Buhari escapes death in Kaduna bomb blast

...towards a better life for the people

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VOL. 25: NO. 62194

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Buhari escapes death in Kaduna bomb blast •82 killed, scores injured; Property destroyed •Gov Yero imposes 24-hour curfew on Kaduna town K

By Luka Binniyat

•Thank God that Buhari, Sheikh Bauchi survived blasts —Jonathan

ADUNA – AT least 82 persons were killed yesterday, and several others injured in two bomb blasts in Kaduna, targeted at former head of state, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) and an Islamic cleric, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi.

Both men, however, escaped unhurt.

In a statement he issued immediately after the incident, General Buhari declared that it was an assassination attempt and narrated how the suicide bomber tried to carry out the deadly assignment.

Kaduna State Governor, Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan

Continues on page 5

•TOP: General Buhari's escort vehicle and his personal SUV after the attck, yesterday. BELOW: Scene of the bomb blast along Alkai Road, by Isa Kaita Road,Kaduna, yesterday. Photos:Olu Ajayi.

PDP wades into Enugu impeachment saga ....Two speakers

FOOTPRINTS OF A STATESMAN: The lawmaker and His Search for Justice Pages 52&53

emerge in Ebonyi Assembly 54

COLUMNISTS:

Registration and deportation of Profiling will Nigerians in Nigeria break up Nigeria •P.17

C M Y K

•P.19

Between Lamentations and Songs Of Solomon

•P.19

Insurgents kill 5 in Damboa, blow up Nigeria-Cameroon link bridge

8

NPA faults Fashola on Oshodi/ Apapa Road 10

Mr & Mrs

2 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 3

C M Y K

4 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

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Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—5

POCKET CARTOON

INEC- MEDIA DIALOGUE— From left: Vice President, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Suleiman Uba Gaya; National Commissioner of INEC, Dr. Chris Igimoga and Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega during a dialogue with media professionals on the review of Ekiti State governorship election and projection for future elections at Ibeto Hotel, Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

Buhari escapes death in Kaduna bomb blast Continues from page 1 Yero, in response imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna town after the blasts.

In his reaction, President Goodluck Jonathan thanked God for sparing the lives of General Buhari and Sheikh Bauchi, and extended condolences to families of the dead, while commiserating with the injured.

The first bomb attack took place on Isa Kaita Road, off Ali Akilu road around 12:30pm, yesterday, when the convoy of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was returning home after he gave a Ramadan Tafsir sermon to thousands of Muslims of the Tijaniyya sect. The Police said 25 people were killed, but those who spoke to news-

men at the scene said about 40 died in the blasts.

Bauchi had escaped a bomb attack about three weeks ago near his home in Eskolia quarters of Kaduna.

The second blast took place around 2:30pm, about two kilometres away from the scene of the first blast at the busy overhead bridge at Kawo part of Kaduna town as Buhari was making his way out of town, leaving not less than 50 people dead.

Speaking to newsmen at the scene of the first attack, Kaduna State Police Commissioner, Umar Shehu said: “All I can say is that the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, and Road Safety Corps have told me that they recovered 25 corpses from this

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

Someone needs what you have; it is absolutely necessary to their success. Most great salespeople know that 14 out of 15 people will say no. So they hurry and make their presentations to as many as possible, in order to reach that one who will say yes.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there — Rumi

W

E all have experienced things that happened to us that didn’t make us feel good about ourselves. But the difference between people who are happy and healthy and those who are miserable and bitter is that happy people don’t internalize or create a meaning about themselves based on a particular rejection. It’s best to look at rejection as an opportunity for something else, something better, waiting just around the corner.

Resist the temptation to blame or hate the person who rejected you, even if he or she wasn’t nice about it. Find a way to wish that person well instead. You may not realize it in the moment, but that person is actually an angel in disguise, leading you in the right direction by putting an end to the path you were on. See it as a divine redirection instead. To learn more about improving your self-esteem and stepping into your full potentials.

place. But you can see that we still have some human remains here. I cannot tell you the number of those injured at this point. That is all I can say”.

But that differed from what some eyewitnesses said. One Isa Saidu, 23, gave his account thus: “I was at the Murtala Mohammed Square where Sheikh Dahiru preached to us. I was also in the convoy conveying him back home. It was a long convoy. Suddenly, I saw a man on a motorcycle carrying a sack or bag. He was driving very recklessly and defied the instructions of our security guard, who attempted to make him slow down. He then tried to come close to the car conveying the Sheikh but the security did not allow him.

"As he persisted, they pushed him off the road and he fell into a ditch, while the bomb device he was carrying exploded. I don’t want to say what happened. Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s body was covered with blood, but it was the blood of those who were protecting him. I can swear by Allah that I personally counted 41 bodies. It is the most terrible thing of my life,” he said.

Others who spoke gave similar accounts. As news of the first attack spread through the state, another explosion took place two hours later.

According to eye witnesses, a man in a Sienna car had trailed the convoy of General Buhari from where it took off. An aide to Buhari, who asked not to be mentioned, told reporters that “the car overtook other cars and came very close to the SUV in which the general was. His security details tried to get in-between, then the Sienna car exploded.

“The security men's car was destroyed, and the three men were severely injured. The general's car

was damaged badly, but because it was bulletproof, he came out unhurt, and was transferred to another car and taken away,” he said.

The explosion led to the killing of not less than 50 persons, according to those who came to the scene shortly after it happened.

About 22 cars were burnt and several people injured, Vanguard was told.

“There was no way more than 50 people could not have been killed”, a reporter with a local radio station whose office was near the scene told some reporters.

“By the time we reached the place, there was so much blood and many corpses all over the place.

I am too shaken to speak on this matter,” he said.

But CP Umar Shehu said after visiting the scene that, “I am told that 14 people were killed and four were injured. I am told that a VIP car was affected, but I am yet to confirm to you. I shall update you in time”.

I escaped assassination — Buhari

General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), in his account of what happened through a statement six hours after the attack said: “I was personally involved in a clearly targeted bomb attack today (yesterday) at about 2:30pm on my way to Daura.

“The unfortunate event, clearly an assassination attempt, came from a fastmoving vehicle that made many attempts to overtake my security car, but was blocked by escort vehicle.

We reached the market area of Kawo where he took advantage of our slowing down and attempted to ram my car and instantly detonated the bomb which destroyed all the three cars in our convoy.

“Unfortunately, when I came out of my vehicle, I saw many dead bodies littered around. They were innocent people going about their daily business, who became victims of mass murder. Thank God for His mercy, I came out unhurt, but with three of my security staff sustaining minor injuries. They have since been treated in hospital and discharged”.

In its reaction, the Jamaa'tul Nasril Islam, JNI, said: “We are dazed over the news of the twin blasts in Kaduna city, which claimed the lives of many innocent Muslims in a Tafsir closing session of Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, held at Murtala Muhammad Square, Kaduna and within a short while, another blast was said to have rocked Kawo in Kaduna.

“We therefore, condemn in the strongest terms these repeated acts of terror being unleashed on Muslims in this blessed month of Ramadan. JNI

equally sympathizes with all the affected victims and also condoles with the families of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident. May Aljannatul Firdaus be the abode of all the deceased, Amin.

“As usual, JNI calls on all authorities concerned to be more committed to their responsibilities of protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians as no development can be achieved in a situation of fear, insecurity and chaos.

All hands must be on deck to stop these unending massacre of lives and destruction of properties, as Nigeria is becoming a theatre of blood for no just cause, which must be stopped.

“Muslims should utilise the remaining days of Ramadan to complain to Allah, The Most Merciful, through vigorous supplications for relief, succour and ease against the evil masterminds of the nagging insecurity bedeviling our country.

“May Allah, The AllMighty, The Compeller, The Supreme, and The All-Knowing, bring an end to this nagging evil, disgrace the perpetrators and grant us lasting peace, security, prosperity and a promising future full of happiness and development, Amin.”

Curfew

Meanwhile Kaduna State Governor, Alh. Mukhtar Ramalan Yero has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna State.

Yero condemned the bomb blasts that occurred in the metropolis, describing them as acts of cowardice’ by those bent on creating tension in the state.

In a statement signed by his Director-General, Media and Publicity, Mallam Ahmed Maiyaki, the governor said the blasts were clear manifestations of the resolve by ‘agents of darkness’ to soak the land with the blood of innocent people for no just cause.

He said: “Enemies of peace have visited us with their ungodly venom of wanton destruction of human lives.

"This blast, coming in the Holy Month of Ramadan is a clear indication that those behind the act have no iota of fear

of God, as they have none for the sanctity of human life."

Jonathan condemns bombings

President Goodluck Jonathan in his reaction to the bomb blasts thanked God for sparing the lives of General Buhari and Sheikh Bauchi. A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati said: “President Goodluck Jonathan condemns the bombings in Kaduna today (yesterday) which appeared to have targeted former Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari and prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi.

“President Jonathan denounces the dastardly targeting of prominent political and religious leaders by terrorists and enemies of the nation in an odious attempt to inflame passions and exacerbate disquiet, fear, insecurity and sectional divisions in the country.

“While thanking God Almighty for sparing the lives of General Buhari and Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, the President extends sincere condolences to the families of those who were sadly killed by the bomb blasts.

“President Jonathan also commiserates with all those who were injured in the twin bombings in this Holy Month of Ramadan which defy the tenets of Islam, and provide further proof that the terrorists are nothing but bloodthirsty extremists bent on undermining the unity and progress of the nation.

“The President assures residents of Kaduna and all other Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue and further intensify its ongoing efforts to effectively curb the menace of terrorism in the country.

“He has specifically directed the Police and other national security agencies to take all necessary actions to apprehend the perpetrators of today’s attacks on Kaduna and urges all residents of the city to give them the fullest possible cooperation and support as they work to bring the terrorists to justice”.

6—Vanguard , THURSDAY THURSDAY,, JULY 24, 2014

Customs arrests 2, seizes 2,446 bags of rice

By Ola Ajayi

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BADAN — THE Nigeria Customs Service has seized 2,446 bags of rice from smugglers in different locations in Oyo State.

This came as the command said it arrested two suspects in connection with the seizures This was disclosed by the Area Comptroller, Mr. Richard Oteri, while parading 23 vehicles that conveyed the bags of rice.

He said: “It is unfortunate that despite the considerable quantity of rice and vehicular seizures in this command in the past, some saboteurs have continued to engage in the unpatriotic act of smuggling.

“The seizures were made at different locations within the command. The locations are Ilero-Otu Road, off SakiIseyin Road in Kajola Local Government Area and Alaraba village in Atiba Local Government Area."

He said the leadership style of the Comptroller General of Customs which places emphasis on reward for hard work has continued to motivate the field operatives to do more.

"It is this high moral that has resulted in the collection of over N6.675 bilion revenue and seizures within the second quarter of this year.”

The command valued the seizures to cost N29 million.

UI expels 2 students, rusticates 5 others

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BADAN — THE authorities of the University of Ibadan, UI, have expelled two students and rusticated five while 11 others were reprimanded for various offences.

A report issued by the institution’s Registrar, Mr Olu Olukoya, and published in the University Bulletin, said the decision was the outcome of the meeting held by the Central Student Disciplinary Committee (CSDC).

It said the offences committed by the students included gross misconduct, pilfering and examination malpractice.

The rusticated students, it added, would stay out of the institution for two semesters.

It added, however, that one student was acquitted.

Keep cash at home we are coming, robbers tell Ogun community

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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BEOKUTA — PALPABLE fear has gripped residents of Elerinko Estate in Ijoko-Ota in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State as suspected robbers threatened to attack them.

The robbers, who reportedly pasted the notice of their impending visit to the estate, advised the residents, in their interest to make cash available during their visit without which they threatened to descend heavily on them.

Vanguard gathered that the suspected robbers pasted the letters on buildings, electric poles and other strategic places in the estate last Saturday, before dawn.

According to some of the residents, who pleaded anonymity for obvious reasons, the notice has the logo of a skull and femur bones.

“We woke up on Saturday to see the notice pasted all over the

Elerinko Estate estate asking us to prepare for the robbers,” a resident said.

Another resident, who forwarded the message he reportedly sent to the Commissioner of Police in the state to Vanguard, pleaded that the residents need police

protection.

According to him, "in the letter, the robbers said they will attack us.

That we should make cash available in our homes. That we had enjoyed peace for too long, adding that no security can stop them. You can imagine the panic in the area with

many planning to pack out.

Please help us.”

In his reaction, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the command was aware of the threat by the robbers, saying the commissioner has ordered the area commander to do the needful.

Adejobi, however, said he had not received the letter, but heard about it, adding: “We have put in place adequate security in the area. I got the information from someone, I did not see the letter.

The CP has acted on it. The DPO of Ota, CSP Gabriel Idibie, has been parading the area.

“The Area Commander, Ota, Titilayo Kayode, as at yesterday directed the DPO in charge of Ota to ensure security in the area.

“We have put in place adequate security in the area.

The people should get across to us in case of eventuality.”

Navy arrests 6 for impersonation •Navy uniform, ID cards, others recovered from them •We are of Merchant Navy—Suspects

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By Evelyn Usman

AGOS — THE Nigerian Navy ship, NNS Wey, Navy Town, Lagos, has arrested six persons for masquerading as naval personnel, with a warning to others still engaged in such act to desist from it or face same fate as the arrested suspects.

Among the suspects were a staff of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, a dismissed Naval rating and son of a retired policeman.

Briefing newsmen, yesterday, on how they were arrested, the Commander, NNS Wey, Commodore Ignatus Iliya, explained that the arrest became necessary following the use of personnel’s uniform and accouterments by some unscrupulous elements to commit crimes and other vices which dents the service’s image.

He said Navy uniform, identity cards, caps and uniforms of other sister forces were recovered from the suspects.

According to him, “Usman Shehu who is supposed to be a staff of NPA has two identity cards, one for NPA and another for the Navy.

"Nemesis caught up with him as he was driving through our gate and identified himself as a Lieutenant and even showed his identify card. But the eagled eye operatives spotted him with another identity card bearing NPA and when he was subjected to questioning, he could not give reasonable reply.

“He was subsequently arrested and when his apartment was searched, incriminating

documents were recovered.

“As for Imily Victor, he was arrested in complete Navy uniform at Okokomaiko. During investigation, he mentioned some of his friends that were involved. One of them is Emeka Amarachi who is currently at large.

“When we got to his house, we found both Naval and Army uniforms, including other items.

Among the recovered items were his photographs in complete Navy uniform and where he posed with serving military personnel, apparently to deceive people that he is genuine.

“What he does is to cash in on any occasion organised by serving military personnel and would end up taking shots with them.

“As for Mohammed Yahaya, he has been parading himself as Peter, Paul, John and Nasiru. He said he was a Christian that converted to Islam.

“He was arrested in a Navy

The suspects

pull-over and combat trousers, in Navy quarters, inside Navy Town.

“He came to visit a rating who we are currently on the look out for. When his phone contacts was scrolled, we contacted one Jubril to come and identified him and when he came, he was arrested and during investigation, he was discovered to be a dismissed rating who was teaching Jubril the norms in the Navy.

“As for Anyanwu Chimezie, otherwise known as Simplicity, he was also arrested in complete Navy uniform. What gave him away was when he paid homage to a subordinate inside our barracks, which is never the case.”

We are of Merchant Navy —Suspects

However, two of the suspects claimed they were officials of the Merchant Navy. One of them, 35year-old Usman said: “I am a staff of NPA and also a Merchant

Navy.

“I was on board a ship when somebody came and suggested that there was need for us to do Navy identity card, that the Navy and NPA work hand-inhand.

“That was how I got the Navy identity card. But I did not know he was lying.”

I bought the uniform in Cotonou —Yahaya

On his part, Mohammed Yahaya, who claimed to be son of a retired policeman, said he bought the uniform in Cotonou, Benin Republic.

Apparently showing remorse over his arrest, he said: “I admit I am wrong because I am not a Naval personnel. I only use the uniform whenever I am ridding my motorcycle so as not to be stopped by policemen. I bought the uniform for N3,500 in Cotonou and I started using it this year.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—7

Driver masterminds kidnap, murder of his employer •It was not our intention to kill her—Suspects •We paid N5m ransom —Victim's relation

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BUJA — THE Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Command of the Department of State Services, DSS, has arrested four suspected kidnappers over the abduction and murder of a woman at Gwagwalada area in the territory.

Briefing newsmen on the arrest, Tuesday, Mr Ibrahim Halilu, Assistant Director in charge of Operations at the command, named the victim as Mrs Edith Chunedu.

Halilu said the late Chinedu, a proprietress of Chelson Group of Schools and Chief Executive Officer of Grants Micro Finance Bank, was kidnapped at her residence in Gwagwalada on June 29.

“They (suspects) murdered and buried her in a bush after Yangoji village along Kwali-Lokoja expressway, two hours later for recognising one of them,” he said.

Halilu said the suspects admitted that they committed the crime and had agreed to lead operatives of the command to where they buried the woman for the corpse to be exhumed.

He added that one of the arrested suspects was the driver to the deceased who masterminded the kidnap and murder of his employer.

“On June 30, 2014, the kidnappers contacted her relations and demanded N5 million for her release.

“On July 6, 2014, the sum of N2 million converted to $11,500 was dropped for the kidnappers around Obajana Road, Lokoja, Kogi, by the relations without informing the service.

“Consequently, the service initiated measures which led to the arrest of the four kidnappers,” he said.

In an interview with newsmen, one of the suspects admitted that they kidnapped the woman, but did not have intention of killing her.

He said other suspects and another at large were yet to get their share before they were arrested.

On his part, the driver of the deceased said he was lured into kidnapping her employer by the other suspects.

Fielding questions form journalists, the suspects who confessed to kidnapping the victim, said she was killed by one Douglas who they referred to as Douggy, now at large.

Suspects’ accounts of their involvement Maxwel Ajukwu – UNN graduate Forty-one-year old Maxwel

Ajukwu, who graduated from the Department of Economics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka confessed to the kidnapping and murder of the victim.

According to him, “ we kidnapped her, but we never had intention of killing, because the driver said we should kidnap her. She slumped on the way to where we were taking her. The driver said since she had seen our faces, it was better we kill her.

“The person who killed her, Douglas, is not here. We dug the grave, I and Solomon.

Douglas is at large, we are looking for him.

“She recognised me, she did not know me very well. The driver took me to her house two days before the event. He took me there as a spy to know the environment.”

Ajukwu said before the abduction, he worked as a private teacher in Gwagwalada.

He said it was Sunday Jacob that initiated the plan and funded the kidnap.

Sunday Jacob —Financier of the kidnap Sunday Jacob, 32, also confessed to funding the kidnap but denied knowledge of the victim’s death, saying he only learnt of it after he was arrested by the DSS. Jacob also said it was the driver, Ali, who told them his madam had money and suggested they could kidnap her.

Jacob, who said he owns a tailoring business in Gwagwalada, admitted to contacting Maxwel Ajukwu to carry out the job of kidnapping Mrs. Chinedu.

Solomon Amodu—400-level UNIABUJA student Solomon Amodu, 32, a 400level student of Geography at the University of Abuja, confessed to have participated in the killing of their victim.

Amodu admitted driving the get-away car after the kidnapping, saying: “When we picked the woman, as we were going, we removed our masks around a check-point and the

woman recognised Maxwell as the man her driver brought to her house.

“She slumped as she saw Maxwell's face and iin the process they asked me to look for an un-tarred road and park.

"It was there Douggy asked me to tie her hand and he strangled her. That was how she died."

Ali Angba, the driver However, the victim’s driver, 27-year-old Ali Angba who admitted to being the inside man in the kidnapping saga, denied giving the go ahead for the murder of his madam.

He admitted receiving only N199,000 from the ransom they received after the death of his madam.

Ajukwu also admitted receiving N500,000 and gave N500,000 to the elusive Douglas while Amodu received nothing.

We paid N5m ransom —Victim's relation

A relation of the victim, who does not want her name in print, told reporters that the relations paid a total of N5 million in two batches to the kidnappers.

She said they decided to involve security agents when the kidnappers refused the family’s request to hear the victim’s voice over telephone as proof of her being alive.

Father petitions IGP over son's death informed even up to his unin Police station timely death due to his torture.

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BY DAYO JOHNSON

KURE—THE father of a 20year-old secondary school leaver, Oluwatobi Badmus, Chief Raheem Badmus, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, over the alleged killing of his son at ‘B’ Division Police Station in Akure.

Badmus, a popular hotelier in the state, in his petition through his lawyer, Mr Bakare Asani, said his only son died as a result of the injury he sustained in police custody on the allegation of stealing a handset belonging to a prophet.

Badmus said the death of his son came to him as a rude shock because the boy was hale and hearty when he came to break his Ramadan fast with him on Monday.

The petition stated that the deceased was, before his death, living with his uncle, one Sola Oke, at Okuta Elerinla Estate.

According to him, "on July 21, 2014, the deceased called his younger sister, Seun Badmus, informing her of his arrest at ‘B’ Division, Akure on the allegation of stealing a handset.

“That sequel to the arrest, the complainant instructed Corporal Adesola Awodeyi, who happened to be his friend, to torture the deceased in order to admit the allegation of stealing

Oluwatobi Badmus against him,” Badmus wrote.

The petition stated that the deceased was taken away for about 35 minutes.

It stated: “When the deceased was eventually brought back by Corporal Awodeyi, his face was swollen and his bulging eyes became so reddish to the extent that he could not compose himself as he complained of headache and stomach ache.

“That immediately the deceased was dropped, he started vomiting and foaming in the mouth and nose, and the deceased was taken to the hospital where he was confirmed dead.

“That throughout the period of arrest and the torture of our client’s son by Corporal Ade Awodeyi, our client was not

“That it was immediately after the body of the deceased was deposited in the mortuary that somebody called his father, informing him that the body of his son was lying in the mortuary.

“We passionately appeal to you to use your good offices as a matter of utmost urgency to direct a detailed and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances that surrounded the mysterious death of Mr. Oluwatobi Badmus with a view to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

Contacted, the Police image maker, Wole Ogodo, confirmed the death of the secondary school leaver.

Ogodo, however, said that the police authorities in the state have ordered a full scale investigation into the alleged death of the deceased.

Ndokwa gunshot victim dies

By Emma Amaize

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BREDE — ONE of the three persons shot during last Thursday’s invasion of Ibrede community in Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta State, Mr Favour Ogbere, is dead.

Ogbere, shot on the waist, died on Monday evening at a private hospital in Ughelli, where he was rushed to for medical attention as a result of injuries he sustained, three days after the incident.

He was an usher at Saint Andrew’s Catholic Church, Ibrede and was heading to the church when he was reportedly shot.

The victims and villagers alleged they were shot by the police, who stormed the community, in the early hours of last Thursday, but the police vehemently denied the allegation.

State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Celestina Kalu, told Vanguard, yesterday, that the villagers, who laid ambush for the Police investigating team that visited the town on lawful duty shot at themselves.

Hours before his death, Vanguard was at the private clinic to speak with him, but he was in a critical condition, while a medical doctor was battling to save his life.

His kinsman, Ezekiel Ibere, also lying next to him on a hospital bed, said: “I was shot by the police as I was going to the farm.”

The third victim, Iwarioka Edhere, who spoke Monday morning to Vanguard at Ibrede, also said he was going to morning mass when he was shot.

Before his death, Monday, in Ughelli, Ogbere was first rushed to the hospital in Kwale, but while the third victim were discharged, the deceased and Ezekiel were admitted.

8—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

ELECTRICITY:

FG plans new sanctions for bills defaulters

By Michael Eboh

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HE Federal Government, yesterday, vowed to mete out severe sanctions to perpetual defaulters in the payment of electricity bills.

According to a statement by Mr. Benjamin Dikki, Director-General, Bureau of Public Enterprises, BPE, government is considering a law stipulating stiffer sanctions for perpetrators of energy theft, perpetual bill defaulters and vandals of electricity equipment.

He said those also engaging in other sharp practices considered to be detrimental to the growth of the recently privatised electricity industry in the country will be severely dealt with when the law comes into effect.

Dikki, who disclosed this during BPE’s maiden post-privatisation visit to Eko Electricity Distribution Company in Lagos, said this becomes necessary in light of the fact that it is the responsibility of government to provide an enabling environment for the new electricity companies to carry out their business activities without any disturbance or distraction.

He disclosed that the bill, currently undergoing scrutiny in the office of the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation, is aimed at providing a legal framework for the new companies to operate and collect their due revenue without hindrance.

Dikki further stated that the Federal Government had approved the deduction of debts owed by government agencies from their budgetary allocation.

He said this is to address the issue of the indebtedness of military formations and many government agencies to the electricity distribution companies.

OSHODI-APAPA EXPRESSWAY: Business as usual on Oshodi-Apapa Expressway as petroleum tankers and containers still occupied the road, yesterday. PHOTO: Diran Oshe.

Insurgents kill 5 in Damboa, blow up Nigeria-Cameroon link bridge

By Ndahi Marama

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AIDUGURI— BARELY three days after the Damboa attacks and killings, suspected Boko Haram gunmen attacked the town again and shot dead five residents before fleeing into the forest in Toyota Hilux vehicles and motorcycles.

A 78 year-old resident, who refused to flee since the last deadly attack, explained that five masked gunmen attacked the locations where Boko Haram had earlier hoisted their flags, which were later removed, and began to shoot.

He said: “I was sitting under this tree near where one of the flags was hoisted last Friday. I heard someone in mask chanting ‘God is great’ in Arabic, before shooting sporadically at any person in sight.

“They gunned down three people near the District Head’s residence, while the other two were killed at a nearby farmland. But they did not kill me because of my disability and inability to defend myself in this destroyed and deserted town.”

Habu Damboa, a resident that fled to Maiduguri also told journalists yesterday that the Tuesday attack was

triggered by the removal of hoisted flags on Damboa road and the District Head’s palace.

He said: “These gunmen that killed five people could have been informed that the hoisted flags had been removed last Sunday, before the people fled to Biu and Maiduguri for their safety.

“Some of the old men and women, including disabled persons in our town, refused to flee along with us.”

Reliable sources in Maiduguri also said that there was an attack on Damboa by suspected insurgents on Tuesday

afternoon, but could not give details of casualties as they were not authorised to speak on the incident.

In another development, a bridge linking Maiduguri Gamboru Ngala Cameroon Republic has been blown up by members of Boko Haram sect yesterday, leaving passengers and motorists stranded. Sources said the incident took place at about 1:30a.m.

This is the second time a bridge linking the area has come under attack by terrorists, leaving commuters stranded.

Vanguard gathered that the international road has now been closed.

... as FG assures on prosecution of Boko Haram leaders

By Henry Umoru

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BUJA— THE Federal Government disclosed, yesterday, that the suspected mastermind of the April 14 bombing of the Nyanya bus terminal in Abuja, Aminu Sadiq Ogwuche, who was extradited from Sudan, would soon face prosecution.

It also declared, yesterday, that it has the will, resources and strategies to win the war against Boko Haram and terrorism in the country, just as it admitted that controlling the problem of insurgency will take time.

These were disclosed yesterday by the Minister of

State, Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, at the commemoration of the 100 days of abduction of over 200 girls from Government Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, when girls, women and youth staged a three day protest against Boko Haram and terrorism at the Unity Fountain.

According to her, government had procured new equipment and technology towards strengthening the capability and support for Nigerian military and security forces, adding that a recent delivery of such military equipment include highly sophisticated fighter helicopters with in

built night vision technology.

Akinjide disclosed that with the arrests of Ogwuche, a Boko Haram leader, Mohammed Zakari, known as Chief Butcher and Boko Haram intelligence chief, Babuji, valuable intelligence have been received.

She said that at the end of the fight against insurgency, the country would come out stronger, united, and the dreams of the country would be realised.

Leaders of several NGOs and groups such as Kasuwa da Kasuwa, National Council of Women Societies, Gender Support for Women Emancipation Development, Lady Chy New World Order Foundation, Concerned Mothers Association of

Nigeria and Hausa Community, National Association of Nigerian Students, among others, spoke at the event.

The women and youth of different backgrounds had gathered in their hundreds at the Unity Fountain to pray for the release of the over 200 schoolgirls abducted by insurgents 100 days ago.

The protesters who cut across faith, ethnicity and geography cried unto God to melt the stone hearts of Boko Haram leaders and sponsors to release the girls.

The girls were seized from their school in Chibok, Borno State, since April 14.

Prayers were said, while speeches were rendered in various Nigerian languages.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—9

90 escape death at Aminu Kano Airport

By Abdulsalam Muhammad

K

ANO— NO fewer than 90 passengers aboard Istanbul bound Turkish Airline cheated death at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport Tuesday

night when a petrol tanker refuelling it reportedly burst into flame.

The incident, which occurred around 10.45p.m. triggered pandemonium at the airfield as those around the scene took cover.

Vanguard learnt that the timely intervention of men of Fire Service Department of the airport saved the day as they battled the inferno for over an hour to restore normalcy.

A competent source at the

Rescue Chibok girls or forget 2015 elections, activists tell FG

By Monsuru Olowoopejo & Ikenna Asomba Civil rights activists, Nollywood actors, lawyers and lawmakers, yesterday, staged a protest in Lagos calling for the release of the abducted Chibok girls or the Federal Government should forget next year’s elections.

At the protest were the President, Women Arise Initiative and Campaign for Democracy, CD, Dr. Joe Okei Odumakin; Mr. Femi Aborishade, former General Secretary of National Conscience Party, NCP; Adefunmilayo Tejuosho, Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Finance; Ayo Obe, Lagos based lawyer, Nollywood actor, Mr. Saheed Balogun among others.

Founder of the Nigerian Advance Party, NAP, and a delegate at the ongoing National Conference, Dr. Tunji Braithwaite, who was among the protesters yesterday, said the Federal Government should forget any preparations for the 2015 general election, if it failed to rescue the Chibok girls alive.

Braithwaite made the demand at a rally organised by the Women Arise Initiative and other activist groups, held at the Event Garden, opposite Lagos State House of Assembly, Alausa, to mark the 100 days of Chibok girls' abduction.

The protesters, who were dressed in different T-shirts bearing inscriptions of the 100 days of the abduction of the girls, were armed with placards, some of which read: “Punish the criminals,” “Fish out the beasts,” “Stone age gone,” “Stop the killing,” “Chibok girls are human beings not numbers,” “Shekau: Find goods to sell, not our girls” among others.

Braithwaite said: “I want this generation to decide; it has nothing to do with Jonathan.

“You have to decide whether we are going to conduct 2015 election, while these girls are still in captivity?

“Let them begin to hear that all the preparations for 2015 election shall come to nothing

unless we bring the girls back; unless we stop corruption in this nation.

“There is something about this man, President Jonathan, which I want you to take aboard. The President deserves pity, not attack.

“He is a listening man.

The man who convoked the national conference, never minding what may come out of it. But good has to come out.

“If good does not come out of the national conference and if these girls are not rescued, we will not allow elections to hold in 2015.”

Speaking at the rally, Okei Odumakin said: “No election is complete without them.

Nothing really happens until they return.

“We do not make these statements as ones who seek appointments or political leverage.

“We say these as women, mothers, Nigerians who would do whatever is required of us to have the girls back.

“We want to know the policy guiding their release operations. We have heard that they would be home soon. We want to hope strongly that it was not just a political statement.”

airport confided in Vanguard that gallant fire service men mobilised and pushed off the aircraft, a Boeing 747, from the trouble spot before concentrating on extinguishing the inferno.

The account revealed that the visibly shocked passengers hurriedly disembarked into a waiting bus that conveyed them to an unnamed five-star hotel in the city.

Although, the aircraft was not damaged by the inferno, but the airliner was said to have cancelled the scheduled flight to enable their demoralised passengers recover from shock.

However, it could not be ascertained at press time when the aircraft would continue its flight against the backdrop that it was certified air worthy by officials of National Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA. Attempt to speak to the airline operator over the development failed as the Corporate Affairs Manager, AbdulHameed directed that enquiries should be directed to airport officials who were also keeping sealed lips.

HEALTH: From left— Dr. Innocent Akabuike, Anambra State Commissioner for Health; Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State and Hon. Nikky Ugochukwu, representing Orumba South in the state House of Assembly, at the handing over of Ofuobi Comprehensive Hospital, Nanka, to the government, yesterday.

Ogbulafor denies report on Orji's successor

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RINCE Vincent Ogbulafor, erstwhile national chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has refuted reports of his participation in an alleged 17-member consultative committee purportedly constituted

by Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State to find his successor.

Ogbulafor in a letter authored by his lawyer, JK Gadzama dissociated himself from imputations made in the Vanguard report where it was noted that the committee is chaired by a former national chairman of the PDP who is also a kinsman of the governor.

“Our client is not aware of the committee or the panel set up by the Governor to select his successor talk more of being the Chairman of the panel or committee,” the lawyers wrote in the strong letter of disapproval.

According to the lawyers, Ogbulafor “who had served as a Commissioner in Abia State, one time National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, its National Chairman and a Minister in the Federal Executive Council is a true democrat, a patriot and a party man who has done so much to enthrone the tenets of democracy, rule of law, fair play, free and fair elections in the party at all levels.”

FEC honours late Rilwanu Lukman

By Ben Agande

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BUJA— THE Federal Executive Council, FEC, yesterday, held a special session to pay last respects to former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Dr. Rilwanu Lukman, who died on Monday.

Before the end of the weekly FEC meeting at the presidential villa, President Jonathan led council members to pay tribute to the former minister, who

also served in the Foreign Affairs Ministry as a cabinet member.

After the minute of silence, the President described the late Lukman as a man with amiable character.

He said he first met Lukman when he was deputy governor of Bayelsa State.

Jonathan said: “I also worked with him when he was Minister of Petroleum under late President Umaru Yar ’Adua. He was a father figure to most cabinet

members. The country still needs his services, but we know that death must come to all of us.”

A few ministers, who spoke at the ceremony described Lukman as a nationalist and ambassador who contributed immensely to the growth of the country ’s oil and gas industry and the economy.

Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani AlisonMadueke, said he was indeed respected globally in the oil and gas industry and remains

a mini compendium in the industry.

Lukman had also served as chairman of the Organisation Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC. Other speakers at the event were ministers of interior, mines and steel development, coordinating minister for the economy and minister of finance, and minister of culture and tourism.

Mr. Labaran Maku, Minister of Information moved the motion for the valedictory.

10—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Archbishop Idahosa in Lagos for convention

NPA faults Fashola’s comment on Oshodi-Apapa expressway snarl

By Godwin Oritse

By Sam Eyoboka

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ATRIARCH of the Benson Idahosa dynasty and current head of Church of God Mission International, Archbishop Margaret Benson-Idahosa is expected in Lagos for the bi-annual convention of the Lagos East Bishopric of the church scheduled to begin today.

At a briefing,bishop of Lagos East of the church, Bishop Sunny Ugbah, said Archbishop Benson-Idahosa would lead several other anointed ministers for a 4-day convention with a theme; ‘Empowered for exploits’, at the New Gymnasium Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere.

Bishop Ugbah, who used the occasion to encourage Nigerians to pray for the peace of the nation, emphasised the importance of the convention.

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AGOS—THE manage ment of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, yesterday berated Lagos State government over recent comments by Governor Babatunde Fashola on the persistent gridlock over the OshodiApapa Expressway and efforts to resolve it.

NPA in a statement by its Head of Public Affairs department, Mr. Musa Illya, said; “The Lagos State Government is surely one of the biggest beneficiaries of the port concessions in terms of the revenue it collects from importers as wharf landing fees, and other businesses generated by the port activities.

“Therefore one would expect his Excellency to be more circumspect in his assessment of the situations. It is important to appreciate also that in view of capacity deficiency of the roads within Apapa, which were built in the 1970s, the Federal Government awarded the contract for the re-

habilitation of the Apapa-Oshodi Road to two reputable companies and work is on-going.

Credit should be given to the Federal Government for this.

The NPA also in response to the increase in the volume of cargo, which outweighed the road’s capacity by over 200%, said it encouraged the development of two major truck holding bays, situated at the Trade fair complex on Lagos Badagry Road and the Tin Can Island Ports to properly control and manage the movement of trucks around the ports and the incidence of indiscriminate parking.

“Furthermore, the construction of the rail tracks at the Lagos Ports Complex have been completed and linked to the National grid and movement of containers by rail have also commenced.

This has reduced the pressure of delivery of cargo by road.

“All these are efforts by the Federal Government and the

NPA, as an agency of the government, to improve and sustain efficient road transport network within Apapa and its environs with the ultimate aim of improving cargo delivery within Apapa district.

“While we appreciate the concerns of the Lagos State Governor over the situation, however, we appeal to the Governor to partner with the Federal Government, the NPA and other agencies concerned to find a lasting solution to the gridlock”.

Efforts to reach the Commissioner for Information and Strategy Lateef Ibirogba and Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, for comments were unsuccessful as calls to their mobile phones were unattended to at time of this report.

Governor Fashola about three weeks ago visited Apapa and lampooned the management of the authority over its inefficiency in monitoring the handling of cargo operations at the various terminals.

Prince Adeosun is dead

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RINCE Kehinde Ba shir Adeosun is dead.

The late Prince Adeosun, who died on July 19, 2014, was also known as the man with the golden voice and was former chairman of Promoserve Nigeria Limited, an advertising agency.

He was also the former president of the Association of Advertising Agencies in Nigeria, AAPN, and member of the Creative Hall of Fame of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, AAN. Adeosun was the anchorman of the popular TV programme, Bar Beach Show and broadcaster with the Nigerian Broadcasting Agency.

He was a member of the Rotary Club of Surulere and a proud alumnus of CMS Grammar School, Lagos, class of 56.

The late Adeosun was buried, July 20, 2014 according to Muslim rites.

.Late Adeosun

BUDGET PERFORMANCE REVIEW: Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State (2nd right); his Deputy, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (right); Secretary to the State Government, Dr (Mrs.) Oluranti Adebule (2nd left) and the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Ayo Gbeleyi during the 3rd Quarter Budget Performance Review at the State House, Ikeja, Lagos.

Air Force officers disrupts activities at Lagos Airport

By Lawani Mikairu

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AGOS—ARMED officers and men of the Nigerian Air Force attached to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos yesterday disrupted commercial activities at the airport, searching and demanding for identification cards, ID cards of intending travelers and those with them.

Concessionaires and bureau de change operators at the departure and arrival halls of the airport were equally raided.

Led by the Airport Commandant, Group Captain Victor Ajiboye, it was gathered that

they were acting on alleged security breach following a tip off.

Some of the business premises raided and shut included Sulah Bureau de change, Kings Bureau De change, Vida Sem, Westgate Pharmacy, Kilimanjaro Eatery, Global Link Mini market, Eddy Burger Eatery, Famous Link, and Leader Investment Company Limited.

Their business premises were still shut at the time of this report.

However, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, has criticized the raid,

claiming it was not informed.

Only the chief security officer of the international wing of the Lagos Airport was aware of the raid.

Senior officials in the aviation security department of FAAN, as well as other security agencies including the Nigeria Police, Immigration, and Custom were taken aback by the operation.

While the raid lasted, passengers and other airport workers not wearing their on duty tags fled the halls to escape possible arrest.

Similar raid was conducted less than two weeks ago.

He also blamed the Apapa gridlock on the insufficient and obsolete equipment deployed to the ports by terminal operators

Adefaye tasks media, Rotary Club on public good

By Charles Kumolu

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AGOS—GENERAL Manager Publications and Editor-in-Chief of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, has said if the media and the Rotary Club can work together in the pursuit of public good, the various challenges confronting Nigeria will be greatly addressed.

Adefaye, the immediate past President of Nigerian Guild of Editors, NGE, however, explained that for such partnership to be successful, emphasis must be placed on compassion, justice and equity.

He spoke in Lagos as the Guest Speaker at the installation of Mr. Charles Okonkwo as the 30th President of the Rotary Club of Ikoyi, District 9110, where he charged Rotarians to act as agents of change in the country, particularity through making their voices heard on national issues.

According to him, ‘’Our leadership has given us so much concern about our capacity to do our best, our capacity to do good. We worry whether it is possible that we can build an egalitarian society. Sometimes we worry ourselves a lot. After all the terrible years of the locust of military rule which stunted our growth as a nation. Even today all you hear are stories about corruption, tales about graft, mismanagement of our national resources and lately extreme acts of violence through acts of terrorism. If Nigeria fails, that means Africa has failed. I don’t mean to offend you, I ask myself what about this Rotary Club? What do they stand for? Is it a club of fat cats or people who are dedicated to helping humanity? ‘’As a journalist, I ask myself is there anything that Rotarians do that will influence my constituency. I looked again at the four wheels of the Rotary Club and the concept of public good. Something tells me that the press and the Rotary club can work together on the path of service, the path of compassion, justice and equity to achieve a better society for Nigeria and humanity.''

In his acceptance speech, Okonkwo pledged to uphold the vision of the club through commitment and dedication like his predecessor, Mr Loye Akinbami.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 —11

APC gets Tribunal's nod to inspect Ekiti election materials

Lawmaker tasks FG on insecurity

By Ebun Sessou

By GbengaAriyibi

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DO EKITI—THE gov ernorship election petition tribunal sitting in Ado Ekiti, yesterday granted the application of All Progressives congress, APC, requesting the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to allow it unfettered access to inspect all electoral materials used in the June 21 governorship election.

The tribunal equally granted the motion of APC to serve the governorelect, Mr. Ayo Fayose through a substituted means since the court’s bailiffs were unable to serve the petition to Mr. Fayose personally.

The three-man panel headed by Justice Muhammad Sirajo, granted the order following an exparte application by the lawyer representing APC, Mr Kabir Akingbolu.

In the application brought in pursuant to Paragraph 8(2) of the First Schedule of the ElectoralAct 2010, and under the inherent power of the court, APC (the applicant) had complained that efforts to serve Fayose by the court’s bailiff had not been successful.

The exparte motion was brought in pursuant to Section 151 (1&2) and paragraph 47(1&2) of the First Schedule

of the ElectoralAct 2010 as amended and was supported by a 15-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Christian Okoh, a lawyer.

Speaking after the ruling, Akingbolu told newsmen that “The court has granted us an order to use an expert in handwriting, biometric

data, and scientific analysts that can examine the ballot papers to prove whether the allegation we made is true or not, which we believe will be successfully proved.”

Dissatisfied with the result of June 21 governorship poll in the state, Ekiti State APC dragged Mr. Ayo

SEIZURE: The Customs Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Area Command, Mr Richard Oteri (middle) addressing the media over the seizure of 2,400 Bags of smuggled rice worth N29 million yesteday in Ibadan. Photo by Dare Fasube.

Ekiti Assembly approves 19 LCDAs

By GbengaAriyibi

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DO EKITI—EKITI State House of Assembly yesterday, approved the creation of 19 Local Government Development Areas, LGDAs in the state.

The approval was sequel to the adoption of the report of an Ad-hoc Committee earlier set up by the House to consider the bill seeking the creation of the new councils.

With the approval, the lawmakers have increased the number of the councils presented to it by governor Kayode Fayemi last month by one, that is

19, instead of 18 LGDAs Presenting the report, chairman of the ad-hoc Committee, Ayodeji Odu, representing Irepodun/Ifelodun Constituency 11, justified the increase based on a petition by the people Kajola/Oreniwa in Ikole local government area.

The lawmaker urged his colleagues to ensure that all necessary documents relating to the new councils were compiled and forwarded to the National Assembly to enable the councils be listed in the constitution.

House Majority Leader, Churchill Adedipe, subsequently moved a

motion for the approval of the report and the result of the referendum conducted by State Independent Electoral Commission, EKSIEC, last Saturday.

The lawmaker said the result of the referendum conducted was a clear indication that the people of the state were in full support of the exercise.

Both reports were unanimously approved by members of the House.

Adedipe equally moved that the councils should be addressed as LGDAs pending the final approval by the National Assembly.

Ogun APC, Daniel’s aide trade words over ex-gov’s comment

By Daud Olatunji

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BEOKUTA—THE All Progressives Congress, APC and former Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Ogun State, Sina Kawonise yesterday, traded words over comments by the former governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel on the current government.

Daniel, at a Labour Party, LP, rally in Ibiade, Ogun Waterside area of the state weekend condemned Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s administration for allegedly killing the economic base of the state But in a swift reaction, state chapter of APC, in defence of Governor Amosun, insisted that Daniel

Fayose, winner of the election and INEC to court challenging the victory against its candidate and incumbent governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi.

No date has however, been fixed by the tribunal for the substantive suit.

should channel his energy “towards extricating himself from the web of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, where he is currently facing prosecution.”

The party in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Sola Lawal, said this would be a noble course to take by the former governor, instead of distracting the incumbent from the task of rebuilding all that Daniel dismantled in the state.

He said, “It is regrettable that pariahs, who ought to be behind bars for sundry unmitigated crimes against the people, were pontificating on the way forward for the same hapless people. The eight locust years of the Daniel administration left a legacy of ex-

ecutive pilfering, brigandage, huge proliferation of arms among youths, widespread dejection among the people and general air of homelessness.

But defending Daniel, Kawonise asked the state government to address the issues raised by the former governor instead of resorting to using abusive words.

Kawonise, a chieftain and governorship aspirant of LP in a statement said “The question is: Which of the following recent public statement by Otunba Daniel is frivolous? That the road projects embarked upon by the Amosun governments are mostly misplaced priorities. The costs of the road projects are grossly inflated and beyond all known parameters of public work costing.''

Reacting to the development, the Special Adviser on Legislative and Allied Matters to the State Governor, Chief Dapo Karounwi said the approval was the final lap of an exercise that started last year.

Meanwhile, the state government yesterday said there was no court order restraining EKSIEC, from conducting last Saturday’s referendum towards the creation of the LCDAs. The government insisted that contrary to the statements credited to the Governor Elect, Mr. Ayodele Fayose that the referendum was held in contravention of a subsisting order of an Ado-Ekiti High Court, no such order existed as the purported judgment which ruled that the EKSIEC was not properly constituted had been set aside by the Court of Appeal, AdoEkiti in March.

Speaking through the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mr. Tayo Ekundayo in a statement, the government explained that apart from quashing the judgment of the state High Court on the constitution of the EKSIEC, the Court of Appeal ruled that all parties involved in the matter to return to the status quo, which allowed the Chairman and members of EKSIEC to return to their duty posts to perform their statutory functions including the conduct of elections and plebiscites.

While restating the commitment of the Fayemi-Administration to the rule of law, he said the large turnout of people of the affected council areas for the referendum was a clear confirmation of the desire of the people to have new councils that would bring development nearer to them.

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AGOS—A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Saka Fafunmi has urged the Presidency to double efforts at tackling the insecurity challenges facing the country, instead of instigating impeachment against governors of the opposition parties.

Speaking with newsmen, Fafunmi contended that the issue of insecurity remained the greatest challenge threatening Nigeria’s corporate survival and should be tackled with all the attention it deserved.

Fafunmi, representing IfakoIjaiye constituency 1, lamented that, instead of confronting insecurity and other nagging national issues, the presidency was busy impeaching governors of opposition parties’ especially All Progressives Party, APC.

Boost to girl-child education, tourism launched in Lagos

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AGOS—AN indig enous firm, Auldon Ltd has introduced a new concept; the Unity Girl Doll, designed to promote girl-child education, tourism and Nigeria’s unity.

The doll, according to a Paul Orajiaka, Chief Executive Officer, Auldon Ltd, ''is 14 inches tall, beautifully dressed in local attire, featuring the three major tribes in Nigeria, with multi-cultural personalities and a story to share.''

He said the doll would help refine the consciousness of the Nigerian girl-child, educating her on how to act, relate and sustain learned values.

According to him, “the Unity Girl doll project hopes to partner with UNICEF in promoting and supporting the child-friendly school concept, ensuring it is adopted by all the states in Nigeria.”

Orajiaka noted that part of the proceeds from sale of the dolls would be set aside for a reputable foundation to manage, while ensuring that the necessary societal value beneficial to the Nigerian girl child education is impacted positively.

He said, “The doll which is a wholly Nigerian concept developed to attune children to Nigeria’s rich culture, history and tourist destinations has unique values, such as instilling community development initiative in the minds of young girls, so they can contribute to their families, communities, countries and the world at large.

12—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Edo Assembly warns LG bosses against abandoned projects

BY Simon Ebegbulem & Gabriel Enogholase

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ENIN—THE Edo State House of Assembly, yesterday, urged chairmen of the 18 local government areas in the state to avoid abandoning projects in their councils by awarding projects that can be completed within their tenure in office.

Speaker of the House, Mr. Uyi Igbe, who gave the charge when the House entertained briefs from the chairmen of Akoko Edo and Egor Local Government Areas of the state, stressed the need for council chairmen to identify the priorities of their people and embark on such projects rather than those that they may end up abandoning.

Meanwhile, the youth organ of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Akoko-Edo council, has cautioned Mr. Kabiru Adjoto, who represents Akoko-Edo North constituency in the House, to tread carefully in the on-going crisis in the state legislature.

Acting Publicity Secretary of PDP in the area, Mr. Kayode Alabi, in an interview with Vanguard yesterday in Benin, said that Mr. Adojoto should apply wisdom in the on-going crisis, saying: “We sent him to represent our in-

terests, but the voice of AkokoEdo representatives is never heard in the House when it matters most.

“But when it comes to the area of violence, we are recognised as being volatile and arrowheads.”

He appealed to traditional rulers across the state to prevail on Governor Adams Oshiomhole, as the father of all, to intervene in the crisis in the state

House of Assembly with a view to putting an end to it.

Earlier, Chairman of Akoko council, Mr Akerejola, who presented his brief to the All Progressives Congress, APC, faction of the parliament, said that during the year under review, which commenced from April, 2013 to April 2014, his administration had executed projects that positively im-

pacted on the lives of people in his domain.

According to him, the projects include provision of 1,775 desks with chairs to schools, construction of blocks of classrooms, construction of health care centers, rural electrification, road construction and purchase of buses for the council’s mass transit.

BRIEFING: From left: Bayelsa State deputy governor, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd); Information and Orientation Commissioner, Deacon Markson Fefegha, and the Special Adviser to the state governor on Treasury and Account, Mr. Timipre Seipulo, during the 15th edition of the Monthly Transparency Initiative press briefing at Government House, Yenagoa. Photo by Lucky Francis.

Group flays Edo PDP lawmakers' flouting of court orders

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

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OALTION for Good Governance and Economic Justice, CGGEJ, in Africa, yesterday said that the continued disobedience of court orders and rulings by the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, legislators, was dangerous to the nation’s democracy.

The coalition, in a statement, said: “The action of these lawmakers is intolerable and should be treated accordingly. The judiciary has actually carried out its constitutional role by ensuring that all injustices are corrected, especially at the level of the Appeal Court. The judiciary has shown that the courts are one and forbids injustice, no matter who is involved.

“We are confident, just like the people of Edo State, that the duty of the court is to ensure justice, equity and or correct imbalances wherever there is injustice. With this judgment, the issue of ruling and counter-ruling, order and counter-order has come to a

halt and that is the beauty of democracy. The judiciary is the tap root of democracy and its judgments based on merit and issues raised by litigants are weighed using the scale of justice. It will be recalled that the Appeal Court had dismissed an application for a stay of execu-

tion brought before it by the four suspended PDP legislators. The court said that the appeal by the lawmakers was “undue haste and jumping the gun.”

The lawmakers sought a stay of execution of an order of an Edo State High

Court, which restrained them and the police from entering the Assembly and the legislative quarters. The appellate court held that it was a court that decides the nullity and validity of its decision and not the parties involved. The court said that the appeal was premature.

Nolle prosequi by C-River Attorney General stirs allegations of injustice

By By Emma Una

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ALABAR—A nolle prosequi filed by the Cross River State Attorney General, Mr. Attah Ochinke, in the charge against some persons who allegedly invaded the palace of Muri Munene, before a Magistrate Court in Calabar, has been described as an abuse of judicial process.

Mr. Kenny Akakam, counsel to Muri Effiong Mbukpa, the Muri Munene of Efut in a petition to the Cross River State governor, said that the Attorney General on July 1, 2014 filed a nolle prosequi in charge Msc/

374/2012 before the Chief Magistrate Court in Calabar to discontinue the criminal proceedings against the accused persons in the above mentioned charge based on powers conferred on him by paragraph (c ) of subsection 211 of the 1999 Constitution.

Akakam said Attah Ochinke, who did not give reasons for ordering the discontinuation of proceedings in the of assault on the Muri Munene, noted that it was the AG that had earlier given approval for the prosecution of the accused by

the same court in 2012.

“We wish to state that there is no fair play in what the Attorney General is trying to do by filling a nolle prosequi,” he said.

He stated that by virtue of section 211 (C ) of the 1999 Constitution, the Attorney General in exercise of his powers under section 211 (1) shall regard public interest, the interest of justice and the need to prevent abuse of legal process before ordering a novelle prosequi which in this instance he did not.

Isichei promises better times for Delta political parties

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PECIAL Adviser to Delta State Governor on Inter-Party Relations, Mr. Taju Isichei, has assured political parties in the state of the Government Emmanuel Uduaghan-led administration’s unwavering determination to provide a level playing field to guarantee fair, peaceful and credible political activities in the state.

Isichei on the occasion of an award of excellence conferred on him by the Delta Guild of Indigenous Newspapers Publishers, DGINP, in Asaba, recalled that when he was appointed

by Governor Uduaghan, he made a promise to work hard to ensure that peace exists both among political parties on the one hand, and between the government and the political parties on the other.

2015: Isoko leaders back Omo-Agege for Delta guber

BY FESTUS AHON

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GHELLI—POLITICAL leaders of Isoko extraction, including former Vice Chancellor of Delta State University, Abraka, Prof. Abednego Ekoko and Chief Dennis Etaloku, the 2nd Vice Chairman of the Leaders of Thought of Ijaw, Isoko and Itsekiri (3I’s), have declared their support for the gubernatorial aspiration of Obaisi Ovie OmoAgege. They expressed confidence that if elected, Omo-Agege would not neglect Isoko people.

They spoke separately in Uzere and Igbide.

Etaloko, who is also a patron of the Isoko Development Union, IDU, said: “There is no way an Orogun man will be governor and neglect Isoko people.”

Prof Abednego Ekoko on his part, said: “We will stand by you (Omo-Agege) at the appropriate time because we know that if given the mandate to govern the state, you will rectify the marginalisation of the Uzere Kingdom."

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—13

Delta Pharmacists flay strikes in Health sector

Oyoro vows to stem poverty in Delta LG

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ORKERS in the health sector have been told to desist from strikes at the slightest provocation and save the sector from loss of confidence from the public.

Chairman of Nigerian Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists, NAHAP, Delta State branch, Dr. Kingsley Amibor, gave the charge at the 2014 NAHAP Week lecture and award ceremony.

Amibor faulted the infighting among professionals in the sector, saying that the health sector was a collaborative process with clearly defined roles, which according to him, if adhered to, would guarantee permanent peace and stability in healthcare delivery in the country.

He said the spate of incessant strikes by professional stakeholders have left the health sector in shambles. He called on pharmacists to gear up for new challenges in view of emerging developments in the pharmaceutical practice to give patients value for patronising their services.

National President of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, Mr. Olumide Akintayo, who was conferred with an award of excellence on the occasion, appealed for team spirit by all players in the health sector for the greater good of patients.

BRIEFING: From left: Mr. Vincent Udoye, Head, Maritime Safety and Seafarers Standard Dept.; Captain Ezekiel Agaba, Executive Director, Maritime Safety and Shipping Development, representing Director General, Mr Ziakede Akpobolokemi; Captain Warriedi Enisuoh, Director, Shipping Development and Mr. Isichei Osamgbi, Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, all of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, during a world press conference in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Joe Akintola (Photo Editor).

Police warn against political rallies in Rivers

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT—THE Rivers State Police Command has warned politicians in the state not to violate the ban on political campaigns under any guise.

Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Tunde Ogunsakin, in a statement, yesterday, said it was sad that some politicians were flouting the Police order, which he said was in compliance with the Electoral Act. He said that the Police will not hesitate to deal with any politician disobeying the ban, stressing that the provision of the Electoral Act was invoked to promote peace in the state.

The Police boss enjoined all political groups to serve the Police five days notice ahead of proposed gatherings to enable the security body provide adequate security.

He said: “The Rivers State Police Command in its bid to rid the state of dissidents and other elements who are bent on causing a break down of peace in the state, wishes to draw the attention of the public to an earlier ban on political activities in the state.

“The Rivers State Po l i c e seeks to reiterate the ban on political campaigns especially

League of Anambra Professionals, engine of devt —Nzewi

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HE President of the League of Anambra Professionals, LAP, and Managing Partner, Alatta, Nzewi, Oyeka & Co., Mr. Willie Nzewi, has said that the league was founded to tap from the rich and vibrant human capital resources that exist in the state.

Nzewi, who spoke at a two-day strategy retreat organised by the group in Lagos, said that LAP was an engine of development set up to continuously engage with the different platforms of development in Anambra state such as the state government, gov-

ernment agencies, professional associations, Anambra indigenes including students based in Nigeria and in the Diaspora.

He defined the core objectives of the workshop as a process of brainstorming the critical issues and challenges facing the state in the light of the 21st century development needs, finding and defining areas of growth/development opportunities and mapping out the winning strategies for collaborative work with the government of the day to work collaboratively to

uplift the state to a position of glory.

President Emeritus of LAP, and Retired Chief Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr Ndi Onuekwusi, in his paper entitled Preservation and Endurance: The Key to Success, highlighted the critical challenges facing the state. Parts of these are the issues of low speed of development relative to the speed at which the world is moving and demographic distortion where most of the successful and accomplished indigenes of the state live outside of Anambra State.

unauthorised gatherings of people who directly or indirectly advance the aspirations of politicians and political parties.”

Chairmanship aspirant for Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Alex Oyoro, has reaffirmed his readiness to stem poverty in the area if elected as the council Chairman.

He said: “The people of Ughelli North have no business with poverty. I will provide a new beginning for Ughelli North. I have marshaled out plans that will transform the area into a progressive modern council that will make it a globally recognised location for investment in high-tech businesses, financial services and technology-based entrepreneurship.”

Oyoro, in Ughelli, urged the people of Ughelli North to follow the trend worldwide where men with ideas and ingenuity are entrusted to lead their people.

14—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Delta LG polls: PDP chieftain drums support for Clark

Group wants Olejeme as next Delta gov

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BY Festus Ahon

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GHELLI—A CHIEFTAIN of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Mr. Richard Akassa, has enjoined the people of Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State, to support to the council's chairmanship aspiration of Chief Ebikeme Clark.

Akassa, at an interaction with newsmen in Ughelli, described Clark as a very resourceful and prudent personality, whose esteemed status as the son of Ijaw leader and elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, has not affected his humility.

He said: “Ebikeme is a grassroots mobilizer. He is very accommodating and quick to forgive. He is development oriented and I am convinced that if given the mandate to govern the council, he will impact positively on the lives of the people.”

PRESENTATION: From left: Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State; Matthew, a beneficiary of the Delta State Micro-Credit scheme, and Dr. Anthonia Ashiedu, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, during the presentation of certificates of approval and distribution of credits to physically challenged persons in Êku, yesterday. Photo: Akpokona Omafuaire.

Rise in river level causes anxiety in Bayelsa communities Y

BY Samuel Oyadongha

ENAGOA—THE rise in water level and possible flooding is now causing anxiety

among communities in Bayelsa State.

Bayelsa is predominantly riverine with most of its communities along the rivers and creeks, making them vulnerable to flooding and landslide.

The state government has, meanwhile, directed all contractors handling major infrastructural projects to expedite work on them following the red

alert issued by the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs of an impending flood disaster in the state.

The five local government areas of the state that might be worse hit by flood include Brass, Nembe, Kolokuma-Opokuma, Yenagoa and Sagbama.

Though there had been a break in rainfall for some days, the water level has continued to rise fueling fear of an impending flood when it resumes and peaks by September.

The state Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrujakpor, has, meanwhile, barred heavy duty trucks from plying the Igbogene Link Road through to the Glory Drive Gateway, the dualisation of which is being handled by Dantata & Sawoe, due to the rising water level.

Edo Comrade Cabs operators allege price hike by leasing firm

BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

B

ENIN—BENEFICIARIES of the Comrade Cabs, an initiative of Edo State Government to cushion the effect of the withdrawal of motorcycles from local government areas in Benin metropolis, have cried out over alleged exorbitant prices that they are being made to pay for the cabs by the leasing company.

Spokesman for the cab operators, mostly former commercial motorcycle operators, Mr. Peter Adoroh, during a peace-

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ful protest at the premises of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, explained that the cabs were given to them at N1.5 million each during the flag-off of the Comrade Cabs Scheme by Governor Adams Oshiomhole, on May 14, 2014.

He lamented that they were later told by the leasing company, C & I Leasing Plc, that the cost of each cab was N2.6 million, describing the hike as an attempt to “enslave” them.

ARRI—WARRI People for Change and Development, WPCD, a socio- political pressure group, has expressed its desire for Dr. Ngozi Olejeme to emerge as the first female governor of Delta State, come 2015.

Chairman of WPCD, Mr. Cyril Egbejule, who addressed newsmen in Warri, said Deltans should look beyond gender and focus more on inner qualities of a person and what he or she can offer the people as a governor.

Citing examples of countries where women were given the opportunity to rule, he said that Germany, Great Britain, the Philipines, Brazil, and others, were all doing well with women on the saddle.

He noted that her motherly influence could not be overemphasised, “so, let us welcome a leading history in Delta State by being the first to have an elected female governor in the country.”

Egbejule also said that the group's decision was based on many factors which include a wide range of consultation carried out by the group, pointing that Dr. Olejeme, who is a technocrat and current Chairman, Board of Directors of Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, NSITF, is a highly educated, simple, honest, God fearing and a successful administrator, who will administer the state well.

Madam Ohwororo for burial

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ADAM Comfort Ohwororo of Uwheru, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State is dead, aged 81. She will be buried on July 25, 2014 after a service of songs on July 24, at Obahor Street playground, Warri.

Late Comfort Ohwororo

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 15

ALHAJI LATEEF JAKANDE'S 85TH BIRTHDAY AND BOOK PRESENTATION IN LAGOS, YESTERDAY. PIX: BUNMI AZEEZ.

From left: Mr. Deji Elumoye, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Lagos chapter, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former governor of Ogun State and chairman of the occasion, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, celebrant, his wife, Mrs Abimbola Jakande, and Mr. Lateef Ibirogba, Commissioner of Information and Strategy, representing Lagos State governor, during the presentation of the Book, Jakande: Fountain of Excellence by the Lagos State NUJ council, to mark Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, CON, former Governor of Lagos State's 85th birthday, at Darlington Hall, Ilupeju, Lagos.

From left: Mr. Deji Elumoye, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Lagos chapter, Mr. Babatunde Jimoh, Vice Chairman, NUJ, Lagos chapter, presenting a gift to Alhaji Lateef Jakande, at the event.

From left: Imam Zakariyah Thanni, State Missioner, Ansar-ud-deen Society of Nigeria, Hon. Adekunle Alli, former member, Lagos State House of Assembly, Alhaji Gboyega Agbomeji, Chairman, Ansar-ud-deen Society, Lagos, and Alhaji Fatai Bello, Chairman, Division-2 ADS, Lagos.

From left: Oba Rilwan Akiolu, Oba of Lagos, Hon. Deji Jakande (son), and Alhaji Lateef Jakande, celebrant.

From left: Mr. Kayode Atofolaki, Ify Dibie, Mr. Qasim Akinreti and Mr. Dele Odebiyi.

Mrs. Adeboye Olarewaju, Mrs. Abisola Olusi and Mr. Taiwo Adeboye.

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From left: Prince Adeniyi Adesanya, Special Adviser to Ogun State governor on Political Affairs, Mr. Yusuf Oloniyonu, Commissioner of Information Ogun State, representing Governor Ibikunle Amosun, and Hon. Adekunle Alli.

From left: Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former governor of Ogun State, Mrs Abimbola Jakande and Alhaji Lateef Jakande.

From left: Mrs. Ronke Osho, Rev. Tunji Adebiyi and Otunba Jide Adebayo, Executive Director, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, on the occasion.

16 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Red carpet

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•Sylvia Nduka, Ikeora May and Bryan Okpara

•Anna Banner (MBGN 2013) crowing Iheoma Nnadi ( MBGN 2014)

By BENJAMIN NJOKU

•Seyi Shay on stag

•Yewnde Baruwa And Ronke Tiami

•Yeka Onka & Timi Dakolo

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IT was another night of glamour, fun and glitz as pageant enthusiasts and beauty queen fans throughout the country gathered in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital last Friday, for this year’s edition of the prestigious Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, MBGN, pageant.

Interestingly, at the end of the show, 19 year-old South Africabased Miss Akwa Ibom, Iheoma Nnadi, got crowned as the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria for the year 2014. She came out tops amongst the 30 contestants who represented 30 Nigerian states at the event, which held at the Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre, Yenagoa.

Nnadi, a model signed to Boss Models in South Africa also won the N3 million prize money, and a saloon car. She will represent Nigeria at the Miss World beauty pageant holding in the UK later in the year.

Miss Edo, Queen Celestine (22) was First Runner-Up and Miss Kwara, Chinyere Adogu (21) was the Second Runner-Up, while the First Runner-Up also

•Seyi Shay & Patoranking

Pictures by Oscar Ochiogu

Night of glamour @ MBGN 2014 won the ‘Miss Amity’ prize and will represent Nigeria at the ‘Miss Universe’ beauty pageant.

The Second Runner-Up, who also won the ‘Miss Charismatic’ prize, will also represent Nigeria at the ‘Miss Tourism’ beauty pageant later this year.

Other winners of the night were Miss Kogi, Erica Nlewedim (20), who won ‘Miss Photogenic; Miss Delta, Fortune Woko (23) winner of ‘Best Traditional Costume’ and Miss Gombe, Precious John (22), adjudged the ‘MBGN Model 2014’.

The night saw a bevy on ladies

•Akpoyibo Endurare MBGN Miss Ecowas 2014

who put up their best performances, making it somewhat difficult for the judges comprising actress Osas Ighodaro, ex MBGN, Sylvia Nduka and former Mr. Nigeria, Bryan Okwara, to easily determine the winner.They gave a lovely mime in their cultural attires as they danced to Tchelete by Davido and Mafikizolo.

Hosted by IK Osakioduwa and Yvonne “Vixen” Ekwere, the event also featured appearances

•Anna Banner (MBGN 2013) & Iheoma Nnadi ( MBGN 2014)

•Yvonne Ekwere and IK Osakioduwa

by Seyi Shay, Patoranking, Lola Rae, Yeka Onka and Timi Dakolo.It was indeed, a night to remember any day.

•Ben Murray-Bruce & Iheoma Nnadi MBGN 2014)

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 17

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ARLY this week, the National Security Council, presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan, and attended by the nation’s top security chiefs, directed states registering and deporting “nonindigenes”, “to stop the practice forthwith”. The practice, according to the Council, is “more dangerous than the Boko Haram insurgency”.

It expressed fear that “the registration and deportation of Nigerians in states could disintegrate the country”. And so serious is the development being viewed that, according to ItaEkpeyong, the Director General of the Department of State Security (DSS), “to show the urgency, the Council of state meeting will be held anytime next week to discuss these issues”.

It is good that the National Security Council eventually reacted, rather belatedly, to a trend, which took a frightening dimension of the profiling of Northerners and Muslims in parts of Southern Nigeria. But the issue commenced last year, when the Lagos state government deported Nigerians from Anambra state.

Political manipulation Even in the North, the Niger state government rounded up and deported FulBe nomads to Kaduna state, this year. While sections of the elite in Plateau and Benue states, allegedly including Governor Gabriel Suswam, wanted FulBe people removed from the “Middle Belt”.

But the heightened Boko Haram insurgency and its political manipulation, including often biased and irresponsible analyses and reportage in the media, has fed a frenzy in many circles in the South. Old

Registration and deportation of Nigerians in Nigeria Haram insurgency as orchestrated against his presidency by Northerners, to further polarising the country.

Recently, the Igbo Leaders of Thought allegedly called for withdrawal of Hausa-Fulani/ Muslim police commissioners from the South East, because they are security risks, in respect of Boko Haram. There are also regular warnings by groups like OPC and MASSOB to Boko Haram, of retaliation, if it ever came to their “territories”!

Not surprisingly, a call for a titfor-tat, retaliatory action has surfaceed in Northern Nigeria.

Last week, a group called Concerned Arewa Citizens, threatened to initiate a bill for the registration of Southerners residing or doing business in Kano and subsequently, all over the North. The group said it would take the step to protect Kano from “robbery, kidnapping and other criminal acts”. Even the Arewa Consultative Forum warned that if the South East goes ahead to issue identity cards to northerners, Igbos in the north would receive an equal treatment. ACF Deputy Secretary-General, Alhaji

,

We should collectively resolve security challenges without profiling citizens on the basis of their region or faith

prejudices along the country’s fault lines seeped to the surface helping to further a dangerous “Masada Complex” of suspicion and actions not thought through, in terms of dangers they portend for our country. Northern traders were arrested in the East with the security alleging that a Boko Haram “commander ” was arrested in the operation.

Leading media commentators approved the action, without interrogating the unconstitutional detention of citizens who fitted the “enemy” profile.

They wrote approvingly of governors of Eastern states, planning the registration of Northerners in their states. An orchestrated profiling of Northerners has become central to anti-Boko Haram feeling in parts of the South; even the PDP exploits fears about the insurgency, with Olisa Metuh’s regularly unguarded utterances playing into this new form of hysteria in the land.

Circles around President Jonathan also frame the Boko

,

Abubakar Umar warned that issuance of identity cards by the South East “could endanger the multi-billion naira investments of Igbo businessmen living in the north”. It was this threat, which forced the National Security Council to act. As Ita Ekpeyong stated: “The council discussed the reaction by some groups in Kano State and other parts of the country”. Frankly, government waited too long to react; it encouraged the deliberate polarization of the country, with an eye on short term political advantage!

Those exploiting the Boko Haram insurgency to push Nigeria towards the abyss of perdition,haven’t deeply thought through the consequences of their action.

There are zealots and ethnic entrepreneurs, who see the disintegration of the country as answer to its problems.

There are those equally deluded that Nigeria can neatly be broken up into neatly defined ethnic entities, such as the faceless GBOGUNGBORO

columnist of THE NATION newspaper.

But ethnic entrepreneurs can only open the road to hell with their

chauvinism. Registration and deportations are emblematic of fascist regimes, such as Nazi Germany and apartheid South

Africa. It does not fit a democratic society. We should collectively resolve security challenges without profiling citizens on the basis of their region or faith.

Northerners and Muslims have suffered most from the Boko Haram insurgency; and Northerners won’t destroy their communitiesjustbecausetheydon’t like President Jonathan! Nigeria’s ruling class has managed to create one of the most unjust, unequal and non-inclusive countries on earth.

This is the root of the crises phenomena dogging Nigeria.

Those who reduce these problems to irresponsible manipulation of fears about the “other”: NorthSouth; Muslim-Christian, do a great disservice to all our peoples.

That is why the call to stop the registration and deportation of Nigerians is welcome, even if belated!

Those Ilorin Ramadan days

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RETURNED to Ilorin on Monday, this week. My reason is to take in the spiritual and cultural ambience of the city of my birth, during this Holy month of Ramadhan. This is one of my favourite times of the year and the incurable traveller that I am (a Fullo carries the gene of travel!), every year during Ramadhan, I return home for a few days. It is a whole process that is wired into my memory.

The long days of fasting; the Sahur (early morning meals which I sadly don’t eat now); Tafsir sessions in mosques; long hours of devoted recitations of the Qur ’an; those nightly Waazi (night time preachments) and the unending hours of cooking and preparations for Iftar(the break of fast) by our mothers! I think it was the incredible energy displayed by women during Ramadhan, that first conscientized me to the place of women in our society.

Much later in life, I would become familiar with Marxist and feminist literature on the exploitation of women.

But I was talking about the spiritual and culture ambience of Ramadhan; and as a growing child, there were plays and simulations unique to this time of the year.

Islamic scholars We constructed mini-mosques; attempted to copy our fathers/ uncles who were Islamic scholars to preach too in those replica mosques, which used to be elaborate works of art wearing amazing colours and dotting neighbourhoods of the city.

There was an unspoken competition amongst young people to construct the most elaborate of those mosques. And I think the most fabulous was a game (EPA OKUTA), which employed a stone-like bean of many colour descriptions and which taught children basic strategy.

The game is no longer part of childhood today, what with the disjointed modernity. The same bean was also ground into a paste to prepare a delicacy of Ilorin, KANGU, that is sadly

disappearing from the diet of most families today. I still love it and before my mother’s death, she would purchase and send to me in Abuja. And because it lasts for weeks, I would refrigerate and eat over and over!

The story was that as a growing kid, I cried through a night insisting that my mum got KANGU or nobody was going to sleep. And they did not! So early the following morning, one of my great aunts, who sold the delicacy, over-supplied me the stuff, sat by me with a cane and insisted that I finished the whole lot! It cured me of that longing for months and I didn’t disturb their nights henceforth!

Those spiritual and cultural tapestries conditioned the individual that I became, because

so early in life, we were made aware of the traditions of scholarship, spirituality and power that we came out of and consciously, we learnt that we had to be touch bearers of our traditions into the future. It is that deeply felt realisation and an appreciation of the heritage of scholarship and spirituality of my Fulbe ancestors that makes me cherish this return to source annually during Ramadhan.

I take in as much of our communal ethos as possible; not forgetting to appreciate the changes that time and modernity have wrought on the community.

If we wait long enough, of course, everything changes. But I never lose the longing to reconnect with the living heritage of scholarship and spirituality of this homestead.

To and from Dutse by air

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ARLY on Monday morning, I arrived at the Abuja airport to do a flight to Dutse, the Jigawa state capital.

I had an urgent reason to go to Dutse over the weekend and had thought about the stress of driving for six hours during Ramadhan (as I have done regularly since March 2013, when we commenced the work of the Technical Committee on the Jigawa TV).

It was while thinking of the journey, that I received an advice to go by air! In September, last year, we were to submit the report of the TV Committee when one of the officials of the Jigawa State government informed us that Governor Sule Lamido was inspecting a project and had sent that we joined him.

We drove a couple of kilometres out of Dutse and in the midst of nowhere, literally, was a very busy construction site, with all the tell tales of a new airport: terminal building nearing completion; a very modern runway; an apron; control tower and workmen and earth moving equipment frantically trying to actualise the dream.

Sule Lamido said apart from regular passenger services and pilgrims airlifts, the airport was

also going to serve the agricultural corridor in that part of the country, and hopefully become a hub for economic development. Like most of the projects in Jigawa over the past seven years, the airport was very much part of an overall determination to achieve modernity very much within an ideological frame that is rooted in the NEPU/PRP tradition that Lamido valorises so much.

It was therefore most incredible to be able to fly into Dutse on Monday to savour the work that actualised the airport and opened Jigawa state to the realities of air travel. There were few passengers on the flight and the airport staff were few and seemed still in an enchanted shock at the reality they are part of. But it should become very much a living reality very soon.

It is still a construction site, even with the glittering runway and very well appointed terminal building.

If the so-called ‘Nigerian factor’ is not allowed to set in, the future should look very good indeed. As we reembarked for the return trip to Abuja, I couldn’t stop thinking about the possibilities that a focused, people-oriented leadership can actualise in any community.

18— Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 OUR governments are immensely proud of their attitude towards Nigeria’s future.

This attitude is not entirely surprising since governments are completely interested only in the present as it affects them and their cronies. Governments never see the future beyond the next elections.

Children suffer most from the thwarted concept of the future. It is a shame that with the billions of Dollars Nigeria receives annually from crude oil sales; it invests minimally in sectors that capture the future - children, health and women, the family.

The depressing statistics of the Nigerian child that should challenge governments to action do not elicit the commonest interest in governments that consider these issues distractions to their determination to win more elections, at any cost, including resources that should have been used for our children, our future.

Our children are at higher risk of dying in the first five years of their lives, than in most African countries, including Sudan that has been at wars for more than three decades. These are United Nations statistics. Out of every 1,000 live

Nigeria’s Dying Future births in Nigeria, 110 die before they are five years old.

Comparative figures are Egypt (29 deaths in 1000 live births), South Africa (45) and war blistered Sudan (65).

If our children survive, malaria, cholera, polio, malnutrition, water-borne diseases would ensure that they do not improve on the average life expectancy of 48 years.

Statistics complete the picture of a compromised future. Professor Oladimeji Oladepo of the University of Ibadan, at a lecture stated that 41 per cent of Nigerian children are stunted and 25 per cent of them are underweight.

Paltry annual budgetary allocations to health see things worsening. Illiteracy

rates are high. Access to food, safe drinking water and health institutions is limited in urban and rural Nigeria.

Can malnourished children with poor mental and physical development lead Nigeria’s future? Nigeria’s ability to erect a future without healthy children runs on the deceit of promises and convoluted speeches that are becoming the hallmark of our mode of governance.

There is a speech for everything, where governments assume speeches assure our future.

Nigeria annually over spends its budget by at least N1 trillion. The money is not for education, health or provision of drinking water as evidenced in schools that are shut for months, health workers’ strikes and the unavailability of potable water.

Nigerians should start searching for leaders who realise there is more to the country than the next elections. Those whose ideas would sustain Nigeria decades hence.

Our country withers but our leaders are in intense searches for what next to appropriate to themselves. Who cares for a dying Nigeria? Definitely, not these busy leaders.

OPINION

BY CHUKS ILOEGBUNAM

I

N recent weeks, the major political parties have accused each other of hiring the services of foreign media advisers to launder their images and make them eligible for election in next year’s presidential ballot. Reports claim that each of the foreign media firms in question is to receive in excess of $3 million for their troubles. That translates into about half a billion Naira for a company sitting pretty in London, New York, or Tokyo, to fix the image of a Nigerian political party and make it victorious in an election in which all voters will be Nigerians.

Two things came to mind the moment the curious development began to assail my senses. The first is “Money Miss Road”, which is a phrase employed by Nigerians in dismissal of wealthy people who deploy their resources into quests that are ridiculous or downright shameful. The second is this Yoruba saying: “What you are looking for in Sokoto is right inside the pocket of your sokoto.” Sokoto in the north-western fringes of Nigeria is nearly 1000 kilometres from Lagos. The Yoruba, and indeed every Nigerian ethnic group, cannot understand why any focused person should search for in faraway Sokoto something inside the pocket of his sokoto, the traditional trouser won under the jumper. In other words, what is obtainable through a stretch of the arm should not occasion a tortuous journey through difficult terrains and different linguistic zones.

But, there is a distinction to mark in the Money Miss Road syndrome of old. That Money Miss Road was always thought to be foolishly wasting his hard-earned money.

The situation cannot be the same with a Nigerian political party spending N500 million in 2014, simply to rent the services of a foreign media expert. Such an action, described properly, can only be called a C M Y K

Sok oto and sok oto tr ouser Soko soko trouser scandal. The key question is this: Whose money is being so stupidly blown? Properly earned money can never be so prodigally expended. There are any number of projects that can be achieved with half a billion Naira.

Part of the gargantuan sum could be deployed into achieving better air safety. Part of it could go into the provision of better medical services.

Part of it could be used to clear the backlog of unpaid gratuities and pensions. Part of it could provide jobs for the thousands of jobless youths roaming aimlessly in utter alienation and frustration. To have such a huge sum of money lavished on some absentee smartasses underscores the apparent incorrigibility of the Nigerian political class, their utter thoughtlessness and the wanton disdain in which they hold the country’s citizenry.

It has been said in some quarters that the “Clueless” tag was invented and foisted on President Jonathan by one of these so-called expert foreign public relations firms. It is left for Nigerians to decide whether what the country requires at this time is the importation of 21st Century versions of Joseph Goebbels, to come and further pollute the national political atmosphere with mordacious propaganda. That is all these dubious foreigners are capable of doing for Nigeria – to sow the seeds of discord, to distort the truth and to promote hirelings as instant and inevitable saviours of the entity. For, if truth be told, there is absolutely nothing new under the earth.

Yes, public relations has its nuances and strategies. But it is not rocket science. Even rocket science itself is not outside the ken of the Black race. There is no innate or cognitive expertise in American or European public relations practitioners that is not currently manifest and self-evident in their Nigerian

counterparts. The rush to the foreigner, therefore, is the product of a personality complex that encourages the fiction that the grass is always greener on the other side.

Without meaning to embarrass anyone, there isn’t a height in political media campaigns that a party with Senator Uche Chukwumerije will not attain. If his proficiency in this department is not called into play, that would be because he is not being carried along or he is not allowing himself to be carried along. And there are many media wizards of the hue of Chukwumerije in this country.

Definitively, the PDP requires no foreign input, however tiny, to guarantee President Jonathan a second term of office.

What to do is not in Sokoto; it is in the PDP’s sokoto trouser, except they are unaware of its presence in their clothing. Similarly, the All Progressives Congress, APC, does not need any foreign input, however minuscular, to shirk the tag of a Boko Haram affiliate. All it requires is for the party to desist from angling to score political points through the terrorist massacres of Nigerians; to have its governors and senators stand by traditional-cumreligious leaders, and rail in condemnation of Boko Haram, and to have such footages broadcast repeatedly in all media sequences.

The central point is that the political media expert has his place, except that it is a place that stands drastically untenable if his product is middling in a highly competitive setting.

Certain politicians are pig-like in both character and orientation. No detergent, however potent and expensive, can permanently rid them of filth and stench, an off-putting condition which, in electoral terms, translates into tragically serial defeats. Look at President Barack Obama. He is a Harvard-

educated lawyer, a former US Senator and a man who speaks in his first and native tongue.

Yet, he never makes a public speech without the use of the TelePrompTer. But, in Nigeria, politicians with a smattering of English, a foreign language, address difficult questions without preparations or rehearsals, leading to needless faux pas that they consequently try to redress by paying billions into the coffers of foreign media practitioners. That explains why, in an interview granted Ochereome Nnanna in the Vanguard of November 10, 2013, Governor Sule Lamido of Jigawa State tried to explain Boko Haram atrocities by likening it to pressure of the sort a woman feels, for which she goes shoplifting to feed her hungry children!

That explains why in 2003, the then Governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, apologised on behalf of Ndigbo for their “mistake” of the Nigerian civil war and asked the rest of Nigeria to forgive his ethnic group and “chart a new course towards integration”! (See Vanguard of September 8, 2003.) Outrages such as these can only be avoided when politicians chew their words well before uttering them, and when they weigh the possible consequences of their actions before taking them. They are not avoided by misapplying funds better deployed to the benefit of the citizenry; they are not mitigated by paying through the nose for the services of foreign media practitioners of questionable distinction.

There is no doubt that the guilty politicians can do with some counsel. In all the cases in which media advisers are contracted for damage limitation, the injuries are selfinflicted. Still, the politicians conveniently forget that even after the injuries precipitated by their recklessness are healed, the scars remain. *Mr. Iloegbunam wrote from Cincinnati, United States.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014— 19

, I

don’t think that Nigerians, in their heart of hearts, are tired of living together in one country. Everything points to the fact that Nigeria still holds a very prime attraction for its people because this country gives so much to its citizens. The only problem is that due to poor quality leadership, the amount of money collected from the federation account hardly finds its way to the people at the bottom. It is not Nigeria that is neglecting its citizens.

It is the leaders, especially the local elite.

It is also the local elite that are pitching one group against the other: Christians against Muslims, indigenes against settlers, North against South, Igbo against Hausa, Yoruba and the rest. They are doing it as a form of blackmail either to have a bigger share of the national commonwealth or actually be in control of the ultimate seat of power: the Presidency. The net effect of this unhealthy leadership approach knocks the heads of ordinary citizens of the country together, thus gravely endangering our most prized common patrimony, Nigeria.

Last year, we were reeling from the

effects of deportation of citizens from states like Lagos and Rivers.

The people were not necessarily deported because they were from any particular part of the country.

They were given the heave-ho because they were the wretched of the earth; mendicants, homeless, miscreants and jobless people needing help. Rather than being taken to the nearest correctional facilities or remand homes (if they were found to be alleged miscreants) or taken to welfare centres to be cared for as the downtrodden are treated in more humane societies, they were profiled for being poor and nonindigenes, and promptly bundled to their supposed states of origin.

Their more well-to-do brothers and sisters from the same areas were not touched or similarly harassed.

The scandal rocked the nation to its foundation. Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, gamely apologised to the Igbos though he beseeched their leaders to run their states better and stop breeding economic migrants to other states. The Rivers State Government, which carried out a

similar ignoble exercise “boned” (as we say in Nigeria). It did not show remorse for deporting Northerners from Port Harcourt.

Funny enough, though Fashola apologised, it did not stop his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC, from suffering the stigma of the deportation at the Anambra governorship election of November 30, 2013 which they lost woefully.

Again, in spite of Governor Chibuike Amaechi’s refusal to apologise to the North for deporting their indigenes, it did not stop the waves of migrations from Arewa to Port Harcourt, the nation’s foremost oil city, where it is believed plenty of opportunities for job seekers exist. The 486 Nigerians of Arewa extraction recently nabbed in Abia State and branded as Boko Haram suspects were caught on their way to Rivers State.

This says it all. Deportation of Nigerians is odious, unpatriotic and unviable. Nobody can stop Nigerians from living in any part

Between Lamentations and Song Of Solomon

T

HE same spirit that propelled “the weeping prophet”, Jeremiah, to write the book of Lamentations at the destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon, with her people killed, tortured or taken captive, is more than enough to make us reside permanently in lamentation for today’s world that is filled with injustice, poverty, crime, war and all forms of rebellion.

But there comes a time when we must take a break from lamentation and dwell briefly on the Song of Solomon. Just when you are beginning to think that all hope is lost, something still happens to keep hope alive.

When we talk of “Lagos for show” and shout, “Eko ‘ni baje”, we simply mean that Lagos should remain alive to show the way for others to follow.

From the smallest things, the greatest often grow. A quiet revolution is creeping into the administration of Lagos State where authorities have realised that in any organisation, the welfare of the staff is paramount; hence it has come up with a new maternity and paternity leave regime for its workers.

Under the new leave regime, female civil servants shall now be entitled to six months maternity leave, with full pay, for each of their first two deliveries while for all subsequent births, they shall revert to the usual three months maternity leave. The leave shall commence at least two weeks before her expected date of delivery.

For the first time, it is being realised that it takes two to tango, hence: “A male officer to whom a new baby (or babies in case of multiple births) is born shall be entitled to 10 days paternity leave”.

Again, even within Lagos State, what is good for civil servants should be good for all public servants as well as private sector C M Y K

,

employees. The motive behind this innovation is quite laudable: “The new leave regime is meant to reduce the negative implication of the extensive work life of parents who are civil servants in the State”.

All the same, what is good for Lagos State should also be good for other states and the Federal Government. Accordingly, the measure is recommended to these levels.

Shall we now return to lamentation?

Meanwhile, our Federal legislators are busy making laws that are clearly unimplementable. On Tuesday, July 1, 2014, President Goodluck Jonathan signed the Pension Reform Bill 2014 into law.

According to the new Pension Reform Act: “Anyone who misappropriates pension funds, among other punishments, will spend 10 years behind bars. Anyone found guilty will also be made to refund three times the amount embezzled by him or her”.

We have come to realise that every segment in life has its peculiar language. In our child psychology class, we were taught that the only disciplinary language that children understand is that of flogging. Hence, a father would tell his child: “If you fall into the railway line and get crushed by the train, I will flog you mercilessly”. The child would then maintain because he doesn’t want to be flogged, albeit after he has been crushed to death?

You could talk from now till tomorrow but the only thing that appeals to the taxi driver is: “See passenger make you carry”.

Similarly, we find a lot of truth in the saying that statesmen think of the next generation while politicians think of the next election. That explains why, like the taxi driver, the only language that appeals to the politician is the one that translates into votes.

As for the employer, the only language he understands from the employee is about

of the country of their choice. You can only make life difficult for them for a very limited time, but your efforts will not only be in vain, it will also backfire on you because we are in a democracy.

The latest ugly face of profiling is coming in the wake of the upsurge of Boko Haram insurgency in the North. The terrorists have been boasting that they would export their crimes to all parts of Nigeria.

The embattled Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, warned ominously recently that Boko Haram attacks would spread to other parts of the country. With the discovery of an unexploded bomb in an Owerri church, heightened security concerns led to the arrest of the Arewa 486 nocturnal travellers in Abia State.

It was also at that moment that the idea for the registration of Northerners in Imo State was born.

Instructively, it was the leader of the Hausa community in Owerri, Alhaji Baba Saidu Suleiman, who in a chat with the media, volunteered that they would do a biometric registration of members of the community to guard against infiltrators escaping from the terrorist den to foul the centurylong cordial relationship between them and their host community. I believe that the Imo State Government wanted to partner with them on this venture, but Senator Abdul Ningi’s alarm in the Senate blew it out of proportion. It was from there that other voices in the North took up the refrain that culminated in the warning by the National Security Council, NSC, that the Federal Government would not tolerate profiling of Nigerians.

Apart from the evil ones working to set asunder what colonial Britain patched together a century ago

strike and withdrawal of service. This column has maintained, perhaps with monotonous regularity, that this explains why pension funds have suddenly become the easiest money to steal.

To the system, the pensioner is a dead man.

First, he has no service to withdraw; and second, he is already too feeble to go on strike, any way. So people can afford to loot

,

Profiling will break up Nigeria

The Hausa and Arewa community all over the country owe it a duty to themselves, their host communities and the nation at large, to cooperate in the fight to prevent the spread of Boko Haram terror

To the extent

that today’s workers are tomorrow’s retirees, they cannot remain nonchalant while these old men and women die on pension queues like poisoned rats; after all, sooner than later, they too will become retirees

,

his money while he dies on the pension queue and nothing happens.

T

he future begins today. To the extent that today’s workers are tomorrow’s retirees, they cannot remain nonchalant while these old men and women die on pension queues like poisoned rats. After all, sooner than later, they too will become retirees.

This is why we have recommended that our labour unions should take active interest in the affairs of these old men and women who cannot fend for themselves. Their interest should be deep enough that, as

most Nigerians are agreed that there should never be profiling of Nigerians, either for the purpose of deportation, harassment, discrimination, or general denial of their constitutional rights. But we have not answered the question arising: How do we tell our lawabiding Arewa brothers (and sisters) apart from Boko Haram infiltrators who are bent on carrying out the orders of Boko Haram and their political backers who have shamelessly and openly threatened to destabilize Nigeria unless they are allowed to mount the seat of President of Nigeria?

Sarkin Hausawa of Owerri, Alhaji Baba Suleiman, offered what appeared a useful solution. The Hausa and Arewa community all over the country owes it a duty to themselves, their host communities and the nation at large, to cooperate in the fight to prevent the spread of Boko Haram terror to non-Muslim areas where they reside. It is their responsibility, working with other well-meaning Nigerians, to cooperate with the security agencies to crush Boko Haram, save the North and prevent the disintegration of Nigeria. They should not join their political leaders who are foot-dragging and pussyfooting on this dangerous matter.

The reason for this is simple. If terror attacks spread, they will suffer the immediate consequences, and the “big men” causing trouble for political reasons will take care of themselves and their families. It is the common people of Nigeria living in other parts of the country that will be harming one another.

This madness has gone far enough. It must stop.

happens when workers are owed salaries, they should also call their members out on strike when the old ones are owed pension arrears.

In all this, we hope the National Assembly is listening. In order not to complicate the issue at hand, we intend to call only one witness: Alhaji Abdulrasheed Abdulahi Maina, who was the acting Director of Customs, Immigration, and Prison Pension Office when the National Assembly smelt a rat that all was not well with close to N200 billion in his care.

He was invited to the National Assembly to shed light on this. When he failed to appear, a warrant of arrest was issued from the Senate but the Inspector General of Police was reluctant to execute the warrant. The executive branch of government dilly-dallied on the issue until Alhaji vamoosed from Nigeria!

Juxtapose this with the new amendment to the Pension Act and you will find a very good example of a very bad law: a Senate that was shamelessly unable to get Maina to come and answer a few questions on N200 billion is now shamelessly recommending that we throw Maina into prison for ten years before we get him to refund N600 billion! This is perhaps the adult equivalent of the child who must avoid flogging after being crushed to death! Put differently, a child killed a small rat but had no fire to roast it. Meanwhile, he is shouting that the big rat must not be allowed to escape.

What unending theatre of the absurd!

20 — Vanguard, THURSDAY THURSDAY,, JULY 24, 2014

Commercial vehicle drivers besiege accreditation enforcement commences training centres •As •NURTW disowns non-complying members

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

U

NLIKE what obtained n the recent past, the Oshodi headquarters of the Lagos State Drivers Institute, LASDRI, is presently a beehive of activities. One of the five centres in the state designated as a training institute for drivers, is now on a daily basis besieged by intending commercial vehicle drivers for accreditation in accordance with the state Road Traffic Law 2012 and approved state policy on public transportation.

When Vanguard Metro, VM, visited the centre, it emerged that among those who have been accredited were those between 60 and 70 years of age as well as a number of university and polytechnic graduates who are into commercial transportation business.

This current rush for accreditation has been traced to the decision of the state government to enforce the law, which officials say, is aimed at repositioning the state for efficient and sustainable public transport management system as well as further ensuring safety of road users and transport operators.

The documentation exercise commenced on November i

•Some commercial drivers queuing for documentation and accreditation issue of commercial bus erouting scheme: “We have completed the allocation of routes to the 11.000 mini buses that have registered.

We currently have 7, 637 numbers of taxi registered.”

He added that so far, only 944 commercial mass transit

,

At the moment in Oshodi, we are attending to 200 drivers and conductors daily; we have about two batches daily; while some are in the classroom, others are doing their test and biometric capturing

2013, but the process, indeed the compliance level, was considered rather slow despite efforts by government to adequately inform and enlighten stakeholders on the importance and benefits of the policy.

According to Commissioner for Transportation, Kayode Opeifa, records of commercial passenger vehicle licensing scheme showed that out of the estimated 80,0000 commercial passenger vehicles and drivers in the state, only 24,257 vehicles and 28,902 drivers had been registered as at June. Also, only 7.637 taxis complied with the documentation of commercial vehicles.

Opeifa added that on the C M Y K

,

buses, 13,839 commercial buses; 7, 092 commercial taxis; 2,194 commercial kabukabu; 221 car hire vehicles and 2,169 tricycles, totalling 26,459, have so far been registered with more than an estimated 30,000 operators yet to comply.

Opeifa informed that government had due to pleas from the leaders of transport unions, extended the commencement of the enforcement date on many occasions since the initial December 1, 2013. “In spite of the extension, government is unimpressed and disappointed with the low level of compliance which of course has slowed down the needed re-

form in the public transport sector. Hence, the full enforcement must commence immediately and ready to implement the policy to the letter having waited for another six months.”

LASDRI update on exercise The Chief Executive Officer, CEO, LASDRI, Mr. Ayodeji Oyedokun, while speaking to VM on the accreditation exercise, said the turn out since the announcement of the enforcement has been massive and the institute is coping with the large numbers so far.

He said: “The enforcement started in January, 2014. And since then, the number of drivers and owners who have come for the recertification has been increasing monthly. At the moment in Oshodi, we are attending to 200 drivers and conductors daily. We have partitioned the process to ensure that it is seamless. We have about two batches daily. While some are in the classroom, others are doing their test and biometric capturing.

But one thing that is very interesting at the moment is that drivers and owners now understand the importance of this training and retraining the state government is doing. Few

days ago, the leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, were busy visiting different parks to ensure that their members, that is drivers, have gone for the training and retraining exercise. It has been on the increase and this has made us busy here daily.

“The essence of this exercise is to help the state government to know the population of the drivers and conductors in the state. If the state government doesn’t know the number of drivers and conductors, the state government cannot be able to plan for them. In Nigeria, it is only when there is enforcement that people come out to partake in any exercise. Right now, the enforcement is ongoing and the institution will not stop from training and retraining of the drivers and recertification of drivers and conductors in the state.”

Commenting on the allegation of officials turning back intending members from registering for the compulsory retraining, Ayodeji stated: “That is based on misinformation. Those that were turned back did not have drivers’ licenses; they have not paid the manda-

tory N1, 000 to the bank. And if one is yet to pay the mandatory N1, 000 to the bank, there is no way the officials will attend to such driver.

“Within the last three months, we have captured 30,000 drivers and on average, we capture about 10, 000 monthly. And that isn’t our capacity as we can go beyond that. In fact, 70 percent of the capturing was done by Oshodi centre alone. If we have that in other centres, the number would have increased. The accreditation is once. Accreditation is not a yearly activity but training is yearly.”

NURTW urges compliance Meantime, the Lagos State chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, A l h a j i Tajudeen Agbede, has urged commercial drivers to comply with the state government directive on vehicle accreditation.

In addition, he has directed all branch chairmen not to allow drivers who refuse to comply with the directive to load passengers from their garages henceforth.

He explained that he was giving the directive as his last warning because some members were not just willing to comply.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 21

From left: Akin Fanimokun, Group Executive, Technology and Services; Malvina Goldfield, PayPal Head of Business Development, Sub-Saharan Africa; Bisi Onasanya, GMD/CEO, FirstBank; Efi Dahal, PayPal Regional Director, SubSaharan Africa and Israel at the launch of the FirstBank PayPal Partnership in Lagos.

ABCON proposes recapitalisation timetable for BDCs

By Babajide Komolafe

A

SSOCIATION of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) has proposed a 40 week time table for bureaux de change operators to meet the N35 million new minimum capital requirements.

On June 23rd the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) among other things raised the minimum capital requirement of BDCs to N35 million from N10. It also raised the mandatory caution deposit to N35 million from $10,000. On July

168.9

-4.0

3,121.00

-7.00

17.19

-0.09

7th, the apex bank extended the deadline from July 15 to July 31st, in response to appeals and intervention of ABCON and both chambers of the National Assembly.

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

T

HE protracted dispute between organized labour and leading Chinese -owned constructions companies

107.42

-0.26

104.55

-0.04

155.23 264.8689 209.3121 172.2481 1.5285 0.3099 238.4414 25.0225 41.3903 28.0685 238.8834

meet the new minimum requirement, adding that the proposal has been sent to the CBN Governor for consideration.

He said, though the apex

Labour irms end rif t, 4000 Labour,, construction ffirms rift, casual workers regularised

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL SELLING DOLLAR 154.73 STERLING 264.0158 EURO 208.6379 FRANC 171.6933 YEN 1.5235 CFA 0.2999 WAUA 237.6733 RENMINBI 24.9415 RIYAL 41.2569 KRONA 27.9781 SDR 238.114

Speaking to Journalists on the latest development, ABCON President, Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe said that the Association has proposed a 40 week timetable for BDCs to

bank has extended the deadline by three weeks to July 31st, the time is still too short to enable BDCs comply with the statutory and legal requirements of the new policy. The timetable, he said, contains actions needed to be taken to enhance the successful implementation of the CBN policy for the subsector.

According to Gwadabe, “The timetable starts with sensitisation seminars to educate members on various options to consider in meeting the minimum capital requirement.

We plan to hold these seminars in each geopolitical zone of the federation. Moreover, we would assist members scout for consultants to guide them on issues of valuation of existing companies in order to accommodate new members and or achieve harmonious merger.

This is in line with what the CBN did for banks during the recapitalisation exercise of 2004”.

He said that in addition to the 40 week timetable, the Association has also appealed to the CBN to take a critical look at the minimum capital requirement of N35 million and the requirement of N35 million as caution deposit, because both requirement implies that the apex bank has raised the minimum capital base of BDCs to N70 million, since the N35 million caution deposit would not be immediately refunded once it is deposited.

155.73 265.7221 209.9863 172.8029 1.5334 0.3199 239.2094 25.1036 41.5236 28.1589 239.6529

CBN Exchange rate as at 23/07/2014

including China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, CCECC, over unfair labour practices, has been resolved following an agreement by parties to convert 4,000 casual workers to p e r m a n e n t employees.

The National Union of Civil Engineering, Construction, Furniture and Wood W o r k e r s , NUCECFWW, had earlier in the month issued a 14-day ultimatum to all the Chinese-owned construction companies in the country, threatening to shut their

operations in Lagos, Abuja and other parts of the country over unfair labour practices including casualisation of workers..

NUCECFWW had accused the companies among others of enslaving Nigerians and fragrant disobedience to extant labour laws, international standard and conventions of the International Labour Organisation, ILO. However, the union said in Lagos that after series of engagement, the management of CCECC and China Gio Construction Nigeria, CGC, acceded to the union’s demand to reverse all perceived unfair labour practices being meted on Nigerian workers.

Speaking, President of NUCECFWW, Mr. Amechi Asugwuni, said management of CCECC and the union agreed that 3,000 casual workers would be converted to permanent employees, while CGC agreed to regularise the employment of 1,000 casuals.

He said, “Management of

CCECC and the union agreed that 1,200 casual workers would be converted to permanent staff with appointment letters with immediate effect while 1,800 would have their employment regularised between 1st August and 30th November, 2014. Also the union and CGC management agreed that five hundred (500)casual workers would be converted to permanent staff with immediate effect while 500 casual workers would be converted to permanent staff with appointment letters in the months of August and November 2014.”

On the right of workers to unionise, Asugwuni said both management of CCECC and CGC agreed with the union that “they shall continue to recognize the rights of workers to be unionized in all their operational sites in the country”.

He added that management of the affected companies had also agreed to ensure full compliance

with implementation of National Joint Industrial Council (NJIC) agreement, adding that the two companies agreed to continuously provide decent vehicle to convey workers to work in all their operational sites.

“The management of CCECC and CGC agreed to sustain the standard of safety requirement/policy in all operational sites across the nation. They confirmed the provision of first aid box in all operational sites and agreed to register with standard retainer’s hospital/ Clinic for the treatment of workers across the federation.

It was agreed that both parties will reconvene in the first week of February 2015 to deliberate on the conversion schedule for the year 2015. Having achieved this, the union will further press home its agitation against anti-labour practice in smaller Chinese owned Construction and Furniture Industries in Nigeria,” he added.

22—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

How can you become more like Buffet? Well, it would be nice to have his capital, know-how and leverage capabilities, not to mention his personal network

‘Light up' your brain like Warren Buffet D

oes Warren Buffett think differently from you and me? The science says yes, he does. Researchers from Caltech and Virginia Tech set up a virtual trading game to study how ordinary people make choices in a volatile market. Then they took scans of the participants’ brains as they tried to make money.

The scientists (they call t h e m s e l v e s “neuroeconomists”) looked closely at oxygen flow to regions of the brain, watching them “light up” as activity levels surged. As it turns out, in a bull market most people’s brains fire in the nucleus accumbens, an area of the brain that processes the idea of reward. They buy and buy more, right past the price peak.

Fascinatingly, researchers found that pricing bubbles happened without external prompting, such as media hype. Watching cable TV pundits doesn’t help, yet most of us are perfectly capable of losing money all on our own.

to keep buying, like the subjects in the experiment.

Our minds react to higher prices not by feeling the urge to sell and protect gains.

Rather, we get the overwhelming urge to buy even more.

How can you become more like Buffett? Well, it would be nice to have his capital, knowhow and leverage capabilities, not to mention his personal network. But retirement investors don’t and never will.

Yet they can remove their miswired brains from the investing process. That’s the beauty of rebalancing among a basket of investment classes. By owning slices of the market cheaply through index exchange-traded funds, you set yourself up for exposure to a variety of different markets.

Inevitably, their relative valuations will diverge.

Conscientious rebalancing selling off assets that rise in value and then using the cash to buy assets that have fallen

By owning slices of the market cheaply through index exchangetraded funds, you set yourself up for exposure to a variety of different markets

,

A small number of investors, meanwhile, receive contrary signals from the insular cortex. This is the part of your brain that fires when you smell something rotten or there is the risk of being shocked, even of being socially excluded or otherwise made uncomfortable.

Guess who makes more money? Yep, the cautious person who sells even as asset prices are rising, essentially Buffett’s dictum of being fearful when others are greedy and greedy when they are fearful. The paper’s findings appear this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Bull market As stocks bust through record highs daily (and if it rises only a tiny bit, yes, a record is set) the pundits ask, inevitably, if the bull market can continue.

The researchers’ findings suggest that it can.

That’s because as stocks go higher most of us are wired

,

in comparison is an end-run on your own gray matter. It’s retirement investing like Simple and painless Sure, your nucleus accumbens is screaming “buy more” while your insular cortex is taking a huge nap.

But you can override all that and just rebalance anyway.

The first time is hard. Then it becomes as simple and painless as brushing your teeth. Over the last 15 years, just the act of rebalancing gave investors a 1.5% edge over the straight stock market, according to research done by Princeton’s Burton Malkiel, a member of the Investment Committee of my own firm, Rebalance IRA. Like with any good science, observation leads to a hypothesis and then testing.

Burt and his colleagues “knew” what the Caltech researchers have found with hard science, much as Buffett always knew it because he is in the minority who trade differently, thanks to their brains.

BUSINESS NAIRA EXCHANGE RATES Date 22/7/14

Currency DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

Buying(N) 154.73 264.0158 208.6379 171.6933 1.5235 0.2999 237.6733 24.9415 41.2569 27.9781 238.114

Central(N) 155.23 264.8689 209.3121 172.2481 1.5285 0.3099 238.4414 25.0225 41.3903 28.0685 238.8834

Selling(N) 155.73 265.7221 209.9863 172.8029 1.5334 0.3199 239.2094 25.1036 41.5236 28.1589 239.6529

W

orking at home can provide a lot of flexibility. You can work when you feel like it, and if you have children, you can schedule your work day around their activities.

Unfortunately, working at home can also be a challenge if you don’t know how to organise your time and become distracted. If you want to successfully work from home, you have to know how to get ready for work each day and to stay professional, focused, and organised. The following steps can serve as guide.

Get Ready for Work Get dressed for work as if you are leaving the house. If you dress for work, you will take yourself more seriously and maintain a work place attitude. Working in your pajamas and slippers will only motivate you to go back to bed.

Eat before you work. Don’t wake up late and eat at your computer, or you’ll be blending your “getting ready” routine with your work routine. Don’t eat your meals at your desk. This form of multi-tasking will actually distract you and slow you down.

Prepare to work in your designated work space.

Whether you’re lucky enough to have a home office or just a desk in your house, you need to clear off an area that is meant only for working. Things from the work space should not leave the work space.

Be Organised Write down your schedule for the day, week, and month. If you’re working a full-time position which requires you to work 40 hours a week, have a goal of working regular hours, from 9 to 5 or so. Keep a planner at your desk where you will mark the hours that you will work every day, along with any planned lunches,

How to work at h effectively meetings, and even scheduled breaks.

Maintain a to-do list.

Having a to-do list will make you feel more organised and less tempted to slack off or multi-task. You should keep a to-do list that has three separate lists: things you need to get done that day, things that you need to get done the next day, and things that you need to get done that week Keep an organised desk at all times. Your desk should be just as neat and organised as it would be if you were working from home.

Be Professional Don’t do personal things during work hours. Though you may be tempted to complete other errands or chores while you’re working, or even to set up a personal engagement, it’s not professional to mix your errands with your actual work.

Don’t let friends and family interfere with your work schedule. Your friends and family may not understand that “working from home” means “actually working.”

They may call you just to chat during business hours, or invite you out for a long brunch or even ask for a favour because they don’t understand that you actually need to be at your desk and take your work seriously.

Stay connected. Though you’re working from home, you should still get to know your colleagues and to develop professional relationships with them. This will make it easier for you to work with them and you’ll feel more excited about coming to work. Here are a few things you can do to stay connected while working from home.

Make sure that you can be easily reached at all times.

Make a distinction between your professional life and your home life. One of the

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—23

With the challenges businesses are facing today, it will be more difficult to grow profitability by serving the customers with the basis

& YOU

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PharmDeko

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% Change +0.73

Natural Gas

3.80

+ 0.03

+0.80

5

Sugar

17.00

- 0.16

-0.93

Top 5 Losers (N) 1

Mobil

178.84

169.90

-8.94

Coffee

172.90

+4.60

+2.73

2

PortPaint

5.00

4.75

-0.25

3

SkyeShelt

100.00

95.00

-5.00

4

Total

195.50

185.73

-9.77

5

Champion

10.17

9.67

-0.50

3,190.00

ome

,

Whether you're lucky enough to have a home office or just a desk in your house, you need to clear off an area that is meant only for working

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downsides of working from home is that everything you need to work will be available to you. This means that you can work every single hour of the day if you wanted to. However, if you want to stay sane, you have to set designated work hours, and be determined not to do some extra work in the evenings or early mornings when you’re supposed to spend time with your family.If you think of something that needs to be done for work after your work day is over, write it on your to-do list and get to it the next day.

Stay Focused Change your environment to avoid getting distracted. Don’t spend too much time browsing the Internet.

Though you may spend all day at work online, don’t get distracted by checking

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your email, Facebook, favorite news sources, or any other favorite websites too often. If you really need your email to stay connected at work, then leave it open, but if you don’t get any urgent messages, try to check it every half hour or hour or so.

Do not chat with your friends while you’re working. This will slow you down exponentially.

Avoid multi-tasking.

Though you may think that multi-tasking will help you get more things done and finish your work day faster, you’ll actually be more focused if you complete one type of work at a time. Go down your to-do list one item at a time, and you’ll be shocked by how much faster you’ll get things done than if you try to finish four things at once. If you’re multitasking, you’ll never be fully engrossed in one task and will be more likely to get distracted and to make a mistake.

Take occasional breaks.

Taking a break from time to time will actually help you stay focused. No one spends eight hours straight working in an office, and neither should you. You should do something to take a sanity break every hour, whether it’s to munch on an apple, take a short walk, or just take in in some fresh air. Taking breaks will actually make you more focused when you do get back to work.

Rest your eyes. If you’ve been staring at a monitor all day, take at least a fiveminute break to rest your eyes to avoid straining them and getting a headache.

Remember that working from home is not for everybody. If you get easily distracted by household chores or your family when you’re working, then working in an office may be better for you. *Source: WikiHow.Com

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Going the extra mile for your organisation: The untapped benefits BY ‘UJU ONWUZULIKE

“Nobody can do everything, but everyone can do something”…Anonymous

W

hen you ask your colleagues or employees if they desire more pay or salary increase, you are likely to get a resounding yes. As an employee, is it wrong to desire an increase in salary?

No, it is not wrong. The same goes to the CEOs and executives in organisations, they want improved profitability. The catalyst that will propel both the needs of employees and executives (that is seeking for more money or increased profitability) is not by mere wishing. It is not by having a compelling vision statement; it is not by wishful thinking, it is not by trying to outdo your competitor or investing so much in transformation.

The catalyst is propelled when every employee decides to go the extra mile for the customers and for the organisation.

During one of the trainings I had for an Engineering firm, an employee said to me, Sir, but I do my work very well, that means that I have gone the extra mile. I responded to him by saying No, you have not gone the extra mile for your organisation. You have just done the basis - the least that is expected of you.

The confusion here is that some employees thought that doing their assignments or task well means that they are going the extra mile. At the first instance, employees were employed to do their

assignments well. When you do as a staff, you have just achieved an average mark.

The danger here is that no organisation can achieve sterling results with just an average performance. They will end up having average or less than average results and this will not bring the desired increase in pay that employees want or the increased profitability that executives want. Then who is to be blamed? The real growth comes when expectations are exceeded and not when an average or basic results are

,

Cocoa

To have enduring results across board, employees should always focus on doing more for the customer

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met.

Going the extra mile means doing more than is required from you. It starts when you decide to make a difference in your workplace. Over the years, I have been a proponent of the following : don’t just do what you do, don’t just go to work, don’t just serve customers, but make a difference while doing what you do, while working for your organisation, and finally while serving the customer.

With the challenges businesses are facing today, it will be more difficult to grow profitability by serving the customers with the basis. The customers need more than that, and any organisation that can give them more will be their preferred. Spending time and resources to win customers over is one, going the extra for them and making a difference in their lives take

the business to the next level.

The true life story of my friend is an example of what going the extra mile can do for an organisation. Despite being an operation staff in a bank, he went all out to talk to someone that his CEO was not able to win over to the bank. He knew the customer one on one. In less than ten minutes discussions with the prospect, he won the customer over to the bank.

Remember, the CEO tried to win him over but did not succeed, but someone who was not a marketer but went the extra was able to achieve what the CEO could not achieve. What my friend did was a clear example of what we can do individually to help our organisations achieve its goals. The good news is that we are not expected to do everything, but we are expected to do something in a different way - that makes the difference!

Points to ponder: We do not have the growth of our organisation in mind when we have the power to bring more business or introduce better ways of doing things - but simply because we were not in the department responsible for those things we decide to bury our contributions.

We should not just do things for the customers for doing sake; we MUST make a difference while serving all the time.

What did you do last week to make a difference for your organisation? All employees should have at least threefour activities that will make a difference for the customers on weekly basis.

To have enduring results across board, employees should always focus on doing more for the customer.

Going the extra mile is always less stressful but comes after a decision to make a difference in all you do.

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24 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

ICAN seeks framework to fast track budget passage, implementation

By Providence Obuh

I

NSTITUTE of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has called for development of a framework that will fast track the passage and implementation of budgets in the country.

“If we must develop as a nation, we need to revisit the budgeting processes in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 and evolve an efficient framework that will ensure quick passage and effective implementation of budgets, said the President of ICAN, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, stating, “We therefore recommend that the National Assembly should pass a law to define the nation’s budget cycle with time lines.

The statutory budgeting cycle must be adhered to by all while disbursements of budgetary allocations must be timely and focused. We cannot spend huge resources to prepare beautiful annual budgets and medium term plans and continue to observe them in the breach. This will amount to working against the public interest which, certainly, the government was elected to protect.

“Since the public sector is still the biggest and driving sector of the economy, what it does or fails to do has severe implications for the entire economy. We therefore urge the government to scrupulously strive to implement this budget in the inter-

est of Nigerians.”

Ajaegbu said these at OneDay Symposium on 2014 Budget of the Federal Government of Nigeria, organised by the Institute.

He added that one of the major challenges of the country over the years, in spite of its abundant resources, has been its continued poor economic performance, caused by irregular budget cycle, fiscal indiscipline, huge cost of

governance, poor budgeting ethics, implementation processes and weak structures.

In particular, he pointed out that despite the huge budgets prepared annually by governments at various levels, there is not much to show for this as the low standard of living of the populace and the prohibitive cost of doing business in the country continue to indicate.

“While the thrusts of the

From left: Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa, MD/CEO, Bank of Industry; Senator Aladi Usman, Chairman, Senate Committee on Industry and Senator Gbenga Obadara during the oversight visit of Senate Committee on Industry to BoI, in Lagos.

FirstBank, PayPal partner to encourage online shopping in Nigeria spokesperson, Folake AniBy Babajide Komolafe

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IRSTBANK Limited and global payments provider, PayPal, have announced a partnership to encourage Nigerians shop online across the world.

PayPal is global payments provider with 148 million active accounts in 203 markets.

The partnership with FirstBank will allow customers of the bank to register for a PayPal account from their FirstOnline, Internet-banking account.

“By linking FirstBank-issued debit, prepaid or credit cards to their new PayPal account, FirstBank customers can shop and pay on millions of websites around the world from their PCs, tablets or smartphones, without having to share their financial information with the seller ”, explained Chuma Ezirim, Head of E-Buisness, FirstBank.

“Through this partnership, FirstBank customers gain a unique advantage as their PayPal account will receive

2014 budget are commendable, we note with dismay the undue delay in the passage of the Appropriation Act. Indeed, the nation has become used to the presentation of beautiful budget proposals to the National Assembly in November/December of each year, the passage of same in the second quarter of the year leaving the implementation to be in six or seven months, at best.

automatic verification and increased transaction limits, making it even easier to start making online or mobile payments”, he added.

Commenting on the partnership, Efi Dahan, PayPal’s Regional Director for Africa and Israel, said; “Millions of Nigerians already shop on websites in the US, UK or China, but many find that their cards are rejected or have concerns about entering their credit card details on the website of a seller based overseas. PayPal is used by hundreds of millions of people around the world to make international payments because PayPal payments are trusted by international retailers and we don’t share your financial details with anyone”.

“This exclusive partnership with FirstBank is a major milestone in PayPal’s Africa growth story and we hope to make more announcements together in the future as our partnership develops.”Dahan stated.

According to FirstBank

Mumuney, “The acceptance of FirstBank Cards for making PayPal payments is a significant boost to our continuous initiative to drive innovation in banking services and our promise to always put customers at the heart of our business.

This partnership will provide convenience for our customers planning their summer shopping. FirstBank cards are accepted in over 200 countries and on millions of PoS terminals and ATMs around the world.

This partnership with PayPal provides further unique benefits to FirstBank customers,” she added.

“We are delighted to be able to bring PayPal to all our customers in Nigeria in a partnership that is consistent with our drive to support the push towards a cashless society in Nigeria and lead innovation in development of secure online payment systems. For all FirstBank customers, opening a Paypal account using our FirstOnline platform will only take a few minutes, as the cus-

tomer has already been verified by FirstBank”, Folake stated.

Unity Bank right sizes for process improvement, control

U

NITY Bank Plc has an nounced the disengagement of over 170 staff and has also recruited over 300 new staff, mostly at entry level and experienced hires.

The bank said in statement made available to Vanguard that the exercise was in a bid to right size its workforce and position it for sustainable quality banking services across its entire branch network.

The development of the bank’s Human Resource is one of the key areas identified as part of the objectives the bank’s just concluded capital raising exercise will address.

According to the Executive Director, Secretariat & Services, Mrs. Aisha Abraham, “Our people are our greatest assets; we consistently strive for training and rejuvenation of our workforce, constantly introducing a steady mix of promising young talents and experienced professionals. Our goal is to be able to offer quality services to our customers through a team of dedicated and resourceful staff at all times.”

“The quest for this has led the bank to carry out structural and personnel realignments with decision making and service delivery processes running along strategic business units, a highly effective model that is business focused, leading to specialisation, better understanding of the market and responsibility accounting."

Zenith nets N58bn in six months

Z

ENITH Bank Plc has announced a gross earnings of N184.43 billion. for the six months ending June 30, 2014. The Bank also posts profit before tax of N57.85 billion up by 7 per cent from N54.08 billion for the corresponding period last year.

Zenith Bank, which has consistently been prompt in releasing its results, announced the figures in a statement to the Nigerian Stock Exchange on Wednesday.

Profit after tax for the period under review, according to the bank’s unaudited half year result, was N47.45 billion, up by 4 per cent from N45.42 billion for the same period in 2013.

Details of the half year result showed all-round improvements, with gross earnings also up by 7.8 per cent from N171.02 billion in 2013 to N184.43 billion.

The results also showed that within the period, Zenith, Nigeria’s biggest bank by Tier-1

capital grew its assets by 15.2 per cent from N2.78 trillion to N3.20 trillion.

Also noticeable is the 7.43 per cent increase in shareholders’ funds, up from N458.31 billion as at the end of June last year to 492.38 billion.

The bank, with network that includes subsidiaries in the U.K, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone and Liberia, currently has a shareholder base of about one million.

Aside listing $850 million worth of its shares on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), via a technical Global Depository Receipt (GDR) programme, the Bank, in April 2014, recorded a massive oversubscription of about 200% in her $500m Eurobond issue under a $1bn Global Medium Term Note (GMTN) programme announced on 1 April 2014.

The Bank was also in June, declared the Most Customer Focused Bank 2014 by KPMG; where the bank won in all three categories namely: Corporate, Retail and SME.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 25

tionalities together in order to bridge the distrust obviously seen among them.

“Thus, among other things, the scheme is poised to inculcate discipline, promote national unity, encourage self reliance, remove prejudices, apathy among ethnic nationalities and encourage mobility of labour. The NYSC has achieved these to a large extent, even as it has encouraged cross-marriages and inter-tribal bonds in the country.”

The SAED boss added: “I am saying it authoritatively that most of you in this batch will end up in the classroom. Most of you will teach, so don’t be deceived by dubious elements who ask you to pay money to get deployed to multinational companies such as Chevron Nigeria Limited, Shell Nigeria, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Zenith Bank Plc among others.”

*A cross section of corps members at an orientation camp.

NYSC insists on deployment to four key areas *Warns against swindlers promising deployment to multinational companies

By Ikenna Asomba

I

N what seems like another sad news for prospective 2014 Batch ‘B’ corps members, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has dashed the hopes of several corps members intending to spend their one-year compulsory service to their fatherland at various multinational companies, such as Chevron Nigeria Limited, Shell Nigeria, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Zenith Bank Plc among others.

Ahead of the August 5 commencement of orientation programme/camping for prospective corps members, the NYSC has reiterated its position that corps members will still be posted to four key areas of agriculture, education, health and rural infrastructure development until the scheme states otherwise.

Speaking at the pre-mobilisation briefing for Batch ‘B’ corps members of the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, last Thursday, the Head, Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurial Development (SAED) NYSC, Lagos State, Mrs. Rachael Idaewor advised corps members to be wary of dubious individuals with sug-

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ar-coated tongues who usually swindle unsuspecting corps members into paying huge sums of money, promising to get them deployed to multinational companies.

Get ready to teach:

Idaewor and her team who took pains to enlighten prospective corps members on the dos and dont’s expected of them during their service year, however, stated that most of them will be deployed to schools across the country to teach.

She said: “The NYSC is taking pains to talk to you before you proceed to your various orientation camps and places of primary assignments, because there is no room for ignorance or mistakes in the scheme. More recently, we have decided to

Primary, secondary schools set to teach Natural Medicine Pg. 28

come to you before you depart so that we can acquaint you with the nitty-gritty required of you and you will also give us feedback of what you expect of us.

“This pre-mobilisation briefing is an integral part of the scheme. Have you ever pon-

dered on the essence of the scheme? The scheme came about in 1973, to put things right, because there was widespread apathy and distrust among the ethnic nationalities, emanating from the civil war that ended in 1970. The scheme was established and poised to bring youths of various ethnic na-

NYSC materials not for sale:

Speaking further, she warned that corps members must desist from buying NYSC apparels. “Anything that deals with NYSC badge and logo, such as the khaki suit, crested vest, belt, waist pouch among others, are not for sale. The scheme has provided enough stock for you, so don’t allow anybody deceive you. Don’t buy any of these from anybody because we will seize them when we get them on you in camps.”

No room for mistakes:

Noting that the essence of the NYSC orientation camping was to acquaint

Continues on page 26

N100bn TETFund unaccessed by tertiary institutions — BOT chairman

F

By Dayo Adesulu

EDERAL and state tertiary institutions have been urged to come up with proper documentation to access the over N100 billion Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND, lying fallow.

This was disclosed last Thursday at a two-day interactive workshop on Tetfund

organised for Vice- Chancellors, Rectors and Provosts of tertiary institutions in the six states of the South-West held at the University of Lagos.

In his address, the Chairman, Board of Trustees, BOT, TETFUND, Dr. Musa Babayo who was represented by Dr Hana Morenike Kolawole said: “Incomplete documentation on

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

So you want to be a Pipeline Vandallawyer? Be careful ism: Look beyond the Varsity you vandals attend (2) Pg. 30 Pg. 28

the part of institutions applying for the fund is one of the reasons these funds are yet to be accessed.”

According to him, it is either the tertiary institutions fail to file in the documentation meant for the fund or started but never finished the process.

Babayo who lamented the lack of fund in our institutions said that if only stakeholders could follow due process and access this fund, many of the strikes engaged in by unions would not have taken place. ”All these people going on strike would not have gone

Continues on page 26

26 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

that your call-up letter is missing; then go back to your school and write the appropriate quarters, informing them that your call-up letter is missing and that you have attached a police report and a sworn affidavit,then will your school initiate a re-validation to the NYSC for you to be re-mobilised for the next batch in November 2014.”

70-yr-old must serve:

NYSC insists on deployment to four key areas Continues from page 25 corps members on the cultural and socio-political way of life of the people within their place of primary assignment, Idaewor, however, warned corps members to meticulously read through their call-up letters for the rules and regulations governing their various camps, adding that there is no room for mistakes in the camps.

“In the camp, no room for mistakes, so ensure you meticulously go through the NYSC call-up letters that will be given to you by your school authorities. When you come into camp, you will be given a unique code number, which you are going to use throughout your service year. This number is even more important to you than your name. It is what we will use in identifying you throughout your oneyear compulsory service to your fatherland.

“Also, you must be told that life in the camp is regimented. In the camps, you don’t do what you like at any point in time. NYSC decides when you wake up and we decide when you sleep,” she said to loud protests from prospective corps members numbering over 4, 000.

Adding: “To be allowed at various camps, corps members must present original copies of their call-up letters; statement of results issued them by their institutions, eight recent passport photographs and a valid means of identification issued by their schools.

Missing call-up letter:

“Should a corps member misplace his or her call-up letter, such person must go to a nearby police station to obtain a police report; go to court to get a sworn affidavit informing the general public

,

*Mr.Olufemi Odunewu (8th right), Miss Ebunoluwa Jegede (9th right) and their colleagues at the convocation ceremony of Glasgow College of Nautical Sciences, United Kingdom.

On those qualified for the one-year service to their fatherland, Idaewor said: “To be qualified to serve, one must be a Nigerian; must not have clocked 30 years upon the year of graduation and must have bagged a B.A, Bsc or HND from tertiary institutions in Nigeria or abroad.

Although, before 1977 and 1985, these barriers were not there.”

Pointing out that anybody who meets these requirements must serve no matter the age, she said: “You must serve your fatherland even at 70. We had a situation in Lagos where a son and father served together because the father went abroad for his master's without serving. After he had settled abroad and

“Also, any break in service is regarded as an abscondment by the NYSC and such an individual will be made to repeat the service year. However, only graduates of Medicine can defer their service to enable them go for housemanship.”

Exemptions:

However, the SAED head said those exempted from serving are “graduates who are recipients of national honours; those who have served in the police, Navy, Army, Airforce for over nine months and those who have crossed 30 years,” adding that “ you are not qualified for exemption having served in paramilitary agencies like the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) among others.”

She stated that graduates of part-time, sandwich, distant learning programmes and professional courses run by professional bodies like Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Nigerian Institute of Information Technology (NIIT) are excluded from serving accord-

Graduates of part-time, sandwich, distant learning programmes and professional courses are excluded from serving

established a family, he came back home to venture into politics. But knowing full well that the NYSC Certificate of Service is one of the pre-requisites needed to contest elections, the man, who had clocked 70 was compelled by the scheme to serve alongside the son.

,

ing to the NYSC Decree 51 of 1993, now an Act of the National Assembly. She, however, said pregnant and nursing mothers deployed out of the state where their husbands are domiciled can go back home after due registration at their place of posting.

N100bn TETFund unaccessed by tertiary institutions on strike if they know that their institutions have TETFund money lying fallow somewhere.

If they know, they will think twice.”

He urged tertiary institutions to come forward with their complaints and follow due process and the fund will be released.

Babayo who noted that no collateral is needed from any public tertiary institution to access this fund queried why many institutions have left their fund fallow in the last four years. ”We do not ask any institution to go and bring any certificate of occupancy before they can access the fund or produce a guarantor before the fund will be accessed. What is the problem?”

Explaining reasons why this fund must be accessed, Babayo said: “We generate this funds from 22 per cent education tax collected by the Federal Inland Revenue Service.”

Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Professor Rahamon Ade Bello and

the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Jerry Gana in their remarks urged the education stakeholders to follow due process in order to access the fund.

The VC who disclosed that UNILAG has benefitted from Tetfund both in infrastructure, library and capacity- building said: “We hold TETFund in high esteem and glad to host the two-day workshop.”

He added that the workshop is important as it will give guideline in areas needed to access the fund and add value to the

We do not ask any institution to bring certificate of occupancy before they can access the fund or produce a guarantor

,

Continues from page 25

,

i n s t i t u t i o n s .

On his part, Professor Jerry Gana tasked the participants to seize the opportunity of the workshop to improve on the guideline on how to access the

money, saying that there are billions of naira yet to be accessed.

He said: “The needs are there in the institutions to be addressed through this fund, therefore, you must follow due process to get it.”

According to the document made available, there are different requirements for different demands before an institution can access the fund. For example, the requirements for institution-based research funds include a written proposal that must be approved by TETFund. After this, a maximum of N2,000,000.00 will be approved for the project. However, the approved fund shall be disbursed in tranches – 85 per cent before commencement and 15 per cent after submission of final report.

“All researchers must ensure that all required documents are attached as non-inclusion could delay the process or lead to rejection.”

All lecturers in all tertiary institutions in Nigeria are eligible to access fund for institutionbased research and the research must be conducted in the submitting institution.

The requirements for library development funds include covering letter, executive summary of the proposal, list of proposed books stating the author, publishers, year of publication, quantity, unit and amount. Others are list of equipment stating manufacturer, specifications, unit cost and total cost.

It also involves genuine proforma invoice from reputable sources including sample photographs of such equipment.

Also, for furniture-related procurements, catalogues/photographs of the type of wood to be used. For, e-library, detailed specification/description of the items should be provided with cost.

Dignitaries at the opening ceremony of the workshop include Dr Sunny Kuku, National President, UNILAG Alumni, UNILAG Registrar, Dr Folasade Ipaye, Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard Media Limited and Member of the Governing Council, UNILAG, Mr Gbenga Adefaye, Prof. Akinyeye, Dean, Faculty of Art to mention a few.

BRIEFS MUSON graduates 27

M

usical Society of Nigeria, MUSON, has graduated 27 music scholars bringing the total number of MTN Foundation scholars to 162 in seven years.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, the Chairman, MTN Foundation, Ambassador Hamzat Ahmadu stated that in 2006, the Foundation and MUSON began the partnership to assist brilliant, talented but indigent students to fulfill their dreams of pursuing a career in music. "The sponsorship covers their tuition fees, cost of books and transport subsidy," he said. According to him, the innovation of sponsoring the scholars has brought exposure to the highest standards of music locally and internationally. “Some of these graduates are already making their mark across Nigeria and the world,” he said.

Congratulating the 27 graduands, Ahmadu noted that music is an integral part of Nigerian culture and has the power to unite people as it plays similar function like football to the nation. He asserted that MTN is the biggest distributor of music in Nigeria through the MTN Callertunez service adding, “Callertunez has helped to reduce the impact of piracy by providing our artistes with credible means of monetizing their content and earning steady revenue through download of their musical works.

Loving Gaze socialises kids

By Vera Anyagafu

L

oving Gaze, a not-for-profit organisation with 25 years experience in Nigeria, celebrated recently with over 300 children from the Ikate Elegushi, Lekki, Jakande and Ikorodu communities at Saints Peter & Paul Schools with Ferrero’s support. According to the organisation’s Manager, Barbara Pepoli, “this year’s celebration gave us the opportunity to bring together children from different communities to socialize and share a full day together. We believe that giving them the opportunity to meet, share their experiences, traditions and beauty, is the best seed for a future of harmony and cooperation.” The organisation has served the underprivileged community in Lagos and Taraba states through educational activities, basic health care service, women empowerment and vocational training. Run by a multi-cultural team of 150 Nigerian professionals, Italian expatriates and international volunteers, the manager disclosed that in Lagos, “underprivileged kids in these communities for over 25 years through educational activities .

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 27

V

ice-Chancellor of Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, Niger State, Professor Musbau Adewumi Akanji had an interactive session with journalists in Minna as part of activities to mark the 21st, 22nd and 23rd convocation ceremonies of the institution recently.

He spoke on ASUU strike and how to tackle it in future, the position of the university globally, efforts made so far in repositioning the university and many more.

Excerpts: FUT Minna was ranked as No 64 in Africa and No 4 in Nigeria, how do you feel about it?

With respect to ranking, it is done by looking at your presence globally. Things are happening in third world countries and unless you visit us, you won’t know them so bringing Professor Bala to talk about power. We have bandwidth problem so, this university at the beginning of this session, subscribed to a large bandwidth of 45 gigabyte at a cost of N48 m per annum; with that, our presence is assured 24 hours of the day. So, anywhere in the world, you can contact us.

All researches carried out by our lecturers and their publications are put on the

School organises symposium on security

By Bose Adelaja

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OME July 22, 2014, his tory will be made as White Hall College, Fagba, Lagos, will gather academics and people from all walks of life for educational talk particularly on security challenges in Nigeria.

The Proprietor, Mr Ogedengbe Alex, who disclosed this during a media parley, advised the general public to be security-conscious even as he said the task should no longer be left for security personnel alone.

According to him, security personnel also rely on information from people, as a result, the general public should contribute their quota.

Ogedengbe said the event with the topic, Security in schools, religious and public places - Chibok in retrospect, will kick-start activities marking the 10th anniversary of the school followed by sports jamboree, inauguration of the alumni and a dinner party on July 23 and 24 respectively.

He said personnel from Department of State Service will be around to handle various segments of the programme as the prevailing circumstance globally, borders on security and education.

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web so that if you check our website and want to know anything about any of our lecturers, in any field, it is easy. With that, people can get to us from anywhere in the world. It makes us visible. It is sad to note that the first university in Nigeria is number 25 in Africa.

The first university in Africa is in Egypt. The next six are in South Africa. But these are changing; we now have 10 universities in Nigeria, instead of three, among the best in Africa.

Universities recently came out of a protracted strike action and incidentally, truce was brokered in your university.

However, we still have pockets of agitation from different universities about nonimplementation of conditions that ended the strike. How far have you gone in implementing the terms as agreed upon by both government and ASUU? We feel proud that the long strike by ASUU was resolved on our campus. As you rightly said, there were some terms that attended that resolution. After the terms, it devolved on various campuses to interpret the terms. If two people are reading the same letter, the interpretation will be different. And that is what is resulting in skirmishes you hear about on various campuses’ interpretation of terms. You will recollect that all those campuses that follow the regulation, have minimal problems.

Government provided some money to settle the allowances and government said that the figure claimed by the union was not likely to be real. They now gave certain percentage, saying go and pay this and let’s see how far it goes. But, there are some details that because of the heat of the moment were not attended to.

Such details are causing the problems at various campuses now. We also have our problems here, but, one thing we do is, we continually talk.

The information from government is that we should make a return of the money they gave us. For example, here, they gave us N719 million for allowances, out of the N30 bn that was released. So, they said all the universities should make a return to the central body, by July 1.

They will now know what percentage has been covered, and what should remain. So, in universities where engagement with the union is constant, such problems are minimal. But in areas where there is an overload, breakdown usually occurs. But the Committee of Vice-Chancellors continually meets to compare notes. This gives an opportunity for members to know how individual universities handle peculiar problems that arise. So, it is ongoing, it has not been completely resolved.

How can strikes be avoided or tackled without having

such protracted standstill in the sector?

As a person, I believe it takes two to tango. If you notice the history of strikes in the educational system, or even generally in labour, there will be discussions, but there is usually betrayal of trust. Personally, I believe government has its fault, we also have our fault because, government would agree we would do this, but they will not do it until they are forced to do it. So, those who usually go on strike now believe unless we force you, you will not do what ordinarily you should do. So, they are encouraged to go on strike. It is my belief that if governments attend to

*Professor Musbau Akanji: What usually brings problem is the issue of money.

Misinterpretation, secrecy cause strikes — Akanji their duties, their minimal responsibilities, strike actions will be reduced to the barest minimum.

Apart from government and labour, there are also intra-institutional strikes, resulting from disagreement between the administration and the workers. If administrators encourage discussions before the issues boil over, incidences of strike will be reduced drastically. In a nutshell, I don’t see an end to agitations until each party agrees to do its own bit without prompting.

In my own case, I personally believe in talking. I make every fact available to my staff, nothing hidden. In circumstances where I cannot disclose because of confidentiality, they appreciate it because they know my strength, they know my weaknesses.

What usually brings problem is the issue of money. Since March this year I have been publishing income and expenditure of the university in the bulletin on weekly basis. So, you take our campus publication, you see the money received and how it is utilised.

During the salary week our expenditure far outweighs our income.

Let me give you an example, for running cost, overhead, we are given an average of N7 million a month. We spend nothing less than N65 million.

It is the right of workers to demand for more pay, but when I say ‘see what they gave me, see NEPA bill, see diesel bill,’ they pity me.

So, when we now give minimum, they are willing to accept.

But when you are not open, they

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BY WOLE MOSADOMI

I have been publishing income and expenditure of the university in the bulletin on weekly basis; so, you take our campus publication, you see the money received and how it is utilised

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think you have millions in your kitty.

The strike has impacted negatively on the system, that is why we would not be able to give 2012/2013 certificates because we need 12 weeks between approval and readiness of certificates, and we were just able to get Senate approval. In fact, the academic staff was willing to assist. They collapsed 2012/2013 with 2013/ 2014 without going on a day’s break, so that things will become normal in the next one year. The workers of the university are willing to sacrifice, we should go on three months leave, twelve weeks leave, but the workers have decided to sacrifice that period so that we attain normality from 2014/ 2015 session.

2015: CSOs underscore importance of civic education to democracy, security

By Victoria Ojeme & Vera Sam Anyagafu

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IGERIAN Civil Society Organisations have called on the Federal Government to strengthen civic education in school curriculum in order to increase citizens’ participation in governance.

The groups made the call at the third Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, a German Foundation, Roundtable for CSOs and the Media, at Abuja.

The round table conference with the theme: Civic Education as a Tool for Peace: Impact of CSOs, according to the Director of Research/Studies, Fellowship of Partners for the Protection of Ethics and Values (FOPPEV), Francesca Edeghere, “ will assist responsible Nigerian authorities impact civic education meaningfully.

She, therefore, implored that the subject be used to promote merit and not mediocrity, point-

ing out that “civic education for citizens is based on informed, critical reflection and on the understanding and acceptance of the rights and responsibilities that go with being partners in governance.”

Speaking also at the conference, a strong member of Transition Monitoring Group, Mr. Lazarus Apir said it was disheartening to know that a large number of Nigerians are excluded in the act of governance because majority of them do not have access to the media.

While acknowledging that various medium used for civic education are inadequate, Apir called for a closer synergy between the CSOs and the media.

KAS’ Resident Representative for Nigeria, Hildegard Behrendt-Kigozi, said civic education would help to increase citizens’ awareness, hence, reduce to barest minimum, cases of insecurity as being experienced in the north-eastern part of the country.

28—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Indigenous Solutions:CU signs MoU with ILEPS

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C M Y K

By DAYO ADESULU

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By TARE YOUDEOWEI

he Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University, Prof Charles K.Ayo, has said that Indigenous solutions are the best measures for addressing myriad of challenges in Africa, adding that Covenant University would open its door for collaboration with any institution that believes in the philosophy.

He noted that partnering not only with world class universities but young and aspiring institutions towards joint research publications constitutes one of the numerous strategies in which CU hopes to achieve its mandate: ‘Vision 20-22.

Prof Ayo made this known during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CU and the Institut Littoral Des Etudes Professionnelles Superierures Littoral University (ILEPS) at the CU Senate mini chamber on Wednesday last week.

Backing his claims with several Biblical scriptures, Prof Ayo said: “In Africa, we have a peculiar problem, and foreign solutions may not fit into this perfectly well. Then looking at both institutions located in Republic of Benin and Nigeria respectively, we can collaborate to address major challenges in Africa better that world-class universities in Europe or America.”

The occasion had in attendance high profile members of both universities including the two registrars- Dr Olumiyiwa Oludayo (CU) and Mr Ayen kayoed Ezekiel (ILEPS) as well as its Vice-Chancellor Prof Ayeni Oyebode. Others in the CU team were: CU Coordinator (International Students); Dr Olujide Adekeye; Director Financial Services, Pastor Deji Okubanjo and Head Legal Team Mrs Ebe Oni. Ayeni was accompanied by his wide Mrs Stella, ILEPS’ Head, Legal Team Solomon Adigun Lawal, and some students of the university.

Prof Ayo said it might not be out of place to strike a deal with ILEPS regardless of several MoUs CU has signed with world-class universities.

He added that it is neither about age nor size of the institution in question, but how its vision aligns with CU’s.

“No one knows it all,” Ayo continued, “coming to the Biblical injunction that says one will chase a thousand and two would put 10,000 to flight. It is not really about the size of an institution, it is about the intention and aspiration of that institution. This is a long envisaged collaboration. Ayeni has always been around so it’s like two minds coming together to solve a major problem in the black race and that is part of the mandate of CU. “One of the parameters considered for ranking world class universities, is looking at the international presence of faculty and staff. Even in publication, joint publications are rated higher than one within the university. So we are hoping for a greater collaboration with Littoral University.

Dr Olumuyiwa said ILEPS is a young university in a French-speak-

Corona tasks educationists on quality delivery, graduates 74

ing country; yet shares in the CU vision.

“CU will be willing to partner with any university that shares her vision of raising a new generation of leaders. We will also subscribe to a relationship in which CU’s values-possibility, mentality, spirituality, sacrifice, Integrity, lifelong learning align with ours. So it’s not only about other universities spotting us; it is also about CU spotting those institutions that share in our ideals, values and principles. That is one striking features of this collaboration Expressing his joy, Ayeni described the link as a marriage of an eagle (CU) and an eaglet (ILEPS).

“With this ILEPS can see far ahead.

The cub of a lion is always a lion.

We are sure of getting there. This great university will be our mentor.

When you are down, you need somebody that is up to raise you.

You can see farther when you stand on the shoulder of somebody that is already on top. The move has been on for some years; but now it no longer matters how many years it has been. The journey of a million years begins with a step. Today, it has become a reality.”

Mr Ezekiel in his opinion, hopes the marriage will launch ILEPS students to soaring higher.

“The journey has just started. We are also hoping to start flying like CU graduates. We are hoping to share in the CU vision of rising fast. If CU mandate is to emerge one of the best 10 globally, then we should be hoping to rank as one of the best 20 by the target year,” he said.

Forward Leap plans seminar on education opportunities abroad for Nigerians nited Kingdom (UK)-based e d u c a t i o n and human capital development firm, ForwardLeap Consultants Limited, has concluded plans to stage a free presentation in Lagos on opportunities available for holiday studies, A/Levels, foundation courses, degree and postgraduate courses abroad, especially in Australia Canada Europe U.K. U.S. and New Zealand.

Participation at the presentation expected to hold on July 29th, 2014 at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, would only be by invitation only even as those interested to attend have been advised to register at www.forwardleapconsultants.org.

The firm, which is also into students’ recruitment from abroad, design, organisation and implementation of bespoke courses to address skill shortfalls in the human capital of companies, is also an accredited agent for the Cambridge Education Group and the Study Group, two of the world’s leading education providers across Australia, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, UK and USA.

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EW Principal, Corona School Ag-bara, Mrs Adeyoyin Adesina has tasked educationists to deliver quality education to students in order to guarantee national development and pride in the comity of nations.

Mrs. Adesina who spoke at the graduation of 74 students of Corona School, 2013/2014 set said: “I am sure that the best thing we can do for our nation is to ensure that those who are the leaders of tomorrow have the qualities that are needed to develop our nation and to make our country stand up in the league of nations.”

According to her, “It is not so much my advice to the students, it is to all of us who are educators in Nigeria to ensure that we build up our educational system such that whether abroad or here, our children will be given quality education to enable them take their place in today ’s world.”

She, however, assured all on sustaining the culture of quality and excellence the school has adopted over time on assumption of office in September. “Parents and students should expect a higher commitment.

There is no doubt about it; we have heard what has been done in the past four years so I hope to continue to build on that and also continue to ex-

pand the culture of excellence in the school.”

Earlier, the Director, Corona Agbara, Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo, in her welcome address, appreciated the graduating set whom she said worked hard at finishing well. She, however, advised them to live an impactful life and withstand the crucibles of life that will be staring them in the face.

According to her: “Today’s theme is Manifesting the Promise, now, I do believe in the uniqueness and peculiarity of every human being because each one of us here has his own rhythm, his song to sing, his story to write, his life to live, and contributions to make and his mark to leave behind. In other words, all of us have a promise that we can and should manifest. These promises are many: excellence, integrity, success, leadership, greatness, contribution and a lot more.

“The world you are going into is a wonderful one, the opportunities before you are virtually limitless, no one can, however, promise you a stress-free and trouble-free life,” she said.

While speaking on the theme, Manifesting the Promise, Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli (MFR), Founder/Director LEAP, centered her speech around six sub-themes that are indispensable to students. They are; Potentials, Responsibility, Opportunities, Mission, Integrity, Service and Excellence.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—29

Covenant varsity churns out 82 first class, 35 Ph.Ds

By Musbaudeen Shekoni

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OVENANT University, Ota, has churned out 82 first class graduates 35 PhD holders during her 9th convocation ceremony. There were a total of 1,334 graduands with 82 bagging first class honours; 594 had second class honours (Upper Division); 531 with second class honours (Lower division) and 127 obtaining third class honours.

Meanwhile, 35 persons including the Registrar of the institution, Dr. Olumuyiwa Oludayo bagged a PhD in Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management.

Delivering the keynote address entitled, Rethinking the Concept of National Transformation: Roles of Higher Education Institutions, Dr. Sarah Alade, Deputy Governor (Economic Policy), Central Bank of Nigeria, ethused that the role of higher education institutions is indeed appropriate and contemporary at this point in the country’s national development. She said the

quest to transform Nigeria into a leading economy requires ownership and borders on the concept of organism, where everyone including those in tertiary institutions, has a synergistic and vital role to play.

Alade noted that the search for economic prosperity by all and sundry should reflect the belief that transformation and its corresponding reforms must be participatory and inclusive.

Alade ethused: “Seeing that the country’s national transformation agenda enunciated by the Administration of President Jonathan, through a blueprint of policies, programmes and projects as focused on priority areas including infrastructure (comprising power, transportation), human capital development (i.e. education, health etc.), job creation, poverty reduction, institutional organisation, value re-orientation etc., is not driven by government alone, nor undertaken singularly by any individual or group; rather, it should be as-

sumed collectively by strong, healthy and efficient institutions in order to ensure sustainability.”

In his address entitled, Towards the Way Out for a Nation under Trial, Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Regents, CU, Dr. David Oyedepo believes that university education should go beyond certification and must seek application in real life context for the lot of humanity by proffering solutions to societal problems through engagement in relevant topical research.

He averred that government should urgently begin partnering with varsities in searching out answers to bugging issues such as the Boko Haram insurgency which is warming up the country as a breeding ground for potential, religious and ethnic war.

Calling for a concrete varsityindustry, as well as varsity- NUC partnerships, Prof. Chiedu Mafianah, Director, Quality Assurance, NUC, who represented the Executive Secretary, NUC, Prof.

Julius Okojie, said:

*Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Nonny Ugboma; Director, MTN Foundation, Dennis Okoro; recipient of MTNF Prize for best graduating student, Chukwunomso Diali and Abasi-Ekong Udobang.

What happened to our reading culture?

By Laju Arenyeka & Cynthia Okere

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ROM Soyinka to Adichie, to generations before and after, Nigeria is famous for birthing great writers. However, the country renowned for writing talent is now accompanied by a sad reputation of poor reading culture.

According to reports, 40 per cent of adult Nigerians never read a non-fiction book from cover to cover after they finish school.

The average Nigerian reads less than one book per year, and only one per cent of successful men and women in Nigeria read one non-fiction book per month. The same study showed that 30 million Nigerians have graduated from secondary school with poor reading skills.

Kolawole Oyeyemi, the convener of the Readers ‘R’ Leaders destiny project says that this is a far cry from the knowledge-savvy Nigeria that existed 30 years ago. "Back in the days, a lot of us grew up reading to be successful in a fiercely competitive world. The bookshops were there for us to take our list of books to purchase. Our schools had libraries that were filled with books.

There were thriving publishing firms. The result was a crop of highly cerebral leaders who can hold their own anywhere in the world. Unfortunately, these are fast becoming history.

The reading culture is almost dead. The bookshops are very few, libraries are non-existent or empty of relevant books. The few publishing firms around are still struggling. The end result of this is here and present with us: the rate of failure in qualifying examinations is nothing short of a national embarrassment.

The crop of unemployable graduates churned

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out each year should give every progressive Nigerian cause for worry. All these boil down to the fast fading reading culture in the nation."

Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Mr. Michael Alogba also addressed the issue from his relation with students.

He opined: "Without any iota of doubt, the reading culture of Nigerian students has reduced drastically. This is not at all unconnected to all these digital gadgets that distract students all the time."

For some other professionals, however, Information and Communication Technology, ICT, if harnessed properly, should be a stepping stone instead of a stumbling block to reading culture. A.J. Aina et al in a paper entitled: Poor reading habits among Nigerians: the role of libraries, argues that reading per se among young adults is not exactly on the wane, but the delivery mechanism has changed. Communications with words is thriving, but in a new format, reading online.

For many years, especially in the West, there have been doubts whether the written medium of narration would survive the onslaught of technology. Will children and adults who spend most of their time in front of a television or computer continue to read books? Similar fears were expressed at the end of the 19th century with the emergence of films and cartoons. Books survived that era and maintained their position as a parallel “technology”.

The need today is the thoughtful integration of book reading with high tech, i.e., the integration of multimedia activities such as photography, printing and drawing, sewing and crafts, 3-D and digital art, hip-hop, claymation, and online services in our libraries.

30 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

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What the Law Faculties get, with the exception of a few top notch law teachers, are the dregs of the law profession

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Be careful the university you attend (2) “0817-300-2683. My Dear Dele, Please help us find out if Afe Babalola University has accreditation for Law – not provisional accreditation. We have a daughter wanting to read law there. Thanks! From Chief J.O.A Ayomike. Warri.

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f all the disciplines, none had been as badly treated as the Faculty of Law in most universities. As a matter of fact, it might not be far-fetched to call what many universities call their Law Faculty as a 419 joint.

Each time I sneak into a university purporting to teach law, one of the places I must visit is the Law Faculty. There, I would proceed to read the names on the office doors of the Faculty members – as well as note how many there are. Nigerians would weep bitterly if they know how scantily staffed most of the law faculties are. Furthermore, almost invariably, the members of the academic staff are not among the legal luminaries known to Nigerians either in practice or in academia. Some could not even practice successfully as “Charge and Bail” operators at the Igbosere High Court in Lagos. That is understandable. An Olisa Agbakoba, Wale Olanipekun or Yususf Ali, all SANs, would mint more naira in one day than any university would pay him in six months to lecture. So what the Law Faculties get, with the exception of a few top notch law teachers, are the dregs of the law profession.

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dditionally, most Nigerian lawyers, including our SANs, are Jacks of all trades – they practise all types of law. The same fellow is into tort, contracts, crime, divorce, corporate law, human rights, constitutional law, chieftaincy affairs, land dispute, electoral tribunals and if permitted, maritime law and international law. One of our legal luminaries who argued the Presidential election dispute between Awolowo and Shagari persuaded President Obasanjo that he could win the case on Bakassi at the World Court. Nigeria lost a case which we should never have been involved with and we lost Bakassi as well. That sort of “know-it-all” is frequently brought into teaching law at our universities because there is a glaring deficit of experts on various branches of law.

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received first hand education on specialization in law practice through my first wife – a white American, (Colonel/Arc. Asenuga, rtd, is my witness. His wife and my former wife were female members of the Pan-African Students of America, PASOA in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA in the 1960s to early 1970s). My wife’s father was named Corbin and nobody went to any Law School in the USA without reading CORBIN ON CONTRACT. He devoted all his life to the study of contracts and he never stepped into a court, except to provide expert advice on a complicated case involving contracts. He was not alone. There are literally thousands of lawyers in the USA who specialize exclusively in one branch of law and who conduct the research which break new grounds in the teaching and interpretation of law – unlike Nigeria where people put on their wigs to appear in court on any matter if the price is right.

Visit: www.delesobowale.com or Visit: www.facebook.com/biolasobowale

Are you playing the game of life to win?

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S there a born winner or a born loser? Is winning a result of luck? Is losing a by-product of fate? Why do some people have a knack of winning at life? Why do others have a slant to lose in life?

There are no born winners or losers in the domain of life. Winners and losers are self-made by choice and by training. You may say, “What the heck are you talking about, does anyone really choose to lose in life? Consciously? No! Subconsciously? Yes! Obviously, everyone wants to win at life; everyone wants to succeed. However, at the subconscious level of the mind many people have been conditioned to lose. Losers act or behave according to their feelings which is triggered by consistent thinking pattern; talking pattern and behavioral pattern tilted towards negativity or the failure direction. Winners on the other hand train themselves to act or behave according to the values they uphold irrespective of their feelings and condition; they think, talk; walk; dress and behave in a way that magnets a winning outcome.

Babe Ruth, a legendary baseball player; often referred to as the greatest baseball player who ever lived. There’s a famous story about Babe Ruth which is one of the famous stories in baseball history. During the third game of the 1932 World Series, the Yankees were in a heated competition with the Chicago Cubs. When Babe Ruth stepped up the plate, Cub players heckled him and some fans even threw fruit at him. After two balls and two strikes; the incensed Babe Ruth pointed out to center field. With the next pitch, Babe struck the ball exactly where he had predicted in what has been termed the “called shot.” After the game, somebody asked Babe Ruth, “But suppose you had missed that final strike?” Babe was surprised at the question, “Why,” he said, “I never even thought of such a thing.” Wow! That’s the psychology of winning. To be on the winning lane demands a mentality.

To win any game, you need to study the rules or principles governing the game and you need to also practice the game abiding by the rules. To play the game of life to win, you must train your mind and your imagination so that it would work for you and not against you in the creative process. In the game of life, winning is only guaranteed if you know and understand how life works and align yourself to these principles.

There are three categories of people in the game of life.

There are the number-ones. These are winners, people that get the most out of life because they have put the best into life by making the most of themselves. These people live a life of excellence. They have discovered their talents and potentials and are busy growing and developing them as they fulfill their life’s purpose daily. They are the people who live to give; living to serve. They are the people that allow unconditional love to flow through them to mankind because they know and understand that true power and success is LOVE. The number-ones are those who understand that the game of life is played and won based on the honour system rooted in integrity and they live lives in which their thoughts; feelings; words; behavior; values; identity; beliefs harmonize.

The number-two are people who would rather make noise rather than make news. They never leave their comfort zones to make a mark in life because they are bound with fear; fear of losing; fear of rejection; fear of criticism and even fear of winning, shying away from the burden of responsibility and an exemplary life.

The number-three are outright losers. These are people who cheat their way through life. They are the put-downers and pull-downers; they are never content until they have pulled the number-ones down to their level. These are people who are selfish; greedy and corrupt and their desire is to profit at the expense of others. Envy and jealousy is their trademark.

The psychology of winning puts you ahead in the game of life.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 31

32 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 33

34—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Safety of pension assets is top priority, says Jonathan

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has assured workers and retirees, especially participants in the Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS, that protection of pension assets for the payment of retirement benefits, as and when due, is paramount to his government.

The President also explained that his government has restructured the administration of the defunct Defined Benefits Scheme, DBS, in the public service, by setting-up the Pension Transitional Arrangement Department, PTAD, and

pension was not only a vital component of social security, but also a veritable vehicle for nation building.

According to him, investment in pension had profound impact on the well-being of pensioners, society and the economy at large, stressing that “it is imperative that stakeholders in this life-shaping industry engage constantly in dialogue to bolster management frameworks and practices in their respective jurisdictions.”

He recalled that “In 2004, the Pension Reform Act was enacted by the Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, to address the recurring challenges experienced in the ad-

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Our goal is to digitize pension payments and streamline payment procedures to ensure prompt and ease payment of pension benefits

appointing its substantive head to improve the scheme.

Speaking while declaring open the World Pension Summit, WPS, ‘Africa Special’, President Jonathan noted that

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ministration of pension and to enhance efficiency in the system. This reform initiative established the Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS, for the public and private sectors. In

Group makes case for the elderly

BY Christopher Njoku

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ENTRE for Happy Eld erly People, CHEP, has called on government at all levels to take adequate care of the elderly in the country.

Coordinator of CHEP, and an educationist, Mrs. Lilian Jiringho, equally urged government to inculcate in the youths how to take care of the elderly. He spoke during a protest by the group in conjunction with S.M.A College and Little Land Junior School, Jakande Estate, Lagos, to mark the 2014 World Elderly Abuse Awareness Day, Appreciating the students for joining in the demonstration, she said: “There is a growing concern about the abuse of the elderly in our society. It is a serious problem that exists in every community and neighborhood, no matter the status.

Caring for the elderly can be achieved by building a close relationship with them, and making them happy. We are

calling on young people, to help speed up this message of care, because these elderly people are very sensitive, they always have self pity when you treat them badly.”

Stressing that government at all level must create an avenue where youths could be taught how to take care of the elderly, she said: “The government can join the International Network of Prevention of Elders Abuse (INPEA) in the campaign against the abuse meted on the elderly. They should develop standards and system of accountability, by creating an agency where elderly abuse will be reported, thus cautioning the younger people on how they treat the elderly. The elderly are abused daily in several ways such as physical, verbal, emotional, sexual abuses, neglect and abandonment, she added that “Care for the elderly should be introduced to primary, secondary and tertiary institutions and geriatric institutions should be established across the country.”

SUMMIT: From left, Mrs Grace Usoro, Chairman, Work Group on World Pension Summit, WPS, 'Africa Special'; Harry Smorenberg, Co-Chairman, WPS; Acting Director-General of PenCom, Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu; President Goodluck Jonathan; Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance; Eric Eggink, Co-Chairman, WPS and Senator Aloysius Etok, Chairman, Senate Committee on Establishment at the summit.

10 years of sustained policy innovation and meticulous management, these have facilitated confidence and credibility in our pension system and administration. It also strengthened our pension institutions, as we transited from a deficit of about N2 trillion (USD 12.9b) in 2004 to accumulate pension assets of over N4.21 trillion (USD27.2b)

by March this year.

“As provided by the Act, we have restructured the system of administration of the defunct Defined Benefits Scheme, DBS, in the public service, by setting-up the Pension Transitional Arrangement Department (PTAD) and appointing its substantive Head, in order to improve the scheme. Our goal is to digitize pension payments and

streamline payment procedures to ensure prompt and ease payment of pension benefits.”

Speaking on the 2014 Pension Reform Act, PRA, he recently signed into law, the President said “I signed into law, the new Pension Reform Act 2014, which repealed the 2004 Pension Reform Act. The new law seeks to consolidate the gains of reform, address the identified implementation challenges and provide the enabling legal environment to facilitate the creation of quality instruments through which pension assets could be best invested for infrastructure and real estate development. I am confident that these fresh initiatives will assist us to consolidate the remarkable achievements recorded by the

National Pension Commission (PenCom) in the implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme, over the last ten years, for the benefit of contributors, and the entire economy.

“It is our expectation that PenCom would put in place the necessary regulatory and supervisory framework to facilitate and accelerate the objectives of the reform. Most especially, ensuring the safety of pension assets and hence, workers' security in retirement.

I believe that other African countries share similar experiences, and reform zeal, as Nigeria and it is encouraging that a number of African countries have visited Nigeria, to understudy our pension reform and share ideas which we believe can be useful to the entire continent.”

Lagos pensioners receive N3.5bn retirement bonds

By Olasunkanmi Akoni & Monsur Olowoopejo

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agos State Government has disbursed over N3.5 billion as retirement bonds to 791 retirees in the last six months. With this, over N26, 216 billion had been disbursed to 4,990 retirees till date.

Director-General, DG, of the Lagos State Pension Commission, LASPEC, Mr. Rotimi Hussein announced this at the presentation of 11th Retirement bond certificate at Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.

Hussein said 437 of the total 791 retirees mainly drawn from local government councils and the State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, were paid over N1.7 billion two months ago., saying “Today, the remaining 354 retirees that complete the tranche of the 11th bond presentation will be receiving their retirement benefits. These beneficiaries will smile home with over N1.7 billion being their accrued rights for past service to the state prior to the commencement of the Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS in April 2007."

The DGl noted that since the commence-

ment of the CPS till date, the state has paid over N26, 216 billion to 4,990 retirees from the state public service.

According to him, “This is the commitment of the present administration led by the state Governor Babatunde Fashola, to ensure that no civil servant in the state's employ retires into penury. Our records showed that the state has, from inception of the scheme till date, contributed N51, 640, 229, 895 being the monthly deduction of 7.5 percent from the salary of every employee. While the counterpart 7.5 percent contribution by the state government into the Retirement Savings Account, RSA has increased to N77.5 billion.”

Earlier, State Head of Service, HOS, Mrs. Oluseyi William, represented by Mrs. Raolat Alaka, urged the retirees to live within their means and not get involved in any unfamiliar business which could make them fall victim of fraudsters.

According to her, “people will come to you with different feasibility studies or business ideas, please be careful and ensure that you understand the business before investing your retirement benefits.”

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—35

NECA, Labour, FG seek industrial peace

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HE occasion was the 57th annual general meeting of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), held at NECA House, Ikeja Business District in Lagos. Captains of industries or their representatives were present. Other social partners — the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress were also represented at the highest level— by NLC president, Abdulwaheed Omar and Boboi Kaigama respectively. Gover nment was represented by the Ministry of Labour and Productivity.

Expectedly, issues related to the business , industrial relations and the economy at large were discussed. This edition of Labour Vanguard shares the views expressed with readers.

BY FUNMI KOMOLAFE & VICTOR AHIUMA-YOUNG

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ECA’S outgoing president, Chief Richard Uche spoke of socio-economic issues of concern to all citizens. In particular, he told the audience why jobs may continue to remain scarce.

He said: “The twin evils of high youth unemployment and expanding frontiers of insecurity have continued to shrink the social and economic space of our country. If the truth must be told, the environment for business has become increasingly hostile and dis-enabling.

This development has not only led to higher incidence of our mortality among small and medium scale enterprises, SMEs, but has also constituted encumbrance for the entrance of our youths into entrepreneurship.”

Chief Uche explained that with the current situation, the private sector may be unable to create the jobs that Nigerians, especially youths desire so much.

What is to be done? He sent a message to the government. “Our clear message to government is that the way forward to our myriads

moderate progress that has been made, the fact still remains that we are far away from Eldorado.”

Industrial relations: Expectedly, NECA is concerned about the spate of industrial unrests and what it identified as the failure of unions to adhere to grievance-settling procedures.

For the umbrella body of organized private employers, the out-going president spoke of the “imperative to maintain ndustrial harmony” .

Uche recalled that “in the past two years, we have almost shouted ourselves hoarse on the decadent state of industrial relations in Nigeria. All we can see in our industrial relations milieu is the festering of impunity; illegal strikes, property vandalism in the course of strikes, rising indiscipline by trade union officials, disdain for Labour Ministry intervention and indifference by security outfits. This certainly cannot be the right context for Nigeria to maximize productivity.”

NECA therefore suggested: “First, we want to appeal to our trade union brothers and sisters to respect the rules and laws in Nigeria on dispute settlement.

We also want to appeal to the

,

Grievances and conflicts in the workplace always have potential multiplier effect on almost all the sectors of the economy

of social problems is through creation of an enabling environment that is supportive of sustainable enterprise. It is enterprises that provide jobs. A wellengaged and fulfilled youth will see the reason for living and will shun any allure of mischief and evil.”

He however acknowledged that Government has not been indifferent but that more needs to be done. Chief Uche said, “While noting the strident efforts of Government to promote meaningful socio-economic development and the

,

law enforcement agencies to protect the rights of employers anytime the unions deem it necessary to exercise their right to picket or strike. Perhaps, in the light of the events that have transpired in the last three years which have pointed to the capability of the union to mobilize and manage its members, we believe the time is right for the government to amend the Trade Union Act in order to allow trade unions to directly collect check-off dues from their members. We want to assure the unions that we will create a con-

Mrs. Amahian J, Deputy Director, Trade Union and Industrial Services; Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Chief Richard Uche, immediate Past President of NECA and Mr. Segun Osinowo, NECA Director-General, during the 57th AGM in Lagos. ducive atmosphere for them to discharge these responsibilities as had been then case in the pre-1978 industrial relations dispensation in Nigeria.”

NECA’s position, to enlightened minds, may be seen as a subtle “strategy to weaken the unions” though it would put an end to “armchair unionism.”

NECA prefers that trade unions earn their dues NLC reaction: Expectedly, this drew a reaction from the NLC president, Comrade Abudulwaheed Omar who opposed this saying that “ this would not stem the tide of industrial crises”. In his opinion, NECA’s suggestion will only create more tension in the workplace.

Trampling on workers'rights Rather , Omar suggested that employers should learn to take workers into confidence, especially on decisions that would impact directly on the employees. He said many employers would rather trample on workers' rights by making employees have an agreement that “they would not be members of trade unions.”

Minister of Labour: The Minister of labour, Chief Emeka Wogu who was represented by Mrs Amahian J, Deputy Director, Trade Unions and Industrial Relations Services, also expressed concern about conflicts in the workplace.

Wogu said: “Grievances and conflicts in the workplace always have potential multiplier effects on almost all the sectors of the economy. There is the need for effective management strategies to confront the peculiar concerns in the workplace, as most of these challenges have no simple solutions. “ His suggestion: “I propose no singular panacea either but a general perspective that would principally encourage a

paradigm shift from the narrow entrenched views to a broader inclusive analysis."

The minister also said “one major cause of these conflicts and grievances in the workplace is the issue of non-procedural declaration of redundancy by the employers/management without wider consultation with workers’ representatives.”

He also called on employers to protect workers by desisting from giving jobs meant for Nigerians to expartiates.

In Wogu’s words, “ the right of workers to rise to any position in the workplace should be guaranteed and encouraged by all and sundry. This should minimize or alleviate the incessant grievances and conflicts in the workplace and should therefore curb the issue of impunity and abuse of rights by the expatriates.”

Collective Agreement: Labour Minister Wogu spoke of the need “ for respect of the sanctity of duly signed collective agreement which is expected to come into being by dialogue between the employers and workers. It should be sacrosanct until it expires. Expired agreements should be renegotiated as at when due to avoid unnecessarily over-heating the workplace. Grievances arising from expired collective agreements are legitimate and should be promptly attended to.”

Speaking, President of Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, Comrade Bobboi Kaigama, said only industrial justice where employees get fair share of the organisation’s growth can guarantee industrial peace.

He advocated for good governance at work place, calling on NECA to ensure that members imbibe the culture of good governance, decrying employers growing anti-union posture, warning that such behavior would definitely not guarantee industrial peace.

BITS Bit

Aturu for burial tomorrow

F

OREMOST labour lawyer and rights activist, Bamidele Francis Aturu, who died Wednesday, July 9, will be buried tomorrow at Ogbagi-Akoko, Ondo State.

A burial programme released by the Joint Action Front, JAF, showed that the rites began Tuesday with “the Bamidele Aturu Colloquium /Day of Tributes”, which took place at Millennium Secondary School, opposite Bamidele Aturu & Co. Law Chambers.

According to the statement, there was “Service of Songs”

by The Redeemed Christian Church of GOD, RCCG, at the same secondary school, opposite Bamidele Aturu & Co. Law Chambers and a “Candlelight Procession/Solidarity Night” at same venue.

JAF said there would be “Session by Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch today, at NBA, Ikeja Secretariat, State High Court Premises, Ikeja.

Similarly, there would be “Commendation Service” today at , Victory Mega Chapel, Abebi Close, Off Olatunji Street, Ojota, Ogudu Road, Ojota, Lagos State, after which body leaves for Ogbagi-Akoko, Ondo State, for burial tomorrow.

36 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

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VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—37

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH & BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

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T was a day of glowing trib utes for late human rights activist, Bamidele Francis Aturu as jurists, lawyers and rights activists came together at a colloquium in his honour in Lagos. It was indeed a gathering of who is who in the human rights community and the Bar. Since his sudden demise on July 9, Aturu’s Olufeso residence, Agege, Lagos has been a beehive of activities as friends, colleagues and admirers trooped in to sympathise with the family and sign the condolence register.

The final rites for the late activist began Tuesday with a colloquium, followed by Service of songs and candlelight procession/solidarity night.

His interment tomorrow at Ogbagi, Akoko, Ondo state is preceded by a valedictory session today by the Ikeja branch of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, at its secretariat.

Speaking at the colloquium, a presiding judge of National Industrial Court (NIC), Lagos Division, Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip, urged Nigerians to value human rights so as to make the deceased rest in peace.

“There is something about him that is difficult to describe.

Bamidele has lost more cases before me than he has won, yet he will say that was not a definition of his relationship with judges. So I urge us all to value human rights because that is the least we can do to make him (Aturu) rest in peace.

“It was really a shock to all of us at the Industrial Court

•Late Bamidele Aturu

Glowing tribute as Aturu goes home tomorrow rights community will miss him. Some people are human rights activist just to be noticed and some are doing it in order to make

,

The sudden demise of Aturu, who never take a back bench in the activities leading to the exit of the military junta in the country.

He was a master planner and quick at execution of activities to promote justice and equity when we heard of his demise.

Bamidele Aturu was my very close friend. We served in the Technical Committee of Labour Laws in Abuja. I was for the government, while he was for the labour. Since 2003, we have a shared relationship,” the judge said.

A Senior Advocate of Ni geria, Alhaji Ganiyu Adetola Kazeem said, “the legal profession and entire human

,

contribution. I think Bamidele Aturu belong to the latter. I am not an activist but I have a son who is a human rights activist.

Definitely, Bamidele has left his mark and he will not be forgotten in a hurry.”

Another senior advocate and a rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana while commenting on his relationship with Aturu noted that

he had always charge the late lawyer to always to take his fees from the rich to service the poor.

“As a lawyer operating in a capitalist environment, I used to harass him to charge clients but he did not know how to charge fees.

I always urge him to take his fees from the rich to service the poor.

He was just learning that. He did many cases free of charge,” he stated.

On whether he thinks the religious affiliation of late Aturu affected his activism, Falana said “he believes in liberation theology. In his commitment to the struggle, he was a man of Jesus Christ.

He did not entertain any debate in regard to his religion. And we respected him for that. His religion actually reinforced his commitment to the struggle. He believes that Jesus Christ was a human rights activist.”

To Mr. Wale Ogunade, also a lawyer and rights activist, Aturu’s

death was a big loss to the Nigerian human rights community and the development of the law profession.

Veracity of controversial laws He said: “He always stood on the path of truth and that was why he was never tainted in anyway as an activist. He was one of the few good lawyers who is always ready to test the veracity of controversial laws.”

Chairman of the Ikeja Bar, Mr Yinka Farounbi, who also poured encomium on the departed lawyer, said: “Aturu will always come around to participate in the activities of the Bar, especially all that will enhance the growth and the development of the law.”

Mrs Ayo Obe, who also is a member of the burial planning committee regretted, “the sud-

den demise of Aturu, who never take a back bench in the activities leading to the exit of the military junta in the country. He was a master planner and quick at execution of activities to promote justice and equity.”

Speaking on the theme: “ Struggle for social change in Nigeria”, Prof. Princewill Alozie of the Lagos State University (LASU) extolled Aturu’s virtue for devoting all his life for social change in Nigeria.

While noting that no struggle in Nigerian history has ever been easy, he called for Nigerians to brace up and fight for societal emancipation.

Human rights activist and Senior Lecturer at the Ibadan Polytechnic, Femi Aborishade, noted that late Aturu was not just a rights activist but a prodemocracy campaigner.

Continues on page 38

Adekoya urges lawyers to demand NBA Assistant Publicity Secretary Page 39 probity, ethical conduct advocates electoral reforms Page 39

38—VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Glowing tribute as Aturu goes home tomorrow Continues from page 37 Aborishade said: “Bamidele Aturu was not just a human rights and pro-democracy activist. He did not just mouth radical slogans for popular change. He lived the change that he advocated. I am a living witness of his uncommon humanness.

“I first became aware of the existence of comrade Bamidele Aturu when in the mid 80s he rejected an award that was to be bestowed on him as a distinguished member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) by the then military governor, Colonel Lawan Gwadabe of Niger State. His rejection of the award was based mainly on his utter aversion for military dictatorship.”

According to the chair man, BF Burial Media & Publications Committee, Mr Lanre Arogundade, pointed out that no news has in recent times jolted the ranks of the labour, youths and civil society movement in Nigeria, than the sudden demise of Bamidele Aturu (BF).

Inspiring figure “Understandably, there was disbelief, bewilderment and pang that yet another motivating and inspiring figure in the struggle for the revolutionary transformation of Nigeria from inhuman capitalist exploitation and its attendant poverty to a society where life is made abundant for all, has departed,” he said.

President, Campaign for Democracy (CD), Dr Joe OkeiOdumakin, on her part, opined that late Aturu’s life was dedicated to the cause for social change, defence of the weak and expansion of democratic frontiers.

In her words: “Aturu’s death came as a real shock. His life was dedicated to the cause for social change, defence of the weak and expansion of democratic frontiers. Aturu, from

EDITORIAL TEAM Innocent Anaba ( Head) Wahab Abdulah Ikechukwu Nnochiri Dayo Benson (Supervising Editor) 08056180119 dayobenson@yahoo.com

group, said majority of Nigerians were disillusioned with the situation of the country, hence the pain for the exit of Aturu at this time the country needed him. he said : “The high rate of unemployment, poverty and corruption in the country was some of the things Aturu fought against. We must use the social media to create a mass movement in the struggle for change in Nigeria. Aturu is gone, he had left the duty for us.” Iwerre emphasized.

In his contribution, a representative of Organised Labour, Mr Issa Aremu, said the late human rights activist defended the various affiliates of Labour in court for free at several occasions. ”We must rise up for fairness and justice the way Aturu rose up for a better Nigeria. He never looked back, he never exercised fear. ”The best way we can honour him is to continue the struggle where he has left us. On several occasion, Aturu will be at the vanguard to defend the defenseless Nigerians. He was a rare gem, who used all what God gave him to defend the masses. He was part of the brains who drafted the labour law we are having today.” Aremu said.

S

From left: Alhaji Adetola Kazeem, SAN; Mr. Femi Falana,SAN; Mrs. Mma Odi and Lanre Arogundade. Pix by Lamidi Bamidele his days as student union activist, a sojourn, as a corp member and his legal profession, he was very symbolic.

No wonder he was to have traveled the day he died.

“We can never forget his uncommon courage, doggedness and dedication for the cause of the common man. Aturu will continue to live in the consciousness of the people. To live in the consciousness of the people is to live forever. If we have lot of people that practice what we say we will not be in this situation that we are. We have people who are so hypocritical, and do not live by their words. If we imbibe the virtues doing what we believe in, I truly think Nigeria will be a changed place.”

Human rights activist cum journalist, Mr Richard Akinnola, explained that four days before his death, late Aturu had a thanksgiving in his church, Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) where he danced like he knew he was going to die.

“He danced like he has nev-

er danced before. The second day, he went for a vigil at the Redeemed Christian Church of God and on Wednesday God called him home. For the first two days I had to go and watch Benson Idahosa’s last message before his death ti-

tled, “The Benefit of Death”.

That served as a therapeutic balm for me to overcome the shock of Aturu’s death,” Akinnola added.

Mrs Ngozi Iwerre, Executive Director, Community Life Action Project, a civil rights

From right: Justice Ebenezer Adebajo rtd, Chairman of the committee, Mr.Nurudeen Ogbara, Member of committee, and Mr.Jude Igbanoi member, take oat, during the swearing-in of the Tribunal of Enquiry into the Road Traffic Accident and Subsequent Vandalization of Bus Rapid Transit [BRT] at Palm-Grove along Ikorodu road on July 4th,2014.Photo: Bunmi Azeez

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—39

Adekoya urges lawyers to demand probity, ethical conduct Stories By Dayo Benson

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HE only female candidate in the just concluded Nigerian Bar Asssociation NBA, presidential election, Mrs Funke Adekoya, SAN has said lawyers should demand probity and ethical conduct that are in their best interest and hold elected officers accountable to the highest standard.

Mrs Adekoya who came third in the keenly conducted election stated this in a statement in which she conceeded victory to NBA president-elect, Mr Augustine Alegeh, SAN. According to her, “To the incoming President, I offer my congratulations. May the Almighty be your guide. Our members have spoken and I bow to their will. However, we must continue to demand probity, ethical conduct, policies that are in the best interests of lawyers, and hold our officers accountable to the highest standards” The statement read in part “from the 15th of May, 2014 when the election period officially commenced, I campaigned long and hard, traversing the nooks and crannies of Nigeria, engaging with our esteemed colleagues across the length and breadth of the nation to buy into the vision that we passionately canvassed to raise the Bar. I sought to restore this profession to its revered and respected status as the

voice of the voiceless Nigerian people and the defender of the interests of Nigerian legal practitioners. But it was not to be. Our members have spoken and we have a new president.

Let me give honour to whom it is due and use this opportunity to thank my husband, my sons and my family members who were the pillars behind me; they supported and encouraged me and urged me on. I acknowledge and thank all my many supporters who stood by me and what I stand for, who remained true to their conscience, and who stood up to be counted when it mattered most.

I appreciate your tireless efforts, sacrifices, encouragement and prayers. The kind of unprecedented support in various forms that I have received in the last two months has renewed my faith in humanity.

One colleague supported my campaign by sending me 5 recharge cards, with an apology that she could not afford more.

To all of you, I can only say that I thank you most sincerely and pray that the Almighty God will honour you in due season. You all are the true winners.

In this race, I have had the privilege of meeting colleagues from all over our great nation and cultivated lifelong friendships.

Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) held its Delegate Conference in Abuja between July 14 to 15 in which new national officers were elected.

NBA President-elect Mr. Augustine Alegeh SAN and some newly elected officers.

L-R: Incoming NBA National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Gbolahan Gbadamosi, Chief John Ochogha , Former NBA-SPIDEL Chairman, Chief J.K. Gadzama SAN and Joseph Nwobike SAN

NBA Assistant Publicity Secretary advocates electoral reforms

O

UTGOING Assistant Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA Mr John Austin Unachukwu, has called on the incoming president of the Mr Augustine Alegeh SAN to carry out a holistic reform of the Association’s processes to make it seamless, less rigorous, transparent and credible.

Unachukwu, was disqualified on the eve of the election from contesting the office of the publicity secretary election on the eve of the election by the Electoral Committee on the ground that he would be 10 years at the Bar in October this year but his Lagos branch insisted that he was 10 years at the Bar last year and he started paying Bar Practising Fees to the association and the branch accordingly.

In a press statement which he signed , Unachukwu frowned at the situation which he described as “ Disqualification by ambush, a situation where nomination papers were opened one month after the close of nominations, candidates (were) screened a week before the election, the results of the screening (were) not made known to candidates, only for some of them to be told of their disqualification on the eve of the election when they came for accreditation and presentation of their manifestoes, no formal or prior information of

disqualification was given to the affected candidates” Speaking further, he complained that” Some other contestants were disqualified and nobody told them anything except that they did not find their names on the list of qualified candidates to contest the election and ballot papers displayed on the evening before the election. “ It has become imperative for the NBA National Executive Committee (NEC) to pass a resolution on how the number of years of call to the Bar is computed in the association, whether the year of call is part of the years or not, this will reduce or completely eliminate the ambiguity surrounding the interpretation of the years now.

Nooks and crannies “ A situation where candidates travelled to all the nooks and crannies of this country campaigning, canvassing for votes and continued the campaigns at the election venue only to be informed that the list of candidates was just posted on a notice board, (and) their names (were) not listed as contestants in the election and no opportunity (was) given to them to appeal such an action is highly undemocratic, condemnable, dictatorial and amounts to disqualification by ambush, he added.

Electoral officers sorting ballots at the end of voting

Some of the delegate casting their vote

Delegates on queue waiting to cast their votes

40 —V anguard —Vanguard anguard,, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 —41

42—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Kwara:

Stability and other issues

The prospects of Kwara State under the political leadership of Senator Bukola Saraki derailing from the path of stability are avoidable

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

I

T is doubtful that Governor Ab dul-Fatah Ahmed of Kwara State could have trudged otherwise; certainly not, given the political heritage that was bequeathed to him in 2011.

The immediate past governor of the state, Dr. Bukola Saraki at the end of an engaging eight year run had handed over the baton to Ahmed, the erstwhile commissioner of finance with a mandate from him and the electorate to sustain the dramatically altered landscape birthed by Saraki. How Ahmed has soldiered in the last three years can be vividly deciphered in the way and manner the governor has touched the lives of the citizenry.

Whatever is his testimonial, Ahmed and the party he now represents, that is the Saraki led All Progressives Congress, APC would have to confront the serious offensive championed by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to recover the state following the defection of Saraki and his followers from the party to the APC

sustenance of the much applauded agriculture schemes conceived by the Saraki administration.

For an administration relatively shy in propagating its achievements, a recent lecture delivered by the governor was an opportunity to decipher the thrusts and touches of the three year administration.

It was not surprising that Governor Ahmed took particular note of the administration’s efforts in empowering youths, a situation that has made Kwara to be a haven of peace and safety even in the midst of serious security challenges across most of the north.

“This reality is partly responsible for our commitment to youth development which is also driven by our quest to ensure that this largest component of our population is also its most productive.”

“Within the last three years in Kwara State, we have employed 10,200 youths apart from generating a greater number of opportunities in the informal sector by mobilising the economy through various loans to our people

,

How Ahmed has soldiered in the last three years can be vividly deciphered in the way and manner the governor has touched the lives of the citizenry

last year.

The PDP is presently priming its hopes of retaking the state through a number of gubernatorial hopefuls among whom are Senator Makunjola Ajadi, Senator Simon Ajibola, Mr. Dele Belgore, Prof. Shuiab Oba. There is equally word about the prospects of the emergence of the Alhaji Jani Ibrahim, chairman of Lubcon Oil Limited who had until now operated from the background.

The PDP’s determination to win back the state would, however, be a serious challenge given the determination of the mainstream of the APC leadership and the government to follow the path of continuity as first scripted by Saraki.

For Governor Ahmed, a governor who has garnered much acclaim for his intellectual grasp on issues it is remarkable that his delivery has not stopped at elocution, but that he has moved on from policy formulation to programme delivery.

Among the landmark initiatives of the governor are those directed at youth empowerment, infrastructure development and the

,

amounting to N640m.”

Noting the threat posed by the mass of unemployed youths across the country, the governor said “Indeed, popular uprising usually thrives on underlying discontent that is distinct from the ostensible trigger as demonstrated by the Arab Spring which started with a street trader’s selfimmolation in Tunisia.”

Governor Ahmed was of course not oblivious of the direct linkage between youth participation and engagement in the sustenance of democracy saying, “Any effort to entrench true democracy must therefore see to the empowerment of our youth through productive engagement and functional education for participatory governance is not for the hungry.”

Another area where the present administration has scored well is in the area of education, building upon the legacy of his predecessor.

“We have also made our education more functional by prioritising vocational skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training at secondary and tertiary levels.”

The governor spoke against the

•Ahmed background of the administration’s capacity to mobilise the limited resources available to it in the promotion of the general good propounding that “those who will survive the current economic uncertainty are not those with abundant resources but those who are resourceful and work outside the box. I make bold to assert that Kwara state’s continuity programme has benefited the state immensely and instilled

greater hope in our democracy.”

“We started with the diversification of our economy from a civil service state depending largely on the federation account to a state depending on agriculture and evolving an investmentfriendly environment built on industrial harmony, modern infrastructure, a conducive tax regime and a largely crime-free and peaceful environment.

“The benefits include but are

not limited to the iconic Shonga Farms, increased inflow of investments, the only Cargo Terminal with a wet station in the zone, a Youth Farm Settlement, an International Aviation College, and the International Vocational Centre, Ajasse Ipo. These have combined to establish our state as the agriculture hub of the sub-region and created an expanding crop of youth entrepreneurs,” Ahmed disclosed.

How Chime charmed us i Hon John Ezievuo who is the Special Assistant to Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State on Health Matters. In this interview with newsmen, Ezievuo bares his mind on the personality, performance and perceptions of the governor among other issues.

I

By Henry Umoru, Assistant Political Editor

N your candid opinion, what is happening in Enugu state?

ENUGU Sstate is very calm; Enugu state is working. Anybody who has been to Enugu recently or who was there years back would not recognize Enugu. Politically, it is calm; security wise, it is calm and everything is functioning properly, all in the right direction.

What would you describe as the governor’s landmark achievement so far?

Sullivan Chime, like I said, is a God-sent man.

I don’t know what Enugu State could have been without that man. He is like a messiah. I don’t know what the state could have been without him.

Are you saying this because of your association with him?

I am not saying this because of my association with him or because I have been with him. Somebody said you don’t need a mirror to look at your palm to see what you have. It is there. It speaks for itself. He is a silent achiever who does not blow his trumpet. But all achievements are

present there for all to see.

In specific terms, which areas has Chime really touched the Enugu people?

He touches people in all areas. When he came in, he came up with a four point agenda. But when you look at what he is doing, it looks like he expanded it to 12 point agenda. Because he has touched people in the area of health, in the area of education, massive infrastructural developments et cetera.

In view of the position you are holding in Enugu state, what would you say you have contributed to the development of the state?

I have contributed to the health centre in my place and other communities. In the area of health, we are really doing a lot. I have barely been there for two years and you have to get into the system, get your foot in and assess whatever you can assess both in overseas and here. Right now, most of them have not materialized. So, I am not going to talk about them until they come to light. I have a lot of programmes both from overseas and from here that can improve on what I am doing now.

How would you assess the National Assembly?

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—43

Lagos APC: PDP has taught us a lesson in Ekiti Joe Igbokwe is the Publicity Secretary of the Lagos State capter of All Progressives Congress, APC. In this interview, he speaks on the the stability of the party in Lagos, the 2015 general elections and issues from the last election in Ekiti among others.

A

PC preparation for 2015 general elections in Lagos APC Lagos is leaving no stone unturned given the setbacks we had in Ekiti State recently.

More than ever before we are fighting and digging deep as if we are in the opposition. From state to the 57 LGAs, and to the 377 Wards we are playing the real politics, realising that all politics are local.

Challenge of stomach infrastructure I have told you that Ekiti people have added new words to our political lexicon and that is STOMACH INFRASTRUCTURE. We will play the politics to the letter. We will face the challenge with all the energy at our disposal. We have rice in abundance especially the one produced in Ikorodu, Lagos. We are doing other things which time and space will not permit me to recount here. Lagos has the capacity to carry out any assignment without let or hindrance. Thank God we got seven months notice from Ekiti people that political equation in Nigeria has changed from politics of ideas to politics of the stomach. The ruling party, PDP has impoverished Nigerians in the past 16 years and they are now using stolen money to buy

votes. The new trend in Nigerian politics is to get to the office, create poverty and steal as much as you can.

Qualities expected from the next governor Incumbent Governor Babatunde Fashola is leaving behind big shoes and anybody who will occupy that exalted office must be a leader of leaders. He must be lettered in the art of governance. He must be bold, experienced, firm, strong, courageous, widely traveled, widely exposed and very deep.

He must have passion for service.

Developmental orientation He must be a good mobiliser, friend of the poor, and must have a third eye. He must have a developmental orientation, he is not a hut builder. He must have a big heart. He must believe in government of small things as well as government of big things.

Only the best is good for Lagos because Lagos is not a place for mediocrity.

Challenges next governor will confront Development is work in progress. He will continue where Governor Fashola will stop. The incoming governor will have 25 million Lagosians to contend

with. Building infrastructure will continue to pose a big challenge in Lagos until every road, every street is upgraded in Lagos.

Astronomical growth in L a g o s population will continue to be a challenge, Security will always pose a challenge.

Transportation, housing, r e f u s e disposal,

•Igbokwe: Ekiti upset cannot be repeated in the Southwest

jobs among others will continue to be the big issue. The challenge to make Lagos to remain the Centre for Excellence will always be there. Critics will be there to put him on the hot seat. The challenge to make Lagos the first destination among African cities will always be there.

Candidate emerging through consensus or primaries Please leave this great assignment for the party leaders.

Lagos is not in short supply of

n Enugu – Ezievuo

•Ezievuo They are doing very well. But there can always be room for improvement. And the country is going in the right direction in that aspect.

You have been in the United States for years. How close are you to your people?

Oh! I am very, very close to my people.

I am very close to my community, doing things for my community and very close to my people. I do whatever I can for my people, most importantly, the less privileged in terms of bore holes. I can’t name them, but I am doing a lot for my people.

What advice would you give his successor?

Like I said, he is not autocratic. He has already told the north to provide us with somebody. He has told them to go and sit, negotiate and see within themselves and give us somebody who can take over from him.

We need somebody who can keep the standard. We cannot go below where we are now. We need somebody to keep the pace because everybody remembered the state of dilapidation that my state was before he came to power. We would not like to go there anymore.

What is your take on the security challenge in the country?

The security challenge in the country is a big problem but every country has its challenges. Even the United States have challenges. What is happening in Nigeria is not different from what is happening in other areas. It can happen anywhere.

great leaders but only one out wonderful development that of 14 governorship aspirants will borders on justice, equity, and be victorious. In taking the fair play. I am inclined to think decision a lot is going to be that it is good for the considered. If we make a commonwealth. I have no doubt mistake we may end up with a in my mind that APC Lagos will meretricious mediocrity. The key in to this development. It is leaders must be extremely fair to all concerned and it is careful now that ethnic and going to be beneficial to all. religious politics are taking the Agitation for a Christian front seat in Nigeria. Our leaders governor must shine their eyes because In 1993 nobody raised any APC Lagos will not go into 2015 eyebrow when Nigerians voted elections with a divided house. for the late Chief MKO Abiola What is APC doing to and Babagana Kingibe, both of prevent the repeat of the Ekiti them Muslims. Now 22 years episode in Osun?

Going by the thinking of the What happened party’s leadership in Lagos, the in Ekiti State will never, never Lagos West has produced a happen in Osun governor, the Lagos Central State. Ekiti State was stolen and has produced one and now is that robbery is the turn of Lagos East to unacceptable in Osun State. Even occupy the exalted seat though we know PDP very well after, PDP has dragged Nigeria and their ugly antecedents we into ethnic and religious politics. thought they will respect This is unfortunate. I know that themselves in Ekiti and play to Christians in Lagos have been the rules but a leopard cannot asking for a Christian candidate change its skin. They will meet in Lagos because Muslim their waterloo in Osun State. In governors have ruled Lagos Osun State, PDP will meet a since 1999. They have the right lion in Governor Aregbesola. to do so and the leadership of Next council election in the party must listen to them.

Lagos?

We have to live with it.

Please leave that decision for PDP has inflicted mediocrity, the governor and the leadership ethnicity, tribalism, of the party in Lagos. When the sectionalism, sycophancy, and time comes the elections will politics of infrastructure of the hold. stomach in Nigeria. Nigeria is On zoning of governorship retrogressing, and moving slot dangerously into a state of Going by the thinking of the anything goes. May we never party’s leadership in Lagos, the crash this democracy? Lagos Lagos West has produced a wants a good Governor, a governor, the Lagos Central has thinking Governor and a goal produced one and now is the getter. You can find a good turn of Lagos East to occupy the Governor from every religion. exalted seat. I think this is a

,

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

,

44 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—45

AIR FORCE CRASH: Missing crew resurfaces

Jonathan mobilisation group targets S'East

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

By Kingsley Omonobi

A

BUJA—THE Defence headquarters has said that the engineer and crew member of the crashed Air Force Mi-35 Helicopter earlier declared missing, has been found alive.

A statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Chis Olukolade, read: “The crew member, who was declared missing when his body could not be located in the vicinity of the crash, resurfaced at the military headquarters in Maiduguri today, having trekked through the bushes after the crash.

“It is thus confirmed that Flight Lieutenant N. M. Halilu, co-pilot and Warrant Officer Augustine Nwanonenyi, the aircraft technician, survived the crash, while Flight Lieutenant Onyeka Nwakile was the only one lost in the crash.

“The family of the officer has been duly informed, while the two survivors are in stable condition.

“Search and rescue operation on the incident has been concluded, while investigation into the crash continues.”

The aircraft is the number one attack helicopter in the Nigerian Air force fleet.

It is a gunship capable of multiple roles and an air power asset also in the fleet Russia, China and South Africa, with the US having its own version, called the Apache.

A

DINNER: From left— Mazi Ohubunwa, Gen. Oladayo Popoola; Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Israel Popoola; Chairman, Board of Fellows, Phamaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, and Mr. Babatunde Aiku (SAN), guest speaker, during the 2014 mid-year meeting and annual dinner of the board of PSN in Ibadan. PHOTO: Dare Fasube.

Nigeria, US sign MoU on police training

By Kingsley Omonobi

A

BUJA—THE United States Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Office and the Nigerian Police, yesterday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, on Police Training Modernisation.

The MoU, which was signed on behalf of the US State Department by Ambassador James Entwistle and Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, for Nigeria, is to strengthen the criminal justice system; improve the capacity of officers in the area of technologies; and effectively address issues of insurgency confronting the nation, especially in the north-eastern part of the country.

In his remarks, Entwitsle

noted that the Police Force would benefit from the International Police Education and Training Programme run by the US authorities, with funding from the US State Department.

He said the training pact would help to improve and modernise police training in Nigeria and bring about the highest standards of ethical conduct, proficiency in law enforcement and sustainable development.

Awards for officers

In a related development, the IGP yesterday gave awards to police officers who have distinguished themselves in the performance of their duties.

Among the officers are the Commissioner of Police in charge of INTERPOL, DCP Adeyemi Ogunjemulisi and the Commissioner of Police in charge Federal SARS, DCP Chris Ezike.

In his remarks, the IG commended the officers for bringing considerable improvement, respect for the rule of law and human rights, to the Force Criminal Investigations Department.

He said: “Under the new dispensation, those who cannot fit into the new era of change, if caught, will be shown the way out of the force.”

He advised officers wishing to join the train of award winners to shun acts of corruption, indiscipline and imbibe the act of respecting the rights of the citizens they were employed to serve.

Earlier, the IGP received officials of the Department for International Development, DFID, who made a formal presentation of strategic guidelines on counter-terrorism and eight other core areas of policing to the force.

NYSC to place corps members on civil service salary scale

By Caleb Ayansina

A

BUJA— THE National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, is working with the National Salaries and Wages Commission, NSWC, to place corps members on a public service salary scale.

The Director-General of NYSC, Brig. Gen. Johnson Olawumi, who disclosed this in Abuja, noted that the move would stop frequent agitation for a review of corps members’ allowances.

Olawumi said the series of attempts made by the scheme

to secure adjustment in the allowances of corps members at the National Assembly did not yield the desired result.

He maintained that the current N19,800 monthly allowances for corps members was inadequate in view of current economic realities in the country, noting that they were working closely with the wages commission to concretise the proposal.

On the forthcoming governorhip election in Osun State, Olawumi

assured that the scheme would not compromise as alleged by some politicians.

He said allegations by politicians that the scheme had compromised its partnership with the electoral body were unfounded and should be taken as political tactics.

Olawumi said: “We have some political parties also alleging that all my staff in Osun State have compromised and agitating that I should remove them. You are bound to see things like this in elections.

“I want to state categorically

that we do not just deploy these corps members for electoral duties, and as far as we are concerned, they are not the alpha and omega in elections; they are just playing a minute role.

“It is important to let you know that we do not just push them out. We conduct sensitisation training for them and in the cause of that, give them manual.

“We let them know that they are all adults and should be ready to face the consequences of whatever action they decide to take.”

BUJA— A political group working for the re-election of President Goodluck J o n a t h a n , Tr a n s f o r m a t i o n Ambassadors of Nigeria, TAN, said yesterday that it would soon commence mobilisation and nationwide rallies starting from the SouthEast geo-political zone.

The group also said the planned mass mobilisation drive would cut across the six geopolitical zones of the country, adding that the purpose for the mobilisation would, among others, include building and strengthening its structures in the 36 states of the federation as well as the 774 local government areas and in all the wards.

TAN’s Director of Communications and Strategy, Dr. Udenta O. Udenta, who disclosed the proposed action plan in Abuja, explained that the advocacy group had, as its cardinal objectives, propagation of the achievements of President Jonathan’s transformation agenda and to ensure that the president was re-elected in 2015.

He said apart from commanding over 300,000 followership on its Facebook page and Twitter account, TAN had millions of supporters across the country.

The Siege premiers today

I

N honour of Professor Wole Soyinka, who is celebrating his 80th birthday, Mr. Sam Omatseye, Chairman, Editorial Board, The Nation newspaper, is staging a play entitled The Siege, today by 5pm, at the Agip Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

The performance, which parades four foreign and 20 Nigerian actors, will be directed by Wole Ogundokun, one of Africa’s top directors.

46—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Katsina sets up mechanical windmillpowered boreholes in 16 LGs

K

AT S I N A— T H E Katsina State government has established mechanical windmill-powered boreholes in 16 local government areas to boost semi-urban water supply in the state.

The Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Gide Batagarawa, made this known in Doro while inspecting one of the projects.

Batagarawa, who expressed satisfaction with the work done, said the projects would be commissioned by Governor Ibrahim Shema after the Ramadan fast.

He said the administration had also completed six semi-urban water supply schemes in Kankia, Batsari, Danmusa, Mani, and Zango local councils.

The commissioner said a number of solar motorized boreholes had been drilled in rural areas across the state.

Zamfara Lawmaker accuses Commissioner of interfering in House affairs

BY SALISU MARADUN

G

USAU —THE Mi nority Whip of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Alhaji Ahmad Dole has accused the Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Ibrahim Birnin-Magaji of interfering in the internal affairs of the assembly, saying that it was wrong for Birnin-Magaji to have commented on last week’s crisis in the House which led to the breaking of the mace.

Dole spoke in an interview with Vanguard in Gusau, the state capital.

The Minority Whip further said that the Commissioner had no business whatsoever with what happened in the house describing him as ‘’a busy body.’’

Birnin-Magaji was earlier quoted as accusing some members of the House of having been procured by ‘’outside forces’’ to destabilise the state, following the free for all in the assembly about two weeks ago.

Plateau sacks 1,400 teachers with fake certificates J

OS—THE Plateau State Government yesterday, said it had dismissed 1,400 teachers found with fake certificates in the ongoing biometric data capturing exercise.

Mrs Lyop Mang, the Chairperson of the State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Jos. She said the institutions where the certificates were obtained had confirmed that the certificates were not authentic.

“In some cases, the certificate owners either did not complete their studies or simply failed to submit their projects.

“In some cases, the fake officers had carry-overs, which they abandoned and opted to procure fake certificates,” she said.

Mang said the biometric exercise embarked upon by SUBEB was to sanitise the sector and ensure that only qualified teachers were allowed to teach.

“The exercise, conducted in batches, is part of efforts by the Plateau State Government to improve standard of education in the state,” she said.

The chairperson said 13,000 teachers had been cleared, adding that those cleared had been paid their salaries up to date.

She appealed to the teachers

VISIT: From right; The Company Secretary/Legal Adviser of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited, Mrs. Funmi Adedibu; the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Bank, Mr. Ladi Balogun; the President/Chairman of Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Otunba (Mrs.) ‘Debola Osibogun and the Managing Director of FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Peter Obaseki, during a courtesy visit by CIBN’s new executives to the Bank yesterday. yet to be cleared to exercise patience as the verification was still ongoing.

Mang said the committee

was being meticulous to avoid discrepancies.

She advised the dismissed teachers, who had evidence to

counter the findings of the committee, to submit such evidences to their various institutions so that their cases would be reviewed

2015: Repeat your 2011 support for Jonathan, FCT minister tells Ndigbo

BY CHARLES NGBOLU

A

BUJA—MINISTER of Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Usman has called on the indigenes of the South East geo-political zone, to ensure that their support for

President Goodluck Jonathan’s electoral success in 2011, is replicated in 2015, saying that Igbo were key to the President’s re-election.

He said this in a speech titled: Transforming Nigeria: Building a Safe Peaceful,

Strong and Prosperous Nation at an award dinner convened by an Igbo group, Ndigboamaka in Lagos.

His words: ‘’The association comprising millions of Igbo professionals, traders and businessmen in Lagos mobi-

Clerics urge Boko Haram to embrace dialogue with FG

BY IFEYINWA OBI

I

RKED by the ravaging in surgency that has led to massive loss of lives and property, especially in the north-eastern region of the country, clerics under the aegis of the Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests’ Association (NCDPA), have called on members of the Islamist sect, Boko Haram to embrace the path of peace and consider the offer for dialogue by the Federal Government.

In a communique themed: “The Priest and the Law,” jointly signed by NCDPA President, Very Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Martin Onukwuba and the Secretary, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aladejana, after its 27th Annual General Meeting, at the Bishop Anthony Nwedo Pas-

toral Centre (BANPAC), Umuahia, Abia State, the group expressed worry that the activities of the sect has brought the country to its knees in terms of development in almost all the facet of national life.

It said: “Our country has been brought to its knees in terms of development in almost all the facets of our national life. This is as a result of the activities of the Islamic sect, the Boko Haram and its insurgency especially in the North East. We condemn in totality the activities of this sect, which has resulted in the killings of innocent people, destruction of public and private facilities, churches and mosques.

“We join other people of good will to sympathise with

the families of the over 200 abducted Chibok school girls in Borno State by the Boko Haram sect. Even as we continue to pray for their release, we call on members of this sect to consider the offer of the Federal Government for dialogue so that our land may enjoy peace once again.”

Expressing commitment to the civic responsibility of being law abiding citizens of the country, the priests, however, decried the wanton impunity and recklessness of political office holders, who are treated as sacred cows.

The clerics added, “On democracy and the rule of law, we understand that in law, there are no sacred cows and every citizen has the right to be treated equally with all other citizens before the law.''

lised millions of Ndigbo in Lagos, Southwest and Southeast to vote. ''They also offered other various supports to Mr. President’s campaign in 2011. We remain grateful for these contributions and hope you will repeat the same and even do more when the time comes. ‘’I will not fail to mention that recently, the FCT Administration signed an MoU with Messrs. Chikason Nig Ltd, a Nigerian business firm of South East extraction for the development of multibillion naira Abuja Downtown Mall.

“Abuja, therefore, is open for business and development to Igbos who are known for their enterprise both in Nigeria and the world over. You call it the Igbo spirit, but I call it the Nigerian Spirit and this why I call on you to bring more of your businesses to Abuja.”

Earlier President of the group, Mr Leonard Ogbonna said the association is an umbrella body of all the 58 major market associations and Igbo professionals in Lagos.

He further noted that the association has a membership strength of over 4.5 million people, who are spread all over the state.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—47

Katsina livestock traders lament low patronage

ADAMAWA GUBER BY-ELECTION: Marwa,

K

Y

ATSINA — LIVESTOCK traders in Malumfashi and Kafur markets in Katsina State have complained of low patronage ahead of the Eid-Fitr celebration.

A cross section of the traders who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Katsina, attributed the situation to the current security challenges in the country.

One of the traders in Kafur, Malam Umar Lawal, told NAN that traders coming to buy animals in bulk from Kafur, Malumfashi and Dayi this season had reduced compared to previous periods.

Lawal noted that currently, most of the animals were being returned unsold.

He observed that cases of cow rustling and armed robbery had also affected the market situation, leading to the drop in the prices of both small and big animals.

According to him, a cow worth N100,000 is currently selling for between N85,000 and N90,000 while a sheep of N25,000 is being sold for N20,000 or lower.

Another livestock seller in Malumfashi, Alhaji Ya’u Kara, expressed optimism that the dwindling market situation might improve when workers collected their salaries.

Kara urged transporters to lower the transportation fares in view of the availability of petroleum products.

Also commenting, the Chairman, Livestock Traders Union in Kafur, Alhaji Alhassan Umar, said the poor turnout of traders from distant places had hindered animal business.

Umar observed that traders from Rivers, Edo, Lagos, Anambra and Abuja, among other areas often patronise the market.

He, however, said at present, only a few show during the weekly market days, adding that their absence had lowered the prices of animals.

The chairman urged the government to expand the spaces allocated to livestock business in the markets in recognition of the revenue generated in livestock transaction.

A poultry farmer, Malam Mizanmilu Salisu, also said that the sale of eggs and chicken had also dropped but did not provide the statistics.

Girei, Ardo declare interest

By Umar Yusuf

OLA — GENERAL Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd) has declared his intention to vie for the governorship ticket of Adamawa State in the re-run election to fill the vacant position created by the impeachment of the former Governor Murtala Nyako.

Marwa told his supporters in Yola, yesterday, that his desire to contest for the exalted position is borne out of the fact that he has garnered enough experience as a Military Governor of Borno and Lagos States.

But, before he finished his declaration, another PDP

governorship aspiration for the by-election, Dr. Umar Ardo, declared that Buba Marwa was not qualified to contest the election because he has not got the waiver from the party.

However, before the latest declaration of both Marwa and Ardo, Senator Abubakar Girei had also indicated his interest, bringing the number so far to three.

Marwa, who addressed delegates and party supporters from Adamawa Central Senatorial zone, comprising eight of the 21 local governments in the state, said he would declare free education at all levels just as there would be free healthcare

in the state if he wins the byelection.

Marwa, who was a Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa, also declared that his exposure as a diplomat gave him an edge over other aspirants, saying he wants to rule Adamawa State to bring the state out of political doldrums and lack of development.

He further promised that if eventually voted into power, his administration would build an independent power plant that would take care of erratic power supply in the state and assured the people of good governance devoid of deceit and corruption as experienced in the past.

Immigration nabs human trafficking kingpin, rescues 5 victims

K

ATSINA —The Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, said it had arrested a human trafficking kingpin, Muntari Hamidu, 30, and rescued five victims in Katsina State.

The state Comptroller of NIS, Mr Emmanuel Ogbumuo, who disclosed this at a news conference, yesterday, in Katsina, said the suspect had been on the watch list for a long time.

Ogbumuo said the suspect was arrested in Maimujiya, a border town with Niger Republic, by a combined Immigration Border Patrol Team and the Nigerien Police, Monday.

The comptroller said the suspect was arrested together with five victims, three females and two males, aged between 20 and 25 years.

Biden honours Nigerian in US TechWomen training

BY EMEKAAGINAM

T

Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State (2nd left); member representing Bende in the state House of Assembly, Hon. P. C. Onyegbu (left); Lady Mercy Orji, wife of the governor (2nd right) and Chief Oni Igbokwe T. C. Chairman of Arochukwu Local Government Area arriving at Bende Local Government headquarters for the 2014 youth empowerment programme of Arochukwu, Ohafia and Bende at Bende Local Government headquarters.

AL-MAKURA: Drama as 4 Assembly members attempt to snatch Mace

By Abel Daniel

L

AFIA — THERE was drama at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, yesterday, when four members of the Assembly tried to snatch the mace to stall the adoption of the motion asking the state Chief Judge to constitute a seven-man panel to probe allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura.

This was even as heavily armed policemen and Armored Personnel Carriers were stationed at strategic places as well as within the Assembly premises and the road leading to it.

However, members of the House, who met for 20 minutes later, directed the state Chief Judge, Justice Suleiman Dikko to constitute a seven-man

investigative panel to probe allegations of gross misconduct levelled against Governor Umaru Al-Makura.

The motion asking Justice Dikko to set up the panel was moved by the Majority Leader of the House, Godiya Akwashiki (PDP- Udege/ Loko) in line with the provision of the 1999 Constitution as amended and seconded by Mohammed Baba-Ibaku (PDP- Nasarawa Eggon West).

When the motion was put into vote by the Speaker, Musa Ahmed, 20 of the 24 members voted in favour, while the four APC lawmakers opposed it.

The House, thereafter, directed the Clerk of the Assembly, Mr Ego Maikeffi, to urgently communicate its

decision to the Chief Judge, pointing out that the panel has one week to submit its report.

Meanwhile, the protests against Al-Makura’s planned impeachment which erupted in several parts of the state, following the announcement about two weeks ago has fizzled out with the residents now anxiously awaiting the outcome of the impeachment moves.

This came as the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Public Affairs, Malam Abdulhamid Kwarra, has insisted that Al-Makura was yet to be served with the ‘purported’ impeachment notice, assuring that AlMakura would respond appropriately as soon as he received the notice.

HE United States of America Vice President’s wife, Jill Biden, has recognised a Nigerian woman, Saze Osayande, who was among the 78 women that gathered in Washington DC in the US, from across the world to take part in a five-week technology training organised

by TechWomen, an initiative of the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

TechWomen, launched by former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton in 2011, supports the United States’ global commitment toward advancing the rights and participation of women and girls around the world by enabling them to reach their full potential in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Mrs. Biden who was at the training session to mentor the women, posted her encounter with Saze on her blog shortly after the training session.

Saze who spoke to newsmen on her five weeks training experience in US, said she applied for the training, since TechWomen affords participants the great opportunity to learn from some of the brightest minds in technology as well as about rising trends in other emerging economies.

“I am also excited about experiencing Silicon Valley from the inside, " she said.

48— Vanguard , THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

From left: Brigadier Shadrack Moloi, Commandant, Botswana Defence Force Command, Dr. Okechukwu Itanyi, Commissioner, From left: Professor Bamitale Omole, Vice Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University, Stakeholder Management, Nigerian Communications Commission, OAU, Ile Ife, Mr. Rowland Kolawole, Mrs Shade Omoniyi, Bunmi Akinyemiju and NCC, representing the Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, Dr. Eugene Prof. Bode Asubioju, Director, E-learning programme, Centre for Distance Learning, Juwah and Colonel Y.M. Bukar of the Nigerian Army, when a OAU, at an interactive session on the E-learning programme of the university. delegation from Botswana visited the NCC in Abuja.

Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, ICAN President, laying the foundation for a 250 sitting capacity Accounting lecture hall at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. With him are the principal officers of the institution.

SIGNING: From left: Dr. Ify Uraih, Chairman of Fellows, National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, NIMN, Mr Ganiyu Koledoye, President, NIMN and Mr Rotimi Adoyeye, past President, NIMN, during the formal Unification /Siging of Memorandum of Understanding in Lagos. Photo: Diran Oshe.

From left: Rev. Iyabo Buko, Very Rev. Olayinka Akande in charge of Folawiyo Bankole Methodist Church, Ikate, Surulere, Rev. S.O. Oke, Mrs Bolajoko Adedoyin, Mr Adediji Adedoyin and Mrs Olaide Akinlagun,during the dedication of Mr and Mrs Adediji Adedoyin's house by Very Rev E. Olayinka Akande, in Lagos. Photo: Shola Oyelese.

Lt.-Col Y. D. Ahmed, Commandant, Command Day Secondary School, Ojo, (middle) and graduating students, at the school's 14th Valedictory Service/ Speech & Prize Giving Day ceremony in Lagos.

C M Y K

VISIT: Delta State Commissioner for Housing, Chief Paulinus Akpeki (left), paying homage to the Ovie of Umiaghwa-Abraka Kingdom, HRM Lucky Ochuko Ararile, during a visit to the monarch monarch in his palace.

From left: Pastor John O. Evo, Mrs Ogunjimi Lola, Director Whiteberyl School, Pastor Oyinlaye Bola, mother of the day, and Pastor Akinbomi Timothy, Chairman, Parents Teachers' Association, Whiteberyl School, during the Graduation and Prize Giving ceremony of the school in Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau.

VISIT: From left: Miriam Toli, Financial Secretary, Youth Forum, Yusuf Ibrahim, President, Professor Akpan Ekpo, Director General, WAIFEM, Mr. Emmanuel Ekpo, Admin. Manager, WAIFEM, Mr. Zubair Dauda, South-West Coordinator and Mr. Ousman Sowe, Director, Financial Sector Department, WAIFEM, during a courtesy visit by Muslim, Christian Youths' Forum to WAIFEM in Lagos.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—49

I’m not part of plots to kill confab report —Abdulrazaq-Gwadabe

By Emmanuel Aziken

S

ENATOR Khairat Ab dulrazaq-Gwadabe has disowned news reports associating her with an alleged plan by some elements from the North to destroy the report of the National Conference.

Abdulrazaq-Gwadabe in a statement made available to Vanguard said the stories as published by several national newspapers represented the imagination of the writers even as she said the reports were aimed at tarnishing her image as a nation builder.

She said, “For the avoidance of doubt I wish to state without any equivocation that the report is nothing but

the figment of the imagination of the reporters as it is deliberately calculated to smear my name and integrity.”

Noting that she stands on the side of patriotism, she said: “I was a member of the Presidential Advisory Committee that recommended to the government to organize the National Conference. Subsequently, I was nominated as a delegate by the grace of my colleagues in my capacity as the Chairman of the Senators Forum along with five other colleagues.

It should be noted that in pursuant to the exercise of the mantle of leadership foisted on me, I wrote to each of the distinguished

senators who are delegates at the Conference to make patriotic contributions during plenary and committee meetings and deploy their rich senatorial experience to influence the final outcome of the conference for a more united and stronger Nigeria.”

Stressing that the stories were aimed at tarnishing her reputation as a nation builder, she said,“I wish to reiterate my commitment as a bridge builder to reaffirm my belief in one united and peaceful Nigeria and I will continue to do everything needful for the success of the National Conference which I have contributed immensely towards its actualisation.”

Akpabio pledges support for federal lawmaker to deepen his representa-

A

KWA Ibom State Gov ernor, Obong Godswill Akpabio, has said that he was ready to support Federal House legislators seeking second or third term in the National Assembly, in a bid to strengthen the legislative abilities of those representing the state.

Governor Akpabio spoke during an interaction with Hon. Akpan Micah, member representing Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, who led some prominent stakeholders from his constituency to the government house on a courtesy visit.

The governor who highlighted disloyalty, impatience and lack of integrity as the bane of Nigeria’s political development, however, described the Ikot Abasi Federal constituency representative as a humble person.

Akpabio who extolled Hon. Micah for effective representation of his constituency at the National Assembly, a feat which he said was evidently the reason why political movers in the area accompanied him to the Hilltop mansion for the visit, said “you are doing well at the National Assembly. We want somebody to sustain and deepen our representation at the National Assembly, and bring infrastructure in Akwa Ibom State. One good turn deserves another”.

Spotting Obong Etukafia, a one-time commissioner for finance from Ikot Abasi, the governor lauded the elder statesman for what he described as legendary speech rendered by the erstwhile commissioner

during the town hall meeting that went round the state.

Obong Etukafia in his speech, also eulogised Hon. Micah for his performance in his three year representation, calling for a massive support for the reelection of the lawmaker.

Also speaking, Obong Richard Umoren, a former chairman of Mkpat Enin Local Government, after lauding the governor for the infrastructural renaissance in the state, described the parliamentarian as a wonderful and humble person who must be supported in his re-election bid.

In his speech, Hon. Akpan Micah said he decided to go for a second term

tion in the House of Representatives. He listed his achievements to include effective representation of his people and the state at large at the National Assembly, as well as establishment of four small scale industries in Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo.

Other projects include provision of solar street lights, establishment of offices in the three local governments, which has employed about 20 youths, reconstruction of bridge-ofno-return with six bunkers, extension of uninterrupted electric power supply from ALSCON to the people of Ikot Abasi and empowerment of more than 20 youths.

Attah lauds Rilwanu Lukman

F

ORMER Cross River State governor, Obong Victor Attah, has described the late former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Alhaji Rilwanu Lukman, as a “consummate team player, who was always gallant in victory and gracious in defeat.”

Attah in a tribute said “I received with great shock and sadness the loss of a long term personal friend, a great Nigerian who served in every capacity with unequalled competence and integrity. Alhaji Lukman even so early in life, had demonstrated the attributes of great leaders – courage, fairness, intelligence and patience from which our dear country, Nigeria, as well as the Organisation of Petroleum Producing Countries, OPEC, and, indeed, the entire world, would benefit im-

mensely for several years.

“Later, he assisted me, when, as the governor of Akwa Ibom State, we floated a company to apply for the rights to the exploration and production of a marginal field in the state – as one of the dividends of democracy to our people. This gesture, by Alhaji Lukman made it possible for Akwa Ibom State to become the first oil producing state to obtain such rights.

“Even when former President Olusegun Obasanjo wanted to block the award to the state by insisting that the state-owned company must satisfy the Federal Character Principle, it was Alhaji Lukman who saved the day by telling the former President, ‘I am sure Obong Attah will work out something,’ before Obasanjo approved the arrangement."

50 — V anguard, THURSD AY, JUL Y 24, 2014 Vanguard, THURSDA JULY YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139

GEMINI; Both your mood and element of luck are as friendly as you would want them to be. Thus success may come the harder way today. Protect your finances.

CANCER; Many will look up to you both for practical assistance and leadership direction thus, you must not ball-up under pressure. Try to reason with your spouse.

LEO; Diplomacy may become very important today as development within your working arena calls for both maturity and cleverness. Be family minded today.

VIRGO; No matter how helpful friends were yesterday it is important you don’t dance to discordant tunes from any quarter today; gamble not with matters-of-the-heart.

LIBRA; Many people are under pressure today but, if you do away with sentiment and give priority attention to money making, your finances will be better for your efforts. Don’t allow misunderstanding within your family circle go out of hands.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

E

VERY life should be an asset. Unfortunately, not every life is an asset.

Yes, life could be a liability if we fail to utilize it.

In order for our life to be an asset, we must

Is your life an asset? do the needful — what are those things we need to do? We must add value to humanity. It is no use coming into this world and

TERROR MUDA

Therefore it is not compulsory that we also existing the must live. If our goal world the same way is to add to the probwe met it. It is the lem of the world then impart we make on of what use is our people that makes coming? our life an asset.

Life is a privilege. Think about it!

in “Never say goodbye”

By Lanre Kehinde

SCORPIO; To be on the safer side it is imperative you respect the law and it’s enforcement agents. Some people are trying to deceive you for an obvious reason.

SAGITTARIUS; Early part of the day may bring you good opportunity but for you not to lose it you must exhibit maturity. Protect both your money and source of income.

CAPRICORN; Others will step on your nerves yet it not the best for you to over-react today. It is good to prove reliable but your secrets must remain intact.

AQUARIUS; This may not be the best of days as there will be a few challenges within your working arena. If you rely on luck today, you would be disappointed.

PISCES; You will need to watch what you tell others, especially those friends you don’t know too well. Be more loving but refuse to gamble with love ARIES; If care is not taken what you have gained yesterday may be lost due to your care-free attitude within your base of operation. Avoid deceit today.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

TAURUS; You would fare better if you prepare your mind for possible confrontation from unexpected quarters.

Don’t promise more than you can actually deliver.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat tr ological datee and place of bir th ttoo the As Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

Who do you think I am ?

Dear Joshua, I have been following your write-ups for a long time you can not believe and to be sincere you are good. Now I wan you to analyse my star and tell me my horoscopic personality. More in to your pen.

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Odubanjo Jos.

Dear Odubanjo What you will find here under will prove useful if you take them seriously and utilise them ANALYSIS OF YOUR HOROSCOPE DATA/PLANETARY PLACEMENT Spiritual Neptune as the only Planet at home when you were born pointed to you as a person with great deal of spiritual energy you can tap at will, especially if you are conscious of it’s presence in your inner-self. But then, with majority of (five) planets placed in the Cardinal Zodiacal constellations you are equally an ambitious person who will desire worldly honour and prominence, and luckily for you, you were endowed with abilities to achieve your ambition.

Prominence of Mutable quality and Air Element in this chart are indications of a person with higher pitch of intelligence who can adapt to so many situations without being stressed unnecessarily. And GREAT LEADERSHIP QUALITY is present here. Although you are a Lady, with nothing-less than SEVENTY PERCENT of PUSH-FULL INFLUENCE in your Horoscope you can unexpectedly become aggressive, especially when issue of freedom is to the fore.

Beside 70% of PUSH-FULL INFLUENCE in you, mighty Sun (an indicator of your inner-self) with Uranus (a great freedom lover) conjoined in SAGITTARIUS ( another freedom loving Star Sign) all these are pointers to greater love of freedom in your deeper-inner-self. And whoever is trying to curtail such unnecessarily may unexpectedly court trouble, because you will resist such.

With your natal Sun (your conscious self) and Moon/ Stellium (your emotional state/ sub-conscious self) placed in Sagittarius and Libra respectively, you are mainly a Sagittarian and partly Libran and that is to say basic characteristics of the two Star signs are highly pronounced in your inner-self.

C M Y K

HOME & ABROAD

By Lawrence Akapa

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 51

52—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

FOOTPRINTS OF A STATESMAN: The Life And Times Of CHIEF DANIEL OKUMAGBA A biography by Bernard Oboatarhieyeren Okumagba

The lawmaker and His Search for Justice

The best safeguard against fascism is to establish social justice to the maximum extent possible – Arnold Toynbee, British Economic historian

Y

ESTERDAY

We presented the Daniel in the House.

Chief Daniel Okumagba featured as a member of the Warri East Constituency.

T

oday

We continue with the second part of that journey into political limelight. His entrance to mainstream politics, his contributions and concern for justice are projected in this section of his biography.

I

N answer, our own Min ister of Finance turned to the pressmen and said we inherited this from the colonial government of this country, and added that we could do nothing about it.

That is where I disagree with him. It is true that the employees of old were enjoying what was left behind by their masters of the colonial era. The country was colonial and those people came to reap the fruits of their fathers’ labour. Can we as patriots, who are responsible for the government of our own people, say that we are justified in thinking that because others earned so much, we should earn the same? To say that it is a problem that cannot be solved is where I disagree. The Minister of Finance did not suggest any solution in his Budget speech . . . If I take the problem as it is, the salary bill can be cut down without harm to the present workers in the service. I am speaking of the upper segment.”

He argued for a downward review of the starting salary of top government workers, while those still being paid the current “high” salaries are taxed more to bring both sets of workers within the same band. He also advocated more efficiency in the government and was particularly enraged by what he saw as a policy to provide jobs for government supporters and members of the ruling Action Group such as when the number of members on some government boards were increased in 1962. On March 29, 1962 when the House debated the bill to amend the Housing C M Y K

Corporation Act to accommodate two more executive directors, among other matters, it was a sore point for the opposition, especially as the government was complaining about its poor finances and had announced general austerity measures and higher taxes.

His concern with justice was one that transcended the regional government and applied to what he saw as the double standards of the AG government then. My father’s party, the NCNC, had control of Warri Urban District Council. Interestingly, it was an area the AG had interest in and, so, it exercised its administrative powers to intervene in the running of the council and several others where it had no executive control at the local level.

The complaint over the interference was a regular feature of the debates; it was also a sharp contrast that whereas the regional government sought to control the councils under it, it was keen to stave off federal interest in its own affairs. At the debates on November 23, 1960, my father pointed out this double standard: “Now when last the Prime Minister of the Federation toured the Western Region, we were hearing over the radio and reading in newspapers that the Premier of the Western Region was in fact begging him not to dissolve the government of this region ... If the premier of this region did not want any interference with his government, why will the government not leave an NCNC–controlled council (Warri Council) to exercise their rights under the law?

There is provision under the law that the regional govern-

ment must ratify what district councils do in this regard . . . why is it that we hear of threats of dissolution of NCNC–controlled councils?

Why can’t the Western Region government (AG-controlled) leave the Warri Urban District Council (NCNC-controlled) on its’ own?”

These concerns over the manipulation of local districts and government for the political benefit of the party controlling the regional government were further exacerbated when in 1962 the Premier, Chief S.L. Akintola, moved for the enactment of The Provinces and Divisions Establishment and Variation Bill designed to, “make provisions for the establishment of new provinces and administrative divisions in Western Nigeria, for variation in the areas and boundaries of provinces and administrative divisions and for matters connected therewith.” At the Second Reading of the bill on March 29, 1962, opposition members were vehement that the measure was a calculated attempt to gerrymander the provinces and divisions for the administrative and political benefit of the Action Group, and they made their points clear at the debates.

Prior to the bill’s introduction, the power to re-district any part of the region was vested in the Governor-in-Council.

This provision was left out of the independence constitution, thus the provinces and districts could not be tampered with. Akintola sought to reintroduce these powers.

The announcement of the bill raised red flags for many citizens of the region, especially minority areas, which saw it as one more indication of the desperation of the govern-

About the Book Chief Daniel Okumagba, who lived from 1922 to 2000, was widely acknowledged as a man of truth, courage and discipline. From 1960, when he won election to represent Warri East Constituency at the Western Region House of Assembly in Ibadan, Chief Daniel Okumagba played major roles in Nigeria’s national development.

He was a member of the National Council for Nigerian Citizens (NCNC), a foundation member and foundation national executive committee member of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the Second Republic, governorship candidate of the party in Bendel State (now Edo and Delta states) in the 1979 general elections and pioneer chairman of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited.

Chief Daniel Okumagba was a teacher, legislator, politician, businessman and frontline Niger Delta leader.

In all, he was a man of peace, who believed in peaceful coexistence among various ethnic groups, a statesman and nationalist.

In this biography of Chief Daniel Okumagba, Bernard Okumagba (former Delta State Commissioner for Finance) tells of a father whose life has not been fully chronicled and of values and circumstances that shaped the public identity of his father.

Bernard’s story of one of the key players of the First and Second Republics in Nigeria is a compelling narrative. Footprints of a Statesman: The life and times of Chief Daniel Okumagba, is a son’s appreciation of his father, and the lessons therefrom. ment to halt the movement for the creation of the Midwest Region. Mr G.I. Oviasu, who represented Benin Central West, spoke of the implication of the proposed law: “The objects and reasons

Hon. Premier, that the whole of Delta Province shall be administered from Ondo Province; or in short that the whole of Delta Province becomes a part of Ondo Province.

Wherein lies the administra-

His concern with justice was one that transcended the regional government and applied to what he saw as the double standards of the AG government then for this bill are not what the Premier has given; they go further than that; and I would like to enlighten this house and trace the events that have brought this bill to this legislature. Mr Speaker, sir, already in the Western Region – in the Midwest area – this government has planned and executed the plan, in fact, to administer Warri Division from Ondo. The Warri Division is already being administered from Ondo Province . . . let us take note of this logic: the Warri township is within Warri Division; Warri township is the capital of the Delta Province . . . all other divisions in the Delta Province used to be administered from Warri Division. . It stands to reason, Mr Speaker, and this will expand the logic of the

tive convenience of administering Warri Division from Ondo Province? The Akoko Edo, which they have now changed to Akoko Oke owing to political spite, is being administered from Ado Ekiti.

Wherein lies the administrative convenience of administering Akoko Edo – I will not call it Akoko Oke - from Ado Ekiti? These are clever manoeuvres - clever manipulations – to thwart the purpose of the creation of the Midwest; nothing more, nothing less!”

Mr F.H. Utomi, representing Asaba South East, also condemned the move thus: “We know very well that whatever we have from the Western Nigeria Government is a Greek gift. This bill is a device designed to cause trou-

Continues on page 53

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—53

FOOTPRINTS OF A STATESMAN: The Life And Times Of CHIEF DANIEL OKUMAGBA A biography by Bernard Oboatarhieyeren Okumagba

The Teacher defends Education in The House His concerns with the growing inefficiencies and waste in the Western Region government were often expressed on the floor of the House.

Continues from page 52 ble in the Midwest. They want to set Midwest people against one another.”

With support like this, my father took a more measured tone, addressing the Premier ’s promises to be fair: “The Premier assured us that before the bill is applied to any area there would be mutual consultation. As far as Warri Division is concerned, whenever there is going to be any consultation, the matter should be made public. We represent the people of Warri Division. My party controls the majority in the division.

Our only representative in the House of Representatives is a member of the NCNC.” As a teacher, even while at the Western House of Assembly, it was only rational that my father would be a keen observer of, and contributor to, matters concerning the Education sector. A teacher from the late 1940s through his time in the Western House of Assembly and only retiring from active teaching in 1976, my father examined the region’s educational administration critically, rising to commend, or condemn, the policies, as was fit. He was particular about the work of the Inspectorate Division of the Education ministry, and about the provision of facilities in schools, giving one of his longest contributions on the subject on the floor of the House, on April 11, 1961. He said: “Mr Chairman sir, this is an

cisms which we offer. In the first place, we all agree that the government which has been able to earmark a sum of over seven million pounds for the running of education in the region deserves some measure of praise as far as

About the Author

B

the provision of the funds for the running of the system is concerned. I agree that this government has tried in a way to find funds for the running of free primary education and had succeeded to a certain

He was particular that if the school system was to deliver on its promise, local councils must be supervised properly to handle primary education, invest in school infrastructure and not divert resources to less relevant or even dubious ends item I intend to criticize constructively. In my opinion, any matter connected with Education should not be brought into politics. (Opposition members: tell them).

Now, sir, when we find that the government has achieved any measure of success as far as the running of free primary education is concerned we will be good enough to say it, but when we find that there are glaring faults, government should be good enough to accept those faults and do their best to consider the criti-

sired result. I think the Honourable Minister of Education will agree with me that if we throw away politics, we will agree that we are not getting the desired result from the free primary education. The faults are there, and I will this night

system, the responsibility that was formerly on the shoulders of the missions has been transferred to the Inspectorate Branch of the Ministry of Education. You may not consider that a drawback in the educational system, but I can assure you that if you find out a way of giving the various missions some share in the responsibility for efficiency in the running of these schools, instead of leaving them to look forward to the government to supervise the teachers, there will be greater efficiency.”

extent in maintaining this expenditure for sometime now.

We will agree that this government deserves to be praised in a way, as far as the provision of the funds is concerned, but we should ask ourselves whether we are getting value for the expenditure.

It is one thing to find the money to set up the system, but when all that has been done, we should also turn back and ask ourselves whether the money as expended is producing the de-

put various suggestions to the Minister, which I hope he will consider in good faith. I take the glaring causes of the failure of the primary education.

The common belief is that failure is due mainly to the automatic promotion. That is what the common man can easily say. Some say the failure is due to lack of qualified teachers at the time the system was introduced. I don’t agree that they are the most serious causes of our failures. These are the causes. In the past it was the responsibility of the various missions to help in the education of our own children both at primary and secondary school level. … The responsibility for efficiency has been shifted completely from the shoulders of the various missions and transferred to the government… it is the duty of the Inspectorate Department to find out whether the school is running well. If you throw your mind back to consider the old system you will find that the missions took great care to ensure efficiency in the schools. If your primary school was not doing well, you are called to question by the government, and for this reason you are forced to do anything possible to improve the school. But in the present

He also raised issues with the government’s position that the success rate among school pupils was high, arguing that most of the students were helped on the way. He was particular that if the school system was to deliver on its promise, local councils must be supervised properly to handle primary education, invest in school infrastructure and not divert resources to less relevant or even dubious ends. A thorough focus on primary education by the government can, if properly done, bring back the quality of education that made the Standard Six certificate such a valued education, as it was in colonial times. It was the reason he advised that if the councils cannot be supervised properly, the state government should take over primary education. The government, he counselled, should invest in primary schools and encourage missions and private people to take up secondary school education. It was only “radical changes in our educational system”, as he put it, that can build the foundation for competitiveness in the long run, he argued.

To be continued.

E R N A R D Oboatarhieyeren Okumagba was born in Warri, Delta State on April 7, 1967 to Chief Daniel Okumagba and Mrs. Dorcas Okumagba of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.

He attended Government College, Ughelli from 1977 to 1982 and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka from 1983 and 1987 where he bagged a B.sc degree in Accountancy (2nd Class Honours, Upper Division). Subsequently, he undertook the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) professional examinations and qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1991. Bernard started his working career at the international financial services firm Arthur Andersen & Co (now KPMG), in 1988. He later worked in several banks from 1991 to 2007. Bernard held various positions at these banks, including Senior Manager, Corporate Banking Division; Head of Internal Control/Audit Division, Bank Chief Inspector and Principal Manager, Consumer and Commercial Banking Division, amongst others. He left United Bank for Africa Plc in August 2007 following his appointment as Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning.

He served as Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning from August 2007 to November 2010 and was subsequently appointed Commissioner for Finance and served from November 2010 to May 2011. Bernard was reappointed Delta State Commissioner for Finance in July 2011 and held this position until July 2013. He is presently Chairman of Regents Consults Limited and Noly Insurance Brokers Limited. He is also currently a Director of Abbey Mortgage Bank Plc. Bernard holds the traditional chieftaincy title of Eruvwu R’Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom, Warri, Delta State.

Vanguard , THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 54

Abia govt demolishes kidnapper's house at Ikwuano U

By Anayo Okoli

MUAHIA—ABIA State government has demolished a building belonging to one Ogbuonye Ogbonna Daniel, suspected to be involved in kidnapping activities in the state.

The building, a bungalow, was located in his community at Umuariaga Oboro in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.

According to the Security Adviser to Abia State governor, Capt. Awa Udonsi Agwu (rtd), the action is to serve as a deterrent to other kidnappers and those nursing the idea to join the illicit business.

Agwu, who doubles as the State Task Force chairman, said the state government abhorred kidnapping and would stop at nothing to stamp the menace out of the state.

According to him, other kidnappers who have property in the state will have them pulled down, if the

government identified such property.

He said the process was ongoing.

Vanguard learnt that

residents of Umuariaga were happy over the action of the government.

They said they had been

living in fear due to the activities of some suspected kidnappers operating in the area.

WORKSHOP: From left: Managing Director, Grandpet Energy Resources Limited, Mr. Peter Eze, Director, Federal Public Complaints Commission, Ms. Stella Ozojiofor, President, LAP & Snr. Partner, Alatta Nzewi Oyeka & Co., Chartered Accountants, Mr. Willy Nzewi and Chief Financial Officer, Mouka Foam, Dr. Azuka Onyia, at a Strategic Development Workshop organised by League of Anambra Professionals, LAP, in Lagos.

....Police parade alleged kidnappers of babies, others in Abia

U

By Anayo Okoli

MUAHIA—ABIA State Police Command, yesterday, paraded three persons who allegedly snatched three baby girls from their mother at gun point last Friday.

The suspects include Felicia Ahukanna, Peace Ogbonna and Oluchukwu Ukpai, all from Alaukwu Autonomous Community of Isiala Ngwa South council of Abia State.

The command also paraded one Joseph Edet Essien of Ifetai in Calabar, Cross River State.

According to the command, the suspect was caught while negotiating to sell a baby girl.

Besides, the command also paraded 32 other suspects for alleged involvement in various crimes, ranging from murder, robbery, child trafficking to cultism.

While eleven of the suspects were arrested for child trafficking, eight were arrested for cultism, while one was picked up for allegedly killing his 87year-old father. Others were arrested for armed robbery.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Geoffrey Ogbonna, told newsmen that the arrests were made within this month.

Four of the suspected cultists include Kalu Nnanna, 23 years; Prince Charles, 24 years; Maxwell Njoku Emeh, 21 years and Sebastine Frankline, 25

years, claimed to be students of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.

He said one locally made pistol was found on them as they engaged in cult activities.

Ogbonna also said a 27-yearold student of Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Chijioke Ezebuiro, allegedly killed his 87year-old father, Dr. Emmanuel Ezebuiro.

According to the police PPRO,

the incident allegedly happened at their residence at Umuoriehi Isingwu in Umuahia North Council Area of Abia State.

The police said the matter would soon be charged to court.

Obiano, Wada move to end border skirmishes

By Nwabueze Okonkwo WKA—ANAMBRA State governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has reached out to his Kogi State counterpart, Mr. Idris Wada, to put an end to the killings and destruction of property in their areas.

Communities in the two states have been locked in clashes over oil discovered in the border between both states.

Obiano, who spoke at a private hospital in Onitsha after visiting

A

victims attacked by gunmen from Kogi State at a fishing community of Aguleri-Otu, Anambra East Local Government Area, said the two state governments would no longer tolerate the ugly situation.

The governor said: “We are working out a comprehensive strategy and modalities to entrench lasting peace and check excesses of the miscreants.

“The attack has nothing to do with the oil producing area as some people claim, but an

aggression by some misguided persons."

He enjoined Aguleri people to remain calm and not to take laws into their hands as the government was already on top of the situation.

He directed immediate transfer of the victims from the private hospital to Borromew Specialist Hospital in Onitsha for better treatment, assuring that the state government would settle the bills.

Uduaghan committed to providing decent housing for Deltans —Akpeki expressed his gratitude to

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BRAKA—DELTA State Commissioner for Housing, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, has reiterated that providing decent and affordable houses for Deltans remained the focal point of Governor Uduaghan’s administration.

He stated this during a courtesy visit to his HRM, Lucky Ochuko Ararile, the Ovie of Umiaghwa-Abraka Kingdom.

Chief Akpeki said he was in the palace to commiserate with the monarch on the death of his mother and to also inform him that government had concluded plans to commence the building of a Model Estate on the land acquired by Delta Development and Property Authority, DDPA, in Abraka through privatepartnership arrangement.

In his response, the Ovie

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for bringing the project to fruition.

Those present at the occasion include Chairman of DDPA, Mrs. Felicia Ajagu, the Acting General Manager of DDPA, Mr. Charles Esiovwa, chiefs of Abraka Kingdom, representatives of Jobwyse Developers, Transition Committee Chairmen of Ethiope East and Patani Local Government Areas, among others.

Imo govt to probe Egbema killings

By Chidi Nkwopara

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WERRI—IMO State government has called for full scale investigation into the gruesome murder of no fewer than six persons at Mnahu and Obiakpu, Egbema, in Ohaji/Egbema local council area of the state.

The Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, made government’s position known when he paid a fact finding visit to the bereaved families.

Commiserating with the Aligbue family, whose son, Anthony Aligbue, was felled by the bullets of the rampaging hoodlums, Madumere described the act as dastardly.

He said: “I am here to register the condolence of the state government to all bereaved families. I am here to assure you all of government’s interest in the matter.”

While noting that government had waded into the matter, with a view to bringing to an end the recurring violence in the area, the deputy governor, however, called for credible information that would enable the security agencies nab the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

Court adjourns MASSOB, IGP's suit to Aug 5

By Nwabueze Okonkwo

O

NITSHA—AN Ihiala High Court in Anambra State has adjourned hearing till August 5 in the N5 million suit filed by the Movement for the Actualisation of Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, against the Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Commissioner of Police, Anambra State and Supol Emmanuel Sunday, Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Otuocha Division.

MASSOB had dragged the police authorities to court, claiming the amount from the respondents as exemplary, aggravated, punitive and general damages for alleged incessant harassment, arrest, detention and torture.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 55

PDP wades into Enugu impeachment saga

2015: Igbo in Lagos ready to partner any political party if...

By Tony Edike

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NUGU— THE national leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has decided to wade into the impeachment move against the deputy governor of Enugu State, Chief Sunday Onyebuchi, to prevent the dispute from degenerating into a major political crisis in the state.

The intervention of PDP leadership, Vanguard learnt, followed representations made by some party stakeholders from the state who reportedly met in Abuja, Tuesday, to review the disturbing development in the state.

According to sources at the meeting, the party leaders are uncomfortable with the impeachment move against the deputy governor as they feared that the development could lead to a major political upheaval in the state chapter of the party.

A source said: “After the meeting of concerned members of the party held at a private residence in Abuja Tuesday evening, some personalities from the state met with the national leadership of the party to brief them of the current development in their home state.

“After the meeting, the party leaders agreed to send a delegation to Enugu to meet with Governor Sullivan Chime to seek ways of resolving the dispute. The delegation has already notified the governor of their planned visit to Enugu.”

BY Onozure Dania

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AGOS— A M U W O Odofin chapter of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo in Lagos State has said it was ready to bargain with any political party that would protect the interest of its members in 2015 elections.

Chairman of the group, Chief Emmanuel Akalika, stated this at a press briefing on the forthcoming general elections, yesterday.

The group said if truly democracy is a game of number, Igbo men and women should be at the helm of affairs in Amuwo Odofin Local Government due to their numerical strength in the area.

The group said: “Igbo has the largest population in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area. 80 percent of the people in the area are Igbo and they have contributed positively to the growth of the area, in terms of infrastructure and other things.

“With our contribution to the area and numerical strength, we believe it is time for us to also be at the helm of affairs in the area.

“The era of use and dump by political party is over; we are ready to bargain with any political party that will protect our interests.”

Delegation to meet governor

The source said the delegation, which was expected to arrive Enugu last night, would meet with the governor to seek ways of

FACE-OFF: Governor Chime (left) and his Deputy. reaching amicable resolution of the impeachment saga.

The deputy governor, who was said to have travelled out of the state before the impeachment motion was moved on the floor of the state Assembly on Tuesday, is yet to return to the state and has not reacted formally to the impeachment notice.

Worried by the gale of impeachment across the country, the national leadership of PDP on Tuesday cautioned its legislators against joining the impeachment bandwagon.

The National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Olisa Metuh, gave the warning while briefing newsmen on Tuesday.

He said: “For the avoidance

of doubt, PDP has never been involved in any impeachment process and we wish to publicly urge our members in all the state houses of assembly to thread with caution and be guided by due process and Rule of Law in the execution of their legislative duties.”

‘I gave him an option’

However, Governor Chime, who reacted to the impeachment notice served on his deputy in a telephone interview with a national daily on Tuesday, said he had given the deputy governor the option of resigning from his position before the commencement of the impeachment proceedings against him by the House of

... as 2 Speakers emerge in Ebonyi Assembly

By Peter Okutu

A

BAKALIKI— THERE appears to be no hope of resolution of the crisis in Ebonyi State House of Assembly as it is now factionalised with the emergence of two speakers.

Last Monday’s impeachment of the Speaker, Chukwuma Nwazunku, gave rise to emergence of a new Speaker in the person of Helen Nwaobasi.

But the impeached Speaker still sees himself as the substantive Speaker, especially as some members who participated in his impeachment have withdrawn their support from Nwaobasi and pledged their allegiance to Nwazunku.

Feelers from some quarters believe that what instigated the crisis was not only the purported N120 million alleged to have been

released by Governor Martin Elechi to the lawmakers for their monetised vehicles, but also the pronouncement by Governor Elechi that power would rotate to the South senatorial district.

Vanguard gathered that power brokers from the South and North senatorial districts of the state are the invincible hands behind the crisis in the state Assembly.

By Bartholomew Madukwe

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

Assembly.

Chime said before the problem between him and his deputy blew open, he had tolerated a lot from him all in a bid to protect “our common family called PDP.” He said rather than possibly accept the option of resigning and show remorse over his activities, the deputy governor remained defiant.

He said his deputy had engaged in acts aimed at undermining him as a governor several times, but he decided to turn a blind eye to his activities in the overall interest of the state.

Chime is reported to have said: “By the time I open my mouth, everybody will be shocked to know what had been happening between my deputy and I in the past years.

“It has actually come to a point where we need to know who is actually boss because we can no longer work together. Let the House of Assembly do their job and see if, indeed, he is fit to remain as the deputy governor.

“How can I ask my deputy to represent me in a meeting of the South-East Governors’ Forum where the deputy governor of Anambra represented his governor; I think the deputy governor of Imo State also represented his governor; and my own said that he was not informed?”

(nwamad@yahoo.com)

On doctors' strike

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OCTORS want surgeon-general.

Of what use is the office to patients' care? I’m yet to see any compelling justification for this office. Should we also create pharmacistgeneral and radiographer-general and so on?

—Ms Anwulika Nduba, Student.

T

HE strike is for the benefit of their private hospitals. They are out to increase their income by depriving the poor of needed medical services. Trust me, they will also insist on being paid for the period they were on strike.— Mr. Innocent Ayambuba, Worker.

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HESE Nigerian doctors are very selfish. Someday, they will wake up and say unless the position of the President of the country and the governors are left for them to solely occupy, they will go on strike indefinitely.— Mr. Uche Mabia, Footballer.

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IGERIAN doctors do not match theoretical knowledge with practical expertise.

Why can’t pharmacists and chemists manufacture standard drugs? Now we have to patronise made in India drugs and other health products.— Ms Okereke Bukola, Student.

I

F the powers that come with being named a hospital consultant include the right to ‘own’ a patient and make decisions on that patient, wouldn’t it be that government has just introduced chaos into the health sector?— Mr. Martin Dickson, Businessman.

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OCTORS are truly a blessing to humanity. But like everything in Nigeria, it has been taken over by charlatans. No one forced anyone to study any course, so they should not bother us with all this shenanigans of these.— Ms Chioma Ani, Model.

56 — V anguard Vanguard anguard,, THURSDAY, JULY 24 , 2014

Dozens die in Taiwan plane crash A

twin-engine turbo prop plane crashed Wednesday in Taiwan’s Penghu Islands, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency. CNN affiliate ETTV is reporting that the plane crashed into a residential building.

Officials are fearful that dozens have died.

There were 54 passengers and four crew aboard the aircraft, said Jean Shen, the directorgeneral of the Civil Aeronautics Administration.

There were no casualties on the ground, Taiwan’s Transportation Minister Yeh Kuangshih told reporters. He added that two French nationals were among those on board, and French authorities have been notified.

The plane’s flight data recorder and cockpit

voice recorder have been recovered and investigators will examine the crash site Thursday, the minister said.

CNN is working on getting details about the crash, and has spoken with Taiwan’s Civil Aeronautics Administration, which is saying only that dozens are missing and others are hospitalized. Officials caution that numbers could change.

The plane crashed near Magong Airport at about 7 p.m., according to CNA. Witnesses told ET TV that they saw homes on fire.

The cause of the crash is unknown so far.

Some media reports said strong winds from Typhoon Matmo, which hit Taiwan early Wednesday, forced the plane to attempt a crash

landing.

Shen told reporters that visibility at Magong Airport at the time of the plane’s attempted landing was about 1,600 meters (1 mile)

and considered acceptable for landing.

The flight — an ATR 72 — took off from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, CNA reported. The Penghu Islands are off the

T

be military jets, had been downed just 35km (20 miles) from the crash site. The fate of the pi-

lots was unclear.

US intelligence officials had earlier released evidence that

they said showed the separatists’ involvement in bringing down flight MH17.

UN to investigate Israel’s Gaza offensive

T

HE UN Human Rights Council has voted to launch an independent inquiry into Israel’s offensive in Gaza, backing efforts by the Palestinians to hold the Israel up to international scrutiny.

The vote on Wednesday in Geneva came hours after the UN rights chief, Navi Pillay, told an emergency session of the council that Israel’s military actions could

amount to war crimes, as it continued pounding the enclave for a 16th day. The 47-member council adopted the investigation under a draft resolution after a request

by Palestine, which has UN observer status.

The council would now have to agree who would lead the investigation before it was put into effect. Even then, the investigation could face opposition from Israel.

The Israeli prime minister ’s office said in a statement that the decision was a “travesty”, adding that Israel had “gone to unprecedented lengths to keep Palestinian civilians out of harm’s way”.

More than 650 Palestinians - the vast majority of them civilians - have been killed in Israel’s 16-day campaign in Gaza.

Two Israeli civilians have been killed by rocket fire into Israel, and 32 Israeli soldiers have died in the attack.

Sierra Leone’s top Ebola doctor gets virus

T

HE head doctor fighting the deadly tropical virus Ebola in Sierra Leone has himself caught the disease, the president’s office said, as the West African outbreak claimed more victims.

Sheik Umar Khan, a Sierra Leonean virologist credited with treating more than 100 Ebo-

la victims, has been receiving treatment at a ward run by medical charity Doctors Without Borders, a source at the ward told the Reuters news agency on Wednesday.

The 39-year-old, hailed as a “national hero” by the health ministry, was leading the fight to control an out-

mony at Eindhoven air base.

Forty hearses left for the town of Hilversum where the formal identification process will begin.

Members of the Dutch royal family and Prime Minister Mark Rutte watching the coffins of plane crash victims

MH17: Netherlands holds solemn ceremony for victims HE Netherlands is observing a national day of mourning for the 298 victims, most of whom were Dutch.

Ukrainian pro-Russian rebels have been widely accused of shooting down the plane on 17 July.

UK government sources say intelligence shows rebels deliberately tampered with evidence, moving bodies and placing parts from other planes in the debris.

As fighting continued in eastern Ukraine on Wednesday, officials in Kiev told the BBC that two aircraft, thought to

west coast of the main Taiwanese island.The Netherlands has received the first victims’ bodies from crashed Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 in a solemn cere-

break that has killed 206 people in the West African country.

Health Minister Miatta Kargbo called Khan a national hero and said she would “do anything and everything in my power to ensure he survives”.

It was not immediately clear how Khan had caught the virus.

His colleagues told Reuters that he was always meticulous with protection, wearing overalls, mask, gloves and special footwear. There is no cure or vaccine for Ebola, which can kill up to 90 percent of those infected, although the mortality rate of the current outbreak is lower at around 60 percent.

BRIEFS Ukraine says Russian missiles shot down jets

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KRAINE has said that two of its attack jets have been shot down by missiles fired from within Russian territory, in the latest violence in eastern Ukraine.

“According to preliminary information, the rockets were launched from Russian territory,” Kiev’s defence council said in a statement on Wednesday.

Neither Russia nor the rebels commented on the accusation.

The planes came down close to the village of Dmytrivka, about 45km southeast of where a Malaysian Airlines jet crashed after being hit by a missile last week.The council added that the Su-25 jets were flying at an altitude of 5,200 metres and were providing ground support for government troops. The pilots from both jets managed to eject, it said.

Islamic State claims responsibility of Baghdad bombing

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SLAMIC State militants claimed responsibility on Wednesday for an overnight suicide bombing in a Shi’ite district of Baghdad which killed 33 people, one of the deadliest recent attacks in the Iraqi capital.The hardline Sunni Islamist group which has led an offensive through northern and western Iraq said the explosion in Kadhimiya, site of a major Sh’ite shrine, was carried out by a fighter it named as Abu Abdul-Rahman al-Tunisi (the Tunisian).

Officials initially put the death toll from the bomb at 23, but hospital and morgue officials said on Wednesday morning it had risen to 33, with more than 50 wounded.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for a wave of bombings in Baghdad, including several blasts on Saturday which killed 27 people.

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 —57

•Aregbesola:

•Omisore:

Alleged desperation:

APC, PDP in war of words

BY Gbenga Olarinoye

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HE ruling All Progressives Congress APC in Osun State has raised alarm over alleged plans by the PDP to rig the election with the collaboration of the presidency and security agencies.

The APC similarly appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to caution the leaders of the PDP in the state over their alleged desperation to take over power from the incumbent government through fraudulent means.

Besides, the APC called on President Jonathan to caution the

Taxation:

Ministers of state for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro and Police Affairs, Alhaji Jelili Adesiyan over their alleged desperation to ensure that PDP captures the South West.

The state chairman of the party, Mr Adelowo Adebiyi made the declarations while briefing the press in Osogbo yesterday.

The PDP in a swift reaction, through its Director of Publicity and Strategy, Mr. Diran Odeyemi, described the APC’s allegations as baseless, saying the PDP does not plan to rig the forthcoming election, and would win without the influence of any individual or

Don’t listen to PDP lies — Aregbesola

By Gbenga Olarinoye

T

HE Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola Do-to-Door Campaign organization, OD2D has cautioned the Peoples Democratic Party PDP and its governorship candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore against spreading ‘unfounded’ lies against Governor Rauf Aregbesola in their bid to confuse the electorate and incite them against the governor.

Director General of the OD2D, Mr Segun Omoworare in Osogbo during ward-to-ward campaign for the re-election of Aregbesola stated that the PDP and Omisore resorted to peddling the ‘wicked lies’ against Aregbesola having

been rejected by the people of the state.

Reacting to the recent claims of the PDP that Aregbesola would place unbearable taxation on the people of the state in his second term, Omoworare urged the people to disregard the PDP lies.

According to Omoworare, Aregbesola did not increase or introduce new taxes for the four years he has held forth even as he affirmed that the governor’s present policies would guarantee self reliance on Internally Generated Revenue of the state.

He maintained that Aregbesola would not sabotage his own efforts to build and develop the state by

NOA to politicians:

By Gbenga Olarinoye

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group of people.

Odeyemi said the APC resorted to the allegations, having realized that their days are numbered in the state, saying the allegations would not make the PDP lose focus on its determination to take over government from the APC. The PDP spokesman, who said the APC was desperate to hold on to power in the state, said “it is no longer news that the people of Osun state are tired of the APCled government which he said symbolizes destruction, violence and crisis.

The APC chairman also alleged that the PDP plans to organize

ITH a few days to the forthcoming governorship election in Osun state, politicians in the state have been advised to imbibe spirit of tolerance to ensure continued peaceful coexistence of the society. Speaking at an interactive session with key

imposing taxation on the people of the state, saying that the concentration of the governor was on developing the state to embrace viable economy that would create wealth for the people.

His words: “Aregbsola is building Osun economy and he would not sabotage his own effort by introducing taxation that will put burden on the people of the state”.

Dismissing the PDP claims on taxation, Omowarare said, “Aregbesola has no plan to increase or introduce new taxes on the people of the state, and in his bid to avoid that, Aregbesola is focusing on infrastructural development in the state”.

arrest of some APC leaders in the state, just as he noted that “the party was informed by inside sources in the PDP that there are alleged plan by the PDP to assassinate some known leaders of the APC in the state ahead of the Governorship election.”

The party also accused the presidency of backing the security agencies to frustrate the APC in the state, saying “there is practically no way the security apparatus under the charge of the two ministers can undertake a major operation without the knowledge of the President, which makes the presidency implicitly involved.”

He added that “Our first instinct was to disbelieve this possibility, but on the second thought we realized that the entire exercise is being stage-managed by the PDP in support of the second term ambition of the President. Contrary to Mr President’s assertion that his presidential ambition does not worth the blood of any Nigerian citizen, the blood of the Yoruba people is already being spilled for the purpose of making Mr President’s ambition a reality in 2015.”

He urged the President to intervene and ensure that intimidation, harassment and assault against APC members in the state are stopped before the August 9 election.

I’ll open up rural areas — Akinbade

By Gbenga Olarinoye

A

LHAJI Fatai Akinbade, the Labour Party candidate has promised to use agriculture as the springboard for the development of rural areas in the state.

Akinbade said an LP administration in the state would embark on massive mechanised farming, which would leave it with no option than to open up the rural areas where this farming would be carried out.

In a statement by his Director of Media, Mr Kayode Oladeji, the LP candidate who spoke at separate rallies in different towns and villages in Iwo, Ola-Oluwa and Ayedire Local Government areas of the state on Wednesday, said his administration would leave no stone unturned towards achieving this.

His words: “Farming is not done in the city. So with this, all social amenities like roads, electricity, including health facilities among others, will be extended to all rural communities.”

Imbibe spirit of tolerance

stakeholders in the state, organised by the National Orientation Agency, NOA, in Osogbo, the Director General of the body, Mr. Mike Omeri, pointed out the need for stakeholders to embrace peace and impress it on their followers the importance of peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the poll.Omeri

added that the task of achieving violence free election in the state required collective responsibility of everyone, charging politicians and their followers to eschew violence.

The NOA DG further urged politicians and their supporters to play the game according to the rule

to deepen gains recorded since the return to the democratic dispensation.

He further explained that the agency had embarked on voters’ education campaign to mobilize and sensitize electorate on the need to exercise their civic rights.

Omisore to civil servants, pensioners:

I’ll pay your arrears

By DapoAkinrefon

G

OVERNORSHIP candidate of the PDP Senator Iyiola Omisore has promised to offset all unpaid arrears and allowances of the state civil servants and pensioners by the Aregbesola led administration if voted in as the next governor of the state in the August 9th 2014, election.

Omisore, who made the pledge while addressing party supporters at Okinni in Egbedore Local Government area of the state, assured that his administration would do all it could to see that their welfare are taken care of.

The PDP standard bearer said salaries of civil servants would be paid as at when due while other sectors in the state would not be left unattended to.

He disclosed that the PDP government would operate an open door policy to be able to attend to all and sundry in the scheme of things.

He, however, charged people of the state to work hand in hand with the PDP to oust the present administration, which he accused of wrecking a “lot of havocs on the people of the state.”

He also appealed to them to troop out enmasse and cast their vote for PDP on the day of the exercise.

Warning against violence and untoward acts that could disturb electoral process, he advised them to be law abiding during the electioneering period.

Aregbesola receives award on good governance

By Gbenga Olarinoye

G

OVERNOR Rauf Aregbesola has received commendations for his contributions to the sustenance and promotion of democracy in Nigeria.

District Governor of BOSS Friendship Club in Nigeria, Kwali, Abuja, Dr. Edet Ekpeyong, stated this while decorating Governor Aregbesola with an award on good governance in 2013 as the “All-Round Best Performed Governor in the SouthWest Nigeria.”

Dr. Ekpeyong, who said the award was aimed at encouraging Nigeria leaders to give good governance and outstanding leadership to Nigerians with a view to sustaining development in the country, said the administration of Governor Aregbesola has impacted meaningfully on the life of the people of the state.

58—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Visual metaphor condenses at LIMCAF Lagos show •as Udechukwu commends body for art promotion

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RT lovers in and around Lagos will be treated to another visual art feast as artists from Lagos zone display their works at the second Lagos zone exhibition from where 100 works will be selected for the grand finalle where 25 works will win different prizes.

The exhibition which is organised by Enugu based Life In My City Art Festival (LIMCAF), the annual youth

the 21st of October 2014. The climax of the Festival will hold on Saturday October 25, at the same venue where the top 25 works will win prizes, including the overall winner ’s prize of N500,000 cash donated by Diamond Bank PlC. In the meantime, a renowned art scholar and Professor of the Department of Art & Art History, St. Lawrence University, Canton, New York Professor Obiora Udechukwu, has paid glowing tribute to the Board

,

The festival aims to promote art panNigeria through an annual competition that offers young people an avenue to showcase and commercialise their productions

art empowerment project that enables young artists to meaningfully express themselves on the state of their lived environment through their art will take place at the National Museum, Onikan Lagos.

The festival which aims to promote art pan-Nigeria through an annual competition that offers young people an avenue to showcase and commercialize their productions, win handsome prizes and interact with the larger art community on a national and progressively international platform is scheduled to hold on Saturday July 26, 2014 by 4 pm.

International platform According to a statement signed by the Executive Director of LIMCAF, Mr. Kevin Ejiofor, Prince Yemisi Shyllon the internationally renowned art collector and the founder / proprietor of the Lagos based Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation (OYASAF) will be the Special Guest of Honour .

The exhibition is one of the eleven such exhibitions in various zones around the country including Abuja, Ibadan, Kaduna, Jos, Auchi, Enugu, Calabar, Uyo, Owerri and Port Harcourt.

The best 100 works from these zones will be selected to be part of the one week Grand Finale Exhibition at the Nike Lake Resort Hotel Enugu from Monday

,

and Organizing Committee of the Life In My City Art Festival (LIMCAF), for what he called an unprecedented innovation in the promotion of art and art appreciation in Nigeria.

Prof. Udechukwu said this during a reception for him by the Board of LIMCAF hosted

by Elder Dr. Kalu Uke Kalu CON, former Chairman of Union Bank of Nigeria and Chair-

•Untitled piece by Tobi Adewumi submitted for LIMCAF photo competition man of the Life In My City Art Festival.

Udechukwu who is one of the founders of the once premier art association, the Aka Circle and a famed proponent of the Uli School of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, particularly commended Chief Robert Oji who single handedly gave birth to the LIMCAF initiative through his Rocana Nigeria outfit, the Alliance Francaise Network and the French Embassy in Nigeria which gave him initial support as well as Diamond Bank PLC and the various organizations and individuals who have donated prizes. Udechukwu predicted the inevitable snowballing of this project into internationally significant art event and urged the Board and Organising Committee not to relent in their efforts.

Earlier in an address the Chairman of the Board, Elder Kalu had warmly welcomed Professor Udechukwu and thanked him in very strong terms for his support for LIMCAF in various ways, including pointing the Board to various special persons and organizations who have made a great deal of difference in its growth over the past eight years of the struggle to expand and sustain the development of the project.

Big dreams for the project Elder Kalu told Prof Udechukwu that the LIMCAF Board had big dreams for the project and solicited his continued support especially in seeking sponsorship from international organizations interested in the development of contemporary art in Africa. He noted

that support was growing across Nigeria with such notable organizations and individuals as Senator Ayogu Eze, the Justice Anthony Aniagolu family in Enugu , Bisi Silva’s Centre for Contemporary Art in Lagos and Mrs Mfon Usoro among others for endowing special prizes of LIMCAF. The event was attended by notable connoisseurs and art personalities which included Chief Robert Oji, founder of LIMCAF, Barrister Peter Eze, Former Chairman of the Nigerian Gallery of Art, Ayo Adewunmi Head of Design at the IMT Enugu School of Fine Arts, Obiora Udechukwu sculptor and Chair of the Enugu State Council For Arts and Culture and Bona Ezudu an Enugu of Bona’s Gallery, Enugu and the Director Alliance Francaise, Enugu Mr. Dominique Fancelli.

11 authors contend for $100,000 NLNG Prize for Literature

By Prisca Sam-Duru

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HE Advisory Board for the Nigeria Prize for Literature, led by Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo has released an initial shortlist of eleven books for the 2014 edition of the prize.

The longlist according to the Chairman of the board, Prof Banjo, was drawn from 124 entries received from Nigerian authors.

The Prize being sponsored by the Nigeria LNG, has Abba Friday( Alekwu Night Dance), Adaofuyi Ogbe (Canterkerous Passengers), Cole Maybe (Tommorrow), Edema Paul (A plague of Gadflies), Idada Oduduwa (King of the Edos), Momodu Ruth (No fault of mine), Ogezi Isaac (Under a Darkling Sky), Okoh Julie (Our wife Forever), Solanke Ade (Pandora’s Box), Udoka Arnold (Akon) and Ukala Iredi (War) as the contenders for the prestigious prize.

The Advisory Board also has Professor Jerry Agada and Professor Ben Elugbe as members. The list was presented by chairperson, panel of judges for this year ’s prize, Prof. Charity Angya, professor of Theatre and Drama and

Vice-Chancellor, Benue State University, Literature is one of its numerous contributions towards helping to build after two months of intensive scrutiny. better Nigeria.

Other members of the panel of judges a The Nigeria Prize for Literature has include Prof. Ahmed Yerima, a past since 2004 rewarded eminent writers laureate of the prize and professor of Theatre Arts, Redeemer’s University, such as Gabriel Okara (co-winner, 2005, Mowe, Ogun State and Prof. Akanji poetry), Professor Ezenwa Ohaeto (coNasiru, a well-respected scholar and winner, 2005, poetry) for The Dreamer, professor of Performing Arts, Bowen His Vision; Ahmed Yerima (2006, drama) for his classic, Hard Ground; University Iwo, Osun State.

The Nigeria Prize for Literature which Mabel Segun (co-winner, 2007, children’s literature) for her collection rotates yearly amongst four literary genres; prose The Nigeria Prize for Literature is fiction, poetry, drama and one of NLNG's numerous children’s literature, focuses on drama for the contributions towards helping to 2014 prize. It comes with build a better Nigeria a cash Award of $100, 000. Next year’s genre will be children’s literature. of short plays Reader ’s Theatre; A shortlist of three is expected to Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo (coemerge in September while a winner is winner, 2007, children’s literature) with to be announced in October. her book, My Cousin Sammy; among The NLNG’s General Manager, External others with her novel, On Black Sister’s Relations, Kudo Eresia-Eke, stated that Street and Tade Ipadeola (2013 – poetry) Nigeria LNG Limited remains with his collection of poems, The Sahara committed to responsible corporate Testaments. citizenship and The Nigeria Prize for

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BY Japhet Alakam

,

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014—59

The Art of drumming

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Because Of 1914...dogged style of gluing Nigeria together time. This brought about boredom on the guests who were in a hurry to move over to DIAOfeimun bombarded Nigerian the the Civic Hall for the grand finale of the 2014 atre last year with dance dramas such Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature in Africa as ‘Nigeria the Beautiful’ and ‘Itoya’. This Award. The boredom was however, overtakyear, beginning from July to August to be en by the show’s exquisite packaging. precise, the poet and social critic is showThe show opened with a joint performance casing another dance drama with a differof the national anthem by both the band and ence, titled, “Because Of 1914”. audience. It was immediately followed by The renowned poet doesn’t seem like he cast dressed in different attires representing is ready to give up on his dream of a forever every tribe in Nigeria who stormed out on united Nigeria as he gathered Lagosians on stage in quick succession. There were also July 5th at the Agip Recital Hall of Muson those who wore fabrics with national colours.

Centre and fed them with just a preview of A lady narrator makes speeches intermittent“Because Of 1914”. ly, lamenting effects of slave trade on Africa The dance drama was directed by Felix as well as war in the North and East.

Okolo and considering how energetic, elecThey sang of togetherness, unity for a bettrifying and exhilarating the performance ter future, good governance and leadership was, theatre lovers are indeed, in for super that bear the masses in mind. History and times the English ruled the country were also The dance also, highlights the resistance revisited. Transitions; put up by Edo kingdom as they heavily pre, during and post colonialism were porcritise the amalgamation of protectorates trayed through kinds of which the British themselves built music played in each scene, costumes and theatrical treat this 2014. dance which were highly commendable.

The preview was put together as part of In the drama, it was striking to hear Freactivities to celebrate a public intellectual drick Lugard boasting of building more priswhom Odia described as mentor of mentors, ons than schools as part of his administraNoble Laureate Wole Soyinka for attaining tion’s achievements. That statement and of 80 years on earth, as well as part of the rites course the action may have probably been to celebrate Elizabeth Onomonresoa Ofeborne out of the fact that he knew that ‘Niimun, Odia’s mother who passed away on gerians’ would revolt against his governthe 5th of May, 2014. ment. So he made ready, enough prisons for The main show according to the Poet, will defaulters. What a psychological warfare. be presented at Iruekpen-Ekuma in Edo The dance also, highlights the resistance State beginning from 7th till 9th August put up by Edo kingdom as they heavily crialongside poetry, traditional dances, drama tise the amalgamation of protectorates which and art world, when Onomonresoa will be the British themselves built. 1914, the cast bid final farewell. insisted, “is the reason we have to stand toAlthough Odia refused to make any comgether.” ment about the drama, on grounds that it The preview did not end without Odia in will dampen the expectations of visitors at his usual manner, pulling a surprise. This the burial, one could easily deduct from the time, he conducted a most informal presenpresentation that it was all for the promotation of yet another new book titled, “In tion of unity among Nigerians. search of Ogun, Soyinka Inspite of the NiThe performance from every theatrical rametzsche” ification, scored way above previous ones The book he explained, provides insight but one thing which perhaps, in the true into the dilemma Africa faced in the hands African spirit, almost affected the audience’s of Europe adding that it offers resolution enthusiasm, was that the event kicked off through link with ogun. around 4.30pm as against 3pm the stated

BY PRISCA SAM-DURU

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•A scene from the play, Because of 1914

RUMMING is the we prepare to bring product posgrandmaster of sound sibly freshly invented truly Afcreation and the oldest, the rican art forms. They can only most essential ingredient in the come from our archives. Creativsound of music from an ority is modified history. Our forechestra or band, big or small. father played the drums. They As an art, it constitutes the precommunicated before the phone sentation for display of skill and through distance not only warnthe mastery of the instrument ing of danger but for announcwhich is thus pleasing to the ing visit of nobles, calls of meetaudience eye and thereby ings, celebrations, court enterprompts in added value to the tainment, religious rites, ansound on stage or screen. nouncement of events sad or Perhaps there would never happy, recognition of dignitarhave been the stage to create ies at meetings, general enterthe need for the screen if there tainment. It did not confine to was no drummer to set a stage. inter village war announcement.

The word entertainment With the present day commerneeds refreshing and the welcialization of music, we believe coming sight of drums of difthat the versatility of the drum ferent styles, shapes and sizes should be fully exploited, espebeing beaten, slapped or cacially if it means good for the ressed to make beautiful sound national economy and culture is an art which should not be preservation. We all enjoy piano ignored. recitals, drum call will contribWe cannot afford to lose those ute its soulful thunderous sound valuable resources to the past to drown the war gun sounds in the name of modernization and bring back peace into the or civilization. Let’s take the world this millennium. Drum college back to the village for will silence guns and lead to research, we can’t find our culpeace. The world needs drums ture from the city. Commercialif it needs peace. izing the art is givThe drum exists and performs ing toits functions in society but the day ’s commercial world of art is packaging to our demanding that the man cultural behind the drum sell his skil heritage and artistic endowment. We are also protecting our culture and hopefully making great sales in the art market internationally.

Talk about making the world go round through the sound of drums. It takes us back in creation to when Adam invented the drum.

Tattoo of drums How refreshing and peaceful it was to the soul. A tattoo of drums was the only likely sound and more cherry than rattling of guns.

Europe can boast of the 15th and 16th century days being the era of establishing their proscenium theatre. We only caught up about 50years ago. Thanks to British colonization and education. It was an experience we could not help and we have made the best of. Now we have our language and we have the great advantage of second language we can use for official and commercial purposes.

We are moving with the time.

Now we are saying “stop the world” Nigeria wants to get into the Art Market International. So

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Drums are to be played as visual performance. The communicator hereby known as the drummer is lending his skills to draw out sounds, talks, messages, dance steps, cries, ovation from the initiated audience and the generality of the people get fun from the rhythm, the drummer’s displays and his facial expression as an extention of the drum talk.

The instrument lives by the performance’s skill improving and getting more out of it. The drum exists and performs its functions in society but the commercial world of art is demanding that the man behind the drum sells his skill. That is what commercial art is all about, culture is only the identity label, art is the skill, the packaging and the therapeutic hidden persuader that wills the bucks in the world art market. We have such performers but the lights have always been on the drums.

From Ghana there was Kofi Ganaba, the Tettey Brothers, here in Nigeria we have the likes of Remi Kabaka, Tony Allen, the Ayans - talking drummers that have made bands great-Pedido, Kurantin,

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60—Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Green smoothies, healthy blood transfusion (2) M

ANY people do not con sume enough greens, even those who stay on a raw food diet. By drinking two or three cups of green smoothies daily you will consume enough greens for the day to nourish your body, and all of the beneficial nutrients will be well assimilated. *Green smoothies are easy to make, and quick to clean up after. In contrast, juicing greens is time consuming, messy, and expensive. Many people abandon drinking green juices on a regular basis for those reasons. To prepare a pitcher of green smoothie takes less than 5 minutes, including cleaning. *Green smoothies have proven to be loved by children of all ages, including babies of six or more months old. Of course you have to be careful and slowly increase the amount of smoothies to avoid food allergies. *When consuming your greens in the form of green smoothies, you are greatly reducing the consumption of oils and salt in your diet. *Regular consumption of green smoothies forms a good habit of eating greens. After a

Hakeem Jimo’s

Ve ggie Victory

veggienaija@gmail.com

•Green Smoothie. few weeks of drinking green smoothies, most people start to crave and enjoy eating more greens.

Eating enough greens is often a problem with many people, especially children.

*While fresh is always best, green smoothies will keep in cool temperatures for up to three days, which can be handy at work and while traveling.

Enjoy the blending!

Astymin rewards 200 pupils

BY CHIOMA OBINNA

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VER 200 pupils who performed exceptionally in their aca demics have been rewarded by Astymin, a nutritional supplement from Fidson Healthcare Plc in Lagos.

The event, the 4th in series of the Astymin Brilliance Reward, ABR,covered Lagos, Oyo and Osun states in the South West; Anambra and Enugu in the South East, and Dealta state in the one South-South.

Addressing beneficiaries, parents, as well as teachers and stakeholders in health and education sectors, Sales and Marketing Director, Mr. Olugbenga Olayeye hinted that ABR has various others school programmes that promote intelligence and hard work.

Olayeye said ABR would spur more children to put in extra efforts in their studies and to settle for nothing less than the best at all times. “We hope that the knowledge that hard work will be rewarded will give these kids the will power and discipline to overcome negative peer pressure and influence and above all, be a motivation to keep the flag of excellence flying in their future academic endeavour.”

Quoting the late Nelson Mandela, he said: “Education remains the most imperative powerful weapon with which we can change the World,” he said: “This event is intended to once again reemphasise the value of education in building a better future for our children.

“It is meant to reward hard work and to let our children know that diligence will be rewarded”. Olaleye disclosed that Astymin has various other school programmes in primary schools. Every month, there is an Astymin Genius of the month.

Olaleye further explained that Astymin brand supports various school programs in primary schools. Every month, there is an Astymin Genius of the Month. Essentially, students in primary schools in Lagos state write an essay on a topic agreed upon by their teachers. The teachers also assess them and chose the best of the entries. Astymin rewards and celebrate the child.

“We also sponsor debates, inter-house sports, PTA meetings, Christmas parties and more. At the secondary school level, Astymin is involved in debates and inter-house sports. At the University level, Astymin is the main sponsor of the annual PANS national conference. The main social event the participants look forward to is the ‘Astymin Nite’ and the ‘Miss. Astymin’ beauty pageant.

COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS AND THEIR NOVELTY BASED SOLUTIONS (ADVERTORIAL)

I

came across my seventeen year old daughter’s cell phone by mistake and had the shock of my life. She is having sex and she discusses it openly with her friends as if it is nothing. I don’t even know where to start with her – Mrs Solomon Dear Mrs Solomon, controlling teenagers who are on the verge of becoming adults is one of the most difficult things to do. A year from now, your daughter will be eighteen and legally old enough to have a sex life. The body of a seventeen year old girl looks just like the body of a 25 year old woman. That is why many young girls feel they are ready for a sexual relationship even as early as fourteen or younger.

My advice is to have a quiet chat with your daughter and explain the rules to her. Encourage her to be patient until she is legally old enough to experience intimacy and the consequences that come with it.

Also stress the importance of using protection when she eventually becomes legally eligible for a physical relationship. Quietly guiding her in making smart choices is about the best thing you can do. But screaming and threatening her won’t work. One year from now she will be 18 – Uche I experience vaginal odour and it embarrasses me.

It is also part of why I refuse oral sex whenever my husband wants to give it to me. What can I do to overcome this? Secondly, there is no foreplay in my relationship. Everything goes straight to sex. I want a better sex life and my husband does not last long in bed – Chinyere First of all, vaginal odour is unavoidable because of all the layers of clothing adult women wear (which restrict air flow) and the fact that you sweat during the day. It is all part of being alive and human. But what you can do is to ensure that you smell fresh during intercourse. The mistake many women make is that they jump straight into sex without the necessary preparations. A woman must check herself minutes before intercourse to ensure she is ready.

That is why women are encouraged to carry wet wipes with them for cleaning up or better still, having a wash in the bathroom before intercourse. Afterwards, the use of flavored lubricants with fragrances strong enough to suppress body odours, is also advisable. Lubricants such as the 69 Nipple and Clit Orgasm Gel are great for this.

The Jo Feminine Body Spray is also good for external scenting.

On the subject of foreplay, there are novelties that can help create playful activity as a warm up before sex.

Bedroom sex games such as Choose your Pleasure and Fifty Days of Play are all wonderful novelties for foreplay.

And for your husband’s premature ejaculation issue, let him start using the Rock Hard Delay Cream for intercourse. It is applied on the penis minutes before intercourse to enable a man have sex for a longer period before climaxing - Uche I am 59 years old and I have not had an erection in a long time. A friend of mine who has used your products recommended the Max Arousal Oil. He said it helped him. Is this what I need? Michael Michael the Max Arousal Excite Oil is very good but it is suitable for mild cases of erectile dysfunction. For your case, I recommend something stronger. Get Exploding Thunder supplement. It will be ideal for you and will also enhance your performance in addition to giving you very strong erections when you need it – Uche I have started using that Liquid Sex vagina Tightening Cream and my husband is no longer complaining. He doesn’t even know why the sex is tighter. He just has stopped complaining. I guess it is working. Thank you - Hauwa That’s it for today. Adults in need of these treatments and novelties 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, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 61

I don’t need to change for Chelsea — Costa N

EW Chelsea strik er Diego Costa said yesterday that manager Jose Mourinho has told him the team will play to his strengths next season.

“One of the main things he said was that he doesn’t want me to change,” the Brazil-born Spain striker told the club’s in-house television channel, Chelsea TV. “It was Jose’s and the club’s decision to buy me and the reason they signed me was because of the way I played at Atletico (Madrid).

“I don’t feel I have to change much. I just have to improve fine details to become a better player. Hopefully I will have a similar season to the last one.”

Costa, 25, scored 36 goals last season, inspiring Atletico to a first La Liga title in 18 years — as well as a place in the Champions League final — and taking his tally at

•Costa the club to 64 goals in 134 appearances.

It convinced Chelsea to part with around £32 million ($55 million, 40 million euros) in order to secure his services and Costa is confident that he can cope with

the burden of expectation. “I’d say to the fans that you need to be confident that I personally will fight for this club to make sure we are in contention to win as many trophies as possible,” he said.

Tevez: I never thought of leaving Juve

C

ARLOS Tevez in sists he never thought about following

Antonio Conte out of Juventus. Conte left Juve last week having guided the Turin club to three consecutive Italian

•Tevez

Serie A titles.

Massimiliano Allegri was handed the Juve job and Tevez stressed he was fully committed to pursue a fourth straight scudetto with the club. “I never spoke to (director of sport Beppe) Marotta,” Tevez told juventus.com.

“I’m just a player and (the board) don’t need to ask for my point of view on these matters. I think the papers should show greater respect when they write these things. Those who do so only want to harm Juventus. Leaving the club has never entered my head. I’ve got a threeyear contract and I want to see it out here.”

Man U ready to smash British transfer record club’s bid to reclaim their forms before ringing the

L

C M Y K

OUIS van Gaal is pre pared to extend an olive branch to Manchester United’s underperforming stars before he rushes into the transfer market this summer.

Manchester United chief Ed Woodward has said he is willing to allow the club’s new manager to break the British transfer record in the

place at the top table following a season of dalliance under former boss David Moyes.

And Van Gaal, addressing the media for the first time during United’s tour of the USA ahead of his first game in charge against Los Angeles Galaxy at the Rose Bowl, said he will wait to see how his current squad per-

changes.

‘I can’t say anything,’ he said, speaking at press conference in Pasadena. ‘I have told the club I won’t do anything until I know the players here. When I am the coach and I give the orders to play a certain way I want to see how they perform. So I can’t answer.

62 — Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Dedevbo lists Oshoala, 20 others for Canada 2014 •Team depart for Canada today

J

OACHIM Loew has moved to end speculation that he will quit as Germany head coach by reaffirming his commitment to the national team.

The 54-year-old led his country to World Cup glory courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final on July 13.

Loew penned a new deal with the German Football Association (DFB) last October to extend his reign beyond the 2016 European Championship.

H

EAD Coach, Peter Dedevbo has released his final list of 21 players for this year’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals, including Super Falcons’ ace Asisat Oshoala and former U-17 stars Patience Okaeme, Halimatu Ayinde, Jiroro Idike, Uchenna Kanu and Yetunde Adeboyejo.

There are three goalkeepers, seven defenders, five midfielders and six strikers in the squad that Dedevbo believes will stun the world in Canada.

Dedevbo, who steered the U-17 girls, Flamingoes, to the quarter finals at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup finals in Trinidad and Tobago in 2010 and in Azerbaijan in 2012, has also included US – based college star

Continues from BP

Keshi Falconets celebrating a goal Courtney Dike, younger sister of Super Eagles’ forward Bright Dike.

The tall and spritely forward from Oklahoma State University is the only overseas –based player in the squad.

Cavani criticises Suarez’s ban U R U G U AY international striker Edinson Cavani believes that four-month ban for his team-mate Luis Suarez is too harsh.

NFF

Committee of the NFF has been divided since the Mrs Baribote court case saga which saw the board sacked, first through an injunction by a Jos High Court Judge and then by an extraordinary Congress of the NFF before it was reinstated.

We gathered that the division among the ranks is so wide that members of the different blocs are maintaining their longheld views on how affairs of the football house should be run.

While the reinstated President of the NFF, Aminu Maigari is leading one camp, the other is being led by Chief Mike Umeh, the First Vice President of the federation.

In the Maigari’s camp are the likes of Chris Green(Chairman of the Technical Committee), E m e k a Inyama(Chairman of the Media Committee), Ahmed Fresh, Hon. Suleiman Kwande and Ahmed Kawu.

On his part, Chief Umeh leads the likes of the all-powerful Chairman of Chairmen,

Loew quashes Germany exit rumours

Effiong Johnson, the man who convened the emergency congress that endorsed the Jos High Court injunction, Deji Tinubu, DiliChukwu Onyedinma, Dr Shehu Adamu and Muazu Suleiman.

The only neutral member whose allegiance could not be ascertained as at Press time was Chairman of Enyimba FC of Aba, Felix Anyansi-Agwu who was absent from the controversial extraordinary congress. It is however, expected that Anyansi-Agwu might pitch tent with the Mike Umeh bloc as Inyama’s allegiance to the Maigari group could hurt his interest of a second term.

In a release announcing the meeting yesterday, Assistant Director of Information, Ademola Olajire said among the issues, the 13-member Committee is set to discuss is a review Nigeria’s participation in the recently –concluded 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil, appraise the preparation of the U20 Women National

Team, Falconets, for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals in Canada next month and also deliberate on Nigeria’s participation in the qualifying series for the 2015 African U17 and African U-20 Championships.

The body will also discuss the issue of technical crew for the Senior National Team, Super Eagles, as the qualifying series for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations knock on the door, as well as deliberate on the preparation of the Senior Women National Team, Super Falcons, for the 9th African Women Championship in Namibia in October this year.

There will also be talk on the 2014 Annual General Assembly of the Federation, which is the elective Congress, set for next month as well as the grand finale of this year’s Men and Women Federation Cup competitions, tentatively slated for Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos on Saturday, August 16.

While Cavani agrees that Suarez’s behaviour was unacceptable and he deserved a punishment, the Paris Saint-Germain forward believes that four-month ban is too long and should be shortened. “I am sure that Luis made a mistake and the punishment is correct, but the sanction is not the correct one,” Cavani said.

“He was sent out of the World Cup and even of a football stadium. No football player deserves to be treated in that way."

Suarez

Games respective events. They

Continues from BP get $ 4,000 and $3,000 dollars respectively.

Elegbeleye’s meeting with the athletes, was perhaps, the tonic the athletes needed to be in a competitive mood for the Games. Reports from the camp suggested that the country ’s representatives were just a despairing bunch, after they were left without kits and any motivation.

“I want you to know that the government have your welfare at heart. We want you all to go out there and do your best for your country,” Elegbelye told the athletes.

And the athletes concurred with the promise to do well and win medals in their

were hopeful that their kits will be supplied early before their events begin today.

On Tuesday, during the athletes welcoming party, Nigerian athletes were saved the blushes by the well dressed Nigerian wrestling team.

It was gathered that Nigeria Wrestling Federation president, Daniel Igali had personally bought suits for the wrestlers and they arrived on time to represent Nigeria at the welcoming party.

“They saved us embarrassment with their well tailored suits.

Otherwise there wouldn’t have been any Nigerian representation in the welcoming party,” said one of the athletes yesterday.

Continues from BP remaining the Nigeria head coach job.

“No one has spoken to me about any contract or invited me to discussion.

I am always ready to serve my country to the best of my ability. But we must do things properly,” Keshi responded to supersport.com when asked if he is in talks with the Nigeria Football Federation [NFF] to remain as Super Eagles head coach.

The 52-year-old Nigerian coach, however, played down reports of him being in the frame to take charge of South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.

He also expressed excitement at being linked to the role of the South Africa head coach.

“They [the South Africa Football Association] have not named their coach. Or have they? I’m happy I’m being considered worthy to handle the team of such a big country but they’ve not named me or any other person as their coach, so I can’t start talking in that capacity,” said Keshi.

The future of Keshi as Nigeria’s head coach was expected to be among the discussion between the country’s sports minister, Dr Tammy Danagogo and the NFF on Tuesday in Abuja but the meeting did not hold.

Under Keshi as head coach, Nigeria won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and also reached the second round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup for the first time in 16 years.

Vanguard, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014 — 63

Football club admits guilt after goalpost crushes boy

A

Van Gaal and his Man U squad in America

Van Gaal blasts Man Utd chiefs L

OUIS Van Gaal has hit out at Manchester United’s lengthy pre-season tour of the USA. United played Los Angeles Galaxy in Pasadena yesterday, with games against Roma, Inter Milan and Real Madrid also planned.

The two-and-a-halfweek long tour could see Van Gaal’s squad travel almost 13,5000 miles if they reach the final of the International Champions Cup on August 4.

And the Dutchman has admitted his frustration at the amount of commercial distraction to the start of his United reign.

“More or less, yes,” Van Gaal replied when asked whether the demands were hindering his work.

“We have to prepare for the season and when you have commercial activities and dreadful distances, having to fly a lot and the jet lag, it is not very positive for a good preparation.”

“The tour was already arranged and I shall adapt and United will do everything to apply to my rules, but I have said that already.

After arriving 30 minutes later to meet journalists, Van Gaal added: “This is the first time I am late for a press conference, but it is the Los Angeles traffic, so I am sorry for that.”

C M Y K

Last year, United went on a gruelling pre-season tour of Thailand, Australia, Japan and Hong Kong after agreeing several commercial

deals in the region.

Van Gaal said he expected United’s next tour, likely to be in Asia again, to be much shorter.

“Yes, I hope that it will be, but they (the United board)have already said that to me and I am very confident that it shall be,” he said.

football club has admitted health and safety breaches following the death of a 12-year-old boy who was crushed by a metal goalpost.

Schoolboy Casey Breese was playing football with four friends in July 2011 when he was struck by the goalpost in Caersws, Powys.

Caersws FC pleaded guilty at Mold Crown Court to the safety failures.

Judge Niclas Parry gave the club a 12-month conditional discharge with no financial penalty.

On the day Casey was fatally injured, he was acting as goal keeper during a kick-about with friends.

As he went to make a save, his foot caught in the net and as he tried to get his foot loose he fell on his stomach. The goalpost then landed on his back.

He was airlifted to hospital but died as a

•Breese result of a crush injury.

During the inquest into his death, held in October 2012, the jury heard that the “freestanding” posts would have been unstable unless pegged to the ground.

•Brahimi

Algeria World Cup star, Brahimi joins Porto

Man City youngsters halt game over racism A

M

ANCHESTER City ’s under-21 team walked off the pitch during a friendly against Croatian side HNK Rijeka after one of their players was racially abused, the club has claimed.

“Manchester City’s EDS (elite development squad) U21 game with HNK Rijeka has today been cancelled due to an alleged incident of racial abuse toward the club’s young midfielder, Seko Fofana by a member of the opposing team,” read a statement published on

the City website late on Tuesday.

“Club representatives in Croatia and in Manchester are liaising with officials, the match organisers and the Croatian Football Association to pursue this matter further.”

City’s officials told their players to leave the pitch shortly before half-time during the game in Novigrad, west Croatia.

Fofana, a 19-year-old Frenchman, had just been sent off for what City’s Twitter feed described as an “off-the-ball incident”.

Viera (l) discusses with an official after staging a walk out.

LGERIA interna tional Yacine Brahimi has signed a fiveyear deal with Portugal’s FC Porto from Granada.

The 24-year-old French-born attacking midfielder has agreed an $8.7m (£5.1m) deal with a $67m (£40m) buyout clause.

Capped seven times, he impressed at the World Cup in Brazil and scored his first international goal as Algeria reached the last 16 for the first time.

Brahimi played up to Under-21 level for the French national side before switching allegiance to Algeria.

Monaco: Rodriguez deal too good to ignore paid around €80million Boot,” he told the club’s website.

M

•James Rodriguez

ONACO chief executive Vadim Vasilyev wanted to keep James Rodriguez, but a deal with Real Madrid was “most beneficial” for all involved.

The Colombia international signed a six-year deal with the UEFA Champions League winners on Tuesday after starring at the FIFA World Cup, winning the Golden Boot following his six-goal haul.

Real are believed to have

Euros for the playmaker, who spent just one season in Ligue 1 after joining Monaco from Porto.

Vasilyev said the deal was too good for all parties to ignore and believes his club will continue to improve, even without Rodriguez.

“Monaco are proud to have helped James Rodriguez reveal his talent to the world as he notably made his mark on the 2014 World Cup in Brazil winning the Golden

“James is a fantastic player who achieved great things with Monaco and the club had no intention to sell the player.

“However the time came when the solution of a transfer was considered to be the most beneficial solution for all parties.

“Monaco are proud to be a part to one of the most significant transfers in football history."

VANGUARD, THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

C’wealth Games:

Govt promises N1m for each gold medal • Wrestlers save Nigeria from wearing coat of many colours •Athletes expect kits today

Tension as NFF exco meets

BY JACOB AJOM

T

HERE is palpable tension in the Glass House, the seat of football administration in the country as the Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation meets today in Abuja.

Emerging from the brink of extinction, after it was saved by FIFA’s insistence on its reinstatement, the Alhaji Aminu Maigari-led board will today face its stiffest test for survival.

Reports reaching Sports Vanguard have it that the Executive Continues on Page 62

BY BEN EFE

T

HE DirectorGeneral of the National Sports Commission, Tunde Elegbeleye has put smiles on the faces of the Nigerian contingent at the Commonwealth Games, which opened in Glasgow, Scotland yesterday.

In a bid to motivate the athletes to higher performance level, the Director-General announced that $7,000 dollars (about N1.1m) will be given to gold medalists, while silver and bronze winners will Continues on Page 62

•Okagbare

Keshi still in limbo N

BEFORE THE CRACK: Dr. Rafiu Ladipo (m) raises the hands of Chief Mike Umeh (l) and Aminu Maigari after their election in 2010.

IGERIA head coach, Stephen Keshi, has said that he has not been contacted by the country’s football federation, the NFF, on staying in his role.

Keshi stated that he had never shut down on

Continues on Page 62

•Keshi

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Ridge (5) 5 Decayed (6) 8 List (5) 10 Unfastened (6) 11 Between (4) 14 Tell (6) 15 Widespread (7) 18 Entrap (3) 19 Dance-style (3) 21 Deceased (4) 24 Nee (4) 27 Lair (3) 29 Lout (3) 31 Shining (7) 32 Sitting (6) 34 Pit (4) 35 Cold (6) 38 Liberated (5) 39 Score (6) 40 Poor (5)

DOWN 2 Manage (3) 3 Pitted (6) 4 Brown (3) 5 Back (4) 6 Laboured (6) 7 Guard (6) 9 Tardy (7) 12 Males (3) 13 Fruit (4) 16 Therefore (4) 17 Subsequently (5) 20 Expiration (7) 22 Related (4) 24 Hamper (6) 25 Wander (4) 26 Race (6) 28 Part (6) 30 Marshland (3) 33 Flout (4) 36 Bird (3) 37 Youth (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Unsafe 5, Spar 8, Yokel 9, Lee 10, Amen 11, Cost 12, Start 13, Abroad 16, Seen 18, Trap 20, One 22, Sat 23, Eel 24, Sign 25, Item 28, Deduce 30, Meant 32, Poor 33, Arid 34, Ace 35, Petty 36, Deed 37, Advent.

DOWN: 1, Unload 2, Swearing 3, Fracas 4, Contented 5, Secrete 6, Plot 7, Rite 8, Yes 14, Designate 15, Pal 17, Eat 19, Regulate 20, Oil 21, Entered 26, Mended 27, Resent 29, Sped 30, Mope 31, Try.

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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