JUDICIARY ATTACKED:Thugs beat up Ekiti judge, tear his suit

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 62240

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ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

JUDICIARY ATTACKED:

Thugs beat up Ekiti judge, tear his suit “The court room of the Hon Chief Judge was not spared in the orgy of assault and destruction as members of staff attached to his office were beaten up and his court record book torn into pieces..." — CHIEF REGISTRAR, OBAFEMI FASANMI “I was in court before the election petition tribunal.... The moment I noticed that the place was becoming uncontrollable, I immediately went back to my office. I did not meet any other judge except the three Justices who are members of the tribunal." — AYO FAYOSE, EKITI GOVERNOR-ELECT

One Chibok girl released — Police

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By Gbenga Ariyibi & Dapo Akinrefon

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DO-EKITI—THE sanctity of the judicial arm of government was violated, yesterday, as political thugs invaded the Ekiti State High Court premises, beating up a high court judge and tearing his suit.

This prompted the Chief Judge, Justice A.S. Daramola to order immediate closure of all courts in Ekiti State until adequate security has been put in place. The assault was said to have taken

Continues on Page 8

COLUMNISTS: Donu Kogbara

Is Justice imminent?•P.17

Romance of referendum and Nigeria's political devt •P.28

Mr & Mrs NSE—From Left: Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, incoming President of Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE; Alhaji Aliko Dangote, outgoing President of NSE; Oba Otudeko and Mr Oscar Onyema, CEO, Nigerian Stock Exchange, at the cocktail reception and send-forth dinner party for outgoing council members of NSE in Lagos. Photo: Akeem Salau.

Uproar in Senate over Jonathan's $1bn loan request •P.52

SYNAGOGUE: We sealed building before collapse — LSBCA •P.16

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Warri church fire consumes pastor's wife, 4 children

By Egufe Yafugborhi

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ARRI—THE wife of Pastor John Kayode, resident Pastor of Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, Otumara Brach, Warri, Delta State, and four of their children, were yesterday burnt to death when a midnight fire gutted parts of the church at Emiko Close, Angle Part.

It was gathered that John Kayode was away attending a CAC Pastors’ Conference in Osun State, when the fire consumed his wife, Kayoda and children: two boys and two girl aged between eight and 18.

Bright December, who was among neighbours to notice the fire, told Vanguard: “At 11p.m., Wednesday night, electricity supply started fluctuating dangerously. Some vigilantes came out to see what the problem was thrice, though nothing was noticed.

‘They cried for help’

“Midnight was when I looked out and saw a girl banging on the glass windows of one of the rooms on fire.

Later, the mother started shouting for help. But the burglary proofs everywhere made it hard for us to gain entry into the house.

“A lady then alerted other neighbours, but it was too late.

The Pastor ’s wife and the daughter with her at the outer room screamed for 15 minutes and that was it. By the time it was possible to gain entry, the boys and a girl were already burnt in one room, while the second girl and mother died in the other room.”

Mrs Margeret Ichibo, a church member, said: “I left the Church after prayers with her (Kayoda) on Wednesday. That

was in the day. I rushed back few minutes to 1a.m., and fire fighters were just labouring to break in, but it was too late.

“National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, personnel tried to evacuate the bodies, but we advised that

police be informed first.

“By the time police came, NEMA had switched off their phones. It took the courage of youths in the neighbourhood and some of the fire service to bring out the bodies between 5 and 6a.m.

“The bodies have been deposited at the Warri Central Hospital Mortuary.”

Ondo ex-council boss, others docked over illegal possession of arms

By Dayo Johnson

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KURE—A former Chairman of Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, Mr. Afolabi Mabogunje, was yesterday docked before an Akure Magistrate Court for illegal possession of firearms.

Also docked alongside the ex-council chairman was Chief Eniola Obasoto. Mr. Temitope Abiola, 40; Mr. Agun Adeniyi, 39; Mr. David Agunloye, 30; Mr. Apejoye Ayodeji, 30 and Boyede Owodara 27, were also brought before the court for the same offence and cult-related offences.

The charge sheet brought before the Chief Magistrate W. Daomi accused them of conspiracy to commit felony to wit unlawful possession of firearms among other allegations.

The suspects, who were arrested by the Special Anti-

Cultism squad headed by John Mark, a Chief Superintendent of Police, were brought to the court amidst tight security.

The suspects were accused of 10-count charge of being in possession unlawfully of one locally made revolver pistol and one Russian doublebarrelled gun and therefore committed an offence publishable under Section 6(b) cap R11 Robbery and Firearms (Special Provision) Act, laws of the federation 2004.

It stated: “That you Afolabi Adedayo Mabogunje, Temitope Abiola and Agun Adeniyi and others now at large, on September 21, did have in your possession one locally made revolver pistol and one Russian doublebarrelled gun, which you unlawfully have under your control in contravention of firearms act and therefore

committed an offence publishable under Section 6(b) cap R11 Robbery and Firearms (special provision) Act, laws of the federation 2004.”

Mabogunje was accused of illegal procurement of the firearms from Abiola, while Obasoto was accused of supplying the former council boss with some packets of cartridges and ammunition, contrary to Sections 6 (b) and (c) of the firearms act.

Others, including Abiola, Adeniyi, Owadara and Ayodeji and others at large, were accused of arming themselves with firearms and being members of secret cults, including Eiye and Ayee, contrary to Section 39 vol 11 laws of Ondo State, 2006.

However, the Chief Magistrate Daomi said the accused bail application and plea would be taken on today.

Rivers Customs boss involved in road crash, 2 dead

By Chioma Onuegbu

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YO—RIVERS State Comptroller of Customs, Mr. Joseph Effiong, was, yesterday, allegedly involved

in a motor accident that killed two yet-to-be-identified persons on Ikot Abasi Road in Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The Comptroller, who

ACCIDENT: The Rivers State Comptroller of Customs car involved in an accident that killed two persons on Ikot Abasi Road, Abak council, Akwa Ibom State, yesterday C M Y K

The Church Secretary, Mr. Sunday Ogoigbe, said: “We can always rebuild the church.

The real pain is in losing out Pastor ’s wife and his entire children.

“Indicators as to the cause of this tragedy point to electrical fault. But then the only people who could have explained the true cause are dead.”

allegedly drove himself in his official car marked Customs C D/1 06CS, was said to have attempted to overtake another vehicle in the narrow Abak Ikot Abasi Road when he allegedly crushed two men riding on a motorcycle.

An eyewitness told Vanguard that the Comptroller narrowly escaped being lynched by an angry mob before escaping to the private residence of the Divisional Police Officer in Abak.

The eyewitness, who gave his name as Sunday Umoh, said: “As passers-by gathered around the two corpses, temper flared and before you knew it, they went after the Customs Officer.

“However, some of us saw when the Custom Officer ran into a private residence that was later identified to be the residence of the DPO here in Abak. That was what saved him because they would have killed him also.”

Vanguard also learnt that the timely intervention of the

DPO, who called in his men and Joint Task Force, JTF, saved the situation from degenerating into riot.

The JTF men stormed the scene of the accident and removed the Comptroller ’s vehicle to prevent it from being bunt by the angry mob.

However Mr. Saviour Akpan, a Human Rights Activist, who has his office very close to the accident scene, lamented incessant accidents on Abak Ikot Abasi Road and blamed it on the narrowness of the road.

Akpan called on state government to dualise the road to avert more deaths, stressing that it was part of government constitutional duties to protect lives and property of her citizens.

When contacted, Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Etim Dickson, DSP, confirmed the incident, saying “I am aware of the unfortunate incident and we advised the people not to take laws into their hands.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—7

Ex-Ekiti NURTW boss killed

By Gbenga Ariyibi

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An accident scene on Sani Abacha Expressway by Wuse Market, Abuja, yesterday.

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10 houses razed, scores injured in Enugu community over move to join Kogi

By Chinenyeh Ozor

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SUKKA—NO fewer than 10 houses were burnt, while unspecified number of people seriously injured at Ette in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State, following disagreement by rival groups.

They were said to be agitating over whether to remain as part of the Enugu State or be merged with Kogi State.

However, soldiers from the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army have been deployed to the area to contain the situation.

It was gathered that the latest violence erupted when those who wanted to be merged with Kogi State attacked a youth leader opposing their move, after burning down his house.

According to police sources at Enugu Ezike, the headquarters of the local council, the group “attacked and shot the youth leader of those in favour of remaining in Enugu four times.

“Although the youth leader, Mr. Matthias Eje, survived the attack, he sustained several bullet wounds from the

four shots, while his house was also burnt. The attackers also burnt other houses in Onoda part of Ette.”

The injured youth leader was said to be recuperating at a private Hospital (name withheld) in Enugu.

It was alleged that those in favour of remaining in Enugu State later re-grouped and

launched a reprisal attack by burning some of the houses of their alleged attackers before the deployment of soldiers.

A prominent indigene of Ette, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said before the attack, “the proEnugu youths of Ette had successfully repelled the invading pro-Kogi armed

youths four times in the past few weeks.

“Those attacks had in the past one year escalated to such a level that those in favour of ceding the large area from Enugu to Kogi had forced a Catholic Church Parish to close down, while most government establishments in the area now barely exist.”

Oil worker killed, 2 others kidnapped

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

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HE Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, and its Petroleum and its Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria counterpart, PENGASSAN, said yesterday that one oil worker was killed, while three others were kidnapped in Port Harcourt and Warri, respectively, in the last five days.

While a PENGASSAN member working for Halliburton Oil Services, Mr. Bankole Orisanyan, was murdered in his home in Port Harcourt on Monday, two staff of Agip were kidnapped in

Port Harcourt, while a staff of Chevron Nigeria Limited was kidnapped in Warri between Saturday and Sunday.

President of NUPENG, Mr. Igwe Achese, after a joint meeting of leaders of both unions in Enugu, under the aegis of NUPENGASSAN, said the late Orisanyan was killed on September 22 in his bedroom.

According to him, unknown persons entered his house, used a cell phone bag to forcefully wrap his head, until he died of suffocation.

He said those kidnapped were abducted on their way from their offices, adding that their whereabouts and

conditions had remained unknown, calling on security operatives in the two states to ensure that they were rescued without harm.

He said: “We equally call on the security operatives in Rivers to do all within their powers to ensure that the killers of Orisanyan are brought to book no matter what it takes. We cannot accept a situation where a Nigerian can be killed like an ordinary animal in his bedroom.

“We thought the issue of kidnapping was no longer fashionable. But we were proved wrong because kidnapping has returned in Rivers State and Warri.”

DO EKITI—THE former Chairman of Ekiti wing of National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, and a Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain, Chief Omolafe Aderiye, was yesterday killed by unknown assassins.

Aderiye was a strong supporter of the state’s governor-elect, Mr. Ayo Fayose.

Though the circumstances leading to his death remained sketchy at press time, the former NURTW boss was said to have been gunned down at his office in Matthew Street, Ado Ekiti, at about 8.30p.m.

Aderiye had accompanied Fayose to virtually all the towns and villages during his campaigns for the governorship election.

A visit to his Matthew Street office by Vanguard saw a large number of symphatisers, family members, friends and relations wailing.

Tanker driver, assistant burnt in multiple auto accident

By Boluwaji Obahopo

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OKOJA— A tanker driver and his motor boy were in the early hours of yesterday, in Lokoja, Kogi State, burnt beyond recognition when their diesel-laden tanker caught fire after an accident with three taxi cars.

Also affected by the inferno was Sewange Hotel situated close to where the accident occurred, forcing scores of commercial sex workers and their clients to scamper for safety.

Some of them were said to have run out of the hotel naked to avoid being trapped. The accident equally affected seven shops.

According to report, the accident occurred when the tanker, coming from Abuja and heading for Okene lost control and somersaulted. Two of the three cars were burnt, while one escaped.

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8—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

POCKET CARTOON was assaulted, Fapohunda said he neither saw not spoke with the judge, saying “a person in that type of condition would be naturally traumatized, his phone has been switched off ”.

SUMMIT—From left: The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Governor, Godwin Emefiele; Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Jim Ovia; Trade and Investments Minister, Olusegun Aganga; BBC News Anchor, Zainab Badawi and Minister of Aviation, Mr. Osita Chidoka, all panelists at Nigeria's Economic Outlook during the Africa Investment Summit, organised at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, New York, USA on Wednesday.

Thugs beat-up Ekiti Judge, tear his suit Continues from page 1 place at the hearing of an application filed by Ekiti State wing of All Progressives Congress, APC, seeking nullification of the election that produced the governor-elect, Mr Ayo Fayose.

Chief Registrar of the court, Obafemi Fasanmi in a statement issued, yesterday, narrating what transpired in court, said even the court room of the Chief Judge was not spared in the orgy of assault and destruction by the thugs.

The statement read: “The Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Hon Justice A S Daramola has ordered the immediate closure of all state courts in Ekiti State.

“The Chief Judge has noted with increasing concern, the spate of attacks perpetrated by political thugs and their persistent presence in the premises of the High Court, Ado Ekiti in the past few days. It would be recalled that on Monday,

September 22, some political thugs invaded the High Court No 6 where Hon Justice O. I. O. Ogunyemi was presiding.

His sitting for that day was disrupted and aborted and the Hon Judge had to be ferried away by a detachment of police officers after he had been harassed and chased around his office by these political thugs.

“Again today, Thursday, September 25, another set of political thugs came in their hundreds and invaded the High court premises in Ado-Ekiti and in the process assaulted Hon Justice J. O .Adeyeye of the High Court No 3 in Ado-Ekiti, beating him up and tearing his suit into shreds while the police officers on guard looked unconcerned and uninterested as judges, magistrates and other members of staff had to run for their dear lives. The courts’ properties were either damaged or completely destroyed.

“The court room of the

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

The trees may wish for quiet, but the wind will not subside. Each is doing what it has been ordained to do. Stormy winds fulfilling His purpose.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows—Francis of Assisi

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ALE Carnegie tells us this: “You have it eas ily in your power to increase the sum total of this world’s happiness now. How? By giving a few words of sincere appreciation to someone who is lonely or discouraged. Perhaps you will forget tomorrow the kind words you say today, but the recipient may cherish them over a lifetime.”

Here is little habit that can make a big difference.

Send sunbeams. Intentionally send a word of encouragement or appreciation every day to one person. Plan ahead. Keep open to those who need a lift. A letter, card or email will suffice. Or a phone call. It can be short, but must be personal and it must be sincere. Steve Goodier sums it beautifully: ‘As you drive away the world’s shadows, you will also fill your life daily with a little more joy.’

Hon Chief Judge was not spared in the orgy of assault and destruction as members of staff attached to his office were beaten up and his court record book torn into pieces by these political thugs who also invaded and disrupted proceedings at the Election Petition Tribunal within the High Court premises in Ado-Ekiti.

“A date for re-opening of the courts shall be announced as soon as adequate and effective security of our judges, magistrates, members of the bar, members of staff of the judiciary and other court users is assured and put in place”.

Why I was in court — Fayose

In his reaction to the fracas, the Governor-Elect, Mr Fayose said he was in the court premises as a respondent in a petition filed before the election petition tribunal that commenced yesterday.

He said: “I was in court before the election petition tribunal; when l arrived the court, I went straight to the venue of election petition tribunal with a sizeable number of aides.

The moment I noticed that the place was becoming uncontrollable, I immediately went back to my office. I did not meet any other judge except the three Justices who are members of the tribunal.”

The Ekiti State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Wale Fapohunda in his reaction blamed the Governor-elect, Mr Ayo Fayose for the assault, saying he was accompanied to the court premises by a retinue of political thugs. The AG alleged that the thugs were very unruly in their behavior, as they assaulted one of the judges in the court.

When asked whether he saw or had been able to speak with the judge who

Thugs invade election tribunal In spite of the alleged unruly behaviour displayed by the political thugs, the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sat and commenced hearing on the petition.

At yesterday ’s sitting which was personally attended by the first respondent, Mr Fayose, all the parties to the suit agreed that the applications should be consolidated for hearing.

It took the security operatives led by the state police commissioner, Mr Taiwo Lakanu a hectic time to control the crowd as they made unprintable remarks against their opponents.

Lakanu also led his men to escort the judges and lawyers out of the court premises, especially where the tribunal was sitting. He said: “It is our duty to maintain law and order and I had to leave my office to ensure that this is achieved.”

Some of the political thugs and hoodlums who had found their way inside the court-room almost became violent after the tribunal had adjourned for a short period to deliver a ruling on the scheduling order of the petition.

They did not spare the legal practitioners who had represented various parties at the tribunal as they shouted them down at intervals.

Members of the tribunal, who had scheduled 12 noon for the ruling, rescheduled the ruling and took their seats at 11:15, when the police began to chase away the thugs using tear gas.

When the court premises became charged, the Governor-elect, Mr Fayose decided to leave, while some of his supporters stayed behind.

Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, representing Governor Kayode Fayemi had complained that his team was having challenges at the inspection of electoral materials. He said he never expected the third respondent in the matter, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to be strict with the number of experts to be used for the inspection, saying “the tribunal’s order is “go and inspect” and the number of experts we bring to do this doesn’t matter.”

However, INEC through its lawyer, Mr. S. A. Awomolo, argued that it was agreed that there should be four experts on each side but that the petitioners were bringing 14 experts.

INEC said there were six parties and if all the

parties brought 14 experts each for the inspection, and with the number added to the security agents, there would be too much trouble controlling the crowd.

Olusola Oke, who represented the InspectorGeneral of Police, the fifth respondent, argued that the matter was administrative and that other parties should not be dragged into the administrative issue involving INEC, saying if the petitioners wanted to spend the entire lifetime prescribed for the tribunal doing inspection, that was their problem.

Chairman of the threemember tribunal, Justice Mohammed Sirajo ruled on the matter and said it was the duty of INEC who ensured security at the election to also ensure security at the inspection.

He, however, said the commission could not restrict the number of experts, and noted that if the petitioners liked, they could be on the inspection till the expiration of the time of the tribunal.

The tribunal finally adjourned till October 14, 24 hours to the inauguration of governor-elect, Mr Fayose for the hearing.

Reactions have, however, trailed the assault on the Judge of Ekiti High Court.

It’s condemnable — APC

In its response, the Ekiti State chapter of the APC, condemned the action but added that the culprit should undergo a psychiatric test. Its state chairman, Chief Jide Awe, who spoke with Vanguard said: “We were not at the scene but we heard of it.

If this is happening, this is the second time in a week that the state judiciary is being invaded. I believe it is not healthy at all not only for a state like Ekiti but anywhere in Nigeria. If this is happening to the judiciary, nobody is safe in the country. It is condemnable anyway and all right thinking people should condemn it. The judiciary, as we say, is the last hope for everybody. I think it is not ordinary and I think whoever must have done that, should be examined clinically to satisfy the level of sanity of that person.”

Allegation not true — Ekiti PDP

In its defence, the Peoples Democratic Party in Ekiti State absolved the governor-elect of any involvement in the fracas.

Speaking with Vanguard, the state secretary, Dr Tope Aluko denied knowlegde that Mr Fayose assaulted the trial judge.

Aluko said: “I was at the tribunal representing my party (PDP) and in fact His Excellency (Fayose) got down from his vehicle and walked directly into the tribunal. He came like five minutes late and he sat right beside me on the second to the last bench with the three judges in front. There was no rancour in the court room. I do not know where this is coming from.”

Police reacts

Ekiti State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Babayede said, “The court sat, the proceedings went on smoothly, the matter was adjoined till sometime in October this year. The Governor elect, Fayose came with his supporters, some of them were at the court as early as 7am, they followed him into the court premises. Nobody was molested, nobody was beating up. Police was able to contain the large crowd. That is all I can say."

NBA condemns act

The Nigerian Bar Association, in a statement signed by its National President, Augustine Alegeh, SAN, said it "strongly condemns the brazen and dastardly acts of violence by thugs and hoodlums who attacked the high court of justice complex in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State on Monday September 22, 2014 and followed same up with more acts of violence and brigandage by tearing judicial record books and attacking Judges at the Ekiti State High Court Complex which is also the venue of sitting of the Ekiti State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal on September 25, 2014.

"The life of our Judges in Ekiti is in grave danger. We must act to protect them from highly placed persons in our society who abuse their positions and privileges to unleash mayhem on Judicial Officers and infrastructure."

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 — 9

Boko Haram attacks Borno villages, kills pastor, 19 others ...As Army kills 100 insurgents

By Caleb Ayansina & Ndahi Marama

some villages of Hawul Local Government Area by suspected members of Boko Haram OME suspected members yesterday, but I am yet to get details of Boko Haram sect due to lack of telecommunication yesterday attacked Shaffa and services in the affected areas”.

Shindiffu villages of Hawul Local Government Area of Soft landing for Borno State, killing one Pastor surrendered insurgents Eliud Gwamna Mshelizza of the Living Faith Church, a Meanwhile, the Federal teacher (names withheld) at Government yesterday, revealed Government Girls Secondary that insurgents who surrendered School, Shaffa, and 18 other their weapons to the Nigerian persons who were mainly troops would be de-radicalised Christians. and rehabilitated back to the The terrorists also burnt down society. about 10 churches such as E.Y.N This was coming, as Nigerian No I, E.Y.N No II and III in Shaffa youths under the auspices of Youth and Shindiffu villages as well Development Transformation and several houses. A clinic and some Sustainable Place in Nigeria, staff quarters and structures at the YODETSIN, commended the Government Girls Secondary Federal Government’s efforts in School in Shaffa were also the fight against insurgency in the destroyed. country.

Unfortunately for the terrorists, The Nigerian Military recorded as they were about to leave a huge success last week Tuesday, Shindiffu and proceed to Turaku 17 September, when it killed a man, village, another Christian who appeared in recent videos, community, to continue their claiming to be the leader of the deadly acts, troops from Islamist militant group Boko Adamawa axis and Biu Military Haram, Abubakar Shekau, in a barracks, who were on their trail gun battle. ambushed them and killed almost Following the killing of their all of them. commander, some insurgents The attackers, according to surrendered themselves to the fleeing residents invaded Shaffa Nigerian troops, and pleaded for at about 8pm on Wednesday and mercy after surrendering their wreaked havoc before storming weapons.

Shindiffu village yesterday Speaking on their fate during a morning at about 11am. press conference, in Abuja, the Shaffa is south and about 20 Coordinator of National kilometres drive from Azare, the Information Centre, NIC, Mr headquarters of Hawul which is Mike Omeri ruled out the 215 kilometres away from Maiduguri, the state capital, which has remained under series of attacks by Boko Haram.

In the last two months, Tashan Alade, Hirzhi, Pela Birni, Debiro, Kwajaffa Bura, Jubwuwhi, Dalwa, Shaffa, Shindiffu, among other

By Emma Ujah, Abuja communities of Hawul had Bureau Chief witnessed coordinated and series of deadly attacks by Boko Haram BUJA—THE Nigeria with the burning of churches and Deposit Insurance houses mostly belonging to corporation, NDIC, has warned Christians.

A top military source said “Our the Nigerian public to be wary of men from Adamawa and Biu axis “ wonder banks” which offer repelled the attacks on Shaffa, mouth-watering deposit interests Shindiffu and Turaku village, over but indeed are out to defraud 100 of the terrorists were killed unscrupulous members of the while several arms and society.

The Managing Director, MD, of ammunition were also recovered the corporation, Alh. Umaru in the encounter.”

The Police Public Relations Ibrahim, gave the warning at a Officer, DSP Gideon Jubrin in a press briefing in Abuja, yesterday, telephone interview with our to mark its 25th anniversary.

“The problem of wonder banks Correspondent confirmed the attacks on Shaffa and Shindiffu are emerging again and the villages, but said, due to the public must be careful about closure of telecommunication anyone coming to them and network in the area, he was yet to promising very high deposit get details and number of interests which could be at the casualties, adding that as soon as detriment of the deposit itself.

“If someone comes and details of the attack reached him, promises a very high interest in he will brief the press.

“Yes there was an attack on order to take your money. You

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possibility of prosecuting them.

He said there were measures in the counter-terrorism document launched by government and it would be strictly followed.

According to him, those who surrendered will be taken thorough the process of deradicalisation and rehabilitation, while those who refused will surely be dealt with.

“Those terrorist who surrendered their arms and embraces peace will undergo the process of de-radicalisation and rehabilitation. So that they will be admitted into society and given

the opportunity to also continue contributing their own quota to the development of this country.

“But to those who insist on carrying arms against their country’s, against their fellow citizens, will have themselves to blame.

“I want to urge citizens to be steadfast in their support to our service men and women; we are working hard, day and night, to ensure that we put terrorism behind us in Nigeria.

“The army forces have found the winning strategies, and they will not go back in making sure

the adequate security is provided, for every single Nigerian,” he assured.

The National Leader of YODETSIN, Chief Innocent Kaku said the recent killing of Boko Haram leader and the subsequent giving up of arms by over 150 terrorist to the Nigerian Army was due to the government’s commitment.

“We salute the bravery and boldness of the Nigerian army in fighting the Boko Haram insurgents. This feat was achieved due to the commitment of President Goodluck Jonathan to the fight against insurgency and his commitment to his transformation agenda,” he said.

Innocent, in an interactive session with the newsmen in Abuja, urged youths across the country to cooperate with the government, and refused to be used by any politician to disrupt government’s attempt to restore peace in Nigeria.

ASSESSMENT TOUR: Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State addressing a crowd in Ijebu Igbo, Ijebu North Local Government Area, in continuation of his official assessment tour of the 20 Local Government Areas in the state yesterday.

NDIC warns Nigerians against wonder banks

zPays depositors of failed banks N8.6bn

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should be careful because his real intention might be to run away with your deposit”, he warned.

He regretted that in the current efforts to sanitise the MicroFinance Banking subsector, his officials couldn’t even trace the addresses of some of them, adding, “they just open an office, collect deposits from unsuspecting members of the public for a few months and then they disappear.”

Insured depositors of failed banks get N9.5bn The MD disclosed that about N9. 581 billion had been paid to insured depositors of failed banks since 1994 to date.

His words, “a cumulative amount of ¦ 6.825 billion was paid to 528,277 insured depositors of the 48 DMBs in-liquidation as at August 31, 2014. While for the 186 closed MFBs, the cumulative

amount of N2.756 billion had been paid to 80,059 verified depositors as at 31st August, 2014”.

He admitted that a major challenge in the efforts to pay insured depositors was their failure to come out and make claims, as expected.

Alh. Ibrahim, therefore urged depositors of failed banks to take advantage of the provisions by the NDIC to collect their deposits.

Mobile Money Operators to be covered The MD disclosed that the organization was working towards including Mobile Money Operators, MMOs, in its deposit coverage with a view to securing the funds of their subscribers.

“In order to engender confidence of the public in subscribing the products of the MMOs, the NDIC has considered as imperative the extension of deposit insurance to

the individual subscribers of the MMOs in the form of passthrough deposit insurance. The framework for making the passthrough insurance scheme operational is currently being finalised by the Corporation”, he said.

The NDIC, Alh. Ibrahim said, had successfully responded to economic realities and yearnings of depositors by periodically increasing the coverage levels in order to enhance the confidence of the public in the Nigerian financial system.

His words, “the maximum deposit insurance coverage was increased from its set level of N50,000 at inception to N200,000 in 2006 and subsequently to N200,000 in 2010 and later to its present level of N500,000 for DMBs. Deposit insurance was extended to Microfinance Banks/Primary Mortgage Banks in 2006 with a coverage level of N100,000, which was increased to N200,000 in 2010”.

10— Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Jehovah's Witness commences 2014 regional convention

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AGOS—JEHOVAH’S Witnesses have commenced a 12-week 2014 regional convention in Nigeria with the theme; “Keep Seeking First God’s Kingdom.”

The convention holding in series, will host delegates from all parts of the country.

A statement by the Regional Media Officer, Afolabi Odeyem, said: “Nigeria plans to host 271 conventions inside large auditoriums in 30 cities. Worldwide, there are over 7,900,000 Witness in more than 113,000 congregations.

For Lagos and Ogun residents, four large auditoriums are available at Ota, Badagy, Daluwon and Lekki. An estimated 6,000 will converge at Ota Assembly Ground, each week for 12 successive weekends.”

According to the statement; “To make sure many enjoyed the rich B i b l e - b a s e d programmes; personal, printed invitation is being extended to everyone in Lagos, Ogun, and indeed all conventions cities. The first of three-day events to be held in Ota will begin on Friday, September 26, 2014 at 8.20am.

"There is no admission fee. Conventions of Jehovah’s Witnesses are supported entirely by voluntary donations.

Beginning from Friday morning, the convention will highlight a connection between family values and the teaching of Jesus Christ.

“The programme will also examine how those words of Jesus can be of special interest to families.

An example of this will be the programme part featured on Friday afternoon entitled; “Teach Your Children To Love God’s Kingdom.”

$9.3m arms deal ridicules Nigeria worldwide —FASHOLA zBlasts FG over Chibok girls

By Olasunkanmi Akoni &

Monsur Olowoopejo AGOS—GOVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, yesterday, said the alleged $9.3 million cash seized by the South African government has made the country a laughing stock worldwide.

Fashola also added that Abuja had not been consistent with information on the abducted Chibok girls and the attack on the Bama Community, saying; “Nigerians deserve to know the current state of the issues.”

Fashola made the remarks at the 2014 Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Colloquium held at the University of Lagos, Yaba, which also had in attendance, former governor of Lagos State, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Professor Itsey Sagay and others.

Reacting to the alleged arms deal and what the late Gani Fawehinmi would have done if he was alive, Fashola lamented that the issue has made Nigerians mere laughing stock worldwide. ‘’And this happened because of the value choices that we have made. Let us stop pointing fingers at those people, you all voted for them. They are representatives of the values we have chosen to live with.

“Would Gani Fawehinmi

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have stood by and watch without demanding an explanation on how money was spent. How N2 trillion was spent on oil subsidy without appropriation. Also, how will he have reacted to the stories of the disappearance of the $20 billion or $49 billion depending on what you believe?”, he added.

The governor also lamented that the central government had not been consistent on sensitive issues concerning its citizens

Lagos APC tasks new CP over murder of party chieftan

By Olasunkanmi Akoni AGOS—THE All Progressives Congress, APC, Lagos State chapter, has urged the new Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti, to ensure justice is done in the alleged killing of APC chieftain during the last Saturday ’s Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, rally on Lagos Island.

It was gathered that the police in Lagos have arrested one of the suspects, while the

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N93M PROPERTY DEAL: Firm accuses ex-commissioner of concealing fact

By Onozure Dania AGOS—A real estate firm, Red Brick Homes International Limited, has accused a former Commissioner in Edo State, Mr Solomon Edojah of procuring an order of a Lagos High Court in respect of property located at Amen Estate in Lekki Penninsula area of Lagos through misrepresentation of facts.

The trial judge in the matter, Justice W. Animahun, made the order on March 4, 2004, at the instance of an ex-parte application by Ejojah, restraining the defendant (Red Brick Homes) from selling the property.

From the facts of the case, the former commissioner had approached the firm for the purchase of a N93 million worth of seven-bedroom detached House at the said Amen Estate on behalf of his teenage daughter, Miss Goodness Edojah.

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especially the abducted Chibok girls saga.

Commenting on the Nigerian Army's claim that the abducted Chibok girls had been released and few hours after, back-tracked on the information it released earlier, Fashola said: “At one moment, the information was that the girls were not abducted. Later, we were told by the Federal Government that they now know where the girls are kept."

“Few months later, the same government informed its citizens that the girls have been recovered.

And in few minutes, they (Federal

Government through the Nigerian Army) back-tracked on its earlier information.

“Over the last few days, similar incident occurred in Bama and the report from that place was that insurgents had taken over power. The media organisations who reported it were castigated.

The reason was that they reported that Bama have been ceded. And few days later, there was another report that Bama have been recaptured. So if you recaptureitandyousaidthatyoudidn’t lose it.

“It shows that there is a problem; the right to know. We (Nigerian) must be updatedontheprogressandchallenges on the issue."

prime suspect that shot the fire and others were still at large.

The deceased, Alhaji Azeez Asake, of the APC was allegedly shot and killed by a notorious group on the Island, said to be loyal to a top Federal government official.

Publicity Secretary, APC, Lagos chapter, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, while reacting to the

development , yesterday, said one of the perpetrators of the heinous act, simply called “Abija” had been arrested by the police and he is currently, in custody.

He said: “The new Police Commissioner in Lagos is getting it right to stop this impunity in Nigeria. The police belong to the institutions of democracy which must be strengthened for democracy to thrive."

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—11

Falae launches SDP in Ondo

By Dayo Johnson

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KURE—THE Social Democratic Party, SDP, was formally presented to the public in Ondo State yesterday.

The National Leader of the party, Chief Olu Falae said in Akure during the launching of the party that; “The party had come to wrest the nation from the throws of corruption and unemployment.

Falae said: ”SDP, same acronym with the platform on which the late Chief Moshood Abiola won the June 12 Presidential election, is different from other political parties in its manifestos and intentions for the people.

“Let corruption die, so that Nigeria may live. There is so much corruption in the land.

Other political parties have shown that they are selfish, but the SDP is for everybody.”

He noted that, “The rate of unemployment was becoming alarming so that the recent recruitment exercise of the Ondo State Government where only 2,000 teachers would be employed, had over 20,000 applicants.

Falae promised that the party would “create millions of jobs when voted into power in the coming elections and would deal with corruption which is denying Nigerians the benefit of good governance.

“SDP government will exploit bitumen and other mineral resources in the states. They said only Federal Government can exploit minerals but at the last National Conference, we have changed that.

“Other political parties don’t have manifesto, what they do is to distribute money and bags of rice. Will that change the situation of the people?” he asked.

Speaking at the ceremony the leader of Yoruba Socio Political group, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasaranti, said; "The party stands for consistency, honesty and accountability; I, therefore, urge the people to throw their weight behind the party to ensure its success.

“This is a new dawn, a new beginning and a new set of people. Let us work hard for a better Nigeria,” he said.

The party ’s National Secretary, Sadiq Umaru Gombe, assured that the party would remain strong as members would ensure its acceptance across the country.

Gombe pointed out that the party was set to restore the country to the glorious path as Nigerians were tired of deceit and lack of development.

AGM: From left: Mr A.R Emedo, past President, Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria, HUCAPAN, Mr Basil Adimorah, Publicity Secretary, HUCAPAN, Mr Neye Enemigin, President, HUCAPAN, and Mrs Ifeoma Anyawuhatu, Zonal Director, Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Lagos, during the 2013 Annual General Meeting of HUCAPAN, in Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

Don't throw Ekiti into chaos, Adeyeye warns E-11 A

DO-EKITI—THE Minister of State for Works, Prince Adedayo Adeyeye, has warned the E-11 group not to throw the State into chaos by attempting to use the suit it instituted to circumvent the will of Ekiti people freely expressed on June 21, 2014, with the election of Mr Ayodele Fayose as their governor.

Adeyeye, who described the desperate manner in which the E-11 case was being pursued as an assault on Ekiti people, added that; “why couldn’t those in E11 mobilise Ekiti people to vote against Fayose and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on June 21?”

In a statement by the Minister, yesterday, he said; “Ekiti people have spoken loudly on June 21 and I think what we should all do is to respect the wish of the people and in the interest of the State and its people, pray for the incoming administration to succeed.”

He said by electing their governor in such a transparent and peaceful manner, Ekiti people had shown to the outside world that they were civilised

and capable of setting the pace in electioneering in Nigeria.

“No individual or group should do anything that will rubbish the good image Ekiti people built for themselves and the State with the June 21 election.”

Speaking further, Adeyeye said; “Fayemi, who lost the election congratulated the winner less than 24 hours after the election.

In preparation for the inauguration of Fayose as the next governor of Ekiti State, a Transition Committee has been set up by the State Government.

“Therefore, trying to obtain back-door judgement in a bid to truncate the inauguration of Fayose on October 16 is not in the interest of Ekiti State and its people and those in the E-11

should be made to know this.

“Most importantly, Ekiti people have the inalienable rights to choose whoever they like as their governor, and they have done that on June 21, 2014.

“E-11 and their sponsors should therefore leave Ekiti people alone to be governed by the man they freely gave their mandate on June 21.”

Daniel's loyalists slam LP faction over defection

By Daud Olatunji

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B E O K U TA — A faction loyal to former governor of Ogun State in the Labour Party, yesterday, tackled the other faction in the party, saying, it would go ahead with the planned merger with the People’s Democratic Party in the state.

Daniel’s faction in a statement by its Secretary, Deji Kalejaiye described the factional secretary, Sunday Oginni as an interloper.

Oginni had said that, Daniel lacked the power to merge the Labour Party with the PDP, saying, the former governor was never a member of National Working Committee or National Executive Council of the party have such power.

Reacting to Oginni's statement, he said that it is "crystal clear that; "The fact remains that our leader, the former governor has the mandate and support of the entire leadership of the Party as well as the state executive committee of the Party to discuss and liaise with individuals, groups and political Parties with the common objectives.

“It, therefore, point to the fact that the author of the statement has a clandestine objective.

It is also highly imperative to set the record straight once again that Sunday Oginni is just an interloper and impostor."

OSUN GUBER: Aregbesola asks tribunal to dismiss

Omisore's petition

By Gbenga Olaniroye

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SOGBO—GOVERNOR of Osun State, Mr Rauf Aregbesola has formally filed his reply to the petition of Otunba Iyiola Omisore and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, challenging the declaration of Aregbesola by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the winner of August 9, governorship election in the state .

In the reply dated September 22, 2014 , Governor

Aregbesola raised a preliminary objection to the competence of the petition on six grounds that: The petitioner has no locus standi to present this petition not having shown in the petition that he was validly a candidate at the election subject of this petition; The allegations contained in several paragraphs of the petition are vague, general, generic, not specific, speculative, omnibus, imprecise and nebulous; Several paragraphs of the petition raise a pre-election issue which the tribunal has no jurisdiction to

entertain; The petition has not been properly constituted in that criminal allegations have been made against persons who have not been joined to this petition; The Petitioners did not meet all the conditions precedent to the presentation of the petition and that the grounds on which the petition is based are unknown to law.

Apart from the preliminary issues raised against the competence of the petition, Aregbesola averred that the petitioner did not score up to 25 per cent of the lawful votes cast

in each of the 30 Local Government Areas of Osun and did not satisfy the provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act. He also averred that in polling units and wards being challenged by the petitioners, entries were properly made in Forms EC8A and there were no malpractices and acts of irregularities as alleged and the result of the election was not tilted against the petitioner and in favour of the First Aregbesola and Second APC Respondents as alleged.

12 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

I'll work with Anenih, others in PDP, says Ikimi

By Gabriel Enogholase

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ENIN—A FORMER chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Tom Ikimi, has said that he has confidence in the national leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, adding: “We shall have a common agenda of working for the party in Edo State and Nigeria in general.”

He insisted that he was not leaving the APC for the PDP to vie for any elective political office. “I left the APC for the PDP where my personal dignity shall be respected. I am not interested in being in a party of enemies, where a party man will plot against the party. I am at peace with all the leaders of the PDP whether big or small. I have implicit confidence in Chief Anenih and we have had several meetings and I believe we have bridged the gaps. We shall have common agenda in working for the party in the state and Nigeria,” he said.

Chief Ikimi, who spoke yesterday in Benin at a reception organised in his honour by the state leadership of the PDP at the party ’s secretariat on Sapele Road, also thanked the National Executive Committee, NEC, of the party and Chief Anenih, who visited him in Abuja to urge him to come back to the party.

He added that during the visit by Chief Anenih and the

NEC, he promised that he would consult with his political associates. He said: “I have consulted with them and my family members and they have given me the go ahead to return to the PDP. “I came here today (yesterday) not as a new member, but to fully identify with my group of 1999 and 2003. In politics, the party is supreme. We came here as cooks to cook the food and share it to others. But those

who came in took the food, plates, pots and everything away and left the cooks with nothing. The PDP will take over the state once again.

Once beaten, twice shy.”

On his dumping of the APC, Chief Ikimi said, “It is good night,” adding that the then Action Congress of Nigeria was formed in his house in Abuja by himself and one Opadokun with the aims and objectives of the party written by them.

“Everyone knows that it was my baby and those who believe in it are singing a new song.” He added that what is seen in Igueben Local Government today was achieved through the Federal Government.

Earlier, while receiving Chief Ikimi, Chief Orbih said that the reception was just a rehearsal of what will happen this weekend when President Goodluck Jonathan will be in Benin for the party’s rally.

MEETING: From left: Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Waman Ogoriba, members of the Committee, Mr. Albert Akintoye and Mr. Akim Kazeem addressing Contractors and Directors in Ministry of Niger Delta during the committee's meeting with stakeholders on Niger Delta Affairs, at the National Assembly, in Abuja yesterday. Photo by Gbemiga Olamikan.

Bayelsans decry ‘crazy' electricity billing

By Samuel Oyadongha

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E N A G O A — RESIDENTS of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State and its environs are disturbed by what they described as arbitrary electricity billing by the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, PHEDC. Electricity consumers in the state are lamenting the monthly increase in the billing system even as the power situation remains epileptic.

Most of the buildings in the state capital and its environs do not have electricity meters to determine energy consumption but the PHEDC is charging electricity consumers through unequal estimation of service charge, which most the residents insist is outrageous and unbearable.

Vanguard gathered that the development was causing general discontent among residents and may snowball to street protests.

While some residential areas are allotted estimated bills per building, others are grouped and billed per transformer.

The matter was recently

debated on the floor of the state House of Assembly and unanimously condemned by the lawmakers.

The Speaker, Mr. Konbowei

Benson, had described the development as unfortunate.

He said: “We are tired of this billing system. We are billed N800,000 every month. There

is no meter to show how much we incur every month and if we don’t pay, they come to disconnect us.”

Jonathan’s endorsement good for democracy, continuity —Umoette

By Udeme Clement

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GOVERNORSHIP aspirant in Akwa Ibom State on the platform of People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Mr. Robert Umoette, has called on well-meaning Nigerians to support President Goodluck Jonathan’s transformation agenda, stressing that his endorsement by PDP’s Board of Trustees and PDP’s Governors Forum headed by Chief Godswill Akpabio, was good for democracy and policy of continuity.

Umoette, who addressed newsmen in Lagos, explained that Jonathan’s endorsement for a second term was democratically acceptable and would allow the economic policies of the current

administration, especially in agriculture, aviation, power and job creation to yield the

desired result in the long-run.

“Jonathan is constitutionally allowed to seek a second term in office," he said.

2015:Delta North endorses Adigwe for Senate

By Tommy Anaduaka

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HE people of Aniocha North, Oshimili-South and Oshimili North Local Government Areas of Delta State have joined other local governments in Delta North senatorial district to endorse the senatorial aspiration of Mr Pascal Adigwe.

In their separate remarks to round off the senatorial aspirant’s consultation visits to the areas, a community leader and chieftain of the PDP, Ogbueshi Felix Ukwanmedua,

Chief Odimbu Nwokolo and John Anazia described Adigwe as not only a man of the people but a grassroots politician that has contributed and shown concern in the interest of the people.

The leaders remarked that the endorsement of the Delta North senatorial hopeful was informed by his overwhelming track records, adding that Adigwe, if elected, will take the PDP and members of the party as well as the entire senatorial district to the next level.

Warri, power base of Delta politics —Amori

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ENIOR Political Adviser to Delta State Governor and former Commissioner for Education in the state, Chief Ighoyota Amori, has highlighted the importance of Warri South Local Government Area to the politics of the state, insisting that members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the area must remain united because Warri “is where the power belongs.”

The governor ’s aide, who is on a political sensitisation tour of the 25 councils in the state in the build-up to the forthcoming October 25, council elections as well as the general polls billed for early 2015, spoke in Warri before a crowd of PDP faithful.

Amori, who noted that there was “no alternative to PDP” in Delta State, said Warri has developed in human capital, educational and infrastructures compared to what it was in 1998 as a result of the James Ibori and Emmanuel U d u a g h a n administrations.

2015: PIC group drums support for Akpodiete’s re-election

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E O P L E S Democratic Party, PDP Ideology Crusaders, PIC, a political interest group in Delta State, has called on the people of Ughelli Kingdom to vote en- masse for the re-election of the member representing Ughelli North Constituency II in Delta State House of Assembly, Mr. Edoja Akpodiete.

Addressing a cross section of PDP leaders and youths at a reception organised by the group to mark the progress and successful implementation of its programmes at the grassroots in the last year, the National Chairman of PIC, Mr Nelson Egware, said that in recognition of Akpodiete’s dedication to the service of his community, he should be rest assured of the group’s support for his re-election to run for a second term.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 —13

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14—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Navy intensifies war against oil theft

Stakeholders warn warring Edo Assembly lawmakers

By Jimitota Onoyume ORT HARCOURT— NIGERIAN Navy has intensified its crusade against oil theft in the Niger Delta region with an approach it termed “choke points” strategy.

Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Goddy Ayankpele, yesterday, during a facility tour of the Nigeria Navy Basic Training School, Onne, Rivers State, said they were recording huge success with the new strategy.

According to him, they deploy men to choke points (exit routes) on the high sea, adding that so far six vessels conveying illegal crude had been impounded at these points used as exit routes by oil thieves out of the nation’s waterways.

“The Navy has done a lot and has put a lot in place to end oil theft. The strategy of attacking and establishing choke points is working, where we know that these illegal bunkerers will follow a particular route."

By Simon Ebegbulem ENIN CITY—THE traditional institution and stakeholders in Edo State, yesterday, warned that they may wield the big stick on the warring members of the state House of Assembly, saying that the failure of the lawmakers to act as “ real hourable members” was embarrassing to the people of the state.

The stakeholders also tasked journalists in the state to expose politicians who want to cause violence ahead the 2015 general elections in Nigeria and Edo State in particular, warning that everything must be done to ensure a united and democratic country.

Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dr Pius Odubu, former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Roland Owie, Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief David Edebiri, former Minister of State for Works, Engr. Chris Ogienwonyi, Mr Ken Imasuagbon and the Majority Leader of the state House of Assembly Philip Shaibu, spoke at the launch of the secretariat complex of the Correspondents Chapel, Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, in Benin City.

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Groups back Akpowowo for Delta Assembly

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IGILANCE GROUP of Nigeria, VGN, Ethiope East Local Government Area chapter and Okpara Youth Movement for Akpowowo, have pledged their unflinching support for the aspiration of Mr. Arthor Akpowowo, for a seat in the Delta State House of Assembly.

Chairman of the vigilance group, Mr. Ovoke Ubuara and Chairman of Opkara Youth Movement for Akpowowo, Mr. Harrison Ikino, said they came to pledge their loyalty and commitment to work with the aspirant in ensuring that he achieves his noble cause to represent the constituency.

“We have seen a lot of people before we decided to give Akpowowo our support and this decision came after our investigation that everybody in the council wants him as their representative. We had no option but to follow suit.”

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Imasuagbon in his remarks, expressed sadness over the division in the state House of Assembly and urged Governor Adams Oshiomhole and leadership of the PDP to come together to resolve the crisis.

“I call on the governor and the PDP leadership to come together to reconcile the differences between members of the House.

I am asking the Edo people to rise to challenge the disunity in

the politics of Edo state,” he said.

The chairman of the occasion, Senator Owie, regretted that the lawmakers have refused to follow due process in the affairs of the House, stressing that the laws of the Assembly was explicit on the rules of the House, adding that the decision of the majority of the lawmakers supersedes that of the minority Royal father of the occasion,

Chief Edebiri, said “What is happening at the Assembly is sad because some of these lawmakers who refused to obey the law could not even pay taxes before now but today they are all behaving like big men. They no longer listen to any body.

Though we are still talking to them on the need to resolve the matter else we may have to wield the big stick which will not be too good for them.”

INDUCTION: From left: Mr. Sunday Adeyemi , Registrar/CEO, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management, CIPM, Mrs. Toyin Ojudun, Director, Membership Development, CIPM, Mr. Victor Famuyibo, President/Chairman of Council, CIPM, Mrs Folakemi Oshinyemi, MD WarmSpring Water Nig. Ltd., and guest speaker, Mr Abiola Popoola, immediate past President, CIPM, and Dr. Kabir Kabo Usman, Director-General, Centre for Management Develoment, CMD, at the 17th induction ceremony of the institute in Lagos. Photo: Diran Oshe.

Mass defection looms in Bayelsa APC

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By Samuel Oyadongha

ENAGOA—THE All Progressive Congress APC in Bayelsa State may be hit by mass defection, following alleged secret meetings between its state and national officers with Governor Seriake Dickson of the state.

Those alleged to have perfected the planned defection to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, include former Youth Leader of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN and former Interim ExOfficio member of the APC, Mr Miriki Ebikibina and other top members of the defunct political parties under the legacy parties of the All Nigerian Peoples Party, ANPP, the ACN and others.

Miriki, is reported to have met with senators from the state in Abuja and Governor Seriake on the possibility of being received in Edo State at a rally to be attended by President Goodluck Jonathan

weekend.

It was gathered that the mass defection of the APC members in Bayelsa State was the alleged added package handed to the PDP by former Minister of External Affairs, Chief Tom Ikimi, who is to be formally received at the Edo State rally alongside other defecting chieftains of the APC.

A source in the PDP, said that discussion were also on to receive the former state Chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, CNPP, Mr Sunday FrankOputu into the party following his recent resignation from the APC over alleged irreconcilable differences.

Attempts to get Miriki for his reaction proved abortive but his

close associate that he (Miriki) had travelled to Benin, Edo State to take part in the preparation for the hosting of the mega rally.

But the state chapter of the APC through its Organizing Secretary, Mr Tonye Okio, argued that the party was not aware of such plan and has not been officially informed.

Delta people'll vote for Jonathan in 2015, says ex-Commissioner

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BUJA—FORMER Commissioner of Local Government in Delta State and a frontline member of the Goodluck Support Group, Chief Moses Odibo, has assured that President Jonathan will get massive votes from Delta State in the 2015 presidential election.

Speaking to newsmen at the just concluded National Summit of Goodluck Support Groups in Abuja, Odibo said: “You can only reap where you have sown. In the case of Jonathan, he has sown massively in Delta State and

will therefore, harvest massive votes from the state. Other aspirants have not started planting. I wonder what they are planning to harvest.”

On the turn out at the

summit, he said it was very successful, adding that for the first time, over 70,000 people came together to endorse the candidacy of Jonathan.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—15

Abia PDP leadership resists Kalu's attempt to return to PDP

By Anayo Okoli

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RALLY: Vice President Namadi Sambo (middle); former Minister of Sports, Chief Jim Nwobodo (left); Gov. Sullivan Chime of Enugu State (2nd left); Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim; former Senate President, Chief Ken Nnamani (2nd right), and Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo (right), during the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, grand rally for re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

Chime blasts Enugu federal lawmakers for shunning pro-Jonathan rally zGroup describes rally as failed damage control

By Austin Ogwuda & Francis Igata

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NUGU — GOVERNOR Sullivan Chime of Enugu State, yesterday, at the 22,000 capacity Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium, which was filled to the brim, lashed out at National Assembly members who are indigenes of the state for shunning Enugu State rally for the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan, describing them as merely pretending to be supportive of the President.

This came as Enugu Rescue Group, ERG, described the Enugu rally as damage control from the backlash of the nonsupport and participation in the Transformation Ambassadors Nigeria, TAN, South East rally in Awka, Anambra State, by those behind the rally.

Of all the National Assembly members from Enugu State, only Senator Ayogu Eze, representing Enugu-North senatorial district was present at the rally.

Governor Chime, while lambasting some National Assembly members who were not present at the rally, said: “Any person that is not present in this rally cannot be said to be supporting President Goodluck Jonathan.

“Enugu is intact as one party and will vote 100 per cent for Jonathan as is evidenced in our block vote in 2011. The President should save the time of coming to Enugu for campaigns because Enugu has decided unequivocally to vote for him.

“I got a call from the Minister of Foreign affairs, Mrs. Vola Onwuleri, this morning telling me that the Federal Government has signed a bilateral agreement with the government of Turkey which will see Turkish airlines operating five flights weekly in and out of Akanu-Ibiam Airport, Emene, Enugu.”

The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Arc. Namadi Sambo, while expressing the deep appreciation of the President, said: “The solidarity Chime and the people of Enugu State has shown on the administration cannot be quantified.

“I agree with all the speakers here that, indeed, we do not need to campaign in Enugu State; we shall simply come to say ' thank you' for your support."

Meanwhile, Enugu Rescue Group, ERG, has slammed Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State on the statement, describing PDP members who were not at the Enugu rally as

being opposed to President Goodluck Jonathan’s re-election.

The group, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Comrade Martin Okenwa, said: “Governor Chime’s comment is an irony because from the turbulent days of the struggle for the emergence of President Jonathan as the acting President to the successful efforts spearheaded by TAN to have the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, adopt Mr. President as its sole candidate, both Enugu State government and the governor are renowned for their opposition and hide-and-seek games.

“Not only was Sullivan Chime the only South East PDP governor

who refused to collect the TAN registers to mobilise signatures in support of the President, it is a public knowledge that the governor took the entire State Executive Council and all the local government council chairmen to a birthday party in Umuahia on the day of the rally attended by all the other PDP South East governors.

“The Enugu rally was, therefore, a belated damage control and futile attempt to key himself into the Jonathan 2015 reelection, having seen that Jonathan had carried the day with his adoption by the PDP as its sole presidential candidate.

Aba resident sends SOS, lauds Vanguard's South East Voice

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RESIDENT of Aba, Abia State, has sent a Save Our Soul message to Vanguard Newspapers, asking the management to help project their frustration in respect of infrastructure decay in the state and South East zone in general to the outside world through one of its new products, South East Voice.

The citizen, Nwokocha Madugba, in the petition, entitled, 'Come over to Macedonia and help us,” quoting Acts 16:9, said: “I read with delight the eight-page pullout magazine, tagged South East Voice in the Vanguard Newspapers of Wednesday, September 24, 2014, and to commend you for your selfless service in creating such pages solely dedicated to unravelling developmental shortcomings in the various institutions in the South East of Nigeria.

“It is like giving a people without voice a voice which speaks for them because the three nationally

read newspapers with ownership base from the South-East never, as at date, found it worthy to dedicate even a page solely to report of the abandonment or near lack of infrastructure development in the South Eastern states of Nigeria or the decay to which the existing ones had suffered over the years to the detriment of the people.

“This could be in the areas of flooding, erosion, road, water, health. agriculture, education among others, except to praise the non-performing governments of our time.

“Like the earliest Corinthian Christians did cry to Apostle Paul ' to come over to Macedonia and help us,' I am by this piece, urging you to come over to Abia State, particularly Aba, and help us highlight the decay to which the current Abia State Government has made of the city, given that the people have been forced to live in squalor, with abject poverty written all over their faces.

“The government propaganda is so strong that, if you read or listen to the lies that they continue to dish out through the media, the uninformed will assume that all is well in Abia State when nothing, absolutely nothing, is in place.

“You will do the people of Abia State, particularly Aba residents, a world of good, if you will be kind enough to dedicate your next publication of the South East Voice to happenings within and around Abia State, both for federal and state infrastructure, after you must have visited Aba roads and lakes, as well as the filthy environment.

“Need I mention a few roads like Milverton Avenue, Eziukwu Road by Ehi Road Flood, Omuma Road, 0susu Road, Uratta Road, Ukwu Mango (Faulks Road), Umuola Road, Umuatako Road, Port Harcourt Road, Ikot Ekpene Road (off Opobo Junction), 0bohia Road, Umuojima Road via MCC Road, PH – Enugu Express Road, among others.

MUAHIA — THERE are strong indications that efforts of the PDP reconciliation committee in the rift between former governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, and state chapter of the party to allow him back to the party has hit a brick wall, following strong resistance by the leadership.

Former national chairman of the party, Chief Ahmadu Ali, led senior party officials who constituted members of a 10-man National Integration Committee for the South East to Abia State to reconcile the party and the former governor.

The committee, which membership includes Prof.

Jerry Gana, Chief Shuaibu Oyedkun, former Rivers Governor, Chief Celestine Omehia, was told by Abia PDP leadership that there was no aggrieved member to be reconciled in the state.

State chairman of the party, Senator Emma Nwaka, said Abia PDP was enjoying peace and harmony, adding that there was no need to introduce Ebola virus to harm party members.

Gov Orji commends military for fighting insurgency

By Anayo Okoli

U

MUAHIA — ABIA State governor, Chief Theodore Orji, has commended the military for their role in fighting insurgency in the Northern part of the country.

Orji, who spoke when he received the Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Training Command, Lagos, Rear Admiral Goody Anyakpele, at Government House, Umuahia, lauded the sacrifice being made by the military to ensure security across the nation.

The governor said some military men had sacrificed their lives in the process of fighting the insurgents in parts of the country.

He told them to keep faith with their job, saying government depended on them and other security agencies for security, especially now that election was around the corner.

16 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

SYNAGOGUE: We sealed off building before

collapse — LSBCA .Church bars relatives from seeing victims — Families

By Adekunle Aliyu (with agency report)

L

AGOS — GENERAL Manager of Lagos State Building Control Agency, Mrs. Abimbola AnimashaunOdunayo, has said that the agency sealed off the guest house building at the Synagogue Church of All Nations, SCOAN, in Lagos days before it collapsed, but the church ignored its concerns and continued with construction work.

The guest house building collapsed on Friday, September 12, 2014, killing about 130 people, including 84 South Africans.

Ihechukwu Njoku, a member of the church’s media team, told News24Nigeria that the building was initially two floors, but the church had submitted papers to add extra floors to government agencies for approval. He added he was not sure whether approval had been granted before construction work commenced, and declined to comment further.

No approval However, government officials said they did not give SCOAN approval to add additional storeys to the original plan.

According to News24Nigeria, Abimbola AnimashaunOdunayo, General Manager at the Lagos State Building Control Agency, said the collapsed building only had approval to be a three-storey structure.

She noted that her agency had sealed off the building a few days before the incident, but the church ignored the concerns expressed by the agency and continued working on the building.

She was, however, evasive on what action the government would take should the church be found reprehensible. She said she would not want to preempt the outcome of the investigation and structural integrity test being carried out on the building site.

There is a law which allows the state to take control of any collapsed building, but Animashaun-Odunayo said the outcome of the various tests will determine the action to be taken by government.

Church bars relatives from seeing victims – Families Meanwhile, family members of those injured in the disaster have accused the church of preventing them from visiting their loved ones in hospital.

During a visit to some of the hospitals where the injured are C M Y

being treated it was observed that the church had directed hospital authorities to bar members of the public, including some relatives of the injured, from seeing them.

Some of the family members who spoke said all attempts to see their loved ones had been frustrated as they were prevented from gaining access to them.

They, however, admitted that the church has been settling the bills of the patients.

Church maintains it was an attack Meanwhile, the church has officially declined to comment on a number of allegations relating to the collapse, but an official maintains it was “an attack.”

Ihechukwu Njoku, a member of the church’s media team, said that some of the stories concerning the event are not the true reflection of what really happened.

He insisted that the incident was an attack on the church.

Asked how the plane could have caused the building to fall, he said the church does not want to draw any conclusions yet as the investigation is still on-going.

Victims list Njoku was also not forthcoming as to why the church has not made available a comprehensive list of names of those affected, almost two weeks after the disaster.

He denied insinuations that the church may not have a record of the names and identities of those who were in the building when it collapsed.

Njoku said the church had been careful with the list in order not to create tension and fear among family members. He noted that the church was working with the relevant authorities on this.

Silence, tension Church members were not willing to speak on the incident.

Similarly, residents in the area around the church were also not ready to talk for fear of being attacked, as church members have been stationed in the vicinity to monitor the church.

Those who agreed to talk preferred not to disclose their identities. They noted that it was ironic that Pastor TB Joshua could not foresee this disaster and act accordingly, despite the fact that he apparently predicted the outcome of events in the past.

Though the incident occurred almost two weeks ago and the rescue operation had ended, the atmosphere in the area surrounding the church "is still

tense. Visitors to the church are properly screened before gaining entry into the church premises.

"Church members who have no business are denied access to the site of the collapsed building, which is opposite the main church."

Six discharged from hospital in S/Africa This came as six of the 25 injured people taken to South

Africa for treatment were discharged.

The six people were discharged from the Steve Biko Academic Hospital and cleared of any dangerous infections.

“It was five, but now it is gone up to six that have been discharged,” the hospital’s deputy CEO, Dr. Mathabo Mathebula said, adding “none of the (25 admitted) patients had any dangerous infections, they are all fine.”

Pastor T. B. Joshua.

....TB Joshua lied to us, family of deceased Zimbabwean woman claims

A

DESPERATE Bulawayo woman, Catherine Ndlovu, who allegedly paid thousands of dollars to visit Nigeria, seeking divine intervention for her hospitalised daughter has been reported as one of the 115 people confirmed to have died after the collapse of a church building owned by the pastor, TB Joshua.

Yesterday, the family of Ndlovu, 40, accused TB Joshua and his church of giving very little information concerning their sister in the aftermath of the September 12 disaster, including insisting that the mother of two was unharmed and would be returning home alive.

South African Chronicle quoted Ndlovu’s brother Jabulani as saying that, “we called them (TB Joshua church) every day, asking where my sister was and they said she had boarded a plane back to South Africa and would be back last Sunday.

Lying “We became suspicious when other Zimbabweans who had travelled to Nigeria came back via South Africa and she was not part of the group. It became clear they’d been lying to us and withholding information from us all along.”

Ndlovu became the second Zimbabwean to have allegedly died in the disaster after Greenwich Ndanga, the MDC-T chairman for Mashonaland West, was reported to be among the dead by his family.

At least 84 South Africans were allegedly killed and dozens trapped when the multi-storey guesthouse attached to TB

Joshua’s Synagogue Church of All Nations caved in.

However, Joshua claimed it was a conspiracy, insisting that a mysterious plane flew, four times, too close to the structure causing the collapse.

TB Joshua, who inspired an almost fanatical devotion from his thousands of followers around the world, who were drawn to his services by claims of miracles and prophecies, had offered to hold services in South Africa once every month, claiming that six out of every 10 visitors to Nigeria from Southern Africa were coming to his church.

But the youth wing of South Africa’s ruling African National Congress, yesterday, demanded that he be denied a visa.

“TB Joshua should not be allowed to come to South Africa until we know what happened to our fellow countrymen at his church,” ANC Youth League spokesperson Bandile Masuku said in a statement.

“We will engage with the department of international relations and co-operation to make sure they do not issue him with a South African visa.”

Ndlovu’s family said she left Zimbabwe on September 11, a day after her 19 year-old daughter, Prioress Tshuma, who had suffered from seizures since 2007, was admitted at Mpilo Central Hospital. She believed the seizures were caused by an evil spirit, and hoped TB Joshua would heal her.

It would have been just hours after she touched down in the Nigerian capital, Lagos, before her life was snuffed out by falling

concrete blocks and cement dust – leaving a daughter in hospital and a nine-year-old son, Progress Sibanda, orphaned.

Their uncle, Jabulani, was battling with a lot of questions and accused the church of attempting a clumsy cover-up.

“When we heard news of the collapse, we feared the worst.

There was no communication from the church until my cousin, who lives in South Africa, called them.

“They just put up a wall of lies and kept telling us she was safe.

It would be only several days later that they confirmed our worst fears,” he said.

But the family’s hope of getting Catherine’s body any time soon were immediately dashed after TB Joshua’s aides asked them to provide a DNA sample for positive identification.

“We don’t even know if that’s true, and our only hope now is that our government can get to the bottom of this. Who knows how many other Zimbabweans have been kept in the dark about their relatives’ fate?”

TB Joshua had been heavily criticized over his handling of the crisis, with aide workers saying they were prevented from accessing the disaster area for several days.

The preacher, however, rejected the lack of co-operation claims as inaccurate.

Instead, he said that “contrary to this, we want to categorically state that the church has provided assistance when and where required and continues to do so: good Christians are good citizens,” he added.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 —17

Is Justice imminent?

L

AST week, I complained about justice being delayed. I was referring to the fact that the Federal Government and Ministry of Petroleum had not even started to implement a 3 year-old United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) report.

The report focused on the terrible damage that Ogoniland – my home terrain - had suffered because of badly managed oil exploration and production activities; and it strongly recommended various crucial remedial measures.

The Federal Government had, in response to this UNEP report, established the Hydrocarbon Pollution Restoration Project, HYPREP, a body that was domiciled in the Ministry of Petroleum and headed

by Mrs Joi Okunnu, an Ogoni

The delay in implementing the UNEP report is a disgrace; and I hope that Okunnu has not been used and dumped by those who are looking for scapegoats!

,

lawyer.

My beef was that HYPREP had not achieved anything beyond making statements containing very annoying mere platitudes and feeble excuses about its inertia; and I expressed disappointment in President Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Mrs Diezani AlisonMadueke) and Mrs Okunnu……on the grounds that all three of them are fellow Niger Deltans who a) have first-hand knowledge of the devastation that pollution has wreaked on our region and its inhabitants and b) ought to be taking this problem much more seriously.

Just before my complaint was published last Friday, Mrs Alison-Madueke made it obC M Y K

vious, in a public forum, that she no longer wished to work with Mrs Okunnu.

The Minister also issued a press release on September 16, via Mr Ohi Alegbe, the Group General Manager Public Affairs of her key parastatal, NNPC, in which she admitted that the implementation process had started late, but explained that this delay was caused by a need to enthrone Due Process.

The following comments and promises were •Niger Delta region: Devastated by oil exploration. made in the press release: •It has become clear that to supplement this column; Ogoni communities and rel- and one of the issues on which •The Federal Government is evant stakeholders have not the blog will ferociously focus now ready to fully execute the clean-up of Ogoniland, as rec- been properly consulted or in- is this UNEP implementation ommended in UNEP’s assess- corporated into the implemen- matter.

In the meantime, I will give tation processes of the UNEP ment report.

Madame Minister the benefit report.

Accordingly, Govern•The Government in its renewed commitment to the en- ment has been deliberately of my many doubts and give cautious by carefully review- her a reasonable amount of ing the HYPREP structure to time in which to prove her determine the best way to re- mettle within an Ogoni conjuvenate the programme to text, while closely monitoring fully restore Ogoniland as it developments with an open mind. is envisioned in the report.

But I must confess to being • The Government will quickly move forward with extremely concerned about the these plans “in a very aggres- treatment that has been meted sive manner”…and will create out to Mrs Okunnu. A Minisa major steering try of Petroleum contact has committee…and face the res- assured me that Okunnu, pretoration process in a way that viously a devoted Ogoni will achieve visible results and daughter and activist, needed make it clear that the authori- to be ditched because she was ties are fully behind the Ogoni “the main obstacle to progress in terms of HYPREP.” vironmental restoration effort, clean-up.

And I am REALLY struggling •Impacted communities, trawill review extant frameworks to buy into this official expladitional rulers and the Presiset up to undertake the process. This structural review is dent of the Movement for the nation.

Like most Nigerians, I am necessary for government to Survival of Ogoni People, instinctively prone to ethnic or MOSOP , have said that they guarantee an appropriate and regional biases.

But I am also will cooperate for as long as accountable restoration Government exhibits convinc- rational and fair-minded programme.

•Parts of the structural ad- ing sincerity and matches its enough to be aware of the fact justments in the implementa- words with actions and trans- that it is morally wrong to automatically support someone tion efforts will include the parency. just because he or she hapHMM! setting up of an independent I really want to believe that pens to be from your tribe or body, as recommended in the report, to deploy and disburse this press release marks the your part of the country.

And there have been times funds meant for the restoration beginning of a dynamic new dawn and a genuine interest when I have roundly conexercise.

•The UNEP report recom- in the welfare of my Ogoni demned folks from my own for mended that the Government brethren. But most govern- backyard misbehaving…and times ment officials are better at talkand oil companies contribute $1 billion to the clean-up ex- ing than doing; and I won’t when I have regarded indiercise. This fund will be man- breathe a huge sigh of relief viduals who are neither aged by a new independent and relax or stop complaining Ogonis nor from the SouthSouth as superior job candiauthority with a fixed initial until I see concrete results.

I will soon establish a blog dates. lifespan of 10 years.

However, Okunnu is highly

,

intelligent and has always passionately espoused Ogoni causes; and I haven’t spoken to her recently, but I have known her since we were both children and have discussed HYPREP with her in the past.

And I gained the impression that she desperately wanted HYPREP to work wonders for our -eople; and when I challenged her about the lack of progress, she told me that she was working hard to get the project off the ground.

She also lavished praise on Madame Minister and Mr President and told me that they were as enthusiastically dedicated to the Ogoni cleanup as she was. But I still suspected that she wasn’t telling me the whole story and that her hands were being tied by her non-Ogoni bosses; and I’m wondering how she suddenly became the main obstacle to progress on the UNEP implementation front.

The delay in implementing the UNEP report is a disgrace; and I hope that Okunnu has not been used and dumped by those who are looking for scapegoats!

Responses to: donzol2002@yahoo.co.uk or to 0802 747 6458 OR 0811 675 9752 (texts only).

PLEASE KINDLY NOTE THAT UNLESS YOU REQUEST ANONYMITY, YOUR COMMENTS MAY BE PUBLISHED, WITH YOUR NAMES AND CONTACT DETAILS ATTACHED.

18 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 NEWS of the chains of victories recorded by the Nigerian armed forces against the Boko Haram Islamist insurgents in the North East is not only a thing of delight, it is also a source of great relief. These victories, achieved in theatres of operation in Adamawa and Borno states, climaxed with the elimination of the man who paraded himself as Abubakar Shekau in the battle for the reclamation of Konduga town in Borno.

This imitation Shekau really put his dirty thumb in the eye of Nigerians after the abduction of the Chibok girls in April this year. In a very r ude and mocking statement aimed at deriding the worldwide demand for the release of the girls, this “Shekau” disclosed that he was going to “sell” the girls. Under him, Boko Haram grew to monstrous dimensions, while a series of internal disruptions bedeviled the Nigerian army, leading to mutinies and a court Martial.

It is gladdening that the army has

By Kennedy Otumara

T

HE purpose of government is the welfare and security of the people. All over the world, a people’s fate is inextricably tied to government. In today’s world burdened by existential realities of anxiety, fear, suffering, hopelessness and other forms of socio-spiritual afflictions, the people look up to government to evolve policies that will cushion their affliction even on a physical and material note. It is this ability of government to respond to the needs of her citizenry that made the Western world liveable to humanity more than the continent of Africa where governments, until recently, do not really complement the yearnings and aspirations of the people.

The aspirations and yearnings of the people is now strictly about development which is measurable in terms of infrastructure, education, health, employment, energy, roads, housing, increased life expectancy, security, food, shelter and now the new lexicon in Nigerian politics ‘’stomach infrastructure’’. A good government is about development in these spheres and more. This development will not be if government policies are not sound or well implemented. It is also beyond sound policy. If a policy is sound and there is no integrity or transparency on the part of those in government corruption sets in and the system will collapse like a pack of cards.

What will follow is underdevelopment which has been the bane of Africa.

Nigerians must now begin to think hard

Thumbs U pF or The Up For Armed F orces Forces gradually put the internal challenges facing it behind and are going after the terrorists in a typical manner for which our military has been renowned historically. The Nigerian army has distinguished itself in military campaigns in the Congo, the Nigerian civil war, peace keeping operations in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Cote D’Ivoire, Mali, Sudan and other parts of the world. In internal security campaigns, the army crushed the Maitatsine riots

in Maiduguri and Jimeta in the early 1980’s, smashed the kidnap ring of Abia State and prevailed against the militants of the Niger Delta until they surrendered and opted for the amnesty programme.

Our armed forces have the pedigree of a conquering force. The Boko Haram insurgency should have been a piece of cake if not for the internal challenges and various acts of sabotage by unpatriotic politicians and others seeking to use it as a means of attaining political power.

Now that the army has risen to the challenge, we urge them to take a cue from Mr Joe Biden, the Vice of the United States, who solemnly pledged: “we will pursue the ISIS killers to the gates of hell”. The campaign to devastate and eliminate Boko Haram must continue apace until victory is achieved and millions of Nigerians uprooted from their normal lawful livelihood are reinstalled in their communities.

OPINION 2015 and the imperative of paradigm shift and make good electoral choices in politicians who have demonstrated development acumen in whatever position they had held in public or private domains. And we all have the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega to thank for the transparency and credibility he has brought to bear on our elections.

What should follow logically is for Nigerians to scrutinise what any politician contesting an election is bringing to the table as manifesto. Beyond this, the people should scrutinise the past of such a politician regarding how well he performed in previous engagements.

Our scrutiny should be critical so that whoever we settle for during election will deliver on the dividends of democracy.

Such a candidate should be able to raise the tempo of development by managing the scarce resources available to the state.

Government does not need a political Robin Hood who will distribute public money to a select few while the majority of the people wallow in poverty. This is where the idea of paradigm shift comes in. Government should prioritise what constitutes development needs and how such can help assuage the plight of the masses.

The envisaged paradigm shift is what will take Nigeria to the level of development that will meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people. The point that should be made now is that this paradigm shift can only be realised by tested

technocrat-politicians with a track record of engaging in development endeavours in the sphere of politics. The concept of the technocrat-politician is an emergent phenomenon that will take Africa and Nigeria to its desired destination in terms of development. This concept which allows tested technocrats to veer into the political terrain as practising politicians is fast becoming the vogue in most places. And they have become catalysts for development. There is no doubt that the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration is being driven by technocrat-politicians like Ngozi OkonjoIweala, Samuel Akinwunmi, Segun Aganga and others. The stellar performance of the later part of the Obasanjo regime was also the efforts of technocrat-politicians like Okonjo-Iweala, Oby Ezekwesili, Nasiru El Rufai and co.

Delta State should not be left out in the technocrat-politician driven train of development. Since the creation of the state in 1991 politicians have ruled and done the best of their ability to develop the state. Now the state yearns for a paradigm shift that will make a technocratpolitician’s governorship an imperative.

Here we are not talking of a technocrat retiring from public service yesterday and adorning the robes of a politician today.

No, we are referring to somebody with the full antecedent of technocratic-politicking, that is somebody who has bestrode the technocrat highway as well as the intricate

terrain of politics. The fellow dreams and implements developments and at the same time has his way with politicians and balances the interest of all. In this case the people are not short-changed and the political class remains relevant.

For Delta State to fit into the paradigm shift, one aspirant out of the lot presently scheming to be governor of the state appears well prepared to mount the saddle and that is Mr. David Edevbie. Deltans should begin to assess politicians in terms of development criteria and not by mafioso inclinations. Politics is about development and not masochism and strong arm tactics. The new political leader to be thrown up by the paradigm shift is the one who embodies ideals, dreams, visions and an urgent sense of mission to develop the space over which he presides.

Many Nigerians who know Edevbie acclaim him for his passion, drive, discipline, integrity and goal-getting acumen. He has been described as a development angel who has carried out different interventionist missions in many parts of the world. Back home in Nigeria, Edevbie played very significant roles in stabilising Delta State and fast-tracking its development at the turn of the present millennium. At the Federal level he designed the famous Seven-Point Agenda which has been described as the best policy articulation ever to have come out of Africa. *Mr. Otumara, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Warri, Delta State.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014— —19

E

XPERTS say that America is moving to dominate global oil supplies having found sufficiently large deposits within her borders, and is still investing so much into renewable energy sources, with glaring positive results.They also say that the new world's largest economic block of nations; namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, BRICS, are fighting tooth and nail to avoid an impending melt down, which means that whether they succeed or fail, Africa, led by her ‘giant in the sun’, Nigeria, will soon be in for a very hard time.

It is not too much, therefore, to expect from the Nigerian government, especially her economic and monetary policy planners, to begin to make serious arrangements to reduce the hardship that may follow the low demand for our crude oil, our only source of income and sustenance today and for the last over 40 years. It is obviously wasteful to cry over the wasted years and opportunities, during the oil boom era of our national life. The concern here is the continued blunder of not planning to diversify this economy, in spite of what the experts write and say daily since the last eight years.

People have strongly told us that agriculture is one way to avoid or mitigate the impact of the impending economic meltdown.

And while politicians continue to play their deception game, in almost everything, over the people, what shocks this writer, is the fact that even banks in Nigeria do not seem to care!

Granted that they suffered a lot of mental abuses during the tenure of the last CBN Governor from 2009, they still declared huge profits, while avoiding any serious commitment to empowering our agriculture and the job creation that will flow form that sector.

With a more objective Governor at the helm of affairs in the CBN, it is high time the errors of the past few years were corrected, and our monetary policies redirected to grow our agriculture as a matter of priority. With our natural endowments as a nation, it is now or never for us to muster the best we can in every term to prop up our agriculture.

At a recent meeting of the Monitary Policy Committee, MPC, the CBN said: " What we have seen is that instead of banks channeling what we call excess liquidity in the system into the productive or certain targeted sectors of the economy, what the banks are doing is either placing their monies in treasury bills or

If the FG, the CBN and MPC will create the enabling environment for accelerated and sustained lending to the real sectors, this country will flourish, no matter who occupies Aso Rock

,

even investing them at CBN window" Soon after, AMCON warned and rightly too, that they will not buy any bad loans from these banks because they are not providing for bad loans as expected in their books! They have careened off, bloated, deceptive, and no longer do banking in good faith, just for profits at all costs. They chase deposits where they have not encouraged any growth of businesses. They love to reap where they have not sown, and that is evil!

I

n a system where nothing works: no good roads, no light, no employment for millions of graduates and school leavers,

Boko Haram: Something is not right

By Michael Egbejumi-David

o k o IB Haram militants invaded the sleepy

N the early hours of April 14, 2014,

little town of Chibok. They made off with about 234 school girls, and then the school was razed to the ground.

Expectedly, the Nigerian military and security operatives descended on the town and its environs in what was supposed to be a formidable military/ rescue operation. However, there continues to be incessant Boko Haram operations and mayhem in and around that general locale.

On May 5, in an attack lasting several hours, Boko Haram attacked a village used as a base by our security officers in the search for the missing school girls.

May 13, there was an attack on three villages. June 2, three communities in Gwoza were sacked. On May 20, three villages not far from Chibok were attacked. Between May 29 and June 5, six attacks were carried out and 20 women were abducted. June 3, Boko Haram attacked four more villages. June 10, 20 more women were kidnapped from a nomadic settlement near Chibok.

June 13 to June 19 saw two more attacks.

July 4 to July 10, four more attacks.

August 6, Boko Haram attacked Gwoza on a large scale. Their men arrived on motorcycles and up to 50 Toyota Hilux trucks. On August 11, during attacks on local villages, 97 men and young boys were kidnapped. In all of these attacks, hundreds of innocent people were killed, homes and properties were destroyed. Quite a few of our military personnel lost their lives too.

All of these attacks took place in the

C M Y K

general Chibok – Gwoza axis, an area supposedly suffused with military presence, and under a state of emergency. Yet, Boko Haram continues to operate there and elsewhere with impunity. Clearly, something is wrong.

It is akin to Al Qaeda never leaving Manhattan in New York immediately after 9/11, and just kept going back and bombing ‘Ground Zero.’

We are talking about the Nigerian military here; a body that has acquitted itself excellently well since the 1960s.

A Force that has conducted successful operations in much more volatile environments - from the Congo to Sierra Leone. And now we are to believe that this same Force that has garnered even more experience and more expertise over time is suddenly unable to see-off a ragtag band of criminals? Something is not right. That is not all.

One Reverend Stephen Davis recently went to town with revelations about Boko Haram. Davis, an Australian, is something of a ‘hostage negotiator.’ He had invited himself to Nigeria on the back of the Chibok school girls’ abduction. After about four months of negotiations, the girls are still in captivity; however, Davis cut loose on the alleged sponsors of Boko Haram. He reported that Ali Modu Sherrif (former Governor of Borno), General Ihejirika (former Chief of Army Staff, COAS), and a couple of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) officials (one “who recently left the bank,”) were all in on it.

For me, the surprise is the Ihejirika and CBN links. Now, I don’t know whether the good Reverend has been duped or not, but if I were Gen Ihejirika,

banks are declaring half year profits of tens of billions of Naira.

The international cable TV networks are awash with adverts from these banks claiming to be the best this and that, but ask for a loan for a real project, they throw tonnes of bricks as impediment at you!

They demand for collateral; they want your house or property of a minimum value of 150% of the sum you want to borrow.

Your carefuly structured management team for the new project means nothing to them. In order words, you can take the money and vanish, all they want is to be able to sell your collateral property at a highly discounted price to recoup their money. That is Naija lending!

How can the economy grow? Are Nigerian banks not the real impediment to employment creation? Is their reluctance to lend to the real sector not working against employment generation?

It is their fear to lend to the real sector that is fueling corruption!

Go into any bank in Nigeria and say you have a project with foreign partners providing part funding, so you need a loan to kick off. They will keep you waiting so as to assess your dressing, car, shoes, wrist watch; and if not satisfied, they will send one junior officer who has no initiative, or the brains, to discuss with you.

But go back to the same bank after two months, announce your self as Senator XYZ, or somebody who has access to government coffers, and pronto, you will be ushered to a clean

,

By Clement Udegbe

,

Nigerian banks stumbling block to job creation?

Clearly, there’s more to this whole Boko Haram business than meets the eye and things are beginning to point in uncomfortable directions; yep…something is not right

,

I will insist on an immediate and thorough investigation to clear my name.

As COAS, Ihejirika was a real thorn in the flesh of Boko Haram. At one time, he shut down the telecommunication network in the North East. That began to strangulate Boko Haram until some elders and politicians up there protested. Ihejirika then went after the insurgents with a singleness of purpose that caused the Northern Elders Forum, NEF, to cry ‘time out.’ NEF claimed that the General was committing genocide against Northern youths. They prevailed on Jonathan to have him removed. Not satisfied, the NEF promised to drag Ihejirika to the International Criminal Court at The Hague to face prosecution for human rights abuses.

Sherriff is a different kettle of fish. His protestations notwithstanding, the chap has been neck-deep with Boko Haram. True, he later fell out with them, but he was allegedly their main financier in the early years (just like a few SouthSouth governors initially financed the gentlemen who later morphed into what we know today as Niger Delta militants).

After his electoral victory, Sherriff didn’t give the boys the type of Sharia they craved; instead he gave them a shortlived Commissioner. To add salt to a

office, offered soft drinks or coffee.They will say: "Sorry Sir' even when you deliberately foul the air! Say you need money, their response will be " no problem". To even negative comments from you about your own proposal, they will still say "No problem Sir". How else is corruption empowered?

If government and CBN should cause these banks to lend 40% of their profits to agriculture for the next 10 years, poverty and unemployment will run away from Nigeria!

The MPC should help to cause banks to lend compulsorily to the real sectors to stimulate growth. If the Federal Government, the CBN and MPC will create the enabling environment for accelerated and sustained lending to the real sectors , this country will blossom, no matter who occupies Aso Rock, because Nigerians will go about their businesses, earning their living, making money too, and will stop killing each other to occupy Aso Rock.

Any fool or thief may then go there and steal himself blind, till an unlucky one is sent to jail by the people. When we have millions as billionaires below the age of 40 years, the system will fight corruption, as a few of them may decide to jail a thieving President.

Our banks, therefore, are the ones benefiting from and promoting corruption! Let the CBN stop them, and bring back employment with good life!

•Udegbe, a legal practitioner, wrote from Lagos.

religiously-fermented injury, Sherriff was complicit in their leader’s earlierthan-planned coadunation with his afterlife virgins. The battle line between the two camps has been drawn ever since.

You could see why – assuming the people with whom Davis have been hanging out wanted to be mischievous – Ihejirika and Sherriff’s names would be top of the list of possible Boko Haram sponsors.

But who knows. The whole thing gets messier every day. Running for elective office in Nigeria is very expensive. The speed with which Ihejirika jumped into partisan politics so soon after his controversial stint as COAS has not helped matters either.

All I know is that the North East is being used as cannon fodder and a laboratory in a macabre test of political wills in Nigeria. Look at the huge money being spent to keep Boko Haram in business.

Imagine the difference it would have made in the lives of the people if that same money has been spent in the same region on youth employment, training and the provision of socio-infrastructure.

But would any government deliberately allow a section of its domain to go to ruins for electoral purposes; and would we not automatically treat as suspect any presidential candidate who campaigns on the theme of restoring security and bringing Boko Haram to an end?

Clearly, there’s more to this whole Boko Haram business than meets the eye and things are beginning to point in uncomfortable directions. And as if all that isn’t troubling enough, the Federal Government owns up to a dubious act of money laundering and/or a covert arms purchase deal gone bad, using – of all things! – the private jet of the president of CAN. That just puts the cherry on the parfait, doesn’t it?

Yep…something is not right. *Dr. Egbejumi-David, a medical practitioneer, wrote from United Kingdom

20 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

FROM BEGGAR TO CIVIL SERVANT:

The story of a physically-challenged LAWMA street sweeper

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

I

T was a wet Saturday afternoon, after heavy downpour. Two unrelated events were simultaneously going on not far from each other in Lagos Island. First is the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, state rally where President Goodluck Jonathan and the leadership of the party were addressing party members at the Tafawa Balewa Square, TBS. At the second event, Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola, members of the state Executive Council and Managing Director of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, were at the Onikan Stadium addressing over 17, 000 members of LAWMA street sweepers at the Annual Training Workshop for the sweepers and other stakeholders.

Speaking on the theme, “Let’s Keep Our Environment Clean At All Times,” Fashola explained that in a bid to achieve a safer, cleaner and healthier environment his administration in the year 2008, took several initiatives, one of which is the introduction of street sweepers to complement

,

I never knew a day like this will come for me to be appreciated in this manner; I thank Governor Fashola for taking me out of the gutters to make me a better man

Saheed Gbadamosi...a physically-challenged street sweeper being honoured for outstanding performance.

The highlight of the programme aimed at sensitising state and local government street sweepers on safety and precautionary measures in the course of discharging their duties, was the presentation of awards to outstanding sweepers of the year.

But as the lucky 13 outstanding awardees for Excellent Performance in their various zones were filing on to the podium to receive their respective awards, the attention of the crowd was drawn to a physically-challenged young man on a skateroller among the awardees as he waddled to the stage. This caused a thunderous ovation from the crowd which cheered the young man to the podium.

With tears in his eyes, after receiving the award and a hand shake from the governor, Mr.

Saheed Gbadamosi, 30 years old and a native of Offa, Kwara State, could not hold back his joy at being so appreciated in spite of his physical deficiency. “I never knew a day like this will come for me to be appreciated in this manner before the whole world.

I really thank Governor Fashola for taking me out of the gutters to make me a better man not only to myself and my family but the entire public,” he told Vanguard Metro, VM. Gbadamosi, a father of five children, who has been working with LAWMA for six years, also told VM of his predicament before he finally got the LAWMA job. He narrated thus: “I am 30 years old, an indigene of Offa, in Kwara State. I have been living in Lagos for over 15 years. I am married with five children. I

was not born a physically challenged person. My predicament started when my mum took me for vaccination in Offa then. I was nine years old. After the vaccination, I started feeling pains all over my leg, and before I knew it I could not walk again. I was rushed to several healing homes but all to no avail.

“The quest for daily bread saw me leaving Kwara and coming to Lagos because my poor family could not adequately take care of my needs and wants. So, when I got back to Lagos I started begging. I live in Atan, in Sango area of Ogun State. I realised I was not making enough money to take care of my family, so I proceeded to cleaning pedestrian bridges. People took pity on me whenever they saw me toiling in the scorching sun, sweeping

dividuals and two other government organisations after having met the criteria for the honour through a rigorous screening by a high profile award panel and found worthy of the special recognition.

NEMA officials enthusiastically welcomed the award which they say is timely and will serve as an encouragement to the agency in the ongoing effort to promote sustainability of life in a safe and resilient environment.

While presenting the award, the President congratulated NEMA and indeed other awardees for their inspirational work and commitment to excellence and reminded them

that “This award places greater obligation on you to give your best to your country. This administration needs men and women like you to help build a virile and economically developed nation.”

The National Productivity Centre, in an earlier letter of nomination for the award to NEMA, said the agency was selected after a rigorous process and found worthy of the honour.

It said the agency has been very visible and its impacts effectively felt in crisis situations such as incidences of building collapse, air crash, market fires and flood, amongst several others across the country. It commended the Agency

the bridge. I earned more than what I used to get when I was just begging without doing any work.

“One day, a LAWMA official walked up to me at Ikeja Along pedestrian bridge and told me that my work had been noticed by the authority and that Governor Fashola has approved that all willing physicallychallenged persons should be absorbed into LAWMA. And that was how I got the job. This really encouraged me to put in more efforts into my daily work. While I was doing all that, I never knew I was being monitored by LAWMA officials. I am really glad that my effort has been crowned today. My special thanks go to Governor Fashola, our amiable, passionate leader for his kind gesture. His policy brought me out of the gutters to be a useful person not only to myself but to the society at large.”

In addition to the award he received, Gbadamosi was also given a brand new wheelchair to aid his movement.

Earlier, LAWMA boss, Mr Ola Oresanya, said in order to guarantee the continuity of the programme, focus has shifted to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the sweepers through regular supply of Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, regular free medical screening, meetings with representatives of major stakeholders and training of operatives on safety measures, among others. He thanked some corporate partners of the programme for their invaluable contribution, adding that some of them have placed some of the sweepers on their pay roll.

, NEMA: A garland for a risk taker in disaster management

the highways managers whose job it is to promote cleanliness of the streets, highways, walkways, and pedestrian bridges in the city.

The scope of work of the street sweepers, who the Governor christined “Sanitation Ambassadors”, include the sweeping of pedestrian bridges, even at night and the collection of bagged litters and silts, abandoned tyres and other materials that deface the streets and highways.

According to Fashola, the deployment of sanitation ambassadors by government is one of the ways of providing job for the unskilled residents, who have demonstrated that there is dignity in labour, irrespective of state of origin, sex.

T

HE National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, was recently presented with the 2014 National Productivity Order of Merit, NPOM, for its impressive achievements in the area of timely responses to emergency situations in Nigeria. The award was officially presented by the Vice President, Mohammed Namadi Sambo, who represented President Goodluck Jonathan at a ceremony in Abuja as part of this year’s National Productive Day Celebration organised by the National Productivity Centre.

NEMA received the award along with 16 distinguished in-

for its prompt and continuing intervention in the present humanitarian challenges in the North East as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency and other activities such as delivery of humanitarian assistance to sister African countries.

Reacting to the award, the Director General of NEMA, Alhaji Muhammad Sani Sidi said: “Today’s conferment of the National Productivity Order of Merit Award on NEMA is recognition of our humble contribution to the development of our dear country. It is indeed a call for more dedication towards the national call to service in line with the National Transformation Agenda of the Federal Government.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 — 21

Building collapse: Ortom calls for strict adherence to certified building materials

BY PROVIDENCE OBUH

T

he Minister of State for Industry and Investment, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has called on professionals in building industry to ensure strict adherence to certified standard of building materials.

He made the call in Lagos at the unveiling of new cement bag labeling and Zonal Stakeholders’ Forum on Sandcrete Blocks and Allied Cement Products with the theme: “Safeguarding Lives through Compliance with Standards” Ortom also stressed the need to comply with the mandatory certification of all Sandcrete blocks moulded in the country.

His words: “I implore all professionals in the building and construction sector in Nigeria including artisans and sandcrete block moulders to ensure the use of only certified materials and engage only those with requisite knowledge and skills in order to correctly interpret and apply the approved specification in the standard.

“I wish to call on all Nigerians to endeavour to demand for quality as a right, take steps to seek redress when dissatisfied with product quality, provides classified information to regulatory agencies on suspected substandard base which the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) officials have to offer you and your business through their officers nationwide.”

He directed SON to commence full implementation of the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme, MANCAP, for all locally manufactured products, reiterating Federal Government’s determination to continually

USC 178.35

USC -2.85

USD3,262.00

USD 70.00

USC 13.50

USC -0.29

USD 98.38 USD -0.68 USD 92.45

USD -0.66

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL DOLLAR STERLING EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYAL KRONA SDR

154.75 252.9698 198.9776 164.8557 1.4227 0.2847 230.9711 25.1953 41.2601 26.7239 231.6762

155.25 253.7872 199.6205 165.3883 1.4273 0.2947 231.7173 25.2772 41.3934 26.8102 232.4248

155.75 254.6045 200.2634 165.921 1.4319 0.3047 232.4636 25.359 41.5267 26.8966 233.1733

CBN Exchange Rate as 25 /09 / 2014

provide the needed support and encouragement to its agencies including the SON, to ensure effective implementation of their mandates.

Also speaking, Minster of Lands Housing and Urban Development, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi, said that standardisation all over the world, is a continuous process of improvement of quality aimed at customers’ satisfac-

tion and obtained through steady implementation of specifications for products and services as prescribed in the relevant approved standards.

“Government is resolved to bring sanity to bear in the construction sector. We can no longer watch by and see precious lives go down the drain because of failed buildings. One place to start from is the building materials

makers, mainly the cement and sand users and end product manufacturers.

“We must also ensure that permits to construct are scrutinised and the builders are professionals. The mandatory certification of sandcrete blocks produced in Nigeria as well as the new packaging of cement bags are meant to safeguard lives and property of Nigerians,” she said.

From left: Prince Ben Koya Adako, President Nigeria-Danish Chamber of Commerce, Mr Per Christensen, Consul General, Denmark Embassy and Mr. Jide Bunmi-Nathan, Vice President of the Chamber during the Business Meeting held in Lagos.

Peasant production is fundamental constraint to agriculture — BoA

BY NAOMI UZOR

T

he Bank of Agriculture (BoA), has said that from the perspective of sustainable agricultural growth and development in Nigeria, the most fundamental constraint is the peasant nature of the production system.

Disclosing this at a one-day dialogue session organised by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), tagged “National Dialogue on Agriculture Value Chain: Enhancing Agricultural Export Through Adequate Financing” the South West Zonal Manager, BoA, Mr. Olusegun Asiwaju, said, the most fundamental constraint in agricultural growth and development in Nigeria is the peasant nature of the production system, with its low productivity, poor access to funding which ultimately leads to poor re-

sponse to technology adoption strategies, and poor returns on investment.

According to him, it is recognized that agricultural commercialisation and investment are the key strategies for promoting accelerated modernisation, sustainable growth and development and, hence, poverty reduction in the sector.

However, he said, to attract investment into agriculture, it is imperative that those constraints inhibiting the performance of the sector are first identified with a view to unlocking them and creating a conducive investment climate in the sector.

“Agricultural financing is the sourcing of fund and making it available for agricultural production and uses. It involves the judicious and efficient disbursement of funds so sourced for agricultural and agro-allied productions so that the investor will be able to pay both the interest

and the principal as at when due and enough return for his capital.

Agricultural credit is necessary because of the limitations of self finance and uncertainty of the level of farm input and output and time lag between inputs and output” he said.

He noted that Agriculture is a very important sector as it has multiple bottom lines and as a nation, Nigeria has a competitive advantage in Agriculture and that it remains the pivot around which other non oil export products should depend on, hence the policy thrusts of the Government and other stakeholders must give it adequate attention adding that, economic growth achieved through agricultural development is three times more effective in reducing poverty than that achieved through other means.

22 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

NSE grows surplus by 183%

By WILLIAM JIMOH

T

he Nigerian Stock Ex change, NSE, has recorded N3.07 billion operating surplus for the year ended 31 December 2013, representing an increase of 183 per cent over N1.15 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2012.

An analysis of the Exchange’s 2013 financial reports shows 19.77 per cent growth in total assets from N13.1billion in 2012 to N15.6 billion during the year under review, with a total income of N5.4 million, which is an increase of 39.31 per cent from N3.9 million recorded in the previous year.

NSE President, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, disclosed this while addressing members of the Exchange at the 53rdAnnual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos, attributing the development to continuity in the capital market bullish run that began in 2012, which saw the NSE All Share Index (ASI) ranked among the top ten best performing indices in the world.

“The year was another year of significant progress for us here at the Exchange. While there were several groundbreaking developments in our business, what did not change is our remarkable ability to adapt to a shifting business environment that possesses growth challenges and a certain level of volatility. Nonetheless, the Nigerian Stock Exchange emerged with a strong financial position.

On the outlook he said, “Critical success factors for us in the coming year include; facilitating access to and participation in our market, increasing our footprint on the continent, and deploying a risk framework to safeguard the market venue. While the focus of the exchange will remain on achieving significant growth, including reclassification to emerging market status, the Group must look to diversify our revenue streams to protect the market and the business from potential domestic and international shocks.”

“We look forward to demonstrating the successful transformation of the Exchange and the Nigerian capital market by strengthening our position within the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE)” Aliko added.

Also speaking at the meeting, NSE’ CEO, Oscar Onyema, said, “We attribute the Group’s stellar performance to improved operational efficien-

cies and our revenue diversification strategies, resulting in

an increased share of income from other revenue streams.

“We remain firmly focused on

cost discipline and on improving operational efficiencies.

From left: Director, Royal Exchange Plc. Mr. Tony Idigbe; Company Secretary, Sheila Ezeuko; and the Group Chairman, Mr. Kenneth Ezenwani Odogwu at the Royal Exchange Plc Annual General Meeting, AGM, held at Muson Centre, Lagos.

Analysts forecast N11.81 price target on UBA shares

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

A

nalysts have projected N11.81k 12 month price targets on the shares of United Bank for Africa, UBA. This was contained in an equity review on the bank’s shares conducted by Financial Times, the world’s leading business newspaper and information organisation.

According to Financial Times, the 14 analysts offering 12 month price targets for UBA have a median price target of N9.53, with a high estimate of N11.81 and a low

estimate of N7.50, adding that the median estimate represents a 36.93 per cent increase from the last price of N6.96 as at close of business on September 23, 2014.

It added that as at September 12, 2014, the consensus forecast amongst 24 polled investment analysts covering United Bank for Africa noted that the company will outperform the market.

“This has been the consensus forecast since the sentiment of investment analysts deteriorated on Mar 04, 2013.

FCMB rewards customers in anniv er sar omo anniver ersar saryy pr promo

F

CMB rewards more customers in 30th anniversary promo First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Plc has rewarded more of its customers in the 30th anniversary promo.

The third monthly draws of the FCMB 30th Anniversary Promo Reloaded took place across all the Bank’s regional and zonal operations nationwide on September 17, 2014.

At the end of the electronic selection of winners, 133 customers of the Bank went home with cash prizes, LCD television sets, generators, DVDs and GOtv decoders. The event was witnessed by officials of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC), National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and other dignitaries including community leaders and government representatives. The latest customers to win the monthly star prizes of N1 million are Oshodi Taiwo Folusho (Lagos and Southwest region), Chide Oguh Momoh

(Northern region) and Abanokwu Augustine (South-east/Southsouth). With the latest winners, FCMB has so far rewarded several customers in the promo ahead of the grand finale draw in October, where three lucky customers will each drive home with brand new SUVs. The winners were unanimous in their praises for FCMB and commended the bank for its unblemished history in fulfilling its promise to customers.

In particular, winners of the N1 million star prizes promised to utilise their wins judiciously.

Speaking at the Lagos end of the draws event, Mr. Olu Akanmu, Senior Vice President/Divisional Head of Retail, FCMB, stated:”we will continue to appreciate our customers and encourage them to save through programs like our 30th anniversary promo draws which is so unique because they are taking place in several cities and zones across our branches nationwide.

The previous consensus forecast advised investors to purchase equity in United Bank for Africa,” Financial Times said in the report.

The bank had in the first quarter ended March 31, 2014 exceeded analysts’ expectation. Within the period, UBA posted N68.079 billion revenues, beating the N60.008 billion projected by two analysts covering the bank. The result was also 8.2 per cent growth above N63 billion recorded in first quarter in 2013.

Similarly, quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) profit-after-tax saw 36.37 percent increase from N9.23 billion as at fourth quarter 2013 to N12.59 billion in the first quarter of 2014.

Its total assets within the first quarter of the year grew to N2.61 trillion as against N2.64 trillion as at December 31, 2013.

For the full year ended December 31, 2013, UBA’s revenues jumped to N176.27 billion, 20.39 per cent above the previous year ’s result, while its total assets for the full year grew to N2.64 trillion as against N2.27 trillion during the same period in 2012.

It would be recalled that GMD/CEO, Mr. Philip Oduzua, had at the recently held Conference Call with international and local analysts said that the bank delivered earnings growth in its entire business segment.

He said, “”All our business segments delivered earnings growth. Our Nigerian operation remains strong, while 16 out of the other 18 African operations are now profitable.

Renaissance Capital grows net profit by 81% in H1

By NKIRUKA NNOROM

R

enaissance Capital, an emerging and frontier markets investment bank, has announced 81 percent growth in net profit for its half year ended June 30, 2014.

Specifically, the bank’s net profit grew to $8.7million from $4.76 million in the equivalent period in 2013.

The bank also achieved a 17 percent cost reduction rate, bringing its operating expenses down to $102 million within the review period from $127.6million in 1H’13.

Total operating income reached $114.3 million, which is in line with the same period in 2013.

The bank said in a statement that its balance sheet remained strong, with the equity to assets ratio growing to 16.5 percent from 13.6 percent as at December 31, 2013. Total assets and equity stand at $3.59 billion and $593.2 million, respectively.

Commenting, Igor Vayn, Chief Executive Officer, Renaissance Capital, said, “In the past six months, Renaissance Capital has continuously demonstrated sustainable business growth.

We have shown profitability in three consecutive reporting periods and achieved a significant increase in the bank’s operating profit in 1H 2014, compared with the same period in 2013. This is complemented by substantial operating cost reduction and a healthy equity to assets ratio.”

“Renaissance Capital remains strongly committed to its core regions of SubSaharan Africa, Russia and Turkey. We have continuously strengthened our competitive position and grown our market share across all our geographies. Recently, the firm has expanded its footprint to include Dubai, where it has applied for and received dealing and advising on securities license. This financial hub represents a key base off, which we intend to build a market-leading offering in the Middle East and North Africa space. We are pleased with the firm’s performance results, particularly against the backdrop of a global market slowdown, and are looking forward to new challenges ahead,” he added.

In 2014, Renaissance Capital acted as advisor and bookrunner on a number of transactions in Russia and the CIS, including a placement for Georgia’s Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank, among others.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 — 23

CBN, Access Bank seek full compliance with NSBP guidelines

BY Michael Eboh

A

CCESS Bank Plc has called on financial institutions in the country to comply and internalise sustainable banking principles, saying that this will help tackle unhealthy competition in the sector.

Speaking at the Nigeria Sustainable Banking Principles, N SBP, Pre-Reporting Workshop, organised by the bank, Mr. Greg Jobome, Chief Risk Officer, Access Bank Plc, stated that sustainability principles will make it possible for clients and markets to view the banks in a similar manner to avoid the banks being played against each other.

According to him, banks must not only comply with the sustainable banking principles, but must also internalise it and show it in their operations.

“This is because the growth of the sector would be impossible with compliance and internalisation of the principles,” Jobome stated.

Also speaking, Frankline Ahonkhai, Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, said the apex bank will ensure full compliance with the provisions of the reporting template of the Nigeria Sustainable Banking Principles, in the second quarter filings of the banks.

He maintained that full compliance with the provisions will help bring about a level playing field for all operators in the banking sector.

He said the CBN is currently reviewing the reports received so far, so as to ascertain a number

of factors, which will monitor the progress of implementation at individual bank and industry levels; ensure appropriate intervention to help resolve implementation challenges.

He further stated that the review is to enable it have an objective, fair and equitable basis to offer carrots and also identify frontrunners who can provide assistance and guidance to other institutions.

He said, “The CBN expects that compliance with the reporting requirement will result in increased appreciation and better management of Environmental and Social risks and opportunities; streamlining processes and improving

efficiency.

“It will also help in assessing sustainability performance in relation to regulations, best practices and other performance standards; and in avoidance of negative publicity in relation to environmental, social and governance failures.” For the filing of second quarter returns by financial institutions, the CBN said it expects that reporting institutions would have developed their respective E&S risk management policy for their business activities.

He further stated that the CBN expects that the institutions would also have developed their E&S footprint policy for their respective business operations

and establish procedures for the application of the sector guidelines to its business activities in the power, agriculture and oil & gas sector.

Continuing, the Ahonkhai said, “The industry has commenced the implementation of the NSBP and the CBN has developed a reporting template in order to encourage consistency in reporting by banks, discount houses and development finance institutions as well as provide the CBN with a standard for assessing the commitment of reporting institutions to implementing the Principles and Sector Guidelines.

WORKSHOP: From left: Deputy Director, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Ahonkhai Franklin; Chief Risk Officer, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Greg Jobome; Managing Director, Sustainable Finance Advisory, Carey Bohjanen and Environmental Services Consultant, Environmental Accord, Ibrahim Salau at the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles pre-Reporting Workshop hosted

by Access Bank Plc in Lagos.

NSIA, Seven Energy sign N16bn gas, power supply deal

BY Michael Eboh

N

IGERIA Sovereign Investment Authority, NSIA, has signed a $100 million, about N16 billion, agreement with Seven Energy International to boost gas production and bring about an increase in power supply in Nigeria.

According to a joint statement by both organisations, the fund will be used to support the development of the Calabar National Integrated Power Project, NIPP, Ibom Power and other power stations.

The statement said, “Seven Energy International Limited , the indigenous integrated oil and gas development, production and gas distribution company with interests in Nigeria, and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment

Authority (NSIA), Nigeria’s sovereign wealth fund, today announced that NSIA through its Gas to Power funds managed on behalf of Nigeria’s Debt Management Office (DMO) has signed a commitment letter, subject to certain conditions, for an investment of at least $100,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes due in 2023 to be issued and privately placed

by Seven Energy Finance Limited.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Uche Orji, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, NSIA said, “Through this investment and future projects, NSIA is contributing to the transformation of the gas and power sectors.

“We expect that this investment will support the

development of Calabar NIPP, Ibom Power, and other power stations. This is a further example of Nigeria’s successful public-private investment in infrastructure.”

Also speaking, Abraham Nwankwo, Director-General of the DMO said, , “We are pleased that through our innovative cooperation with the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), we are able to contribute to their joint work with Seven Energy. This investment underscores the DMO’s role in the development of Nigeria’s power sector.”

Speaking in the same vein, Phillip Ihenacho, Chief Executive Officer, Seven Energy, explained that, “This investment is a vote of confidence in Seven Energy’s vision to be a leading supplier of gas in Nigeria. I am very

pleased that we have gained the support of NSIA.”

Bureaucratic bottleneck impeding growth of spirits industry

By Princewill Ekwujuru

T

HE Managing Director of Spronks Creation, organisers of the annual Spirit and Wine Fair has said that regulatory bureaucracy is stifling the growth of the Spirit &Wine industry in Nigeria.

The Managing Director of the company, Aderonke Sobodu, who spoke at the unveiling of the fourth edition of Nigerian International Wine & Spirit Fair in Lagos also blamed some spirit brands for thwarting the growth of the market.

While responding to the challenges the industry had faced, Sobodu said “NAFDAC regulation is killing the wine and spirit industry. It takes forever to get a certification for a brand and if this is the case, how can the local players be encouraged,” she queried.

She also tackled renowned spirit and wine brands that have formed the habit of engaging youths in a party in order to drive volume alone. “I have been to Chicago and I have seen how these things are managed. You (spirit brands) do not throw a party and engage young people to take your brand without telling them the amount of alcoholic content in your brands.”

Instead of these brands to engage youth positively by training them in mixology and all that they prefer an elaborate party where their brands are made free and when these people get themselves drunk, they drive and someone ends up mourning in the morning.”

She however called on the government to relax some of the rules to encourage investment into the industry as well as beckoning on the industry players to come together and developed the biggest wine and spirit market in Africa.

Australia to partner FG on infrastructure development

T

BY Vivian Enemuo, with Agency Report

HE Australian Government is to partner the Federal Government in tackling problems associated with infrastructure development in Nigeria.

The Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC) in a statement disclosed that the Australian Government gave the assurance when its High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr Jonathan Richard, paid a courtesy call on the commission in Abuja.

“The government of Australia is desirous of collaborating with Nigeria in reducing bottlenecks to investment in the country by Australian businesses, particularly on infrastructure development,” it quoted Richard to have said.

Richard listed such bottlenecks to include knowledge gap in terms of available opportunities in Nigeria, as opposed to Asia and Europe, fear of the unknown and the perception of Nigeria as a high risk country.

He said that Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in infrastructure, alongside mining and agriculture would feature prominently in Australia’s international cooperation effort with Nigeria.

Responding, the Director-General of ICRC Mr Aminu Diko, said Nigeria would continue to explore alternative funding methods in the development of infrastructure.

24 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

New MAN President unfolds areas of priority

BY NAOMI UZOR

T

Beneficiaries of UNIDO low- pressure foam machine with their certificates

Printers task FG on implementation of CIPPON Act

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU

P

resident, Chattered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria, CIPPON, Muhammed Lawal has charged the Federal Government to fully implement the Act establishing the Institute.

He gave the charge at a one day seminar which had the theme: ‘Printing regulation: A vehicle for national development’ organised by the Institute in Lagos.

Lawal said the Federal Government has continued to violate several sections of the Act since 2007 when it was signed into law especially in the area of appointment of non professionals’ printers into executive positions. ”Why is it only in printing that a non professional is appointed based on political rather than professional considerations? For example, the Nigeria Security Printing and Minting, the man at the helm of affairs right now is not a printer. And that is case of the government flouting its own laws because a section of the Act establishing CIPPON said you cannot appoint non- printer to an executive position concerning printing,” Lawal said.

He also decried the trend of exporting printing jobs from Nigeria, saying it is contributing significantly to capital flight.

“If we must make Nigeria a comfortable place to live in, capital flight resulting from export of printing jobs must be halted. There is no good reason for printing jobs to be taken outside this country,” he said.

He said the seminar which will be a regular event was conceived to provide platform where issues and other challenges bedevilling the printing profession in the country will be discussed.

Speaking earlier in a welcome

address, the chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Yahaya Amfani, noted that printing business in Nigeria existed for over 130 years without regulation and this made printing bastardised and an all-comer affair until 2007 when the Act establishing the Chattered Institute of Printing was signed into law.

Represented by Gbolahan Abdul, Amfani noted that the importance of printing regulation in the country cannot be overemphasised as this will not only enhance the achievement of set objectives but will also put a halt to capital flight resulting from taking printing jobs overseas.

“There is no doubt that printing profession in Nigeria has become very viable, hence there is a need for continuous sensitisation of all professional printers on the importance of maintaining standard. This will go a long way in enhancing the acceptability of printed works in Nigeria. It will further generate more opportunities to the country via the printers, leading to reduction in unemployment, increase in foreign exchange earnings and protection of printers to ensure that their machines are fully utilised,” he said.

he new president of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has unfolded his priority areas to move the sector forward over the next four years.

Dr Frank Jacobs who took over from the immediate past president, Chief Kola Jamodu, said, plans are being made to collaborate with tertiary institutions to bridge the gap between the manufacturers and academia to improve the skill requirements of industries, adding that, there is great need to train Nigerian youths on appropriate technical skills that will meet the requirements of the industrial sector.

He disclosed that plans are being made to establish a centre for entrepreneurial studies which will train and develop entrepreneurs, add value to the society and reduce the yearning for paid employment.

“MAN would establish close collaboration with the media to ensure cross fertilization of ideas and information as well as timely dissemination of MAN programmes and activities for the interest of the stakeholders and the national economy.

We plan to overhaul and update the MAN Resource Centre which is the Business Development Unit of MAN to reposition it adequately towards assisting Small Scale Entrepreneurs in developing or improving their business plans. This unit will also undertake clinical evaluation of ailing companies and proffer advice on how to improve their operations” he stated.

Beverage firms to cut calories SMEs in Lagos groaning over by 20%

arbitrary levies, permits

By FRANKLIN ALLI The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, has cried out over activities of the Local Councils and state revenue collectors, warning that they are threatening the existence and survival of businesses in the state, especially the Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs. LCCI’s President, Alhaji Remi Bello, made this observation during a publicprivate dialogue session tagged ‘Corporate Assembly with Governor Babatunde Fashola’, held at the Lekki free trade zone area of the state.

He commended Governor Fashola and his team for an exemplary performance in infrastructure development, security of lives; environmental improvement and beautifications, etc, but said, “I would like to draw attention to some issues of concern to the business community in the state.

“Your Excellency let me affirm that

the Chamber believes that all citizens (corporate and individuals) have a responsibility to discharge their statutory obligations to government at all levels.

However, we have issues with the manner in which the local government councils manage this aspect of their functions.

There are concerns about the method, the process and transparency. There are several instances of arbitrariness in the imposition of levies.

“Most often, these are at variance with approved rates. Some specific examples are as follows: “Radio and Television Permit: Many organisations have suffered embarrassment following demand by Local Council officials for radio and television permit. Again this comes with a lot of arbitrariness with rates ranging from ¦ 50,000 per annum to ¦ 200,000 per annum.

“Only recently, a Local Government Council sealed up the premises of a company for failure to pay 200,000 for radio and television permits whereas the approved rate is ¦ 10,000.

T

he biggest beverage companies in the United States have set a goal to reduce calories Americans get from their drinks by 20 percent over the next 10 years.

The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo Inc. and Dr Pepper Snapple Group Inc. made a joint pledge to cut the calories consumed via their products by 20 per cent before 2025.

However, the companies’ plan won’t involve changing what’s in their sugary drinks - but by promoting their lowercalorie alternatives, cutting portion sizes and making people more aware of the amount of sugar in regular sodas.

In a statement, the American Beverage Association said “Our industry has a longstanding commitment to being part of the solution to reducing obesity in America. Now, with our Balance Calories Initiative, we are transforming the beverage landscape in communities nationwide. This initiative will take our efforts to provide consumers with more choices, smaller portions and fewer calories to an ambitious new level.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 — 25

By JIMOH BABATUNDE

B

ank of Industry (BOI) has disclosed that it is working with the Ministry of Agriculture on a N13billion Rice Intervention Fund for the establishment of 10 integrated rice mills and six cassava mills across the country.

The Bank explained that the objective of the Federal Government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda is not only to increase crop production, but also to create value-added food processing industries as a means of reducing food imports.

The Managing Director , Bank of Industry, Rasheed Olaoluwa, who spoke at the launch of a N5billion’s Cottage Agro Processing Fund by the bank in Lagos last week, added that the bank is working with the Ministry of Agriculture in value addition.

He disclosed that BOI had in the past successfully implemented a N3.4billion Cassava Bread Fund designed by the Ministry of Agriculture to finance the establishment of 41 processing plants for High Quality Cassava Flour.

Rasheed Olaoluwa said that Agro processing is one of the four key sectors that have been identified as strategic under the Nigeria’s Industrial Revolution, noting that it has backward linkages with the primary agricultural sector.

He said that agroprocessing has multiplier effects in job creation, reduction of post-harvest losses and generating better rural incomes, “ for instance, a High Quality Cassava Flour processing Plant uses cassava as raw materials and supplies its products to Flour milling plants.”

COTTAGE AGRO FUND Rasheed Olaoluwa said that the N5billion’s Cottage Agro Processing Fund being launched by the bank will provide loans to beneficiaries to establish small scale plants or mini mills to process Nigeria’s agricultural products such as cassava, oil palm, paddy rice, groundnut, yam, maize, sorgum, cocoa and plantain among others.

He added that sheanut, cashew, hides and skin as well as chicken, meat and fish will also be funded through the Cottage Agro Processing Fund.

“These products are grown all over the country and have been selected to ensure an even distribution across Nigeria’s 36 states.”

The Bank of Industry, according to the MD, plans to finance about 1,000 projects under the fund as they have identified the priority products for each C M Y K

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akin Adesina, with Mr. Tunji Owoeye, Managing Director, Elephant Group , Kudzai Gumunyu, Head, Agriculture business finance, FCMB and others during a visit of officials from the Elephant Group to the minister’s office recently.

Bank of Industry partners Agric ministry on N13b rice fund ...unveils N5b cottage fund state and have assembled a number of partners for the effective operation of the fund.

“The projects financed will be located very close to the source of the agricultural products to be processed. The business plan must address both primary and secondary

sources of energy to power the plant.”

He added that the equipment supplier will be accredited by the bank and will be made to provide a performance bond as well as enter into a maintenance agreement.

While explaining that the

fund size of N5b is only a starting point, Rasheed Olaoluwa said the loan will be granted at a single digit interest rate of 9% per annum and a total management fees of 1%. “The tenor is five years with a moratorium of six months. We project that the Fund will help in creating a

total of 20,000 direct and indirect jobs.”

The Managing Director of the bank said that existing operators in the sector as well as prospective young Nigerians who want to go into farming can take advantage of the fund to establish mini mills for processing agro products.

FG moves to institutionalise Agric policy ... inaugurates policyworking group

By Gabriel Ewepu

F

ollowing achievements recorded in the agricultural sector, the Federal Government has decided to institutionalise the Agricultural Transformation Agenda, ATA, policy.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, during the official inauguration of 15 member policy working group in Abuja recently.

Adesina said the move to institutionalise ATA was needful because government has positioned Nigeria’s agricultural sector on world stage, and whose policies had attracted massive investments and also

attracted other countries within and outside the African region to adopt some of the policies for the growth and development of their agricultural sectors.

Adesina said: “For the inauguration of the 15 member policy working group is because we want to institutionalise the Agricultural Transformation Agenda, ATA, policy.

He said the ATA is driven by policies and what we have achieved today is by the policies put in place.

“As we continue our drive to transformNigeria’s agriculture, spurred on by the major gains so far made, we must not lose sight of the need to avoid policy reversals.

“We must do all possible to ensure that the policies and institutional reforms are institutionalised and backed by legislations to secure the future of our farmers.”

He added that they will work very closely with the leadership of the National Assembly, especially the Committees of Agriculture, to ensure that legislations are passed to protect the policies driving the Agricultural Transformation Agenda.

“These are exciting days for Nigeria’s agriculture. Today, all States of the Federation are all working with the Federal Government in our drive to transform agriculture. Let us together arise and build, until our nation becomes once

again a global powerhouse in food and agriculture. To this, we all must commit ourselves, so help us God. The Minister said “We have world class people who will look at the policy, make sure that there is legislation to protect ATA. I assure you that the report of your Committee will be presented to Mr. President and the Federal Executive Council for appropriate actions.”

He also expressed optimism about the competence and professionalism of the Professor Olu Ajakaiye led 15 member policy working group, adding that the committee was expected to produce a report within two months.

26—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

I N Oshiomhole can't S pick his successor I — Orbih D E Page 26

Romance of referendum and Nigeria’s political devt Page 27

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan was in pole position to win the presidential ticket of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP when true friends and secret foes fouled the polity with the right of first refusal as the norm in advanced democracies that should be copied. Even given the propensity of political parties to lace their processes with propaganda, the doctrine of right of first refusal is an unusual lie that would neither do the president any good nor advance the cause of democracy in the country

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

W

HETHER it was an unknown gaffe or a deliberate act of distortion, minders of the Goodluck Jonathan second term project have sought to portray the right of first refusal of performing incumbents to a second term as the vogue in advanced democracies especially in the United States.

“He (Jonathan) now has the right of first refusal and this is in keeping with the precedent in other countries, where democracy is being practised, especially in the US,” former party chairman and presently chairman of the peace and integration committee of the party in the Southeast, Col. Ahmadu Ali (rtd) claimed in support of the move that was concreted with the president’s adoption by the National Executive Committee, NEC penultimate Thursday.

Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State last Wednesday also justified it as an act of deepening internal democracy in the party copied from the United States.

He said: "The adoption by PDP’s NEC is democracy in action. In US that we are copying, the incumbent president does not go through primaries. We are not saying that the president will not face the general elections. So the idea of him spending presidential time instead of facing insurgency, food insufficiency and other things that may affect the country and begin to campaign for the party ticket when he is already the incumbent president is what we want to avoid. I think this is a very fantastic model of internal democracy.”

Speaking minutes after he was endorsed by the National Executive Committee, NEC of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP penultimate Thursday,

President Jonathan had echoed the same belief saying: “When the party leaders endorsed me, by that endorsement I have the right of first refusal. That is what is done in advanced democracies. It shows clearly that the PDP is advancing.

“There are no dictators in the PDP. There is no one that is so powerful to determine who becomes councillor, local government chairman, state House of Assembly member, House of Representatives member, senator, governor, and even president, in the PDP. “The decision is by the people, for the people, and that is why the PDP will continue to do new things and give right leadership.”

Undoubtedly the decision to adopt the president for a second term may be defended in some quarters based on achievements in certain sectors, notably railway, road infrastructure, aviation and recently, power.

However, the argument among many partisans of the president has been that performance should automatically translate into the right of the incumbent president to a right to a second term. The argument for a right of first refusal for the president was initiated in early 2013 by the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih at a regional summit of South-South leaders of the party in Asaba.

However, contrary to the argument of the supporters of the arrangement that the right of first refusal is the tradition in advanced democracies especially in the United States from where Nigeria adopted its presidential system of government, the contrary is the practise.

All incumbent first term presidents in the United States in living memory have been challenged from within their parties for a second term. The practise, however, is that in

The most undemocratic people in Nigeria are in APC — Dr. Pearse Page 28

PDP’s Right of First Refusal:

First unusual lie

•Jonathan: Given right of first refusal for the 2015 PDP ticket by a number of other presidential contenders in his own party for the 2012 presidential ticket, but he won massively with a handsome 88% of the popular votes as his nearest challenger, John Wolfe Jnr. a Tennessee attorney, took about 1.5% of the popular votes.

President George W. Bush in 2004 as the incumbent president really faced no serious challenger and went on to win 98.1% of the primary votes mainly on account of his popularity, arising from the capture in 2003, of the deposed •Carter, Kennedy: Rivals for the Democratic Party 1980 ticket Iraqi president, Saddam Hussein.

President Bill Clinton as the almost all cases with the notable Jimmy Carter of Georgia in the incumbent on the platform of the exception of 1968 when the main presidential election.

Democratic Party was in 1996 wartime president, Mr. Lyndon Four years later, President challenged by Lyndon Johnson was forced to abandon Carter was mortally bruised in LaRouche, a political activist who his campaign, all other incumbent the 1980 Democratic Party by the sought the Democratic Party presidents have since 1960 won challenge from Senator Ted presidential ticket between 1976 their party tickets. But not without Kennedy, and not surprisingly, and 2004. What could have been a challenge. Those that had lost to the Republican candidate, a serious challenge to Clinton by serious challengers almost Governor Reagan in the main a former governor of always lost the general election presidential election.

Pennsylvania, Bob Casey did not even after winning the party The practise of internal materialise on account of the illticket. challenge is a culture but only health of the former governor. that in almost all cases, the The last serious challenge to an Past examples incumbent presidents have incumbent president was in 1992 Examples include President through organisation and when the conservative columnist Gerald Ford who survived a superiority of funds and broadcaster, Pat Buchannan serious challenge from Governor overwhelmed opposition to a challenged President George Ronald Reagan in the second term ticket.

Bush for the Republican ticket.

Republican Party primaries of Unknown to many people, 1976 but eventually lost to the President Barrack Obama even Democratic Candidate, Governor as an incumbent was challenged Continues on page 27

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—27

CHIEF Dan Orbih is the Edo State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In this interview with selected journalists he faulted the financial accountability of the incumbent administration in Edo State among other issues. Excerpts:

Y

BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

OU must be happy that the state government has rescinded its decision to sack teachers and is now looking forward to the training and retraining of teachers just as you prescribed it.

It would, however, interest you to know that those teachers have not been recalled and neither have their entitlements been paid. The statement was a television political statement as he (governor) only announced their recall and promised to pay their entitlements. Up till today, nothing has happened. Over the years, we were begging the state government to employ more teachers but he surprisingly woke up one day and decided to sack some of the teachers.

It is not a political statement that there are no teachers in the Edo public schools; it is a statement of fact. Go to the schools and you will understand what I am saying.

Even the teachers are begging that more teachers should be employed because they have been stretched beyond the limit.

The story is the same in every sector. It is quite depressing that while pregnant women in neighboring Delta State get free medicare, those in Edo State pay and don’t get services for their money. Do you know that training of nurses and midwives in Edo State-owned hospitals stopped in January, 2013, after the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) withdrew their operating license due to what they described as poor training regime and inclement training conditions? While the NMCN recommends a ratio of 10 nursing students to one instructor, the practice in Edo State dropped to as low as 78 nursing students to one instructor. Edo people will not allow be deceived again.

This is happening when a lot of qualified graduates are roaming the streets looking for jobs. This is what we are facing in Edo State but when we talk the governor would start talking about the past governments in the state. He would start talking about who was governor 15 years ago. The governor cannot see that democracy is evolving in Nigeria and that a lot has changed in the political system.

For those of us in the PDP, we

will not give Oshiomhole the privilege of picking a successor who will protect his corrupt practices. Our people must know that we need a governor who will relate with the Presidency to fast-track development. We don’t want a governor who will fight everyone at all times. Edo people have seen that Oshiomhole is fake and that the governor and his party cannot be trusted. Edo people have seen how Oshiomhole shouted one-man-one-vote slogan and what he did when he conducted local government election. With that election, Oshiomhole took us back the ladder of democratic development. Just look at the legacy President Goodluck Jonathan is laying through the conduct of free and fair elections. Look at the governorship elections that were conducted in Ekiti and Osun States. You could see the sincerity and commitment of Mr. President to the development of democratic institutions. I don’t even need to say more on that election that was organized by Oshiomhole since people saw what took place here during that particular election.

For me, what worries me most about the state of affairs in Edo State is the current annexation of the judiciary arm of government to the executive by Governor Oshiomhole. Until recently when some brave

•Orbih

Oshiomhole can't pick his successor — Orbih lawmakers in the Edo State House of Assembly took on Governor Oshiomhole, he had virtually turned the House to an arm of the executive. He has now extended his conquest to the judiciary arm of government. He has drafted the judiciary into politics. We are saying this because the judiciary in Edo State is sick and that the NJC should quickly intervene before it collapses completely.

What do you think was responsible for the division of

the Edo State House of Assembly into two factions along party lines?

The assembly crisis was created by Governor Oshiomhole because he is afraid of his own shadow. It is sad that the governor just decided to set the state on fire because of his lust for power.

At a point in the crisis, a window opened to resolve it when the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa, intervened but Oshiomhole prevailed on the APC lawmakers not to listen to the elders. Today, the APC

lawmakers sit in one of the governor’s chambers in the Government House. In order to prevent the PDP lawmakers from using the House of Assembly Complex at the Ring Road, the governor and his lawmakers removed the roofing covering the assembly and said that they were carrying out renovation exercise. That, to me, was height of lawlessness and brigandage.

Oshiomhole said they wanted

Continues on page 27

PDP’s Right of First Refusal: First unusual lie Continues from page 26 Buchannan eventually pulled off more than 22% of the votes in a contest but without winning a single state. President Bush who won the ticket eventually lost to Governor Bill Clinton of Arkansas.

Even the iconic President Ronald Reagan as the Republican incumbent was challenged in 1984 by two fringe candidates, Harold Stassen and Benjamin Fernandez who respectively polled 0.19% and 0.00% of the votes while the president rode home with more than 98.7% of the total votes.

However, the elections in 1976 and 1980 were defined by the internal challenges received by the incumbents at that time.

President Ford was mortally bruised after winning the Republican primary by 53% to the 45% of the popular votes of party members in a challenge that saw

•Obama and his 2012 Democratic Party rival, Wolfe the president win 27 states while Governor Reagan pulled out 25 states. It was not surprising that President Ford lost in the main election to Governor Jimmy Carter.

President Carter was himself seriously damaged four years later when he was forced into a contest by two prominent politicians, Senator Ted Kennedy and Governor Jerry Brown of

California. Carter prevailed in the primaries winning 51% of the popular votes and carrying 37 states to the 38% and 3% respectively won by Kennedy and Brown. Kennedy also won 11 states in the primary contest which helped to damage Carter who lost in the main election to Governor Reagan.

Though incumbent presidents have in all cases won their party tickets, but those in recent times

like Ford (1976), Carter (1980) and Bush (1992) who faced serious challenges all lost the bid for re-election. It is also a fact that all three presidents that served one term in the last fifty years were those who faced serious challenges from within the party.

There was, however, the unique case of President Lyndon Johnson who after losing badly in the early state contests in 1968 quickly withdrew on his own.

Hence the effort by some in the PDP to erect a foundation for the right of first refusal on a wrong foundation is bound to cause unease among Nigerian democrats. Given the examples of Presidents Ford, Carter and Bush, it is understandable for the party men to protect the president.

But doing so on a platform of outright lie would neither do the country any good nor project the president in good light.

28—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

I

MUST confess that I have no pity, sympathy or regret for those ‘checking out‘of Nigeria for good.

They are the losers because of many things they would miss in their miserable absence. In Nigeria, there is no dull moment as this is a wonderful country where there is that notion that “everything goes”. Beautiful Nigeria, I hail thee.

The beautiful week started with the wonderful news that the Boko Haram insurgents were prepared to release some of the abducted Chibok girls in exchange for the release of their captured leaders. This might still happen in the midst of expectation, desperation and disappointment. The murderous gang seems to be in a peculiar position to kill and destroy at will, and set out conditions for any negotiation.

If United States government could release six top leaders of Aquada militants for a single American army sergent, no price would be too great to appease the bloody insurgents of the dreaded Bambisa Forest. Those who don‘t agree with the methodology of exchange of prisoners could lead a jihad into Bambisa jungle to capture the insurgents, I am sorry for the digression from the main topic. The other week, there was a characteristic referendum in Britain to determine whether Scotland could become an independent nation from the United Kingdom after an association of more than 307 years. The admirable scots voted 55 per cent to 45 per cent to remain with Britain. The referendum was conducted with fanfare; there was no visible sight of heavily armed security officials to keep the peace, maintain order and prevent ballot box snatching. And quite admirably, the result of the peaceful process has not been challenged in any Tribunal, as is always the case in Nigeria after any crucial election.

The principle of Referendum, practiced widely in Switzerland is a weapon by the ordinary citizen or group used as a protection against the tyranny of the government. Any citizen (under Switzerland direct democracy) could (after meeting prescribed condition of

Romance of referendum and Nigeria’s political devt number of voters) challenge any law by the legislature or any action of the government in a referendum, the result of which is final. In that country, the fear of a referendum on any topic is the beginning of wisdom. The government under the threat of losing in a referendum is bound to be constructive and listen to good advice.

To many observers, Scotland, outside the United Kingdom would be an anomaly. It shares with other members, England, Wales and Northern Ireland – a common highly developed infrastructure with tolerably high standard of living In the last half century, some notable Scots have risen to become British Prime Ministers. McMillian, Lord Home, Tony Bliar and Gordon Brown. It was the former British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown who convinced his fellow Scots to stay in the United Kingdom.

The referendum on Scotland was a classic gamble by the present British Prime Minister, David Camera who wanted to solve the problem once and for all. Fortunately, the risk was well taken. This Statesman-like attitude was in sharp contrast to the one taken by President Jonathan who asked the National Conference to avoid discussion on the possible break-up of Nigeria. Perhaps the delegates would have decided unanimously that the country should

stay united. It is possible that the unity of Nigeria may one day be a subject of referendum or possibly too, some recommendations of the National Conference might be subject to direct verdict of all Nigerians.

Some analysts agree that if the principle of Referendum is extended to Nigeria as it is being done in Britain (our past colonial master) many accrimonous, political and economic issues would have been amicably solved. It is true that President Jonathan has taken a bold step in solving some of the country‘s nagging problems through the setting-up of the National Conference in spite of many odds, the implementation of the resolutions remains the fear of many Nigerians, bearing in mind the fate of earlier Conferences. It would be political ingenuity if a step is taken through legislative process that referendum becomes a part of our Constitution.

POLITICS President OBAMA of USA could be congratulated for bringing up a coalition of forces to combat the ISIS in Iraq and Syria. US has for long been seen as the Guardian of the World because of its wealth and military power. US under its previous Presidents have interpreted the politics of the world, based on its construction, and acted accordingly, giving it a Bad Name.

How

expedient it would have been if President Jonathan has been able to rouse all Nigerians to crush all forces of insurgency.

It is generally believed that the Presidency could not be judged by the number of roads constructed or by the many airports renovated or by the number of railway lines and coaches re-activated – these are routine jobs for any purposeful administration. It is possible to judge each government on its own achievement, whether federal, state or local.

The tragic problems that have confounded the country could be properly grouped under the terrible headings: corruption, insecurity, unemployment and poverty. If after fifteen years of democracy and promises of democratic dividends, the country is still being described as one of the poorest and most corrupt in the world, then, something must be utterly wrong to need a dramatic or drastic change – political, economic and attitude. Many of the problems were highlighted at the National Conference and some were constantly discussed in the media while executive re-action is always apologetically slow. The defence, howbeit, shallow is often given by sycophants and party loyalists.

Since the ruling party, PDP had given the incumbent President, as it should be expected in a democratic setting; it is up to President Jonathan to examine properly the structure of his party, the parlous state of the country and decide whether he could shoulder the heavy burden alone or cast his net far and wide for proven talents. Otherwise, there is that prospect of a costlyvictory in 2015.

HONOURS LIST: The recently issued Honours List by the Federal Government has elicited several comments from many Nigerians – some approving and some condemning. It is not possible to produce a list that is forthless anywhere. Afterall, in his moment of greatness, NERO once appointed Caligula – his horse, Senator for Rome. That is one of the oddities in politics.

Edo: Beware of Self centred and parochial politicians

By Timothy Alabi

O

NCE upon a time, a shepherd raised false alarm of wolf attacking his sheep but when people ran to him for rescue, he dismissed them, that it was a hoax. On another faithful day the same alarmist raised thunderous alarm, which awakened the conscience of sympathizers, and they rushed to rescue him, it was not different from the false alarm raised to curry favour, at the end it turned out to be the biggest joke of the day.

The real day came, when carnivorous animals visited the shepherd to devour his sheep, as usual, he raised thunderous alarm, depending on the first sympathy he received, but his alarm, was dismissed on the ground that he was fond of raising such alarm, even when situation does not arise.

Unfortunately sympathisers turned their back against the alarmist and the wild animals descended upon his sheep and devoured them.

The alarmist resulted to passing bulk on his neighbours, for not responding to his call for rescue, but the unwarranted mudslinging could not change situation.

This is the scenario that is playing out in the recent outburst of Hon. Charles Idahosa.

Politics is all about rendering service to the people, articulating the views of the people and proffering solutions to the myriad of problems, confronting the people using the instrumentality of the government as has been demonstrated and exemplified by the Comrade Governor, Adams Oshiomhole since the inception of his administration in Edo State.

Events in the political terrain in Edo State have clearly differentiated who a good leader is and who a self centred leader is.

Let me recall with high sense of nostalgia when the clamour for a good candidate for the Advance Congress for the Democrats ACD in 2007 began, before it was changed to Action Congress of Nigeria ACN, to fly the governorship flag of the party for the 2007 general elections to wrestle power from the People Democratic Party PDP, began, leaders of the ACN, zoned the governorship to Edo North and Deputy to Edo South.

Political permutation at the time was predicated on wide geographical spread,

and Charles Idahosa was tipped to be the running mate to Comrade Oshiomhole.

He, however, for one reason or the other did not become the running mate and then deputy governor.

Events that are of National importance, events that remind one not to throw stone to the markets, otherwise, your mother becomes the victim of misadventure.

It is sad to read the outburst of Charles Idahosa that he prevented Chief Tom Ikimi from imposing a state woman leader on the APC delegates at the just concluded state congress, to put in place party executives.

The inflammatory statement of Charles Idahosa is capable of causing disaffection and polarising the party.

There is no gainsaying the fact that the depletion in membership profile of APC in Uhunwonde, the home of Charles Idahosa is as a result of wrong politics by the leadership in the area.

The congress that brought the incumbent state woman leader of APC and other executive officers into office, was, free, fair and generally accepted by delegates from the 18 Local Government Area of the State.

The woman leader, an amazon, woman with compassionate heart, and

•Oshiomhole leadership acumen whose father has also contributed in no small means to Edo State politics and Nigeria in general maintains a robust relationship with her predecessor.

So any attempt to sow the seed of animosity between them is appalling, undemocratic and unacceptable.

•Timothy Alabi – a staunch member of APC from Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, wrote in from Lagos.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—29

R GABRIEL Adetokunbo Pearse is aspiring to become the next governor of Lagos State if allowed to fly the flag of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State. Dr Pearse, who teaches philosophy at the University of Lagos, visited Vanguard Corporate office in Lagos and explained why he is in the race.

Excerpts:

By Dapo Akinrefon

W

HAT is the inspiration behind your governorship aspiration?

My interest in politics is simply an opportunity for me to use the educational training and professional experience to do all I can to help the under-privileged and to help the development of my state and to develop human capacity in my state to the best. That is my interest in politics and that is why I joined the race.

If I may ask, your background, you have crisscrossed party and partisan lines in Lagos and the United States. Are you a man of no fixed political orientation?

I am a man of no fixed political ideology, because political ideologies are just words, they don’t mean anything if you do not intend to help the development of the people. For me, whether you are democrat or a republican in the United States, what is the bottom line, what are you in this for, and that is why I have not taken a position that I will live and die a democrat or a republican.

In Nigeria for instance, the Action Congress of Nigeria, now the APC will tell you that

The most undemocratic people in Nigeria are in APC — Dr. Pearse •Explains why he would be Lagos governor they are the liberal party, that they are the progressives, and yet we all know that the most undemocratic people in this country are the people in this so-called progressive party.

So, that is why it is not in the interest of anybody to hold anyone down with one ideology because the fact of the matter is it is what you do with the position you have, wherever you find yourself that is most important. Are we going to say that people in the APC have more integrity than those in the PDP? No, you have to take people for who they are as individuals, and see what they stand for, that is the way I look at politics.

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had a leader at the national level who was hardly anything different from what we have now in the APC leadership. Where they impose, when you win an election, they bring another person and impose them.

You mean Obasanjo?

Well, if you say so, you have said it. That is the person that discouraged us from working within the party because of what we experienced with imposition. We don’t have that now, and we are very happy working as members of the PDP. What about your structure?

Well, let me tell you my

My interest in politics is simply an opportunity for me to use the educational training and professional experience to do all I can to help the under-privileged and to help the development of my state

How strong is your political base, and have you been tested in the Nigerian politics, have you held any elective position before now?

As for the political base, I am a member of the PDP. I have been an official member of the party since 2006. The reason why I have been in several parties is because I have tested them and now I tell you something, what is going on now in the PDP is impressive.

Now, we have a president, the leader of the party who does not impose, who believes in elections.

The problem we had in the past, why we were unhappy with the PDP was because we

,

experience, then you will understand that there is no way I won’t have a structure.

I was invited in 2006 after the death of the late Funsho Williams to be the campaign manager for his wife, whom Obasanjo, our President at that time said was his candidate.

I did my job very well and with what we had, we were able to win the primaries. So, you can see where I am coming from in terms of my political experience. We won the primaries and we had to go for re-run and you know we won the re-run also.

That is my experience as a politician. I am basically a political strategist and a campaign organiser. I don’t

•Pearse lose elections. I did it for many years in the United States and I have done it here also. In 1992, I was the Director of Operations for Lagos State Campaign for Adamu Ciroma for President of Nigeria.

So, that is the kind of background that I bring into politics. I have never run for office here, but I have been involved in so many campaigns. Also, when we left the PDP in 2007, after we had been robbed and we came into the APC, I also worked as a consultant for Babatunde Raji

Oshiomhole can't pick his successor — Orbih Continues from page 25 to impeach him. The Nigerian Constitution provides conditions and processes to be followed in matters relating to impeachment. It is only the elected representatives of the people that can impeach the governor of a state. If they feel the governor of Edo State has committed impeachable offences, they would look at it.

However, for us as party, we are not interested in his impeachment. We are just looking forward to the elections of 2015 and 2016 where we shall teach the APC a political

lesson. It is obvious that the APC is afraid of a crushing defeat come 2015 and 2016, hence they are singing this worn-out tune.

How prepared is your party for the 2015 general election?

As you know very well, campaigns have not started.

Right we are focusing on conducting free and fair primaries to pick candidates who will fly our flag in the general election of next year.

In the last few months the party has been busy receiving thousands of defectors from the APC, who have become tired

of the lies and deceits in the APC. Many of these people were original PDP members who were swayed by the deceits of Governor Oshiomhole. Now, they are back in the party and together we are building the party. For those who are just coming into the party and those they met in the party, we have assured them that we will create a level playing field for all. We are not just saying this, we mean it. This is the attraction in the PDP and what marks us from the other party.

What you are witnessing in Edo State is unprecedented because it is the first time

people are leaving the ruling party for the opposition party.

Hitherto, the reverse has always been the case. People have seen that the PDP is the only Democratic Party in the country where aspirants are not imposed on the party.

Edo people have tasted the APC and have come to the realization that they need to be in the mainstream of Nigeria’s political system. For us, we are sure of victory next year. The misrule of Governor Oshiomhole has given us the assurance that we will defeat the APC.

Fashola. So, when you see the campaigns going in such a way and we demolish all the opposition, it is because people like me are doing the work. So, if I am going to do this for myself, you can imagine that I am going to do a good job.

You also need a deep pocket, are you sure you are ready?

I am ready. I know what it takes, I know how to get the money, and I know that I have everything that I need to win this election. First, I am sure you appreciate that for me to have gone this far, whereby I have been consulting for the last one year, meetings upon meetings, events upon events, it involves money. I have been able to carry myself to this point and I know what it takes to go forward, we are ready. I tell you something, another advantage, if you look at the way it should be, could be said to be a great advantage.

One of the issues raised about Lagos PDP is that their house is not in order, how do you react to this?

It’ s not true at all. A lot of it is uninformed.

30 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

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Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 —31

Nigerian music industry needs a doctor to treat its ailment — King Sunny Ade *Says he’s ready to do collaboration with young artistes

J

uju music icon ,King Sunny Ade turned 68, on Monday, September 22,2014. The legendary singer who has been nominated severally for the Grammy awards with over 100 albums to his credit is still bubbling with life. He had a quiet session with Weekend Groove in his country home, in Akure, the Ondo State capital during the week, where he bares his mind on a number of issues bothering on the Nigerian music scene, his long sojourn in the industry and more .

BY BENJAMIN NJOKU Your were 68 years on Monday, and in two years time, you will be 70. Are you working on a new album to celebrate the milestone?

I pray that God should keep me alive till that time. But I plan my things in an elaborate way. I prefer to work with you media guys in order to make it happen. I cannot do it alone or stand here to tell you that I will do this or that and probably end up not doing anything at the end of the day.

It will look like, why did you have to make a promise that you cannot fulfill. It’s certain that I am going to celebrate my 70th birthday elaborately because I have never been there

Anita Joseph on location in Atlanta C M Y K

before.

Was your birth recorded at the time you were born?

That will be for my family to provide the answer.

The impression people have is that you now spend more time in Ondo State than in Lagos?

I spend more time in Lagos than I spend in Ondo State.

That’s what people don’t know. I have my office in Lagos, and my family lives there. Like I said last year, I am planning to return to Akure finally. But it has to be a gradual process. There are certain things I need to put in place. But here is like a country home for me. It provides me that relaxation spot that is lacking in the city of Lagos.

What has God done for you in the past one year?

He spared my life. In the last one year, I have never had any cause to be hospitalised and my music has not stopped either. This year is a little bit better than last year.

When you look into the mirror and see yourself still looking healthy, how do you feel?

I don’t look into the mirror.

D’banj came on stage, there was no room for us to rehearse. I simply told him to play any song that he wants to play, and I will flow with it. And that was what I did

Ibinabo Fiberesima’s birthday message to Segun Arinze

You are my mirror. When I look into the mirror, there is the tendency that I would see that all is not well. But if you tell me that I am looking well fed.

I will thank God for my life that after all the toiling and hustling for survival, someone would look into my eyes and tell me that I am looking healthy. Well, I would take that as a compliment. It’s better for me than looking into the mirror.

Victor Olaiya did a collaboration with 2face last year. Are you planning to do a collabo with the young artistes?

Recently, I was on stage with Wizkid, Olamide and other artistes at Mo’Abudu’s birthday anniversary. I am in

A fresh look at social media addiction

the family of the new generation of artistes. Any artiste that wants to do collaboration with me, I am ready to do so with him.

At the last Glo Evergreen musical event, you did a very perfect combination with D’banj. How did you blend with him?

Actually, we did not rehearse together to perform on stage.

I didn’t even know much about the song that we performed.

But when D’banj came on stage, there was no room for us to rehearse. I simply told him to play any song that he wants to play, and I would flow with it. And that was what I did. Interestingly, the song I sang was composed on stage.

Are you disappointed with what is happening these days, where the new generation of artistes hardly handle musical instruments compared to your own time?

I wouldn’t say I am disappointed because I left my gui

Continues on page 32

32—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Continues from page 31

guitarists in the world.

tar for a while, but now, I am going back to it. You saw the difference during the Glo Evergreen musical event. It also happened last night at an event organised to celebrate me at 68. I wouldn’t say it’s a disappointment. We are going to work together to get it right.

Are you saying that if you leave your guitar with a Mexican and American musician, Carlos Santana, he wouldn’t understand how you tuned it and be able to play it?

If I leave my guitar with him and when he picks it, he will understand how I tuned it.

But if he leaves his own guitar with me, I will try my best to play it. He plays his guitar on regular, while mine is open cord.

At 68, do you feel the same when you come on stage?

Unless there is no instrument, sound and music on stage. When I climb the stage, I’m there to make everybody happy until the end of the show. I feel satisfied when I make people happy.

What is it like, moving a big band like yours?

My band started with about four to five members. But today, I have a 50-member band. Sometimes, I will be on stage with 23 of them including the two engineers and the dancers. We have about two to three trucks that move my musical equipment around. It’s not easy to move a big band, but I saw something in-between. I started moving a big band a long time ago. Moving a big band is like playing a card.

Sometimes, you loose and at other times, you win. I move almost 27/28 members of my band abroad. But now, I have streamlined it. I have reduced my dancers from five to two dancers and I have also reduced my piece man, from 23 to 17, including two engineers.

Was there any point in your musical career when you felt like dumping your guitar?

Even if it occurred, I did not give up. This is because in everything, especially when you are managing human beings, you have to be focused. For instance, when the band broke up, if I didn’t have foresight it would take me a long time to bring the band back to its feet. But when it occurs like that, I quickly put on my thinking cap. And that’s why I used to hold the centre of the boat. When the boat is sinking, I would raise it up, and when it’s going in the wrong direction, I would redirect it. But I wonder if I have ever thought of giving up my musical career.

Let’s talk about your genre which is juju music.What’s your take on the future of juju music in Nigeria?

It’s not juju music alone. It’s about all genres of music in Nigeria. The Nigerian music industry itself needs a doctor to treat its ailment. How many music and musicians are in existence today? Some of us cannot afford to purchase our musical instruments. You can’t

Are planning to do collaboration with him?

Carlos Santana is my friend. He did one collaboration with some artistes recently.

He was inducted into the Hall of Fame. We are still celebrating him.

*King Sunny Ade and Wizkid

Says he’s ready to collaborate with young artistes get a very good guitar at anything less than N60,000,00. Except you want to buy a low quality guitar. Musical instruments are very expansive. Musicians are fashioning out ways of producing their music. And for you to satisfy Nigerians with your music,

you must always be good at your craft. It costs a lot of money. If young artistes want to copy my music, it would cost them a lot of money. It’s not only juju music, it also affects other genres of music in Nigeria. Most of us who perform at shows,almost everyday hire instruments. Unfortunately, those who hire out these instruments have categorised them to the detriment of the musicians.

That’s why these days, you have musicians who record their music using back up voices.

Have you ever been inspired to fashion out your own style of playing guitar which many known guitarists all over the world do?

Yes, I have my own style of playing my guitar. I have my lines on how I play my guitar. If I leave my guitar here, and you are a guitarist, you can’t play it because of the way I tuned it. You have to study my guitar before you can

Most of us who perform at shows, nearly everyday hire instruments.

Unfortunately, those who hire out these instruments have categorised them to the detriment of the musicians. That’s why these days, you have musicians who record their music using back up voices

play it. All over the world, you hardly can come across somebody who plays a guitar with his fingers.

I don’t use pick. I decided when I started my musical career to create a unique style and my line of guitar.

That’s why I can use my guitar to sing whatever song I want to sing effortlessly. I play rhythm in my guitar and that’s my own creation.

That was why several years ago, I came 68 as one of the best

In Nigeria, your music is described as Juju, but at the international scene, your music is categorised under world beat.

Do you agree with the categorisation of your music as world beat?

When they gave me that award as the King of World Beat, they had a problem of categorising our music. But it was because of my music that they now created the World Beat.

You were recently given professorship by the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. What is expected of you in that capacity?

A lot is expect of me; my experience in music. I don’t even want a monetary reward. But my utmost concern is to groom future musicians straight from the university. Until now, I am the only musician in Nigeria who has bagged Doctorate degrees in University of Ibadan as well as Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. I am expecting another surprise which I wouldn’t want to talk about here.

What’s your take on entertainers who are going into politics?

I don’t want to comment on that because I don’t know what inspired them into politics. I am not a politician. But whoever wants to go into politics, good luck to the person. To me, I don’t play politics, and I don’t want to be a politician. So, I cannot speak for them because they know why they went into it.

Given your busy schedule, how do you find time to stay with your family?

I still thank my God for holding my family together for me. When you are serving humanity, your family suffers a lot. This is because when my children are going to school, I will be returning home to sleep. And by the time, they are returning from school, I would be on my way out of the house.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 —33

Anita Joseph on location in Atlanta C

Heineken brings world's famous D Js tto o par ty in Lagos DJs party

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eineken, world’s leading international beer is set to shut down Lagos for the next two months with an amazing combo of the world’s renowned DJs and spectacular music.

Tagged ‘Heineken Green Light’ the club parties will feature the limited edition Heineken Smart bottle called Ignite, which is an interactive bottle that lights up in sync with beat of music, when cheering with the bottle and when taking a sip.

First to set the club tour series in motion is super star Akon’s official DJ, DJ Benny D who will be turning tables at Club Escape Victoria Island Lagos on the 4th of October

2014. International superstar, DJ Benny D, real name Benny Demus has one of his singles ‘Don’t Let Up’ which he produced, appear on Akon’s multi-platinum CD, which sold over three million copies worldwide and also official DJ for renowned American female rapper, Eve as well as RnB group TLC..

In coming weeks, Heineken is set to change the face of clubbing nights in Lagos with two other superstar DJs who will storm Lagos with the most surreal party experiences for Heineken lovers. Names of other DJs on the Heineken Green Light club parties will be announced subsequently say organizers.

anwu Uche Iwuany

urvaceous Nollywood diva, Anita Joseph is currently keeping the wolves off her door in faraway Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America on set of yet to be titled m o v i e .

Contrary to earlier reports that the actress was on vacation, WG, can authoritatively report that she travelled mainly for work reasons while trying to catch her fun at the same time.

The actress who spoke with WG from Atlanta further revealed that it is only the first part of the movie that is being shot in Atlanta, stating that the concluding part will be shot in Nigeria as soon as the Atlanta operation is concluded. “ It is a comedy drama that has a serious edge to it. In the movie I play the role of a company boss who was dating his subordinate, that is, the producer of the movie, Emma Odeli. Though I was married in the movie but still sleeping with my subordinate in the office. Most of the cast are from here in Atlanta. The guy who played my husband is from Nigeria but lives here in Atlanta” she said.

More money for losers as Star The Winner hits semifinal rounds

goes

oon m y e n o h d n o on sec bo with Alex Eku

S

exy Nollywood actress, Uche Iwuanyanwu, who is still reveling in the euphoria of her Ghanaian movie Cheaters, and Nollywood dashing actor, Alex Ekubo are right now getting under each other's skins to bring to life what exactly an erotic love escapade means in a new movie Second Honeymoon.

In the soon-to-be-concluded movie, a couple, Alex Ekubo and Adunni Ade decided to spice their relationship up by going on a second honeymoon but as things turned out, there was a spoiler, Uche Iwuanyanwu, lurking around to make sure the honeymoon ends in tatters. Uche is the girlfriend working on Alex behind Adunni's back. The thrust of the movie is the emotional intrigues involved with viewers to be kept on the edge of their seats whether the experience would make or mar the marriage of the couple, as Adunni soon found out the tryst between Alex and Uche.

Dabby Chimere is the executive producer, Lawrita Obioha, associate producer, with Okechukwu Ifeanyi as the director.

The wardrobe is handled by Yvonne Chioma of Yveoma Couture.

Other cast members include Dabby Chimere and Uzor Arukwe.

A

fter ten weeks of intense battle duels and tests of self-confidence, Jackson Okoro became the 10th contestant to shine through to the semi final rounds of Nigeria’s first music game show 'Star The Winner Is'.

Over the weekend, the six contestants who graced the stage to battle out for the final spot in the next rounds seemed to realize that they had a lot at stake which made them deliver spectacular performances all aimed at the mouth watering prize of 10million naira and a brand new car.

26-year-old banker, Jackson Okoro emerged victorious in last weekend’s episode as he scaled through all three rounds beating his opponents

in each round, leaving them the choice to walk away with the prize money offered or go home empty handed.

Other impressive contestants on the last episode were 22-year-old Nnenna Egwuekwe, Victoria Ufot, 21-year-old rapper, Emorinken Akhigbe, and Andre Akpanke.

Current semifinalists on the show are Philip, Brenda, Happiness, Naomi, Rhema, Jahtell, Roxy, Micheal, Job and Jackson and next phase of the competition will deliver tougher duels.The cash offers will be taken a notch higher between six hundred thousand naira and two million naira in coming episodes.

C M Y K

34 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Remembering Joan Rivers in Words and Comedy

to do Fashion Police because I thought, this is stupid, this is beneath me, who wants to talk about fashion? It has taken off; we are the number 1 show in England on E. Who knew?”

Here are other Joan Rivers quotes- our favourites 1 .

I’m in nobody’s circle.

I’ve alw a y s been an outsider 2.

My husband wanted to be cre-

sa, you ripped me to shreds.

Now go back to sleep!’

4. I’ve learnt from doing your own show with Fox that people are not your partners if they are signing the checks. Whoever signs your paycheck is the boss, no matter what they tell you.

5. Elizabeth Taylor has more chins than the Chinese telephone directory 6. The first time I see a jogger smiling, I’ll consider it.

7. Everyone forgets comedians are actors. There’s no question about it. A Robin Williams cannot say the same line every night for 40 weeks and make it sound fresh unless he’s doing an acting job.

8. I wish I had a twin so I could know what I’d look like without plastic surgery

Joan Rivers was an old timer who was totally unknown to anyone under 30. She ruled the screens alongside other greats like Joans Collins and Elizabeth Taylor; but she refused to be confined to the past.

Turning herself into the queen of reinvention, she rummaged

up a little group that includes her birth daughter and begun the internationally sensational show: Fashion Police.

It came at a time when social networking had possibilities of growth in the entertainment industry bursting at the seams, and entertainment became even bigger business

than it had been- just by making celebrity that much attainable.

According to Rivers, she had hoped to have marginal success at the show, being so much older in age than the subjects of the show. Instead, it had been number one in many countries. “I didn’t want

mated. I told him I’d scatter his ashes at Neiman Marcus. That way, I’d visit him everyday.

3. Don’t tell your kids you had an easy birth, or they won’t respect you. For years I used to wake up my daughter and say, ‘Melis-

Using women and girls as spoils of war

BY VERA SAMUEL ANYAGAFU

Every once in a while we hear cases of different levels of violence against women and girls in the society, and one wonders why such ugly incidences could not be barred in the country, even in the midst of several nice and open opportunities.

Nigeria is so saturated with less valued talks in respect of violence against women and girls, especially in conflict zones and at the moment, the issue is becoming extremely rampant.

A Nigerian Human Transformational Coach, Liala Saint Mathew Daniels, who is dissatisfied with the rate of violence against women and girls in some countries in West Africa, including Nigeria, told Lipstick that the issue of violence against women and girls in the country is soaring like never before and demands urgent emerging concerns and plausible solutions.

According to her, it is an aspect of terrorism that should seek urgent attention across the world.

In her keynote address, the

Transitional Life Strategist, Emotions Therapist, Psychologist, Executive Leadership Coach/Trainer and CEO of Jacinta Limited, a Lifestyle Re-Engineering Company said that the increasing levels of violence against women and girls, and many other documented abuses against them, highlights the need for n international conference on Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Trafficking of women and girls in our society.

Emphasizing on the importance of an International conference in addressing some of these issues Liala said: “Will address various issues that concern women and girls from a pro-active dimension.”

Hitherto, sensitisation and awareness programmes, workshops, rallies, have been on-going by various concerned individuals, and NGO’s, but more than ever before there is a growing need to address the issue of violence against women and girls more proactively rather than being reactionary.”

She also pointed out that taking a step that emphasiz-

Liala Saint Mathew Daniels es on the need to re-prioritize, strengthen and expand existing advocacy, awareness and security efforts on the

9. I blame my mother for my poor sex life. All she told me was ‘the man goes on top and the woman underneath’. For three years my husband and I slept in bunk beds 10. I’ve had so much plastic surgery, when I die they will donate my body to Tupperware. (Well, they didn’t)

issue of violence and abuse against women and children in Nigeria and the rest of Africa is a step in the right direction.

According to her, “The upcoming international conference will be the ‘First’ of its kind on Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault & Trafficking Conference in Nigeria”, adding, “it will bring additional knowledge, training opportunities, solutions and enlightenment of this pandemic that is not only of concern in Nigeria but all over the world.”

Furthermore, Laila St. Mathew Daniel reiterated that, “Of particular interest is the negative impact of this pandemic on the corporate and business landscape of the country.

"And from research done on CSR projects, we found that organizations focus on sponsoring awareness drives for HIV/Aids, Cancer and Malaria.

"These are presumed to be life threatening diseases, however violence and abuse are life issues that impact negatively and can be life threatening in the family (for generations), affects the learning ability of children; affects productivity and peak performance in the workplace, and pollutes communities and the nation.”

The upcoming Conference with the theme, ‘Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault & Trafficking: “The Emerging Concerns and Plausible Solutions’ (IC-DVSAT), coincides with the World 16 Day of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

It is a 2 day International Conference scheduled for 27 through 28 November at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 —

35

Fashola urges women to champion campaign for state Police G

By OLASUNKANMI AKONI

overnor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, SAN, has called on Nigerian women to campaign vigorously for the establishment of a state Police in the country as a means of ensuring their protection and that of their children against abuse saying women issues in crime management had been subordinated by the challenges of insecurity in the country in recent times.

Fashola, who spoke at the Eko Hotel and Suites venue of the 14th National Women’s Conference with the theme, “Embracing and Managing Change”, organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), said the nation’s policing capacity requirement would never be sufficient to enforce the numerous laws and policies made to protect women and children against abuse without the institution of state Police.

Recalling that his administration instituted the Child Rights Law, the first in Nigeria, the Criminal Justice Act for pregnant women and made post-partum depression a criminal defence under the state’s law, among other laws for the protection of women and children in the state, Fashola, however, said without sufficient policing capacity, government can only hope that those entrusted with the enforcement would “act voluntarily”.

Other laws and policies made by the state government to protect the rights of women and children and promote the rights of women in the state, the governor said, include; Law Against Domestic Violence and Abuse which led to the establishment of a Transit Home in Alimosho for women and children who are victims of domestic violence and the extension of maternity leave for nursing mothers from three months to six months with full pay.

He also recalled the recent historic event in the state Judiciary where a retiring female Chief Judge of the State, Justice Ayo Philips, handed over to her sister, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade as Chief Judge of the state saying not only was the incident the first in Nigeria and beyond, it also reflects the significant esteem in which his administration hold women in the state.

“Now, if you appreciate that quite a number of our women suffer post-partum depression and because that defence was not available, a woman who has been traumatized also ends up either in jail because society did not understand what was wrong with her, then you will appre-

First Lady of Lagos State and Chairman, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Dame Emmanuella Abimbola Fashola (3rd left) with the awardees: Iya Oge of Lagos, Chief Opral Benson (3rd right); Iyalode of Lagos, Hajia Bintu Tinubu (2nd right); Mrs. Wonu Folami (2nd left); Mrs. Feyintola Muri-Okunola (left) and former Special Adviser on Central Business District, Mrs. Derin Disu (right) during the opening ceremony of the 2014 National Women Conference with the theme, “Embracing and Managing Change”, organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) in Lagos.

Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State (2nd right); Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State (2nd left), Chairman, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) and First Lady of Lagos State, Dame Emmanuella Abimbola Fashola (right) and her Ogun State counterpart, Mrs. Funsho Amosun at the event.

ciate the importance of this law”, the Governor said.

He also noted with pride that his administration had redefined its commitment to parenting, to healthy babies, to family life and its advocacy for breast feeding by extending the maternity leave for nursing mothers from three months to six months with full pay adding, “If you want to know how ground breaking this policy is, just check to know what is happening in other parts of Africa, in Europe and America, to see what others are doing”.

Stressing that all of the aforementioned policies confer right on women and children and which are expected to be implemented voluntarily by those charged with the duty Fashola added, “But we must ensure that where they do not act voluntarily, the coercive authority of state is able

to protect them from rapists, from wife beaters, from child molesters”.

“This, for me, is the strongest case possible that can be made for state policing and women

for the many laudable projects it has initiated and implemented adding that since her inaugural Conference in 2007 till date the Committee “has moved in great leaps and in great bounds”.

Noting that COWLSO has supported his administration in no small way; “by prayers, by physical presence, by advice and in many more ways than I can recall”, the Governor declared, “My gratitude is deep; my gratitude is profound to COWLSO. “Truly I could talk about the many life changing initiatives that COWLSO has initiated and implemented. I could speak about the various community centres and about the Retiree Village.

But I will not. I will only re-

Lagos State Government remains truly committed to promoting and protecting the rights of women and of children

must take up the challenge and campaign if their rights are really to be well protected”, the governor said adding that local sanitation laws, traffic laws, stealing, child rights law, domestic violence laws are all matters which should effectively and comfortably sit within the jurisdiction of a State Police.

The governor commended COWLSO and its leadership

mind you of the work that lies ahead”, he said adding, “We will reward you in the special Lagos way by giving you more work. That is the spirit of Lagos. But as you do that, rest assured that the Lagos State Government remains truly committed to promoting and protecting the rights of women and of children”.

While declaring the Con-

ference open, Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, also commended COWLSO for its commitment and continuity which, according to him, had enabled the committee sustain itself over the years adding that for an organization to be alive and very active for 14 years was not a mean feat.

He said in order to continue to remain relevant and move forward, the committee must engage in continuous self evaluation and keep abreast with issues that will keep them constantly in high esteem in public estimation by embracing change when they should do so.

“The truth about intervention is that issues and challenges will continue to arise and the ability of COWLSO to confront, resolve and overcome these issues and challenges will ensure that the committee will continue to grow from strength to strength’, the governor said.

Earlier in her welcome address, the First Lady and Chairman of COWLSO, Dame Emmanuella Abimbola Fashola, said aside from sustaining the platform provided by the conference to exchange ideas on Family and women issues.

COWLSO has also, over the years, ensured the judicious use of the funds generated from the conference fees and donations on people-oriented projects and programmes.

36 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—37

N

ollywood seasoned actor and former Actors Guild of Nigeria President, Segun Arinze, added another year on Wednesday, September 24th and one of the first persons to reach out to him in greeting was the woman who took over from him, Ibinabo Fiberesima, the reigning AGN president.

In her Blackberrry broadcast message titled ‘Tribute to Segun Arinze’ the actress eulogised the virtues of the birthday boy.

“Some people always inspire others even while facing tough times themselves. I want to tell you, Segun Arinze that you are one of those special kind of people. No matter how challenging things get, you never seem overwhelmed or

Ibinabo Fiberesima’s birthday message to Segun Arinze discouraged. You are always finding the good in life and being grateful for everything you have. It’s really a blessing to know someone who has such a warm and positive spirit. Happy Birthday my brother, friend and Apressy

Segun Arinze” she wrote.

Recall that Segun Arinze has been one of the staunchest supporters of the woman leader. Even when veteran actress, Clarion Chukwura picketed Ibinabo as a self-serving president of the actors guild, it was Segun that was most vocal in attacking Chukwura over her comments on the AGN president.

Meet Lillian Afegbai, Nigeria’s face at BBA season 9

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Actress, Blessing Patrick bags pastoral degree N

ollywood actress, Blessing Patrick who won the City People Best New Actress of the Year award (2013) recently told Vanguard that she is undergoing spiritual rebirth to re-focus her life. In the interview, she explained why she has not been active in the movie world in recent times. “ I took a break to go for my spiritual empowerment, in the headquarters of my church. I just finished my foundation class and heading for the maturity class, in Abuja. I am laying some spiritual foundation in the Lord and proceeding to pastoral class” she said.

Blessing has however completed the first stage of her study as she has bagged a diploma degree from the bible school. “I want to operate in that realm of the truth where I will always be sure of the power of God. I have not left acting, I have a film I am working on. I am only putting my spiritual life in place before embarking on my mission fully in Nollywood” she stated.

Net has unveiled the first Nigerian housemate for Season 9 of Big Brother Africa and her name is Lillian. The show t a g g e d “Hotshots” is scheduled to begin in South Africa on Sunday, October 5.

Lillian Afegbai is a 22-year old Nigerian model, actress and TV presenter. She has appeared in Tinsel, an Mnet series and is a friend to Denrele Edun, a media personality. She resigned her job in August to be part of the Big Brother Africa, BBA, reality show.

Lamboginny, Clay launch awareness campaign on Ebola

By ESTHER ONYEGBULA

H

umanitarian music star “Lamboginny” and fast rising rap artiste “Clay”, took the reality in their recently released musical collaboration titled #Broken to the field on Saturday morning in a secluded rural community of Nanti village popularly referred to as the Snake Island in Lagos.

It was indeed a day to remember for the Nanti villagers who trooped out in style with their Baale to receive the music stars, who were joined by the Nigerian Red Cross as they provided the remote C M Y K

community with a life-saving awareness on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation.

Apart from the fact that free hygiene materials were distributed, medical experts were also on ground to deliver adequate and explicit lecture on the virus and how to maintain a clean hand and safe environment. In an attempt to combat the spread of the deadly virus called Ebola, the duo of Lamboginny and Clay understood the need to tackle it from the rural areas and so they picked the secluded Nanti village.

38—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 With PRINCE OSUAGWU princeosuagwu@gmail.com 08050498513

Ever thought of luxury for your clothes?

Y

A fresh look at social media addiction

BY KEHINDE AJOSE

I

t isn’t news that social media platforms can be addictive. But Glamtech came face to face with a shocking example of social media addiction with tumultous, yet hilarious consequences in Lagos recently.

It began when a young man ignored his girlfriend at the bus stop along Yaba environs of Lagos. He owed her a long overdue explanation for his divided attention and mischievous laughter while chatting on his phone. His girl friend who had endured the excruciating wait for some quality time from her man, had begun to share her moments from a movie they had seen at a cinema when her man switched to his Palmchat, with eyes fixed on the phone screen and fingers punching letters from the phone’s key pad. The poor girl demanded for the attention she deserved politely.He again apologized and put his cell phone on sleep mode while his girl resumed her talking. In less than 5 minutes the guy pulled out his phone while his damsel was looking him straight in the eyes, flicked the cell phone’s function button

and returned to his Palmchat mode; this time sending several loud chuckles to whoever he was chatting up.

This was when all hell broke loose. The obviously angry girl threw all caution to the wind and went ballistic, pulling for the cell phone. In a matter of minutes, the lover’s spat had turned to a street fight along the Yaba bus stop while passers-by enjoyed the drama unfolding before their eyes.

Social platforms on smart phones can be quite an

interesting experience especially with Nigeria’s trending platform, Palmchat overrunning the young and hearty right now. With over 80,000 users worldwide signing up daily, Palmchat has joined millions of users around the world in sharing the fun of mobile social experience. In spite of our love for these platforms there is a huge need to create balance in order to avoid addictions and pay attention to the task at hand.

our clothes are to a large extent, a part of you.

Remember the phrase: ‘’Dress the way you want to be addressed?” It isn’t just a cliche, it’s the truth. If you’re neat, your clothes will tell. If you’re luxurious, anyone will know that simply by looking at your clothes.

That’s where care for your clothes comes in. LG Electronics recently announced the release of its latest big capacity top-loading washing machines, equipped with powerful heaters that enable warm washing for hygienic cleaning results to prove the point that your clothes deserve luxury. The hygiene-enhancing capabilities of LG’s latest top loaders are largely due to the high performance heater.

Equipped inside the full stainless steel tub, the heater increases the water temperature up to 65 degrees Celsius, creating a warm wash for more effective cleaning.

With the stain care course, the internal temperature of the washer is raised to 40 degrees Celsius for effective stain removal. Meanwhile, the allergy care course employs 60-degree heat to eliminate allergy-causing germs and bacteria from clothing. “We designed these new top-loaders with the consumers’ needs in mind, making sure they provided greater hygiene and a bigger capacity,” said Mr. Hyunwoo Jung, General Manager, Home Appliance Division, LG Electronics West Africa Operations. “With world leading technologies like the 6 Motion Direct Drive, LG will continue to lead the global

.

LG Sapience

washing machine market and maintain its efforts to become the global number one brand in the home appliance market.”

Also equipped is an innovative steam function, a first in the top-loading washing machine industry, which rapidly increases and maintains the temperature of the internal tub, further enhancing washing results.

LG’s new top loaders are also the only top-loading washing machines to use the heater to hygienically clean the washing tub. Used in LG’s Tub Clean+, the heater raises the internal temperature to 60 degrees Celsius, helping to reduce dirt and germs inside of the washing machine.

Tested by Intertek, LG’s Tub Clean+ course makes it 99.99 percent effective at sterilizing the washer tub. Furthermore, the full stainless steel tub results in up to 90 percent less bacteria growth than a conventional LG plastic washer tub. It has also been tested by Intertek for its ability to limit bacteria growth.

Intertek is the leading provider of quality, safety, testing, inspection and certification.

Fans to watch Big Brother series on GOtv

BY ANULI EDOM

F

ans of big brother Africa, will no longer have to wait in anticipation until the launch on the 5th of October to meet the big brother hotshots.

This is because M-net and series producers, Endemol SA, last week, unveiled the names of the participating housemates live on the official Big Brother website.

Meanwhile the producers say Fans can catch the live eviction shows as well as the best of the live daily and weekly highlights on Africa magic

family, and Africa magic world on GOtv. M-Net and Series, has taken up the task of introducing only three big brother housemates on a daily basis, which

it commenced on 18th September, followed by regular updates on social media.

According to M-Net Regional Director (West Africa) Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, “the show

will go on, and both fans and housemates are in for some riveting television, coupled with all the drama, intrigue and heart-stopping twists that have become synonymous with the reality show.

We are breaking new ground and the website and social media are the perfect platforms to engage with fans in real time”.

During the 8th season of big brother, over six million fans interacted with the website, facebook, twitter, with the website generating just over 200million impressions and opinions.

C M Y K

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 — 39

‘Why I love Cape Town’

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olaji Mustapha, Managing Director of TTL Tours in this chat talks about her travels.

Why she likes going to South Africa.

Vice President Namadi Sambo with Tourism Minister, Edem Duke and other dignitaries at the unveiling of the Fascinating Nigeria brand last year.

WTD 2014: Nigeria stakes non-oil revenue hope on tourism

By JIMOH BABATUNDE

A

s Nigerians look forward to the time when a good portion of the country’s wealth will come from the tourism industry, the nation will tomorrow be joining others worldwide to mark this year’s Tourism Day with the theme “Tourism and Community Development.”

Tourism stakeholders are however sad that the sun, sea, sand, smiles of Nigerian people, its unique culture, and the unexplainable beautiful flora and fauna of the country have not been harnessed for economic growth.

They are hoping that the celebration of the World Tourism Day which commenced in 1980 will help to foster awareness among Nigerians of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value.

The event seeks to address global challenges outlined in the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and to highlight the contribution the tourism industry can make in reaching these goals.

This year’s observance of World Tourism Day focuses on the ability of tourism to fully empower people. Engaging local populations in tourism development, builds stronger and more resilient communities.

United Nations’ Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, speaking ahead of the celebration said tourism helps people to develop a variety of C M Y K

skills. “As a service sector with cross-cutting impact on agriculture, construction or handicrafts, tourism creates millions of jobs and business opportunities.

“Its capacity to lift people from poverty, promote gender empowerment and help protect the environment has made it a vital tool for achieving positive change in communities across the world.

He said harnessing tourism’s benefits will be critical to achieving the sustainable development goals and implementing the post-2015 development agenda.

U

NWorld Tourism Organisation’s Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, said as the world approach the 2015 deadline established for the United Nations Millennium Development Goals , this year ’s World Tourism Day represents an opportunity to further advance tourism’s contribution to economic, social and environmental sustainability.

“Empowering individuals and communities around the world at all levels through tourism can be a fundamental step towards these goals.”

“On the occasion of World Tourism Day 2014, I would like to invite all tourism stakeholders and host communities to come together and celebrate this day as a symbol of our common efforts in making tourism a true pillar of community development and community development the basis of a more sustainable

tourism sector.”

Other countries of the world have lined up program and activities to mark the day, here in Nigeria, the ministry of Culture and Tourism in conjunction with the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) will be hold a full day activities in Abuja.

Speaking with Vanguard on phone, the Director General, NTDC, Mrs. Sally Mbanefo, said the corporation with the support of Goodluck Jonathan is putting structures in place to encourage tourism growth in Nigeria. She said what the President is doing in terms of infrastructure upgrade in the country are good for tourism growth.

“All these are lubricants to the wheel of tourism development in Nigeria. The Jonathan-led administration meant so well for the course of tourism

development in Nigeria, hence all stakeholders must join this progressive course.”

Mrs. Mbanefo explained that her domestic tourism campaign is to create wealth and jobs at the grassroots, adding that each time we travel, use local transport at a destination or buy products from a local market we are contributing to a long value chain that creates jobs, provides livelihoods, empowers local communities, and ultimately brings in new opportunities for a better future.

She added “the theme of World Tourism Day 2014 – Tourism and Community Development – brings to the forefront the potential that tourism has to promote new socio-economic opportunities. and better livelihoods for communities around the world.”

Golden Tulip opens for business in Warri

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he Niger Delta has continued to maintain its lead in the hospitality sector in the South South states with the recent opening for business by Golden Tulip Warri Airport Hotel.

The magnificent hotel with an impressive aesthetically appealing edifice, is easily accessible from any part of the oil rich city of Warri.

It is well situated for business, leisure and travels and enjoys a high sense of luxury, comfort and beauty. With 192 luxuriously furnished rooms, its array of facilities and services include conference hall, meeting rooms, restaurant, bar, leisure and entertainment of all classes.

According to the general manager of the newly opened high end hotel, Akram Daoud, the hotel with an international ambiance tempered by local flavours offers high standard and quality facilities and services and managed by staff that are professionals and highly motivated to deliver on the mission of the hotel.

On how long she has been travelling I started travelling out of the country some 15 years ago to different countries of the world.

On what travelling has taught her Travelling has really exposed me to a lot of new things and widened my horizon which has reaffirmed the saying that travelling is part of education.

On her best city One city I love visiting is Cape Town in South Africa.

Cape Town is a city I love to visit always. It is my favourite destination. I travel for leisure and business.

Cape Town is the quintessential melting pot: it is a city alive with creativity, colour, sounds and tastes.

While walking through the city’s streets and meeting its people, you will fall in love with its natural beauty, creative freedom and incredible spirit.

Cape Town is a city where the unexpected is always just around the corner and the beautiful province of the Western Cape lies ready to be

zBolaji Mustapha explored across the city border.

I do take people on tour to South Africa yearly, mostly in January and we do Jo’burgCape Town. Cape Town is one of the favourite cities people want to visit.

On her companion while travelling I will not travel without my pepper (Hot Chili) . I love chilies in my food, knowing fully well that South Africans don’t like pepper; I take it along with me so as to add to my food.

On what she reads on board I read literature that has to do with travel destinations.

This affords me the opportunities of knowing more about the products I sell to my clients.

I want to know what is new about the destinations in terms of accommodations and new attractions.

On her best hotels I love Southern Sun hotels mostly.

On her best airline South Africa Airways is my number one airline. If I have to travel, it has to be SAA. On if she tries local food when she travels Whenever I travel to new destination, I try my hands on different things including the food. I do often. In South Africa, I love the pap.

40— VANGUARD,

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

About the 10 days of Dhul Hijjah

BY HARUNA RAZAQ

T

$9.3M: MUSWEN wants independent body to probe case As the National Assembly members divided over the controversy surrounding the seizure in South Africa of $9.3 million cash, or ammunition, the Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN) has warned on the implication of sweeping the issue under the carpet.

To this end, the body immediately called on the

both the image and the security of the country.

“As bona fide citizens and stake holders in Nigeria, we are neither blind nor deaf to unfolding dangerous trend aggravating insecurity in Nigeria as we have regularly pointed out and we believe that posterity will bear witness to our undeniable

At least we are aware of the existence of a Nigerian aviation law that bans the leasing out of a private jet for a commercial purpose.

Was the Minister feigning ignorance of this law?

,

federal government to exhibit transparency in the matter by allowing an independent body to probe the alleged scandal and to come up with a punitive measure against any culprit.

In a statement signed by its media consultant, Alhaj Femi Abass, it stated, “government can only prove that an official patronage is not being surreptitiously granted to some criminal elements in the country who are walking the streets in the cloak of religion.”

MUSWEN argued that the development is dangerous to

,

concern.”

It argued that the Federal Government was not telling Nigerians the truth about the security issues in the country, while wondering the reason the government chose to defend the action of those who it said smuggled the cash.

“The federal government of Nigeria admitted the ownership of the money without giving reason for bypassing the Nigerian security officials in awarding such a contract.

“Offering an official but untenable explanation on the dubious deal, the Aviation

Minister, Mr. Osita Chidoka, told Nigerians that the CAN president had leased the jet to another party, thereby trying to underplay the role of CAN President in the use to which his jet was illegally put.

“That attempt to exonerate the owner of the jet in such a shady business which could not have been transacted without his knowledge and consent obviously betrayed the Minister’s knowledge of the office he occupies.

“At least we are aware of the existence of a Nigerian aviation law that bans the leasing out of a private jet for a commercial purpose. Was the Minister feigning ignorance of this law?

“The episode which came up in form of a shocking dramatic conundrum has since generated a fierce controversy as usual, either on the basis of shameless ethnic affiliation or that of religious opium.

Incidentally, the main casualty in this case is the image of Nigeria which the federal government has always claimed to be concerned about.”

It therefore queried the government on who authorized the purchase of weapons for Nigerian security agencies through unofficial people with noninvolvement of those who will utilize the weapons and when the country law banning the use of private jets for commercial purposes change?

Beside, MUSWEN sought to know the relationship between clerical mission and government contract particularly in such a

•From right: Alhaja Muinat Shopeyin Akande, Arowosadini of Nigeria; Alhaji Abdul Fatai Olajide; Alhaji Yunus Raji, President, Lekki Muslim Community, LEMU; and other leaders of the Umah during the Haflah and Fund Raising for Islamic and Arabic Institute held in Lekki, Lagos.

HE importance of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah (the 12th and last month of the Islamic calendar) is enormous in Islam as stated in the Qur’an and Sunnah.

Allah says in Suratul Fajr: “By the dawn, by the ten nights”, (Q89:12). According to Ibn Abbas, Ibn al-Zubayr, Mujaahid, Ibn Kathiir in his Tafsiir and others of the earlier and later generations this refers to the first ten days of Dhu’lHijjah. Allah preferred these days over all the other days of the year, Ibn ‘Abbaas (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” The people asked, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allah?” He said, “Not even jihaad for the sake of Allah, except in the case of a man who went out for jihaad giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.” (Bukhaari, 2/ 457). These days are regarded as the best days of this world, according to the Prophet (SAW) as quoted in sahiih ahaadiith.

These ten days occurred in the month of Dhul Hijjah, one of the

four sacred months in Islam as mentioned in Qur’an 9 verses 36.

These ten days include the great days in Islam: such as the days of Hajj, the Day of ‘Arafaah, Yaum anNahar (the Day of Sacrifice) etc.

DO’SOFTHEDAYS: Amongthe good deeds that a Muslim is expected to do during these ten days are: Performing Hajj and Umrah in line with the commandment of Allah, Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and agreed by all Muslim. Fasting on some of these blessed days is established from the sunnah, more importantly, it is desirable to fast on the day of Arafah (with exception of Hujjaj). The prophet (s.a.w) said “fasting the day of Arafah expiates the sins of two years.”

The prophet (SAW) is reported to have said …say tahlil (lailaha illa llahu), takbir (Allahu akbar) and tahmid (Alhamdu li llah) a lot (on these days). And to say it loudly in the mosque, at homes, on the streets and everywhere permitted for the rememberdance of Allah.

Men should recite these phrases aloud while women should recite them quietly. Zikr at this time is an aspect of the Sunnah that should not be forgotten.

•Lekki Islamic and Arabic Studies center under construction

Lekki Muslims hold hafla, fund raising for Arabic sch

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HE President of Lekki Muslim Ummay’ LEMU, Engr. Yunus Adeniji Raji has charged Muslims not to relent in the acqusition of knowledge as it allows human beings to excel beyond other creatures of God, adding that the ideals being propagated

by Boko Haram have no place in Islam.

Engr Raji made this known during the graduation Haflah of over 30 members of the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Studies, Lekki, Lagos, including prominent philanthropist, Alhaja Muinat Shopeyin Akande held at the main hall of the Institute, recently.

Addressing the gathering, Rank said: knowledge allows human beings to excel beyond other creatures. Allah mentions the word knowledge 804 times in the Qur’an. So, those who kick against the acquisition of knowledge like the Boko Haram have no place in Islam.”

He urged the graduands to apply their knowledge to the good of humanitdedy.

The Imam of the community, Ridwanullah Jami in his lecture emphasised that knowledge and commitment to Islam are twin factors that help to achieve success in his word and the hereafter.

He charged every Muslims to develop themselselves intellectually and spiritualy, adding that Islamic knowledge seek the best in this world, the hereafter and would save man from the torment of hell fire.

The occasion was also used for the fund raising for the completion of the multi— million naira madrasah The institute which was established in 2001 but reorganised in 2012, adopting curricula of notable madaris and universities with daily hifz-Qur’an runs Executive and Advance Islamic courses in both adult and children categories.

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014— 41

Echoes from Saudi:

Arafat da o hold on Oct 3 dayy tto

•As Amosun urges pilgrims to maintain discipline in Holy land

O

gun State contingent to the 2014 Holy pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia have been enjoined to maximize the rare opportunity of this year’s Hajj exercise as news filtered in at press time that Friday 3rd October 2014 would be Arafat day.

Chairman of the State M u s l i m P i l g r i m s We l f a r e Board, Dr. Isiaq Yusuf made this disclosure during a brief sermon during afternoon prayers with pilgrims yesterday in the city of Makkah, adding that a confirmation has been sent to all concerned agencies about the beginning of a new Islamic month of Dhul Hijja 1435 AH starting from today 25th September 2014, with

Arafat day confirmed as the tenth day of the new month.

Yusuf stated that the date for the climbing of mount Arafat which falls on a Friday remains a rare opportunity for all pilgrims to maximize the special day which he said actually come within a 17 year range.

Meanwhile, the State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun urged pilgrims from the state to maintain the level of disciplined so far displayed at the holy land.

Represented by the Amir-UlHajj for the 2014 Hajj exercise, Imam Abdul-Qudri Junaid, the Governor stated that the level of orientation instilled in the pilgrims before embarking on the exercise has impacted positively on their level of conduct, adding

Chairman of Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Dr. Isiaq Yusuf addressing pilgrims after prayers in the city of Makkah yesterday.

that adequate welfare of pilgrims remains a priority while the exercise lasts.

In a related development, wife of the Speaker of the Ogun State House of A s s e m b l y, M r s . S i m b i a t Oluwaseun Adekunbi advised pilgrims from the state to always follow the dictates of the Holy Quran to perform hajj rites as prescribed and continuously offer prayers for the success of the present administration.

Mrs. Adekunbi made this admonition while offering lunch for over 1000 pilgrims from the state in the city of Makkah.

She disclosed that the gesture was in appreciation of the favour of Almighty Allah on his family and the state in general, adding that pilgrims must be steadfast and prepared to complete all stipulated rites expected of them during the exercise, for it to be accepted by Allah as an act of ibadah.

Junaid who was accompanied by members of the state Muslim pilgrims welfare board, noted that though the success achieved by the present administration in the state has been through constant prayers and support of all a n d s u n d r y, m a i n t a i n i n g that all no stone would not be left unturned with a view to ensuring that their wishes are reflected in its programmes and policies.

From right: Alhaji Rafiu Kuranga (Vice Chairman Maryland), Alhaji Sunmola, Alhaji Taofeeq Adeseun (Chairman Lag zone 1), Alh.aji Sheriff Akinpelu (Vice Chairman Lag zone 1), Alhaji Bayo Tijani (Desk officer).

From right: Alhaji Sheriff Akinpelu, Alhaji Bayo Tijani, Alhaja Mariam Kareem and Alhaja Faozat Somade.

Zak aat, a means of economic empo werment— K ola wole Zakaat, empow Kola olaw

BY ADERONKE ADEYERI

M

USLIM faithful have been urged to always remember their obligation of paying Zakat being the third pillar of Islam and a means for economic empowerment.

T h e O p e r a t i o n M a n a g e r, Nasfat Agency for Zakat and Sadaqat, NAZAS, Ustazh Moshood Kolawole gave this charge during the quarterly zonal conference organized

by District 3, Lagos Zone 1 in Mende, Maryland Lagos, recently.

Kolawolwe who was the guest lecturer at the Nasfat Lagos Zone One 3rd Quarter Zonal conference, during his lecture titled “Zakat According to the Qur’an and Sunna” emphasized that just

as observing the five daily salat, Zakaat as the third pillar of Islam is as important as other pillars of Islam.

Kolawole pointed out that Zakat is not only a good means of measuring the economic power of the people but also a means of empowerment and bridging the socio-economic gap between the rich and poor in the society.

“For a Muslim to pay an acceptable Zakat to Almighty Allah, he should consider it as the only reason he or she is working and being alive is to pay Zakat. This is one of the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (s.a,w).

According to him, “Even as zakaat purifies wealth, paying zakat from any ungodly or evil

means is not acceptable to Almighty Allah.”

The chairman of the Zone, Alhaji Taofeeq Adeseun in his address stated that in order encourage the payment of Zakat, Nasfat has s e t u p a n a g e n c y, N a z a s with the sole responsibility of creating more awareness on Zakat.

The chairman of Maryland branch, Alh. R.O Kuranga whom was humbly represented by Alh. Taofeeq Hassan during the welcome address enjoined all executive members of the zone to enlighten and put in place measures that will safeguard the lives of all Muslims against Ebola and other diseases.

A cross section of participants at the Lagos Zone I 3rd Quarter Conference held at Mende, Maryland recently.

Nasfat Lagos Zone 1 women bag awards

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HE Lagos Zone one women of Nasru-llahi-ilFatih society of Nigeria, N A S FAT, r e c e n t l y b a g g e d numerous awards at the just concluded 15th Annual women conference held at Nasfat camp ground, Mowe along Lagos Ibadan express way.

The women got first position in Quranic competition, first in p u n c t u a l i t y, s e c o n d i n Q u i z competition, second in over all best as well as Well Behaved amongst other awards .

The programme organized by

the NASFAT Women Affairs Committee was meant to familiarise women with the ethics, mannerism and behavior of women in line with the Sunnah and Qur’an.

The zonal women secretary, Alhaja Faoziat Somade at a conference organised by the zone enjoined women to make out time for all women activities as this will promote unity among Nasfat women, adding that there are many things to learn about the women folk in Islam.

42 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Vanguard, FRID AY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 FRIDA YOUR LUCK TODAY

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139

Gemini: You may be tempted and embrace wrong ideas tot he detriment of our finances. The more cooperative you are the better. Reason with your spouse and/or important partners. Be loving.

Cancer: This is a good day for you. Those of you who can be as secretive as necessary will have genuine cause to smile broadly. Be more receptive.

Leo: Situation may prompt unexpected competition that’ll bring out the best of you. Limit not yourself to now; think the future.

Virgo: Make sure that your closeness with the influential people is not mis-used by you. If you take others for granted today you’ll be disappointed. Ignore funny ideas.

Libra: Last quarter moon in Aries warns you to do away with arrogance when dealing with either your junior or senior partners. The more receptive you are the better for you. Protect your image.

— 43

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

A

closed hand is simply a metaphor for stinginess. It is used here to refer to someone who finds it very difficult to give or lend a

The closed hand helping hand.

First, let me ask you a question: If you close your hands, can anything enter from the outside? Fine!

TERROR MUDA

If nothing can enter a closed hand from the outside, it is the same way if we refuse or fail to give, we will also be shutting the door of

in “Never say goodbye”

kindness and mercy against ourselves.

For every hand of kindness stretched forth to another is a seed that will produce future fruit.

Give, so that you may be given.

Think about it!

By Lanre Kehinde

Scorpio: Today’s last quarter moon in Aries will stress many people but you’ll be at advantage position to defeat opponent at work to the betterment of your cause. Think financial success.

Sagittarius: Prudence and/or practical approach earn you success and enable you to avoid pit-falls. The more self assertive you are the better for your. Be more loving.

Capricorn: Last quarter moon in Aries’ll bring you challenges along your career/business lines yet, you must not neglect your domestic responsibilities. Don’t abuse partnership related issues, at least for now.

Aquarius: Warning (last quarter) Moon in Aries may bring minor misunderstanding within your working arena and/ or your anatomical working system. Ways out are caution, diplomacy and practical approach. Your being creative’ll be rewarded.

Pisces: Last quarter Moon in Aries may tempt many Pisceans to become unusually greedy to the resentment of others. Yet you’ll succeed and hurt them the more. Gamble not with love.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

Aries: Certain lesser element within your base of operation may question your authority directly or otherwise.

Once you know you’re on the right path, forge ahead. Be loving.

Taurus: Doing away with unnecessary scheming and adoption of practical approach to (hard) work will safe you from avoidable frustration. This is the wrong time to take gift you did not solicit for.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

Financial Success for me?

Dear Joshua, I AM married with children but not happily because my wife often times make life sorrowful for me.

Being a Muslim ’am contemplating marrying another woman, at least to make a statement and set strong warning to my aggressive wife. Does second wife good for me?

Please also tell me about my career/business, finance and social life.

Tony, Abeokuta Dear Tony, The problem is with you (spiritually) and another wife’ll complicate the whole thing. The more spiritual you are the better. You career may bring you name and/or great publicity.

If you like you can take to business. And you will do extremely well in the oil industry. Even if you start with kerosene, you will get to the very top. Another good products for you include gas, fisheries, shoes and bags. The needs at home (domestic apparatus) are commercially viable for you.

You are meant to make money but your major challenge is through your love life and/or members of your opposite sex; they are not to be taken for granted by your or use serious disappointments will keep coming. Be warned.

Your Love Life Here is where major challenges of your life are. Although your religion permits more than one wife, taking another woman may not be the needed solution. The more spiritual you are the better for you. Always strive to protect your children spiritually.

Friendly Aquarius hosted Mars-action/desire planet, when you were born. And with magnetic Libran personality, yours will be a glorious life. And as time goes by influential friends will want to draft you into serious politics.

Belonging to powerful-social-clubs will help your cause.

Because of your slow but dangerous tempter however, you must neither always tell all your very personal secrets nor take friends for granted. Certainly social activities can better your lots.

VIRGINIA

HOME & ABROAD

dadadekola@yahoo.com

By Lawrence Akapa

44— Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Breast cancer: Sebeccly begins Light Lagos Pink Campaign

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• Nigerian Ebola survivors with Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (3rd right) during their unveiling in Lagos last week.

N an effort to reduce incidences of cancer as well as create awareness about the disease, Sebeccly Cancer Care & Support Centre is raising fund to help cancer patients access life-saving treatments even as it announced plans to launch campaign on Light Lagos Pink in October.

The Light Lagos Pink on Fridays would be held at various sites on October 3, 17 and 31. Project Coordinator, Sebeccly Cancer Care Light Lagos Pink Campaign, Omosigho Ozor, said the Light Lagos Pink in October would allow for complaints on breast issues, and help more Nigerian women survive the disease with better treatment outcomes.

“Those who want to have a clinical breast examination are also urged to participate while donations during this campaign would be channelled to save lives “under

No basis for discrimination against Ebola survivors — Orhii

By Chioma Obinna

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S commendations pour in for successful containment of the Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, by the Federal Government, Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Dr Paul Orhii, has condemned reports of discrimination and stigma being faced by Nigerian Ebola survivors.

It could be recalled that the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola had last week unveiled four of the 12 Ebola survivors in Nigeria who summoned courage to encourage Nigerians as well as prove to the world that Ebola was not a death sentence.

Orhii who spoke in Lagos argued that there is no basis for anyone to discriminate or stigmatised against the survivors.

According to him, these Nigerians with known status are the best group of people to be associated with for now describing the current display by some Nigerians discriminating against them as unfortunate and ignorance.

The Director- General of NAFDAC, expressed worry queried why a disease that has been treated and cured should still be a problem to Nigerians.

He said: The issue of stigma is very

unfortunate. I wonder why a disease that has been treated and cure should still be a problem. Ebola is like other diseases when they are treated and cured. If somebody has recovered we should not discriminate against the person.

“We should learn to accept them back into the society. This is a problem that even came up during a meeting with other African countries. We were worried that there will be a time it will become a problem to collect money from survivors.

However, it may interest you that at a WHO meeting we have decided to use the blood of these survivors and serum to treat patients. They have a certain level of protection because of the antibodies,” he stated.

He called for show of love and care to others. “I encourage you to accept them because they are no longer a treat to you.

Once they have been certified Ebola free and discharged they are no longer a problem or risk in the community.”

E

FFORTS by the Federal government of Nigeria and other relevant healthcare authorities towards ensuring that Ebola Virus Disease is eliminated from the country, nave been commended by the Good Governance Initiative, GGI, Mr. Festus Uzoma Mbisiogu , stated that Nigeria is approaching victory line and should not relent in the fight against Ebola in the country.“ Mbisiogu who spoke from London, noted that Nigeria is progressively engaged in stopping the spread of the epidemic, while calling on all Nigerians to join hands with the Federal government to eliminate the

UNGASS holds 1st child marriage panel

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HE United Nations General Assembly, UNGASS, has held it’s first-ever panel discussion on child marriage in New York.

The panel, requested by last year’s first General Assembly resolution on child marriage, focused on the post-2015 development agenda and the development costs of child marriage.

The UNGASS panel aimed to address these issues, by highlighting the human rights and development impacts of child, early and forced marriages, with particular emphasis on the post-2015 agenda. It would also address initiatives for ending child marriage, and ways to collectively ensure positive impact.

As many as 75 million girls worldwide do not go to school, yet child marriage is not included in the Millennium Development Goals, MDGs. Organisations and activists around the world are advocating for child marriage to be included in the Sustainable Development Goals -post 2015 agenda.

MNCH: WBFA seeks focus on education, access to midwives

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OUNDER-PRESIDENT, Wellbeing Foundation Africa, WBFA, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, has said in addition to promoting health-seeking behavior in women and girls, education also leads to more qualified health care professionals.

Saraki who spoke during the “Partnering Beyond the Health Sector: What is needed to ensure maternalnewborn survival?” forum, facilitated by Johnson and Johnson, called for an increased focus on education as a key social determinant of health.

“Whilst formal education is extremely

important to the survival of mothers and their children, access to valuable health information that can save their lives is also a very serious social determinant of health. The passage of this information can be through healthcare workers like midwives, or through effective health communications in the community. After all, an empowered and informed woman is a health-seeking woman who can act as an advocate for her child and ensure her newborn receives appropriate livesaving care,” she stated.

During the forum, Saraki noted: “I cannot stress the importance of midwives

...As GGI hails FG’s prompt response

By Vera Samuel Anyagafu

our retainer ship programme with the Lagos University Teaching Hospital and General Hospital Lagos.

Breast awareness, cancer information and breast cancer services would be made available in addition to health talks and breast cancer screening/awareness education and enquiries available through Sebeccly’s social media platform.

deadly virus. He pointed out that Nigeria has shown quality leadership towards tackling the epidemic.

“The proactive measures put in place by the Nigerian government are worth encouraging, and I implore all to join hands in this fight for the sake of the Nigerian economy and the future of our children. I also applaud the good work of the Lagos State government in the manner with which it is handling Ebola outbreak in the country.”

Mbisogu said the national commitment and approach taken by all Nigerians encouraged the international community to have faith in the country, especially foreign investors.

• Mrs Toyin Saraki

helping mothers and their newborn infants during the fragile first 24 hours after birth. Midwives are on the frontlines of reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. Skilled midwives keep expectant mothers informed throughout their pregnancy and labour; empower women to make healthy choices for their family; and provide medical assistance for newborns in the first few days of their life.

“As the Global Goodwill Ambassador for the International Confederation of Midwives, I advocate for the increased coverage of midwives across the world because a 25 percent increase in midwives could reduce maternal mortality by 50 percent. Imagine the impact that this would have on the life and future chances of every newborn child.”

The WBFA is a leading frontline African Maternal Newborn and Child Health, MNCH, and empowerment organisation, dedicated to transforming the lives of women and children through advocacy and action and through the promotion of human rights, education and inclusive access to economic opportunities.

Saraki is a Nigerian philanthropist with two decades of advocacy covering maternal, newborn and child health; ending gender-based discrimination and violence; and improving education, socio-economic empowerment, and community livelihoods in Africa.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—45

DIPLOMACY: Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu (right) and the new G e r m a n Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Zenner, during a courtesy call on Ekweremadu in Abuja, yesterday.

Health workers give FG 15-day ultimatum

By Chioma Obinna

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EALTH workers, under the auspices of Joint Health Sector Unions, JOHESU, has given 15 days ultimatum to the Federal government to resolve all matters pending between them or face an indefinite nationwide strike.

JOHESU had embarked on a three-day warning strike from January 20 to 22 to press home various demands which it claimed had been lingering since 2009.

The workers, who threatened a showdown with the Federal Government should they fail to address all their demands by October 8, lamented that little or nothing had been achieved since January concerning the agreements earlier reached between them and the government.

In a statement by its Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Badmus, the union said: “In view of inability of the government to address our demands since January, we therefore, demand for immediate resolution of all matters pending between JOHESU and Federal Government within the next 15 days. That is, not later than October 8, or face indefinite strike.”

Among the 15 issues is non-promotion of members from salary CONHESS 14 to 15 as directors, having stayed for 4 to 15 years on the same salary level.

ASRADI invokes FoI Act to probe CBN's records $9.3M ARMS DEAL:

By Kingsley Omonobi

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BUJA—FOLLOWING the controversy generated by the $9.3 million plane cash seizure in South Africa, a group, Advocacy for Societal Rights Advancement and development Initiative, ASRADI, has approached the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, with a demand to investigate how such an amount of cash was moved out of its vaults and under what authority.

The group said it was giving the apex bank seven days within which to respond to its inquiries in accordance with provision of the Freedom of Information, FoI, Act. According to the letter addressed to the CBN governor, entitled Application for Information (Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act 2011), dated September 22, the group sought to know what protocol or convention guided the release of foreign exchange to government ministries, departments and agencies by CBN. It further queried: “Do

government ministries, departments and agencies purchase foreign currencies from autonomous sources?

“What is the quantum of foreign currency cash that the Central Bank of Nigeria has imported this year? What is the breakdown of foreign currency cash that the Central Bank of

Nigeria has released to government ministries, departments and agencies this year?”

ASRADI reminded CBN that “the Freedom of Information Act 2011 imposes a duty on you to avail us of your response within seven days of the receipt of this application.”

... as APC alleges cover-up

By Levinus Nwabughiogu

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HE All Progressives Congress, APC, has condemned what it alleged was an attempt by PDP-led Federal Government, working with some members of the National Assembly, to cover up the smuggling of $9.3 million to South Africa, saying the plans would fail as the issues involved transcended Nigeria.

In a statement issued in Lagos by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, yesterday, the party said the cover-up attempt manifested clearly at the House of Representatives on Tuesday,

when some members refused to entertain a debate on a motion seeking a probe of the issue.

It said the refusal became even more suspicious amid allegations that some members of the House had each received $50,000 bribe to quash the motion.

APC, however, hailed its members in the House of Representatives for staging a walk-out to protest the decision not to allow the issue to be debated, saying by their actions, they had aligned with Nigerians eager to know how such money was smuggled into another country.

FCC assures on Federal Character principle

By Funmi Olasupo

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BUJA—THE Federal C h a r a c t e r Commission, FCC, has assured Nigerians not to entertain fear of marginalisation from government ministries, departments and agencies, MDAs, while looking for employment.

Giving the assurance at the one-day sensitisation workshop on public relations and publicity for media executives yesterday, the commission’s Executive Chairman, Professor Shuaibu Abdulraheem, reaffirmed that the commission’s mandate was to ensure compliance with the principles of proportional sharing of all bureaucratic, economic, media and ministries’ positions at all levels of government.

Abdulraheem said the commission offered no employment, adding that it rather monitor and supervise employment procedures in government agencies to ensure that all the wards and geopolitical zones were equally represented in recruitment.

He said: “It is important to note that Federal Character principle is founded on the need to foster national consciousness, national unity, sense of belonging and loyalty through equitable distribution of Nigeria’s human and material resources to achieve a balanced and s u s t a i n a b l e development.”

Lagos Dep Gov, Partnership for Justice, others task of Partnership for Justice and our efforts and re-strategise to FG on Chibok girls Mrs Juliet Olumuyiwa Ajeend this scourge.”

By Onozure Dania

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AGOS— THE Lagos State Deputy Governor, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, yesterday, urged the Federal Government to be more serious in its effort to rescue the 218 Chibok girls kidnapped by the Islamist sect, Boko Haram, in Borno State on April 14.

Orelope-Adefulire, who spoke at a stakeholders’ summit on Child Rights and Domestic Violence Laws of Lagos State Judiciary, said

the Federal Government had not done enough to ensure the return of the girls.

She urged President Goodluck Jonathan and all the security agencies to double their efforts to ensure the girls returned safely to their respective families.

The Deputy Governor also lamented the rising cases of domestic violence, despite government’s efforts, legal instruments, advocacy and sensitisation.

She said: “The implication of this is that we all must double

Also speaking at the event, President of Women Arise, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, urged the Federal Government to show proof to Nigerians of its commitment to the return of the abducted Chibok girls.

Okei-Odumakin, who spoke on Domestic Violence Law: Way Forward, equally advocated joint efforts to completely eradicate or reduce domestic violence to the barest minimum.

There were also paper presentations by Mrs Funmi Falana, Mrs Itoro Eze-Anaba

Afuwa of Mirabel Centre, the rape rehabilitation centre of the Lagos State Government.

Earlier in her welcome address, Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade, said the topics were carefully chosen due to the rise in incidents of domestic violence, rape and other sexual offences on the weaker sex and children.

She said the 10 family courts in Lagos usually received about two cases of sexual offences and one case on domestic violence daily.

46 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

EMPOWERMENT: From left: Hon Hakeem Bamigbala, Secretary, Conference 57, Chairman, Itire/Ikate LCDA, Otunba Degel Anifowoshe, Hon Hakeem Sulaiman, Chairman, Conference 57, and Chief Dele Ajomole, Lagos State Chairman, All Progressives Congress, APC, during the Conference of 57 Lagos State Local Government and Local Council Development Areas, LCDA, community empowerment programme at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi.

Dikko appoints Acting Controller for Western Marine

By Godfrey Bivbere

A

BUJA—THE Controller General of Customs, Alhaji Abdullahi Dikko has appointed Mr Johnson Gabriel as acting Customs Area Controller of the Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service.

This followed the retirement of the immediate past CAC of the command, Comptroller Mr Audu Zakkat, who bowed out of service recently after clocking the mandatory 35 years in service.

Dikko according to the out gone CAC had directed he hand over the affairs of the command to Mr Johnson, who for two years has been the Officer-in-Charge of Operations.

BOKO HARAM: Damaturu residents rejoice over Army's victory D

AMATURU—A cross section of Damaturu residents yesterday, expressed joy over the recent victory of the Nigerian army over members of the Boko Haram sect in the North-East of the country.

They expressed their feelings in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Damaturu, the Yobe capital.

Alhaji Ali Musa, a resident of Damaturu, told NAN that “the rededication of the security agents in the fight against insurgency has given us psychological relief with a sense of security.”

He also expressed delight over the reported killing of the sect’s leader, Abubakar Shekau.

Alhaji Bukar Yawale, a trader in Damaturu, said: “ we have faith and confidence in the bravery of Nigeria’s security forces and their capability to dislodge the leadership and supporters of the insurgents.

“Given the needed equipment and motivation, the military will have defeated them long ago.”

Hajiya Aisha Bukar, a

K

widow and mother of six, said: “although many lives have been lost, we thank God and the military for the turn of events against the insurgents.”

A lecturer at the state university, who declined to mention his name, said Nigeria must save itself from avoidable embarrassments it suffered in the hands of the

insurgents.

He hinged his argument on the record of the country ’s military in regional and international operations.

A cleric, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, commended the security agencies and called on the public to always volunteer useful information that

He added that the gesture was to provide the beneficiaries with the capital to start their businesses.

Ali said that 26 elderly persons got N50,000 each and 100 youths had N30,000 each.

He said that four cars had been purchased to be distributed to PDP office and the three wards in Kaduna South ahead of the 2015 general elections.

would assist in the fight against the insurgents.

He said: “People should be vigilant of suspected persons or movements in their communities as the military destroy insurgents’ cells.

“The security should also intensify surveillance on the highways as fleeing bandits may resort to robbing motorists and commuters on the way.”

Jigawa constructs 1,055 boreholes, 70 latrines in communities, schools

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By Aliyu Dangida

UTSE—JIGAWA State government has constructed over 1,055 boreholes and 70 latrines for communities and schools across the state.

The projects were constructed in collaboration with European Union, EU, United Kingdom Department for International Development, DFID, and the United Nations International Children Education Funds, UNICEF to reduce open defecation in the state.

The Managing Director of state Rural Water Supply Agency, RUWASA, Mr Labaran Adamu made this known in an interview with newsmen in his office in Dutse, the state capital.

He said that both the EU and the DFID worked through the UNICEF in the provision of these social amenities to some deserving communities and schools, adding that this was aimed at complimenting government’s efforts.

Adamu explained that 81 boreholes and 30 laterines were provided by the government in 2013, stressing that 220 bore holes and 40 blocks of Latrines

were constructed at both Malam Madori and Taura communities.

According to him, 20 of the latrine blocks were built for boys while the 20 others were also for girls by the EU and DFID through the UNICEF.

PEOPLE SPEAK

Kaduna govt donates N4.3m to youths, elderly ADUNA—THE Kaduna State government yesterday, donated N4.3 million to 126 youths and the elderly in the state under its Poverty Alleviation Programme, PAP. The Commissioner for Education, Malam Ibrahim Ali, said the donation was done under the “Mukhtar Ramalan Yero Edowment Funds”.

EMPOWERMENT: Lagos State Deputy Governor, Hon. Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire (left), admiring one of the fabrics produced by the Tie & Dye Class, during her visit to the Surulere Centre, at the ongoing Economic Empowerment Programme of the Lagos State Government, in Lagos.

Adamu further explained that additional two boreholes were sunk by these agencies across the 27 local governments just as eight other local governments would benefit from about 500 additional new bore holes.

Online shoppers to benefit from First Bank's Paypal

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AGOS—THE recently introduced Paypal account by FirstBank of Nigeria, has continued to excite customers across the country, given that it had made online shopping less cumbersome.

According to the bank's Head of E-Business, Mr. Chuma Ezirim, the objective for the introduction of Paypal, are being noticed among customers.

He further noted that given PayPal’s reputation as the world’s most secure payment platform, FirstBank’s avowed commitment to always put its customers first, the

partnership between the two financial organizations would be beneficial to customers.

In addition, he said that PayPal provides a buyer protection policy that allows for compensation when any item purchased online is not delivered or doesn't fit the seller's description.

Also speaking a stockbroker, who uses the platform, Mr Daniel Udoka said: ''In the over two months since I began being exclusively verified by PayPal, it has been all smiles on the faces of customers and absolutely no cause for regret from them as FirstBank has continually and consistently delighted them without end.''

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—47

Jonathan's endorsement good for Nigeria’s democracy — ENVOY S

OKOTO—NIGERIA’S envoy in Morocco, Sen. Abdallah Wali, says the endorsement of President Goodluck Jonathan by the PDP for the 2015 presidential election is a good omen for Nigeria’s democracy.

Wali told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Sokoto yesterday, that“this is a welcome development and it is a very good omen to Nigeria, Nigerians and sustainable democracy”.

The envoy, who is also a gubernatorial aspirant of the PDP in Sokoto State, added that the endorsement would guarantee sustainable peace, unity and the general welfare of Nigerians.

“A second term for Jonathan will enable him to continue with his laudable policies and programmes.

“These lofty programmes range from the ongoing reforms, security, power to other infrastructure aimed at further improving the living standard of

Nigerians.”

Wali also expressed optimism that the PDP would win all the 2015 general elections at all levels.

He said that the PDP was the only party to beat in Nigeria, adding that its mainstay was sustainable peace, unity and socio-economic prosperity in Nigeria.

Wali assured that the party would wrest power from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state.

Meanwhile, the PDP Youth Leader in the state, Alhaji Nasiru

Gidan-Kanawa, said that youths supported Jonathan’s endorsement.

Gidan-Kanawa who also spoke to NAN in Sokoto, said “the youth of the state and Nigeria in general are solidly behind Jonathan’’.

“We want him to continue with his myriad of youth-oriented programmes and we will support him to ensure his re-election.

“I must, however, appeal to the youth of the country to shun all acts of violence, to ensure the prevalence of peace and unity in Nigeria,” Gidan-Kanawa said.

‘NITMA award to celebrate excellence, outstanding contributions'

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HE Nigeria Computer Society, NCS, has said it would celebrate excellence and outstanding contributions in Nigeria’s Information Technology (IT) space at its 2014 National Information Technology Merit Award, NITMA. The award, which annually recognises the best of the Nigerian IT profession and industry will hold at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, this November.

NCS President, David Adewumi said with optimism that the NITMA 2014 would honour people who have made significant impact in expanding the frontiers of IT in Nigeria.

The awards Nite, according to him would celebrate the best of Nigerian information technology creativity and innovation changing society in fundamental ways.

He said the award winners would be recognised for being inspiring symbols through their expertise and hard work.

“Annually through NITMA, the NCS honours and rewards excellence and tremendous contributions in the development and deployment of Information Technology in the country and the Diaspora. Category awards are based on IT specialisation, NCS standards and global best practices,'' he said.

“An expected highlight already generating immense interest is Information Technology‘s most prestigious award - the IT Personality of the year award” he explained.

He said the professional fellowships that will be conferred on deserving practitioners.

The high profile award Nite promotes excellence, high performance and innovation within the Nigerian IT community to encourage such performance from practitioners, organisations and stakeholders.

COCKTAIL: From left: Mr Davis Kanyama, General Manager, Colgate Palmolive Nigeria; Joy Onyeadi, Station Manager, South African Airways and Mr Fraser Neil Johnston, General Manager, Protea Hotel Select Ikeja at a cocktail organised by Protea Hotel Select Ikeja, in Lagos for its guests.

Nasiha emerges Zamfara PDP chairman

By Salisu Maradun

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U S A U — S E N AT O R Hassan Nasiha has emerged the new chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Zamfara State.

Nasiha scored 382 votes to beat

his co contestants, Ambassador Adamu Umar, Aminu Lawal and Garba Kwaccido who scored 130, 10 and zero respectively.

The congress which produced new officers for the party in the state was held at the party’s

Decampees no threat to PDP — SALAU

By Boluwaji Obahopo

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OKOJA—THE People Democratic Party, PDP, in Kogi State has said that it was not worried by the exit of its supporters to the opposition All Progressive Congress, APC, in the state.

The state chairman of the party, Mr Hassan Salau made this known while reacting to some issues raised by about 5,000 of the party’s members who left the party.

According to him, “The decampees have no electoral value when it come to election.

PDP will continue to dominate

the politics of the state as it has the majority.

“The people who decamped did so for their personal ambitions. Clarence Olafemi was a former acting governor and Speaker while Abdullahi Bello, was a former speaker.

The PDP has given them everything and for them to decamp now, smacks of greed.

It is about their individual ambitions. I leave them to God and their troubled mind.”

Salau also denounced the insinuation by the opposition that the PDP- led government was not performing, saying they were wrong to have said so, as according to him, ‘’the government has given the state a facelift.

secretariat in Gusau, the state capital.

Hajiya Hajiya A’I Maradun also emerged woman leader of the party in the state by scoring 392 votes to beat her rival,Hajiya Kulu Anka, who got 124 votes.

However, although the election was peaceful, there was misunderstanding between the former governor of the state, Alhaji Mahmud Shinkafi and a member of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Bello Maradun shortly after the poll.

Vanguard learnt that before the election proper, the party was divided into two camps, with one camp led by Shinkafi while the other faction was led by Bello.

Bello, according to sources allegedly sponsored Senator Nasiha as his candidate, while Shinakfi and the former governor of Sokot State, Alhaji Yahaya Abdulkarim as well as Senator Sahabi Ya’u, among others were behind Ambassador Adamu Umar as their candidate.

It was gathered that all efforts to reconcile the contestants to make way for a consensus candidate failed, hence the resort for an open election.

Kaduna Assembly passes N3.4bn supplementary Appropriation Bill into law

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ADUNA—THE Kaduna State House of Assembly yesterday, passed the third Supplementary Appropriation Bill (2014) of N3.4 billion into law.

The Speaker, Alhaji Shehu Tahir, said N960 million would be spent on the recurrent expenditure while N2.2 million would go to capital expenditure.

The Chairman, House Committee on Information, Alhaji Yakubu Yusuf, later told newsmen that the bill was important .

Yusuf said the budget was divided into three sectors recurrent, capital and the social, adding that about N200 million was meant for the purchase of equipment for the prevention of Ebola virus in the state.

He said as soon as the budget was signed by the governor, the House Committee on Finance would embark on oversight functions to monitor the implementation of the bill.

Kumuyi calls for peace, tolerance in Nasarawa

By Abel Daniel

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AFIA—THE General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, has called on the people of Nasarawa State to embrace peace by tolerating one another.

Kumuyi, who was in the state for a three-day prayer and supplication for the physical and spiritual healing of the people following the recent communal crises, which led to the killing of scores of people, assured that the state and the country at large would would overcome th current security challenges facing them.

According to him, “the programme is meant to usher in a renewed period of peace and reconciliation in a state that has witnessed security challenges in the recent past.”

48—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

CONFERENCE: Mr. Sam Onyemelukwe, MD,Trace Nigeria (left), and Mr. Maurice Newa, Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel Nigeria, at press conference of Airtel Trace Music Star, in Lagos. Photo: Joe Akintola (Photo Editor)

ADDRESS: Veteran Sports Broadcaster & Chairman, Nigerian League SideMFM FC, Godwin Enakhena, (writing on the board), addressing the participants at MTN Football Scholar Season 4 Camp, at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

SUMMIT: From left, Mr. Thomas Omofoye, member, British-American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation, BATNF, Technical Committee; Mrs. Abimbola Okoya, General Manager, BATNF; Mr. John Groffen, Ambassador, Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Mr. Frank Aigbogun, Publisher/Chief Executive Officer, Businessday Media Limited, during the opening of two day Businessday Agribusiness, Food Security Summit 2014, organised by Businessday Newspapers, and BATNF, at Civic Centre, Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island, Lagos, Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi

CONFERENCE: From left, Mrs. Ayodele Elegba,Mr. Babs Abolarin, Miss Disha Agarwal, and Mr. Wole Adesite, during the 2014 Lagos Comic Conference sponsored by Indomie, at the indoor sports hall of the University of Lagos complex. Photo: Shola Oyelese

COMMISSIONING: From left, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Dr. Adewale Omirin; Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; Governor Kayode Fayemi, and Commissioner for Local Governments, Mr. Paul Omotosho, during the commissioning of five-kilometre road, in Ajoni Local Council Development Area, as part of the 4th anniversary celebration of Fayemi administration.

CONFERENCE: From left, Product Support Officer, Dangote Flour Mills, Kunle Adekoya; National Product Support Manager, Kunle Adetona; Marketing Associate Officer, Alozie Samuel, and Senior Brand Manager, Dangote Flour Mills, Roseline Abaraonye, during the 2014 Bakery, Catering and Conference Expo, in Lagos.

WORKSHOP: Engr. Adeniji Kayode, General Manager, Marketing, Eternit Limited (sitting 4th right) and participants, during the firm's training workshop for carpenters and builders.

PROGRAMME: From left, Hon. Hakeem Bamigbala, Secretary Conference 57; Chairman Itire/Ikate LCDA, Otunba Degel Anifowoshe; member of Lagos State All Progressives Congress, APC, Hon. Hakeem Sulaiman; Chairman of Conference 57, Chief Dele Ajomole; Lagos State Chairman, APC, during the conference of 57 Lagos State Local Government and Local Council Development Areas, Community Empowerment Programme, at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

Ptoto; Kehinde Gbadamosi

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 — 49

Swiss agency pledges to support dialogue on migration

By Innocent Anaba

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France joins strike against ISIS F

RENCH fighter jets struck targets in Iraq yesterday and the United States and its allies stepped up air raids in Syria against Islamic State militants who have taken over large areas of both countries.

France’s strikes were its first since Sept. 19 when Paris joined the United States military action against Islamic State in Iraq and followed the beheading of a French tourist, reported late on Wednesday, in Algeria in retaliation.

Overnight, U.S.-led air

strikes in eastern Syria killed 14 Islamic State fighters, according to a monitoring group, while on the ground, Kurdish forces were reported to have pushed back an advance by the Islamists towards the border town of Kobani.

A third night of air raids by the United States and its allies targeted Islamic Statecontrolled oil refineries in three remote locations in eastern Syria to try to cut off a major source of revenue for the al Qaeda offshoot, U.S. officials said.

The strikes also seem to be intended to hamper Islamic State’s ability to operate across the Syria-Iraq frontier, an area where it has declared an Islamic caliphate.

The air raids follow growing alarm in Western and Arab capitals at Islamic State’s rapid military gains in Iraq and Syria and the beheadings of U.S. and British hostages posted on the internet.

U.S. President Barack Obama has vowed to keep up military pressure against

the group, which advanced through Kurdish areas of northern Iraq this week despite the air strikes.

Some 140,000 refugees have fled to Turkey, many telling of villages burnt and captives beheaded.

“The only language understood by killers like this is the language of force, so the United States of America will work with a broad coalition to dismantle this network of death,” Obama said at the U.N. General Assembly in New York on Wednesday.

HE Global Pro gramme on Migration and Development, GPMD, of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, SDC, a governmental agency of the Swiss Government, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, NCFRMI of Nigeria have signed an agreement to support the Commission in institutionalizing the National Migration Dialogue as a platform for effective and inclusive migration governance in Nigeria.

The agreement, which is being developed within the broader accord on the Migration Partnership between Nigeria and Switzerland, further strengthens the

cooperation between the two countries in the specific area of migration and development.

Nigeria has elaborated a National Migration Policy to coordinate and provide a common approach for implementing migration related programmes, which is steered through a Technical Working Group, TWG, comprising of both governmental and nongovernmental actors.

Switzerland is thus supporting Nigeria, through the NCFRMI as the coordinating agency for migration and development issues in Nigeria, to ensure cohesion and coherence in the implementation of the draft National Migration Policy and the further institutionalization of the TWG. The Swiss contribution equivalent to USD 151,000 will support the consultative process take place in the coming months and led by the members of the TWG drawn from over 60 institutions of both state and non-state actors. The process will culminate into a three-day event, the National Migration Dialogue scheduled to hold in December.

Nigerians hail China’s liberal Visa policy

By Funmi Komolafe

N

IGERIANS apply ing for visa to China have expressed satisfaction with the liberal policy of the giant Asia country which ensures that applicants are not subjected to financial exploitation. Even with the remarkable increase in the number of applicants to China, the Embassy in Nigeria has made the process of applying for its visa relatively easier by not demanding for frivolous and other stringent regulations which force prospective travellers into desperation and unbearable cost of applying for visa.

Vanguard investigation shows that Nigerians apply for Chinese visa mainly for business purposes.

Although the Chinese have similar requirements like other High commissions and embassies, it dose not demand for letters of invitation, bank statements to be presented before granting visas to Nigerians to visit China.

It is instructive that the Chinese, do not charge anyone for visas not issued.

Simply put, an applicant does not lose money for visas not issued unlike other countries especially in Western Europe where Nigerians pay so much and never get any form of refund for visas not issued, Such Western countries claim that the fees charged applicants are used for administrative purposes.

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52 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

FG insists on decent work for all

By Funmi Komolafe

L

AGOS— THE Federal Government, yesterday, in Lagos reiterated its determination to ensure that employment conditions conform with the international best practices and in line with the Decent Work Agenda of the International Labour Organisation, ILO. Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Clement Illoh, who spoke at the Annual General Meeting of the Human Capital Providers Association of Nigeria (HuCaPan) was represented by Dr. Anyanwu.

He said: “When government talks about decent employment, it is one that is consistent with the fundamental principles of right at work and which delivers fair income, social protection and guarantees social dialogue.”

To realise goverment’s objective, Illoh said: “The procedure for licensing private employment agencies has been reviewed to take into account the competence of the owners of companies applying to be licensed.

“Licensing of recruiters and labour contractors is, therefore, a programme that promotes basic human rights and enhances employability. It restores respect for the dignity of labour.”

In his address on the economy in 2014 and the outlook for 2015, President of HuCaPan, Mr. Neye Enemigin, observed that “unemployment among our youths is on the increase and currently a time bomb which requires urgent attention by government.

“We need government to provide the enabling environment and incentives to manufacturing, agriculture and mining to thrive in order to create jobs.”

Enemigin, who commended government’s efforts in the power sector, said "with power, this economy will grow three times more than what we have now,” though he said success in the power sector was yet to be fully realised.

He said: “Insecurity is a major issue and we are hoping that government will be able to fix it. The security challenges regrettably did not abate despite the colossal financial provisions set aside to deal with the scourge.”

Uproar in Senate over Jonathan’s $1bn loan request

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru & Joseph Erunke

A

BUJA—THE Senate yesterday was in a rowdy session following the approval of the $1 billion loan request by President Goodluck Jonathan to tackle ongoing security challenges in the country.

Trouble started when Chairman, Senate Joint Committee on Finance; and Local and Foreign Debt, Senator Ahmed Makarfi had recommended approval of the request.

Senator Makarfi’s motion for the loan to be approved was then subjected to debate by senators.

It was after the debate that Senate President, David Mark put it to vote. Although the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP senators were in the majority, the All Progressives Congress, APC, senators shouted on top of their voices and the Senate President ruled in favour of the ayes. His ruling immediately provoked protests from APC senators and it took about five minutes before calm returned to the chamber.

Senator Makarfi’s Committee had stated that from the briefings of relevant stakeholders and documents received, the Joint Committee discovered that helicopters were crucial for decisive victory in the war against terror and that quick victory cannot be accomplished without helicopters.

It also noted that the number of helicopters in the fleet of the Nigeria Air Force was inadequate for effective deployment due to lack of adequate funds for maintenance.

The Committee further explained that the requested loan was for the procurement of helicopters, ships, armament and hardware equipment and that the 12 M-135 Helicopters being requested for now were appropriate for the nature of the operation and the terrain.

The Committee also informed that Belarus had accepted to give helicopters in instalmental payment over a-seven year period, while other hardware, armament and equipment would be bought on same terms from other European countries.

The Committee in its recommendation stated, “In view of the Joint Committee’s findings,

the terms and conditions of the loan agreement and the urgent need to restore full normalcy in the country, the Joint Committee recommends that the Senate approves the external loan in kind of One Billion Dollars ($1b USD) to tackle the ongoing security challenges.”

President Jonathan had on July 15, 2014, a day before the Senate embarked on its annual vacation requested the approval of the National Assembly for external borrowing of $1 billion to tackle the security challenges.

The President in his letter stated, “You are aware of the ongoing serious security challenges the nation is facing as typified by the

Boko Hrama threat. The security situation in the North-East states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe have continued to deteriorate despite the imposition of state of emergency in the said states.

“The insurgents are purported to have carved out some local government in Borno and Adamawa states and declaring same as caliphate under their control as if it were no longer part of the territory of Nigeria.

“Therefore, the urgent need to upgrade the equipment, training and logistics of our Armed Forces and Security Services to enable them move forcefully to confront this serious security threat cannot be over-emphasised.”

BRIEFING: From left; Business Consultant/Exhibitor, Mr. Obi Onyejekwe; Country Manager, Louis Roederer, Ms. Frances Lawrgoce; MD, Spronks Creations Ltd, Mrs. Aderonke Sobodu; and Marketing Manager, Louis Roederer, Mr. Prakash Sadarangani, during a press conference on Nigerian International Wine and Spirit Fair in Lagos. Photo By Akeem Salau.

Taraba acting gov dares court, says medical panel'll determine Suntai's fate

By Henry Umoru

A

BUJA—ACTING Governor of Taraba State, Garba Umar yesterday stormed the Wadata Plaza, National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, saying the outcome of the medical panel set up by the State House of Assembly to probe the health status of Governor Danbaba Suntai would determine whether or not he would hand over to him.

Briefing the National Working Committee, NWC of the PDP on the political quagmire in Taraba State, the acting governor blamed the crisis in the state on what he described as the insistence by some powerful people who were trying to force him to hand over to his boss against professional advice.

Acting governor Umar, who lamented that some mischief

makers in the state were trying to take advantage of the recent return of Suntai to the country after medical treatment in the United Kingdom to cause trouble in the state.

He said that the medical panel was not designed to remove Governor Suntai.

“This is not true. It is merely intended to determine if I can hand over to him or not”, he added.

A Federal High Court in Jalingo, the Taraba State Capital had stopped the medical panel from probing the health status of Governor Suntai.

Acting Governor Umar said, “Your timely intervention, guidance and counsel have helped us greatly since the unfortunate air incident involving my boss, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency Governor Danbaba Danfulani Suntai on

the 25th of October, 2012.

“Worthy of note is a highpowered delegation of our party led by distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma to douse the tension generated by the first return of Governor Danbaba Suntai from a medical trip in August 2013.

“The state of affairs in our state has generally been stable since the intervention as His Excellency Governor Suntai continue to receive medical care within and outside the country.

As can be clearly seen over this period, the medical condition of Governor Suntai is improving.

And we are waiting for the doctors to certify him fit to resume his duties. As you must have by far noticed, we have once again stepped into a tensed situation occasioned by the second return of His Excellency, Governor Danbaba Suntai from treatment abroad.

“The insistence by a powerful bloc in the state that I hand over to my boss even against professional advice is at the centre of the current impasse.

This has forced the State Executive Council to request the state House of Assembly to set up a medical panel to verify the state of health of our beloved governor. I’ve heard people say the motive behind the setting up of the panel is to remove the governor. This is not true. It is merely intended to determine if I can hand over to him or not.”

Speaking on behalf of the NWC, PDP Deputy National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, who urged Umar to continue to improve on measures to stabilise the state, stressed that peace was more required in the state particularly at this period the country was moving towards general elections.

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54—Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Igbo group backs Jonathan for re-election

VISIT: Elder G o d s d a y O r u b e b e (standing); Mr. Peter Nwaboshi, Delta State P e o p l e s Democratic Party, PDP, Chairman (sitting left), and other party executive, during Orubebe's visit y e s t e r d a y.

PHOTOS: NATH ONOJAKE.

By Jimitota Onoyume

P

ORT HARCOURT— AN Igbo group, Ubenwanne Solidarity Initiative, has expressed its support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s reelection.

President of the group, Mr. Okechukwu Bosah, in a statement yesterday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, appealed to President Jonathan to offer himself for reelection, saying the decision by the National Executive Council, NEC, of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to make him sole candidate of the party was a welcomed development.

Calling on the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike to run for governor in Rivers State, Bosah said as Igbo, they had resolved to be involved in the politics of wherever they do business, adding that their business had suffered from policies of governments in the past because they failed to be part of the political process.

... ex-council boss, too

F

ORMER Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area in Delta State, Mrs Orunagha Felicia, yesterday, appealed to all women of Ijaw extraction across the country and in Diaspora to support the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan and Mr. Daniel Yingi, the member representing Burutu constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly in the 2015 general elections.

Orunagha addressed some women groups yesterday on the need to support Yingi in the forthcoming Assembly election, because he has touched the lives of his constituents through projects and empowerment.

She said “The Ijaw people are known to tow the line of progressives.

We are talking of moving the country forward because since Goodluck Jonathan became President, Nigeria has been transformed to a large extent.”

Anioma Congress scales down guber aspirants to 3

By Emma Amaize

A

SABA— ASAGBA of Asaba, HRM Chike Edozien, has said that the Anioma Congress has screened and pruned down the number of Delta North governorship aspirants from over 24 to three to make the selection of 2015 a flag bearer less cumbersome for the political parties.

The monarch, who made the disclosure at Asaba when he played host to journalists from Anioma ethnic nationality under the auspices of Anioma Media Professionals, AMP, did not release the names of the three aspirants.

However, a top official of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state told Vanguard it was only a recommendation as the party was not bound by the proposal.

State PDP Chairman, Chief Peter Nwaoboshi, had earlier faulted the screening exercise of governorship aspirants of Anioma extraction at the palace of the Asagba of Asaba, saying that the Anioma Congress was not a political party.

An Anioma leader, Chief Peter Dumbili, however, said

yesterday, “the position of Chief Nwaoboshi is very clear.

He is right. The Anioma Congress is not a political party, but the leaders did what is expected of them because it is necessary to put our house in order and point out acceptable governorship candidates to the political parties.”

The royal father, who praised AMP for coming on board at this critical time, urged governorship aspirants from the senatorial district to accept the fact that only one person will eventually emerge as governor of the state, and therefore, should support the providential candidate in the interest of peace and unity.

Why I want to be Delta governor— ORUBEBE

By Festus Ahon

A

SABA— FORMER Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, yesterday, said he has the road map for the development of Delta State, adding that he was in the governorship race because he wants to do something unique.

Speaking when he paid a consultative visit to the leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Asaba, Orubebe said he will create jobs for the unemployed youths and economic empowerment for the women.

He said party executive will be well catered for under his governorship, noting that he

will hold regular meetings with party officials in the state with a view to properly positioning the party.

He expressed hope that the party leadership will do the needful and thanked the Chief Nwaoboshi-led executive for its good work.

Chief Nwaoboshi assured that there would be a level playing ground for all aspirants, saying “I will leave a legacy of free and fair primaries.”

He added that Delta State was too enlightened for anybody to rig elections, saying that whoever emerges at the party primaries would become the party ’s gubernatorial flag bearer.

Delta govt gets 14-day ultimatum from primary school teachers

By Godwin Oghre

S

APELE— PRIMARY school teachers in Delta State, under the aegis of Basic Education Staff Association of Nigeria, BESAN, Delta State Chapter, have given a 14-day ultimatum to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, within which to address their demands, which include salary arrears, among others,

or risk a state-wide protest.

President of BESAN, Mr. Gabriel Adogbeji, who addressed newsmen, yesterday in Sapele, said the planned protest had been communicated to the governor, through the office of the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Professor Patrick Muoboghare.

According to Adogbeji, their reasons for the planned protest, slated for October 2, include

non-payment of nine months harmonisation arrears, nonpayment of promotion arrears from 2006 to 2009 and nonpayment 27.5 percent arrears.

Others include non-release of promotion letters to graduate teachers, nonremittance of N2.9 billion pension funds to their pension funds administrators from May 2008 to March, 2011, among others.

Ex-militant leader lauds Kuku

By Brisibe Perez

U

GHELLI—THE Chairman of the Third Phase Amnesty Programme in Delta State, Mr. Agas Kingsley, has commended Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Kingsley Kuku for addressing the plight of ex-militants in the area.

Speaking at a meeting of the group in Ughelli, Agas said the peace in the region was due to the understanding and performance of Kuku through the amnesty programme.

He warned the exmilitants to eschew violence and flee from acts capable of affecting the peace in the region.

Ndokwa canvasses support for Oyibode

I

NDIGENES of Ndokwa nation, under the auspices of Ndokwa Neku Union, NNU, yesterday, urged Deltans to back Chief Gabriel Oyibode to emerge the successor to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan come 2015.

Secretary of the group, Pastor Jonathan Dike, who spoke during the inauguration of Warri branch of the union, described Oyibode as an illustrious son of Ndokwa, and has a genuine desire to serve Deltans.

Oyibode said his ambition was a divine call, as he had never held any political appointment.

Youths back Odogwu for DTHA

T

HE Burutu South Youths for Positive Change, BSYPC, has endorsed Mr. Tam Odogwu for Delta State House of Assembly election, to represent Burutu South Constituency II. After a meeting in Ughelli, Coordinator of the group, Mr. Sele Mezeh, said they found Odogwu most suitable after a critical examination of all the aspirants.

He urged party leaders to desist from imposing candidates on the electorate.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014—55

Six to die in Abia for murder of human rights activist

By Anayo Okoli

U

MUAHIA—ABIA State High Court sitting in Arochukwu has sentenced six persons to death by hanging for the murder of an Aba-based human rights activist, Comrade Chidi Nwosu.

Nwosu was killed in his Ameke Abam home in Arochukwu Local Government Area on the night of December 29, 2010.

He was then the General Manager of Abia Rubber Plantation located in his Abam community.

Those sentenced are Acha Uka Awo, the driver to late Nwosu; Chimezie Awo, Oti Uka Awo, Sampson Ngozi Atum, Awo Uka Awo and Iroha Orji Ogbuagu.

During the trial which started in January 2013, the accused persons, through their counsel, Victor Mbanaso, entered a nocase submission, arguing that the prosecutor did not satisfy the requirement of the law by linking the accused persons directly with the crime.

But the court presided over by Justice Uche Okoroafor overruled and rejected the no-case submission, insisting that the accused person entered their defence.

The accused maintained their ground and rather relied on the evidence of the prosecution witnesses.

The said evidence of the

prosecution was that the 1st accused (Acha Uka Awo), driver to the deceased who usually slept with the deceased whenever he was home did not sleep with him on the night he was killed, but that he was seen moments after Nwosu was killed scooping his blood into a container.

The prosecutor also noted that his black beret cap was also seen at the scene of the crime, while the short double barrel gun used

in killing the deceased, including a cartridge, was also seen at the scene of the crime.

For the 2nd- 5th accused persons, their involvement was that they fled the village after the crime and were not among the youths that gathered at the village square when all the villagers were summoned.

Their statement to the police which pleaded alibi were not also corroborated by either their

evidence in court as they did not given any.

On the strength of the evidence of the prosecution witness, the Court made inference from all the surrounding circumstances and relied on circumstantial evidence to sentence the accused persons to death.

After the death of Comrade Nwosu, the civil rights group, led

by Abia branch of CLO, facilitated the trial of the accused persons when they were approached by the father of the deceased, 80-year-old Chief Okonnaya Nwosu.

FORUM: From left; Dr Rotimi Oladele, President, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR; Mr Bramwel Kisaya, Kenyan Ambassador to Spain; Mr Arik Karani, Head, Corporate Affairs, Government of Kenya and Mr Yakubu Dati, General Manager, Corporate Communication, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, representing Nigeria at the World Public Relations Forum, WPRF in Madrid, Spain, yesterday.

EBOLA: Abia medical, health workers’ union embarks on training workshop

By Anayo Okoli

of Ebola virus to Abia State, the state chapter of Medical and MUAHIA—AS part of the Health workers union has fight against the spread organized workshop for its

U

World Summit Award: MDG game wins best mobile app

By Nkiruka Nnorom

T

HE World Summit Award, WSA, African Content Award Jury has selected Malaria Destroy Game, MDG project as the best African mobile solution in the mobile category of the World Summit Award.

With development, MDG solution is one of the winners of the African content award 2014.

WSA had received in the last 10 years extremely successful and powerful applications from Africa and could award several African winners in the global competition.

To strengthen this regional network and encourage more knowledge transfer inside the region, Peter Bruck, WSA Chairman, in a letter to originator

of MDG and Chairman of Mobile Software Solutions Limited, Chris Uwaje said “We have started this year a special regional award and forum for people to learn from each other and encourage creative solutions in and from Africa.

“It is my pleasure to herewith inform you that the African Content Award Jury selected your project as the best African mobile solution in your category.

Responding, Uwaje who has always believed that software Nigeria has the capacity to compete in the global market in his reaction said "This award to Mobile Software Solutions as WAS-Africa e-Content 2014 Winner, clearly demonstrates that the ICT Technophobia era in Nigeria has been constructively demystified and significantly downsized.''

members to educate them on the preventive measures for the dreaded disease.

State chairman of the union, Chief Uchenna Obigwe, explained while declaring the workshop open that it was part of directive from the national leadership of the union to ensure that its members were well educated on the dreaded virus.

Obigwe disclosed that the leadership of the union in all the 36 states had had their own training workshop in Abuja where they were directed to replicate same in the 774 councils of the country.

Yesterday’s workshop was for the chairmen of the 34 branches of the union in the state who would in turn train their members at the local government levels, who will, thereafter, educate people in the rural areas.

While commending the Federal Government for the aggressive manner it tackled the Ebola issue, Obigwe also commended Abia State government for the measures it had so far put on ground

against the disease.

He, however, appealed to the government to engage more of especially environmental heath workers.

Stressing the importance of protective measures by health workers, the chairman said: “The need for protection, action and solidarity by and with health workers has never been more pressing.”

Wanted armed bandit killed in Enugu

By Francis Igata

E

N U G U — A notorious armed robber and kidnapper, who had been on the wanted list of operatives of the Special A n t i - R o b b e r y Squad,SARS, Enugu Police command, has been killed by the police.

The suspect,Tochukwu Pelanjo,31,alias Shinkafi, had allegedly been terrorising residents of Trans-Ekulu, Independent Layout and its environs in Enugu until SARS operatives pinned him down at his hideout in Independence Layout at about 10:15pm on September 24.

Police Public Relations Officer,PPRO, Enugu State command, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu, DSP, confirmed the incident in a statement to newsmen.

The statement read: “The deadly hoodlum who had been on the wanted list of the command for several killings and armed robbery at TransEkulu,Independence Layout,Abakpa and environ was traced to Independence Layout.

“He had been fleeing with bullet wounds which our men inflicted on him two weeks ago during a fierce gun duel along Enugu-Ontisha expressway where they were carrying out their nefarious activities.

“Our intelligence report revealed his hideout. We accosted him and he was fatally injured and was rushed to Park-lane hospital where doctors confirmed him dead.”

Obiano’s wife plans homes for the elderly in Anambra

By Vincent Ujumadu

A

WKA—WIFE of Anambra State governor, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Obiano, has said that her office would build homes for the elderly in the three senatorial zones of the state.

The governor ’s wife, who announced the plan at Ojoto in Idemili South and Onitsha in Onitsha North local government areas during a ‘Thank you tour ’ of the 21 local government areas of the state, explained that the

elderly needed adequate care to enable them enjoy their old age.

She explained that she had already registered an NGO called Caring Family Enhancement Initiatives, CAFÉ, in the USA to solicit for fund from wealthy people and organizations that would like to partner with her on the project.

She said: “CAFÉ is an instrument of solution that would be used to transform the lives of women and children in the state for good.

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58 — Vanguard, FRIDAY FRIDAY,, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 14 — 59 26,, 20 2014

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NESIEGHO—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Vivian Rhomarhua Nesiegho, now wish to be known and addressed as M r s . Vi v i a n R h o m a r h u a Ovbighodua.

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

UMUKORO—I, formerly known and addressed Miss Umukoro Cynthia Odomero, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ozehor Cynthia Odomero. All former documents remain valid. First Bank Plc, Access Bank, Zenith Bank Plc and general public please take note.

BADARE—I, formerly

please take note.

D I C K S O N OLORUNDA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Peace DicksonOlorunda, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Peace Nkwere. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

EZIAMAKA—I, formerly known and addressed as Mr. John Patrick Azbuike Eziamaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. John Patrick Azubuike Okwuchukwu. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

EZIAMAKA—I, formerly known and addressed as Stella Uju Nwokedi, Mrs. Stella Uju Eziamaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Stella Uju Okwuchukwu. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OBIKWELU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss O b i k w e l u , Kosisochukwu Harriet, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Abone Kosisochukwu Harriet. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and general public please take note.

M B A K W E — I , formerly known and addressed as Miss Mbakwe Uzoamaka Ukamaka, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Okoye Uzoamaka Ukamaka. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

EZEH—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ezeh, Obiageli Chinwe, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nnabugwu Obiageli Chinwe. All former documents remain valid. Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka and general public please take note.

IVA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Elizabeth E. Iva, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Elizabeth Kakumusuei Brown.

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

SELEMA—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Tamunotonye Peacebe Selema, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ta m u n o t o n y e Peacebe Agbede. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

IDONG—I, formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Inemesit Godwin Effiong, now wish to be known and addressed as Miss Inemesit Simon Idong.

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

BENSON—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Benson Inerepamo Grace, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. E b h o m i e l e n Inerepamo Ken. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

known and addressed as Miss Jane Badare, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Jane Dede. All former documents remain valid. General public

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60 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Vanguard CLASSIFIED

Milla, Weah, Abedi to confront Chukwu, Odegbami A

NUMBER of African football legends, including Cameroon icon, Roger Milla, Abedi Ayew Pele and Anthony Yeboah of Ghana among others have agreed to participate in two novelty matches involving African and Nigerian legends.

The two-legged event which is being put together by a nong o v e r n m e n t a l organisation, Next 2 None will see the first match played in Ghana while the second match has been slated for Lagos in December, this year.

Event managers and publicists, Fel-Charles and Company disclosed to reporters that Cameroon idol, Roger Milla confirmed early this month at a press conference in Accra Ghana that he would honour both legs of the encounter which the NGO is putting together to help create awareness in the fight against injustice and child trafficking in Nigeria and sub-Sahara Africa.

“The founder of the NGO Barrister Sam Obuh has put everything in place to ensure all invited ex-internationals take part in the novelty matches,” an official of the marketing outfit said.

“We expect the likes of Abedi Pele, Tony Yeboah, Roger Milla and from Nigeria we have Christian Chukwu, Austin Jay Jay Okocha, Segun Odegbami, among others.

T

STOPPED: Vincent Enyeama picks the ball off Messi's head at the Brazil 2014 World Cup. Enyeama is hopeful Eagles will qualify for Afcon 2015.

NFF election: Eseka backs Umeh for The former Sports writer NFF Presidency noted that Umeh’s love for

V

•Umeh

Enyeama Continues from BP due to ‘family reasons’, says he’s a firm believer in possibilities, and as a result, believes qualification is not out of Nigeria’s reach.

“I have always believed in possibilities and I have absolute confidence that we can always achieve the best no matter what.

“There are still four games to play and I’m very confident we will make it to Morocco 2015, we just have to keep the focus,” he said.

Nigeria are third in

Nembe City fined, banished to Benin

Group A, with Congo topping with a maximum points haul of six, South Africa are second with four points, while Sudan are bottom with no points from the two games played so far.

The Super Eagles will play against Sudan back to back, first in Omdurman and then possibly in Abuja, knowing that they must secure maximum points from those games if they are to stand a clear chance of qualifying for the tournament.

ETERAN sports journalist, Chris Eseka has backed Chief Mike Umeh in his ambition to become the next President of the Nigeria Football Federation.

Eseka who is a pioneer in sports marketing in the country said he had known Umeh since the early 1990s adding that the achievements of the Anambra State-born football administrator stood him out among the field of contestants in the race for the NFF Presidency.

“Umeh’s years in the administration of football can be traced back to the early 1990s when he was the Team Manager of the Super Eagles and when he eventually got into the board of the Nigeria Football Association.

“Umeh guided the boys to the Nations Cup triumph in Tunisia, qualified for the World Cup and as first timers, got to the second round. It was no mean feat,” Eseka recalled.

football was underlined by the enormous resources he put into the administration of the game in the country.

“He spent his personal money and time to ensure football developed smoothly in the country.”

HE League Management Company (LMC) yesterday ruled that Nembe City will play their next three home matches in Benin.

These decisions and others including a financial fine on Nembe City were reached in the aftermath of the inconclusive Match Day 26 fixture between Nembe City and Lobi Stars at the Krisdera Stadium, Omoku, Rivers State.

The LMC found that the match was discontinued as a result of fans invading the pitch in protest of extra time penalty awarded by the center Referee against Nembe City. It noted that it was the action of the fans and not the protest of Nembe City players, who though initially protested the penalty award that caused the pitch invasion and inhibited the continuation of play It further observed that play could not have resumed even if Nembe City players returned within five to twenty five minutes as stipulated by the Rules when the fans refused to vacate the pitch and accordingly fined the club N500, 000 for the unruly conduct of its players, officials and fans.

Keshi Continues from BP are entitled to play for Nigeria, so why not. If I see and they are willing to play for Nigeria, why not, I will,” he said yesterday.

More and more former footballers have been calling for a change in how players are called to the Super Eagles, with some seeing it as a ‘closed circuit’ where a particular group are always invited irrespective of how they fare at their clubs, even when they hardly get games.

The latest of the former footballers is Garba Lawal, a former Super

Eagles midfielder who said “It is obvious that we need fresh players in the team because whatever the coach is doing is not going right at the moment.

“As a coach you need to change, a positive change. But he keeps insisting but for how long,” A list of invited players for October ’s double header AFCON 2015 qualifiers against Sudan is expect out at any moment and Nigerians surely are expectant to see if some ‘fresh faces’ will be called up, most notably Kelechi Iheanacho and IK Uche.

NDIANABASI—I, formerly known and addressed as Ndianabasi Etim Uto, now wish to be known and addressed as Ndianabasi Cletus Samuel. All former documents remain valid.

Nasam Educational Centre, Accurate Knowledge International Montessori School and general public please take note.

ONYEJI JIMBA—I, formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Sandra Oluchi Onyeji Jimba, now wish to be known and addressed as Sandra Oluchi Opara. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ROBERT—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Tioghoemi Robert, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Tioghoemi Trinya. All former documents remain valid. College of Education Rivers State and general public please take note.

IDOGHOR—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Idoghor Patience, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ivwidiotu Favour. All former documents remain valid. general public please take note.

INEMO—I, formerly known and addressed as Inemo Philip Ockiya, now wish to be known and addressed as Ayebaitarite Philip Ockiya. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ONINI—I formerly known and addressed as Miss Onini Blessing Smart, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Blessing Ayebakuro Festus. All former documents remain valid. University of Port Harcourt, NYSC and general public please take note.

BIPELEDEI—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Biboere Bipeledei, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Biboere Ekiye. All former documents remain valid. Bayelsa State Council for Arts and culture and general public please take note.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 —61

C M Y K

62— Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Vanguard, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 — 63

Van Gaal: Man U challenge hardest of my career L

OUIS van Gaal has a d m i t t e d Manchester United’s plight is the hardest moment of a glittering managerial career.

United have only five points from five Premier League games and have won only once, with their last outing the 5-3 defeat at Leicester City where they conceded four unanswered second half goals in 21 minutes.

Van Gaal has nine players injured and a further one unavailable in Tyler Blackett who is suspended. He has a crisis at centre-back because Chris Smalling is injured along with Phil Jones and Jonny Evans. And as Blackett is also unavailable as a left-sided player in the position, Van Gaal confirmed he will have to turn to the under-21 squad for replacements for the home game

TOUGH TASK — Van Gaal against West Ham on Saturday.

“As a manager you know in advance it’s a big challenge and the club is in a transition but you don’t know in advance the difficult moments,” he said.

Van Gaal shrugged off any idea there was panic at the club, saying that United just have to

accept their situation. Of the injuries he said: “I have to admit I’m never in this situation before so that’s strange.

“For me it’s difficult to understand because we are evaluating what we can do in a different way but you have to train on a certain level. We have a lot of injuries, nine injuries now, and

STRATEGY— Rooney (r) and Van Persie put heads together on the way forward.

Blackett suspended. So that means that 10 are off so I have to go to the youth team to pick players.

“The younger players can pick their chances now and that’s also the policy of this club. I have read that differently in the media but it’s like that. They are always ready. They have hunger to play.

Manchester United’s youth education has a certain level that can provide that.”

Van Gaal remains confident United can finish third. “When you are 3-1 ahead after 60 minutes you have to win.

Then we are two points off second in the table.

Because of the loss we are sitting here and you are talking like that and

questioning me like that.

But if we had won this game it was a different story. We [can] overcome and the season lasts more than one day.”

Of the injuries to Evans and Smalling he added: “Evans is a very difficult thing. His bone is bruised a lot and we have to wait and see and evaluate, but I don’t take risks.”

Nwuche commends President Jonathan over national awards

P

RESIDENT of N i g e r i a Weightlifting Federation and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Prince Chibudom Nwuche has commended President Goodluck Jonathan for the recent conferment of national honours on some deserving Nigerians drawn from various segments of the society.

In a statement issued in Abuja recently, Hon. Nwuche expressed delight at the rich and diverse composition of the awardees, stressing that it was indeed fit and proper to confer the national honour on any person found worthy in character, honesty, integrity, nationalism and service to the fatherland, irrespective of class or position in society.

“These fine traits can be found in Nigerians in every strata of society from the lowly to the very high, including security guards, labourers, artisans, taxi drivers, teachers, politicians and government employees.

GOLDEN LIFT — Maryam Usman won gold in Weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

In conferring this honour on deserving persons without discrimination in status, Mr. President has indeed departed from the past where only the high and mighty were recognized and awarded national honours. He has sent a strong signal to every Nigerian that this nation will hence-forth appreciate its distinguished men and women at whatever level”, he declared.

He commended the award recipients, particularly the Commonwealth Gold medalists in

Weightlifting (whose Federation he presides over) Maryam Usman and Oluwatoyin Adesanmi, for distinguishing themselves in sports and other spheres of interest and urged them to consider the national recognition as a tonic for greater service to their fatherland and mankind in general.

He also, urged the Ministry of Sports to work in harmony with the National Sports Federations to ensure better performances in future International competitions.

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2014

Afcon 2015: Enyeama confident Eagles ‘ll qualify S

UPER Eagles first choice goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama has expressed confidence Nigeria will qualify for the Morocco 2015 Africa

No fresh faces for Eagles •Keshi replies critics O

•Ike

•Keshi

UT-of-Contract Super Eagles Coach Stephen Keshi has reacted to criticisms about his selection policy and style, saying he’s open to inviting some ‘fresh faces’ if he sees them.

The former Hawks of Togo Coach has come under intense scrutiny and criticism lately about his invitation policy and how certain players are always left out of the

Cup of Nations despite a slow start to the qualifying campaign, which has seen them get only a solitary point from a possible six.

Enyeama, who missed both games against Congo and South Africa Continues on Page 60

•Enyeama

In today's Sports Vanguard

national side. But the ‘Big Boss’ as he’s fondly called has defended himself saying he’s very much open to inviting new players to the team as is being craved for, only if he spots them.

He says: “If I see fresh faces that are good and can bring something tangible to the team, why not, I will invite them.

“It’s their country, they Continues on Page 60

Milla, Weah, Abedi to confront Chukwu, Odegbami — P. 60 QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 1 Jumped (5) 5 Cut (6) 8 Reappear (5) 10 Office (6) 11 Flag (4) 14 Submissive (6) 15 Scrap (7) 18 Wager (3) 19 Fish (3) 21 Act (4) 23 Go in (5) 24 Impetuous (4) 27 Number (3) 29 Scull (3) 31 Ludicrous (7) 32 Savage (6) 34 Ancestry (4) 35 Thought (6) 38 Deadly (5) 39 Objective (6) 40 Entertained (5)

DOWN 2 Bird (3) 2 Sermonise (6) 4 Beverage (3) 5 Grating (4) 6 Carved (6) 7 Guard (6) 9 Present (7) 12 Steal (3) 13 Location (4) 16 Notion (4) 17 Dissuade (5) 20 Merciful (7) 22 Wicked (4) 24 Sturdy (6) 25 Spirit (4) 26 Loathing (6) 28 Small (6) 30 Managed (3) 33 Departed (4) 36 Lout (3) 37 Poem (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1, Scrape 5, Dawn 8, Order 9, Lea 10, Solo 11, Life 12, Dated 13, Rotted 16, Disc 18, Emit 20, Row 22, Sea 23, Dip 24, Tuna 25, Pest 28, Teeter 30, Heart 32, Iron 33, Said 34, Kit 35, Lever 36, Seed 37, Trance.

DOWN: 1, Salary 2, Reaction 3, Passed 4, Broadcast 5, Deleted 6, Arid 7, Need 8, Old 14, Dispersed 15, Rip 17, See 19, Mistaken 20, Rut 21, Wakened 26, Tender 27, Writhe 29, Bias 30, Hole 31, Tar.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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