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NERC, Discos Review Third-party Meter Rollout Next Week Metering not solution to power sector challenges, says Ikeja Disco Chineme Okafor in Abuja, Peter Uzoho and Esther Oluku in Lagos The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) will next week

in Lagos meet with the 11 electricity distribution companies (Discos) in Nigeria’s power sector to assess the take-off and implementation of the third-party meter deployment scheme, Meter

Asset Providers (MAPs), initiated by the regulatory agency, THISDAY has learnt. However, as the date for the MAPs to begin rolling out meters to all electricity consumers enters the third

day, the Chairman of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC), Mr. Kola Adesina, has said only meter rollout will not solve the problem facing the power sector in the country.

THISDAY also gathered that many Discos did meet NERC’s May 1 deadline for the conclusion of their selection of MAPs. However, the regulator has insisted that all Discos must

engage a MAP, and was in this regard pushing to see these Discos conclude theirs immediately. “The roll out commenced Continued on page 6

OPEC Does Not Politicise Crude Oil, Says Barkindo... Page 8 Friday 3 May, 2019 Vol 24. No 8789. Price: N250

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Insecurity Worsens as Bandits Attack Zamfara School, Abduct Students, Teachers House resolves to summon Buhari

Adedayo Akinwale and Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja Bandits terrorising the Northwest of the country were at the height of their criminal enterprise on Wednesday night, attacking Government Girls Secondary School, Moriki in Zuru Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State, where they kidnapped six persons, including students and teachers. BBC Hausa Service quoted

the resident of the area as saying that the attack took place while some residents were watching the Champions League match between Liverpool Football Club of England and Barcelona Football Club of Spain. The news of the attack broke just as the House of Representatives resolved to summon President Muhammadu Buhari to come Continued on page 8

178 Bipartisan Members-elect Endorse Gbajabiamila for Speaker Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja As the race for the speakership of the ninth House of Representatives gets tighter, the aspiration of the Majority Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to become the next speaker got a major boost yesterday with 178 new members-elect across party lines endorsing him. The 178 new members-elect with a handful of ranking

members, who are members of his campaign organisation, converged on the Chelsea Hotel, Central Business District Abuja, where they held a closed-door meeting and threw their weight behind Gbajabiamila. Briefing journalists along with his colleagues after the meeting, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart and Speaker of the Akwa-Ibom State House of Assembly, Continued on page 6

NETWORKING FOOTBALL... L-R: Lagos State governor-elect, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Amaju Pinnick; and Ogun State governor-elect, Prince Dapo Abiodun, at the UBA CEO Awards Night in Lagos... recently

FG: Nigeria’s Unemployment Rate Reaches 33.5% by 2020… Page 6

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FG: Nigeria’s Unemployment Rate Reaches 33.5% by 2020 Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The federal government has raised the alarm that the country’s unemployment rate would reach 33.5 per cent by 2020. Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, said this yesterday in Abuja while declaring open a two-day workshop on “Breaking the Resilience of High Unemployment Rate in the Country.� He said that the increase in the rate of unemployment in the country was alarming. According to him, the high unemployment rate of 23.1 per cent, and underemployment of 16.6 per cent by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of 2019 report was worrisome. He said: “It is a worrisome status as the global poverty capital (World Bank, 2018); and concomitant high prevalence rate of crimes and criminality, including mass murders, insurgency, militancy, armed robbery, kidnappings and drug abuse, among others. “As if this situation is not

scary enough, it is projected that the unemployment rate for this country will reach 33.5 per cent by 2020, with consequences that are better imagined, if the trend is not urgently reversed. “It is a thing of joy to note that Nigeria has not been resting on her oars over the years in terms of dedicated efforts to curb the unemployment problem.� Ngige said that various government social intervention programmes targeted at reducing youth unemployment and eradicating poverty, have been implemented by different administrations since Nigeria gained independence. The minister also said that available records showed that between 1972 to date, about 14 different programmes have been implemented. He said that these programmes included the National Accelerated Food Production Programme (NAFPP), implemented between 1972 and 1973; the current National Social Investment Programme (NSIP),

which has been ongoing since 2017, and embedded in the National Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020. He noted that yet, the unemployment rate and poverty levels are on steady paths of growth, indicating high resilience against the intervention efforts. The minister wondered why some of the intervention efforts were not yielding expected results. “What is the government and other stakeholders not doing right? What changes are needed in the policies, plans and strategies? “What action areas need priority attention? What roles should different stakeholders play and what other options are not being exploited? “Why do we employ expatriates for jobs Nigerians can do or why can´t Nigerians do these jobs? Why do we have deficits in housing, water, sanitation, food, entertainment facilities, health care, and education, among others? “How do we deploy our

population of productive age to fill the skills gaps needed for our national development? “How do we break the resilience of high unemployment rate in the country?� Ngige queried. He said these were some of the questions that triggered new thoughts and concepts that led to series of activities that preceded the workshop. Ngige said the workshop was aimed at presenting the outcome of some of government efforts and the commencement of another phase of the processes. He, however, called for a collaborative mechanism that would yield desired results, while assuring that the recommendations from the workshop would receive prompt and sustained attention. In his speech, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr. William Alo, said the workshop was aimed at examining issues around the persistent high unemployment rate in Nigeria. Alo said this was with a view to making concrete

recommendations on how to tackle the menace. “This workshop is very important to the Ministry of Labour and Employment due to the direct relevance of the theme to the ministry’s mandate. “However, the fact remains that the consequences of high unemployment rate in Nigeria affect each and every one of us as individuals and as members of the Nigerian society. “The objectives of this workshop are, therefore, to present the findings of the survey on how to break the resilience of high unemployment rate in Nigeria to the peer community. “To stimulate actions towards exploiting untapped available options for massive job creations; to chart way forward on immediate next steps that would yield measurable results�. On his part, the Country Director, International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Nigeria, Dr. Dennis Zulu, said unemployment was a major concern to the organisation,

especially in Nigeria. “So, we believe, therefore, that if Nigeria addresses the issue of unemployment, it will go a long way to address the whole problem that is faced in Africa to that extent. “Let me say that over the years, we have recognised the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria, where it has approved various initiatives including the adoption of Employment Policy of 2017. “This was approved by the National Executive Council that provides a blueprint for strategies as far as the creation of jobs for Nigerians are concerned. “We have also taken note of the different programmes that have been implemented by the Office of the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo. “These are the N-Power programme, SUREP programme some years ago and many other ongoing programmes, ultimately supposed to contribute to the creation of jobs for young people in Nigeria,’’ Zulu said.

interest of Nigeria above the party. And we have resolved today, to have come from our different states, from our different constituencies and we have found as newly-elected members, having looked through the credentials and the CV, we have found Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila as a man who has a capacity to lead the ninth National Assembly as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. “We know that he is not going to let Nigerians down

and we know and believe that he is not going to let us down and we know and believe that he is not going to let God down.� Gbajabiamila’s list of endorsers had grown longer on Tuesday when he got support from his home zone as Southwest governors, governors-elect and House members-elect subscribed to his aspiration in line with his nomination as the APC’s official candidate for the lower legislative chamber’s top post.

not solve our problem. We still have many other issues within the value chain that need to be solved�. Citing the power outage experienced in the country recently, which he said was caused by a bolt that went off leading to shutting down the pipeline for repair, Adesina stated that as a country, having only one pipeline was not acceptable. He explained: “I give you an instance; recently we had serious power outage in Nigeria. The reason for that was that the gas provider had a leakage on the pipeline, and in solving that leakage, all generation companies had to ramp down their power because they cannot be supplying gas while they are repairing what needed to be repaired. “So, it is a bolt that actually got off within the pipeline. So, they needed to repair that. Now, I say, for us to have a holistic, total, systemic solution, Nigeria should not have just one pipeline supplying gas to different power plants. Nigeria should have multiple gas pipelines to all the power stations that we have, such that if there is shortage in one, they can divert gas all to the other.

But that is one side of the equation as well.� He re-echoed the issue of electricity tariff as another fundamental issue that needs to be addressed in the

178 BIPARTISAN MEMBERS-ELECT ENDORSE GBAJABIAMILA FOR SPEAKER Hon. Onofiuk Luke, said the incoming members, irrespective of their party affiliations resolved to back Gbajabiamila after identifying him as the best candidate in the race. According to Onofiuk, “I am the Speaker of Akwa-Ibom State and here with me are newly elected members of the House of Representatives and this is a conglomeration of people of different parties. I am of the PDP. We have members of the APC here,

we have members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), we have people from Action Alliance (AA), we have people from Allied Congress Party (ACP) and we have people from African Democratic Congress (ADC). It’s a multi-party arrangement. “We decided to convene ourselves as newly elected members of the House of Representatives to look at the emergence of the next leadership of the ninth assembly and in doing so,

we looked through the antecedents and credentials of those who are aspiring to lead the National Assembly and we acknowledge the fact that this country today; with the challenges that we have that we need a bipartisan approach to solve the problem of Nigeria and the person and the man that has shown that credibility, capacity; that has what it takes even as reflected in his manifesto, to carry the entire parties along in resolving and solving the

issues of Nigeria; the man who will not mortgage the independence of the legislature but at the same time would not engage the executive in unnecessary fisticuffs; a man who will build a good relationship between the executive and the legislature, between the legislature and the judiciary; a man who will care about the welfare of Nigerians; a man who will put the interest of Nigeria above his personal interest; and a man, who will put the

NERC, DISCOS REVIEW THIRD-PARTY METER ROLLOUT NEXT WEEK yesterday as contained in the permit. We shall have update from Discos/Permit holders during the NESI (Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry) meeting on Monday, May 6, in Lagos,� a senior official of NERC told THISDAY. NERC, from various notices it released, has indicated that it had issued permits to the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Plc; Yola Electricity Distribution Company Plc; Enugu Electricity Distribution Company Plc; and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc, to engage MAPs. According to the agency, Discos’ MAPs permits were in accordance with section 4(3) of the MAP Regulations- NERCR-112 of 2018. It added that the Port Harcourt Disco appointed Armese Consulting Ltd and Holley Metering Ltd as its MAP; Yola Disco appointed Chris Ejik International Agencies Ltd; while Enugu Disco appointed Mojec International Ltd. Ibadan Disco, NERC said, appointed CWG Plc, Integrated Resources Ltd, Mojec International Ltd, Momas Electricity Meters Manufacturing Company Ltd, New Hampshire Capital Ltd,

Protogy Global Services Ltd and Tinuten Nigeria Limited to provide meters within their respective franchise under the MAP scheme. It also issued permits to Ikeja and Benin Discos to appoint their preferred MAPs, as well as to Abuja and Jos Discos. NERC approved for Ikeja Disco to appoint Mojec International Limited to provide 399,790 meters; Consolidated Infrastructure Group Ltd - 397,922 meters and New Hamshire Capital Ltd - 276,699 meters respectively for it within its franchise network, while Benin Disco got its nod to appoint FLT Energy System Ltd; G-Unit Engineering Ltd; Inlaks Power Solution Ltd; Sabrud Consortium Nigeria Ltd and Turbo Energy Ltd to provide meters within its franchise network. For Abuja Disco, NERC approved Mojec International Limited, Meron Consortium and Turbo Engineering Limited to provide 487,000; 213,000 and 200,000 meters respectively for the distribution company. NERC also approved Triple 7 and Mojec International Limited consortium to provide 500,000 meters to Jos Disco.

The commission had directed that the rollout of meters under the MAP shall commence not later than May 1, 2019, and asked customers of the Discos to expect from the commencement of rollout date for meters to be installed in their premises within 10 working days of making payment to MAPs in accordance with section 18 (3) of the MAP Regulations 2018. It added that MAPs shall charge an upfront amount of N36, 991.50 for single-phase meters and N67, 055.85 for three-phase meters. “These costs of meters are inclusive of supply, installation, maintenance and replacement of meters over its technical life. “The commission shall monitor closely the rollout plan of distribution licensees and overall compliance with the regulation and various service agreements by the MAP and electricity distribution licensees,� the NERC had stated in one of its statements on the scheme. However, out of the 11 Discos, NERC reported that only eight have procured their MAPs. Kaduna, Kano and Eko Discos have not.

Metering Not Solution to Power Sector, Says

Ikeja Disco Meanwhile, the Chairman of Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC), Mr. Kola Adesina, has said only meter rollout will not solve the problem facing the power sector in the country. Adesina, who spoke with journalists on the side-lines of the inauguration of the 2019 Young Engineers Programme (YEP), an initiative of the company, said rather than shifting focus to metering, the federal government and the regulators should recommend a holistic solution to all the fundamental problems in the power sector. He said: “Well, you said it all, yesterday (May 1), was meant to be the first day for meter rollout. I believe that from today most of them will begin to see how fast they can rollout the meters. My own view has always been this: when you have a problem of this nature, it is a holistic solution that you need to recommend. “But because the narratives for the power sector have shifted to metering as above the key solutions here, we want to see whether that alone can solve the problem. But I know that alone will

Continued on page 8

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NGN NGN 0.03 0.33 0.15 1.65 0.27 2.97 3.20 35.30 1.70 18.80 NGN 0.20 1.85 0.04 0.40 1.35 14.00 UNITYBANK 0.05 0.80 NASCON 0.90 18.10 HPE Nestle Nig Plc â‚Ś1,580.00 Volume: 543.924 million shares Value: N8.199 billion Deals: 4,682 As at yesterday 2/5/19 See details on Page 43

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OPEC Does Not Politicise Crude Oil, Says Barkindo Producers to review output cut deal May 19 Ejiofor Alike with agency reports The Secretary General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Mr. Mohammad Barkindo, has said the group does not politicise crude oil. This development is coming as OPEC and other oil-producing countries led by Russia will on May 19 review their agreement to cut down on oil output to prevent an energy crisis. Barkindo’s clarification followed accusations by Iran that the United States is using oil as political weapon against Tehran. Crude oil prices hit their highest since November in recent days after the United States said all waivers for those importing sanctions-hit Iranian oil would end this week, pressuring importers to stop buying from Tehran and thus, tightening global supply. Washington has demanded that buyers of Iranian oil stop purchases by May 1 or

face sanctions, thus ending six months of waivers that had allowed Iran’s eight top customers, most of them in Asia, to import limited volumes. Iran’s oil minister, Bijan Zanganeh, on Wednesday warned against the use of oil sanctions “as a weapon� by the United States and the damage it was doing to OPEC. Another OPEC founding member, Venezuela, is also the subject of United States sanctions on its oil exports to bring about political and economic change. Zanganeh warned that nations that use oil as a weapon will bring about the collapse of OPEC. “Those who use oil as a weapon against two founding members of OPEC are disturbing the unity of OPEC and creating the death and collapse of OPEC and the responsibility for that is with them,� Zanganeh said in a speech at an oil and gas conference in Tehran, according to Iranian news agency, SHANA.

Barkindo America will not, however, be able to bring Iran’s oil exports to zero and the Islamic Republic’s neighbours are exaggerating claims of their oil production capacity that could make up for any shortfall, Zanganeh said, according to the Mehr news agency. Iran would not leave OPEC though, the chief executive of the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC), Masoud Karbasian, said on Wednesday, according to SHANA. Iran is examining new ways to sell its oil, Zanganeh said, according to the Islamic

Republic News Agency (IRNA). He did not provide details. But Barkindo said yesterday at an oil and gas exhibition in the Iranian capital that “OPEC tries to depoliticise oil,� Iran’s oil ministry reported on Twitter. “I have told my colleagues at OPEC that you must leave your passports home when coming to this organisation,� Barkindo was quoted as saying. Asked by a reporter if it was technically possible to implement United States sanctions against Tehran, Barkindo said: “It is impossible to eliminate Iranian oil from the market.� Echoing Zanganeh’s comments, Barkindo said “We have faced troubles in the OPEC in the last 60 years, but we have resolved them by unity.� “What is happening in Iran, Venezuela or Libya has an impact on all the market and the energy sector,� Barkindo said. Meanwhile, Iran’s regional rival, Saudi Arabia has welcomed the US move to end all sanction waivers, and

has said it is ready to meet oil consumers’ demand by replacing supplies from Tehran. Oil markets had tightened this year due to supply cuts led by OPEC. White House said after its Iran move that it was working with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to ensure oil markets were “adequately supplied�. Iran’s oil industry was standing up to the pressure from U.S. sanctions, Ahmad Mohammadi, the head of the National Iranian South Oil Company (NISOC) said on Wednesday, according to SHANA. Meanwhile, OPEC and other producers led by Russia, have unveiled plans to review their agreement to cut down on oil output. “We are conscious of the times that we have found ourselves. But the good news is that talking to all member countries we remain committed, we remain focused on our principal objective as an organisation to ensure stability

at all times in the oil market, to ensure that we avoid any energy crisis that will impact on the global economy,� Barkindo explained yesterday. OPEC and Russia-led oil producing countries, which formed a group tagged as OPEC+, had agreed to reduce excess inventories in the global market by removing 1.2 million barrels per day of crude oil from the market effective January 1, to raise prices. A Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC) meeting is scheduled to take place on May 19 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for both groups to review the pact. “All I can say is that the group is committed to stay united, is committed to ensure that our objective of not returning or slipping back into the chaos that we witnessed in the market following the longest cycle that we have seen from 2014 to 2016 does not repeat itself, including the volatility that we have seen in the fourth quarter of 2018,� Barkindo added.

INSECURITY WORSENS AS BANDITS ATTACK ZAMFARA SCHOOL, ABDUCT STUDENTS, TEACHERS and explain how he is tackling the escalating banditry in the country. Buhari also came under attack from the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which yesterday held him responsible for the worsening state of insecurity in the land, saying the president was loitering around the United Kingdom while the nation was under the siege of gun-wielding criminals. A witness that saw the Zamfara attack said the attackers opened fire on the school, killing one man, and abducting two teachers and four nursing students. He, however, said the bandits could not gain access to the dormitory, where majority of the students were sleeping. The spokesperson of the Zamfara State Police Command, Mr. Mohammed Shehu, yesterday confirmed the attack, saying it was carried out by an unidentified number of armed men, who entered through the back fence of the school with intent to abduct students. He, however, claimed that no student was abducted but admitted that five people were missing. According to him, the attackers were confronted and stopped from gaining access to the students' hostels by a combined team of PMF/CTU and Civilian JTF personnel, forcing the gunmen to retreat into the bush. He revealed that two caterers and three of their children were later discovered to be missing. He said: "The police is collaborating with the school authority to establish the whereabouts of the missing persons. To this end, a search and rescue operation team has been dispatched to the surrounding bushes for an extensive bush combing. "Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in the school and its environment to forestall further happening." Shehu appealed to members of the public to be very vigilant and report any suspicious character to the police for

prompt response. There has been an escalation of banditry and kidnapping in the North-west states of Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna. The Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Mr. Muhammed Mahmood, and his daughter and several travellers were kidnapped along the Abuja-Kaduna Road, a couple of days ago. Mahmood and his daughter were released on Tuesday but it was not clear whether a ransom was paid to secure their release. Meanwhile, a journalist with a strong links to the leaders of Boko Haram insurgents, Mr. Ahmad Salkida, has raised the alarm that some Boko Haram factions, as well as members of the Islamic State in the West African Province (ISWAP), were gradually infiltrating the North-west. In a tweet on Tuesday, Salkida said: “Zamfara in the last 7 days, like the week before it, reveals how the military and the armed groups are engaged in a cat-and-mouse game. Human life remains short and brutish, as about 100 people were abducted and over 30 killed in the past week alone.� On that same Tuesday, bandits attacked Gobirawa and Sabawa villages in Safana LGA of Katsina State, killing 10 people and rustling an unspecified number of cattle. On Wednesday, gunmen attacked Daura, Buhari’s hometown in Katsina State, and abducted the district head of the town, Alhaji Musa Umar, who is also the father-in-law to Buhari’s Aide de Camp (ADC).

House Resolves to Summon Buhari In the meantime, the House of Representatives has resolved to invite the president to appear before it to explain the measures he is taking to curb the growing rate of insecurity in Nigeria. The resolution followed an amendment to a motion of urgent national importance by Hon. Dayyabu Safana, urging

lawmakers to propose to the Buhari-led federal government to impose state of emergency in Safana/Batsari/Dan-Musa Federal Constituency, Katsina State as a way to curb armed banditry. In his motion titled: ‘Urgent Need for Federal Government’s Intervention on the Ongoing Wanton Killing of Innocent Persons, Destruction of Properties, Armed Robbery and Kidnapping by Heavily Armed Bandits Operating within Safana I Batsari/Dan Musa Federal Constituency of Katsina State, Safana had harped on the need for actions that would quickly end the massive killings in the area. According to Safana, “The recent spate of attacks on members of my constituency has reached an alarming stage as the perpetrators of this dastardly act continuously kill innocent persons in my constituency and set their homes ablaze while defenceless men and women are abducted to an unknown destination. “Up to four villages within my constituency are currently under attack in the last 48 hours namely, Kasai Village in Batsari L.G.A, where no fewer than five persons have been killed; Alhazawa village in Safana L.G.A had been totally displaced; Guzurawa village in Safana L.G.A also had several persons murdered in cold blood; and just yesterday, Gobirawa village came under attack with no fewer than 12 bodies littered in the bush while many are still missing. “These killings have continued unabated and these bandits seem to be unstoppable with a specific instance at Gobirawa village in Safana L.G.A where the bereaved villagers were forced to abandon the corpses during the burial and scampered for safety when they sighted the bandits coming back to lunch another offensive.� After debating the motion, the House considered his call to the federal government to deploy the military to the areas under attack to assist the police and other security

agencies in flushing out the criminal elements operating in the constituency. It also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to urgently provide relief materials to the victims of the attacks in line with Section 60 of NEMA Act. The lawmakers condemned the ongoing attacks on various communities within Safana/ Batsari/Dan Musa Federal Constituency of Katsina State and other parts of Nigeria by heavily armed bandits on virtually daily basis.

PDP Blames President for Escalation of Banditry Reacting to the worsening insecurity in the country, the PDP accused the president of paying limited attention to the escalation of insecurity in the country, saying this has emboldened insurgents and bandits to continue to over-run communities, unleash mayhem and bloodletting on citizens in Borno, Zamfara, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe Taraba, Kaduna, Benue, Kogi and other states of the federation. Its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement yesterday, called on Buhari to immediately return home and use the remaining part of his first tenure to seek help instead of wandering abroad under

the guise of private visits to the UK. He stated: “President Buhari’s inattention has emboldened insurgents and bandits to continue to over-run communities, unleash mayhem and bloodletting on citizens in Borno, Zamfara, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe Taraba, Kaduna, Benue, Kogi and other states of the federation, including Mr. President’s home state, Katsina. “While President Buhari wanders abroad, bandits are having a field day, pillaging communities in Katsina State; killing several persons and abducting the District Head of his hometown, Daura, Musa Umar; the father in-law of Mr. President’s security aide.� Ologbondiyan noted that within this period, marauders invaded communities in Adamawa and killed no fewer than 26 innocent Nigerians; many more had been killed in Borno, Taraba, Benue and Zamfara States. The main opposition party described as completely unacceptable for Buhari to practically abandon his responsibilities, as the Commander-In-Chief, ‘at least for now,' to pursue unexplained private matters in foreign lands, while bandits, marauders and insurgents seize the nation; maim, kidnap and kill citizens with reckless abandon. According to him, “While the Buhari administration

remains virtually nonchalant, kidnappers have taken over many of our major highways, with hundreds of compatriots held in captivity in forests along Kaduna-Abuja, Taraba-KatsinaAla and other highways in the country.� The PDP spokesman added that it was clear that the president had not demonstrated required capacity to control the insecurity situation and now resorts to cheap escapism, particularly in the face of allegations in the public space that certain individuals around his administration are benefitting from the situation. Ologbondiyan said Buhari has completely failed the nation, stressing that his dereliction to duty is a clear signal that he has been practically overwhelmed, deflated and has nothing to offer. He noted that the situation in Nigeria today signposts the terrible condition the country will face if the presidential mandate is not retrieved at the tribunal to enable competent and uncompromised hands to run the affairs of the country. He said there are allegations that some of the bandits arrested, in states such as Katsina, are not Nigerians but aliens allegedly “imported by the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Niger Republic to assist it in unleashing violence and rigging the 2019 general election.�

NERC, DISCOS REVIEW THIRD-PARTY METER ROLLOUT NEXT WEEK power sector, saying without a cost-reflective tariff in place, stable, uninterrupted power supply might not be achieved as desired by Nigerians. According to him, “Once there is cost reflective tariff and all the relevant critical enablers apart from tariff, are made available, investors and business will all fall suit. They will want to make more money doing the business and they will want to make legitimate money doing this business. “If the cost of generation is N10 and tariff is N6, you can’t get power. If the tariff

methodology is very clear; if the generation companies are charging to power companies, using the exchange rate of N305 to a dollar, therefore, the distribution companies must use the exchange rate of N305 to charge the customers for the power they are consuming. “But today, the distribution companies are using N199 to $1. I am sure none of you can get a dollar at 199. So if the equipment required by distribution companies are being gotten at N360 per dollar, which is even the open market rate, then there

is a big issue that somebody needs to speak to here. “They cannot be using N199 as the exchange rate for distribution companies to you and I the consumer, and whereas the generation companies use N305 to charge to the distribution companies. So somebody is losing money and it is the distribution companies.� Adesina called for the review of electricity tariff, saying tariff review was supposed to have been done for six times since the last review but that that has not happened till date.

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Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike Email Ejiofor.Alike@thisdaylive.com, 08066066268

Senate Invites NPA, NIMASA, Others over Apapa Gridlock Deji Elumoye in Abuja The Senate Committee on Works has invited the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) over the lingering Apapa gridlock. The Chairman of the committee, Senator Kabiru Gaya, made this known yesterday in a meeting with the management of APM Terminals in Abuja. He further said the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), farm tank owners, manufacturers and other relevant stakeholders have been invited to attend the meeting aimed at finding lasting solution to the problem. Gaya who said the challenge had become an embarrassment to the country, noted that only concerted efforts would bring about lasting solution. “We are expanding the committee to include, Senate Committee on Marine Transport and by next week, we will invite NPA and NIMASA to take a holistic look at the matter. “We will also invite all owners of terminals, manufacturers, tank farm owners and other stakeholders to the meeting. “We cannot wait for one person to find solution to the problem. We have to work together as a team,” he said. He expressed concern that unlike in the past, where terminal operators cleared up to 750 containers a day, “today, with less business, some of the few containers brought to the terminal for clearing spend close to three weeks.” He further decried that in some situations, before containers arrived the terminals, the ships had departed, adding that many

exporters lost millions of naira in the process. The lawmaker said corruption was one of the major factors responsible for the problem. He said, “we have to change the system. Nigeria has to be out of this kind of problem. We need to fight corruption and ensure that the common man gets what he needs to get.” “The most worrisome is that when containers are delayed at the port, the exporters pay more. “The vice president has visited that place twice and when we were in Lagos for oversight; we discussed it with the vice president and he was very worried. “It is unfortunate that some Nigerians who do not want the progress of this country are benefitting so much from this. “If you take a ratio of N100,000 being paid by about 100,000 trucks that are parked on the road per day, it means N100 million is being realised daily. “That is corruption. We just have to fight it and I agree with what President Muhammadu Buhari said that we have to fight corruption else it will kill the country,” he said. Gaya expressed optimism that the trailer park currently under construction in Lagos would soon be completed. He added that it would commence operation in June, stressing that it would help ease congestion while bringing succour to motorists. Speaking on the meeting with APM, Gaya said it was a follow-up on recent oversight embarked upon by the committee to Lagos on the gridlock. He said APM terminals operators have made their

UK Backs Nigeria in Fight against Extremism The United Kingdom’s Foreign Secretary, Mr. Jeremy Hunt, has restated the commitment of the UK to support Nigeria and its neighbours in the fight against Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa. The UK has repeatedly called for the release of all those abducted by Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa and the protection of all civilians. Hunt visited the World Food Programme’s warehouse in Maiduguri, Borno State capital, on the third day of his week-long trip to Africa, where he spoke to people providing life-saving support to millions who have fled their homes following attacks by terrorist groups. He also met with the UK Military Liaison and Support Team, which is working with the Nigerian military. Speaking in Maiduguri, Hunt said: “People are being forced from their homes by the evils of extremism and terrorism. Boko Haram and Islamic State are the antithesis of the values we all hold dear, and we will continue to support Nigeria in the fight to give people secure, prosperous and happy lives”. The UK is providing a substantial and increasing package of security, humanitarian and

development support. This includes training and capacity building for Nigerian armed forces deploying in the North East. The UK has trained over 30,000 Nigerian troops in recent years. As the second largest humanitarian donor, the UK government was one of the first to respond to the crisis, investing £300 million in live-saving aid over five years to reach over 1.5 million of the most vulnerable people. UK support is also addressing root causes of the conflict, helping the Nigerian Government to deliver for its citizens in the longer term, including in health and education. The UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership, signed during the Prime Minister’s visit to the country in 2018, will increase the UK’s co-operation in the fight against terrorist groups and other security challenges. Nigeria needs to plan for civilian-led stabilisation and development in areas where the military has ousted the terrorist groups. Together with international partners, the UK has pledged to continue supporting Nigeria and its neighbours to tackle threats to regional stability.

presentation and submitted relevant documents as requested by the committee for scrutiny. He noted that the company would be expected in next week’s meeting, to help proffer solution to the problem. Earlier, the Managing Director of APM Terminal, Mr. Martins Jacob, said the problem was multifaceted, adding that unless it was tackled holistically, no significant impact would be made. He said one of the major

challenges was lack of access roads. Jacob said the bad road condition and absence of an efficient traffic management system were part of the problem. He also said that issues such as identifying and allowing only truckers with valid transactions into the port area, as well as monitoring and removing idling or broken down trucks from the ports access roads were a challenge. “Poor state of trucks coming to the port, which makes it difficult to

service them, cause a number of breakdowns affecting the terminal operations. “Fatigue on the part of the drivers after the long wait on the port access road also has potentials to cause accident leading to more gridlock,” he said. The managing director stressed that “absence of pre-advised information of container visit through the state to the quay” was also a major challenge that needed to be tackled.

On allegations that the company contributed to the problem by resorting to manual system in clearing containers, the managing director said it was not true. He said the company’s clearance system was fully automated, adding that it only resorted to manual for only about two hours, some weeks ago when they had minor challenges. He added that, “sometimes we stop transaction when the outbound traffic is not moving.”

YOU ARE WELCOME…

L-R: Professor G G Darah; former Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission, Mr. Timi Alaibe; and Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson, at the public presentation of a book, ‘Ripples of Genius,’in honour of Dr. Seiyifa Koroye at Toru-Orua in Sagbama LGA, Bayelsa State…recently

LG Chairman Accuses Jukun Militias of Killing 200 Benue Residents George Okoh in Makurdi No fewer than 200 people have so far been confirmed dead while properties valued hundreds of millions destroyed following attacks on Benue State ommunities by suspected Jukun militia. Executive Chairman of Ukum Local Government Area, Hon. Ibellogo Tor-Ityokaa, disclosed this during a world press conference he addressed in Zaki-Biam yesterday. He stated further that villages worst hit by the attacks included Tse- Ayali, Igbongom, Tse-Ayali, Tse –Atsenga, Vaase, Namtaav and New City. The council chairman also

accused his Wukari Local Government Area counterpart of aiding the Jukun militia to launch mayhem on Tiv settlements. He expressed worry that after concerted peace efforts by his council and the Benue State Government, the non-collaborative stand by his Wukari counterpart was fast worsening the situation. According to him, more villages were still being attacked by the Jukun militia and their herdsmen collaborators. Ibellogo, who also fingered politics as the main reason behind the crisis, said from available intelligence report, the Tiv in Taraba State were being

attacked owing to their refusal to vote Jukun candidates in the last general elections. “I think what is happening is well beyond an ordinary squabble as it is being reported. From intelligence, we have gathered that the Tiv, especially those living in Wukari, are being killed over political issues. “The Tiv people, according to information available to me, are being hunted over their refusal to vote for Jukun candidates during the elections, and my counterpart from Wukari is actively involved in this acts of infamy,” he said. The Ukum council chairman equally accused Fulani militia

of cashing-in on the fragile development to invade and sacked Tiv villages with their cattle. According to him, “The Fulani had been looking for an opportunity to invade our communities with their cattle, and the crisis has provided for them an ample opportunity to carry out such act. As we speak, over 5,000 persons have been displaced as a result of this crisis which had placed on us a heavy burden.” While appealing for calm, the chairman called on the federal authorities to come to the aid of the displaced, stressing that the situation had over stretched the resources of the council.

One Killed as Taraba Police Nab Two in Possession of Dead Bodies Wole Ayodele in Jalingo Two persons, including a driver staff of Takum Local Government Area, were yesterday arrested by the Police in Takum for allegedly being in possession of two dead bodies. The two men were intercepted and arrested by police personnel around Kwambai/Jenuwa village while attempting to dump the corpses in the bush, and were taken to Takum Divisional Police headquarters. At the police station, the

policemen on duty had a hectic time controlling the crowd of youths who gathered at the station demanding the release of the suspects to them ostensibly to carry out jungle justice on them. One of the youths, simply identified as Irayang, was however allegedly felled by police bullet, though the circumstance of the shooting is still unclear as at the time of filing the report Confirming the incidence to journalists, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO)/Taraba State Command, DSP David Misal,

said the state Commissioner of Police had directed the two suspects and the Hilux van they used in conveying the dead bodies to be brought to the state headquarters for thorough investigation. Misal further revealed that the police in the area were alerted of the suspicious movements of the suspects by the locals which led to their arrest, adding that he was yet to receive the details of the incident. According to him, “We don’t have the details yet, but

the suspects are on their way to Jalingo on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Alkasim Sanusi. We will do our investigation upon their arrival to ascertain what exactly happened.” Meanwhile, speaking in a telephone interview, the local government area Chairman, Shiban Tikari, told journalists that the two dead bodies are that of armed robbers killed by the vigilante in the area. He stated that the council had donated the Hilux van to the vigilante group in the area.

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True Muslims Don’t Engage in Killings, Says Islamic Cleric Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Popular Islamic cleric, Sheik Muyideen Bello, has stated that the people that engage in the killing of others in the name of Allah are not true Muslims. Bello made the remarks yesterday while delivering PreRamadan Lecture organised by

Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Osogbo, the Osun State capital. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the lecture has as theme ‘Religious Harmony, Panacea for Political and Economic Development in Nigeria’. Bello said that anyone who killed in the name of Islam

could not be described as a true Muslim, adding that the religion is against killings. While condemning those using God’s name to justify violence, Bello said Allah does not need anyone to defend his name by killing others. “We cannot restore the dignity of man by killing innocent people. We should

IPC Commemorates World Press Freedom Day As media stakeholders and freedom of expression activists engage in various discourse on May 3, to commemorate this year’s World Press Freedom Day (WPFD), the International Press Centre (IPC) Lagos has joined in calling attention to the need for deliberate ways to combat the rising tide of fake news and disinformation as well as growing threats to journalists in reporting democratic development and elections. Global discourse for Year 2019 WPFD, which is the 26th edition of the event taking place at the African Union Headquarters, Addis Ababa, is with the theme; “Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation” In a statement issued yesterday, Director, IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, noted that the role that the media play in reporting the actions and activities of stakeholders in the electoral process remains imperative as journalists remain obligated in providing factual and truthful information to citizens. “In the face of emerging realities, media channels especially online platforms have become susceptible channels for the dissemination of disinformation

in reporting elections as witnessed in the building up to the 2019 general elections, which is a dangerous trend that ethical and professional journalistic report must address”, Arogundade said. “Respect for truth and for the right of the public to truth is the first duty of journalists, and this must be upheld at all times, especially when it comes to reporting democratic governance”, he added. Arogundade however lamented that journalists have also become targets of repression and assault of anti-democracy forces, which tramps on the rights of journalists. “The International Press Centre (IPC) through its 2019 Media and Elections situation room found it worrisome that there was an increase in the attacks on journalists during the Governorship and State Assembly elections in disregard to the rights of journalists to monitor and report election activities as guaranteed by various regulatory frameworks such as the Electoral Act, the Nigeria Broadcasting Code and the Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage”. “These acts are inimical to an enabling operational environment for journalism”, he added, while calling on institutional stakeholders

Oyo APC Accuses Govelect of Being Haunted by Electoral Promises Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan For the second time in a week, the Oyo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday came hard on the state Governor-elect, Mr. Seyi Makinde, saying he is already being haunted by his electoral promises. The party in a statement by the state Publicity Secretary, AbdulAzeez Olatunde, said it is too early for Makinde to renege on his electoral promises, admonishing him to focus on the art of governance and work towards fulfilling his electoral promises. Olatunde, while reacting to the statement credited to the governor-elect spokesman, Mr. Dotun Oyelade, warning APC not to twist the interview of Makinde in Abuja on the N30,000 minimum wage implementation, said the governor-elect and his handlers were just trying to stave off criticism on his unpreparedness to govern the state. According to him, “Makinde said during his electoral campaign that Oyo workers deserved more than N30,000 as minimum wage.

Now, he was quoted by the Media in Abuja that he can’t pay the N30,000 minimum wage. We (APC) decided not to comment on Makinde’s electoral promise U-turn because we want electorate and the people of Oyo State to judge him while the party would not hesitate to provide the necessary constructive criticisms when the need arise.” He stated further that Makinde and Oyelade must have been hallucinating seeing the comment of APC on his electoral promise U-turn, urging that Makinde should be ready to face governance from May 29 instead of still acting like opposition. He said, “The people of Oyo State deserve the best and we hope Makinde’s PDP will try not to disappoint which is doubtful. It is too early for Makinde to be reprimanding others for his mistakes. APC was not the media that reported what Makinde said in Abuja. We expected Makinde to rather clear the air on his statement instead of blame shifting. We wish him the best in his endeavors but with a caution that it is too early to renege on his electoral promises.

to use the 2019 WPFD as a spring board to addressing all infractions inimical to freedom of expression and free media.

desist from anything that can make us to be seen and regarded as fanatics, which we are not. “Anybody who kills people while shouting Allah is nonMuslim and not a true Muslim and will go to hell,” Bello said. Describing Islam as a religion of peace, the renowned Islamic preacher tasked Muslims on the need to always ensure peaceful co-existence in their communities regardless of religious differences. Bello noted that Islam was a total submission to the will of Allah, adding that what Allah wanted from human beings was to believe in His existence, worship Him and regard Him as only one who

can give and take. Calling for religious harmony and tolerance among the various religious groups, Bello said it would be out of the place for any Muslim to force non-Muslims to convert to Islam. Bello said there could only be development where there was peace and harmony, urging all believers to see themselves as one and let God judge, which religion is acceptable to Him on the day of resurrection. In his remarks, Osun State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola, described religious disharmony as a bane of social and economic development in the society.

Oyetola who was represented his by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdullahi Binuyo, urged Muslims across the country to continue to promote peace and eschew anything that could provoke religious crisis. The governor, however, enjoined Muslims to use the Holy Month of Ramadan to reach out to the needy and ensure they relate with nonMuslims harmoniously. Earlier, NTA General Manager, Osogbo, Mr. Abduwaheed Amusat, said the topic for the pre-ramadan lecture became imperative because no country could develop in an atmosphere of religious disharmony.

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Kukah Wants Nigeria to Manage Her Diversity Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Bishop Matthew Kukah, has said one of the major problems facing the country was her inability to manage diversity. Kukah stated this yesterday at the 2019 Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR)

in Abuja with the theme: “Optimising Public Relations Strategies for National Cohesion’’ . He said the quest for national cohesion remained an illusion, adding that marketing Nigeria had become a frustrated exercise because too many issues had still not been resolved. “The problems in Nigeria

has very little to do with the things that we ascribe, but has everything to do with our inability and sheer incapacity to manage diversity. “We do not have a sense of unity about direction among us. The Bible says if two people do not agree they cannot travel on the same road. “The point I am making is when you live in a country

like Nigeria where people are safer with their nephews, brothers, cousins, sisters as special assistants and personal assistants and so on, then we are in trouble. “So, managing the diversity in Nigeria becomes an issue. We have ended up with a situation in which this institute, which is supposed to be the conveyor belt of the goodwill

Nigerian Guild of Editors Calls for Protection of Journalists The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has called for more protection for journalists before, during and after elections. This was the highpoint of a statement issued by the President of NGE, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, and the General Secretary, Victoria Ibanga, on the occasion of the 2019 World Press Freedom Day. The editors said this year’s World Press Freedom Day with the theme: ‘Role of Media in Elections and Democracy,’ provides an opportunity for stakeholders in the global democracy enterprise to reexamine the contributions of journalists to the propagation and sustenance of democracy. NGE specifically called on relevant authorities in Nigeria to begin to see journalists

as partners in development and voice of the voiceless rather than treat them as meddlesome interlopers and enemies of the people. Citing growing mortality among journalists including denial of their fundamental right to life in the course of discharging their duties, the editors appealed to Nigerian security agencies to ensure the safety of all journalists especially during elections. The guild said the media has the capacity to support peace and reconciliation processes among political actors hence should be allowed to play its constitutional role. As is the tradition, this year’s World Press Freedom Day also examines the safety of journalists. According to the editors, ensuring the safety

of journalists is the primary way by which societies can foster the independence and freedom of the press, as crucial for democracy. This, the Guild said, will also ensure public access to information. The group regretted that there is a clear and present threat to achieving that goal. The editors’ body referenced global statistics to support its crusade for the protection of journalists. The International Federation of Journalists noted that in 2018 alone, at least 94 journalists were killed across the world. The 2018 figure indicates an increase from the previous year which recorded 82 fatalities. The guild echoed the concern of the United Nations which had earlier noted that journalists were undergoing too

much stress which is ultimately undermining their ability to report accurately without fear of attack. The UN had said: “Today, the contribution of free, pluralistic, independent and safe journalism to democracy is under unprecedented stress. Also, election outcomes and their aftermath are critically affected by political discourse and communications, including the role of the media in relation to the polling process.” The guild condemned modern-day leaders who do nothing except denounce the media as biased to the extent that factual information reported by the Press is now termed ‘fake news’ to the detriment of the journalism profession.

of government is severely malfunctioning just like other arms of government. “If we are talking about optimising public relations or selling Nigeria where do you start, because we are practicing politics of a very poor quality, politics that has become so regionalised and factionalised,” he said. The Bishop said the last elections showed that the country was divided into two - North and South, with the two sides thinking and saying different things. He, however, said those were not the realities but perceptions. He said the situation in Nigeria had become frightening because of insecurity, high crime rate, poverty, long relentless battle between government and the university community, among other things, which had affected the perception of Nigeria by the outside world. Kukah said the youths in Nigeria, who were supposed to be driving change by their agitations, were rather sitting incorporated waiting for crumbs to be given to them from the national cake. The cleric added that Nigeria had become adverse to expertise and intellectual contribution in spite of the quality of manpower she had. “So, the quest for national cohesion remains an illusion and this is why our assets, the incredible capacity of our people is suspended.

“A country has to come to a point where it can say No! This is no longer acceptable. “But our inability to say No is because those who have the voices to say No, like you and I are too comfortable. “This comfort is an illusion because it is derived from a fraud; it is totally not acceptable that we live with so much and so many of our people are objects of humiliation around the world.” The bishop commended NIPR for the work they do and charged the institute to be in the forefront of changing the narrative for a better Nigeria. “Nigeria has refused to develop the current reflex to take the road less travelled, we have always gone for the easy road, but it is obvious in the social conditions we are now in. “We have conducted free, fair and credible elections but still we are not happy. “Where we are now we can do better and I believe those of you in the position and have the voices like all of us do have, will at least be able to say No! “That it is necessary for us to do things differently because majority of our people and all our citizens created in the image and likeness of God, deserve a far better life than they have now,” he said.

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COMMENT

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

INEC AND ITS SERVER

Are the results of the elections in INEC’s server? The public needs to know, writes Erahodu Oseghale

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he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), is in the throes of a dilemma. It does not seem to know how to extricate itself from the server mess in which it is currently embroiled. The chairman of the commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu had, prior to the election, told the world that results of the presidential election and other elections for that matter would be transmitted electronically to the commission’s server. This, he said, would be done to complement the manual collation and transmission of results. Even though President Muhammadu Buhari declined assent to the electoral amendment bill which sought to make electronic transmission of votes part of our electoral laws, Yakubu’s INEC assured that there was nothing to worry about. He told Nigerians and the international community that the servers have been configured to receive results electronically, assuring that Nigerians should expect a seamless, technology-driven electoral process. Yakubu’s assurances did not stop there. He also said that the commission was fully ready with the card reader machines which have been configured in such a way that accreditation of voters would be smooth and without the kind of hitches we experienced in 2015. Having said all this, Yakubu dropped the ultimate clincher, to wit, that only voters with permanent voter cards whose finger prints are read and authenticated by the smart card reader machine will be allowed to vote. In saying all this, Yakubu looked serious. His visage spelt commitment. It was thought and taken almost for granted that the man meant business. Nigerians gave him the benefit of the doubt. They believed him and went about their normal businesses, waiting for the elections to come. Then the elections came and the people filed out to exercise their franchise. But they got a rude shock. The smart card readers did not work in a number of places. Strangely, however, people were allowed to cast their votes without having their cards verified and thumb prints read by the card readers. With this development, INEC was caught in a lurch. How does it make good its promise to Nigerians? Then again, how does it fit itself into the design of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) which wanted the results to be manipulated to its advantage? This development, naturally, threw INEC into confusion. It could not reconcile itself with the opposing tendencies. In the face of this confusion, many things went wrong. There were cases of over voting. In a number of cases, the number of accredited voters contradicted what was available in the voters register. Even in the process of announcing some of the results, we had cases of figures that did not add up. The poor job that was hurriedly put together for purposes of arriving at a predetermined outcome went burst. The result was that the outcome of the election became hopelessly flawed. When the results of the presidential elections were announced, the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which was favoured to win the election given the mood of the people and the projections from opinion polls, was seen trailing behind the APC. A good many Nigerians cried foul. They knew that majority of them could not have voted for Buhari, the man whose presidency has unleashed violence, death, poverty and general suffering on them.

LET THE CONTENT OF THE SERVER BE MADE PUBLIC EVEN IF IT IS EMPTY. THAT WAY, IT WILL PUT PAID TO ALL THE ARGUMENTS ABOUT ITS CONTENT

In the face of the malfeasance that took place, the PDP is contesting the outcome of the election. It has approached the courts for this purpose. To make its case watertight, the party has to rely on some exhibits. One of them is the server of the commission where the results of the elections must have been transmitted to in line with Yakubu’s assurances. From PDP’s findings, the authentic results of the 2019 presidential elections are captured by INEC’s server. And from the main opposition party has put out, it (the PDP) scored the highest number of votes to beat the APC to a second position. The PDP is relying on this as one of the planks of its disputation over the 2019 presidential polls. But there is a snag here. INEC is engaging in a huge summersault. It is claiming that there are no results in its server. In fact, it is saying that its server is empty. But the PDP is insisting that the server is not empty. It is employing all possible means, including procuring the services of the manufacturers of the server who have unfettered access to its ID and its content to prove its case. This development has unsettled the electoral commission. Its latter-day denial is not helped by the fact that one of its national commissioners, Mike Igini, recently affirmed that the commission, indeed, transmitted results to its server. In the bid to bury the facts of this matter, INEC appears to be shooting from all fronts. There were even reports that operatives of the Department of State Services arrested some INEC staff in its Information Technology department, accusing them of leaking information on what is supposed to be a classified matter. The firework is on and the APC has joined the fray. It is demanding that Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the PDP in the 2019 election, and his party be sanctioned for hacking into INEC’s server. APC is also faulting PDP’s reliance on results from INEC’s server, arguing that there is no law to rely upon in making the transmission of results to the server mandatory. These are interesting developments. But the question that must be asked is this: if INEC’s server is truly empty as some elements in INEC and APC would have us believe, why the jitters over the verification of its content? Again, we need to know why INEC is speaking from both sides of the mouth in this matter. In one breath, the commission assures that results were transmitted electronically to its server. In another breath, it denies all that, insisting that results were only transmitted manually. But there is really no need for this back and forth movement. The matter should be simple enough. Let the content of the server be made public even if it is empty. That way, it will put paid to all the arguments about its content. But we need to remind APC that its argument about the absence of relevant laws to back electronic transmission of votes does not hold water here. We do not need any law to establish whether INEC has results in its server or not. No one is saying that there is a law that makes that electronic transmission mandatory. The issue at stake is: Are the results in INEC’s server or not? This is what we need to ascertain. There is no point beating about the bush. Oseghale wrote from Benin City

FOR PEACE AND STABILITY

Kingsley Martins writes that the presidential candidate of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar, is known for certain ideals

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t must be somewhat disappointing to most Nigerians that, unlike 2015, this year’s general elections did not end on an amicable note jointly bestowed by the spirit of good sportsmanship adopted by the two leading presidential contestants purposely to foster the highly desirable no-victor-no-vanquished post-election political atmosphere across the country. The disappointment is an indication of the disturbing implications of extending and escalating the tension and animosity of partisan rivalry beyond the electioneering period with the indefinite suspense of contentious litigation, haunting the tense minds of Nigerians. In the middle of the lingering national dilemma is former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the PDP who lost to incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari in the keenly contested elections. The peculiar circumstances surrounding the emergence of Atiku Abubakar as the PDP presidential candidate, especially the prominence of certain controversial opposition activists, definitely influenced the conduct of campaigns and eventually the post-election responses. Similarly, the exigencies of changing fortunes have dictated differences in the focus of respective stakeholders in the Atiku Abubakar presidential campaign caucus, such as the surprising “defection� of its chief strategist and Director General, Gbenga Daniel to the ruling APC, even as the defeated candidate was perfecting his petition to the election tribunal! Loyalty and

commitment are routinely dispensed with in Nigerian political culture that is generally motivated by comfort zone alignments but this could not have come as a surprise to a veteran like Atiku Abubakar. In fact, contrary to the trending impression of Atiku Abubakar as a defeated presidential candidate who is determined to secure by litigation what he lost at the polls, it is not in the former VP’s character or political temperament. A review of Atiku Abubakar’s political profile and outlook as his career evolved from governor-elect to vice president and from state politician to frontline national statesman and political leader, reveals a consistent commitment and willingness to relegate his political interest in order to uphold and promote the larger interest of his people and nation, and ultimately peace and stability. In particular, desperation for any political office is alien to Atiku Abubakar’s political track record. Even at the early stage of his outstanding political career, Atiku Abubakar was not prone to the exuberant eagerness that fires inordinate ambition of many politicians. In his days in the IBB-government sponsored SDP, Atiku’s strategic selflessness was the saving grace in the hotly contested national primaries in Jos, as he offered to withdraw from the race involving him, Babagana Kingibe and late MKO Abiola, thereby removing the looming stalemate and enabling Abiola to emerge clear winner while rescuing the party from predictable implosion. His patriotic and foresighted sacrifice denied the military junta’s notorious

agenda of seeking an excuse to prolong its treacherous transition programme. A more dramatic but definitive episode that again highlighted Atiku Abubakar’s rational and responsible approach to politics was witnessed in the electioneering period of 2003 when he was vice president and PDP governors intent on unseating President Olusegun Obasanjo, mounted intense pressure on him to contest in the party’s presidential primaries. It was a highly tempting scenario for Atiku Abubakar which not only caused a rift in relations with his boss but also threatened national stability. Remarkably, Atiku Abubakar was more devoted to the stability of the nation than exploiting a short-cut to become President. He refused to betray his boss. “I am not desperate to become President. If I were desperate, I would have taken the Presidency in 2003. If I were desperate, I would not have stepped down for Abiola. I have the interest of this country at heart,� the former VP responded when confronted with the accusation of being desperate by people who were obviously misinformed or perhaps mischievous. It is pertinent to recall that only four years later, in 2007, Atiku Abubakar demonstrated the potency of his patriotic favour as a defining quality of his acclaimed practice of principled politics for responsible leadership in the national interest, when he courageously distanced himself from President Obasanjo’s brazen bid to elongate his tenure by a devious unconstitutional third term plot, and partnered with the majority of

legislators to scuttle it. He took that stand knowing that Obasanjo would unleash his vindictive venom on him and displayed heroic perseverance by remaining unfazed when the vendetta began. This brief and factual review of the former vice president, Atiku Abubakar’s political profile and instructive insights into his practice of principled and patriotic politics captures the overriding national interest and concern for national stability that motivates his most profound contributions to exemplary elder statesmanship and responsible political leadership. It is therefore not in his character to embark on an exercise that will cast shadows of doubt on such a noble legacy. The Atiku Abubakar Nigerians have known and still admire will, for example, not persist in pursuing a presidential election bid when the generality of Nigerians have moved on, thanking God for preventing the outbreak of post-election mayhem, and praying fervently that lasting peace will quickly return to the country. It is not in Atiku Abubakar’s character to be the last man standing in exercising his right to seek judicial review of the INEC –declared outcome of his latest quest to be the popularly elected President of Nigeria. Atiku Abubakar is not desperate to become president. If he was, he would have taken it in 2003 when it was offered to him unconditionally. Atiku Abubakar has the interest of insecuritythreatened Nigerians, earnestly praying for lasting peace and stability, at heart. Martins is a teacher in Awka

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EDITORIAL The Power Sector Challenge The power sector has served the country so poorly

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ollowing series of ‘system collapse’, only 3,231 megawatts of electricity were generated on Wednesday to power a country of 201 million citizens. That is a clear indication that the power sector on which billions of dollars has been invested in the past two decades has practically collapsed. To compound the problem, there are reports that the generating companies (Gencos) have applied for force majeure following the difficulties in meeting their obligations with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). The question that remains unanswered is: What are the authorities doing to address this crisis that will just not go away? According to a performance report credited to the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), the Gencos collect less than 30 per cent revenue for the power supplied. “The market situation is not only crippling the Gencos but also halting their desire to recover or expand capacity…Gencos are losing billions of naira every month from actions of MANY SMALL AND other market particiMEDIUM SCALE pants and government BUSINESSES HAVE BEEN parties,” the report stated. The Gencos CRIPPLED DUE TO THE which acquired PROHIBITIVE COST OF GENERATING THEIR OWN majority holdings in the defunct Power POWER Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) include Afam Power Plc, Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL), Transcorp Power Limited, North South Power Limited, Cummins Cogeneration Limited, Sapele Power Plc, Egbin Power Plc and KEPCO Energy Resources Limited (KERL). But they have not made any difference in the lives of Nigerians. With everybody supplying their own electricity, Nigeria is one of the toughest places in the world to do business. Lack of electricity has over the years limited access to healthcare, education and other opportunities, including running their businesses for majority of Nigerians. Many small and medium scale businesses have been crippled due to the prohibitive cost of generat-

Letters to the Editor

ing their own power. Even the big business ventures, particularly the manufacturing ones, are also feeling the biting effect of energy poverty with consequences stretching to every part of the economy. Sadly, all we keep getting from the authorities are megawatts of excuses that neither address the challenge at hand nor point to the way forward in a very critical sector.

T T H I S DAY EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI DEPUTY EDITOR DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (9501000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

NGE, NUJ AND RETIRED JOURNALISTS

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s the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) holds its biennial convention in Lagos, members and the leadership of the body should find a window in the three- day gathering to reflect on the fate of retired or unemployed journalists who are living either on inadequate pension or no pension at all. Doing so would be a form of follow-up on the Ada Resort convention where the theme was on the uncertain economic wellbeing of editors when they take leave of their powerful posts as editors. It will also be a re-enactment of an aspect of the 2017 biennial gathering at the same venue in Lagos where officials of Trust Fund Pensions Limited made a presentation on “Pension Fund for Editors: Managing your tomorrow today.” The leadership of the Guild or staff of its secretariat should update members on the progress made so far on devising a pension scheme for editors and other editorial personnel. This will assure members that the “After the Chair” presentations at Ada and the talk by officials of a Pension Fund Administrator in April 2017 were more than speaking fine English. The after-service life most journalists live is unpleasant: no jobs, no savings to fall back on and lacking in the physical strength and skills to engage in economic activities outside journalism compounded it all. The case of the retired staff of the Kaduna-based influential New Nigerian Newspapers is pathetic. The 470-strong retirees have been waiting for their pension arrears for 11 years out of which they were paid the equivalent of five months. There are many other retired journalists who worked either for private sector media entities or government-owned media organisations who have little or no pension. This is not good enough.

hat Nigerians don’t know who to hold accountable for their woes makes the whole situation more disturbing. At a stakeholder meeting in Abuja last December, Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, advised electricity consumers in the country to direct their complaints about poor power supply to electricity Discos and Gencos. “If you don’t have electricity, it is not the federal government’s problem, take the matter to the people who are operating the power sector, generation and distribution companies”, said Fashola who added: “There are problems without a doubt and we must deal with them…all of the assets that the Ministry of Power used to control power have been sold by the last administration before I came. And so, if you don’t have power, it is not the government’s problem”. In a recent statement to explain the challenge of the sector, the Executive Secretary, Association of Power Generation Companies, Dr Joy Ogaji said the limitations of the transmission and distribution networks as well as a lack of payments to Gencos account for the drop in generation. “The guarantee (in the power purchase agreements) has ended. Up till now, there is no plan for payment to Gencos, apart from the 26 per cent the Discos are paying. Gas suppliers are not ready to accept 26 per cent payment for the gas they sell to Gencos”, said Ogaji who argued further, “The rainy season is approaching; a lot of the networks are very weak. We will see a further drop in the generation as the rains start because the transmission and distribution networks are very bad.” It is a crying shame that almost six years after the privatisation of the power sector, the country is still more or less in perpetual darkness.

And I no longer hear anything on the Journalists Welfare Campaign of the Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism which was launched in August 2018. The campaign wants better working conditions for journalists and end their neglect by employers, noting that most media organizations do not pay salaries and benefits like pension, insurance and other statutory requirements. The campaign hopes to reverse that and restore the dignity of journalist in Nigeria. It should be vigorous. The NUJ in the United Kingdom launched “NUJ 60+” in November 2009 to help retired journalists on issues that affect the quality of their life. The Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN), the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) should set up a committee to consider creating a pension scheme for journalists and other workers in media organisations. The National Pension Commission (PenCom) should be on the committee to give technical assistance to the proposed committee as it works out a pension plan for journalists. Members of the NPAN and BON may send one or two of their administrative staff to the Abuja School of Pensions and Retirement Planning (ASPRP) to acquire the needed skills and capacity for pension administration in their organizations. This will facilitate a hitch free take-off of pension plans for the journalists working for them. It is especially urgent for privately-owned outlets which do not have such plans. Most journalists working for government media outlets are likely to be part of a pension plan which may only need improvement for effectiveness. Salisu Na’inna Dambatta, Abuja

FOR PEACE IN KWANDE LOCAL GOVT

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et me start by appreciating your understanding, cooperation, unity, care and love you have for one another and most especially the peace that has been existing among you for years. You have so far demonstrated maturity and civilization in your character and it will be good if you can continue to do more. However, the ongoing misunderstanding on land matter that is causing panic and making some residents to shift their base far away from Ajio for their safety can be resolved amicably without bloodshed. The house set ablaze so far as a result of the misunderstanding in question did not make sense. You should know that the existence of Tiv nation, which you are part of, is threatened by many who want to force you out and occupy your land. Therefore, this is the best time to grow more love; peace and unity among you, rather than fighting yourself for the same thing the enemies want to take away from you. Your unity at this time is desperately needed if you must exist. The Fulani herdsmen are killing you, the Jukun are eliminating you and you want to kill yourself to make it easier for them? The killing of fellow Tiv by their own brothers in Katsina Ala over a piece of land is scandalous. Violence is never a solution to any problem and I will advise you to ignore violence in this issue and go for dialogue. Let me at this point call on the Benue State Government despite its failure in the area of protecting the lives and property to quickly move to Ajio and do the needful. The Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse and the Council of Tiv Elders should as well act fast to prevent the escalation of this act of mutual destruction. Awunah Pius Terwase, Mpape - Abuja

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG

POLITICS

Email: nseobong.okonekong@thisdaylive.com 08114495324 SMS ONLY

Workers’ Day in Buhari’s Change Era

Buhari

William Nwankwo Alo

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orker ’s Day is set aside all over the world to celebrate the historic struggles and contributions of workers to the development of the society. This year ’s celebration is unique in two ways. First is its coincidence with the 100-year anniversary of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and also the fact that Nigerians are celebrating it in the wake of the New National Minimum Wage recently signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari. While the occasion offers a golden opportunity for a periodic X-ray of the fate of workers globally, it is safe to assert that Nigeria is currently having the most labour-friendly government in her recent history. It is worthy of note that notwithstanding the teething challenges which the Buhari administration inherited in 2015, the President wasted no time in taking concrete measures to uplift the welfare of workers across the federation. Precisely on July 6, 2015, barely a month in office, the President displayed an unprecedented act of compassion, when he approved a whopping sum of N1.2 trillion bailout funds to enable bankrupt states pay an embarrassing long arrears of workers’ salaries. Again on December 2 of the same year, the President went on further rescue and released the sum of N522 billion to the states. Then, followed the Paris Club Refund of March 2017 and December 2018 to help states discharge their obligations, and fight poverty. Very remarkable is the clearing of the accumulated arrears of benefits and allowances totaling about N63 billion owed to federal civil servants by the previous administrations. It bears mentioning at this juncture, that the Ministry of Labour and Employment under Sen. Chris Ngige has through clarity of vision and administra-

Ngige

tive ingenuity, complemented the efforts of the President in stabilizing the national industrial milieu while broadening the frontiers of job creation and repositioning Nigeria’s international labour diplomacy. Being in charge of the Ministry of Labour and Employment at a historic moment of crushing national poverty, occasioned by recession, Sen. Ngige succeeded in arresting what would have been a conflagrating industrial unrests with roots far beyond the present administration. First was the NLC national strike of May 2016, and followed by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) National Association of Resident Doctors(NARD) Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, Joint Action Committee of Non-Academic Staff of Nigerian Universities comprising NASU, SAANU and NAAT and unions in the health sector operating under JOHESU as well as the NUNPENG, PENGASSAN among others. The list is long but adequate ventilation of all issues through open dialogue with the social partners staved off a wave of industrial strikes. Besides, whereas tribute is paid to workers especially the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Ayuba Wabba, and his Trade Union Congress counterpart as well as the Association of the Senior Civil Servant of Nigeria, for their patience and resilience all through the negotiation for the Minimum Wage, special commendation goes to Sen. Ngige, whose matured and skilled negotiation capability crowned the efforts of the social partners. But before all these, the immediate task which confronted the Minister on assumption of office in 2015 was how to stem job losses in the financial, oil and constructions sectors. Hence, he invited all the parties and reached terms that saved millions of jobs in these sectors. Verily, Sen. Ngige will for long be remembered as a Minister who changed the emphasis

Wabba

from white to blue collar jobs, urging young Nigerians to tap the elastic opportunities that abound in skills acquisition. Apart from rehabilitating its skills centres, the Ministry also established new ones. It similarly standardized their operations and programmes to give greater value and international recognition to the Trade Test Certificates. Graduates in tiling, mechatronics, metal works, welding, plumbing, mason, POP production and laying, Infotechnology among others were in some cases enabled to find opportunities in the formal and informal sectors, thus, arresting a situation where such skills were taken over by citizens of our West African neighbours. The National Directorate of Employment, an agency under the Ministry primarily charged with job creation has additionally been providing training and empowerment to hundreds of thousands of Nigerians. To further assist them, the Ministry established inter agency partnership with other Ministries for them to benefit from Farmers Scheme programme, Small and Medium Enterprises loan from the Ministries of Agriculture as well as Trade and Industry respectively. It also assists them access facilities from the Industrial Training Fund. The Ministry moreover developed with the Ministry of Health, a programme for young doctors and other allied health professionals to broaden training opportunities. It is also in liaison with the Ministry of Interior for the strict implementation of the expatriate quota to ensure that Nigerians are not displaced by foreigners in their country. At another level, in order to help qualified Nigerians get legitimate employment opportunities abroad, the Ministry developed a migration policy with the European Union to assist them work and earn decent living abroad. `And to curtail illegal migration and save

thousands of Nigerians dying in the Sahara desert and the Mediterranean Sea, the Ministry in conjunction with the International Organisation on Migration established a Migration Resource Centre in Benin City, Edo State to complement the ones in Lagos and Abuja. Notwithstanding the severe economic pressure which would have made any other administration place embargo on employment, the Ministry spearheaded the creation of white collar jobs in the ministries and agencies of government, running into hundreds of thousands. It is on record that under the Buhari administration, no single worker was retrenched in the federal civil service even at the time the country was under recession. It is also of note that salaries of Federal civil servants have in the last four years been paid as and when due. At the international level, the Minister ’s skilled labour diplomacy expressed eloquently and restored Nigeria’s preeminence in the comity of nations. Thus, from an ordinary member of the International Labour Organisation, Ngige brought Nigeria back to the ILO Governing Board in May 2017 after 10 years in limbo. On top of that is recent nomination of Nigeria by African Ministers in Ethiopia to take up the titular position in the board next year. It is instructive that this nomination was in acknowledgment of the leadership which Sen. Ngige gave to Africa on the Governing Board since 2017 he was elected a deputy. At the African Regional Labour Adminisrative Centre with headquarters in Zimbabwe, the Minister moved Nigeria from a situation where its representative at the Secretariat was frustrated out to the current position where Nigeria is the Deputy chair of the organization. -Alo is the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019

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PERSPECTIVE

The Route to Justice in Osun

Adeleke

Oyetola

Ibrahim Sarafa

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t was a long wait but justice was eventually served when the Osun Governorship Election Petition Tribunal pronounced Senator Ademola Adeleke as the rightful winner of last year ’s governorship elections held September 22, 2018. The panel courageously echoed the true reflection of the will of the people of Osun state, and expectedly, threw the state into wild and spontaneous celebration. The road to justice, may be rough and tiring, but it has always provided consolation for the aggrieved and averts society from descending into anarchy. This was the path pursued by Senator Ademola Adeleke in retrieving his mandate that was violently, crudely and brazenly stolen from him. Unlike the usurper, Senator Adeleke refused to be lured to the theatre of criminality and lawlessness but rather sought recourse in the courts, which is the foundation of every democratic society. Armed with evidence of clear breaches of the Nigerian Constitution, the electoral law and other acts of gross electoral irregularities and brigandage, Senator Adeleke approached the election petition tribunal to seek redress. His prayer before the panel was simple, expunge illegality and uphold justice. From days to weeks and months, his legal counsel laid bare evidence of foul play and glaring manipulation of the people’s will. In the courtroom, Senator Adeleke did not miss the opportunity to question the power of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Returning Officer (RO) to cancel elections in the 7 polling units that purportedly warranted a rerun.

Before the panel, Senator Adeleke exposed the electoral umpire’s flagrant abuse of the electoral process, which included doctoring and falsifying critical election documents without the knowledge of the other political parties besides the ruling APC it was in cahoots with. INEC’s manipulations were so brazen that the tribunal shoved aside the Certified True Copies (CTC) of results presented by the electoral umpire and placed reliance on form EC8As (Pink copies) issued to party agents. This gross act of electoral malfeasance attracted the rebuke of the judges, who held that, “The obvious implication of this unfortunate development is that the 1st Respondent (INEC) went to work on the documents after the election behind the parties. The 1st Respondent should realise that it holds an office of public trust and should at all times strive to maintain the sanctity of the electoral process. In conclusion, based on our resolution of all the issues for determination and our findings, we hereby declare that there is merit in this petition.” The learned judges agreed that the will of Osun people was mischievously subverted and INEC erroneously returned Governor Gboyega Oyetola as against Senator Ademola Adeleke, who secured majority of the lawful votes cast. They therefore ruled thus: “The second respondent, Adegboyega Isiaka Oyetola, was not duly elected and/or returned by majority of lawful votes cast in the Osun State governorship election held on Saturday, 22nd September and the rerun election of Thursday, 27th September, 2018 and therefore his declaration and return as the Governorelect of Osun State is null, void and of no effect whatsoever.” By the pronouncement of the

panel, Senator Adeleke was recognized as the duly elected governor of Osun state. Though, there are still levels of appeals to be exercised by anyone not satisfied with the ruling of the tribunal but one thing is evident, truth has prevailed!! The tribunal ruling answered the clamour of Osun people for justice and that explained their excitement when news of the judgement filtered into the nooks and crannies of the entire 30 local government areas of the state. From the findings of the judges, it was clear that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was not fair to Osun people as it brazenly manipulated their will to favour APC. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Muhammad Sirajo, heard evidence from nearly 90 witnesses who had experienced the lapses or manipulations in the Osun governorship election, most of which were Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) agents and observers. Their detailed testimonies guided the tribunal findings on the injustice meted on Osun people, and expectedly, they courageously upturned the illegality. One of the major findings of the tribunal judges was the illegal cancellation of elections and scores of candidates in 7polling units by INEC’s State Returning Officer upon which it based its decision for a rerun! Such cancellations ought to have taken place at the respective polling units by the polling officers and a report of such duly recorded which is then submitted to the State Returning Officer through form EC40G. This was not done and the tribunal agreed with Senator Ademola Adeleke’s contention that this was an illegality and a deliberate contrivance to allow the APC rig an election it had already lost.

While the APC has appealed the ruling, it remains to be seen how the landmark pronouncement of the tribunal judges, which major legal experts in the country have commended for its soundness on law and justice, drawing copiously from the electoral act, the constitution and decided cases by superior courts, would be upturned. What the tribunal did, is to ensure that laid down process was followed to the letter in every electoral process and that the people should be the one who decide their elected officials, not the machinations of INEC or political actors. As witnessed in Osun, the electoral umpire’s brazen bias almost robbed the people the manifestation of their expressed will but the tribunal came in handy to bring succour to the dejected and worried population, who clearly elected Senator Adeleke as their governor. Until the tribunal verdict that recognized Senator Adeleke’s mandate, the impunity of the Osun governorship election bears a huge weight on the minds of Nigerians and was a blight on the country’s fledgling democracy. The desperation exhibited by the usurper was nothing more than a despicable ploy to derail our democracy, and bypass the acceptable route to political leadership. Now that the tribunal has spoken, the people can smile again, because justice has been served and verily, political power belongs to them. No one, no matter how highly placed can treat the people shabbily and with great contempt, trample on their rights and dignity for eight years, then blatantly rig elections to install a stooge in office and get away with it. -Sarafa is a freelance journalist based in Oshogbo, Osun State

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T H I S D AY Ëž Íą, 2019

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET OBB OVERNIGHT

A S

A T

A P R I L

REPO 16.43 % 17.29 %

CALL 1-MONTH 3-MONTH

S & P INDEX INDEX LEVEL 1-DAY MONTH-TO-DATE

16.50 % 15.13 % 15.75 %

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com 08152447875

2 6 , 2 0 1 9 388.29 % 0.25 % 0.44 %

S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE 0.44 % YEAR TO DATE 8.77 %

EXCHANGE RATE N306.90/1US DOLLAR* *AS AT LAST FRIDAY

Quick Takes NAMA Upgrades Airspace Communication

STRATEGIC PREPARATORY MEETING

L-R: Chief Executive, Brevity Anderson, Mr. James Shindi; Minister of State for Petroleum / President, Africa Petroleum Producer Organisation (APPO), Mr. Ibe Kachikwu and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum, Folasade Yemi- Esan, at the strategic preparatory meeting for the Nigeria International Petroleum Summit in Abuja‌recently

Aviation Workers Vow to Oppose Airports’ Concession Chinedu Eze Aviation workers have vowed that they will continue to oppose the planned concession of major airports in the country, saying it would lead to job losses. The federal government since 2016 had set out a plan to concession the airports and brings in private investors to expand and modernise its infrastructure in a public, private partnership (PPP) arrangement. According to the Minister of State, Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, government would kick off the concession programme with the four international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt.

AVIATION But aviation workers have insisted that they would not allow government to concession the airports, considering what happened to ex-workers of the defunct Nigeria Airways Limited (NAL), which was finally liquidated in 2004, without settling the workers of the national carrier. They stressed that they do not believe the government would be sincere in paying severance benefits when the airports are concessioned. Addressing members during the celebration of Workers’ Day on Wednesday, the President of the National Union of Air

Transport Employees (NUATE), Mr. Ben Nnabue said: “My leadership is committed to the just cause of ensuring that the unjustifiable policy of concessioning the four major airports does not see the light of day. This battle shall be escalated in the coming days as we know that government is unrelenting on the matter.� Nnebue in his speech reinforced the position of the workers’ opposition despite the overtures made by government for them to understand the benefits of concession. A former National Secretary of NUATE, Olayinka Abioye had reiterated the position of the workers and told THISDAY that the decision of NUATE,

other unions in the industry, and their national affiliates was to shut down all air operations if government decide to carry out the concession programme without carrying the workers along. Abioye had said: “We are going to confront the government because what they are doing is fraudulent. We know that when concession is done transparently it is beautiful to behold and if concession is the key for infrastructural renewal, this is not the way to go about it. Sirika does not want to be a servant but a slave driver.� The former NUATE national Continued on page 22

FG Urged to Harness $900bn Oceanbased Resources Eromosele Abiodun The Chief Research Officer at the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, Dr. John Unyimadu, has stressed the need for the federal government to join global effort to protect the ocean and seas. He also said the government should strive to benefit from the $900 billion a year of world resources directly tied to ocean based activities such as fishing, coastal tourism, shipping oil and gas exploration. Unyimadu stated this while presenting a paper titled: “Marine Pollution: Human Effects on the Marine Environment,� at the Marine Safety and Protection of Fisheries Conference organised

MARITIME by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in Lagos. He said the sustainability of the ocean was anchored on international protective agreements and treaties, which share the goal of enabling current and future generations to live in balance with nature, to ensure the health and integrity of the global ecosystem, and to partially restore it. According to him, “The ocean is crucial for the stability of our climate and weather. They transport heat from the tropics to higher latitudes, and take up high amounts of CO2. “Agenda 2030, ratified by the United Nations (UN)

in 2015, also considers the importance of the ocean for sustainable development. Of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SDG 14 is devoted to the ocean. “The ocean covers more than two-thirds of our planet’s surface and occupies a vast three-dimensional volume, much of which is still unexplored. “The oceans are vast and highly inaccessible, and our awareness and understanding of them are correspondingly small. It is rich in resources and provides us with food, energy and minerals.� To be able to tackle SDG item 14 effectively, he said researchers of different disciplines-marine scientists, earth scientists, biologists, chemists, as well

as mathematicians, economists, lawyers, and medical scientists should engage in joint interdisciplinary research on the marine environment. He added that the consequence of over exploitation and pollution on the marine environment was enormous stressing that preventive research in the field of marine science is very important. The maritime expert said 80 per cent of world’s biodiversity resides in the sea, adding that 3000 pharmaceuticals isolated from marine plants and animals “They contribute greatly to the ecological balance of our planet earth. Numerous human activities are mounting a growContinued on page 22

TheNigerianAirspaceManagementAgency(NAMA)saidithasputin placeamachinerytoaccelerateanongoingprogrammegearedtowards thetotalupgradeofitsradiocommunicationinfrastructureacrossthe country. Thisistoensurethatcommunicationchallengesexperienced by pilots in some parts of the airspace are totally eliminated. Aspartofeffortstoboosttheclarityofradiocommunicationespecially attheupperairspace,theagencysaidithadtakenstepstoreplaceall theVeryHighFrequency(VHF)radiosattheexistingeightremotesites inLagos,Kano,Wukari,Sokoto,Ilorin,PortHarcourt,Abuja,Maiduguri and also added six new sites in Jos, Kaduna, Yola, Enugu, Benin and Calabar making a total of 14VHF sites spread across the nation.T hese VHF remote sites are operated in a network which will have signal pattern that covers the entire Nigerian airspace. The agency has taken delivery of theVHF radio equipment under the “Extended RangeVHF Coverage� project and installation will commence soon. In2018,NAMAdeployedfourstand-aloneJotronHigh-powerlongrange VHFradiosatLagosEastandLagosWestaswellasKanoEastandKano West Area Control Centres (ACCs).This backup solution is targeted ataddressingRemoteControlAirtoGround(RCAG)communication challenges in the upper airspace by providing reliable backup in the event of loss ofVHF radio communication on the main system. Also,planshavebeencompletedtoextendtherangeoftheabovestated long-range backup radios and is only awaiting the passage of 2019 budgetbytheNationalAssemblyforimplementationtocommence. Whencompleted,thebackupradioswouldalsohavesufficientoverlap of propagated signals to cover the entire Nigerian airspace.

SAHCO Plc Wins Award

SkywayAviationHandlingCompanyPLC(SAHCO)hasbeenawardedthe bestAviationGroundHandlingCompanybytheNigeriaTransportAwards. The Nigeria Transport Award (NTA) is an initiative of TransportDay Newspaper.The2018awardwaspresentedtoSAHCOduringadinner which was the seventh edition of the award series held in Lagos. According to the organiser, SAHCO won the award out of many shortlisted rival companies because of SAHCO’s unmatched track recordsinprovidingquality,safeandspeedyGroundHandlingservices in the Aviation industry over the years. SAHCO was incorporated as an Aviation Ground Handling services providerundertheNigerianCompany&AlliedMattersActof1990.The company,whichwasformerlyknownasSkypowerAviationHandling Company Limited before it was privatised and handed over to the SIFAXGrouponDecember23,2009handlesmanyprestigiousairlines bothforeignandlocal,recentlysignedfiveyearscontractwithVirgin Atlantic Cargo to handle the company’s cargo operations in Nigeria toimprovetheAirline’sserviceofferingforcustomersandtoprovide growth capacity following an improvement in the demand from the pharmaceuticals and courier sectors. Also, SAHCO which became officially listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchangeonthe21stofApril2019,isthefirstcompanyundertheBureau ofPublicEnterprises(BPE)privatisationprogrammetosuccessfully finaliseanInitialPublicOffering,listed1.35billionsharesworthN6.29 billion on the Exchange at N4.65 per shares. Furthermore, SAHCO business model is geared towards delivering premium services and this has necessitated massive investment in technology,personneldevelopmentandinfrastructuraldevelopment in Aviation Ground Handling which makes SAHCO the best in West Africa Sub-region and one of the best in Africa as a whole.

Anyaoku Commends Air Peace

FormerSecretary-GeneraloftheCommonwealth,ChiefEmekaAnyaoku, hashailedthecommitmentofAirPeacetoyouthdevelopmentinNigeria. Anyaokumadethecommendationduringthefinalsofthe12thedition oftheAnnualUnder-16Inter-StateEmekaAnyaokuCupinLagos.He urgedAirPeacetosustainitssupportforyouthdevelopmentprojects, sayingthenationneededtoinvestmoreinitsyoungpeopletoensure itswell-being.Anyaokualsoaffirmedthatthetournamentinstitutedin hishonourbytheNationalYouthSoccerAssociationandsupportedby AirPeacehadcontinuedtopositivelyimpacttheyouth.Hesaidsome oftheparticipantshadbeenexposedtolife-changingopportunities. He presented a medal to Air Peace as a symbol of recognition of its role in youth development in the country.

“We count on the continued engagements of the private sector and interest groups of ICT professionals to support the economic policies of this administration. Our destiny with regards to national development, is in our own hands as ICT professionals� Minister of Communications,

Dr. Adebayo Shittu

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BUSINESSWORLD AVIATION WORKERS VOW TO OPPOSE AIRPORTS’ CONCESSION

secretary said the unions and the workers did not support the planned airport concession under the present arrangement, unless there was transparent effort that also effectively took into account the interest of the workers. “We have said no to concession. We are not unmindful of the benefits of concession when properly done, but this government wants to concession the four major airports in the country. “But one of the fundamental questions is, what do they want to concession? Do they want to concession the terminals, the runways or the services? And they said that there won’t be job losses, but we know that all over the world there will be job losses when concession takes place.� However, government said it is focused on the benefits of concession and as the new government is sworn into power on May 29 2019, it is believed it would swing into action with the process of concesioning the four major airports. Government believes that concession would remove the funding of public infrastructure from government to the private sector and creates competition, more jobs and profitability, as concessionaires strive to modernise and expand such public utility. FG URGED TO HARNESS $900BN OCEAN-BASED RESOURCES

ing threat to the health and sustainability of the marine environment. Protection of the oceans requires scientific investigation to better understand and manage the principal processes. “More than 43,000,000 chemical Substances are commercially available (Chemical Abstracts Service)- of these 248,000 are in some way regulated and inventoried. “Globally 5.7 million tons of pollutants are released into air, water and soil, 1.8 million tons were chemicals considered persistent, bio-accumulative or toxic, 970,000 tons were known or suspected carcinogens and 857,000 tons were chemicals that are considered reproductive or developmental toxicants (UNEP Chemicals, 2012).�

Group Business Editor

NEWS

Nigeria-UK Strengthen Plan for NairaDenominated Financial Instruments Peter Uzoho Nigeria and the United Kingdom have agreed to fast-track key regulations to deepen the insurance market, expand the digital economy and explore naira-denominated financial instruments in collaboration with the City of London. Both countries are also to endeavour to accelerate progress on franchise regulation to facilitate British brands’ positioning and investments that deliver sustainable new jobs in Nigeria. According to a statement signed by the Strategy and Communications Adviser to the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Bisi Daniels, these were part of the communique signed at the First Economic Development Forum (EDF) of both countries in Abuja, by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, who led the UK delegation. The forum was launched in August 2018 by President Muhammadu Buhari and Prime Minister Theresa May as a platform to foster economic and development ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. But the latest event was to take stock of progress against the joint commitments made and celebrate the successes achieved so far. The relationship is also expected to bring about sustained improvements in the efficiency of Nigeria’s international airports, the UK’s ability to increase airfreight capacity of its national carriers and enable Nigeria’s non-oil exporters to reach third market destinations via London. “This joint effort supports Nigeria’s export diversification drive, pending critical trade facilitation improvements in the

Nigerian ports,� the statement added. In addition, it is expected to lead to, “extensive work to consult the Nigerian and British business community and identify critical joint work streams and key actions needed to boost bilateral trade and investment; the commitment of UK to provide more technical assistance in support of the Government of Nigeria’s efforts to diversify exports, attract investment and create jobs by improving the business environment and the need for opportunities to showcase high quality Nigerian and British goods and services in

their respective markets, and for more Nigerian exports to comply with global standards for better bilateral trade and investment.� Others include Nigeria’s commitment to continue the reforms and improvements in making the country’s operating environment conducive for businesses and investments. The collaboration is also expected to help achieve a successful Africa Investment Summit in the United Kingdom in 2020 and to present a strong pipeline of investable projects in Nigeria that seek partnership with British investors. Speaking at the forum, Vice

President Yemi Osinbajo, who supervised the signing of the communique, expressed delight at the progress achieved in implementing the EDF since President Buhari and Prime Minister Theresa May initiated it in 2018. He observed that despite the deep and long-standing relationship between Nigeria and United Kingdom, the current level of trade and investments between the two countries was materially below the potential the relationship suggests, given that Africa represents only two per cent of the UK’s trade relationships, and Nigeria represents only a tenth

of that. He called for all hands to be on deck to ensure that, “we foster the right environment to grow the level of bilateral trade and investment between our great countries.� He said the federal government was not unmindful of the challenges that have hindered the business and investment environment in Nigeria, but it has taken these challenges as opportunities and have made the extensive build-out of modern infrastructure (both hard and soft) as the main thrust of the President Buhari Administration.

PROMOTING INNOVATION

L-R: Product Manager, PayDay Investor, Chiwueze Ihebuzor; Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, Think First Technologies, Akinyele Olubodun; Chief Executive OďŹƒcer Trove, Tomi Solanke; Chief Executive OďŹƒcer Asusu, Yusuf Zakari; Chief Executive OďŹƒcer Tsaron Tech, Jimi Fasina and Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, FINT Chiwete John-Njokanma, at the Labs by ARM Demo day in Lagos‌recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

Apapa Gridlock: NPA Set to Commission Two Transit Trailer Parks Eromosele Abiodun In furtherance of its commitment towards ending the present gridlock that has persisted at Apapa and its environs, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has disclosed plan to inaugurate two transit parks located at Lillypond and Tin can Island Second Gate. The Managing Director of the NPA, Hadiza Bala-Usman, who said this during a stakeholders’ meeting between NPA and some stakeholders, said she strongly believed that the effort would enhance effective port operations and improved service delivery across board.

Represented by the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Dr. Sokonte Davies, she informed stakeholders in the maritime sector that priority would be given to truckers with empties and exports. Bala-Usman, while rolling out the NPA’s plan, restated that the authority would not fold its arms and allow total breakdown of the system. Instead, “It would take the bull by the horn and proffer permanent solution to the menace in view of the role the sector plays in the life of the nation’s economy.’’ According to her, some of the plans put in place include mandating the Incoming Task

Force to ensure that all trucks are not allowed to park on the bridges forthwith. “Shipping lines and terminal operators must synergise their operations to ensure the success of the call up system. “Security agencies are to remove all category of trucks milling round the port environment and traffic and law enforcement agents to ensure that the Tincan Island – Mile 2 corridor axis is open for optimal traffic and port management. “In addition, the various sectional heads from the NPA involved in the exercise resolved that enforcement would be total whilst calling on the support and

understanding from all involved. It stressed that while the Trailer parks were a transit point, it would ensure that broken down trucks are towed away on a penalty. It urged all concerned that a platform would be made available for complaints to be lodged by Stakeholders, “he stated. The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, represented by Assistant Director, Shipping Development, Mrs. Anna Akpan, hailed the initiative by the NPA in putting an end to the menace. The port, according to him, was a critical component of

the maritime sector, adding that, “The ease of access into the port and the provision and maintenance of the facilities to create a free flow of activities cannot be over emphasised as it will enhance the flow and increase of revenue to both the authority and government.’’ Participants urged the NPA management to ensure that their members are made relevant in committees just as they further pledged their loyalty to the NPA in ensuring that the call-up system is effectively implemented for the growth and development of the Maritime sector and most especially the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the nation.

Obinna Chima

Capital Market Editor

Goddy Ogene

British Airways Relocates Operations to New Terminal

AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

Jonathan Eze

Comms/e-Business Editor

Emma Okonji

Senior Correspondent

Ă‹Ă’Ă?Ă?Ă— Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ĂŒĂ™Ă–Ă&#x; (Advertising) Correspondents

Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽĂ&#x; äĂ? (Aviation) ĂœĂ™Ă—Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă? ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜ (Maritime) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor (Energy) Reporters

Ă&#x;Ă—Ă? Ă•Ă?Ă‘Ă’Ă? (Money Market) Ă™Ă?Ă‹ Ă–Ă?Ă•Ă’Ă&#x;ÙÑÓĂ? (ICT)

Ahead of the ultimatum given to all international airlines by the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to relocate their operations to the new terminal on or before April 30, the British Airways recently relocated its operations. With this, the 12 international airlines operating in the airport have effectively relocated their operations to the terminal that was inaugurated in December

2018. THISDAY gathered that the airline relocated its operations to the new terminal on Tuesday when it landed its B777-300 at 4:40 a.m. The flight had 220 passengers and crew on-board, comprising 207 passengers and 13 crew members as well as one infant. Speaking to newsmen shortly after the airline arrived, Regional General Manager, North-Central, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Sani Mahmud, said the relocation

of BA to the terminal would lead to full utilisation of the facility. According to Mahmud, “I’m fulfilled that the airline had finally joined others in the terminal. This would help the authorities to streamline its international operations.� Mahmud, who also doubles as the Airport Manager for NAIA, stated that the management was ready to ensure that the facility is properly maintained and enhance sanity in the terminal.

He however, called on other foreign airlines to take advantage of the facility to extend their operations to the airport, adding that the terminal had the space for passengers’ comfort. “The old international terminal would be renovated. The government would come up with a policy on this later. “We are feeling fulfilled, we started with the commissioning of the airport by Mr president on the 20th of December 2018, and we prepared and started receiving flights immediately

into the terminal with Asky. “Today, all our 12 international airlines have moved in, the last being the British Airways. We are sincerely grateful to government for providing this edifice and you can see from the faces of the passengers that they are all happy to be in a new facility like this.� Speaking further, he said: “And we want to assure Nigerians and the world that the team in Abuja airport are competent enough to maintain this facility.�

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BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

Air Peace Showcases B777 on Domestic Routes Stories by Chinedu Eze Air Peace will today give travellers on the Kano-Abuja-Kano route a feel of its soon-tolaunched international flight service. The airline said it had scheduled its Boeing B777 aircraft to service its Kano-Abuja and Abuja-Kano operations on Friday. A statement issued by Air Peace’s Corporate Communications Manager, Mr. Chris Iwarah, said the carrier would also repeat its Boeing 777 operations on the Abuja-Port Harcourt and Port Harcourt-Abuja routes on Friday. The carrier pulled a big surprise on the travelling public with the deployment of its widebody Boeing 777 aircraft for its domestic operations on the Port Harcourt-Abuja and Abuja-Port Harcourt routes on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Surprised members of the public praised the airline for giving its domestic passengers a foretaste of its long-haul service, saying the carrier was on the right track to provide an exceptional international travel experience. The airline had assured that the showpiece flights on Good Friday and Easter Monday were the first of a series of domestic flights it intended to operate with its Boeing 777 aircraft ahead of the launch of its international

flights starting with Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Air Peace said it would also operate long-haul flights to Dubai, Johannesburg, Guangzhou, London, Houston and Mumbai. The airline has so far acquired four Boeing 777 aircraft for its long-haul operations. Three of the wide-body aircraft have already been delivered to the carrier. Iwarah, said the flights planned for today, were in fulfilment of the airline’s promise to, “give Nigerians and the travelling public a taste of the luxury to expect on our international routes launching soon.� He added: “The deployment of our beautiful big birds, the Boeing 777 on our Port HarcourtAbuja and Abuja-Port Harcourt routes on Good Friday and Easter Monday was received with enthusiasm by members of the public. “We are riding on the huge success of the Good Friday and Easter Monday operations to give many more members of the flying public the exceptional experience we delivered on the Port Harcourt-Abuja route. “This time we are moving up North to give our esteemed customers on the Kano-AbujaKano route an opportunity to experience the wonderful service

we plan for our long-haul operations. As an airline that listens to its customers, we are repeating our Boeing 777 operations on the Abuja-Port Harcourt route in response to the pieces of feedback we received after our hugely successful Good Friday and Easter Monday operations. “We are desirous of having members of the public make their contributions to our international offering. We want them to own the high-quality service we hope to provide to give Nigerians, Africans and other members of the flying public a great alternative on some important international routes. In a few days, we will be announcing a firm date for the commencement of our Sharjah, United Arab Emirates service. Dubai, Johannesburg, London, Houston, Guangzhou and Mumbai will join our international route network soon after the launch of our Sharjah service. We are sparing no effort to deliver a long-haul service members of the flying public will truly be proud of.� The airline said the flight departs Kano for Abuja at 8.35 a.m. and returns to Kano at 1.50 p.m. on Friday. The Port Harcourt sector of the Boeing 777 operations, it added, would take off from Abuja at 10.10 a.m. and return to Abuja from Port Harcourt at 12 noon.

FAAN to Rehabilitate Old Abuja Airport Terminal The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has indicated that it will soon start the rehabilitation of the old Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), following the movement of all flights emanating from the terminal to the newly constructed terminal built by CCECCE in partnership with the federal government. FAAN also announced that it has stopped international operations from the old terminal with the last international carrier, British Airways relocating to the new facility.

A total of 13 airlines including, ASKY, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airways, RwandAir, Emirates, Air France, Air Peace, Lufthansa, African World Airlines and Air Cote d’Ivoire have since relocated to the new terminal. FAAN in a brief statement said, “FAAN management is pleased to announce the arrival of British Airways to the new Abuja international airport terminal today, April 30, 2019. “Management wishes to inform passengers, airport users and the general public, to note that, this historic movement marks the end of international

flight operations at the old terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Meanwhile, with this relocation, it is assumed that works on the old terminal will fully take effect to bring it to standard for domestic operations.� FAAN has the plan to rehabilitate the old terminals at the Abuja and Port Harcourt airports as the new facility became functional. This would give the agency to upgrade the facilities in the new terminal, rejig the structure and give them a new and modern look.

Kenya Airways Likely to Stick with Boeing Kenya Airways has not considered switching its future plane orders to Airbus following Boeing’s 737-MAX jet crisis, the airline’s chairman said on Tuesday after it posted a rise in last year’s revenue. The airline, in which Air France-KLM holds a 7.8 percent stake, reported revenue of 114.45 billion shillings ($1.13 billion) for the 12 months to Dec. 31, up from 106.17 billion a year earlier. The carrier, which narrowed its pre-tax loss for the period to 7.59 billion shillings from 9.44 billion, needs to boost its fleet of Boeing and Embraer planes to grow its business in the face of stiff competition from rivals like Ethiopian Airlines. “We have a plan to grow the fleet if we had the means to do that and it is both wide bodies and narrow bodies. That means

the 787s, 737s and Embraers,� Michael Joseph told Reuters after an investor briefing. Airlines and regulators around the world last month grounded the 737-Max planes, a narrow body industry workhorse, after two horror crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. “We haven’t even thought about possibly going to A320Neo. It is not even in our thoughts at the moment. We need to see where they are going with the 737 Max,� Joseph said. The airline, whose balance sheet swung back into negative equity territory last year after fuel and fleet ownership costs surged, wants to run the main airport in Nairobi to boost its cash flow and allow it to buy new planes. The proposal, backed by the cabinet last year, is in the hands of

parliament’s transport committee which has to approve it before it is implemented, Joseph said. It expects to add two Boeing 787 Dreamliner planes back to its fleet later this year. The planes had been leased out to Oman Air, as the then cash-strapped Kenya Airways trimmed its fleet size to stay afloat. It was forced to restructure $2 billion worth of debt in late 2017 after a slump in Kenyan air travel following several attacks by Islamist militants from Somalia. It started direct flights to New York last September and plans to run new flights to Rome and Geneva later this year. “It (New York) is a lossmaking route but it is feeding our Africa network,� Sebastian Mikosz, the group CEO, told investors.

Understanding Structure of New International Passport

Chinedu Eze The Nigerian Immigration Service finally introduced the new international passport with 10 years duration on April 29, 2019. It was flagged off in Abuja and it is expected that in the next few weeks, it would be introduced at the Ikoyi Passport Office, Lagos, which is the busiest passport office in Africa, according to Immigration. Ikoyi processes at least 1000 captures daily and this is followed by the Nigerian Passport Office in London, which is the second busiest in terms of traffic. The Nigerian Immigration Service said with the new passport, one can get up to 10 years validity as against the outgoing one that has a maximum validity of five years. The new passport, which will now be applied for and paid for online, has also added a new mandatory requirement that must be provided by all applicants. The new requirement is the National Identification Number (NIN) and it will be provided in addition to the existing requirements like passport photographs, birth certificates, marriage certificates/ newspaper publication, Local Government letter of identification, letter of consent for minors under 16 years, police report, in-case of lost passport amongst others. This means that before a Nigerian will be qualified to obtain the new passport, he must first obtain his NIN at the National Identification Management Commission (NIMC), located at least in every local government headquarters in the country and some other offices nationwide. The categories of the passport are as follows: 32-page five-year validity (Adults and Minors); 64 page five-year validity (Adults and Minors); 64 page 10-year validity (Adults (18+) only) and 32 Page five-year Official Passport. According to the Immigration, “Those that are less than 18 years old cannot get a 10-year validity passport according to ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) specifications due to expected change in their physical appearance.� Prices of the new passport ranges thus: 32 Page five-year Standard Passport is N25, 000 ($130); 64 Page five-year Standard Passport N35, 000 ($150); 64 Page 10-year Standard Passport for adults only 18 years and above is N70, 000 ($230) and 32 Page 5-year Official Passport is N15, 000. Immigration has specified ways applicants can apply and these include visiting a designated website and selecting the type of passport application, which includes fresh, renewal, lost, damage or correction of data.

“The step two is after completing the online application form, select the passport office you wish to visit for photograph, biometrics and eventual pickup. The next step is to make your payment online after which an application ID will be generated. “Then step three is to proceed to the passport office you selected to complete the process. Don’t forget to take the necessary requirements stated in the second paragraph as well as evidence of payment made. “If you reside outside Nigeria, you will be required to submit your application at the preferred Nigeria Embassy/ High Commission or Consulate you selected during the online application. You have to also note that applicants are required to appear at the passport office chosen during online application for photograph and Biometric data capturing if current passport is more than six months old. Data on the old passport will also be the same as what will appear on the New Passport,� Immigration explained. For frequent travellers, the 64-page passport seems to be good for them. Travel expert and organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko, told THISDAY that in the past he used to have viable visas in up to three passports due to the frequency of his travel, as the 32-page passport quickly fills up and he has to renew. “Yes, my new passport booklet (64 pages) has lasted more than a year. Before now I have to change booklets every year. With the new booklet of 64 pages, you can have all your visas in one booklet. Before now I had visas in three booklets,’ he said. So for frequent travellers it is more about the number of pages in the booklet than the duration of the passport because within 10 years they would have utilized the 64-page booklet at least twice. Industry observers have, however, commended the Nigerian Immigration Service for categorising the passport pages and duration so that both frequent travellers and occasional travellers can be accommodation. But THISDAY investigation has revealed that many Nigerians who wish to obtain new passport or renew the existing ones are perplexed because of the long period of time it takes before the passport is ready due to protracted paucity of booklets. But THISDAY learnt that Immigration has made plans to start local production of passport booklets, which are currently produced overseas and imported into the country under a concession agreement, but recently due to issues alleged to do with payment, the passports are not promptly printed and imported as planned.

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Confronting New Wave of Drug TrafďŹ cking Followings reports that illicit drugs can be planted in passengers’ checked-in luggage without their knowledge and consent, Chinedu Eze writes on how such obnoxious acts can be prevented at the nation’s airports

A

rrests made late last year by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) brought to the fore syndicated operations of drug traffickers who tag drugs on the luggage of travellers. When the report was initially made public, many Nigerians were sceptical until the suspects arrested by the agency were taken to court and the case, which is still on, let out some revelations. According to a report from the NDLEA, a cartel which specialised in planting illicit drugs in travellers’ luggage was uncovered by the agency and this was confirmed by the Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer, Col. Mustapha Abdallah (rtd). The cartel was uncovered after NDLEA detectives embarked on investigation of a Nigerian lady identified as Zainab Aliyu, who was accused of entering Saudi Arabia with Tramadol. Aliyu, was arrested by Saudi Arabia Police on December 26, 2018, shortly after arriving for Lesser Hajj, over allegations that a luggage, bearing her name tag, contained the unlawful substance. However, while in detention, the NDLEA received a petition from her father, seeking a probe of his daughter’s ordeal. Consequently, the NDLEA Commander in charge of Kano airport launched an investigation, which culminated in the arrest and arraignment of seven staff of the airport. The accused were Idris Umar Shehu, Sanni Suleiman, Nuhu Adamu, Rhoda Adetunji, Udosen Itoro Henry and Sanni Hamisu. The cartel had allegedly planted the tramadolbearing luggage on Aliyu. It was further established that Aliyu, who had only a luggage, was not aware that a second bag had been labelled in her name. The implication of this discovery by NDLEA was that many Nigerians arrested and executed for drug trafficking in Saudi Arabia might be innocent, the agency said.

Release But by last Tuesday, the federal government had secured the release of Aliyu. This was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, saying that the government has been able to establish the innocence of Zainab and the second Nigerian involved in the case, Ibrahim Abubakar, would be released tomorrow (Wednesday) to the Nigerian Mission in Saudi Arabia. NDLEA ConďŹ rms NDLEA Commander of Narcotics at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, Ambrose Umoru confirmed that such syndicate had been thriving for some time at the airport. In an interview with THISDAY’s sister broad station, Arise TV, Umoru said that as far back as May 2017, the agency received a report that two Nigerians were arrested in Saudi Arabia for alleged possession of Tramadol. Two airline officials and two clearing agents allegedly masterminded the planting of the Tramadol in their luggage. “When the investigation was conducted, we packaged the report and sent it to our Chief Executive. The report was sent to Saudi Arabia authorities and the two Nigerians were released. “In the same May, 2017, some officials of airline handling company colluded with a passenger to ferry narcotic drugs ephedrine and used their official pass to take the drug to the tarmac where it was loaded to the airplane. “We got tip off and seized the drug and arrested the passenger, two officials of airline handing company and two clearing agents. They were charged to court and were convicted and jailed three to four years,â€? Umoru said. After this incident, Umoru said NDLEA felt that something was wrong and the

Zainab anked by Nigerian embassy oďŹƒcials in Saudi Arabia shortly after her release

agency decided to sensitise the workers of the airport and in November 2017 organised sensitization workshop, targeting handlers, airline officials, security operatives and others, telling them about the dangers of assisting drug couriers. “On the 26 of December 2018, Zainab Aliu was travelling with her mother and elder sister, each of them carried one luggage and when they came to the checking counter, the handling company officials generated three extra tags in their names and tagged the luggage that did not belong to them. “Each of them had extra bag attached to her. Incidentally, when they arrived their destination they collected their original bags. But later in the night, the Saudi Arabia police busted into the hotel room of Zainab where she was with her mother. They asked for her and said she had another bag she did not collect. “Zainab insisted she had only one luggage. Police insisted she had another bag and took her to the airport. When the opened the bag tagged with her name they found 2000 tablets of Tramadol that was concealed inside other items. Police arrested and took her to custody,� Umoru narrated. According to him, her mother alerted her husband, Zainab’s father who was in Nigeria and who promptly alerted NDLEA and laid a complaint. “That was how we started the investigation. We had earlier arrested 10 airline handlers and some clearing agents but upon discreet investigation we now found out that six of them were found to be implicated. “One is a staff of an airline handling company, three were clearing agents, and two others were staff of Security Company. We packaged the report and sent it to our Chief Executive and charged them to court immediately at the High Court in Kano. As we speak now the case is ongoing. “The federal government was alerted and a letter was written to Saudi authorities indicating the innocence of Zainab who was alleged to have Tramadol found in her bag,� Umoru also explained and added that at the same time one Ibrahim Abubakar was also implicated and the same 2000 tables of Tramadol was found in a bad associated to him with the tag that bore his name. Umoru advised travellers to always refuse to help anyone carry his bag; that “passengers

coming to Nigeria or going out of Nigeria should not accept the luggage of anyone; except in a case where the bag was packed in your presence.� Lucrative but Illicit Business Spokesman of NDLEA, Jona Acheme told THISDAY that there was no doubt that the cartel had been operating for some time before they were caught by the agency and noted that they succeeded in planting drugs on people’s luggage by associating the drugs with the passengers through their name tag obtained after the checked in their luggage. He said when a traveller has luggage weight below the maximum weight allowed, they could add the extra bag, and using the same tag name of the passenger. This, he suggested, was being done in connivance with some handling companies’ officials and that of the airlines. When the luggage arrived at its destination, the bag with illicit drug would be collected but it seemed likely that the cartel representative at the final destination in Saudi Arabia did not act very fast in the case of Zainab and the bag was traced to her through the nametag. Achema said two ways to prevent this are to make sure the weight of the passenger’s luggage is recorded and reflected in the luggage tag given to him and to ensure a more thorough check by the handling company. He said during rush hour, the handling company would not allow passengers to crowd the check in desk but attend to them by group of 10, for example, so that they would have enough room to scrutinize every bag. “If the weight of the luggage check-in is recorded and given to the passengers, anything extra is suspect and would not be credited to the passenger. “It is also likely that the members of the syndicate would be taking advantage of the rush hour, so it becomes the responsibility of the handling company and the airline to control the passenger flow during facilitation in order to have enough time to check every luggage and tag them appropriately.� Curiosity There are questions being asked by many Nigerians about the so-called syndicates. Many are wondering how such a group would have representatives in such a very strict country like Saudi Arabia. They are also

wondering how the extra bag with illicit drug planted by them are received at the destination and if it has been an on-going obnoxious activity, why have not those people been discovered long before now? Achema explained to THISDAY that the drug traffickers, who are also ruthless, always have a way of getting what they want until they are caught. He suggested that the bags containing illicit drugs are taken out on arrival before the bags get to the carousel, where the passenger picks his own bags, but when there is hiccup in the illegal process, the innocent passenger is caught with the bag associated to him. Role of Handling Companies Managing Director of Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO), Mr. Basil Agboarumi, in an interview, urged airlines and aviation handling companies to monitor their employees and ensure that they do the right things. According to him, “Everybody employed in a company knows the rules, but a staff can sabotage the rules for his own benefits. For example, we put our staff that we employ and post to various airports to the same processes and procedures. We profile them and before they will be given On Duty Card (ODC) that allows them to go to the restricted areas of the airport by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), they are further scrutinized by the agency,� Agnoarumi said. He said that workers at the airport, from airline staff, security agencies, handling companies and airport management personnel need to cooperate to fight against crimes at the airports. “In our company if we suspect you, we investigate you and if you are found wanting we boot you out. You cannot be too sure of anybody, but if we suspect you, we send you out. So I advise that there should be cooperation among the companies and workers at the airport,� he said. Agnoarumi, noted that whenever there was any criminal activity the process is traced to know where it originated and to know those who could be responsible, adding that because criminals could do anything to succeed in what they want to do, concerned authorities, airlines and handling companies should be proactive to prevent criminals from having their way.

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Shipping as Catalyst for Economic Growth Eromosele Abiodun writes on the need for the implementation of a comprehensive shipping policy in Nigeria

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or several years shipping has been recognised as one of the catalysts for socio-economic development. This is because it has since the ancient times been at the forefront of opening up of the world and thus a major driver in of the process of globalisation. Specifically, container shipping has been both a cause and effect of globalisation. Container shipping is believed to be the world’s first truly global industry. Container shipping could claim to be the industry which, more than any other, makes it possible for truly global economy to work, it connects countries, markets, business and people, allowing them to buy and sell on a scale not previously possible. As a matter of fact, it is impossible to imagine world’s trade, and ultimately our lives as consumers, without container shipping. Shipping has led to a phenomenal growth in world merchandise trade, which has consistently grown faster than output. In 2006, goods loaded at ports worldwide were estimated at 7.42 billion tonnes, up from 5.98 billion tonnes 2000. The value of total world export increased from $6.454 trillion in 2002 to $40.393 trillion in 2005 representing an increase of 64 per cent. However, the reverse seems to be the case in Nigeria. It is on record that no fewer than 90 per cent of shipping companies owned by Nigerians have either completely shut down their operations or struggling to survive. Contribution to GDP Despite its importance, the record of contribution of shipping to Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP) has always been a matter of conjecture rather than fact. In the recent publications of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shipping is categorised under “other services� and not as a standalone item. Whilst one may be tempted to frown at this practice by the NBS, it is most obvious that the ships that trade the goods into and out of Nigeria, and the freight the ships earn, do not add to the GDP because their revenues all go to the foreigners who own them. Nigerians at best earn commissions on shipping support services like marine insurance and law, cargo survey, freight forwarding, transportation and warehousing, some of which have their individual headings in the NBS’ GDP computation. Given the volume of oil and gas cargo that Nigeria exports daily, coupled with the regular importation of refined petroleum products chief of which are premium motor spirit (petrol) and automated gas oil (diesel); add to this the volume of non-oil import and export that pass through our seaports, the loss of capital contribution to the economy from the ships that move these cargoes is better imagined than calculated. With regards to domestic shipping, ownership of tankers and offshore supply vessels (OSVs) is still tilted in favour of foreigners despite implementations of the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act 2003 and the Local Content Act of 2010 both of which confer on Nigerian citizens the right to building, ownership, management and crewing of vessels that operate within Nigerian territorial waters. Stakeholders Take Action In a bid to reverse this trend and make shipping the main stay of the Nigerian economy, the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS) put together a focus group to work with government and other relevant stakeholders to map out plan and policies to achieve the goal. Stakeholders in the nation’s maritime sector at the meeting called on the federal government to abolish the tax on full duty paid equipment stressing that the policy is undermining local operators and favours foreign shipping companies. Speaking on the challenges faced by local operators on behalf of other players, the Chief Executive Officer of Marine Platforms Limited,

Mr. Taofik Adegbite said the law was made to stop colonial entities from taking their equipment out of Nigeria arguing that the law is no longer relevant to modern trend. He said: “Section 8 Schedule 6 of the Customs and Excise Act states that full duty paid equipment cannot be re-exported unless it is meant to go and do repairs. Not sounding to be too ethical, some of us have worked in Ghana, Equatorial Guinea, Togo and the Congo. You have vessels that are of course are multinational in nature, we did the right thing, the equipment are man properly so they can work anywhere, those are foreign exchange earners but you have the customs asking for tariff, which means we have to now go and do service to avoid been taxed. “And I recon the drafters of the law at the time wanted to stop the colonial masters from taking their equipment out of Nigeria. However, we can see now that it is no longer relevant with modern trend. So you can see that operators and challenged, constrained and locked down by the law unless you lie or have maintenance to do to avoid been taxed. As it is today, if anyone called us from outside Nigeria for work we cannot go because we are constrained by the law? “How do you make it easy for the operators here, you do a win-win with them, there are instances where they have low utilisation, wherein the tonnage you have for them is so big for what they want to do at the time. What you do is tell them your low periods or go seek assignment elsewhere mindful that an international oil company (IOC) like Eni has a very great opportunity in Ghana. It means Eni Milan will be looking at it is cheaper to move equipment from Nigeria than bring it from Europe.� He stressed the need for more private sector investment in the shipping industry adding that what is happening now in most maritime countries is that national interest encapsulates the private sector essence, which is profitability. “If we do not have that nationalist mind-set there will be absolute opportunism and in the Nigerian situation, the country will be raped blind, the rich will be so rich and the poor will be so poor. So we need to start looking at what the private sector can do. We need to start going into the various policies and looking at execution. There are enough of the strategies and policies and emphasis are not laid on execution, “he added.

He stated that the talk around a national shipping line will not work because we are not sufficiently nuanced in some of the things we talk about as a country. “There was an issue around sufficient cargo for the national shipping line if the cabotage fund were used to develop the shipping line. If you understand the way the container cargo of the Maersk of this world works, you cannot have enough cargo to put on a ship to go out of Nigeria and break even as a business. As long that it cannot happen, the shipping line will die a natural death from start, “he said. Major revenue earner On his part, Human rights activist and maritime lawyer, Olisa Agbakoba insisted that the Nigerian maritime industry can generate N7 trillion annually because of its huge potential. “From the discussion here you can see that the potential is so huge. Ghana is now taking over from Nigeria as the shipping hub, even in the aviation sector, because I work in both sectors, Togo is now the hub for airlines like Emirates. How is it that a country of 180 million people led by a so called government can’t see the potential and yet we talk about poverty? The maritime sector can turn the Nigerian economy around but is the government showing enough interest? The government has to create the enabling environment, “he said. Agbakoba slammed the federal government for falling to tap into the huge potential of the maritime sector, stressing that if the cabotage law alone is well applied, it will give the Nigerian government over N4trillion annually in revenue. Agbakoba also stressed for the government to ensure that all government procurements are bound to be carried on Nigerian vessels. “When I was reading all the various laws relating to cargo movement, let us just take Bonga, when a Nigerian government signs a PSC with an IOC, all they see is a barrel of oil. They don’t see the 34 by-products. I can name four; shipping, insurance, banking and law. That is why we are fighting for Free on Board (FOB) to be scrapped for PIF. IOCs like Shell are so happy with what is currently obtainable. For them the government only sees the price of crude oil. Who carries our crude? No Nigerian company currently carries Nigeria’s crude, which is the problem. We have a procurement policy

that does not favour Nigerians. If you just talk about procurement and cargo movement you are looking at about 100 vessels and work. We need to have a trade policy that takes into account economic nationalism. A technically insolvent can only survive like this,â€? he said. On what the government can do to harness the sector’s potential, he said the government must first have a high policy of level player. “The policy level player in government that oversees shipping today is the director of maritime services. It is way too low and he is in a small department, which is why I call for a minister for shipping because you have a minister for aviation. But I also see the point that it might also be too disparate, in that case, we need an integrated Ministry of Transportation, which will include roads, rail, shipping and aviation. It should be just like the United Kingdom where the Secretary of Transportation has four Under Secretaries with each of them running a sector. If maritime is not even mentioned in the government’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) then you can imagine. The problem with shipping is that it is invincible. It is not like a bank that you will see its building, which is the problem I have discovered in the last 40 years I have been in the maritime sector. People don’t remember it but it is a huge industry. Resolution In a communiquĂŠ released at the end of the meeting, stakeholders agreed that the target of the colonial administration for the shipping industry in Nigeria was to promote British shipping interest, “and so the Nigerian indigenous shipping industry was ill developed and ill prepared at the time of independence. Even the subsequent attempts at shipping law and policy have not been able to adequately develop the Nigerian indigenous shipping industry. “Nigerian Costal trade is currently dominated by foreigners and unfortunately this is not being adequately addressed because of the politicisation of government, which has inhibited political will particularly with regards to the development of the shipping industry. The Multiplicity of agencies in maritime industry is creating more problems rather than develop the industry. The first step in the development of the industry is to first dominate domestic trade before venturing into international trade.â€?

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BUSINESSWORLD

ANALYSIS

Unlocking Opportunities in Estate Planning Hamid Ayodeji writes on the benefits of estate planning

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state planning is the process of anticipating and arranging, during a person’s life, for the management and disposal of his or her estate during the person’s life and at and after death. It includes planning for incapacity as well as a process of reducing or eliminating uncertainties over the administration of a probate. Clearly, the ultimate goal of estate planning can be determined by the specific goals of the client, and may be as simple or complex as the client’s needs dictate. Estate Planning has been likened to a tree that grows from a tiny seed. According to Leo Okafor, in his book ‘Living Trust,’ “the day you execute an estate planning instrument is the day you sow a seed from which the future and comfort of your loved ones begin to grow and their future become assured. The sooner you plant the seed, the sooner shall the tree grow.� Experts described an estate as all the property owned by an individual, excluding liabilities. It is the net worth of the person or the value of the earthly possessions can be disposed or given away. They further pointed out that an estate plan as a written expression of how a person wants his/her asset owned, managed and preserve during his/her lifetime and upon demise. Estate Planning then involves the financial plan method used to effectively accumulate and protect one’s property, money, investment and assets during one’s lifetime and how the estate can be distributed efficiently upon one’s demise as stated earlier before the demise. Estate planning was also likened to budgeting that helps control the future during and after your lifetime. This is an attribute of a prudent man or woman. Indeed, what drives estate planning is the certainty and availability of current resources today and your ability to harness it; and the uncertainty when you no longer have capacity or you are gone, then what is left of your dependents and beneficiaries. In fact, the experts stressed that estate planning is vital for everyone and not a function of one’s level of income or net worth. Whoever dies without making provision for how his estate is to be distributed or administered, would subject his asset to the law of intestacy which is imposed on him by law or custom. For instance, under the Yoruba culture, if a man who is polygamous dies intestate, his property will be shared in line with the traditional method of Idi Igi - per stripe or Ori -Ojuri - per capital. For idi- igi, the property is shared per branch. Each branch consists of a wife and children and the property is shared amongst the children of that branch while the wife/widow gets nothing. Although she might be entitled to a right of occupancy in the deceased’s house until she dies. Under the Ori – Ojuri, the property is shared equally amongst all children. You can see the operation of this customs in the case of Danmole v. Dawodu; Suberu v. Sumonu. But, where there are no children, the property will devolve on the members of the deceased man’s family. The mode of distribution of a deceased person could vary depending on whether the disposition is by a man or woman. for example, if the deceased is a woman, under most cultures, woman are regarded as the property of the man, hence, all her estate reverts to her husband (in some cases except her share of her family/ generation property which reverts to her maiden family) and the rest is history. Unfortunately, most people have neither a will or a trust to identify their

Ajayi

intention and desires after their death as they become so involved in their daily life activities that they gave little or no consideration to the consequence of not putting their house in order before their demise. The consequence of the act of procrastination or non-performance can be financially devastating especially to your loved ones. The peace of knowing that your family will be well taken care of if something happens to you makes

The day you execute an estate planning instrument is the day you sow a seed from which the future and comfort of your loved ones begin to grow and their future become assured

it worth the while to make adequate arrangement either through or a Will or Trust. That is why the United Capital Trustees is offering a range of estate planning products and services designed to assist individuals in preserving their financial legacy. Managing Director, United Capital Trustees, Tokunbo Ajayi, explained that, “Our products and services are confidential, stress-free, and cost effective regardless of your assets.� She listed some estate planning tools of the firm to include Living Trust, Blind Trust and Family Trust. For Living Trust, Ajayi explained that it takes effect during the lifetime of the settlor. This type of trust often is used by individuals with large estates to reduce estate taxes and avoid probate. On the other hand, Blind Trust is usually used specially to avoid conflict of interest. In effect, the settlor gives up the right to information regarding the status of the asset. For Family Trust, Ajayi said: “We offer Family Trust which has been developed to oversee family investment management, tax planning, succession, insurance, philanthropy and a myriad of other needs particular to the family. “This protects liquidity, cashflow and ensures longevity of wealth over generations to come.

“Wills and Executorship: - The client’s wishes & desires as reflected in a Will are protected and executed efficiently after his or her death after processing a Grant of Probate “Letters of Administration: In the event that a person dies intestate, i.e. without a Will, we as Trustees assist to apply for Letters of Administration (LA) in order to be able to administer the affairs of the Estate. “Custodian Services: We offers custodial services to individual and corporate clients. We act as Custodians of important legal/title documents, share certificates and other valued articles belonging to our clients. Benefits includes safe keeping of assets as well as adherence to client’s wishes as stipulated in the Custody Agreement.� In terms of its Dollar-Denominated Trust, she described it as a variant of our Private Trust products that caters to all Trust and Investment in US dollars, while its Endowment / Foundations was described as an arrangement/organisation designed to accumulate, preserve, manage, and utilise wealth over time for public/charitable purposes over a lengthy period or even in perpetuity. Experts at estateplanning.com explained that an estate plan begins with a will or living trust. According to the online platform, a will provides instructions, but it does not avoid probate. “Any assets titled in your name or directed by your will must go through your state’s probate process before they can be distributed to your heirs. (If you own property in other states, your family will probably face multiple probates, each one according to the laws in that state.) “The process varies greatly from state to state, but it can become expensive with legal fees, executor fees, and court costs. It can also take anywhere from nine months to two years or longer. With rare exception, probate files are open to the public and excluded heirs are encouraged to come forward and seek a share of your estate. In short, the court system, not your family, controls the process. “Not everything you own will go through probate. Jointly-owned property and assets that let you name a beneficiary (for example, life insurance, IRAs, 401(k) s, annuities, etc.) are not controlled by your will and usually will transfer to the new owner or beneficiary without probate. But there are many problems with joint ownership, and avoidance of probate is not guaranteed. For example, if a valid beneficiary is not named, the assets will have to go through probate and will be distributed along with the rest of your estate. If you name a minor as a beneficiary, the court will probably insist on a guardianship until the child legally becomes an adult,� it added.

THIS WEEKEND WEEKLY MAGAZINE

NEWS METRO THISLIFE ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com 08152252325

Bethia Idoko:

Constantly Pushing Boundaries

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019

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COVER BETHIA IDOKO: CONSTANTLY PUSHING BOUNDARIES

Bethia Idoko is certainly not your average young lady. From marketing to philanthropy, real estate and now e-cab hailing, the list of her endeavours is endless. With 15 years experience in philanthropy, seven years as the Marketing Manager of GidiTraffic, three years in real estate, her new venture as the CEO of GidiCab, an electronic cab hailing service, is by no means a mistake. Best known for her warm and bubbly personality, Idoko who is no stranger to hardwork, opens up to CHIEMELIE EZEOBI why she keeps pushing boundaries

Idoko

What qualifications prepared you for the many ventures you have undertaken? First off, I am a graduate of English Language and Literature from the University of Lagos. I also went to Lagos Business School and competed three courses on Marketing Management, Personal Productivity and Business Plan. As a part of Gidi Traffic, an online social service, what is your job description? As part of Giditraffic, I am the head of business development. I have been with Giditraffic for over seven years now. My job description basically deals with the business arm of the company because a lot of big companies GT Bank, Zenith Bank, Dangote, NNPC, Pepsi etc, advertise through us. At GidiTraffic, we employ crowdsourcing as our primary means of providing real-time traffic updates to subscribers on our platform. The service, delivered free of charge, affords users access to various types of information. You are into philanthropy, can you shed more light on that? I love philanthropy and I have been actively involved in many organisations volunteering my time and resources. Personally, I have consecutively organised a party every Valentine’s Day for the last 14years at the Little Saints Orphanage saints orphanage. It’s the least I can do to show some love and spend some really exciting time with the kids at the orphanage. Let’s just say the kids and I have a very amazing time. Thanks to a very supportive family and

amazing friends. You are also into real estate, what does it entail? I delved into in real estate as well before GidiCab. I went into it by chance but it turned out to be very rewarding and satisfying. I actually was highest selling realtor for the company I consulted for in my first year in the business and the following year I was also highest selling with a different company as well. It was very rewarding because it helped me set up my own private student hostel at Akoka, Lagos, something I always wanted to do. Real eastate helped me achieve this and it’s doing well. You recently delved into a new venture; GidiCab. What influenced your move into electronic cab hailing? I ventured into GidiCab because I saw an opportunity in that space. Note that cab hailing is not an original idea, at least not anymore as there were companies before us. However, we saw ways in

I love to win. I believe anything is possible if you can think it, imagine it or want it enough, you will get it.You just need to put in the work and follow the process

which we believe we can improve on the current services being rendered by the others that are currently available and that’s how the idea was birthed to set up a platform with features that will give riders and drivers a better overall experience. So we got to work. Now we basically have a cab hailing service, which means you book a ride through an app very conveniently. What are the unique features of GidiCab? We have some very interesting features on GidiCab, different from other companies. We have the payment combination which entails card plus borrow, wallet plus borrow, cash plus wallet, wallet plus card and borrow plus wallet plus card. Other features includes the live billing, which entails being able to know at any point in time the cost of your trip while on-the-go. For the favourite destination feature, you get discounts on your registered favourite destination. Also, the homezone discounts means different locations will be determined and selected by Gidicab and all trips from this locations get discounted. For mileage, you earn money from riding with GidiCab as every trip earns you mileage tokens, which goes directly into your wallet as credit. Also, GidiCab has a wallet system, where you can fund your wallet without necessarily having to save your card on our app, and you can make payments for trips via your wallet. Not to be left out is the borrow a trip feature. Under this feature, you

can actually take a trip and pay later on GidiCab, like you borrow airtime on the mobile networks and pay later. Most importantly, GidiCab is the most affordable cab hailing service in terms of pricing. What should riders expect? Riders should expect to enjoy all these services on GidiCab and many more features to come as more features will be unveiled with time. Do you have any reward system in place? Yes we have the mileage system on GidiCab and by that, you get money back into your wallet after each trip just like you get flyer miles on airlines. This you can eventually use for future trip payments. With all these in your portfolio, how do you relax? I love to travel. At the last count, I have been to 30 countries. The experience of travel makes me very happy and since it’s one of the things I love to do the most, when I get the time and chance to, I travel. Why do you keep pushing boundaries? Simply put, I love to win. I believe anything is possible if you can think it, imagine it or want it enough you will get it. You just need to put in the work and follow the process. I keep pushing because I know there is always more if you are bold enough to push, not let fear stop you and not give up too soon. I am not even close to where I want to be yet. So this journey continues.

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NEWS

RCCGGroomsYouthonCapacityBuilding Stories by Mary Nnah For youth to emerge into greatness, they must be ready to make a difference, see opportunities where others are seeing problems and be ready to develop their innate potentials, utilising them maximally, said speakers at a youth conference tagged “Emerge in Life� organised by the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Dominion Sanctuary, Region 19, ACME, Ogba, Lagos. The resource persons, including Pastor-in-Charge of Region 19, Pastor Brown Oyitso; Executive Director, John Maxwell Global Youth Initiative Team, Mrs. Olatokunbo Ige; a member of the team, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye; Managing Director, ARM Financial Advisors, Mrs. Henrietta BankoleOlusina; Country Director, ANDELA, Mrs. Omowale David-Ashiru and Chief Executive Officer, Wilson’s Juice Company, Mr. Seyi Abolaji, admonished the youth to do self-appraisal by concentrating on that aspect of their life where they have comparative advantage. Oyitso, who doubles as the Special Assistant to the General Overseer on Missions of the RCCG,

L-R: Mrs. Olatokunbo Ige; Pastor Brown Oyitso and wife Helen; Youth Pastor, Yemi Temowo; Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye and Pastor Osato Noah, during the event

particularly noted that the theme of the conference could not have been more appropriate considering the current socio-economic situation of the country and its implication on the future of young adults and youth who appear to have been relegated to the background across every

facet of the society and nation at large. “The programme offers immense opportunity for a new vision and a fresh start to anyone who has been hiding from the shame of past failures, relegated to the background and limited by their immediate circumstances and environment�,

he said. He listed factors youths must consider to emerge into greatness to include connection with God Almighty the creator, having a sense of purpose in life, being goal oriented, having positive mindset and habits, being well informed and time conscious, pray-

MoukaDevisesNewWayofAddingComforttoLife Mouka Limited, Nigeria’s leading manufacturer of mattresses and other bedding products, has launched an innovative range of insect repellents in line with its mission of adding comfort to life. Chief Executive Officer of Mouka, Raymond Murphy, said the launch of Mouka Mozzi Insect Repellents which create a protective halo from mosquitoes, is the company’s contribution towards the global campaign against malaria. According to Murphy, in addition to Mosquitoes, Mouka Mozzialso provides protection from bedbugs, mould, bacteria spores, spiders, cockroaches and dust mites. With each application, a consumer can enjoy 24 hours protection for up to three months, which is not possible with insecticides. Dr Omoniyi Kayode Yemitan, who conducted the chemical evaluation, efficacy and toxicological assessment of Mouka Mozzi, endorsed the products as safe for all mem-

L-R: Mrs. Tolu Olanipekun, Senior Marketing Manager, Mouka Limited;Dr. Jimi Shodipo ,Chairman, Committee on Young Doctors of the Nigeria Medical Association (Lagos State chapter); Mr. Raymond Murphy, Managing Director/CEO, Mouka Limited andDr. Abimbola Osinowo, Programme Manager, Lagos State Malaria Elimination Programme at the event

bers of the family, including pregnant women and young children. Yemitan, who is of the Department of Phar-

macology, Therapeutic and Toxicology at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), explained that the

active ingredient in Mouka Mozziis extracted from plants makes it non-hazardous for humans.

ing without ceasing as well as rendering thanksgiving to God always. Corroborating Oyitso’s views, Ige a committed disciple of Dr. John Maxwell, a foremost expert in the area of personal development for transformational leadership, urged the youths to discover their purpose

and potential through self-awareness, character, skills, relationships and spiritually. Also, Oyawoye, while urging the youth to make a difference, noted that what one becomes in life is a matter of choice. “Choice is a gift, a gift you give yourself. We all start life with no choices but as we grow, what we get out of life is the result of the choices we made�, he said. While David-Ashiru, represented by Femi Sojebi harped on emerging technologies and the need to sustain relevance in the digital world, Abolaji who is a Co-founder of Wilson’s Juice Company urged the youth to embrace entrepreneurship as white collar jobs were becoming elusive. Bankole-Olusina called the youth’s attention to future of work, saying they need to seize emerging opportunities and strive to adapt to new demands. Explaining further the essence of the programme, Chairman Planning Committee, Pastor Osato Noah said it was informed by the desire to provide a platform to inspire, galvanize and mobilise the youth against any form of hindrances and limitations to their aspirations.

Paragon,PoisedtoSetaNew StandardinLaundryBusiness Paragon Dry-Cleaners, a new entrant in the Lagos laundry and dry cleaning business, is poised to set a new standard in the industry around Lagos and its environs as it opened for business with a formal launch last Wednesday at 91, St. Finbarrs College Road, Akoka, Lagos. The company, described as the new standard in dry cleaning, attracted an engaging crowd of prominent people during the launch. Speaking at the event on the inspiration behind its establishment as well as its business model, Paragon’s Chairman, Dele Aloko, said the company aims to provide high quality, cost effective laundry and dry cleaning services for urban professionals all over Lagos. The company, he noted has four branches now, but will extend its reach through a pick-up and delivery service covering Lagos, as well as expanding its branch network metropolis. “We stand for passion, integrity, professionalism, excellence and reliability. We will provide an excellent customer experience

through our consistent high quality services, customer intimacy and competitive pricing�, Aloko added. Executive Director, Mr. Bunmi Aloko, spoke at length on the unique capabilities of Paragon employees and the valuable services the company will offer its customers. Performing the formal launch, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo congratulated Paragon Drycleaners and urged them to ensure they provided high value services to the satisfaction of customers. Speaking also, Mr. Osten Olorunsola, former Director of the Department of Petroleum Services, said the entrance of Paragon Drycleaners was a welcome development as Lagos was long overdue for a dry-cleaning company whose focus is on customer service. Paragon’s approach promises to change the way laundry service is done by ensuring seamless pick up, timely delivery and a keen attention to customer requirements and to detail, ensuring all round customer satisfaction.

Hennessy Artistry Celebrates 10th Year in Nigeria Hennessy Nigeria has put in place plans to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Hennessy Artistry platform in Nigeria, a unique integrated global platform that brings the “art of blending� to life by creating exceptional consumer moments through a fusion of music, art, culture and creative talent. Since 2009, Hennessy Artistry has become an integral part of Nigeria’s social fabric – creating iconic moments, exposing talents, and creating collaborations across various music genres via the Hennessy Artistry Cyphers, VS Class, Artistry Club tours and

the Hennessy Artistry Finale Concert. Speaking on Hennessy Artistry 10th anniversary event, Brand Manager, Hennessy & Spirits, Moet Hennessy, Wole Awoleke, said, “Hennessy Artistry’s longevity and success is a testament to the strength of our devotion to strengthen and promote artistic content within the Nigerian creative space. “It also signals our commitment to provide a platform that enables Nigerian creative entrepreneurs to bring the “Art of Blending� to life, adding “Our10th anniversary celebrations will definitely

Hennessy Artistry artists, Banky W, Tiwa Savage, Sir Shina Peters, Eldee, Bez, Burna Boy, and Naeto C

leave a lasting impression in the minds of our consumers.�

Billed to take place towards the end of the year, Awoleke

stressed further this year’s Artistry Track will feature

three of Nigeria’s biggest music exports and promises to exceed the dizzy heights already set by the preceding acts. “This year’s finale concert will be an epic celebration of Nigerian music, artistry and how both have come of age over the past decade. The occasion will be the apogee of Hennessy Artistry 2019. “From the Cyphers and Club Tours to the trailblazing VS Class and the FINALE concert in December, Hennessy Artistry 2019 will open a new vista to the consumer experience Landscape in Nigeria�,

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E-TRENDS

MUSIC SHOWBIZ

‌Your weekly entertainment delight

NOLLYWOOD

Emeka Achulonu: I Want to Use My Music to Uphold Igbo Culture Rising music star, Emeka Achulonu with the stage name, Emmy Cliff a.k.a. Igolo 1, has hit the Nigerian music scene with his maiden album ‘Suggar’, an eight-track highlife/bongo music fully-packed with thought-provoking lyrics and laced with hyper thrilling rhythm. Former banker and graduate of Mass Communication from the Imo State University Owerri, Emmy Cliff in this chat with Peter Uzoho, talks about his maiden album and entry into music, amongst other sundry issues. Excerpts:

Y

in the studio. I like performances as well. I am blessed with guys who have talent; people like Engr. Bruno who is my boss was the producer and when he left, Sharpbeat took over. Whenever we go for stage performance, Sharpbeat is my keyboardist and when we go back to the studio, he becomes a backup singer and producer. So I have guys who are versatile in the music business and we are good.

ou launched your maiden music album a couple of weeks ago. What can you tell us about it? Yes, my album, ‘Suggar’, was launched on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, in full glare of some notable musicians in Nigeria, members of my family and friends, teeming fans and lovers of good music. It is my first album and contains eights beautiful tracks. It’s only audio but I hope to make it audio-visual as time goes on. ‘Suggar’ which is the title of the album is actually the name of the first song in the album, so I had to go with it because of the power of the message. The album is a fusion of Highlife and Bongo genre. I try to use my songs to pass certain message about life, to encourage good deeds and discourage evil. I also try to pass a message of encouragement. So, basically, it’s an album of advice–praising good deeds and discouraging evil deeds. Where did you get the inspiration to write the songs? You see, I’ve been into music for a long time, even right from when I was in Primary school. This is something I do effortlessly and it gives me joy. You know, when new idea comes in, you try to sing something on it; you try to develop it and make it a danceable song and most importantly, a meaningful one at that. You know some people sing songs and at the end of the day you don’t see any unit of idea or meaningful message in it but, I try to use my music to pass across a message. If you listen to the album from A-Z, every single track has a unit of idea and a message which you can learn something from. So, when I look at things around our society today I try to make something out of it, either to advise or to encourage people or to rekindle that hope in people so that they know that if you do something the right way and believe in God, someday, you are going to reap from it. You were once a banker but now you are into music. What inuenced that decision? Actually, I didn’t leave banking, rather I was laid off just because I was not meeting target. I was working in the marketing department. For me, I found out the hard way that everybody must not end up in the office. Some people are called to do different things. So for me, I will just say that music and entertainment is my calling and it has been a long time I started singing music. So when I had issue with the bank I had to go back to my music which is what I know how to do best. I decided that I don’t have to start writing applications afresh. It made me to now give my music more time and attention, and that is the reason why I have an album today. If you know the hustle and hassle one has to go through in the

You just talked about your producer, why did you settle for him to do justice to your work? For better understanding, Sharpbeat is my producer. He took over from engr. Bruno when he left for US. We met at Bruno’s office way back in 2012, even when I was still a student at the Imo State University. So as we were all learning and having our recording sessions and all of that I just saw something extraordinary about Sharpbeat. And he made me understand that he is a rare breed when it comes to production skills and in playing keyboard. He was able to learn from engr. Bruno and he learnt very well.

Emmy Cli

banking sector–you go to work by 5:30am, you come back by dusk, and when you are back you are totally exhausted; you don’t even have the time again to even think about any other thing. So, for me, leaving the banking sector just gave me a leeway and more time to pay more attention to my music, and today I have content. Today, the Nigerian music industry is well saturated with established acts who have already garnered enormous fan base. Now, you are entering the industry, how do you think you will be able to survive? You see, there is a popular saying that ‘a good product sells itself.’ In Igbo Language it is translated as ‘ahia oma n’ere onwe ya.’ So, all you need to do to survive in this music business is to have a good content. If you have a good message in your album, people who are upright in thinking and in their judgement will see that your message and content are outstanding. That way, you will garner yourself some fans.

music. What informed your decision? Well, it’s a thing of choice. First of all, I am versatile in this business. I have done some collabos with some guys who are into R&B. Actually, I have two collabos and I have some Hip hop tracks that I am recording as well but, I pay more attention to Bongo and Highlife. Today, if you talk about people like Victor Uwaifor, Majek Fashek, Dr. Sir Warrior, Osadebe, Oliver de Coque and the rest of them, you will understand that they made name for themselves. I respect all these big guys who are into Hip hop and all of that, I’m into that as well. And more importantly, one has to be proud of where he is coming from. I am an Igbo guy from Imo State and our culture and tradition should be upheld by someone. So if we begin to copy Americans and the English, our own culture will die, nobody will talk about them. Even though you want to do something about Hip pop but just make sure that cultural and traditional music does not die during your own era.

You are a young guy entering the music industry; one would have thought that you will be going into Hip hop or Afro

Who are your backup singers? I have the likes of Nwa Enugu, Sharpbeat, and many other guys and we work together

Oh My Gosh! Rick Ross Calls Yemi Alade Motivation In an edited interview with Bumbu Room on the Bumbu rum YouTube channel, award-winning ‘Johnny’ crooner Yemi Alade gushed over her excitement on featuring American rapper Rick Ross on the remix of her ‘Oh my Gosh’ single. Describing their collaboration as exceptional, Alade pointed out that she was particularly blown away when Ross described her as ‘motivation’. “To have someone as magnificent as he is describe me in one word as ‘motivation’ really had me thinking. I really felt blessed to be in his presence, to have him on my song and in the video. I felt very motivated as well to be in the right

place at the right time with the right person,� gushed the artiste. She also revealed that she had always considered herself a friend of Ross right from her younger years when she fell in love with the rapper’s persona and artistry. Alade and Ross collaboration was made possible by Belaire, which Ross is an ambassador and Bumbu rum. Both Alade and Ross are long-time fans of Belaire and Bumbu, choosing to premiere Bumbu’s latest release Bumbu XO in the video, alongside the rum company’s original blend and the iconic black bottles of Belaire’s signature bubbly, Belaire

RosĂŠ. Both artists form part of an everevolving roster of high profile musicians who have collaborated with the brands, including Post Malone, Steve Aoki, Dave East, G Herbo and Diamond Platnumz. Coming together for the remix of her song saw Ross ting the afropop song with his hip hop vibes. Draped in his usual fur-coat, Ross serenades Alade who has been singing about her new found love with bottles of the two iconic drinks. In her usual style, the video is colourful with the costumes and eclectic dance moves of Alade and her dancers.

So now that you have launched your album, how are you going about the marketing? So far so good, I have my songs playing in several radio stations in Imo State, like Heartland FM, My Radio FM, and Darling FM. Right now I am in talking terms with some presenters in Bond FM here in Lagos. So I just want to be publicising it. Music business is one big business that you have to invest a lot of capital before you can start making money from it. So we are in the promotion and publicity stage now and we are moving it gradually. We are dropping links for download so that if you want my songs you can find them online. Right now, engr. Bruno has an internet radio station in US called ‘Ichaka Radio.’ It was launched recently. So with that too, if anybody asks for the link I give him straight off. My songs have been playing in Ichaka Radio in US. So the promotion is being made worldwide. I want to be known all over for what I do and for my own style of music. So the promotion is ongoing. We are trying, it’s a gradual process and we believe we will get there. Who among the Highlife musicians are your role models? There are a lot of them but coming to the East, I will say Dr. Sir Warrior, Osita Osadebe, Majek Fashek, Victor Uwaifo. Coming to the Hip hop world I have people like 2face Idibia. These people use their music to send messages to restore sanity to the society. Through their songs they help to ameliorate certain things that are going wrong in the society. These are artists who are not really after the money but the impact they want to make on the society. But that notwithstanding, everybody is doing a good job in the industry.

03Media, Others Plan Next Europe Tour with Timaya Plans are already underway to ensure that the afro-dancehall artiste Timaya next Europe tour will be a bang. 03 Media in collaboration with Urban Entertainment and Afro Euro Entertainment are throwing all in the ring to ensure that the tour will be unforgettable. Not too long ago, the trio had a successful Europe tour that had Lil Kesh on its tourney. Basking in that euphoria, the new tour package which will run from May 17 to June 16 wil see Timaya going round some selected top European Afrobeat cities. With the theme ‘Chulo Vibe Tour Europe 2019’, Timaya will be entertaining his fans in cities such

as Essen, Germany; Oslo, Norway; Zurich, Switzerland; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Copenhagen, Denmark; Rome, Italy; Madrid, Spain; Vienna, Austria and Torino, Italy. Already, Alex Ozone of 03 Media is very optimistic that the concert will be more successful than the previous ones earlier held by the organizations. “The idea of the concert is to keep exporting Nigerian talents in the music industry to European nations and other acts are on the bill for future concerts,� he said. Previously taken on similar concerts to Europe, are Terry G, Olamide, Reekado Banks, Patoranking, Tekno to mention a few.

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E-TRENDS

It’saComeback For WaleAdenuga Stories by Vanessa Obioha For more than three decades, Wale Adenuga lit up homes with laughter and entertainment with his intriguing stories and characters. From the days of Ikebe Super magazine when we were first introduced to the comical characters Pa Ajasco and Boy Alinco, to the Super Story series that placed the limelight on Sola Sobowale who played the belligerent ‘Toyin Tomato’ in ‘Oh Father, Oh Daughter’, Adenuga seemed not to rest on his oars. Even with his son in control of his entertainment company Wale Adenuga Productions, the elderly filmmaker hasn’t lost his Midas touch. A good pointer is the latest offering from the company, ‘Knockout’. As the name suggests, the movie revolves around a boxing competition that pits two oddballs against each other. To put it more succinctly, the director Patience Oghre calls it the biblical David versus Goliath fight, only that David in this case is a lightweight Hafiz Oyetoro (Saka) and Goliath is the heavyweight Gentle Jack. Through a series of events that led to the staged competition, Adenuga who penned the script brought to life memorable characters from his past works. There was the usual pot-bellied Pa Ajasco and his eccentric fashion, his mischievous son Ajasco with his lengthy pointed face-cap, the cunny skinny Casanova Boy Alinco and of course the dim-witted Pa James. While they are known for their comedic antics, Adenuga however wanted a bigger picture. He pooled Nollywood heavyweights as well as instagram sensations to give life to his story. With names like Patience Ozokwor, Chiwetalu Agu, Toyin Abraham, Sola Sobowale, Charles Okocha, Segun Arinze, Steve Onu (Yaw) Woli Arole, MC Lively, Desmond Elliot among others, ‘Knockout’ is so star-studded that one initially fears it will be a killjoy. But under the capable hands of Oghre, each of the characters was usefully deployed such that none was rendered irrelevant. In a way, ‘Knockout’ is like a reunion

Wale Adenuga (2nd left) at ‘Knockout’ premiere

of some sort. Actually, Oghre who has worked with some of the actors on the company’s productions puts it that way. Working with them makes it easier for her to interpret their roles. “Most of these actors have worked on TV productions of Wale Adenuga Productions, so it’s like a comeback for them. I have also worked with some of the actors. We didn’t want it to be a regular Pa Ajasco story, that’s why we have other actors in the mix,� she said. More than that, Adenuga sees it as a comeback for his production company. Having started with his magazine Ikebe Super before dominating the Nigerian Television scene with comedies such as Pa Ajasco and Company and the Super Story drama series, the cartoonist and filmmaker felt it was time to showcase the brilliance of his mind in a big budget film.

“It’s a comeback for us. We want to show the world that we are not only for TV production, we are back to film. We specialise in comedy and our duty is to make them laugh like they have never laughed before,� said Adenuga. Distributed by Silverbird Film Distribution, the movie premiere was accompanied with great fanfare. Celebrities and fans stormed the Silverbird Galleria where the premiere took place a fortnight ago in a show of glitz and glamour. The ground floor of the Galleria was delicately transformed to accommodate a music band, a red carpet, a cocktail area where drinks and finger foods were generously served, as well as a 360 camera stand where guests sampled their pugilist skills. Throughout the duration of the screening, roars of laughter could be heard

From Naija Issa Goal to Leggo, Coca-Cola Keeps the Ball Rolling in Music Beverage drink Coca-Cola is renowned for its catchy TV commercials. From those days of ‘Always Coca-Cola’ to its most recent EPL themed song ‘Leggo’. ‘Leggo’ like its 2018 World Cup song ‘Naija Issa Goal (Remix)’ that featured Olamide, Falz, Naira Marley, Lil Kesh,Slim Case and Simi, ignites the spirit of the football game. Featuring afro-pop sensation Burna Boy, Mayorkun, Dance Queen Kaffy, rapper Zoro, ‘Penalty’ crooner Small Doctor, and Fly Boy Inc artiste, Kizz Daniel, the single was released with an exciting video, inspired by the singers’ passion for the world’s most popular football league, English Premier League. The video opens with the names of the featured artistes against the backdrop of a football stadium that transcends to the street where the

game of football reigns supreme. From the football fans gathered at newspaper stands, reading the daily sports news, to a viewing football centre where fans watch their favourite matches, the video highlights the different experiences of football fans. The lyrics of the songs were laced with chants and of course ‘Leggo’ as the music artistes kitted in EPL team jerseys, sang sonorously in support of their respective favourite football clubs while Kaffy led the energetic music video choreography with sleek moves. ‘Leggo’ truly evokes that passion of the game in its composition. The chants, whistles and colourful visuals beautiful blend together to deliver a nostalgic and patriotic feeling. Whether you are a Liverpool fan

like Burna Boy or a Chelsea fan like Small Doctor, you are bound to join them in singing ‘Leggo’. Produced by TY Mix and directed by Sesan, ‘Leggo’ prides itself as the first Nigeria EPL song. It comes on the heels of the three and a half year partnership deal between Coca-Cola Nigeria and the EPL in February, making the beverage brand the seventh EPL partner after the likes of EA Sports, Barclays and Nike. The brand has always been at the forefront of football sponsorship. From 2004 to 2009, it was the title sponsor of the English Football League and supported the beautiful game through diverse global, regional and local activities over the years. Coca-Cola is ongoing headline sponsor of the U15 tournament for African teams, Copa Coca-Cola and supports the

from the audience, despite the warning at the opening sequence of the film that audience should laugh moderately. But it is hard to stay still when Ajasco, whether deliberately or not gave Boy Alinco the phone number of an old petty trader in his school instead of that of his beautiful class teacher. The outcome of his seduction plan is something that will be more entertaining in motion pictures than in words. It is even harder not to reel in laughter at MC Lively’s ring side commentary. Perhaps, you may try to hold your guffaws when Pa James, robbed by a group of area boys ignorantly gave them clues on where he hid his money. If you are lucky enough to keep a straight face for the first ten minutes of the movie, then ‘Knockout’ is definitely not for you.

Wizkid,TiwaSavageTakethe ShineatNET At the recently held Nigeria Entertainment Conference (NECLive), foremost Starboy Wizkid and his once rumoured love interest Tiwa Savage took home the highest number of trophies at the NET Honours. The Honours is an award section of the one-day entertainment conference that is held annually. This year, the nominees list boasted of many celebrities that cut across the entertainment, media and creative industry. Wizkid was revealed as the Most Searched and Most Popular Male Musician, inching past 2Baba, Banky W, Burna Boy, Davido and Olamide. Savage also topped the Most Searched and Most Popular Female Musician in categories that boasted of artistes like Yemi Alade, Simi, DJ Cuppy, Seyi Shay and Teni the Entertainer. In the film section, Jim Iyke clinched the Most Popular Actor (Male), while Odunlade Adekola

was the Most Searched Actor (Male). Mercy Aigbe also won in both categories for actresses. Ace comedian Alibaba also emerged the Most Popular Comedian while the late media personality Tosyn Bucknor was the Most Popular Media Personality, taking the shine from popular personalities like Daddy Freeze, Toolz, Toke Makinwa and Ebuka Obi-Uchendu. Big Brother Naija 2018 was ranked the Most Popular Event for the year under review while Tobi Bakre, a housemate of that edition clinched the honour for Top Star of the event. The most interesting honour of the night went to President Muhammadu Buhari who emerged as the Most Popular Person. Other winners include Davido and Chioma, Juliet Ibrahim and American celebrity star Kim Kardashian. NET Honours is an annual people’s choice awards that

And the Hymnodia ASAPH Goes to‌

After an intense 14 weeks of notes and hymns, Kenneth Ekhuemelo emerged winner of the first-ever reality TV show created around hymns and worship, Hymnodia. The number six hymntestant was rewarded with the grand prize, the ASAPH, at a fiercely-contested show which saw other hymntestants painstakingly showcasing their talents in diverse dimensions of hymn rendition at the MUSON Centre Lagos where the grand finale held. The duo of Kenneth and

Olumide ‘the baritone’ Dada, had been sustaining their high tempo among the hymntestants in the closing stanzas of the Hymnodia competition, breaking away from the different twist of renditions in classical and contemporary hymns. At the final concert, it came down to two of them despite the spirited renditions by the other top five finalists: Mobolanle Oladimeji (who came third), Abigael Nnadi and Rachael Darley. After Olumide had belted a superb rendition to a

standing ovation by the judges and the audience, it seemed the prize was his for the taking. That was until Kenneth took the stage and splayed his own superlative rendition. The die was cast. The race was tight and the decision depended on a combination of public votes and the judges’ scores and the night favoured Kenneth, the bazofundo who was almost hymnvicted (evicted) from the Hymnstitute twice on the admission day.

Hymnodia winner Kenneth Ekhuemelo (middle)

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ART WEEKEND

‌For pure art enthusiasts

Vignettes of African Drum Festival 2019 YINKA OLATUNBOSUN reports on the three-day international drum festival initiated by Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, which drew a mammoth of culture buffs to Abeokuta, with its performances, workshop, exhibition and a formidable roundtable session

Bata drummers in performance

Governor Ibikunle Amosun during the fashion parade

In more ways than one, the annual African Drum Festival (ADF) held in Abeokuta last week has retained its spot as a “miniFESTAC� for the people of Abeokuta and attendees from other parts of Nigeria, Africa and beyond. The evening performances were major attractions; some women, defying the earsplitting sounds of drums came with young children; young men arrived in company of their dates whilst VIPs were accompanied by their aides. With the theme, “Drumming the Future�, this year’s edition was received with an even measure of excitement and apprehension. Many wondered if the thrilling festival will continue after Governor Ibikunle Amosun leaves office. This edition recorded a remarkable increase in registered participants with more enthusiasm from Northern Africa. That region boasts of some of the finest drummers some of whom were seen in performance. Also, its traditional venue was changed this year to a near-complete 10,000-capacity amphi-theatre at the City Centre, Oke-Ilewo. The festival was kicked-off on the first day with the launch of the seal of authenticity for the state’s signature fabric, Adire Ogun held at Mitros Residencies, Ibara Housing Estate, Abeokuta. The indigenous tie and dye fabric had been a popular element of the people’s cultural life for almost a century and with government intervention through funding and infrastructural development, adire has become a premium brand that is trending at fashion shows with international fashion designers such as MAKI OHpromoting it. At the moment, an ultra-modern market at Itoku is under construction for the producers of adire, strategically located just a few metres from the state’s most sought-after tourist site, Olumo rock. The Deputy Governor, Yetunde Onanuga described the new shopping malls as “an iconic shop on the way to the iconic Olumo rock. For the unemployed youths, think of what you can do with the adire. You can

make throw pillows, window curtains, laptop bags, blouses, skirts, adire on silk for evening wears, adire prints on nails�, she said. During the opening ceremony of ADF 2019, Governor Ibikunle Amosun unveiled a commemorative N100 postage stamp tagged, “African Drum Festival’’ to document this historical event which according to him has grown from being “a domestic event to an international event; gaining the attention of the intellectual community.’’ The ceremony also featured a fashion show wherein select commissioners and ex-commissioners took to the stage clad in exquisite adire pieces. The veteran OAP and former commissioner for Information and Strategy, Ogun State, Dayo Adeneye stirred the audience with a six-pack abs flash on the catwalk, right on the stage as others in the audience were distracted by the buzzing sound of drone. The second day of the festival featured incisive discussions by drummers drawn from the stage and the academia. Convened by the festival consultant, Professor Wole Soyinka and executed by the creative task force, the conference always deepens appreciation for the drum culture, highlights trends in the industry and points out potential dangers to the drum profession. 15 master drummers, 17 professional culture scholars and researchers were sourced as speakers this year. They are Aziz Belheni (Tunisia), Cheickne Sissoko (Mali), Eddy Mboyo (DR Congo), Dennis Kirimi Ngurwe (Kenya), Frendi Sofiane (Algeria), Kachina Aimad (Morocco), Landry Luoba (Cote D’Ivoire), Jeleel Ojuade (Nigeria), Oladipo Abiala a.k.a Jah Baba (Benin), Othnell Mangoma Moyo (Zimbabwe), Noumoucounda Cissoko (Senegal), Sserwanga Bernard (Uganda), Sylvanus Kwashie Kuwor (Ghana) and Thandi Swaartbooi (South Africa). Moderated by the bi-lingual founder and director, Le Kolatier Music Market, Luc Yatchokeu, the roundtable was a conflation

Female drummers during the workshop at Olumo Rock, Abeokuta

of ideas on the future of drum. Others at the roundtable include Armel Bokossa (Benin), Gregoire Kabore (Burkina Faso), Vernon Shabaka Thompson (Trinidad & Tobago), Adepo Yapo (Burkina Faso), Sebaggala Jedidiah (Uganda), Dr. Ben Amakye Boateng (Ghana), Enoth Namanya (Uganda). Interventions were made by Olu Adewale Adeniran (Ph.D), Sam Dede (Ph.D) , Femi Odugbemi, Akin Adejuwon (Ph.D), Brenda Uphopho, Adeola Osunkojo, Tunde Awosanmi, Razinat Mohammed (Ph.D) amongst others. Some of the submissions made during the roundtable was the need for government to strengthen policies on reforestation because the global warming spells danger to tree life and by extension, little or no raw material will be left for drum making. The scholars agreed that it is high time we had African drums in the curriculum for students studying music, indigenous languages and theatre arts at the tertiary institutions. The consummate arts manager, Uphopho encouraged drummers

to submit proposals in order to take part in festivals. The tribute exhibition held at the Olumo rock simultaneously with the talk session was a parade of legendary musicians. Curated by the Founder and Publisher, ASIRI Magazine, Damola Adebowale, it was organised in honour of Chief Ebenezer Obey who turned 77 on April 3, 2019. Other musicians who were honoured alongside him include Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Hubert Ogunde, Fela Sowande, Ayinla Omo-Wura, Salawa Abeni and King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall. At the finals, Ghana won as the Best African Troupe with the prize of $5000 beating Chad and the Republic of Benin to the second and third places respectively. In the individual category, Kachina Aimad, a master drummer from Morocco won the best drummer while on the national level, Gombe state kicked the defending champions Kwara State to the second place to emerge as the overall winner with a prize of N2million.

Sogal Art Auction Hits Lagos Yinka Olatunbosun The fifth edition of the Sogal Art Auction begins with a preview today featuring names from West and North African countries. Organised by Signature Beyond Art Gallery, Ikoyi, Lagos, the auction has been a major Lagos market window for contemporary art since 2014 when the first edition was held. The auction which has drawn collectors and enthusiasts to Lagos will begin sales on May 5. 100 lots are available for this edition of Sogal Art Auction. These include works of Gani Odutokun, Amos Odion, Bona Ezeudu, Shina Yusuf, Raqib Bashorun, Duke Asidere

and Alex Nwokolo among others. Artists from Ghana whose works are part of the lot include Abiade Glover, Wiz Kuduwor and Ato Delaquis. Other artists whose works will be featured include Djakou Nathali from Cameroon, Moufouli Bello, Rafiy Okefolahan, Francis Tchiakpe, Mohammed Youssef from Egypt. New generation artists such as Dotun Popoola, Dennis Osakue, Babalola Lawson, Kingsley Obasi, John Ogbeta, Raji Mohammed, Seye Morakinyo, Ike Gerald Chiemezie and Yakubu Abdulkareem and Kunle Adegorioye will have their works featured. Among the top paintings on sale is “Ubiquitous Warriors’’ by Odutokun. Dated 1990, it is one of those rare paintings of the late

artist renowned for his abstract brush strokes. Born on August 9, 1946 and died on February, 1995, Odutokun was known for his contributions in nurturing artists in Nigeria from his Zaria, Kaduna base. His works include wall murals, paintings and book cover designs. One of his iconic works is “Dialogue with Mona Lisa’’. Glover ’s “Everyday Woman’’ is one of the most coveted of the lot which celebrates natural African beauty. Glover ’s works were featured in a group show in 2010 to mark Nigeria’s golden jubilee. One of Odutokun’s ex-students, Asidere dedicates a painting produced in 2018 titled, “The 16th’’ to teenage girls.

Ubiquitous Warriors by Gani Obitokun

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with DR. KEMI AILOJE Info@lifelinkfertility.com; Website: lifelinkfertility.com 08033083580

PREMARITAL GENETIC COUNSELLING (Part 3)

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ast week we talked about managing fertility challenges in patients with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and treatment options to achieve pregnancy, this week our focus will be on sickle cell disease and care during pregnancy and after delivery. Women with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) should be seen before conception (pre conception consultation)by a sickle cell specialist care giver to receive information about how this condition affects pregnancy and effect of pregnancy on the patient with this disease,and also how to improve overall outcome for mother and the baby. Primary care physicians do play a key role in preconception screening, and also the provision of contraceptive advice. This consultation should include optimization of management and screening for end organ damage The assessment for chronic disease complication should include: Ëž ÖÙÙÎ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă&#x;ĂœĂ“Ă˜Ă‹Ă–ĂŁĂ?Ă“Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? performed to identify women with hypertension and/or proteinuria Ëž Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă? ĂšĂœĂ™Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă Ă? retinopathy is common in patient with sickle cell disease Ëž Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă“ĂœĂ™Ă˜ Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ–Ă™Ă‹ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ åÙ×Ă?Ă˜ ĂĄĂ’Ă™ have had multiple transfusion in the past or who have a high ferritin level. Cardiacmagnetic resonance imaging may be helpful to assess body iron. Ëž Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂšĂ&#x;Ă–Ă—Ă™Ă˜Ă‹ĂœĂŁ Ă’ĂŁĂšĂ?ĂœĂžĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ with echocardiography Ëž Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂœĂ?ĂŽ Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă– Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ“ĂŒĂ™ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă?Ëœ ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? may indicate an increased risk of hemolytic (destruction of red blood cell) disease of the new born Sickle Cell Disease is a chronic, lifelong condition and there are recommendations

for clinical care which apply to all patients, including women planning to become or those already pregnant. Women with SCD should receive not only the general preconception care which is given to all women but also additional advice about vaccinations, medications and crisis avoidance. Those with low pain threshold are advised to seek medical help for management of pain crisis. Medical review at least once yearly by a sickle cell physician for the monitoring of

chronic disease complications while getting information on the treatment process is recommended.

Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒËÞ Ă“Ă? ĂšĂ‹ĂœĂžĂ“Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ–ĂŁ ĂœĂ?Ă–Ă?Ă Ă‹Ă˜Ăž for women planning to conceive includes: Ëž ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ™Ă–Ă? Ă™Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă’ĂŁĂŽĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă?Ă™Ă–ĂŽËœ Ă’ĂŁĂšĂ™Ă˘Ă“Ă‹Ě™Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‹ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă˜Ă™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ 􉋄Ă?Ă˜ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ÞÓĂ?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă? ÞÙ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?ĂžĂ‹Ă“Ă˜ ĂŒĂ™ĂŽĂ“Ă–ĂŁ Ă?Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĚšËœ Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ?âĂ?ĂœĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ stress in the frequency of sickle cell crises, and how to avoid them Ëž ÒÙå Ă˜Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă‹ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă Ă™Ă—Ă“ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“Ă˜ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă˜Ă‹Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ can result in dehydration and the precipitation of crises and pain Ëž ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă• Ă™Ă? ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă—Ă“Ă‹Ě™ĂœĂ?ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ in the healthy red cells in blood) the increased risk of crises and acute chest syndrome (ACS) Ëž ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă• Ă™Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ě™Ă?Ă?ĂšĂ?Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă–ly urinary tract infection) during pregnancy Ëž ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă?ĂŽ ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă• Ă™Ă? Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹ Ă‘ĂœĂ™ĂĄĂžĂ’Ě‹ restricted baby, which increases the likelihood of fetaldistress, induction of labor and caesarean section Ëž ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă’Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ ĂŒĂ‹ĂŒĂŁ ĂŒĂ?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽ by Sickle Cell Disease Ëž Ă˜ Ă&#x;Ú̋ÞÙ̋ÎËÞĂ? Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă’ĂœĂ™Ă˜Ă“Ă? disease complications that may be related to pregnancy and child birth. Ëž Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă?ÞËÞĂ&#x;Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? ĂŽĂ?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ—Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽ and updated before pregnancy. Ëž Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă˜ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂšĂ’ĂŁĂ–Ă‹Ă˘Ă“Ă? Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă“Ă Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă?Ă’Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ“ĂŒĂ?ĂŽË› Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă“Ă˜ ĂšĂœĂ™ĂšĂ’ĂŁĂ–Ă‹Ă˘Ă“Ă? and vaccinations are usually monitored and administered in primary care, but should be reviewed by the physician haematologist/ obstetrician during pregnancy. Patients with Sickle Cell disease have reduced spleen function (hyposplenic) which makes them at a high risk of infection, in particular from encapsulated bacteria such as Neisseria meningitides, Streptococcus pneumonia and Haemophilus influenza. Ă?ÚËÞÓÞÓĂ? Ă Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă“Ă? ĂœĂ?Ă?Ù××Ă?Ă˜ĂŽĂ?ĂŽ and the woman’s immune status should be determinedpreconception.

Those with this disease should be advised to receive the influenza and ‘swine flu’ vaccine annually. What vitamin supplements should be given to SCD patients? Folic acid is recommended in all pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects. Folic acid at a dosage of at least 1 mg daily is recommended for women with SCD outside pregnancy in view of their haemolytic anaemia, which puts them at increased risk of folic deficiency. Folic acid 5 mg daily should be prescribed before, during and throughout pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defect and to compensate for the increased demand for folate during pregnancy. What medications should be reviewed before preconception?

Ăž Ă“Ă? Ă“Ă—ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ‹Ă˜Ăž ÞÒËÞ Ă‹ ÚËÞÓĂ?Ă˜Ăž åÓÞÒ visits the doctor to identify the medications you are presently using to know if they should be stopped before attempting pregnancy. ĂŁĂŽĂœĂ™Ă˘ĂŁĂ?Ă‹ĂœĂŒĂ‹Ă—Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ě™Ă’ĂŁĂŽĂœĂ™Ă˘ĂŁĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĚšË? Ă’Ă“Ă? Ă“Ă? the medication used to increase red blood cells), should be stopped at least 3 months before conception. ĂŁĂŽĂœĂ™Ă˘ĂŁĂ?Ă‹ĂœĂŒĂ‹Ă—Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ă’Ă‹Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă˜ ĂŽĂ?Ă—Ă™Ă˜strated to decrease the incidence of acute painful crises in individuals with severe clinical manifestations of SCD, however studieshave proven that they are not safe for the development of fetus. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibiĂžĂ™ĂœĂ? ̙×Ă?ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă?Ă’ Ă’Ă?Ă–Ăš ÞÙ ĂœĂ?ÖËâ ĂŒĂ–Ă™Ă™ĂŽ vessel) and angiotensin receptor blockers (medication which helps to enlarge blood vessel) should be stopped before conception to be continued next week

New Beginings for Omobolanle Bankola through the Kinabuti Fashion Initiative Sunday Ehigiator writes that for Omobolanle Bankola, a former drug seller and user, the skill acquisition programme by Kinabuti Fashion Initiative has proffered a new beginning

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aving lived on the streets and even dabbled into drugs, Omobolanle Bankola, was certainly on the fast lane with no recourse for redemption. That narrative has however since changed. Today, though the hand of fellowship extended by Kinabuti Fashion Initiative, she has acquired skills and has gone on to inspire others. Ironically, it took one man, who likely had all the excuse in the world to have taken advantage of her, instead helped her through rehabilitation to get her life back on track. According to her story shared on Kinabuti, before she was discovered and given a chance for rehabilitation, Bankola was already on the fast road leading to nowhere. Raised in a household where her mother was the only income provider, it was necessary for her to drop out of school because there was no money to pay for her education. Leaving school introduced her to a new kind of life that was counterproductive; a life on the streets with drugs; even with mixture of it, and abuse of alcohol. She wasn’t just a drug user, but became a drug seller as well. She continued this way until a simple conversation with a social worker gave her a new lease on life. One day, while smoking on the streets with her friends, a social worker asked about her employment status and she told him she was unemployed. He told her that enrollment was on-going for a skill acquisition program and emphasised that he wanted her to be a part of it. Well; while growing up, Omobolanle

Bankola

always had passion for food and cooking in general so for her, the encounter with the social worker was like a sign from the heavens. “I could do this� she said as the officer’s words woke a dormant dream; a dream she could pursue and achieve. The program was her lifesaver. The empowerment program is organised by Kinabuti Fashion Initiative; and Equal Health and Rights Access Advocacy Initiative (EHRAAI) in Nigeria as well as, Time for Africa in Italy and they likewise receive

Funding from Friuli Venezia Giulia in Italy. This was how she met destiny. The young woman was accepted into the catering class and took up intercontinental cooking, something she had been interested in but never had the opportunity to learn. Her instructors found her enthusiasm and attention delightful. Her passion marked her as one of the favourites in the program. It was clear to see that having been given a chance to achieve her dreams, she was going after this doggedly. After she was done,

she went on to establish her business. Currently, Omobolanle has two customers who find her catering so satisfying that they engage her on a weekly basis where she makes good profit. Still, she is not resting on her oars and intends to scale up her business as she recognises that there is a huge market for what she does. There are millions of Nigerians are still tied under the influence of drug abuse. In fact, Nigeria is in the throes of a major public health emergency. The first ever nationwide survey on drug use in Nigeria as published by THISDAY on February 13, 2019, revealed that there is a “gross abuse of drug substances, particularly by those in the age bracket of 15 and 64. Even more worrying, close to three million of these are drug-dependent but cannot access help due to lack of health facilities�. According to the report conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in collaboration with the National Bureau of Statistics and funded by the European Union, some 14.3 million people, about 14 per cent of the population abused drugs in the past one year, a figure more than twice the world’s average of 5.6 per cent. The report said 10.6 million Nigerians abused cannabis in 2018 while others abused opioids, cough syrups and other street drugs.� There is much that can still be done by all of us to help victims of drug abuse through rehabilitation and refer them to skills acquisition organisations like Kinabuti Fashion Initiative; who love to make positive impact on the youths with visible results.

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F R I DAY Ëž ÍąËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

COLLAGE EVENTS

OrganisersAnnounceDateforMBGN2019

L-R: BBNaija Host, Chukwuebuka Obi-Uchendu; Chief Executive OďŹƒcer, MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe; CEO Black House Media, Ayeni Adekunle; Executive Head of Content, MultiChoice Nigeria, Busola Tejumola; Ex-BBNaija Housemate, Tobi Bakre and Executive Head of Channel, MultiChoice Nigeria, Wangi Mba-Nzoukwu, during the 2019 Nigerian Entertainment Conference in Lagos...recently

For over three decades, Silvervbird Group has crowned the most successful beautiful girls in Nigeria who are still making waves long after their reigns. It is that time of the year again when the organisers are searching for one young, beautiful and talented lady out of the millions of beautiful girls from across the country and the diaspora to wear the prestigious crown of the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, Africa’s longest running pageant, for 2019. This year’s being the 32nd edition, according to the organisers would be remarkable in many ways as it is delivered on the theme, “Every Woman.� This disclosure was made during a media briefing held at the Silverbird Galleria, Victoria Island Lagos last week. The grand finale holds on September 20 at the prestigious Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre in Yenagoa Bayelsa. According to the organisers, the theme, ‘Every Woman’ said was picked to pay tribute to the multitasking woman rolled into every woman because a potential mother and wife yet saddled with the under-appreciated responsibilities of being an unpaid nurse, doctor, accountant, economist, teacher, cook, cleaner, driver, adviser, and so on to her family in addition to her professional role as a career woman. “We are searching for a beautiful girl with the intelligence to hold her own. She must be Nigerian by birth and with valid international passport. She should be above five feet, seven inches tall. Participants must be between 18 to 23 years of age and possess a minimum educational qualification of a secondary school certificate�, the organisers noted. For those who are interested in the prestigious beauty competition, MBGN forms are still available for 10,000 naira at all Silverbird locations nationwide and at Occasions and Events stores and online at Silverbirdmbgn. com. Registration ends on June 30, 2019.

L-R: Engineer Ibrahim Lawal-Olumegbon, Oriat Lawal-Olumegbon, AbdulRaheem Lawal-Olumegbon and Albania Kola LawalOlumegbon, during the eight-day Fidau Prayers held for the Olumegbon of Lagos, the Late Chief Fatai Abiodun Lawal-Olumegbon, at his palace in Lagos....recently

MBGN Pageant Manager, Guy Murray Bruce

Ahiara Catholic Diocese Set to Ordain Another Batch of Priests

L-R: Director, Department of Forestry, Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Mr. Sunday Akinwale Moradeyo; Operations Director, British American Tobacco West Africa, Waseem Hayat; Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Mr. Victor Adewale Atilola; Deputy Director, Department of Forestry, Mr. Waheed Ola Ojo; and Director, Department of Rural Development Mr. Afeez Ramoni, during the presentation of a pickup van to the Department of Forestry, Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture at the BAT Farmers’ Awards ceremony held in Iseyin, Oyo State...recently

Newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning, Mr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe and wife, Florence with the plaque of honour awarded to him as the past president of Otuo Exclusive Club during a ceremony at the Azama College Hall organised by the club in Otuo, Edo State...recently

All is set for the ordination of another batch of Reverend priests by the Catholic Diocese of Ahiara, Mbaise, Imo State. The ordination which holds on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at the Maria Mater Ecclesiae Cathedral, Ahiara would be performed by His Lordship, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorgi, Apostolic Administrator of Ahiara Diocese. According to a press release made available to the media by Mrs Charity Nnaji, among those to be ordained is Rev. Christogonus Chinonso Okonko. Nnaji, who is the senior sister to Okonko added that on May 5, there would be a Holy Mass at the Christ the King Parish Okpofe to be celebrated by Rev. Father Christogonus Chinonso Okonko, one of the newly ordained priests. Nnaji who said this would be the third batch of priestly ordination since the coming of Rev. Ugorji, added that many of these Seminarians completed their studies as required by the church over five years ago, but could not be ordained because of the problem of who became the Bishop. “Thank God peace has returned. I sincerely pray that God will empower all the young priest to be ordained so that the people will feel the impact of God and Christianity in their lives,� she said. Ahiara Diocese was in the eye of the storm following the appointment of Bishop Peter Ebele Okaleke as Catholic Bishop of Ahiara Diocese after the demise of the former Bishop. The appointment was vehemently criticised and rejected by Mbaise Catholic faithfuls for falling short of the expectations and rules guiding the appointments of Bishops under the Catholic institution.

Rev. Okonko

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LIFE

Fanfare as Community Crowns Appolus Chu King of Ogale MARY NNAH ĂœĂ?ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ? ÞÒËÞ Ă“Ăž ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?ĂŒĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ Ă‘Ă‹Ă–Ă™ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă™Ăœ ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ?ÙÚÖĂ? Ă™Ă? Ă‘Ă‹Ă–Ă?Ëœ Ă‹ ĂžĂ™ĂĄĂ˜ Ă“Ă˜ Ă–Ă?Ă—Ă? Ă™Ă?Ă‹Ă– Ùà Ă?ĂœĂ˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂœĂ?Ă‹ Ă™Ă? Ă“Ă Ă?ĂœĂ? ÞËÞĂ?Ëœ Ă‹Ă? ÞÒĂ?ĂŁ Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă? Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă“Ă˜ Ă–Ă‹ĂœĂ‘Ă? Ă˜Ă&#x;Ă—ĂŒĂ?ĂœĂ? ÞÙ Ă?ĂœĂ™ĂĄĂ˜ Ă“Ă? ÙãËÖ Ă“Ă‘Ă’Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ă?Ëœ ĂœË› ÚÚÙÖĂ&#x;Ă? Ă’Ă&#x; Ă‹Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă“Ăœ Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă?Ă–Ă‹Ă˜ Ă’Ă?Ă‹ĂŽËœ Ă&#x;ÖÞÓ×ËÞĂ?Ă–ĂŁ Ă—Ă‹Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă’Ă“Ă— ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄ Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă‘Ă‹Ă–Ă? For the people of Ogale, a town in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, which also is the headquarters of the local government area, their joy knew no bounds as they recently crowned His Royal Highness, Dr. Appolus Chu, as their new king. Chu who doubles as the Egbere Emere Okori, Eleme, was enthroned the new Emere Ogale weeks back in Ogale, following the dethronement of the erstwhile community leader, Godwin Maduabuchi Bebe Okpabi, who was found wanting in the various ways he dealt with the people. Predominantly is the conflict between Chief Okpabi and the original land owners of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Right of Way in Ogale community. The people of Ogale community comprising the heads of sub communities, the land priests, youths, elders and critical stakeholders in a unanimous decision dethroned king Chief Godwin Bebe Okpabi in accordance with the customary laws and traditions of the community and consequently, enthroned a new king and paramount ruler. It therefore called for a huge celebration as the coronation took place at the instance of members of the family of land priests who are also king makers as well, as all members of the community and sub community chiefs and heads following Chu’s fulfilment of all the rites required by the custom and tradition of Eleme to ascend the throne of One Eh Ogale (King of Ogale). At the end of the day, they unanimously crowned Chu, giving him the authority and right to ascend the ancient stool of Emere Ogale. It was apparent that his ascendency to the celebrated stool was divinely orchestrated as he was warmly welcomed by the people of Ogale as they all danced along with their new king as he was being enthroned. Reciprocating the gesture, the monarch accepted the call from his people to liberate them from the days of agony. The Chosen One It was further revealed that according to the tradition of the land a person who is collectively chosen as king by the people, must not reject such offer, as this may have negative spiritual impacts on him, his family and the entire land. It was therefore on this premises that Chu could not reject the mandate of the people as their chosen Emere Ogale. A community leader in Ogale, Chief Eji Olaka, affirmed that Chu, the Egbere Emere Okori, Eleme, was actually not in town at the time of his selection, explaining that the people of the community, having consulted widely, found him fit and chose him as the new king of Ogale as their tradition demands. He explained that after going round the community, visiting all the sacred shrines in Ogale, the chiefs, elders and youths unanimously agreed to symbolically take the sacred stool of the community and the god of the land to the palace of King Appolus Chu. Unfortunately he was not in town. Olaka further revealed that as Eleme tradition demands, the sacred stool would be left in the compound of the chosen one and that it is expected that when he returns from his trip, he would invite the community and accept the offer. He said that although Chu was not consulted before he was chosen as a paramount ruler of Ogale, it was mandatory that he accept the offer and embrace the community, as failure to do so would attract spiritual consequences on the family of the chosen. Enthronement After being escorted round the community, to traditionally communicate with the ancestors through pouring of libations during a ceremony that saw him enthroned as Emere Ogale, the king makers capped him with a symbol of authority, the crown of stewardship, while at the same time prayed that the new Emere Ogale governs the land majestically. “From today, we enthrone you with this crown and we charge you to go and overcome everything challenging Ogale clan and bring home developmentâ€?, implored one of the land priests. Speaking further as he handed over the staff of authority to the newly crowned Emere Ogale, he said, “I handover to you, this staff as the clan head of Ogale, use it to chase every evil that may befall Ogaleâ€?. The monarch, who is presently wearing two caps, as he was and still is the head

Indigenes of Ogale rallying round HRH Appolus Chu immediately after the coronation

Newly crowned King of Ogale, HRH Appolus, amidst elder and king makers, taking his ďŹ rst strides after the coronation

The Land Priests joining hands to enthrone HRH Appolus Chu

of the Okori Eleme clan, before he was recently given the additional responsibility of being King of Ogale, was said to have been out of town when the people of Ogale decided to add another feather in his cap despite the fact that he was already shouldering a huge responsibility as the king of Okori – Eleme. Grouse Shedding light on the ordeal that led to the dethronement of Chief Godwin Bebe Okpabi, a renowned lawyer and one of the sub community heads and member of the 13 original land owners of SPDC Right of Way, Chief Princely Emeka Chujor, explained that the decision of the community was induced by Okpabi’s alleged blatant disrespect and infringement of the fundamental human rights of indigenes of Ogale, abuse of power and office as well as other activities he engaged in which have been brought before a court of competent jurisdiction, the Eleme Council of Chiefs. as well as other prominent leaders of Eleme. Chujor said, “On March 27, 2019, the people of Ogale met, and decided that they have to take a concrete decision on the matter since Okpabi frustrated and truncated every means to bring peace in Ogale community as directed by the supreme council of Eleme Chiefs and Elders (Nkporon Eleme) on August 2, 2017, following a pending suit filed by the concerned citizens of Ogale against Okpabi to explain why he replaced the names of original land owners of SPDC Right of Way in Ogale with his name and those of his associates and further confiscated the monies belonging to original land owners.�

Chujor said further that the families of the 13 original land owners of SPDC right of way did everything possible to plead with Okpabi to refund their monies and reinstate their names on the SPDC list of land owners, but he turned deaf hears. As far back as 1958, a total of 32 families of the community were accredited and confirmed by the then Nigeria Federal Government and SPDC as the authentic land owners and hosts of six oil wells, manifold stations and pipelines in Ogale following oil exploration activities at the time and it was alleged that Okpabi usurped the legal right of ownership of some families. Chujor purported further that in 2012, Okpabi confiscated monies belonging to two families, the Akaji and Obe families and in 2016, he also had monies accruable to 11 other families who are original land owners including the Chujor family, which he belong to, and never returned the monies till date, despite the rulings and directives of the Eleme Council of Chiefs and Elders on August 2, 2017 which required him to return the said monies belonging to the original land owners, reinstate their names on the SPDC list and liaise with the land priests to ensure peaceful reconciliation of the aggrieved parties. A Break with the Old Order Speaking further, Chujor said the people of Ogale, the land priests and original land owners having exercised utmost patience for two years without a word from Okpabi, met on March 27, 2019 and resolved that since he has refused, neglected and rejected the rulings and directives of the Eleme Council of Chiefs and has refused to return

the monies to the affected land owners or broker peace in the community, he can no longer be trusted and therefore unfit to continue to serve as the paramount ruler of Ogale as he had contravened the customs and traditions of Eleme people which states that a king or paramount ruler can only remain fit to serve in that capacity if he does not steal, kill or commits adultery with another man’s wife. “Therefore, Okpabi having withheld the monies belonging to the original land owners of SPDC right of way, as stipulated under Eleme customs and traditions, should no longer rule over Ogale and therefore we dethroned him and on April 3, 2019, the people of Ogale went before Eleme Council of Chiefs to inform them that we have no confidence in Chief Bebe Okpabi and he is no longer our king�, Chujor said. As a result, the people of Ogale people had on March 27, 2019, unanimously selected Chu as the new paramount ruler and king of Ogale clan (Emere Ogale)�. Some of the people in the community expressed that the Ogale people chose Chu as their new king because of his track record of achievements in community and human capital development, national integration, peace and unity amongst Nigerians, which has earned him both international and national recognitions. They claimed further that Chu is a traditional ruler with a difference who gives listening ears to all and sundry and detests injustice and partiality with every sense of morality and was therefore found fit and most appropriate to keep Ogale on the part of progress peace and development.

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F R I DAY Ëž ÍąËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

METRO

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Nwoko Bags FUPRE Honourary Doctorate Award Stories by Rebecca Ejifoma

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ormer member of Federal House of Representatives and founder of Stars University of Sports, Ugboko, Delta State, Prince Ned Nwoko has received the Honorary Doctorate Award from the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State. Nwoko was honoured alongside oil and Gas mogul, Abiola Oyedotun at the event, which was attended by the Emir of Zamfara, Alhaji Attahiru Mohammad Ahmad and other top traditional rulers and university scholars. Accepting the honour on behalf of the other awardee, Ned Nwoko said it is an amazing moment standing on the front row of history to accept the prestigious honour. According to him, “To be recognised by the university is a badge of honour, seal of approval, power of confidence, acclamation of competence and celebration of social distinction. This is a life long privilege given the lofty essence of the university. The idea of the university is not just the treasure of learning and knowledge. It confers the finest toga of human prestige, dignity and self assurance.� Speaking further, the renowned philanthropist and senator-elect affirmed that the award holds so much fascination for him, just as he recounted his love for education and how he dared beyond the ordinary to acquire western education and exposure in England. In addition, he stressed that such personal effort and conviction changed his orientation even as a fulfilling international legal practitioner; thereby spurring him to return to Nigeria in 1999 to serve his fatherland in politics and humanity. The University of Petroleum Resources Effurun was established in 1997 and resumed academic activities with 50 undergraduates in 1998; however, becoming the first premier university in Africa and sixth in the world. At the second convocation ceremony the Minister of state for Education, Prof. Anthony Onwuka, represented the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari. Chancellor of the university, the Emir of Zamfara, Alhaji Dr. Attahiru Mohammad Ahmad; the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Zuru (Professor of Petroleum Law and Policy); Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. A.O. Akii Ibhadode, including other eminent Nigerians, played prominent roles at the ceremony. Nwoko, a prince of Idumuje- Ugboko kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State is reputed for public charities through multi million scholarships to students in secondary and tertiary schools as well as empowerment scheme to thousands of people in the informal sector. He is the facilitator of the proposed Stars University, Idumuje Ugboko, the first Sports University in sub Saharan Africa. A credible politician, Nwoko was recently declared senator-elect

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VC of FUPRE, Chancellor of the School, Ned and Regina Nwoko

Nwoko receiving his honourary doctorate

for Delta North senatorial district by a federal high court Abuja, which ruled that he was the legitimate winner of the October 2, 2018 primary election for the National Assembly.

Nwoko, initiator of the famous Paris club loan refunds, which ended Nigeria’s recession, was a former member of House of Representatives for Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency from 1999- 2003.

The FUPRE award is the second of such outstanding honour for Prince Ned Nwoko having received Doctorate in letters D.Litt. (Honoris Causa) from the Commonwealth University Belize, North America in 1995.

NLC Lagos Chapter Celebrates New Beginning

t’s a new beginning for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Lagos Chapter as it wound up its successful State Administrative Council elections. Congratulating the congress, the Environmental Rights Action/ Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/ FoEN) described the outcome as a reflection of the wishes of majority of the members of the union in the state. The State Administrative Elections held on April 25, 2019 were adjudged hitch-free throughout the federation. In Lagos, Comrades Sessi Agnes Funmi and Abiodun Bakare emerged as chairperson and State Secretary respectively. They are both active members of the Our Water Our Right Coalition. The Our Water, Our Right Coalition

comprises trade unions, civil society and communities that have been at the fore of campaigns against the Lagos State Government plan to experiment on water privatisation via a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model promoted by the World Bank and its private arm – International Finance Corporation (IFC). Reports show that cities that have experimented the PPP water privatisation recorded mass failures with documented cases in Manila, Nagpur in India, Cameroun, Ghana , Indonesia, Tanzania and Paris, among others. Instead of quality service and affordability, the PPP unleashed corruption, rate hikes, and poor service quality. Most of the cities currently owe huge debts due to slavish clauses in the PPP agreements.

In a statement issued in Lagos by Head, Media and Campaigns, Philip Jakpor, ERA/FoEN said the new executives will strengthen the already existing relationship with civil society and grassroots groups in fending off privatisation in the Lagos water sector and entrenching a culture of democratic participation in resolving the Lagos water crisis. ERA/FoEN Deputy Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi said: “We applaud the rancor-free State Council elections and particularly the election of Comrades Sessi and Abiodun Bakare who are both actively involved in the anti-water privatisation campaign in Lagos. We believe they will bring their exemplary courage in defending

workers rights and democratic control of public utilities to bear in the work of the NLC. “Though it is a arduous task, we are ready to continue engaging and supporting the union to achieve its mandate of defending our people and advancing the political, economic, social and cultural rights of Nigerian workers and Nigerians in general.� Aside Sessi Funmi and Abiodun Bakare, other elected executives of the Lagos chapter of the NLC are Comrades Tajudeen Ishola, Gbadamosi Adelajaand Ademisoye Adetunji, all vice-chair persons, Ajose Afolabi the Treasurer, Awojide Olurotimi and Hamsat Adisa, both Auditors andMedinat Balogun and Folashade Ogunjobi two ex-officios.

ĂĄĂ“Ă?Ă?Ëœ ĂĄĂ’Ă™ ĂĄĂ‹Ă? ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă‹ 39

F R I DAY Ëž ÍąËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

CRIME&SECURITY

Nigerian Army Boosts Welfare of Personnel As part of measures to boost the welfare of personnel, especially those battling insurgency in the North-east, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, recently inaugurated series of projects in Lagos. While appealing to soldiers’ wives and children to pray for their husbands and fathers combating the t Boko Haram terrorist group in the North-east, he first inaugurated six blocks of flats rehabilitated for soldiers of the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital(NARH), Myhoung Barracks, Yaba, Lagos. Buratai who was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOc) 81 Division Major General Musa Yusuf, urged the wives to eschew trouble and live peaceably so as to lessen the burden of their husbands who were engaged in important national service. Also, while the COAS inaugurated the newly refurbished 81 Division Garrison complex at Obalende, he said he made the provision of decent accommodation a priority since assuming duty in 2015. Buratai who noted that he observed the barracks had suffered from negligence and disrepair, emphasised the need for decent barrack accommodation for personnel of the armed forces in order to allow physical separation from the civilian population, so they can function well. Buratai said the provision of comfortable, rudimentary infrastructure and hygienic living conditions increase the moral of personnel and their families thereby reducing the risk of stress disorder. “To operate efficiently, the armed forces require physical separation from civilian society, therefore, the barracks was created. A good working environ-

3.0 What Are The Penalties Under TheVapp Act?

B. Rape By A Group Of Persons -: Offenders are liable jointly to a minimum of 20 years imprisonment without an option of ďŹ ne. 3.2 Wilfully Causing Or Inicting Physical Injury-:Imprisonment for a term of years not exceeding 5 years or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N100,000.00 or both. 3.3 Attempt To Commit Acts Of Violence-: Imprisonment for a term of years not exceeding 3 years or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N200,000.00 or both. 3.4 Inciting,Aiding Or Counselling Another PersonsTo Commit Acts Of Violence-:Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N200,000.00 or both. 3.5 Receiving Or Assisting Another In Committing An Offence Of Violence-:A term of imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N200,000.00 or both. General OďŹƒcer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Musa Yusuf, taking a salute at the inauguration

ment especially in the area of decent accommodation for the army has been priority since I was appointed COAS. “I have also made significant effort to renovate and reconstruct accommodation for personnel and their families to enable them give quality service delivery to the nation. I was here in 2018 on assessment tour of 68 NARH and I went round the barracks. I was stunned by the level of depreciation and neglect the structures were in. I directed the immediate renovation and remodeling of six blocks as the first phase of the reconstruction work. “The project involved the redesigning and reconstruction of the old three blocks of two bedrooms and three blocks of corporal and below quarters (CBQs). “It is expected that this edifice

will be put into efficient use and properly maintained. I remain committed to providing the necessary funds to continue with the rest of the accommodation despite the economic constraints in the country. “I enjoin the soldiers to maintain the accommodation so that the continuation of the project and money spent will be justified. I will not tolerate the deterioration or dysfunction of these blocks anytime soon,� he said. In his remarks, the Garrison Commander Brigadier General Caleb Dalhatu lauded Buratai’s desire to provide a conducive and befitting working environment for personnel, thanking him for his commitment to troops’ welfare. Acting Commander Medical Corps, Colonel Samuel Adama in his welcome address, said

Ëž Ă?Ă?ĂžĂœĂ™ĂŁĂ? ÞåÙ Ă—Ă‹Ă”Ă™Ăœ Ă“Ă–Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ă‹Ă– ĂœĂ?Ę¨Ă˜Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? Operatives of the Inspector General of Police Special Task Force on Pipeline Vandalism attached to the PPMC depot in Warri, Delta State, have arrested nine persons in connection with illegal bunkering activities during the raid on two notorious locations within its coverage areas. The locations comprising Oteghele and Ugbodede communities, both in Warri South Local Government Area, have been known to be harbouring large expanse of illegal oil bunkering activities, especially, the locally-refined AGO, otherwise known as diesel. Also destroyed at both locations were over 50 illegal refineries which had refined about 15,000 litres of diesel about to be loaded into wooden boats to be delivered to potential buyers. Briefing newsmen on the arrest in Warri, the Commander, IGP

THE VIOLENCE AGAINST PERSONS PROHIBITION (VAPP) ACT (CONTD) 3.1 A. Rape – Life Imprisonment – Where offender is less than 14 years -: 14 years imprisonment. – In all other cases -:To a minimum of 12 years imprisonment without an option of ďŹ ne.

IG Taskforce Arrests Nine Illegal Bunkering Suspects in Delta Sylvester Idowu in Warri

CRIME SITUATION REPORTS

Special Task Force, Anti- Pipeline Vandalism on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering, SP Mohammed El-Yakubu, said the arrest was made possible based on the intelligence gathering efforts of his officers and men. He noted that the command decided to invade the locations on Thursday, April 25, 2019, after it had been established that it was one of the busiest days in both camps. He disclosed that while the Ugbodede community camp harbours 13 illegal refineries, the Oteghele community end controls the largest with about 37 refineries operating at full capacity in the area. The commander who disclosed that nine suspects arrested were still be detained for further interrogations, said they would soon be charged to court for prosecution after investigation had been concluded, while the seized product would be handed over to the appropriate agency.

According to him, “this breakthrough was made possible through the cooperation of some good citizens who provided the information that led to the arrests. “I want to sincerely thank these people and urged the members of the public, particularly those resident in the places where these criminals acts were being perpetrated to feel free to come and give us useful information that could lead to more arrest of these criminals.� Yakubu, also admonished those behind this dastardly acts to begin to have a change of mind about the illegal oil business as the task force was more than ever determined to come after them. “The culprits should desist from these act because beside the renewed efforts of my men and officers to rid the area of the criminal act, the business itself is very dangerous as the environment they are exposed in these camps on daily basis is injurious to their health�, he said.

3.6 Coercing Another To Engage In Acts Detrimental To The Other Person’s Physical Or Psychological Well Being-: 3 years imprisonment. 3.7 Wilfully Placing A Person In Fear Of Physical Injury-: 2 years imprisonment or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N200,000.00 or both. 3.8 CompellingAnother By Force OrThreatTo Engage InAny Conduct OrAct,Sexual Or OtherwiseToThe Detriment OfTheVictim’s Physical Or Psychological Well Being-: Imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N500,000.00 or both. 3.9 Performance Of Female Circumcision/Genital Mutilation-:A term ofimprisonmentnotexceeding4yearsoraďŹ nenotexceedingN200,000.00orboth. 3.10 Frustrating Investigation-: Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N500,000.00 or both. 3.11 Wilfully Making False Statements In Any Judicial Proceeding UnderThe Act-:A ďŹ ne of N200,000.00 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 12 months. 3.12 Forceful Ejection From Home -: Imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N300,000.00 or both. 3.13 DeprivingA Person Of His/Her Liberty –:Imprisonmentnotexceeding 2 years or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N500,000.00 or both. 3.14 Damage To Property With Intent To Cause Distress –: 2 years Imprisonment or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N300,000.00 or both. 3.15 Forced Financial Dependence Or Economic Abuse –: Imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N500,000.00 or both. 3.16 Forced Isolation Or Separation From Family And Friends-: Imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N100,000.00 or both. 3.17 Emotional,Verbal And Psychological Abuse –:Imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or to a ďŹ ne not exceeding N200,000.00 or both. 3.18 Harmful Widowhood Practices –: Imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N500,000.00 or both. 3.19 Abandonment Of Spouse, Children Or Other Dependants Without Sustenance –: Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N500,000.00 or both. 3.20 Stalking –: Imprisonment not exceeding 2 years. 4.0 Intimidation –: Imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N200,000.00 or both. 4.1 Spousal Battery–: Imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N200,000.00 or both. 4.2 HarmfulTraditional Practices –: Imprisonment for a term not exceeding 4 years or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N500,000.00. 4.3 Violence By State Actors –: Imprisonment not exceeding 4 years or a ďŹ ne not exceeding N1,000.00 or both. 4.4 Political Violence –: Imprisonment not exceeding 4 years or a ďŹ ne of N500,000.00 or both. 4.5 Incest –: 10 years imprisonment without an option of ďŹ ne. Source: naptip.gov.ng

the accommodation would

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F R I DAY Ëž ÍąËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

POLSCOPE The9thSenate:The AuthorityofaParty’sVoice

åÓÞÒ ĂŽĂŽĂŁ ĂŽĂ“Ă ĂĄĂœĂ“ Ă?ĂŽĂŽĂŁË›Ă™ĂŽĂ“Ă ĂĄĂœĂ“ĚśĂžĂ’Ă“Ă?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ă™Ă—Ëœ ͸΀͸ͽ ͝͸͞ Π͝ͽ͞

Canticles‌.

Too Much Blood on the Landscape

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id you hear that the federal government has secured the release of Zainab Aliyu? Who is Zainab Aliyu?

Did you not hear of that young lady who was accused of peddling drug and was arrested in Saudi Arabia and was billed to be hanged by the Saudi authority? You did not hear that the federal government made a strong case for her release following her father’s petition that the said drug was planted into her luggage by a syndicate.That the bag containing the said drug was actually not her own, but merely tagged in her name? Yes, I have been following the story. That is how a country should defend its own. I commend the Ministry of Foreign affairs for rising to the occasion, and that has saved Zainab from the gallows. Hmmmm, so why has that same zeal and speed not been applied in the release of Leah Sharibu who has clocked more than one year in Boko Haram captivity? Noooooo.You know Leah is held in captivity, but Zainab was already on the death row. The latter is more urgent than the former. It is like applying for exparte order from the court to urgently halt an action that may not be reversible. I am sure Leah Sha‌.

Ahmad Lawan

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oo many times when I read of the internal rebellion in some of our leading political parties, Icannot but remember the firm and unchallenged authority with which the likes of Chief Meredith Adisa Akinloye or Chief Obafemi Awolowo ruled and managed the affairs of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) or Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN),respectively, in the second republic. It was considered an aberration and an unacceptable height of intransigence for a party member to rise against the decision of the party after it had been endorsed by either Akinloye or Awolowo. Not even a President Shehu Shagari, in all his executive splendor and might, will fail to be on the same page with Akinloye on crucial national issues, as defined by the NPN. Such was the peremptory obedience the party commanded at the time. But sadly, all that discipline seems to have gone, asthey say, with those good old days. And that explains why today, there is a fierce fightin the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over whether the party’s position on the zoning arrangement on the leadership of the National Assembly come June, will be obeyed or torpedoed by the legislative radicals of the party. Already, many ambitious members are threatening sulphur and brimstone if they are not allowed to contest on the floor of the National Assembly for the various offices of their choice. They have even contemplated teaming up with the opposition to have their way. Their argument is that the legislature, as an independent arm of government, should be allowed to choose its leadership without interference from any quarters, not even the party’s apparatchik. Logical and democratic as the argument seems, those pinning hard on this prism may be reminded that a river, no matter how long and wide, that does not pay homage to its source and fountain will soon dry up. Did any of the vaunting members now challenging the authority of the party not become whom they are because the party, once decided and approved of their candidacy? Did their candidacy at the time, not displace the ambition of some other person? It is thus selfish and narrow-minded for elected lawmakers to suddenly think and believe that they are strong enough to undertake the race alone. Sooner or later, they will realize that they need grace for the race. The missing “g� before the “race� is the god factor, which, in this context, is the party. The grace comes from the blessing, approval and support of the party. No doubt, the belief that the position of the party can be ignored may have been fuelled by the dark antics that produced the leadership of the 8th senate.The consequence of that roughshod ride by the National Assembly is all too glaring for all to see. Yes, Senator Bukola Saraki survived four

full years of leadership of the senate, it was more or less a pyrrhic victory, as no senate president, before now, had ever suffered as much traducing as he did. And this is in many sense. The sheer humiliation and distraction of a sitting senate president frequently shuttling between the number three seat and the dock, is itself as befuddling as it is vitiating of the office. The cat and rat relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government which characterised the last four years explains the poor governance benefits to the larger majority of Nigerians. Both arms of government held each other in perpetual suspicion and distrust. In fact, they operated in adversarial mode. Imagine that the 2019 fiscal budget was only passed few days ago, thus defeating the determination to return to the January to December budget cycle, with all the concomitant drawbacks.The sad thing is that at the end of the day/year, when the budget is poorly implemented, it is the masses that suffer, not the political elite. But the elite is the cause of the misery of the people. That is thus, not a path to be followed again. The point had been made that the leadership of the APC should have the good sense of applying the rapproachment style in persuading elected lawmakers on what and how the party wants the leadership to be, and not talking down on the lawmakers like a village headmaster trying to intimidate timid school boys. But even more than that, the APC leadership should be seen to be fair and nationalistic in the allocation of leadership positions, and more importantly, with the active participation of the lawmakers themselves and other stakeholders. One reason Akinloye and co were firm and easily obeyed at the time was because their actions were largely seen in the light of fairness and justice, as oppression breeds rebellion. The National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, a man sufficiently schooled in the act of negotiation, as a veteran labour leader, must put his persuasive experience and tact to use this time around. There should be no take-it-or-leave-it fixation. The arbitrariness that dwarfed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) should not be one of the vices of the APC. Nigeria must be the final denominator in all the decisions to be taken. The check should always be to examine if it will ultimately make Nigeria better and greater. The greatest warrior is the one who gets back home with head unbroken, even if there are few strokes of lacerations. All said, all aspiring members of the legislature must be guided by the overall good of Nigeria. 59 years is enough time for national tutelage. Let the growth and goodness of Nigeria begin. It starts from having patriotic leaders even in the National Assembly.

(Cut in) What silly argument is that? Is the life of one more precious than the other? Do you realise the agony of the parents of Leah Sharibu waaafor these past14qqqq was qqq I was just wondering ooo I am ooo wow wow W months? When was Zainab arrested that she has now been released, as compared to Leah Sharibu and indeed all the other remaining Chibokgirls? Come on, be reasonable! What is good for the goose is good for the ganders. The federal government is doing everything possible to right the wrongs of the past. Some little patience will help. What patience are you talking about? Why shouldn’t the federal government apply the same “exparte� action in addressing the huge blood letting in the land? Or are you not hearing of the many killings on daily basis in a country not in anydeclared war? Have you not heard the Abuja-Kaduna highway is now kidnappers’ kingdom? Or that Zamfara is a huge killing field even as TarabaState and the Benue river has turned crimson from the blood of farmers killed by pampered Fulani herdsmen? Nobody is saying anything reasonable.And you stand here talking about patience? Do you want us all dead in the name of patience? Are we Job? But you know of the Operation Puff Adder

recently launched by the Nigeria Police to curb the spate of kidnappings on the AbujaKaduna highway. Rubbish! Who cares about the Operation Puff-Puff or whatever you call it? Where was the Operation Puff-Adder when the UBEC chairman and his daughter were kidnapped and their driver killed few days ago? Was it not that same highway? Look, let us be honest, we are under a siege as a country. Ok. What operation have they launched to curb the kidnapping on Lagos-Benin highway where people are kidnapped and killed on a dailybasis? When will the police launch that Operation Chin-Chin? Nonsense! You know these problems didn’t just start. Government is doing everything to stem the tide of the menace and we are conďŹ dent that‌ (cuts in again) Away with those vexatious shibboleths. And please stop those sickly excuses. What do you mean the problems didn’t start now? Did we have this degree of killings before this government came to power? People’s lives don’t mean anything again? Even a dumped lover can decide to kill the entire family of his ex-girlfriend as it happened in Igbodigo, Ondo State A situation where people cannot travel again? Haba! Feareth thou not God? Look, there is too much blood flowing unduly in the land. Government has to wake up to its main responsibility of protecting lives and property. Of what essence is all these shenanigans about budget and governance when the people are dead? People are just dying everywhere. In Rivers, in Delta, in Taraba, in Benue, in Borno etc, people are seemingly set on a dying competition. Enough is enough! I believe the government is reworking the security architecture of the country for greater effectiveness and the result will soon be seen by all and sundry. (pouting his lips) ‌ In your mind! I keep wondering what the service chiefs are doing in the face of this nation-wide pogrom by the men of the underworld. Indeed, how does the Minister of Defence , Gen Mansur Muhammad Dan Ali, sleep and eat and feel cool in the face of these carnages?What is the benefit that our Defence and Internal Affairs ministries are being manned by retired army generals, not to mention even the president and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who himself is also an army general. How can these generals be on parade and some rag-tag criminals are running us out of town? What do the police and even the Airforce do with those helicopters and fighter jets when the forests between Ore and Benin have become evil forest of kidnappers or of the savannah landscape between Abuja and Kaduna which has become the den or robbers and kidnappers? Patrolling the skyline of those highways with those helicopters and jets will stem the tide of the marauding criminals. We are tired of news about killings here and there. Let there be life!

Buhari

Back, Better and Brighter

For eight months or so, this column went on some ill-contrived leave. But the good news is that it is back and even brighter, as it is, more than ever before, determined to raise the ante of fair commentary on national and local matters, with beady eyes. As you would have noticed, it shall run, henceforth, every Friday, on this page, just a day earlier than it used to. As much as possible, this column shall remain faithful, first to the Nigerian federation, and then to my esteemed and inspiring reading public. This is my creed and credo.

T H I S D AY ˾ ͱ˜ Ͱͮͯͷ

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T H I S D AY Ëž ÍąËœ 2019

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

NEXIM Bank PassesVote of Confidence on Nnanna Obinna Chima The management of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank) has passed a vote of confidence on the Chairman of its board, Dr. Joseph Nnanna. The Bank in a statement yesterday, pointed out that its attention was drawn to the news making the rounds that some protesters under the aegis of the Awareness for Good Governance Group (AGGG), which it described as faceless, besieged the presidential villa gate and called for the immediate removal of Nnanna as chairman of NEXIM Bank over allegation that he was involved in corruption and fraudulent activities in the Bank. But the management of NEXIM Bank stressed that the allegations were not only false and misleading, but a mischievous attempt at tarnishing “the good reputation of Dr. Joseph Nnanna, and divert attention

from an on-going effort by the board to address a case of gross mismanagement and poor state of affairs of the Bank under the old management which had since been sacked by the government of President Muhammadu Buhari.� The statement explained that prior to the appointment of a new management for NEXIM in April, 2017, the Bank had become almost insolvent with huge non-performing loans, exacerbated by gross abuse of process, insider related loans and lack of professionalism in loan administration, amongst other issues. “This led the Bank to commission a forensic audit to establish the true state of affairs before the new management came on board. “It is pertinent to add that two years after the new management was appointed, the fortune of the Bank has changed remarkably for the better, under Nnanna led

Board with significant improvement in key prudential ratios. “The Bank is honouring its obligations and is collaborating with the Central Bank of Nigeria to manage two intervention funds, amounting to N550bn, towards increased support to the non-oil export sector,� it added. The statement described Nnanna, who is presently the Deputy Governor, Economic Policy Directorate of the Central Bank of Nigeria, as a thoroughbred professional and former staff of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He was appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors of NEXIM Bank in March, 2018. “He has since then worked harmoniously with other Board members to reposition the Bank to deliver on its mandate and contribute towards achieving the economic diversification strategy of the federal government under the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan,� it added.

FCMB, SystemSpecs Unveil Solution for SMEs The First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has entered into a partnership with SystemSpecs to introduce a payroll solution designed to meet the yearnings of thousands of its SME customers seeking efficient, easy-to-use and affordable business tools to seamlessly operate their businesses. The product tagged, ‘FCMB Payroll,’ comes with features that enable SME owners to easily process payroll, pay employee salaries into commercial/microfinance bank accounts or wallets and issue them regular pay slips. To all staff of any customer or registered SME, the solution, according to a statement from the bank, also over-rides collateral requirements even without the traditional documentation to access loans from FCMB. “The product enables these customers easily maintain historical personal and payment records of all employees, including their taxes, pensions and other possible transactions among other numerous benefits. “FCMB Payroll is delivered in partnership with SystemSpecs, one of Nigeria’s leading payroll

solution and services companies with over 25 years’ experience of providing payroll solutions and services to public and private sector organisations in Nigeria and other African countries. The company is also the provider of Remita Payments Application, Payment Gateway and Payment Infrastructure,� the statement added. Commenting on the initiative, FCMB Executive Director, Retail Banking, Mr. Olu Akanmu, said the introduction of the FCMB Payroll initiative was in line with the commitment of the bank to grow the nation’s economy by providing SMEs with cutting-edge business tools to support their operations and help them build scale. Akanmu said, “We are pleased to partner with SystemSpecs, a major solutions provider in the financial ecosystem to address some of the challenges confronting SMEs. The FCMB Payroll platform is designed to provide a more convenient and modern business tool for business owners and their employees. As a Bank that is continually innovating to

meet our increasingly dynamic customer base, we are confident that the FCMB Payroll initiative will go a long way to boost the operations of SMEs and improve their productivity.’’ On his part, the Managing Director of SystemSpecs, Mr. John Obaro, said, “As an organisation, our aim is to continue to provide individuals and organisations with innovative tools to help them become more productive and take full charge of their operations. “We are delighted at the opportunity to partner FCMB to extend our experience and expertise in payroll solutions to FCMB customers. We are convinced that FCMB Payroll would help SME customers improve their processes, maintain a satisfied workforce, boost margins and increase scale speedily.� The FCMB Payroll has offerings for SMEs at different phases of growth and these are available to all FCMB SME business account holders and a select SMEs segment that maintains business accounts with other banks.

L-R: Head, Mobile Money, Globacom, Raj Narayan; Mrs Oluwakemi Akinyele and Mr Eric Uwaoma, with the ‘Most Innovative Mobile Player of the Year’ award won by the company at the Beacon of ICT Awards held in Lagos‌ recently

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

NOVEMBER 2018 Money Supply (M3)

31,794,803.44

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

6,333,064.28

Money Supply (M2)

25,461,739.17

-- Quasi Money

14,773,076.98

-- Narrow Money (M1)

10,688,662.18

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,711,763.59

---- Demand Deposits

8,976,898.59

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

18,990,400.78

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

12,804,402.66

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

26,062,986.22

---- Credit to Government (Net)

2,980,229.66

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

7,093,619.43

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

-4,144,571.43

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

23,082,756.56

--Other Assets Net

13,258,583.57

Reserve Money (Base Money

6,811,192.37

--Currency in Circulation

2,100,129.91

--Banks Reserves

4,366,259.05

Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR)

EcobankPay PartnersTerra Kulture to Promote African Culture EcobankPay, the lifestyle digital payment platform of Ecobank Nigeria has entered into a partnership with Terra Kulture to promote African culture. This followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between both organisations, that took place at the Terra Kulture Theatre in Lagos on Wednesday. The ceremony also featured the exclusive screening of “Queen Moremi: The Musical� which was supported by Ecobank Nigeria. Speaking on the collaboration, Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Patrick Akinwuntan, said Ecobank is a pan-African bank which seeks to promote the African culture and heritage. “For us it’s not just about

banking but also about the pride of the African. We know that unless we project ourselves, the world won’t project us. It is normal for us to look for great institutions like Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions promoting our culture with world class standard. “So, when we had the opportunity of looking at what is being done here, it came naturally to us that we should work as partners to improve the quality of lifestyles of Nigerians. “Our products interact with the lifestyle of Nigerians and we have picked EcobankPay as the flagship product for this collaboration. The platform is safe, secure, and reliable for payment with zero charges. So when people want to pay for

shows while abroad, you will simply scan using Masterpass or Mvisa or any QR Code by the international brands to make the payment here. That also attracts foreign exchange for Nigeria. “It means that wherever you are, and your family members, friends wish to come and enjoy at Terra Kulture, you can make payment using your mobile phone without stress. It’s about improving lifestyle and retaining the authenticity of our heritage,� Akinwuntan said. Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer, Terra Kulture, Bolanle Austin-Peters explained that the partnership was a delight for the cultural brand which has suffered lack of corporate sponsorship since inception.

Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂŁ ÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ě‹ ͯ͹Ϲ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT WEDNESDAY, 1 MAY 2019

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $72.00 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $71.91 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Oriente (Ecuador), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela). SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

43

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍąËœ 2019

MARKET NEWS

Notore Records N4.6 Billion Operating Profit in Six Months Goddy Egene Notore Chemical Industries Plc has posted an operating profit of N4.63 billion for the half year ended March 31, 2019, compared with N0.11 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2018. According to the unaudited six months financial results, Notore recorded revenue of N12.68 billion in 2019, compared to N15.17 billion in the corresponding period

in H1 2018, indicating a decline of 16.03 per cent. The decline was mainly due to plant downtime during the period under review as a re result of the turn-around maintenance (TAM) programme activities. However, the TAM programme is expected to be completed by first quarter (Q1) of 2020, after which the plant will operate at its nameplate capacity. Cost of sales was reduced from N11.404 billion in 2018 to

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

N9.636 billion in 2019. However, the growth of 4,251 per cent in operating profit notwithstanding, Notore posted a loss of N1.942 billion in H1 of 2019 due to net finance cost that grew from N5.144 billion in 2018 to N6.57 billion in 2019. But market analysts said the N1.942 billion loss is an improvement on the loss of N4.517 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2018. Reviewing the operational and

S E C U R I T I E S

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

market developments in the H1, Notore said Nigerian fertilizer demand is quite robust and is expected to continue to grow because of the federal government’s agenda to use agriculture as one of the keys to unlock the diversification of the Nigerian economy. “The domestic fertilizer market is yet to reach its full potential as the consumption of fertilizer per hectare of arable land in Nigeria is below 10kg compared to the

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

200kg recommended by Food & Agriculture Organisation. Furthermore, the demand for urea and compound fertilizers, such as NPK, from the West African markets and Sahel African states is also quite significant. Notore sold all the urea that it produced during the period under review,� the company said. Notore said it would exceed its 2018 financial year(FY) urea production figures in 2019, explaining that the current

O F

federal government policies in the fertilizer space and demand for NPK and NPK specialty blends are quite favourable for its business. “Consequently, Notore will be producing a significant quantity of NPK and NPK specialty blends this FY to boost its revenues as well as diversify it from urea fertilizer. To enhance profitability, Notore is working on financial initiatives to reduce its finance cost considerably,� the company said.

2 7 / 0 4 / 2 0 1 9 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

˾ FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

44

Friday, May 3, 2019 Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index Gains 13bps

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

Yesterday, the Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index gained 13bps to ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ ϭ͕ϯϵϯ͘ϯϵ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ďƵLJŝŶŐ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶ NIGERIAN BREWERIES ;нϭ͘ϮйͿ͕ FBNH ;нϬ͘ϳйͿ ĂŶĚ CCNN ;нϰ͘ϯйͿ͘

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

dŚĞƐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϭϯ͘ϲй ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĚĞdž͘

ŽŵĞƐƟĐ ƋƵŝƟĞƐ ZĞďŽƵŶĚ͙ ^/ ƵƉ ϰďƉƐ

In yesterday͛Ɛ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ͕ ƚŚĞ ůŽĐĂů ďŽƵƌƐĞ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ϰďƉƐ ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ Ϯϵ͕ϭϳϭ͘ϳϯ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ďĂĐŬ ŽĨ ďƵLJŝŶŐ interests in NIGERIAN BREWERIES ;нϭ͘ϮйͿ͕ TRANSCORP ;нϵ͘ϵйͿ ĂŶĚ MOBIL ;нϱ͘ϭйͿ͘ /Ŷ ůŝŶĞ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚŝƐ͕ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞĚ Eϰ͘ϱďŶ ƚŽ Eϭϭ͘ϬƚŶ ǁŚŝůĞ zd ůŽƐƐ ƐĞƩůĞĚ Ăƚ -ϳ͘Ϯй͘ ,ŽǁĞǀĞƌ͕ ĂĐƟǀŝƚLJ ůĞǀĞů ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ as ǀŽůƵŵĞ ĂŶĚ ǀĂůƵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ĚŝƉƉĞĚ ϰϴ͘ϲй ĂŶĚ ϲϱ͘ϲй ƚŽ ϮϴϬŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ĂŶĚ EϮ͘ϴďŶ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ͘ TRANSCORP ;ϯϰ͘ϵŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ DANGFLOUR ;Ϯϯ͘ϲŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ĂŶĚ CHAMS ;ϮϬ͘ϳŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁŚŝůĞ GUARANTY ;Eϱϱϵ͘ϯŵͿ͕ DANGFLOUR ;EϰϱϬ͘ϭŵͿ ĂŶĚ DANGCEM ;Eϭϴϲ͘ϵŵͿ ůĞĚ ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬ ďLJ ǀĂůƵĞ͘

ƵůůŝƐŚ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ dŚĞ ƐĞĐƚŽƌ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ ůĂƌŐĞůLJ ďƵůůŝƐŚ ĂƐ ϰ ŽƵƚ ŽĨ ϱ

Ticker

Current Price

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40

Price Previous Current Change Price Weightin YTD Change g

Price Change Index to Date

ROE

ROA

P/E

P/BV

1,393.39

0.13%

-5.1%

39.3%

18.5%

6.7%

5.2x

0.7x

5.9%

1 Guaranty Trust Bank PLC

33.00

0.0%

19.3%

-4.2%

-4.3%

33.1%

5.3%

4.9x

1.6x

8.3%

20.3%

2 Zenith Bank PLC

21.20

-0.5%

12.0%

-8.0%

2.2%

24.7%

3.2%

3.6x

0.9x

13.1%

28.1% 12.3%

3 Dangote Cement PLC 4 Nestle Nigeria PLC

180.00

0.0%

9.0%

-5.1%

-3.2%

40.1%

21.8%

8.1x

3.0x

8.9%

0.0%

8.7%

2.4%

3.1%

90.4%

27.8%

25.5x

24.0x

3.8%

3.9%

65.75

1.2%

4.9%

-23.1%

-14.1%

9.5%

4.4%

30.1x

3.0x

3.7%

3.3%

5 Nigerian Brew eries PLC 6 FBN Holdings Plc

7.35

0.7%

5.1%

-7.5%

-8.1%

10.0%

1.1%

4.4x

0.5x

3.5%

22.7%

14.60

4.3%

3.6%

-24.7%

-24.7%

4.7%

4.3%

4.2x

0.6x

2.7%

23.6%

8 United Bank for Africa PLC

6.65

-2.2%

3.9%

-13.6%

-14.7%

15.5%

1.7%

2.8x

0.4x

12.6%

35.4%

9 International Brew eries PLC

20.00

0.0%

2.4%

-34.4%

-36.5%

-23.8%

-3.2%

575.00

0.0%

3.3%

-10.2%

-7.4%

10.1%

6.3%

0.6x

3.1%

18.0%

7.3%

7 Cement Co Northern Nigeria PLC

10 SEPLAT Petroleum Development C 11 Access Bank PLC

4.9x 5.6x

6.90

-0.7%

3.6%

1.5%

6.2%

22.2%

2.1%

1.8x

0.4x

-1.4%

2.2%

-26.4%

-28.0%

15.3%

1.2%

2.9x

0.5x

13 Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC

43.50

0.2%

2.5%

-9.3%

-6.3%

30.3%

4.6%

6.5x

1.7x

3.4%

14 Unilever Nigeria PLC

31.00

0.0%

2.1%

-16.2%

-16.2%

12.7%

7.7%

17.3x

2.1x

4.8%

5.8%

15 Lafarge Africa PLC

11.20

-2.2%

1.6%

-10.0%

-6.7%

-53.7%

-7.9%

0.8x

13.0%

-56.2%

16 Guinness Nigeria PLC

50.00

2.9%

1.0%

-30.6%

-30.6%

6.8%

3.7%

16.8x

1.2x

3.7%

6.0%

17 Okomu Oil Palm PLC

72.00

0.0%

1.3%

-5.5%

-5.5%

32.9%

24.4%

11.4x

2.2x

4.2%

8.8%

18 Total Nigeria PLC

164.00

-1.3%

1.1%

-19.2%

-19.2%

27.0%

6.6%

9.6x

1.8x

10.4%

10.5%

19 11 PLC

186.00

5.1%

1.3%

0.3%

0.3%

38.0%

16.8%

6.2x

2.1x

4.6%

16.1%

16.15

-0.6%

0.9%

-30.1%

-27.3%

6.6%

2.0%

7.5x

0.4x

6.2%

13.4%

21 Oando PLC

4.85

-2.0%

1.2%

-3.0%

1.0%

14.3%

2.5%

2.2x

0.3x

22 Fidelity Bank PLC

1.90

0.0%

1.1%

-6.4%

-6.4%

12.7%

1.4%

2.3x

0.3x

5.8%

44.0% 21.9%

20 Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

1.22

9.9%

1.0%

-7.6%

-3.2%

19.3%

4.3%

4.6x

0.7x

2.5%

14.05

1.1%

0.9%

-7.9%

-5.1%

22.3%

12.6%

7.1x

1.6x

7.8%

12.6%

-5.8%

-0.7%

2.42

0.9%

0.3x

1.96

5.9%

0.7%

3.7%

8.9%

8.8%

1.2%

ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŽƵƌ ĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞ ĐůŽƐĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŐƌĞĞŶ͘ dŚĞ

-2.2%

0.4%

-30.3%

-28.8%

-9.6%

-4.0%

2.65

-1.9%

0.7%

39.5%

39.5%

9.2%

0.8%

8.2x

0.8x

/ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ůĞĚ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞƌƐ ďLJ Ϭ͘ϱй ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ

29 Presco PLC

58.00

-7.6%

0.4%

-9.4%

-9.4%

37.0%

24.8%

2.3x

ďƵLJŝŶŐ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ /Ŷ CCNN ;нϰ͘ϯйͿ ĂŶĚ CUTIX ;нϰ͘ϭйͿ͘

30 NASCON Allied Industries PLC

17.95

-0.8%

0.4%

-0.3%

-0.3%

47.0%

17.5%

31 Forte Oil PLC

34.95

-1.0%

0.4%

21.8%

24.8%

52.2%

5.8%

;нϮ͘ϯйͿ ĂŶĚ AIICO ;нϮ͘ϳйͿ͘ WƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ MOBIL ;нϱ͘ϭйͿ ďƵŽLJĞĚ ƚŚĞ Kŝů ĂŶĚ 'ĂƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ŵĂƌŐŝŶĂůůLJ higher, ƵƉ Ϭ͘ϭй͘ KŶ ƚŚĞ ŇŝƉ ƐŝĚĞ͕ ƚŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ŝŶĚĞdž ǁĂƐ

28 Sterling Bank PLC

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ tĞĂŬĞŶƐ /ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ ƐŽŌĞŶĞĚ ƚŽ Ϭ͘ϴdž ĨƌŽŵ ϭ͘ϰdž ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ŽŶ dƵĞƐĚĂLJ ĂƐ Ϯϭ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ƌĞůĂƟǀĞ ƚŽ Ϯϲ

and LAWUNION (-ϴ͘ϬйͿ ůĞĚ ůĂŐŐĂƌĚƐ͘ ĞƐƉŝƚĞ ƚŚĞ ƐůŝŐŚƚ ƵƉƟĐŬ ŝŶ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJΖƐ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ͕ ǁĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ ƉƌŽĮƚ ƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶ ƐƵďƐĞƋƵĞŶƚ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶƐ͘

0.7x

3.4%

43.7%

11.7x

4.2x

5.6%

96.8x

2.7x

0.0%

0.4%

25.0%

25.0%

6.0%

1.1%

12.2x

0.9x

0.0%

0.3%

34.1%

21.9%

31.5%

3.6%

5.0x

1.1x

12.2%

8.5% 1.0% 8.2%

7.5%

20.1%

8.95

-2.2%

0.2%

-26.0%

-27.2%

0.8x

1.7%

34.00

0.0%

0.2%

-2.4%

-2.4%

80.4%

35.8%

11.5x

8.5x

8.5%

8.7%

36 Wema Bank PLC

0.73

0.0%

0.2%

15.9%

15.9%

7.3%

0.7%

7.6x

0.5x

4.1%

13.2%

37 Beta Glass PLC

56.00

0.0%

0.1%

-18.0%

-18.0%

21.1%

14.7%

5.2x

38 Dangote Flour Mills Plc

18.95

0.8%

0.4%

176.6%

187.1%

-3.2%

-0.9%

39 Transcorp Hotels Plc

5.40

0.0%

0.1%

-11.5%

-9.2%

6.0%

3.2%

40 AXA Mansard Insurance PLC

2.00

0.0%

0.1%

9.3%

9.3%

10.7%

3.1%

35 Chemical and Allied Products P

T o p 10 G a i n e r s T ic k er

1.0x

2.3%

19.3%

2.7x

1.0%

-5.9%

12.0x

0.7x

2.8%

8.8x

1.0x

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e P ric e C hg %

T R A N SC OR P

1.22

9.9%

J A P A ULOIL

56.6

7.7%

J A P A ULOIL

0.36

9.1%

UB A

30.0

0.0%

FCM B

1.96

5.9%

WEM A B A N K

25.3

8.6%

M OB IL

186.00

5.1%

A C C ESS

18.1

-4.3%

T ic k er

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

-0.9%

M B EN EF IT

0.22

4.8%

T R A N SC OR P

17.3

CCNN

14.60

4.3%

LA SA C O

11.4

0.0%

SOVR EN IN S

0.25

4.2%

Z EN IT H B A N K

11.3

-0.5%

H ON YF LOUR

GUIN N ESS

1.15

3.6%

FB NH

6.9

-8.2%

0.29

3.6%

FCM B

6.9

-1.1%

50.00

2.9%

UA C N

5.8

3.2%

T o p 10 L o s e r s T ic k er

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a l u e

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

A F R OM ED IA

0.45

-10.0%

A C A D EM Y

0.30

LA WUN ION R OYA LEX

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

Z EN IT H B A N K

241.2

-0.5%

-9.1%

UB A

205.6

0.0%

0.46

-8.0%

N EST LE

159.5

0.0%

0.24

-7.7%

D A N GC EM

143.4

-0.6%

58.00

-7.6%

GUA R A N T Y

123.3

-0.9%

LIVEST OC K

0.62

-7.5%

A C C ESS

122.2

-4.3%

LA SA C O

0.29

-6.5%

IN T B R EW

80.0

-4.8%

F IR ST A LUM

0.44

-6.4%

FB NH

51.9

-8.2%

C ON OIL

20.10

-3.4%

C A D B UR Y

42.3

3.2%

1.50

-3.2%

UA C N

38.5

3.2%

NP FM CRFB K

8.3% 11.4%

P ric e

P R ESC O

Afrinvest West Africa Limited

-28.7%

7.00

TRANSCORP ;нϵ͘ϵйͿ͕ JAPAULOIL ;нϵ͘ϭйͿ ĂŶĚ FCMB ;нϱ͘ϵйͿ ǁŚŝůĞ AFROMEDIA (-ϭϬ͘ϬйͿ͕ ACADEMY (-ϵ͘ϭйͿ

40.8%

9.4%

26.95

C H IP LC

ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ͘ dŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵŝŶŐ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ǁĞƌĞ

7.7%

0.3x

32 Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

34 PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC

14.2% -29.0%

0.2x

33 Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

ƚŚĞ ůŽŶĞ ůŽƐĞƌ͕ ĚŽǁŶ Ϭ͘ϱй ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐĞůů-ŽīƐ in UBA (-Ϯ͘ϮйͿ and ZENITH (-Ϭ͘ϱйͿ͘

2.5x

15.3%

45.4%

23 Transnational Corp of Nigeria

25 Diamond Bank PLC

57.0% 34.7%

24 Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

6.80

NIGERIAN BREWERIES ;нϭ͘ϮйͿ͕ GUINNESS ;нϮ͘ϵйͿ͕ NEM

-1.8%

10.30

12 Ecobank Transnational Inc

26 FCMB Group Plc

ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ďLJ Ϭ͘ϰй ĂƉŝĞĐĞ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ďĂĐŬ ŽĨ ŐĂŝŶƐ ŝŶ

13.7%

1,520.00

27 UAC of Nigeria PLC

^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ĂŶĚ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ

Divindend Earnings Yield Yield

Brokerage

Asset Management

Investment Research

Ayodeji Ebo | aebo@afrinvest.com

Ola Belgore | obelgore@afrinvest.com

Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com

Adedoyin Allen | aallen@afrinvest.com Oluwarotimi Ashimi | oashimi@afrinvest.com

Jolomi Odonghanro | jodonghanro@afrinvest.com

45

FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

CSCS Grows Profit to N6.1 billion, Pays N3.5billion Dividend Goddy Egene Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc has grown its gross earnings to N9.1 billion in 2018 from N8.7 billion in 2017. The company posted profit before tax of N6.11 billion in 2018, up from N5.68 billion in 2017. Based on the performance, the board of directors have recommended

a final dividend of 70 kobo per share totaling N3.5 billion for to shareholders. The Chairman of CSCS Plc, Mr. Oscar Onyema disclosed these in his address to shareholders at the company’s 25th annual general meeting(AGM) which took place in Lagos on Tuesday. According to him, despite slow socio-economic developments

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

and political agitations, the business performed well as reflected in its solid financial results. He said: “The gross earnings growth of N9.1 billion represented a four per cent year on year growth. This earning was driven by decent revenue numbers from our core business and proper management of our investment

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 30Apr-2019, unless otherwise stated.

portfolio. Income from other noncore services amounted to N260 million, up from N215 million thereby resulting in an increase of 17 per cent. The reason for this increase is the fact that earlier in the year, the board and management had decided to engage more stakeholders on how to sustain the company’s non-core services.”

Onyema explained that at the end of the year, profit before tax stood at N6.09 billion in 2018 from N5.66 billion in 2017. Total assets stood at N35.85 billion in the year under review from N31.91 billion in 2017 representing 12 per cent growth. He assured stakeholders that board of directors would continue to stretch themselves to ensure

that CSCS’ strategic objectives are met so as to achieve long term value creation for the ever-increasing shareholders and stakeholders. Also speaking, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, CSCS Plc, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri said he was pleased to report company’s continued positive revenue growth.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors. Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return. NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.11% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.29 2.31 2.92% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 16.13 16.62 -2.76% ARM Discovery Fund 352.96 363.60 -1.03% ARM Ethical Fund 29.14 30.02 3.19% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.16% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 99.17 99.87 -2.00% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.72% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.80% Paramount Equity Fund 12.07 12.16 2.15% Women's Investment Fund 105.74 106.26 2.04% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 N/A N/A N/A Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A N/A CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.94% Coronation Balanced Fund 0.84 0.84 Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.18 1.18 5.33% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 12.17% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 12.30% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,175.00 1,175.82 5.33% FBN Heritage Fund 144.02 145.01 0.43% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.29% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 118.62 119.02 4.15% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 118.52 118.92 4.32% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 143.70 145.77 -4.20% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.28% Legacy Debt Fund 3.37 3.37 3.99% Legacy Equity Fund 1.16 1.18 -4.88% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.05 1.05 1.55% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.38% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 109.02 109.48 1.05% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.57% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.17 2.19 0.94% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.12% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 128.60 128.91 2.99%

LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.16 1.18 1.47% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,089.47 1,089.47 4.41% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 10.99 11.05 -4.61% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.91% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.27 1.29 3.46% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.33 11.38 1.87% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 12.34% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 121.48 121.97 0.59% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 4.63% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,365.99 2,378.94 2.23% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 198.81 198.81 4.56% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.94 0.95 -0.53% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 252.65 252.68 2.22% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 160.75 162.50 -1.48% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.72% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,271.82 8,365.79 -2.59% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.11 1.11 -0.14% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.18 1.19 -1.03% United Capital Bond Fund 1.68 1.68 5.10% United Capital Equity Fund 0.69 0.71 -2.38% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.17% United Capital Eurobond Fund 110.19 110.19 2.73% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.12 1.13 2.83% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 10.73 10.89 1.81% Zenith Ethical Fund 12.19 12.33 1.88% Zenith Income Fund 21.66 21.66 12.36% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.99%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

5.40 120.17 52.31

-44.85% 2.07% 1.10%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

9.83 104.32 84.43

9.93 106.53 85.97

-6.78% -11.07% -4.79%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund Union Homes REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

3.80 6.66 13.72 10.69 153.31

3.84 6.74 13.82 10.89 155.31

-5.05% -12.51% -8.21% -13.42% 6.76%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

106.90

17.40%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

46

FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

Theresa May’s Party to Lose Hundreds of Seats in Local Elections, Says Report PM under fire after Huawei leak sacking British Prime Minister, Theresa May’s Conservatives are expected to lose hundreds of seats in local elections, a report has said. According recent reports, there is pressure on May as she tries to resolve a political crisis over her plan for Britain to leave the European Union. According to forecasts, the Conservatives are expected to lose up to 800 seats in voting for over 8,000 members of 260 councils in most of England, excluding London and Northern Ireland. Some 60 per cent of those seats are currently held by Conservatives, a report said. May has agreed to step down as Conservative leader and prime minister once she has won parliamentary approval of a Brexit deal. She is likely to face more calls to resign earlier if Thursday’s elections prove disastrous for the party. Local governments will declare the election results later on Thursday and early Friday. May told lawmakers on Wednesday that she still hopes to reach a compromise with the main opposition party, Labour, on a Brexit deal that would keep Britain in some form of customs union with the EU. Opinion polls suggest that the repositioned right-wing, pro-Brexit UK Independence Party is likely

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as AMARA CHINENYE OJUKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as AMARACHUKWU CHINENYE AWAH. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as FADEKE MORILIAT AMODU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FADEKE MORILIAT LAWAL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as EDITH PATIENCE IBEMERE , now wish to be known and addressed as EDITH OBIAGERI IBEMERE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as BADMUS ADEOLA FATIMA , now wish to be known and addressed as OLAWUMI FATIMA ADEOLA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as GINA OKODUWA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS GINA OKOJIE ESOGBAN. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

to make the biggest gain in vote share in Thursday’s elections. The rival Brexit Party, founded by former UKIP leader Nigel Farage, is not contesting the local elections but is expected to make a major impact if Britain takes part in elections to the European Parliament later this month. Meanwhile, May has come under severe attack following her sack last Wednesday of Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson. The Prime Minister hoped firing her defense secretary over a leak would put her latest government scandal to rest. But it seems only to have unleashed yet another political storm for the British prime minister, with members of her own party questioning her judgment and opponents demanding the police be called in. May, who is clinging to her job despite failing to persuade parliament to accept her plans for Britain’s exit from the EU, fired Williamson on Wednesday. She blamed him for a leak about Chinese telecoms firm Huawei from a meeting of the cabinet’s National Security Council (NSC)

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as KAYODE OLUBUSAYO SHALOM, now wish to be known and addressed as ADENUGA OLUBUSAYO SHALOM. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as MRS VIVIAN USIWOGHENE EDAFEWOMA, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS VIVIAN USIWOGHENE OKPEI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as AJOKE CATHERINE OGUNFEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as AJOKE CATHERINE OLUWAFEMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as OLUWANIFEMI RICHARD OGUNFEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as OLUWANIFEMI RICHARD OLUWAFEMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as MISS TOLULOPE MARY ADEDEJI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS TOLULOPE MARY ADEKANYE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note. I, formerly known and addressed as EZEKIEL ZIK ABAYOL, now wish to be known and addressed as KUNI EZEKIEL ZIK. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as TEIM JENGOA BOYLE , now wish to be known and addressed as TEIM JENGOA EYO. All former documents remain valid. University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt and the general public should take note.

I, NKECHI formerly known and addressed as MISS EZEALA HARRIET NKECHI to MRS OKAFOR HARRIET NKECHI. Due to divorce, I have remarried and now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NDUKA HARRIET NKECHI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as EMMANUEL ISIOMA GOODLUCK, now wish to be known and addressed as OKPORI ISIOMA GOODLUCK. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as IGBINOBA BRIDGET EVWIMGHARE, now wish to be known and addressed as IGBINOBA BRIDGET UGBOBU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

May which discusses intelligence and defense strategy. Williamson has continued to deny responsibility, saying he had been judged by a “kangaroo court”. May has said she considers the matter closed. Others have refused to let it rest. “In what world is it acceptable that the prime minister should be the arbiter of whether a politician she believes guilty of criminal

conduct in office should face a criminal investigation?” said Tom Watson, Deputy Leader of the opposition Labour Party. The leak, first reported in the Telegraph newspaper, said Britain would allow Huawei a role in building parts of its 5G network, setting London at odds with Washington, which wants allies to ban the Chinese firm from the next generation of communications

technology. Williamson, previously in charge of party discipline, was an important political ally for May as she struggled to steer Britain through Brexit, its biggest upheaval in decades, without a majority in parliament and no clear consensus about the best way to leave the European Union. She announced in March she would step down if parliament accepted her Brexit deal, effectively launching a party leadership contest to choose her successor. The Huawei leak has crystallised doubts about May’s ability to keep her ministers in check and govern effectively. Meetings of the NSC are attended by senior cabinet ministers, several of whom are top candidates to replace May. It was widely assumed that the leak was intended to give rivals a chance to portray themselves as stronger than May on security. May’s own fate and that of her project to extricate Britain from the European Union are now in limbo after parliament rejected the Brexit agreement, forcing May to ask the EU for an extension. Brexit is now set for October, but what form it will take or whether it will happen at all are in doubt. The delay means Britain must

hold elections for the European parliament later this month at which May’s Conservatives are expected to be trounced. They are also forecast to lose hundreds of seats on local councils in elections on Thursday. In firing Williamson on Wednesday, May said an investigation had left no other credible explanation for the leak except that Williamson was responsible. Cabinet office Minister David Lidington, who fielded questions at an urgent parliamentary hearing on the affair on Thursday, said that May had nevertheless not accused Williamson of breaking the law. It was for police, not ministers, to decide whether a criminal offense had been committed and the government did not intend to refer the matter to prosecutors, he said. Lawmakers, including Conservatives, called for all the evidence against Williamson to be made public. “Natural justice demands that the evidence be produced so his reputation can be salvaged or utterly destroyed,” said Desmond Swayne, a Conservative lawmaker. Sky News reported that Williamson also wanted a criminal probe to clear his name.

I’ve Protected Many, Assange Tells UK Court as He Fights US Extradition Warrant WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on Thursday told a London court his work had protected “many people”. Assange also refused to agree to be extradited to the U.S. to face trial for one of the largest compromises of classified information in history. The U.S. had requested the extradition of Assange, who was dragged from the Ecuadorean Embassy in London on April 11, and charged him with conspiracy to commit computer intrusion which carries a maximum penalty of five years. Asked at a preliminary hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court whether he agreed to be extradited to the U.S., he replied:“I do not wish to surrender for extradition. “I’m a journalist winning

many, many awards and protecting many people.’’ Assange said this while appearing via a video link from a British prison whether he agreed to be extradited to the U.S. Assange made international headlines in early 2010 when WikiLeaks published a classified U.S. military video showing a 2007 attack by Apache helicopters in Baghdad that killed a dozen people, including two Reuters newsmen. To some, Assange is a hero for exposing what supporters cast as abuse of power by modern states and for championing free speech. To others, he is a dangerous rebel who has undermined U.S. security. On Wednesday, he was sentenced to 50 weeks in prison

by a British court for skipping bail after fleeing to Ecuador’s Embassy in London, where he remained for seven years until police dragged him out in April. Assange had sought refuge in the embassy in June 2012 to avoid extradition to Sweden to face an allegation of rape, which he denied. He said that he feared he would be sent to the U.S. to face action over the WikiLeaks’ release of classified U.S. diplomatic cables. Hours after his arrest in April, U.S. prosecutors said they had charged Assange with conspiracy in trying to access a classified U.S. government computer. “The charge relates to one of the largest compromises of classified information in the history of the U.S.,” said

Ben Brandon, the lawyer representing the U.S. He said in early 2010, former U.S. Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning had downloaded 90,000 activity reports relating to the Afghan war. He also downloaded 400,000 relating to the conflict in Iraq, 800 Guantanamo Bay detainee assessment briefs and 250,000 diplomatic cables. The vast majority of these were later released on WikiLeaks. “There were computer room chats showing real-time discussions between Manning and Assange over cracking a password to gain access to classified U.S. documents and the public release of the information,’’ Brandon said.

South Sudan Says Any Extension on Forming Unity Gov’t is AgreementViolation South Sudan on Thursday maintained its position of forming a Transitional Unity Government (TGoNU) on May 12 as warring parties meet in Ethiopia to review the implementation of a peace deal signed in September. Ateny Wek Ateny, President Salva Kiir’s spokesman, told Xinhua in Juba that the government’s position remained the same on forming the TGoNU in accordance with the peace agreement mediated by regional body Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD). “Our position is that the unity government should be formed on

May 12, because any extension or provision not agreed upon is violation of the peace agreement,’’ Ateny said. He said Kiir, a key signatory to the peace deal signed in September 2018, together with rebel leader Riek Machar, would not be present at the meeting in Addis Ababa. Instead a high-level delegation led by the information minister will attend the gathering. The main rebel group, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/ Army (SPLM/A-IO) led by Machar, wanted a six-month extension of the pre-transitional period.

Machar cited delays in security arrangements, unification of forces and determination of number of states and boundaries before TGoNU can be formed. Puok Both Baluang, the SPLM/A-IO deputy director of information and public relations, confirmed that Machar will attend the meeting, adding that their demand for extension of the pre-transitional period is genuine. Baluang said over the phone from Khartoum that Machar left on Wednesday for Addis Ababa. “We want an extension. Our reasons remain the same because the situation on ground shows that

less than half of the matrix in the peace agreement has been implemented,’’ he said. South Sudan descended into conflict in December 2013, killing tens of thousands and displacing about four million others. An earlier peace agreement, signed in 2015, collapsed after clashes erupted in July 2016 in Juba, forcing rebel leader Machar to flee the capital. Delays in implementing the crucial outstanding issues in the latest peace deal have caused fresh fears that the parties may again return to conflict.

T H I S D AY ˾ ͱ˜ Ͱͮͯͷ

47

48

T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019

T H I S D AY ˾ ͱ˜ Ͱͮͯͷ

49

FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

50

NEWSEXTRA

UN Seeks Women’s Greater Participation in Peace, Conflict Resolution George Okoh in Makurdi United Nations Women Deputy Country Representative to Nigeria, Mr. Lansana Wonneh, yesterday said women would play a great role if they are allowed to participate in peace building and conflict resolution. Speaking at the official launch of the women, peace and security programme in Benue State and celebration of the 2019 International Women’s Day, Wonneh said women are affected in situations of conflict and will do better in peace building process if they are actively involved. He, however, expressed worry that 99 percent of women are

marginalised and not given the opportunity to participate in peace and security issues. According to him, gender equality is a human rights issue and needs to be handled with all seriousness. Also speaking, Programme Specialist, UN Women, Peter Mancha, said the objective of the programme in Nigeria and indeed in Benue State was to ensure that women participate effectively in peace and security process, peace negotiations, conflict prevention and resolution. He also said it was also to improve public perception of the role of women in peace and

security. Mancha noted that the programme is sponsored by the Norwegian Government and designed to end within two years (2019-2020), and would involve key stakeholders in realising its

aims and objectives. According to him, “The programme approach would also support government in the issue of insecurity with active involvement of women, reforming security and judiciary to have active gender

policies. “It will also look at capacity building and strengthening of institutions as well as making use of media sensitisation.” Earlier, various stakeholders, including Christian Association

of Nigeria (CAN) in Benue State; FIDA, BENGONET, police among others commended the UN Women for the programme, saying it will help in promoting women participation in peace and security matters.

Chevron Well Fire: Ondo Communities Caution Oil Firm against Extortionists James SowoleinAkure Stakeholders of communities affected by fire that engulfed the Chevron Ojumole Well 1 platform in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State have advised the company to beware of some individuals who might want to capitalise on the situation to extort it. The stakeholders also raised the alarm as well as dissociated themselves from attempts by some individuals to capitalise on the incident for political gains. The action of the communities was contained in a statement signed by six individuals representing various interests in the affected areas, including youths and ex-militants. In the statement signed by Rev.Ola Judah Akinyomi, Mr Owolemi Aiyeran, Otunba Sam Obasuaye Chief Ayadi, Mr Wale Tomiye, Comrade Igbekele Orisa and Monday Mabanmi, they condemned the acts that caused the fire incident. The stakeholders said those people parading themselves as leaders are not the appointed leaders of the affected people, and therefore cannot speak for them. The fire, which attracted attention of various regulatory agencies, impacted communities like Ikorigho, Ojumole, Zion Ikorigho, Otumara, Ajegunle, Ilueri and Bowoto. According to the stakeholders, the fire was caused by activities of “wicked and inhuman oil thieves and illegal bunkers who have no respect for human lives and the environment.”

“Immediately the fire started, Chevron informed our communities and our representatives were part of the Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) team to the site of the incident on April 20, 2019. “During the JIV, it was discovered that the fire incident was caused by oil thieves who have been stealing crude oil from the facility. “It is a sad thing that valuable assets mostly owned by the people of Ilaje land and the environment have been imperiled by the actions of a few greedy individuals who tampered with the idle well apparently to steal crude oil, thereby leading to this unfortunate fire incident. “We the Ilaje people are hospitable, and when a true Ilaje man sees his neighbour’s house on fire, he would try to help, not extort him.” They said the Ilaje people are already working with Chevron to ensure that the people remain safe and the fire is put out as soon as possible. According to them, “We therefore advise our people not to go near the area where of the fire incident in order not to hamper the efforts to put out the fire or be harmed by the inferno.” However, the stakeholders called on Chevron to provide relief materials for the people in the communities destroyed by the fire and continue to implement all the activities being discussed in their continued engagement with leaders and representatives of the affected communities.

CATCHING YOUNG TALENTS…

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Ikeja Electric, Dr. Anthony Youdeowei; young graduate engineers, Ukagbor Esther Uche; Oladehinde Ayodeji; and Board Chairman, Ikeja Electric, Mr. Kola Adesina, during the induction ceremony of the young graduate engineers at Ikeja Electric in Lagos. ..yesterday

Two Pilots Escape Death as IAC Aircraft Crash-lands at Ilorin Airport Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Palpable tension has gripped the workers at the Ilorin International Airport after a trainee-aircraft belonging to International Aviation College (IAC) crashed landed at the airport runway on Wednesday. THISDAY’s investigations revealed that the incident which happened on that fateful day saw the Diamond plane with registration No.5N BNH and two pilots onboard crash-landed without any casualty. It was gathered that the plane was experiencing serious and unexpected

technical fault, which was not noticed on time by the pilot of the aircraft. Sources close to the Aviation College told journalists yesterday that such ignorance resulted to the sudden pulling out of the back tyres of the aircraft when the pilot was trying to land on the runway, and the plane eventually crashlanded. THISDAY gathered that the staff of IAC, including the rector and some of the airport workers were trying to evacuate the aircraft from the runway so that the airspace can be re-opened for flight operations.

The damaged aircraft was later towed with a vehicle to the Aviation College before the airspace was reopened around 4p.m. for flight operations. When contacted yesterday on the incident, the Rector of the Aviation College, Mr. Benedict Adeyileke, refused to make any comment as at the time of filing this report Also, when called on telephone to comment on the development, the Airspace Manager of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) at the airport, Mr. Balogun Abiodun, declined, saying: “I am not authorised to make any comment on the incident, being a civil

servant”. Meanwhile, the Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, whom sources said was returning from Abuja with his wife was delayed at the airport for about three hours as a result of the incident. The governor who had his convoy stationed at the airport around 2.22p.m. waiting for his arrival from Abuja had to wait till the airspace was reopened before his chartered flight landed the airport at exactly 5.35p.m. Also, Arik Air, one of the commercial airlines at the airport landed at 5.45p.m. yesterday.

Mass Exodus of Medical Workers to End Ganduje Fires 33 Permanent Soon, FG Promises Secretaries Ibrahim ShuaibuinKano Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has relieved all permanent secretaries of their appointment with immediate effect. The Spokesman of the Head of Service, Mr Mustapha Ibrahim Fagge, who confirmed this yesterday in a statement signed by his principal, Mr Auwal Naiya, and made available to THISDAY, said the state has 33 permanent secretaries manning several ministries/agencies and parastatals. The statement reads: “In line with the present administration’s resolve to vigorously pursue/ implement the reform initiative

Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki embarked upon since its inception, and cognizant of the need to further ensure greater efficiency in service delivery, as well as reinvigorate the top echelon of the civil service , the Kano State Government has relieved all permanent secretaries of their appointment with immediate effect”. The statement also directed all the affected permanent secretaries to handover to the most senior directors in their respective ministries and parastatals. The statement further reads: “Accordingly, they are to handover to themostseniordirectorintheirministries andparastatalsonorbeforeWednesday May 8, 2019 and they are to report

The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, has said the federal government is working hard to end mass exodus of medical workers from the country to developed countries. The minister, who spoke in Abakaliki during the annual general conference/delegates meeting of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), expressed worry over the increasing rate of brain drain in the country’s medical sector. Represented by the Chief Medical Director of Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital in Abakaliki, Dr. Emeka Onwe,

the minister said the federal government has instituted a diaspora programme geared towards engaging doctors who have acquired latest skills and knowledge that would help transform the health sector. He said: “I am not particularly happy with the latest trend of doctors leaving the country to other lands for greener pastures. We shall continue to ensure that the welfare of the health workforce is improved. Our effort at centralising the internship posting of newly graduated doctors had received the support of the federal government and would be rolled out within the year. “The ministry will continue to improve on these activities to

encourage the exodus in order to make increased contribution to our healthcare delivery.” The minister also expressed concern at the inability of several state governments’ inability to recruit and keep medical doctors, including specialists in their secondary and tertiary hospitals. “In many cases, most local government areas’ health facilities do not have a doctor. These are unrelated to poor welfare and remuneration package at various levels among other factors.” The President of the NMA, Dr. Francis Adedayo Faduyile, also stated that 2,000 medical workers leave the country annually to developed countries. He said this has necessitated

the theme of the meeting which is ‘Skill Repatriation in the Health Sector: Turning Nigeria’s brain drain to brain gain’. “We believe that this ugly situation can be turned to an advantage hence the need to bring this to the front burner for discussion and proffer a way out to the country’s advantage,” he said. Declaring the conference open, the state Governor, David Umahi, promised to continue supporting the doctors and other health care practitioners in the state. He said his administration would commence the construction of a new teaching hospital in June for the state university medical school in Uburu.

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NNPC Saves $2.2bn on Petroleum Products Import Through DSDP Scheme 132 companies bid for crude oil lifting contracts Kasim Sumaina in Abuja The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) yesterday said it has saved $2.2 billion through the Direct-Sale-DirectPurchase (DSDP) scheme of petroleum products supply since

its inception in 2016. This was disclosed by the Group Managing Director of the corporation, Dr. Maikanti Baru, at the public opening of bids for the 2019 term-contract for lifting crude oil and petroleum products under the DSDP scheme

Court Nullifies Lawmakers’ Resolution Recommending Removal of Kogi Chief Judge Yekini Jimoh A High Court sitting in Koton-Karfe, Kogi State, yesterday nullified the April 2 resolution of the state House of Assembly recommending the removal of the state Chief Judge, Justice Nasir Ajanah, over allegation of gross misconduct. The court also set aside the resolution of the assembly recommending the Chief Registrar of the state High Court, Alhaji Yahaya Adamu, to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) for disciplinary action over alleged gross misconduct. The presiding judge, Justice Alaba Omolaye-Aiileye, quashed the resolution yesterday in Koton-Karfe while ruling on the suit brought by the Chief Judge and the Chief Registrar. The motion had as respondents, Kogi State House of Assembly; Speaker of the House; Bello Hassan Abdullahi, Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee; the Governor of Kogi State and the Attorney-General of Kogi State. In his ruling, Omolaye-Aiileye said he had come to an “irresistible conclusion” that the resolution of the assembly arising from its sitting of April 2, recommending the removal or stepping aside of the Chief Judge for gross misconduct, must not be allowed to stand. He said that the resolution having been reached in “clear violation of the orders of this court, is, accordingly hereby set aside and declared a nullity.” “With the positive orders of this court made on December 13, 2018 and reinforced on December 18, 2018, Kogi State House of Assembly ought not to have done anything to give the impression that it was trying to pre-empt the decision of this court. “It is tragic that the respondents

whose primary responsibility is to make laws for the peace, order and good government of Kogi State will be the same institution to be associated with violation of court orders,” he said. The judge said it was his considered view that the action of the assembly was “a blatant and an impudent act, which ought not to be tolerated or encouraged in a democratic setting. “It is an audacious and arbitrary display of naked power, an act that is contrary to all constitutional and democratic tenets,” he added. The applicants approached the court by way of an interlocutory application. They prayed for an order nullifying and setting aside the resolution passed by the assembly at its sitting of April 2. It was alleged in the motion paper that the lawmakers acted upon a report submitted to it by its Public Accounts Committee and resolved, among others, that the Chief Judge be removed for alleged gross misconduct. The application was predicated on the sole ground that the resolution of the assembly, which bordered on the substantive matter, was passed in violation of subsisting orders of the court. The court had on December 12, 2018, in its ruling on an application brought by the claimants/ applicants, granted an order of interim injunction, restraining the respondents from taking any step in respect of the substantive matter, pending the determination of the motion on notice. The court had on April 12, adjourned indefinitely, the ruling on the motion as the court abruptly shut down, following sudden withdrawal of police personnel from the court on “order from above.”

Minimum Wage: Obaseki to Set up Joint C’ttee to Accelerate Implementation AdibeEmenyonuinBeninCity Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has assured workers in the state that a joint-committee would be set up to accelerate the implementation of the newly approved N30,000 minimum wage in the state. The governor disclosed this at the University of Benin Sports Complex in Benin-city during a rally to mark the 2019 May Day celebration with the Theme: ‘Another 100 years of struggle for jobs, dignity and social justice in Nigeria’. He said: “You were in the Government House in October, and I promised that Edo will be

one of the first states to implement the new minimum wage if signed into law. Now that the president has assented to the bill passed by the National Assembly, Edo State Government is happy to commence the implementation of the new minimum wage.” Obaseki noted that the state government would set up a joint committee for the implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage, as the state awaits further guidelines for the payment from the National Salary and Wages Commission. He said his administration was ready to pay above the N30,000 minimum wage as soon as the state revenue increases.

held in Abuja. Baru in a statement by the Director General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, NNPC, Abuja, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, said “29.5million metric tonnes or 39.6 billion litres of petroleum products had been supplied under the scheme, representing 90 per cent of the nation’s requirements.” Highlighting the other benefits

of the scheme, the NNPC boss said, “its competitive pricing framework which is lower than the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency’s (PPPRA) benchmark, led to about 84 per cent reduction in products demurrage cost.” He explained that the public bid opening exercise was in keeping with President Muhammadu Buhari’s

transparency and anticorruption stance, which the corporation had imbibed and championed relentlessly under his stewardship. He said the objective of the DSDP scheme was to engage reputable and qualified companies and ensure that selection of off-takers was carried out in a transparent and accountable manner in compliance with

the Public Procurement and Nigerian Content Acts. Baru noted that the ultimate aim of the scheme was to ensure value optimisation to the federation. The bid round was witnessed by officials of Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Bureau of Public Procurement and other NonGovernmental Oganisations (NGOS).

HANDWRITTEN QUR’AN LAUNCHED...

R-L: Chairman of Khattul Barnawy Handwritten Qur’an, Sheikh Sheriff Ibrahim Saleh al-Hussain; Yobe Governor-elect, Mai Mala Buni; Representative of the Sultan of Sokoto, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaid; Ambassador of Iran to Nigeria, Mr. Rahimi, Governor Ibrahim Gaidam of Yobe State, and Ambassador of Mauritania to Nigeria, Mr. Abdurrahmane Bah, during the launch of the Standard Khattul Barnawy Handwritten Qur’an funded by the Yobe State Government in Abuja...yesterday

NSITF Spends N1bn onVictims of Occupational Hazards Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Nigeria Social insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) yesterday said that the fund has so far expended over N1 billion to cater for victims of occupational accidents in the country. Speaking during the flag-off of safety awareness campaign to mark this year’s World for Safety and Health at Work in Abuja, the General Manager of the Health and Safety Department, Kelly Nwagha, said the NSITF had committed huge resources and energy in addressing the issue of safety of the country’s workforce and in taking care of those who were injured. Nwagha who represented the

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NSITF at the function, said over N1 billion was spent in the past five years to treat workers who sustained injuries, while performing their duties and to compenstate others who were incapacitated. “We have been doing a lot to carter for victims and we have paid about N1 billion as compensation to victims of occupational hazard in the last five years,” he said. The current management of the fund, he said, has made it a point of duty to ensure that any worker who gets injured while performing his or her duties is taken care of, admonishing that accidents should be prevented

from happening. Nwagha also said that NSITF had taken care of hospital expenses of those workers who sustained injuries and have been hospitalised. “When it comes to providing for those who got injured in course of work, we have in last few months provided for persons who had their limbs chopped off with prostheses. We have also been paying claims and compensations to those who either got injured in their work place or when they are coming to work and they cannot get back to their optimal level. “For those who lost their spouses in the course of work, we have also paid compensations to them. Nwagha listed sectors where risk of occupational hazard has been

high to include; workers in the construction and manufacturing outfits. NSITF is an institution charged under the Employees Act (ECA) 2010 to, only to compensate workers who are injured in the course of work, but to pursue efforts aimed at preventing workplace disabilities,” he said. Nwagha explained that the aim of yesterday’s campaign was to create awareness and mobilise support towards preventing occupational accidents and diseases in all aspects of work. The awareness campaign saw NSITF workers embarking on sensitisation of various entities in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Nullification: Court to Hear Adeleke, PDP’s Case May 8 Alex Enumah in Abuja The Court of Appeal, Abuja yesterday adjourned till May 8 to commence hearing of the appeal filed by Senator Ademola Adeleke, challenging the nullification of his nomination as candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for the September 2018 governorship election in Osun State. Also to be heard that day is a similar appeal filed by his party, the PDP. The presiding judge of the three-man panel, Justice Abubakar Datti-Yahaya, in a short ruling

held that since the appeals are similar in facts the court cannot hear them piece-meal as such that the court will adjourn to a date to hear the appeals. The appellate court had last week adjourned to enable the appellant properly serve the respondents with court processes. However, when matter came up yesterday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a party in the appeal was not represented in court and the court had to adjourn the matter, with an order that hearing notices be served on all the parties in the matter.

In the PDP’s appeal filed by its National Legal Adviser, Emmanuel Enoidem, the party wants the appellate court to reverse the decision of the Abuja High Court that nullified the nomination of their candidate for the election. Justice Oathman Musa of an Abuja High Court in Bwari, had last month in a judgment, nullified Adeleke’s nomination as the candidate of the PDP in the September 2018 governorship election in Osun State, on the grounds that he (Adeleke) offended Section 177 of the 1999 constitution as amended. The section stipulated that

candidates for the position of governor must be educated up to secondary school level. Adeleke who represents Osun West senatorial district at the National Assembly, faulted the judgment of Justice Musa on the grounds that the judge erred in law by going out of his way to source for evidence to arrive at his “unjust conclusion”. He submitted that the court erred particularly when it ignored WAEC’s evidence that Adeleke was educated up to Secondary School level as required by law.

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AfDB Urges FG to Return to Sustainable Path of Manufacturing Production, Africa Development Bank (AfDB) has tasked the Nigerian government to return to the sustainable path of manufacturing production.

This according to the President of AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Industrialisation,

I’ve Nothing to do with Sugar’s Killers, Says Ajimobi Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, has denied obstructing or manipulating investigation into the murder of Olatoye Temitope a.k.a. sugar, who represented Lagelu/ Akinyele federal constituency in the House of Representatives. The late lawmaker’s elder brother, Olajide Olatoye, yesterday, accused Ajimobi and the Oyo State House Assembly of facilitating the release of the suspected killers. Speaking through his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Bolaji Tunji, Ajimobi said the case was already before the police. The investigators, according to him, are already doing their job and have not contacted him on any challenges. He added that his government is known for never interfering with the course of justice. “If a citizen of the state dies, I am not sure the governor will be the one that will say people responsible for it should not be punished. “So, I think they should go and get their information right. The governor is not privy to that kind of information and he will not support sweeping such a case under the carpet. “So, if people are saying the governor is trying to facilitate the release of the principal suspect and others, it is not true. “The governor said when the man died that those who perpetrated the act would be

brought to justice. And he has never said anything contrary to what he said when the man died, and that still stands. “What the family should do now is to tell the police to do their job the way it should be done.” He added: “I don’t know the kind of bold statement they are expecting the government to make. ‘’The governor has already directed the security agencies to fish out the culprits, and they are on the case. “If the police are facing any challenge in their investigation, they are supposed to get across to the governor, and tell him their suggestions. The governor will now take it up from there. “I think they should go back to the police to find out how far they have gone in the matter instead of saying the governor wants to facilitate the release of the suspects. So, people should always get their facts right. “The governor will never be a party to a situation whereby an investigation being done by a statutory body will be compromised. The governor will never do anything that is against the law. “Why do we have peace in the state today? It is because people know that the governor will never act contrary to the law. “So, if people are saying the governor or the government is trying to subvert investigation, it is a no-no. The governor will never do that.”

SGF Unveils Cabinet Affairs Handbook Olawale AjimotokaninAbuja The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, has launched the Cabinet Affairs Handbook to guide Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the preparation of documents for the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and other advisory councils. The handbook is a 98-page document broken into six chapters and annexes. It enunciates the operations of FEC, the types, structure and contents of council documents and enactment of bills and legislation, among others. The operation manual was launched yesterday by the SGF supported by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Winnifred Oyo-Ita and the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Dr Tukur Bello Ingawa. It was unveiled during the maiden meeting of Heads/ Permanent Secretaries of Cabinet Affairs Offices at federal and state levels, held at the State House, Abuja. Also, three former permanent secretaries of the Cabinet Affairs Office were presented with award of honour in recognition of their

excellent performance in that office. They were Ambassador John Alhassan Gana, Dr. Roy Ugo, and Mrs Georgina Ehuoria. Mustapha lauded the Cabinet Affairs Office, describing it as the strategic organ responsible for ensuring coordination in policy development and tracking the implementation of the policies of governments at all levels. The Cabinet Affairs Office is under the Office of the SGF and it provides technical assistance to all meetings of FEC, the Council of State and the Police Council, by processing council memoranda and necessary documents for consideration. The cabinet affairs office has undergone phenomenal changes from the amalgamation of the Southern and Northern Protectorates in 1914 to the establishment of the Nigerian Secretariat by Sir Hugh Clifford between 1919-1925, who placed it under the direct control of the Chief Secretary to Government. Mustapha said that deliberate efforts should be made in support of nationwide progress towards the emergence of the cabinet offices as the engine room at the centre of government at all levels.

Professor Banji OyelaranOyeyinka at the AfDB investors forum held in Abuja, yesterday, will be achievable through Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) SAPZs, an initiative of the AfDB, has a broad objectives to raise income, eliminate unemployment, especially youth joblessness, reduce food import bill to the barest minimum, and reduce prices of high-value food products. Oyebanji opined that the logic of development shown by structural transformation is that countries that make progress usually move from basic agriculture to industry,

including agro-industrial processing, and later, to services. “Destiny beckons to us all to return to the sustainable path of manufacturing production. “Currently, Nigeria trails in the supply of quality agro-processing products; the African region accounts for less than three per cent of global gross output, and less than 1 per cent of global manufacturing output. This is despite growing demand for higher-value processed agroindustry products. Nigeria must take advantage of the opportunities in this sector to create non-oil sector jobs and raise its GDP,” Adesina explained.

He stated that an end must be brought to the situation whereby Nigeria’s raw agricultural sector products are exported, processed elsewhere and bought back in different forms in the international market. “With growing appetite for high-value foods, we cannot continue to import these products at higher prices,” he added. While speaking further on SAPZs, Adesina said it has an aim of promoting private local and foreign investments in agribusiness, increase the contribution of the agriculture sector to GDP, foster wealth and employment creation, especially

jobs for youth. He further explained that this will be done by raising productivity of the following agro-industry sub-sectors: agriculture, forestry, livestock and fisheries production and through value addition to these materials by way of agro-industrial processing. “We will bring basic infrastructure to rural areas link smallholder producers and SMEs in priority value chains. The SAPZs we believe will lead to a doubling or tripling of the GDP of rural areas in a way that bridges the Rural-Urban Divide”.

RECOGNITION...

Pinnacle’s Head of Engineering, Mr. Olusegun Yakubu (left), receiving an award from the President, Association of Telecom Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Olusola Teniola, for the Beacon of ICT (BoICT) Hall of Fame for DSO at a ceremony organised by Nigeria Communications Weekly in Lagos…recently

9th N’Assembly: Fresh Suit Seeks Reversal of APC’s Zoning of Leadership Positions A fresh suit filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday is seeking an order upturning the zoning arrangement of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the principal officers of the soon-to-be proclaimed ninth National Assembly. The suit filed by a group, Kingdom Human Rights Foundation International, and a member of the APC, Kenneth Uzochukwu, described the party’s zoning arrangement, which they claimed excluded the South-east geo-political zone

as “unconstitutional, unjust, discriminatory and clannish.” The APC, which constitutes the majority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, had adopted Senator Ahmed Lawan from Yobe State in the North-east zone as its candidate for the position of the Senate president; and Femi Gbajabiamila from Lagos State in the South-west zone as speaker. The plaintiffs noted in their suit marked FHC/ABJ/ CS/477/2019, that the party

had also zoned the position of the Deputy Senate President to South-south; and that of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives to North-central. They also noted that with President Muhammadu Buhari from the North-west; the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo from the South-west; and the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tanko Muhammad from the North-east, it implies that the South-east zone has been totally excluded from “the

political arithmetic of Nigeria.” They contended, through their lawyer, Mr. Kingdom Nnamdi, that this “breaches the express provisions, spirit and tenor of sections 14 (3) and (4) and 244 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended); and offends the Federal Character Principle of Nigeria”. The APC, the National Assembly and the Federal Character Commission were joined in the suit as the first, second and third defendants, respectively.

Performance Key to My 2022 Succession Plan, Fayemi Tells Appointees Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has advised members of his cabinet to work tirelessly for his administration to deliver good performance to the people, saying his 2022 succession plan will be determined largely by level of dividends of democracy offered the populace. Fayemi stated that Ekiti people must start seeing evidence of governance now that a full complement of commissioners and special advisers have been appointed to drive his four cardinal agenda.

He spoke at Iloko Ijesa, Osun State yesterday, while declaring open a three-day retreat organised by the state government to equip the political class and technocrats in the state civil service. At the retreat attended by over 100 senior public servants , Fayemi stated that apart from fulfilling promises to the people that the task of delivering on his promises has become more convoluted and tasking by the N30,000 minimum wage, which he said his government was ready to pay to workers. He said all the public servants especially those in charge of

revenues must brace up for the task of generating more funds to be able to meet the new demand. Officers present are, the Deputy Governor, Chief Bisi Egbeyemi, Secretary to the State Government, Biodun Oyebanji, Head of Service, Ayodeji Ajayi, the Chief of Staff, Biodun Omoleye, commissioners , special advisers and director general of agencies and permanent secretaries. Fayemi said: “We have to be focused on how to deliver on our promises to the people, that is why you will sign to performance agreement at the end of every quarter and if you think what

we set for you was too high, then you bow out. “We have to take reclaiming Ekiti values from the level of promise to reality. I know you need resources and there must be plans on how these will be provided and measured the extent to which you have delivered. “The task ahead is tedious but not insurmountable. Most of the states used to fail because they don’t have plans and have nothing to deliver. There must be something measurable to be put in place and that can be evaluated periodically as a government.”

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Buhari Commends Traditional Rulers over 2019 Elections Amby Uneze in Owerri President Muhammadu Buhari has commended traditional rulers in the country over their role during and after the 2019 general elections, adding that the relative peace that existed could not have been possible without the role traditional rulers played at the elections. The President who spoke yesterday at the post-election peace summit organised by the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, at the Palace of Eze Imo, Owerri, the Imo State capital, stated that the responsibility of ensuring peace rests squarely on the shoulders of the traditional rulers because they are closer to the people than the government. Buhari who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, remarked: “My Royal Highnesses and Traditional Rulers, the presidency has saddled my office with the very responsibility of overseeing the Post-Election Peace Conference/Summit in the six geo-political zones of our dear country. “But the most sterling issue about the whole matter is establishing peace, how to bring peace to Sokoto, to Adamawa and others. But we all understand that this responsibility rests rather more squarely on the shoulders of our traditional rulers who are closer to the people than the government. “This is why my office attends to everything pertaining to this matter with utter dispatch. Also, the team-spirit with which you have carried out your functions has not gone unnoticed. It was also noted that your effort in

improving the economy through agricultural schemes in the last four years is also what mentioning. “I am reassuring you that my office will continue to work in collaboration with the National Council of Traditional Rulers in all their developmental strides. Again, the presidency has not taken for granted, all your efforts towards the management of insurgency in the North-East”. In his address, Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, said Igbos are always misunderstood by other Nigerians. “The problem with our country is that we don’t understand the people called Igbos. Igbos, if I must describe us, are the most misrepresented ethnic group in Nigeria. It is only the Igbos amongst all other ethnic groups that can go to any other culture and settle to develop that culture,” Okorocha said. He added: “The Igbo man is the one who will hardly come back home to his grassroot without leaving a lasting impression of good development in the place he is living. But Nigerians have taken this for weakness. And that is why at every side they are chased from pillar to post as if they are not part of the entity called Nigeria”. Also in his speech, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saidi Abubakar, stated: “We are here today to mark the South-East post-election and peace conference of the National Council of Traditional Rulers. One thing I am glad for, is that His Excellency, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, the Governor of Imo State, made good his promise of hosting us as we left the Enugu headquarters for Imo State. “We are here also to

inaugurate this wonderful edifice, in fact, the first of its kind in the whole of Nigeria, built by the people’s governor. Also, the unity of Nigeria is of paramount interest to all of us. Therefore, this is another reason why we are here”. The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, stated: “My fellow Traditional Rulers from across the various ethnic groups of Nigeria, I want us to bear in mind that the reason for this conference is the peace of this country. “We cannot afford to be seated on our various thrones and see the people we are ruling scattered. So, the peace of Nigeria must cost us something worth sacrificing. All of us seated here have a duty to let our subjects know that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Therefore, we must rise up to join our leaders to find lasting peace to our diverse political and cultural situations”. The host, HRM Eze Samuel Ohiri, who is the Chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers, remarked: “Our joy knows no bound today to see our brother traditional rulers come to have this National Summit in Imo, our dear state. Again, we return all the glory to God Almighty and to our Executive Governor, Owelle Anayo Rochas Okorocha, whose singular effort has brought about today’s development, we say thank you”. Other traditional rulers present at the occasion were the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Alfred Achebe; Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Ediden Ekpo Okon Abasi; Etsu of Nupe, HRH Alhaji Valiya Abubakar; and other eminent traditional rulers across the nation.

Ethiopian Airline Debunks Allegations of High Fares on Enugu Route Chinedu Eze Africa’s most profitable carrier, Ethiopia Airline, has refuted the allegation that it charges higher fares from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, than from the other airports it is operating from in Nigeria. The airline, which is the only international carrier that operates from the South-east airport to connect to other destinations in the world, said it does not discriminate against the passengers that travel from the zone through the Enugu airport. Officials from the East African carrier in Enugu said Ethiopia Airlines flagged off flight operations from the Coal City in August 2013 and has maintained its service there despite the undulating economic situation that has affected passenger traffic from the route. Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, on his twitter handle wondered why the cost of airfares from Enugu to China is higher than from Lagos to China and demanded for explanation. Reacting to his observation, many Nigerians from the Southeast who travel frequently from Enugu with the airline said

fares from the route are not always higher, noting that everything depends on when a passenger bought his ticket and the season. However, a source close to the airline explained to THISDAY that the allegation always comes up in seasons when the fare from Enugu rises beyond that of Lagos, remarking that this has been addressed in the past. “Ethiopian Airlines cannot discriminate against the passengers they expect to fill their planes from Enugu. Ethiopian Airlines is the only international airline that flies from Enugu. Since the opening of the airport to international flights, it has maintained a consistent service to the city even when there were not much passengers on the route. “In 2017, the Airline embarked on a roadshow to all the states in the South-east in order to shore up the passenger volume from Enugu. During the visit to the markets, kings and governors in the South-east, the airline pledged to provide world class services to the people. The leaders also promised to support Ethiopian Airlines in its operations in the region,” the source said.

The source also said the people of South-east have so far supported Ethiopian Airlines as was promised and the airline has also kept their part of the bargain. “So it will not be in the interests of the airline to discriminate against the same people it has sacrificed so much to serve. The price differences between Lagos and Enugu can be explained by reason of load factor. Aircraft type and yield and has nothing to do with distance flown and political reasons. Ethiopian Airlines chose to fly to Enugu and sustained the flight even during rough patches. “Ethiopian Airlines stopped flying to Kaduna since October 2018 when the route became unsustainable. So the comparison with Kaduna Airport is incorrect. As a responsible airline that cherishes the feedback from its passengers the management will address the issues raised and respond appropriately. The airline appreciates the interest this has generated. It is evidence of the love the South-east people have for the airline and the airline appreciates this love and feels mutually involved with the people too,” the source also explained.

FRIDAY MAY 3, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

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Protest Rocks Alausa over Supreme Court’s Verdict on Lagos Community Baale, community leaders disown judgment-creditor, seek govt’s intervention Scores of community leaders and residents of Agidingbi area of Ikeja, Lagos State, yesterday embarked on peaceful protest against the judgment of the Supreme Court, which awarded ownership of 398 acres of landed property in the community to a traditional land-owning family, AkinoleOshiun. The possession order is said to cover a large section of the Lateef Jakande Road, Acme Road, Fagba Close, and other streets around the area, with over 2,000 buildings. The protesters who marched from Agidingbi to the Lagos House of Assembly complex in Alausa, said AkinoleOshiun family, which is the judgment-creditor in the case, had already given them seven days’ ultimatum to vacate their houses, urging the state government to quickly intervene to avert bloodshed. They displayed placard of various inscriptions such as “There is no ancestral link between Akinole and Agidingbi land,” ‘’Land grabbers are enemies of Lagos State,” among others. Leader of Ojodu Legislative Arm, Hon Wasiu Bolaji-Seidu who is also a community leader in Agidingbi, said the news of the possession order came to the community as a big surprise as nobody from the area was served with the court process that led to the judgment. “On Friday, they (judgmentcreditor) brought a judgment and placed it on our houses

and said they have taken over the entire Agidingbi land. The issue is that Agidingbi was not mentioned in the judgment; nobody from Agidingbi was part of the case and I don’t know how you will enforce a judgment against a person that was never part of the case. “Agidingbi has been in existence for over 200 years ago. I was born and bred in Agidingbi; my forefathers were born and bred in Agidingbi and I don’t see any reason why somebody will just wake up and say they are the owner of the community. “I am over 50 years; my father lived for over 90 years in this community before he died; my great grand-father died at the age of 150 years and I don’t know where Akinole is coming from and we have people like Habibatu Mogaji who was the Yeye-Oba of Agidingbi; we have Femi Okunnu who is our father in the community and we don’t know where Akin-ole came from.” He particularly urged the state government to activate the provisions of the Anti-Land Grabbing Law of the state, and prevent the matter from degenerating into a full-blown crisis. “To the best of my knowledge, I know that Lagos State has enacted a law duly signed by the governor, prohibiting land grabbing in the state because this is a clear example of such case. That is why we are here to call on the Lagos State House

Supreme Court to Hear Zamfara APC Suit May 16 Alex Enumah in Abuja

The Supreme Court yesterday adjourned till May 16, 2019, to commence hearing in the appeals filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State. The acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Tanko Muhammad, who presided over the appeal filed by the governor-elect of Zamfara State, Alhaji Mukhtar Idris and others against the decision of the Court of Appeal, Sokoto Division, fixed the date for hearing after listening to the submissions of counsel in the suit. Muhammad however, assured that the apex court would do everything within its powers to decide the case one way or the other before the court goes on its annual vacation in July. The governor-elect and a faction of the APC in Zamfara State that contested in the 2019 general election had approached the apex court to set aside the decision of the Sokoto Division of the Court of Appeal, which had nullified the primaries that produced them as candidates for the last general elections in the state at all levels. The lower court, in its judgment held that due process was not followed in the conduct of the primaries.

But not satisfied with the decision of the court, the governorelect approached the apex court to challenge that decision. When the matter came up yesterday, Senator Kabiru Marafa’s counsel, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), who led other respondents in the appeal, sought to move a preliminary objection, dated April, 30, 2019. Ozekhome told the court that in the face of the law, there is no appeal before the court. He was about arguing his objection when Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), objected and told the court to order that the objection and the brief of arguments of parties in the matter should be taken together. He cited order 6 rule 5 of the civil procedure rules of the court. He reminded the court that the practice that had been adopted in so many cases before the court has been to take the objection and the brief of arguments together in order to have one judgment. Fagbemi said that this is so because if Ozekhome’s objection succeeds, the case will terminate at the preliminary objection stage but if it fails, the court will look into the merit of the case. After parties made their submissions, the court agreed that the case should be fixed for May 16, 2019.

of Assembly to look into it and find a lasting solution, failure of which there will be bloodshed,” Bolaji-Seidu said. Also speaking, Baale of Agidingbi, Chief Ganiyu Ayinde Haruna, said they were embarking on the peaceful protest to call the attention of government to the silent crisis that is brewing in the community. Narrating how it all began, Haruna said: “On Friday last week, we woke up to see people posting possession

order on our property and we don’t know these people. We have been living here for several years and the issue is we don’t know this family that is laying claim to ownership of our land. “We have never heard any relationship with this Akinole family and so it is surprising to us. Nobody knew anything about the court case. I mean how can you enforce court judgment against a party that was never part of the case? We are peaceful people

and we are urging the Lagos State Government, especially Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and the House of Assembly to intervene urgently in this matter because we don’t want bloodshed in our community.” Also speaking, an 83-year old resident and Iyalode of Agidingbi, Evang Dorcas Faworaja said her great grand-parents were born in the area, insisting that the claimant cannot just come and lay claim to the community.

Receiving the protesters, the Deputy Majority Leader of the Assembly, Hon. Olumuyiwa Jimoh, commended them for conducting themselves peacefully, assuring that the lawmakers would look into their case. “Let me assure you that we are going to look into your petition without any fear or favour and I can assure you also that you will receive judgment at the end of the day,” Jimoh said.

FOOD AT YOUR DOORSTEP…

L-R: Director, Terminal 3 Restaurant; Lekan Ajisafe, Director, Olufemi Akinrinmade, Chief Executive Officer, Bunmi Ajisafe; Managing Partner, AT3 Resources Limited, Tosin Adefeko; and Project Consultant, Gbenga Fashola, at the press briefing to announce the launch of Terminal 3 Restaurant & Lounge, at Ogudu, Lagos…yesterday.

Tinubu-Ojo Installs ComputerVillage Market Leaders The President General, Association of Commodity Market Women and Men of Nigeria, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, yesterday installed Mr. Adeniyi Olasoji and Mrs Abisola Azeez as “Babaloja”and ”Iyaloja”of the popular Computer Village. Tinubu-Ojo installed the market leaders at an elaborate ceremony in Ikeja. Some traders had staged protests at the market on Tuesday, kicking against the planned installation of the market leaders. They had claimed that Computer Village is an international market and that the titles of ”Babaloja”and ”Iyaloja”were only suited for markets where commodities like pepper and onions are sold. The protesters who paralysed activities at the market for hours, also claimed the market leaders were imposed on them. They said people outside of the market had no right to choose leaders for them. But Tinubu-Ojo at a news conference on Wednesday

had described the protests as ill-informed. She had claimed that, as the leader of all commodities traders, it was within her powers to appoint leaders for any market, including Computer Village. The market leader denied imposing leaders on the traders, saying she only endorsed the traders within the market that were chosen by stakeholders as leaders. She alleged that some officials of Computer Dealers and Allied Products Association of Nigeria (CAPDAN),whose tenure she claimed had expired, were behind the protests. The market leader alleged that the objective of the sponsors of the protests was to perpetuate themselves in power. At the installation ceremony, Tinubu-Ojo urged the market leaders to see their installation as an opportunity to serve the traders. While praying that

they succeed in their responsibilities, she urged them to give their best to impact greatly on the traders and the market. Tinubu-Ojo pledged her support for the installed market leaders to enable them to succeed. Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, she said the aggrieved CAPDAN officials had visited her on issues surrounding the installation of the new market leaders. Tinubu-Ojo said she expressed her displeasure over the protests during her meeting with them and also blamed them for taking the action instead of engaging her in talks. She said discussions to iron out all issues with the other party were still ongoing. ”I don’t have any issues with them (protesters), they have been here; they came yesterday after I addressed the press and they related their position. ”In fact, the former President of CAPDAN, Mr.

Adeniyi Ojikutu, came this morning. We talked at length and the next thing for us is to call another meeting. “I don’t have issues with them. The only thing was that they should have come here instead of carrying placards when they got the information that there was going to be installation. “They should have come to have a chat with me and perhaps we may have ironed out issues and understood each other. “Disagreements are bound to happen; there is no way we won’t step on each others’ toes in offices, markets and so on, but the ability to manage the crisis is what matters, which is the next line of action. “I have even told the Iyaloja and Babaloja I installed today that we are still going to revisit the issues with the other people at a round table,” she said. The installation was graced by many colourfully dressed market women who sang and danced in celebration of the new leaders.

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T H I S D AY ˾ FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019

ÜÙßÚ ÚÙÜÞÝ ÎÓÞÙÜ˝ Duro Ikhazuagbe

FRIDAYSPORTS

×ËÓÖ˝ duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 08111813083

NPFL: High-flying Rangers Tamed in Port Harcourt Duro Ikhazuagbe High-flying Rangers International FC suffered their worst defeat of the season in the rescheduled NPFL Match-day 9 clash with Rivers United yesterday in Port Harcourt, conceding three unreplied goals. It was the second back-to-back defeat for the Flying Antelopes who remain the leaders of Group A of the 2018/19 NPFL season on 21 points from 16 games. The Coal City landlords are six points clear of second placed Enyimba FC of Aba with MFM FC third on 24 points. Goals by Malachi Ohawume (36 mins), Wasiu Jimoh (59 mins) and Nelson Esor (76mins) at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium ensured that Rivers United leapt out of the drop zone to fifth spot in the standing on same 23 points as Lobi Stars. While the scoreline suggests a comprehensive rout, it indeed was more of an efficient display by the hosts who until yesterday had failed to score more than one goal in a league match this season. Rangers however can attribute their woeful outing to a fairly depleted side through injuries after a hectic run of schedule. Scorer of United’s first goal; Ohawume was rewarded with a fantastic State FA Cup form as he was handed a rare start in

the league while defender Kunle Odunlami was deployed as a holding midfielder for the Pride of Rivers. Rangers actually started the stronger of the two sides and should have taken the lead inside the opening five minutes when some intricate passing opened up the United rear guard which left captain, Godwin Aguda face to face with the hosts’ goalkeeper, Abiodun Akande. The forward struck a goal bound effort firmly enough but a heroic goal line clearance by Kunle Odunlami had the collective hearts of the home faithful beating rhythmically again. United then began to make important inroads as they grew in stature and confidence. Nine minutes before the interval, United deservedly took the lead through Ohawume who struck with guile and accuracy from a tight angle to set the tone for a brilliant and assured second half display which was to produce two brilliantly-taken goals. Jimoh scored the game’s second goal, a well-taken finish from close range following an exhilarating team move that left the visitors’ defence in sixes and sevens. Nelson Esor netted a sumptuous third which mirrored the second in terms of quality and build up, with a quarter of an hour remaining on the clock as

the hosts proceeded to entertain the spectators with some outrageous bit of showboating to run down the clock. Technical Manager of Rivers United, Stanley Eguma told the club’s official website, www. riversunitedfc.com.ng that it

was a good performance. “It was a good game and a good performance against a very strong Rangers side that are top of the league (Group A) standings. “We studied their games, mapped out the strategy to clip

Lacazette’s Double Give Arsenal Edge, Chelsea Draw in Frankfurt And Aubameyang’s late volley ensured Arsenal take a two-goal lead to Spain. Lacazette should have scored a hat-trick - he fluffed a header from six yards out in the second half and was later denied by goalkeeper Neto on two occasions. But Arsenal will travel to Valencia for the second leg next Thursday with a two-goal

lead, hoping to avoid a second successive semi-final defeat after they were knocked out by eventual winners Atletico Madrid last year. Elsewhere last night, Pedro scored an away goal as Chelsea recovered from an early setback against Eintracht Frankfurt to set up an exciting Europa League semi-final return leg at Stamford Bridge. Eintracht took the lead through

their top scorer Luka Jovic, who superbly steered in Filip Kostic’s ball. The Blues, who started with Eden Hazard on the bench, equalised when Pedro thrashed home just before half-time. David Luiz also went close when his dipping free-kick came off the bar. The second leg is on Thursday, 9 May.

Okpekpe Organisers Retain MYLAPSTiming for May 25 Race With sights set on getting a gold label status for the Okpekpe International 10km Road Race next year, organisers have announced that MYLAPS Sports Timing, the global automatic sports timing company will, for the fourth consecutive edition provide the race with an easy to use, accurate and reliable timing system. Spokesman for the race, Dare Esan said yesterday that the retention of MYLAPS is a confirmation that the event would be organised in accordance with all IAAF competition rules and conditions and one of such is to ensure an adequate timing system is put in place for the race. “The IAAF wants all us to

provide fully electronic timing by transponders to all finishers,” said Esan who reveals that real time splits and final results which will include the official time based on the “gun time” will be made available to the media, spectators and on the official race website,okpekperoadrace.com within the shortest possible time. “To ensure we achieve all these, it is better to engage the services of probably the best timing company in the world and this is what we have done with the retention of MYLAPS, a company whose founders invented some 36 years ago automatic sports timing,” Esan explained and reveled that organisers have made arrangements to provide a radio-frequency identification

(RFID) timing mats which will be located throughout the race course. “With the timing chip attached to the athletes bib or running shoes, your individual clock starts as soon as you pass over the mats located at the starting line, and likewise ends as you cross the mats at the finish line.” Esan also revealed that the Okpekpe tracking application launched in 2017 will also come in handy especially for those who are not present at race venue but who want to track their friends or loved ones. The application will provide race day information, track participants during the race, locate points of interest on the

route and keep up with split times, leaderboard positions and results throughout the day. “The mobile app can also be used to locate distance markers, first aid points and drinks stations and it does not matter whether you are a first-time spectator or a 10km road race veteran, the app will provide you with everything you need for the best possible experience on race day,” Esan added. The Okpekpe International 10km Road Race is the first road race in Nigeria nay West Africa to be granted a label status by the IAAF and the only one IAAF silver label road race in Africa this year. It will hold on the 25th of this month in Okpekpe near Auchi in Edo State.

Zenith/Ikoyi Club Swimming Holds Saturday The 4th annual Ikoyi Club Swimming Competition for Primary and Secondary Schools in Lagos takes centre stage on Saturday at the swimming section of Ikoyi Club 1938. The ‘Catch them Young’ inter-school tournament is a partnership initiative of the prestigious club in conjunction with Zenith Bank Plc.

Over 250 swimmers across the state are expected on parade from 18 schools comprising 12 primary schools and six secondary schools are billed to take part in the competition. Chairman and Games Captain of the Swimming Session, Ikoyi Club, Oloyede Obatoyinbo, told newsmen yesterday that over 46

assessment with assembled media. “We had a bad day and sometimes, you cannot explain (things like this). We had a couple of chances (through which) we could have taken the lead, but it did not happen,” he explained.

Arsenal players celebrating their 3-1 defeat of Valencia in the first leg of the semi final of the Europa League at the Emirates Stadium in London…last night

E U R O PA Alexandre Lacazette scored twice as Arsenal came from behind at Emirates Stadium to win the first leg of their Europa League semi-final against Valencia. Mouctar Diakhaby’s header put Valencia in front before Lacazette slotted in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s pass. The Frenchman nodded in Granit Xhaka’s cross seven minutes later to make it 2-1 before half-time.

(their wings) in Port Harcourt. “My players were very focused to get the job done and this result is a very motivating one for the football club,” Eguma said. Head coach of Rangers, Gbenga Ogunbote also voiced his sentiments on his post-match

events would be staged in the developmental event aimed at identifying potential superstars in the sport. He said: “We have concluded arrangements to make this event fantastic for the youths and to ensure all the logistics are handled well. Over the years we enjoy seeing these young ones compete keenly.

“This event will be an improvement on the last edition in all aspects. We can guarantee the best of officiating and best of everything just to ensure that the kids have the right start to their career.” Officials of the sponsors, Zenith Bank and that of the host, Ikoyi Club will be at the one-day event on Saturday.

CBN JNR TENNIS

Top Junior Players Book S’final Slots The on-going CBN Junior Tennis Championship in Lagos is really getting tough in the different age categories but top seeds have remain resolute not to be beaten in the group stages. This was evident in most of the final group roundrobin decisive matches that took yesterday. In the Girls 16 where four girls - Rebecca Ekpenyong, Omolayo Bamidele, Omolade Aderemi and Favour Moses - have come to regard semifinal places as their birthright, two of them faced very stiff opposition with one of the matches going into a final set decider. Mary Udofa from Kogi, who represented Nigeria in the African 14s Championship, took on No.1 seed Ekpeyong losing in two close sets - 10-7, 12-10. Chidinma Ezeh from Anambra lost the first set but rallied back to take the second set and then lost steam in the final set to concede the semifinal slot to Aderemi 10-7,

6-10, 10-4. Moses and Bamidele had easy matches to move into the semifinals which will be done by ballot and is expected to be explosive. The top two seeds in all the four categories won their group playoffs with David Dawariye of Rivers and Daniel Adeleye rom Ekiti expected to have a rematch of their Chevron Championship boys 16 finals. The highly anticipated rematch between Seun “Nadal” Ogunsakin and Mohammed Idris of Abuja will not take place as Idris has moved up to the boys 14 where he proved himself against second seed Ganiyu Mubarak of Oyo State, losing 10-3, 10-12, 10-5. The semifinal matches have been scheduled to start at 10 am today at the National Stadium Tennis Centre Surulere, while the finals will take place at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Race Course on Saturday starting 12 noon.

Xavi to Retire at End of Season Former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi will retire at the end of the season, ending an “unforgettable race that has lasted for 21 years”. The 39-year-old, who currently plays for Qatari club Al Sadd SC, won eight La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies while at Barcelona. The 2010 World Cup-winner will now become a coach, adding he is excited to see “what the future holds”. “What I have achieved in

the last two decades has been a privilege,” he said. “Therefore, I believe it is my duty to take the initiative of the field and return through football whenever possible.” In a statement released to Spanish news outlet AS, he added: “My philosophy as a coach reflects the style we developed for many years under the influence of Johan Cruyff and La Masia, and that has its greatest exponent in the way of playing football in Barcelona.

Friday, May 3, 2019

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MISSILE Segun Oni to APC “I’m not a nobody in the party. So, I cannot be expected to honour such a faceless invitation. Who are they? What is their pedigree? If a group of rascals signed a letter, how could they expect me to give any thought to such? Let those who wrote the letter show face” – Former Governor of Ekiti State, Chief Segun Oni, berating the All Progressives Congress in the state for suspending him for refusing its invitation.

AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA

akin.osuntokun@thisdaylive.com

The Tyranny of Destiny O

ne of my neurotic dispositions is phobia for flying. As bad and increasingly dangerous road travels in Nigeria has become, you still find me frequently travelling by road between Lagos and Abuja. I use the excuse of stop over at home in the Ekiti midway between the two destinations to rationalise the habit. In psychoanalysing myself, I argue that unlike the other mode of transportation (road and waterways), flying is not natural to man. The exception to this logic is what my friend, Jide Adeniji calls the “air force” and are effusively celebrated in Yoruba cosmology as àjé (witch), Ìyàmi òsòrongà (high priestess of the coven), olókìkí òru (grandee of the deep night recesses), ajèdò tútù mó bï (scavenger of human liver)- they are the category of humans to whom transfiguration into birds and night flight is second nature. And so I contend that since flying is not natural to man it is perfectly normal for me to be rendered permanently apprehensive of levitation and defying the law of gravity. The celebrated Nigerian scholar, the late Pius Adesanmi, was involved in a ghastly car accident about a year ago. In many important respects, he was spared by providence. The accident was so bad that majority of the passengers died on the spot. I doubt Adesanmi was anything nearly as morbidly fearful of flying as I am. In seeking mitigation for my phobia, I specifically feel comforted and relatively reassured by few factors. One is perceived newness of the aircraft. This psychological refuge has now been completely shattered by the fatality that wasted the life of Adesanmi. The consecutive self-impelled crash of the two brand new Boeing 737 Max planes has become the ill-starred poster boy of the dysfunctions of technology. If passengers were to be given the privilege of choosing from a lineup of aircrafts on the tarmac, the probability is that rationality would have driven nearly all the ill-fated travellers to that seductive flying coffin. It is the same tyranny of destiny that has deprived Nigeria and global academia of Adesanmi at the peak of his utility and at such a jarringly premature age. And so to Pius and all the other victims, I say Sayo Nara-Fare Thee well.

Neither Here Nor There Neither Abuja nor London; Neither Winter chills nor Tropical humidity were the other contenders for the title of this essay. I’m writing it at the beckoning of the blistering heat in Nigeria and the unseasonable cold snap in Europe-both of which have pitched themselves as a choice between the rock and the hard place; the devil and the deep blue sea, in the past few months. It is the kind of Hobson’s choice embedded in the oriki (the cognomen) of my grandmother’s

Adesanmi

family. I have always been fascinated by its rendition, not the least for the manner in which it foretold and paralleled the articulation of the dialectics principle and method by neo classical European philosophers and thinkers. Here we go: Ó da àkàrà mejì sí inú agbada Òkan dún wò mí róró Òkan dún wò mí rara Ó gbóná ó jo l’énu Ó tutù ó rín l’èdò The English translation can be rendered as follows: Two dough balls are guided into the frying pan to make bean cakes. The end product (the cake) has the potential to evolve in dangerous and contradictory dimensions. One can manifest as sizzling hot guaranteed to scald your tongue and the other, a cold enough contrary manifestation that is certain to irritate your liver. This, in essence, is the sum of the salutation. Now, what is there to choose between scalding your tongue and irritating your liver? And this is precisely the point-it is intended to confound and confront you with an imponderable choice, a choice with no option. I am ceaselessly entertained by it all-the poetic rhythm, the mocking and playful exhortation to a contrived stupefaction. It is a defining quality that is prevalent in Yoruba traditional chants, invocations, prayers and praise worship. It is calculated to awe, to incite puzzle and bewilderment; to arrest your attention; to tell a story-as we are about to tell. You will recall (as earlier alluded) that from the antiquity of Okemesi, it is a short distance to the Europe of Hegel, Kant and similarly invested European philosophers and pundits-the notion that every tendency generates or presupposes its contradiction; that to every thesis, there is an antithesis. The authority of Science was stamped on it in the proposition of Sir Isaac Newton that action and reaction are equal and opposite. There is contemporary illustration in the conflicting reaction of the Nigerian political

spectrum to my regular commentary-which straddles the apprehension of some on one hand and the satisfaction of others on another. There is cross utilitarian appropriation of the opposing weather conditions (in the culture of the temperate dwellers seeking the golden burnish of suntan corresponding to the craving of the fresh toned complexion imparted by exposure to the infusion of benign temperate cold by the inhabitants of the African tropics). The conversation I had with my son is most certainly replicative of conversations between callers from the different locations of the embodiment of the oppressive heat and the offensive chill. It was this ubiquitous invocation of contraries that was prompted in the conversation-a dialogue on the extreme and divergent weather conditions we both are grappling with. If you are in Lagos (or Abuja) and you are addicted to warm water baths then look no further for water heater. You only need to turn on the water taps to discover that the bathroom water heater has been rendered redundant. It gets so warm that you may actually need considerable dilution with ice cubes to avoid turning your bath into unsolicited sauna bath. It is a season in which rainfall attains to larger than life physiological therapy and socio-economic utility. It is a season in which ritual supplication for rain is routine and regular in the rural redoubts. The reason I will never forget Kagara (in Kaduna State) is that it was impossible to get down to sleep without drenching the torn and threadbare mattress with purchased ice blocks from the village fish cold storage. In tamped down benevolence, the nature wonder at Ikogosi, Ekiti State (in whose bowels mutually dwell cool and warm water spurts) dispenses this duality all year long. This is a season in which you find it difficult to contest Fela Anikulapo’s fashion sense. Next to the cool air appurtenances (fan, air conditioners), stripping down to your briefs and sleeping in your birthday suit is just what the doctors prescribed. And the general impression I gathered is that this prescription has attained to the popularity status of Vitamin C. My idea of hell on earth right now is Nigeria’s congested unventilated detention yards. And I am not pleased to confess this but if the price for avoiding that hell hole is to be momentarily Buhari compliant, it is a price I may be willing to pay. And I have caught myself pondering on the suitability of the influence of oppressive weather condition on the Nigerian voter behaviour as a fit and proper social science seminar topic. With or without rigging, there is the likelihood-that were the last elections to coincide with the searing segment of this provocative heat, political incumbents would have paid a heavier price than they did. This is a weather that thoroughly schools in the art

of intolerance and transferred aggression. You are predisposed to unloading your frustrations at the slightest or no offence at all not to talk of being called to pass judgement on those you hold responsible for your existential miseries. These are also the kind of occasions that enrich your perspectives on life. How are those,(who are in no standard of living position to get the relief you are able to afford and secure- (electric power generation from sundry sources-diesel or petrol powered generators, inverters, solar power and Eko electric power company) faring? You are, often than not, required a combination of at least three of these sources to adequately power the house cooling appliances 24/7. How about the ordeal of those dwelling in the extreme of the extreme weather conditions in places like Maiduguri, Sokoto and Gwagwalada? In these circumstances, possession of these life-saving items can hardly be deemed optional luxury items. You really have little or no choice in the ensemble of survival mechanism of coping with the prevailing physical ordeal and emerging therefrom in one piece. In our mutual weather victimhood we (father and son) were compulsively wishing to swap abode. Each was claiming the more tormenting scenario and wanting to relocate accordingly-I, running from the heat and coveting the cold, he, seeking escape from the cold snap and hankering after a warm sanctuary. Until you are better schooled by experience aren’t we all prone to sulking that our plight is worse than any other? The irony of ever contemplating such a swap was not lost on me. From experience I know that winter is a menace to physical and mental health. The exaction is of such proportions that I can easily rationalize the smoking of cigarettes and dabbling in the stronger stuff as pardonable coping mechanism. It is physically and mentally severe in the restrictions and limitations it imposes on social life. Anyone who is prone to depression, as I am, would need to think twice before voluntarily committing to semi-permanent relocation to the winter hemisphere. It was one of the critical considerations that aided my decision to turn down an ambassadorial offer years ago. Long and dreary winter nights leaving residents with brief daylight interlude is certainly not my cup of tea. This is when you feel like cursing climate change deniers. More so, those who have done the most damage and have chosen to undermine universal responsibility for the mitigation of the damage that imperils the survival of planet earth. The American President (more like the American nemesis), Donald Trump is a personification of this toxic brand and has done enough to earn Fareed Zakaris’s designation of him as a cancer on American democracy. May his tribe diminish and his reign cut short.

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