism APC is a party of convenience. It is the party of autocratic political masqueraders pretending to be democrats. It is the party of power-hungry politicians with regional agendas. It is a party of those inclined to plunge Nigeria into sectarianism because personal ambition is given greater saliency over the national interest. It is the party of those who have remained largely silent and complicit in the face of Boko Haram insurgency. It is the party of those who are inclined to use the national tragedy of the kidnapping of innocent Chibok schoolgirls for party-political gain.

The very fact that Fani-Kayode felt the need to protest to the powers-that-be in the APC that “the APC is not an affiliate of Al Qaeda and neither is it a Boko Haram party, a Janjaweed party or a Muslim Brotherhood Party” shows it is beginning to be perceived as one or all of the above. In life, perceptions are often more important than reality. It is a testament to the disdain with which the APC holds Nigerians that it is doggedly refusing to address these growing perceptions. On the contrary, it seems inclined to confirm them.

Catch-22 The APC is in a catch-22 situation. If it does not field Buhari as presidential candidate, it will lose invaluable Northern support that only Buhari seems able to guarantee. If it does not field Tinubu as its vice-presidential candidate, it will lose Tinubu’s ostensible South-West coattails.

The answer is the political suicide of a Buhari/Tinubu ticket, since both politicians are Muslims.

Whatever the permutations, an APC presidential ticket that includes Tinubu will end up as a Muslim/ Muslim ticket, because the APC does not have a viable Northern Christian presidential candidate.

In the meantime, the APC is going to provide the political Nollywood of the coming months. The upshot of these shenanigans is not only that the APC will come to grief in the coming presidential elections, but that Bola Tinubu will lose his meal-ticket in the SouthWest.

18— Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 THE most important thing about last Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State was the equanimity, grace, humility with which Dr. Kayode Fayemi conceded victory.

Such moments are rare in our politics and made all the difference to how both sides received the result.

Dr. Fayemi chose his words and the weight they borne delivered on the type of politics Nigerians want to embrace. Our people are tired of leaders who lead them to war, usually from behind, with the masses as cannon fodders.

We want peace. The first catalyst for peace, contrary to what many propound, is not justice. Utterances of leaders are important, their lives, their examples are the next most important ways of changing society.

Dr. Fayemi conceded victory, called governor-elect Ayodele Peter Fayose, who he addressed as “my brother, congratulating him on his victory”. Action made his words meaningful. Within hours, he was meeting the governor-elect “to discuss the future of our dear state and how we would work together to institute a smooth transition programme. De-

Ekiti – FFa ayemi Is The Dif Difff erence spite our diverse party affiliations, and regardless of which way we voted on Saturday, we must remember that we are all sons and daughters of Ekiti State. Ekiti is ours to build together.”

In our search for ways of deepening our democracy, we tend to emphasise electoral victories over high note performances like the one that Dr. Fayemi gave. Of course, he noted some infractions but quickly dwelt on important things.

“The incidences of brazen harassment, intimidation and allied infractions on fundamental human rights …in the hands of agents of the state, would be documented and communicated to the appropriate authorities, for

the records,” Dr. Fayemi said.

He could have used his office to ensure he had a second term. He did not. The bellicose crowd forget that democratic governments are called to serve the people, by the people, on terms the people dictate.

When would we have politicians who can exit office without a thought about how important a second term is to them? Would they not destroy everything in sight to make the point about their importance to the sustenance of Nigeria?

The new Nigeria we desire is right before us. We cannot ignore examples like Dr. Fayemi’s. His character affected those he led; he inspired them to be peaceful. If he wanted war, Ekiti would have been in turmoil in abundance.

Dr. Fayemi is not only speeches. He is about credentials matching character. He proved there was more to life than being in public office. We need more people who want to serve the people, and who would accept the people’s decision on who serves them.

Nigeria needs people who make the difference – positively.

OPINION Remembering Steve Osemeke, the quintessential writer

BY OGOCHUKWU OSEMEKE

I

WRITE this piece with pain and pride in my heart for Chief Steve Nbanefo Osemeke, my father who left this world exactly a year ago, after a brave and gallant fight with illness.

Life is not measured by the number of breath we take but by the moments that 'take our breath away' This can be said about my father, a devout family man, veteran journalist, corporate image-maker and administrator in whom I take solace in the fact that he left exceptional footprints on the sands of time.

A father to all, he made it a duty to positively affect the lives of all he came across. This 'open arms policy' as I constantly teased him was a point of envy for me. But with time, I have come to appreciate this character and do my best to emulate it in my everyday life.

In his humble and conservative nature, he seldom celebrated his string of achievements both in his journalism career and his family life. Many people do not know that no Nigerian apart from Chief Osemeke has held substantive posts as an Image maker for six governors and five INEC Chairmen C M Y K

despite office politics and constant lobbying by others. His excellent performance and high level of professionalism constantly spoke for him.

I still keep contact with his old colleagues and they never fail to mention how he is missed at INEC where he retired honorably in 2010 after serving as a Director for 17 years, yet another achievement.

His family life is worthy of emulation.

Born in Onicha Ugbo in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State as the first of his brothers and sisters, Chief Osemeke stood up to the challenge of lifting his rural family out of poverty by showing exceptional qualities that endeared him to fellow students and school authorities, academic brilliance and sportsmanship.

"OSEMS", as he was popularly known by his friends, served as St. Pius XTH Grammar School's senior prefect until he left in 1970.

In 1974, after studying in Edo College Benin City, he was admitted into the University of Lagos, Akoka from where he obtained B.Sc (Hons.) 2nd Class Upper Division, in Mass Communications in 1977. The sky was the limit from then on for him as he

surpassed his contemporaries in his journalism career having risen from a staff writer to features editor in the Observer Newspaper, Benin in just two years.

In 1984, he was appointed as Press Secretary to Jeremiah Useni, a Colonel at the time and Military Governor of the old Bendel State. He went on to work with five more governors of Bendel State and one military administrator of Delta State and the first civilian governor of the State, who all saw it fit to retain him due to his exceptional job performance. He left in 1992 and in 1993, he was appointed a director in the old National Electoral Commission, where he remained until his retirement in 2010.

He got his Masters in Political Science and International Relations from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 2002.

Even though he was a man devoted to his wife of 36 years and children, my father single handedly rose from the abyss of poverty and took his whole family, both immediate and extended along with him.

Today his brothers and sisters, even in-laws can boast of successful careers in their various endeavours and they would all agree that they owe it all to

him. He was a shining light to all.

I Ogochukwu Steve Osemeke celebrate a colossus of a man in my father. His achievements will stand the test of time. And even though his era has ended, his legacy still lives on. He is a benchmark not only to me, but to the numerous people who came his way.

He has left a huge void in the life of his family and a very big shoes for me to fill. I do not plan to let him down.

We all miss him. I want to express my sincere appreciation to this man (to my father), a man worthy of emulation. Even though I never really got to say it to him in person, I try to appreciate him by always thinking about how he would handle situations that I face in my own life.

Dear Dad, thank you for all the love and care; and for giving me the privilege of being your son and bearing your name, Stephen. I have never let you down and I don't intend doing that now or ever.

As a parent, I try to emulate you in my dealings with my children. I pray my son will be as proud of me as I am of you. Rest in Peace, till we meet to part no more. We will always love you. *Mr. Osemeke Jnr., wrote from Abuja.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014—19

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HE APC Convention, held on Friday June 13, 2014, lived up to its billing. A lot of hype, razzmatazz, and of course, tantrums directed at the PDP, represented by Dr Goodluck Jonathan's presidency. They tried so much to paint a picture of unity and integration and to confirm this, they elected a Christian SouthSouth man, John OdigieOyegun as the new chairman of the party, without opposition.

This was done to appease the critics, who, otherwise, felt that the party hierarchy is heavily tilted towards members of the Muslim faith.

The turn out was impressive and the representations cut across all of the regions of the country. If we are to go by this exercise, it will be very safe to conclude that we now have a very strong and vibrant opposition, standing against the ruling PDP. Having done this successfully, it is important for the APC to re-invent itself and re-assess strategies. They should begin to think beyond the politics of ' if I cannot pluck the mango, no one else will '. They should begin to think beyond the door-die politics that they have assailed the nation with since last year, the politics of intimidation and war

drumming.

Whether we agree or not, the activities or the type of politics played by the APC this past year created loopholes for insurgents to rear their ugly heads and made it difficult for a concerted approach at containment.

It is a good thing that the convention held without any visible ugly incident, although there were pockets of disgruntlement, like that of Chief Tom Ikimi, but that is to be expected as the majority decisions, most times, do not favour everybody. So, Oyegun and his group do have an uphill task to appease and 'shoo' in the disgruntled elements.

Now that the conference is successfully over, the major focus should now be on what they can bring to the table. How will the masses benefit from the programmes, they are putting in place? We are tired of the repeated curses and insults on the person of the President.

Right from the era of Olusegun Obasanjo, the PDP as a party, has not proved itself to be faithful to the masses. In fact, Obasanjo perfected the art of 'promising and failing' which has continued until this day.

So, the failure of the PDP is not the issue: bungled elections, accountability, power, privatisation, inflation, naira devaluation, wasteful presidency and profligate

It is time for the APC to reassess its strategies and let Nigerians discern their true capabilities.

There should not be anything hidden; let the wishes of the majority hold sway

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national assembly, etc. The issue is: What is the APC bringing to the table that is new?

This question has become very relevant because from a close study of those in the present APC hierarchy and so many of their governors, they are not different from the PDP government. Like I have always said, 'they are obverse sides of the same coin'.

Is it Governor Nyako or Governor Kwankwaso? Is it Buhari or Tinubu? Or is it the rabble rouser El Rufai? They all have exhibited politics of hate, divide and rule, and negative propaganda. Their examples have not shown them to be true progressives.

F

ortunately, some of us alive today had witnessed politics of progressivism in the past as played by Chief Obafemi

APC’s Convention: “Change” now defined

BY KAYODE OJO

S

INCE its emergence through a merger of a few insignificant to middling political parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has struggled with image problems of its own making. If the party is not portraying itself through its interim appointments as a party for one religion only in Nigeria’s multireligious society, it is acting out a foretold script to prove that it is indeed merely a vehicle for two power-seeking individuals to achieve their ambitions.

And yet this is the party that keeps saying it is all about “change”.

June 13-14, 2014 — the dates of its recent National Convention — presented the APC a golden opportunity to reinvent itself and prove that it is capable of living up to the “change” mantra.

But, in a performance that almost made the much-vilified Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) look like saints, the APC Convention left many Nigerians asking, “What manner of change is this?”

Former Governor of Edo State, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, was selected through “consensus” as the first substantive National Chairman of the APC. And despite a declaration made during the merger that brought about the APC “to form a political party committed to the principles of internal democracy,” several other national executive officers of the party were C M Y K

selected through “consensus”. These include the Deputy Chairman (South), Segun Adebayo Oni; Deputy Chairman (North), Lawal Shuaibu; National Secretary, Alhaji Mai Mala Goni and National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed. To say that many Nigerians, including some prominent members of the APC itself, are still reeling from the shock of this strange rendition of “change” is to put the matter mildly.

Interestingly, there are some Nigerians who would certainly not be surprised by the underhanded happenings recorded at the APC Convention. Such Nigerians include people like Vanguard's Femi Aribisala, who, as far back as April 15, 2014 wrote: “Rather than being a progressive party, the APC is regressive. Indeed, it is a cruel joke to describe it as progressive. A party led by a former military dictator and a civilian dictator cannot be progressive.”

Moreover, as the journalist Iyobosa Uwugiaren stated in the Leadership of Wednesday, June 18, 2014: “What happened at the Eagle Square, Abuja, between last Thursday and Saturday morning, was a sham; it was a selection, not election; it lacked the basic minimum elements of internal democracy in a party that prides itself as a “progressive party”. Indeed, the conduct of the APC leaders was retrogressive.”

In an article titled, “Who Owns APC?” Uwugiaren also said: “My take on the outcome of the convention is that the leaders fell short of glory

Awolowo, Mallam Aminu Kano, both of blessed memories; Balarabe Musa is still alive.

They identified their true types and stuck with them, not people who are ready to go into any form of marriage because they want to win elections at all cost.

Not people who will see the truth and bend it, promoting sectional, religious and ethnic interests because they want power to come to them. Not people who assume an air of superiority over their fellow Nigerians. Not people who will turn a blind eye to the truth because the truth, if made public, will not favour their interest. Not betrayers, nothing good comes out from them. Not dictators who want only their views to be expressed and applied. What the country needs are true democrats who will conduct the affairs according to the wishes of the people, the masses.

It is time for the APC to reassess its strategies and let Nigerians discern their true capabilities. There should not be anything hidden; let the wishes of the majority hold sway in any decision making process. That is their challenge, that is the challenge of Oyegun's chairmanship.

Judging from the ward elections, so many controversies trailed the conduct and claims of imposition surfaced everywhere. The 2015 date is drawing near. Are they going to use the same tactics to select candidates for the elections? If they do so, it will not augur well for the party and might affect their chances negatively.

Are they ready to run a 'quota

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BY SUNNY IKHIOYA

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APC: After the convention, what next?

Nigerians should be grateful to God for the APC National Convention since it has shown what manner of “change” the party would bring to the nation if it is voted into power

,

before God and the electorate. They fell flat on the core principles of democracy: the right of people to decide who leads them; they failed woefully on their widely advertised selling points — “change” and “new ideas”.” Uwugiaren went on to add, “I hold this view strongly that APC is not a credible alternative to the PDP.” For those who may feel Uwugiaren is a bystander whose views on the goings-on in the APC are of little consequence, a chieftain of the party, Chief Tom Ikimi, boycotted the convention even though it was widely reported that he planned to contest the national chairmanship position of the party.

W

hen contacted by the media to state why he failed to attend the convention, Ikimi, a former foreign affairs minister, said: “There was no election. Odigie-Oyegun was selected and appointed as chairman. That was why I did not fill and submit my nomination form. I boycotted the convention because its outcome was pre-determined.” As a very senior

free' presidential election? Are they ready to bring out the best that the APC has to offer as presidential candidate, and not on the basis of religion, ethnic and sectional interests? This also will determine the chances of the APC in the forthcoming elections.

The time is right for the APC to start selling their programmes in an articulate and positive manner. Stop the war mongering and heating of the political space. Those that practised it, even in civilised societies, did not make the desired impact. For example, the Tea Party in America tried it during the two presidential elections of Obama; instead of winning people to their side,the strategy repulsed them, especially the minorities and immigrants.

The APC should not follow that path. They have credible and performing individuals in their midst, especially from amongst the governors rank.

They should conduct very transparent primary elections to get the best at all levels of the democratic process.

It is not compulsory that you win elections, but the legacy that you leave behind matters.

I do not know of any past and present Nigerian president that is more recognised and acknowldged than Obafemi Awolowo today, yet he did not win at the centre.

For the APC, the election must not be a 'do-or-die' affair.

*Mr. Ikhioya, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

member of the APC, Ikimi’s words cannot be dismissed out of hand.

Despite all that, perhaps the most damning fallout of the APC National Convention is the controversy surrounding its new National Youth leader in the person of Ibrahim Dasuki Jalo. Jalo’s age was first stated as 52, later reduced to 49 on a television talk show by former Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nasir el-Rufai; and lastly ‘proved’ to be 43 by virtue of a crisp-looking birth certificate circulated on social media.

Not impressed by the mathematical acrobatics surrounding Jalo’s age, a pressure group, Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth & Advancement (YIAGA), issued a statement saying, “This election or selection of a 52 year old as a National Youth Leader of the APC contradicts the provision of the party constitution which in itself defines youth as persons between the age of 18 and 40.”

Not to be outdone, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, weighed in on the controversy through a statement saying, “It is public knowledge that Ibrahim Dasuki Jalo contested the Gombe/Kwame/ Funakaye Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives in 2011 during which he declared his age to be 49 years. The records are there and they speak for themselves. If Ibrahim Dasuki Jalo was 49 years old in 2011, it naturally follows that he is 53 at present for which he should be grateful to God.” Indeed, all Nigerians should be grateful to God for the APC National Convention since it has shown what manner of “change” the party would bring to the nation if it is voted into power.

*Mr. Ojo, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Lagos.

20 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Bomb in church: Fear grips Owerri residents

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

O

WERRI, the Imo State cap ital, is reputed to be a very peaceful city. This explains why there are several relaxation joints in the town. The same is also true of all classes of hotels, eateries, beer parlours and other places for fun seekers.

The peaceful disposition of both the indigenes and residents alike, was first jettisoned during the infamous Otokoto saga, when everybody rose against miscreants who were almost holding the place hostage.

Then came the invasion of armed robbers and kidnappers.

The crimes almost rose to a feverish pitch when the Nigeria Police High Command sent the immediate past Commissioner of

liers, motor park operators and the general public to report all strange objects and persons in the surroundings to the security agencies for prompt action.

Armed with this alert, churches swung into action. Worshippers were searched. Cars owners were ordered to park them in designated places, sometimes away from the church buildings.

Announcements were made at intervals inside the churches warning the laity to closely watch those sitting close to them and the type of bags they are carrying.

Naturally, worshippers became very apprehensive. Not many people actually observed their Sunday obligations with concentration. Many people hurriedly left their places of wor-

,

Worshippers became very apprehensive; many people hurriedly left their places of worship and rushed home, following the bomb scare

Police, Mr. Mohammed Katsina, to check the activities of these miscreants. He did a good job of it before leaving the state.

However, a new dimension to crime and criminality reared its ugly head May 15, 2014, when yet-to-be identified hoodlums stormed the Owerri residence of the former state Governor, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, with an incendiary bomb. Property and personal effects worth millions of Naira were consumed in the ensuing fire!

Hostile dimension This hostile dimension was taken to its pinnacle when hoodlums, suspected to be the dreaded Islamic insurgents, Boko Haram, stormed the premises of the Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), located off Port Harcourt Road, Owerri, and planted three deadly improvised explosive devices, IEDs. The timely arrival of men of the AntiBomb Unit of the State Police Command and the successful detonation of the deadly devices, saved a lot of lives.

News of this near-ugly incident spread like wild fire in the state. The police spokesman, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, quickly put out public service announcements through the airwaves of the radio stations operating in Owerri. Police warned church leaders, school managers, hoteC M Y K

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ship and rushed home, following the bomb scare.

*Winners Chapel Owerri...Bomb found here triggers panic among residents Confusion and apprehension were palpable in the municipality. Some shops were closed.

Business slowed down sharply Monday morning, as some business men and women, including commercial vehicle operators, remained in the comfort of their homes, for fear of the dreaded insurgents. School managers were seen monitoring their premises. They did not allow vehicles to park very close to their schools.

One spectacular thing about the foiled bomb attack was that virtually all the shoe shiners dis-

appeared from the streets. Vanguard Metro, VM, could not get any of them to explain their action.

All the respondents, who spoke to VM on the issue, lamented that there is influx of Hausa/Fulani speaking people into Imo State.

While wondering what their mission is, the people were also worried how a shoe shiner that makes pittance as earnings, manage to sustain themselves in he state.

Meanwhile, parents are increasingly worried about the safety of their children while in their

various schools. They are equally worried that they have no seen anything tangible put in place by either the state government or the security agencies, to quickly identify harbingers of deadly weapons in the markets.

Imo people remain eternally grateful to God that the bombs did not go off as planned because the state would have recorded staggering number of deaths, especially as members of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, are currently on strike.

Insecurity: NGO empowers Plateau youths

BY MARIE-THERESE NANLONG, Jos

T

O curb youths unemploy ment which has served as fuel in fomenting trouble in Plateau State, Italianbased non-governmental organisation, NGO, Apurimac Onlus has engaged over 10,000 youths and women in various skills to make them self-employed as well as employers of labour.

In its training centres which cut across five local government areas of Mikang, Jos North, Jos South, Riyom and Barkin Ladi in Plateau State, the organisation offers training in knitting, hairdressing, catering, shoe making and Information and Communication Technology, ICT. To ensure that funds are available for Apurimac Onlus to implement its projects, the European Union through its Instrument for Stability, IFS in July, 2013 intervened to strengthen and consolidate on all peaceful structures in the State, using peaceful dialogue processes, training on peace education and enhancement of journalists’ capacity on peaceful reporting.

Giving an overview of IFS projects, Project Manager, Leonello Fani explained that IFS project has four components which include education, reconciliation, economic and social integration as well as media capacity development.

Fani stated that besides training the over 10,000 women and youths by Apurimac Onlus since 2008, IFS in its “education project has trained 190 school principals, 190

•Mr. Fani, Project Manager, •Godwin Okoko IFS teachers, 130 parents, 240 students, 40 SUG officials in institutions in the State, among others”.

He stressed that the trainings were on “peace education, conflict management and inter-faith dialogue and the trainings have helped in the formation of peace clubs in the various schools and the production of peace club manuals and peace curriculum to be used in schools in the State”.

The Project Manager added that “the reconciliation component has achieved the establishment of a Trauma Healing Center at Katako, the Victim Support Scheme, Community Resilience where communities are trained on resilience skills to enable them manage and overcome conflict and trauma. ”The Economic and Social Integration project has renovated and equipped Apurimac vocational centres, built a new one in Mikang local government area and trained 30 women in financial literacy, entrepreneur-

ial and vocational skills where 20 of them with approved business plans shall be given financial grant to start business”.

In the media component, Fani said: “We have trained 38 media practitioners operating in Plateau

State on conflict sensitivity reporting, organised media forum on constructive reportage and organised football tournament where over 600 youths benefited”.

He stated that from “June to August, 2014, other activities yet to be implemented will be done to strengthen and consolidate on the achievements so far achieved”.

Earlier, the Country Representative of Apurimac Onlus, Godwin Okoko stated that his organisation is working to ensure that peace education is taught as a subject in schools so that children at tender ages are exposed to the need for peaceful coexistence in the community.

Okoko said: “The success we have recorded since the commencement of these projects are enormous and commendable.

So far, Apurimac Onlus has trained 10,833 women and youths in these empowerment skills and there are indicators that there have been positive impacts.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 21

AFC, others lament slow pace of infrastructure devt in Nigeria

BY MICHAEL EBOH

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HE Africa Finance Corporation, AFC, has bemoaned the slow pace of infrastructure development in Nigeria, blaming it on lack of well-structured bankable projects and lack of access to long term capital as the major impediments to infrastructure development in Nigeria and the rest of the African continent.

Mr. Andrew Alli, President/ Chief Executive Officer, AFC, disclosed this at a public discourse with the theme, ‘Partnering for nation building,’ organised by KPMG Nigeria, Accenture and African Capital Alliance, in honour of the 80th birthday anniversary of Mr. Richard Kramer, founding chief executive of Arthur Andersen & Company in Nigeria.

Alli also maintained that lack of political will, inadequate policy framework, Market ability and willingness to pay, lack of institutional framework and regulatory environment are factors that have impeded the development of critical infrastructure in the country.

He further lamented that infrastructure financing is being hindered by macroeconomic structures, such as high interest rates, dependence on foreign financing and funding mismatch.

He maintained that building a 21st century competitive environment requires

developing a number of pillars which include leadership at all levels, both political, socio, corporate and institutional.

He also called for investment in people, ranging from female empowerment, education, healthcare, social safety and creating an enabling policy and business environment.

Alli noted that investment in physical and social infrastructure will help ensure long term efficiencies in economic structure and framework on which the economy operates.

He noted that it will bring

about a positive correlation between economic growth and infrastructure investment while it will also help improve labour productivity.

He added that investment in physical and social infrastructure will serve as a catalyst for investments and developing entrepreneurial skills and also help bridge social inequality, providing access to education, ease of movement and access to electricity.

In his own view, Mr. Peter Bamkole, Director, Enterprise Development Centre, Lagos

Business School, disclosed that businesses in Nigeria, especially Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, SMEs, are constantly faced with challenges.

He listed the challenges as lack of access to: markets, infrastructure, support services, finance, information and technology.

To overcome the challenges, he said efforts should be made to stimulate entrepreneurship at all levels; promote enterprise culture, provide support for businesses among others.

From left: Mrs. Adeola Azeez, Deputy Managing Director, Deutsche Bank Nigeria; Mr. Jibril Aku, Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, and Charles Weller, Managing Director, Deutsche Bank Nigeria, at the award ceremony of Deutsche Bank “Straight Through Processing' Excellence Award 2013” won by Ecobank, in Lagos.

LFTZ: Displaced communities get 750 hectares of land

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

L

AGOS State Government has handed over Certificates of Occupancy, C of O to beneficiaries of 750 hectares of land, whose lands were affected by the Lekki Free Trade Zone LFTZ, project in Lekki Local Government area, LGA, in the state.

The presentation came after seven years of deliberation between the representatives of the state government and the communities.

Presenting the C of O at the zone to the representatives of the communities, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs. Olushola Oworu said that the state government intention of giving new allocation of land to the communities was to enable them continue their farming as the land acquired from them be used to serve as their farm lands.

According to her: “This is a mile stone

in the obligations of the Lagos State Government. We have paid compensations as far back as 2009. We have given 750 hectares of land to them and with this land that we have just allocated to the communities they can now have lands of their own to farm again.

“The problem we had before was that some of the land we acquired was the land they used for farming, fishing among others. Now that they have their own land, they can go and do whatever they want with it. So, they will not disturb the investors anymore and we are now ready to move at a much faster pace with the development of the free zone”.

Oworu added: “Definitely we are continuing with the project because it is a flagship project of the Lagos state government with a view of ensuring that investments are set up in Lagos State. As we keep saying, we want

MEMMCOL tasks FG on local metre manufacturers

BY PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU

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HE Federal Government has been called upon to through the local content Act ensure that distribution companies, Discos, patronise local meter manufacturing companies in Nigeria.

Momas Electricity Meters Manufacturing Company Limited, MEMMCOL, an indigenous manufacturer of electricity meters made this call during an official visit of the House of Representatives Committee on Power to the factory located along LagosIbadan Expressway, where the Chairman of the Company, Engineer Kola Balogun pointed out that the meters manufactured by the company are of standard quality.

Balogun also said that local manufacturers need patronage from Discos in order to protect investments made into the economy. He said that the patronage will generate more employment opportunities, as well as help develop capacity in order to reduce capital flight to the barest minimum.

He noted however that the issue of the huge metering gap in the nation’s power sector which is currently under reform by the Federal Government can be addressed by encouraging local meter manufacturers. He announced that MEMMCOL when fully operational can produce a minimum of 100,000 meters per month.

investors who can develop our country 7.75 174.75 and our state and by so doing, as the industries spring up, we are going to 3,120.00 -20.00 create employment for our people. “ We are already working on 17.88 -0.06 temporary power plants so that investors can apart from the land have light. Everything is now in place. We are really ready to go now in a bang.”

114.95 -0.11 Speaking on behalf of the 107.11 0.68 communities and the traditional leaders in the affected communities, the Oloja of Epe, Oba Kamoru Ishola CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL SELLING expressed appreciation to Lagos State 155.23 155.73 government for the kind gesture, even DOLLAR 154.73 263.5207 264.3722 265.2238 as he pledged the support and loyalty STERLING EURO 210.7113 211.3922 212.0731 of the people of the communities to FRANC 173.0954 173.6548 174.2141 1.5187 1.5237 1.5286 the state government and prospective YEN CFA 0.301 0.311 0.321 investors in the zone.

WAUA 237.5716 238.3393 239.107 24.917 24.9984 “I have to thank Governor Fashola RENMINBI 24.837 41.2514 41.384 41.518 and the commissioner for a job well RIYAL KRONA 28.255 28.3463 28.4376 done. The investors are our friends we SDR 238.3306 239.1008 239.8709 have to cooperate with them. There is no way you can hold a cane and say CBN Exchange rate as at 23/06/2014 you want to give banana to a monkey.”

22— Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

INVESTORS Top 10 performing stocks

INDEX MOVEMENT

BY NKIRUKA NNOROM

O

n the top 10 performing stocks last week were Oando Plc, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, Caverton Offshore Support Group Plc, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria, Japaul Oil & Maritime Services Plc, and Costain West Africa Plc. The rest were Red Star Express Plc, Aiico Insurance Plc, Ashaka Cement plc and Mansard Insurance Plc. Oando led on the list with 51.85 percent or N10.37 price appreciation to close at N30.37 from N20.00 it started the week at.

Last week, a subsidiary of the company, Oando Energy Resources, OER, announced receipt of the consent of the Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources for acquisition of the Nigerian Upstream Oil and Gas Business of ConocoPhillips for a total cash consideration of $1.65 Billion subject to customary adjustments. Further to the receipt of consent of the Petroleum minister, OER and ConocoPhillips are now positioned to complete the ConocoPhillips transaction.

Half year financial statement of the company for June 2013 showed a declining fortune as Oando recorded 20.05 percent decrease in turnover to N280.33 billion from N350.61 billion in corresponding period in 2012. The gross profit at N30.233 billion was 2.52 percent decline over N31.014 billion achieved in the same period in 2012, while the profit after tax fell to N4.272 billion as against N6.606 billion in 2012. It paid 0.75kobo dividend in its 2012 financial year end.

Another petroleum marketing company, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, followed with 33.33 percent or N16.00 price increase, closing at N64.00 from N48.00 per share.

It had paid 23kobo dividend last year, while the last bonus shares it gave was in 2004.

MRS Oil will most likely join the NSE 30 Index when the Exchange rebalances its Index 30 and 50 and other sectoral indices at the end of this month. Already, it has proposed N190.31 million gross dividends or 75kobo per share dividend to investors whose names appear on book of members between July 14 -18, 2014. Its financial position judging by the 2013 report and account submitted to the NSE is on the upward trend. The turnover for the period rose by 10.11 percent to N87.79 billion from C M Y K

N79.73 billion in 2012. It recorded profit before tax of N1.41 billion compared to N378.76 million posted in 2012, representing 209.29 percent growth and profit after tax of N634.418 million from N205.121 million in 2012. Of the five major petroleum and petroleum products distributors companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, MRS Oil’s share price is the least priced.

Caverton Offshore Support Group went up by 26.31 percent or N1.31 to close at N6.29 from N4.98 per share.

The company is on the verge of constructing the first aircraft training school in sub-Saharan Africa in partnership with Cea Aerospace. It has also secured contract extension from Total Exploration and Production for the operation of four helicopters into TEPENG’s offshore fields, which will see Caverton servicing the company till 2016. This is in addition to the acquisition of a brand new AW139 helicopter, the 7th in the company’s fleet.

Tr a n s n a t i o n a l Corporation of Nigeria placed fourth with 13.99 percent or N0.60 price appreciation to close at N4.89 from N4.29. Just last month, it signed a Production Sharing Contract (PSC) with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for the development of its oil block OPL 281. The company recorded huge 152 percent growth in gross earnings in its first quarter ended March 31, 2014 to N11.15 billion from N4.42 billion in the same period in 2013. Group profit before tax for the period of N3.77 billion represents 187 percent increase over N1.31 billion achieved for Q1 2013, while the Group profit after tax grew by 278 percent from N834 million in Q1 2013 to N3.15 billion in the period under review.

Japaul Oil’s share price went up by 12.0 percent or N0.06 to close at N0.56 from N0.50; Costain added 9.38 percent or N0.12 to close at N1.40 from N1.28; Red Star Express advanced by 8.26 percent or N0.38 to close at N4.98 from N4.60; Aiico Insurance’s share price rose by 7.32 percent or N0.06 to close at N0.88 from N0.82; Ashakacem appreciated by 7.00 percent or N1.89 to close at N28.90 from N27.01, while Mansard Insurance advanced by 6.00 percent or N0.15 to close at N2.65 from N2.50 per share.

Booby traps in SEC’s Investors Protection Fund

By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

F

Three weeks running, investors Forum has focused on the Exposure Guidelines of the National Investors Protection Fund (NIPF) being proposed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This is to bring the details of the guidelines to the attention of investors, so that they can identify areas of concern, and recommend appropriate amendments.

This indeed is the purpose of the Exposure Draft Guidelines. Some of the perceived weakness of the guidelines as noted in previous editions are: The NIPF is based on a framework that promotes OR

multiplicity of Investors Protection Fund (IPF) in the capital market, a situation which does not exist, and which can breed confusion; Secondly, the NIPF excludes the most vulnerable set of investors i.e. shareholders of companies listed on the stock exchange, clients of dealing members of the stock exchange, investors in mutual funds; Thirdly, the governance structure recommended for the NIPF is not in line with global best practices in terms of corporate governance.

Another grey area in the draft guidelines of the NIPF, which should be of great concern to investors, is the procedure to get compensation from the

fund. While section 21 defines who can benefit from the NIPF, sections 28 and 29 explains the process of benefiting from the Fund.

According to section 21, “Beneficiaries of the Fund shall be investors who suffer pecuniary losses arising from: the insolvency, bankruptcy or negligence of a capital market operator; and defalcation committed by a capital market operator or any of its directors, officers, employees or representatives in relation to securities, money or any property entrusted to, or received or deemed received by the capital market operator in the course of its business as a capital market operator.

MA RK ET NE WS

FMDQ plans investors’ protection fund, rules on bonds listing

BY NKIRUKA NNOROM

F

INANCIAL Market Dealers Quotation, FMDQ OTC Plc, has disclosed plans to float an Investors’ Protection Fund, IPF, which will cater for losses incurred by investors that bought bonds or any other financial instrument through the platform.

The Managing Director/CEO, FMDQ OTC Plc, Mr. Bola Onadele Koko, said in a chat with newsmen, weekend that the securities exchange is collaborating with the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, to introduce set of new listing rules for bond issuers that wish to list their bonds on the platform.

He stated that already, the draft rules for the IPF and the bonds listing requirements have

been submitted to the SEC for approval.

Though he said that the take-off fund for the investors’ protection fund has not been finalised, he noted that the 26 members recently licensed will be contributing towards the development of the fund.

According to him, the Fund will be managed by a Board Trustee and will be charged with the responsibility of considering members and investors’ claims.

Speaking on the achievements of FMDQ OTC Plc since its launch on November, 2013, he said that its activities have helped to strengthen governance among members in the financial market, as members willingly submit themselves to scrutiny,

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 23

S FORUM

To get compensation for this loss, sections 28 and 29 say, “Compensation of an investor shall begin with an application from an investor to the Fund.

29. An application shall: (i.) Be brought within twelve months after the investor became aware or ought reasonably to have become aware of the status of the company/ Scheme investments; ii. Be brought in the form to be prescribed by the Board; (iii) Be accompanied by proof of ownership/ evidence of shares/units in the company/Scheme investments with the Capital Market Operator; iv. Contain proof that the company/ Scheme or capital market operator is in distressed and that he/she (the investor) has suffered loss; v. Contain accurate materials and facts to prove the claims of the

Applicant”.

Note that section 29 (iv) expects the investor to prove that the capital market operator he transacted business with is distressed. This is disturbing and if not reviewed, might be the greatest stumbling block to getting compensation from the NIPF. Investors need to ask SEC why the investor has to prove that the capital market operator is distressed. It is akin to the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) asking depositors of a bank that has closed shop or whose licence has been revoked, to prove that the bank is distressed before he/she can get the insured deposit.

As observed in previous editions, the guidelines for the NIPF, when subjected to rigorous analysis is fraught with many booby traps that could frustrate investors from accessing the benefits of the Fund.

Section s28, 29 and 30 are full of land mines, and it is the responsibility of investors and investors group to engage SEC to clear these mines. The good thing is that, the guidelines are still in the form of exposure draft, which means they are still subject to amendment before they become law. This is an opportunity which investors must not take lightly, as it portends serious financial implications once the guidelines are passed into law.

while penalties for infractions could easily be applied.

He noted that FMDQ OTC has also helped to engender transparency and price discovery in the financial market through daily publication of market data on fixed income instruments, in addition to helping regulators and investors to value their investments.

“Before now, you cannot put value to bonds traded on the OTC market. If you ask me today what was the volume traded on the equities market managed by the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, I will tell you, but if you ask me what the volume on fixed income market (Treasury Bill, Commercial Papers, Bonds) was, I cannot tell you because people deal on phone and settle with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN. So if the CBN does not publish the figure six months after the transaction took place, you will not know what the situation is.

But from what we publish today, an organisation that invests in bonds will now know the value of the bonds at the end of each trading day,” he said.

“So, in terms of valuation, it has helped regulators, and even investors to put value to their investment in the money market. As the market is trading now inside FMDQ, you can monitor the trading," he added.

INVESTORS SPEAK AMCON in the e or eyyes of independent in invvest estor orss

BY WILLIAM JIMOH

A

sset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) established on the 19th July 2010, following the signing of the AMCON Act into Law by President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was created to be a key stabilizing and revitalizing tool to revive the financial system by efficiently resolving the nonperforming loan assets of the banks in the Nigerian economy.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the banks in 2011 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a sinking fund, to which banks are expected to contribute to. This •Mallam Shehu Mikhail •Michael Cole is part of efforts to assist AMCON meet its goals and also ensure that government will not bear the cost of financial crisis in future.

AMCON is deducting from the turnover In 2013 alone, eight commercial banks contributed N53.52 billion of commercial banks, it is a way of to AMCON Banking Sector Resolution Cost Fund. ensuring that AMCON is better Speaking with Vanguard Investors’ Forum, some shareholders positioned to safeguard and protect expressed their dissatisfaction with the hike in the percentage these institutions form experiencing contributed by commercial banks, while others see it as good what happened to those nationalised development, which will better place AMCON in the right banks and if it happens, the government position to attain its goals and objectives. Excerpts: will not bear the burden.

The banks understand that in case of Mr. Michael Cole, member, an increase is what we see. any eventuality, the fund will be made Progressive Shareholders Notwithstanding this, we keep available to rescue them. It is more or looking forward to that day when less like saving for the raining days; Association (PSA): after all, the fund cannot be diverted s far as I am concerned, the they will fulfill their promise.

For us as investors, we hold the into any other sector other than theirs. federal government Another thing is that if there is no such created that platform for itself, after opinion that they should have first considered our plight having lost measure in place, the banks may not which, the CBN hijacked it.

What happened was that so much to the closure of some of work as they are expected to. And I think this will also strengthens their AMCON itself claimed that they these banks.

And looking at the money that is corporate governance and ensure that wanted to rescue those banks with the impression that investors’ being deducted from the banks, you they are more responsible to the shareholders. money in those banks will not just find out that it is too much.

They even get more than what What I am saying is that with these go down the drain, but shareholders soon found out that investors of these companies get as deductions, the companies are put on their toes to ensure that they operate in AMCON was not working for their return in certain cases.

What we are saying is that, while the most appropriate way while they are interest but that of the government.

If you look at what investors had carrying out their oversight function, trying to grow and develop.

To me, the percentage AMCON is in Bank PHB, Afribank and Spring they should ensure that they also Bank, you find out that investors consider the plight of the investors. collecting is very okay when you had millions of shares. This is the only way shareholders consider the crucial role they perform.

The World Bank said not too long ago Incidentally, today, they are at the end of the day will not start nothing to write home about to cry again of losing the value of that they were perplexed at how because shareholders have their investment with no return. Nigeria recovered from the economic meltdown within that short period of nothing to take home and even Mallam Shehu Mikhail, National time. Not only did Nigeria recover, the their investments were not President, Constance Share- country due to her economic growth has refunded to any of them. also turned out to become investors’ As shareholders in those banks, holders Association of Nigeria: he creation of AMCON is one destination. All these are good we were not notified about the of the best ways to ensure indications that the policies of the intention of the government to the stability of the financial regulatory authorities including nationalise the banks. We only woke up one day and heard that institutions and the economy at AMCON is working in favour of the AMCON has taken over the large. This is because by this act, country. the federal government has turned system.

Alhaji Olawale Lawal, National Our feeling then, due to the around the problems the Nigerian impression they gave, was that economy would have been facing Chairman, Prime Shareholders Association of Nigeria: AMCON was being formed to now.

If not for the creation of AMCON, ur major concern is that, we are rescue us by protecting our not very sure of the proper investments, not knowing that some of the commercial banks that AMCON was coming to make their had non-performing loan assets over usage of the money that is being paid own money. Rather than help us, which they incurred irreconcilable to AMCON by the banks.. The what they did was to add salt to debts would have affected the government that set up AMCON should also ensure its proper our injury, and since they took over nation’s economy negatively.

It was as a result of the functioning by ascertaining the up till now, the story still remain intervention of AMCON that these credibility of its managers and the the same.

Contrary to the promise AMCON banks were rescued, thereby direction to which the money is going. their We also expect that whatever amount made that after stabilising these restoring hope to banks they will stop deducting stakeholders. This is a policy that I they are getting should be reinvested so that rather than just collecting and money from their turnover, today, support 100 percent.

When you consider the money keeping, it will yield return. rather than a decline of this money

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Russian businessmen urged to invest in petroleum value chain STORIES BY CLARA NWACHUKWU

N

IGERIA has opened invitation to the Russian business community to take advantage of its enormous human and natural resources, and invest in its petroleum value chain – upstream, downstream, and gas.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, issued the invitation on behalf of the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, at an investment dinner organised by the Nigerian National Committee, NNC, to the just-concluded 21 st World Petroleum Congress, WPC in Moscow, Russia.

Represented by the Group

Shell moves to secure Trans Niger Pipelines in Ogoni

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

P

ORT HARCOURT: SHELL Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, has introduced what it termed community surveillance to protect its Trans Niger Pipelines, TNP, running across some communities in Rivers state.

General Manager, Sustainable Development and Community Relations, SPDC, Mr Ledo Osayende, who made this known during an engagement with the media in Port Harcourt, said the oil giant recently signed a General Memorandum of Understanding, GMoU with about 30 communities in three local government areas in Ogoni, to secure the Trans Niger Pipeline that runs through the communities.

He expressed the hope that the development will address the incessant attacks on its facilities, adding that it would also give ownership of pipelines in the areas to communities.

Ledo said last year the firm recorded about 49 attack on the TNP in Ogoni area, noting that the incidents amounted to huge loss for the nation in terms of revenue.

“In 2013 on the Trans Niger Pipelines in Ogoni area, we had 49 incidents of crude theft. What can we do to improve on the situation? We have started community based surveillance. The Managing Director of Shell led a session with Ogoni leaders and we got their endorsement. We have also met with other stakeholders,” he said.

From left: Manager, Communications, Total E&P, Nigeria, Mr. Charles Ogan; General Manager, National Petroleum Investment Management Services, Mr. Kennie Obateru; Manager, Government & Public Relations, Chevron Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Jeroro and General Manager, Government and Public Affairs, Shell Petroleum Development Company, Mr. Jimmy Ahmed, at the Nigerian pavilion during the 21st World Petroleum Congress, WPC, in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Clara Nwachukwu.

Executive Director, Commercial and Investments, NNPC, Dr. Attahiru Yusuf, the minister urged the Russians to key into Federal Government’s special focus on gas monetisation, and join other countries to invest in any of the gas sub-sects.

She said that government is already building a commercial industrial pact to house major gas based industries includ-

ing gas conversion and utilisation plants, fertilizer plants, methanol and petrochemical.

According to her, “Many countries and their companies have expressed interest in different areas of the gas sector, like Saudi Arabia, which has indicated interest in petrochemical; while companies from India want to build fertiliser plants. So we invite all potential investors to consid-

er participating in these initiatives to invest in the industrial pact.”

Apart from enumerating the numerous potentials along the petroleum value chain, the minister reiterated that “the long term plan for Nigeria is to become a gas hub for the West African region.

“To achieve this, there is an ongoing government initiative to develop the gas resources of

the country, which will also lead to growth in our crude oil reserves.

“Furthermore, to create an enabling environment government is pursuing a reform agenda to enhance industry efficiency and entrench good governance and reinforce the linkage between oil and gas, and other sectors of the economy.”

The minister noted that gas development is part of the industry reforms, following the launch of the gas revolution and the Gas Master Plan.

Besides, the sub-sectors already mentioned, she said there is also a significant opportunity in the liquefied petroleum gas, LPG or cooking gas sector, to boost domestic usage.

“The development of LPG in Nigeria has opened up significant opportunities in the areas of building LPG plants and other facilities, manufacturing of cylinders, and the development of ports and jetties for loading LPG,” she said.

She added, “These initiatives are very big ones and will naturally lead to other significant opportunities in engineering designs, fabrication and construction, pipe-laying and other support activities including equipment leasing and financial services.

“Accordingly, investment opportunities in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector are huge for all to come and play a part, and I hereby, invite all to pay good attention, explore the opportunities, analyse them and take investment decisions.”

Nigeria to host investment forum in Russia — Envoy … Says trade relations is very low

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HE Nigerian Embassy in Moscow, Russia, said it has concluded plans to host an investment forum focused mainly on energy for the business community in Russia.

The investment forum is meant to boost trade relations between the two countries, which is said to be very low.

Nigeria’s Ambassador to Russia, Chief Asang E. Asang, who disclosed this in Russia, at an investment dinner organised by the Nigerian National Committee, NNC, to the just-concluded 21st World Petroleum Congress, WPC, in Moscow, said the forum is scheduled to hold on August 1, 2014.

Asang said, “On August 1, the Nigerian Embassy will host the Russian community to an investment forum. The focus of the forum will be on Energy and hydrocarbon distillation.”

He added that the forum, which will have in attendance about 50 Nigerian investors, will be declared open by Nigeria’s First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, who will also use the forum to push her pet project for caring for the under-privileged.

The envoy reassured of Federal Government’s support for any Russian genuine and legal investment, adding that Nigeria remains “one of the best countries in the world to do business because of guaranteed return on investment.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the dinner held at the Radisson Royal Hotel, Moscow, Asang told journalists that the reason for the low trading relations between Nigeria and Russia is attributable to the fact that there were no trade routes before now.

According to him, “we literally had no serious trade re-

lations between Nigeria and Russia because we had no relationships, no colony, and no trade so we did not inherit anything from them.”

Besides, he noted that Nigeria had almost similar experiences with Russia, saying, “Everything Nigeria has, Russia too has like petroleum, also, Nigeria has a population of 160 million, Russia has 150 million. While Nigeria has low technology, Russia has high technology.”

Against this backdrop, the Ambassador said Nigeria was trying to change the trend with the investment forum, noting that hitherto, Nigeria had always looked Westward for its trade, but now looking Eastward to countries like Russia.

With regard to Russia’s investments in Nigeria, particularly with the agreement with Gazprom to lay one of Af-

rica’s longest gas pipeline in Nigeria and the development at the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, Asang defended that these investments were still on.

First, he noted that the issue with Gazprom has to do with change of political leadership, saying, “You know it is not easy to carry over projects from one government to another in Nigeria. But the present administration is committed to the development of our gas resources and will maximize every avenue for doing so.”

Regarding the Ajaokuta Steel, the Ambassador further noted that the Complex is not a Russia legacy, as often erroneously believed, but a Ukranian one, under the former Soviet Union. “But now, the project is being revitalised and in very high gear,” he added.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 25

Oil & People •CHIJIOKE NWAOZUZU cnwaozuzu@gmail.com

Marginal fields licensing round 2013: Prospects, delays (3)

BY CHIJIOKENWAOZUZU

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Total pays N5.7bn to 468 staff in one year …Highest paid director earns N37m

BY MICHAEL EBOH

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OTAL Nigeria Plc’s employees, totaling 468, received about N5.698 billion as salaries, wages and other benefits in 2013.

This, according to data obtained from the company’s financial statement for the year ended December 31, 2013, is an improvement of N469 million or 8.97 per cent over total staff cost of N5.229 billion recorded in 2012.

The increase in the company’s staff cost is despite a drop in the number of its personnel. Its total personnel dropped by 1.27 per cent to 468 in 2013 from 474 personnel in 2012.

The N5.698 billion paid to its employees in 2013, is an average cost per staff of N12.175 million annually, N1.015 million per month, while average total staff cost is calculated as N474.83 million per month.

A breakdown of its staff cost for 2013 revealed that salaries and wages gulped N5.077 billion; pension and social benefit N386.684 million and staff medical expenses N234.735 million.

The document also gave a breakdown of the company’s personnel as: 105 managerial staff, 338 senior staff and 25 junior staff.

In addition, the report noted that Total Nigeria’s highest paid director received emoluments of N37.464 million in 2013, down by 23.05 per cent from N48.686 million in 2012.

Furthermore, Total paid N91.303 million to its directors as emoluments in the period under review, broken down into: fees for service as directors N1.5 million; other remunerations N89.803 million.

The company’s annual report re-

vealed that the company has 12 directors, with seven of the directors receiving emoluments while five had no emoluments in the year under review.

Also, the company’s total borrowings rose by N1.729 billion or 11.62 per cent to N16.608 billion in 2013, from N14.879 billion in 2012.

Going by its indebtedness, Total Nigeria’s total interest expenses for 2013 stood at N1.98 billion, broken down into: interest on bank overdrafts and loans N1.964 billion, and interest on obligations under finance leases N17.11 million.

In the course of the 2013 financial year, dividends of 3,103 shareholders of the company, totaling N15.5 billion, which the company said has been unclaimed for 12 years, was reverted to the company. This was in comparison to the N11.53 billion being unclaimed dividends for 3,314 shareholders that was reverted to the company in 2012.

In its financial performance for 2013, the company’s revenue grew by 9.33 per cent to N238.16 billion, from N217.84 billion in 2012.

It recorded profit before tax of N8.12 billion, up from N7.1 billion recorded in 2012, while its profit ater tax stood at N5.33 billion, rising by 14.19 per cent from N4.671 billion recorded in 2012.

The company paid its shareholders a total dividend of N3.735 billion, representing an interim dividend of N2 per share and a final dividend of N9 per share.

The company had paid also paid a total dividend of N3.735 billion in 2012, representing interim dividend of N3 per share and final dividend N8 per share.

HE evaluation criteria includes: information on shareholding of Applicant Company; technical and managerial skills; ability to pay the signature bonus; compliance with provisions under the Nigerian Content Act; extent of compliance with local corporate social responsibility; and experience / technical ability in operating oil fields.

A signature bonus of US$ 300,000 is to be paid per field. Payment is to be effected within 90 days from the date of award of a field. Given this elaborate set of criteria, it is unlikely that the exercise will be completed within a six- month timeframe.

2001 & 2013 guidelines,potentials for delay There were significant differences between both guidelines. Firstly, the 2001 guideline did not provide a timeframe for the completion of the licensing round, and indeed took around 24 months before completion. Contrarily, the 2013 guidelines stipulated a timeframe of six (6) months for the bid round, which may not be feasible in practical terms considering the robustness of the evaluation criteria.

Secondly, the stipuThe 2001 guideline did not lated signature bonus of US$ 300,000 in specify such recommendations, 2013 bid round repreand this current provision will sents a 100% increase not only delay the selection from the 2001 licensing round which sigprocess but may affect the public nature bonus was US$ perception of transparency in the 150,000. It is likely that process the reason for this inand field development programmes. crease in the size of the signature boSecondly, the 2013 bid round sought nus was to qualify candidates with sigto address the issue of financing to ennificant financial muscle. sure the bankability of marginal field Thirdly, unlike the 2001 round exterprojects. The basic approach to enhancnal financial advisers were included in ing the bankability of these projects is to the selection committee under the 2013 ensure that the return on investment guidelines. Perhaps, this inclusion was (ROI) and the Net Present Value (NPV) made to vet the financial capabilities of of these fields are reassuring for banks applicants and will likely result in sigand other financial institutions. Most nificant delays to the bid process since marginal fields are relatively low in resome of the financial institutions are not serves, and so those fields that are conbased in Nigeria. tiguous (i.e. close to one another) should Fourthly, one of the newly included be brought together and synchronised criteria for qualification in the 2013 round to make them more bankable. is the requirement of “25% maximum Thirdly, the reputation of this proequity for shareholders within an appligramme could also be enhanced by cant company”. Perhaps, this approach granting incentives (in the form of conwas based on past experiences with successions) to performing awardees to encessful bidders in the 2001 round whereable them secure more fields while forcby some of them failed to carry out the ing non-performing awardees to relindevelopment of their fields and still were quish their assets. reluctant to introduce new investors in Conclusion the companies. The “25% equity proviBaring the expected delays arising from sion” may have also been intended to the vetting of applications by external firesolve the twin issues of ownership disnancial institutions and the likelihood that putes and non-alignment of interests. the upcoming politics of 2015 elections may Fifthly, the 2013 guidelines specified affect the timing and outcome of the prothat successful bidders will be selected cess, the marginal field development proon the basis of the highest score using gramme is still a positive idea. the evaluation criteria. The 2013 guidelines also stated that on completion of ...Concluded the bid evaluation process, the selection Dr. Chijioke Nwaozuzu, a petroleum committee will make a recommendation policy expert ,wrote from the Emerald Ento the Minister of Petroleum and subseergy. Institute, University of Port Harcourt. quently to the President. The 2001

,

Nigerian pavilion at the just concluded 21st World Petroleum Congress, WPC, in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Clara Nwachukwu.

guideline did not specify such recommendations, and this current provision will not only delay the selection process but may affect the public perception of transparency in the process. If this process of recommendation feeds into the politics of 2015 elections there may be further delays in the release of the list of successful applicants and a further undermining of the integrity and credibility of the process.

Without a doubt, the marginal field licensing round will provide opportunities for indigenous companies who lack the capacity to purchase any of the oil blocks divested by the FOCs to form a Enhancing the Credibility of the Marginal Fields Licensing Programme consortium to bid for any or some of the marginal fields.

The methodology for the 2013 licensing rounds is aimed at correcting past mistakes. Firstly, the issue of technical partnerships has been given much attention because of the previous mismatch of partnerships which has led many of the 2001 awardees to end up in litigation with their technical partners. Most of them were engrossed in fighting in court instead of developing work plans

,

26 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

PIB, key to assessing capital investments — Alison-Madueke

BY SEBASTINE OBASI

T

HE Minister of Petro leum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, has said that the passage of the long-awaited Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, will enable Nigeria to access capital investments in the oil and gas sector.

Addressing participants at an interactive session on the PIB, the Minister who was represented by Mr. Jonathan Okehs, Group General Manager, National Petroleum Investment Management Services, NAPIMS, also said that if the reforms in the sector are carried out effectively, Nigeria will be a hub in the African region.

She said, “Today, Nigeria is on the way to assessing capital investors in a sector that hitherto had been without prospects due to policies that made investments uneconomic to pursue. It is my firm belief that the PIB embodies the essential reforms that will put the petroleum sector on the path to robust growth.

“Adhering to the principles advocated, Nigeria fully expects to be a significant hub in the African region for petroleum activities.”

According to the Minister, the PIB will create a deregulated and competitive petroleum sector that will attract foreign and local investments. It will also ensure a viable commercial framework including a tariff regime that promotes transparency, guarantees security of investments and a reasonable rate of return on investments, she added.

Also speaking, the Vice President of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, Mr Issa Aremu, argued that the PIB must address critical issues in the sector.

According to him, the PIB must make provisions that recognise and uphold the interests and welfare of organised labour and workers represented by PENGASSAN and NUPENG. “The bill must ensure that all companies operating in the Nigerian oil and gas industry complied with all international labour conventions that

have been ratified by Nigeria; the collective agreements with labour unions, and the extant labour laws as a minimum in all their dealings with the Nigerian workers and their representatives.

“The bill must ensure that companies operating in the oil and gas industry do not use the PIB as a ploy to disengage Nigerians. To this end, the PIB should give the regulatory agencies the power to protect the jobs of Nigerians working in the oil and gas industry such that no Nigerian will be relieved of his/her job without

the approval in writing of the regulator,” he said.

Aremu further said that the PIB must ensure the strengthening of the Nigerian Content Act and policies, especially as it relates to labour, training and manpower development.

“It must ensure the mandatory recognition of the right to freedom of association and effective collective bargaining by all companies operating or doing business in the Nigerian oil and gas industry irrespective of where they are located,” he added.

WPC 2014, MOSCOW: Session chair, Mr. John Martin and Vice Chair/Group Executive Director, GED, Commercial & Investment, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Dr. Attahiru Yusuf, on the session, ‘challenges and prospects in global oil and gas industry, at the just concluded 21st World Petroleum Congress, WPC, in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Clara Nwachukwu.

Dangote gets $300m facility for refinery construction

BY EDIRI EJOH, with agency report

D

ANGOTE Industries Limited has secured a $300 million facility from African Development Bank, AFDB to finance the construction of its crude oil refinery and Greenfield fertilizer manufacturing plant.

According to the AFDB, the loan is designed to help boost fuel supply and fertilizer production in Nigeria.

The AFDB said, “Both projects will help the country in becoming self-sufficient in its local natural resources and improve refining capacity in an attempt to transform into a major

exporter in the oil and gas industry.

The AfDB noted that that facility is, however, projected to reduce more than 80 per cent of the country current imports of fuel as well as eliminate the importation of fertilizer.

It noted that, 30,000 of job seeking Nigerians will be empowered. “The projects are expected to create over 30,000 temporary jobs during construction and 2,900 direct jobs during operations to compliment ongoing effort of the Bank to support FGN for the implementation of the Agriculture Transformation Agenda (ATA).

“In addition, both projects

are expected to help Nigeria on foreign exchange savings of $65 billion through import substitution, provide revenues for the government in taxes and fees and contributing a large share to the Gross Domestic Product,” African Development Bank (AfDB), had in April 2014, said it disbursed loans and grants totaling $93 billion (about N14.9 trillion) to member countries between 1967 and 2011.

The report noted that, agriculture and rural development projects accounted for $11.85 billion, representing 12.74 per cent.

It noted that infrastructure, which included transport, water and sanitation, commu-

nications and industry got 44 billion dollars or 47.3 per cent of the funds.

“Other beneficiary sectors includes; environment, finance, social and urban development which received the balance of 37.16 billion dollars (40.65 per cent) during the period.

“The Bank recognises the strategic importance of investing in agriculture and food security to promote Africa’s inclusive growth and development agenda.

“Between 1967 and 2011, the African Development Bank Group approved loans and grants to its Regional Member Countries with commitments amounting to 93.01 billion dollars,” the report said.”

OB3 gas pipeline to be ready next year — NNPC

BY SEBASTINE OBASI

T

HE Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Mr Andrew Yakubu, has said that the ObiafuObrikon to Oben (OB3) EastWest gas pipeline project, the biggest in the country, will be ready in 2015.

He said this during his induction as a Fellow of the Academy of Engineering by the University of Lagos last week.

“As we speak today, OB3, that is Oben to ObiafuObrikon line has been fully commissioned. The contractors are on sight. We expect that by the end of the year to next year, that line will be available to link up the East and West. And we will now have a robust gas distribution chain,” he said.

He stated that this is the first time a 48-inch pipeline project is being executed in Nigeria, as it stretches from Rivers State to Edo State. The GMD’s assurance gave vent to the fact that the major constraint which was the right of way has been resolved.

He also explained that in the last four years, 1,500 million standard cubic feet, SCF gas utilisation has been achieved, as 500 kilometre of gas has been added to the national gas network. He also said that more than 70 percent of the gas realised from the network will be available for the nation’s power stations.

“Power is one of the end users. 70 to 80 percent of our gas goes to power. The gas I am talking about over 70 percent goes to power generation as a major beneficiary.

The federal government has special focus on gas delivery especially for domestic use,” he said.

As regards the nation’s refineries, Yakubu said that appreciable improvement has been made in the last four years. “We need to understand where we are coming from so as to appreciate where we are going.

“Warri Refinery was down four years before we came on board. The present administration made it possible that the refinery be brought back to life in record four months.

All the units in the refineries are now running as expected,” he said.

Though he was not specific, he said that two of the refineries are producing profitably, while the depots in Kano, Gombe and Suleija are working fully with the help of indigenous engineers.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 27

FG plans renewable energy for rural areas

Iran to assist Nigeria overcome power challenges

BY CHRIS OCHAYI

BY CHRIS OCHAYI

A

BUJA: The Federal Government has disclosed that accelerated rural electrification will henceforth be driven by renewable energy because of its sustainability and environmental friendliness.

The Minister of State for Power, Mr. Mohammed Wakil, made this disclosure at the opening of the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Rural Electrification Agency, REA, in Abuja.

He said the new approach to powering the rural area will involve a mix of wind, solar, biomass, hydro energy alongside the conventional source of power supply.

Wakil said the renewed focus on rural electrification is a fallout of the completion of the power sector privatisation, which made it imperative for the administration to focus on rural areas where close to 70 percent of the populace are residing.

According to him, “now that privatisation is completed and we are addressing the teething problems, associated with post-privatisation, the administration is determined to focus on the rural areas where we have close to 70 percent of our people.

“As most of these areas are not connected to the national grid, renewable energy provides an alternative and this is what we have started doing.

“We have to provide for the majority of our people in the

A

Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, former Minister of Defence; Dr. Steve Dike, Consultant, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company; Professor Chukwuma Soludo, former Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN and Sir. Emeka Offor, Executive Vice Chairman, Chrome Group at the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony between Go-Green and the Association of Illumination Professionals (AIP) in Abuja. rural areas, in this regard, hence our focus on rural electrification through renewable energy. The Rural Electrification Agency is going to play crucial roles in this new focus and that is why it has to be repositioned to meet the aspirations of Mr. President and Nigerians in general,” he said.

Describing renewable energy as a worldwide trend in energy provision, the minister recalled that a recent United Nations’ Conference adopted this line of thought

as a way to empower the under-served and under-empowered areas of the world, while at the same time saving the environment for the future generation.

Responding on behalf of the REA Board, its Chairman, Senator Jonathan Zwingina, commended decisions of the minister to strengthen the agency to meet the challenges of rural electrification through renewable energy sources.

According to him, the board and the management are united in realising the mandate of

the agency under the supervision of the ministry, while commending the minister for the various initiatives designed to strengthen the operational efficiency of the agency.

“We promise to stand by the direction and goals of Mr. President as listed by the Minister. We share the vision of powering our rural areas through a mixture of conventional and renewable energy.

We will re-rededicate ourselves to the realisation of this laudable agenda,” he said.

NLNG, six varsities sign $12m deal on engineering laboratories

BY CHRIS OCHAYI

I

N fulfilment of its commit ment to enhance educational development in Nigeria, the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited, NLNG, has commenced the process leading to the disbursement of $12 million it donated for construction of modern engineering laboratories in six elected Nigerian universities.

To this end, the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited has signed a Memorandum of Agreement, MOA, with the six benefiting Nigerian universities.

Beneficiary universities under the project titled, NLNG University Support Programme, USP, include, University of Ibadan, University of Ilorin, University Port Harcourt, University of Maiduguri, Ahmadu Bello Universi-

ty, Zaria and University of Nigeria, Nnsuka.

Each of the universities selected from the six geo-political zones will get $2 million to execute the modern laboratories projects which will be equipped with the cuttingedge equipment.

Managing Director of NLNG, Mr. Babs Omotowa while speaking during the signing of the MoA, Friday, in Abuja, explained that “the six universities were selected based on their top position within their geo-political zones, in the ranking by the National Universities Commission, NUC, and other international bodies.

He explained that, “in addition are their long standing contributions to the development of local capacity in Nigeria, especially, in grooming notable Nigerians who have

contributed to national development.

Omotowa, said the signing of Memorandum of Agreement with six universities marks the first milestone in NLNG’s University Support Programme.

He said the Memorandum of Agreement spells out modalities for the execution of the programme, ranging from financing to contracts and procurement as well as safety, quality assurance, quality control and sustainability of the laboratories.

According to him, “our implementation strategy is structured to meet the universities’ technical needs and specification. Comparative advantages and peculiarities of each university were considered in this strategy and we believe this the best and most efficient model of project delivery.

“We also believe that one result is certain from these processes- the laboratories will be world-class that will spur the development of engineering education and help bring the universities at par with their peers world-wide,” he added.

“NLNG’s University Support Programme is the latest of the company’s pan-Nigeria social investment programmes. Others include the provision of equipment to the University of Port Harcourt, the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, and the Braithwaite Teaching Hospital in Port Harcourt; and the establishment of Bonny Vocational Centre, an accredited London City and Guilds centre in Nigeria, which produces world class technicians to fill the skills gap in Nigeria.

BUJA: A delegation of Iranian experts in electricity supply has pledged to share expertise with Nigeria, to help it overcome the problem of insufficient power supply.

The pledge is a fall out from a technical meeting between the officials of the Ministry of Power and the Iranian delegation led by its Minister for Industry and Mines, Mr. Mohammed Reza.

The delegation promised that Iran is ready to share expertise that made Iran self-sufficient with Nigeria.

Speaking at the Ministry’s headquarters last week Friday, in Abuja, Reza said, “We are here to help Nigeria overcome the problem of insufficient electricity.

“Iran has installed capacity of 70,000 megawatts, MW and has over the years provided for an increase of 5,000MW annually.”

He said the delegation which comprised engineers, bankers, consummate businessmen and government officials have signified interest in all the three electricity value chain of Generation, Transmission and Distribution.

FirstRand fund Ghana’s $120m Kpone power plant

S

OUTH Africa’s FirstRand Limited s3aid its investment banking unit will finance as much as $120 million of Ghana’s $820 million Kpone power plant as lenders seek to benefit from African infrastructure projects.

Rand Merchant Bank is also the lead arranger for about $400 million of commercial bank funding for the project, Michael Larbie, head of FirstRand in Nigeria, said by phone from Lagos today. Cenpower Generation Co. and other sponsors are providing $250 million with about $200 million from development finance institutions, he said.

The 340-megawatt Kpone gas and oil plant will help Ghana, the world’s secondlargest cocoa producer, plug an electricity shortfall of about 200 megawatts. Larbie said demand to participate in the commercial bank tranche was two to three times oversubscribed and funding will close in about a month.

“There has been lots of interest in this project,” said Larbie, declining to name the banks involved. “It’s one of the biggest projects that we’ve lead arranged.”

28 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

C M Y K

A random walk to death on the cross —Mama Amuka-Pemu TRIB UTE TRIBUTE

By OLU WARRENS OMA-WILLIAMS

I

WRITE this tribute to Hon our and celebrate our Mighty Oak: Mama AmukaPemu. My encounter with Mama dates back to only nearly two-decades ago, when perchance in my own life sojourn, I invoked her casually as my Saint Anne. She soon became a mother to me. An epitome of ‘Ancient and Mod-

ern’ disciplinarian at her age, I discovered she stood for truth at all times, no matter whose ox is gored.

And being fully endowed to distinguish her roots, she embellished her caveats of motherhood with memorials of motherhood on such a grandiose scale that she rendered Honour to her final resting place. Mama will say “this my Olomu ....there was joy knowing that there was virtue in womanhood and enthusiasm of love in raising a family (so

much about an impeccable late Pa Amuka that I never knew).”

Hear her: “ you desecrate culture, tradition or bring societal affliction upon your roots when as a lady you exhibit moral bankruptcy or merely date to think that marital love and joy ends when faced with challenges.” To her, to pervert the divine gift of chastity and amoral relationship was to destroy the intimacy of families. Today, not rnany of us like to be confront-

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 29

ed with our own hypocrisy.

But Mama, like Jesus Christ, did it constantly with bluntness that could sear the soul.

On other f r o n t s , Mama was •The late Madam Ariteshoma Amuka-Pemu an embodiment of the historical antecedents of in- whether to abandon the trip ternecine ethnic or dare it with all attendant feuds/rivalries that risks. Indeed, I was afraid (beraged in the old Del- cause of a potential Military ta Province of this coup-d’etat looming on the country. She would cloud) and wanted to be carehumorously let you ful as a public servant which recognize the virili- then could sometimes be danty in unity of tribes in gerous. building a state in Ma (Onime) as usual diversity. helped me make a decision.

She gave an apt ap- From her, I learnt practically, praisal of it as I nev- first hand that what the Elder er read in “W.D Hus- sees sitting down, the young sey /Fage’s History cannot see from the top of a of West Africa.” Giv- tree. She reminded me that en the opportunity to whosoever puts his hands to drink from her chal- a plough and looks back is not ice of wisdom could worthy of his salt. She advised leave you spell me not to become crippled by bound with an insa- fear of making a mistake. She tiable appetite to gave me strength and better come out of your understanding; the rest is hiscomfort zone to deal tory today. with the risks of our She also taught me how modern life. learning from your mistake, Towards the end (of avoiding repeating same misher 109plus years on take, you can apply the lesearth) when I visited son in a new endeavour for to learn more, Uncle better results. Mama had virSam (“Sad Sam” now tues of a real super-natural “Smiling Sam”) calling which to me is a perwould ask me to manent glue of the family. She

,

,

Mama had virtues of a real super-natural calling which to me is a permanent glue of the family

come-off because everyone thought she was signaling to close the chapter.

Now (on May 18, 2014) her random walk to death finally took away that familiarity of closeness and learning.

This death has thrown me into a lot of emotional pains with one relationship turned into ashes.

Having mentioned some of her character traits, it will be improper to omit some accounts worthy of record for posterity. I recall an episode when I got to a T-junction with blind alley as I packed my baggage on a vaccation trip to Europe. I went to Mama for motherly advise on

C M Y K

proclaimed with candour that no one has an inalienable right to underestimate the values of societal virtues. Her centre of gravity always resided in herself and with the puritanic ethics of her youthful days; to her desecration of human social institution was a taboo; and she would not tolerate reckless human weaknesses.

To borrow from Phillip Yancey (Author of Rumors of Another World ... ), Mama moderated discussions as a wise physician treats the body, with honesty, tenderness and compassion. A retrospective look at her journey in life will help illuminate our own. Who says this “Onime” was not Moses; God loved her, God knows her by her name and by her Actions/Inactions she certainly established relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. Adieu Mama Amuka-Pemu.

30— Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

By Theodore Opara

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HE world’s first sports car in the compact SUV segment, the Macan, was last week unveiled to an excited audience during an exclusive event at Porsche Centre Lagos.

The introduction marks Porsche’s pioneering move into a new segment, following in the footsteps of the brand‘s most successful model in the luxury SUV range, the Cayenne.

The unveiling event was held under the theme “Life, intensified”, a phrase which exemplifies what Macan represents. Commenting on this occasion, Christer Ekberg, Managing Director of Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE, said: “With first deliveries of the all-new Macan, Porsche launches a world first and enter a new segment. I have no doubt that this car will be another success for Porsche, with the long-term commitment and intensive efforts of our local Porsche Centre in Lagos.”

Poised to set new standards in driving dynamics and enjoyment, both on and off the road, the new Macan boasts the typical sporty handling characteristics that have become synonymous with the Porsche brand. Many of the design and performance elements have been inspired by the brand’s sports cars, including the iconic 911 and the revolutionary 918 Spyder, making it clear that the compact SUV heralds the first of its kind.

•Porshe Macan SUV,

Exceptional acceleration Featuring exceptional acceleration, vast engine power, extreme agility and optimum steering precision, the Macan is set to rewrite the rulebook on outstanding sporting comfort and everyday usability. The sporty DNA of the Macan, as with all Porsche vehicles, is immediately recognisable in the design. The compact SUV is unrivalled in its flat and broad profile on the road. The wraparound bonnet and gently sloping roof line accentuate the overall impression of sporty elegance and powerful dynamics. Two derivatives are available at Porsche Centre Lagos for order: Macan S and Macan Turbo.

The Macan S is equipped with a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine, delivering 340 hp and also features an active all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled, map-controlled multi-plate clutch. This all-wheel drive is fitted on all Macan models. From the outset the Macan boasts the recently developed Porsche Chrono package, and reaches a Doppelkupplung (PDK), which top speed of 254 km/h. As the transfers power as required and top derivative, the Macan Turbo almost free of interruption in is set to be the most powerful tractive force. This enables the petrol-powered vehicle in the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 compact SUV segment. The 3.6km/h in 5.2 seconds, when litre V6 biturbo engine, which is equipped with the optional Sport being used in a Porsche model for the very first time, achieves

•Porshe Macan SUV:Interior

•Porshe Macan SUV: Rear view

Macan SUV takes centre stage at Porsche Centre an unrivalled 400 hp and catapults the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds (with Sport Chrono package), reaching a top speed of 266 km/ h.

Anurag Shah, Brand Manager of Porsche Centre Lagos, said: “As you would expect, we have

had a great deal of interest in the all-new Macan. Last year the Cayenne, our luxury SUV, proved our most popular model range and we are excited to expand our SUV offering, reaching a new group of customers. The sporty dynamics of the Macan inject an added dose of fun which I believe

Elizade takes drivers to classroom ....harps on vehicle maintenance

L

EADING Toyota distributor in Nigeria Elizade Nigeria Limited has identified irregular maintenance and poor preventive measures as major causes of vehicles breakdown and auto accident. Elizade Motors stated this during a training organised for drivers and major stakeholders in the transportation industry in Lagos.

During the training, the drivers were taken on practical sessions with the use of new Toyota Vehicles. Speaking during the occasion, the managing director, Mr Kunle C M Y K

Ade Ojo identified drivers as partners in progress.

Some of the agencies present at the training were Lagos State Transport Management, Vehicle Inspection Office, Federal Road Safety Corps and road unions members.

The experts told participants in the training that running premaintenance checks and understanding vehicular communication was key for accident prevention.

Operations Manager of Elizade Nigeria Limited, Omotosho Ademola, in his presentation entitled, ‘Principles of vehicle

management’, highlighted ten common causes of breakdown.

The causes, he highlighted are, flat or faulty battery; defective smart key battery; flat/ damaged types and wheels; alternator faults; starter motor failure; fuel related problems, clutch cables stress; open or short circuit; High Tension leads and engine overheating.

Speaking on causes of engine overheating, Ademola said, “An engine can overheat for a variety of reasons such as: cooling system leaks through hoses, radiator, water pump, cylinder head gasket, engine block

among others; wrong coolant concentration, defective thermostat; faulty radiator, leaks and clogging are some of the most causes of radiator failure; bad radiator fan, loose or broken belt, faulty water pump.” He also advised car users to ensure that pre maintenance tests should be performed by experts, warning that outdated tyres should not be used.He said, “Pre-trip maintenance check should be performed by the driver; preventive maintenance by an accredited dealer with some Continues on page 35

is set to redefine the SUV market.”

The name Macan comes from the Indonesian word for tiger, a spirit the car truly embodies.

Boasting pure Porsche power and assertiveness, the Macan is also a nimble yet tenacious off-roader.

The latest stage of evolution of the all-wheel drive – known as Porsche Traction Management – has produced one of the world’s most powerful drive systems.

A glance at the performance specifications reveal that the Macan has been designed with agility in mind. Further unmistakable hallmarks of the vehicle include its proportions, design and the mixed tyres with different dimensions at the front and rear axle, enhancing the look and functionality.

The driver and passenger seats also boast the low position typical of sports cars.

The range of equipment fitted on the Macan as standard is extensive and includes the allwheel drive, PDK, multi-function sport steering wheel with shift paddles, high-performance audio system and an electrically operated tailgate.

Vanguard, TUESDAY 24, 2014 — 31

We’re not afraid of Argentina—Musa

S

UPER Eagles forward, Ahmed Musa insists his side are not scared of South American giants Argentina, who they meet tomorrow in a final Group F match in Porto Alegre.

The Super Eagles must avoid defeat against the Albicelesti, or hope Bosnia-Herzegovina do them a favour against Iran, in order to seal their progression into the round of 16, and their CSKA Mocow striker feels his side can get all three points in their titanic match-up.

“Argentina have a great team and players, same with us,” Musa said.

“We are not afraid of them, it will be a clash of giants, it’s a game we can win and that we will play for and pray God crown our efforts.”

Tea mate Juwon Oshaniwa is looking forward to a good game against the Argentineans, yet insists his side will not solely target star forward Lionel Messi in the encounter.

“I am looking forward to a good, sound and successful game against Argentina,” said the Nigerian left-back.

“It’s not all about Messi, name doesn’t play football but it is what players and team bring forth on match day, we are ready to make ourselves and Nigerians proud against Argentina.”

And fellow defender Efe Ambrose agrees.

“We are not thinking of how to stop Messi,” said the Celtics man.

“We are playing Argentina, who have 11 good players, we are equal to the task.

“It’s going to be a battle and we are good to go as our spirit is very high.”

Osaze sees Eagles in final E

AGLES forward Osaze Odemwingie sees no reason why the African champions are not capable of reaching the ongoing World Cup final, if they play to their potential.

The Stoke City forward scored the only goal of the game against BosniaHerzegovina at the weekend to put Nigeria on the verge of qualifying for the round of 16 in Brazil.

Osaze believes Nigeria have what it takes to go all the way to the final and the 32-year-old revealed that he is not the only one who is optimistic about their chances. ”I saw a Brazilian on the street who told me he foresaw Nigeria playing the final against Brazil and I said to

myself ‘ why not’, going by the level of our players and the fact that they are yet to peak,” he said. ”But mark my words - we have a very resilient defence, a creative midfield and an attack force that can trouble any defence in the world. If we played to our potentials, we can go all the way.”

The African champions only need a point against Argentina at Estadio BeiraRio tomorrow to ensure they will progress from Group F along with their opponents, and they will also be guaranteed to go through if Iran fail to beat Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Nigeria have not featured beyond the group stage of a World Cup since 1998.

32— Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

ONOCHIE ANIBEZE’S

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DIARY COMING TO BRAZIL

HAT a thrill to be part of the World Cup in the very acclaimed home of football, Brazil.

But I will not be here for long. I will soon be heading home.

However, the little I have seen has been satisfying. The football culture, the friendly Brazilian people and their ever exciting women.

Women? I may not delve much into them.

Tony Ubani has done a thorough research on them and has been serving you a lot on them.

He can tell what is in their waist, their eyes, their entire features that are so alluring that one can easily lose concentration if you are not focused. But they are part of the game here and focusing on them, in Tony’s estimation, wouldn’t be losing track. So, feel free to read more about them in the Flicks Tony serves you from here.

I had planned to start my coverage of the World Cup from the training tour of the Eagles, beginning with the friendly against Scotland in England and moving down to the USA with the team. Few days to the match in England, last month Mideno Bayagbon, our Editor, called me on phone that I was to start producing Saturday Vanguard. I reached out for consultations. 30 minutes later, The General Manager, Gbenga Adefaye, accompanied by Eze Anaba, our Deputy Editor came to tell me that for the next two months I would be producing Saturday Vanguard. An official letter appointing me Acting Editor of the Weekend Vanguard followed the next day.

Man plans, God disposes, they say. Trips to England and USA cancelled. World Cup coverage cancelled. Everything now fell on Tony Ubani to cover the entire Brazil. He has been doing a pretty good job of it. I’m proud of him.

Two days after the World Cup kicked off on June 12, I received a call from Jenkins Alumuna, our colleague who is now into Public Relations.

“DSTV will be taking 60 of their subscribers to the World Cup in a chartered flight and you have been selected to be on the trip,” Jenkins told me, expecting me to be excited. He was disappointed.

“I’m sorry, Jenkins. There’s a development in Vanguard and I may not be able to make it.

I’ve been asked to be producing Saturday Vanguard this period and I can’t travel now.”

One hour later Jenkins called again to tell me the trip was for a short period and that I would not have to spend many days in Brazil.

I accepted and here I am in the home of football.

Will it be right to call Brazil home of football?

Yes, and no.

Yes, in the sense that their name is synonymous with football. They made the game beautiful with their samba football. Their entertaining football thrills the world from the beginning of the World Cup till date. But they are gradually dropping their samba football.

Europe forced them to do so when Italy introduced Catenaccio football. It’s all about blocking the goal area and breaking away on the counter. They score a goal and they close up the game. Other European countries started adopting this style. Winning mattered most to them. Brazil would entertain but would end up gnashing their teeth, losing in a match that they so much dominated. After winning the 1970 World Cup, it took Brazil 24 years to taste the trophy again in 1994 in USA. And they even won on penalties against Italy. Before then, Europe had made the game a huge business and they were becoming masters of the game against the natural endowments of Brazil.

Germany and Italy have all won the World Cup four times. And for Brazil to win again they had to go to Europe, away from the supposed home of football. Their players moved to Europe where the business of the game

mattered more than the Brazilian samba.

They made money and also inculcated the European speed and marking qualities. Even their coaches moved out of South America.

And this marked the beginning of the end of samba football. Brazil had to drop a little bit of samba to adopt pace and marking to curb what the Europeans were doing to them. A combination of their skills and pace has helped them win the World Cup five times which no other country has done. That is still enough to regard Brazil as home of football especially going by the number of players they export to the rest of the world. But would you say that they are the most entertaining side in the ongoing World Cup? I leave you to be the judge.

Is Brazil truly the home of football? No, some may argue with a sense of history.

Football started in the United Kingdom, Scotland to be precise and England has the record of starting organised football. English sailors actually introduced the game to Brazil. When England hosted Euro ’96, which I covered and which remains one of the best organised events I have attended, their theme song was FOOTBALL IS COMING HOME. It was a nice song. They wanted to win and prove to the world that football has come home. Germany knocked them out in a semifinal penalty shoot-out. After winning the World cup in 1966, their greatest achievement has been in the area of organisation. They run the best league and they market the game possibly more than any other country. After two games here, losing to Italy and Uruguay and packing to watch the rest of the games from home, their claim as home of the game remains vague to many and an outright illusion to some. But history accords them that respect although the game has found another home in Brazil. So,I’m happy to be at the home of football. Arriving here on Saturday, early enough before Nigeria raised their game and beat Bosnia was some tonic for me.

The eight hours flight on Asia Air organised

by Wakanow to Viracopus Airport was smooth. Imigration process was very smooth.

I met friendly immigration people unlike my trip to Russia for the World Championship last year. I was not surprised as I was the only black in the arrival hall that night. But that’s Russia. This is Brazil with roots in Africa.

Here, black is beautiful.

The only person among the DSTV delegation who had question to answer at the immigration was a man with an awesome protruding tummy. He was thoroughly searched. Customs and security officials were frisking his tummy to ensure nothing was stuffed there. They first asked him what he had in there and he said nothing. Eyes turned here and there and they asked him to step aside. Ever seen a pregnant woman being caressed by the husband or a caring nurse? It looked so. And when they found out it was just his tummy they told him “sorry about that.” The man responded “thank you.”

What was he thanking them for? Some timidity, you would say.

Anyway, my next destination will be Porto Alegre to watch Eagles against Argentina. I discussed with Keshi before and after the Bosnia match. He is confident. And the boys are in good spirit. Expectations are high.

Keshi knows this and he hopes to put a smile on the faces of Nigerians.

I return home after the Argentina clash to continue with Vanguard whose focal points on Saturdays are entertainment, human interest stories, politics, crime, business and of course sports; not forgetting great columnists like Muyiwa Adetiba. Bunmi Sofola, Yetunde Arebi and the veteran Bisi Lawrence. I will like to return home to the beat, smiling. Only Eagles can make that happen.

Attack form of

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T is never easy to bounce back from defeat in the opening group match at a FIFA World Cup™, especially after having led for over 70 minutes as Algeria did before succumbing 2-1 to Belgium on 17 June at the Estadio Mineirao in Belo Horizonte.

According to critics, Vahid Halilhodzic’s men might not have conceded late goals to Marouane Fellaini and Dries Mertens had they not handed the initiative to the Belgians.

Much to the relief of those yearning for a more attacking approach, ‘Coach Vahid’ responded by naming an adventurous line-up for his side’s crucial second group encounter with Korea Republic at the Estadio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre on Sunday 22 June.

Abdelmoumene Djabou and Yacine Brahimi were handed starts, as was Islam Slimani who had only been given 24 minutes against Belgium despite a series of excellent performances in World Cup qualifying.

The ploy worked dividends as the Desert Warriors surprised the Taeguk Warriors by pressing them high up the pitch and putting them under pressure from the outset. The Koreans never got to grips with the tactics of an Algerian team that romped to a 4-2 success, the north Africans’ first win at the global showpiece in 32 years.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 33

k, best defence

F-L-I-C-K-S! Brazilian hair or head?

Am in a quagmire

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Uzoenyi: I’m excited to be in here S

UPER Eagles winger, Ejike Uzoenyi has spoken of his excitement at making his first World Cup appearance for Nigeria in the 1-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina last Saturday.

Uzoenyi came on as a second half substitute for Michael Babatunde in the 75th minute of the game, as Nigeria ended a 16 year wait for a win in the competition.

After the game, the Enugu Rangers winger who will team up with Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa after the World Cup described the experience as the fulfilment of a dream.

“It was like a dream but I thank God, the NFF and the coaches for making me realize the dream of playing at the world’s biggest stage in football. I am a fulfilled man,” Uzoenyi said after the game.

Imoke, Unicem Rovers hail Eagles

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ROSS River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, says he has been enjoying the performance of the Super Eagles and believes that the team has the potential to go all the way. Imoke, whose government hosted all the team’s qualifying games was also in Brazil prior to the start of the championship.

“This team has the potential of making Nigeria one of the biggest football super powers in the world and I also believe that the NFF President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari and his board

are on the verge of also becoming the best football administrators that the country ever produced”, he was quoted as saying by Sports Commissioner, Hon Patrick Ugbe.

Also newly appointed Chairman of Unicem Rovers FC of Calabar, Maurice Inok, says the entire team and its officials are backing the team to lift the World Cup adding that the club has a bunch of youthful players that he will invite the national team technical crew to come and pick from for the future.

Y request list is filled to the brim. And all of them are coming from females.

Funny enough, the few men who got across also made requests of the same – Brazilian hair. I wonder what for. Maybe, for commercial purposes or for trade by barter.

The barter point makes more sense because I can’t fathom out what a man would be doing with Brazilian hair. Definitely, the requests are not made on behalf of their wives. I know my friends and they know me. They love their wives but not to the point of buying Brazilian hairs for them. And no man would want his wife to go beyond the boundary to fix or wear a hair that would make men turn their heads or make passes at them. It is a well known fact that celebrities and mostly students love this type of hair for their extensions. One lady called and requested that I buy ‘’Brazilian head” for her. Laughter! How do I get a ‘Brazilian head’ when I am not a ritualist? These requests have made me to go asking about the Brazilian hair. Truly, most of the Brazilian girls have very trendy, luxury, eye-caching hairs. Our receptionist in our hotel has one that gets to her knee.

And it is natural. I’ve told her of the deluge of requests from home on Brazilian hair and she agreed to take me to the market. What about cutting her own for me? ‘’No. Police arrest you”, she warned and that puts my dreams and fantasies in check. The hair stands them out. They carry their head lovingly and wag their heads in a way that makes even a good man to lust after them before getting lost. I know that a woman’s beauty may be fatal to her. So, what makes Brazilian hair different from other hairs, I asked. I got an answer that ‘’Brazilian Virgin hair is one of the best qualities of hairs because the cuticles are unidirectional – which means women will have a lot less tangling. It is untreated and completely natural. The hair itself is thick, shiny and often contains a slight wave. Because of its texture, this type of hair extension can be used by diverse ethnic groups. But importantly, why this hair is in high demand is because of its shelf life. Brazilian hair can last up to a year when cared for properly. It is hugely popular but generally also incredibly EXPENSIVE. I thank God for my wife’s natural long hair.

I

How’s Boko Haram?

MAGINE being stopped on the way and asked the above question. I was shocked when a Brazilian Journalist singled me out because of my Nigerian jersey to ask of Boko Haram, the deadly terrorist group that have wrecked havoc on our dear country hoisting us on the front burner of World attention for the wrong reasons. The kidnapped school girls are still in yet to come back to their parents. The World have lent their hands to Nigeria to curb the killings or totally eliminate them. Out here, we still read that more bloods are still being shed by them.

Little wonder therefore that Emilio Coutinho asked after them. ‘’Are you from Nigeria?”, he asked extending his hands. ‘’How;s Boko Haram?”, he asked almost immediately. I was puzzled not knowing how to respond. ‘’They are killing too many people. Are you going back?”, he asked.

34— Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

e ar e not good for the 2014 W orld Cup Ronaldo: W We are World

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ORTUGAL are not good enough to win the World Cup their world footballer of the year Cristiano Ronaldo admitted after Sunday ’s thrilling 2-2 draw with the United States.

The 29-year-old Real Madrid superstar — whose fitness has been a hot source of debate — kept his country’s slim hopes of reaching the second round alive with a sublime cross which was headed home by Silvestre Varela in the dying seconds of time added on.

The Portuguese, who were hammered 4-0 by Germany in their opening game, must beat Ghana and hope there is a winner from the other match between Germany and the Americans — who both have four points — on Thursday to leave the second qualifying spot down to goal difference.

However, Ronaldo — who looks doomed to prolong the curse of the world footballer of the year never winning the World Cup the year he wins the award — said even reaching the second round will not presage a revival that will see them lift the World Cup trophy for the first time.

“Portugal were never a favourite,” said Ronaldo.

“Even qualifying for the finals was problematic (he almost singlehandedly got Portugal to the finals with a hat-trick in the second leg of the playoff with Sweden in Stockholm in a 3-2 win, and a 4-2 victory on aggregate).

“I never thought we would be world champions. We have to be humble and recognise our limitations. There are things we cannot do, like running faster or having more quality.

World Cup Group permutations Group C

Fixtures (Tuesday, 9 p.m ): Japan vs. Colombia, Greece vs. Ivory Coast Colombia: Have already qualified and will definitely top the group with a point against Japan.

Ivory Coast: Need to beat Greece to guarantee their place in the last 16, and they could still top the group with a big win and a defeat for Colombia.

Japan: Have to win and hope Ivory Coast do not. If Ivory Coast lose Japan would finish above them. If Ivory Coast draw, then Japan must beat Colombia by two goals to guarantee progress. If Japan win by one goal then it will depend on goal difference, and perhaps goals scored. If the two teams are level on four points and goal difference, then Ivory Coast will go through on head to head.

Greece: Have to beat Ivory Coast which will put them above their last-round opponents. They then have to hope Japan do not beat Colombia.

If both Japan and Greece win it will come down to goal difference, and if they finish with identical goal difference (this could happen if Greece win 3-0 and Japan 2-1) they will draw lots for second place.

Group D

Fixtures (Tuesday, 5 p.m.): Italy vs. Uruguay, Costa Rica vs. England Costa Rica: Their place in the knockout stages is already assured, and they will finish top with a point against England.

Italy v Uruguay: Italy currently hold Uruguay for second on goal difference, so Cesare Prandelli’s men need a point to go through.

Conversely, Uruguay simply have to win to qualify. If Costa Rica are beaten then the winner of this game could still finish top. Italy would definitely finish top with a two-goal win, while Uruguay would need to win by three goals to be sure of first place. It could also come down to goals scored.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 35

By Theodore Opara

Koncept Auto Centre targets more market share with Izuzu •Opens ultra modern showroom

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ONCEPT Autocentre Limited, a subsidiary of the Kewalram Chanrai Group, is poised to capture more market share for the Izuzu vehicles.

The renowned auto marketing company auto dealership recently invited representatives of the Izuzu manufacturing firm from South Africa and Japan to witness its opening of a new showroom/ service centre in Lagos, with the promise to take the brand to a new height in the country.

Obviously excited by the rate at which the firm is positioning the Izuzu brand in Nigeria, the President and Managing Director of General Motors, Africa, Mr. Mario Spangenberg, commeded the Nigerian representative for setting up a world class showroom in a matter of months, •Koncept showdescribing it as very dignifying for the brand.

• He expressed confidence that Kewalram Chanrai Group on Sawlani, said the new facility was position because of its strength, the auto marketing firm would behalf of the GM and was amazed a confirmation that the company’s durability and performance. do well to place the Izuzu brand by the speed of development, relationship with GM and its Eburajolo also reiterated the among the leading brands in all noting, “In Nigeria, when they Izuzu customers would be Izuzu brand under the Koncept its chosen segments in Nigeria. say it can be done; it can really be enduring.

Autocentre would have exclusive “The Kewalram Group as done. Now, it is happening.”

The Deputy Managing showrooms and after-sale service The Executive Vice President Director, Kewalram Deputy outlets different from the other represented by Koncept Autocentre is representing the and Director, Izuzu Sales Group of Kewalram Chanrai brand being handled by the Izuzu brand well in Nigeria. This Department, Mr. Takanobu Group, Mr. Victor Eburajolo, said company. showroom is dignifying. I’ve no Furuta, said the brand held the firm decided to enter into a He gave a hint about the future doubt that the company will do Nigeria as an important market partnership with the GM on plans of the company for the brand well in pushing the brand to the for its products because of its Izuzu because “we know we can in Nigeria, saying, “We are population and the size of its top of the sales chart.” trust them.” starting with the dealership of Spangenberg recalled that he economy.

He recalled that Izuzu used to Izuzu but we are not just going The Executive Director, was in Nigeria in February to be a major auto brand in the to stop there; expect new negotiate the franchise with the Kewalram Chanrai, Mr. Raju country, occupying a reputable development from us soon.”

Renault inaugurates new dealership, promises to overhaul Nigeria economy L EGENDARY European automaker Renault yesterday announced fresh intention to key into the Federal Government transformation agenda with the aim of overhauling Nigeria to a globally recognized manufacturing hub from an oil dependent economy.

The French automaker gave this hint at the inauguration of the first Renault full-fledged facility (Sales, Service & Spares) with its new Partner “Dana Cars and Services Limited,” following the re-launch of the Renault brand under its global slogan ‘Drive the Change’ at an international press conference in Lagos.

Renault said this new partnership is committed to a strong representation in Nigeria, a key market that is expected to deliver significant growth and contribution to Renault’s global strategy, while boosting its share of the African market.

Renault’s core market is Europe, where it is renowned for its role in motor sport and formula 1. Ms.Christel Galbrun, Vice President Renault said. She stated that African automotive market continues to promise C M Y K

sustainable prospects for growth in the coming years with Nigeria charting the course in emerging African markets.

She said: “Renault’s vision in Nigeria is to be people-centric and innovative, offering sustainable automobile facility as well as quality and affordable - easy to maintain cars with improved quality of life for every customer, while keying into the Federal Government agenda.

Adding that the partnership with Dana Cars and Services would help Renault achieve these objectives and subsequently raise the profile of the brand in Nigeria.

Renault Vice President said “Our plan is to immediately increase our market share through new model introduction, brand development and retail network expansion.”

Among some of Renault alluring models in Nigeria are Latitude executive sedan, Fluence, Duster, Koleos, Sandero-Stepway and Logan.

Joseph Fernandes, Vice President Operations, Dana Cars and Services Limited, the new Renault custodian described the inauguration of Renault – ‘Drive the Change’ as the beginning of a purposeful

relationship and a commitment towards providing world-class automotive experience to customers in Nigeria.

He said Dana Cars and Services seeks to replicate Renault’s ambitious accomplishments and even surpass it, using time tested integrated sales and marketing approach to position Renault among leading marquees in Nigerian automobile market.

Mr. Fernandes said Renault is renowned the world-over as an automobile leader in the Formula 1 area with eleven World Championships.

“This is why we partnered with Renault to introduce

superior quality cars and vans that are adaptable to the Nigerian weather and road conditions,” Dana Cars and Services Vice President said.

Mr. Fernandes explained that the maxim: ‘Renault - Drive the Change’ is an ingenuous branding that meets the demands of customers in emerging markets like Nigeria and would attract new clientele to Renault styling and all-terrain capability, he reassured.

Elizade Continues from page 30 roles to be played by driver; corrective maintenance to be performed by an accredited dealer. Before starting the engine, check the wheel njuts, tyres, fluid leaks, rims, hub grease/oil seal;, mirrors, fuel lid, brakes, seat belts, jack and wheel nut wrench, instrument and controls.

“In the engine compartment check the oil level, spare fuses, coolant level, battery and cables, transmission fluid level, wiring and fuel lines. It does not just bend their after starting the engine, also check the exhaust system and engine oil while you watch the instrumental panel, brakes, and observe anything unusual like abnormal noise, leaks etc.”

If the checks are carried out, the FRSC boss said the life span of the vehicle would be expanded.

Representatives of the FRSC, Oluwaseun Alogun lamented that many lives have been lost to road crashes, saying human factor amounted to majority of the crashes.He said, “There are three major causes of crashes: human, mechanical, and environmental factors. Human factor constitutes about 90 per cent of road traffic crashes. Out of this percentage, drivers’ action on reaction makes up 80 per cent. It can be classified under driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, illiteracy and poor driving skills, overconfidence, speeding, lack of concentration, tiredness and poor vehicle care among others.

“For mechanical factor, it can be caused by irregular and poor maintenance of vehicles. This can lead to crashes which may manifest while the vehicle is in motion and constitutes 10 per cent of road crashes. Such irregularities maintenance may lead to stoppage of the vehicle, or development of other faults that affect the control of the vehicle in high speed. These could lead to crashes.

“In essence, crashes due to mechanical factor have to do with malfunctioning of the vehicle which eventually leads to loss of control and invariable to road traffic crashes. It is believed that bad road causes more crashes than good road.

•Renault Duster

36 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

By Theodore Opara

Coscharis Motors partners Virgin Atlantic on Ride-and-Drive

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TEST drive of all ranges of the latest Jaguar Land Rover brands was performed by customers and prospects at an event organised by Coscharis Motors in partnership with Virgin Atlantic Airways.

The Ride and Drive event, which took place recently was designed “to offer our customers and prospects a unique driving experience on the untapped capabilities and luxury features of the Jaguar Land Rover brands,” said the General Manager, Jaguar Land

C M Y K

Rover Sales, Ufuoma Umukoro.

He said some of the owners of the Jaguar Land Rover variants “are underutilising these vehicles given what they actually offer in terms of onroad and off-road capabilities plus luxuries.”

He added, “The lack of expert knowledge in handling these vehicles sometimes results in mechanical and electrical problems.”

Land Rover Experience instructors from South Africa and the United kingdom were on ground

for the ride and drive event and ensured that guests experienced the very best offered by these vehicles.

In his reaction to the partnership with Virgin Atlantic, General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Services, Coscharis, Abiona Babarinde, stated that “The event, which is one in a series, targets prospects and customers of premium brands that share similar premium client-base with the Jaguar Land Rover brands. This necessitated the partnership with Virgin Atlantic.”

This particular edition of

the Ride and Drive event was specifically geared towards offering Virgin Atlantic’s premium customers, in conjunction with Coscharis customers and prospects, added value in their expert knowledge of handling

these luxury vehicles. “It is an attestation to our business philosophy to always deliver value for money,” Babarinde said.

All the latest Jaguar Land Rover models within the Coscharis dealership were exhibited at the

event. Babarinde said, “All the guests who made purchases or committed financially during the event enjoyed 20 per cent discount on the Discovery 4, Range Rover Evoque, Freelander 2, Jaguar XF and XJ variants.

Carmax Nigeria launches autoguard

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N an effort to make car repairs and maintenance seamless for organizations and individual vehicle owners, Carmax Autocare Centre, a leading Autocare company in Nigeria has introduced

CARMAX AUTOGUARD to the automobile market.

The product according to the company will make it easier for car owners and organizations to manage the maintenance and repair cost of their cars all

year round.

Explaining how the product works, the Managing Director Carmax Autocare Centre, Mr. Andrew Ogunlana said the product is designed to give individual car owners and organizations the desired peace of mind on their vehicles. He said the product requires the client to pay one price for 365-days of Coverage and CARMAX will provide All Servicing, Preventive Maintenance and Repairs Including all Parts and Labour for the car throughout the period.

To determine the AUTOGUARD cost of a vehicle, all that is needed is the vehicle – YEAR, MAKE & MODEL and CARMAX will give a price. He said the purchase of a vehicle is an important investment and like any investment, it should be protected.

With CARMAX AUTOGUARD, the car gets the Manufacturer’s suggested Servicing and Preventive Maintenance as at when due, faulty parts are replaced with original parts and when the car goes faulty, it is promptly repaired. All of these may happen at different times within the year but the client would have paid the agreed amount only once. He expressed optimism that AUTOGUARD will help individuals and organizations plan better regarding car repair costs as the plan already covers the cost of any problem the vehicle may have.

The CARMAX boss said the AUTOGUARD product is similar to an insurance policy but unlike insurance policy, it is certain that the car owners will enjoy the benefit of the product. He said while insured vehicles may not suffer any related loss, it is certain that with AUTOGUARD the car will need to be serviced and some repairs carried out on the vehicles during the 365- day period.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 37

38—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Akwa Ibom APC: On the brink THE Akwa Ibom chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC is on the brink as the opposition party seeks to find a bearing after the recent merger.

How the party handles the contending 2015 aspirations of its leader, Senator John Akpanudoedehe and others will be an issue

BY CHIOMA ONUEGBU

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IVEN its position as the only notable and existing opposition party in Akwa Ibom State expectations are high that the party could again find its footing to challenge the dominance of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. However, leadership squabbles here and there seem to be beclouding the objective of the party to stand.

The trouble arose from the feeling of marginalisation by two of the legacy parties in the APC; the defunct All Nigerian Peoples Party, ANPP and the Congress for Progressive

produced the party executive and delegates list for the recent national convention was alleged to have been hijacked by the 2011 governorship candidate of the defunct ACN, Senator AkpanUdoedehe, who has however denied the allegations.

In the state congress, Antai and Udokang retained their positions as chairman and publicity secretary while Effiong Etuk emerged as secretary. It was not long after the state congress that it also emerged that Akpanudoedehe was the godfather to the majority of the members of the new executive.

The development seemed to

,

Amaechi's intervention Amaechi’s intervention at that time led to the constitution of an inclusive Interim State Executive with Dr. Amadu Antai, chairman of the defunct ACN, as chairman of the APC. Others who emerged were Comrade David Ekanem, Elder Emmanuel Udo and Anthony Udokang as Secretary, Treasurer and Publicity Secretary on an interim basis.

Many thought that would have resolved the crisis.

However, the crisis worsened as the party conducted its ward, local government and state congresses.

The congresses which

•Akpanudoedehe some powerful contenders in the PDP who do not find accommodation under Akpabio could move to the APC to slug it with Akpanudoede.

Besides, there is the claim in some quarters that some of Akpanudoedehe’s enforcers have moved on to team up with other gubernatorial aspirants from Uyo Senatorial District.

The APC Publicity Secretary, Obong Samuel Udobong disagreed with the claim that the party has lost its supporters.

“I don’t know where you got such information. The truth of the matter is that James AkpanUdoedehe is the only and greatest mobiliser in Akwa Ibom State. You see those people you think have abandoned the party, when the mobiliser enters the field that is when you will know the end result”.

He denied allegations of marginalisation in the state APC pointing out that the same benchmark which was used before and after the merger to constitute the party leadership at the national level was also adopted at the state levels.

According to him leadership positions were based on the elective seats each of the legacy parties produced during the last elections from the lowest positions (councillorship) to topmost positions.

“Why former ACN is currently occupying most of the State Executive positions is because it was able to produce House of Reps, House of Assembly members, and even governors.

The ANPP did not produce even a councilor. So at what level will they come to lead?” he queried.

Septuagenarians, Octogenarians have taken over the confab — Salis

and religious crises, ethnic domination and personality clashes. There are some important personalities in this country right now, if they are fighting, it is like the whole country is fighting, so we need to restructure the system so that those things do not play up.

On the flip side, the confab is a good initiative from Mr. President. Unfortunately, the kind of people there are people that have been infected with the past historical problems and we can•ft be healed from that.

Majority of the people at the confab are over 70, many of them are also above 80 years.

They will continuously bring that problem on board. I was expecting people in their fifties and forties. I was expecting that the people at the confab would determine the future and you

Leadership squabbles here and there seem to be beclouding the objective of the party to stand

Change, CPC. To many members of the former ANPP and CPC, the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN was seen to have taken much of the choice positions in the party’s state executives.

Trouble even started brewing at the inauguration of the Interim State executive of the party last February.

At one time thereafter, Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State was stepped in to mediate. Amaechi’s interest and gesture was of course not surprising to many stakeholders given the perceived antagonism between him and Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State on many issues arising from their time together in the PDP and in the cleavage of the Nigerian Governors Forum, NGF.

,

however, left out.

The agitations nonetheless, the current state leadership of APC appears to enjoy the support of its national body which may have contributed to the delay in resolving perceived mutterings. This may not be unconnected with the popularity and track record of Senator Akpanudoedehe in mobilisation as evidenced during his 2010/2011 campaigns.

AkpanUdoedehe remains a house hold name in the local politics of the state following his steady rise from local government chairman to the Senate and subsequently appointment as a minister.

Although he has not formerly declared his intent to run in 2015, indications are rife that he desires to be in the race, which explains why he is apparently jealously guarding the party structure.

have made former leaders and members of the legacy parties who felt marginalized to develop intense indifference towards party activities in the state.

But not completley. Capt.

Sam Ewang (rtd.) and Chief David Ekanem, governorship candidates of the defunct All Nigerian People’s Party, ANPP, and All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA were among few members from the supposedly marginalised legacy parties selected as delegates to the recent national convention. Many others from the other two parties were,

Party structure It is not lost to him and other stakeholders that whosoever controls the party structure has an upper hand in clinching the ticket. Political analysts in the state say that the ride may not be that smooth for him because of other popular and notable governorship aspirants, from the same Uyo Senatorial district as him; though under the PDP platform.

There is the suspicion that

LAGOS governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Akinyegun Owolabi Salis, a lawyer and accountant, in this interview bared his mind on burning national issues, the on-going national conference and how what a model he called equitocraccy can boost national unity and progress. Excerpts:

BY GBENGA OKE

O

N 15 years of civil rule and whether Democracy Day was worth celebrating giving our insecurity challenges I think it is worth celebrating because the worst democratic regime is better than any military regime. Personally, I will score our democracy a little bit low, though you can•ft compare where we are now with where we were some years

ago.

How do you evaluate Nigeria•fs democratic structure on ground?

So far, they have done well, they are better than the past.

But I have an objection to the presidential system that we practice. In the system we practice now, the more crises you are able to create as a politician, the more recognition you get. That is why I•fm happy with the National Conference.

•Salis There is need to restructure the system to bring peace. The current system brings ethnic

Continues on page 39

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014—39

Fighting Boko Haram is not the army’s job — Gen. Usman G

BY SUZAN EDEH

IVEN your military background, do you think that the security forces in the country are doing their best in tackling the problem of insurgency in the Northeast?

You see when you talk of the military first and foremost, we have to be very clear on what the role of the military is. Their number one constitutional responsibility is to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria against external forces, therefore any other role given to them is secondary. This clearly indicates that the role the military is performing now is a secondary one.

They are just supporting the civil force to bring insurgency under control and by right, it should have been the responsibility of the civil force like the police and Department for State security Service but since the insurgency has grown beyond the power of civilian forces, the military was called in.

There are a lot of interventions here and there because the military is not operating independently and even though we are aware that military is not operating independently, they are under a constituted authority and the environment within which they operate is not a conducive one. Be that as it may, you will agree with me that the military has achieved quite a lot even though their achievements may not be 100% okay.

If the military had not intervened in this insecurity

GENERAL Yakubu Usman (rtd) was the chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum committee on insecurity. The retired general who contested the Bauchi South Senatorial seat in 2011 and lost in this interview speaks on the ongoing insurgency in the north saying it is not the presumed job of the military to confront the insurgents. Excerpts: crisis, only God knows what would have been happening in the Northeast by now. These insurgents were attacking so many local governments in the north, but the military has now intervened as the attacks are now minimized compared to before.

For instance, Maiduguri was a no go area before but now you can go to Maiduguri because life has come back to the streets and the insurgents have been pushed out to a restricted area around Sambisa forest. So if the Boko Haram boys come into the city, it is a hit and run affair compared to the situation in the past where they would hit and remain. So given the environment and the situation they are operating, they have achieved a lot but they can definitely do better because there are areas that need improvements.

It has been alleged that some senior army officers were reportedly found to be aiding Boko- Haram. What is your opinion on this?

Well you said so, I didn’t say so. Who are the army officers?

If there are any, by now we should have known them.

When Kabiru Sokoto was arrested, was there any army officer that was arrested for committing any offence and if there are, then mention their names? So if you say some

Foreign assistance •Usman military officers have being collaborating with those terrorists, then mention their names. Besides, I am currently retired, so I wouldn’t know the current trends operating in the military right now but the Nigeria military is part of the society and we cannot over rule the fact that

there are bad eggs. For some Nigerians to be making such allegations without facts backing it is just baseless. If they want to convince us that such allegations are true, they should be able to mention the names of those that are involved. The military has a way of fishing out bad eggs and

Septuagenarians, Octogenarians have taken over the confab — Salis Continued from page 38 can•ft believe it that some people went to the confab and are talking about copying either the British system or the American system of government.

They have not really researched to look at the problems of Nigeria. Nigerians are from diverse groups, that is our problem. What are the structures put in place to address those multiple factors that are militating against good governance in Nigeria? They are not research-oriented.

People went there and are talking about parliamentary system, rotational presidency, etc. Are you saying if it•fs the turn of the Yoruba people to be the president and you have a good person from the SouthEast or South-South that person will be automatically

excluded?

What is the way forward?

I have a research paper on diversity relations. The whole world is characterised by diversity, every diverse interest group competes for resources and when they are competing, they either take positive initiative to outclass one another or negative initiative to destroy one another.

Nigeria's diversity is something special and an attempt to manage our diversity is creation of states and the creation of zones. We manage our crises by bringing people with same characters together to compete with people of different characters.

So if you are looking at the state, to manage our diversity, then let us look at the situation where we ask the people of Lagos State to give us two competent candidates to rule

definitely there are some bad eggs, but I cannot say who they are. So those that are making the allegation should come out and prove it.

You were a member of a committee set up by northern governors on insecurity in the north. What happened to your report?

Are you asking me? Well I am glad to inform you that we have submitted a report already to the Northern Governors Forum. The committee met the deadline given to us and we submitted the report. I believe I am not the right person to ask what has happened to our report. You can ask the Northern States Governors’ Forum what they have done with the report of the committee. All I know is that we have done our job, it is now left for the governors to act on that report.

Do you share the view that there may be foreign forces or groups aiding insurgents?

Like I said before and I am still repeating it that BokoHaram is a Nigerian child and nurtured in Nigeria but was fueled by some despicable elements outside Nigeria. Of course some of the perpetrators are residing in the country, but we cannot rule out foreign support.

Nigeria, then we present these two candidates to all the states in the country. If Lagos votes A, it means Mr. A from Lagos won Lagos point.

In Kano, Kano people may prefer B, that means Mr. B from Lagos won Kano point. They have 36 states to share, so they may end up 31-5 may be B wins 31 against A that wins in 5 states. We also ask Kano people and other states to do the same, with that some will win 36-0, some 32-4, 30-6, etc.

With this method, everybody is voting without considering ethnic consideration because if you are voting in Lagos from Kano, you are voting for Kano candidates, you look at them as Lagosians, you look at ability, you don't look at whether he is an Hausa man or a Yoruba man.

With this system, every other nationality will have to vote on

performance, so whoever wins the highest number of states will become the president. With this system there will be no rigging, you know why?

Because for you to rig, if you are a Kano candidate and you want to rig, definitely they have to assist you from Lagos, Enugu, etc and if they assist you, they are rigging themselves out. But they are not going to assist you and there will be no rigging; there will be cooperation.

If I want to win, I have to go to Kano and be their friend. I will not be speaking violence.

That was the system we submitted to the national confab, it is the system I call equitocracy;•f it is a way of forming Federal Equity Republic of Nigeria, which will reduce ethnic political domination.

I believe there are foreign supports but I cannot say which particular organization is supporting Boko Haram .You don’t need anybody to tell you that Boko-Haram has some foreign assistance. It is a Nigerian child, so let us not deceive ourselves any further.

Has this security challenge exposed the human and material capacity of the military?

It is far from it. I do not share the opinion of people saying that Boko Haram are better equipped than the Nigeria military. The Nigeria military cannot afford to offload its arsenal on Boko- Haram. I told you that the atmosphere within which the military operates is completely different in this country and they are just playing a secondary role.

You see, there is no battle line drawn already because if a battle line is drawn today with Boko Haram or whatever they call themselves, they will not last.

But in this case where they will hit the military and go disappear within the populace, how do one fish them out? You don’t know who is who, so the military cant just go and wipe out an entire village just like the Boko Haram do.

Some people are saying that the military is overwhelmed by the terrorists.

40 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

C M Y K

V anguard anguard,, TUESDAY, JUNE 24 , 2014—41

Jonathan is the solution, not the cause of Nigeria’s woes! (2)

The Power to appoint Chief Justice lies finally with the Governor (2) Being the second instalment of excerpts from “Appointment of A Chief Judge of a State in Nigeria My Experience and The Ascent of Pragmatism and Constitutionalism”contributed by Hon. Umezulike to Judicial Integrity Independence and Reforms: Essays in Honour of Hon. Justice M. L. Uwais (GCON) (CJN)

I

BY JUSTICE INNOCENT UMEZULIKE

F the above provision was the case in Nigeria (and it is not) the Governor cannot, therefore, deviate from the recommendation or nomination of the NJC. However, under our present Constitution, it is clear that the NJC shall have such importance in the matter as only delegated to it by the said Constitution which is merely to recommend nominees for the office of the Chief Judge of the State to the Governor. And feel discharged. The sovereignty of the State and the authority of the Governor should receive the benefit of doubt as to who he decides to appoint. We shall now in mere outline examine the functions or roles of the various agencies or bodies in the process of appointment of the Chief Judge of a State.

In doing so we must confine our evaluation fairly closely to what the law and Constitution provide rather than the demands of popular views. In our research for this paper we were unable to place a finger on any constitutional provision or rule of law, or Statue which emphatically or clearly says that in making its recommendation to the NJC, the State Judicial Service Commission should be bound and guided by the roster of seniority of the judges in the State. In any case it will be paralogical to state that one judge in a State is senior to another. Aside

sions, the Governor, it seems, is the unrivalled paramount and principal organ in the entire appointing process.

As we have seen above, the State Judicial Service Commission sends a list of usually three nominees to the National Judicial Council, NJC, with its recommendation. The NJC is expected to send the same list to the Governor with its own recommendation. The Governor can, therefore, pick any one of the three or so names sent to him for confirmation by the House of Assembly.

The horizon of the Governor to appoint any of the nominees from the list sent by the NJC is uncircumspect.

It is only where the NJC had adjudged one or all of the nominees unappointable for grave reasons shown, would the Governor defer to its judgment. It does not connote that the NJC is weak and ineffectual. It merely evinces that in a constitutional democracy, agencies and organs of the State function within the limits set forth or delimited for them under the Constitution. The contention that the NJC must send only the name of the most senior judge in the list and insist that If the Constitution assigns the duty such judge must be appointed by the Governor of appointment of a Chief Judge of is an unwarranted obligation which the NJC a state to the Governor, it will be may impose on itself. It indefensible for the NJC to contest is neither supported by any law nor by the prothat function with him visions of the Constitufrom the Chief Judge, all the judges tion. If the NJC must exploit criteria in the State earn the same salary not outside the provisions of the law and withstanding their years on the constitution, there are weightier conbench. siderations than mere seniority such Furthermore, each judge is com- as incorruptibility; distinction in charpletely in charge of his or her own acter and learning; and acceptability court. And his or her judicial decisions by the State or organs of the State. As can only be reviewed by the Court of between the Governor and the nomiAppeal and not even by the Chief nee, there must exist deep mutual reJudge of the State. The logical assump- spect, deep confidence, courtesy and tion is in favour of parity of judges in civility. These have no bearing whatthe State. In our view therefore, every soever on the independence of the jujudge in the state is a potential Chief diciary.

Judge. If he sees himself as such, his One of the sacred duties of a judge basic allegiance will be to the law and is not to read his convictions into the to judicial ethics. No more, no less. law or Constitution. If the Constitution assigns the duty of appointment The Governor of a Chief Judge of a state to the Govof the State ernor, it will be indefensible for the NJC to contest that function with him.

The appointment of a person to the It is obvious in practical terms, that office of a Chief Judge shall be made any friction between the NJC and the by the Governor of the State on the Governor may occasion paralysis on recommendation of the National Judi- the State judicial system. As between cial Council subject to the confirma- the NJC and the Governor relative to tion by the House of Assembly of the this process, there should be backState. Upon the constitutional provi- slapping rather than back-stabbing.

,

The above position is venerable, appealing and must be useful to the NJC in order to avoid a stalemate or avoid coming to blows with the State Governor in which the judiciary of the State may stand to be worsted. A stalemate will occasion inconvenience. And a show-down with the Governor may sound in disaster for the State judiciary. Hon. Justice Mohammadu Lawal Uwais, CJN, GCON as Chairman of NJC will go down in history as always adopting an approach that kept the NJC away from unnecessary collision with the State Governments. It is obviously not a sign of weakness.

But a demonstration of intellectual strength and savvy. By requiring the Governor to appoint the Chief Judge of the State subject to the confirmation of the House of Assembly, the Constitution obviously treats the entire process as political. And we cannot objectify a process in which the Constitution clearly treats as political.

It results, therefore, that the disposition and opinion of the Governor on the matter must prevail.

My experience in outline My predecessor in office retired from office on December 13, 2004. To avoid a void, the process of his succession began at the State Judicial Service Commission in September 2004. At this meeting three judges were considered for appointment.

They were Justice R. C. Agbo, Justice I. A. Umezulike and Justice V. N. Nebo. By a vote of 4 to 1, the State Judicial Service Commission decided that the writer be recommended to NJC for the appointment. But in a twisted and startling report sent to the NJC, which did not reflect the speeches at the State Judicial Commission’s meeting, the above names were sent to the NJC as recommended; as fit and proper persons for the position and as respectively competent. In fact a passage in the report clearly stated that each of the three candidates recommended will make a good Chief Judge for the State. The dilemma created by this novel mode of recommendation prompted the NJC to resort to the meta-legal factor of seniority. It then recommended Justice R. C. Agbo being what it called the most senior judge on the list, to the Governor of Enugu State for appointment subject to the confirmation of the House of Assembly.

It may be significant to mention here that before the above NJC meeting, all the people whom I have found guilty of stealing, outright embezzlement of State funds, abuse of office and other criminalities in the course of my public inquiries and assignments for the State together with their relations and allies descended into the arena with bags of frivolous petitions against me. Nigeria is a place where thieves are permitted to throw stones from glass houses.

To be continued

The first part of this discourse was published in Vanguard last Friday

By E. M. UKAH

S

OME POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS FOR POLIT ICAL INSTABILITY IN NIGERIA There is no better time than now when Nigeria is 100 years (1914-2014) for her to consider truthfully, dispassionately, honestly measures we ought to take as a people to preserve our unity in diversity and diversity in unity. The need for a crucial meeting like the National Dialogue/Conference is vital to forestall the negative predictions by some Western governments that the entity called Nigeria might break up in the magic year, some say 2015 others say 2020.

So far and of a truth, instead of unity we have been experiencing mutual suspicion ethnocentric and religious rivalry; instead of faith in God we act as if we are godless; instead of peace, we are at each other’s throat struggling for material things and for posts we shall all leave behind when we die, for we came into this world empty-handed and shall depart empty-handed.

By way of summary, let it be clearly stated that Boko Haram’s campaign of terror provides an appalling example of how Muslim jihadists have used the guise of insurgency to perpetrate unprecedented persecution on Christians and Nigerians. Their goal is clear, to Islamise Nigeria and unseat the President. In the light of the above clear cases of religious persecution against Christians especially in the Northern part of Nigeria, and the threat of these sad developments to the corporate existence of Nigeria; and given the provocative statements like: “there will be bloodshed if Goodluck is re-elected” warns Junaid Mohammed – a Second Republic member of the House of Representative and Russian trained medical doctor.

He declared that blood would flow on the streets of Nigeria, should President Jonathan insists on running for the presidency in 2015. (Sunday Sun, Dec. 1, 2013. P63). Similar statements include: “There will be bloodshed if there is a repeat performance of the massive rigging that the North witnessed in the presidential election of 2011 in 2015, Nigeria will burn.” Another key player and presidential aspirant said, “both the dog and baboon shall be soaked in blood”.

According to Femi Fani-Kayode: “These words must be taken very seriously, indeed they reflect the thinking and mindset of millions of people from both sides of the political and regional divide… One thing that I believe is that we can at least agree on this that perhaps it is time for us to be courageous enough to begin to talk about these issues openly and debate them… Whatever happens in 2015 and whoever wins, whether it be a northerner or Goodluck Jonathan of the South-South, I see blood on the horizon, and I see disaster approaching.”

The Lesson from History: A peep into the history of the tendencies of ethnic nationalities clearly shows that if unchecked, they could lead to the unintended consequences of the breakup of one time united nationalities. For example, India broke up into three: India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Czechoslovakia broke up into two: Czech Republic and Slovakia Republic. Yugoslavia after President Tito broke up into five: Croatia, Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia and Montenegro.

These contemporary realities should compel every reasonable Nigerian to note that the Muslim community and Muslim leadership are the cause of the political instability in Nigeria today not President Jonathan (QED).

Prof. Emele Mba Uka, is of The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria Hope Waddell Training Institution,Calabar. Cross River State.

,

42 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

LEISURE

YOUR LUCK TODAY

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139

CANCER; Many of you may be tempted and give in to the urge to gamble either with love or other important issue to the detriment of your cause. Be practical.

LEO; This is not the right time to take happenings along your career line for granted. Prepare for important domestic challenge. Keep your family secrets.

VIRGO; You may over inflate your ego to the resentment of people that matter. Watch what you do with money before 12.31pm. Try to be more diplomatic.

LIBRA; If care is not taken you would mislead others before 12.31pm while you are close to minor but costly mistakes from 12.31pm. Be wise with money.

SCORPIO; After initial confusion before 1pm you find your bearing and assert yourself but you will need to prepare to take care of oppositions that may come up suddenly.

By Richard Eromosele

I

AM sure you will be wondering how do I want you to share your time? Don’t we all have equal amount of time? Don’t get me wrong. What I am trying to tell you here is to spare a thought for someone.

Share your time Who is that soul that needs your attention today? Who is that person you need to console now? Do you need to reduce your time of work so that you could devote

TERROR MUDA

sometime to your children at home? How much time do you need to devote to your family?

How much of your time are you committing to your spouse?

in “Never say goodbye”

And how much do you even have for yourself?

Share your time. Yes, time is never enough but for everything we chose to do, there is always enough time to do it.

Think about it!

By Lanre Kehinde

SAGITTARIUS; It is important you don’t allow friends mislead you before 12.31pm no matter how genuine their intention. Watch what you do with your health. Tomorrow is your best day.

CAPRICORN; Take it easy along your career/business line during the morning period so that costly mistakes will not make things difficult for. Take your social life seriously.

AQUARIUS; What may look like a very good advice from younger members within your base of operation may eventually lead to avoidable trouble.

PISCES; Miscalculation is possible before 12.31pm that is why you will need to be as practical as possible and refuse to take people for granted throughout.

ARIES; Yes it is good to take partnership related issue seriously but priority attention must be given to money.

Watch what you tell others before 12.31pm.

TAURUS; If you take your new ideas too seriously they would mislead you. But taken good advice from your influential friends can prove helpful. As the Moon fluctuates during AM period it is important you practical till after 12.31pm.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

GEMINI; Provided you don’t allow mid-morning blues to get better off you will eventually live up to expectation at work. Take good care of your health, please.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What’s my sesitive part?

Dear Joshua, I ma interested in your daily analysis in Vanguard Newspapers. The truth is your daily horoscope column always work for me and now I just cant do without reading my Star in your papers.

My believe is since you can be as accurate as possible writing daily horoscope you are in a better position to analyse my health which is very important to me. I want to know which area(s) of my body should be taken more seriously.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Fustino, Kano.

Dear Fustino, According to your natal horoscope you have gone above danger zones of your life health-wise. But then what you will find here-under will be of benefit. Thanks for your commendation.

Opposition between the Sun (an indicator of basic selfhood) and difficult Saturn during your birth hour pointed to a very tough beginning in life but luckily for you both Spiritual Neptune in powerful Scorpio and steady Pluto in healthy Virgo were at positive angles to your natal Sun thus, your chances of surviving are more than the delicate ones. More so as your natal Sun and Moon are members of strongest Star signs-health wise.

Certainly Saturn must have brought you a few number of health related challenges raging from skin, bone, sometimes the stomach and importantly headache . Since you were able to survive infancy and middle age you have very good chances of living to a very old age. While the ailments stated here can easily be managed by yourself one important organ of your body that must be managed by medical expert is your HEART because of many placement in heart related Star sign. This is not to say you must have heart problem but here is an organ you in particular must take very seriously. Yes fever is common in Africa and today fear of STDs is the beginning of good health. STDs are mentioned here because of your natal planets is sexual Scorpio. Mind you nothing fatalistic here, but mere warnings.

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014—43

Obiano flags off flyover projects

THANKSGIVING: From left— Dr. Alex Ekwueme, former Vice President; Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State; his wife, Mercy; and Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State during the thanksgiving service of Rt. Rev. Chibuzor Opoko, Secretary of Conference, Methodist Church Nigeria, at All Saints Methodist Church, Nkata Ibeku, Umuahia.

Factional APGA Chair, Okwu heads for Supreme Court

BY EMEKA MAMAH

F

ACTIONAL chairman of All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Maxi Okwu, has said that he will appeal at the Supreme Court today against the ruling of the Court of Appeal, which nullified his election as national chairman and recognised Chief Victor Umeh.

He told Vanguard in a telephone interview: “We obtained a copy of the judgment of the Court of Appeal. Our legal advisers have perused it carefully with us. ‘’We have come to the conclusion that it turns the law upside down. We believe that it is in the interest of our jurisprudence that it should be struck down. ‘’We have therefore instructed our solicitors to file an appeal to the Supreme Court with dispatch. They assure us that they would be in at the court latest at the close of business today. ‘’We therefore, implore our disappointed members nationwide not to be downcast and wait further communication from the national secretariat. Truth and justice will ultimately prevail.”

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

A

CHURCH TO CHRISTIANS: Get involved in politics

BY ANAYO OKOLI

U

MUAHIA—AHEAD of 2015, Umuahia Diocese of Anglican Church has called on Christians in Nigeria to shun political apathy and participate fully in all the electoral processes, especially voters’ registration.

The church reminded Christians that participating in the electoral process would enable them vote and be voted for.

It also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the government to improve on the performance of the 2011 elections.

The church, in a communiqué issued at the end of the seventh Synod of the Diocese held at All Souls’ Church, Bende, in Bende/ Itumbuzo Archdeaconry, noted with concern the heightening insecurity in the country, which took a new dimension with the

Gov Orji makes case for Federal institutions in Abia

BY ANAYO OKOLI

U

M U A H I A — GOVERNOR Theodore Orji of Abia State has appealed to the Federal Government to establish a Federal polytechnic or college of education in the state, claiming that the state was marginalised.

According to him, of the five states in the South-East, Abia remains the only one without a Federal polytechnic or college of education.

Revival

J

ESUS Resurrection Ministries Intl., A.K.A. Ike ka Ike, will hold a threenight judgment revival themed Who Art Thou O’ Great Mountain Before Zerubabel, holding at the Church premises behind Bob Arison Company, AgoOkota Road, Ago-Okota, Lagos State.

The programme will start tomorrow by 9p.m. till dawn.

Governor Orji, who spoke at the inauguration of the new JAMB office in the state last weekend, called on the Federal Government to assist the state by establishing federal institutions.

Orji expressed willingness of the state government to release any of the existing state’s institutions for acquisition.

He said: “If you are finding it hard to build a Federal polytechnic, we are ready to relinquish our own in Aba or the college of education in Arochukwu to the Federal Government, so that the support we have for the government at the centre will be justified.”

On the new JAMB office, Orji commended Mgbaraku for donating the land, and noted that the state took education very seriously in its agenda.

He said: “We do not joke with education. Our two major agenda are security and education. We take education as a serious business. This office is a sign of encouragement to us.”

insurgency of the Boko Haram terrorists group.

It called on the government to do all in its powers to tackle the problem of insecurity in the country.

The church also expressed concern over the gradual resurfacing of crime and criminality in the state, including kidnapping for ransom and urged the government not to relent in the fight against crime.

The communiqué, which was signed by Sir Chimdi Okorie and Ven. John Ogbonnah, equally noted with dissatisfaction the growing unemployment in the country, urging governments at all levels to take drastic and enduring measures to ensure that school leavers were gainfully employed.

While calling for active participation of all Christians in 2015 general elections, the church appealed to all politicians to exercise great care and caution in their utterances and actions to safeguard Nigeria against further instability.

It also warned the youths not to allow themselves to be used for political violence and other election vices.

It urged the Federal Government to hasten efforts to resolve the impasse between them and lecturers of polytechnics and colleges of education who have been on strike for over seven months.

The Synod commended Abia State government for returning two of its secondary schools to the church, and appealed for the return of Ibeku High School, Umuahia, to the church.

W K A — GOVERNOR Willie Obiano of Anambra State, yesterday, in Awka flagged off the construction of three flyovers to ease traffic in the state capital.

The flyovers, which are to be constructed at Aroma, Kwata and Amawbia junctions in the city, with a tunnel to ensure free flow of traffic, would be handled

by IDC Construction Company.

Obiano said the construction of the three arms zone, a five-star hotel, a 5,000 sitting capacity conference centre and a shopping mall would soon take off in the city.

The governor said: “During our campaigns, one of the promises we made was to transform Awka and we will not relent in achieving this.

What we require is the cooperation of the people as we will not hesitate to deal with anybody who foments trouble in the state.”

EKITI: Only credible candidates win— NWAGWU

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

O

WERRI—FORMER speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Chief Kelechi Nwagwu, has said that the outcome of Ekiti gubernatorial election was a pointer that political parties could only win elections if they presented credible candidates.

Chief Nwagwu, who stated this during a press conference in Owerri, also used the platform to announce his senatorial ambition under the umbrella of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He said: “The days of ballot box snatching is over. Presentation of credible candidates remains the panacea of winning elections. The Ekiti experiment is a pointer.”

44—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

FUEL SCARCITY: PTDA strike paralyses Calabar

NBA honours Edo Dep Gov, others

BY EMMA UNA

C

A L A B A R — E C O N O M I C activities in Calabar, Cross River State capital, and most parts of the state have been grounded, following the strike by Petrol Tanker Drivers’ Association, PTDA. The strike, which started last week with a disagreement between Cross River State Government and PTDA over parking space, persisted through the weekend, leaving almost all the filling stations in Calabar without products.

Most vehicle owners are forced to patronise black market, where a litre goes for between N200 and N300. The situation had led to increase in transport fares in the city by 100 percent.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Mr. Fabian Okpa in a telephone chat, blamed the drivers for the hike in transport fares.

However, a member of PTDA, Mr. Musa Isah, said the new place provided by the government was too far from the loading depot, adding “ we want a place close to the depot.

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

B

ENIN— THE Benin branch of Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has honoured Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu, with Benin NBA Merit Award.

The award was conferred on Odubu for his contributions to the development and promotion of the Bar in the state and Nigeria in general.

Also honoured were Professor Lawrence Afegbua, Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Benin; Chairmen of IkpobaOkha, Oredo, Ovia NorthEast; former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mrs. Itohan OsahonOgbeide; Mr. Osaro Obaze; Mrs. Lucy Omagbon; and Mr. Osagie Obayuwana.

Speaking at the presentation, Chairman of Benin Chapter of NBA, Mr. Oyamien Akhere, said the award was in recognition of the contribution made by the awardees to the promotion and development of the association.

Akhere said Odubu as a lawyer, a lawmaker and deputy governor has helped in promoting the Bar and its activities.

Responding, Dr. Odubu said the honour had disabused the often said cliché “that a prophet is hardly honoured in his own home. I dare say that this prophet has honour in his home.”

“The issue”

Okpa said: “The state

government said they cannot be parking tankers indiscriminately. We got a park for them from where they can be called on for the loading of their products, in order to decongest the city and keep it green.

“The government has shown them a particular

place, but later the place could not be given to them because it fell along the plan of government for something else.

And government said look, we are going to give you another parcel of land.

“They refused and that was why they went on strike. But

we are trying to settle the issue. We have had meetings with them and I am sure that soon, everything will be settled.’’

He accused the tanker drivers of capitalising on the slightest disagreement with government to go on strike and cause hardship.

PDP chieftain drums support for Uduaghan

BY FESTUS AHON

U

GHELLI— CHAIRMAN of Peoples Democratic

Party, PDP, in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Delta State, Mr. Dan Ossai has called on the people of

Delta group lauds lawmaker

S

APELE—OKPE Local Government All Progressives Congress Leaders Forum, OLGAPCLF, has passed a vote of confidence on the Minority Leader of Delta State house of Assembly, Mr. Julius Okpoko.

The group listed the achievements of the lawmaker to include infrastructure, security and manpower development in the local government area.

The vote of confidence was contained in a statement released after a meeting of the group in Orerokpe, headquarters of Okpe Local Government Area of the

state.

The group added that the lawmaker had since 2012 established over 11 developmental projects in the council, while 12 similar projects were ongoing, a feat which they said was not common anywhere in the state.

The group, in the statement by its leader, Mr. Joseph Imu, said projects completed

by Mr. Okpoko include classroom blocks at Ughoton, Odjedi, Okwokoko, Orerokpe, Aghalokpe, Okuetolo, Mereje, Aragba, Onyeke, Amuabude, Okuogholo and Oha communities.

the state to continue in their support for Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to enable him complete his developmental agenda for the state.

Ossai said: “Delta State is now a PDP state with the effort of Governor Uduaghan and Chief Peter Nwoboshi, the state PDP Chairman.

“I am, therefore, calling on everyone in Ndokwa West and the state as whole to join hands with the governor in achieving his three-point agenda.

“When you drive round Delta State, you will see the massive development going on and by the grace of Almighty God, the projects will be commissioned before the end of his tenure as governor.”

UDU: Sakpa vows to consolidate on achievements

A

CHAIRMANSHIP aspirant under Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Udu Local Government Area, Delta State, Dr. Henry Sakpra, has said he is vying for the position to consolidate on the development in the council.

Sakpra, who spoke during a visit to Udu PDP

elders and caucus at Chief Gabriel Sefia’s residence, yesterday, said the visit was to inform them of his intention to contest for the chairmanship position for a second term.

He said: “I want your approval to serve for another three years to enable me do more for Udu people. Some

of the projects I embarked on in my first term are yet to be completed.”

In response, Chiefs Gabriel Sefia and Moses Odibo advised aspirants jostling for elective positions to focus on their campaign promises instead of on how to tarnish or pull down their co-contestants.

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

Launch

D

IGITAL Reality Print Limited will launch an ultra-modern, purposebuilt print solutions, a onestop-shop facility, tomorrow in Lagos.

A statement by Elsie Akin Adesola, the firm’s Group Head, said the new facility is in line with the company ’s promise to deliver superior quality where it concerns “everything within the space of printing.”

By Bartholomew Madukwe (nwamad@yahoo.com)

On Super Eagles in Brazil

M

OSES, Osaze and Emenike should be starting together. That way they can cause problems for any team.

However, our midfield must be business like, move the ball faster and minimise playing square balls across the field.— Ms. Blessing Emmanuel, Caterer.

W

E deserved what we got from Iran because we did not play as African champions.

Iranian football is growing. They are Asian champions and they have a very experienced coach in Carlos Queiroz. So why did we take them for granted?— Mr. Yunusa Akor, Worker.

K

ESHI has made a point. Team work remains the best option for success. Coach Keshi needs to study our opponents very well.

Super Eagles can beat any team. We are a good team for now, but not yet fantastic. It is still work in progress.—Mr. Muktar Mustapha, Worker.

I

trust Keshi because of his doggedness in football team management and am also very sure he will make Nigerians proud.

Nigerian players will come out with their heads held high, despite what they get from critics.— Mr. Martins Ifeanyi, Communicator.

C

OACH Keshi should practice 4-5-1 formation. It is best once we score a goal or two.

When looking for goals, play 4-4-2. Never play three defenders at the back at anytime, especially against the likes of Dzeko, Visca and Lulic or Messi.— Mr. Ogwu Nwachukwu, Student.

N

IGERIANS can praise Keshi for putting his players back on the track. Therefore, they will play progressively better as the tournament continue because they were appreciated for what they did in their first match.— Mr. Chijioke Mebs, Businessman.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014—45

Delta communal clash: Rep sues for peace

Ofuani, Nwoko condole with Vanguard publisher

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

F

A

SABA—A MEMBER of the House of Representatives, Mr. Nicholas Ossai, representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani federal constituency, Delta State, has called on the people of the area to embrace peace and drop their arms, lamenting that the lingering communal crisis involving Ibabu and Iselegu communities had forced him to meander through a bush path to get to his village. He described the development as very sad.

Speaking at a People’s Democratic Party, PDP, stakeholders’ meeting in Kwale, Ossai, said: “It is affecting all of us and I go to my village through a bush path.

“Today marks the success and restoration of Ndokwa West PDP. Popular persons must emerge as the party's candidates for elections.

No single leader can make an individual a candidate. Aspirants for elective positions must consult widely.”

Edeinmene nominated as sole candidate for Delta LG poll

B

URUTU—THE Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ward six (BuluNdoro),Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, has endorsed Deacon Arede Edeinmene as its sole chairmanship candidate for the forthcoming council elections in the area.

Burutu Ward six leaders and party faithful, who converged at BuluNdoro, after a deliberation, declared their support for Edeinmene and urged members to seek the support of other wards that make up the council.

One of the leaders of the ward, Mr. Wurus Funkeye, described Edeinmene as an astute politician, a philanthropist, reliable and competent person. He expressed optimism that Edeinmene’s aspiration will further promote the unity of the party, if he was elected.

C M Y K

AWARD: From left: Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambari, Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State, his wife Obioma, and Prof. Jibril Aminu, during the presentation of the Zik Prize Award as Best Governor for 2013 to Governor Imoke.

2015: Guber slot must go to Delta North, says Reps Dep Leader

BY EGUFE YAFUGBORHI

W

ARRI—DEPUTY Leader, House of Representatives, Mr. Leo Ogor, has declared his support for Delta North’s exclusive claim to produce the next governor of Delta State, come 2015.

Ogor, who represents Isoko federal constituency, Delta State, said in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area

of the state, that with the senatorial structure in the state, there should be no rancour over allowing Delta North, which has not occupied the office under the current democratic dispensation, to take its turn in 2015.

“This, I make clear, is my personal view. Power must go to Delta North and rightly so. Isoko should produce

the deputy governor. Let’s face it, this is a simple case of fairness and equity. I am from Delta South, but what is fair is fair,” Ogor said.

He added that he will be seeking a fourth tenure for his seat in 2015, adding that he had come to realise that his long stay has grown his status and influence as well as improved his service delivery to his constituents.

Delta LG poll: Ganagana sues for mutual respect

BY FESTUS AHON

U

GHELLI—AHEAD of the October, 2014 local government elections in Delta State, the Deputy Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mr. Basil Ganagana, has urged political aspirants in the state to exhibit decorum and mutual respect in their relationship with one another.

Ganagana, who gave the advice when he played host to a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chairmanship aspirant from Patani Local Government Area, Mr. Elijah Ologe, said: “Power belongs to God and he gives it at his will.”

Describing Ologe as a worthy and competent aspirant for the Patani council chairmanship position, he said: “I have no doubt that he is going to perform if elected.”

The deputy speaker, who represents Patani state constituency in the House of Assembly, stressed the need for the decentralisation of elective positions to the various axis that make up Patani council.

According to him, it was the only sure way to maintain eq-

uity and a sense of belonging among the people. He urged Ologe not to relent in his aspiration and do the needful through consultations with political leaders and party delegates. Earlier, the chairmanship aspirant, Ologe solicited the support of the deputy speaker in his ambition to contest for

the chairmanship position on the platform of the PDP. He said: “We have come to you today because you are not just a political leader in Patani council, but you are a leader in the whole of Delta South, holding the highest political office in the South and we believe with your support, we can win.”

ORMER Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning and 2015 governorship aspirant, Chief Clement Ofuani, has condoled with the Chairman and Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers Mr. Sam Amuka, on the death of his mother, Madam Ariteshoma Abeji Amuka.

Similarly, a member of the Goodluck Jonathan Support Group, Prince Ned Nwoko, also commiserated with the Amuka family, over the passage of their matriarch and counselled them to revel in the knowledge that their mother lived a life worthy of emulation.

In his message, Ofuani said: “At the age of 109, Madam Ariteshoma lived a life worth celebrating. She was exceptionally blessed by God and she left behind an illustrious son and established grand children who would miss her.

“I pray that God will grant you and the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” he added.

Prince Nwoko on his part, said: “The loss of the matriach of the family is a painful experience and her maternal love and care would be difficult to replace.”

He urged the Amuka family to bear the loss of their matriarch with equanimity.

Uduaghan mourns Ndagene, former NUJ President

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME & AUSTIN OGWUDA

G

OVERNOR Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has expressed regrets over the death of Mr. Ndagene Akwu, former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, describing same as “very shocking.”

It will be recalled that the late Akwu died in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after he allegedly slumped at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa.

The governor, in a state-

ment by Mr. Felix Ofou, his Press Secretary, noted that Ndagene's death was a monumental loss to the journalism profession and the nation at large. He acknowledged that Ndagene’s tenure as NUJ President was very successful.

Uduaghan recalled the bold and exemplary role played by the late NUJ boss in bringing about peace in the once divided council of the union in the state.

Similarly, consoling the family in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Secretary of the South-South zone of the NUJ, Mr Edward Ogwude, during a visit to the family,

said the late former president of the NUJ would be missed by the union and admirers.

He prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss.

He said: “The news of the death of the former NUJ President came to us as a shock.

We are so pained. On behalf of the NUJ National, Zone F, and the entire union, I express our condolences. We will stand by you even after his burial and we pray God to give you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

Chairman of Rivers State Council of the union, Opaka Dokubo, also condoled with the family during the visit.

46— Vanguard , TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Kebbi to deploy 8,666 teachers to rural areas

B

IRNIN KEBBI— KEBBI State Government said yesterday that it would deploy the 8,666 teachers recently recruited to rural communities as part of the efforts at improving the standard of education in the state.

Alhaji Samaila Kamba, the Commissioner for Education, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Birnin Kebbi.

Kamba said that the recruited teachers were trained for seven weeks on teaching methodology and curriculum in education.

He said that the state would sustain the ongoing development in the education sector, especially through purchase of teaching and learning materials as well as additional recruitment of competent teachers.

He said that schools furniture worth N1 billion had been procured and distributed to public schools to ensure conducive teaching and learning environment.

The commissioner said that the state government had also earmarked N3 billion for the procurement of textbooks in the required subjects, adding that “some schools had been provided with computers and accessories to improve computer literacy among teachers and students”.

Kamba said that efforts would be intensified to improve students’ performance in external examinations, especially on regular preexamination coaching for students to enable them excel.

He said that the state had invested financially and materially in the education sector, saying, “no amount was too much for education development”.

He said that although some students were exceptionally intelligent, their inability to understand examinations questions usually contributed to their failure in public examinations.

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Nyako survives impeachment scare, as House goes on recess

BY UMAR YUSUF

Y

OLA—THERE were indi cations that loyalists of Governor Murtala Nyako and his Deputy, Balla Ngillari in the impeachment saga are getting upper hands.

The House of Assembly currently on two weeks recess met Monday at a special session to adopt the rules and proceedings of the June 18, 2014 where the house directed its clerk, to serve the Gov-

e r n o r and his Deputy with the impeachment notice.

The session was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Kwamoti La’ori, even as the Speaker, majority leader, and other principal officers were absent.

At the plenary session, the member representing Hong Constituency, Mr Wafama Amfari raised an issue of constitutional matter to the effect that the decision of the House

to serve Governor Murtala Nyako and his Deputy were purely for their alleged gross misconduct.

There and then, the Deputy Speaker and Presiding officer, Mr. Kwamoti La’ori invited the clerk of the House to come forward and furnish the members with the resolution of the House on the 18th June, 2014 which directed him to serve the Governor and his Deputy with the

VISIT: From left—Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State; Asiwaju Bola Tinubu APC Leader; Chief Bisi Akande; Gen Muhammadu Buhari, APC Leader and Chief John OdigieOyegun at a special thanksgiving service in honour of Chief Bisi Akande by Diocese of Osun North, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) at St Mathew's Anglican Church, Ila Orangun, Osun State on Sunday. Photo by Joe Akintola, Photo Editor.

National standards for IT education to encourage e-learning — MINISTER BYEMEKAAGINAM

M

INISTER of education, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has said that the newly introduced National Standards for Information Technology Education will encourage e-learning in the Nigerian educational system.

The Minister who spoke at the weekend during the 2014 Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria, CPN IT Professionals’ Assembly/Annual General Meeting said that the standard document for IT education sets clear standards for teaching and learning of IT at all levels, for teachers, students, education administrators and other stakeholders in education.

The document was developed the Ministry of education in partnership with the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria, CPN, the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA.

The Minister who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education MacJohn Nwaobiala while launching the standard document at the IT Professionals Assembly with the theme: Harnessing the potentials of IT professionals for national development told the gathering that the document which sets clear standards for IT education will be implemented immediately

at all levels of education starting from early childhood to tertiary education.

The new policy, according to him, has IT education standards for early childhood care education, ECCE, basic education, post basic education, NCE awarding institutions, enterprisae institutions, polytechnic education, diploma, national diploma, universities, among others.

i m p e a c h m e n t notice.

When the clerk Mr. Francis Gansenso emerged, he told the House that he could not serve the Governor and his Deputy owing to the fact that they could not be located.

The clerk disclosed that he has visited the offices of the G o v e r n o r and his Deputy severally, but without positive results.

Meanwhile, a Yola High Court presided over by the Acting Chief Judge, Mr Justice Ambrose Mamadi has dismissed an application by the House of Assembly to serve Governor Murtala Nyako and his Deputy the impeachment notice, through the media.

In the suit, the Assembly prayed the court to grant its app l i c a t i o n in the face that the Governor and his Deputy cannot be seem p e r s o n a l l y for them to receive the impeachment notice.

In his ruling, the Acting Chief Judge ruled that in view of holding of the Supreme Court Judgment ''in case of Inikojo and Adeleke to which I am bound, I refused to excise my discretion to grant the app l i c a t i o n sought by the House of Assembly.

“I hold the service of the notice of allegation against the respondents must be personal service” the acting Chief Judge ruled.''

The acting Chief Judge, Mr. Justice Ambrose Mamadi further said that I resolved the issue for determination in the negative, I refused the application, it is accordingly dismissed.

Meanwhile, a group known as Adamawa Progressive Movement, APM, has condemned moves by members of the state House of Assembly to impeach Governor Murtala Nyako, saying that the plot was aimed at f u r t h e r destabilising the state.

APC chieftain urges urgent rescue of Chibok girls

I

IORIN—A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Alhaji Kawu Baraje,said Sunday that no sacrifice would be too much to secure the release of the abducted Chibok girls.

Speaking with newsmen at the graduation ceremony of Baraje Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies, llorin, the chieftain said the country should consider the swap option being canvassed by

the insurgents. ”If the United States of America swapped five prisoners to secure the life of an American soldier, it will not be too much for the Federal Government to negotiate and meet the sect’s condition for the release of the abducted girls. ”Whatever kind of appeasement that will appease the people that are holding these

girls should be done, whether negotiation, whether transition, we saw America do it. Just for one person America released five insurgents,” he said.

Baraje observed that Nigeria was in a trying period by the security challenge.

He said that until the girls were released, nobody would believe the efforts made by the Federal Government to secure their release.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 47

Sokoto invests N20bn to boost agric sector

Hajji: Gombe pilgrims board secures accommodation for intending pilgrims

G

S

OKOTO — THE Sokoto State Government said, yesterday, that it has invested over N20 billion to boost the agriculture sector of the state in the last seven years.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alhaji Arzika Tureta, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Sokoto.

Tureta said that more than N2 billion was expended on the construction of permanent site of the state College of Agriculture in Wurno.

He explained that the college was expected to produce the manpower needed to modernise the sector for optimal realisation of goals.

According to him, about N1.7 billion was spent yearly on the procurement and distribution of assorted fertiliser to genuine farmers across the state.

The commissioner also revealed that N950 million was used to procure and distribute 150 tractors to small, medium and large scale farmers on soft loan.

From left: Vice President Namadi Sambo, representing President Goodluck Jonathan; National Security Adviser to the President, Alhaji Mohammed Sambo Dasuki and Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal at the opening of the International Conference on Security And Development Challenges of Pastoralists in West and Central Africa, in Kaduna, yesterday. Photo: Olu Ajayi.

Prevail on past leaders to curb insurgency, Aliyu tells Abdulsalami M

INNA—Governor Babangida Aliyu of Niger State, weekend, asked General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) to prevail on past leaders of the country to help curb insurgency rocking the Northern region.

Aliyu, who is the chairman, Northern States Governor ’s Forum, NSGF, spoke at the maiden convocation of the Ibrahim Babangida Badamosi University, Lapai, Niger State.

He expressed the hope that security challenges in the Northern states could be sur-

mounted in the next three months.

Aliyu insisted that with concerted efforts from prominent Nigerians, the unbearable situation in the North would soon be a thing of the past.

He said: “I call on Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar to invite Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, to come together and help the North end the scourge of Boko Haram in the next three months.”

The governor also called on students of the university to

CPN inducts 323 new members, warns against professional misconduct

BY EMEKAAGINAM

A

BUJA — NO fewer than 323 new members were, weekend, inducted by the Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria, CPN, in Abuja.

The council has, meanwhile, said that members who go against the code of ethics and professional conduct guiding the practice of Information Technology in Nigeria will be sanctioned.

Chairman of the council, Alhaja Sekinat Yusuf, said it was illegal to engage in computing and professional practice without satisfying the condition of registration with CPN. She said: “As new inductees to this profession, the legitimization of your professional practice in IT starts today and I want you to make good use of the opportunity by channelling your energy and talents to positive things that will be of benefit to you, your various C M Y K

organisations and the nation at large.

“The task ahead of the profession now is enormous and you are expected to make your contributions towards taking the profession to loftier heights. The growth of the profession will impact positively on the nation and will facilitate the realisation of the objectives of the Federal Government transformational agenda.”

She explained that the council was conscious of the impact of the use of computational machinery and techniques on the public, employers of labour, clients and the professionals who have made substantial investment in IT. She said: “This was what informed the introduction of the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct that detailed the standards of conduct that is expected from professionals in the IT industry as exists in other profession like law, medicine, etc.

“This means that high standard of good and ethical conduct that will portray you as good

ambassadors of the profession is expected from you. As provided in the Act that established CPN, the codes of ethics and professional conduct is enforceable in that continued membership of the profession depends on strict adherence to it."

Both the CPN investigating panel and the CPN disciplinary panel, she said, are the standing committees of the council that investigate and deliberate respectively on the reported cases of unethical conduct by members.

According to her, CPN has designed professional development programmes that enable the new inductees to grow professionally and keep them abreast of new developments in the profession.

The Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme (MCPD) , according to her was conceived as a means of re-training and updating members’ skills and knowledge about the latest developments in the industry.

imbibe the best moral practice, saying that academics were not only about learning but also about morality and character.

He noted: “As young people, you have central role to play in addressing the situation as positive change agents by advocating peace, unity and peaceful coexistence devoid of ethnic and religious sentiments in the society.”

The governor, who is also the visitor to the university, urged tertiary institutions in the country not to limit instructions of students to academics alone.

The chairman of the university endowment fund, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, announced that the fund was yielding results.

Abubakar said that money collected so far was already running into hundreds of millions of Naira, saying that it was kept in a dedicated account awaiting judicious use to develop the institution.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof.

Ibrahim Kolo, said that well over N19 billion had been expended on the university.

Kolo also commended the interventions of TETFund and NIMASA whose contribution to the university could not be over emphasised.

The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that 1,732 students, comprising four sets from 2010 to 2014 received their degrees in its maiden convocation.

A breakdown revealed that eight had first class, 324, second class upper; 902, second class lower; 476, third class; and 22 passes.

OMBE — THE Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, MPWB, says it has secured a befitting accommodation to its 1, 954 intending pilgrims for the 2014 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Executive Secretary of the board, Alhaji Usman Gurama, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Gombe.

He said the facility acquired was close to Muharram (Holy Mosque) in Mecca.

According to him, the accommodation is the one used in the last two to three years by the pilgrims from the state.

He said: “We renew our contract, the house we have been using for the fast two to three years is still the house we occupy, it will accommodate everybody including our officials.

Sona Agro introduces Corny bar into Nigerian market

S

ONA Agro Allied Foods Limited (SAAFL), a subsidiary of Sona Group of Companies, has introduced snack Corny, a multi-cereal bar in Nigerian market as part of the company’s vision to provide quality and affordable food products to Nigerians.

Speaking on the new product, Mr. Subramaniam Murugesan, Managing Director, Sona Agro Allied Foods Limited, said: “Corny bar has the unique combination of cornflake and oats topped with dry fruits. It contains carbohydrate, protein, minerals and fibre and, therefore, is a wholesome snack that provides energy to keep one going.

"It can be served as a breakfast or a healthy snack for those on the move. The product comes in pack size of 20 grams for individual and soft pack of six for family. A 30 gram pack cost N30 which is affordable compared to imported cereal bars which cost twice or more than Corny.”

Corny is the first multi-cereal bar to be produced in Nigeria and is targeted at children and adult who are looking for healthy and nutritious snacks as an alternative to chips, pastries, rolls and chocolate bricks.

48— Vanguard , TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

VISIT: From left: Vice President, South-South, Butchers Union of Nigeria,Prince Peter Ogigbo, National President, Chief John Osamadeh, Kwara State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed, Kwara State Chairman, Alhaji Olohuntoyin Badmus and others during a visit to the Governor in Ilorin.

MOU: From left: Chairman, Kensington College of Business, United Kingdom, Dr. Lawrence Watson, Chairman, Board of Directors, Diadem Institute of Advanced Studies, Lekki, Mr. Olapoju Oladinni, Proprietries of the Institute, Mrs. Abimbola Oladinni,and Registrar/Director of the Institute, Mr. Akinkusote Olaolu, at the signing of MoU between Kensington College, and Diadem Institute in Lagos.

AWARD: Mrs Aramide Keshinro, Registrar/CEO, Dental Therapist Registration Board of Nigeria (left), presenting an award to Segun Odubela, Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, Ogun State, represented by Mrs M.A Osolukoya

DISCOURSE: From left: Professor Abdul Rahmon Bello, Vice Chancelor, University of Lagos, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, former Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, chairman of the occasion, Prof. Isiaq Oloyede, Secretary-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Prof. Isiaq Akintola, guest speaker, at the National Discourse, in Lagos.

From left: Voice Trainer, and Independent Presenter, Ada Eze,Radio Port Harcourt on-air personality, Chuks Roberts, and Nigerian Info FM, Port Harcourt, on-air personality, Mary-Ann Okon, leading a crowd of youths at the MTN Project Fame season 7 audition in Port Harcourt,

BRIEFING: From left: Mr. Wasiu Abiola, Marketing/Media Manager, Nigeria Breweries Plc, LC; Mr Sampson Oloche, Marketing Manager, Non-Alcoholic Drinks, Mr Wole Adedeji, Senior Brand manager, Maltina and Mr. Edem Vindah, Corporate Media/Brand Manager, at the Maltina Dance All Season Eight (MDA8) briefing in Lagos. Photo Lamidi Bamidele.

C M Y K

GRADUATION: From left: Mr. Ohimai Ohiosimuan, Programme Officer, MIND Foundation, Chief Samuel Onyenwe, Community Relations Manager, Oando, Mr. Emmanuel Egri-Okwaji, Chairman, Ndokwa-West Council, Delta State, Mr. Aikenzua Alenkhe, HR Manager, Energia Ltd, and representative of the Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Mr. Akpede, inspecting tools of trade procured for the 27 Ndokwa West beneficiaries of a one-year youth entrepreneurship programme facilitated by MIND Foundation, during their graduation in Delta State.

CONVOCATION: From left:Chancellor, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, FUNAAB, Obi Chike Edozien, Asagba of Asaba, Professor Olusola Oyewole, Vice Chancellor and Professor Julius Okogie, Executive Secretary, NUC, during the 21 and 22nd convocation of the university in Abeokuta.

Photo: Wumi Akinnola.

VISIT: From left: Alhaji M.S. Nagogo, Director, Maritime Services, Hon. Abdullahi Idris, Senator Zainab Kure, Senator Idris Umar, Minister of Transport, Mr. Koji Sekimizu, Secretary General, International Maritime Organisation, IMO, Senator Abdullahi Idris, Mr. Nebolisa Emodi, Hajiya Mariam Ciroma, during the Minister's visit to the IMO Secretary General, at the IMO headquarters in London, during the ongoing Council 112 Session of IMO.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 49

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50—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Boko Haram abducts 91 in Borno Continues from page 1 Dagu, Damboa and Askira Uba Local Government Areas of Borno State, local vigilante officials said yesterday night.

Four other villagers were killed while attempting to escape from their abductors, said Aji Khalil, Chairman, Sector 5 of the local vigilante group in Borno State.

Khalil who spoke on the telephone said: “More than 60 women were among the villagers abducted by Boko Haram terrorists.

“Some suspected Boko Haram members invaded Kumanza, Yaga and Dagu villages and kidnapped 91 persons.

“More than 60 married women and young girls as well as children and young men were force-

fully taken away by Boko Haram terrorits. Four villagers, who tried to escape were shot dead on the spot”, Khalil said on telephone yesterday night.

Another source said: ”They went from one village to the other, killed about 30 people and took away many children and women.” He added that hundreds of villagers around the area

have now fled to Lassa to take refuge.

The attacks were not immediately known in Maiduguri because of the remoteness of the area. The affected villages are about 100 kilometres away from Maiduguri, Borno State capital.

There was no official confirmation either by the military or police in the state at press time.

Also, chairman of Damboa Local Government, Alhaji Alamin Mohammed could not be reached on his mobile phone while the council secretary, Modu Mustapha insisted he was not authorized to speak on the matter.

Meanwhile, four suspected Boko Haram members have been arrested in Lassa few kilometres away to

Kummabza, Gurdlagwal, Yafa and Yaza villages attacked weekend, residents said.

The four men were arrested while purchasing large quantities of foodstuffs at Lassa market, yesterday. The quantity of food items being purchased by the men, according to the source aroused the suspicion of traders and people in the market.

“People suspected the four men may be Boko Haram errand men, who came to the market to buy foodstuffs and also spy for the insurgents.

"We’ve handed them over to the military for investigation,” a resident said.

Four Edo lawmakers lose bid to stop suspension

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM & GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

B

ENIN—AN applica tion by the four suspended Edo State House of Assembly members, seeking to set aside an earlier order of a state High Court, barring them from attending House sittings, was, yesterday, refused by the trial judge, Justice V. Eboreime, who said that hearing the motion would amount to turning the law on its head.

The four suspended Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, lawmakers, had also sought to get the court to stay further proceedings in the matter.

The suspended lawmakers had approached the court through their counsel, Chief Fred Orbih, SAN, to set aside the interim injunction restraining them from the state House of Assembly and their residential quarters pending the determination of the suit.

The four lawmakers are Deputy Speaker, Festus Ebea, Patrick Osayimen, Jude Ise-Idehen and Friday Ogierhiakhi.

But Justice Eboreime held that she could not entertain the applications on the grounds that there was an appeal before the appellate court and adjourned sine die, until the matter was disposed off at the Appeal Court.

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2013—51

Built environment experts back Confab to expunge land use act from Constitution

By JUDE NJOKU

A

S

the National Conference votes this week on whether the contentious 1978 Land Use Act which was allegedly ‘smuggled’ into the 1999 Nigerian Constitution by the military junta led by General Olusegun Obasanjo rtd, should be expunged from the statute books or retained, built environment experts have called on delegates to the conference to vote in favour of its expurgation.

The experts explained that removing the Act from the Constitution, would make its amendment less cumbersome. According to them, the law which was made about 36 years ago, should be reviewed in line with prevailing economic realities. They maintained that its retention in the Constitution would make the amendment almost impossible.

The experts spoke against the

backdrop of a statement credited to a group in the Conference which vowed to resist the removal of the Act from the Constitution.

Vanguard Homes & Property recalls that the Committee on Land Tenure Matters and National Boundaries, had earlier recommended the removal of the Act which has been abused by many State Governors, from the Constitution.

But some delegates have vowed to resist this with all vehemence.

These delegates also declared their readiness to ensure that the “draconian recommendation” by the Conference Committee on Land Tenure Matters and National Boundaries, does not sail through at the plenary.

Speaking on behalf of the ‘propoor’ delegates at the National Conference, a delegate representing Ondo State, Mr. Remi Olatubora alleged that the

poor masses of Nigeria would further be pauperised if the Land Use Act is eventually removed from the Constitution.

Olatubora, who is also the leader of Ondo State delegates to conference, said: “This particular draconian recommendation of the committee is against the poor masses of this country; it is a coup against the poor masses of this country and we must all stand against it”.

According to him, the recommendation was a decoy for the few rich persons in Nigeria to take over the entire land space and make the poor owners of land their laborers.

He alleged that hundreds of land speculators have besieged Abuja, lobbying delegates with cash and other inducements for them to support the removal of the Land Use Act from the nation’s constitution.

But the representative of the

Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, NIESV at the Confab, Mr Emeka Eleh debunked the claims of the propoor group, saying they are illinformed. Eleh who is the immediate past President of NIESV, told Vanguard Homes & Property that all the built environment experts at the Confab have spoken with one voice to demand the removal of the Act from the Constitution. He wondered how somebody in his right mind would say that retaining the Act in the Constitution is a pro-poor decision.

He posited that all efforts to amend some contentious sections of the Act, as recommended by estate surveyors and valuers and relevant stakeholders failed because it was entrenched into the 1978 Constitution and has remained there till date. Previous

constitutional reviews carried out

by National Assembly in the past, did nothing to either expunge the Act from the Constitution or amend its contentious sections because the politicians were only interested in amending the electoral act and other sections they had interest in.

The former NIESV President further posited that the clamour to remove the Act from the constitution is not a ploy to whittle down its efficacy but an attempt to make its amendment, as the need arises, less cumbersome. “Amending the Land Use Act is a very tedious process because it is part of the Constitution. The Act should be removed from the Constitution so that those sections that we consider the major problems like the consent provision can be amended,” he said.

Lagos State Chairman of NIESV, Mr. Stephen Jagun argued that there would be no meaningful growth in the real sector if land continues to be under the firm grips of State Governors. He therefore called for the removal of the land legislation from the Constitution.

52 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014—53

‘Get Katsina property at half price’

•One of the housing projects by Katsina state government

BY WALE AKINOLA

I

N Katsina State, there is a strategy in place by the state government to bring housing within the reach of the common man. The strategy is to build houses and sell to people at half price. The General Manager of Katsina State Housing Authority, Alhaji Surajo Aminu Makera, speaks more on the strategy in this interview.

How is the authority tackling the issue housing in the state, because there is obvious shortage of housing, not only in Katsina but throughout the country?

You know the issue of housing is very important to human development and existence. In fact, it is the most important aspect of

Were the houses built in conjunction with a private company or exclusively by government?

Who are the occupants? Are they civil servants or private citizens?

Out of these 2,404 I mentioned, 252 were built by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria.

Initially the Federal Mortgage Bank would give Katsina State money to construct houses and we repay them later, but the governor felt it was something the state could do on its own without necessarily waiting for the FMBN. The state asked the FMBN to build its own houses while we build ours. By so doing, both of us are approaching the housing challenge from all angles.

So apart from these 252, all the other houses I mentioned were

,

,

So apart from these 252, all the other houses I mentioned were built by Katsina State government without taking loan from anybody

human life. If you don’t have a house, if you don’t have shelter over your head, you are not yet complete as a human being.

Housing generally is a big challenge in the country. In Katsina State, we have done a lot to provide houses for the people and I think this administration has recorded a remarkable achievement in that area. Let me just give you a little analysis.

Before Governor Shema came on board in 2007, the state, having been created in 1987, was about 20 years. The various administrations in the 20 years constructed only 632 houses. But since 2007, this administration has constructed about 2, 404 houses in Katsina State. So, if you compare what has been done in 20 years with what has been achieved in the last seven years, you will agree with me that this is a remarkable achievement so.

built by Katsina State government without taking loan from anybody. Let us not forget that we have an estate we are building in Abuja and work there has gone very far. We have paid the contractor 80% of the contract money and the estate should be completed in the next few months. Regarding the beneficiaries of the housing projects, they are civil servants and private individuals. The state government also gives discount of about 50% on the initial cost of the houses to beneficiaries. The occupiers are given15 years to pay the balance. For example, if your house is constructed at the cost of N4m, the state government will sell it to the individual for N2m and he will have 15 years to pay on monthly, quarterly or yearly basis.

Let me also add that in each of the estates that the state

government has built, it comes with its own independent water, electricity, road network, drainage, clinic, police post, playground, worship centres, estate management office. There is really no difference between the privately built and state government owned, because we do it like a business venture. We have three of the estates inside Katsina metropolis. One has 500 houses, another has 252 while the third has 250. And then we have 30 of the houses in each of the 34 local governments areas.

Are the houses presently occupied?

Yes, all are presently occupied, except the new one which is about to be completed in few weeks’ time. I said we have shortage of housing, you are asking if they are being occupied, you are inundated with requests once a housing project springs up. Housing in the state is hot cake.

Now talking about the estate in Abuja, how many houses are there?

We are building 130 houses there; we’ve paid the contractors 80% of the contract money, so work is going on smoothly and I think in the next few months they should be completed. The estate has road network and every other thing that makes a neighbourhood conducive for living.

The estate in Abuja, can you put a figure on how much it’s costing the state government?

We have not really done the final costing, but I think it is costing the state government billions of naira to put up the estate. Now talking about housing, the state government is ready to partner with private investors to come and invest in Katsina.

Land is there, the demand is there. It is a win-win situation.

We have so far received some private requests regarding how they can come in, but the more the

merrier.

How has it been so far since you took the appointment?

This job comes with a lot of challenges. But if you realise that the position is more of a trust, you cannot but meet up with all the challenges. It is a responsibility that you must live up to. If you have this at the back of your mind, you will be less concerned about what people may be discussing about you. Public office like this always comes with challenges, but it is your own to live above those challenges. So I am enjoying the job.

What position were you occupying before the appointment to provide houses for the people?

I have been in politics for quite

some time. I have been in this government from the beginning.

I was with my boss (Governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema) when he got the nomination for governorship in 2007. I was with him during the campaign; after the election, he appointed me Senior Special Assistant, Government House. I was there for almost two years before I was appointed General Manager, Katsina State Transport Authority . I was with the authority for almost three years before I was now taken to the poverty alleviation section as acting special adviser. I was there for about seven months before I came to my present position. So I have always been in this government.

54— Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

MILE 2: Robbers’ arena, powered by unending traffic jams I

T has been over three years of unending frustration for motorists and commuters at the Mile 2 axis of the everbusy Oshodi-Apapa expressway, since the road failed.

However, after countless promises to fix the road by successive Federal government administrations, many regular road users thought solace had come their way, when in August 2013, the Federal Government after one its Executive Council meetings, announced the award of the contract for the reconstruction of Section Two, Phase Two of the expressway to Messrs Julius Berger Plc. At the meeting, Works Minister, Mike Onolememen, had explained that the reconstruction which was awarded at a cost of N15 billion, would be completed in 15 months ( a year and three months).

Onolememen said: “The Apapa-Oshodi Expressway is the gateway to Apapa and Tincan Island ports and parts of Trans West African Coastal Highway. It is therefore, of immense economic importance to the country and the sub-region. The road had virtually collapsed due to age and the damaging effects of heavy axle load vehicles carrying goods to and from the

ports.”

10 months after As the rains are here again, Vanguard gathered that 10 months after the contract was awarded, on-going road rehabilitation work by JB, as well as poor channelization of flood water force commuters, motorists and residents to lose man-hours on the road, repeatedly running into days and weeks.

The traffic situation usually forces most port workers, traders, journalists working with Vanguard and The Sun newspapers, on the Mile 2, Kirikiri axis and other road users to trek long distances, even those leaving the Apapa Wharf to Oshodi after close of work spend several hours at a spot even as late as 2.00am in a journey of less than 20 minutes.

Field day for robbers Vanguard gathered that road users have continued to decry the insensitivity of officials of the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, to their plights, especially during morning and evening peak periods.

According to them, these agencies which are saddled with the responsibility of controlling traffic are usually not found on their duty posts each time the situation becomes chaotic. Although the OshodiApapa- Mile 2 road belongs to the Federal

,

BY IKENNA ASOMBA

Government, the Lagos way to enquire what was wrong with our State government car. We thought they were good Nigerians, collects rights of way but, alas, they pointed guns at us, taxes and signages on demanding we submit every valuable with the road. Also, during us. “When I managed to escape to the late evening’s chaotic other side of the road, to call some periods, hoodlums usually have a field Policemen who I saw, they looked the other day on the road, dispossessing road users way, as I called repeatedly for help. Even of their monies and other valuables. This calling the state’s emergency numbers did is even as they assault those who are not not work” Road users lament: According to one ready to part with anything and also molest Peter Esegie: “The contractors handling and rape women even after dispossessing the rehabilitation of the road are to blame them of their valuable.

A Vanguard staff, Mr. Dave Oso who for the problem because by blocking narrated how he and four of his colleagues sections of the road, they create unnecessary traffic obstruction for vehicles were robbed of money and The harrowing experience we go through phones, last Thursday, in front on this road daily is unfortunate. The road of Alkem Nigerian Limited, a has become a safe haven for hoodlums polyester staple who usually rob road users with the police f i b r e manufacturing looking the other way company, inward the Oshodi axis of the going either to Apapa or Kirikiri areas. road, lamented that some policemen They ought to have known that this is a mounting surveillance, looked the other busy road and that blocking any section of it will definitely create traffic confusion”. way, when he cried for help.

He said: “The harrowing experience we As far as Chigozie Egwim is concerned: go through on this road daily is “There’s nothing wrong in rehabilitating unfortunate. The road has become a safe the road since that is what we have been haven for hoodlums who usually rob road praying for all along. But what I will advise users with the police looking the other way. is that such things should be done very Just last Thursday, our car broke down in early in the morning or late at night when front of the Alkem Nigerian Limited there are few people on the road , and if manufacturing company, when in less Continues on page 55 than two minutes, six persons came our

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Continues from page 54 maintenance must take place during peak hours, alternative routes should be provided for the people.”

For Wasiu Adeleke, a commuter,, government is to blame for failing to call drivers of trailers and other articulated vehicles from parking illegally. He believes this is the major cause of the traffic on that road. His sentiment is shared by one Mrs. Bisi Ojelabi who attributed the frequent collapse of sections of the road and the recurring traffic gridlock there to the prevalence of these heavy duty trucks which ply that route. She suggested that government should provide alternative routes for trucks so as not to endanger the lives of the people.

Cause of delay: Meanwhile, spokesman for the Julius Berger, Mr. Clement Iloba had earlier told Vanguard that the inconveniences presently being experienced by motorists are just unavoidable. He stated that the alleged slow pace of work is to avoid doing a shoddy work at the end of the day. Iloba said they are working with a time frame although he refused to disclose what it is nor the actual cost of the project. But he insisted that the company will deliver the road on schedule and in line with the set standard for its projects.

Working with a timeline “The pace of work on the road is in order.

We are working with a time line. If you say the work should be done at night to allow for free flow traffic during the day, it means our workers will be idle during the day. In any case, we are working both day and night. The problem that is being experienced is because of the peculiar nature of Lagos. Even if a short portion of the road is being done, motorists and commuters on the road must face this problem of traffic jams because of the busy nature of Lagos, particularly the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, “ he said.

“This complaint has often come up whenever construction work is ongoing along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway. But what I usually tell people is that they should understand the situation and be patient; when the job is completed, the hardship of the motorists and commuters on the road will become a thing of the past,” Iloba noted.

Failed security efforts Meanwhile, following the growing cases of robbery and violent attacks on motorists and other road users on the Mile 2 road, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Umar Manko, had earlier this month, ordered a security beef up around the area to stem the activities of the hoodlums. Vanguard gathered that the police boss gave the directive during a security briefing with some senior officers at the State Command Headquarters, Ikeja.

It was learnt hat the directive, would see an increase in the number of policemen patrolling the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway and the LagosBadagry Expressway axis of Mile 2.

Sources disclosed that the patrol would be a joint exercise involving six Police Divisions from three area commands, while two teams of policemen attached to the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, would be strategically stationed at a section of the Mile 2 Bridge and also at the descending part of the bridge to prevent any act of criminality. But with the recent robbery incident suffered by five Vanguard staff, last Thursday, with policemen turning the other way, many are begin to wonder if CP Manko's strategies are actually not failing.

Stakeholders fault food, alcohol ban at swimming pools

BY MONSURU OLOWOOPEJO

S

TAKEHOLDERS in the hospitality industry particularly hotel proprietors, are kicking against government’s move to ban the possession or consumption of alcoholic liquors, beer or wine around public swimming pools in the state. Also to be prohibited is igniting open flames.

According to reliable sources, the move is aimed at improving safety within the radius of public swimming pools and beaches.

Pool and beach accidents compelled the state government to propose the new regulations.

The commissioner for Tourism and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr. Disun Holloway last April, said about 3, 000 hotels and tourism related establishments operating in the Lagos have been identified and enumerated as part of a monitoring programme of the state government.

Mr. Michael Etuk, a hotel proprietor, said activities around the pool attract more fun seekers than any spot in the hotel, saying: “When you tell anyone you are organizing a pool side party, they want to attend. Activities around the pool rake in more money than others. I will urge the state government

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MILE 2: Robbers’ arena, powered by unending traffic jams

— 55

is prohibited for users of pools, that according to her, may affect their businesses.

Mr. Akinjide Ogunwale, a stakeholder in the hospitality industry, said the provision of section 4(2) on the issue of operators of swimming pools to obtain permit should be geared towards safety compliance certificate.

Ogunwale told the participants that in terms of ensuring standard, the international standard for the size of a swimming pool is 50/ 25metres.

He also advised that the regulation should include

,

It is not easy to know someone who had just eaten. All we could do is to monitor the beach to ensure that people do not exceed safety zones to consider the hoteliers and adjust the regulation before it is passed into law.”

Mr. Jesuton Avoseh, said: “I manage a beach along Badagry axis of this state; when one begins to conduct oral check on customers before gaining access to the beach, they will feel uncomfortable. We could lose customers. Even after gaining access, it is not easy to know someone who had just eaten. All we could do is to monitor the beach to ensure that people do not exceed safety zones.”

Secretary, Lagos State Hotel Licensing Authority, Ms. Aduke Gomez said the issue of bar and barbecue spot around swimming pool should not be barred as some pools use bar and barbecue joint to generate revenue.

Gomez cautioned that section 1(2) which stipulates erecting of barriers around swimming pools, saying that it may become a distraction and even affect the aesthetic nature of pools.

She also noted that those in hospitality business especially hotels are known to situate bars close to swimming pools, adding that if drinking alcohol or any other liquor

swimming goggles and caps to ensure safety.

The proposed regulation The regulations shall apply to every swimming pool which may be accessed by members of the public either without restriction or subject to club membership or payment of a fee in the state.

Presenting the eight-page regulation, the Director General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mrs. Odebunmi Dominga, at a one-day stakeholders meeting held at the Lagos State House of Assembly recently, said that the intention of the state government is to ensure safety.

According to section 6 (2) of the proposed regulation, “it shall be unlawful for any person to possess any alcoholic liquors, beer, ale, porter, wine or any other similar malt or fermented beverage on any public swimming pool, public swimming access, street end adjacent to the pool, or any government land immediately adjacent to the pool, except as otherwise lawfully permitted.”

Section 6(3) also said “It shall be unlawful for any person to swim after consumption of alcohol.” While section 2(4) compelled the owners of

the pool to put a sign in a conspicuous place prohibiting the usage of the facility within an hour of drinking alcohol or consuming food.

The rules also compelled owners of pools constructed below the ground to erect “a barrier which completely surrounds the swimming pool and hinders direct access” to it, and an approved pool alarm capable of detecting anyone accessing the facility must be installed.

According to the proposed regulations, every public swimming pool shall from time to time be cleaned and maintained, just as there shall be a written programme for the cleaning and maintenance of public swimming pool, which indicate the nature of frequency of cleaning and cleaning schedule.

No person shall construct or substantially alter any public swimming pool, beach, wading pool, whirlpool, spa, hot tub, or appurtenances pertaining to health and safety unless a copy of the plans and specifications for the new or altered structures has been submitted to and approved by appropriate authority in the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

When the regulations is passed, it shall also be unlawful for any person to build, start, ignite or maintain any fire or open flame or heating device heated by fire on any public beach, public beach access, street end adjacent to the beach, or any government land immediately adjacent to the beach, except as may be lawfully permitted.

It shall be unlawful for any person to sleep at a public swimming pool or public access between the hours of 9pm and 8am.

Anyone who contravenes or fails to comply with the provisions of these regulations shall be liable to a penalty of N20, 000.00 (Twenty Thousand Naira) fine.

A swimming pool operator who contravenes any aspect of the regulations will be liable to a penalty of N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira).

56—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Delegates reject self-determination, Plea bargain

He told delegates that he had a friend, who had divorced about 74 times adding that the practice among northerners, whereby some men would marry a young lady at 17 and divorce her after having eight children should be condemned.

His words: “Hausa men

•Dansadau seeks commission to check ‘reckless’ divorce

BY HENRY UMORU, JOSEPH ERUNKE & LEVINUS NWABUGHIOGU

A

DELEGATE, Pius Tabi Tawo has proposed an inclusion of a provision for self- determination in the constitution.

Tawo said such measure would not only restore total peace among the various ethno-religious groups in the country but bring about mutual respect among people.

Contributing to a debate on the report of the Committee on Law, Judiciary and Human Rights, Tawo said the absence of a provision for selfdetermination in the nation’s constitution was largely responsible for the many crises Nigeria is currently facing.

Citing Ethiopia, where he said, has self-determination

provision in its constitution, he said the development had considerably arrested problems that would have arisen due largely to lack of respect for some peoples’ tribes, religions and dignity.

Tawo insisted that if the existing constitution had captured the provision, some of the things happening in the country which had disadvantaged some ethnic groups, zones or religions would not happen.

But during voting, the conference threw it out.Equally dismissed was the concept of plea bargain in the Nigerian laws.

Also contributing to the debate, Senator Saidu Dansadau, from Zamfara State, frowned at Muslims in the Northern part of the country over what he called

•National Conference in session

non-adherence to Islamic injunction regarding Islamic marriage.

Dansadau, who represents Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF at the conference frowned at what he described as impunity by Northern Muslims regarding marriage, saying young girls were being married only to be divorced after giving birth to reasonable number of children by their husbands.

He said the rate of divorce and remarrying by Muslims

in the region was quite alarming and urged the conference to enact laws that would curb what he described as “excessive divorce” by some northerners.

Insisting that the rate at which northern Muslims divorce their wives was “irresponsible,” Senator Dansadau suggested that a commission with the name “Women and Children Islamic Rights Commission be established to protect married women in the area.

divorce with impunity; it is not a lie. I have a cousin who has married 74 times. It is only in Hausaland that you have a man marrying a girl at 17 or 18 and after eight children, divorce her. State Houses of Assembly should have commission to protect the rights of women and children. Women should take their cases to this commission for redress.

Those divorced wrongly should also take their matters there because the Islamic injunctions on divorce are not being followed by Muslim men.”

V anguard anguard,, TUESDAY, JUNE 24 , 2014 — 57

BRIEFS

Egyptian court sentences Al Jazeera journalists

Sudan releases woman on apostasy death row A

SUDANESE wom an on death row for apostasy had her sentence canceled and was ordered released by a Khartoum court yesterday, the country’s official news agency reported.

SUNA said the Court of Cassation canceled the death sentence against 27-year-old Meriam Ibrahim after defense lawyers presented their case. The court ordered her release.

Ibrahim, whose father was Muslim but who was raised by her Christian mother, was convicted of apostasy for marrying a Christian. Sudan’s penal code criminalizes the conversion of Muslims to other religions, a crime punishable by death.

Ibrahim married a Christian man from southern Sudan in a church ceremony in 2011. As in many Muslim nations, Muslim women in Sudan are prohibited from marrying non-Muslims, though Muslim men can marry outside their faith.

Ibrahim has a son, 18month-old Martin, who was living with her in jail, where she gave birth to a second child last month, local media reported. By law, children must follow their father ’s religion.

The sentence drew international condemnation, with Amnesty International calling it “ab-

horrent.” The U.S. State Department said it was “deeply disturbed” by the sentence and called on the Sudanese government to respect religious freedoms.

Sudan introduced Islamic Shariah law in the early 1980s under the rule of autocrat Jaafar Nimeiri, a move that contributed to the resumption of an insurgency in the mostly animist and Christian south of Sudan. The south seceded in 2011 to become the world’s newest nation, South Sudan.

NITED States of America Secretary of State John Kerry, yesterday promised “intense and sustained” U.S. support for Iraq, but said the divided

WO Al Jazeera English journalists have been sentenced to seven years in jail and one to 10 years by an Egyptian court on charges including aiding the Muslim Brotherhood and reporting false news The guilty verdicts were announced by a judge on Monday against Peter Greste, Mohamed Fahmy, and Baher Mohamed.

Greste and Fahmy were sentenced to seven years in prison, while Baher Mohamed was sentenced to an additional three years for possession of ammunition. Mohamed was in possession of a spent bullet casing he had found on the ground during a protest.

Other Al Jazeera journalists who were tried in absentia, including Sue Turton and Dominic Kane, were sentenced to 10 years.

Al Jazeera has strenuously rejected the charges against its journalists and maintains their innocence.

Greste, Fahmy, and Mohamed were arrested in December in Cairo as they covered the aftermath of the army’s removal of Mohamed Morsi from the presidency in July.

Afghan election chief quits amid fraud claims

Meriam Ibrahim

Ukrainian rebels agree to honour A

FGHANISTAN’S chief electoral officer has re signed in a bid to resolve a political crisis over allegations of fraud in the runoff presidential vote earlier this month.

Zia ul-Haq Amarkhail said on Monday that he denied any involvement in fraud but he is stepping down “for the national interest.”

One of the two candidates, Abdullah Abdullah, has said his campaign monitors had recorded ballot box stuffing and other irregularities.

Abdullah suspended cooperation with the vote counting process and demanded Amarkhail be suspended. The crisis has threatened what Western officials had hoped would be a peaceful transfer of authority.Hamid Karzai is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term as president.

ceasefire

I

NSURGENTS in east ern Ukraine promised yesterday to honor a cease-fire declared by the Ukrainian president and engage in more talks to help resolve the conflict that has left hundreds dead in eastern Ukraine.

The announcement came on the first day of talks between a former Ukrainian president, the Russian ambassador, European officials and the eastern separatists who have declared independence.

The negotiations were launched in line with President Petro Poroshenko’s peace plan, which started with a

Members of the “Donbass” self-defence battalion attend a ceremony to swear the oath to be officially included into the reserve battalion of the National Guard of Ukraine near Kiev yesterday weeklong unilateral cease-fire Friday to uproot the mutiny that has engulfed the nation’s industrial east.

Alexander Borodai, one of the rebel leaders

who took part in Monday’s talks in Donetsk, said they would respect the one-week cease-fire declared by Poroshenko that lasts through 0700 GMT (2 a.m. EDT) Friday.

a militant takeover of northern Iraq seized the only legal crossing point with Jordan, security sources said, leaving troops with no presence along the entire western frontier which includes some of the Middle East’s most important trade routes.

U.S. President Barack Obama has offered up to 300 American advisers to Iraq but held off granting Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki’s Shi’ite Muslim-led government’s request for air strikes to counter the two-week advance by Sunni militants.

Officials have meanwhile called for Iraqis to form an inclusive gov-

ernment. The insurgency has been fuelled largely by a sense of marginalization and persecution among Iraq’s Sunnis.

“The support will be intense and sustained and if Iraq’s leaders take the necessary steps to bring the country together, it will be effective,” Kerry told reporters in Baghdad.

He said Maliki had “on multiple occasions affirmed his commitment to July 1” as the date to start the formation of a new government bringing in more Sunnis and Kurds to share power, a move Washington is keen to see.

Kerry promises more support for Iraq U

T

country would only survive if its leaders took urgent steps to bring it together.

Hours before Kerry arrived in Baghdad, Sunni tribes who have joined

Ammar al-Hakim, head of the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq (ISCI), meets with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry in Baghdad

Final cargo of chemical arms leaves Syria

T

HE last of Syria’s declared chemical weapons have been shipped from the country and are en route for destruction at sea, according to the world’s chemical-weapons watchdog.

A Danish ship is now to take the chemicals for transhipment in Italy’s port of Gioia Tauro to the US ship Cape Ray for destruction at sea, while some chemicals are to be destroyed at sites including in the US and Britain “As we speak, the ship [carrying the last chemicals] has just left the port,” Ahmet Uzumcu, head of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), said in The Hague on Monday.

Kenya pounds Al Shaaba’s Somali base

K

ENYAN fighter jets have bombed bases of So malia’s Al-Qaeda-linked Shebab with scores of fighters killed, the African Union force fighting the extremists said yesterday.

The air strikes on the impoverished villages of Anole and Kuday in the southern Lower Juba region are part of the offensive by the 22,000-strong UN-backed AU mission in Somalia (AMISOM), who launched in March a fresh bid to wrest remaining towns from the Islamists.

“AMISOM forces have conducted airstrikes... as part of a sustained effort to destroy Al-Shebab’s military capabilities,” the force said in a statement, adding it was Kenyan air planes that carried out the bombing.The air strikes come one week after the Shebab claimed responsibility for twin massacres on Kenya’s coast in which at least 60 people were killed, although Nairobi blamed those attacks on local political networks.

Vanguard, TUESD AY, JUNE 24, 2014—59 TUESDA

Neurologist educates workers about stroke

BY DAOUD OLATUNJI

A

•Cleft lip and Palate. Before surgery (left) and after surgery (right).

Cleft lip and palate: Free surgery for 100

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

A

TOTAL of 100 persons in Lagos have been booked for free cleft lip and Palate reconstructive surgery. The exercise is being organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Health in partnership with Rotary International District 9110 and American-based NGO, Alliance for Smile.

Cleft lip and Palate congenital facial deformity leaves a gap or split in either the upper lip or roof of the mouth. The exercise will run for nine days.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris said the gap in the upper lip or the roof of the mouth occurs when separate areas of the face do not join together properly during the time a baby is developing in the womb.

"A cleft can lead to feeding, speech and hearing problems,

ear infections, dental decay, jaw development problems and psychosocial issues.

"Although the occurrence within Africa is minimal compared to Asia and other parts of the world, when they do develop they cause a significant degree of limitation in a child's development, physically and psychologically," he noted.

The free programme is aimed at improving the health status of Lagosians, by making corrective surgery for facial deformities accessible to all, especially the disadvantaged.

Most cleft problems can either be picked up at the routine 20 week scan or soon after birth.

Idris said the cost can be burdensome fas it involves not only surgical correction but rehabilitative therapy as well.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health has held free surgeries for the repair of the defect since

2006. Over 500 children and young adults have had their deformity corrected.

"The Lagos State Ministry of Health is partnering Rotary International (District 9110), and the American-based NGO, Alliance for Smile in offering FREE surgical repair of these clefts for its citizens.

The programme commenced last week with a free screening of all patients that came forward in the preceding weeks to register for the programme, and thereafter a follow up screening was done on Monday, June 16", Idris stated.

Age of eligibility for the surgical intervention is between three months and 15 years.

Surgeries to correct the defects commenced Tuesday, June 17 and is expected to continue till June 25, 2014 at the Critical Care Unit, CCU, of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, Ikeja.

CONSULTANT Neurologist at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, OOUTH, Prof. Yomi Ogun, has called for increased focus on prevention of stroke.

Ogun, who made this known in Abeokuta during a workshop training programme for health workers in Ogun State said stroke arises from ageing, hypertension, obesity, etc.,said the secondary way of preventing stroke is through blood pressure control, diabetes management, and engaging in physical activity.

On the occasion, Neurologist Consultant of Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Dr. Rufus Akinyemi, described stroke as the

leading non-communicable cause of mortality in Nigeria.

He also refers stroke to as "Brain Attack" or "Cerebrovascular Accident" and brain injury that develops suddenly as a result of blockage or rupture of blood vessels which supply the brain.

Presenting the topic: “Is this stroke or not?, Neurologist and Consultant LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, stated: “Transient Ischaemic Attack, TIAs, are mini strokes, but the blockage of the artery clears itself very quickly and the symptoms only last a few minutes or hours.

"TIAs are important because they warn of future strokes and treatment can reduce the risk of having a stroke".

NAFDAC engages analysts Continues from Page 58 products into Nigeria. Orhii warned that with the new development, all regulated products must possess Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis from the analysts before release from the Ports.

"I want to request that just like you have cooperated in the area of imported drugs, you extend your cooperation and compliance with this new development in the area of these regulated products so that only good quality and safe products are imported into the country.

"Please make adequate use of this opportunity to understand the

procedure required in obtaining the Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis, CRIA, so that all your consignments from China can meet this condition," he added.

Earlier, Director Port Inspectorate Directorate, PID, Mrs. Maureen Ebigbeyi explained that the mission was to safeguard public health by ensuring that only the right quality and safe drugs, food, chemicals, raw materials, medical devices and other regulated products are imported and exported' as well as ensure 'effective and efficient control of channels through which regulated products are imported and exported'.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

I

USED To be a top homosexual in demand and I have slept with a lot of big shots in this country and even travelled with some of them. But now that I have repented, I want to share my story in the newspapers. I can even give names of my bed mates who mostly are celebrities – Hard Boy It is good to know that you are no longer prostituting but why are you so desperate to reveal the names of your lovers?

This column is designed to help people and families with sexual and relationship difficulties. It seems to me that you are more interested in gossip and destroying people’s lives and that is not what we do here – Uche I got married as a 19 year old teenager and I have been married for 12 years now. But my marital experience of sex has been horrible until recently. I never enjoyed sex and I was a very angry woman until I read about some of your products. I decided to try a Vibrator and 69 Orgasm Gel and for the first time in my life, I enjoy sex and I have an orgasm up to five times a week. You really helped me and I am grateful – Hauwa You are welcome – Uche I have started using my Rhino 5 supplement for hard erections and performance and it is very very good but I also want a penis enlarger - John Rhino 5 is a very good erection supplement that also enlarges the penis. But of course you have to use it constantly over time to see the enlargement results.

But if you want faster enlargement, you can use a penis enlargement pump with your Rhino 5. Get the Machismo Pump and use it several times a week as directed. The results will show faster with it – Uche I am 55 years old and I used to lose my erection sometimes during sex. You advised me to use a Cockring to stop the erection loss and it helped. And then I started taking Rhino 5 to improve my performance and that was when I noticed that I no longer lose my erection.

So do I still need the Cockring? Babajide Babajide if you are using Rhino 5 supplement, then

you don’t need anything else. Rhino 5 is so powerful that it fixes all performance related problems such as lack of stamina, weak erection and premature ejaculation. Cockrings are a cheaper alternative to fixing erection loss especially for men who cannot take drugs – Uche My problem is weakness during sex. Once I come the first time, I just want to sleep but my wife wants to keep having sex. I need to be able to keep up with her – Benjamin For stamina during intercourse, the Wonderland Performance Drink can help you with the energy you need. So you can try that – Uche Hello Mr Edochie, my friends and I are big fans of your column and we never miss it. But I am not happy with you. You focus mainly on the men and it is always about erection this and erection that. What about the women?

We need help to perform too – Ronke Sorry o madame Ronke. Most of the questions we get are from male readers but when women write, we attend to them as well. So tell your female friends to send us questions too. We reply to everything. If you are interested in a female performance enhancer, get the Pink Elevate Female Libido booster. It is a powerful libido booster that helps women with arousal, lubrication and performance energy. Orgasm gels are also good for arousal but for sexual performance, oral supplements are best – Uche I just wanted to say thank you. Rhino 5 is the best. My erections are now strong - Mazi You are welcome. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of these treatments can call us on 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

Vanguard, TUESD AY, JUNE 24, 2014—59 TUESDA

Neurologist educates workers about stroke

BY DAOUD OLATUNJI

A

•Cleft lip and Palate. Before surgery (left) and after surgery (right).

Cleft lip and palate: Free surgery for 100

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

A

TOTAL of 100 persons in Lagos have been booked for free cleft lip and Palate reconstructive surgery. The exercise is being organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Health in partnership with Rotary International District 9110 and American-based NGO, Alliance for Smile.

Cleft lip and Palate congenital facial deformity leaves a gap or split in either the upper lip or roof of the mouth. The exercise will run for nine days.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris said the gap in the upper lip or the roof of the mouth occurs when separate areas of the face do not join together properly during the time a baby is developing in the womb.

"A cleft can lead to feeding, speech and hearing problems,

ear infections, dental decay, jaw development problems and psychosocial issues.

"Although the occurrence within Africa is minimal compared to Asia and other parts of the world, when they do develop they cause a significant degree of limitation in a child's development, physically and psychologically," he noted.

The free programme is aimed at improving the health status of Lagosians, by making corrective surgery for facial deformities accessible to all, especially the disadvantaged.

Most cleft problems can either be picked up at the routine 20 week scan or soon after birth.

Idris said the cost can be burdensome fas it involves not only surgical correction but rehabilitative therapy as well.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health has held free surgeries for the repair of the defect since

2006. Over 500 children and young adults have had their deformity corrected.

"The Lagos State Ministry of Health is partnering Rotary International (District 9110), and the American-based NGO, Alliance for Smile in offering FREE surgical repair of these clefts for its citizens.

The programme commenced last week with a free screening of all patients that came forward in the preceding weeks to register for the programme, and thereafter a follow up screening was done on Monday, June 16", Idris stated.

Age of eligibility for the surgical intervention is between three months and 15 years.

Surgeries to correct the defects commenced Tuesday, June 17 and is expected to continue till June 25, 2014 at the Critical Care Unit, CCU, of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, Ikeja.

CONSULTANT Neurologist at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, OOUTH, Prof. Yomi Ogun, has called for increased focus on prevention of stroke.

Ogun, who made this known in Abeokuta during a workshop training programme for health workers in Ogun State said stroke arises from ageing, hypertension, obesity, etc.,said the secondary way of preventing stroke is through blood pressure control, diabetes management, and engaging in physical activity.

On the occasion, Neurologist Consultant of Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Dr. Rufus Akinyemi, described stroke as the

leading non-communicable cause of mortality in Nigeria.

He also refers stroke to as "Brain Attack" or "Cerebrovascular Accident" and brain injury that develops suddenly as a result of blockage or rupture of blood vessels which supply the brain.

Presenting the topic: “Is this stroke or not?, Neurologist and Consultant LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, stated: “Transient Ischaemic Attack, TIAs, are mini strokes, but the blockage of the artery clears itself very quickly and the symptoms only last a few minutes or hours.

"TIAs are important because they warn of future strokes and treatment can reduce the risk of having a stroke".

NAFDAC engages analysts Continues from Page 58 products into Nigeria. Orhii warned that with the new development, all regulated products must possess Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis from the analysts before release from the Ports.

"I want to request that just like you have cooperated in the area of imported drugs, you extend your cooperation and compliance with this new development in the area of these regulated products so that only good quality and safe products are imported into the country.

"Please make adequate use of this opportunity to understand the

procedure required in obtaining the Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis, CRIA, so that all your consignments from China can meet this condition," he added.

Earlier, Director Port Inspectorate Directorate, PID, Mrs. Maureen Ebigbeyi explained that the mission was to safeguard public health by ensuring that only the right quality and safe drugs, food, chemicals, raw materials, medical devices and other regulated products are imported and exported' as well as ensure 'effective and efficient control of channels through which regulated products are imported and exported'.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

I

USED To be a top homosexual in demand and I have slept with a lot of big shots in this country and even travelled with some of them. But now that I have repented, I want to share my story in the newspapers. I can even give names of my bed mates who mostly are celebrities – Hard Boy It is good to know that you are no longer prostituting but why are you so desperate to reveal the names of your lovers?

This column is designed to help people and families with sexual and relationship difficulties. It seems to me that you are more interested in gossip and destroying people’s lives and that is not what we do here – Uche I got married as a 19 year old teenager and I have been married for 12 years now. But my marital experience of sex has been horrible until recently. I never enjoyed sex and I was a very angry woman until I read about some of your products. I decided to try a Vibrator and 69 Orgasm Gel and for the first time in my life, I enjoy sex and I have an orgasm up to five times a week. You really helped me and I am grateful – Hauwa You are welcome – Uche I have started using my Rhino 5 supplement for hard erections and performance and it is very very good but I also want a penis enlarger - John Rhino 5 is a very good erection supplement that also enlarges the penis. But of course you have to use it constantly over time to see the enlargement results.

But if you want faster enlargement, you can use a penis enlargement pump with your Rhino 5. Get the Machismo Pump and use it several times a week as directed. The results will show faster with it – Uche I am 55 years old and I used to lose my erection sometimes during sex. You advised me to use a Cockring to stop the erection loss and it helped. And then I started taking Rhino 5 to improve my performance and that was when I noticed that I no longer lose my erection.

So do I still need the Cockring? Babajide Babajide if you are using Rhino 5 supplement, then

you don’t need anything else. Rhino 5 is so powerful that it fixes all performance related problems such as lack of stamina, weak erection and premature ejaculation. Cockrings are a cheaper alternative to fixing erection loss especially for men who cannot take drugs – Uche My problem is weakness during sex. Once I come the first time, I just want to sleep but my wife wants to keep having sex. I need to be able to keep up with her – Benjamin For stamina during intercourse, the Wonderland Performance Drink can help you with the energy you need. So you can try that – Uche Hello Mr Edochie, my friends and I are big fans of your column and we never miss it. But I am not happy with you. You focus mainly on the men and it is always about erection this and erection that. What about the women?

We need help to perform too – Ronke Sorry o madame Ronke. Most of the questions we get are from male readers but when women write, we attend to them as well. So tell your female friends to send us questions too. We reply to everything. If you are interested in a female performance enhancer, get the Pink Elevate Female Libido booster. It is a powerful libido booster that helps women with arousal, lubrication and performance energy. Orgasm gels are also good for arousal but for sexual performance, oral supplements are best – Uche I just wanted to say thank you. Rhino 5 is the best. My erections are now strong - Mazi You are welcome. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of these treatments can call us on 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. We deliver to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries email us at custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

60 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard , TUESDAY,JUNE 24, 2014 — 61

Soldiers harass Tambuwal in Kaduna

BY EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

A

BUJA—SPEAKER of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, yesterday had a raw deal in the hands of men of Nigeria Army as he was subjected to an unnecessary search by armed men who insisted his convoy must be ransacked in Kaduna.

Tambuwal treks

agents to show respect for the office of the Number 4 citizen of the country, “ he said.

Another senior aide of the speaker who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident, saying “there was a conference on security, orgsanised by the Office of the National Security Adviser in Kaduna where the speaker was to deliver a speech.

“In the process of getting to the venue, everybody was subjected to security screening, including the speaker ’s convoy. So there was delay in the process and the speaker had to walk to the venue due to time constraint.”

He, however, added that the speaker had since left Kaduna for Ibadan where he was to condole with the family of the late Alhaji Abdulazeez Arisekola

Alao who passed on last week.

Speaker's car not searched

The soldiers eventually did not search the speaker’s car after he walked into the venue.

Vanguard recalls that the governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, suffered a similar fate when he and other dignitaries were locked up in a room at Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano.

Tambuwal apparently angered by the conduct of the soldiers came out of the car and trekked the short distance into the venue.

The incident, according to sources, occurred more than 200 meters away from Hotel 17, venue of an international conference on security and development schallenges of Pastoralism in West and Central Africa, organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The speaker, who arrived the venue of the gathering at exactly 9.16 am for the 10.00 am opening ceremony, had his convoy stopped by soldiers who insisted they must search his official car before he could be allowed into the venue.

'Orders from above'

Vanguard gathered that despite much plea by security details attached to the speaker, the soldiers refused to yield, claiming they had “orders from above” to search the speaker.

Incidentally, other VIPs, especially governors, who attended the conference, were allowed access into the hotel without hindrance.

The speaker is the number four citizen in Nigeria’s official hierarchy after the President, Vice-President and Senate President.

When contacted for his reaction, Tambuwal’s spokesman, Malam Imam Imam, decried the conduct of the soldiers, saying their attitude undermined the institution of the legislature.

“It is not about the person of the speaker, but the office he is occupying. What we expect is for the security

APC CONVENTION: From left: Alhaji Kawu Baraje, All Progressives Congress, APC, Leaders, Asiwaju BolaTinubu and General Muhammadu Buhari, Sokoto State Governor and Chairman of Convention Committee, Aliyu Wamakko, new APC National Chairman, Chief Odigie Oyegun, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Chief Ogbonnaya Onu and Chief Tony Momoh after the election of the new APC Chairman in Abuja. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

Police quiz Melaye over Chibok girls' protest

A

BY JOSEPH ERUNKE

BUJA—FOR engaging in a street protest over the abduction of over 200 female students of Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok, by members of Boko Haram, the police in Abuja have quizzed a social crusader, Otunba Dino Melaye.

Melaye, who is the Executive Secretary of Anti-Corruption Network and former member of the House of

Free medical treatment for Imo indigenes

O

WERRI—A U.Sbased non governmental organisation Available for Health International Initiative, AFHII, with its headquarters in Abuja, will be organising a free medical treatment in Umuokpo Autonomous Community in Owerri West and Isiokwu Ihioma community in Orlu Local government areas of the state on Thursday, June 26, and Friday, June 27.

A release by the National

Coordinator, Mr. Ikechukwu Nnadozie, said the NGO, led by its founder,Mrs Christine Oby Egbo–Adinuba, sought to improve the health of women and children widows, orphans and the less privileged who couldn't meet their health needs.

The statement said a team of doctors, pharmacists, nurses, laboratory scientists and technicians will be conducting free body check up, laboratory tests, free medications and counseling for the indigenes of the two communities.

Representatives, was interrogated yesterday by the law enforcement agency.

The protest, tagged “#Bring Back Our Girls,” is aimed at compelling the Federal Government to expedite action toward the release of the students by their abductors.

Melaye was earlier invited through a letter from the Office of the InspectorGeneral of Police,IGP, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, with Ref. No. CR/3000/FIB/FHQ/ ABJ/VOL.T/137 and dated June 20, 2014, directing him to appear “to discuss crucial issues of security concern.”

The letter, signed by one Steve Okoshone, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP, for Assistant InspectorGeneral of Police, Force Intelligence Bureau,FIB, read: “The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Force Intelligence Bureau, FIB, Force CID Complex, behind Federal Fire Service, Area 10, Garki, Abuja, invites you to a meeting with him on Monday 23 June, 2014 at 1200 hrs prompt to discuss crucial

issues of security concern. Your response will be highly appreciated.”

Commenting on the development, Melaye said the struggle to liberate the masses from the clutches of political vampires was a battle of no retreat, no surrender.

“We must do everything to rescue this country from the hands of these economic canker worm.

“There is intimidation, incessant arrests, threats and assassination attempts on my life.

“But for me, I am resolute because the battle to deliver this country from economic canker worms, financial vultures and inept leadership, as I have repeatedly said, is a battle of no retreat, no surrender.

“In an unjust society, silence is a crime; this is the time in the history of Nigeria where silence is no longer golden.

People must come out and speak because the day you stop eating is the day you start dying. Where dictatorship becomes legalised, revolution becomes a right,”he said.

German Parliament assures Nigeria on kidnapped school girls

BY VICTORIA OJEME

A

BUJA—AS the search for the missing Chibok girls continues, German Parliament yesterday said its government was in support of all efforts toward rescuing them.

The delegation of the lawmakesrs, led by the Vice President, Johannes Singhammer, urged Nigerians to continue the fight until the girls were found.

The three legislators, who held a meeting with the Bring Back Our Girls Campaigners at the famous Unity Fountain, Abuja, also included Petra Ernstberger and Michael Henrich.

They said they came to Nigeria in solidarity with the mothers, fathers, the girls and millions of Nigerians who have suffered from the Boko Haram menace.

He said: “We are with you in solidarity. You are not only here fighting to get your children back; bring back our girls, but you are giving at the same time the face and the voice for all children in the world; all children who have been maltreated, abused, abducted, injured or even killed. You are representing all of them here."

Abuja Hospital builds helipad for emergency response

BY VICTORIA OJEME

A

BUJA—THE National Hospital, Abuja, has built an helipad for emergency response and evacuation of patients.

Chairman of the Board of the hospital, Dr Tony Okam, disclosed this at the MDC/ NNPC First Joint Scientific Conference in Abuja yesterday.

Okam who was represented by the acting Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Dr Jaf Momoh, explained that the helipad would be useful to all within the federal capital.

He said: “We have a helipad in this building, we are already working with ministry of aviation so that the use of that helipad will be useful but we are yet to get the license."

62 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Keshi: I never think about losing N

IGERIA coach Stephen Keshi has revealed that he is targeting victory in the Super Eagles final Group F clash with Argentina tomorrow.

Even a loss against the South American opponents would be adequate for the African champions to progress to the next round provided that Iran do not get a victory against already eliminated Bosnia and Herzegovina. ‘’We can win, of course.

Let’s get the win even try to be the group leader. We defeated Bosnia, we played a good game, we can get another win. ‘’I never think about losing. We know we can qualify even in defeat, but I do not think about it. ‘’If I lose, I’ll have to pray for Bosnia to get points from Iran and I do not have to do that.

I have to prepare my team to win,’’ Keshi said.

The Nigeria squad arrived Porto Alegre, venue of the meeting with the Albicelestes, on

NTA Spor ts secures freeto-air screening rights

N

TA Sports 24, the sports channel of the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) has secured the B r o a d c a s t i n g Organization of Nigeria’s (BON) right for Free to Air screening of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

According to a statement by StarTimes, Nigerians, during this football season, can get to watch the matches with the best picture and sound quality available on NTA Sports 24 and other NTA Multi Channels available on the StarTimes platform.

The company said the Free to Air channel is showing on NTA–Star TV Network, channel (628).

C M Y K

Monday afternoon and will have a short rest before leaving for the Arena do Grêmio for a workout.

The Super Eagles have never beaten Argentina in three previous meetings at the World Cup.

•Keshi

Holland players celebrate one of their two goals against Chile yesterday.

They won 2-0. Photo: AFP

Netherlands secure top spot S

Oboabona back in training

Ramos (l) jumps for a header with Taggart of Australia. Spain won 3-0. Photo: AFP

UBSTITUTES Leroy Fer and Memphis Depay scored to ensure the Netherlands finished top of Group B with a 2-0 win over Chile in Sao Paulo yesterday.

That result is expected to see the Dutch avoid Brazil, whose Group A campaign ends later on Monday against Cameroon in Brasilia.

Both the Netherlands and Chile had already secured their second round qualification after posting wins over Australia and reigning champions Spain.

Eagles win, a good omen — TAN

A

FTER Super Eagles encouraging display against Bosnia, which ended 1-0 in favour of the Nigerians at the ongoing Brazil 2014 FIFA

•Oboabona

I

T was a smooth one hour, thirty minutes flight for the Super Eagles and its officials from Campinas to Porto Alegre, as the team gears up for tomorrow ’s group decider against Argentina.

The good news for the team is that defence trojan, Godfrey Oboabona, was back in training yesterday afternoon.

“I am ready to resume training today and the medics have given me a clean bill,” Oboabona said smiling as the team alighted from the TAM flight that brought them from Campinas.

World Cup, Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) has said the victory is good omen for country.

Former International, Waidi Akanni, who led the

Bebeto trains Nigerians in COPA Teens Camp

Copa Coca-Cola players display their certificates

A

S the Super Eagles gear up for tomorrow’s final group F match against Argentina at the World Cup, a group of Nigerian youngsters have just returned from Brazil

where they were trained by former World Cup winner Bebeto at the Copa Coca Cola Teens Camp The players, Jeremiah Danladi, Zedi Gerrrisyn Omokhodion and Mira-

cle Okocha, went to the clinic to develop their skills under the tutelage of experienced coaches in a bid to become the next generation of stars.

The Nigerian contingent joined their peers from 27 other countries in training with Bebeto, a FIFA World Cup winner, famous for the baby cradle celebration at USA 94’ and Martha, the most talented female footballer of all time mentoring.

Recounting their experiences, the trio said they had once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Brazil, learning from world class

TAN’S team to Brazil with former Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia stated that the teams have shown that they have what it takes to do the country proud in Brazil. players and coaches and interacting with their peers from other countries of the world. Miracle Okocha said he excelled in the ‘Play like a Brazilian’ sessions. “I played, dribbled and moved to the samba rhythm with a natural flair,” he said.

The highpoint of the Brazil trip was the teen stars’ attendance of the opening ceremonies of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Festus Akunbundu, Media Manager, Coca-Cola Nigeria said that the Nigerian Teen stars made the country proud in the Teens Camp in COPA Cabana.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014 — 63

NFF charges Eagles to beat Argentina, top Group F A

FTER recovering from that uninspiring start against Iran to record the crucial win over Bosnia, the Nigeria Football Federation have charged the Eagles to go all out and beat Argentina in tomorrow’s last group match in Port Alegre.

A draw with the South American team safely guarantees Eagles passage to the next round as runners-up but a win would see the Eagles on top as leaders. ‘’I know that many people will think it is an impossible task. For us, it is possible. The Argentines have been unconvincing in their last two games except for the brilliance of Messi.

We’re totally convinced that the Eagles can beat Argentina from what we

saw them play against Bosnia.

We’re solidly behind them and have made sure that they lack nothing in the World Cup. All monies agreed with them are intact to the last game. There is no division in the team.

Osaze sparkles, crackles ribs in Obahiagbon style

S

•Peter

Keshi Continues from BP “Always be patient.

Don’t write off any team in a tournament until that tournament is over.”

Keshi was referring to the super performance of the team on Saturday night here.

He did not sound boastful but he was extremely excited that the boys lifted their game and earned a deserved victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The 1-0 victory has placed Nigeria’s one leg in the second round.

“It was tough against Iran but Nigerians didn’t know how difficult they were until they saw Argentina struggling with them. We knew what we did wrongly and worked on them before the match against Bosnia,” Keshi continued in an exclusive chat Saturday.

“I’m proud of the boys.

They did well. But we all need to do more. We play Argentina tomorrow and we will give it our all. Argentina are world class. They are good and they have many good players. We will rely on our team work. Team work will see us through.”

The Super Eagles C M Y K

We’ve a harmonious relationship with them and they are happy about that. The team is united and the spirit is high. The boys also know what it means to play in the World Cup and what it does to them professionally.

coach knows that individual game would not lead Nigeria anywhere going by the stars in most of the teams here.

Many Nigerian players were not making the first team of their clubs before the World Cup. And to put them to shape, he needed time. But the camping period was less than two weeks and that worked against his plans.

“The time for preparation was short.

We couldn’t do all the things we wanted to do.

But we are gradually getting it right and, hopefully, we will get better in our team work and get positive results”.

The emphasis on team work probably led to the benching of Victor Moses whose individual play had become a minus to the team.

Moses would likely learn from the performance against Bosnia and change his game. Keshi is not ruling any player out but strongly maintains that team tactics should prevail.

Osaze Odewengie played well in the eyes of many against Iran. Keshi did not dispute that. But he

UPER Eagles rave of the moment, Osaze Odemwingie has returned to his tweeting best. This time, he is causing laughter and bringing joy to many instead of his initial arrows that were fired and caught him in the web of missing the World Cup. In tweeting yesterday, Osaze went the way of his Edo-born brother and politician Festus Obahiagbon.

Commenting on events at the on-going World Cup where his goal against Bosnia has brightened the way for Eagles progression in the tournament, Osaze wrote; ‘’ “The draw against Iran was the foreset origo that caused some crinkum crankum to be directed at us that was caught in the did not quite position himself in a particular way that could see him latch on rebounds, especially the drop nodding from Shola Ameobi. Each time the ball dropped, there was nobody to follow up. And that angered Keshi. But Osaze quickly understood and made up against Bosnia and Keshi is very happy with him and the entire team.

Osaze’s goal earned Nigeria the sweet victory against Bosnia.

“Everything is about team work. I think that we will play well against Argentina. We hope to qualify and move on. I plead with Nigerians to always be patient. The way they wrote us off after the match against Iran was disturbing. Let’s hope we get it right again on Wednesday.

Ogenyi Onazi wins the ball against Bosnia midfielder Misimovic. Nigeria beat Bosnia 1-0.

Bermuda Triangle.”

Another one reads: “The state of OGaM ogam was rejected by the eagles with a higi haga style to avoid a calamitous end that brings odoriferous Saga.”

On the Eagles’ journey to Porto Alegre, he wrote: “We are about

to fly to Porto Alegre to prepare 4 the game vs Argentina. Hope the flight time will not be longer than a period of Ayonai .”

Many foreign Journalists were left wondering on which planet he was writing from. Only few of us from Nigeria know where he

N10m per goal Continues from BP encourage the team to dig into their arsenal and score more goals, there are Nigerians here who are flashing credit cards and have promised to open their vaults to reward the Eagles.

Board member and chairman of Media Committee of NFF, Emeka Inyamah confirmed yesterday that a Nigerian has promised to pay N10 million for each goal. Inyamah said that the promise has

nothing to do with the S10,000 dollars winning bonus for each player.

“All financial agreements with the team have been met by the NFF. Their other monies are ready. We are fully prepared to back them to go all the way”, he said.

Inyamah informed that the spirit in camp was high as there were no distractions. “We’re confident that the Eagles will beat Argentina”, Inyamah wished

was coming Laughter!

from.

President Jonathan Continues from BP ident Jonathan who has been a major supporter of the Eagles savoured their victory over Bosnia and would expect them to triumph over the South Americans to ensure progression to the round of 16.

Chief Emeka Inyamah said yesterday in Sao Paulo that the President would speak with all the players to wish them well before they confront Argentina in Port Alegre. ‘’Everything is going well to ensure that the Eagles lack nothing. The President will speak to them and the President of the NFF is also marking his birthday on Wednesday. He too wants the Eagles to do well for a good birthday present”, Inyamah said.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2014

Today's Matches

How we 'll beat Argentina — Keshi

Italy Costa Rica Japan Greece Netherlands Australia Cameroon Croatia

vs vs vs vs 1 0 1 1

Uruguay England Colombia Ivory Coast Results Chile Spain Brazil Mexico

HE Super Eagles have been promised a massive N10 million handsome reward for any goal scored against Argentina in their last Group F qualifying match tomorrow. The Eagles with four points

S

TEPHEN Keshi has one thing to tell Nigerians: Continues on Page 63

0 3 4 3

Nigerian offers N10m per goal for Eagles to beat Argentina

T

BY ONOCHIE ANIBEZE, in Brazil

5 p.m.

5 p.m.

9 p.m.

9 p.m.

look good to move into the second round if they hold the Argentines to a draw. But, if the Stephen Keshi-led team beat Argentina, they would top their group with Argentina finishing second. And to

Continues on Page 63

President Jonathan to speak to Eagles

A

•Messi

•Osaze

More stories on Pages 31, 32, 33 & 34 34

•Keshi

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 2 Stem (5) 7 Hurry (5) 8 Fresher (5) 10 Chosen (5) 12 Obese (3) 13 Repulse (5) 15 Ascertained (7) 17 Worn (6) 19 Obtain (3) 20 Turned (7) 23 Cunning (4) 25 Fall (4) 26 Telephone (7) 30 Observe (3) 31 Harm (6) 34 Sweet (7) 37 Animal (5) 38 Also (3) 39 Cede (5) 40 Tally (5) 41 Premature (5) 42 Gemstone (5)

S part of the en couragement for the Super Eagles to beat Argentina, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan would speak to each of the players before their epic battle against Argentina. Pres Continues on Page 63

•Pesident Jonathan

QUICK CROSSWORD

DOWN 1 Irrigate (5) 2 War-horse (5) 3 Cashier (6) 4 Tardy (4) 5 Denied (7) 6 Entertained (5) 9 Fighting (3) 11 Betrothed (7) 13 Reimburse (5) 14 Vestibule (5) 16 Fixed (3) 18 Tottering (7) 21 Vision (5) 22 Shoe part (5) 24 Kneeler (7) 27 Born (3) 28 Higher (6) 29 Leaf (5) 32 Decoration (5) 33 Drain (5) 35 Drunkard (3) 36 Weary (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 2, Hitch 7, Fire 8, Enfold 9, Motor 11, Mar 13, Car 15, Anew 16, Tea 18, Erne 19, Console 20, Rued 22, Fate 23, Deleted 25, Even 27, Ran 28, Here 30, Did 31, Dud 33, Skill 36, Salami 37, Oral 38, Pleat.

DOWN: 1, Titan 2, Hem 3, Tot 4, Her 5, Off 6, Clean 10, Oven 11, Married 12, Receded 13, Created 14, Renewed 16, Tower 17, Ashen 18, Elf 21, Den 24, Task 26, Vital 29, Rural 32, Mad 33, Sip 34, Ire 35, Let.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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