Abdulsamad

No. 2,223 N150

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY16.07.14 WEDNESDAY

NIGERIA’S MOST INFLUENTIAL NEWSPAPER

➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6Adamawa: Nyako Impeached, Deputy Resigns, Speaker Sworn In > Page 6

BOI Will Scale Up Financial Assistance To SMEs - AbdulsamadBY KINGSLEY ALU, Abuja

� e new chairman, Board of Directors of the Bank of Industry

(BoI), Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, has assured the federal government of the bank’s readiness to review its current

credit portfolio to the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country which at the moment was very low.

Alhaji Rabiu made this pledge while responding to a directive by the minister of industry, trade and investment, Mr Olusegun Aganga, during the inauguration

Which APC Governor Is Next?

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

OUR STAND

President Jonathan Playing With Fire

Early this year, the newly se-lected national chairman of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, described his party members

as master poachers. What he meant then is crystallizing: instigate (read bribe) troublemakers to pester the op-position, induce opposition members to cross over to the ruling party, and suborn state lawmakers to remove op-position governors and install PDP governors. � e steamroller is on.

It seems most strange that a govern-ment that has failed on all fronts and

bu� eted by terrorists is opening up more war fronts. Has it come to this? Has the destruction of Nigeria become state policy? � is madness must stop.

� e world should see the hand of tyranny in the impeachment of Ad-amawa State governor Murtala Nya-ko and the forced resignation of his deputy Bala James Ngilari yesterday. Only on Monday, the Nasarawa State House of Assembly began impeach-

ment proceedings against Governor Tanko Al-Makura. Edo State governor Adams Oshiomhole has been in the line of � re because some APC House mem-bers have been bought over and the minority PDP members are said to be dangling the impeachment threat. Riv-ers State governor Chibuike Amaechi knows that some of the state’s lawmak-ers are ganging up against him. Rochas Okorocha of Imo State is also facing a benign threat of impeachment. � ese � ve governors have one thing in com-

� e Nasarawa State House of Assembly on Monday served Al-Makura with an impeachment notice that bordered on alleged misconduct and mismanagement of N13 billion in three years.

Edo State House of Assembly is divided into two factions with the ruling APC having 15 while the opposition PDP has 9 members.

� irty-two members of Rivers State House of Assembly are polarised into two camps with Governor Amaechi controlling 25 members while the opposition PDP has 6 members.

Underground Plot to impeach him in the o� ng.

Underground Plot to impeach him underway.

Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi

Kwara State governor Abdulfatah Ahmed

Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha

Nasarawa State governor Umaru Al-Makura

Edo State governor Adams Oshiomhole

? ?

➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 3

Chibok Diary 93DAY Chibok Schoolgirls' Parents Shun Jonathan > Page 2

chibok diary Wednesday, July 16, 2014 2

93DAY

Members of the BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group in a meeting at the Unity Fountain in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO

@obyezeksWE were SO DELIGHTED to have Malala- a PEER of our #ChibokGirls visit & help amplify their VOICE & DEMAND: #BringBackOurGirls Now & Alive!!!

@WilDeji The time for 'meeting them' has passed; he should just #BringBackOurGirls

@abikedabiri The #bringbackourgirls campaign groups are pursuing a good cause and that cause should be supported by all well-meaning Nigerians.seunfakze You want us to keep quiet, you want us to forget the issue; very easy Mr President. Just #BringBackOurGirls

@Chude *Sigh* The things my ears have heard this evening. God keep my Aunty strong. God sees. #BringBackOurGirls

@AishaYesufu We actually got to Day 92 of d abduction. No breaking news yet of their rescue We will keep demanding. #BringBackOurGirls #BringBackOurGirls

@BringGirlsBack Thank you to all the people who do their best to keep #BringBackOurGirls on the agenda. They are not back: our work is not done yet!

@madamedemadame 92days!!!92 days in pains, anguish, despair..92 days in captivity....92days #bringbackourgirls

CHIBOK TWEETS

States that govt is not a cult

BY ADESUWA TSAN AND EDEGBE ODEMWINGIE, Abuja

� e speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Aminu Tambuwal, has asked President Goodluck Jona-than to negotiate with the Boko Haram sect, to secure the release of the over 200 girls who were kidnapped from their school in Chibok, Borno State in April this year.

� e speaker said this while receiving a delegation of the BringBackOurGirls advocacy group, which paid him a courtesy visit at the National Assembly yesterday.

Tambuwal, who said he had made his position known

BY BY JONATHAN NDA-ISAIAH, Abuja

Senate president, Senator David Mark, has urged the various campaign groups working for the release of the abducted Chibok secondary school girls to col-laborate with government agencies for the eventual release of the girls.He made the appeal when the BringBackOurGirls campaign group paid him a visit at the senate yester-day.� is, he said, had become imperative, so that the groups and government agencies do not work at cross purposes in the quest to free the girls.In a statement issued by his chief press secretary, Paul Mumeh, he stressed, “I am not sure any Nigerian with blood � owing in his veins will be indi� erent to the plight of the Chibok girls. Government has not ruled out any option in the quest to free our girls. Let us be on the same wavelength and free the girls alive.“� e case of the Chibok girls is a sad commentary. Nobody anticipated this ugly trend. We are all under stress, locally and internationally. � e situation does not call on anybody to grandstand. All hands must be on deck to rescue the girls.

EJIKE EJIKE AND CHIKA MEFOR, Abuja

Parents and schoolmates of the 219 schoolgirls being held captive by Boko Haram extremists yesterday refused at the last minute to meet with President Goodluck Jonathan, who ac-cused activists of “playing politics”.

“It now appears that our � ght to get the girls of Chibok back is not only a � ght against a ter-rorist insurgency, but also against a political op-position,” Jonathan said in a statement.

� e mass abduction on April 14, three months ago Monday, has been plagued by poli-tics from the start. � e � rst lady, Patience Jona-

than had at a point stated that the kidnapping never occurred, but was fabricated by her hus-band’s enemies to damage his image.

She also had two leading activists brie� y ar-rested, and relations between the government, security forces and the BringBackOurGirls movement had been tense ever since.

At one point in May when the activists tried to stage a peaceful march to present their de-mands to Jonathan, they were blocked by sol-diers and police. On Tuesday, security agents locked the doors to the National Assembly, preventing the campaigners from attending a scheduled meeting with the Senate president,

said Rotimi Olawale, a spokeswoman for the campaign.

It seems the campaigners then persuaded the parents and girls not to meet with the presi-dent, who has faced international condemna-tion for his slow response to mount a campaign to rescue the girls.

“My priority is not politics. My priority is the return of these girls,” Jonathan’s statement said. He accused the Nigerian chapter of the BringBackOurGirls campaign of “psychological terrorism… playing politics with the situation and the grief of the parents and the girls. � ey should be ashamed of their actions.”

GAS SUPPLY FG TO BUILD LONGEST PIPELINE

500km 2018

“By the end of the year, we will be commencing, via Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme, the nation’s longest pipeline from Calabar via Ajaokuta to Kano State.” Alison-Madueke

THE MINISTER SAID THAT BY THE END OF 2018, THE BACKBONE PIPELINE INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GAS

WOULD HAVE BEEN DELIVERED, CONCLUDING AN INITIAL PHASE OF OVER 2,500KM OF GAS PIPELINE

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

ALMOST 500KM OF NEW GAS PIPELINES HAVE BEEN COMPLETED AND COMMISSIONED, INCLUDING THE DOUBLING OF THE CAPACITY OF THE EPLS BETWEEN ESCRAVOS AND OBEN AND THE EXTENSION FROM OBEN TO GEREGU AND RIVER IMO TO ALAOJI, RESPECTIVELY

25% 11%

Gas �aring level was about

25 per cent two years ago

Today, it has drastically dropped to 11 per cent

This is part of e�orts at ensuring steady supply of gas to meet the growing market demandCalabar

Lokoja

Kano

THE PIPELINE IS EXPECTED TO

START FROM CALABAR VIA

AJAOKUTA TO KANO STATE

AT PRESENT, THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT IS CONSTRUCTING THE STRATEGICEAST-WEST PIPELINE, WHILE THE LAGOS END OF THE ESCRAVOS TO LAGOS PIPELINES SYSTEM (ELPS) IS NEARING COMPLETION

INFOGRAPHICS BYMatthew AkhabueCOMPILED BY UGOCHUKWU IROKA

Chibok Schoolgirls’ Parents Shun Jonathan

Chibok Girls: Tambuwal Asks FG To Negotiate With Boko Haram

BBOG Group At NASS: Mark Wants All Hands On Deck To Rescue Girls Alive

Upcoming events

Saturday 100 Days rally in Melbourne, Australia

before now in Kano last year, said it was im-portant to go to the negotiating table with the insurgents if it would ensure the security of lives and in this case, if it would guarantee the safe release of the girls.

“If negotiating is what will bring back, for instance, our Chibok girls, then for God’s sake, we should negotiate,” he stated, adding that Is-rael and Palestine were holding talks, despite hostilities between them.

“Negotiating does not just mean you are submitting; you are not. It is just a strategy. Whatever we have to do we must do, to bring back these girls safe and alive,” he maintained.

� e speaker also called on the president to partner with the BringBackOurGirls group and answer their questions, saying they were only there to provide support for the safe return of the abducted girls. In the same vein, he urged security agents to be civil in their dealings with the group. He was reacting to the barricade at the National Assembly gates by security agents to stop the group, which had a prior appoint-ment with the Senate president and the speak-er of the House of Representatives, from gain-ing entrance into the building. Members of the group were drenched by the heavy rain while they struggled to gain access into the building.

“We must do everything humanly possible to rescue the girls alive, end insurgency and terrorism in the land,” Mark said. He appreciated the campaign being led by the Oby Ezekwe-sili and Mariam Uwais-led BringBackOurGirls group and reminded them that Boko Haram had declared war on Ni-geria, a situation, he noted demanded tact and a purposeful approach.“What is important to all of us is to work hard to bring our girls alive. Nobody should politicise this. Lives are involved and we are all fathers and mothers here. It is better imagined than witnessed, “ Senator Mark said. Earlier, Ezekwesili and Uwais had urged the president of the Senate to prevail on the relevant authorities to intensify ef-forts to rescue the Chibok girls alive. � e duo maintained that they would not rest until the last of the girls was freed alive, saying that government needed to do more to let the nation know the state of a� airs of the girls.

our stand

Editor Sadiq AbdullateefDeputy Editors

Kazeem AkintundeEditorial Board

Safiya M. Adamu, Chairman Christian Ochiama, Deputy Chairman

StandardsAniebo Nwamu, Director

’Lara Olugbemi, Assistant Director

LEADERSHIP is a national paper symbolically embedded in the

nation’s capital.We shall stand up for good

governance. We shall defend the interest of Nigerian people even against their rulers, and

we shall raise our pen at all times in defence of what is

right. These are the values by which we intend to be assessed.

We shall never, ever for any reason forget the noble reason of

our coming into being: For God and country!

FounderSam Nda-Isaiah

Chairman Hajiya Ireti Kingibe

Group Managing Director Azubuike Ishiekwene

Group Executive Directors Michael Okpere

Dr Kazeem Durodoye

Company Secretary/Legal Adviser

Abdulhaleem Amin

Divisional Directors Abdulmumin Balogun

Ademola OladosuIyobosa Uwugiaren

Salisu Alhassan Bichi

General ManagersAminu Abubakar Sule

Zipporah D. TankoJoy Adekanye

Managing DirectorAbraham Nda-Isaiah

Executive DirectorNnamdi Samuel

New York OfficeMohammed Bello Shehu

London OfficeDr Bello Salihu

Johannesburg OfficeAbiodun Oguntuase

Business ManagerBilkisu Mohammed Rimi

LeadershipHoldings

President Jonathan Playing With Firemon: they are APC members. There are fears that Kano, an-other APC state, may also have its governor, Rabiu Kwankwa-so, dragged to the execution range soon.

Anyone who doubts the mo-tive behind the destabilisa-tion plot should consider that the governors have six months to face the electorate again or about a year to leave office after completing two terms. Which impeachment offences remained hidden for seven years but were discovered only towards the end of their ten-ure?

And why is it that vestiges of trouble only begin to emerge in non-PDP states after their governors defect? Is it a coin-cidence that terrorists discov-er a state only when its gover-nor leaves the PDP and joins the opposition party? And why is it that whenever a scandal is about to be unearthed – like the missing $20billion and the chartered jet saga – terrorist activities intensify to divert the people’s attention? It is about time these questions are answered.

But those who seek to destroy Nigeria through non-tolerance of the opposition should read the handwriting on the wall of history. There is no doubt that a good number of the evil peo-ple that have held the nation hostage operate freely under the umbrella of the ruling par-ty. It is the same kind of people that wrecked the First, Second and Third republics. And, after the first round of elections in the Fourth Republic, they all found shelter under one um-brella, because they couldn’t play or stand opposition poli-tics.

The Jonathan government is jittery because a mega party that could defeat the PDP in next year’s elections has been formed. Apparently unable to stop the wind of change and

acting in desperation, the government has found a leeway by destroying ev-erything and everyone as-sociated with the APC.

Left to the PDP govern-ment, there should be no elections in 2015. After eliminating all the APC gov-ernors and replacing them with PDP stooges, for in-stance, the coast would be clear for a repeat of the Eki-ti “magic” in other states.

Yet, there is nothing strange about what has happened in Adamawa, what is happening in Na-sarawa and what could hap-pen in Edo, Rivers, Imo and Kwara states. Party stal-warts are directed to dip their hands into nest-bags of money stolen from pub-lic funds; they gather mem-bers of a state assembly and haul scores of millions of naira on those willing to swear to an oath of trust. After Ghana-must-go bags have changed hands, it is time to gather impeach-ment offences.

Can the lawmakers in Adamawa look the pub-lic straight in the eye and swear that the impeach-ment of Nyako was done in the best interest of the state; that it was an altru-istic exercise?

As the steamroller turns to Nasarawa, the lawmak-ers may find it convenient

to argue that in a democracy the majority must have its way. But we know that their action is hardly in defence of democracy. Is there a re-lationship between the bond that the Nasarawa State governor has raised and the impeachment threat? At a time of serious national cri-sis brought on by the incom-petence of the Jonathan-led government, politicians must stop playing with fire. They must stop playing with the future of the country. The madness must stop.

From the missing Chibok girls to the general insecurity in the country and from the unaccounted for $20billion to the troves of unattended re-ports on stolen funds, there’s more than enough serious work to be done. It beggars belief that at a time when the government should dou-ble-down on retrieving the country from the jaws of ter-rorists and thieves, it is very busy plotting to silence the opposition.

And we must say that we are worried by the deafening si-lence of elder statesmen, who only on July 8 met Jonathan on the state of the nation. Their continuous silence not only emboldens this govern-ment it gives the impression that the unfolding tragedy carries their stamp of ap-proval.

It was Adamawa yesterday, Nasarawa today, where next? If we are serious about keep-ing this country together – as we believe we should – then it’s time to pay more than lip service to the ties that bind us.

We must stop the bull in the china shop now, or risk los-ing the shop, the wares and the bull as well. We advise the Presidency and the PDP against starting another fire. Nobody knows how it will end.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 3

FROM FRONT PAGE

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 4 news extra

Group News Editor: tony amokeodo

IBB, Abdulsalami Lead Dignitaries To Burial Of Former Gov Kure’s Mother

The remains of the mother of the former governor of Niger State, Engr Abdulkadir Kure, Hajiya Hauwa Kulu Salihu has been laid to rest at the ancient city of Lapai, Niger State.

The prayer session for the burial ceremony was conduct-ed by the chief imam of Lapai, Sheik Mohammad Bashar, with dignitaries led by for-mer Nigerian military lead-ers, Generals Ibrahim Badama-si Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar in attendance.

Niger State governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu also led top government function-aries in the state including the speaker and members of the Niger State House of Assem-bly as well as members of the state executive council to the burial.

The Etsu Nupe and chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Ya-haya Abubakar led the tradi-tional rulers including Emir of Suleja, Mallam Awal Ibra-him, Etsu Agaie, Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu and Emir of Minna, Al-haji Umar Farouk Bahago.

The chief imam prayed for the soul of the deceased to rest in eternal peace and for Allah to give those left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.

Meanwhile, the governor of Niger State has condoled with the former governor of the state, Engr Abdulkadir Kure over the death of his mother, late Hajiya Hauwa Kulu Salihu.

The condolence message was contained in a press state-ment signed in Minna yester-day by the chief press secretary to Governor Aliyu, Mr Israel Ayegba Ebije.

“Let me condole with the former governor of Niger State, Engr Abdulkadir Kure and his entire family over the death of his mother. I pray Al-lah continue to protect, guide and encourage the family she has left behind,” the statement added.

Late Hajiya Kulu died at the age of 85 in a hospital in Abu-ja and is survived by three chil-dren including the former gov-ernor, Engr Kure.

The late Hajiya Kulu was known for her religious be-lief and strong influence in in-stilling good moral values in the people of her community as well as caring for the young-er ones.

BY ACHOR ABIMAJE, Jos

Following the killing of 11 persons at Zamadede in Pil-Gani district of Langtang North local government area of Plateau State, unknown gunmen have again attacked and killed five people in Rakung area in the outskirts of Barkin Ladi lo-cal government area of the state.

LEADERSHIP gathered that the gunmen stormed the village

at about midnight on Monday as the residents were fast asleep.

A source who did not want his name in print said that the gun-men shot sporadically in the air, scaring everyone in sight.

As the day broke, youths in the area were said to have blocked the major road, but were quickly dis-persed by some STF personnel de-ployed to the area.

Capt. Ikedichi Iweha, spokes-

man of the Special Task Force (STF), who confirmed the inci-dent to our correspondent, said that among the dead were some of the gunmen.

He said that troops of the STF responded swiftly to a distress call and were able to ward off the at-tackers before they could inflict se-rious injuries on the helpless vil-lagers.

The STF spokesman added that

soldiers were also able to disperse the youths who tried to take ad-vantage of the situation to cause mayhem.

He said, “As I talk to you now, normalcy has been restored to the area as a result of the quick re-sponse of our men.

“They were also able to disperse the youths who blocked the major road and there is presently no dan-ger to the travelling public.”

BY BAYO OlAdEJI, Abuja and GEORGE OkOGIE, Lagos

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the PDP of aiding, abetting and benefitting from the Boko Haram insurgen-cy, saying the mismanagement of national resources, massive cor-ruption under the PDP watch and the incompetent handling of what started as a localised in-surgency have been responsible for the festering crisis.

In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by the national public-ity secretary, Alhaji Lai Moham-med, the party also accused the federal government of using the fight against the insurgency as an excuse to punish and witch-hunt

the opposition, trample on civil liberties and abuse national insti-tutions on a scale that is unprec-edented in the country’s history.

It said had the PDP-led federal government not misgovern Nige-ria since 1999, perhaps the coun-try could have been spared the cankerworm of terrorism, epit-omised more than anything else by the Boko Haram insurgency.

APC said the international community is not unaware that the FG has been the biggest cog in the wheel of efforts to tackle Boko Haram, apparently because the Jonathan administration has seen the insurgency as its surest ticket to re-election and interna-tional acceptance.

“Far from the baseless and irre-

sponsible accusations and finger-pointing by the PDP and the gov-ernment it controls at the centre, it is time to tell Nigerians that the only reason the insurgency has continued unabated is be-cause the PDP and the Jonathan administration are benefitting massively from it.

“That explains their quick dis-missal of our call for an inter-national inquiry to unravel the sponsors and modus operandi of the terror group, while latch-ing on to what remains a mere conjecture on the probe of Boko Haram links by the British Par-liament. Pray, which is bigger and more authentic, a probe by the British Parliament or an in-ternational inquiry? If the PDP

and its cohorts have nothing to hide, they would have embraced that call. We maintain that only an international inquiry can un-ravel those behind Boko Haram, and we thank Nigerians for their favourable response to our call,’’ APC said.

The party called the attention of Nigerians to the testimony given by a US official, at the US House Foreign Affairs Sub-com-mittee on Africa’s hearing last Thursday in Washington, identi-fying the human rights abuse re-cord and uncooperative attitude of the Nigerian government and its military authorities as factors hindering the security assistance offered to Nigeria by the US to tackle Boko Haram.

By Achor Abimaje, Jos

Boko Haram: ‘Justice Ministry Refused To Prosecute Over 500 Suspects’

Again, Gunmen Kill 5 In Plateau Village

How PDP-led FG Aids, Abets, Benefit From Boko Haram Insurgency – APC

BY BAYO OlAdEJI, Abuja

The military authorities are not happy with the failure of the Fed-eral Ministry of Justice to pros-ecute no fewer than 500 Boko Haram suspects whose case files have been ready since late last year.

LEADERSHIP recalled the crit-icisms and alleged human rights abuse of the Boko Haram sus-pects who are languishing in var-ious detentions and prisons un-

der deplorable conditions and called for their prosecution.

Within the country too, some individuals and organisations like the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURI-WA) have been challenging the federal government to wake up to this challenge.

HURIWA has even advised President Goodluck Jonathan to put the high profile terrorism suspects up for effective and ef-ficient prosecution in the com-

petent courts of law, making use of the best legal minds that Ni-geria can muster through the of-fice of the Federal Attorney Gen-eral and Minister of Justice so as to obtain successful convictions for these grave crimes against humanity.

It also warned the federal gov-ernment not to leave the prose-cution of the terrorism suspects to the Nigeria Police Prosecution teams because of the serial in-competence and professional in-

discipline among the policing in-stitution that has compromised several high profile prosecutions in the recent past.

But speaking on the counter-insurgency operation, a Major General who did not want his name in print because he was not mandated to speak on the matter lamented the failure of the Jus-tice Ministry to bring to justice most of the suspects whose cas-es are due, “for reasons that are not known to us”.

N y a n y a b o m b i n g c o -mastermind, Sadiq Ogwuche (middle), arriving with Interpol officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN

By Kunle Olasanmi, Abuja

After many months of vigorous campaign by candidates jostling for the position of the Nigerian Bar Association president, Mr. Augustine Alegeh (SAN), has fi-nally been elected the President of the association.

He defeated four other candi-dates, who also vied for the po-sition.

After the votes were counted, Alegeh polled 691 votes while Mr. Oladele Adeshina (SAN) polled 370 votes to come second.

Adesina was followed by Mrs. Olufunke Adekoya (SAN) with 255 votes, while Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) had 126 votes.

The last candidate, Mr. Osas Er-habor scored 17 votes.

With the election, Alegeh be-comes the 27th NBA president. He is of the Benin Branch of the NBA.

A total number of 1,728 dele-gates were registerd out of whom 1,482 were accredited.

Other members of the incom-ing NBA executive are Francis Ekere, 1st Vice President, Taiwo .O. Taiwo, 2nd Vice President and Adetokunboh Oluwole, 3rd Vice President.

Former chairman, Abuja branch, Mr. Afam Osigie, was elected as general-secretary while Gbolahan Gbadamosi was elected the publicity secretary.

Question:Please can Mallam tell me more about the easy acceptance of du’a in Ramadan?Amir Nasir Wamakko, Sokoto

Answer:Abu Saeed Khudri (Radhiyallahu anhu) relates that Proph-et Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihil Wasallam) said, “Every-day and night of Ramadan Allah sets free a great number of souls from Jahannam. And for every Muslim during everyday and night there is a time when his dua is certainly accepted.

Apart from this Hadith, there are many others stating that the dua’s is accepted at the time of if’taar. Unfortunately at that time we are so engrossed in eating if’taar that we have no time for dua nor do we recall the dua of if’taar. The fa-mous dua at if’taar is: “O Allah for you have I fasted, in You do I believe, and on You do I rely and now I break this fast with food coming from you.”

In this Hadith book this dua is mentioned concisely. Abdul-lah bin Amr bin Al Aas (Radhiyallahu anhu) used to read the following dua: “O Allah, I beg you, through you infinite mer-cy which surrounds all things, to forgive me.”

In some books we read that Prophet Muhammad (Sallal-laho Alaihe Wasallam) used to say: “O You who are Great in bounties, forgive me.”

Various dua’s are mentioned in the ahaadith. Remember that no special dua is fixed. This time (at if’taar) is one when dua is accepted. Submit before Allah your needs.

Abu Hurairah (Radhiyallahu anhu) reports Prophet Mu-hammad (Sallallahu Alaihil Wasallam) said, “There are three people whose dua’s are not rejected, the fasting person un-til he breaks the fast, the just ruler and the dua’s of the op-pressed whose dua Allah lifts above the clouds and opens unto it the doors of the heavens, and Allah says, I swear by My honor, verily I shall assist you even though it may be af-ter some time.” (Ahmad & Tirmizi).

COMMENTARY: In Durre Manthoor it is reported from Aaishah (Radhiyallahu anhu) that when Ramadan arrived, the color of Prophet Muhammad’s (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasal-lam) face used to change. He then used to increase salaah, became even more humble in his dua’s and had even more fear for Allah. According to another report he hardly ever lay down in bed until Ramadan came to an end. Further, in a Ha-dith it is stated that the Maalaa’ikah bearing the throne are commanded in Ramadan to leave everything else and recite ‘Aameen’ to the dua of those who fast. There are many Ahaa-dith stating that the dua’s during Ramadan in particular are accepted. When Allah has promised and His truthful Nabi Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam) has in-formed us, there should be no doubt whatsoever about the truth of these reports. Yet is is strange that in spite of this, we still find such people who apparently do not get what they make dua for. They ask and do not receive. This does not mean that their dua’s have been rejected. One should at this point understand the meaning of dua being answered.

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihil Wasallam) in-formed us that when a Muslim makes dua’s for anything from Allah, except for the severance of ties with relatives or for a sinful thing then he definitely receives one out of the fol-lowing three things: Firstly he gets the exact thing for which he made dua. Secondly, if that is not received, Allah either removes from his some great calamity in exchange for that which he made dua is kept deposited for him in the Hereaf-ter. Another Hadith states that on the day of Qiyaamah Al-lah will call his servant, and say to him. “O My servant, I used to command you to ask of me I had promised to answer. Did you beg for Me ?” The servant will answer, “Yes I did”. Then Allah shall reply, “You did not put forth any request which had not been accepted. You made dua that a certain calami-ty should be removed, which I did for you in the worldly life. You made dua that a certain sorrow should be case off you and the effect of that sorrow was even known to you. For that I have fixed for you such and such a reward”. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam) says, that person shall again be reminded of each and every dua, and he shall be shown how it had been fulfilled in the world or what re-ward had been stored for him in the hereafter. When seeing that, he shall wish that not a single dua of his should have been answered on earth. So that he could receive the full re-wards only in the Hereafter.

By Kareem Haruna, Maiduguri

The Maiduguri International Air-port was yesterday shut down again following its brief open-ing on Monday, as former Borno state Governor, Ali Modu Sher-iff, for whom it was opened, de-part the state capital yesterday.

Modu Sheriff, flew into Mai-duguri on Monday afternoon at about the time Governor Kashim Shetimma was leaving town by road, following mili-tary’s closure of the airport for all non-militarised flights.

Modu Sheriff, who spent over 24 hours in the city busied him-self attending to stream of par-ty supporters from both All Pro-gressive Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the party he is now planning to defect to.

The former governor had told journalists that he was in the state to finetune his exit from the APC, a party he said did not strike him as one that has a pos-itive future because “the party was built around an individual “.

According to him, the PDP is the future and “any serious pol-itician would not want to be in a sinking ship”.

Unlike his previous visit that was marred by a bomb blast that claimed a number of persons at the densely populated commer-cial area in Post Office on Janu-ary 14, his visit on Monday and Tuesday turned out without any incident while some residents had expected some ugly even-tualities.

The former governor’s flight departed the city at about 6:05pm.

By Osa OKHOmina,Yenagoa

Authorities of the Joint mili-tary Task Force, codenamed ‘Op-eration Pulo Shield’ yesterday confirmed the seizure of a barge and arrest of six persons over al-leged involvement in illegal oil bunkering along the waterways and creeks of Bayelsa State.

Confirming the development, the coordinator of the Joint Me-dia Campaign Centre of the JTF, Lt. Col Mustapha Anka, said the ocean going barge was seized with an unspecified quantity of crude oil was intercepted and ar-rested along Mangbiye Creek in the coastal enclave of Sangana in Brass council area of the state by men of the Sector 2 anti-illegal oil bunkering unit of the special security forces.

According to Anka, “The

troops deployed at Kalaibia-ma also discovered one wood-en boat and a metal barge filled with stolen crude oil. No arrest was made as the suspects ab-sconded on sighting the troops.The troops deployed at Igboma-toro in Southern Ijaw Local Gov-ernment Area of Bayelsa State, while on patrol, discovered and destroyed 23 illegal oil distill-ery camps, 18 illegal oil dumps, and 34 drums filled with stolen crude.”

According to him, other items discovered include six Cotonou boats and three pumping ma-chines used for illegal oil bun-kering activities, in addition to six suspects arrested while ille-gally siphoning products from an NNPC pipeline at Okwag-bude Community in Okpe Lo-cal Government of Delta State.

Alegeh Emerges New NBA President

Military Shuts Maiduguri Airport As Ex-Gov Sheriff Jets Back To Abuja

JTF Confirms Arrest Of Barge, 6 Persons Over Oil Theft In Delta, Bayelsa

ramadan timing

Pray a 50 Raka’ah Salaat, In every Raka’ah after the recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha, recite Surah Al-Zilzaal.After Salaam, Say: ALLAAHUMMA WAFFIR FEE-HI H’AZ’Z’EE MIN BARAKAATIHI WA SAHHIL SA-BEELEE ILAA KHAYRAATIHI WA SAHHIL SABEELEE ILAA KHAYRAATIHI WA LAA TAH’RIMNEE QABOOLA H’ASANAATIHI WA HAADIYAN ILAL H’AQQIL MUBEEN.Meaning: O Allah multiply my share, in this month, on account of its abundant blessings, make easy and smooth my means and ways to reach its mercy and bounties, and do not prevent me from getting its good, O He who guides unto the unto the clear truth.Compiled by Al-Amin Ciroma

(Source: Timing Committee, Islamic Research and Timing Organisation Kaduna)

Towns Magrib Alfijr

Abuja 7.00 5.00

Aba 6.56 5.03

Abakaliki 6.53 5.02

Abeokuta 7.10 5.19

Akure 7.03 5.11

Ankpa 6.57 5.05

Argungu 7.12 5.09

Auchi 7.02 5.09

Awka 7.03 5.04

Azare 6.50 4.47

Bama 6.39 4.33

Bauchi 6.51 4.52

Benin 7.05 5.10

Bichi 6.58 4.55

Bida 7.05 5.05

Birnin Gwari 7.04 5.03

B/Kebbi Gwandu 7.13 5.09

Biu 6.42 4.40

Calabar 6.50 5.00

Damaturu 6.42 4.39

Daura/Kazaure 7.01 4.40

Dutse 6.52 4.52

Enugu 6.54 5.02

Funtua/Malumfashi 7.02 4.58

Gembu 6.47 4.46

Gombe 6.45 4.44

Gusau 7.01 5.01

Gwadabawa 7.12 5.02

Hadejia 6.50 4.47

Ibadan 7.14 5.14

Ife 7.09 5.11

Ilesha Baruba 7.11 5.10

Ilorin 7.07 5.12

Jalingo 6.42 4.44

Jere/Suleija 6.59 4.59

Jos 6.56 4.53

Kabba 7.04 5.05

Kafanchan 6.58 4.56

Keffi/Nasarawa 6.58 4.56

Kaiama 7.13 5.13

Kafin Maiyaki 6.58 4.53

Kaduna 6.57 4.59

Kano 6.53 4.54

Katsina 7.01 4.56

Kontagora 7.07 5.08

Lafia 6.53 4.56

Lagos 7.12 5.17

Lokoja 6.57 5.08

Maiduguri 6.35 4.37

Makurdi 6.54 4.55

Minna 7.01 5.06

Missau 6.47 4.46

Monguno 6.38 4.29

Mubi 6.37 4.36

Nguru 6.47 4.44

Ningi 6.51 4.51

Okene 7.07 5.06

Ogbomosho 7.12 5.14

Onitsha 7.00 5.09

Oyo 7.14 5.16

Port Harcourt 6.59 5.13

Potiskum 6.45 4.42

Saki 7.06 5.16

Shagamu 7.07 5.22

Sokoto 7.07 5.07

Umuahia 6.58 5.01

Warri 6.57 5.16

Wukari 5.45 4.56

Wurno 7.11 5.02

Yenagoa 6.39 4.39

Yola 6.36 4.39

Zaria 6.58 5.00

Cotonnou-Benin 7.16 5.19

Ndjamena-Chad 6.27 4.26

Niamey-Niger 7.22 5.18

Zinder – Niger 6.59 4.45

Younde-Cameroun 6.40 4.45

Garoua – Cameroun 6.34 4.38

day 19

Recommended DU’A for Day 19

with Muhammad Usmanmusman@kindasa.com

ramadan Q and a

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 NEWS 5

Wednesday, July 16, 20146 NEWS

Adamawa: Nyako Impeached, Deputy Resigns, Speaker Sworn InBy MohaMMed IsMaIl, Yola, stanley UzoarU, Owerri, donatUs nadI, Lafia and ChIBUzo UkaIBe, Abuja

Adamawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako, has been impeached by 18 members out of the 25 members of the Adamawa State House of Assembly during yesterday’s emergency plenary session over 20-count charges of gross misconduct levelled against him by the state House of Assembly.

Early yesterday morning, security operatives including anti-riot policemen, snipers, SSS and civil defence corps took over the premises of the House of Assembly as they stopped and searched people before allowing them into the premises just as major streets of the state capital were taken over by security operatives causing serious traffic snarl in busy areas.

Before the house swung into action, the speaker of the state House Assembly, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, presented a letter of resignation tendered by the deputy governor, Bala James Ngillari who was facing a five-count charge of gross misconduct by the state House of Assembly.

The House has on June 28, 2014 commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Murtala Nyako and his Deputy, Bala James Ngillari for gross misconduct and misappropriation of state funds.

The House then passed a resolution ordering the Acting Chief Judge to set up a 7-man panel as required by the constitution to prove the 20 and 6-count charges preferred against the governor and his deputy respectively.

Presiding over yesterday’s plenary attended by 18 lawmakers, the speaker quoted section 188, subsection 9 which he said allowed the lawmakers to deliberate within 14 days over the report submitted by the 7-man committee constituted by the former acting CJ of the state, Justice Ambrose Mammadi to probe governor Nyako and his deputy.

Moving a motion for the adoption of the committee’s report, member representing Gombi Constituency, Jerry Kundisi, said the since the house had met the constitutional requirement of 2/3, the speaker should continue to adopt the committee’s report for debate.

The speaker, who quoted section 188 of the 1999 constitution as amended, said the House was empowered by the constitution to order the constitution of a 7-man panel to investigate allegations gross misconduct against the governor

and if found wanting his office should be declared vacant.

The speaker noted that the House had preferred 20-count charges against Governor Nyako out of which four were dropped for lack of evidence while 16 charges were proven by the 7-man panel in its report submitted to the state House of Assembly.

He said some of the reports prove by the 7-man panel included outstanding salaries of state’s civil servants to the tune 0f N2.3b for the months September and October 2012, the siphoning of N8b and N4b siphoned through the office of the SSG between 2012/2013, the siphoning of N142m as illegal deductions from the salaries of workers in the state, overbearing strangulation of the Local Government funds among others.

The speaker noted that all the 16 charges of gross misconduct against Governor Murtala Nyako were proven beyond reasonable doubt by the panel in its report and as such the governor had been found guilty of all the allegations.

After the speaker had concluded his submission, member representing Gombi constituency, Jerry Kundisi, moved for the impeachment of Nyako having been indicted by the panel’s report and was seconded by the member representing Numan, Barrister Kwamoti Laori.

The speaker therefore declared the removal of Governor Murtala Nyako from office just as he declared the office of the governor vacant “By the provision of section 188 sub-section 9 of the 1999 constitution as amended, I declare the governor of Adamawa State Murtala Hamman Yero Nyako removed from office.

“We have the required two-thirds of our members in support of the removal of Governor Nyako from office and before me are signatures of 18 members of which I am part,”

He then went ahead to call the

By GeorGe aGBa, Abuja

President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday accused the leadership of #BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group campaign group of deliberately stopping 12 parents of the schoolgirls abducted from Chibok in Borno State by the Boko Haram sect from meeting

with him as scheduled.Following the promise he

made to the Pakistani girl-Child education campaigner, Malala Yousafzai, when she visited him at the presidential villa, Abuja, on Monday, Jonathan had promised to meet with the parents of the

FROM COVER

➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 7➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

BOI Will Scale-up Financial Assistance To SMEs – Abdulsamad

Group Stopped Me From Seeing Parents – Jonathan

of the new BoI board yesterday in Abuja.

Aganga had noted that the current practice where 15 per cent of loanable funds were set aside to assist viable MSMEs in the country was no longer acceptable, hence the need for it to carry out an upward review of the loanable funds in a manner that would enable the sector to create more jobs and generate wealth.

He also advised the board to adopt the practice in China and Indonesia where a significant portion of loanable funds without collateral was extended to MSMEs, adding that of the amount given to MSMEs in these countries, about 97 per cent of such loans were repaid.

The minister further directed the board to forward a quarterly progress report of the bank’s activities to the ministry, containing analysis of loan book by sector, impact of the bank on the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP), jobs created and contribution to national development.

But Rabiu, who assured the minister of the cooperation of

the board in carrying out his directives, said the development of an animated private sector in which small and medium enterprises could play a central role had become imperative. Hence, the board would ensure that the bank formulated good policies that would encourage MSMEs growth.

He described NIRP as the most ambitious and comprehensive road map that would transform the nation’s industrial landscape, boost skills development, enhance job creation and conserve foreign exchange, adding that the BOI was ready to contribute its quota to the realisation of the goals and objectives of the NIRP.

Managing director of the bank, Rasheed Olaoluwa, also revealed that the bank was resolved in its bid to actualise its mandate and was developing strategies to improve MSMEs access to funds, including opening more offices in many states of the federation.

According to him, the bank was exploring alternative modes of funding such as continuation of sector specific intervention funds by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ministry of Agriculture, Solid Minerals and others.

LIVING TO BE 100One health tip dailyLIVING TO BE 100

Time to Exercise:Any Time!

We all know that exercise can prolong our lives, but many people say they simply don’t have the time. In our busy routines, it may be difficult to find an hour or two every day to go to the gym or take a fitness class. I tell them that there are many opportunities to exercise throughout their day. My advice: take the stairs

instead of the elevator. Park your car a few blocks away from where you’re going. Cut the lawn with a manual mower. Sweep the floor with a broom instead of a vacuum. Wash dishes by hand rather than using a dishwasher. Walk to get your newspaper don’t have it delivered to your door. Every bit of physical activity adds up!

nyako

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 NEWS 7

Boko Haram Kills 2,053 Civilians In 6 Months – HRWBy GeorGe okojie, Lagos, Chika otuChikere, aBdullahi umar, halima tiffi, Abuja and aBiodun oluwarotimi, New Jersey

Human Rights Watch has described continuous killings of innocent civilians by the terrorist sect, Boko Haram as a crime against humanity,saying over 2,053 civilians in an estimated 95 attacks were killed in the first half of 2014.

According to Corinne Dufka, West Africa director at Human Rights Watch, the figures are based on detailed analyses of media reports as well as field investigations.

Dufka said the killings and other abuses were part of widespread attacks on civilians in over 70 towns and villages in north- eastern Nigeria, the federal capital, Abuja, among others.

“There has been a dramatic increase during 2014 in the numbers of casualties from bomb blasts, including several apparent suicide bombings. Since

January, at least 432 people have been reported killed in 14 blasts in crowded marketplaces, a brothel, a technical college, and, on two occasions, places where people were watching soccer matches.

“Three of these attacks were in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital; two in Kano; two in Jos, the Plateau state capital; and three in Abuja, the federal capital. The Abuja attacks may demonstrate a southward trend of Boko Haram operations.

“Boko Haram is effectively waging war on the people of north eastern Nigeria at a staggering human cost.”

Human Rights Watch, noted that, “atrocities committed as part of a widespread attack on civilians are crimes against humanity, for which those responsible need to be held to account.”

The rights group said the bulk of the attacks and casualties credibly reported and investigated by Human Rights Watch took place in Borno State,

the birthplace of Boko Haram, where 1,446 people died.

“Attacks killed 151 in Adamawa state and 143 civilians in Yobe state. Human Rights Watch compiled the figures by analysing credible local and international media reports, and the findings of human rights groups, as well as interviewing witnesses and victims of numerous attacks,” they said.

The reports by the rights watchers generally quoted villagers, hospital and morgue workers, police and military officials, and local leaders who had observed, registered, counted or buried the dead.

“In the vast majority of cases, Boko Haram forces appeared to deliberately target civilians.

“Since 2009, Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad, Nigeria’s Islamist insurgency popularly known as Boko Haram, has waged a violent campaign against the government to impose its authority under Sharia (Islamic) law.

“Widespread poverty,

corruption, security force abuses, and longstanding impunity for a range of crimes have created a fertile ground in Nigeria for militant armed groups like Boko Haram.

“No matter how egregious the violence, Nigerian security forces engaged in operations against Boko Haram may not operate outside the law.

“The Nigerian government should recognize that it needs to protect its population both from Boko Haram and from abusive members of its own military and police,” Dufka said.

Suspected Nyanya bomb blast mastermind, Ogwuche, extradited

The co-mastermind of the April 14, Nyanya bus terminus bombing, Aminu Ogwuche, was yesterday, extradited from Sudan to Nigeria.

The fugitive Boko Haram kingpin, was declared wanted by International Police, INTERPOL, following intelligence reports linking him and another fugitive,

Abubakar Tsiga, to the deadly bomb blast which left no fewer than 100 persons dead.

Ogwuche, who managed to beat security searchlight on him and fled to Sudan immediately after the incident, arrived the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at about 3p.m. on a chartered flight.

Adamawa: Nyako Impeached, Deputy Resigns, Speaker Sworn In FROM PAGE 6

names of the lawmakers who appended their signatures in order to satisfy the curiosity of the people that the lawmakers willingly appended their signatures although the member representing Yola North, Ishaq Bala Mohammed, was conspicuously absent.

However, the state assembly resolved that since the deputy governor, Bala James Ngillari, had resigned and Nyako had been impeached, the acting CJ of Adamawa or President of Customary Court of the state should swear in the speaker as the acting governor of the state and to allow him to conduct election within 90 days for next government to be formed.

Responding to the impeachment of the governor, the leader of the Adamawa PDP elders and stakeholders, Dr. Umar Ardo, applauded the lawmakers for the removal of the governor saying they did a good job.

On his part, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Nyako, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, faulted the whole process leading to the impeachment of the governor, saying what happened was similar to a military coup in a democratic setting, adding that they would challenge the impunity at the law courts.

Nyako’s impeachment’ll shut the door to foreign aid over insurgency - Okorocha

The Governor of Imo state , Owelle Rochas Okorocha, has stated that the impeachment of the former Governor of

Adamawa State, Alhaji Murtala Nyako, might cause the withdrawal of some foreign assistance in the tackling the nation’s security challenges..

Okorocha while reacting through the press statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on media, Sam Onwuemeodo, regretted that despite series of discussions and dialogue for the members of the state assembly to have a rethink, they still went ahead.

“The impeachment won’t encourage other nations of the world willing to help us come out of our security problem to take us serious. To say the least, the impeachment was not the best of actions this time,” part of the statement reads.

Al-Makura rushes to Abuja to meet Jonathan

Following the impeachment notice served on the Nasarawa State governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura by the state Assembly, the embattled state chief executive hurriedly left Lafia, the state capital yesterday for Abuja in an effort to prevail on President Goodluck Jonathan to intervene in the matter.

LEADERSHIP reports that, Al-Makura before leaving the state capital at about 4p.m. had held series of meetings with his aides and party officials intent upon seeing how the impeachment impasse can be surmounted.

Addressing the press at Shendam Road Assembly complex however, the clerk of the Assembly, Mr. Ego Maikeffi, disclosed that after several attempts to serve the

impeachment notice on the governor, he was denied access into the Government House.

Ego stated further that in line with the directive of the Speaker, he is set to serve the notice through the media today.

The House Committee chairman on information and security, Hon. Mohammed Baba Ibaku, confirmed the development saying other options of serving the notice would be explored.

In a swift reaction however, the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Public Affairs, Hon. Abdulhamid Kwarra, denied the report insisting that the Assembly was yet to serve the notice as a 6pm yesterday.

Speaking on the unfolding scenario, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mr. Mark Neto said the state Assembly would be doing a disservice to the state if they had a catalogue of such gross misconduct and refused to take action.

Mr. Neto who noted that the PDP hierarchy in the state would have preferred the party to slug it out with Al-Makura at the poll but regretted however that “posterity would not be fair to the members if they gloss over such grievous misconduct”. He denied that the PDP embarked upon impeachment because it was afraid to face Al-Makura at the polls.

The immediate past state chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Stanley Buba, on his part called on Governor Al-Makura to address the allegations levelled against him promptly, saying that the

Assembly was only discharging its constitutional duty.

LEADERSHIP reports that before Al-Makura left for Abuja, notable traditional rulers in the state had converged at the guest house of the Emir of Lafia, Alhaji Isa Mustapha Agwai l, with a view to seeking their intervention on the matter.

Informed sources also disclosed that a high-powered delegation of traditional rulers and other respected stakeholders in the state were expected to join Al-Makura in Abuja today so as to solicit President Jonathan’s intervention.

Adamawa Acting Gov sworn in, promises to bring the state out of darkness

Sequel to the impeachment of Governor Murtala Nyako yesterday, the former Speaker of Adamawa State House of Assembly, Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has has been sworn in as the Acting Governor of the state by Justice Ambrose Mamadi.

In his maiden speech shortly after he was sworn in, the Acting Governor promised to pay the outstanding two months salaries owed the civil servants in the state by ousted Governor of the state.

“ The civil servants will get all their entitlements and benefits including the two months salaries they are yet to receive”.

Fintiri urged the people of the state to join hands with him as a team to bring back the state from the era of darkness that has bedevilled it since the commencement of Nyako’s leadership.

“This is a new beginning for the people of Adamawa State”,

he said.Fintiri assured Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP) that he would work for the victory of the party in the coming election adding that he was on transition assignment.

Meanwhile, there were protests in the Chinko area of the state as well as other obscure locations by some irate youths who thronged the streets to demonstrate against the sack of Governor Murtala Nyako.

Soldiers patrolling the state capital, it was gathered, dispersed the protesting crowd. The heavy prescence of security men also ensured that residents within the state capital could go about their businesses. However, our reporter learnt there was wild jubilation in Numan, Mubi and Girei; many residents particularly civil servants could be seen milling around offices discussing the sack of Governor Murtala.

Some civil servant who coincidentally received their salaries yesterday just as the Governor was being eased out of office have expressed their intent to celebrate the Governor’s impeachment.

Earlier, there was a heavy presence of security personnel deployed to curtail any breakdown of law and order. As early as 8 a.m. the security personnel were already stationed at strategic points across the state capital.

All the heads of the security agencies in the state attended yesterday’s swearing in of the acting governor of the state.

ogwuche

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➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Group Stopped Me From Seeing Par-ents – Jonathan

Adamawa: Nyako Impeached, Deputy Resigns, Speaker Sworn In

Boko Haram Kills 2,053 Civilians In 6 Months – HRW

Remains of late Hajiya Hauwa-kulu Salihu, mother of the former governor of Niger State Engr. Abdulkadir Kure during a funeral prayer led by the Chief Imam of Lapai Central Mosque, Alhaji Muhammad Bashar at the emir’s palace, Lapai, yesterday. Photo by

government house

girls.But the meeting between the

president and the girls’ parents which was billed to hold by 4pm yesterday could not hold, as the 12 parents of the girls were said to have hurriedly left Abuja on the instruction of the #BringBackOurGirls campaigners

Speaking through his senior special assistant on public affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, Jonathan decried a situation whereby the #BringBackOurGirls group had chosen to politicise the abduction of the Chibok girls.

Accordingly, the president has ordered that an official letter should be written on his behalf to the parents of the girls, inviting them to come back to Abuja to meet with him.

“We are just coming from the president and he has authorised that an official letter be written to the parents inviting them to formally come and meet him and it is going to be sometime next week”, Okupe said.

Addressing State House correspondents after leaving the president’s office, Okupe said, “The meeting was scheduled for 4pm today at the instance of the request that was made by Malala and the president graciously agreed within 24 hours to meet with them. But, unfortunately, the #BringBackOurGirls leadership prevailed on the parents of the girls, and stopped them from coming.

“Therefore, what happened was that they actually shunned the meeting with Mr. President because the foreign media and everybody was waiting for this meeting and since they were no longer coming and they made it expressly clear that they were no longer coming- in fact that the girls were just few minutes away from Chibok- the meeting was aborted.

“It was aborted by the failure of the girls and the parents to show up. They actually shunned the meeting. The president was waiting, the NSA was waiting, top government officials were waiting to receive them for private consultation with the president as promised.”

Asked whether this means the BringBackOurGirls has upper hand over the president of Nigeria, Okupe said, “It is not a matter of upper hand. It was the leadership of BringBackOurGirls that brought them to Abuja and that gives them some leverage. They accommodated them. It is obvious now that the BringBackOurGirls in Nigeria are interested in showmanship and not genuinely concerned with the plight of the children and that of their parents.”

FROM PAGE 6

Stop excessive use of power, Atiku advises PDP-led FG

Following the sacking of the Adamawa State governor, Murtala Nyako and the

heightened moves to impeach his Nasarawa State counterpart, Tanko Almakura, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, yesterday warned against the excessive use of power by the PDP-led federal government,

saying that the tendency was not good for decent democratic practice.

Reacting to the impeachment of Governor Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State, Atiku, in a statement issued by his

media office in Abuja, noted that “wielding the axe of impeachment against elected public office-holders to settle scores by the PDP-led federal government would needlessly build up tension in the country.

FROM PAGE 7

FROM PAGE 7

On hand to receive him were the spokespersons of the police, ACP Frank Mba, Department of State Services (DSS), Marilyn Ogar, Defence, Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade and coordinator, National Information Centre, NIC, Mike Omeri.

Ogwuche was declared wanted by the Federal Government on May 15, shortly after the DSS paraded some suspects in connection with the incident and a N20m ransom placed on him.

Shortly after Ogwuche was declared wanted, he was arrested by the INTERPOL in Sudan, where he fled to. According to the NIC coordinator, who briefed journalists on the delay in Ogwuche’s extradition, the delay was due to diplomatic processes.

The extradition of the suspect to the country on Tuesday was kept as top secret by security operatives. It was learnt that they did not disclose it even to journalists for security reasons.

Earlier yesterday, the police sent a text message inviting newsmen to cover the unveiling of a ̀ `Special Counter-Terrorism Equipment’’ at the airport.

A few minutes after the journalists arrived at the airport, only photographers and television cameramen were invited to capture the special equipment.

At about 3.20p.m, however, the spokeswoman of the DSS emerged from the arrival

hall, smiling and announced Ogwuche’s arrival, saying, “here is the special counter-terrorism equipment”.

Ogwuche was led by plain clothes security operatives into an 18-seater Toyota bus and whisked away.

Omeri who addressed journalists, said that Ogwuche would be interrogated and prosecuted.

“We have just successfully been able to secure his extradition from Sudan and he is back to his home country to answer questions.

“Of course, the usual procedure will take place, he will be interrogated appropriately and charged to court when all the processes are concluded,” he said.

Boko Haram kidnap cleric’s children in Cameroon

Suspected Boko Haram militants yesterday stormed Limani town in Cameroon and whisked two teenage children of Cameroon’s most influential Muslim spiritual leaders.

Cameroon’s State Radio reports that about 10 heavily armed men crossed over from neighboring Nigeria’s Borno State and ransacked the home of Bieshair Mohaman.

The State Radio reported that the militants did not meet Mohaman absence at the time of the attack, but left with two of the cleric’s sons, Bieshair Hashimir and Bieshair Cavaye Yegue, both teenage students at the Government Bilingual High

School in Limani, Cameroon.Eyewitnesses told the Voice

of America (VOA) that the assailants expressed displeasure with the cleric because he had refused to cooperate with them, accusing him of giving information concerning their activities to Cameroon’s military.

Cameroon information minister, Issa Tchiroma Bakari urged all Cameroonians to cooperate with the military in the search for the children.

Police arrest fleeing Boko Haram’s ‘chief butcher’

A suspected Boko Haram kingpin attempting to escape from a security onslaught in one of the forests serving as hideout for the insurgents was last Saturday, nabbed by operatives of the Nigerian police.

The suspect, Mohammed Zakari, 30-year-old indigene of Kaigamari Village, Daptchari in Darazo Local Government Area, Bauchi State is suspected to have butchered seven people including women and children during a recent attack.

Zakari, also accused of taking part in an April attack against Nigerian customs officers in Kari, was arrested along Darazo-Basrika Road while fleeing from what the security agencies dubbed “intensive counter-insurgency operations going on around the Balmo Forest”.

Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Frank Mba, who issued a statement yesterday on Zakari’s arrest disclosed that the

suspect was tutored in the art of insurgency at Gombe Forest under the leadership of a fleeing insurgent, one Abba Taura and moved to Balmo Forest only three months ago.

“Police detectives attached to Bauchi State Police Command on Saturday, 12/7/2014 at about 2p.m. arrested one Mohammed Zakari, a male of 30 years old and senior member of the Boko Haram terrorists’ organization along Darazo-Basrika Road while fleeing from the intensive counter-insurgency operations going on around the Balmo Forest.

“The suspect, who hails from Kaigamari Village, Daptchari in Darazo Local Government Area, Bauchi State is the self-styled “chief butcher” of the insurgent group at the Balmo Forest Camp and is linked with the recent slaughter of seven people, including women and children.

“The suspect whom investigation reveals was tutored in the art of insurgency at Gombe Forest under the leadership of a fleeing insurgent, one Abba Taura and moved to Balmo Forest only three months ago, is discovered to have actively participated in the April attack against Customs officers at Kari Town, along Maiduguri Road, Bauchi State,” Mba said.

The police spokesman called on the citizens in the affected areas to be on guard for any suspicious or strange character fleeing from Balmo Forest.

Wednesday, July 16, 20148 NEWS

by UmarU Dembo,mni

The first time I spoke to late Umaru Dikko was in the 70’s in Kaduna when he was the commissioner for information of the state. At that time, Kaduna and Katsina provinces were together and I was working for the New Nigerian Newspaper as an editorial executive under Mallam Mamman Daura, as the editor.

It was a coverage of an event at the ministry of information, culture and internal affairs, at the end of the occasion, he asked me few questions having introduced myself and others before the event , and said he was impressed with my report on the need for state creation which appeared in the previous day’ s edition.

Indeed, he championed the creation of Kaduna State despite his absence during its creation. I thanked him and left to file my story. After a few days, we met again and he asked me if I could work in the information ministry. Surprise, I quickly replied in the affirmative and he asked me to fill the PSC form and submit accordingly, which I did and unlike these days, the appointment letter followed without ado! Much as I was enjoying my work with the New Nigerian Newspapers under Mamman Daura, I had to painfully leave it for a more stable job.

Since then, I became one of those that would go to his house to learn the art of life! Myself, Abdullahi Adamu (former Nassarawa State governor), Mu’azu Maiyaki, Isa Ozi Salami, to mention but a few, were always around for discussions on subjects of interest and as young people, we were glad that Umaru was accommodating us in discussions despite the differences in age and he was ever ready to help anybody at all with anything or on anything useful.

But he never tolerated stupidity, laziness, back biting or any vices that young people would indulge in, including mode of dressing. It was a happy time with someone helping us when we were far from our parents.

While in the ministry, I was assigned as the officer in charge of the State’s council for arts and culture as the administrative secretary, and we used to attend national meetings in preparation for FESTAC 77 in various states of the federation.

One day we went to Enugu, very early in the morning, I heard a knock on the door of

A Tribute To Umaru Dikko

It is dif-ficult to find people like Dr Dikko. I remem-ber after leaving the ministry to set up my business in printing and publishing, he was ever willing to help with advice and support

The late Dikko

my hotel room, I was reading from the Holy Qur’an then, I stood and opened the door without knowing who my guest was , to my surprise , it was Dr Dikko! What did he say? Ina ce kana barcin banza ne (I thought you are wasting away sleeping). Shocked as I was, he made my day, it was only my father that used to caution me on such behaviours! Since that day, within me, I became not only his junior brother, but a son, up to July 1, 2014 when he died, and was buried a week later in Zaria. I will continue to pray for him as I pray for my father and forefathers.

It is difficult to find people like Dr Dikko. I remember after leaving the ministry to set up my business in printing and publishing, he was ever willing to help with advice and support. On many occasions, I used to follow him to his political meetings, especially rallies.

Sometimes, I would drive him in motorcades when processions got tough. When he eventually became the minister of transport in Alhaji Shehu Shagari’s administration, I visited his Kaduna residence and congratulated him, and he joked that since he would move to Lagos, some people would hardly visit his office.

I never had the chance to visit his office in Lagos since I was not an active politician at

that time; however my friend, late Nuhu Babajo, asked me to go to Lagos with him to see Dr Dikko.We did, the late Aliyu Muhammed, was also in the same ministry, so we went to greet him! It turned out that, that those visits were manoeuvred into something else by smart politicians of those days to make a living. We can forget about the rest of the story.

What is more important is that not only was I able to visit Dr Dikko in his Lagos office, but that office became a home to me and my late friend, Abdulaziz Mamman Gusau. It was there that I met his kind and tenacious secretary, his wife, Beatty.

Dr Dikko’s tenure as minister of transport was interrupted by a coup and all those of us who were close were not only saddened by the event, but became uncomfortable with the sudden turn of events. We eventually got over it, especially when at the beginning of the coup, we did not know where he was.

When he eventually appeared in London, we were really glad and thankful to Allah. But then, there came that sad story that he was bundled in a box to be brought to Nigeria but security agents in London averted that mishap too and I kept asking the late General Sani Abacha ,

when he would come back to the country? Abacha’s reply had always been, why couldn’t he come back? Dr Dikko was very courageous and he eventually did. So when the constitutional conference was about to be convened, Abacha asked me for names that I thought would be added to his list, Dr Dikko was first on my list, and he was one of those nominated by the late Abacha, may Allah bless him with Aljannah.

Dr Dikko came into Nigeria in a dignified manner and participated in the conference and thereafter, he continued his normal life as any other Nigerian.

He also took part in another national conference during the Obasanjo regime and he played a big part as the leader of the northern delegates. He was always for the north, more northern than Ahmadu Bello!

I am saddened the more that this tough, courageous, magnanimous, uncompromisingly northern in thought and deed, politician gentleman died when the north needs his type to pull it out of the mud of senseless killings and destabilisation of the north in the name of Boko Haram!

May the gentle soul of Dr Umaru Dikko rest in Aljannah, amin.

Dembo is former minister of state, petroleum resources

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 TribuTe 9

...NEWS WITH A HUMAN FACE

By Kola EKE-ogiugo, Asaba

The police at B’ Division police station in Asaba, Delta State, have arrested a 52- year- old man who claimed to be a native doctor preparing charms for love seekers.

Reports said that the suspect, Chukwuma Agbah, a native of Isele-Azagba, but resident in Asaba, has been preparing love charms for fun seekers especially those looking for wives before nemesis caught up with him.

Confirming the arrest of the suspect, the police public relations officer in the state, DSP Celestina Kalu, said that the suspect was arrested on a petition to the police at the B’ Division by a commercial taxi driver, one Albert Okoh, who claimed to have paid him N350,000, to prepare herbs for his sick mother.

But, upon interrogation, the suspect claimed the victim had demanded for love charm to enable him get a wife.

Saying that investigation was ongoing,

DSP Kalu disclosed that the suspect has made statement to the police as he may be charged to court upon completion of inves-tigation.

However, it was reliably gathered that the victim had sought love charm assistance from the native doctor who claimed to have been trained in India in the art of preparing love charms into rings for men looking for wife, including women looking for husband.

But this was not to be, as the love charm apparently prepared and used by the victim failed; a situation he was said to have peti-tioned the police on the case of dupe and oth-er related acts.

Speaking to our correspondent, the victim said, “It is not true that I approach the herb-alist for love charm. What I demanded for was herbs to treat my sick mother, and af-ter collecting N350,000 from me, it did not work and I demanded for my money when he threatened to kill me before I petitioned the police”.

stories of the

By MaTTHEW DiKE, Lagos

There was pandemonium in Amuwo- Odo-fin Local Government Secretariat, in Lagos State, on Monday evening, when hoodlums numbering over 100 attacked government officials.

Four people were said to have been killed in the crisis while many others were injured.

LEADERSHIP investigation revealed that the hoodlums who were armed with guns, cutlasses, iron rods, bottles and planks stormed the secretariat around 6pm.

A source at the council disclosed that some of the hoodlums who were armed with guns shot sporadically into the air for about an hour, which created fear among workers, residents, motorists and commuters on 41 Road, FESTAC town, where the secretari-at is situated.

A man, Bolaji, who resides in the area, said about four people were killed during the un-rest. He said he had to run away from the area to avoid being shot at by the hoodlums.

The President of the FESTAC Town Resi-dents Association, Jola Ogunlusi, said that a group called the Community Policing Youths Vanguard, was the cause of the crisis in the area.

“Since the establishment of FESTAC Town in 1977, this is the first time we would be experiencing this unrest. We have always enjoyed cooperation with the police until a group called, the Community Policing Youth Vanguard, was formed.”

KILLING: 4 Feared Dead As Hoodlums Attack LGA

By STanlEy uzoaru, Owerri

There was pandemonium in Amakohia Ubi autonomous community in Owerri west Local Government Area of Imo state, as a five- month- old baby was thrown into a boiling soup.

Eye witness in the community, who disclosed the incident to LEADERSHIP, said that a masquerade chased a 10-year- old girl from outside to the backyard of the house where she was looking after the baby.

Unknown to the masquerade and the girl, there was a boiling soup at the backyard of the house.

According to the witness, the masquerade only stopped his chase after realizing that the five month- old baby boy had slipped from the hands of the girl and fell into the large boiling pot of soup.

Quick efforts to revive the baby by some good Samaritans after rushing him to a nearby hospital, proved abortive, as the baby was pronounced dead by the doctors,

It was gathered that the baby was the first child of his parents, who got married recently.

The witness further disclosed that the Amakohia Masquerade Festival, regarded as “Owu,” was the most dreaded festival in the state as it is characterized by wanton display of charms and harassment of people by the masquerade.

TRAGEDY: 5-month-old Baby Boils In Soup

BREACH: Police Arrest Herbalist Over Failed Love Charms

By Kola EKE-ogiugo, Asaba

Determined to flush out ghost workers by Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan led- admin-istration, the automatic finger print iden-tification (AFPI), an initiative of the Del-ta State government, otherwise known as Biometrics Payroll system, has uncov-ered 17 staff from the Women Develop-ment Committee (WDC) and Youth De-velopment Committee Scheme (YDC) who have been collecting money from both agencies.

It was gathered that the fraudsters now in the police net at the state police command, have allegedly defrauded the agencies to the tune of N17 million before nemesis caught up with them.

Police public relations officer in the state, DSP Celestina Kalu, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects, disclosed that the suspects have made useful statements to the police, adding that investigation was ongoing.

But in a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information, Barr. Chike Ogeah, a copy made available to LEADERSHIP, he said that each of the 17 staff received a monthly stipend of N50,000, adding that over N850,000 was fraudulently received by the suspects.

LEADERSHIP checks revealed that the scam was uncovered after the evaluation of the AFIS revealed the identical finger prints of the 17 workers in the two agen-cies.

The commissioner, however ,said that the salaries of the affected staff in the two agencies have been stopped, adding that their details have also been passed to the accountant general’s office for recovery of the money while the secretary to the state government and the head of service have been notified for disciplinary actions to be initiated.

FRAUD: Biometric Payroll Uncovers 17 Fake Employees, Suspects Arrested

By KUNLE OLASANMI, Abuja

About 45 Nigerian students of the federal gov-ernment’s amnesty programme in Russia may be deported from that country over the face-off between the Office of the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Amnesty and the co-ordinator of the Amnesty programme in Russia.

The co-ordinator, Maurice Okoli, in a letter to the Ambassador of Nigeria to Russia, Chief As-sam E. Assam, threatened to commence a legal suit in a Russian court of arbitration in order to deport all amnesty students in the Russian federation.

Maurice, in the letter, is alleging that the Amnesty office in Abuja, headed by Mr Kingsley Kuku failed to refund the $60,000 his company,

Eman Logistics Ltd paid to the students when they were protesting the non-payment of their allowances.

Okoli said he was invited to take over the duty of Amnesty Coordinator in Russia after he bailed out the federal government from the embarassment the protest of the students would have caused.

Several letters were made available to our correspomdent showing that there was a contract between Amnesty office in Abuja and Okoli’s company.

“Finally, we are aware of the huge embarass-ment the deportationof all Amnesty students in Russia will cause the federal government. As things stand now, we are left with no options than to resort to legal action and litigation in order to resolve this matter,” Okoli said.

AmNEsTY: 45 Amnesty Students In Russia Risk Deportation

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 10

illegal structures being demolished for a road construction at Bukuru in Jos, yesterday. PhOtO

By NAN

L-R: Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr Olusegun Aganga; Chairman Bank of Industry, Alhaji AbdulSamad Rabiu and Managing Director Bank of Industry Mr. Rasheed Olaoluwa, at the inauguration of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Industry in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY REMI AKUNLEYAN

Minister of Communication Technology Mrs Omobola Johnson (middle), with some girls undergoing ICT training at the 1000 Girls ICT training programme of the ministry in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN

Speaker, House of Representatives Hon Aminu Tambuwal (left), leader of #Bring-BackOurGirls (BBOG) group, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili (middle), and wife of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hajiya Mariam Uwais during the BBOG courtesy visit to the speaker in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO

L-R: North Central commissioner, Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Mrs. Helen Ogoro, executive secretary NCPC Mr. John-Kennedy Opara, Kwara State governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kwara State Chapter, Bishop Israel Amao during a courtesy visit to the governor at thev Government House, Ilorin, yesterday. PHOTO BY GBENGA OLAJOBI

dayphoto news

By BERNARD TOLANI DADA, Uyo

A 40-year-old man, Friday Paul Nse, from Uruk Ata Nsidung in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has been arrested for allegedly slashing the throat of his girlfriend.

Nse was said to have had a blissful night with the diseased, Nwana George Etuk, whom he had been in love with for some time.

Sources said that Nse took the lady to an undisclosed location in the area where they slept overnight before returning to his residence at about 5am.

According to the source, the duo had a heated argument over some issues before they slept together that night which resulted in a quarrel.

It is not clear issue in dispute between the two of them but, one source said that on getting to his residence, Nse was said to have entered his bedroom, came out with a sharp cutlass and slashed the neck of the diseased.

He later carried the dead body and dumped it into a nearby compound before taking to his heels.

Youths of the community were said to have mobilized and combed the entire area searching for Nse but to no avail.

By: PATRICK OCHOGA, Benin City

An armed robber yesterday confessed that it was in line with their modus operandi to always kill their victims with tracker in their vehicle.

This confession was made in Benin City, at the state police command, when 46 sus-pected armed robbers, kidnappers, child de-filers, rapists and receiver of stolen goods, were paraded before newsmen.

Addressing journalists at the State Com-mand of the Nigerian Police, Commission-er for Police, Folusho Adebanjo, said 14 as-sorted guns, 22 live cartridges, 2,112 live AK 47 ammunition, 17 AK 47 rifles, one ex-

pended cartridge and seven vehicles, were recovered from the suspects, adding that they were picked across the state in the last one month.

One of the suspects who was said to have killed his victim and threw his body inside a well confessed to the crime before jour-nalists saying, “It was one Ezomo Monday that said I should do it.

“He said I should kill the person and throw the person inside the well because there was a car we snatched and the track-er stopped the car on the way. So the man now said that anytime we get a vehicle with tracker, either we kill the person or injure the person”.

By TOPE FAyEHUN, Akure

A middle-aged prophetess has been arrested by the police in Idanre, Ondo State, for allegedly, administering a substance suspected to be a concoction to a 10-year-old boy (names withheld), which resulted in his death.

It was gathered that two other persons believed to be members of the family of the deceased that also took the substance given to them by the prophetess are currently hospitalized at an undisclosed hospital in Idanre.

LEADERSHIP gathered that trouble started when the mother of the deceased took him and her two other children to the prophetess for spiritual cleansing.

Police sources disclosed that while the mother and her children were in the residence of the woman for prayers, she was said to have given the substance prepared by her to her clients, which the mother gave to her three children to drink

The prophetess also told them that having taken the spiritual holy water , they were free from any food poisoning, spritual attack and bad dreams.

CRIME: Robbers Kill Victim Over Car Tracker

FAKE: Prophetess In Police Net Over Boy’s Death

MURDER: 40-year-old Man Nabbed For Killing Girlfriend

By OBINNA OGBONNAyA, Abakaliki

An Abakaliki Magistrate Court, has re-manded a 47-year- old man, one Damian Chukwu, for defiling an 8-year- old neigh-bour’s daughter, who was left under his care by her mother, a petty trader.

The girl, Chisom Nweke, was taken to the accused person’s house on the 15th of June 2014 while she left for the market.

At the verge of removing her daughter’s cloth to bath her, she discovered that she was having serious pain.

When the mother asked her to sit down and tell her what happened, she realized that her daughter could no long sit and had to scream each time she maDE at-tempt to sit down.

The mother had to pull off her pants and discovered blood stains as well as blood in the girl’s private part.

EffortS at first by the mother to get her say what happened to her proved abortive as Chisom stated that she would die if she said the truth.

On assuring her that nothing would happen to her, the girl Chisom revealed to the mother that it was their neighbor, Mr. Chukwu that raped her and threat-ened to kill her with knife, if she dared tell anyone.

After the confession, Chisom’s mother took her to the police, where they made an entry and the girl was later taken to the hospital while the suspect was later arrested and charged to court.

RAPE: Man, 47, Remanded For Defiling 8-year- old Girl

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 STORIES OF THE DAY 11

By Bishop matthew hassan kukah

But seriously, what is the relationship between the celebrant’s works and the works of other artists in Nigeria outside Yorubaland? The works of Amos Tutuola for example, have been taken, raw as they were and turned into an art form. How come, we have not been able to find a place for the poetry of the likes of Mudi Sipikin, or the works of Mamman Shata, Dankwairo, or Danmaraya? Where do all these fit in the national narrative?

Despite a much coveted Nobel Prize, how come that only very few Nigerians across the length and breathe of this country can speak about the celebrant? How come that young Eskimo children in schools as far as the North Pole know about Chinua Achebe or Wole Soyinka but young children in Nigerian schools know almost nothing?

Nigerians love to criticize their country perhaps far more than any nation I know of in the world. Yes, we have all earned the right to be cynical and even contemptible about the way we have been governed, and about how the resources of our nation have been frittered away mindlessly.

I am even more amused by the criticisms of some of our brethren in the Diaspora especially those who think that simply being abroad has set them apart from their fellow countrymen and women, those who believe that those of us who are here are so because we are not good enough to be abroad.

To be sure, there are many who are struggling to see what they can contribute to building a new nation, but I often resent the condescending attitude and outright smugness of some Diaspora Nigerians who believe in their superiority simply because they have a second passport. Yet, when some of them have had the chance, they have done far worse than those of us they have left behind. However, nothing excuses the degree of self-deprecation and flagellation that one often reads in the essays and commentaries about this country. It is about time we took off the gloves and speak honestly to ourselves about our future as a country, our mistakes, our fears, anxieties and deep hope. We are not the worst people on earth nor is our country the worst piece of God’s real estate. to be continued tomorrow

continues from yesterday

soyinka

What we need now are new dream-ers with the necessary imagination to summon our people to a greater tomorrow

Wole Soyinka: 80 Years Of Genius And Prophetic Outrage

Rather, he says, Nigeria has become the federal republic of ants. Does Ndibe now imagine that he has ceased to be an ant because he resides in the comforts of the United States, a country that was constructed on the back of the same ants hundreds of years ago? This is most pathetic, despicable and grotesque to say the least.

Can anyone in all honesty call a nation of 170 million people, doing their best despite the difficulties, a nation which has produced and parades some of the most brilliant and gifted people in the world, a nation with perhaps the most vibrant and informed media outlets in the developing world a nation of ants? If Ndibe were a Ugandan, Rwandan, Zimbabwean or indeed, from most African countries, would he write this and still come back to his country? Indeed, the answer is that there is hardly any other African that can write this rubbish about their own country, even if they had no family in the country. How much further can you overstretch logic and common sense? Do ants win Nobel Prizes or has Mr. Ndibe lost his own anthood by sojourning in America? This is my dilemma, how to recreate our new narrative.

What we require now are new visionaries to set higher standards. What we need now are new dreamers with the necessary imagination to

summon our people to a greater tomorrow. Yes, we Set forth at dawn and are still on The Road. Yes, we have beatified many area boys. Yes, we were the running sore of a continent. Yes, we all stood by when the man died. Yes, we have lived through the Penkelemes years. Yes, we have witnessed the Trial of brother Jero, but, where are the Interpreters today?

Finally, the challenge now is not so much what the celebrant’s legacy should be. His place is already assured among in the pantheon of the great men and women of letters. The next generation of writers must address the questions of the relationship between Life and Art. Perhaps we are can argue that the writings of the celebrant have attempted to use art to imitate life, drawing inspiration from the realities of the society, warts and all. What we now need is new generations of Nigerian artists who will make Life imitate Art. By doing this, they can hold before us a world that is not here, but is possible. They can offer us a vision of a society that is not here yet but one to which we can align our politics, religion and culture as a people. They can summon to bear our burden with joy, to conquer our darkness with courage. That is the only spirit that can summon us to say, Yes, we can and Yes, we Must. It is the only spirit that can bend the arc of justice in our direction.

This is the spirit that rallied the Chinese to undertake the long trek. It is the spirit that summoned the Mau Mau to defend their land. It is the spirit that flowed in the veins of Nelson Mandela. Let me illustrate with the late President John F Kennedy.

John Kennedy’s Presidency was short but historic for due to his application of an incredible vision and imagination of possibilities. When he promised Americans that they would land a man on the moon, it sounded like madness. We now know better. He imagined the creation of a non-racial and equal society. In a national broadcast on June 3, 1963, he proposed legislation to end discrimination and hasten integration and equality. Five months later, he was dead, but the project was irreversible. On July 3, 1964, his successor, Lyndon Johnson saw to it by signing the Civil Rights Act into Law. Lofty as this idea was, law by itself is not self-actualizing or self enforcing.

We have to seize this narrative and re-define ourselves

The measure of the greatness of a people or even individuals is based on how or where they stand in moments of trials and tribulations. Nigeria is going through such a phase now. Since the outbreak of the tragedy that is Boko Haram, one has seen another side of our citizens that is quite tragic. Rather than trying to stand together to rise beyond this in hope together, I find some of my fellow citizens creating more confusion and using the insurgency as weapons of politics. The President and the security agencies have become the objects of attacks and vilification and yet, there is very little that is being done to point at the way forward. I know that as day follows night, we shall pull out of this tragedy that we face as a nation. But the least we can do is to stand in the comforts of highways and homes that someone else constructed and thrown stones at ourselves and our people simply because we are living off someone else’s sweat.

In a recent piece, Okey Ndibe literally overreaches himself and engages in what is at best a verbal overkill in his Naija pessimism. He says he regrets writing and calling Nigerians chickens. Now, he realizes that chickens are better off than Nigerians.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 12 for the record

Niger, The Most Indebted In Northern Nigeria – APC

Zungeru: Delay In Compensation To Host Communities Not Deliberate – C’ttee

COEASU To Suspend Strike Thursday

Flood Helped Kogi Discover Rice Potential – Gov

By ABu Nmodu, Minna

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State has charged the present Peoples Democrat-ic Party (PDP)-led government of Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu on the alleged distortion within the state civil service in the state and the most indebted state in northern Nigeria.

The party, in a statement signed by the Publicity Secre-tary, Jonathan Vatsa, yesterday in Minna, alleged that the gov-ernment will be leaving behind one of the worst civil service in the entire northern Nigeria with low remuneration and low mo-rale.

According to the statement, “It is now a public knowledge that about 30 percent of the state’s monthly allocation is being used to service the N36billion loan which the administration called bond and other numer-ous loans, making the state the most indebted state in the entire northern Nigeria today.

“Generations yet unborn in the state will surfer this debt burden which the government of Babangida Aliyu have put the state. It is on record that Niger state civil servants are least paid in the region as the government has refused to pay the approved minimum wage to civil servants, instead the governor only merely added N10,000 to their normal salary and called it minimum wage,” the statement claimed.

According to the statement “Governor Aliyu, though season civil servant who rose to the po-sition of a permanent secretary in the federal civil service have denied civil servants in the state their entitlements which in-clude, leave grants, promotions and other benefits in the name of saving cost.”

Vatsa said that the civil ser-vants in the state had remained at the same grade level since 2009 with no promotion and also denied their annual leave grants since inception of the ad-ministration.

By ABu Nmodu, Minna

The Community Relations Com-mittee for the payment of com-pensations to communities dis-placed following the construction of Zungeru Hydro Electric Dam has stated that the non-inclusion of some communities in the ben-efiting list is not deliberate.

Chairman of the Publicity Sub-committee Alhaji Saliman Yusuf disclosed this yesterday in an in-terview, while reacting to the protest by some youths yester-day over alleged discrepancies in the payment of compensation to the dams’ host communities.

Yusuf stated that the commit-tee wanted to do a thorough job

that would not create crisis in the affected communities.

He said, “You know Zungeru dam is the fourth Hydro Electric Dam in Niger State; all previous dams constructed were charac-terized with problems as it re-gards compensation and settle-ment of communities, so we want to correct such mistakes in this. ”

He however accepted that the consultants engaged to enumer-ate the affected communities ran into technical hitches of omitting some communities from those to be compensated but that the matter as being resolved to en-sure that all affected communi-ties are captured.

According to him, “The consul-tants ran into technical hitches of capturing some affected com-munities. This technical hitch of omitting some communities is being rectified and it has reached a conclusive stage and, very soon, we shall start action”.

The chairman stated that the federal government, by every in-dication, had been committed to the Zungeru Hydro Dam project and it would be good for the eco-nomic development of the host communities.

He also commended the efforts of the Niger State government in making sure that the project came to fruition by its interven-tions.

By KuNi Tyessi, Abuja

Prospects of lecturers under the aegis of Colleges of Edu-cation Academic Staff Union (COEASU) suspending their seven-month industrial action heightened yesterday as the committee of Council Chair-men of Federal Colleges of Ed-ucation called a truce meeting

to douse the crisis rocking the sector.

Just like the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic(ASUP)which recently suspended their strike after 10months,executive members of COEASU are sched-uled to meet with the Minister of Education, Ibrahim Shekarau before tidying up arrangement to suspend the strike.

Indications that the strike may come to an end this week

emerged after an enlarged meeting called at the instance of the chairman, Committee of Council Chairmen of Federal Colleges of Education, Sen Em-manuel Anosike, held at the Na-tional Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to review the nationwide strike.

All the stakeholders at the meeting later agreed that the ongoing industrial action by the union had been prolonged.

By sAm egwu, Lokoja

The rice producing state status of Kogi State was hoisted on it by nature following the 2012 flood that ravaged the state, ac-cording to the Kogi State gover-nor, Idris Wada. The governor stated this at the closing ceremony of a three-day FADAMA III Additional financ-ing project, held in Lokoja, Kogi State, yesterday

The governor who was rep-resented by his deputy, Yomi Awoniyi, disclosed that though the state was blessed with rich alluvial soil, it only saw the ad-vantage to go into rice produc-tion and dry season farming af-ter the flood that ravain its nine Local Government Areas.

With the state joining the dry season farming, and key-ing into the agricultural trans-formation agenda of the federal

government through its bounti-ful harvest and becoming one of the producers of rice, the state has also helped to ensure food security.

Wada called on the partici-pants at the programme to put into practice the knowledge ac-quired during the three-day programme that will lead to the nation having a clear-cut pro-gramme towards food sufficien-cy and food security.

In the effort to consolidate on the feats of the ongoing trans-formation of Kogi State, Gover-nor Idris Wada yesterday com-bined mourning his late father, Pa Wada Ejiga, with state func-tions when presented nominees for appointment for the post of commissioners into the state’s Ex-ecutive Council to the Kogi State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.

The nominees announced by the Speaker of the State’s Legis-lature, Hon. Momoh Jimoh La-wal, are Zainab Suleiman-Oki-no, Zakari Alfa, Barr. Umoru Mohammed, Dr. Idris Omede Fi-del Unekwu Egwuche, Dr. Agnes Okai, Zacchaeus Oluwagbote-mi Atte, Barr. Kayode D.K. Olo-womoran, Abdulrahman Wuya, Yabagi Bologi, Abubakar Sadiq S. Abuh Ainoko, Engr. Steve Maiya-ki, Dr. Abdulmumuni Usman, Ali Ajuh, Joe Abrahams, SAN, Engr. Olatunji Oshanisi and. Stephen Tayo Aremu.

Speaker of the House, Hon. La-wal, while welcoming the lawmak-ers back from recess, advised his colleagues to “sustain the zeal, en-thusiasm and the spirit of patrio-tism, statesmanship and commit-ment to the public good, and leave a legacy of upholding the Consti-tution and the Rule of Law in the collective service to Kogi people.”

Wada Presents 17 Commissioner– Nominees To AssemblyMark,

Senators To Attend John Wash Pam Burial In Jos

Saraki Hails Ahmed Over Students’ Welfare

Senate President Senator David Mark and oth-er distinguished Senators are ex-pected in Jos for the burial of Sen. John Wash Pam, former Depu-ty Senate Presi-dent in the Sec-ond Republic Sen. Pam who died on May 1, 2014.

Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communi-cation Mrs Oliv-ia Dazyam who briefed news-men yester-day said that the Senate President and other distin-guished person-alities were ex-pected in Jos for the burial of the prominent son of the state.

The leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara state, Dr Bukola Saraki, has praised Gov-ernor Abdulfatah Ahmed for priori-tizing the welfare of the youths es-pecially the stu-dents.

Saraki, who is also the chair-man, Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, thanked the governor for appointing Pat-rick Adewumi Ad-ekunle as Special Assistant on Stu-dents’ Matters .

He described Adekunle’s ap-pointment as a “timely and well deserved ges-ture” from the Kwara State gov-ernment which places the stu-dents as integral part of our so-ciety.

By Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin

By Achor Abimaje, Jos By Sam Egwu, Lokoja

SHORTNEWS

SHORTNEWS

Niger state governor mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (left), managing director PAN Nigeria Ltd Alhaji ibrahim Boyi (middle) and the etsu Nupe Alhaji yahaya Abubakar, shortly after inspecting Peugeot products when the management of PAN paid the governor a courtesy visit at government House, minna. PHOTO

BY GOVERNMENT HOUSE.

To meet with Shekarau July 17

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 News north-central 13

By Ankeli emmAnuel, Sokoto

The commissioner of police, Sokoto State Command, CP Lawal Gmabo said yesterday that, the numerous porous borders in the country has had a worrisome linkages with some of the crimes being com-mitted in Nigeria, this was just as he divulged that, foreigners were equally arrested along-

side gang of armed robbers in Sokoto, recently.

The CP who decried the po-rous border, said the securi-ty agents are doing their best to secure the borders, noting that the entrances and ex-its of the country are actual-ly very many that cannot be adequately covered at once as expected.

The CP, while thanking the

people of Sokoto State over the mutual relationship be-tween the state and the police, said, the partnership between the two had been yielding re-sults leading to the arrest of seven criminals within Soko-to recently.

According to him, the armed robbers were arrested at dif-ferent locations with the as-sistance of information from

the people of sokoto State.“ The people gave the police

an information about a rob-bery that was to take place in Wurnu local government area and our people prompt-ly responded and apprehend-ed the suspects in the act. The suspects include, Mohamed Moruf Shehu Bala Umar and Maidame Ibrahim who acted as spy for the gang.

The acting governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Garba Umar has charged the newly inaugurated Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) excutives of the national youth vanguard, Taraba State branch to work hard with the present administration to sustain peace and development in the state.

Umar, who stated this yester-day in Jalingo during the inau-guration of the new executives of the PDP national youth van-guard said that the new exco was a platform for actualising the dreams and visions of the state.

“We hold this to be so, be-cause of the immense poten-tials that our youths possess in our quest for national econom-ic, political and the social trans-formation in the state,” he said.

According to the acting gov-ernor, the formation and intro-duction of the new exco was a welcome development, saying it has provided veritable means for reaching out to the teeming youths in a timely and effective manner.

He tasked them to serve as agent of change by sensitising and mobilising the youths to-wards noble goals and ideals.

The victimisation of northerners in the southern part of the coun-try has reached to a level where all of us are being called Boko Haram as our biological name.

Speaking to LEADERSHIP, a group of northerners who are doing their trade in the south-ern part of the country, decried the level of harassment and in-timidation being meted on them by their fellow countrymen.

The leaders of the group, Alh. Yunusa Mahmmud, an Imam in Enugu State, and Mal. Idris Bashir in Aba, Abia State, said northerners are been forced to do domestic hard labour jobs without being paid in Edo State.

They recalled that “On July 7, 2014 in Abia State, a half bat-talion including soldiers worth 55 and above, well armed with seven hilux came to our mosque without following the etiquette of the mosque, that is, wearing of their shoes inside the mosque which is against the doctrine of our religious belief.

“They didn’t stop there, they went as far as destroying our schools and offices of the direc-tor and principal of the school as well as the practical chemis-try laboratory of the New Arising Academy, which is infused with the mosque.”

Umar Tasks Taraba PDP Youths To Sustain Peace, Development

‘Southerners Call Us Boko Haram’

Pray For Progressive Govs, APC Tells Nigerians

Ramadan Donations: Sokoto Politicians’ Way Of Courting The Electorate-PDP Chieftain

By yAhyA SArki, Kebbi

A frontline APC member and chairman of Kebbi APC Elders , Alhaji Sani Zauro Hukuma who is also Zannan Gwandu has ap-pealed to religious leaders in the country to fervently pray for the protection of progressive gover-nors over their victimisation by PDP led federal government.

Zauro made the call during Ramadan Breakfast for mem-bers of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ)in Birnin Keb-

bi yesterday.He said this holy month of

Ramadan should be used in seeking spiritual intervention as according to him APC gov-ernors across the country are being subjected to all kinds of intimidation, witch hunt and victimisation by the federal government led by the PDP in order to discourage them and scare them to abandon their ambition of saving the people of this country from the hands of PDP.

Zannan Gwandu cited Ad-

amawa and Nasarawa states governors as a clear indication of the grand plan by the ruling PDP to destroy the opposition and challenged Nigerian mass-es to resist any intimidation and rally round their progres-sive leaders for the benefit of generations yet unborn.

Speaking earlier, the state chairman said the Ramadan Breakfast was aimed at bring-ing people together for Allah’s blessings and assured that it would be extended to all seg-ments of the society.

By Ankeli emmAnuel, Sokoto

A chieftain of the Peoples Dem-ocratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State has described Ramadan packages being donated in the state by politicians as a way of making the donors’ aspirations known to the state.

The party chieftain, Alha-ji Nasiru Garba Kalambaina who made this known yester-day when both the deputy gov-ernor, Alhaji Muktari Shagari and Senator Abdulahi Gada do-nated rice and clothing materi-

als to the state PDP members also insisted that, the donation shows how committed the par-ty stalwarts are to the needs of the people of the state.

Stressing that, PDP is a party that cares for the needy, Kalama-baina called on PDP members in the state to reciprocate the ges-ture by giving their total support to the party.

Speaking earlier, former dep-uty speaker, Sokoto State House of Assembly, Alhaji Bello Bu-hari Denge who spoke on behalf of the deputy governor, Alhaji

Muktari Shagari yesterday do-nated grains, clothing materials to party faithful across the state.

The donation include, 224 Hausa native attair (Babariga) for the party executives, 1350 bags of rice and 2300 wrappers for the 23 local governments.

According to Bello Denge, the deputy governor has so far spent over N50 million in purchasing the goods.

In a related development, Sen-ator Abubakar Gada, represent-ed by Nasiru Kalambaina equal-ly donated 500 Guinea Brumate.

Shema Donates 15,000 Copies Of Quran To Islamiyya Schools

Katsina: 9,000 Pupils Gets Conditional Cash Transfer

Governor of Katsi-na State, Ibrahim Shehu Shema, yesterday, distrib-uted 15,000 cop-ies of Quran and Hadiths to 100 se-lected Quranic schools in the state.

Distributing the books to the benefiting schools in Katsina, Shema, represented by his deputy, Abdulla-hi Garba Faskari, said that it was aimed at enhanc-ing teaching and learning in such Quranic schools in the state.The schools also ben-efits from govern-ment programme on feeding.

No fewer than 9,000 pupils from different prima-ry schools across Katsina State cur-rently benefits from the state conditional cash transfer (CCT) pro-gramme, spe-cial adviser on girl child education, Bilkis Kaikai has said.

Kaikai who dis-closed this said the benefitting girls are drawn from 128 primary schools across the state adding that the programme was jointly spon-sored by the Kat-sina State govern-ment and UNICEF as part of mea-sures to increase the girl child’s ac-cess to education in the state.

SHORTNEWS

SHORTNEWS

By Andrew Ojih, Jalingo

By Midat Joseph, Kaduna

Transborder Crime: Our Greatest Concern Is Porous Borders–Sokoto CP

l-r: emir of Dutse Alh nuhu mohammed Sanusi, Jigawa State governor Sule lamido and Chief executive Officer Overland Air Capt edward Boyo, during the commencement of inaugural flight of Overland Air into Dutse international Airport, Jigawa. photo by bENEDICt

UWALAKA.

By Muazu Elazeh, Katsina

By Muazu Elazeh, Katsina

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 14 news north-East, north-wEst

Follow these reports on leadership.ng/business

BY OlushOla BellO, Lagos

Transactions on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) yesterday ended on a positive note as the All-Share Index (ASI) appreciated by 40.96 points or 0.10 per cent to close at 42,971.56 against the 42,930.60 achieved on Monday.

Also, market capitalisation rose by N13 billion or 0.10 per cent to close at N14.189 trillion, compared

with the N14.176 trillion recorded on Monday. Mobil led the gainers’ table, with N5.15 to close at N140.15 per share. Forte Oil followed with a gain of N5, to close at N240 per share, while Lafarge Wapco gained N4.60 to close at N117.60. Nestle went up by N2 to close at N1,112 per share and CAP appreciated by N1.95 to close at N40.95 per share.Conversely, Nigerian Breweries topped the

losers’ chart, shedding N2.38 to close at N172.22 per share.

Ashaka Cement trailed with a loss of N1.70 to close at N32.47, while Guinness declined by N1.48 to close at N198.02 per share. The Cement Company Northern Nigeria (CCNN) Plc shed 40 kobo to close at N11, while National Salt Company Nigeria (NASCON) Plc lost 28 kobo to close at N11.12 per share.

BY JOnathan nda-IsaIah, Abuja

The president of the Senate, David Mark, today took stock of the dwindling fortunes of the nation’s economy and called for stronger public and private sectors participation to salvage the situation.

Speaking when the executive members of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) visited him in Abuja, Mark said such collaboration would get the ailing economy out of the woods.

He also requested the organised private sector to participate in the

policy initiation and formulation so that implementation or execution would not be a challenge.

In a statement issued by his chief press secretary, Paul Mumeh, he stressed the need for continuity of government policies just as he decried a situation where good policies were jettisoned on account of the end of a tenure of the previous administration.

“Good policies, no matter who initiated them, must be sustained by the succeeding administration irrespective of the different political affiliations. Tribe or religion must not affect the implementation of

good policies,” the senate president stated.

He stressed the need for Nigerians to participate in government, “because we want democracy not just to be representational but participatory in Nigeria.”

Earlier, the deputy president, LCCI, Nike Akande, briefed Mark on the forthcoming conference on the state of the economy of the nation in September 25, 2014, in Lagos.

Akande urged government to put measures in place to ensure that the forthcoming electioneering campaign does not negatively affect the economy.

Dwindling Economy: Mark Advocates Stronger Public, Private Partnership

BY nse anthOnY-uKO, Abuja

The growth rate of real gross domestic product (GDP) has been put at 6.21 per cent in the first quarter (Q1) of 2014, higher than the 4.55 per cent recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2013, but lower than the 6.77 per cent recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) have shown.

These new figures for the GDP growth rate is following the conclusion of the reclassification of the base year from 1990 to 2010. With the rebasing, the GDP growth rate for 2013 was revised to 5.49 per cent down from the 7.41 growth prior to the exercise.

Also, the nominal GDP (at basic prices) was estimated at N20. 169 trillion, or N15.43 trillion in real terms, in the first quarter of 2014. In the corresponding quarter of 2013, nominal GDP was estimated N18.29 trillion or N14.53 trillion in real terms.

According to the NBS, average daily crude oil production in the opening quarter of 2014 stood at 2.26 million barrels per day (mbpd), down from the 2.29mbpd recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2013.

In Q1 2014, oil GDP was valued at N2.61 trillion in nominal terms, compared to N2.75 trillion recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2013. Real growth in the Oil sector was recorded at -6.60 per cent in Q1 2014, indicating better performance compared to -11.40 per cent growth recorded in the corresponding 2013 quarter and the -9.36 per cent growth recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Non-oil real growth reached 8.21 per cent in the opening quarter of 2014, representing an increase of 0.76 per cent points from the 7.44 per cent growth recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2013.

However, relative to fourth quarter of 2013, non-oil growth was a marginal 0.57 per cent points lower. The Services sector accounted for the largest share of real GDP in Q1 2014, amounting to N8.18 trillion or 52.99 per cent. Industry ranked second with a contribution of N4.22 trillion or 27.36 per cent, whilst Agriculture constituted the smallest sector in the first quarter, representing N3.033 trillion or 19.65 per cent of GDP.

BY OlushOla BellO, Lagos

In line with the federal government’s efforts at diversifying the economy, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) said 11 more products had been added to the non-oil products that the country exports to the global market.

The new products, according to the NEPC, are educational books, robusta coffee, double-folded dust sheets, ice making machine, mica muscovite and leather furniture.

Others are high density polyethylene, aluminium ingots, reduced iron and iron pellets, garments and yam.

The primary markets and destinations for the products are Sierra Leone, Spain, the United Kingdom, Ghana, India, Republic

of Benin, Japan, Bulgaria and the United States, while high density polyethylene is exported to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member countries.

The NEPC said there was a steady growth in the non-oil exports with a value of $2.97 billion in 2013, accounting for 15.9 per cent increase over 2012, with a value of $2.56 billion.

Speaking recently to the media, the executive director, NEPC, Mr Olusegun Awolowo, said, “We have about 11 new products which we introduced beginning from 2013 to various new markets in Africa and the world. These products would give Nigeria a competitive advantage which is a welcome development for the country.

LCCI Expresses Concern Over Rising InflationBY OlushOla BellO, Lagos

The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has expressed concern over the rising inflation rate in the country, which it said has remained significantly higher than those of Nigeria’s peers in the global market.

The president of the LCCI, Alhaji Remi Bello, said at the chamber’s second quarter press briefing in Lagos that the country’s annual average inflation rate of 7.85 per cent year-to-date was above the International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s projection of 7.3 per cent.

Bello said, “Nigeria’s 2013 annual average inflation rate of 8.5 per cent is higher than that of Africa, the emerging markets and advanced economies at 5.8 per cent, 6.3 per cent and 1.4 per cent, respectively. The country’s annual average of 7.85 per cent year-to-date is above the IMF’s projection of 7.3 per cent and those of most of its peers.

“The inflation for the emerging markets, Africa and Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (the BRICS) are projected to come in lower than Nigeria’s at 5.5 per cent, 6.1 per cent and 5.7 per cent respectively. Given the potential threat that the

anticipated high election-related spending in the run up to the 2015 general elections poses, we can only expect higher levels of inflation in the months to come.”

According to the National Bureau of Statistic (NBS), inflation rose to eight per cent in May, slightly above the 7.8 per cent and 7.9 per cent recorded in March and April respectively.

On exchange rate dynamics, the chamber applauded the relatively stable rate with slight appreciation of the naira, which it said was witnessed only at the interbank and Bureau de Change segments of the foreign exchange market.

GDP Growth Rises To 6.2% In Q1

Nigeria Adds 11 Non-oil Products To Export List

NSE Transactions Remain Upbeat As ASI Gains 0.10%

businessnews

L-R: Zonal business coordinator, North-east, Globacom, Samuel Ibrahim and chief executive officer (CEO) Tapshak Entertainment, Dorcas Bentu at the signing of an MoU for sponsorship of the Puuskaat Festival.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 15

By BUKOLA IDOWU, Lagos

Nigeria’s national telecommunications company, Globacom, has partnered the people of Mwangu, Plateau State, by signing a memorandum of understanding for the sponsorship of the Puuskaat Festival, an annual event which is celebrated in April.

The sponsorship of the annual festival is aimed at promoting and preserving the rich culture of the people of Mwangu and Plateau State as a whole.

Globacom has been in the fore-front of

promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Nigerian people having sponsored similar cultural festivals, including the OjudeOba in Ijebu Ode, Lisabi in Abeokuta and Ofala in Onitsha.

In his address during the signing, Globacom’s zonal business coordinator, North-east, Samuel Ibrahim, said “as a brand with an authentic African heritage, we have resolved to support any credible endeavor that will promote and celebrate our cultural icons….as we believe that culture has a very profound role to play in

the peace and unity of our dear country.”

Also speaking at the event, Amos Iliya Putman, who represented the national president, Mwangu Development Association, said they were excited by the collaboration with Globacom.

Ibrahim assured the people of Mwangu of Globacom’s continued support and partnership and urged them to avail themselves of the network’s pocket-friendly tariffs and an array of its products and services designed to empower the people.

Glo Partners Mwangu People On Puuskaat Festival

Overland Airways starts service From Abuja to Dutse By NKEM OSUAGWU, Lagos

Overland Airways, one of the domestic airlines in Nigeria, has commenced scheduled flight services from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to the new Dutse International Airport, Dutse, Jigawa State.

Overland Airways said the service would be thrice weekly, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays

to and from Abuja.According to the

chief excutive officer of Overland Airways, Captain Edward Boyo, “The commencement of scheduled flights operations on the A b u j a - D u t s e - A b u j a route, in addition to the existing routes, is part of Overland Airways’ objective to facilitate air transportation between the major cities of Nigeria.”

Boyo congratulated the Jigawa State Government and Governor Sule Lamido, for the vision to embark on and complete, in record time, the Jigawa Airport project.

He assured that Overland Airways would serve the people of Jigawa State efficiently and that the airline is committed to providing its customers safe and outstanding services with excellent value for their money.

FAAC: FG, states, LGAs share N755.95bn For JuneBy NSE ANTHONy-UKO, Abuja

The Federation Accounts Allocation Committee yesterday, allocated the sum of N755.95 billion to the three tiers of government for the month of June.

A breakdown of the allocated amount showed that N582.93 billion was shared under statutory allocation, N66.414 billion was distributed under the value added tax while the balance of N71.04 billion was shared from the excess non-oil revenue.

The minister of state for finance, Amb Bashir Yuguda, who presided over the meeting, put the gross revenue received in the month of June at N784.88 billion.

This, he stated, represents a decrease of N59.15 billion over the N844.03 billion received in the month of May.

The committee also approved the transfer of N50.35 billion into the Excess Crude Account, thus bringing the balance in the account to $4.05 billion.

The committee also insisted that the retention of fuel subsidy is a fraud against the country.

The chairman, Forum of Commissioners of Finance of the 36 states of the federation, Mr Timothy Odaah, made the position of the committee known while briefing journalists shortly after this month’s FAAC meeting.

Odaah said, while the report of the 12-

man committee on the review of subsidy was still being awaited, the current position of the FAAC is that subsidy must be removed since the purpose for which it was established has been defeated.

He said, “The issue of subsidy removal re-echoed today and it has become an issue of discussion. The report of the committee set up three months ago is being awaited and we still stand on the removal of subsidy as it will be of much benefit to the states because what we have now is like ‘robbing Peter to pay Paul.’

“The purpose for which government set up this subsidy is being defeated and so it should be based on consumption.”

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 16 NEWS/BUSINESS

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 17

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BananaRepublic RESTAURANT

Financing has and will always be a crucial factor in the development of any economy. It

is what drives development, touching every aspect from micro businesses to the mega firms. With this in mind the federal government had in 1986, during the military era, reformed the financial system as a key element of the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) which led to the emergence of finance companies in Nigeria.

The finance companies sub-sector was envisioned to operate at the middle-tier of the financial system, largely to cater for the financial needs of the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), leveraging on resources from the banking system, among other sources of funding.

However, there was an unprecedented influx of finance companies in the 1990s, most of which were structurally weak from inception and by 2000, there were 763 registered finance companies out of which only 280 were fully licenced while 483 operated with Approvals-in-Principle (AIPs).

Consequently, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revoked the licences of 208 finance companies and cancelled the AIPs of 462 others due to the distress in the sub-sector in a bid to sanitise it. As at 2012, there were 116 finance companies in the records of the CBN, and by September of 2012, the apex bank revoked 51 licences, leaving 65 operational finance companies. Currently, there are 63 finance companies in operation within the country with valid CBN licences.

As the country developed and the finance sector went through various reforms, it became imperative that finance companies are brought up to standard so

that they would perform the functions for which they were established.

According to the CBN, many of the finance companies had fallen short of their duties due to poor and inadequate funding, weak technical and human capacity, poor corporate governance, investment in high risk portfolio, poor industry perception and intense competition from banks and other financial institutions with higher funding capacity.

According to deputy director, Other Financial Institution Supervisory Department (OFISD) of the CBN, M. A. Adegbite, the failure of the sub-sector to fulfil its mandate after 28 years of existence which was due to the challenges identified above and the need to appropriately situate the finance companies in the emerging integrated financial architecture as envisioned in the Financial System Stability (FSS) 2020 necessitated the need for a comprehensive reform of the sub-sector.

He noted that “recent effort at reforming the sub-sector, started with the hosting of an international workshop on November 25, 2011, themed: Finance Companies: Relevance in Nigeria’s Emerging Financial System. Based on the outcome of the workshop that affirmed the relevance of the sub-sector, the KPMG Financial Services was engaged in May 2012, to support the CBN in developing and implementing necessary reforms in the finance companies subsector.” With the reform came a revised guideline which stipulated that finance companies, which includes finance houses as well as leasing companies in the country, have to shore up

their capital base to the tune of N100 million.

Speaking at the official presentation of the Revised Guidelines for Finance Companies in Nigeria, the director, OFISD, CBN, Ahmed Abdullahi, said the shoring up of the capital base from N20 million to N100 million was to have strong and viable finance companies in the country.

The guideline was not only focused on increasing the capital base of the companies; it also opened up opportunities with the CBN as part of its support initiatives said it will continue to provide support towards capacity building in the Finance Company sub-sector. Aside this, finance companies are also permitted to participate in accessing and disbursing funds to SMEs via relevant vehicles/intervention funds set up by the CBN, the

Federal/State Governments and other relevant bodies.

OFISD director explained that modalities are already being worked out on how finance companies will be able to access and disburse the various intervention funds, promising that the modalities and requirements would be out before the end of the year.

“We want finance companies and other institutions in the OFIS sub-sector to become strong, virile and able to perform the functions that they were set up for. Of course the objective of the finance companies and their shareholder is profit after tax but we are interested to have Other Financial Institutions (OFIs) that are able to service the MSMEs sub-sector and provide access to finance those businesses so that we can have economic growth and development in the country.

“The agenda of the CBN governor is to have a people centred central bank. He wants to emphasise job creation, he wants to emphasise businesses having access to finance and so all these institutions that are

operating in the financial sector in which we have purview are supposed to be strong, virile and able to perform that function.

“We are concerned about finance companies performing functions for which they are set up and that is why they need to have increased capital, good corporate governance policies and risk management policies need to be put in place so that they will be able to function properly,” he said.

With the revised guideline, finance companies’ maximum borrowing limit was retained at 10 times their shareholders’ fund unimpaired by losses with minimum borrowing from

individual pegged at N50,000, while minimum borrowing from corporate organisations was pegged at N2 million.

Permissible activities in the 2014 guidelines include asset finance such as operating lease, finance lease, hire purchase, consumer loans, project finance, LPO finance, import and export finance, debt securitisation and debt factoring, financial consultancy as well as issuing of vouchers, coupons, cards and token stamps.

They are, however, barred from deposit taking; capital market activities, i.e. stock broking, issuing house business, registrars’ services; non-financial activities, i.e. trading, construction and project management; and foreign exchange trading except via the correspondent banks.

banker’s bankBy Bukola Idowu

Finance Companies’ Recapitalisation: Empowering The Financiers

Emefiele

The naira currency

Naira Firms on Dollar SalesNaira firmed marginally on the interbank market on Monday after oil companies sold dollars to buy the local currency and slowed dollar demand from importers, traders said.

The naira closed at N162.28 to the dollar, slightly firmer than Friday’s close of N162.38.

A unit of France’s Total sold

$42 million and China’s Addax sold $8 million, boosting dollar liquidity and support for the local currency.

“The naira should be rangebound this week ... I don’t see it depreciating to N163 anytime soon, probably N162.70 to the dollar,” one dealer said. The naira was little changed against the dollar on the interbank market amid

expectations that the state-owned energy company, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) would sell dollars soon, after earlier dollar sales by some local oil companies.

The local currency closed at N162.45 to the dollar, slightly firmer than the N162.50 it had closed at the day before.

Trader said the Nigeria

Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) sold an undisclosed amount of dollars and a unit of Addax sold for $12 million on yesterday, providing support for the naira.

“There is a general expectation that the NNPC will likely come to the market this week and many banks are going short on dollar,” one dealer said.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 18 BuSINESS/BANKER’S BANK

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

StakeholderS recommend meaSureS to reduce 17million houSing deficit

PoliticianS miSuSing their PoSterS may Be ProSecuted

e n v i r o n m e n t feature

Page 20 Page 22

News

Nigeria Nominated To Host Regional Center To Combat Pollution

Presidency, Ministry To End Desertification

Lagos Seeks Private Sector Support On Housing Deficit

Lagos takes about 60 percent of the nation’s out-of-home advertising industry with 146 registered out-of-home advertising companies.

by GEORGE OKOJIE, Lagos

When environmentalists talk about protection of the environment what readily come to mind are waste pro-duction, air pollution, and loss of biodiversity resulting from the introduction of in-vasive species and species extinction.

But because continuous human existence depends largely on the kind of envi-ronment people live in, the need to protect it from vari-ous human activities has be-come paramount.

Thus, the three-day event, put together by Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) dwelt ex-tensively amongst other is-sues on the need to stem defacing of the environment.

Experts drawn across the globe who converged on La-gos concurred that environ-mental protection is influ-enced by three interwoven factors: environmental legis-lation, ethics and education.

They noted that each of these factors plays its part in influencing national-level environmental decisions and personal-level environmen-tal values and behaviours.

Speaking on the issue, the managing director, LASAA, Mr. George Noah, frowned at the indiscriminate pasting of posters and billboards by cer-tain individual that have no regard for the environment, lamenting that the practice defaces the built environ-ment.

Noah noted that though the future of the outdoor sector holds significant benefits, it would be better harnessed if stakeholders worked closely and proffered innovative and creative approaches in dealing with challenges confronting the sector.

Noah who fingered loss of market share to other adver-tising mediums including elec-tronic and online platforms as a major challenge reasoned that public wrong perception about the intent of regula-

tors, activities of charlatans and indiscriminate pasting of posters had compounded the problem.

Noah said LASAA cares so much about the environment and had put together price incentives as well as new in-novations with a view to spur-ring growth in the sector.

He listed such innovations to include the first water pro-jection digital display sign in Africa, hinting of plans to des-ignate certain areas in Lagos as sites approved specifically for pasting posters

Harping on the need to deploy tactics, technology for human beings to live well in a less distorted environ-ment, Noah stressed that, “It is important we exchange ideas with our counterparts in other African countries and that is the way we can make progress.

“We need to encourage new innovations in out-of-home platforms and make creativity a continuous exercise because customers are always seeking new innovation.”

Quantifying the value of the outdoor sector in Lagos, Noah said it accounts for an annual turnover of N50 bil-lion.

Lagos takes about 60 per-cent of the nation’s out-of-home advertising industry with 146 registered out-of-home advertising companies, being the commercial nerve center of the nation. So far, it has also employed not less than 100,000 people in vari-ous advertising and signage companies and regulatory agencies.”

Lending his support to LA-SAA’s quest to rid the environ-ment of distortions caused by indiscriminate pasting of posters and billboards, Timi Eyaen , an environmentalist said that to have a clean coun-try there must be some piece of legislation regulating hu-man activities in this regard.

He said such legislation must stipulate that any po-litical office seeker who in-discriminately pastes posters

and mounts billboards would be prosecuted. Eyaen asserted that issues concerning the cleanliness of the environ-ment must be properly regu-lated.

According to him, “ The gov-ernment and agencies like LA-SAA must be on the lookout for those who had cultivated the habit of defacing the en-vironment with posters and billboards, get them arrested and start prosecuting those who deface the public places with posters.

“They should make removal of illegal structures a con-tinuous process in all parts of the state and country so that anybody who re-erects illegal structure after its removal would also face prosecution.

“If this is not done you have a situation whereby LASAA will be removing and others will be placing it back on the metropo-lis because they feel they are be-ing sent to paste the posters by top echelon in the society.

“No matter how highly placed politicians and personal-ities may be they are not above the law and they are not the only inhabiting the environ-ment , the environmental laws should be enforced to bring err-ing members of the public to justice. Until act of lawlessness are discouraged and persons face sanction for defacing the environment no matter what anybody does it will continue.

“Major cities in Nigeria, La-gos in particular must be clean because a dirty environment re-flects a dirty home and people visiting the country looking at how we have defaced our envi-ronment will conclude that we have no regards for ourselves.”

Eyaen who lauded the beau-tification programme in Lagos urged the home owners to fur-ther enhance the aesthetic of the city painting their houses.

“By the time we paint our house, do landscaping of our premises, trim our flowers, fenced undeveloped land and stop this bad habit of display-ing washed clothes at vantage positions in our homes you will discover how beautiful

Politicians Misusing Their Posters May Be Prosecuted

our environment will look like.”

Managing director of Insight Communications, Jimi Awosika opined that creativity could make the difference and enhance the entire process, while keep-ing the environment less distorted.

Going forward, he iden-tified ‘Waka Pass syn-drome’, a term he used for lack of creativity, as a major challenge confronting the sector.

Consequently, he ap-pealed to practitioners to be ingenious in their ap-proaches towards outdoor displays as this would give clients more mileage.

“As professionals, we must introspect deeply on our identity strength and leverage it to make contri-butions that refine society and define the march of our civilization. This is because we are not mere communications practi-tioners,” he pointed out.

Chief executive of-ficer , JCDecaux Group, Southern Europe, Jean Sebastian Decaux set out to highlight the impact a well-structured and regu-lated outdoor sector could have on the environment and consumers.

Some participants, who gave their views, de-scribed the event as a suc-cess and an eye-opener on

issues affecting the envi-ronment and consumers.

In view of the forth-coming elections in which politicians normally use posters to deface the en-vironment, they appealed to the organizers to make it an annual event in the out-of-home calendar to drive home the message.

According to Benjamin Apresai, a participant from Delta State, LASAA must be commended for its high-level of pro-fessionalism in staging world-class events geared towards having serene beautiful environment.

He noted they pulled it off through the success-ful organization of two editions of the annual Lagos Countdown and the maiden edition of the African Outdoor Ad-vertising Conference and Exhibition.

“ I sincerely hope it would be sustained and made an annual event as this would serve as a platform for we practi-tioners to chart the way forward for our profes-sion,” he said.

It is believed that if other relevant agencies toe the same line of ac-tion by LASAA the men-ace of defacing the envi-ronment will be a thing of the past in the coun-try.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 20

Presidency, Ministry To End DesertificationBy EvElyn OkOruwa, aBuja

The office of the special assistance to the president on school agricultural programme and the ministry of environment are to work together to curb the current threat posed by desertification in the country.

This was made known by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Schools Agricultural Programmes (SSAP-SAP) Dr. Baraka Sani while paying a courtesy visit to the minister of environment. She said the scheme will see each student planting ten trees annually even as she the pilot stage of the programme will commerce in 12 states with each club will having a membership of 120.

Briefing on the other mandate of her office she explained that her office has the mandate to implement a comprehensive agricultural programme that will introduce young students to the various opportunities contained in agriculture by promoting skills for life and further contribute to the drive in ensuring the diversification of the country’s economy,

“The programme will focus on food/vegetable production, fisheries and aqua-culture, poultry, nutrition, environmental protection through awareness campaign and tree planting programme and conservation of natural resources, processing and packaging apiarist training for honey production, livestock

production and small scale irrigation and entrepreneurial programme for members of the club,” she said while adding that the multipliereffect would definitely play a great role in the eradication of poverty and job creation.

Recognizing the minister of environment as a key stakeholder in the tree planting mandate, she said steps will be taken under the guidance of the ministry to ensure the protection of the environment and the conversation of our natural resources.

“We are looking at planting moringa in the north and palm trees in the south or as may be advised. We would also like you to oblige us with any other expertise as may be appropriate in order

to avoid duplication of existing programs or events.”

On her part, the minister of environment Mrs. Lawrencia Mallam noted that the scheme was very laudable. She cautioned that the environment should not be neglected because everything centers on the environment. Taking the issue of the drought in the north as a classic example, she raised alarm that if the right environmental habits are not imbibed we will soon be drowned in the consequences.

However, she said the present administration through the Great Green Wall programme is already addressing that issue. She further disclosed that the formal flag off the Great Green wall be carried out by the president in Kebbi very

By EvElyn OkOruwa, aBuja

Nigeria has been notified of the nomination to be the headquarters of the Regional Coordination Centre to combat marine pollution emergency in West, Central and Southern Africa.This was disclosed when the Executive Secretary of the Abidjan Convention United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), Mr. Abou Bamba paid courtesy visit to the Minister of Environment, Mrs. Laurentia Mallam.Mr. Bamba disclosed that after some long and difficult

deliberations at the 11th meeting of the conference of the parties to the Abidjan Convention in South Africa this year, Nigeria was chosen to host the headquarters of the regional centre.He added that with a coastline of 853km, 9,000km of navigable inland waters, being the sixth largest oil producer in the world and with about 50 years of experience in marine pollution management, Nigeria has what it takes to host the centre.The Executive Secretary stated that the objectives of the proposed centre includes promotion of cooperation in the region in the

field of preparedness and response to pollution incidents, assisting the countries of the region in the development of their own national capabilities for response to pollution incidents and facilitating information exchange.The center is to amongst others collect and disseminate relevant information, assisting the countries in ensuring the sustainability and revision of their national plans and of the sub-regional plan, coordinating international assistance in case of emergency and providing secretariat for the regional agreement and the regional contingency plan, including the

organising of regular meeting.Bamba further stressed that the administrative and financial implications of establishing the centre will require Nigeria providing adequate office space, staffing, material and equipment, as well as covering the initial and recurring operational costs needed for its work. While adding that UNEP will soon meet with the federal government to discuss the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it will sign with the Abidjan Convention for the establishment of the centre, estimating that it will be operational in the next six months.

The Minister of Environment Mrs. lawrencia Mallam (left) and the Senior Special assistant to the President On Schools agricultural Programmes (SSaP-SaP) Dr. Baraka Sani during a courtesy call on the minister in abuja, recently

Nigeria Nominated To Host Regional Centre To Combat Pollution

Lagos Seeks Private Sector Support On Housing Deficit

FHA Gets Deadline For Apo Estate Completion

By George Okojie, Lagos

By Evelyn Okoruwa, Abuja

Lagos State Government has said private sector collaboration is need-ed to address the over one million housing deficit in the state.

The state governor, Mr. Baba-tunde Fashola who canvassed the private sector support named the Iloro Housing Estate after the late Olu of Agege, Oba Lateef Adams who died in 2011.

Fashola at the ceremony said the reason the state government decid-ed to name the housing estate after the late Oba was to appreciate his immense contribution to develop-ment in the state.

He noted that naming the eight-block housing estate after the late Oba was the only gesture they could bestow on the late Oba, for his con-tribution in the state.

According to him, “The late Oba was like a pillar of support to our administration. He support me during campaign and after the elec-tion, he did not reneged. He was a great traditional ruler and we will miss his immense contribution.”

Harping on the housing def-icit, the governor said the aim of the state government through the Lagos Home ownership Mortgage Scheme, Lagos HOMS was to re-duce the housing deficit in the state.

Fashola noted that the scheme was to ensure that residents who were tenants in the state become home owners under the new hous-ing scheme.

The permanent secretary of the federal ministry of Land, Housing and Urban development Mr. Eze-kiel Oyemomi has directed that ef-forts to ensure completion of the first phase of the Federal Housing Authority Estate Apo be done with-out further delay.

According to the statement made available to LEADERSHIP, Mr. Oyemomi made this demand during a familiarization tour of the estate even as he stressed that the estate could only make the de-sired impact on depleting the na-tion’s housing deficit when it is completed.

The work which started in 2010 was expected to be completed with-in 48 months.

Commending the quality of work done in the estate so far, the per-manent secretary directed that both FHA and its partner ENL Consortium Ltd should work out a schedule for the timely completion of the 479 units in the first phase of the estate and the associated in-frastructure.

Oyemomi said he decided to vis-it the site so as to gain first-hand knowledge of the constraints be-ing faced by the Authority and its partner in the delivery of the es-tate which he said was part of gov-ernment’s strategic plan to address the housing problems.

news Wednesday, July 16, 2014 21

Stakeholders at recom-mended that a substantial percentage of the pen-sions funds which are long term funds should be used to provide long term finance and mortgage lending for household residential develop-ment while mortgage

2.2bn11the cost of the project has been estimated at N2.2 billion.

the project is an 11-storey building comprising a 5-star 89 apartments/rooms and 23 office/commercial accommodations

By EvElyn OkOruwa, Abuja

Taking into cognisance the huge housing deficit plaguing the country and the factors militat-ing against achieving affordable housing in Nigeria, the Quan-tity Surveyors Registration Board Of Nigeria (QSRBN) dur-ing her 4th Annual Building and Construction Economic Round-Table (BCERT 4) which held re-cently held in Abuja vigorously discussed the way forward in the sector.

The meeting which had the theme “Developing A Master-plan on New Homes for Ni-gerians– The Critical Success Factors” saw the stakeholders making critical observation. They observed that housing is a core human right as supported by Section 16(2)(d) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Re-public of Nigeria and Article 254 of the UN General Assembly Declaration of Human Rights, also that the Housing and Urban Development component of the Federal Government Transfor-mation Agenda focuses on four priority areas namely improved Land Administration and Man-agement especially (Land Ti-tling), Affordable Mass Hous-ing, Housing Finance and Urban and Regional Development.

They also observed that the current housing deficit in Ni-geria is estimated at 17 million units which will require about N56 Trillion to finance, the cur-rent annual housing production is 100,000 units but 700,000 units are required annually to meet the Millennium Develop-ment Goals (MDG) and to meet the housing deficit. While not-ing that in developed countries such as Europe and the United States, Mortgage Finance con-tributes between 50 per cent and 80 per cent to the GDP of the respective countries where-as in Nigeria it contributes less than 1 per cent. Only 5 per cent of the 13.7 million hous-ing units in Nigeria are financed with a mortgage. Most Nigeri-ans rely on private savings to pay for their homes.

Others observations made by the stakeholders includes that home ownership is poor in Ni-

geria as most Nigerians cannot afford it without government support and subsidies, that gov-ernment is no longer involved in direct construction of houses thus subjecting home owner-ship to the vagaries of market forces as driven by the private real estate developers, absence of an intervention fund similar to those of Aviation, Textile, Nollywood and Education ham-pers the provision of affordable houses for Nigerians and that in-terest rates on mortgages which currently average at 17 per cent are too high to make mortgage an attractive route to home own-ership for Nigerians, the absence of a Construction Cost Data Base (CCDB) in Nigeria makes the standardisation of costing and pricing of new homes very prob-lematic amongst other observa-tions made.

Taking the above into consid-eration, the stakeholders from BCERT 4 through a communi-qué recommended that govern-ment develop a masterplan for home ownership by Nigerians and fund its implementation without delay, that the current effort of the Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria to develop a National Construc-tion Cost Data Base to promote accountability and transparency in the standardisation of costing and pricing of new homes for Ni-gerians to guarantee the success of the proposed masterplan im-plementation should be encour-aged and funded by the federal government.

Noting that when cheaper ma-terials are used for building the cost of building will drastically, they recommended that research into the use of cheaper alterna-tive building technology should be promoted in determining minimum housing standards for various segments of the Nige-rian Households and that inter-est rates on mortgages for home ownership should be drastically reduced, there should also be generous concessions and dras-tic reduction of duties on hous-ing materials and machinery to ensure affordability of housing by Nigerians.

Ease of access to land and abo-lition of the multitude of taxes

Stakeholders Recommend Measures To Reduce 17million Housing Deficit

and fees on residential houses was also advocated while asking that government should provide primary and secondary infra-structure around all approved residential estates throughout the country so that estate de-velopers are not forced to pro-vide such facilities and pass on the costs to buyers through in-creased house prices.

Further stakeholders at BCERT 4 recommended that a substantial percentage of the pensions funds which are long term funds should be used to provide long term finance and mortgage lending for household residential development while mortgage banks, Real Estate De-velopers and other Stakehold-ers in the Built Sector should leverage ample opportunities in the Capital Market for cheaper finance to fund Housing devel-opment. They asked for that the

Federal Mortgage Bank of Nige-ria (FMBN) should be strength-ened by increasing its Capital Base for it to remain a sustain-able financial institution with capacity to enhance efficient housing finance development in Nigeria while the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should provide clear guidance to Primary Mort-gage Banks (PMBs) and other stakeholders on recapitaliza-tion, as well as increased surveil-lance and supervisory activities on the PMBs to ensure their or-derly growth, development and effectiveness.

The event attracted about 500 participants cutting across the broad spectrum of the Nigerian economy and officially declared open by President Goodluck Jonathan who was represented by the minister of lands, hous-ing and Urban Development Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 22

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 23

By SAMUEL ABULUDE, Lagos

Kolon has just released a new song titled Folashade, an afro pop single. The song is a product of a six-year experience in the music industry.

The musician has promised fans that Folashade which will soon begin to enjoy airplay across the country. The singer started out in 2008, with a debut single titled Sexy. Other songs that

IntervalE N T E R T A I N M E N T S P O R T S L E I S U R E

No sooner had the bus been boarded than a bright-looking young man got up and, stared at everyone for a few seconds and…

“Ahem, ahem,” he coughed, “my name na the honourable Doctor Sha-ba, but my friends dey call me Doc Shabbs.”

“Who be this one?” a pretty lady asked her friend.

“Maybe na your boyfriend. How I go know?” Pretty Lady’s friend re-torted.

Both of them sniggered. A few oth-ers around them could not help but

take part in the ridicule.“Yes,” continued Doc Shabbs,

“laugh as you want, but I tell you say na me go marry you,” he said, point-ing to the Pretty Lady.

“I don suffer,” said Pretty Lady, “see person wen wan marry me. E go better make I dey single or turn to lesbian.”

Many could not hold back their laughter. The stage for yapping was set.

“No problem, even though you re-semble lesbian, I go still marry you,” said Doc Shabbs.

“Na your sister be lesbian, non-sense,” said Pretty Lady icily.

“Now, my people, I no come this bus to follow my wife quarrel,” Doc Shabbs continued, “but no worry, if you gt wife like me the only way wen you fit to tell am to shut up na to take this garlic capsule and, after small time,

him go dey call you Da-ddy.”The bus erupted in laughter.“No, no, no, I no dey play o. You

see, this garlic capsule no dey smell and e dey cure any kind of nyama-nyama for body. I swear, if this thing no work, anywhere you see me, slap me. This capsule…” he held it up, “dey cure body weakness, mouth odour, ar-thritis, indigestion, remove poison, e dey…”

“Only one capsule?” Asked a shocked man who sat two seats away from Doc Shabbs.

Everyone enjoyed a good laugh one more time.

“I wonder,” intoned an older wom-an who sat near the door. “Your med-icine go cure old age, too, ko?” She wanted to be in on the jibe too.

More laughter.“Okay,” continued Doc Shabbs, “as

we don laugh finish, make I contin-ue. This medicine dey cure waist pain, purge body of toxic things, make heart and kidney work well and make our body cells dey happy and alive.”

More laughter.“So, how much this your wonder

drug dey cos?” Queried an athletic-looking fellow with a knap-sack sit-ting on his lap.

“Na N50 for one capsule and N500 for one packet. This capsule dey make man strong for on top of bed. If you wan take am as daily medicine, every evening, if you return, take am with water and go sleep. In the morning, wake up go piss make you see the co-lour of your piss. Every nyama-nyama wen dey your body go comot for that piss. I swear.

“If you wan show your wife who be Germany – no be Brazil. Brazil no fit

win world cup – you go take am with milik. When you take am with milik finish, stay two hours make you come tell your wife say ‘oya, today na final for Maracana’, then…”

The passengers erupted in laugh-ter, interrupting the ‘doctor’s’ pre-sentation.

“Your wife go just close eye, dey sing your name. When you finish, she go go prepare the best food for you…”

“The women too no go rest? Abeg…” interjected Pretty Lady.

“When me and you finish, you dey rest?” asked Doc Shabbs.

Pretty Lady had had enough. “You no dey fear? God go punish you o!” She spat. “Na because you see me for BRT? If you see me for road, you fit talk to me? Mtcheeewwww!”

It was unbelievable, but the bus erupted in more laughter.

‘This Capsule Fit Cure Anything’

Kolon Drops ‘Folashade’

Ini Edo

Rita Dominic Prays For Fans, Friends

Ini Edo, Desmond Elliot Enrol For Law At NOUN

Kefee's New Song OutBy PAtiEncE iviE ihEjirikA, Abuja

For Nollywood diva, Rita Dominic, July 12, 2014 was another special day in her life as she celebrated her 39th birthday.

The birthday dinner which was held at a Chinese restaurant last Saturday had close friends, colleagues and associates of the actress in attendance, including film director and co-owner of The Audrey Silver Company, Mildred Okwo, TV presenter, Michelle Dede and AFRIFF boss, Chioma Ude.

Rita Dominic received numerous birthday wishes from friends, fans, relatives and associates via tweeter.

She reciprocated via the

By SOLOMOn nDA-iSAiAh

MTV & MTV Base have revealed that Grammy Award winner and multi-platinum selling, recording artist Usher will make a triumphant return to the VMA stage during the“2014 MTV Video Music Awards” live from the Forum in Inglewood, CA on Sunday August 24, 2014.

A VMA mainstay, Usher has delivered some of the show’s most high octane and memorable performances including 2010’s stunning combo of “OMG” and “DJ Got

MTV Video Music Awards Returns In Style

By SAMUEL ABULUDE, Lagos

In a quest for knowledge, Iniobong Edo-Ihegiwani and Desmond Elliot were matriculated at the weekend to study law at the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN.

The Nollywood actors were said to be beaming with smiles as their co-matriculants exchanged pleasantries with them. Desmond who is reported to be on scholarship by the university put the news on his twitter account: I feel like some 12 years ago

By SAMUEL ABULUDE, Lagos

Even as her numerous fans are still mourning her sudden death and committal to mother earth in Sapele last Friday, Kefee's new single has been released.

Kefee Don-Momoh may have passed on in flesh, but her music lives on. On this song titled 'Best Thing', she expresses her dear love for God who she describes as The Best Thing that has ever happened to her.

The song was released coincidentally on her burial date, obviously to leave something new with the fans.

I’m In Music For Good – Jennifer Eliogu

Excitement As Gbenga Adeyinka, Osas Rock the Floor For Maltina

the late kefeerita

kolon

the singer, songwriter and record producer has dropped is 'Wetin I Go Do' and 'Again n Again' released in 2009 and 2010 respectively.

The stylish singer who produced Orezi's 'Buddy Bounce' also has a video titled 'Your Love' since 2011. The UNILAG graduate started his musical career as a member of the choir group of the then St. Vincent Choir at St. Leo's Catholic Church, Toyin Street Ikeja, Lagos.

Us Fallin’ in Love”, 2004’s mashup of “Confession” and “Yeah” (featuring Ludacris and Lil John).

Hot on the heels of releasing their self-titled debut album, Australian pop-punk band and upcoming MTV Artist to Watch 5 Seconds of Summer, also known as Luke Hemmings, Michael Clifford, Calum Hood and Ashton Irwin, will take the VMA stage for the first time. The teen sensations have been wowing live audiences worldwide and will surely bring the audience to their feet on this night.

same medium by praying for and wishing all her fans, friends and well-wishers God’s kindness and favour.

"Thank you all, may God see you through every challenge that is thrown your way. Hugs and kisses all the way round. I love you guys so much, thank you," she tweeted.

"So many words in the heart of this true chorus leader but only a few shared with us. This is a must-listen. Best Thing is a wonderful piece of the true expression of a grateful hearted child of God."

@desmondelliot, we are doing this for real #openuniversity#lawstudent#educationistheketosuccess# if we can do it, you can do it; it is never too late.

Ini Edo who first obtained a diploma in Theatre Arts from the University of Uyo, also bagged a degree in English from the University of Calabar.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 24

by SOLOMON NDA-ISAIAH

In recognition of the success and growth of the wines and spirits industry and the tremendous importance of wine at social functions and private meetings, Exhibition Guru, organizers of Nigeria’s largest wedding exhibition – WED Expo – is proud to introduce the Wine & Spirits Expo 2014.

This is a unique event where manufacturers, distributors and retailers of wines and spirits would have the opportunity to exhibit a wide range of high quality wine and spirits, beer and other alcoholic beverages, as well as provide wine education, logistics and services to buyers from all over the country.

Wine & Spirits Expo is targeted at sophisticated individuals and the elderly age group. The exhibition is projected to attract over 100 local and international exhibitors and over 20,000 visitors.

Nigeria is the second fastest growing market in the world for champagne and is currently ranked as the country with the highest consumption of champagne in Africa. This

places Nigeria among the top 20 champagne markets in the world. With a wine market currently valued at $300m a year, this volume sales in Nigeria are expected to grow by 6 percent yearly.

With the Nigerian consumer confidence enhancement for the wine taste, it becomes much more popular and prosperous not only to the imported wines, but also the spirits. The market is incredibly attractive to winery and exporters abroad. Nigeria is like a brand new spring of the wine of the world.

In addition to retailers, the event welcomes the trade press, importers and recognized trade professionals from all support services to the wine & spirits expo.

The expo will play host to exhibitors who supply liquor and beverage products such as wine, beer, brandy, whisky, vodka, spirits, champagne and more. Also, wine tasting, wine accessories & equipment , wine education, wine investment and wine services such as packaging, bottling and labeling would form a major part of the event.

With the extensive media campaign, the wine & spirits expo will be the most talked

by SAMUEL AbULUDE, Lagos

Rich n Famous crooner and Headies 2013 Male Vocalist of the Year, Praiz is really giving his musical career his all to up the ante.

The Rhythm and Blues (R&B) singer who dropped Mercy is geared to have a collaborative effort with Ragga sexy singer, Diana King and record a single.

Diana King known for the hit single ‘Mercy Mercy’ came to Nigeria recently for a gig and the news was awash about her love for Nigerian hip hop. Praiz who hails from Kogi State and is signed to X3M Records stands to benefit as he taps into her fan base and launches into the international market. The MTN ambassador will drop his album in the next two months.

by SAMUEL AbULUDE, Lagos

It’s been more than five years now since one of the movie merchants of Yoruba films and to an extent Nollywood, Alade Aromire passed on. His footprints are still evident.

Chubby Aromire was one of those actors cum movie makers who dared to invest in Nigerian home video when the opportunity beckoned, with movies like Asiri Nla among a few other top-selling movies.

He worked with Iya Rainbow, Adebayo Salami and Iya Awero, Jide Kosoko in the early days of Nollywood. Best Of Nollwood, a top site that celebrates the Nigeria movie industry poured encomiums on the late veteran who died in his 40s.

“6 years ago you left us, we remember you for your good work. Your movies and giant steps to help create a movie industry. We celebrate your business savvy and your passion for Yoruba movie industry,” one of the messages read.

I’m In Music For Good – Jennifer Eliogu

Exhibition Guru To Host Wine & Spirits Expo 2014

by SOLOMON NDA-ISAIAH, Abuja

Actress and singer, Jennifer Eliogu is headlining the African Women in Leadership Conference in Atlanta, USA where she is billed to perform. The actress, who has been in the industry for about 17 years is currently working to build her musical career and has three singles to her credit.

Jennifer Eliogu is an actress known for her versatility and ability to interpret roles perfectly. She is one of the leading actresses in the movie industry. She took many by surprise when she veered into music. She released a new single early this year, bringing the total number of her released works to three. She performs at several gigs with her 10-man band, Silk Band.

Her singles which are a fusion of different genres of music are titled You and I, Ifunanya and Fantasy. ‘Ifunanya’ was nominated as the Best R n B song at the Nigerian Music Video awards 2013, while ‘You and I’ is the coverage of the late legend, Celestine Ukwu’s

song. ‘Fantasy’ is a lover’s rock reggae song.

Speaking on her foray into music, she said “music is something that has always been a part of me. I have come

into the music industry to stay; I’m in it for good. I am not in competition with anybody, it is just another way of making use of the talents that I have. I am not in it because other

Diana King To Collabo Praiz in New Single

Entertainers Remember Late Movie Veteran Alade Aromire

Diana King

Eliogu

Akin Esho

about event in the wine & spirits industry for a long time to come.

The event will take place from October 10th to 12th at the Tafawa Balewa Square,

Lagos Island. The spacious exhibition centre is centrally located on Lagos Island and is home to many exhibits, trade-shows, banquets, and large receptions.

people are going into music but because I have the passion for it and I have always wanted to make good music.

Music is a serious business, and I am in for the long run. I have a 10-man band called Silk Band and we just want to make people feel good through music.”

Her 10-man band, Silk has performed at various events for individuals and corporate bodies, award ceremonies, conferences and end-of-year parties.

Jennifer Eliogu is one actress who has managed to carve a niche for herself in the movie industry. She has through her acting and non-governmental organization, Initiative for Development, Empowerment and Absolute Stability (IDEAS) been able to impact people’s lives positively. She has been a source of inspiration to the up and coming generation. She is also a producer, compere and motivational speaker and has featured in over 50 Nollywood movies before her foray into music.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 INTERVAL 25

Being uncomfortable is a good thing. It means you are restless. And restlessness propels you to a new level, if you let it. Your inability to accept mediocrity is an indication that you have stepped up in your mentality. I'm proud of you!

I went to get my braids done last week. When I got out of bed, I had a feeling that I should go to Bella's Beauty Park. I laughed because I was not willing to pay more than my usual 1K, and funny enough, Bella

Itchy & Uncomfortableis not expensive. But I was so stuck in a mold, that I ignored the prompting, and took myself to the market, to get my hair done. While sealing my braids with hot boiling water, it got into my scalp. I screamed, and the whole bucket of water poured on me. It was a parade. People began to fan me, robbing eggs on me....it was so sad! All I kept thinking was..."I cannot sue these people. it's a market place". Lol. � en I remembered the promptings I had earlier that morning: Getting your hair done in the market is not a crime. � ere are salons in the market, why sit under a tree? � ere is no

insurance, no guarantees, not to talk of the heat, the noise, etc. Besides, we all have stages in life, that we must outgrow. I love getting my hair done in the market. I don't look down on it...but I'm talking about stages!

1. � ere are some stages you've passed. Quit trying to force your feet into a size 3. You are no longer a child. Grow with your age and your status. It's not pride. It's con� dence. 2. Never ignore the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Our hearts and minds are very powerful. � ey will prevent you from a catastrophe. 3. When your wounds start to itch and get uncomfortable, it's a sign that

healing is taking place. It's been a week since my incident, and I can't help but to feel uncomfortable by the itching and occasional pain. It's a reminder that something has happened or is happening. It symbolizes healing.

Something is going on in your life that seems unbearable. It is stretching you beyond your capacity. It's a good thing dear. Endure the changes. It's for a good cause. You will never outgrow this stage if things remain the same. Stretch yourself today. Do something new and good, but uncomfortable. Tell your wife "I love you". Pray for

your boss. Tell your husband "I'm sorry". Start going to Church early. Rushing in 30 minutes late has to stop. Go an extra mile today. It will feel uncomfortable. But you'll be better o� for it.

I urge you to get uncomfortable today. Get tired of being tired. Go with the � ow and allow yourself get to another level. � e uncomfortable feeling is GROWTH. Don't pinch it. Don't scratch it. Don't manipulate it. Don't tease it. Don't bribe it. Don't pray for it to disappear. Allow it take its course. When it heals naturally, it doesn't leave a scar. Soar High.

OMENESAORUMA AKOMOLAFE

IT’S NOT OVER

oruma@yahoo.com 08176324382 (SMS)

Excitement As Gbenga Adeyinka, Osas Rock the Floor For MaltinaBY SOLOMON NDA-ISAIAH

Onlookers were engulfed with excitement at the grand spectacle they witnessed recently at the Atrium of the Silverbird Galleria in Lagos when popular comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka, Former Miss Black USA and current Maltina Dance All (MDA) Compere Osas Ighodaro, La� up alongside other dancers took to the dance � oor to showcase new dance styles known as Rhythm of Happiness Dance (ROHD).

� e ROHD dance is a new easy to learn hip-hop dance style that re� ects contemporary pop culture. � e new dance style is a prelude to the popular family dance show, MDA season eight tagged “� e Rhythm of Happiness”

Much to the surprise of those present, Gbenga Adeyinka and Osas who are not known for their dancing skills dazzled the audience with their displays. � e video which has already been uploaded on YouTube, has received thousands of views.

Mr. Kufre Ekanem, Corporate A� airs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries plc described the dance performance as just “a tip of the iceberg from this season of Maltina Dance All.” He added that the show is the foremost experiential and sponsorship platform of the Maltina brand renowned for promoting togetherness with friends and loved ones. � e TV show, which made its debut in 2007, has remained Nigeria’s � rst and only family dance TV show featuring families from various regions across the

“� e Evolution.” � is year’s show is tagged “Rhythm of Happiness.”

On what is up for grabs for this year’s edition, the Corporate A� airs Adviser said the winning family will go home with the grand prize of a whooping sum of N10 million. � e � rst and second runners up will also get N3 million and N1 million respectively. � is is a considerable increase from the N6 million, N1 million and N500, 000 won last year by contestants.

Also speaking, Mr. Adewole Adedeji, Senior Brand Manager Maltina stated that

Osas Ighodaro, Gbenga Adeyinka, La� up and others doing the Rythm of Happiness Dance

country.Fans of the show know too

well that it is all about the emotions, excitement, fun and the unbreakable bond that ten families will showcase when they challenge themselves by learning and performing various dance styles in the famous Maltina Dance All academy.

Each year’s show often comes with a unique theme that drives the activation. For instance, the theme for Season 5 was the “Biggest Maltina Dance All,” Season 6 was the “Most Spectacular MDA” while Season 7 was

building any brand is a very long journey, “We are glad with the evolution of the Maltina brand over the years and the impact it has made thus far. We are also very excited about what season eight of MDA have in store for us. You will agree with me that eight years is a long time for a show to still be relevant and we’re very glad that Maltina, through MDA, continues to bring the brand experience of sharing happiness and fun to the consumer. � e MDA “Rhythm of Happiness” edition will be refreshingly unique because we put a lot of work into it.

Every year there is something bigger and better.”

� e show proper will be preceded by regional auditions which will kick o� in Port Harcourt at the Atrium Event Center on July 18th - 19th; Lagos - National � eatre on July 24th - 26th and Abuja - Nicon Luxury Hotel on August 1st – 2nd. Interested Nigerians can go online and register at www.maltinadanceall.tv or they can register at the venues of the auditions for a chance to participate. � ey can also visitfacebook.com/MaltinaNigeria for more information.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 26 INTERVAL

PUZZLES

NEWS QUIZ

NUMBER CROSSWORD BRAIN TEASER

LAST WEEK SOLUTIONS

WORDSEARCH NUMBER CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Which of the following is not a factor contributing to the con� ict between northern and southern Nigeria?A geographic di� erenceb. monetary di� erencec. political di� erenceD. religious di� erence

2. When was Nigerian

oil source discovered?A. when the British � rst colonized NigeriaB. October 1, 1961C. the time was never recorded so it is unsureD. between the late 1960s and early 1970s

3. What is Nigerian’s o� cial language?a. English

b. Hausac. Yorubad. Ibo

4. Enugu, Kano Pillars, Heartland and Lobi Stars are famous Nigerian:A. hotelsB. National parksC. football clubsD. TV soaps

1ST- CLASS PERSON

REGISTER

WORDSEARCH

Find and circle all of the Words that are hidden. The words may be hidden in any direction.

Find how many times the names of Sita and Ram are there

Look at the clues below and � ll all the numbers you can into the grid.

Water wordsBedBirdBoyBuckAugClockColour

CraftCressCureFallFowlFrontGap

GasGateGlassHoleLevelLilyLine

LogMainMarkMeterMillMoldPipe

MEN VS WOMEN“Men marry women with the hope they will never change. Women

marry men with the hope they will change. Invariably they are both disappointed.”

–Albert Einstein, � eoretical physicist, 1879-1955

“Why does a woman work ten years to change a man, and then complain he's not the man she married?”

–Barbra Streisand, Musician, 1942

Rita DominicHappy birthday to Nollywood’s stunning diva – July 12

Peter Odemwingie, a footballer –July 15th

Ramson Noual, Nollywood actor-Juuly 16th

Richard Mofe Damijo, Nollywood actor-July 6th

Peter Obi, former governor, Anambra State, July 19

Kate Henshaw, Nollywood actress-July 19

Ademola Okulaja, basketball

player-July 10

Nwankwo Obiora, soccer player-July 12th

Nonso Diobi, Nollywood actor July 17

Wole Soyinka, July 13th- proli� c writer

Which number replaces the question mark?

Compiled by Abisola Alawode

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 LEISURE PARK /INTERVAL 27

2928 Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Keep up with updates on these stories @ www.leadership.ng

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‘FG Scholarship Awaits All Abducted Chibok Girls’

Release Abducted Schoolgirls Now, Malala Tells Boko Haram

2015: PDP Reps Endorse Jonathan For Second Term

Durami AlhamduI pray they listen, my sisit-er.

Success OnajiMalala, perhaps you were not properly briefed. The abducted girls are not in Abuja, they are in Sambi-

sa forest in Borno State. Please ensure that you take your request to the Borno State government.

Yusuf SaboMalala, just direct your re-quest to President Jona-than, period!

Prince Duke Good news!

Habbat YahyaThe missing $20 billion is be-ing put to good use.

St Innocent Akpan Math-iasBad news for Nigeria; it means we should expect more bombs and missing money.

Nuel EchuYou will fail; you will never succeed.

Mamman BajaheYour endorsement can’t make him win 2015 election.

Musa MusaWhen most of them can’t even deliver their polling units and wards. Their con-stituency is Aso Rock!

Malala

Adeola

Sheriff

Jonathan

Former Borno Gov, Modu Sheriff Dumps APC For PDPFemi DareOf course, the PDP is where he rightly belongs.

Umar Mohammed Saganu-wan Sheriff’s defection is the best thing that has happened to APC in recent times.

Ishaku MusaI know Atiku will toe the same line soon, especially when he realises that he can’t get the APC presidential ticket.

Zakar D. ImamAPC is not for traitors!

Abdulrazaq Oladayo AzeezWe wish him best of luck.

Usman Lawal ManiPDP is where he belongs!

Abdulkadir GarbaAnd Boko Haram will multi-ply soon!

Dauda Jibril DaudaOur politicians are not to be trusted!

reactionsonline

Adamawa Assembly Impeaches Nyako

LASU Lecturers Call Off Strike

Ibrahim ObiaAre you not ashamed of mak-ing empty promises to 17-year-old Malala who visited to pay solidarity over the abduction of over 200 schoolgirls?

Muhammad Auwal DawoodRescue them first, Mr Presi-dent, before making promises of scholarship.

Shuaibu AliyuSo you now believe that some schoolgirls are actually miss-ing?

Akinbowale TundeThat is if they ever come back alive.

Gimba IdrisWhat we want is for you to bring the schoolgirls back alive. After that you can give them

16/07/2014

the scholarship awards.

Muhammad Lawal AshafaBring them back first, Mr President.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 30

OYO STATE OGUN STATE LAGOS STATE ONDO STATE EKITI STATE OSUN STATE

BY ALO ABIOLA, Ado-Ekiti

� e Ekiti State government has denied the allegation that it has commenced illegal recruitment of 6,000 applicants into the state civil service.

Speaking with newsmen in Ado-Ekiti at the weekend, the chairman of the Ekiti State Civil Service Com-mission, Alhaji Afolabi Ogunlayi, said the commission was aware of the in-sinuation that it intended to conduct massive recruitment into the state civ-il service.

� e commission chairman was re-acting to the allegation by Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) last week, ac-cusing Governor Fayemi of planning to embark on massive employment into the service at the twilight of his tenure.

He said, “I want to say that the Civ-il Service Commission under my lead-ership is not aware of, is not a party to and is not making any plan and has not requested for or obtained any approv-al for the appointment of 600; 3,000 or 6,000 applicants as being peddled.

“However, why we are not unmind-ful of the fact that the present admin-istration is in transit, the commission still has the powers to carry out the mandates in the areas of appointment, promotion , discipline and transfer of service”.

He, however, lamented that out of 7,000 indigenes of the state that ap-plied for recent federal government advertised job vacancies only three were employed.

Ogunlayi clari� ed that the 334 ap-plicants that were employed into

the service recently, passed through the rigour of examinations and oral in-terviews, contrary to insinuation that the exercise was politicised, adding that the state would have loved to do more, but for dwindling federal alloca-tion to the state.

He revealed that 35 persons had bene� tted from the policy of the state government to give two per cent em-ployment opportunity to physical-ly challenged with requisite quali� ca-tions.

Ekiti: State Govt Denies Alleged Illegal Recruitment

BY GEORGE OKOJIE, Lagos

In keeping with his promise to be back in a week’s time to monitor progress in the e� orts to address the problem of tra� c gridlock in Apapa, Lagos State governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola again visited the Tin Can Port road and Creek road among others calling on the federal government to live up to

its responsibility by restoring the infrastructural damage which, he says, is threatening to destroy the area.

During his visit recently, Fashola who expressed dismay at the tra� c gridlock created by the tankers, especially on Creek Road and other roads leading to both Apapa and Tin Can Is-land Ports, met with the leader-

ship of the tanker drivers’ asso-ciation and extracted a promise from them to create at least one lane to enable other road users in the area to access their homes and businesses.

Fielding questions from jour-nalists after the inspection of the Tincan Port Road and Creek Road, Governor Fashola frowned at the deterioration in the area.

Apapa Tra� c Gridlock: FG Should Stand Up To Its Responsibility – Fashola

BY JOSHUA DADA, Osogbo

Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola has warned criminals and agents of violence to steer clear of the state or face the law, as the governorship election approaches.

Aregbesola spoke during the launch and handover of 20 Amoured Personnel Carriers (APC) that cost N1.3 billion to the

State Police Command in Osogbo, the state capital.

� is was in ful� llment of his administration’s promise to equip the command with the APCs.

� e governor expressed pains at what he called federal government’s penchant for playing politics with crucial security matters.

Aregbesola urged President Goodluck Jonathan to separate

politics from the issue of security by granting the state a short code for its emergency centre.

� e governor noted that when government fails to guarantee safety of lives and property, it has no business being in power.

Aregbesola said security, safety and the welfare of the people are the primary responsibilities of any government as enshrined in the nation’s constitution.

He a� rmed that since his � rst day in o� ce, he warned his party members and the people that there will be no room for infraction of law and that people should refrain from using their previous experience to persecute their political opponents.

“Politics should not be mingled with security, because security does not know religion, party a� liation or ethnicity.

Osun: Aregbesola Warns Criminals To Stay Away From The State

Lagos State governor Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN pointing at the failed Apapa-Oshodi Expressway between Trinity and Coconut Bus Stop due to heavy tonnage from tankers and container bearing

zonal watch

BY GEORGE OKOJIE, Lagos

Lagos State governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN) has a� rmed that the State Home Ownership Mortgage Scheme (Lagos HOMS) was designed to accommodate all segments of the society.

The governor who spoke in an interactive session with varied members of the society at the event which took place at the BlueRoof

Hall, LTV Complex, Agidingbi added that the programme was for everybody irrespective of whether the person is self employed or in paid employment.

“It is for everybody. Whether you are self employed, in your own business or you are in paid employment, in government or in a private company, once you are a resident of Lagos and you hold our LASRRA

(Lagos State Residents Registration Agency) card. You are entitled, whether you are a mechanic, a car dealer, whether you are a market woman, whether you are working in abattoir, you are entitled to Lagos HOMS, if your income can match the house that you have applied for”, he said. He explained that it was people in paid employment that were applying.

Lagos HOMS Meant For All Segments Of Society – Fashola

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 31

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 32

KANO STATE GOVERNMENT

ENGR. RAbi’u MuSA KwANKwASO, FNSEExecutive Governor, Kano State

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCYCouncil endorsed the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency

on the metropolitan Roads. Accordingly, the public may easily Contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, Illegal / Wrong Parking to kindly Call KAROTA through the following number – 08091626747. Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire

Service can also be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

157th KANO STATE EXECuTiVE COuNCiL MEETiNG

Sincerity of purpose and steadfast commitment to deliver on campaign promises reiterated in the inaugural speech delivered by Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE on 29th May, 2011, gingered and propelled the momentum and vigour to the present administration to perform beyond the expectations inherent in the cardinal resolutions to transform Kano State for the better.

Pursuant to the above today Wednesday 9th July, 2014 (12th Ramadan, 1435 AH) the Kano State Executive Council held its one hundred and fifty seventh (157th) sitting under the Chairmanship of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE during which eleven (11) MDAs submitted fifty two (52) memoranda for deliberation by Council.

Twenty five (25) of the tabled memoranda were approved for execution with an expenditure of Four Hundred and Six Million, Nine Hundred and Sixty Eight Thousand, Seven Hundred and Eleven Naira, Forty Kobo (N406,968,711.40) covering twenty three (23) projects while the remaining two (2) were on policy issues. Thus;

1. OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENTThe Secretary to the State Government submitted fifteen (14) memoranda on behalf of the Chairman (Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE) and some MDAs for deliberation by Council. Four (4) of them were approved for execution as follows;

a) Request for Funds to Enable Transportation of Students on Exchange Programme from Kano State to their Home States:-The Secretary to the State Government endorsed the cited routine request from the Ministry of Education and presented it to Council for consideration. The aggregate sum of N3,897,300.00 was requested for release by Council for the stated purpose according to the following summary;

SN Description Amount (N)i. Transportation of 767 other States students

from GSS Karaye and GGC Kachako to Rumfa. 306,800.00

ii. Transportation of 929 other States students including 162 SAS students.

1,549,300.00

iii. Meal allowances for 929 students. 185,800.00iv. Transporting of 630 State Indigenous

Students back to their respective schools after holidays for the first (1st) term 2014/2015 session.

1,063,600.00

v. Transportation of 767 students of the 18 Northern States from Gidan Murtala to GSS Karaye and GGC Kachako after third (3rd) term holiday.

306,800.00

vi. DTA for 20 teachers to escort them N7,000.00

140,000.00

vii. Payment of 2012 and 2013 annual contribution of SEP Secretariat Kaduna.

300,000.00

viii. Cost of participation in the 2014 SEP post inspection meeting.

45,000.00

Total = N3,897,300.00.

Council acknowledged the request as a routine requirement and approved its execution.b) Presentation and Request for Funds to Enable Payment of National Examination Registration in Respect of Health Information Technician Students, School of Health Technology, Kano:-The Kano State Ministry of Health submitted the cited request which was endorsed by the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration.Council was politely notified that, the School of Health Technology offers a course on Health Information Technology which was accredited by the Health Officers Registration Board of Nigeria to train Health Information Technicians since the year 2006. So far, fifty two (52) students graduated from the course this year and are required to attend the National Examination conducted by the Board.Details of three (3) items required costed to the tune of N2,984,400.00 were presented to Council for consideration and granting of approval for release.Council noted, considered and approved as requested.

c) Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Monthly Sitting Allowances to Seven (7) Members of the Standing Committee on Zawachiki Inland Dry Port (ICD) (June, 2013 to April, 2014):-Contents of this memorandum substantiated to Council that, the cited request was instigated by the fact the last time the Committee in question received its statutory sitting allowances was in the month of May, 2013 (eleven (11) months ago). Details were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of the aggregate sum of N2,250,000.00 to cover for the sitting allowances for the seven (7) – Member Committee for a period of twelve (12) months.Approval was granted by Council as requested in consideration of the statutory nature of the request.

d) Request for Funds to Enable Payment for Six (6) Months (January – June, 2014) to Members of the Taskforce on Counterfeit and Fake Drugs as well as the Operational and Logistics Requirements of the Mobile Magistrate Court Attached:-The Secretary to the State Government endorsed and presented the cited request for consideration by Council on behalf of the Ministry of Health.

Activities and achievements recorded by this Taskforce Committee were considered commendable by Council as approval was granted for the release of the aggregate sum of N7,484,800.00 for the following two (2) purposes;i. Operational funds = N1,004,800.00.ii. Allowances for Mobile Court and other Staff attached to the

Committee = N6,480,000.00.Total = N7,484,800.00.

Council approved the release of the requested sum of N7,484,800.00 to the Secretary to the State Government for the stated purpose.

2. OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF CIVIL SERVICETwo (2) of the five (5) memoranda submitted for deliberation by Council from the Office of the Head of Civil Service were approved for executive as follows;

a) Request for Funds to Enable Sponsorship of Five (5) Nurses to Study Post Basic Psychiatric Nursing (2014/2015 Session) at Federal School of Psychiatric Nursing Kware,

Sokoto State:-The Head of Civil Service in his statutory role as custodian to the capacity building and professional training for all personnel in the Civil Service submitted the cited request for consideration by Council.

Essentially, the course was adjudged relevant and in agreement with the policy of the present administration to provide for the Health Sectors in all ramifications. Council approved for the release of the aggregate sum of N1,505,000.00 to cover the four (4) items required by each of the five (5) Students for the course. b) Presentation on the Need and Request for Funds to Augment the Monthly Personnel Cost of the Kano State High Court of Justice:-The need to provide additional manpower to man the newly established Courts in Kano State instigated the submission of the cited request from the State Ministry of Justice, endorsed by the Head of Civil Service and presented to Council for consideration.Council was notified, through contents of this memorandum that, the State Judiciary do not draw their salaries from the State Payroll, rather they receive monthly grant directly from the Ministry of Finance to settle their personnel emoluments. Council was requested to approve for the release of the sum of N3,423,066.13 monthly to the State Judiciary as augmentation to its personnel cost.Council noted, considered and approved as requested.

3. MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATIONThree (3) of the seven (7) memoranda were submitted for deliberation by Council from the Ministry for Higher Education which were approved for execution as follows;a) Request for Funds from College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies (CARS) for Free Education, IJMB 2014/2015 Registration, Excursion and Verification of Results for Students of the College:-The Kano State College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies submitted the cited request which was endorsed and presented to Council for consideration. Details on the requirements for free education, IJMB 2014/2015 (ABU Zaria) registration, excursion and verification of results for the students of the College were presented along with the financial implications to the tune of N28,618,000.00 which was requested for release by Council.

Relevance of the request prompted Council to approve the release of the trimmed down sum of N21,830,000.00 to the Ministry of Higher Education for onward payment to CARS for the stated purpose.b) Request for Funds to Enable Furnishing and Provision of Fittings at the Newly Constructed Administrative Block and Staff Office Complex at College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies, Kano:-The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry for Higher Education notified Council, through contents of this memorandum that, the three (3) approved Capital Projects at College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies were completed to required standard. They include;i. Construction of e-library (phase I).ii. Construction of administration block.iii. Construction of staff Office Complex.

Hence the need for the provision of furniture and general fittings at the administrative block and staff office complex which was assessed to the tune of N12,423,000.00.

Council acknowledged the request as congruent with the laudable policy of the present administration to provide for education in all ramifications and at all levels. The release of the sum of N12,423,000.00 was approved to the Ministry for Higher Education to enable execution of the stated project at College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies.

c) Request for Funds to Enable Redemption of Pledge by the State Government for an Award of Scholarship to Gwani

PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 33

Kabiru Abubakar Musa:-Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa was the overall winner at the International Qur’anic Recitation Competition (Musabaqah) held in Saudi Arabia. The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Higher Education submitted the cited request to Council for the fulfillment to its pledge and approval granted at its sitting of 26th February, 2014 to sponsor Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa to pursue M Sc. Degree in Biochemistry at Bayero University, Kano.

The admission letter of Abubakar for the M Sc. Programme was presented to Council for consideration along with the financial commitments in the total sum of N1,056,000.00.As such, Council was requested to approve the release of the sum of N1,056,000.00 to enable Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa pursue the M Sc. Biochemistry course at Bayero University, Kano.Council acknowledged and approved the release of the sum of N850,000.00 to Gwani Kabiru Abubakar Musa as pledged by the Kano State Government.

4. MINISTRY OF WORKS, HOUSING AND TRANSPORTThis Ministry submitted fourteen (14) memoranda for deliberation by Council. Ten (10) of them were approved for execution as follows;• Five (5) of the approved memoranda from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport were on the Installation of Street Lights along one road or the other for varying distances to be executed by the Taskforce Committee on the Installation/Repairs/Reactivation of Street and Traffic Control Lights. They include the following;a) Magajin Rumfa Road (1.5KM) – N25,988,494.50.b) New Race Course Road Off Alu Avenue (0.7KM) –

N9,696,648.00.c) Along SSS Headquarters and Giginyu Quarters –

N70,069,507.10.d) Along Miller Road (2.5KM) – N59,812,737.30.e) Walkways/Garden Lighting Installation (Phase II) –

N15,462,062.50.

f) Request for Funds to Enable Continuation of Enforcement of Street Decongestion and Illegal Motor Parks in Metropolitan Kano:-The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport notified Council of the achievements recorded by KAROTA in the enforcement of Traffic Rules and Regulations as well as decongesting the roads in Kano Metropolis. The general public appreciates the effort which instigated the submission of the cited request to enable extension of the exercise for yet another three (3) months (July – September, 2014).

Details on the eleven (11) items required were presented to Council for consideration along with the financial implications to the tune of N11,403,960.00 which was requested for release to enable extension of the stated exercise for another three (3) months (July – September, 2014).Council noted, considered and approved the release of the trimmed down sum of N10,000,000.00 for the stated purpose.

g) Request for Funds to Enable Procurement of Operational Rain – Coats for 378 KAROTA Personnel:-The cited request was submitted cognizant of the prevailing rainy season and the nature of operations of the KAROTA Personnel which is characteristically outdoors irrespective of the season.Nevertheless, protective rain – coats are required by 378 KAROTA Personnel quoted at the most responsive Contract sum of N2,000.00 per unit totaling the aggregate sum of N756,000.00 for the 378 KAROTA Personnel which was requested for release for the stated purpose.Council approved as requested.

h) Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Five (5) Additional Operational Vehicles (Pick Up Vans) to KAROTA:-Operations of KAROTA involve prompt movement from one point to another which necessitates usage of serviceable and agile motor vehicles of which the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport recommended the procurement of five (5) serviceable second hand Pick – Up Vans at the unit cost of N3,450,000.00 totaling N17,250,000.00 for the five (5) which was requested for release for the stated purpose.

Council appraised the request and approved the release of the sum of N6,950,000.00 to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to process the procurement/allocation of one (1) New FordRangertoKAROTAasadditionaloperationalvehicle.

i) Presentation of Report on the Fifty Seven (57) Kwankwasiyya Girl – Child Initiative Buses under KAROTA Management:-The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport reminded Council, through contents of this memorandum, of the Kano State Government transfer of the management of the Kwankwasiyya Girl – Child Initiative Buses from the Ministry of

Education to KAROTA.

KAROTA assessed the condition of the buses and discovered many of them require repairs which necessitated the request for the release of the sum of N5,000,000.00 by Council. Approval was granted and N3,758,550.00 was judiciously utilized for the purpose leaving a balance of N1,241,450.00. Details were presented to Council for consideration. Based on these, the following two (2) prayers were forwarded to Council for consideration;i. Council approved the recruitment of eighty (80) graduates

from the Kano State Driving School for the Kwankwasiyya Girl – Child Initiative Buses.

ii. Council approved KAROTA to take over the fuelling of the buses and collection of fees by issuance of tickets to the students/passengers.

j) Request for Funds to Enable Renovation of Miller Road Bompai, Nassarawa LGCA:-Contents of this memorandum presented Miller Road in Bompai area of Nassarawa LGCA as an important link to many high capacity roads such as Sani Marshal Road, Mission Road, Murtala Muhammad Way etc.

In fact, Miller Road helps in decongesting high volume vehicular traffic along nearby major roads. Renovation of the road is of paramount importance which was assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N98,237,060.00 which was requested for release by Council for the stated purpose.Council appraised the request and approved the release of the sum of N98,237,060.00 for the execution of the stated project on Contractual Arrangement to be supervised by the Kano State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport.

5. MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOUTHS, SPORTS AND CULTUREThe Ministry submitted five (5) memoranda for deliberation by Council. Two (2) were approved for execution as follows;

a) Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Cash Gift to Two (2) Additional Players of the Kano Pillars Football Club:-Contents of this memorandum applauded the Kano State Government of its magnanimity in donating gifts to members of theKanoPillarsFootballClubandtheirOfficialswhichcomprisedmotor cars and cash prizes.Inadvertently, two (2) of the players were omitted in the cash donation of N700,000.00 each which total up to the aggregate sum of N1,400,000.00 which was requested for release by Council for onward payment to the two (2) players. Details were presented to Council for consideration.Council noted, considered and approved as requested.

b) Presentation and Request for Funds to Redeem Pledge of Cash Gift of N500,000.00 and A Brand New 36 – Seater Bus to the Kano Pillars Football Club Fans’:-TheKanoPillarsFans’Clubwaspresentedasa reliablemotivatorfor thegloriousperformanceof theKanoPillars Football Club athome and away matches to which the State Government pledged to donate a brand new 36 – Seater Bus and N500,000.00 cash for their activities. Council acknowledged the presentation and approved as follows;i. The sum of N500,000.00 to be released to the Kano Pillars

FootballClubFans’Clubinsupportoftheiractivities.ii. The Office of the Secretary to the State Government to

process the procurement/allocation of one (1) unit of brand new 36–SeaterBustotheKanoPillarsFootballClubFans’Club at the sum of N16,390,000.00.

6. MINISTRY OF LAND AND PHYSICAL PLANNINGThe memorandum submitted for deliberation by Council from this Ministry was approved for execution. Thus;Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Compensation for Fourteen (14) Items Affected by the Dualization of Hadejia Road Junction to Dakata Police Station to Kwanar Inusawa Road:-The cited project is among the commendable efforts of the present administration and is in earnest progress which affects fourteen (14) structures assessed for compensation to the tune of the aggregate sum of N25,567,160.00 which was requested for release by Council to effect payment of the compensation for the fourteen (14) structures.To enable smooth progress of the project to its completion on schedule, Council approved the release of the sum of N25,567,160.00 to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning for the stated purpose.

7. MINISTRY OF WOMEN AFFAIRS AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENTRequest for Funds to Empower 129 Graduates of Kano Reformatory Institute, Kiru:-Triumphant of the successful completion of 129 batches 1, 2 and 3 graduatesoftheKanoReformatoryInstitute,KirusenttoITFSkills

Acquisition Center, Kano and KEDI Dawakin Tofa, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development submitted the cited request for consideration by Council.

To further empower them, the 129 graduates were segmented into six (6) clusters (grouping by trades) with assistance from the Skill Acquisition Center. The trades include Welding, Carpentry, Computer, POP, Tailoring and Building. The estimate cost of equipment and rent was put at N7,716,500.00 which was requested for release by Council to enable execution of the stated purpose though some of the graduates indicated interest for other viable engagements elsewhere especially Government Organizations such as KAROTA, Informatics Institute, Corporate Security Institute etc.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the trimmed down sum of N7,000,000.00 to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development for the stated purpose in line with the empowerment policy of the present administration.

8. MINISTRY OF RURAL AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTRequest for Funds to Enable Procurement and Replacement of 500KVA, 33.0415KV Electricity Transformer at the Armed Forces Specialist Hospital, Ashton Road, Kano:-Authorities at the Armed Forces Specialist Hospital Submittedthe cited request which was endorsed by the Kano State Ministry of Rural and Community Development, presented to Council for consideration.The project was assessed and estimated to cost the sum of N4,144,522.00 which was requested for release by Council to enable the Kano State Rural Electrification Board execute the project.Council acknowledged the request and approved as requested.

10. MINISTRY OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY, COOPERATIVES AND TOURISMRequest for Funds to Enable Provision of Empowerment Packages for the Trained Entrepreneurs at the Common Facility Center (CFC) for Leather Products Processing, Sharada:-Cognizant of the empowerment policy of the present administration, the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives and Tourism submitted the cited request for consideration by Council.Council acknowledged the request and approved for the release of the aggregate sum of N5,000,000.00 to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives and Tourism for the stated purpose.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES OF THE 157TH EXCO SITTING1. PASSING OUT PARADE (POP) AND CONFERMENT OF COMMISSION ON 197 DIRECT SHORT SERVICE CADETS (DSSC) INTO THE NIGERIAN ARMY AT JAJI CANTONMENT AND COMMISSIONING OF 140 CADETS FROM THE NIGERIAN AIRFORCE BASE KADUNA

Council acknowledged the successful passing out parade of 197 Direct short service cadets (DSC) men amongst which six (6) are indigenous to Kano State who were commissioned into the Nigerian Army with the Rank of full Lieutenants at Jaji Cantonment on Saturday 5th July, 2014.

Accordingly, Council noted another commissioning ceremony of 140 servicecadetsfromtheNigerianAirForceBaseKadunawherefour (4) of them are indigenes of Kano State.2. SIGNING OF MOU BETWEEN THE KANO STATE GOVERNMENT AND THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT ON THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF FRENCH LANGUAGE IN THE STATECouncil acknowledged the signing of an Agreement between Kano State Government and the Government of France onMonday 7th July, 2014 by the Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSEandtheFrenchAmbassadorinNigeriawherethe agreement will help towards the development of FrenchLanguage across Secondary Schools in the State.

3. FLAG – OFF CEREMONY FOR THE RECRUITMENT OF 1000 ADDITIONAL TEACHERS, LABORATORY & LIBRARY ASSISTANTS AND COMPUTER DATA ANALYSTSCouncil noted the flag off ceremony on Tuesday 8th July, 2014 at the Government House for the recruitment of 1000 additional teachers, Laboratory and Library Assistants and other Computer data analyst. During the ceremony, the new employers were presented with their letter of offer of appointment to teach at 100 secondary schools, forty four (44) new senior Islamic secondary schools and twenty two (22) technical colleges across the State.

Signed: Hon. Commissioner,

Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports & Culture

www.kn.gov.ng/new

project report

BY JOSHUA DADA, Osogbo

The commitment of the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State to make the state the hub of commerce in the South West got a boost recently with the commissioning of an ultra modern Ayegbaju International Market at, Osogbo, the state capital

This informed various government programmes and project targeted at encouraging commerce in the state.

Such projects include the construction of a befitting Saw Mill along Iwo road in Osogbo to accommodate the displaced saw millers of Orita Olaiya junction; the on-going massive construction of Aje Market located along Iwo road; the Dagbolu Regional Market located along railway to boost interstate commerce to mention but a few.

The multibillion naira Ayegbaju Market that is founded on about eight hectares of land is a structure to behold judging from the facilities put in place to make the market worthy of being referred to as an international market.

Two of the three phases designed for the market are already completed while the third phase will be completed soon judging from the extent of construction work on ground.

The first phase has the following facilities Mini Stall, Open Stalls, Ware House, Lock-up Shops, Exclusive Shops, Fire Station, Daale Market, Police Station, Bank, Medical Centre, Church, Bukateria, Meat and Fish Stall, Wash bay Coldrooms, Cafeteria, Public toilets, Road Network, Drainages, Entrance Gate and Gate House, Public Toilets and Taxi park.

The second phase that was also commissioned has lock-up shops, Exclusive Shops, Administrative and Maintenance Offices, Administrative Lodge, Market Coordinator Office, Cafeteria, Mosque, Car Park, Exit Gate and Gate Houses, Public Toilets, Electricity Transformers and Distribution Networks, Underground and overhead water tank, CCTV Cameras and Installations, Public Address System, Two Industrial Boreholes, Water Reticulation, and Electricity Generators.

The third phase will have a Petrol Station, Mega Shopping Mall to accommodate Cinema and Multipurpose Event Hall, and 3-Star Hotel.

Besides, provision was made

Aregbesola Boosts Osun Commerce With Ultra Modern Ayegbaju Market

BY GBenGA ADeBOYe, Abeokuta

In the beginning, Governor Ibikunle Amosun and Aremo Segun Osoba were not friends. Then they became friends and now, they are not friends again.

“I will not forgive or reconcile with anybody. As I stand before you, I swear before God and Jesus Christ my Lord, I promise you all that the issue of forgiveness is no more.”

That was Aremo Osoba declaring his stand in what he called political war against Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and his ‘army’, recently.

It was a declarative verdict made against the backdrop of the lingering crisis rocking the state All Progressive Congress, APC which had been po-larised into two contending camps.

The APC in Ogun State has been bedevilled with internal crisis which has led to the emergence of parallel executive councils.

One of the groups is loyal to the governor while the other pitches its tent with Osoba.

The genesis of the crisis is the struggle for the control of the party structure in the state. Oso-ba wants to continue the godfather role. The man who dictates who gets what as far as political offic-es, especially elective ones are concerned. He has been in charge for a while.

To be able to do this, he needs to control the party hierarchy in the state by installing his loy-alists as party executives. These are the people that ultimately decide the fortune of political of-fice seekers.

Amosun on the other hand, believes that con-ceding such enormous powers to Osoba may spell doom for his second term ambition. He fears that his disposition to the party leadership after he be-came governor in 2011 may come to haunt him.

This power struggle led to the emergence of two parallel state executives in April. The national lead-ership has recognised the faction loyal to Amosun. Osoba has dismissed that recognition as a joke say-ing the over N18 million his loyalists paid into APC account to contest for party positions make them the authentic executives.

Osoba explained that not even the intervention from traditional rulers, nor the national leadership who might suggest harmonisation of the executive in any format would make him change his stance.

The council of traditional rulers had sometime this year waded into the face off, but it did not yield any positive result.

Earlier this year the power struggle assumed violent dimension as loyalists from both camps clashed using dangerous weapons.

that the people of the state should consider themselves lucky to witness the transformation that is going on in the state.

Earlier in his welcome address, commissioner for regional integration and special duties, Ajibola Basiru, who lauded Aregbesola’s initiative at transforming the state, hinted that government would also replicate the market at Ilesa and Ile-Ife.

He said, “May I unequivocally state that in Nigeria today, true leadership has been clearly defined in the personage, tact, intelligence and patriotism of this astute administrator, visionary leader, society builder and action governor. For no time in the history of Osun has the structural and social transformation of the state been attended to with such zeal and passion as that of our most respected Atunluse governor”.

Also speaking, the developer, Atilade Olufemi of Edward Property Konsult Ltd disclosed that the first and second phase of the market that has been completed gulped a whooping N2.32billion.

He noted that the construction work in line with one of the integral action plan of government to banish poverty provided employment to no fewer than 1.3 million indigenes which included professionals, artisans and casual workers.

He gave assurance that the third phase of the market will be completed soon adding that traders have started moving in to enjoy the provisions made by Aregbesola’s administration.

Ayegbaju Market that is founded on about eight hectares of land is a structure to behold

to accommodate petty traders, sellers of food items and ingredients to facilitate easy access to domestic needs of users of the market.

A careful assessment of the facilities in the market shows that it has taken care of all it requires to have a healthy and stress free day for the traders and their customers.

Speaking at the commissioning, Governor Rauf Aregbesola expressed his commitment to the welfare of the people of the state irrespective of their religion or political affiliation promising to make Osun the nerve centre of commerce in the South West and Nigeria at large.

Addressing the huge crowd consisting of top politicians, traders and market women that filled up one of the parking lots of the sprawling complex used for the commissioning, the elated governor said the successful construction of the market was a testimony that his administration’s less than four years rule could not be compared with the seven and a half years of his predecessor.

Aregbesola said he was happy that the people of the state appreciated his government for its various development projects, saying that the acceptability of his programmes and projects continued to motivate him to do more.

While giving assurance that what the people have seen will be a tip of the iceberg to what he would do when re-elected for second term Aregbesola said the development agenda of his administration has translated to progress for individuals saying

Amosun

Aregbesola

Amosun, Osoba And The Opposition Within

News BehiNd The News

➔ CONCLUDED

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 34 zONaL watCh (South-WeSt)

news behind the news

While Oyinlola was telling the world that he remains the national scribe of PDP in the face of the law, he has not jettisoned move by the opposition to get him

Oyinlola

Oyinlola: Reluctant Beautiful BrideBY JOSHUA DADA, Osogbo

There is no doubt in the fact that the joy of every suitor is to be loved and accepted when proposal is made to the bride.

However, when the one sought after refuses to accept or reject the loving hand stretched out to her, the suitor is in a dilemma.

This explains the relationship between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the suspended national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola at one hand and the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) and Oyinlola on the other hand.

While some agents within the PDP would not want to see eye to eye with Oyinlola in the PDP, the party hierarchy finds it difficult to do away with him especially now because he is a force that cannot be ignored if they want to win the August 9 governorship election in Osun State where Oyinlola made waves for seven and half years as governor.

The Okuku born prince who was known to be in the camp of former President Olusegun Obasanjo was elected the national secretary of PDP but later removed by a court who declared the process that brought him in as national secretary of the party illegal.

The barrister-at-law promptly challenged the court ruling at the court of appeal in Abuja and the decision of the lower court was set aside and consequently ordered his reinstatement with immediate effect.

The party has since ignored the order of the court but rather appointed another person, Professor Wale Oladiipo from Osun State who is believed to be the candidate of Senator Iyiola Omisore to succeed him in acting capacity.

The ex-army-general, has persistently claimed to be the national secretary of the party in the face of the law despite his suspension over his role in the formation of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party.

Capitalising on the situation Oyinlola found himself, the All Progressives Congress made overtures to the former state governor to have him in their party with the thought that with him by their side, it would be easy for them to win the August 9 governorship convincingly in Osun State.

It would be recalled that apart from visits to the country home of the former governor by chieftains of APC that included

the new national chairman, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, former Lagos State governor and leader of APC, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu to mention but a few, Governor Rauf Aregbesola had earlier visited Oyinlola whom he ousted as governor apparently to woo him to his side.

At the meeting with Oyinlola, he was reported to have told his guests to exercise patient telling them that he remains not only a member of PDP but the national secretary of the party.

While Oyinlola was telling the world that he remains the national scribe of PDP in the face of the law, he has not jettisoned move by the opposition to get him to their side.

For instance, Governor Aregbesola has deviated from his old ways of condemning the administration of Oyinlola, and has also cautioned his supporters to mind their language when referring to the former governor in their campaigns just as he has openly commended him over certain steps taken when in office such as the establishment of the Osun State University.

He sometimes told his enthusiastic supporters at rallies that he had spoken to the Oyinlola before coming for campaign and boastfully told his teeming supporters that his opponent, Senator Christopher Iyiola Omisore who was an impeached deputy governor is facing formidable challenge in three former governors put together apparently referring to the first executive governor of the state, Senator Adetunji Adeleke who recently defected to APC, Chief Adebisi Akande whom Oyinlola succeeded and Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and above all, he, the incumbent. Oyinlola has never debunked such claims of Aregbesola.

Also, Oyinlola’s opponent in the 2011 election where he contested for the seat of Osun Central Senatorial District, Senator Olusola Adeyeye has equally privately visited Oyinlola.

He claimed to have gone to him to celebrate Easter with “a brother” adding that the visit was private and not at all political.

Asked whether he has gone to Oyinlola to plead with him not to trade-bargain his position (senator) because of his desire to go for a second term in the Senate, Adeyeye said it was not true that he went to Oyinlola for such but quickly said that if the leadership of the party

which he obliged.However, things have fallen

apart since then, and the centre has refused to hold between the two giant politicians.

The governor-elect of Ekiti State, Mr Ayodele Fayose was reported to have told people like Oyinlola to take their exit if not ready to succumb to party’s directive.

Speaking to members of the party in Ibadan, Fayose who was said to have been mandated by the Presidency and the national leadership of the party to reconcile all factional chapters of the party in the South West and mobilise them for victory in the 2015 elections was quoted to have said that whosoever was disenchanted and wished to leave the party was free to do so, but must not stay within and throw stones.

Apparently referring to aggrieved members of the party and some critics of Jonathan’s administration in the party, Fayose was quoted to have said “No matter your status in the party, if you insult this party again, we shall sack or suspend you. Whether you are a former president, a former governor, senator or former this or that, if you want to leave this party, you are free to go. But don’t disparage this party again. Nobody is bigger than the party. We must give President Jonathan peace of mind.”

Will somebody out there advice this beautiful bride to make a choice now that the beauty is sparkling.

however prevail on him to step down for Oyinlola, he would oblige.

It would be recalled that Oyinlola received knocks left, right and centre from gubernatorial aspirants of PDP for supporting Senator Omisore’s gubernatorial ambition in the aborted 2011 governorship election in the state.

Some of the aspirants that included Dr Peter Babalola, Oyinlola’s chief of staff, Alhaji Fatai Akinbade, secretary to the government under Oyinlola, Hon. Gbenga Onigbogi, Hon Wahab Toye, Chief Alafe Aluko, Alhaji Lateef Bakare, among others formed a parallel PDP executive in the state and became a force against Oyinlola’s political aspirations.

Some of them today are either in another political party while those still in PDP are non functional party members. Omisore and Oyinlola’s political alliance came to abrupt end when the senator in an attempt to hijack the party machinery threw up Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa against Oyinlola and other supporters of the party’s candidate, late Hon. Kayode Idowu in the 2011 state executive council election of PDP.

At the election, Omisore surprisingly floored other chieftains of the party who were in support of Idowu and had to be begged to harmonise the two lists to accommodate some of Oyinlola’s camp candidates

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 analysis 35

I n the preceding edition we had established a clear line of thinking that the current government has indicated its willingness to put a stop to the murderous campaign of terrorism threatening to tear down the walls

of unity holding Nigeria together as a political entity. We also suggested disarmament and demobilisation as key steps to ending once and for all the rising incidents of violent insurgency that has led to the gruesome killing of over 12,000 innocent Nigerians.

“Demobilising combatants is the single most important factor determining the success of peace operations. Without demobilisation, civil wars cannot be brought to an end and other critical goals-such as democratisation, justice and development will have little chance for success”–Report of the High-level panel on threats, challenges and change, UN2004.

The proliferation of UN peace keeping operations, according to international observers did actually coincide with an increase in UN-led programmes to disarm and disband warring parties, as well as re-integrate ex-combatants into civilian life.

“Disarmament, Demobilisation and Re-integration, or DDR programmes as they are known to practitioners, have features in post-conflict reconstruction from Afghanistan to Haiti. But the bulk of DDR interventions(24 since 1992) have occurred in Africa.

The 19 DDR programmes are situated in various continents. Two in America (Colombia, within the Haiti) three in Asia (Afghanistan, Aceh, Indonesia, Chad, Cote’ d’ Ivoire Eritrea, Liberia, Niger, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central Africa Republic, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, and Uganda.

In Columbia, we found out that after more than 40 years of armed conflict and several negotiation attempts, the Colombian government designed, the “Democratic Security and Defence policy (2003)whose main objective of this policy was to strengthen the rule of law in Colombia and as part of this security policy, the government offered the possibility of combatants to demobilise individually and collectively and then reintegrate into civilian life. Currently, the illegal armed groups comprises of approximately 22,000 guerrilla members, and 600 paramilitary members (Gonzales, 2003).

The demobilisation, disarmament and re-litigation programme has successfully reduced the personnel of the illegal armed groups. In addition, it has provided the Colombian government with important information to stop terrorist attacks, and helped rescue kidnapped civilians. From a military perspective, the process is a successful policy, however, the DR programme offers the combatants alternative possibilities to war, there is still a long way to go before they can be fully re-integrated into civilian life and a process of national reconciliation achieved.

Afghanistan is one nation reputated as being the international headquarters of terrorism but this country is also experimenting with this method. Although there are many technical issues to be addressed in the discussion about disbarment, demobilisation and re-integration in Afghanistan, there is no doubt that it was a political process from beginning to end. It was part of a wider programme of security reform, including the ministries of defence, interior and justice, but also because of the way it was conceived and implemented.

Further Steps To End Insurgency

By mukhtar muhammed

Education is the bedrock of any society’s development. It is fundamental to growth and the most powerful driving instrument for reducing poverty and improving health, peace and stability.

However, education in the 21st century has gone beyond mere reading, writing and arithmetic, for it now has as its essentials the ability to work with information and communication technologies. According to UNESCO, ICT now permeates the educational environment and it underpins the very success of the 21st century, thus, the reason why ICT cannot be ignored.

Having said that, the education sector in Nigeria as a whole is confronted with many problems that could impede the proper implementation of ICT programmes in schools, colleges and learning centres.

Basic ICT infrastructure is grossly inadequate and where available, fluctuation in the supply of electricity to power the ICT materials and related telecommunication facilities is another serious issue. State and non state actors have been intervening but still, the gap is yet to be covered. These and many more challenges confronting the educational sector is what has made Hon. Shehu ABG to rise up and stand for his people.

For those who don’t know, Hon Usman S. Bawa a.k.a. Shehu ABG is the member representing Kaduna North in the House of Representatives and doubles as the son of Alhaji Bawa Garba, that Kaduna-based reknown business tycoon and telecommunications magnet, who founded the first cable satellite TV in West Africa. While as a businessman his father chose to digitalise TV screens with unseen and unheard technologies, Shehu ABG as a

politician, instead, has chosen to digitalise several schools within his constituency, which is a milestone in the development of education and the people.

In his first intervention towards digitalising education in schools within his constituency, eight schools were selected and grouped as phase one (1) for ABG’s digitalisation programme. These schools include Kaduna State University, Kaduna Capital School and Sardauna Memorial College. Others are Govt Secondary School Doka, Govt Secondary School Ungwan Sarki (popularly known as black & white) and Govt Girls Secondary School Independence Way Kaduna. A letter of communication has been sent to the school authorities of both Nuruddinil Islamee Society school Malali and Government Junior Secondandary School Badarawa concerning the commencement and implementation of the ICT project in their respective

schools within the next few weeks.

Over 100 computers were supplied and donated to each of the selected schools. Kaduna Capital School and Kaduna State University each had in addition a new building complex constructed for them by Hon ABG to house the ICT centre with brand new sound proof standbye generators, one each to both schools to power the ICT centers. –

Hon Shehu ABG who is the deputy chairman, House Committee on Communications was able to bring down all these ‘school access programmes’ (SAP) facilities to the people of his constituency as provided by the ‘Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). According to ABG, “this is the starting point of computerisation of public schools in Kaduna North”.

– Muhammed, a public affairs analyst, wrote from

Ohinoyi Road, Ungwan Rimi, Kaduna

Digitalising Education In Kaduna North, The Shehu ABG Example

Rights Watchwww.huriwa.blogspot.com

EmmanuEl OnwubikO

In 2015, Jiga-wa State needs a suc-cessor who understands the priorities of the people

By LawaL Jet kaugama

Despite the media hype about the achievements of Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, the fact remains that the people are yet to experience real transformation in their lives as they accuse the governor of abandoning the policies of his predecessor, Saminu Turaki, to empower the people economically. What is the point of building grandiose projects while the ordinary people are being tossed by the whirlwind of pervasive poverty? In a peasant society like ours, marvelous projects alone are not enough.

You cannot tackle poverty through cosmetic methods, they argue. Former Governor Saminu Turaki created a special fund from which each ward and communities could benefit from monthly financial support to meet their basic needs. Governor Lamido has abandoned that direct approach at alleviating the basic financial problems of the ordinary people. A leader should not abandon a good policy, provided it is beneficial to the people. Lamdo discarded the policy because it was initiated by Saminu Turaki.

It is utterly wrong to abandon a policy, which was generally beneficial to the ordinary people merely because you are desperate to obscure the legacy of your predecessor. Must a good

Jigawa: Seeking A Credible Successor For 2015

policy be sacrificed even when it was bringing great relief to the people?

The 486 northerners arrested in Abia State are mostly from Jigawa State. It is a disgrace for the state that its indigenes would escape to southern states in search of better economic prospects because of grinding poverty. Currently, Jigawa State is building an international airport of its own. Is this project a priority for a state grappling with grinding poverty? The Malam Aminu Kano International Airport can adequately serve the needs of Jigawa State air travelers both locally and internationally. In a

serious democratic society, the government would not embark on prestige projects that have no relevance to the basic needs of the people. Despite a federal university sited in the state, in addition to the Bayero University, both of which can serve the students of Jigawa State, the Lamido administration still went ahead to award a contract for the construction of a state university.

When former Governor Saminu Turaki established the world-class informatics center in Hadejia, he was not criticised because the project was remarkably relevant. Information technology drives modern development. Thanks to Saminu’s vision about the importance of information technology, many indigenes of Jigawa and other states in Nigeria have benefitted from the training they acquired at the centre. Some indigenes of Jigawa State are currently working in the United states, thanks to the opportunities opened to them by the informatics centers established by the former Saminu Turaki administration. In 2015, Jigawa State needs a successor who understands the priorities of the people; it also needs a competent leader with vision, a leader who will put the higher interest of Jigawa State above the selfish interest of his friends

–Kaugama wrote from No. 140 Hadejia Road, Kano

Lamido

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 36 OPiniOn

our land. We have been having that problem. The last time that we met at home, many of the people who came raised that issue and they said they are afraid this year and they may not be able to go to their farms and of course that brings up an issue. So we went to the emirate council and we had a meeting with the emir.

So through our channels we are contacting the appropriate authorities. Fortunately the Senate

politics today

In droves, they thronged Aso Rock on Monday night. And in a couple of minutes they were all over the place as if it was an invasion – what would suitably go for a legislative incursion on the seat of power.

But as they walked studiously into the newly-built Banquet Hall beside President Goodluck Jon-athan’s office, it became clear that the exodus-like movement was such for which urgency was needed.

Unlike their House of Representatives counter-parts, Senators under the Peoples Democratic Par-ty (PDP) platform were unlucky. The PDP Senators who had turned up and were conveyed in coaster buses to the place to attend the meeting were told that they were invited in error.

They were erroneously asked to come due to protocol.

Petrified by the confusion that trailed their invitation, one of the Senators out of frustration said, “I never see this kind of thing before”. It was later agreed between the Vice President, Nama-di Sambo and the Senate President, David Mark at the court yard of the president’s office that a new date would be fixed for a meeting where the members of the upper chamber of the National As-sembly would come and do their endorsement. The Senators left the venue immediately.

Minutes after the Senators and House of Rep-resentative members arrived, National Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Muazu was driven to the meeting venue in company of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio. The other PDP gov-ernors arrived 15 minutes after and with the Sen-ators already driven out of the place, all was set for the meeting to begin.

It was a meeting between President Jonathan, PDP governors and the PDP caucus of the House of Representatives. The PDP Reps members were led to the meeting by the deputy speaker, Emeka Ihedioha. Speaker of the House, Aminu Tambuw-al was absent at the meeting.

After the meeting, House leader, Hon. Mulikat Adeola-Akande announced that the lawmakers have unanimously endorsed President Jonathan as the party’s flag-bearer for the 2015 presiden-tial election. Flanked by her colleagues, Akande-Adeola told Journalists that the PDP caucus of the House specifically asked the president to contest for a second term.

She said; “We are PDP caucus of the House of Representatives, a meeting like this is not strange because we met with the President who is our lead-er. We deliberated on issues affecting our party. The House caucus on our own decided to pass a vote of confidence on Mr. President and also endorse him for second term”.

The House Leader did not come clear as to why the Speaker was absent at the meeting. Responding to the question, she said, “I am sure when you see Mr. Speaker, you will ask him. This is a PDP meet-

Jonathan, 2015 And Legislative

Endorsement

ANALYSIS

REPORTS ANALYSES REVIEWS INTERVIEWS

➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 38➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 38

Looking at the security issue in the country caused by in-surgency, are you comfortable with the way the federal gov-ernment is tackling it ?

I am not in a position to assess what the federal government is doing on an issue like this, but let me tell you what I know concerning Zuru land and Kebbi State.

One of the critical issues that we looked at is people who have been using cattle “rustling” and invading

Insurgency Has Nothing To Do With Poverty– Ambassador DogonyaroAmbassador Sunday Thomas Dogonyaro, (OON) is co-founder and Executive Director of the African Policy Research Institute (APRI), an independent Think-Tank on development policies in Africa. A retired carrier diplomat of over 30 years, Dogonyaro served as ambassador to Sao Tome and Principe. In this interview with Chibuzo ukaibe, he speaks on the insurgency ravaging some parts of the country, disagreeing with the notion that poverty and unemployment should be blamed for actions of insurgents. He also talks about the political consciousness of his people, the Zuru in Sokoto state.

chairman on security, Senator Magoro also deals with that on the Senate so we use channels like that to deal with such issues and make our people conscious of what is happening.

We must play our own part when it comes to security issues. Everybody must play his or her part. For me, the only part I feel we have not fully appreciated is sufficiently mobilizing and educating individuals on what they need to do in terms of attacks.

For instance there was a bomb blast recently in Abuja; the issue is how the people react. And we see this over and over again that once there is a bomb blast, people gather just to look. That is not security consciousness that is foolishness in reality. But for a lot of us, I think it has not sunk in to realize that it is not just about government but all of us.

So to what degree is poverty and unemployment driving in-surgency?

I don’t think it has anything to do with poverty and unemployment. I have lived in other countries that are poorer than Nigeria as an ambassador. And all these things don’t count. Everything comes from the mind. And those who are doing this are simply being driven by an agenda or program that I can’t really understand.

Is it political?I don’t think it is political. It bothers on foolishness because I don’t see how people will just go on killing innocent people in

We must play our own part when it comes to security issues. Every-body must play his or her part

Dogonyaro

Donald Ojogo, Group Politics Editor

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 37

Whatever it will take to be able to get to those guys, talk sense into them, reorient them and win them over, I am for it

Insurgency Has Nothing To Do With Poverty – Ambassador Dogonyaro➔ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

➔ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37villages who have nothing to do with governance for example. What sense does it make that you go to bomb schools and kill school children?

It doesn’t help anybody, it tells me you have no objective, you don’t care about life. If it is a struggle, every struggle has an objective and every struggle has a target so that you make your point. When the Niger Delta insurgents were doing their own you knew who they were, you knew what they wanted. Some of them were identifiable.

But Shekau is face of Boko Ha-ram?

Let him come out if he believes that he has a cause. Let him and the people that he represents come and negotiate with you and me. Don’t we have a stake in the country? Is it only government that has a stake? You have a stake as I have a stake, if he feels he has a stake why doesn’t he come and talk with us?

So you subscribe to negotia-tion with Boko Haram?

Negotiation is always possible. I am a diplomat, so I believe in negotiation. There is nothing that cannot be negotiated. So yes I am all for negotiation.

Including the release of the detained insurgents for the Chibok girls?

Whatever it will take to be able to get to those guys, talk sense into them, reorient them and win them over, I am for it.

But how did we get to this point in this country?

I don’t know, I guess it has a lot to do with somebody who does not believe in the country. But again like I said I am not in government, so I don’t have the information.

There was a recent meeting of the Zuru people (Kebbi State), here in Abuja, under the aegis of Zuru Consultative Initiative (ZUCI). What informed this?

We have come together because we are a minority group of people who have gone through a lot of oppression and discrimination and if you like marginalization over the years. And we thought that it was time we come together so that we can examine the issues that have been confronting us, think through it carefully and try and devise a way out of it. That is what we stand for.

From the interactions, is-sues of unity and inability to form a strong political uni-ty seemed to dominate the discuss, how far do you think ZUCI can push for political-ly and economically unity of Zuru people?

Our emphasis really is not just political. Politics is a tool. But the emphasis is really on mobilizing our people to first have an understanding of who they are, where they are, why they are where they are in terms of the context of development of the land vis a vis the rest of the state.

And to let them understand that they have a tool in their hands which is themselves and what they can do by coming together and deciding on what they need to do. So politics will just be an arm of it.

But critically we are looking at the longer term, how we can develop the economic resources of the land itself? Get the people to understand that there is power in their own hands which they can use and by that they will be able to empower themselves economically and then by that not be dependent necessarily on government and its programs. Secondly we want to look at education in the land. Zuru is a Land that has produced very many excellent generals, academicians and workers at various levels. If you go back history and read the Irikefe report that created Sokoto and Niger States at the time, Zuru, technically, has always been a part of Niger province.

But Zuru land was excised and merged to create Sokoto State. The main reason, Irikefe observed was that Sokoto State was not sustainable because of lack of manpower. So Zuru was excised from Niger to Sokoto to provide the critical manpower needs.

But today we are no longer in that position because gradually the educational system has been decimated and destroyed. So we want to look at that and see what we can do at that level to ensure that our youths have the kind of quality education that is required so that we can compete not just locally but globally also.

So we shall be looking at skills and how to teach our own children to develop critical skills that are

needed not just in the land but in the nation. And we have the experience to do that.

Ahead of 2015, it might ap-pear that ZUCI is a platform or launch pad for political inter-est. So beyond 2015 how does ZUCI sustain its momentum?

2015, for us, is just here. As far as I am concerned, it has little to do with what ZUCI intends to do. ZUCI as an initiative is looking at the longer term of what it intends to do for the land which has to do with total development of the land. ZUCI has situated itself as a think tank essentially.

In order words, we are ready to come together to think critically of issues that challenge us as a minority people and design our ways of doing things. So it goes way beyond us.

It goes way beyond my generation and I hope we would have mobilized our people sufficiently to know that with what they have, they can speak for themselves and be able to pull themselves from where they are.

So it is not about 2015 only. That is why we created a code of conduct such that anyone that is a partisan politician and wants to contest elections can’t remain in the initiative and take active role because he has become partisan. Those of us who are key in it have no interest and do not participate in politics directly. That is not to say we will not vote, but we are above partisan politics, we are not interested in partisan politics but we will guide politicians and tell them there are limits and decency even in politics.

For instance, you will find out that they have started using thugs and polluting our youths. We are not that kind of people and we must check situations like that so that if anyone wants to be a politician in our land there are certain codes that we as a people must abide by.

Dogonyaro

ing; obviously he will have his reasons why he was not at the meeting”.

Even when she was asked whether the pres-ident accepted to contest, she parried the ques-tion, saying “we did the endorsement and we are urging him to run for second term”.

After the lawmakers had gone, the president and the governors entered into another meeting which last for another one hour. After the meet-ing, Chairman of the PDP governors’ forum, Ak-pabio told Journalists that the meeting was just an appraisal of the meeting earlier held with the PDP Caucus of the House of Representatives.

“It was a fantastic meeting and I think it is something that should be done regularly with the party leader, the President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and members of the National Working Commit-tee (NWC) at the national level in attendance to-gether with the governors”, he said.

Expatiating on the endorsement of the presi-dent by the lawmakers, Akpabio said: “Of course you are aware that the NASS Caucus met earli-er in the day and passed a vote of confidence on Mr. President, the Vice President and the nation-al leadership of the party and in turn, they also urged Mr. President to step forward and contest for the 2015 presidential election.

In other words, they are urging him to go for-ward and re-contest for a second term in office. We were witnesses when that resolution was taken and of course, they also pledged their un-flinching support to the leadership of Mr. Presi-dent and then congratulated him for being able to pass through hard times despite the distrac-tions as a result of the insecurity situation in some parts of the country.

“Thereafter, we moved into a further meeting with Mr. President and all the PDP governors and members of the NWC led by the National Chair-man of the party, based on the fact that in the next few months we shall be going into major pri-maries.

“So, we want to deepen internal democracy and want to strategise on how best we can win the primaries and by implication also ensure that we bring out the best candidates, taking a cue from what had happened in Ekiti”.

Akpabio reflected the desperation of the party to capture more states in the South-West the way it did in Ekiti. The party’s worry, from the gover-nor’s perspective, is that if something is not done to scale up the number of states controlled by the PDP from what it is- almost at par with those con-trolled by the opposition-2015 would not be an easy road to travel.

“When I came in, there was a period that PDP had up to 29 governors. In 2011, we still had up to 25 governors and then of course some gover-nors tried to decamp to other political parties, which they are at liberty to do, because this is de-mocracy. But we are gaining more; now we have at least 19 governors with the coming of Ekiti State and we also have three deputy governors who are still with us- that of Sokoto, Adamawa and Nasarawa. That brings our number to about 22. So, if we shoot to 28 it is not too bad in the 2015 elections.

“So it was an appraisal and for us to use that opportunity as PDP governors to congratulate the party leader on the very successful election that was held in Ekiti State which was very free and fair and applauded by the international commu-nity and all Nigerians to a point where even the candidate of the opposition announced that, yes indeed this was a victory well deserved and there was no need to contest such a victory in court.

Jonathan, 2015 And Legislative Endorsement

By George Agba, Abuja

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 38 POLITICS TODAY

By Maureen Oyeleye

Although the Pension Reform Act 2014 has been widely hailed by Nigerians, especially the labour sector and pensioners as a bold step in the right direction, one of the worries expressed by virtually everybody has been the question of implementation.

For instance, a statement issued by the Federal Universities Pensioners Association, FUPA, on the Act stated that “While the Pension Reform Act 2014 stands out as the most aggressive offensive by any Nigerian government against pension thieves, FUPA is, however, mindful of the culture of poor enforcement bedeviling the country.” Concerning the judiciary also, the body wants the courts to ensure that the law bites hard by meting out prescribed punishments to offenders speedily and without fear or favour.

These worries are not unfounded. For instance, Section 30(2) of the defunct Pension Reform Act 2004 provided for the Pension Transition Arrangement Departments (PTADs), which would have prevented/curbed the multi-billion naira corruption befouling the pension departments in the handling of benefits meant for pensioners under the defined pension scheme, DPS (that is, those who retired before the take off of the contributory pension scheme, CPS, in 2004). It is supposed to ensure that pensions travel directly from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation to the pensioners account, not the pension departments. But the PTADs were left unpowered for eight good years until the coming of Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu as the acting DG of PENCOM in December 2012. In fact, a director-general for the PTADs was only appointed in November 2013, nine years after, following her enforcement and repositioning drives in the sector.

Nigerians have also watched the bizarre drama in the courts in which

pension looters get a pat on the back or totally evade punishments because of the corruption in the prosecution and judicial system. The case of John Yakubu who was handed down a paltry N750,000 fine by Justice Abubakar Talba of an Abuja High Court for stealing N23 billion has remained a reproach to judiciary.

Although there are no more legal rooms for such crooks to get away so easily, given a biting regime of offences and punishment regimes enshrined in the Pension Reform Act 2014, the popular reactions to the new law has been that we need a no-nonsense man or woman at the helms of the PENCOM to drive

the reforms in the manner intended by the Act.

It is against this backdrop that the recent nomination of the acting director-general of the National Pension Commission, PENCOM, Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu to the Senate for confirmation as substantive DG of the agency has left no one in doubt of President Goodluck Jonathan’s determination to totally overhaul the sector. She not only knows the nation’s pension system inside-out, but has the youthfulness, integrity, and experience to bring about the new era the nation yearns for.

This is in line with Subsection 2(d) of the Act, which stipulates

that “The director-general shall- possess relevant and adequate qualification in pension matters with 15 years cognate experience.” Of course, the decision to review the qualification for membership of the governing board of the Commission was informed by a clear-headed consideration of the submissions of stakeholders during the joint public hearing of the Senate and the House of Representatives; global best practices; the constitutional provisions for the appointments of some of the top-notch judicial officers and public servants; and other comparative finance and investment regulators like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN),

the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Commission (NDIC), and the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS).

It is noteworthy that Mrs. Anohu-Amazu has been a key player in the pension industry over the years. She was part of the team of experts (the Fola Adeola Pension Reform Committee) set up by former President Olusegun Obasanjo to midwife the Contributory Pension Scheme in Nigeria. The work of that committee led to the enactment of the Pension Reform Act 2004.

All these explain her giant strides at PENCOM since her appointment as the acting director general of the agency in December, 2012. Through the president’s super support and encouragement, she has successfully championed a major review of the Pension Reform Act 2004, which resulted in the Pension Reform Act 2014.

Very notably, under the leadership of Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, pension asset has risen from N2.9trillion in December 2012 to N4.1trillion as at December 2013 due to her robust drive for compliance and enforcement. As an upshot of President Goodluck Jonathan’s economic transformation agenda, Mrs. Anohu-Amazu has no doubt continued to stimulate the development of secure investment vehicles for pension funds to impact on the ongoing government efforts at reducing Nigeria’s infrastructure gaps. She facilitated the hosting of the resoundingly successful World Pension Summit in Nigeria and indeed Africa for the first time. This brought together the best eggheads in pension industry around the world that not only exposed our stakeholders to global best practices, but opened the nation to the global community.

All these and more are the reasons her nomination, when confirmed by the Senate, will indeed be a sweet icing on the new pension era.

– Oyeleye, a public affairs analyst, lives in Abuja

X-raying The New Pension Revolution

Gombe, Dankwambo And The Road To 2015By MuBarak uMar

It is less than one year to the 2015 general election, which means the incumbent governor of Gombe State Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo has less than one year in the saddle. Unfortunately, the people of the state still complain of lack of basic infrastructure and the general lack of the dividends of democracy.

Scrutinising the current situation of Gombe State, the indispensable need of the people is how to improve their lot through access to good health, improvement in agriculture and provision of quality

education for their children. In the previous administration,

all public works and contracts were contracted out among the state indigenes, such that accrued profits would benefit local entrepreneurs in the state, such that whoever comes to the state can witness it, through the glimpse of large buildings and different areas being developed in Gombe, including, Unguwa Uku, Arawa, Nayi Nawa, Barunde, Kabul, Kandahar, Shongo, Hammadu Kafi, Libya, Madina Quarters, Riyal, Sabon Garin Jauro Abare, and Afghanistan. such developments also encompase water projects, the

new airport terminus, Gombe State University, Central Stadium, School of Health, hospitals, international hotel and many more. These are the multi billion naira development projects provided to transform Gombe into a mega city with world class facilities.

When the present administration of Governor Dankwambo took over office he spent over one year without appointing commissioners and other key officers. The people of the state began to wonder about his pattern of governance. With less than one year to go, the government is saddled with the payment of over

500 special advisers and other aides.

Many of such appointments were rejected on the grounds that they were just made to help the governor get re-elected in 2015. Otherwise, why should it take the governor more than three years to remember those who helped him to get into the office in 2011?

Some observers see the present desperate moves by Governor Dankwambo as deceptive, as they are only meant to blindfold the people ahead of the 2015 general elections.

– Umar wrote from Gombe

Why should it take the governor more than three years to re-member those who helped him to get into the office in 2011?

She not only knows the nation’s pension system inside-out, but has the youthfulness, integrity, and experience to bring about the new era the nation yearns for.

Anohu-Amazu

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 ISSUES 39

By Patrick OchOga, Benin City

The impeached Hon Festus Ebea-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fac-tion in the Edo State House of As-sembly yesterday chided the state government over the three-day warning strike embarked upon by some local government council workers over issues bordering on tax deduction.

It also directed the Ministry of Lo-cal Government and Chieftaincy Af-fairs to release all monies accruing to the local governments from the fed-eration account to enable them pay

salaries and arrears of their workers.The legislators also reiterated the

faction’s resolution directing the state commissioner for local gov-ernment and chieftaincy affairs to furnish it with receipts of reve-nue accruing to the councils, “fail-ing which, the Assembly will pass a resolution directing the accoun-tant general of the federation to stop the release of allocations to the local governments”.

The Assembly has been faction-alised since June 9, after the suspen-sion of four lawmakers, with Speak-er Igbe leading 14 other lawmakers

and Ebea leading eight others.The House resolution was sequel

to a motion by its minority lead-er, Hon Emmanuel Okoduwa who urged the members to intervene in the industrial action. “Edo is the only state where local government workers pay tax without getting sal-ary”, he stated.

On his part, Hon Friday Ogier-hiakhi accused the state govern-ment of stealing from council areas under the guise of white elephant projects and urged members to rise to the occasion to preserve the sanc-tity of democracy.

By anayO Onukwugha, Port Harcourt

Rivers State governor and chair-man, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has said that his ad-ministration’s partnership with civil servants in the state served as the much needed booster for the unprecedented development now being witnessed across the state.

Amaechi stated this yesterday in Port Harcourt, while speak-ing at the 2014 Rivers State Civ-

il Service Day with the theme, “Values and Principles of Public Administration: A Tool for Open Governance.”

The governor, who was repre-sented by his deputy, Engr Tele Ikuru, thanked civil servants in the state for their continued support towards the realisation of the policies and developmen-tal programmes of his adminis-tration.

He said; “Everything we have achieved has been by your enor-mous support. Our success sto-

ry would not be complete with-out making mention of the very valuable contribution of each and every one of you to the achievements of this adminis-tration.”

The governor, who expressed delight that the investments of the state government in the civ-il service is yielding expected re-sults in terms of improved pro-ductivity and service delivery, lauded the state head of service, Barrister Samuel Longjohn, for the numerous innovations and

transformation the service is un-dergoing since he assumed office.

In his speech, chairman of the State Civil Service Commission, Sir Ngo Martins-Yellowe, ob-served that the civil service is the bedrock of continuity in gover-nance, noting that civil servants have, in recent times, become much more efficient and effec-tive in the discharge of govern-ment business.

He, however, regretted the persistence of age and certifi-cate forgery in the service.

Over 300 residents of Igarra, the administrative headquarters of Akoko-Edo local government area of Edo State, have been treated and screened for various ailments including diabetes and hyperten-sion by the Health Support Initia-tive (HSI).

During the one day exercise, drugs and insecticide-treated mos-quito nets in addition to health lec-tures in adolescent sexual practices, dental care and toothpastes were also made available to the residents free of charge.

Speaking at the opening ceremo-ny, chief executive officer of HIS, who is the former state chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr Philip Ugbodaga, said similar exercises have been held in Auchi and Afuze, all in Edo North senatorial district, in furtherance of the objective of the initiative.

The people of Ndi Ebe Abam in Arochukwu local government area of Abia State and their represen-tative in the State House of As-sembly, Chief Agwu U. Agwu, have appealed to the state government to urgently provide them a tem-porary bridge across the Igwu River to enable them connect with their neighbours again.

This is even as the House of Representatives is said to have approved relief materials for the community by the National Emergency Maintenance Agency (NEMA). The bridge which was built in the 60s collapsed last week when a heavy duty vehicle loaded with chippings climbed the bridge in an attempt to enter the community.

Enugu State government has ad-duced reasons why the state has re-mained peaceful, united and pro-gressive.

It said that all its programmes and projects are people-oriented, tailored towards the needs of ev-ery community.

Special assistant to Governor Sullivan Chime on health mat-ters, Mr John Ezievuo, in an in-terview with newsmen in Abuja at the weekend, said the state govern-ment through its Visit Every Com-munity (VEC) programme un-dertook a tour of the entire state, identified the needs of each com-munity and responded to them ac-cordingly.

Ezievuo explained that the pro-grammme has a central chairman, Dr Eric Oluedo at the state lev-el and coordinating leaders in ev-ery local government who monitor the projects to ensure their full ex-ecution.

HSI Embarks On Free-Medicare For Edo Locals

Collapsed Igwu Bridge: Lawmaker Sends SOS To Abia Govt

Why Enugu Is Working – Gov Chime

By Patrick Ochoga, Benin City

By Matthias Nwogu, Umuahia

By Jonathan Nda-Isaiah

Civil Servants, Key To Our Success – Amaechi

SHOrTnEWS

By Bernard Tolani Dada Uyo

A/Ibom Labour Party Gets 14-Member Exco

Factional PDP Assembly Moves To Probe Edo Councils’ Allocations

Bayelsa Communities Write Shell, Demand Compensation For Oil SpillsBy Osa OkhOmina, Yenagoa

Communities affected by the oil spill incident of June 11, 2014 in Okordia clan of Yenagoa local government area of Bayelsa State yesterday sent a protest letter to the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) demanding compensation for the losses in-curred in the incident.

The affected communities, Ayamabele and Kalaba, stated

that though evidence of the de-struction caused by the spill to the environment and their means of livelihood, including farming and fishing, has been forward-ed to SPDC, the oil company has failed to respond.

The communities, in the let-ter dated June 30, 2014, and ad-dressed to the co-ordinator of Shell’s Kolo Creek office at Imir-ingi in Ogbia local government area of the state, lamented that

Shell is yet to do the needful since the spill occurred.

The letter, signed by the para-mount rulers of Ayamabele and Kalaba communities, Tamuno Monday and Orukali Roman, a copy of which was made available to newsmen, stated that the spill which occurred at Shell’s Okordia Manifold in Ikarama “affected our swamp called Onwu-Onwu-Daba through its natural source”.

“In the same vein, the pollu-

tion has also resulted in the de-struction of the entire ecosystem, as you know, we are only farm-ers and fishermen. We hope this peaceful and most civilised ap-proach to this heartfelt issue will be highly appreciated by you and the entire management of SPDC.”

“Hence, we look forward to see-ing a positive response to our le-gitimate demand for a safe and sustainable environment”, they said.

Flooded portion on route 7, Federal housing Estate, ikot ansa in calabar, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN

The Akwa Ibom State branch of the Labour Party (LP) has elected new executives to run the affairs of the party for the next three years, with Comrade Lincoln Charles as chairman.

Addressing the new executives at the party’s secretariat in Uyo, the national chairman of the party, Barrister Dan Nwanyawu, represented by the vice chairman, Comrade Callistus Okafor, enjoined them to work for the success of the party in the state as the 2015 election approaches.

He said that the party under the current national leadership is poised to win substantial seats in both the state House of Assembly and the National Assembly.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 40 news south-south south-East

By EdEgBE OdEmwingiE, Abuja

With approximately 10.5 million Nigerian children out of school, the House of Representatives yes-terday detailed two of its commit-tees to investigate the development which has resulted in one out of ev-ery five Nigerian children out of school.

Federal lawmakers also urged the Ministry of Information and Na-tional Orientation Agency(NOA), to give orientation to parents on the need to embrace education.

The House Committees are Edu-cation and Human Rights, and they are expected to report back to the House within a month.

These resolutions followed a mo-

tion by Hon. Beni Lar (Plateau/PDP),and 12 others which was adopted when put to vote by the speaker, Aminu Tambuwal.

Nigeria tops a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultur-al Organisation (UNESCO) table of 12 other countries which accounts for 47 per cent of the global out-of-school population.

By AndrEw Ojih, Jalingo

The National Agency for Foods, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Taraba State chapter has closed down a fake clinic known as Bondima Hypartoviral Disease Centre for allegedly deceiving peo-

ple that they had cure for hypertitis.The state coordinator of NAF-

DAC, Mr Joseph Asikpo who stat-ed this yesterday in Jalingo dur-ing an interview with LEADERSHIP said the closure of the clinic followed series of complaints in some quar-ters that the owner of the clinic, Mr

Richard Anyah, has been deceiving the general public of being a special-ist in the treatment of hypertitis and other viral diseases.Mr Asikpo said the primary aim of NAFDAC was to create awareness as well as enlighten the general populace on the impor-tance of leaving a healthy life.

By gEOrgE AgBA, Abuja

Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum and Akwa Ibom State gover-nor, Godswill Akpabio has disclosed that the party’s target in the forthcoming 2015 general elections is to reclaim up to two-thirds of the states of the federation as it were when it started in 1999.

He said the strategy in this regard had seen fran-tic effort by the party to deepen its internal de-mocracy and ensure that the best candidates are allowed to emerge in the

primaries the way it hap-pened in Ekiti State.

Akpabio stated this in the early hours of yester-day morning after a meet-ing between President Goodluck Jonathan, PDP governors and members of the House of Represen-tatives under the party’s platform.

Noting that the PDP governors were present when the House of Rep-resentatives Caucus en-dorsed the president, the governor, however, de-clined to comment fur-ther, saying “I do not want to pre-empt the action of PDP governors.

The European Union (EU) has condemned the use of death penalty as a deter-rent against crime in the Nigerian criminal justice system.

The head of EU Politi-cal Governance and De-mocracy Section in Ni-geria, Mr Alan Munday, in his address at a media briefing in Abuja to mark the final conference of a programme called, “Save Lives”, which was organ-ised by a non-governmen-tal organisation, Avocats Sans Frontieres, France (Lawyers without Bor-ders France), said, “The EU holds a strong and princi-ple position against the death penalty and its abo-lition is a key objective for the European Union’s hu-man rights policy as exem-plified by the fact that the EU is the leading institu-tional actor and largest do-nor to the fight against the death penalty.”

He noted that the Save Lives Project had been able to enhance the capacity of judicial stakeholders in the target states of Nigeria.

The EU head in Nigeria identified some of the cas-es of inmates who were put on death row in the coun-try. “The case of Maimuna Abdulmumini, accused of murder when she was 13 years old and sentenced to death while nursing an infant, and Thankgod Eb-hos”.

Earlier, ASF France Head of Office in Nigeria, Ms. Angela Uwandu high-lighted some of the organ-isation’s achievements in the last three years.

She said, “35 inmates facing death penalty have been released on court or-der.”

EU Condemns Death Sentence In Nigeria

By Kunle Olasanmi, Abuja

10m Out-of-School Children: Reps Begin Probe

NAFDAC Closes Fake Clinic In Taraba

2015: PDP Targeting Two-third Of States – Akpabio

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 news NATIONAL 41

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 42

BY ANKELI EMMANUEL, Sokoto

Sokoto State governor, Ali-yu Magatakarda Wamakko yesterday constituted an 11-man committee to en-sure the smooth take-off of the 230 Primary Health Centres built across the 23 local government areas of the state.

A statement signed by the governor’s senior spe-cial assistant on media, Al-haji Sani Umar, said each member of the committee was assigned to specific lo-cal governments.

Sani Umar further dis-closed that the committee will be formally inaugurat-ed today and it will com-mence work with immedi-ate effect.

“Governor Wamakko has approved the com-mittee’s terms of refer-ence, which include en-suring that all building components of the 20-bed Primary Health Cen-tres including the main complex, houses and wall fencing are completed, and ensuring that all equip-ment, furniture and other materials disbursed to the

centres have reached their destinations.

“Members of the com-mittee should take pos-session of the newly pur-chased Ambulances for each of the 230 centres, make sure they are put to proper use and work closely with the local gov-ernment councils, tradi-tional and opinion leaders with a view to setting up local committees that will supervise both the Pri-mary Health Centres and the staff working in them, among others,” the state-ment said.

BY JoshUA DADA, Osogbo

The Osun State governor, Mr Rauf Areg-besola’s re-election bid received a boost yesterday with the defection of chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State.

Prominent aides of former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola including former secretary of PDP, Chief Yinka Adeojo, former Osogbo local government chair-man, Alhaji Teslim Igbalaye, former PDP chairman in Odo Otin local government, Alhaji Rasaq Oyelami, among others, an-nounced their membership of APC at the Ijesa South Federal Constituency mega rally held at Ilesa.

Speaking on behalf of other decampees, Alhaji Rasaq Oyelami said he and his col-leagues decided to join the APC because PDP has no vision and programme that will benefit the people of Osun State.

At the rally, Governor Rauf Aregbeso-la disclosed that his administration has spent N26million as stipends to the el-derly in Ijesa South federal constituency alone, adding that there is no category of people that has not benefitted immense-ly from his administration.

He gave assurance that students of ter-tiary institutions will resume classes next week following the agreement already reached with the academic staff that had been on strike for about three months.

Aregbesola assured that schools will be provided with necessary infrastruc-ture that would guarantee conducive en-vironment for learning.

While explaining his efforts at ensur-ing that Osun is crime-free, Aregbesola charged the inspector general of police to ensure that his men that would be de-ployed to Osun for the August 9 guber-natorial election carry their identification cards to avoid the infiltration of fake se-curity operatives.

He urged the people to come out en masse and vote for him for the good works he has embarked upon for the past three and a half years to continue.

Speaking at the rally, the governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amo-sun told the people not to sell their con-science by selling their votes but rather reciprocate the good works of Aregbeso-la by voting for him.

He pos-ited that APC gov-ernment is progressive and com-mitted to the policy of the late sage, Chief O b a f e m i Awolowo.

BY ANAYo oNUKwUghA, Port Harcourt

The Rivers State House of Assembly yesterday or-dered the special adviser to the governor on revenue generation, Chief Nwank-wo Nwankwo, and the commissioner for finance,

Dr Chamberline Peterside, to appear before it over the dwindling revenue base of the state.

Also summoned before the House is the chairman of Rivers State Internal Revenue Services Board (RSBIR), Mrs Onene Osi-la Obele, over what the

lawmakers described as a “monumental fraud” in the agency.

The invitation to the trio followed a motion to strengthen the internal revenue base of the state, which was presented by the deputy leader of the House, Hon Ename Robinson Ewor.

Wamakko Constitutes C’ttee For Take-off Of 230 PHCs In Sokoto

Oyinlola’s Aides Join Aregbesola’s Campaign Train In Osun

Rivers Assembly Summons Amaechi’s Aides Over Dwindling Revenue

Aregbesola

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 news NATIONAL 43

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 44

� e Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola yesterday charged the peo-ple of Osun not to be intim-idated by the proposed de-ployment of soldiers and military police to the state during the August 9 gover-norship election.

� is was even as promi-nent members of the Peo-ples Democratic Party (PDP) and thousands of their supporters decamped to the All Progressives Con-gress (APC) in Osun.

� e governor at his mega rally in Ilesa Federal Con-stituency said the August 9 election will shape the next 20 years of the state’s destiny.

He described the 15 years of PDP at the centre of gov-ernance as a clueless leader-ship that o� ered the people of Nigeria nothing.

Aregbesola urged the

people not to fear the pres-ence of soldiers and police as they are constitutional-ly charged to protect the people. He said, “All secu-rity agents according to the constitution of Nigeria have the responsibility to protect the people. � ere-fore, a policeman or soldier cannot point his gun at any Nigerian who has commit-ted no crime.

“� eir presence on the day of election, we believe, is meant to provide security for the people while exercis-ing their civic responsibili-ty. � eir guns and uniforms are bought with the peo-ple’s money and not that of PDP. I charge you to go out en masse to vote for our party without fear of intim-idation, let or hindrance”, the governor stressed.

Speaking earlier, the governor of Ogun State,

Senator Ibikunle Amosun pointed out that APC gov-ernment has brought back the glorious era of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolo-wo in the South-West. Amosun described as ridic-ulous the opposition’s re-duction of governance to a mere stomach infrastruc-ture, warning the people of the state not to be de-ceived by this cash and car-ry politics.

� e standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State, Sen-ator Iyiola Omisore, has said that the incumbent Governor Rauf Aregbesola will be defeated with ease in the August 9 guberna-torial election in the state.

He encouraged the peo-ple of Oke Ila not to suc-cumb or be intimidated by the alleged evil machina-tions of desperate politi-cians, who may have per-fected strategies to scare them from exercising their civic rights at the polling booths.

Addressing inhabitants of Oke Ila Orangun in the Ifedayo local government area of the state, party loyalists and admirers at the frontage of the pal-ace of Orangun of Oke Ila Orangun, Oba Adedokun Omoniyi Abolarin, Omi-

sore said the people are fed up with the adminis-tration of Aregbesola.

He said, “Ila Orangun-Oke Ila Orangun road is in a sorry state and they keep deploying propaganda on the radio that they have � xed all the roads both in urban and rural com-munities in Osun”. He as-sured that “When we the PDP assume power, all the roads linking communities with cities would be reha-bilitated”.

However, the PDP � ag bearer continued, “We would revert to the for-mer names of the schools merged and break the cur-rent monopoly of school uniforms by Aregbeso-la’s government”. He ex-pressed optimism that “On August 10 after the declaration of results, we would all be jubilating

across the state”.While accusing the All

Progressives Congress (APC) administration of allegedly failing to conduct local government election as promised by Aregbesola some months back, Omi-sore cautioned parents to dissuade their children from being used as thugs by politicians during the election.

� e Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State chapter, yester-day inaugurated a 20-member po-litical committee saddled with the responsibility of sensitising the electorate and screening politi-cal candidates in order to produce the best for the state and the en-tire country.

� e inauguration of the Comrade Wale Araba-led NLC Political Com-mittee was done by the state chair-man of the union, Dr Bashiru Olan-rewaju, at the NLC Secretariat, Idi Quarters, Ibadan, in the presence of other leaders and members.

� e committee, which comprised Professor Olusegun Ajiboye, chair-man, University of Ibadan branch of the Academic Sta� Union of Uni-versities (ASUU) as vice chairman, and Comrade Titi Adesina as secre-tary, with other members from the various unions under the umbrella of the NLC in the state, was inaugu-rated as part of the union’s e� orts to ensure smooth, free and fair elec-tions in the country in 2015.

Olanrewaju told the members that the committee was in Jan-uary 2014 inaugurated in accor-dance with the national NLC Sec-retariat’s directive.

Don’t Be Intimidated By Heavy Security, Aregbesola Tells Electorate

We Will Defeat Aregbesola Conveniently – Omisore

2015: Oyo NLC Inaugurates C’ttee To Screen Candidates

By Joshua Dada, Osogbo

By Adebayo Waheed, Ibadan

2014 Guber Poll:

SHORTNEWS

The Southern Forum (SF) has described the death of its secretary general, Nasiru Oladejo Raimi as a great loss not only to the people of the Southern states but also the entire nation.

The forum’s director, media, public com-munication and strategy, Tunde Adebisi, in a state-ment in Ibadan yesterday, said the news of the pass-ing of Raimi was received with rude shock, considering the fact that he had just returned from a trip to Abuja to pursue the cause of the people of the Southern states.

By Waheed, Ibadan

Southern Forum Mourns Raimi

APC Alleges Plot To Assassinate Aregbesola In Osun

LCDA: Ekiti PDP Seeks Quick Case Hearing

BY ALO ABIOLA, Ado Ekiti

� e All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has alleged that it has received a red alert that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has contracted Is-raeli snipers to assassinate Gov-ernor Rauf Aregbesola during his campaign trail.

A statement made available to newsmen in Osogbo yesterday by Barr. Kunle Oyatomi, APC’s director of publicity, research and strategy, gave the name of the leader of the snipers as sim-ply Francis.

According to him, the master-minds behind the plot are Mr

Ayodele Fayose, the governor-elect of Ekiti State and Senator Iyiola Omisore, the PDP candi-date for the August 9 governor-ship election in the state.

“Sources from within the PDP informed the APC that there is great consternation within the party that for as long as Areg-besola is present and visible, there is no way the PDP can rig the election; so their last option to win, according to the sources is to take out the governor com-pletely. And they needed the best professional killers in the world; this is why they have contract-ed Israelis”.

“It is not clear if Abuja was in-volved in the plot, but sources say that the security infrastruc-

ture in the country may not be unconnected”.

Reacting to the allegation, the director of publicity and strate-gy, Omisore Campaign Organ-isation, Prince Diran Odeyemi said there is no truth in the alle-gations, adding that PDP has no killer squad.

He claimed that APC is only trying to accuse others of what it intends to do, saying the par-ty has consistently preached vi-olence at its rallies.

However, the APC said it has alerted Nigerians and the inter-national community of PDP’s plans to militarise the state one week to the election and terror-ise APC leadership as well as as-sassinate some of them.

BY ALO ABIOLA, Ado Ekiti

� e Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State has called on the state judiciary to expedite ac-tion on its case against Governor Kayode Fayemi’s plan to create new local governments in the state.

� e party in a statement by its state publicity secretary, Pastor Kola Oluwawole, alleged that the

case � led over two weeks ago was yet to be assigned to a judge by the state chief judge, Justice Ayodeji Daramola.

It said it had it on good authority that a top o� cial of the state judi-ciary is being pressurised by state o� cials to delay and frustrate the case.

Meanwhile, Ekiti Women for Positive Change, a wing of the PDP,

has cautioned the Kayode Fayemi administration against wasting the lean resources of the state on Elec-tion Petition.

� e coordinator of the group, Hon Sade Faparusi-Akinrinmo-la, in a chat with newsmen in Ado Ekiti yesterday, said it was unfor-tunate that the leaders of the APC had resolved to challenge the pop-ular wish of Ekiti people.

Osun

Aregbesola

SOUTH-WEST

DECIDES Saturday, August 9

Omisore

It is not true – PDP

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 NEWS 45

ICPC Docks Nigeria Law School’s Accountant Over FraudBy OLUGBENGA SOyELE, Lagos

The Independent Corrupt Practic-es Commission (ICPC) yesterday arraigned the head of accounts of the Nigerian Law School, Kano Campus, Mohammed Musa, be-fore a Federal High Court in the state over a charge of N24 million fraud and forgery.

Musa, according to the ICPC,

defrauded the law school of the sum in the course of performing his duties as head of accounts of the school.He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The ICC counsel, George Law-al, told the court that the accused person fraudulently forged Unity Bank Plc cheque leafs of the law school and collected the sum of over N24 million between June

and August, 2011.Lawal also alleged that between

June and August, 2011, the ac-cused person forged different cheque books totalling N24 mil-lion with intent to defraud the gederal government .

But Musa’s counsel, Moham-med Dana Zuma, urged the court to grant his client bail, ar-guing that the offence was a bail-

able one.The trial judge, Justice Fatun

Odohi Riman, after listening to the submission of the two counsel granted the accused person bail in the sum of N100 million and two sureties in like sum who must be civil servants on grade level14.

Justice Riman had adjourned the case till October 30 for com-mencement of trial.

Mikel Prays For Release Of Kidnapped Chibok Girls

Doctors In Private Practice Condemn NMA Strike

Mortgage Scandal: Court Reinstates Order On GT Homes

By ONJEWU DICKSON, Abuja,with agency reports

Nigeria midfielder, John Obi Mikel has joined several people the world over, praying for the release and safe return of the kidnapped girls of Chibok, Bor-no State, who have been held for more than 90 days by the Boko Haram sect.

Mikel was quoted on an on-line media saying, he wished he knew where the girls were, so he could go in there and use his

hands in taking them to safety.“I wish I knew where those

girls are, I would go there, pick them up and bring them back but it’s out of my hands,” Mikel said, while responding to a question by Goal at a soiree by Amstel Malta in Lagos.

The Chelsea star was pic-tured carrying a cardboard with the popular #BringBack-OurGirls hash tag on his club’s official Twitter account on May 14, but spoke about the issue publicly for the first time on

Monday. In August 2011, Mikel’s dad

was kidnapped in Jos but re-leased after about 10 days in captivity. It is such positive ending he hopes would hap-pen to the girls of Chibok.

“We will keep praying and keep hoping that the girls are all safe and they will return to their families,” said the mid-fielder, whose appearance in an Amstel commercial chronicled his early struggles as a young footballer.

The Healthcare Federation of Ni-geria (HFN), an umbrella body of all Nigerian Private Healthcare Practitioners, has urged doc-tors to seek alternative means of channeling their grievances rather than embarking on strike.

The participants, at a stake-holders’ forum organised by the federation in Lagos to discuss the ongoing strike embarked upon by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and the dis-harmony between doctors and other health workers, have said that strikes by health workers put the health and safety of pa-tients at risk.

According to them, doctors go into the medical profession to save lives and make the health and safety of patients their ut-most priority.

The federation’s president, Mrs Clare Omatseye, said that such actions expose patients to hardship, increased mortali-ty and morbidity across the gov-ernment-owned health facilities.

The participants agreed that personal interest, ego, mon-ey, leadership tussles and con-flicts between doctors and oth-er health workers had taken over the country`s health sector.

A Lagos High Court sitting in Tafa Balewa Square (TBS) has reinstat-ed its earlier order barring GTH-omes Ltd and Primewaterview Ltd from sell two separate apartments located at Safecourt Estate, Ikate in Eti-Osa LGA of the state. The court had earlier issued an order directing parties to maintain sta-tus quo pending the determina-tion of a suit filed by a customer of Primewaterview claiming own-ership of the apartments.

Justice Iyabo Kasali was forced to renew the order due to allega-tion brought to her notice that GT Homes, now known as Imperial Homes Mortgage Bank Ltd, had attempted to change the locks to the apartments in contention be-fore the court.

Expressing anger on the devel-opment, Justice Kasali asked law-yers in the matter to impress it on their clients on the consequences of disobeying a valid and subsist-ing court order.

The court had also fixed October 3, 2014, for hearing of all pending applications.

A customer, Ola Falade, had sued GT Homes and Primewa-terview to court alleging fraudu-lent conspiracy to deny him own-ership of two apartments in the estate which he had duly paid for.

LASU Lecturers Call Off StrikeBy GEORGE OKOJIE, Lagos

The Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) of the Lagos State University (LASU) has called off its six-week-old strike that paralysed academic activities in the institution .

The lecturers, in a letter to the pro-chancellor and chairman, Governing Council of LASU, said the congress of the ASUU, LASU branch, met on Monday and reviewed the strike it embarked upon on 20 May, 2014, and decided to suspend the strike.

According to the letter signed by ASUU chairman, LASU, Dr. Kunle Idris, the lecturer said the Governing Council and the congress agreed to suspend the strike in the interest of all, after serious deliberation.

The letter read in part: “After exhaustive deliberation, the Congress suspended the strike but resolved that discussions on the outstanding issues identified by members should be continued by the executive members.

“This letter, therefore, serves to notify the Governing Council and

the University Administration that the Academic Staff of LASU has, effective from 1500 hours, Monday, July 14, 2014 resumed the teaching aspect of their duties.”

The letter was copied to the Governor and Visitor, LASU; Commissioner for Education, Lagos State; Commissioner for Establishment, Training and Pensions; chairman, House Committee on Education; Special Adviser on Education, Lagos State; Chancellor, LASU; all members of the Governing

Council, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Admin); Deans of Faculties, ASUU President, ASUU Legal Team and ASUU Zonal Coordinator (Ibadan Zone).

LEADERSHIP recalls that before the suspension of the strike, ASUU had met with the management of the school on July 2 in which certain resolutions were reached.

The resolutions at the meeting were signed by the vice chancellor of LASU, Prof. John Obafunwa and the ASUU-LASU chairman, Kunle Idris.

By Olugbenga Soyele, Lagos

By Aronke Olayiwola, Lagos

SHORTNewS

By Adebayo Waheed, Ibadan

Sack: SSANU Seeks Court InterventionTHE Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU) has sought the intervention of the National Industrial Court, Ibadan, Oyo State in its efforts at protecting the jobs of two of its executives who are currently in a frosty relationship with their employer - the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

The two executives are the university’s SSANU branch chairman, Abdu Sobur Salaam and secretary, Mr. Olurotimi Fasunwon

SSANU, through its counsel, Barrister Bimbola Atilola told the court yesterday that there was the likelihood of the two executive members being sacked by the university when the institution’s council meet today (Wednesday).

L-R: Strategic assistant to the managing director, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Garba El-Suleiman; Nollywood actor, Ronke Oshodi, and brand building director, home and personal care, David Okeme, at the New Omo fast action trade launch in Lagos, yesterday PHOTO BY GBENGA OLAJOBI.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 46 news Lagos

By Kuni Tyessi, Abuja

The federal government has said it will not condone any act that will delay needed transformation of the tertiary institutions in the country.

The minister of state for edu-cation, Nyesom Wike stated this at the interactive workshop or-ganised by the Tertiary Educa-

tion Trust Fund(TETFund) on its guidelines for accessing in-tervention funds by benefitting institutions.

The minister who was repre-sented by the director of Tertiary Education at Ministry of Educa-tion, Mrs Hindatu Abdullahi said that the workshop was organised to allow both the TETFund and its benefitting institutions the

opportunity to reach agreeable shifting ground and present bet-ter means of accessing the fund.

The minister stressed that the fund will not release further funding to any institution that is associated with the problem of improper documentations and rendition of financial returns.

“My understanding is that most of the institutions unable

to access their allocations have no other reason than that TET-Fund will not release further funding to any institution that is associated with the problem of improper documentations and rendition of financial returns.”

The executive secretary of the fund, Prof Sulieman Bogoro said there was the need for timely de-livery of its sponsored projects.

By edegBe Odemwingie,Abuja

The National Institute of Legisla-tive Studies (NILS) has identified the low number of women in Nige-rian parliament as the reason for the failure of gender-based bills in the legislature, adding that it is unacceptable that only seven per cent of lawmakers are women.

Director general of the institute, Dr Ladi Hamalai, while speaking

yesterday at a round table organ-ised by NILS and UNDP/DGD for civil societies and communi-ty based organisations in Abuja said advocacy must be explored to-wards ensuring an increase in the next elections.

While urging female parlia-mentarians to engage civil soci-eties and other organisations in-volved in the cause of women, she lamented that, “The low participa-

tion of women in politics, just sev-en per cent is unacceptable”, add-ing, “It is what makes it almost impossible to pass bills that are gender sensitive. There is need for advocacy for more cooperation be-tween female legislators and civ-il society organisations, especially those involved in women issues”.

A former director in the pres-idency and executive director of Gender Awareness Trust, Dr Lydia

Umar, while speaking on the issue, said the quickest way to achieve a significant increase of women in politics is by adoption of an in-creased quota by political parties.

Umar, a participant at the roundtable whose civil organisa-tion based in Kaduna promotes and protects gender equality and peace, stated that even 20 per cent fixed quota by political parties will make a great difference.

security operatives at the main entrance of Adamawa state House of Assembly in yola, shortly before the impeachment of governor murtala nyako, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN.

A non governmental organisa-tion has called on the Western world to stop what it called ‘ den-igration’ of the Nigerian govern-ment and the military in the pre-text of assisting the country in fighting terrorism.

The Citizens Initiative for Security Awareness (CISA), a civil society group engaged in creating and spreading secu-rity awareness among Nigeri-ans made this call yesterday in a statement issued in Abuja on the on-going counter-insurgen-cy operation.

The oranisation stated that its members “Have noted with grave concern, the orchestrated denigration of our military and by extension the federal govern-ment over the prosecution of the counter-terrorism operation by some foreign interests and their local collaborators”.

A close associate and chieftain of the opposition All Progres-sives Congress (APC), Dr. Umar Duhu, has described as “ru-mour” stories doing the rounds that the former governor of Borno State and APC stalwart, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, has defected to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Duhu, who spoke to select journalists in Abuja yester-day, said what was termed as Sheriff’s defection was his con-sultations with stakeholders around the country on his pos-sible change of party, adding that presently the ex-governor was still consulting across the country.

Violence against women persists because it is encouraged by as-pects of our culture and the law which is slow to act to get jus-tice for abused women in the country and, unless something is done about the situation, jus-tice for abused women will con-tinue to be a challenge, the Ac-tionaid has said.

The non-governmental organ-isation made its position known during the public presentation of its research work on “Access to Justice and Safer Space for Women and Girls in Nasarawa State”, by its security manager, Gbenro Olajuyigbe, yesterday, in Abuja.

CISA Decries Insults On FG, Security Agencies By The West

Associate Denies Sheriff’s Defection Rumour

Violence Against Women Encouraged By Law, Culture – Actionaid

By Bayo Oladeji, Abuja

By Bode Gbadebo, Abuja

By Onukogu Kanayo Jubal, Abuja

Low Number Of Female Lawmakers Stalling Passage Of Gender Bills – NILS

ShORTNEWS

The federal government has stated that due to 50 years of delay in developing a youth agenda for youths in the country, the youths them-selves have developed an agenda for the country through restiveness.

The minister of youth develop-ment, Boni Haruna, stated this yesterday, at an event to mark this year’s World Population Day with the theme: “Investing in Young People.”

According to him, “Apart from educa-tion and sports, Nigeria did not develop a youth agenda.”Haruna said that was why the ministry was mainstreaming youth issues.

By Winifred Ogbebo and Victor

Okeke, Abuja

‘Investment In Youth, Panacea For Youth Restiveness’

TETFund Gets Stakeholders Input On Intervention Fund

Confab: Nay Sayers have Been Disappointed – PresidencyBy CHiBuzO uKAiBe, Abuja

The political adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan, Prof Rufai Ahmed Alkali, yesterday boast-ed that the outcome of the na-tional confab has disappointed nay sayers who felt the confer-ence would collapse midway be-cause members will not be able to reach an agreement.

Speaking at a political summit organised by a political pressure group, Southern and Northern Amalgamated Support for Presi-dent Jonathan, (SONAS for PJ) in

Abuja, Prof. Alkali noted that the delegates exhibited a high sense of patriotism throughout their deliberations at the committee and plenary sessions.

He further commended the management and delegates to the National Conference for success-ful adoption of the reports of the 20 committees of the conference.

He further said that President Jonathan did not interfere with the conference since it was inau-gurated in March.

He said, “Yesterday the Na-tional Conference plenary ses-

sion came to conclusion. You all know the journey to that confer-ence started long ago. There was a time Nigerians said they wanted a conference and we finally agreed to have a conference.

“Who are going to be the mem-bers, the president took his time to give everybody full represen-tation. The conference defined its own agenda, set up its own 20 committees and we never heard for one day where Mr. President’s name was mentioned for one day for interfering with the National Conference up to this moment.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 news NATIONAL 47

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CHRISTIAN CHARISMATIC MINISTRY

The general public that the above named MINISTRY has applied for change of trustees to Corporate A� airs Commission under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act no. 1 of 1990

THE NEW TRUSTEES ARE:1. Pastor Sabinus Onuigbo Akubueze - Reappointed2. Pastor Innocent Nwangwu - Reappointed3. Pastor Tony Chukwu - Appointed4. Pastor Chukwuma Victor Orji - Appointed5. Pastor Nick Nwoye - Appointed

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE:1. Pastor Obioma Okeke - Removed2. Pastor Chukwuma Linus Okoli - Removed3. Pastor Joseph Ndolo - Removed

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME

Any objection to this change should be forwarded to the registrar-general. Corporate A� airs commission, 420, tigris crescent, o� aguyi ironsi street. pmb 198, matiama, abuja within 28th days from the date of publication.

Signed: BARR ORJI

ZAWRAM GLOBAL ISLAMIC FOUNDATION

The general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied for registration to Corporate A� airs Commission under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act no. 1 of 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE:1. Zainab Marwa - Chairman2. Hadiza Yahaya - Secretary3. Mariam Marwa4. Abdulkadir Abubakar 5. Khadya Ilabvare6. Muslihu A� see7. Yakubu Nasir8. Mohammed Marwa9. Abubakar Marwa10. Shahwar Syed

AIM AND OBJECTIVE1. To care for the welfare of Muslim Umma.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general. Corporate A� airs commission, 420, tigris crescent, o� aguyi ironsi street. pmb 198, matiama, abuja within 28th days from the date of publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

REALTORS PRESTIGE CLUBTHIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990

TRUSTEES:1. Okechukwu Madubuku2. James Omale3. Ikechukwu Ikenna Nwachukwu4. Rosech Nzekwue5. Oziri David6. Okereke Okechukwu7. Kenechukwu Onuora8. Kelvin Nwonu9. Kachi Okpara

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES1. To identify and bring together like minded professionals in the real estate industry who are speci� cally of sound mind and unquestionable character.2. To promote the lots of members through love and cooperation.3. To promote and/or render any worthwhile societal/humanitarian or economic service to members.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THEREGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT,OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROMTHE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: BARR. ADA OJIKA (08052083212)

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MEDIA INITIATIVE

This is to notify the general Public that the above named INITIATIVE has applied for registration to the Corporate A� airs Commission, Abuja under the Part ‘C’ of Company and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES1. Aaron Ukodie - President2. Nweke Remmy - Secretary3. Bayero Agabi - Treasurer4. Ugbechie Kenneth5. Segun Oruame6. Biyi Fashoyin7. Mrs. Emuophedarro Ufuoma

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES1. To promote information and media development in Nigeria.

Any objection to the above should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent O� Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, FCT, Abuja within 28 days of this Publication.

SIGNED: BARR. VICTOR OYONAKPARE

GIVING HOPE FOUNDATIONThe general public is hereby informed that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the corporate a� airs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. Dr. Ajis Eleazar2. Mr. Moses Kela3. Thomas Unongo4. Mrs. Mercy Moses Kela5. Fidelis Unongo AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To improve maternal and child health by creating awareness on ways to reduce to the minimum maternal and child mortalities.2. HIV/AIDS free screening with full support on follow up treatment.3. Giving rural areas literacy programs.4. To sensitize the society on the scourge of HIV/AIDS in order to live and have HIV/AIDs free society and assist those living with it for a better life.5. To carter for less privileged via health care facility.6. To preserve a healthy and sustainable environment via enlightenment programmes.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate a� airs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, o� Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:SECRETARY

AGBAGWU PROGRESSIVE UNIONThe general public is hereby noti� ed that the above named UNION has applied to the Corporate A� airs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. Elder Chief Isaac Okwara Onoh2. Mazi Ikokwu Adolphus Okoroafor3. Mazi Nnanna Okoroafor Ojukwu4. Dr. Ogbonnaya Kanu Amah5. Mazi Chris Alicho Iregbu AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To cater for the welfare of its members.2. To assist the less privileged. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate a� airs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, o� Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: EZEJI GLORIA08038769236

ELATE RESCUE MISSIONThe general public is hereby noti� ed that the above named, has applied to the Corporate A� airs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. CHINEDU JOSEPH ABEL-OBI - (CHAIRMAN)2. HALIMA HARUNA MAHMUD - (SECRETARY)3. IBRAHIM ABDULLAHI CIROMA - (MEMBER)4. CHIBUEZE JACKSON ABEL-OBI - (MEMBER)

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. TO RESCUE ACCIDENT VICTIMS AND ALSO PAY THEIR HOSPITAL BILLS.2. TO PROVIDE FIRST AID TREATMENT TO SUSTAIN THE LIVES OF THE ACCIDENT VICTIMS.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate A� airs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

THE OMNIPOTENT FIRE CHURCHThe general public is hereby noti� ed that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate A� airs Commission for registration under part C of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEE ARE:1. Apostle Ezekiel Idodo2. Pastor (Mrs) Funmilayo Omo Joseph3. Pastor John Moses4. Bro Samuel Alabi5. Deaconess Odio Glory6. Deaconess Wilson Grace

AIM AND OBJECTIVES1. To preach the words of God as in the Holy Bible. Any objection to this change should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate A� airs Commission (C.A.C) P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent o� Aguiyi Irosi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication. SIGNED:SECRETARY

SPECIALISED CLASSIFIEDS PAGES

SCHOOLS, EDUCATION, & FAITH PLATFORM

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

LADIES OF FAVOURS CLUBThe general public is hereby noti� ed that the above named CLUB has applied to the Corporate A� airs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. Andrew Victoria Aleruchi - President2. Gift Arthur - Secretary3. Tari Wokoro4. Boma Pepple5. Baritune Barisere Bedele

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. To bring members together as one body and foster peace among them.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate A� airs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

SIGNED: VICTOR OYONAKPARE

LIGHT OF THE UMMAH FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate A� airs Commission for the registration under part C of CAMA 1990.

THE TRUSTEES1. Miss Salamatu Yakubu2. Miss khadijah Kyauta3. Mr. Audu Uba Mohammed4. Mr. Jemilu Kwande5. Mr. Hamza Umar Suru6. Mr. Muzammil Abdallah

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES1. To change misconception about Islam and enlighten them on its teachings of love, peace, forgiveness and humility through the lectures, seminars, the media and other information outlets2. To render humanitarian and charitable services to the less privileged. To engage in inter-faith dialogue with mutual respect in peace and harmony.3. To provide support and assistance to organisations and youth Foundations with similar aims and objectives.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar general, CAC, Maitama Abuja FCT within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: CHAIRMAN

FAVOUR OF GOD TABERNACLE WORLDWIDE

This is to inform the general Public that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate A� airs Commission (CAC) under part 59 laws of the federation of Nigeria 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. Pst Favour Abinatus - Chairman2. Pst Mrs Flourish Favour - Vice Chairman3. Pst Adedeji Franklin - Secretary4. Dr Patrick Dakum - Member5. Barr Robert Taple - Member

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To preach the teaching of Jesus Christ.2. To organise crusades, revivals, teaching and other gospel activities.3. To train and send out evangelist and ministers globally to preach the gospel.4. To establish branches wherever converts are made for the expansion of the gospel.5. To establish prayer cells all over Nigeria and beyond.

Any objection(s) to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate a� airs commission plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

GRASSROOT ACCESS PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVE

The general public is hereby informed that the above named INITIATIVE has applied to the corporate a� airs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. Thelma Chinonye Ugorji2. Maureen Eziaku Ugorji3. Dr. Yomi Young Oluokun4. Clare Anyanwu AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To provide grassroot access to preventable healthcare

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate a� airs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, o� Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: PLACID EZEIGBO

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 48

FRANCISCAI formerly known as MISS

FRANCISCA TUMININU EZEDI, now wish to be known and addressed as

MRS FRANCISCA TUMININU EZEDI. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and the general public to please take note.

IkueRowoI formerly known as jEbUTU

oMobolANlE FIkEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as

MRS IkUERowo oMobolANlE FIkEMI. All former documents remain valid. General public to

please take note.

MANuI formerly known as SUlAIMAN

bAbbAjI UMAR, now wish to be known and addressed as MANU AbUbAkAR. All

former documents remain valid. General public to please take

note.

SYLVIAI formerly known as MISS SYlVIA CHIDINMA okoRoNkwo, now wish to be known and addressed

as MRS SYlVIA CHIDINMA joSH MADUkA oGwo. All former

documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

ABIoDuNI formerly known as MRS

olUwAjobA olUwAFUNMIlAYo EUNICE, now wish to be known

and addressed as MISS AbIoDUN olUwAFUNMIlAYo EUNICE. All

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

FuNSoI formerly known as MISS MoPAYI ADENIkE VICToRIA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FUNSo AkINPITAN VICToRIA ADENIkE. All former documents

remain valid. General public to please take note.

GRACeI formerly known as MISS

GRACE INEGbENoSE UDo, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS GRACE

INEGbENoSE AlUYA. All former documents remain valid. General

public to please take note.

okoHI formerly known as MISS

AZANUwA ESE UDUMEbRAYE, now wish to be known and

addressed as okoH ESE UDUMEbRAYE. All former

documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

CHANGe oF NAMeI, FORMERLY KNOWN AND

ADDRESSED AS MISS NkECHI lINDA UFoCHUkwU, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED

AS MRS NkECHI lINDA MENIRU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

oDuFAI formerly known as MISS

oDUFA ESTHER AlIMIkHENA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS oDUFA

ESTHER AkINGbolA. All former documents remain valid. General

public to please take note.

MeRCYI formerly known as MISS MERCY

AIwANEHI oMoFUMA, now wish to be known and addressed

as MRS MERCY AIwANEHI AIkHEGbE. All former documents

remain valid. General public to please take note.

MILLICeNTI formerly known as MISS

ClIFFoRD CHIbUZoR MIllICENT, now wish to be

known and addressed as MRS MIllICENT CHIbUZoR boI-

SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. General public to

please take note.

ISokeNI formerly known as MISS

IDAHoSA ISokEN bRIDGET, now wish to be known and addressed

as MRS ISokEN bRIDGET EGbUFoR. All former documents remain valid. The Fridge Limited and the general public to please

take note.

VICToRI formerly known as VICToR

DESMoND-VICToR, now wish to be known and addressed

as VICToR FR’U’HwIRTH. All former documents remain valid.

The General public to please take note.

GooDLuCkI formerly known as GooDlUCk DESMoND-VICToR, now wish to be known and addressed as GooDlUCk FR’U’HwIRTH. All former documents remain valid.

The General public to please take note.

PATIeNCeI formerly known as MISS PATIENCE

EDET UDoFIA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS PATIENCE oboNG ISRAEl. All

former documents remain valid. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the general

public to please take note.

RoSeI formerly known as MISS RoSE CHIoMA DESMoND-VICToR,

now wish to be known and addressed as MRS RoSE CHIoMA

FR’U’HwIRTH. All former documents remain valid. The

General public to please take note.

CLeMeNTINAI formerly known as MRS joHN-oSI RoSElINE, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS

ClEMENTINA NNEkA okoYE. All former documents remain valid.

The General public to please take note.

CHIkAI formerly known as MISS oGUGUA

EMIlIA CHIkA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS oGUGUA NwAbUEZE EMIlIA

CHIkA. All former documents remain valid. The General public to please

take note.

MFoNI formerly known as MFoN

EVElYN okoN, now wish to be known and addressed as MFoN

EVElYN oHIjEAGboN. All former documents remain valid.

The General public to please take note.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC OF THE LOSS OF ORIGINAL R OF O WITH THE FOLLOWING DETAILS, PloT No 3047, SIZE 2000M2 , AT CADESTRAL ZONE A 042 , olD FIlE No CR 1012 AND NEW FILE NO CR 11221 DATED 3/6/2002 BELONGING TO bEATRICE o. AGAMA MISSING.ALL EFFORT TO TRACE THE DOCUMENT PROVED ABORTIVE, IF FOUND KINDLY RETURN TO THE NEAREST POLICE STATION.

loSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENT

MATTHEw olUSolA ADESANYA FoUNDATIoN

The general public is hereby informed that the above named foundation has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. CHIEF MATTHEW OLUSOLA ADESANYA - CHAIRMAN2. CHIEF ADEDAMOLA ABOYADE-COLE3. HON. OLUBUMI OLUYADE4. HON. ABIODUN IFEDOLAPO AJIBOLA AIMS AND objECTIVES:1.TO PROVIDE SUCCOUR TO THE LESS PRIVILEGE AND ENHANCE THEIR STANDARD OF LIVING. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: bARR.lAwANI kAYoDE08095336644

HoME oF MERCY, GRACE AND loVE FoUNDATIoN

The general public is hereby informed that the above named foundation has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1.PRINCESS KANU CYRINA2.CHIEF KANU GERALD3.REV.CAPT.INNOCENT INIENWE4.UGOEZE CHRISTIAN INIEWE AIMS AND objECTIVES:1.PROVISION OF EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR BOYS AND GIRLS THROUGH SCHOLARSHIP.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:bARR. EYEE blESSING, 08032573457

GlobAl YoUTH EMPowERMENT DEVEloPMENT AND SoCIo-ECoNoMIC ADVANCEMENT INITIATIVE

This is to inform the general public that the above named INITIATIVE has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1.Prince Otobong Archibong Samuel 2.Engr. Bassey Udoh Awaih 3. Mr Tobias Kankod Iwuagu 4. Mrs Chioma Onu 5. Isaac Gbenga Ogunmodede 6. Engr. Patrick Edet 7. Yunusa sule 8. Johnson Ajeboghuku

AIMS & objECTIVES1. To promote love, unity and development

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: CHAIRMAN

lIVING boNES CHARITY FoUNDATIoN

This is to inform the general public that the above named charity organisation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1. Emmanuel Opeyemi Dada2. Jasmine Pringle3. Ayodele Oniku AIMS & objECTIVES1. To provide welfare services and any relevant assistance to indigent accident victims on admission in various orthopaedic hospitals in Nigeria;2. To alleviate the lives of indigent citizens with permanent orthopaedic-related health problems. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: SECRETARY

JuLIeTTAI formerly known as jUlIETTA REINl, now wish to be known

as jUlIETTA oFUYETA. All former documents remain

valid. General public to please take note.

oBIAGeLII formerly known as MISS

obIAGElI AUGUSTINA IZENU, now wish to be known as

MRS obIAGElI AUGUSTINA okEkEUCHE. All former

documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

RuTHI formerly known as MISS

RUTH oMoREGIE, now wish to be known as MRS RUTH

kolEDowo. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

DIJeHI formerly known as MISS okEkE joY NwANNEkA,

now wish to be known as MRS DIjEH joY NwANNEkA. All

former documents remain valid. University of Abuja, NYSC and the general public to please take note.

lEGAl NoTICEIN THE HIGH CoURT oF jUSTICE oF THE FEDERAl

CAPITAl TERRIToRY, AbUjA

Whereas the person / persons whose name is set out in the first column hereunder died intestate on the date and place in the said column. And whereas the parson(s) whose name and address is set out in the second column hereunder claimed the relationship of the said deceased and has applied to the above named court for the grant letters of Administration of the personal property. Notice is hereby given that the said letters of Administration be granted to such person (s) unless “NOTICE TO PROHIBIT’’ the grant thereof is filed in the probate registry of the above named court within twenty one (21) days from the date of publication.

SCHEDUlEDECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

ALIYU MOHAMMED (OCHO) Ocho Samuel Mohammed Nigeria Police Force AbujaWHO DIED ON THE 19th September, 2012 AMAC Housing Estate Aco After Lugbe, Abuja The son of the said deceased DATED AT ABUJA THIS 15th DAY OF JULY, 2014

SIGNEDbARR. HAFSAT SoDIQ

FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

This is to inform the general public of the loss of the Original Letter of Offer and Original receipt of payment belonging to IDRIS MUSA ISMAIlA of block E, flat 6 State house quarters Karu, allocated to him by the office of the Minister (Adhoc Committee Sale of FGN Houses) Federal Capital Territory Administration FCTA got missing. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station. General public to please take note.

loSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENT

HoME oF MERCY, GRACE AND loVE FoUNDATIoN

The general public is hereby informed that the above named foundation has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. PRINCESS KANU CYRINA2. CHIEF KANU GERALD3. REV. CAPT. INNOCENT INIENWE4. UGOEZE CHRISTIAN INIEWE AIMS AND objECTIVES:1. PROVISION OF EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR BOYS AND GIRLS THROUGH SCHOLARSHIP. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:bARR.EYEE blESSING08032573457

This is to inform the general public of the loss of Acknowledgment of Re-certification issued by Department of Land Administration FCDA belonging to RISkUwA TElECoMMUNICATIoNS NIGERIA lTD got missing. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station. General public to please take note.

Signed:MR. FEMI bEllo, DIRECToR

loSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENTloSS oF DoCUMENT

3 X 2 SPACE FOR SALE

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 49

AGNESI formerly known as NNENNE

AGNES UDEMEZUE, now wish to be known as AGNES EVANS-UZOARU. All former documents remain valid. General public to

please take note.

KATEI formerly known as KATE

BASSEY OKON, now wish to be known as KATE STANLEY

ISIBOR. All former documents remain valid. General public to

please take note.

OLANIPEKUNI formerly known as OKPANI OBIAGELI PHINA, now wish

to be known as OLANIPEKUN OBIAGELI PHINA. All former

documents remain valid. NSCDS and the general public to please

take note.

REBECCAI formerly known as REBECCA AMEH, now wish to be known

as REBECCA UWASOMBA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please

take note.

CHIDIMMAI formerly known as MISS

CHIDIMMA YVONNE AKUDOLU, now wish to be known as MRS

CHIDIMMA YVONNE OKOYE. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

TUKURI formerly known as MAIMUNA

TUKUR, now wish to be known and addressed as

TUKUR HANIYA M. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

EZUMAHI formerly known as MISS

OGBONNA FELICIA EGEJURU, now wish to be known and

addressed as MRS EZUMAH FELICIA EGEJURU. All former

documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

OGBODOI formerly known as ASOGWA

MODESTER UDOKA, now wish to be known and addressed as

OGBODO MODESTER UDOKA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please

take note.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY INITIATIVE FOR GROWTH

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

NAMES OF TRUSTEES ARE:1. ADESUA ANTHONY OMOLOLU2. ADESUA YEWANDE OMOTAYO

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:(1) TO ADVOCATE, AWAKEN AND SUPPORT CIVIC DUTIES GEARED TOWARDS SOCIETAL DEVELOPMENT.

ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION

SIGNED: SECRETARY

LEGAL NOTICEIN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL

TERRITORY, ABUJA

Whereas the person / persons whose name is set out in the first column hereunder died intestate on the date and place in the said column. And whereas the parson(s) whose name and address is set out in the second column hereunder claimed the relationship of the said deceased and has applied to the above named court for the grant letters of Administration of the personal property. Notice is hereby given that the said letters of Administration be granted to such person (s) unless “NOTICE TO PROHIBIT’’ the grant thereof is filed in the probate registry of the above named court within twenty one (21) days from the date of publication.

SCHEDULEDECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

AMB. ALFRED BABALOLA AYODELE Mrs Susannah OLayemi Ayodele and Akinmoladun Babayemi Ayodele Lesotho Cottage Otenioro Estate Oke –Ijebu,Akure, Ondo StateWHO DIED ON THE 25th January, Boye Guest House, Ikare 1995 –Akoko Akure Ondo State The widow and son of the said deceased DATED AT ABUJA THIS 15th DAY OF JULY, 2014

SIGNEDBARR. HAFSAT SODIQ

FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

JOSEPH OLAONIPEKUN KAYODE FASANYA FOUNDATION

The above-named foundation has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004

TRUSTEES ARE:1. TOLULOPE MODUPE FASANYA2. JOSEPH OLAONIPEKUN KAYODE- FASANYA3. OLAWUNMI THERESA FASANYA4. AHMED DEMOLA MAKINDE5. FOLARANMI OSIFUWA

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To empower the Youths to be more productive, and more determined to succeed by re-channelling their abilities and zeal into positively constructive ventures that will have direct meaningful impact in the life of the citizens.2. To discover youths with skills and talent and assist in developing these skills and talent positively and to run, maintain vocational training, skill and talent acquisition centres.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication.

SIGNED: MEJULU HENRY ESQFOR: HIGHTOWER SOLICITOR AND ADVOCATES.

DIOCESE OF AWKA CHURCH OF NIGERIA

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED FOR CHANGE OF TRUSTEES TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE:1. THE MOST REVEREND MAXWELL SAMUEL CHUKWUNWIKE ANIKWENWA - RETIRED2. THE HONOURABLE JUSTICE HUMPHREY CHIDOZIE OLIKE - RETIRED3. VENERABLE NELSON NNAEMEKA IWENOFU - RETIRED

THE NEW TRUSTEES ARE:1. THE RT. REVD. ALEXANDER CHIBUZO IBEZIM,PHD.2. HON. JUSTICE SIR OKECHUKWU JOSEPH OKEKE3. VENERABLE CLEMENT CHIBUZOR MGBEMENA

REASON FOR CHANGE OF TRUSTEES:

TO FILL THE VACANT POSITIONS OF THE RETIRED TRUSTEES.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS CHANGE OF TRUSTEES SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

PEACE AND TOLERANCE DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE

This is to inform the general public that the above named Initiative has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1. Evangelist Kingsley Oiboh (Esq)2. Mrs. Janet Abare Oiboh3. Elder Tunde S. Adagunduro AIMS & OBJECTIVES1. To promote peace and tolerance amongst the people2. To sufficiently educate, inform, enlighten and empower the people with knowledge of their civil, political, social and economic rights including rights to development and their fundamental freedoms to enable them resist unjustifiable deprivations and live in dignity and honor.3. To popularize human rights concepts and values at the grassroots as well as schools,Colleges and Universities with a view to demystify the myth that human rights are purely legal concept.4. To vigorously fights the roots causes of poverty, underdevelopment and ignorance in Africa to enable the people to live a full, secure, healthy, dignifying and fulfilling life and to strive to see that African joins developed world. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: MRS. JANET ABARE OIBOH (SECRETARY)

THE BOANERGES MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

This is to inform the general public that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1. Prophet Joseph Adegboyega Ologbonyo - President2. Evangelist Augustine Bamisaye - Gen. Secretary3. Deacon Olusola Adebayo - Member4. Lady Evang Mercy Omolola Ologbonyo - Member5. Deaconess Aiedna Funmilayo Ogunlade - Member AIMS & OBJECTIVES1. To propagate the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ worldwide and prepare souls for the kingdom of God.2. To render helps to the orphans, widows and less privileged by establishing and promoting Godly charitable organization, hospitals and orphanage homes.3. To train and obdain gospel ministers and church workers by establishing a theological, seminary and primary schools. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: BARR OLAMIDE ADARAMOLA

YAGA FOUNDATIONThis is to inform the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1. Mr. Eneji Sam 2. Alh. Buhari Ali3. Ashibi Gabriel4. Oluseyi Moses Olabiyi5. Linda Etta6. Joseph Eshua7. Okiri Cosmos AIMS & OBJECTIVES1. To ensure good governance in Nigeria.2. To mobilize Nigerian youths towards active participation in governance.3. To promote peace and unity in Nigeria.4. to work conscientiously towards the actualisation of the Nigerian dream. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: SECRETARY

ONITSHA SOUTH PEOPLES DEVELOPMENT ASSEMBLY

This is to inform the general public that the above named DEVELOPMENT has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1) COMRADE SYLVANUS MGBECHUKWU - (FOUNDER)2) LADY ANN CHUKWUNEKE (JP)3) PROF. CHARLES ANAZODO

AIMS & OBJECTIVES1. To promote unity among members.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: COMRADE SYLVANUS MGBECHUKWU - (FOUNDER)

ISLAMIC PRAYER GROUP, ASABAThis is to inform the general public that the above named GROUP has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1. ADEKOLA YINUSA ADEKUNLE - CHAIRMAN2. MOMODU DAUDA -SECRETARY3. ISITUA ISMAILA4. OLUOKUN OLAIDE5. BAMIDELE ROTIMI ISIAKA6. ADEKOLA AHMED ABIODUN7. ADEAGBO JELILI OMONIYI8. ADEKOLA JELILAT OMOLOLA

AIMS & OBJECTIVES1. To propagate Islam by teaching and educating members and the society at large the Islamic ethics and values.2. To enhance the economic well beings of members especially the disadvantaged ones.3. To support meaningful and legal activities for the advancement of Islam in Nigeria and worldwide.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: ADEKOLA YINUSA ADEKUNLE - CHAIRMAN

UNITY FRIENDS SOCIAL CLUBThis is to inform the general public that the above named CLUB has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:-1) AGADA EKENE KENNY - CHAIRMAN2) UMEH STEPHEN IFEANYI - SECRETARY3) OBUMNEME ARINZECHUKWU JOHNMARK4) ONYEBICHI UCHENNA MADUEKWE

AIMS & OBJECTIVES1. TO PROMOTE FRIENDLY RELATIONS AMONG MEMBERS. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication Signed: AGADA EKENE KENNY - CHAIRMAN

KATHY LIFE BUILDER FOUNDATION

THE PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED OF THE FOLLOWING CHANGES IN REGARDS TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE ABOVE FOUNDATION.

A. That the following have been retained as member of board of trustees.

1. MRS. CATHERINE OCHOLI (Re-APPOINTED)2. MR. JOHN SABO ALFA (RE-APPOINTED)

B. That the following have been removed as members of board of trustees.

3. MRS. ESTHER AIGBANGBEE (REMOVEED)4. MR. GOYOL GOLDIM (REMOVED)

C. That the following have been appointed as new members of board of trustees.

5. MR. KAIGAMA JOHN PAPKA (NEWLY APPOINTED)6. MR DUKAS SHIDAMS (NEWLY APPOINTED)7.BARR. EMMANUEL UKPAI (NEWLY APPOINTED)8. MR. PAM YUSUF GYANG (NEWLY APPOINTED)9. MISS. OCHOLI NANCY (NEWLY APPOINTED)10. MRS. PATRICIA DANYIL (NEWLY APPOINTED)11. MR. RORY MILLER (NEWLY APPOINTED)

SIGNED: SECRETARY.

3 X 2 SPACE FOR SALE

AKINTOBII formerly known as MRS

OLADAPO OLANIKE OLAWUNMI, now wish to be

known and addressed as MISS AKINTOBI OLANIKE OLAWUNMI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

MATERYI formerly known as MISS

ESSIET MABLE ALFRED, now wish to be known and addressed

as MRS MATERY MABLE IVA-EGBAI. All former documents remain valid. General public to

please take note.

OLADIRANI formerly known as OKEOWO

OLUWATOYIN YEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as OLADIRAN WOLUWATOYIN YEMI. All former documents

remain valid. General public to please take note.

WORLUI formerly known as MISS

NWIBE CHINWENDU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS WORLU CHINWENDU. All former documents remain valid. General public to please

take note.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 50

2 X 2 SPACE FOR SALE

This is to inform the general public of the loss of the Original Grant of Statutory Right of Occupancy with file N0: KDL 58256 in respect of Plot N0: 3 Block ‘‘AW’’ TPO 639A Eye Centre Resettlement Scheme, Kaduna, dated 7/6/2001 issued by Bureau of Lands and Surveys, Land Department, Kaduna State bearing ABDu SuLe and Plot N0: 5 Block ‘‘AW’’ TPO 639A National Eye Centre Resettlement Scheme Kaduna File N0: KDL 58258 dated 1/6/2001 bearing ABDu IBrAhIm and belonging to AmINu GArBA WAZIrI of Plot 40 PW Maruko, Kubwa, Abuja got missing. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station or call 08065744744. General public to please take note.

LOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNT

This is to inform the general public of the loss of the Original Offer Letter of Grant in respect of Plot N0: 459 of about 702sqm in Tungan Maje I Layout, ref N0: GAC/FCDA/LP&S/Im/10603 bearing BArrISTer D. O. ONuOhA dated 18/12/1998 issued by Gwagwalada Area Council belonging to mr. LINuS LyIAGu got missing. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station. General public to please take note.

LOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNTLOSS OF DOCumeNT

LeGAL NOTICeIN The hIGh COurT OF JuSTICe OF The FeDerAL

CAPITAL TerrITOry, ABuJA

Whereas the person / persons whose name is set out in the first column hereunder died intestate on the date and place in the said column. And whereas the parson(s) whose name and address is set out in the second column hereunder claimed the relationship of the said deceased and has applied to the above named court for the grant letters of Administration of the personal property. Notice is hereby given that the said letters of Administration be granted to such person (s) unless “NOTICE TO PROHIBIT’’ the grant thereof is filed in the probate registry of the above named court within twenty one (21) days from the date of publication.

SCheDuLe

DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

AYUBA IBRAHIM Mary Ibrahim and Emmanuel IbrahimAbuja School of Handicapped, Kuje FCT WHO DIED ON THE 10th January, Abuja School of Handicapped, Kuje FCT2014 The widow and son of the said deceased DATED AT ABUJA THIS 15th DAY OF JULY, 2014

SIGNEDBArr. hAFSAT SODIQ

FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

LeGAL NOTICeIN The hIGh COurT OF JuSTICe OF The FeDerAL

CAPITAL TerrITOry, ABuJA

Whereas the person / persons whose name is set out in the first column hereunder died intestate on the date and place in the said column. And whereas the parson(s) whose name and address is set out in the second column hereunder claimed the relationship of the said deceased and has applied to the above named court for the grant letters of Administration of the personal property. Notice is hereby given that the said letters of Administration be granted to such person (s) unless “NOTICE TO PROHIBIT’’ the grant thereof is filed in the probate registry of the above named court within twenty one (21) days from the date of publication.

SCheDuLeDECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

USMAN GAZHE MAYAKI Eunice Gambo Mayaki and Benjamin Abu MayakiNigeria Custom ServiceWHO DIED ON THE 23rd March, Opposite Cefn Church, New Kutunku, 2014 Gwagwalada Abuja The daughter and son of the said deceased DATED AT ABUJA THIS 15th DAY OF JULY, 2014

SIGNEDBArr. hAFSAT SODIQ

FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

IDuNG eyINAm DeVeLOPmeNT ASSOCIATION

This is to inform the general public that the above named ASSOCIATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

TruSTeeS Are:1.MR EFFIONG EMMANUEL IBOK -CHAIRMAN 2. MR ANIETIE EDET EDIGHIENYONG -VICE CHAIRMAN 3)BARR NSE-ABASI EDET ANWANA -SECERTARY, 4 HON. KINDNESS EDET EDIGHIENYONG -TREASURER, 5.MR ITA OKON ISANGEDIGHI -MEMBER 6. MR IFIOK ASUQUO SAMPSON -MEMBER 7. MR NSE EDET EDIGHIENYONG -MEMBER 8. MR DANIEL STEPHEN AKAI -PATRON 9. MR EMMANUEL BASSEY IBOK - MEMBER 10. MR VICTOR OKON AYANKWO -MEMBER.

AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS:1. TO UPHOLD AND PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF IDUNG EYINAM

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication.

SIGNED: ChAIrmAN

LIBerAL emPOWermeNT AND eCONOmIC DeVeLOPmeNT CeNTre

This is to inform the general public that the above named CENTRE has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” OF THE companies and Allied matters Act No 1 of 1990.

TruSTeeS Are:1 PASTOR JOHN OLUSOGA FASAN 2 HELEN JUMOKE FASAN 3 ABIOLA JOY FASAN

AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS 1 TO EMPOWER PEOPLE ECONOMICALLY 2 TO ENHANCE GRASSROOT DEVELOPMENT

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication.

SIGNED: IDrIS IBrAhIm

AKWAeZIKeNyI TOWN uNIONThe general public is hereby informed that the above named union has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

The TruSTeeS Are:1.IDUU BARTHOLOMEW OBIWULU2.CHIEF ANTHONY OBIOHA3.NZE BASIL EBULUE4.CHIEF CHARLES UKACHUKWU5.MR ALPHONSUS IGBERI6.MR LEONARD NWADIALU AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS:1.TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS.2.TO OFFER HUMANITARIAN SERVICES AND SELFLESS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN THE UNION. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:SeCreTAry

CITIZeNS CuLTurAL reNAISSANCe INITIATIVe

The general public is hereby informed that the above named initiative has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

The TruSTeeS Are:1. LAWRENCE DAVIES2. BEKE KONYA3. EHIAZE OMONGBALE AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS:1.TO DEVELOPM INDIVIDUALS CULTURAL HERITAGE.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:BArr.SmATT OZOemeNA081564008676

ASSOCIATION FOr SPANISh LANGuAGe ADVANCemeNT IN NIGerIA

The general public is hereby informed that the above named association has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

The TruSTeeS Are:1. DR. ENO EDEM2. MR. ANTONIO GOMEZ3. PROF. HILARY INYANG AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS:1. TO PROMOTE THE LEARNING AND ADVANCEMENT OF SPANISH LANGUAGE IN NIGERIA. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:mrS.NGOZI ANIAGOLuSeCreTAry

The ANChOr hOuSe INTerNATIONAL mINISTry

The general public is hereby informed that the above named ministry has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

The TruSTeeS Are:1. PASTOR GODSON ONAIWU – CHAIRMAN2. MINISTER NKECHI JULIET DURUOHA3. BARR. TAYO OBASUYI - SECRETARY AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS:1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:SeCreTAry

AKWAeZIKeNyI TOWN uNIONThe general public is hereby informed that the above named union has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

The TruSTeeS Are:1. IDUU BARTHOLOMEW OBIWULU2. CHIEF ANTHONY OBIOHA3. NZE BASIL EBULUE4. CHIEF CHARLES UKACHUKWU5. MR ALPHONSUS IGBERI6. MR LEONARD NWADIALU AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS:1.TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS.2.TO OFFER HUMANITARIAN SERVICES AND SELFLESS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN THE UNION. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED:SeCreTAry

FIre emBASSy DeLIVerANCe mINISTry

This is to inform the general public that the above named Ministry has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1 of 2004.

The TruSTeeS Are: 1. PROPHET EMMANUEL EKOKOTU - Chairman 2. PROPHETNESS HAPPY UMUROKO - Secretary 3. PASTOR INNOCENT UHUNOMA EHISIEMEN - Member 4. ELDER VINCENT OKUNZUWA - Member5. MRS. CHARITY OSADOLOR - Member

AImS AND OBJeCTIVeS:a. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: reX erAmeh, eSQ.(Solicitor) - 08033051011

PuBLIC NOTICeBuyer BeWAre!

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE PROPERTY AT 26,ADeDOyIN STreeT.OFF OmILANI ST,IJeShATeDO, SuruLere,LAGOS STATe IS NOT FOr SALe.WHOEVER BUYS THE PROPERTY DOES SO AT HIS OR HER OWN RISK .

FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT: TEL: 08124378846

SIGNED:J. O. ehIGIe

3 X 2 SPACE FOR SALE

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 51

Iyobosa UwugiarenWednesday Periscope

08033143902 iyobosa@leadership.ng

Time has come for those who want endur-ing peace in the Niger Delta to assist in finding a solution to the criminal neglect, poverty and underdevel-opment of the region. Time is running out for the vultures

I am sure my friends Dr Ike Okonta, a writer and journalist, and Barrister Oronto Douglas, a Nigeri-an leading human rights

lawyer, now special adviser (re-search, documentation and strategy) to President Good-luck Jonathan, will forgive me for using the title of their book, “Where The Vultures Feast”, to discuss the huge consequences of the inability of the National Conference to resolve the Niger Delta question before adjourn-ing this week. I read the book many years ago and it provides what one scholar described as “a vivid and relentless account of human tragedy since oil was discovered in the Niger Delta in 1956”. The title may sound very harsh and rash but I need to burn out my anger about the failure or refusal by many of our brothers and sisters from the northern part of the country at the National Conference to see the problems in the oil-bear-ing states, or the Niger Delta re-gion, as a national crisis affect-ing the entire nation and which requires a national resolution.

Trust me: Nothing can justi-fy why they ended plenary this Monday and left unsettled key national issues: the disagree-ments over derivation, resource control and the formula to be adopted by the three tiers of government for sharing funds from the Federation Account. Adjourning their meeting till August 4 to adopt the report of the conference before it is sub-mitted to the federal govern-ment, chairman of the confer-ence Justice Idris Kutigi said the 50 “wise men” and the chair-men and deputy chairmen of the 20 committees established by the delegates had agreed that the federal government should set up a technical committee to address the controversial issues. It is a big shame!

Before the adjournment, the so-called ‘‘wise men’’ and the leadership of the 20 commit-tees had claimed that they had agreed that the principle of der-ivation shall be constantly re-flected in any approved formu-la as being not less than 18 per cent of the revenue accruing to the Federation Account directly from any natural resources; that not less than 50 per cent of the

Niger Delta: Where The Vultures Feast

total derivation funds accru-able to a mineral-bearing state shall be due and made available to the host communities with-in the state where the resources are derived in accordance with the production quota contrib-uted by such communities; and that there shall be established a Solid Mineral Development Fund, which is currently 3 per cent of the federal government account referred to by the com-mittee; it shall be increased to 5 per cent and will be applied to solid minerals development in the states.

From debateable issues, it was obvious last week that the delegates could not agree on the zones that would benefit from the proposed 5 per cent fund. Indeed, while the northern del-egates insisted that the fund must be enjoyed by the three zones in the region -- north-east, north-west and north-central -- the southern dele-gates were of the view that the fund must be made available to all the zones in the country.

Those who opposed the Ni-ger Delta’s demands may have their reasons but what they may have arrogantly ignored is the economic, political and se-curity implications of their ac-tion. In their quest to play eth-nic politics, they were careless in throwing up new problems in the Niger Delta region. For me, the action of those who

opposed the increase in reve-nue accruing to the Niger Del-ta from the Federation Account is a continuation of the hostili-ty that started in the region at the dawn of colonialism, which many experts agreed aggra-vated in the postcolonial era when oil was first discovered. Check it: the natural resource, oil mineral, has been the mat-ter of the present-day Nigeri-an politics, and the Niger Del-ta remains the field on which the ferocious, cruel and crimi-nal battle to control this mon-ey spinner is waged. Historical evidences have also shown that the civil war that destroyed the old Eastern Region from 1967 to 1970 was not about main-taining the unity and integri-ty of the country as twisted by those who perpetrated the war crimes but a desperate strategy by the thieving elite – the same evil forces -- to recover the oil fields of the Niger Delta from Biafra. Indeed, during his un-just trial by the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha, the famous Nigerian author and environmentalist, Ken Saro-Wi-wa, who was hanged alongside eight other Ogoni indigenes by the Abacha military junta, made the same sound argument.

After the federal forces de-feated Biafra, a procedure of internal colonization started, which some forces still want to sustain today. But I predict that

this political violence being in-flicted on the Niger Delta region and carefully but criminally de-signed as part of the strategy to maintain the present iniq-uitous political and economic structures in our country will in no long time backfire. And it might be too late then to man-age the crisis.

Since oil was discovered in the Niger Delta, successive govern-ments, whether military or ci-vilian, have refused to act re-sponsibly to the oil-producing states. In protecting their nar-row and selfish interests, the same forces have fashioned il-legal and immoral state of chaos and neglect in the Niger Delta. And it is extremely impossible to quantify the quantity of inju-ry these characters along with the multinationals have done to the people of the region. As many rational human beings can attest to, the Niger Del-ta used to be a region blessed with many natural resources. Many environmentalists have said -- and rightly so -- that the region used to have more fresh-water fish species than any oth-er coastal system in West Africa. As a matter of fact, the World Bank has drawn the world’s at-tention to the region’s signifi-cance as home to a great variety of threatened coastal and estu-arine fauna and flora, and can-vassed the need for us to pre-serve the biodiversity of the place because of its prosperous biological possessions.

As many researchers have re-vealed, some of the damage al-ready done in the region could not be reversed: just about 32 square miles of mangrove has been cut by multinationals op-erating in the eastern division alone in the course of their seis-mic operations and extensive fauna and flora have been shat-tered, barred, or smashed be-yond repair during the period. The Niger Delta should not be a place where the vultures – the political elite who do not mean well for the region -- continue to feast on. Time has come for those who want enduring peace in the Niger Delta to assist in finding a solution to the crim-inal neglect, poverty and un-derdevelopment of the region. Time is running out for the vul-tures.

A village in Niger Delta

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 52

Iraqi MPs broke their deadlock on Tuesday and elected a new speaker of parliament, taking the � rst formal step towards forming a new government that is widely seen as crucial to confronting rebels who have

overrun much of the country.� e legislature voted

on Tuesday to pick Sunni lawmaker, Salim al-Juburi, as the new speaker with 194 votes in the 328-seaat parliament.

Cambodian opposition sup-porters have clashed with police in the capital Phnom Penh after they attempted to re-open a protest site, in de� -ance of a ban on political gath-

erings.Dozens of people were hurt

in the clashes, and three oppo-sition members of parliament were detained after the protest yesterday.

At least 89 people have been killed and dozens injured in a suicide attack at a busy market in eastern Afghanistan’s Paktika province, local o� cials say.

� ey say the attacker drove a

4x4 vehicle into the market in Orgun district and detonated the explosives.

� e market was full of people doing their shopping for the Muslim festival Ramadan at the time of the attack.

➎ Iraq MPs Break Deadlock, Elect Speaker

➏ Dozens Wounded As Protesters, Police Clash In Cambodia

➐ Afghan Market Car Bomb Kills 89 In Paktika Province

worldNEWS

Israel has resumed its air strikes on Hamas-controlled Gaza, after Israel’s brief truce was met with continuing rocket � re.

Israel had earlier accepted an Egyptian cease� re proposal and halted operations yesterday morning.

Several rockets have reportedly hit the airport in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, where � ghting between rival armed groups has been raging since Sunday.

Several Grad rocket struck the airport late on Monday, destroying 90 per cent of the planes parked there, government spokesman Ahmed Lamine said.

➊ Israel Restarts Air Strikes Amid Rocket Fire

➋ Planes Destroyed As Rockets Hit Libya Airport

➋ ➊

➌➍➎

British prime minister, David Cameron, has appointed his former defence minister Philip Hammond as foreign minister in a major cabinet reshu� e.

“Philip Hammond is the new Foreign Secretary,” Cameron announced on his o� cial Twitter feed.

A Ukrainian military transport plane has been shot down along the country’s eastern border with Russia, but all eight people onboard managed to escape safely, the defence ministry has said.

Separatist rebels in con� ict-wracked eastern Ukraine claimed responsibility for downing the Antonov-26, but Ukrainian o� cials blamed Moscow.

➌ Philip Hammond Appointed UK Foreign Minister

➍ Ukrainian Military Transport Plane Shot Down

➐➏

WHEN IT COMES TO PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES, THE CELL PHONE REMAINS THE GADGET OF CHOICE TO MANY PEOPLE

Percentage of American adults who own each device

85%59%

52%47%

42%11%

5%

Gadget Ownership

0 20 40 60 80 100

Cell phone

Desktop computerLaptop computerMp3 player

Game consoleTablet computer

E-book reader

INFOGRAPHICS BYMatthew Akhabue

76%of Americans own

either a desktop or laptop computer

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 53

Follow these reports on leadership.ng/sports

Sani Ndanusa, NOC President

We are hoping to hold the maiden OSOM Games in Kaduna. We

have communicated with the Kaduna State Governor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, through the state’s Commissioner of Youth and Sports

Kaduna To Host Maiden OSOM Games – NdanusaMassive German reception on arrival in Berlin

BY GBenGa adeBoYe, Abeokuta

Ogun State Government yesterday inaugurated thirty-two sports asso-ciations to administer the various sports for a good show at the next National Sports Festival in Cross River State in November.

The inauguration took place at the Obas Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta and was conducted by Commissioner of Youth and Sports, Lanre Tejuoso, assisted by Chair-man House Assembly Committee on Sports,Femi Allen-Taylor.

In his inauguration speech, Lanre Tejuoso called on members to ded-icate themselves to move sports in the state to higher level, adding that Ogun State youths must be

convinced that sporting activities is not meant for school drop outs, rather is a sure avenue to building a career, fame and fortune.

The Commissioner also noted that, it is expected of every associ-ation to market its games and look for sponsorship for its develop-ment, stressing that each associa-tion is charged with the responsibil-ity of staging state championships at least twice in a year.

He emphasised that, all associa-tions will be measured with the per-formances of their state teams at nationally organised competitions, just as he equally noted that gov-ernment alone cannot face all the challenges in the development of sports.

NNL: Supreme Court Plots Revenge Against Wikki TouristsBY Salifu uSMan, Abuja

As the Nigeria National League (NNL) resumes today after a month of no-action follow-ing directive by FIFA that no league should be on during the just concluded FIFA World Cup in Brazil, Supreme Court FC of Abuja have vowed to fight hard

for the rest of the season. The Apex Boys, as the Abuja

based club are called, who just returned from a training tour in Ogun State where they were exposed to vital football rudi-ments and strategies will host table toppers, Wikki Tourists of Bauchi today in grudge match. Speaking ahead of the encoun-

ter, Supreme court Captain, Edoka Owoicho assured that the club is determined to con-front any team with all their arsenals. “I can assure our fans that we are much ready to con-front any team. We are well mo-tivated and the management of the club has also spent so much in making sure we are exposed.

World Champions Germany Get Heroic Welcome

Newly-crowned world champions appeared tired but overjoyed as they arrived in Berlin yesterday morning, proving that sleep is overrated when you have just won the FIFA World Cup. Philipp Lahm and his team-mates touched down at Tegel Airport at 10.08am local time to continue their marathon celebration with the fans at home.

Supporters had already been streaming onto Berlin’s Fan Mile from Brandenburg Gate to the Victory Column hours before their heroes were due to arrive, desperate to ensure they did not miss a minute of the party. Fans also eagerly gathered

on the airport’s observation deck in the hope of catching the first glimpse of their returning heroes. Excitement reached fever pitch when the aircraft finally came to a standstill on Tegel’s tarmac having completed an extra ‘lap of honour’ over Fan Mile. The door opened and a beaming Philipp Lahm stepped out of the Boeing 747-8 with the Trophy in his hands. “We’re going for it and will celebrate as hard as we play,” promised Thomas Muller before joining his team-mates on a black bus, followed by an open truck, on their way to celebrate the triumph together with fans at the Brandenburg Gate.

BY onJeWu diCKSon, Abuja

The Golden Eaglets of Nigeria has received tutelage on rudiments of the game from a FIFA Licensed referee Michael Usie. He availed the U-17 national team, his experience and stipulated laws of the game. At an interactive session at the team’s Princeville Hotel Camp in

Calabar yesterday, Usie a Nigeria Premier League referee and International referee since 2008 dwelled on the vexed Law 11 and 12 which respectively emphasised on offside rules and; fouls and misconduct. “It is very necessary that you know the rules guiding the game

becauseyou make the referees’ job

easier when you understand the rules,” stated 37-year-old Usie.

Usie who incidentally officiated the Golden Eaglets’ goalless draw against Nationwide Division Two side, Anantigha Stars on Saturday,

used the opportunity to address glaring errors committed by the players.

He warned the players against taking law into their hands since the only constituted authority is the centre referee and his assistants.

“Both the centre referee and the assistants work hand-in-hand and you must respect them,” he admonished.emmanuel amuneke

Eaglets Receive Lecture From FIFA Referee

BY onJeWu diCKSon, Abuja

Plans are being concluded for Kaduna to host the maiden edition of the One Service One Medal (OSOM) Games, as letters conveying intent has been forwarded to the Kaduna State Ministry of Sports for approval.

President, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engineer Sani Ndanusa disclosed this in an interview with LEADERSHIP Sports at the ANOCA office in Abuja.

According to him, Kaduna is being proposed because of the excellent sports facilities located

in the city.“We are hoping to hold the

maiden OSOM Games in Kaduna. We have communicated with the Kaduna State Governor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, through the state’s Commissioner of Youth and Sports and we are expecting response which we are optimistic will be on the positive side,” he added.

Speaking further, Ndanusa said that another reason Kaduna was chosen is because it boasts of several military and para military formations, which is an added advantage, since those that would be participating would be drawn from there.

“Kaduna will be a good host for the Games because it has the entire requirement in terms of facilities and we are also happy that the city has been enjoying relative peace,’ he added.

It would be recalled that recently, the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the NOC held the inaugural OSOM meeting at the National Stadium, Abuja, where directors of sports of all the military and para military formations in the country were present.

OSOM is aimed at discovering talented sportsmen and women that would win laurels for Nigeria at international meets. ndanusa

Ogun Inaugurates 32 Sports Associations

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 54

Action from closing ceremony of Brazil 2014

FG Orders Audit Of NFF AccountBY SALIFU USMAN, Abuja

F o l l o w i n g alleged financial embezzlement and gross misappropriation of funds against the Aminu Maigari-led executive committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Federal Government has ordered for immediate audit of the accounts of the federation.

Official of the National Sports Commission (NSC), who disclosed this to LEADERSHIP Sports revealed that the Presidency has also directed the Minister

of Sports and chairman National Sports Commission, Tammy Danagogo to stop any further release of funds to the NFF.

“There was a directive from the Presidency that the minister should stop release of funds to the NFF for now and ensure proper audit of their account,” he said.

The official who spoke on the condition of anonymity said the Federal Government is not happy about how its N253 million monthly allocation to body was being spent as well as how N2.8billion left

behind by Sani Lulu-led administration cannot be accounted for by the Maigari board.

“The former president of NFF, Sani Lulu has said several times that he left N2.8billion in NFF’s account. Nobody from NFF has denied it and the money cannot be accounted for. Every month they also received N253m as monthly allocation from government. Apart from that every tournament they go, government would give them money separately and they would also collect grants from FIFA or CAF for the

same tournament, yet nothing to show and all you hear is complain of lack of funds.

“That was why government insisted that a complete audit of account of NFF should be carried out this time,” he stated.

According to him, the audit will be carried out by a special audit firm and not the internal audit department of the NFF or NSC. “I think it will be carried out by a private audit firm.”

Meanwhile the NFF’s accounts have been frozen until further notice.

National President of The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria JUSUN, Marwan Adamu yesterday denied knowledge of any court sitting in Jos to quash the case involving the Nigeria Football Federation and Mrs Baribote in which FIFA said must be vacated to lift ban on Nigeria. He said their ongoing strike had no connection with the suspension of the NFF by the world football governing body FIFA as a result of the Court Injunction obtained from a high court in Jos.

When asked whether the union could work out a special arrangement where the Court in Jos can at least sit and allow hearing of the case to proceed he said, “such arrangement is not known to me, I am just hearing it from you and there is nobody that will have that arrangement with me”

A football website futaa.com had reported on Monday that FIFA, in its magnanimity, had extended the window to July 17 in order to give

the NFF enough time to withdraw the court case that was instituted by Ruth Baribote, owner of Nembe FC, and also reinstate the Aminu Maigari-led Nigeria Football Federation board or risk an outright ban.

Plateau State Officials of Union have also said they are monitoring the situation around the court in case of any violation and until the strike is called off, the union officials are insisting that there will be no Judicial activities around the court. A visit to the state high court in Bukuru where the interlocutory injunction was filed showed no activities around the court. FIFA Emergency Committee has decided today, 9 July 2014, suspended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) with immediate effect, on account of government interference. The Union officials were to meet with the federal government negotiating team at 4pm yesterday.

NFF: Judiciary Association Boss Denies Knowledge Of Court Sitting In Jos

Costa Completes Transfer To ChelseaAtletico Madrid striker Diego Costa has completed his transfer to Chelsea on a five-year deal.

The fee for the 25-year-old Spain international is understood to be £32m.

“I am very happy to sign for Chelsea,” Costa said. “Everybody knows it is a big club in a very competitive league, and I am very excited to get started in England.”

Costa becomes Chelsea’s

third summer signing following the arrivals of Cesc Fabregas and Mario Pasalic.

The striker scored 36 goals in 52 games for Atletico last term as they won their first La Liga title since 1996 and

reached the Champions League final.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho had made the addition of a “killer” striker a key priority during the summer.

Financial Regulation Of Clubs Key To Professionalism – AkinbamiBY oNjewU dIckSoN, Abuja

The coordinator of the forum for Better Organised Nigeria League, Mr Vincent Akinbami has called on the managers of all the leagues in the country to take financial regulation of the club as very essential in ensuring that our football clubs are ran professionally.

He stated this while speaking at the forum held yesterday in Kaduna.

According to him, “We talk so much about our clubs being ran professionally and tend to think we can get it right without regulations and ensuring clubs adhere to such regulations .We are faced with so many government owned clubs who are not ready to do things professionally and even the privately owned clubs that are not anything close to being ran professionally.

“So it is up to the league

boards or management to put structures in place that will see these clubs comply and transform them into professional sides.”

Vincent Akinbami who is a chartered accountant and also the Media Officer of Ranchers Bees FC said that there are some things the league board need to require from the clubs to make them look like well ran professional football clubs and put checks in their

activities, like ensuring they submit their list of directors, financial statement and tax clearance certificates before the kick-off of a new season.

He advocated that, it should also be ensured that all clubs’ financial transactions pass through the club’s bank account, enforcing the classification of players’ contract in the financial statement as intangible asset and submission of bank statement.

Maigari

Tammy danagogo, Minister of Sports

Wednesday, July 16, 2014 sports 55

the best contraceptive is a glass of cold water: not before or after, but instead

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GHANA MUST GO

— Pakistani delegate, at the International Planned Parenthood Conference

We must protect ourselves by first know-ing the facts about Ebola

— Gov Sule Lamido

for god and countrY16.07.14 WEDNESDAY

A s we watch man threaten its very existence with its inhumanity to itself, our focus is very dangerously taken off a

bigger peril. While we plant bombs and launch arsenals in a bid to win unwarranted wars, a silent war against the human race is being declared by an even bigger threat to humanity. An ongoing epidemic of the Ebola virus is spreading throughout West Africa. The world’s deadliest ever Ebola epidemic in West Africa is currently ravaging many communities in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, among others.

So far, the World Health Organization has reported a total of 888 Ebola cases including 539 deaths since February this year. In a statement, the organization expressed how dire the situation has become by labeling it a “precarious” one which had surged at an unprecedented level. Figures released by WHO in April indicate that there have been 157 suspected cases, including 101 deaths recorded. Essentially, what we are witnessing is the slippery slope that has the potential of leading to the most severe outbreak of Ebola ever in recorded history, both in the number of cases and fatalities.

In Liberia, there have been 21 cases, including 10 fatalities, of which five have been confirmed as Ebola. Mali has seen nine suspected cases, with tests so far showing two of them did not have the virus. Also, one death has been recorded in Ghana after the outbreak started. Various organizations including the US Center for Disease Control, European Commission, and ECOWAS have been donating funds and have mobilized personnel to help counter the outbreak. Heads of West African governments have met under WHO’s auspices and have agreed on a coordinated regional strategy; however, much more is needed in terms of effort, cooperation and funds due to the severity of the disease. And much more is required from every single person living in the West African region, in terms of awareness.

Ebola was first discovered in 1976 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire). The threat of Ebola cannot be underestimated by any of us or by the governments within the region of West Africa. It is a ruthless killer, one of the world’s deadliest viruses ever seen, killing up to 90 percent of those infected. Much like so many other incurable and ruthless diseases before it, the public is somewhat carefree about learning the facts of it, until it becomes an epidemic that has gone out of control. At this very point, the Ebola virus is a huge threat to all of humanity but it is a threat that can be brought under control because it is still in the early stages.

We must protect ourselves by first knowing the facts about Ebola and doing everything possible to prevent its spread. We must empower ourselves with knowledge of the symptoms to look for, and our governments must immediately start a nationwide awareness scheme.

The disease itself is contracted through contact with infected blood or through the exchange of body fluids from an infected person or animal. Early symptoms of the disease include fever, headache, chills, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, backache, and joint pains. Later symptoms include bleeding from the eyes, ears and nose, bleeding from the mouth and rectum, eye swelling, swelling of the genitals and rashes all over the body that often contain blood. It could progress to coma, shock and death.

Presently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for the Ebola disease but anyone infected must be admitted into hospital as soon as possible if they are to have any chance of survival. Managerial treatment of the disease needs cooperation from local communities to allow screening and contact-tracing of suspected cases, and then infected persons would be quarantined in properly equipped treatment centers.

The view from Nigeria is extremely disturbing. The news that the virus has reached Ghana, where a single US citizen was said to have allegedly contracted it, is one that Nigerians

Furthermore, the government should ensure that health workers and practitioners have all the information they need in addition to protective gear such as gloves.

While we ponder the sub-regional scourge of the Ebola virus, its fatal effects, the current threat to Nigeria and the realization that there is currently no cure for the disease, halting the spread of the virus would require the efforts of every Nigerian. Everyone should be involved and be on the lookout for any signs of the disease. Everyone should do their bit by protecting themselves, ensuring that their environments are highly maintained and also improve on their personal hygiene such as washing their hands often. We must establish methods and practices of disinfection, cleanliness, observation of contacts, rodent control and precaution in interaction that requires the exchange of bodily fluids. Infection can occur through eating fruits that have been contaminated with the virus by bats. As a result of this, it is vital to wash fruit before consuming it. Likewise, the creative manner in which Nigerians consume bush meat has to be carried out with caution, because if we have learnt anything from these kinds of diseases, it is that their natural reservoir is usually wild animals, especially wild monkeys and wild rodents.

and the government of Nigeria need to take very seriously. Presently, there has only been that single case reported in Ghana, but that one case is all the warning we need.

The question now is: exactly how prepared is Nigeria to prevent and combat this scourge, in the event it needs to? Is the federal government equipped enough to forestall or limit the Ebola plague if indeed it needed to do so? Since the federal government is currently inundated with a profound level of insecurity in the nation, primarily by insurgents, does it have the wherewithal to pre-empt such a plague?

Proactively, other countries across West Africa have begun bracing themselves against the epidemic, with countries like Senegal closing the border it shares with Guinea. Liberia and Guinea are currently doing all they can to try and control the virus from spreading further. While Nigeria has not reported a case of Ebola, the federal government through the minister of health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, recently admitted that there is a real threat to Nigeria judging by the rate at which the virus has been moving.

The minister said that, despite the threat, preemptive measures have been taken by the federal government such as the production of information leaflets. But that measure is just not adequate enough in preventing the entry of the deadly virus into the nation’s borders. It is outrageous to think that the mere sharing of leaflets is adequate enough to fight a killer like Ebola. The problem of our porous borders must be addressed, not only to combat security but monitor the influx of disease as well. A ferocious awareness and sensitization campaign, giving the public information on the risk factors and protective measures of Ebola through mainstream media, social media, in hospitals, schools, markets, industries and government offices must be launched immediately.

The awareness campaign should be educative, particularly in pointing out that the virus is highly infectious and has no known cure or vaccine.

The Wednesday

Columnhannatu Musawa hannatu@leadership.ng

A Bigger Threat To Humanity