STEADY POWER SUPPLY : Nigerians to waitlonger —Investigation

...towards a better life for the people

**

VOL. 25: NO. 61781

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

G r o u p M a n a g i n g Director, Access Bank, Mr Aigboje AigImoukhuede (left), welcoming Mr. Jeffrey Hawkins, United States Consular General to the b a n k ' s headquarters in Lagos.

NASS passes N4.987trn AFCON: Osaze blastsBudget Keshi 2013 •Pg.56

•He wants to be Eagles captain — Keshi

S T E A D Y P O W E R S U P P LY :

Nigerians to wait longer —Investigation •Faulty plants frustrate power generation •38 turbines out of operation •N17.9bn spent annually on generators

BY CLARA NWACHUKWU

L

AGOS — NO fewer than 38 electricity generating turbines are grounded in various power plants in the country, Vanguard investigations can reveal.

These technically faulty gas turbines, as a result, are unable to generate their required power output, thus compounding Nigeria’s already poor electricity supply situation.

Excuses and more excuses For a while now, Nigerians have been given all manner of excuses for the

Continues on page 5

LES LEBA

Killing us softly with subsidies •P.40 DELE SOBOWALE

Vision 2020: 20: How •P.41 realistic?

Mr & Mrs

CHRISTMAS CAROL: From left: Prince Segun Adesegun, Deputy Governor, Ogun State; former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Mrs. Funso Amosun and Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State during the Christmas Carol Service at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State, weekend. Photo: Wumi Akinola.

No rift between Jonathan, Obasanjo, Abati tells —P.11 Dokubo

Next year 'll be —P.6 better —Jonathan

2 —Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 3

C M Y K

4 —Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

C M Y K

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012—5

POCKET CARTOON

Steady power supply: Nigerians to wait longer Continues from page 1 recent drop in electricity supply despite assurances of improvement, but investigations have shown that it will take even a while longer before the country can experience some reprieve. This is because virtually all the generation plants are bugged down with one technical problem or the other.

The reality is such that even if the Federal Government fulfils its pledge to revamp these faulty plants, Nigerians will still not have enough power to meet their industrial and domestic energy needs.

This is because not only are the plants allegedly being starved of gas notably from its major suppliers, the international oil companies, IOCs, the transmission and distribution networks are still too weak to carry and supply even the little that is generated.

For instance Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre, which is estimated to require between 10,000 and 12,000 mega watts, MWs, is only able to get a paltry 928MWs, out of the 3,714MWs generated, while Abuja receives a mere 44.2MW, as shown in the data below.

Daily Report (16-12-12) Peak demand forecast 10200MW at 21:00 Hrs: Actual generation capability 4370MW at 21:45Hrs Peak generation 3714.8MW at 21:45 Hrs: Lowest generation 3118MW at 15:00 Hrs Energy generated 83,411.40MWH Energy sent out 81,790.05MWH; Peak generation to date 4321.3MW Max. energy generation capability to date 96,768.53MWH; Max power despatched to Lagos 928.00MW @ 09:00Hrs; Max. power despatched to Abuja 44.20MW @ 22.00Hrs. The effect of these supply inadequacies is that Nigeria has become a dumping ground for all manner of sub-standard generating sets, apart from being one of the highest importers of generating sets in the world.

NNPC promises improved gas supply The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, the senior partner in the joint venture, JV, oil and gas operation, promised that the power supply situation would improve as system overhaul on the Escravos

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

G

ET passionate about helping others, put everything you have got into anything you do so that it can become everything you want. Halfway measure usually produces no way results.

Lagos Gas Pipeline, would have been completed last weekend and gas supply restored to Egbin power plants Executive Director, Gas and Power, NNPC, Dr. David Ige, in a telephone conversation with Vanguard, revealed: “Chevron will soon be ramping up production.

The Escravos Lagos Pipeline has been undergoing routine maintenance in the last three weeks. It will take another three to four days

to ramp up production.”

He noted that with Chevron being the major gas supplier, it was expected that “there will be some rationing. But by the weekend, the situation would have significantly improved.”

The NNPC, through its subsidiary, Nigerian Gas Company, NGC, operates the following gas supply systems in the country: 1. The Aladja Gas Pipeline System which supplies the Delta Steel Continues on page 44

CURRENT STATUS OF SOME OF THE PLANTS EGBIN ST: ST06 - Out on high turbine rotor vibration.

ST1- Out for furnace inspection ST3 - Out due to cold sheared hanger bearing problem.

GEREGU PS: Nil GT11 - Out on maintenance AFAM 1V & V GT2 - Out on generator differential.

GT3 - Out on high vibration.

GT4 - Tripped on generator differential.

GT5 - Out due to burnt generator breaker.

GT6 - Major Inspection/Repairs in progress.

GT17 - Out on D.C failure.

DELTA P/S GT2 - Overdue for major overhaul.

GT3 & 5 - Generator winding faulty.

GT6 - Out on high vibration.

GT7 - Shut down on emergency due to oil leakage at generator collector end.

GT10 - Out due to high vibration.

GT11 - Out due to unit transformer that is undergoing maintenance.

GT13 - High vibration awaiting check and repair.

GT14 - Out on maintenance.

GT15 - Turbine blade failure.

GT16 - Out on generator differential lock out.

GT17 - Out due to fire outbreak on the accessory compartment.

GT18 - Out due to bearing No. 4 & 5 problem.

OLORUNSOGO NIPP: GT1 - Out for combustion check.

SAPELE GT GT4 - Defective generator transformer since (06/04/90), awaiting rehabilitation.

OKPAI P/S: GT11 - Out on type ‘A’ inspection.

JEBBA G/S 2G6 - Burnt generator winding and AVR. Awaiting rehabilitation.

SHIRORO P/S 411G2-Out on excitation problem.

AES BARGE: 207 - Tripped on inlet guide vane problem 208 - Tripped on loss of flame 209 - Shut down on maintenance.

OMOTOSHO:GT2 & 4 - Out on generator differential.

GT3 & 5 - Out on suspected excitation.

GT6 - Out on vibration problem.

GT8 - Tripped on protective signal trip.

TRANS-AMADI GT1 & 3 - Out on fault.

IBOM POWER GT1 - Out on inlet guide vane.

OLORUNSOGO GAS: GT1 - undergoing routine check.

GT2 - Out due to combustion problem.

*Source: Nigeria System Operator, NSO.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

O

NCE you deliberately choose a thought and consciously feel the improvement in the way you feel, you have successfully utilised your own guidance system, and you can now be on your way to the freedom that you desire and deserve—for there is nothing you cannot be, do, or have — Esther and Jerry Hicks.

Dr Hawkins, in his 29 years of scientific research and writings based on energy level and their impacts on the collective consciousness of mankind, concludes that below these supremely high levels, which few ever attain in a permanent way, are the levels of unconditional love, kindness, and acceptance of everyone.

Below the levels of energy that strengthen us are the low energy levels of anger, fear, grief, apathy, guilt, hatred, judgment, and shame—all of which weaken and impact us in such a way as to inhibit our connection to the universal energy level of Source.

Consider the importance of becoming aware of the impact you have on others, and remind yourself that by raising your own energy level to a place where you’re in harmony with Source, you become an instrument, or a channel, of peace. This works everywhere, so be a part of the counterbalance to the human negativity you encounter in your life.

As Mahatma Gandhi said: “We must be the change we wish to see in the world.”

Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State (2nd left) with other state officials during the switching on of the Festival of Lights, last Thursday night, in Lagos.

6—Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

RECEPTION: Speaker of House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal (4th left); Minority Leader Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila (left); Senator Ganiyu Solomon (2nd right), Mr. Dayo Bush-Alebiosu (right), and newly wedded couple, Ibrahim and Aminat Alebiosu, during the reception for the couple in Lagos, yesterday.

Next year'll be better than previous years —Jonathan

BY BEN AGANDE

P

RESIDENT Good luck Jonathan, yesterday, assured Nigerians that despite the various challenges facing the country, his government was determined to ensure that the coming year would be better than the previous years.

He spoke in Kaduna shortly after he laid the foundation stone of Living Faith Foundation’s Bible College.

According to the President, Nigerians should not to lose hope in the country as his administration was committed to ensuring that there is positive change in Nigeria.

He said: “Let me assure all of you and indeed all Nigerians that 2013 will be better for us than 2012 in all aspects of the nation’s history. The New

Year shall be better for us in terms of job creation, wealth creation and improved security among others.

“Sometimes, challenges make people doubt the sincerity of government, but I am confident that God knows everything.”

He said he was aware that people find it difficult to continue to believe the government because of the challenges they are facing.

The President said like the biblical Job who lost everything he had, God wants Nigerians to learn some lessons from the challenges they are facing, adding that God means well for the country.

While assuring Nigerians that the improvement being witnessed in the area of power supply would be sustained,

Jonathan said his wish was that Nigerians could live without buying power generating sets.

He said his administration was committed to increasing the power generation to boost small scale businesses.

“Small scale businesses such as barbing salons cannot continue to buy generators to operate and break even. My wish is for Nigerians not to have generating sets," he added.

Speaking on the security challenges in the Northern part of the country, the President said security operatives were working hard to contain the situation.

He said having sanitised the electoral process, his administration was also intervening massively in road construction, upgrading of airports and railway development.

Bola Ajibola slams Jonathan over Alamieyeseigha

BY BASHIR ADEFAKA

F

ORMER Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Bolasodun Ajibola, SAN, has described President Goodluck Jonathan’s recent statement to the effect that the former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, was his political benefactor as an insult to Nigerians.

Ajibola, a former judge of the International Court of Justice, said Jonathan was wrong to have described ‘’an exconvict’’ as his benefactor and asked him to ‘’say it again.’’

President Jonathan had, while addressing stakeholders of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in his home state of Bayelsa, on December 10, reportedly acknowledged that Alamieyeseigha was his political mentor, and

called on the political class in the state to put aside their grievances in the collective interest of the people. Ajibola, however, described the remarks as demeaning on Nigerians.

The former Minister spoke in an interview with Vanguard at the engagement ceremony of son of Oba Olusanya Adegboyega Dosunmu, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Ogun State, Thursday. Owu is Obasanjo’s home town.

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012—7

Falana to FG: Prosecute Dana Airline now L

AGOS—HUMAN Rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, yesterday, called on the Federal Government to prosecute all those who by commission or omission were responsible for the June 3 Dana Air crash which claimed the lives of 153 passengers on board and others on ground.

Implementation of crash report

In a statement yesterday, Falana urged the government to implement the report of the House of Representatives on the Dana plane crash. He also called for the removal of the Managing Director of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, Dr. Harold Demurin.

He said: “When the Dana plane crash occurred in Lagos on June 3, 2012 the Federal Government set up a Panel of Enquiry to in-

vestigate the remote and immediate causes of the disaster. The Panel carried out a shoddy inquiry and hurriedly turned in a report which covered up the causes of the plane which had killed 153 passengers and crew on board and 10 people . Dissatisfied with the shameful cover up of the tragic incident our law office initiated an inquest into the plane crash. The inquest which was in progress was suddenly suspended on the orders of the federal high court via a suit filed by a former pilot but supported by the Dana Airlines Management and the Ministry of Aviation.

Official fraud exposed

“However, the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation which probed the incident has exposed the official fraud which has

characterised the insensitive handling of the Dana affair by the Ministry of Aviation. In a detailed report on the unfortunate incident submitted by the Committee to the House last week it was revealed that an NCAA inspector, who allegedly did the pre-arrival inspection of the ill-fated airline was found to be without requisite professional qualifications.

The Committee also found that “for the period under review, Dana operated 14 air returns caused by system failure which is a sufficient indication of imminent danger.

“More revealing was the disclosure that “up to the time of this report, NCAA is still without any licenced engineer type-rated on MD83, yet it is going ahead with technical audit on Dana operations with a view to restoring its licence.”

Achebe colloquium tasks Africa on good governance

F

OR the continent of Africa to develop and march forward like other advanced regions of the world, there is the urgent need for them to address the serious issues such as the establishment of institutions and principles of good governance on the continent.

This was the resolution of speakers at the fourth edition of the Chinua Achebe Colloquium on Africa convened by Nigerian novelist and humanist Chinua Achebe, the David and Marianna Fisher University Professor and Professor of Africana Studies, held at Brown University.

Speaking on the theme “Governance, Security and Peace in Africa,” the 2012 colloquium which attracted leading experts from academia, business, non-governmental organizations, and governments from Africa, Europe and the United States highlighted the complex security issues that confront African nations, security challenges surrounding the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, homegrown terrorism,

and the persistence of ethno-religious insurgency.

In their deliberations, the various speakers acknowledged the fact that the main driver of conflict in Africa was poverty originating from the failure of leadership and governance. They urged governments in Africa and bold private initiatives to work to grow additional, dedicated indigenous investment and entrepreneurial groups rather than depend largely on foreign aid.

According to one of the keynote speakers, “foreign aid is morphine; what is really needed in Africa is a dedicated and thorough operation to remove debilitating poverty that robs the people of their dignity and makes them vulnerable to the manipulation of corrupt, self-serving, and divisive leaders and warlords.”

The Colloquium calls on Africans at home and in the Diaspora, as well as members of the international community, to promote good governance in Africa by acknowledging the outstanding examples of re-

markable African leaders such as Joaquim Alberto Chissano, former President of Mozambique, Pedro Verona Rodrigues Pires, former President of Cape Verde, and Festus Gontebanye Mogae, former President of Botswana. It also encourages African ruling parties in particular to respect three essentials to democratic governance: an independent and credible election system, viable and vibrant political opposition, and free and rigorous civil society engagement in politics.

While reviewing the strategic role of the United States Africa Command, AFRCOM, in relation to the role of African peacekeepers, and the success of the African Union Mission in certain flashpoints on the continent such as Somalia, Sudan, and Mali, the Colloquium welcomed the participation of AFRICOM Commander, General Carter Ham, and acknowledges the idea of ‘partnership’ between African states and the international community to maintain peace and democratic governance.

8—Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Bank, customer bicker over N75.5m facility

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

A

N75.5 million suit has been filed before a Lagos High Court against Diamond Bank Plc over alleged breach of contract from one of its customers.

In a suit filed by Angel’s Eye Nigeria Limited, the company was praying the court to declare that the alleged failure of the bank to honour the restructured loan agreement it had with it constitutes a breach of contract.

In its defence, Diamond Bank Plc stated that it took all its actions “in accordance with the terms of the offer letter and that it was the act of the claimant (Angel Eye) that vitiated the contract.”

It agreed that though, it restructured the earlier loan granted to the company, the company failed later to fulfil its financial obligations in accordance with the terms of the restructured offer letter.

Fashola switches on 'Lagos Festival of Lights'

I

N AN impressive blaze of colours, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) on Thursday evening “switched on “ the Lagos Festival of Lights to officially herald the holiday season with thousands of decorative lights from the entire stretch of the Marina through Ahmadu Bello Way to Bar Beach.

Riding in the Open roofed Eko Tourist Bus from Marina through the stretch to Ahmadu Bello Way to the cheers and colourful displays of several groups who dotted the road, the Festival of Lights train arrived at the Akin Adesola junction of the Bar Beach which had been a centre point of a carnival like celebration to usher in the holiday season programme.

Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State (4th left); his wife, Dame Abimbola Fashola (3rd left); Mrs. Folashade Ogunnaike, representing the Deputy Governor (2nd left); Mrs. Mayowa Ikuforiji, wife of the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, (left); Prophet Samson Ayorinde (right) and others, during the 2012 Christmas Carol with the theme, 'Prince of Peace,' at the State House, Marina, Lagos.

S-Court cedes Eko Court to Lagos, 17 years after

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

L

AGOS—AFTER 17 years of fierce legal battle between the Lagos State government and one of its famous retired Permanent Secretaries, late Chief J. O. Adeyemi–Bero, the Supreme Court has ceded the ownership of Plot 177, Victoria Island (now known as Eko Court Towers, Victoria Island) and No.25 Cooper Road Ikoyi to the state.

In a unanimous judgement by the apex court, it held that the ownership of the disputed properties rested with the Lagos State Government in view of the promulgated Decree 21 of 1996 and the Court of Appeal’s judgment which set aside the judgment of the High Court, granting ownership of the properties to the late permanent secretary.

The appeal filed by the estate of late Chief Adeyemi– Bero against the state gov-

ernment, asking that the properties known as Plot 177, Victoria Island, Lagos and No.25, Cooper Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, be reverted to him as owner, was set aside, while the court granted ownership to the government.

Bero, was the permanent secretary who the main auditorium in the state secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja was named after.

The properties which were the subject of litigation were forfeited to the Lagos State Government by virtue of the Determination of Interests in State Land No.1, Order LSLN No.9 of 1976 made pursuant to Section 1 of the Determination of Certain Interests in Land Edict No.3 of 1976 and Public Officers and Other Persons (Forfeiture of Assets) Order 1976 made pursuant to Investigation of Assets (Public Officers and Other Persons) Decree 1968 respectively.

In 1993, the Federal Mili-

tary Government of General Ibrahim Babangida promulgated the Forfeiture of Assets (Release of Certain Forfeited Properties etc.)

Decree No. 54 of 1993 in which the name of Mr. J.O. Adeyemi-Bero was listed and the properties in dispute were returned to him.

The State Government, however, refused to release the properties, which made the appellant to file a suit No. M/415/95 against the state government.

However on June, 11, 1996, the appellant obtained judgment at the High Court, which ordered the release of the properties to him.

Sequel to this, the Lagos State Government petitioned the then Federal Military Government on the release of the properties to the appellant.

However, sequel to the delivery of the judgment, the Federal Military Government of General Sanni

Abacha on July 3, 1996 promulgated the Forfeiture of Assets (Release of Certain Forfeited Properties etc.) Amendment Decree No. 21 of 1996 deleting the name of Mr. Adeyemi-Bero and the properties in dispute from the schedule to the Decree.

The Decree which amended Decree No.54 of 1993 has a retrospective commencement date of June 6, 1995, which was applied on the properties.

The State Government then commenced a fresh action in suit No. M/249/97 to have the judgment granted to Mr. AdeyemiBero in suit No. M/415/95 set aside.

However, the High Court refused, but on appeal, the Court of Appeal set aside the judgment of the High Court and thereby returned the properties to Lagos State Government.

Dissatisfied with the decision of the Court of Appeal, Mr. Adeyemi-Bero, through his counsel, Prof. A. B. Kasumu, SAN, appealed to the Supreme Court in SC. Case No. 179/05.

In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court agreed with the submission of Lagos State Government represented by the state Solicitor Generme on my first day of as- al, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN sumption, N51.452billion. that the properties were So, it is dishonest for them validly returned to Lagos to say it was N49billion State Government by knowing that that was Decree 21 of 1996 and March’s figure and know- the Court of Appeal’s ing that they took addition- judgment which set aside al loan between that the judgment of the High March and May”.

Court cannot be faulted.

Ogun debt profile released

.Says Daniel incurred N51 billion in 8 yrs, Amosun N12.6bn

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

A

B E O K U TA — T H E Ogun State Government has disclosed that the total debt owed by the state currently stands at N63.6billion, saying that it had already recorded a net debt of N12.6billion.

It, however, claimed that out of the N63 billion debt profile, the immediate-past governor of the State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel incured a total debt of N51billion. The Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun stated this while defending the budget of her ministry on the floor of the state House of Assembly on Friday.

Daniel had said that his administration left a total debt of N49.2billion as at 31st of May

2011,when he was leaving office after his eight years.But, Adeosun claimed that between March 31 and May 29, the Daniel administration incurred additional debt of N4.3billion.

Adeosun said “the current figure of N49.2billion which the previous administration claimed was the debt they left behind, is actually the debt figure not as at 31st May but as at 31st of March and I have that proof.

"What they claimed was that the figure we met as at 31st of March. How’s that possible. Actually the figure we met as at 31st of May was N51.452, 172,805billion. Between that 31st of March and 31st of May, they incurred additional debt of N4.3billion.

So, it is not correct. This is the figure as at 31st of March.

“Meanwhile, when we came in this was the figure the civil servants gave

Vanguard , MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012—9

Oyo NURTW swears in new chairman as Tokyo kicks

BY OLA AJAYI

I

BADAN – THE hope of the court-reinstated Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Alhaji Lateef Akinsola, a.k.a Tokyo, to reclaim his mandate dimmed weekend as the National President of the union, Alhaji Nojeem Usman Yasin inaugurated a newly-elected 21-member State Administrative Council (SAC) of the Oyo NURTW led by Alhaji Taofeek Oyerinde, a.k.a. Fele.

But, Tokyo vowed that the inauguration of the men was a kangaroo one that would not stand the test of time.

To him, since the case is in court, what the secretariat has done was an exercise in futility. Also, corroborating the reaction of Tokyo, a group led by one Hamid Yussuf described the action as a “judicial suicide.”

Making reference to all cases in his favour, the group called on well-meaning Nigerians, the Nigerian Bar Association to say no to this disre-

gard to judicial process.

“The swearing in was a step to ridicule and make mockery of the judiciary in the country”, the group said.

According to the national secretariat of the union, by virtue of the oath of office Fele has just taken he should henceforth see himself as the duly-elected Chairman of the NURTW in Oyo State. Yasin further stated that the union was not a personal property of anyone.

Members of the newly-inaugurated State Administrative Council of the Oyo NURTW

included Comrade Akin James (State Secretary); Elder Lekan Aleshinloye (Assistant Secretary); Alhaji Kamorudeen Beyioku (Deputy Chairman); Alhaji Abideen Olajide (Vice Chairman); Alhaji Ademola Adeoye (State Treasurer); Elder Joseph Odeyemi (Assistant Treasurer); Alhaji Musa Adeleke (Financial Secretary); Alhaji Abass Adigun (State Auditor) and Alhaji Kasali Lawal (Assistant Auditor).

Amosun asks clerics to condemn crime

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

A

President Goodluck Jonathan , with, from left: Muktar Yero, Kaduna State Governor, Pastor PJA Olaiya, Founder of Living Foundation Church International Bible Institute; Chief Mike Ogiadomhe, during the President's performance of foundation laying ceremony of the church, in Kaduna, yesterday.

B E O K U TA — G O V E R N O R Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, at the weekend, charged religious leaders to partner with the Federal and the state governments in the crusade against crime by preaching vigorously against it in their worship centres.

Amosun, who made the appeal at the 61st Annual Conference of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, held at the Jamia ground, Ilaro, Ogun State, said “they (religious leaders) truly understand the ethos of life, then there is an urgent need for our religious leaders to use their worship centres to preach against social vices and negative values that impede the collective wellbeing of the country.”

The governor, who was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Salis Shuaib, explained: “They mobilise people weekly to their centres and when they preach, people believe in them more than what anyone could tell them.

Half-naked women protest in Ogun S

EVERAL AGED women in Sonde-Apon, a rural community in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State at the weekend stripped themselves almost nude to protest the continued invasion of the community by hoodlums.

According to the aggrieved women, residents of the community can no longer be silent in the face of the evil being perpetrated by these hoodlums. They claimed that they are often attacked, and the most recent one is the third in a row.

The women marched through the streets of the community, chanting emotive songs and sometimes raining expletives on people they accused of turning the community into a dreaded place for its inhabitants.

They accused a certain land speculator, whose name could not be ascertained at the time of this report, of sponsoring the hoodlums in a bid to take over a substantial part of the community.

According to reports, whenever the youths, who are always armed, invade the community, they end up inflicting injuries on some of the residents and even raping some of the women. The latest of the attack was perpetrated by about 20 hoodlums, who invaded the community with machetes and guns while most of the residents had gone to work.

“They carried out serious havoc, injured some of the few people who were around when they stormed our community.

Osun is committed to functional education — Dep. Gov

O

sogbo — THE Deputy Governor of Osun State, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori has restated the determination of the present administration to the provision of a functional education with adequate instructional materials for public primary schools in the state.

The Deputy Governor made this statemen in Osogbo at the official commissioning of a N23million edifice built for the dual purpose of w a r e h o u s i n g instructional materials and the conduct of seminars and workshops for teachers.

Laoye Tomori, represented by the Permanent Secretary, of the ministry, Mr..

Lawrence Oyeniran stated that the Government of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has spent a total of N354, 100,000 on the provision of instructional materials and equipment to public schools in the state in the last 24 months.

Ondo monarch wants govt to build estate

BY DAYO JOHNSON

A

KURE — A first class traditional ruler in Ondo State, the Olugbo of Ugboland, Oba Fredrick Akinruntan weekend appealed to the Ondo State Government to build 300 housing units on the reclaimed Adagbakuja New Town project.

Over N7billion was spent by the government to reclaim the site from the lagoon and it covered a two-kilometre square area.

The project was aimed at creating a new settlement for the people of Ilaje, mainly fishermen who live in makeshift settlements near the lagoon.

Akinruntan, speaking at the site of his multibillion naira modern palace at Ode-Ugbo still under construction, said that the housing estate will solve the accommodation need of his people.

10—Vanguard, MONDAY MONDAY,, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Akpabio urges groups to take advantage of govt programmes

A

KWA Ibom State Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio, weekend, urged sociocultural organisations in the state to take advantage of the lofty government programmes geared towards state integration and development.

The governor, who was made the Grand Patron of Ati Annang socio-cultural organisation at Ikot Ekpene Mini-stadium during the 2012 Ati Annang end of year event, said the harmony, unity and peaceful coexistence experienced in the state was as a result of the love that radiates from the top.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Lady Valerie Ebe, Akpabio commended the organisation for keying into the vision of his administration, to make the state a destination of choice by reviving its cultural heritage.

Rep rewards constituents

H

OUSE of Repre sentatives member, Mr. Nicholas Mutu, weekend, donated Passat GL cars to five of his constituents as reward for their commitment toward the advancement of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, activities in the area.

He noted that the loyalty and dedication exhibited by party faithful needed to be recognised and rewarded by leaders of the party to encourage others to emulate them.

Chairman, PDP Bomadi Local Government Area, Delta State, Mr. Labo Pius, who represented Mutu at the ceremony, urged other political leaders from the constituency to emulate Mutu for the party to continue to thrive in the area.

He said Mutu has been empowering and alleviating the poverty level of the people of his constituency, urging the beneficiaries to make good use of the cars.

Justice Azinge’s kidnap saga: Three police officers fired

BY EMMA AMAIZE

W

ARRI—THREE po lice officers, alleged to have been involved in the kidnap threat and demand for N20 million ransom from a Delta State High Court judge, Justice Flora Azinge, have been dismissed from the force.

A police source disclosed to Vanguard, weekend: “The three police officers were tried and dismissed after they were found guilty of complicity in the kidnap saga.”

The sources added that “one of the policemen, attached to the armourer, who had been on the run since the bubble burst, refused to surface and was tried and dismissed in absentia.”

Vanguard learnt that five persons, including Justice Azinge’s driver and the police officer at large, were arraigned before a magistrate court in Warri, last week, over the kidnap and attempt to poison the judge.

The accused persons were remanded in prisons custody, while the case was adjourned till January 23, 2013.

It was gathered that while in police custody, one of the police officers called the

driver of the judge, who was earlier arrested and released

by Directorate of State Service, DSS, to poison the judge.

This fact, it was learnt, was uncovered from the call logs of the suspects. It was also dis-

BRIEFING: Mr. Victor Ochei, Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly (middle); Deputy Speaker, Mr. Basil Ganagana (left), and Prince Johnson Erijo, Deputy Majority Leader and Chairman, House Committee on Information, at an end of year press briefing by the Speaker. Photo: Nath Onojake.

Ewherido urges INEC to peg number of political parties at three

BY HENRY UMORU

A

BUJA—VICECHAIRMAN, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Pius Ewherido (DPP, Delta Central), has called on Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to limit the number of political parties in the country to two or three.

Speaking with journal-

ists in Abuja, weekend, Senator Ewherido, who hailed INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega for de-registering some political parties, said that axing 31 political parties was akin to removing the chaff from the grains.

Ewherido said: “I agree completely with INEC except that I believe that even five are too many. We should come back to three, let everybody who is a politician

play politics within these three parties.”

He said that the proliferation of political parties in Nigeria weakens democracy, adding, “Let me say that I am comfortable with the suggestion by INEC that we should not have more than five political parties because in practice, you find out that the parties that are active at the end of the day, and have overwhelming control, are not more than three or two.”

Edo LG election: Oshiomhole reconstitutes EDSIEC

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

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ENIN—AHEAD the 2013 local government area elections in Edo State, Governor Adams Oshiomhole has reconstituted the board of the state’s Independent Electoral Commission, EDSIEC, following the sacking of the former board by the court.

Speaking at the swearingin of the chairman and seven members of the commission, weekend, Oshiomhole explained that the former Commission was dissolved in compliance with the or-

covered that the phone number that was used in the call belonged to suspect, who also stole N13.8 million, belonging to the Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Frank Omare.

der of the court, noting that, “although we didn’t agree with the order, we had to obey same as we felt it was easier to obey the order than go through the process of appealing it.”

He noted that the starting point of a democraticallyelected local government was the constitution of an electoral board with men and women of proven integrity.

The governor noted that to ensure the impartiality of the chairman and members of the board, he invited the Chief Judge and the judiciary in the state to nominate members

who, in their opinion, are competent and independent.

He charged the board to “do whatever you can that is in full compliance with the law and put in motion the process of conducting a free and fair council election.

“We have had a couple of elections in recent times. I believe under your leadership, we can expect to get a free and fair council election in Edo State. I hope you understand the enormity of the task.”

Chairman of the board, Mr Solomon Ogoh assured the governor and people of the state that the board was made up of tested hands, who are ready to deliver a free and fair local government election in the state.

Uduaghan lauded over human capital devt agenda

BY FESTUS AHON

U

GHELLI—SOLO MON Ighrakpata Foundation, weekend, commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State for putting machineries in motion to actualise his human capital development agenda for Deltans.

Speaking while awarding scholarships to three indigent and one physically challenged students in Uvwie Local Government Area of the state, President of the foundation, Mr. Solomon Ighrakpata, commended the governor for promising five per cent job vacancies for the physically challenged in the state.

The event featured donation of two tricycles to two physically challenged persons, Mr. Tunde Akinjayeji and Mrs. Victoria Ekejesu, to enable them become self reliant. Food items and toiletries were also donated to the less privileged and physically challenged.

The indigent students, Mr. Fidelis Ikaka, Miss Avwerosuo Ubido and Mr. Jerry Adjeke are students of Delta State University, Abraka.

Vanguard, MONDAY MONDAY,, DECEMBER 24, 2012—11

AIG zone 6 dies in Calabar

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU

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ALABAR—THE Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone Six headquarters, Calabar, Cross River State, Mr. Ibrahim Mukhtari, Saturday night, died from an undisclosed ailment.

Mukhtar died after he was rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, UCTH, Friday night.

Chief Medical Director of UCTH, Dr. Thomas Agan, who confirmed his death to our correspondent, yesterday, however, did not disclose the ailment that killed the AIG. Agan lamented that Mukhtari’s ailment had become critical before he was rushed to the hospital, adding that the best medical hands and facilities were applied to save his life but same failed.

“He was down for two weeks and was rushed to the hospital two days ago.”

Delta Public Complaints Commission resolves 1,177 cases

BY VICTOR AHIUMA-YOUNG

P

UBLIC Com plaints Commission, PCC, in Delta State, said, weekend, it received no fewer than 1,873 complaints since inception till date, out of which 1,177 were successfully resolved.

Commissioner of the Commission, Sir Mathias Eto, who spoke in Asaba, said PCC, set up in 1993 to resolve cases of perceived injustices by individuals and groups, was making efforts to resolve the 96 pending cases.

Eto noted that the commission received 255 cases in 2012 alone, out of which 201 had been resolved successfully, leaving 51 cases pending.

He said the number of complaints received was a clear indication that the public had not utilised the service of the commission to the fullest.

Abati to Asari Dokubo: No rift between Jonathan, Obasanjo

BY BEN AGANDE

A

BUJA—THE Presi dency, yesterday, described the allegation by leader of Niger Delta Volunteer Force, Mujaheed Asari-Dokubo that President Goodluck Jonathan is surrounded by greedy people, who may prevent his possible re-election bid in 2015, described Dokubo’s assertion as a crab mentality begotten from a wrong premise, which does not reflect the feelings of Nigerians about the current administration and the President.

Abati, who spoke to State House correspondents in Abuja, also described allegation by Dokubo of a rift between President Jonathan and President Olusegun Obasanjo, as untrue.

Abati said: “Obasanjo is a man for whom President Jonathan has the utmost respect and they have an excellent relationship.”

Abati said Dokubo’s attack on the President amounted to a member of the house, who stands outside to urinate into the

same house. He urged him to see the big picture and worry less about greedy people who are preventing other Ijaws from reaching the President.

“I was quite surprised that

he would talk like that because as he himself admitted in that interview, he is close to government. So, I don’t know whether it is a wise thing for you to be a member of the house and then stand outside and urinate into that same house. Doing so

PROMO: From left: Mr. Alionye Chigozie, MC; Linda Yeo, Senior Product Manager, Nokia West Africa and Mr. Ita U. Calix, representative of national lottery regulation, during the Nokia Christmas Millionaire Promo in Lagos. Photo: Joe Akintola, Photo Editor.

Oshiomhole outlines plans for 2013

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

B

ENIN—GOVER NOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, said weekend, that the state government will, in the first week of January 2013, organise a town hall meeting on how to get the local government administrations in the state deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

Also to hold same time, is a security summit to address the security chal-

lenges in the state, while Central Hospital, Benin, which suffered a setback in the outgoing year, will be completed and equipped with modern facilities.

Oshiomhole, at a meeting with traditional rulers across the state at Government House, Benin, said: “We need your support to make the local governments work for the people. In a democracy, the only thing that is constant is change. We cannot continue like this at the local government level. We cannot have local govern-

ments that are there to pay salaries alone.”

The governor, who expressed dismay over the activities of the local governments, said among other reforms to be carried out were trimming down of wasteful expenditure, which will be diverted to capital projects such as the building of markets in the respective local governments.

“I will seek your support to restore sanity to our public life.

We have to carry out major reforms across the state and we will need to be more firm,” he added.

Airhiavbere declares confidence in election petition tribunal

BY ABEL KOLAWOLE

G

ENERAL Charles Airhiavbere (rtd), Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate in the July 14, election in Edo State, has declared implicit confidence that the Election Petition Tribunal will discharge its duty creditably.

He added that though Edo electorate was in suspense and anxiously awaiting the outcome of the tribunal, the stakes were so high that the judiciary cannot afford to fail.

may serve the purpose of sensationalism and it may please some mischief makers, but the truth of the matter is that wise people may think that that is not really the right way to go,” he added.

Speaking with newsmen in Benin City, yesterday, the state Director of Publicity and Strategy of PDP, Mr. Okharedia Ihimekpen, also denied rumours that a retired female Chief Judge, was in the forefront in efforts to influence the tribunal’s decisioin.

Ihimekpen called on the general public to discountenance such rumour as the said Chief Judge had contributed so much to the development of the state that, she was too decent to allow her name to be associated with such ignoble act, which

will undermine her integrity, track records and the high regards Edo people have for her.

On the question of division in the party, Mr. Ihimekpen, explained that there was no division in the state chapter of PDP. He called on anybody in doubt to visit the party’s state headquarters or any of the party’s local government or ward offices to see what the party, headed by the state Chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, was doing for members in terms of the Christmas and New Year felicitations and the reorganisation of the party for future challenges.

Christmas: Dickson urges service to humanity

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

Y

ENAGOA—CHRIS TIANS have again been urged to reflect on the significance of the yuletide season and rededicate themselves to the service of humanity and God. Speaking at the Christmas carol service organised by the state government in Yenagoa, Governor Seriake Dickson underscored the importance of the season, pointing out that the salvation assured with the birth of Jesus Christ distinguishes Christianity as a unique religion.

The governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel IworisoMarkson, urged adherents of the Christian faith to be proud of their religion, show confidence in the infinite possibilities of God and apply their fundamental beliefs in all they do.

He said: “I have not seen the element of salvation in any other religion. Our Lord came, laid His life as a sacrifice for our salvation and by His death, we are safe. That is the unique Christian message.”

12—Vanguard , MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Dabiri-Eruwa tasks Nigerians on healthy living BYBARTHOLOMEW

L

MADUKWE

AGOS—A two-term lawmaker in the House of Representatives, Abike DabiriEruwa, has called on Nigerians to take issues of health seriously despite the yuletide, stressing that what mattered was living a healthier life.

The lawmaker, who spoke with Vanguard during Allure Wellness Seminar 2012 in Ikoyi, pointed out that such event was one that should be attended by all for renewing of one’s life.

She said: “What I have learnt from to day’s wellness event, I am sure that I will try abiding by the rules.

Like you make mistakes and you do not know that you are even making mistakes, but what matters is living a healthier life and renewing your life. And I think everyone should attend this seminar whenever it holds.”

Mediator Centre gets 18,000 cases

BY ONOZURE DANIA

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AGOS—THE Attor ney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos state, Mr. Ade Ipaye, has said that in just 11 months, over 18,000 cases have been brought to Citizens Mediator Centre (CMC), for mediation.

According to him, this has taken 18,000 cases off the formal court and helps to ensure quick dispensation of justice.

Ipaye, who disclosed this during the graduation ceremony at the Skills Certification Training programme pioneered by the Justice For All (J4A) in Lagos, where 60 students graduated from the Multi –Door Courthouse, Citizens Mediator Centre, said mediator skill was fast becoming a universal tool.

He noted that the skills acquired will be useful in all directorates as cases were now being resolved through mediation across all directorates in the Justice Ministry, confirming that the new criminal law now allowed for pre-bargaining.

France repays Jehovah’s Witnesses $8.3m illegal tax zAs Armenia pays $145,226 damages to 17 Witnesses P

BY FRANKLIN ALLI

ARIS—AFTER a 15-year legal battle, the government of France repaid to Jehovah’s Witnesses funds totaling 6,373,987.31 Euros ($8,294,320; N1.3 billion).

This is even as the European Court of Human Rights, ECHR, ruled that the government of Armenia must pay 112,000 Euros ($145,226) in damages and legal fees to 17 Jehovah’s Witnesses conscientious objectors for human rights violations.

An online statement from the organisation’s website, weekend, said: “In 1998, the government of France asserted that religious donations made by Jehovah’s Witnesses were subject to a crushing retroactive 60 percent tax and, in 2003, demanded partial payment.

“The European Court of Human Rights found that France was guilty of violating the religious freedom of Jehovah’s Witnesses through the illegal tax, which, if enforced, could have resulted in the liquidation of the Witnesses’ national offices and obstructed their Bible education work.

“Since the Court ruled that the

tax was illegal, the French government is now starting to implement the Court’s decision by returning the funds collected, with interest, and paying the Witnesses’ legal expenses,” said the statement.

The statement further said:

“In 2005, 17 young men who are Jehovah’s Witnesses were performing alternative civilian service. However, when they realised that it was under the control and supervision of the military, they could no longer continue to serve in good con-

PRESENTATION: From right:Mr. Akin Salu, presenting the keys to the winner of Renault Duster SUV, Mr. Ahmed Garba, Ms. Olubiola Adeogun-Phillips, Regional Director, DStv, Media Sales and Ms. Chisom Mbonu, Supersport Presenter, during the DStv mega promo prize presentation in Lagos, weekend. Photo: Joe Akintola, Photo:Editor.

Abia discovers 1727 ghost workers in LGs

U

BY ANAYO OKOLI

MUAHIA—ABIA State government has discovered 1727 ghost workers on the pay roll of its 17 local government councils.

The ghost workers were fished out by the biometric data implementation committee set up by the state government to find out why the council’s wage bill had steadily been on the increase.

Worried by the whopping wage bill in the local government system, the government introduced biometric method of identifying the genuine workers with the aim of fishing out the ghost names that appeared on the wage bill.

The committee that handled this was headed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Cosmos Ndukwe.

A break down of the figure showed that Aba South coun-

cil has the highest number of ghost workers with 245, followed by Isiala Ngwa South with 153 ghost workers, while Ugwunagbo with 28 ghost workers had the least number.

Submitting its preliminary report, Chairman of the committee, Cosmos Ndukwe, explained that the committee visited the 17 councils and took physical count of the genuine workers during the exercise.

Pan Ocean donates bus to Ovade community

BY DANIEL GUMM

W

ARRI—PAN Ocean Oil Corporation (Nigeria) Limited has donated an 18-seater bus to Ovade Community in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, with a promise to continue to assist its host communities.

Speaking at the brief hando-

ver ceremony of the bus at the premises of the company in Warri, Mr. Olabanji Ajijola, Manager, Community Relations of Pan Ocean, said the donation was fulfillment of a promise made to Ovade community in May this year.

He said: “This occasion is just to fulfill a promise the Chairman and Managing Director

made to Ovade Community sometimes in May this year.

You know we have been in Ovade community for many years now and we have co-existed very peacefully. They are our good neighbours and they have been very helpful to us.

And today, that is exactly what has come to pass. It is an 18seater Toyota Hiace bus.”

Xmas: Ngige tasks Nigerians on brotherliness

O

BYCLIFFORD NDUJIHE

RAFITE—AS Ni gerians join the rest of the world to mark Christmas, Senator Chris Ngige has urged the wealthy in the country to cater for the needs of the less-affluent members of the society.

The lawmaker spoke at Orafite in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State

science and subsequently left their places of service. They were, thereafter, arrested and prosecuted. Some were held in pretrial detention for several months, and 11 were eventually sentenced to prison terms from two to three years.”

when the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation distributed rice and vegetable oil to the poor and needy in Irefi-Oraifite community, to celebrate Christmas.

The lawmaker noted that in the past four years the foundation had continued to touch the lives of citizens of Irefi-Oraifite community, especially the widows and the less privileged

through scholarship programmes; distribution of foodstuff, road construction and maintenance, provision of boreholes and reticulated water supply in the area; support for local security outfits in form of provision of security accessories, vehicles/pick-up vans and salaries for security personnel.

Increasing insecurity worries Catholic bishops

BY CHIDI NKWOPARA &

VINCENT UJUMADU

T

HE CATHOLIC Arch bishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, His Grace, Dr. Anthony J.V. Obinna, has lamented the spate of hateful killings, butchering and bloodshed in Nigeria and around the world.

This came on a day Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese in Anambra State, Most Reverend Hilary Okeke, expressed concern over the increasing insecurity in the country, brought about by the activities of the Boko Haram Islamic sect and kidnapping in many states of the federation.

Obinna, who expressed the lamentation in his 2012 Christmas message, also recalled with grief, the senseless massacre of innocent worshippers at Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church, Madalla, Niger State, on 2011 Christmas day.

Archbishop Obinna equally lamented the recent brutal killing in America of over 20 school children, aged between three and six years, noting that only added to the horror of the chilling butchery of fellow humans in Nigeria, Syria, Afghanistan, the Congo and other parts of the world.

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 13

C M Y K

14—Vanguard , MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Dep Senate President loses brother

BY HENRY UMORU

A

BUJA—DEPUTY Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, has lost his senior brother, Prince Chukwuemeka Ekweremadu.

With this development, Ekweremadu was forced to cancel the planned civic reception in honour of the President of the Senate, David Mark and himself by Enugu West Senatorial District earlier scheduled for Friday, December 28.

In a statement by the Deputy Senate President’s Special Adviser, Media, Uche Anichukwu, Prince C h u k w u e m e k a Ekweremadu died in a fatal road accident along Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway on the night of Friday, December 21, aged 52.

Yuletide: IG orders AIGs, CPs to Telecoms' attacks aimed at beef up security zcausing panic— Minister

BY KINGSLEY OMONOBI

A

BUJA—INSPECTOR-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, has ordered all Assistant Inspectors-General of Police in the zones and command police commissioners to take all necessary measures to stop attacks being planned by terrorists during the Yuletide and New Year festivities.

The order came against the backdrop of bombings in parts of the country, weekend, and

intelligence reports of more attacks at important targets during the festive season.

According to a statement by the Force Spokesman, CSP Frank Mba, the IG’s action is meant to ensure a peaceful and incident-free Christmas celebration and to ensure the provision of adequate security across the country before, during and after the celebration.

He said: “CPs are to personally ensure that key and vulnerable points, including

shopping malls, motor parks, financial houses, places of worship, recreation centres and other public places are adequately and effectively protected, to enable holiday makers, worshippers and the general public enjoy maximum fulfillment.

“In a similar vein, Zonal AIGs and CPs have been directed to ensure the provision of 24 hours security around all government installations, strategic facilities and other

Ewherido makes case for 3-party system

BY HENRY UMORU

A

BUJA—VICE Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Pius Ewherido, DPP, Delta Central, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to peg the number of political parties in the country at two or three.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja weekend, Senator Ewherido, hailed INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega for de-registering some political parties, adding that axing 31 political parties was removing the chaff from the grains.

Ewherido said: “I agree completely with INEC except that I believe that even five are too much.

We should come back to three. Let everybody, who is a politician, play their politics within these three parties.”

According to him, proliferation of parties in Nigeria weakens democracy.

He added: “Let me say that I am comfortable with the suggestion by INEC that we should not have more than five political parties.”

C M Y K

FIDAU: From left— Senator Bukola Saraki; Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State; Mrs. Florence Saraki, widow of late Olusola Saraki, and daughter, Senator Gbemisola Saraki, at the 40th day Fidau prayer for late Saraki, in his Iloffa residence, Ilorin, yesterday.

... as NEMA activates Search, Rescue teams

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ATIONAL Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, has activated its emergency Search and Rescue Teams to be on full alerts in the event of any emergency situation during the yuletide season.

Director-General of NEMA, Muhammad Sani-Sidi, made the disclosure in his office, weekend, while receiving the communique of the 2012 Annual Media Retreat of Journalists and Information Officers on Disaster and Emergency Management in Nigeria.

He said: “All Search and Rescue Officers of NEMA and of other response agencies, and trained emergency volunteers throughout the federation, have been put on alert in case of any untoward development between the Christmas and the New Year.

“The activation of Search and Rescue officers to be on full alert has been the tradition of the agency in its collaborative efforts with other agencies and volunteers in responding to dis-

tress situation.”

Sani-Sidi also lamented the inability of Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, to provide the country with a 3-digit national emergency call line as obtained in other jurisdictions.

“We are waiting for NCC to work out the emergency toll free number as soon as possi-

ble to help us on disaster management.”

Sani-Sidi noted that most states had lukewarm attitude to the subject of emergency management and combating disasters by not complying with legal mandates to establish their state emergency management agencies, SEMAs.

key targets.

“Commanders of Police Highway Patrol Teams have been directed to ensure that motorised patrols on our highways targeted at crime and accident prevention, are intensified to ensure a safe, secure and peaceful celebration.

“Policemen deployed on our highways have also been directed to render necessary assistance to travelers and road users, especially accident victims and those who may suffer vehicular break down.”

Minister of Police Affairs, Navy Capt. Caleb Olubolade (rtd), confirmed that all police formations nationwide had been put on red alert to prevent people with evil machinations from achieving their aims.

He said the various training programmes embarked upon by the Nigeria Police Force in areas such as counter-terrorism, intelligence gathering and community policing, had started yielding positive results as shown in the reduction in terrorist activities.

The minister also described Saturday’s attack on some telecommunication facilities in Kano by suicide bombers as an attempt to cause panic among Nigerians during the festive period and urged all Christians and non-Christians alike to use the Christmas celebrations to pray for God’s intervention in the affairs of the nation.

Meanwhile, Olubolade has assured Nigerians that the Nigeria Police was capable of providing adequate security nationwide, in spite of the determination of some disgruntled and misguided elements to cause chaos.

In a statement by the Assistant Director, Public Relations, James Odaudu, the minister said: “No religion advocates violence.”

LEDAP drags FG, NASS to court over $7.9bn loan

BY INNOCENT ANABA

L

EGAL Defence and Assist ance Project, LEDAP, has asked a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, to restrain the National Assembly from considering and/or approving the request by the Federal Government to borrow $7.9 billion from international credit agencies, contending that the proposed loan was unnecessary and not in the interest of Nigerians.

Defendants in the suit are the Attorney-General of the Federation, Minister of Fi-

nance, President of Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Legal Defence and Assistance Project, a civil society group, is asking the court to determine whether the resolution of the Federal Government and subsequent approach to the National Assembly for an approval to borrow $7.9 billion from international credit agencies, after paying back a similar loan of $36 billion recently, did not conflict with the Federal Government’s obligation under chapter 11 of the 1999 Con-

stitution to uphold and provide good governance to Nigerian people, and contrary to the oaths of allegiance and office taken by the President on assumption of office?

Whether any step and or action to be taken by National Assembly towards facilitating the proposed borrowing by the Federal Government will not be against the public interest of Nigerian citizens and in direct contravention of their oath of allegiance and oath offices taken under the 1999 Constitution (as amended)?

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012—15

Govs frustrating constitution amendment, says Adeyemi zSays they 'll go to jail if...

BY HENRY UMORU

A

BUJA—CHAIRMAN, Senate Committee on the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Senator Smart Adeyemi, PDP, Kogi West, weekend, alleged that the governors were frustrating the review of the 1999 Constitution.

According to him, it was ironical that while the governors demand for more powers for states from the Federal Government, they were against freedom for another tier of government.

Adeyemi told newsmen, weekend, in Abuja: “If the President can ask the EFCC to investigate the governors, two-third of them will go to jail because what they are doing is a breach of the constitution.

“They are opposed to state creation because they believe it will reduce their empires. They are against the removal of immunity clause because they don’t want their atrocities exposed while in office and they are against the autonomy of the state assemblies because they want to en-

slave them.

“If we have governors who are progressives, the constitution amendment would be successful. They will not allow the constitution amendment to be successful.

They are going to derail it.

“The fundamental aspect of the constitution amendment is the autonomy. If we cannot get the state assemblies to be autonomous, there will be no development and the standard of living of the people will be static.

“How can one individual be determining the freedom of a whole state? It is for the media and the civil society to rise up against the governors and allow people to have their freedom.”

On whether the Senate was helpless, he said: “With the provision of the constitution handed over to us by the military, we have to obey and respect the content and spirit of the constitution.

“We cannot amend the constitution without getting two-third of the state assemblies concurring with us. And the governors are also say-

ing that they don’t want the autonomy of local government.

“Were the local governments created by state governors themselves?

The local government reform of 1976 was meant to bring governance closer to the people, and subsequent constitution amendments recognised local government as the third tier of government.

“The governors are demanding more powers for the states from the Federal Government, while they are against freedom for another tier of government.

“The states were not created to ensure a true federal structure. In creating a state, factors such as norms, cultures, values and linguistics are taken into consideration. That is why states are not equal in the US. People agree to live together.

“How can they be against local government autonomy? Sitting on the resources meant for local government is unconstitutional. State governors siphon these funds to a point that some local governments cannot even pay salary.”

Ports workers petition IG over raid

M

ARITIME Pillars Association, the

youth forum of the Association of Nigerian Cus-

Maternal mortality: MDGs score Delta high

S

OUTH-South Zonal Coordinator of the M i l l e n n i u m Development Goals, MDGs, at the Presidency, Professor Gabriel Umoh, has scored Delta State high for blazing the trail in the reduction of maternal mortality in the country.

Umoh made the commendation in Asaba, Delta State capital, during the formal handing over of 19,000 delivery packs under the 2011 MDGs, conditional grants scheme to the state Ministry of Health for free distribution to pregnant women across the state.

According to Umoh, Delta State should also be emulated by other states in the area of free

maternal health care programme, which directly achieves Goals 4 and 5 of the MDGs. Delta State Commissioner for Special Duties (MDGs), Queen Mother lkenchuku, said the provision of the delivery packs was a collaboration between Delta State and Federal Government under the 2011 MDGs Conditional Grants Scheme, MDGs-CGS. While commending her Health Ministry counterpart, Dr. Joseph Otumara, for his ministry ’s commitment displayed in the distribution of delivery packs at the last exercise, Queen Mother lkenchuku asked for a register of recipients to be kept at each distribution point.

toms Licensed Agents, ANCLA, at the Tin Can Island Ports, weekend, called on Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, to call his men to order and stop further harassment of their members who go about their legitimate businesses at the ports.

While expressing its misgiving over a newspaper report of December 9, headlined Animal Canteen why anything goes, Vice Chairman of the group, John Nwokolo, said last week’s raid by the police on some of its members at the AnyMan Canteen, was unnecessary and uncalled for.

He said: “The reporter that wrote that story did not do his home work well. He made reference to the port workers canteen as animal canteen.

“I am sure he has not being to the ports because he would have known that the place in question is not Animal Canteen, but AnyMan Canteen.”

16 — Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 HE number of meetings Nigerians convene to save their country is T impressive. What is disturbing is that these

meetings achieve nothing, though some would argue that if things remain as they are, with all the meetings, they would have been worse without discussions about the future of Nigeria.

What is the problem since everyone agrees that Nigeria is unsustainable the way it is run? Why are the solutions not raining in torrents to match the enormity of the challenges?

Many factors are responsible for the state of Nigeria. Many have joined in ruining her. Others are seeking opportunities to continue in the ruination of the country through ceaseless wasting of opportunities that present themselves to improve the country.

What did many of those calling for changes in Nigeria do when they were incharge? Do people only see the challenges Nigeria faces only when they are not in office?

The most critical issue facing Nigeria is not federalism as many think. People who cannot make the changes that would

Saving Nigeria from Nigerians improve Nigeria in their own little corners as council officials or state governors would not benefit from federalism which they still see as a magic wand.

Concentration of changes at the centre would not be enough. Laws that transfer the powers that the centre has to various segments of government would be a new set of experiments that do not guarantee instant results.

Our people should concentrate on seeking ways that would improve governance. Changes in the federal structure would not address governance, it would not change the attitude of politicians, it would not stop corruption, and it would not teach us new ways of managing our resources.

How would politicians become responsible? Would federalism remove immunity and impunity from our laws?

Would a new phase of federalism cure us of corruption or infuse us with new ideas about the future of our country.

Federalism has its good sides. Those sides are what we see practised elsewhere.

There is no proof that federalism is the elixir that we require. Granted it could free more resources and power notches to other tiers of government, there is nothing to indicate that those resources would not be frittered away by the new power holders.

Solutions to challenges Nigeria faces could be drawn from political restructuring, but a more sustainable path should be leadership. The unconscionable looting of the country has nothing to do with the system of government.

Nigerians who promise to save the country are the ones we are trying to save the country from their clutches. May be, stiff penalties for failed leaders, could check the scandal called leadership.

Nigeria has no future without leadership that cares.

OPINION

BY EDWARD ONYEAMA

A

BOUT two weeks ago, I saw a well packaged television commercial announcing an impending chieftaincy title in honour of Alhaji Dr. Bamanga Tukur. For a self made man who had risen to prominence by hard work, UGO-ONE-NA-ONNE OF ANIOCHA (the unlimited feathers of achievement) is a fitting title for Tukur ’s stature. The national Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP is indeed a man of many parts and I was happy that Anioma people chose such a respectable public figure to honour with a reputable title.

Then suddenly the drums stopped beating and the build-up activities ceased. The advertisement was discontinued and I was shocked to hear that the widely publicised event had been postponed for some reasons that were politically motivated.

I decided to write this piece mainly because of my interest in the dangerous politics of Delta State in particular and Delta North in general. I must say that the Anioma

Anioma: Politics of chieftaincy title political elite, I mean those at home and active in Delta politics must close ranks. They must exhibit some level of maturity in their dealings with one another if they ever hope to earn the respect and trust of their neighbours in Delta Central and Delta South Senatorial districts.

I was indeed shocked to hear that a group of politicians, prominent I must say, and believed to be front runners in the zone’s quest to produce the next governor of Delta State foiled this ceremony. In fact, one of the politicians, a well known public officer in the government of Delta State was quoted to have described a traditional ruler as a mere district chief in one of his disdainful remarks.

This to me is an insult to Anioma people and the entire traditional institution.

For very selfish and narrow-minded political reasons, these politicians decided to desecrate the land in a bid to advance their narrow objectives. I must state here that those who want to lead the people of Anioma must rise above this present cheap blackmail

because the next few years will be critical for them.

On reflection, I just wondered why Aniocha Traditional Council of Delta State made up of 27 revered royal monarchs would be subjected to such ridicule by politicians who should have known better. But I have one advice for the people of Anioma: They must be vigilant. I know a few of these desperate fly-by night politicians who will stop at nothing to achieve their diabolical aim and as 2015 approaches, they will become more vicious.

I

know Tukur would not have agreed to come to Anioma in the first instance without any intervention by some well meaning sons and daughters from that area. Today, everybody is a loser but there are lessons and the people must not lose sight of that.

As an influential citizen, Tukur’s visit would have drawn attention to the many infrastructural challenges facing the people. It could not have been possible for the PDP chairman to visit without being accompanied by an

appreciable number of public officials both in the legislative and the executive arms. But there will be a next time. I want to urge Anioma people to be ready to confront the enemy within. They must be able to identify those who are not working in their interest. The good thing about the botched chieftaincy title ceremony is that the behind-thescene principal actors who thought their personalities and actions will remain a mystery are already well known. The whole truth, I understand is also in the public domain and at the appropriate time the people will decide.

I want to plead with Anioma sons and daughters to remember that a united people can withstand any storm. Without unity, the zone’s quest to occupy the governor’s office come 2015 will be a mirage but when you are united, I know you will achieve. *Mr. Onyeama, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Abuja.

41—Vanguard , MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Abia State First Lady, Mercy Orji, and children at the Christmas party she organised for children in the state.

From right: Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, Owa Obokun of Ijesaland; Chief Titi Laoye-Tomori, Deputy Governor of Osun State; and Governor Rauf Aregbesola (left), during the Iwude Ijesa festival in Ilesa, Osun State.

Former Chief of General Staff, Lt.-Gen. Oladipo Diya (rtd.), Baba Ijo of United African Methodist Evangelical Church Cathedral, Abule Ijesha, and widow of late Archbishop Patrick Olanrewaju Ajibogun at Ifo, Ogun State.

From left: Denrele, Smirnoff Midnight Circus Ringmaster; Mr. Femi Akinrinade, Smirnoff Brand Manager; and Miss Eva Alordiah, rap artiste, at the Smirnoff Minnight Circus 3D Disco party in Lagos. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

From left: Otunba Gani Adams, National Coordinator, Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC; HRM Oba Salaudeen Oyefusi, Ayangburen of Ikorodu, and Prince Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, Odofin of Ikorodu, at the 2012 Ogun Ajobo and Elegbera festival in Lagos. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

Emeka Ihedioha, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, receiving blessings from traditional rulers in Ngor Okpala/Aboh Mbaise Federal Constituency during his 2012 constituency briefing at his hometown, Aboh Mbaise, Saturday.

From left: Superintendent Israel Akinadewo, Supervising Head, Motailatu Church International Sub-Headquarters, Alakuko, Lagos; Sp. Snr. Ap. David Onanuga, Chairman, OAIC Lagos State; Prophet Solomon Alao, Head, Sacred C&S Worldwide; and Prophet Gabriel Fakeye, C&S Movement, at the 2012 Adoption Thanksgiving Service of Motailatu Church C&S Worldwide, International Headquarters, in Lagos.

Mr. Gbenga Opadokun, Chairman, Oyo State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ (left) and Mr. Dapo Popoola, Chairman, Saki West Local Government Area, at a briefing in Ibadan. PHOTO: Shola Oyelese.

From left: Mr. Femi Osinowo, lawyer; Mr. Alexander Agbotia, Security Manager, Delta Afrik Engineering; Mr. Njoku Paul, MD/CEO, Fountain Guards Limited, and Chief Gerald Udu, Chairman, Canals Nigeria Limited, during the Fountain Guards end of year party in Lagos, weekend. PHOTO: Lamidi Bamidele.

42—Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

We need selfless leaders not looters – Ekwueme •How we made Obasanjo president in 1999 •Orumba leaders eulogise Ekwueme at 80

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE, DEPUTY POLITICAL EDITOR

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FTER touring all parts of the country attending about 10 events organized to mark his 80th birthday, former Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme said he thought the celebrations were over and was preparing to travel abroad for a deserved rest until his Orumba, Anambra State kinsmen, told him no, penultimate week.

Gathering on the banner of Orumba Forum, his kinsmen held a birthday luncheon for him at the Lagos residence of their President, Dr Raymond Obieri. At the occasion, an elated Ekwueme, told his hosts, which included Sir Jonah Eze, Professor Laz Ekwueme, Engr S Okoli, Dr Emma Nwankwo, how the efforts of Orumba people led to the emergence of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as president in 1999. He also told reporters after the event the kind of leaders Nigeria needs to disentangle her from the snarl of socio-economic and political underdevelopment.

My nomination to 1994 national conference paved way for power rotation Speaking in Igbo language, Ekwueme said: I wanted to go abroad to rest but shelved it to attend this ceremony. At times people praise me for my roles in G-18, G-34, which later metamorphosed into the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP without knowing the origin. We started it in 1994. When late General Sani Abacha said there would be a constitutional conference in Abuja, the people of

*Ekwueme: My minority report at the 1994 conference paved the way for power rotation to the South in 1999 represent them at the conference. At the conference, we talked about rotation of the Presidency, six geopolitical zones, G-18, G-34 and PDP. If late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua had not died he would still be in power because of the rotation

I went to the conference. In my minority report, we talked about six geo-political zones and rotational presidency between the North and South. We said since the North had been in power for a long time, the rotation should start from the South. That was how Chief Olusegun Obasanjo became the president in 1999

,

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Orumba North and Orumba South were to present one candidate. I was in America then but they selected me unanimously.

“I went to the conference. In my minority report, we talked about six geo-political zones and rotational presidency between the North and South. We said since the North had been in power for a long time, the rotation should start from the South.

That was how Chief Olusegun Obasanjo became the president in 1999. I thank the people of Orumba for giving me the opportunity to go and

principle. So, I thank you Orumba, for sending me.

How he feels at 80 I feel energetic and physically fit.

God has been very good to me. I am sound and healthy. It is not only a matter of being old but a matter of being old and strong. I cannot thank God enough.

The secret of his good looks and energy I don’t know about good looks.

Energy, I think is as a result of contentment. Once you are satisfied with what God has given you, you

don’t need to stress yourself. Most of these things are through God’s grace.

On his striking retentive memory at 80 I don’t recall as much now as I used to. When I was younger, and in school I had a photographic memory; if I read a book I could virtually repeat everything in that book. But now, age has come in, I can’t recall as much as I used to do. Though I don’t have retentive memory like when I was younger but still I manage to recall past events and it is a gift one has to be thankful to God. How he sees the state of affairs in the country I don’t think there is anybody who was here in 1960 when the Union Jack was lowered and the Nigerian flag raised up that will not be concerned with the state of things in the country.

Those of us who were there at Tafawa Balewa Square when the Nigerian flag was raised are disappointed with the current state of Nigeria.

We had very high hopes of what Nigeria would be as the leader of Africa, the economy would grow exponentially, it would be a model among the British former colonies and there will be high quality of life for all the citizens.

But that has not happened. I cannot apportion blames now as why it happened but that is the reality. Those of us who were here on September 30,

1960 are not happy with the state of Nigeria today.

Where Nigerians started getting it wrong I don’t want start apportioning blames because you have to do a complete analysis, which is not what you can get in a few sentences from me.

How Nigeria can begin to get it right To get it right all our leaders must be committed and determined to render service as of choice, altruistic service not what they can get but what they can give. That is the starting point going forward.

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n threat of Nigerian languages, especially Igbo, dying It is Igbo language in particular that has been threatened. If you read the UNESCO report Igbo is one of the languages they said might be extinct in 15-25 years. Igbos of my generation speak the language but our children discuss in English. They go to secondary schools where English is the medium of expression.

If it comes to normal Igbo gathering, they communicate in English because it is easier for them to speak in English than in Igbo. But there is a campaign promoted by Professor Peter Ejiofor, the former Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University to encourage people to speak Igbo in Igbo gatherings so that the language will not die.

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 43

Legislators 've power to order arrest – Akintola,Ngige, Aturu, others

BY CHARLES KUMOLU & GBENGA OKE

order him to pay all costs which may have been occasioned in compelling his attendance or by reason of his failure, refusal or neglect to obey the summons, and also to impose such fine as may be prescribed for any such failure, refusal or neglect; and any fine so imposed shall be recoverable in the same manner as a fine imposed by a court of law.’’

Similarly, section 129 sub section (1)d authorises the House of Assembly to, ‘’issue a warrant to compel the attendance of any person who, after having been summoned to attend, fails, refuses or neglects to do so and does not excuse such failure, refusal or neglect to the satisfaction of the House of Assembly or the committee, and order him to pay all costs which may have been occasioned in compelling his attendance or by reason of his failure, refusal or neglect to obey the summons and also to impose such fine as may be prescribed for any such

T

Warrant of arrest Worried by the attitude of the commissioner, the lawmakers unanimously passed a resolution directing that a warrant of arrest be issued against him and the police were immediately directed to ensure that he was arrested and brought to the House.

But soon after the House adjourned, the commissioner, who was apparently alerted about the development, was seen rushing into the Assembly complex but the police wasted no time in apprehending him.

Ogenyi was whisked away by security operatives who took him to the State Police Criminal Investigation Department where he was detained for some minutes before he was granted bail on self recognition.

It was also gathered that some top government officials who were alerted about the development stormed the Police Headquarters to ensure that Ogenyi was not kept behind bars, even as necessary contacts were made to the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Musa Daura, who reportedly intervened later.

What the constitution says When contacted Ogenyi

*Ngige

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HE recent arrest of Enugu State Commissioner for Poverty Reduction and Human Development, Mr. Godwin Ogenyi, by the police on the orders of the State House of Assembly, has continued to generate more questions than answers across the country.

The Chairman of Pension Task Fund, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina, last week escaped being arrested on the orders of the Senate for failing to appear before it to explain his roles in the controversial pension money.

It is against the backdrop of these developments, that many are concerned about the likely precedent the frequent legislative orders of arrest, which had yielded little or no result so far, have set in the polity.

Ogenyi, it will be recalled, was arrested for allegedly disrespecting the lawmakers.

It was gathered that Ogenyi, was invited to give some explanations regarding the government’s efforts to alleviate the plight of those affected by the ban on motorcycles in the state but he failed to show up.

Although Vanguard learnt that he was seen within the premises of the State Assembly about an hour before the sitting, the commissioner could not be seen by the lawmakers until they adjourned sitting.

*Akintola

*Aturu confirmed his arrest but said there was nothing unusual about the development, admitting that he was wrong by not appearing before the lawmakers when he was called upon. He blamed his absence on nature’s call which forced him to return to his office after he had arrived the House even before the sitting for the scheduled dialogue on the activities of his ministry.

Despite mixed views heralding the issue, it was gathered that the

lawmakers may have acted within the ambit of the law.

Specifically, section 88 sub section 2 of the 1999 constitution empowers the National Assembly to, ‘’ issue a warrant to compel the attendance of any person who, after having been summoned to attend, fails, refuses or neglects to do so and does not excuse such failure, refusal or neglect to the satisfaction of the House or the committee in question, and

House of Assembly the power to issue warrant of arrest in their various states and by so doing, they still act under the constitution of the Federal Republic.”

Lawmakers must investigate before issuing arrest warrant Aturu Not differing from the position of the duo, another legal practitioner and human rights activist, Mr. Bamidele argued that state assemblies and the National Assembly command equal powers in this respect. “the Powers in both cases of the National Assembly and State House of Assembly are limited to investigation before a warrant of arrest could be declared.

Section 128 and 129 of the 1999 constitution confer powers to both National Assembly and State House of Assembly to issue warrant of arrest,’’ Aturu added.

Also commenting on the development, Head of Erratta and Erratta Chambers, Mr. Dominic Erratta, commended the Enugu State lawmakers for putting their constitutional power into use.

But he was quick to blame legislative houses at all levels for what he described as the failure to make real past orders for the

The 1999 constitution has made its position known on that and that constitutional stipulation is binding on all public officials no matter the office that person is occupying

failure, refusal or neglect; and any fine so imposed shall be recoverable in the same manner as a fine imposed by a court of law.’’

Lawmakers have limited power -- Akintola Speaking on the matter a Senior Advocate of Nigeria,SAN, Mr Niyi Akintola, acknowledged that the State House of Assembly had the constitutional power to order the arrest of any public officer, but he cautioned that such powers are limited.

“When you look at the relevant sections of the constitution, you will realize that State Houses of Assembly across Nigeria have powers over issues that are directly under their jurisdiction and they can perform their oversight functions and issue warrant of arrest, but it is not on all issues that they can issue warrant of arrest,’’ he noted.

Enugu lawmakers deserve kudos - Ngige Corroborating Akintola’s stand, another SAN, Chief Emeka Ngige said “there are corresponding sections of the constitution where it was indicated powers given to the State Houses of Assembly and it is not different from the powers of the National Assembly.’’

Continuing, Ngige said, “Section 129 sub section 1D of the 1999 Constitution gives the State

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arrest of erring public officers.

Erratta said, ‘’ the 1999 constitution has made its position known on that and that constitutional stipulation is binding on all public officials no matter the office that person is occupying. I have been reading about the various resolutions for the arrest of certain public officials by the National Assembly and various state assemblies, but none has been effected and that makes mockery of that section of the constitution. There is nothing wrong about that, the only wrong thing is that the legislative houses at various levels are not putting that constitutional power into proper use. ‘’ In addition he said, ‘’today you would hear that the Senate or the House of Representatives has ordered or threatened to arrest a minister yet the minister would not be arrested. I think the Enugu State House of Assembly deserves kudos on that, although I dont know the merits and demerits of the allegations against the commissioner. But the underling message is that the law has been made to function in a sacrosanct manner. However it is pertinent that we caution against the abuse of that power, particularly given the manner in which priviledges are been abused by those in the position of authority.’’

44—Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Power supply: Nigerians to wait longer Continues from page 5 Company, Aladja.

2. The Oben-AjaokutaGeregu Gas Pipeline System, which will form the back-bone of the proposed Northern Pipeline System, supplies Gas to Ajaokuta Steel Company, Dangote’s Obajana Cement Company and PHCN Geregu Power Plant.

3. The Sapele Gas Supply Systems which supplies gas to PHCN Power Station at Ogorode, Sapele.

4. The Imo River-Aba System for gas supply to the International Glass Industry Limited PZ, Aba Textile Mills and Aba Equitable Industry.

5. The Obigbo NorthAfam system caters for PHCN Power Station at Afam.

6. The Alakiri to Onne Gas pipeline system supplies gas to the National Fertiliser Company (NAFCON) now Notore Chemicals for fertilizer production; 7. The Alakiri-Obigbo North -lkot Abasi system for gas supply to the former Aluminium Smelting Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) plant now Rusal

Industries in Ikot Abasi.

8. The Escravos-Lagos Pipeline (ELP) supplies gas to NEPA’s Egbin Power Plant near Lagos.

Subsequent spur lines from the ELP supply the West African Portland Cement (WAPCO) Plants at Shagamu and Ewekoro, PZ Industries at Ikorodu, City Gate in lkeja Lagos, PHCN Delta IV at Ughelli, and Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company at Warri.

9. Ibafo-Ikeja Gas Supply Pipeline System supplies gas to Ikeja City Gate from where Gaslink distributes to the Lagos Industrial Area (LIA).

10. Ikeja-Ilupeju-Apapa Gas Pipeline System currently operated by Gaslink for Gas Supplies to Greater Lagos Industrial Area.

11. Ajaokuta-Geregu Gas Pipeline System which supplies gas to the Geregu PHCN Power Plant.

12. Ajaokuta-Obajana Gas Pipeline System which supplies gas to Dangote’s Obajana Cement Plant (OCP).

“All these facilities comprise over 1,250 kilometres of pipelines ranging from 4” to 36" in

diameter with an over all design capacity of more than 2.5 billion standard cubic feet of gas per day (bscf/d), 16 compressor stations and 18 metering stations. The facilities represent a current asset base of more than N21 billion,” NGC explained on its website.

Some of the major gas suppliers, Shell and Chevron when contacted could not respond appropriately.

A spokesman for Shell, Mr. Tony Okonedo, when asked specifically about the situation in Afam VI, operated by Shell, he merely said, “Nothing was amiss.”

General Manager, Government Policy and Public Affairs, Chevron, Mr. Deji Haastrup, also did not respond to Vanguard enquiries after five days of sending detailed enquiries on his request.

Poor electricity supply situation has turned almost every Nigerian into a self styled generator with about N17.9 billion spent annually on imported generators to make up for electricity shortfall from the power suppliers.

Electricity targets Ironically, under the Power Sector Roadmap, launched by President Goodluck Jonathan in August 2010, Nigeria’s generation capacity should have peaked at 40,000MW

by Year 2020, and above 7,000MW by April of 2011.

More than two years into the implementation of the roadmap, none of the set targets, in terms of generation, transmission, distribution, has been met, including the reform timeline that should have ended in the privatisation of the electricity sector.

On generation, government planned to increase capacity by about 52 per cent from 4,612MW currently to 7,033MW by April 2011, and increase capacity further to 14,218MW by December 2013. About a year on, the country is nowhere near generating half of the set target.

Weak transmission and distribution networks It is estimated that about 35 per cent of generation is

lost to technical faults on account of weak networks.

As shown in the data below, most of the lines are either weak or unavailable for a number of reasons, and for some of them have remained in the current state for years:

bypassed.

P-H REGION 1)132kV Owerri/Alaoji lines I & II tie breaker faulty and bypassed - Oct. 2009 2)132kV Owerri Ahoada line I breaker - faulty and bypassed - Jan. 2009

U N AVA I L A B L E BREAKERS/ISOLATORS

U N AVA I L A B L E TRANSFORMERS

LAGOS REGION: 1) Papalanto/Otta 132kV line breaker - Not available - jumpered.

2) Akangba T.S. 132kV Bus Coupler CB - Serious Air leakage since 1994.

3)Akangba T/S 132kV Itire line 1 isolator: Faulty.

4)Egbin T/S : Unit ST4 tie CB 52-14:out on CB failure relay.

5) Egbin T/S: Unit ST6 tie CB 52-20: Out on CB failure relay.

6)Egbin T/S: Unit ST6 south bus CB 50-21: Out on CB failure relay.

BENIN REGION 1) Benin 330kV bus coupler 1 breaker - CB not available due to CTs explosion.

2)Sapele/Benin 330kV line 2 (cct S4B) bus 2 isolator Q21at Sapele end: Faulty.

3)Aladja T/S G1W/S4W CB at Aladja - locked out in open position and

BAUCHI REGION Biu TS: 30/40MVA 132/ 33kV T2: Out on REF. A replacement is on plinth awaiting funds for installation.

BENIN REGION Ajaokuta T/S 224T3 162MVA 330/132/33kV transformer – awaiting 1No. Secondary lightning arrester.

Effurun T/S 30MVA 132/ 33KV T2A: Out on differential, REF & SBEF. OSOGBO REGION Ayede T/S 150MVA 330/ 132/33kV transformer T1B – Replacement on plinth and installation in progress.

LAGOS REGION: Apapa Road T/S 45MVA 132/33kV TR1 – Out on differential.

Continues on page 50

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012—45

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T the middle of last month, the week-long 18th congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) ended with a beginning of the process of leadership transition that would culminate with the emergence of a new president at the meeting of the supreme organ of state power, the National People’s Congress next March. The party congress that began on the 8th of November and culminated with the emergence of 7-member collegiate leadership of the standing committee of the politburo also confirmed the election of Vice President Xi Jinping as the General Secretary of the party, a position that made him first among equals of his other six colleagues in the standing committee, in similar fashion to the British Prime Minister, who leads his other colleagues in the cabinet by virtue of his leadership of the party.

The politburo of the communist party actually consists of 25 members but the standing committee or executive committee consists of seven member collegiate leadership with the General Secretary at the core. To become the president of the country, the Secretary General of the party would have to be confirmed by the Supreme organ of the state, the National People’s Congress. The 25 member politburo, from where the 7member standing committee

emerges is actually elected from the two-hundred-plus member of the central party committee who were in turn elected by the over 2000 delegates elected through rigorous process from the party lowest level of village committees across the whole country. Contrary to distortion, China has the most rigorous process of leadership recruitment, in which money, special interest groups or media manipulation play no role at all.

What the western media pundits call opaque method of leadership emergence in China is actually a rigorous and serious process, devoid of media blitz, political brinkmanship, theatrics and grandstanding in which, ordinarily, vested interests set the agenda and completely marginalise the popular voices of ordinary citizens. However, while the Chinese leadership was the first to admit the need for political reform to deepen the socialist democracy with Chinese characteristics, it has however, made clear that a western style liberal democracy is not definitely an option.

Against the plethora of western media speculation that the communist party of China is riddled with factions and the 18th Congress of the party may not hold at all, or if it holds, would be over whelmed by infighting, the weeklong party congress held in absolute decorum and comradely conviviality as many reports noted.

Having witnessed their prediction of acrimonious party congress

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fall on its face, the same media pundits are claiming the congress went without incident because it was a hollow ritual in which everything was previously rehearsed and played out as earlier arranged.

A

t the 18th congress of the communist Party, the leadership, both the outgoing and the incoming spoke strongly and openly about the scourge of corruption and the ominous dangers it portend both for the party and the society. There is almost no known western party conference in which the leadership of the party has taken as much public soul-searching as the Chinese communist party and come down heavily on its ranks with a strong warning of imminent collapse if the cankerworm of corruption and other vices are not rooted out. How a party that could courageously interrogate itself in the open before a worldwide public could be

Nigeria's health woes: Any panacea?

BY EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO

D

OES anyone still remember one of the reasons adduced by the dark goggled, gun-wielding soldiers for truncating Nigeria’s attempt at democracy in 1982?

Then military General Sani Abacha who announced the ouster of the democratically elected civilian government of Alhaji Shehu Shagari in 1982 among others, adduced the total failure of the health sector as reason for military intervened.

In his radio/television broadcast heralding the infamous come back of the Khaki boys into politics of administering the country, General Abacha (late) accused the then widely incompetent civilian administration of President Shehu Shagari of rendering public health institutions prostrate as they had become mere consulting clinics.

The bad news however is that in 1999 when the military decided to embrace their rightly constitutional role of defending the territorial integrity of the nation and thus subjecting themselves to the democratic ethos as stipulated in the grund norm, the state of public health sector was further diminished and almost nearly destroyed by the same military who ousted the democratic government over the same reason of running down health institutions.

It was said that the military regime of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd) even proceeded to enact a decree allowing medical workers in public hospitals to go into private practice thus further bastardising the standard of health services rendered to the poor Nigerians since medical doctors and pharmacists paid by tax payers found ways of establishing their private health centres whereby diverting rich clients and are even said to be in the habit of diverting public pharmaceutical products

for sale to their rich private hospital clients even as the standard of services rendered in public hospitals further nosedived. To quote Chinua Achebe, this was: 'when the rain began to beat us in our public healh services in Nigeria'.

In the twilight of his military contraption called government, General Babangida appointed a well respected medical practitioner, Dr. Olukoye Ransome-Kuti as health minister and this medical revolutionary was said to have worked round the clock to revive primary health care services that have become moribund but very little success attended these heroic effort no thanks to the diminishing regime of professional discipline in public health sector.

Is it then right to blame the proliferation of private hospitals for the sharp decline witnessed in the public health services today? Your guess is as good as mine since I like most people believe that it was morally reprehensible to allow publicly paid medical workers to run their own private clinics. This tendency gave rise to the widespread indiscipline and total lack of commitment on their part to fulfill their obligations to poor and disadvantaged seekers of health services who are the people of Nigeria and the real owners of the sovereignty of Nigeria. Health ministry officials especially those in charge of public procurement have embraced corruption as their stock in trade as against the public good.

The other fundamental cause of collapse of the public health sector is corruption, lack of transparency and accountability in the utilisation of scarce public fund voted for the introduction of state of the art health facilities across the country.

Nigeria’s public health infrastructure has collapsed so much so that the few available private hospitals are grossly insufficient to

referred as secretive, authoritarian and undemocratic can only make sense if one contextualises the heavily ideological bias of western media reporting.

Having gone through the revolutionary storms, including the destructive inferno of the Cultural Revolution, the China’s evolving political process has berthed with more or less a political tradition or culture of seamless leadership transition at all levels. With the current emergence of the 5th generation of party and military leadership, due also to assume state leadership in due course, China has obviously matured in the critical sector of political succession, the bane of political and social crises in still many parts of the world.

The question that could be relevantly asked in most of Africa with regards to the new leadership in China is whether anything untoward can happen to the already flourishing Sino-African relation which has seen trade between the two sides advancing to almost 200 billion U.S dollars, with China as Africa’s largest trading partner. China in the past ten years or more have established political consultative mechanism with several Africans states through which Beijing co-ordinate action on crucial international issues with its African States partners.

The bilateral consultative mechanism through which China engages the Africa states have also been reinforced and broadened by the process of the forum on China-Africa cooperation, FOCAC, an institutional mechanism formally inaugurated in 2000.

More than ten years after, the FOCAC process has become one of the world’s most dynamic

,

BY CHARLES ONUNAIJU

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China new leadership and Africa

The new leadership in China would ostensibly seize the momentum of the current Sino-Africa relation, energise it, and focus it for more concrete and beneficial engagement

It was morally reprehensible to allow publicly paid medical workers to run their own private clinics; this tendency gave rise to the widespread indiscipline and total lack of commitment on their part

,

cater for the growing number of people in search of better health services. This decline in the standard of health services obtainable locally has created a new kind of problem simply identified as health tourism whereby rich Nigerians travel out to countries like Egypt; Germany; India and the United States of America to seek for solution to their diverse health challenges.

N

igeria is said to be losing billions of foreign currency through these ever expansive lifestyles of seeking for better health care outside of our shores.

I will return to the all important problem of health tourism and its implication on the general economy of Nigeria and the state of health care services for the millions of other less endowed citizens without the resources or means to join the ever growing number of rich Nigerians seeking for foreign health services brought about by their proximity to the corridors of political power.

Chinua Achebe in his latest book, There was a Country: A personal history of Biafra, also lambasted African dictators for ruining their local health care and exposing their citizens to untimely and avoidable death.

Achebe who was fatally wounded in a road accident had to relocate to the United States of America so as to be able to get the kind of standard health care that was able to save his life.

In this widely acclaimed book, Achebe

mechanism for international cooperation. With China,s steady march to the core of contemporary global relation, the new leadership would certainly deepen cooperation with Africa. Unlike the West, China do not see Africa as a major humanitarian concern in which their leaders are more involved ostensibly for charity work, after they have left office as former U.S president Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and even George W. Bush are involved.

China has a clear cut African policy in which Beijing and Africa is engaged in wide range of issues of mutual interest. Africa is not Beijing’s turf for security surveillance or a humanitarian disaster zone, fit only for elaborate compassionate rhetoric, but a serious actor engaged in a mutually productive partnership.

The new leadership in China would ostensibly seize the momentum of the current SinoAfrica relation, energise it, and focus it for more concrete and beneficial engagement. Having highlighted his desire since he became the general secretary of the party for a deep communion between the Chinese people and the party, Mr. Xi Jinping would most likely deepen co-operation between China and Africa, taking it beyond the inter-state relation, to building a community of Chinese and Africa peoples common interests.

The 18th congress of the communist party of China has elaborated a dynamic vision in which it will steer China in the next five years and extrapolating from this vision, Africa’s cooperation with Beijing would receive a massive boost. *Mr. Onunaiju, a journalist, wrote from Abuja.

was full of praises for Dr. Nelson Mandela for showing good example as a leader who truly embraced selfless service while in office.

Achebe drew a corollary with the late Togolese leader Mr. Gnassimgbe Eyadema who spent nearly four decades in office but could'nt build a single specialist health care institution in his home country which resulted in his death while being flown abroad for medical attention after he suffered heart attack.

Achebe wrote thus; “…Eyadema had died from a heart attack even as he was about to be flown to Europe for treatment. If Eyadema stayed that long because he was good, why was there no hospital in Togo to attend to his condition”.

Corruption is the answer if you ask me.

In South Africa, the 96 year old Nelson Mandela was driven to a South African military hospital where he was reported to have undergone successful surgery. South African political and business elite attend to their health care services inside South Africa because previous administrations laid solid foundation for functional, workable and standard public health care services.

But in Nigeria, a sitting President Umaru Musa Yar’adua was surreptitiously flown abroad for medical attention without the slightest knowledge of his then Vice President.

While the medical challenge of then President Yar’adua persisted, reports in the media stated that several medical delegations from Germany visited the Presidential Villa to offer him specialise treatment which is said not to be available in Nigeria because of the run down public health care services.

One year after coming into office, President Jonathan’s wife Mrs. Patience was said to have been flown to Germany for medical attention.

Continues tomorrow on page.18 *Mr. Onwubiko, a social critic, wrote from Lagos.

46—Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

“We seize this opportunity to call on the State government to offset all the outstanding dues to local government pensioners and retired primary school teachers,” he said..He alleged that most of his members have not received any gratuity and pension while those who have been paid, were shortchanged.

Passionate appeal

*The senior citizens bemoaning their plight at Abeokuta recently.

Ogun pensioners shed tears over unpaid entitlements

BY DAUD OLATUNJI, Abeokuta

I

T is not commonplace for old men to weep in public glare but these elderly citizens could not hold back their tears as they recounted their ordeal arising from many months of neglect and the attendant sufferings.

Having given their all to their fatherland during their 35-years of active service, these senior citizens had expected that they would be paid their gratuities and

ships as a result of the endless and fruitless verification exercises,which often led to pauperization and impoverishment of our members through irregularities in pension payment,short or under payment,omission of names from payroll”.

The union leader condemned the claim by the Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Team,

,

We seize this opportunity to call on the state government to offset all the outstanding dues to local government pensioners and retired primary school teachers

other retirement benefits without much ado. But that was not to be, a situation that has turned them into beggars, depending on foodstuffs from neighbours to eke out their daily living.

These pensioners were in tears as they recounted their plight to newsmen in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital last week.

Recounting their ordeal in the hands of both the Federal and State Governments, the Ogun State State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Chief Keshington Odukoya alleged that many pensioners in the State have died or are languishing in abject poverty because they have not been paid their retirement benefits. Appealing to both the Federal and State Governments to come to the aid of the senior citizens, he stated that “ pensioners’ joy is truncated over series of disappointments,frustrations and deprivations. They are being subjected to all kinds of hard-

,

PRTT, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina that he had saved N181 billion of pension funds while thousands of unpaid pensioners are either dying or languishing in abject poverty.

The union challenged PRTT to publish the names of the 70,000 ghost pensioners it claimed had been discovered for the purpose of confirmation.

Furthermore, the senior citizens requested that the payment of Federal pensions should be returned to the states for reimbursement as it was before 2002.

Odukoya described the problems confronting the retired

Primary teachers as disheartening . According to him, five per cent Federal counterpart fund expected to be paid to each State on behalf of these categories of pensioners have not been paid.

Secretary of the pensioners union, Mr. Bola Lawal said that the Ogun State government is still owing a backlog pension entitlements to local local government retirees.

“I want to passionately appeal to our President to please help us; we know that he may not be aware of our plight. Some of us depend on our children from Lagos to send cooked soup and stew to us so that we may not die of hunger. Our situation is that terrible, `` he said.

Speaking about the pensioners of the State, Lawal who was flanked by the state auditor of the union Alhaji Babatunde Ashiru urged the State government to settle all outstanding gratuity and arrears of new increase in pension. ”The Federal Government should wake up to its responsibility by paying everybody. Those who have not been paid for many years should have their names included in the pensions list.

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 47

48 — Vanguard, MONDAY,

DECEMBER 24, 2012

Egyptians approve new constitution

A

N Islamist-backed Egyptian constitution won approval in a referendum, rival camps said yesterday, after a vote the opposition said would sow deep social divisions in the Arab world’s most populous nation.

The Islamist Muslim Brotherhood, which propelled President Mohamed Mursi to power in a June election, said an unofficial tally showed 64 percent of voters backed the charter after two rounds of voting that ended with a final ballot at the weekend . An opposition official also told Reuters their unofficial count showed the result was a “yes” vote, while party spokesmen said

An Egyptian woman voting for the constitution there had been a series of abuses during the voting.

The main opposition coalition, the National Salvation Front, responded to the defeat by saying it was moving

towards forming a single political party to challenge the Islamists who have dominated the ballot box since strongman Hosni Mubarak was overthrown two years ago.

Gifts flow in for Connecticut survivors

P

EOPLE around the world are grieving with the residents of Newtown over the murder of 26 school children and staff, offering their support by sending toys, money and other gifts.

An outpouring of tens of thousands of teddy bears, Barbie dolls, soccer balls, board games and more has come from toy stores, organizations and individuals worldwide.

“It’s their way of grieving. They say, ‘I feel so bad, I just want to do something to reach out,’” said Bobbi Veach, who was helping Saturday at Edmond Town Hall, where all of Newtown’s children were invited to choose a toy.

After the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre Dec. 14, victims were still being buried Saturday. A service was held in Ogden, Utah, for 6-year-old Emilie Parker.

Others were held in Connecticut for 7-year-

old Josephine Gay and 6year-old Ana MarquezGreene. In Ogden, people tied pink ribbons around trees and utility poles in memory of Emilie,

who was buried at Evergreen Memorial Park next to her maternal grandfather, who died 2½ months earlier.

Indians protest against gang rapists widen

P

OLICE in India’s capital used tear gas and water cannons for a second day yesterday in a high-security zone to break up protests by thousands of people demonstrating against the gang rape and beating of a 23-year-old student on a bus.

Police chased angry protesters with batons some of whom fought pitched battles with steel rods and rocks as they tried to get past steel barricades and a wall created by hundreds of policemen to reach the president’s mansion to present their demands.

“We want justice,” they shouted. Television footage showed that some protesters were injured in

the clashes. The protesters made bonfires and damaged cars and police vehicles.

Police blamed the violence on hooligans. “A peaceful protest by people has been taken over by hooligans,” Dharmendra Kumar, a senior police officer, told reporters. He urged people to go home to help police deal with the trouble makers. The demonstrations continued yesterday despite Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde promising to consider their main demand for death penalties for all six suspects who have been arrested by police following the December 16 attack.

S/ Korean reveals motive for N/Korean’s rocket launch

T

HIS month’s rocket launch by reclusive North Korea shows it has likely developed the technology, long suspected in the West, to fire a warhead more than 10,000 km (6,200 miles), South Korean officials said on Sunday, putting the U.S. West Coast in range.

North Korea said the December 12 launch put a weather satellite in orbit but critics say it was aimed at nurturing the kind of technology needed to mount a nuclear warhead

on a long-range missile.

North Korea is banned from testing missile or nuclear technology under U.N. sanctions imposed after its 2006 and 2009 nuclear weapons tests and the U.N. Security Council condemned the launch.

South Korea retrieved and analyzed parts of the first-stage rocket that dropped in the waters off its west coast. “As a result of analyzing the material of Unha-3 (North Korea’s rocket), we judged North Korea had secured a range

of more than 10,000 km in case the warhead is 500600 kg,” a South Korean Defense Ministry official told a news briefing. North Korea’s previous missile tests ended in failure.

North Korea, which denounces the United States as the mother of all warmongers on an almost daily basis, has spent decades and scarce resources to try to develop technology capable of striking targets as far away as the United States and it is also working to build a nuclear arsenal.

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 49

50—Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Vanguard CLASSIFIED

Power supply: Nigerians to wait longer Continues from page 44

U N AVA I L A B L E SYNCHROSCOPES: Benin, Kaduna, Osogbo, Onitsha, Ikeja West, Alaoji, Ayede, Akangba & Aja. Lagos region Ikeja West/Omotosho line (M5W) and Egbin line 3 (M6W) - 21 spans.

Ikeja West/Olorunsogo line (cct. R1W) - 80 spans.

330kV Ikeja West/ Osogbo line. - 95 spans.

Ikeja West/Alimosho/ Ogba 132kV lines 1 & 2 15 spans.

Ikeja West/Akangba 330kV line 2. - 1 span.

Ikeja West 132kV Ilupeju lines 1 & 2. - 8 spans.

Akangba/Itire 132kV lines 1 & 2. - 1 span.

Ikeja West/Agbara 132kV lines 1 & 2. - 61 spans.

Ikeja West/Otta 132kV lines 1 & 2. - 17 spans.

Ogba/Otta 132kV line. 17 spans.

U N AVA I L A B L E TRANSMISSION LINES: P-H REGION Afam/Alaoji 132kV line 1:Vandalized.

Omoku -P/Harcourt main 132kV line, collapsed tower Lagos region: 132kV Akangba/Itire line 1- Faulty line isolator at Akangba T/S. 132kV Ikeja west Ilupeju lines 1 & 2 - Out on fault.

Agbara/Ojo 132kV line 1 & 2 - Out on fault.

U N AVA I L A B L E / DEFECTIVE GROUND SWITCHES Osogbo Region Akure 132kV T/S: Akure/ Osogbo 132kV line ground switch not in service since 03/12/2008 – Bad Yellow Phase female contact.

Omotosho 330kV T/S: 4th series ground switch 33421 not in service since 25/ 10/2011 – The Red Phase is misaligned.

Benin Region Irrua T/S: Irrua/Benin 132kV line Earth Switch: faulty 330kV ccts G3B/S5B - 19 spans vandalized between Sapele and Benin end.

P/H Region Afam/Alaoji 132kV line 1 - vandalized (40 spans).

Shiroro Region Jebba T/S: 330kV Osogbo lines 1 & 2 and Ganmo line - vandalized 9 spans.

Minna T/S: 132kV Bida line - 32 spans vandalized.

Apo T/S:132kV Keffi line - 36 spans vandlized.

Apo T/S: 132kV Suleja line - 38 spans vandlized.

330kV Shiroro T/S: 330kV Jebba line 2:- 28 spans vandalized.

Apparently, while government was busy setting out ambitious generation targets, it did not plan for the closure of identified gaps and a reduction in distribution losses over the target period.

Although it recently announced approval for the construction of a new 700kv super grid estimated at $3.5 billion to augment the existing 330kv and 132kv transmission lines, it failed to say how the project would be financed.

The project which is expected to be completed within four years, will be owned by the Federal Government, since transmission is left in government hands, no provisions have been made for it in the budget and makes one wonder how government intends to achieve its power for all project by 2020.

No reprieve yet Even the industry regulator, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, could not offer any explanations or reprieve, as its Chair, Dr. Sam Amadi, could not respond to Vanguard enquiries even after five days.

The industry regulator is currently fine-tuning how to implement yet another tariff increase on account of new exchange rate in the new year, while consumers continued to groan under current crazy billing system.

Chief Executive, Eko Distribution Company of the PHCN, Mr. A. Amoda, in a telephone conversation maintained that government’s efforts were deliberately being sabotaged by industry contractors and those benefitting from the rot in the system from within.

As a result, he said: “The time lines given by the President for various power projects are no longer feasible because some people are trying to sabotage the effort.”

He said the pre-paid meter was no longer available because “it was expected to be given to consumers for free and some people will no longer be getting the extra money for estimated billing, if the meters are installed.”

It is apparent that a lot still needed to be done, if government is to achieve set targets. But first, it must deal with the issue of internal corruption for successful implementation of programmes.

AZEEZ —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Yahya Kifayah A. Azeez, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Lawal Kifayah Abiola.

All former documents remain valid. University of Jos and general public please take note.

OLOJE —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Dolapo Bosede Oloje, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Dolapo Bosede Babatunde. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

AKUBURUNWA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Akuburunwa Ifeyinwa Rosemary, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Akpovwovwo Oristsebino Ifeyinwa Rosemary. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ORAKPEROMU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Joy Omavowan Orakperomu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Joy Omavowan Adowei.

All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ILUOBE —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Iluobe Olunose, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Osho-Iluobe Olunonse Choice. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

DOUGLAS—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Douglas Ibiere Rebecca, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Onunji Ibiere Rebecca. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

OBAJE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Mercy Ochega Obaje, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Mercy Ochega Oziegbe Edeigba. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OGBODU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ogbodu Uzezi Patience Erere, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Utohware Uzouezi Patience Erere. All former documents remain valid. Delta State House of Assembly and general public please take note.

UNIEYEMADONOH —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Adeyemo Joy Unieyemadonoh, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Adeyemo Joy Unuihe.

All former documents remain valid. First Bank, Ecobank and general public please take note.

SIMON —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Mary-Colette Simon, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Mary-Colette Simon Eki. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ABERE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Patricia Abere, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Patricia Abere Arefa.

All former documents remain valid. House of Assembly, Bayelsa State and general public please take note.

NWABUZOR—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Benedicta Ifeanyi Nwabuzor, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Benedicta Ifeanyi Obianumba.

All former documents remain valid. Zenith Bank Plc and general public please take note.

Reconciliation of N a m e This is to certify that the name(s) Obianuju Umunnah, Agatha Obianuju Umunnah, Umunnah Obianuju Perpetua and Umunnah Perpetua Uju, refer to one and same person. I now wish to be known and addressed as Obianuju Perpetua Alasonye. All former documents remain valid. School leaving certificate, NECO, WAEC, UNIZIK, NYSC and general public please take note.

NWEKE—We, formerly known and addressed as Caroline Obuteaku Nweke, Ignatius Sunday Nweke, Celestine Chidiebele Nweke, Clementina Ginikachukwu Nweke, Florence Njideka Nweke, now wish to be known and addressed as Caroline Obuteaku Stephens, Ignatius Sunday Stephens, Celestine Chidiebele Stephens, Clementina Ginikachukwu Stephens, Florence Njideka Stephens. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

EKWURIBE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ekwuribe Ezinwa Udodirim, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nwahiwe Ezinwa Udodirim. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public please take note.

NNADOZIE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Florence Njideka Nnadozie, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Florence Njideka Chidiebele Nweke. All former documents remain valid. Federal Polytechnic, Oko and general public please take note.

UGWUANYI—We, the formerly known and addressed as UGWUANYI family of Amaji Amebo Ibagwa-Aka in Igboeze South L.G.A. of Enugu State: Ugwuanyi Sylvanus Chukwuka, Ugwuanyi George Onyebuchi, Late Mr. Peter Ezeh, Late Mr. David Ugwuanyi, now wish to be known and addressed as ONANWEZE family: Mr. Onanweze Sylvanus Chukwuka, Mr. Onanweze George Onyebuchi, Late Mr. Peter Onanweze, Late Mr. David Onanweze. All former documents bearing our former name i.e EZEH or UGWUANYI remain valid. General public please take note.

OBIEFUNA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Obiefuna Njideka Mary, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Kikanme Njideka Mary. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

N WA D I O G B U — I , formerly known and addressed as Nwadiogbu Esther Sabastine, now wish to be known and addressed as Chukwujekwu Esther. All former documents bearing my former names remain valid. General public please take note.

RHOGHO—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Glory Ese Rhogho, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Glory Ese Okobotimibi. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

EYEKOMIOGBAN— I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Abigail Aromie Eyekomiogban, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abigail Aromie Okolie. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

VANGUARD'S LAGOS OFFICE YOU CAN B O O K Y O U R A D V E R T S AT OU R L A G O S I S L A N D O F FI C E — VA N G U A R D MEDIA LIMITED (LAGOS OFFICE) K I O S K 4 8 E A S T P AV I L I O N T B S , L A G O S .

ADVERT HOTLINE 01- 8737025

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 51

C M Y K

52 —Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 53

C M Y K

54 —Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

C M Y K

Vanguard, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012 — 55

Ronaldo fancies United return R

EAL Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has told friends and former Manchester United team-mates that he would love to move back to his former side.

A day after Sir Alex Ferguson said he would love to have the attacker back at Old Trafford the 27-year-old has admitted he wants to ‘come home’, according to The Sun on Sunday.

His return to Manchester next year is guaranteed - Madrid have drawn United in the last 16 of the Champions League - but a more permanent switch would prove tricky.

His contract get out clause is an eye-watering

RONALDO... unhappy at Madrid

him rewarded by being shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or. The striker was - and still is - adored by Red Devils fans but not all Madrid supporters have taken to him with the same enthusiasm.

He would also like to work with Sir Alex Ferguson again - but if a deal was somehow struck

between the two clubs it is possible he could still be working with Jose Mourinho.

Real Madrid’s manager is under pressure and could leave the Spanish giants.

He is a contender to succeed Ferguson at Old Trafford and would love to link up again with the Portugal captain.

Bako backs Irabor to succeed

R

ENOWNED broadcaster and former chairman of the Sokoto State Football Association, Danladi Bako has voiced his support for the choice of Honourable Nduka Irabor as chairman of the Interim Management Committee of the Nigeria Premier League.

one billion euros and his contract has two-and-ahalf years left to run at the Bernabeu.

Since moving to Spain in 2009 Ronaldo has bagged a superb 170 goals in 169 games in all competitions and his performances have seen

In a text message to SportsVanguard, Bako said, “the appointment of Honourable Nduka Irabor is easily the best decision taken by the Alhaji Aminu Maigariled Nigeria Football Federation after the choice of Keshi as coach of the national team. I encourage Hon Irabor to accept the job and show Nigerians the way to run football.”

Bako who who is a keen football enthusiast expressed confidence in the ability Honourable Nduka Irabor to succeed.

“I have no doubt that Honourable Irabor will succeed. The league should regain it lost glory and help to provide quality feed for the Super Eagles.”

He wants to be ....

Continues from BP made his Eagles debut in 2002, but it was not until the 2004 Nations Cup that he established himself in the national team.

Goalkeepers Vincent Enyeama and Austin Ejide as well as defender and present skipper Joseph Yobo are more

Man U Continues from BP performance will surely encourage fans that his teams can entertain.

Manchester United missed the chance to extend their lead in the title race back to six points as Swansea striker Michu came out on top in the battle of the Barclays Premier League’s top scorers in a 1-1 draw.

Patrice Evra had given United the lead at the Liberty Stadium in the 16th minute as he headed home from a Robin van Persie corner.

But Swansea continued their good record against the top-flight big guns as Michu finished from close range to move clear of Van Persie with his 13th league goal of the season.

United hold a fourpoint lead over Manchester City at Christmas but will be left to rue a series of missed chances during the final half-hour when they piled the pressure on their hosts.

senior players than Osaze in the Eagles.

However, he has rowed with national team bosses, from Austin Eguavoen to Lars Lagerback, and his clash with Samson Siasia was widely regarded as one of the problems that caused Nigeria to sensationally fail to qualify for the 2012 Nations Cup. It is such poor attitude that has now denied him a fifth Nations Cup appearance.

In the meantime, the Eagles coach has said he wishes to run the rule over shock invitee Rabiu Ibrahim who has failed to establish himself at Celtic.

Ibrahim has only managed a handful of games in his second season at Celtic Park and has yet to be capped by Nigeria at full international.

“Keshi said he has watched Rabiu in a couple of cup games and will want to have a closer look at the midfielder in Faro, Portugal,” a top official told MTNFootball.com The gifted Ibrahim has held out a lot of promise since he featured for the U17s in 2007, but he has yet to establish himself in Europe ever since.

This will be his second Eagles call-up as he was also considered for the 2010 Nations Cup, but opted out as he had just undergone a groin operation.

IT'S RIGHT THERE . . . Chelsea’s striker Fernando Torres (R) celebrates scoring the opening goal with Nigerian midfielder Victor Moses (L) during their Premier League match against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge in London yesterday.

Chelsea thrashed Villa 8-0. Photo: AFP

•Hon. Irabor

All Stars Club support PH handicapped, elderly

I

N keeping with the spirit of the yuletide, two notable charity homes played host to Goldashe United Football Club of Port Harcourt last Saturday, as food items

worth thousands of Naira were donated in support of the occupants.

The Port Harcourt Cheshire and Old People’s Homes both of which are located in the

Town axis of the city had their hands full with bags of rice, tomatoes, onions and other accompanying condiments which came from the retired footballers.

Osaze blasts Keshi Continues from BP Odemwingie told BBC Sport.

The 31-year-old played at the 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2010 Nations Cups.

“For 10 years I gave my all to the country as a player on the pitch, played for the nation and fans, not individuals,” he pointed out.

Odemwingie believes he is being overlooked because he often speaks his mind about the national team.

“Because I speak out when things are not right, I guess some people are not just comfortable with that

openness,” he said.

“No one seeks preferential treatment, footballers are like the average people and not perfect individuals.

“There’s a long history of problems between the players, coaches and the federation and if they are not sorted - the country will continue to struggle.

“Football means so much to Nigerians and the fans deserve success and not be fed with lies in the media.”

However Odemwingie says he will not completely shut the door on his international career.

“It’s sudden and to be honest I don’t know,

because the individuals change but the problems remain,” Odemwingie said.

“If the chance to play for my country presents itself, then I will speak to my dad and those close to me - then we’ll see.

“Personally, I’ve got to be playing regularly for my club, focus my energy on being a better person every day.

“At the moment, all I can do is to wish the team all the best in South Africa.”

The Super Eagles begin their Nations Cup campaign against Burkina Faso on 21 January and then face Zambia and Ethiopia in Group C.

In his remark at the occasion, the President of the club and Director of Finance and Admin, Government House, Port Harcourt, Mr. Fubara Kingsley Hart said there was no better time to demonstrate affection towards the less privilege in society than Christmas, a time the world is rejoicing over the greatest gift of salvation for mankind.

Fubara Kingsley Hart said the occasion was a great experience for him, as he savoured every moment of it.

“For me it is dream come true giving all these items to these elderly citizens many of whom do not have children or loved ones to cater for them.

As an orphan, I will cherish this experience because it makes me feel like I am giving these things to my real parents” he said, adding that Goldashe would make the exercise an annual ritual.

VANGUARD, MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Chelsea in cloud 8, Man U held C

HELSEA moved back into third place in the Barclays Premier League after thumping Aston Villa 80 at Stamford Bridge.

Fernando Torres headed the home side in front in the third minute and goals from David Luiz and Branislav Ivanovic effectively decided the contest before the break.

Frank Lampard then marked his 500th Premier League start with a

trademark long-range effort that took him ahead of Bobby Tambling’s record of 129 top-flight goals for Chelsea, before Oscar, Eden Hazard and a Ramires double completed the rout.

Although this was the ninth game of Rafael Benitez’s Chelsea reign, these were the first Premier League goals scored under him at Stamford Bridge and this

Osaze blasts Keshi P

ETER Odemwingie has reacted angrily to being omitted from Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations squad.

The West Bromwich Albion forward last played for Nigeria in February’s goalless draw with Rwanda in the Cup of Nations qualifying.

“Every manager has got his own plans and tactics - if I don’t figure in your plans, please be honest to tell me directly,”

Continues on Page 55

Mikel, Moses give away Xmas presents

M

IKEL Obi and Victor Moses were among the Chelsea stars who visited patients at the Westminister Hospital and showered them with gifts.

They went to the hospital after meeting the bridge kids, the kid supporters of ‘The Blues’ at the Stamford Bridge.

Mikel and Moses also TODAY'S

posed with the kids and signed autographs.

“It is always good to put smiles on faces of sick people. I am happy to be involved. Meeting the young fans too was great,” Mikel said.

“Great day meeting all the young Chelsea fans at the stadium and visiting the hospital too,” Moses tweeted.

PUZZLE

— Pg 55

Continues on Page 55

•I won't miss Osaze — Keshi

Osaze wants to be Eagles captain — Keshi

E

•Bag of lies — Osaze YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

AGLES coach Stephen Keshi has dropped a bombshell by revealing Osaze Odemwingie has proposed himself as team skipper.

Keshi told a stunned Nigeria Football Federation technical

Across: 1 Summit (4) 4 Circuit (3) 6 Dice (4) 8 Mature (6) 9 Tempestuous (6) 10 Arid (3) 12 Vault (5) 14 Penniless (5) 15 Wood-god (5) 18 Orb (6) 20 Away (6) 24 Cherub (5) 26 Severe (5) 28 Trunk (5) 30 Seat (3) 32 Brown (6) 34 Kill (4) 35 Gear (3) 36 Ritual (4)

committee that the West Bromwich Albion striker has put himself forward to be the Eagles skipper.

“He told them that he wants to be captain as he considers himself one of the most senior players in the current squad,” an official revealed.

“But how he has behaved in the national team over the years has really run counter to his ambition to be the leader of this team. You can only lead by example.”

The 31-year-old Osaze

Continues on Page 55

Down: 2 Brighten (5) 3 Overshadow (7) 4 Lascivious (4) 5 Nosegay (4) 6 Chancel (5) 7 Yokel (7) 11 Beam (3) 12 Lettuce (3) 13 Sailor (3) 16 Beverage (3) 17 Tease (3) 19 Frolicsome (7) 21 Wager (3) 22 Slaver (7) 23 Also (3) 25 Born (3) 27 Disreputable (5) 29 Support (5) 30 Look (4) 31 Convey (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS Across: 2, Spell 7, Minor 8, Smart 10, Lever 12, Pie 13, Sheaf 15, Seceded 17, Hebrew 19, Sot 20, Riotous 23, Lens 25, Shut 26, Yoghurt 30, Lei 31, Errata 34, Calumny 37, Ailed 38, Bob 39, Genus 40, Gable 41, Meaty 42, Clean.

How to Play Sudoku

THE VIGILANTE

Down: 1, Tithe 2, Solar 3, Prefer 4, Less 5, Impetus 6, Creek 9, Aid 11, Restore 13, Shell 14, Ebony 16, Coo 18, Wishing 21, Shoal 22, Stead 24, Solube 27, Gem 28, Trauma 29, Cabal 32, Risen 33, Testy 35, Lob, Yell.

e-mail: rowolove@yahoo.co.uk

Place 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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