$3M BRIBERY SCANDAL: House weighssanctions for Farouk by Vanguard Media Limited

...towards a better life for the people VOL. 25: NO. 61642

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N150

TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Gunmen kill 27 •P.16 in Zamfara •Boko Haram claims responsibility

•P.10

for church attacks in Jos, Borno

$3M BRIBERY SCANDAL:

House weighs sanctions for Farouk •To step down as chairman of Subsidy committee •To give security agencies liberty to try suspects •I told EFCC about bribe money in April — Lawan Farouk

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, POLITICAL EDITOR, OKEY NDIRIBE & EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

AGOS—THE leadership of the House of Representatives was last night considering two options in the wake of the bribery scandal that has engulfed its investigation into the utilisation of subsidy in the prices of petrol. The House options,

Continues on page 5

PINI JASON:

Another flying coffin drops from the sky •P.17 Mr & Mrs

COMMISSIONING—

From left: Gov. Idris Wada of Kogi State, President Goodluck Jonathan, Chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Chief Kola Jamodu; President, Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Speaker, House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, during the commissioning of 5.25million metric tonnes per annum, Line 3 and Ground breaking ceremony for 3.0 million metric tonnes per annum Line 4 of Dangote Cement, yesterday, at Obajana in Kogi State by President Jonathan.

DANA: Release of victims' bodies put on hold —P.7 C M Y K

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Sanctions bite Iran as oil revenue drop RAN’s state finances have come under unprecedented pressure and the resilience of ordinary people is being tested by soaring inflation as oil income plummets due to tightening Western sanctions and sharply falling oil prices. Tough financial measures imposed by Washington and Brussels have made it ever more difficult to pay for and ship oil from Iran. Its oil output has sunk to the lowest in 20 years, cutting revenue that is vital to fund a sprawling state apparatus. Already down by more than a quarter, or about 600,000 barrels per day, from rates of 2.2 million bpd last year, shipments of crude oil from Iran are expected to drop further when a European Union oil embargo takes effect on July 1. Tehran is already estimated to have lost more than $10 billion in oil revenues this year. Causing even more pain, oil prices fell below $100 a barrel last week to a 16-month low amid a darkening outlook for

to offer more meaningful concessions - a road map to where this will all end,” said Varzi, now running an energy consultancy in Britain, Varzi Energy. Diplomats and analysts say Iran may offer the IAEA, the U.N. nuclear

Putin hunts political opponents

EB Bush said yesterday that Mitt Romney’s rhetoric on immigration during the GOP presidential primaries has put him “in somewhat of a box” for the general election. The former Florida governor criticized the tone of the Republican debate over illegal immigration. “I

USSIAN police and investigators searched the homes of several prominent opponents of President Vladimir Putin yesterday one day before a protest opposition leaders hope will draw tens of thousands of people. Russia’s main investigation agency said it planned to conduct about 10 searches in connection with a criminal probe into violence against police at a protest held in Moscow on the eve of Putin’s inauguration on May 7. Prominent opposition leaders Alexei Navalny and Sergei Udaltsov were among those whose Moscow apartments were being searched, the Federal Investigative Committee said on its website.

R Iraian President Mahud Ahmedinajad

economies in Europe, the United States and China. “This is an act of economic warfare. The sanctions are having a big effect in cumulative

terms: Iran is being locked out of the global financial system,” said Mehdi Varzi, a former official at the National Iranian Oil Co.

“It does appear that Iran is more amenable to negotiations now than it was a year ago. The West should take advantage of this momentary situation

British envoy attacked in Libya convoy carrying Britain’s ambassador to Libya was hit by a rocketpropelled grenade on Monday, injuring two of his bodyguards in the most

serious of a spate of assaults on foreign targets. The attackers ambushed the ambassador’s convoy meters (yards) from the consulate in the eastern

Jeb Bush blames Republicans for Romney’s gaffs on immigration

do feel a little out of step with my party on this,” said Bush, who supports immigration reform. He made his remarks at a breakfast hosted by Bloomberg, according to Ben Smith at BuzzFeed. Bush told reporters at the breakfast that even Ronald Reagan would have a

tough time winning the Republican presidential nomination in today ’s partisan climate, in which working with members of the other party is seen as a weakness. He called the current partisanship “disturbing” and blamed President Barack Obama for increasing the divide between Democrats and Republicans.

city of Benghazi, firing the weapon at the front of one of the vehicles and blowing out the windscreen, local security officials said. It was the fourth attack in three months on a foreign mission in the city, the birth-place of the revolt which last year overthrew Muammar Gaddafi. Some analysts say the violence is the work of Islamist militants exploiting the security vacuum left after Gaddafi’s fall. “A convoy carrying the British ambassador to Libya was involved in a serious incident,” said a spokeswoman for the British embassy in the Libyan capital, Tripoli.

UNDREDS of thousands of Venezuelans flooded downtown Caracas on Sunday to support opposition candidate Henrique Capriles in the

H Jeb Bush

U.S. commerce boss quizes for auto crash .S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson is under investigation for hit-andrun crashes with two cars near his California home over the weekend and his

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office said he had suffered a seizure. Bryson, who represents business interests in the Obama administration, was hospitalized in

California but has returned to Washington, Commerce Department spokeswoman Jennifer Friedman said in a statement yesterday

biggest rally to date of his campaign to unseat cancer-stricken socialist President Hugo Chavez. The athletic 39-yearold walked and jogged in the company of supporters to register his candidacy with electoral authorities, burnishing his image of physical fitness in contrast to the convalescing Chavez. Capriles hopes to replace Chavez’s statedriven socialism with a

“There’s a search going on at my home,” Navalny, an anti-corruption blogger and one of the organizers of protests sparked by allegations of fraud in a December parliamentary election won by Putin’s party, said on Twitter. “They practically cut out the door,” he wrote. Ekho Moskvy radio said police had prevented Navalny’s lawyer from entering. Putin won a six-year presidential term in March despite a wave of protests which drew tens of thousands of people to the streets, demonstrating significant opposition to his rule, particularly among middle-class city dwellers. Opposition leaders plan to hold the first big protest in Moscow since his inauguration on yesterday.

UN accuses Syria of renewed killings .N. monitors said Syrian helicopters fired on rebel strongholds north of Homs yesterday and called for “immediate and unfettered access” to conflict zones where they had heard many women

Capriles rallies Venezuelans to topple Chavez

watchdog, increased cooperation as a bargaining chip in its negotiations with world powers, which resumed in April after a 15-month hiatus and are to continue in Moscow next week.

Capriles Brazil-style balance between free enterprise and social programs, and promises an end to the sectarian polarization of Chavez’s 13-year rule.

and children were trapped. International mediator Kofi Annan also said he was gravely concerned about violence in Homs and in Haffeh, a mainly Sunni Muslim town near the Mediterranean coast, where the U.S. State Department said it feared a “potential massacre”. The U.N. observers, tasked with monitoring Annan’s April ceasefire deal which failed to stem the violence in Syria, have instead been cataloguing mass killings, bombings and clashes in which many hundreds of Syrians have died. The outside world, divided in its approach towards President Bashar al-Assad’s crackdown on a 15-month-old uprising, has been unable to halt the violence despite broad international support for Annan’s tattered peace plan.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—5

POCKET CARTOON

House weighs sanctions for Farouk Continues from Page 1 Vanguard learnt, were upon pressures from members of the House who were peeved over what they saw as a stain in the image that the Aminu Tambuwal House had sought to uphold. At the centre of the emerging scandal is the chairman of the House ad-hoc committee on the Utilisation of fuel subsidies, Lawan Farouk. He was, yesterday, formally accused by diesel merchant, Mr. Femi Otedola of demanding $3 million bribe to supposedly clear him, Otedola and his companies from culpability in the committee’s report. In an interview published by a national newspaper, yesterday, Otedola stated that Lawan and an official of the committee collected the sum of $620,000 in part payment of the alleged bribe in marked money supposedly provided by

security agencies. Lawan, had prior to yesterday ’s disclosure denied culpability, alleging the determination of those indicted by his committee’s report to fight back dirty. Lawan could not be reached yesterday for further reactions following the formal accusations by Otedola. Though the House is currently on break, an unusual tension was evident in the offices of the House of Representatives yesterday with angry members expressing regret over the latest development. The clerk of the committee cited by Mr. Otedola who allegedly collected part of the bribe money alongside Lawan, Boniface Emenalo was out of his office throughout yesterday. His secretary repeatedly stated that Emenalo was not in the office during repeated visits by

LIFEWORDS BY PASTOR ITUAH

HE spoken word, so cheap, yet so expensive, so common, yet so powerful, it can maim, it can dent, it can destroy and it can kill! The spoken word so soft and so alluring that it can encourage, it can transform and it can propel one to the greatest height! The spoken word when effectively used can build bridges, it can sustain a nation and it can deliver a generation. When badly used it can destroy relationships, ruin nations, and put down generations. Watch what you listen to, it can become your thought; watch what you think about, it can become your word; watch what you say, it can become your action; watch how you act, it can become your attitude and be careful! Your attitude is you!

TAKE HEART BY ELLA RANDLE

I am contemplating an awareness that transforms consciousness for me, the serenity of being, is like a sweet shaft of sunlight radiating a beam of contentment in my inner well being! I choose to focus on what I have; this very moment. I feel so much love! It is a beautiful way to look at life – Ella RandleNCONDITIONAL love embraces the whole universe, and, without clinging to any part, yet contains within itself the whole, and a person comes gradually into this higher state through purifying thoughts and actions. Divine Love is distinguished from human love in this supremely important particular, “it is free from partiality”. Human loves cling to a particular object to the exclusion of all else, and when that object is removed, great and deep is the resultant suffering to the one who loves. ‘The bird sings in the forest...does it seek to be admired for its song? Let tears come when your heart tells you its sadness. Let Joy come unasked, unplanned. Shape clay into a vessel... it is the space within that gives its value... Place doors and windows in a house, it is the opening that brings light within... Set spoke on a wheel, it is the emptiness of the hub that makes it useful. Therefore be the space at the center...in that nothingness, you will have everything to give to others.

newsmen to the office.

The options before the House Vanguard learnt last night that upon the pressures from House members, the House leadership was now leaning towards two options. The first is to dump Lawan from his position as chairman of the ad-hoc committee. Under the option which is seriously favoured by a majority of those in the hierarchy of the House, Lawan would also be stopped from presiding during the appearance of the 17 companies who were re-invited by the Lawan committee following their complaints that they were indicted by Lawan’s committee

without hearing from them. Under the second option Lawan would be left to continue in his duties while the House would give full liberty to security agencies to investigate the matter. That option which was initially favoured when the scandal broke is increasingly being discountenanced upon pressures from House members. Meanwhile it was learnt yesterday that the House on resumption next Tuesday would take a resolution on the issue based on the option it finally adopts. Irrespective of the resolution, the hierarchy of the House is determined to push the executive arm of government to implement the

recommendations of the report earlier submitted by the Lawan committee. House members were further angered by what they claimed as the initial arrogance of the alleged chief culprit once he was called upon by Speaker Tambuwal to defend himself when the scandal first broke.

Lawan walks out on Speaker Tambuwal When he was confronted with the allegation last week on the circumstances under which he allegedly collected the money, he angrily denied and walked out on the speaker and the principal officers present at the meeting.

I told EFCC about bribe money in April — Lawan Farouk EMMA UJAH, ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

AGOS—FAROUK Lawan who is at the centre of the $3 million bribery scandal in the House of Representatives, yesterday revealed in Abuja, that he reported the bribe to law enforcement agents as far back as April 24. Documents released by National Assembly sources to the media, yesterday, showed that Lawan reportedly intimated the House Committee on Financial Crimes in a letter dated April 24, 2012, of pressures to offer him bribe to influence the outcome of the investigation into the fuel subsidy scheme. In a letter to the leadership of the House, Lawan also said his “life has been under constant threat since the fuel probe begun.” Hon. Lawan reported the bribe to the police following which the Inspector-General in a letter dated, May 9, 2012, directed a task force on investigation to meet him. The IGP in the letter with reference number CR:3000/IGP.SEC/STF/

FHQ/ABJ/VOL 2/309 called Lawan’s attention to an interview he granted a national newspaper on April 28, 2012 and directed, “a discreet investigation into the matter.” The letter was signed by the Commissioner of Police, Special Task Force, Ali Amodu. He said that in another letter dated May 16, 2012 with reference number CR:3000/IGP.SEC/STF/ FHQ/ABJ/VOL 2/319, and signed by Amodu, the IGP requested money exhibit, names of witnesses and other material evidence from him. Hon. Lawan explained that in a letter dated May 31, 2012, he told the IGP that the matter (bribe offer) had been referred to the relevant committee of the House for legislative actions. After the correspondence between the IGP and Hon. Farouk, the IGP in a letter to the Speaker of the House, Rt Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, dated June 4, 2012, stated that a detailed criminal investigation had been ordered into the matter. In the letter titled, “Investigation activities: Letter of invitation in a

case of criminal conspiracy and attempt to pervert the course of justice by offering gratification,” the office of the IGP stated that “the Inspector General of Police has directed a detailed criminal investigation into the matter.” Mr. Otedola, had in an interview with a national newspaper, yesterday alleged that Hon. Farouk and the Secretary of the Committee, Boniface Emenalo, had collected

a total $620,000 from him in a sting operation masterminded by the security agencies. He said that during the probe, Zenon told the committee that it had nothing to do with the subsidy regime because it was not importing petrol, which is being subsidized but that Hon. Farouk insisted on being bribed to leave his company’s name out of the report which prompted him to offer him marked currency notes.

Violence: PDP raises alarm, slams ACN AGOS—THE Peo ples Democratic Party (PDP) has described as despicable, shameful and unacceptable the unwarranted resort to violence by the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) at last weekend’s local government election in Akwa Ibom state. The Party decried the high level of hooliganism and electoral malpractices allegedly perpetrated by the Action Congress which resulted in loss of lives. A statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Chief Olisa

Metuh regretted that anti-democratic practices as witnessed in the latest electoral violence in Akwa Ibom State have become the signature tune of the ACN and warned the Party to desist forthwith. According to the PDP, “it is unfortunate the ACN has reconstructed the word “Action” in their name as being synonymous with war, fighting, blackmail, abuse and intimidation. "The ACN has relied on these archaic, barbaric and guerrilla tactics to gain undue political advantage in the past.”

6—VANGUARD, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

N894M CONTRACT SCAM:

Court admits fresh evidence against Bankole BY IKECHUKWU NNOCHIRI

BUJA — FORMER Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Dimeji Bankole, yesterday, failed to persuade a Federal High Court in Abuja to reject fresh set of incriminating evidence entered against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. Bankole who is answering to a 16-count criminal charges bothering on contract inflation and abuse of office, had on May 21, begged the trial court to ignore the evidence which EFCC said would prove his culpability in an alleged N894m contract scam. Arguing through his lead counsel, Chief Wale Akonni, SAN, the embattled ex-speaker, queried the admissibility of the proof of evidence which he insisted were irrelevant to the criminal case upon which he is standing trial before the high court. Specifically, the anti-graft agency alleged that he rigged bid for the purchase of three units of Mercedes Benz S-600 cars, two units of Range Rover vehicles (without bullet proofs) and 400 units of DSTV systems, by refusing to follow all the procedures prescribed for

public procurements in Sections 17 to 56 of the Public Procurement Act No.14 of 2007, leading to a loss of value to the national treasury and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 58(4)(e) of the Public Procurement Act, No.14 of 2007 and punishable under Section 58(5) of the same Act. Ruling on the matter, yesterday, Justice Donatus Okorowo who dismissed the objection raised by the ex-Speaker, said he was satisfied that the documents were duly certified. Okorowo noted that the primary contention of the accused person was that some pages were missing from the documents, saying Bankole’s counsel ought to raise the issue in his written address. Consequently, all the documents were yesterday admitted into evidence and marked as exhibits. Meantime, the court fixed September 24, 25, 26 and 27 to continue the trial, shortly after it concluded the cross examination of the 2nd prosecution witness, Mr Adeboye Adeniyi, an investigative officer with the EFCC who tendered letters of agreement that the House of Representatives under Bankole’s leadership, entered with some companies that allegedly took part in the alleged illicit contract deal.

From right: The Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade; Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State; representative of President GoodLuck Jonathan, National Security Adviser, Gen. Andrew Owoye Azazi (rtd); Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Saad Abubakar; Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government, Muyiwa Oladipo, representing Governor Ibikunle Amosu and Osun Deputy Governor, Mrs.Titi Laoye-Tomori, at the 5th General Assembly of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, held at the Women and Children Development Initiative Foundation (WOCDIF), Osogbo, Osun State, yesterday.

Reps query alleged diversion of PTDF's fund BY OKEY NDIRIBE & EMMAN OVUAKPORIE

BUJA — CHAIRMAN of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts, Solomon Adeola, yesterday, expressed concern over the alleged diversion of over N2.8 trillion which accrued to the Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) account by a past administration. Adeola, who had an interactive session with management team from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation led

by Jonah Otunba further disclosed that an audit examination of the statement of consolidated revenue fund for year ended December 31, 2006 revealed a shortfall in revenue collection worth N81,904,469,177.27 on eight heads of recurrent revenue. The committee, during the scrutiny of the report, also queried the N94 billion fund which accrued to ecological account and requested the submission of the mandates as well as inflow and outflow statements for 2006 within four days. The report also raised

questions on the utilisation of multi-million naira grants and donations by international agencies to many federal ministries, extra-ministerial departments and agencies for implementation of specific programmes which are beneficial to the nation. Adeola and other members of the committee had queried the rationale behind the diversion of public funds without due process and recourse to the Minister of Finance and Office of the Accountant General of the Federation. Adeola also expressed concern over the unilateral

CJN to Judges: Stop issuing frivolous ex-parte injunctions Says public confidence in courts 'll reduce resort to self help BY IKECHUKWU NNOCHIRI

BUJA — CHIEF Jus tice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, yesterday, warned judges to stop issuing frivolous exparte injunctions, saying it has been “converted into a bulldozer for the demolition of substantial justice.” The CJN who gave the admonition at the opening ceremony of the 2012 induction course for newly appointed judges and Kadis, at the National Judicial Institute, NJI, in Abuja, said though “ex-parte injunction was designed with good and laudable intention as a vehicle for the carriage of instant justice in proper cases,” it has been repeatedly abused. Urging the new judges to

respect and adhere to their oath of office, Musdapher stressed that “one of the ways you can ensure that you do not betray this trust is to adhere strictly to the ethics, comportment and integrity of the Bench.” He said: “I must say that by your appointment, public trust is reposed in you to be saddled with the responsibility of deciding over matters of men. I, therefore, urge you all, to jealously guard this public trust and ensure that you do not betray same. “You must bear in mind at all times, my Lords, that your oath of office as Judicial Officers is a covenant with such fundamental virtues like honesty, honour, probity, integrity and impartiality. “My Lords, I am inclined

to draw your attention to the canons of your adjudicatory duties as Judicial Officers especially as relates to issuance of interim injunction, ex-parte. Rule 2(2) of the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria states: ‘A judicial Officer must avoid the abuse of the power of issuing interim injunctions, ex-parte.’ “For instance, my Lords, how do we explain a court of law restraining a university by an order of ex-parte injunction from holding convocation to award degrees to over a thousand graduating students just because two students who failed their examination had applied to the court for a declaration that they too were entitled to be awarded degrees?

“Or that of a court of law issuing an ex-parte order to deny electricity to a town just because of a dispute between two contractors? “As you commence a career on the Bench, it is imperative for you to remember that as Judicial Officers, we do not campaign for or stand election. We do not have the power over the purse or revenue of the state. We do not have a garrison of army to fight our cause or enforce our orders and decisions.

Public perception “Our authority rests solely on the public perception of our integrity and absolute impartiality. I had said time without number that public confidence in our courts will reduce incidences of resort

to self help and people taking laws into their hands. Indeed, public confidence in the courts is a sine qua non for the sustenance of the society,” he added. Meanwhile, explaining rationale behind the theme of this year’s induction programme, “Towards Enhancement of Capacity of Judicial Officers in Modern Time,” the Administrator of NJI, Justice Umaruy Eri, said it was germane for the new judges to be well equipped and adequately prepared for the task of adjudication. “This is also one course where the participants are formally told the “dos” and “don’ts” of a calling to which they have taken oath of office,” he said.

diversion of N250 million from the PTDF account for registration of Galaxy Backbone and additional N625 million for its operational activities. He further queried the deduction of N593 million from N2.5 trillion fund domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, noting that management of PTDF used it to finance departments of government for outsourcing unstated programmes which were not in the books. Said he: ”I agree with the Auditor General that there are a lot of problems in the Petroleum Trust Development Fund and the account as reported by the Auditor General has been shrouded in secrecy and that particular account was not made known to us.” While making clarifications concerning the disbursement of funds from the PTDF account, Mr Babayaro, a Director in charge of signature bonus account, noted that the approval for the release of the PTDF funds was by fiat from the Presidency. The committee has, therefore, summoned the management of 22 Federal Government agencies as well as Debt Management Office (DMO) to explain how the monies were sourced and spent. While responding to queries raised in the 2006 audit report, Jonah Otunba, Accountant General of the Federation, explained that the OAGF was still expecting responses from PTDF on the queries raised by the office of the Auditor General.

VANGUARD, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—7

PDP POWER TUSSLE:

Habu Fari fires back at Oyinlola Says ‘I have Tukur’s mandate and authority’ BY HENRY UMORU

BUJA — THE crisis at the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, with the National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and the National Secretary, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, as the protagonists, yesterday, took another twist with Tukur’s Chief of Staff, Habu Aliyu Fari, who is at the centre of the feud, dismissing the threats of Oyinlola. According to Fari, he was answerable to his boss, the PDP National Chairman and not the National Secretary, just as he said he had the authority, mandate and directives of the National Chairman in all he has done in the course of his duties. The latest power tussle reared its head when Tukur, as gathered, was said to have mandated his Chief of Staff to respond to the letter from the national secretary, entitled: “Illegal Acts Prejudicial to the Interest of the Peoples Democratic Party ” with reference number PDP NS 03/12. As part of setting the records straight, Fari in the letter to Oyinlola and dated June 8, 2012, said: “All letters written by me including the one you mentioned were done and dispatched on the authority of the National Chairman. “I sincerely believe that the correspondence was in good faith and without any calculated attempt to undermine your office as you misrepresented. For your information, there was no correspondence in effect carried out by me without directives of the National Chairman. You may wish to cross cheek in order to ascertain my source of authority.” Fari while writing to the National Secretary copied President Goodluck Jonathan; Vice President Namadi Sambo; Senate President David Mark; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal; Chairman of Governors’ Forum, Chibuike Amaechi; PDP Chairman, Bamanga Tukur and all members of the National Working Committee, NWC.

A From left: Mr Mideno Bayagbon, Editor, Vanguard newspapers; Mr Gbenga Adefaye, GM Publications/Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard newspapers and Captain Tito Omaghomi, former Nigeria Airways Captain, during a visit to Vanguard newspapers, Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Diran Oshe.

DANA AIR CRASH:

Further release of victims’ bodies put on hold 11 identifiable bodies cleared for collection As victims' relatives allege preferential treatment BY SOLA OGUNDIPE & CHIOMA OBINNA

AGOS — FURTHER re lease of bodies of victims of last Sunday’s Dana air crash may have been put on hold at the Lekan Ogunsola Memorial Mortuary of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, pending the completion of the DNA test on the unidentifiable corpses. This development emerged, yesterday, even as relatives of the victims besieged the morgue demanding release of their loved ones for burial. Information from the hospital authorities confirmed that six identifiable bodies had so far been released, while seven other bodies ready for collection since the weekend were yet to be claimed as the hospital was waiting for the families to show up just as four more bodies were cleared for collection yesterday.

Confusion over number tag A hospital source confirmed to Vanguard that several of the victims’ families mistook the serial numbers on the published list of identifiable bodies as the tag number of the corpses. The ensuing confusion from this development, the source noted, further complicated the issue. In an address to the victims' relatives, Lagos State C M Y K

Chief Medical Examiner, who is a Consultant Pathologist and Forensic Medicine expert, Prof John Obafunwa explained that the corpses had no tag numbers. He said the confusion slowed down his work because he had to explain several times over to victims’ families what he and his team were doing:“At the end,we could only get four bodies ready for collection today.”

Why identified bodies can't be released Defending his stand on why previously identified bodies cannot be released until after DNA test has been concluded, Obafunwa said: “I understand how you feel about the whole process, and I have also heard several rumours that we released some bodies because of their social status, but I am not going to be intimidated by those allegations. I am more concerned with getting things done right so that even if we made a mistake, let it be said that we made a very honest mistake. “The bodies we released are the ones that were properly identified. There are cases where some families have identified some bodies as theirs, and when asked to describe some of the features of the person, they give wrong descriptions. There was a case where a man identified a

body as his wife but when asked to provide some evidence, he provided a dental record and at the end of the exercise, the record did not match the body, and several other cases. “I have nothing to gain here by keeping the bodies, but I want you to understand that whatever we do here have some legal implications and when anything goes wrong, I will be the one to be held responsible. So to really get things right, DNA examination is just the best option. I appeal to you to be more patient if you must get your right corpse.”

Relatives fault govt, LASUTH A mild drama ensued when the relations of the crash victims faulted the argument and blamed the government and LASUTH authorities for the delay, saying the present challenge of decaying bodies could have been avoided if the bodies had been released to them as soon as they were identified last week. One of the relations recounted: ”We identified our sister’s body the first time, they did not release it to us, and we came back a second time to identify her, yet we could not collect her body. Today, we were asked to identify her again, it is difficult because the bodies they brought are decaying and difficult to recognize,”

The man who was visibly upset, questioned: ”Why did they not put a tag on her the two times we identified her? They are playing games with us.”

...allege preferential treatment In the confusion,some of the relations questioned the secrecy behind the identification of the six bodies released so far by the LASUTH authorities, insinuating that the action was not in good faith. Another angry relation volunteered:”They are giving preferential treatment to some families involved in this matter. All the VIP bodies involved in this crash have been released and taken away. That’s why they don't want to release the names. We understand the society we live in and how people connected in high places get what they want with their influence.”

LASUTH appeals for calm However, the Chief Medical Director, LASUTH, Professor Wale Oke, appealed for calm, pledging that things will eventually be sorted out on the long run. Explaining the need to wait for four to six weeks before they can claim the bodies, Oke said: “I got a report that some people were presented with bodies that do not belong to them and they said they were theirs."

On adherent to PDP establishment manual On the insistence by the

National Secretary that the PDP establishment manual must be adhered to, Fari said: “I want to visit your persistent emphasis on establishment manual and your attempt to recognise it far and above the constitution of the party. In order to educate you substantially, the constitution came first above the establishment manual and any regulations governing the party. “The establishment manual which we produced in the year 2000, before you joined the party, was with a singular intention to run the National Secretariat smoothly. The said establishment manual is currently under review. It was reviewed by the immediate past National Working Committee (NWC) without its adoption and approval by the National Executive Committee (NEC), hence its present review status. For the fact that the document is to be reviewed has given room for consistent inputs to accommodate new ideas for the best interest of our great party.”

Division within the NWC On allegations that the office of the national chairman was prepared to cause a division within the NWC as well as settle some differences, Tukur’s Chief of Staff in the letter said: “It is most regrettable that in your capacity as the National Secretary, you listen and believe in speculations without substantiating and recourse to facts. I cannot imagine how we can set the National Working Committee (NWC) on collision course with the PDP Governors and how I intended to settle scores with staff of the National Secretariat over disagreement in the past. All these are unfounded allegations and were figments of your mere imaginations. “I will like to remind you that my appointment as the Chief of Staff to the National Chairman was strictly at his pleasure. I do not think there is any guiding regulations or law that prohibits the National Chairman in doing so. I am certain that this is applicable to other appointments made by his Excellency, the National Chairman. I also wondered why you erroneously declared my Office as nonexistent. For what reasons and on whose authority.”

8—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Nnaji declares PHCN illegal BY MICHAEL EBOH & KUNLE KALEJAIYE BUJA—THE Minister of Power, Mr. Barth Nnaji, yesterday, lamented the non-implementation of the Power Reform Act, saying that the fact that the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, is still in existence is illegal. Nnaji, who was addressing participants in Executive I n t e l l i g e n c e Management Course 5 at the Institute for Security Studies, Abuja, said PHCN should have

From left: Chief Economic Adviser to the President, Dr. Nwanze Okidegbe; Permanent-Secretary, Career Management Office, Head of Service, Mrs. Kehinde Ajoni and Director-General, Bureau of Public Procurement, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, at the presentation of the national database for the registration, categorisation for federal contractors in Abuja, yesterday. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

N20bn ready for Cement Technology Institute —Jonathan Commissions 0bajana's cement' factory's new production line BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE & FRANKLIN ALLI B U J A — PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, said N20 billion naira is ready for the take off of Cement Technology Institute proposed by the Federal Government in collaboration with Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, CMAN. He disclosed this in Kogi State when he commissioned Obajana Cement Plant’s new production line three of 5.2 million metric tonnes and ground-breaking ceremony of an additional three million metric tonnes line four in the state. The occasion was graced by the Chairman/ Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Sam Amuka and other top media moguls, senators, diplomats, captains of trade and investment, bank CEOs including customers of Dangote Group, and other dignitaries.

In his remarks, President Jonathan, disclosed that the cement institute will take off next month as the federal government and the cement manufacturers have raised N20 billion from the five per cent cement import levy over the past two years. The institute which is to be the fulcrum for the positioning of Nigeria as a net exporter of cement, is chaired by the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, while the Project Implementation Team is headed by Alhaji Lateef Salami, Director, Industrial D e v e l o p m e n t department in the Ministry of Trade and Investment. The Board of Trustees and the Project Implementation Team was inaugurated by the Minister of Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga more than 10 months ago. Jonathan said the aim of the backward integration in the cement industry had been

APOLOGY CORRECTION On June 9, 2012, we published a lead story with the caption “Who’ll wear her wedding gown now?” We have since discovered that what was attributed to the head teacher of Kiddies Kingdom Private School, Somolu, Lagos, Mrs. Felicia Iwuchukwu was her statement in the condolence register and not an interview as stated. We regret the mix-up.

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achieved, “ we are now poised to introduce the policy in the automobile, textile, sugar and rice industry ” . He commended the Dangote group and pledged the Federal Government’s committment to providing the enabling environment for manufacturing to thrive in the country. Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Dangote Cement Plc, Alhaji Aliko Dangote stated that with the right policies in place, the group would replicate the success story of cement in its sugar, salt, fruit juice and steel

production. He disclosed that the Dangote Group has embarked on massive cement production that will bring an end to cement import in the country. Dangote said that the group would be laying a foundation stone for another cement factory in the South South in the next three months. He added that the group will also be commissioning its Senegal factory in July, which would bring the group total cement production in Africa to 60 million metric tonnes.

stopped existing as a legal entity since 2007, which is 18 months after the Electric Power Sector Reform Act, came into force in 2005. He said: “It is a pity that sweeping and ambitious as ESPR(2005) Act is, its implementation has not been the best. For instance, the PHCN ought to have stopped to exist as a legal entity since 2007 (that is, 18 months after the Power Reform Act came into existence), yet it still exists.” According to Nnaji, highlights of the EPSR Act are the closure of the state-owned power utility named National Electric Power Authority, NEPA, its replacement with the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, (though as a transitional company that would exist for only

Edo guber: Okpozo warns against bloodshed BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

E N I N — AHEAD the July 14, governorship election in Edo State, Second Republic senator and elder statesman, Senator Francis Okpozo, has appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to avert bloodshed in Edo State by

June 12: Recognise Abiola as elected president, Tinubu tells Jonathan AGOS—AS today is being marked as democracy day in South West, Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN states in honour of the acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 presidential elections, late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, national leader of Action Congress of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to recognize M.K.O. Abiola as the second duly elected executive president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria posthumously. In a statement on the 19th anniversary of June 12, the former governor of Lagos State said: “The annulment of that free and fair election punctured Nigeria’s journey towards

establishing a democratic society and aborted our boldest attempt at nationhood. Since then, we have had several false starts and have conducted national elections that have failed to meet the very high standard set by the 1993 election. “Today, as we mark the June 12 anniversary, we must salute the man who made June 12 possible and who died prosecuting the struggle to regain the peoples’ mandate. More than anything else, we must realize that the greatest monument we can build in honor of M.K.O Abiola that will immortalize him is not in the hurried sectional naming of an institution after him as

18 months), the creation of 18 companies out of the state-owned power monopoly, the liberalisation of the power sector and the consequent privatization of the 18 PHCN successor companies. He also lamented the hiccups trailing the operation of the Rural Electrification Agency, saying it is hindering it from delivering on its mandate of effective power supply. “Contractors handling REA projects are currently owed N3.2 billion. Some of the contractors borrowed huge amounts from banks at high interest rates, with some having already lost the property they used as collateral. Some of the contractors have unfortunately died, heartbroken, poor and still indebted,” he said.

recently announced by the government, but in every Nigerian vowing never again to let our votes be stolen or our electoral rights trampled upon. Abiola undoubtedly numbers among Nigerian greats that have made sacrifices to birth a modern nation. We do not seek kingdoms for Abiola but we seek justice. We seek for him what he more than deserves and as earned. Chief Abiola’s victory as elected President is now a settled matter. Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, then Chairman of the National Electoral Commission, NEC, declared the result in his book published in 2008. Nothing and no one can be more authoritative than the umpire who saw it all."

ensuring that the election in the state was not rigged. He said: “What Buhari predicted may start from Edo State if the President succumb to the pressure by his people because we have been reading and hearing the PDP boasting about using Federal might to capture the election by all means. So the President who is our son must be very careful because the end of Nigeria may start from Edo state”. Senator Okpozo, who is a former Deputy Speaker of the old Bendel State, told Vanguard in an interview that “I have lived in Benin City since 1963 when Midwest was created. I have been here as a public servant, I have been here as a politician. I know the terrain and being a former Deputy Speaker of old Bendel State under Prof. Alli’s government, I had good interaction with every body in Bendel State that matters. “The truth is bitter but it must be told. It is sad that this PDP government brought suffering to the people of Edo and Delta states. The administration of PDP in Edo State was a chaos. There was no road in Benin until Oshiomhole took over."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012 — 9

Dana plane crash victims get relief materials BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI & MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO KEJA—LAGOS State Government, yesterday, distributed relief materials to 38 internal displaced persons, IDPs, whose houses were destroyed in Dana Air crash at IjuIshaga area of the state. The materials included rice, beans, gari, groundnut oil, Semovita, cooking stove, pots and cutlery. General Manager, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi OkeOsanyintolu, who made the presentation at LASEMA relief camp in Ipaja-Ayobo area of the state, said the gesture was a demonstration of the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens, even in times of difficulty.

LAUNCHING: From left, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Deepak Srivastava; Chief Marketing Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Olu Akanmu and Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Emeka Oparah, at the launch of Airtel 2Good Times, in Lagos, yesterday.

Protest over parking fees cripple activities at Ikeja Mall BY MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

KEJA—ACTIVITIES at Ikeja Shopping Mall, Lagos, was, yesterday, halted for several hours, following protest over the introduction of parking fees for vehicles parked on the premises of the mall. The protest left customers stranded at the mall as early as 9 am, as shop owners shut their offices over the N200 per hour parking fee, which took effect from June 1. Few hours after the protest commenced, customers who trooped into the premises of the mall were turned back by the protesting shop owners, who ensured that none of the outlets was opened for business. When Vanguard visited the mall, all the outlets were shut, while some had on their entrance, inscriptions such as: “We are losing customers daily, We do not want parking fees,” “No parking fees, Occupy Ikeja Shopping Mall,” “We are closed in protest of the parking fees, We say NO to extortionists,” among others. Many of the shop owners refused to comment on the development, but one, who identified himself as Mr. Ade Abiodun, said the introduction of the parking fee was a rip-off on the customer, especially “we, the shop owners who are also made to pay the parking fee. “I work here for seven hours daily, which means I will have to part with N1,400 every day, which is not fair. We are not saying they cannot introduce

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parking fee, but N200 per hour is just incredible.” Another shop owner, who pleaded anonymity, said trouble began when the managers of the mall leased the car park to a firm to manage, hence the mounting of the electronic billing system at the entrances of the mall. He added that since the introduction of the new parking fee, their cus-

tomer base had dropped significantly because customers were not willing to part with N200 per hour for parking at the mall. “If it was N200 for the whole day, it is better, but you can’t bill every person, including those working here N200 for every hour.” A customer, Mr. Mike Anthony, said the management was right on the

decision, if the fee was meant to check the influx of non-customers, who use the car park for the whole day.'' At 2:30 p.m, the management of the mall gave in to the demands of the customers as it directed the parking fee to be suspended, bringing the situation back to normal as shops owners opened to customers.

NBA Ikeja crisis: Court threatens to strike out case BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH KEJA—AN Ikeja High Court, Lagos, yesterday, threatened to strike out the suit contesting the election of the Ikeja branch of Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, if par-

ties waste the time of the court. The court handed down the warning after it gave seven days to parties to tidy up their papers before the next adjournment day. The short ruling was sequel to applications

Customs impounds 3 contraband-laden containers BY GODFREY BIVBERE AGOS—PORTS and Terminals Multi-Service Limited, PTML, Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has impounded three containers stocked with contraband. The containers, with duty paid value of N30.9 million were impounded, while two persons were arrested. Customs Area Controller, CAC, of the Command, Mr Tunji Aremu, said, weekend, that one of the containers (a 1x40 feet) with registration number TCLU 5678112, imported into the country by Anafi Investment was

found to contain 723 cartons of plastic W/C cover, upon examination. He said the company contravened Schedule 3 of Customs and Exercise Duty Act, adding that the goods had DPV of N4.5 million and that one suspect was arrested and had been granted bail while investigation continues.

made by counsel representing parties in the case. The lawyers, yesterday, made different applications before the court, contradicting each other. One of the contestants to the office of the chairman of the branch, Mr. Yinka Farounbi, is challenging the election of Mr. Monday Ubani, who won the election conducted on May 9, 2012. At the last hearing in the case, the court renewed the order, restraining the chairman of NBA Ikeja branch from swearing in the newly- elected officers. The court also ordered defendants in the suit to file their preliminary objection and response on point of law to the motion on notice by the claimant.

Lagos govt won't ban Okada —Lawmaker BY EBUN SESSOU

KEJA—CHAIRMAN, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Transport, Commerce and Industry, Mr Bisi Yusuff, has said that the state government will not ban Okada operation in the state, but make laws to regulate riders' activities. Yussuf, who spoke at a town hall meeting in Lagos, added that the public hearing on the Traffic Law, at the Assembly was to gather views, comments

AGOS—JUSTICE Doris Okuwobi of a Lagos High Court sitting in Igbosere, yesterday, reserved ruling on whether to vacate or extend an exparte order of Mareva injunction made against

Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN; First Bank Nigeria, FBN, Plc; and Zenith Bank Plc till June 15. The court had on May 16, suspended transactions on the accounts of PHCN in those banks. The current suit is in respect of claim of Lagos State Government

and input from Lagosians on the proposed law. He said if the bill on traffic regulations became law, it will deal with any person who drives against traffic, adding “let me sound a note of warning to all. Any Okada rider or vehicle who drives against the traffic or disobeys traffic light would be jailed for three months without an option of fine. “Trailers will also not be allowed within the state between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m, except tankers, distributing fuel to filling stations.”

NIPR pledges to stamp out quackery BY DAPO AKINREFON

AGOS—PRESIDENT of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi, yesterday, promised to stamp out quacks from the profession. Speaking at the induction of participants of the institute’s accelerated certification training programme in Lagos, he called on nonregistered practitioners to ensure they were accredited, adding that “quackery was inimical to the profes-

PHCN fund: Court decides fate June 15 BY BARTHOLOMEW MADUKWE

He said the camp, which had been opened since the third day of the incident, had been flexible to accommodate free movement of the displaced persons to attend to their businesses around the site. “We took into cognisance the need for them to attend other things, that was why the government made available, free bus service by LAGBUS to convey them in and out, free, from the camp.” On the situation at the site of the plane crash, Osanyintolu, said the three affected buildings had been pulled down to make the place safe and secure, while structural test would soon be conducted to confirm the integrity of all other houses around the area to avert any impending disaster in the area.

before arbitration. The parties are in court over a dispute over alleged breach of contribution in Barge Power Purchase Agreement entered into by PHCN and Lagos government in 2000, and a contribution agreement executed by same parties.

sion as it reflects and project us in a bad light.” On the institute’s plan to ensure practitioners meet international standard, he said, “we are determined to stamp out in our profession and are about to direct our lawyers to go after quacks in this field. All nonregistered practitioners should utilise this window we have provided through the administrator of the Accelerated Certification Training programme immediately, so that they can take advantage of the soft-landing we are willing to give them. But sanity must be restored to our profession and the time to do so is now. “You and I know that we have a large clan of quacks who parade themselves as public relations practitioners in Nigeria and this has embarrassing implications for our reputation and image as a people.”

10—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Monarchs task FG on insecurity BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

SOGBO—PROMI NENT traditional rulers across the country, yesterday, urged President Goodluck Jonathan to concentrate on halting terrorism, claiming the current security challenges signalled serious dangers to the stability of the country. They urged the President to consult them to provide a lasting solution to the problem. They spoke in Osogbo, at the fifth General Assembly of Conference of Traditional Rulers, NCTRC, where no fewer than 200 first class traditional rulers gathered. The monarchs at the event included, Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of NCTRC, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar; Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade; Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yaya Abubakar; Shehu of Borno, Alhaji El-Kanemi, Obong of Calabar; Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse; Obi of Onitsha; Alake of Egbaland, Oba Aremu Gbadebo and Chief Alfred Diete-Spiff, among others. Speaking with newsmen, Sultan of Sokoto, Abubakar and Oba Sijuwade and the hostgovernor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, identified corruption and insecurity as the major problems affecting the growth and stability of the country. Specifically, Aregbesola, who noted that security was a serious business, stressed that the roles of traditional rulers towards ensuring security in the country could not be underestimated. The governor also attributed the elusive peace and protracted conflicts and violence bedeviling the country to the absence of true federalism.

FG to rejig security apparatus The President, who was represented by the National Security Adviser, General Andrew Azazi, (rtd), said the government would soon restructure the security apparatus in the country to find a lasting solution to the security problem ravaging the country. C M Y K

S-West ACN states declare June 12 real Democracy Day ...Grant civil servants public holiday BY GBENGA OLARINOYE, OLA AJAYI, OLASUNKANMI AKONI & ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH BADAN—THE Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN-controlled states of Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti and Lagos states have declared today as public holiday in commemoration of the 19th anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 Presidential elections as well as in remembrance of the late Basorun Moshood Abiola, the undeclared winner of the election.

They are insisting that June 12 remains their Democracy Day. The states had also lined up activities to mark the day. In Lagos, the Head of Service, Mr. Adesegun Ogunlewe, in a circular, entitled; “Commemoration of June 12, as a workfree day in celebration of democracy,” directed public workers to observe today as a work-free day.

Activists storm Abiola's residence Meantime, it was gathered that activists will gather at Abiola's resi-

dence in Ikeja very early this morning to pray for the repose of his soul and also pray for his household to mark the anniversary. Chairman, Central Organising Committee of June 12 Movement, Mr. Wale Okuniyi, urged democrats and all change-agents across the country to support the movement to honour Abiola today. Okunniyi said the breakfast event was expected to be attended by senior citizens, political activists, pro-national conference advocates and lovers of

democracy from all walks of life.

Activists urge FG to recognise Abiola It was also gathered that the Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, will lay a wreath at Abiola’s house in honour of the sacrifices and martyrdom of Abiola who was allegedly murdered in detention by state agents for standing by the democratic resolve of Nigerians. At a briefing, a non-government organisation, June 12 Coalition of

Democratic Formations, June12 CDF, called on the Federal Government to formally recognise Abiola as the winner of the presidential election annulled by the military government as a mark of honour to him. In a statement by its Chairman, Baba Omojola and Secretary, Nelson Ekujumi, the group said recognising Abiola as an elected president, will “be the only legitimate way to right the wrong done not only to him (Abiola) but also the Nigerian masses who have endured all the agonising misery inflicted by the state since the annulment in 1993. This should be the first genuine step towards honouring this great son of Africa who gave his life for the democracy that we are practising.”

Oyo, Osun honour Abiola

From left, Zonta Gloriastene Agboola; Director, Zonta Modupe Adeleke, Chief Folake Solanke, SAN; Zonta Omolara Smith, President and Zonta Tinu Agunloye; President-elect, when ZONTA Club of Ibadan 11 held its change of baton ceremony in Ibadan, Sunday. Photo: Dare Fasube

CJN queries Judge over Ogun PDP crisis BY DAUD OLATUNJI

BEOKUTA—THE crisis rocking the Ogun State Chapter of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has taken another dimension as the National Judicial Council, NJC, has slammed the judge of Federal High Court in Lagos, Justice Charles Archibong, a 30-day ultimatum to explain why he issued several injunctions to a faction of the party. The embattled judge was also asked by NJC to explain what he knows about the complaint levelled at him on the alleged inappropriate pronouncements made about five Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SANs, in the case involving former managing director of Intercontinental Bank, Dr. Erastus

Akingbola. In the query with reference number: NJC/F.3/ FHC.22/1/134 dated May 17, 2012 and signed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of NJC, Justice Dahiru Musdapher, NJC requested Justice Archibong to explain within a month the allegation of abuse of judicial processes levelled at him by PDP through its counsel, Chief Olajide Ajana and Co. Vanguard gathered that, PDP National Secretariat,

had through its counsel, Chief Olajide Ajana, petitioned NJC wherein it complained that Justice Archibong serially abused the judicial process in suit number: FHC/L/CS/1248/ 2011 involving Chief Dayo Soremi and two others against PDP and six others as well as in suit number FHC/L/CS/347/2012 involving the embattled chairman of the party in the state, Bayo Dayo and Semiu Sodipo against PDP and three others. Vanguard reliably gath-

ered that Ajana, who, stated that the two cases related to composition of executive committee members of PDP in Ogun State were instituted by some aggrieved members, cited several areas where the judge allegedly abused the court processes. “We have every reason to believe that the actions of my Lord, Justice Charles Archibong were motivated by factors other than the fair and equitable pursuit of justice in this case,” Ajana stated in the petition.

Also, Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has declared today as public holiday in the state. Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Akin Olajide, said the ACN-led administration recognised the day as Democracy Day. He said the government also recognised the martyrdom of Abiola, who laid down his life for Nigerians to enjoy the democratic dividends of today. Similarly, the Osun State chapter of ACN has called on all lovers of democracy in the country to be prepared for the challenges ahead in the struggle to save the nation from the vice grip of the ruling elite at the centre who are making nonsense of the democratic ideals that June 12 represented and for which Abiola made the supreme sacrifice. In a message in Osogbo, yesterday, ACN Director of Publicity, Research and Strategy in the state, Mr. Kunle Oyatomi, a lawyer, said June 12 remained the real Democracy Day in the country. “Therein lies the inevitability that the symbols of democracy will always be the combination of MKO Abiola and June 12. Anything else is a lie and a fraud,” Oyatomi added.

Oyo PDP, ACN trade words over sack of 3,000 workers BADAN—THE Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has condemned Oyo State Government for sacking 3,000 of its workers. Mr. Dotun Oyelade,

spokesman of PDP Synergy League, said in a statement in Ibadan, yesterday, that the sack “is the fulfilment of a mindset primed at reducing the workforce by all means.” “The sack is not only

premeditated but the first step in a long-drawn strategy to prune down the civil service to a manageable level as a result of the deadlock surrounding the minimum wage.” ACN's spokesman, Mr

Dauda Kolawole, however, described as shameful PDP’s defence of workers that the past administration had prepared for sack due to certificate forgery, age falsification and contravention of service rules.

12—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Poor implementation of federal projects in C-River worries govt budget with their input BY JOHNBOSCO

AGBAKWURU

From left: Mrs. P. O. Idogho, Rector, Auchi Polytechnic; Mrs. D.E. Ikheloa, JP, President, Catholic Women Organisation, CWO, Benin Archdiocese; Mrs. Joyce Gbenebichie; Professor Cordelia Agbebaku, Acting Vice-Chacellor, Ambrose Alli University, AAU, Ekpoma and Justice Alero Edodo-Eruaga at the CWO's thanksgiving and investure of Patrons/Patroness at St.Paul's Catholic Church, Benin-City, Sunday. Photo: Barnabas Uzosike.

ALABAR—CROSS River State Government has lamented that the Federal Government had implemented less than five percent of federal projects in the budget that are sited in the state since 2008. Special Adviser to Governor Liyel Imoke on Budget, Monitoring and Evaluation, Dr. Peter Oti, yesterday, who briefed newmen in Calabar, regretted that most federal projects in the state were now dilapidated and had always appeared on the

Okumagba stood for truth, says Jonathan BY EMMAAMAIZE & AKPOKONA OMAFUAIRE A R R I — PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, weekend, said the departed monarch of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom in Delta State, HRM Benjamin Okumagba 1, stood for the truth and fought for the oppressed during his lifetime. President Jonathan, represented by Minister of Niger-Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, at the final burial rites of the Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, the late Okumagba in Warri, Delta State said: “Everyone agrees that he was a great man; he was an honest man, a man who fought for the oppressed. He stood for truth. “This is the kind of person needed in the society, Nigeria is in a hurry to reach there but there are too

many sycophants around government leaders. We wish him a resting place as we know that his legacies will live on.” He noted that he (Okumagba) was an accomplished monarch and leader of men, who should be emulated. Deputy Governor of the state, Professor Amos

Utuama, who represented Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, said: “He (Okumagba) was a great man, defender of his people and lover of justice. “He did so much to give a voice to Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, and a voice that was heard at a time necessary, he will live on.” The Senator representing Delta Central, Senator Pius Ewherido, challenged Urhobo people to live a

....Tasks Dickson on restoration agenda E N A G O A — G O V E R N O R Seriake Dickson has been urged to remain focused and keep faith with his plans to move Bayelsa State to greater height. President Goodluck Jonathan gave the charge at the maiden state government monthly exercise at Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. According to a statement

by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Daniel IworisoMarkson, President Jonathan, who was represented by Senator Emmanuel Paulker commended the governor’s zeal and efforts at developing all sectors of the state’s economy, stressing that the exercise was only the beginning of greater things to come for sports in the state.

Commissioner to Deltans: Be patient with Uduaghan come. generations to come. These BY AUSTIN OGWUDA SABA—DELTA State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Chike Ogeah, has called on Deltans to be patient with Governor Emmanuel the U d u a g h a n - l e d administration, saying that the governor was not interested in playing to the gallery to win cheap popularity but has a vision to provide for the people, projects with longer gestation period that would impact positively, both on present and generations to

forthright life and emulate the departed hero of Urhoboland. He said: “Apart from being a fearless leader, Orosuen was a man who saw tomorrow, because all the things he said came to pass. “He lived a great life. That is why we are gathered here, I pray for the improvement on his legacies. I want to thank him for being tenacious in his struggle.”

Speaking in Asaba, Ogeah said: “This governor is a big thinker. He could easily have done what some of his colleagues are doing and that is, do the small jobs and quick wins, which bring only temporary palliatives to the people. “Instead, he is focusing on Delta in the next 10 to 30 years, hence he is laying giant foundations in terms of infrastructure and human capital. He is embarking on generational changing projects that would not only impact on this generation but also on

are projects that would impact on the economy of the state in the long run. “The governor does not believe in taking short steps that lead to short-lived successes, he prefers to take the long, sometimes hard path that leads to ensuring successes. That is why he is doing projects, which have a longer gestation period. But what I can say for sure is that he is committed to completing most of these projects before May 29, 2015."

He said that, efforts will be made to involve other highly placed Bayelsans in Abuja, especially members of the National Assembly caucus in subsequent editions of the exercise. Governor Dickson in his speech, said as part of efforts geared towards the implementation of the sports content of the restoration agenda of government, contract for the construction of the proposed sports Academy at Asoama in Kolokuma/ Opokuma Local Government Area will be awarded next week.

budget but at the end of the day, nothing was done about them. Oti noted that from 2008, rehabilitation of federal roads in the state, dredging of the Calabar port, the rehabilitation of police and army barracks always appeared in the budget but were never implemented. On the performance of his department, he explained that before budgets were prepared, the state adopted a bottom-top approach and organised budget consultation forum, where stakeholders were invited and briefed on the performance of the previous

incorporated into the budget. He said, the state considered three main attributes, due process, accountability and transparency while preparing budget, so that the people would be involved, and the budget monitored so that money would not be paid to people, who did not deserve it. Oti explained that the state had introduced citizens budgeting system, where the budget estimate was written in three different languages of Efik, Bekwarra and Ejagham.

C'ttee seats: Edo Speaker denies marginalising PDP BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE ENIN— SPEAKER, Edo State House of Assembly, Mr. Uyi Igbe, has denied the allegation that he marginalized the opposition party; Peoples Democratic, PDP, in the recently re-constituted Committees in the House. Igbe, who answered questions from journalists in Benin, explained that the decision by the House to dissolve the former 24-man committee was borne out of the need to save cost, adding that the Assembly

ran the previous committee on cash deficit, which it could no longer sustain. It will be recalled that PDP legislators in the Assembly had accused the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, led legislature of maligning them in the sharing of House Committee’s positions. He expressed satisfaction with the decision to reduce the number of committees from 24 to 16, adding that to denounce the fears of marginalization by the opposition party; a committee was ceded to them.

Lawmaker mourns DANA plane crash victims BY SIMON ADEWALE

country. Osanebi in a telephone SABA—THE chat, said he was saddened m e m b e r that so many innocent and representing Ndokwa resourceful lives could be lost in East Constituency in the oneswoop,causingmuchsorrow Delta State House of among families across the Assembly, Mr Friday country. Osanebi, has described the He calledontheexecutivearm plane crash in Iju- Ishaga, and all respective government Lagos, which claimed over agencies to ensure that the 156 lives, as a monumental remote and immediate causes of tragedy, which has cast the tragedy were unearthed. pains and anguish over the

Court strikes out suit against Edo AG, fundamental or threshold revenue board issue of jurisdiction and BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

ENIN CITY—AN Edo State High Court sitting in Benin, has struck out the case by Association of Hotel Proprietors of Edo State, against the state Board of Internal Revenue, BIR and the state AttorneyGeneral, Dr Osagie Obayuwana. BIR had through its counsel, Mr M.Omozeghian, prayed

the court to dismiss the suit, contending that the suit was an abuse of court process and that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain same. Trial judge, Justice Roland Amaize, in his ruling, after considering the argument of parties, said: “The defendant’s counsel was right and he remains right when he contended that a finding of abuse of court process goes to the

consequently strikes with a devastating blow at the base or taproot of the case. “The present suit being therefore caught in that web and borrowing the language of the Apex court, the suit’s hammer must inevitably fall and it falls on it. Counsel to the plaintiff had failed to avail this court with any authority to support his contention and I know of no such authority myself."

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—13

Cleric urges Anambra to conduct LG poll WKA—BISHOP of An glican Diocese of Amichi near Nnewi, Anambra, Rev. Ephraim Ikeakor, yesterday called on the state government to conduct local council elections without further delay. Ikeakor made the call at the first session of the second synod of Anglican Diocese of Amichi, while commenting on the state of the nation as it concerned Anambra State. According to him, “in as much as we continue to commend the Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi for the good work he is doing, it still beats one’s imagination why the government of Anambra State has bluntly refused to conduct local government election. Democratic governance is about the masses and their welfare. There is no way the state government can claim to be reaching the grassroots for development if we

do not have elected local government officials running the affairs of the council. May I once again appeal to our governor to please listen to the voice of Anambranians and conduct the local government election. I know you as a man of integrity, and this is one of the things that if you do will give more honour and integrity. I am not interested in any particular candidate, but let the right thing be d o n e . ” The bishop also urged the state government to complete the Ichida-AzigboAmichi-Akwaihedi road, which work he said, had been abandoned for more than two years. He said when completed, the road would connect the roads in the communities within Amichi axis and would ease evacuation of farm produce to Amichi and Nnewi to the benefit of local farmers in the area.

Imo loses 24 indigenes to Dana crash As Okorocha expresses grief BY CHIDI NKWOPARA

WERRI—IT is becom ing clearer that no fewer than 24 citizens of Imo State died in the ill-fated Dana Airline flight that crashed in a Lagos suburb June 3, 2012. Vanguard investigations revealed that Ngor Okpala local governemnt area lost about six persons, while Obowo, Ikeduru, Oru East, Owerri West and Okigwe local government areas lost about two each. Other prominent individuals that lost their lives in the fatal air crash included the immediate past Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology, Prof Celestine Onwuliri (Ahiazu Mbaise), Dr. Levi Ajuonuma (Ideato South) and Mr. Dike Chinwe,

Police arrest 2 undergraduates for duping bizmam of N3.7m BY VINCENT UJUMADU WKA—TWO persons who claimed to be 200-level students of marketing at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, Awka, Anambra State are now in police net for allegedly duping a businessman of goods worth over N3.7 million. The suspects, whose names were given as Ozioma Nnabuchi (21), and Ikem Okafor (23), allegedly swindled one Uche Ezeyili of bundles of Cameroun zinc at the building materials market in the commercial town of Onitsha. It was gathered that the students had introduced themselves as Engrs Sunday and Williams to their victim and after duping him of the money, used N1.2 million to purchase an ashcoloured Peugeot 406. Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, in the state, Mr. Emeka Chukwuemeka who confirmed the incident, said the police had already impounded the vehicle. The PPRO said: “These two students went to the building materials market in Onitsha and requested to buy Cameroon zinc and after discussing with the owner, agreed on the price. They thereafter demanded

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the account number of the man, which was given to them and the following day, the man got an alert that N3.7million had entered his account. The SMS also carried the man’s previous current balance from First Bank. “Having got the alert, the man quickly went to the bank to prepare a draft for another contract, but surprisingly realizing that no money was paid into the account, he fainted. When he recovered from the shock, he con-

tacted the police. We then took up the matter and later arrested the suspects.” Reacting, the Director of Public Relations of UNIZIK, Mr. Emma Ojukwu said the school was not aware of the incident, adding however, “we do not condone evil in our institution and that has been the sing-song of our vice chancellor, Prof Boniface Egboka. Those boys should show the public their identity cards to confirm actually if they are our students.”

Anambra lawmakers call for overhaul of aviation industry BY ENYIM ENYIM N I T S H A — L AW MAKERS in the Anambra State House of Assembly yesterday called on the Federal Government to overhaul the aviation industry to ensure that the rate of plane crashes were reduced to the barest minimum in the country. Speaking to newsmen, the chairman House Committee on information, Mr. Pauly Onyeka and the chairman, standing committee on political, local government and chieftaincy matters, Mr Dunu Anse-

lem, in separate interviews, blamed the recent DANA plane crash that killed more than 170 persons on negligence of duty by aviation’s a u t h o r i t i e s . According to the duo, the tragic incident could have been avoided if there were proper and regular checks by the Aviation ministry, saying, “the plane crash is an indictment on the Minister of Aviation because they did not do what they were supposed to have done. The minister and the management of the Aviation industry should be blamed for the tragic incident.

SAN, (Njaba). It will be recalled that Governor Rochas Okorocha described the incident as “shocking, painful and a great loss to Imo State and

a moment of sorrow for all Imolites”. In his condolence message to the bereaved families, the Chief of Staff, Government House, Owerri,

Prince Eze Madumere said: “It is a loss too painful to bear. It is an irreparable loss. I grieve with the affected families. It is a challenging time.”

CONFERENCE—From left: Mr. John Senaya, President, Rotary Club of Ikoyi; Mr. Kennedy Ejakpomewhe, District Governor, Rotary International Distict 9110 Nigeria; Dr. Kamoru Omotosho, in-comming District Governor; and Mr. Subhash Sahu, representative of the Rotary International President, during the House of Friendship stand of Rotary Club of Ikoyi, at the 30th District Conference of the Rotary Club.

14—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 20125

Abia PDP lauds Orji on peace, security in the state BY ANAYO OKOLI M UA H I A — P E O PLES Democratic Party, PDP, Abia State chapter, has lauded the peace and security in the state, saying the situation has enabled the Theodore Orji administration to lay solid foundation for development of the state. The State PDP which spoke through the Deputy Chairman of the party, Chief Allen Nwachukwu, noted that the prevalent peace was brought about by Governor Orji’s ability to rally together stakeholders in the state towards the development of Abia State. According to him, “the existing peace and securi-

SUMMIT—From left: Bert Ronhaar, The Netherlands Ambassador to Nigeria; Emmanuel Ijewere, Chairman, Agriculture and Food Security Commission; Gbenga Ibikunle, Executive Director, British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation, BATN; and Jacques Taylor, Director, Specialist Finance/Agriculture, Stanbic IBTC Bank, during the Agri-business Food Security Summit 2012, partly sponsored by Stanbic IBTC Bank in Lagos.

Boko Haram: S-East CAN threatens to retaliate killings of Christians BY TONY EDIKE NUGU—AS the attacks on churches and killing of Christians by the Islamic sect, Boko Haram, in the Northern parts of the country continued last Sunday, the South East Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, yesterday, declared its readiness to retaliate the killings and defend its members by waging a counter war using Ogbunigwe, the locally-made bombs launched by Biafran soldiers during the civil war. Chairman of the association in the zone and Anglican Bishop of Enugu, Rev. Emmanuel Chukwuma, at a briefing on the deteriorating security situation in the country, expressed anger over the continued killings of innocent Christians in the North. He said though Christians had continued to appeal for peace, “ it seems that the present security in Nigeria cannot contain this carn a g e . ” According to Bishop Chukwuma, leaders of CAN were now convinced that Boko Haram had set out to eliminate Christians in the North, warning that Christians would no longer keep quiet. He expressed regrets that CAN’s appeals to Christians to remain calm and peaceful in the face of the deadly attacks by Boko Haram, had been taken for weakness, saying this informed the resolve to declare their readiness to ret a l i a t e . “The ceaseless bombings of churches and killings of innocent Christians would

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not be tolerated by Christians henceforth. It was very unfortunate and embarrassing to have heard about the suicide bombing by Boko Haram in some Christian churches on Sunday, this has become a recurrence. “We condemn this act by Boko Haram which has

militated against Christian security in their worship every Sunday; we are moved to give this warning to the Federal Government and muslim leaders to check their subordinates because if this should continue, we as christian leaders will have no option than to begin retaliation on

Mosques and palaces of Emirs,” the South East CAN leader said. He warned that the continued act of bombing by Boko Haram was capable of causing another civil war in the country, “because the Biafran War was not as severe as this and we are ready for it.”

Police reforms 've reduced corruption in the force — IG Says 400 persons arrested at recruitment centres BY SAMUEL OYANDOGHA ENAGOA— ACTING Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, yesterday, said the ongoing reforms in the Nigerian Police Force had reduced corruption in the force and led to the arrest of over 400 criminals during the last recruitment exercise across the country. Abubakar, who was in Yenagoa as part of his tour of police formation across the country, met with stakeholders and traditional rulers in the state. He said the new reform was aimed at building a police force that would be people-friendly, devoid of corrupt practices noticeable during road blocks and bail bonds. He admitted that the ongoing reforms have challenges, adding that the reform policy and recruitment requirement had led to the discovery and arrest of about 400 persons with alleged questionable and criminal intent. “The new requirement

needed to apply and be considered for enlistment in the Nigerian Police is no longer easy as it used to be. It will safeguard criminals from infiltrating into the Police. If you claim to be from a village, we will trace you

with your mother or father’s data. Over 400 criminals were discovered and arrested from the recruitment exercise. I will prefer to train five persons as police officers than train 1,500 criminals.

NUJ lauds ThisDay over appointment of new editors

IGERIA Union of Journalists, NUJ, Lagos State Council, yesterday lauded the management of Leaders and Company, publishers of ThisDay Newspapers for appointing seasoned journalists as title editors. The management of the company weekend named Ms Ijeoma Nwaogwugwu as the new editor of ThisDay Newspapers, replacing Mr. Simon Kolawole, who is now the Editorial Director of the company. Others include, Mr. Tunde Rahman, former Saturday Editor of the paper, who took over from Nwogwugwu as Sunday Editor while the former Deputy

Editor of ThisDay on Saturday, Laurence Ani becomes the new editor of the Saturday title. In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, Deji Gbolahan Elumoye and the Secretary, Sylva Emeka-Okereke respectively, the Council described the appointment as well-deserved, noting that the new editors are tested and experienced journalists, who have proved their mettle in the journalism profession Lagos NUJ expressed optimism that the new editors will deliver on their promises to take the newspaper to the greater height while maintaining ethical standards.

ty have enabled Governor Orji to accomplish what even his enemies never expected within the first year of his second term.” He spoke of the impact the government had made on the people in Abia South, specifically Osisioma council area and urged the people to continue to support the government, saying that more good things would come their way. Meanwhile, Abia State government has hinted that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, would soon resume pumping of petroleum products at the Osisioma depot, near Aba, the commercial city of the state.

Dana: Civil service union asks FG to sanction culprits IGERIA Civil Service Union, NCSU, has called on the Federal Government to ensure no stone is left unturned to ensure that those who were directly or indirectly responsible for the Dana Air crash of June 3, 2012, that killed over 170 persons are brought to book. The Union urged the government to thoroughly investigate the ill-fated crash to ascertain the immediate and the remote cause of the crash and sanction accordingly the culprits to avert

reoccurrence. The Union in a statement by its President, Kiri Shuaibu and the General Secretary, Gerald Ukeni respectively, also sympathized with the Federal Government and families of the victims of the crash at the Iju Lagos. The union described the crash as a national tragedy which has robbed the country of valuable human resources, praying God to grant the families of the deceased the fortitude to bear the great loss.

....Uba expresses sadness HE Senator represent ing Anambra South, Senator Andy Uba has expressed sadness over the Dana air crash which claimed the lives of of more than 170 persons on June 3, 2012. According to him, “the Dana plane crash is not only a tragedy to the families of the victims, but the country at large. I condole with the families of the victims and President Dr

Goodluck Jonathan over this tragic development. I pray that the good Lord would console the families of those who lost their loved ones. My prayer is that such tragedies would never befall this country again. This unfortunate air crash, coming at a time the president is battling to ensure the safety of lives and property of citizens, is one tragedy too many.

15—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Senators disagree over renaming UNILAG BY HENRY UMORU BUJA—VICE Chair man, Senate Committee on Industries, Senator Ibrahim Musa, CPC, Niger North, said, yesterday, that President Goodluck Jonathan should have named the National Stadium, Abuja, after late Chief M.K.O. Abiola instead of renaming the University of Lagos, UNILAG, in his honour. According to the Senator, June 12 should be named democracy day in honour of the late politician and business man. Senator Musa, who told Vanguard that the President did the right thing by sending a Bill to the Senate to approve the change of name of the university, said: “President Jonathan, at last, has done what he failed to do before renaming University of Lagos. “This is a good development and the best way to immortalise Abiola is by renaming, not only a school after him, but more impor-

SCARCITY: Abuja residents on a queue for N50-per litre kerosene at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Mega Station, Wuse, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: Abayomi Adeshida.

Nigeria deploys 140 policemen to G-Bissau BY HUGO IDIOGOR IGERIA has approved the deployment of 140 Policemen to Guinea Bissau for peacekeeping operations. A statement by the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, Mr. Frank Mba, yesterday, stated that the personnel were from the Formed Police Unit, FPU. This came as the Joint Special Representative of Africa Union and United Nations, Professor Ibrahim Gambaria, called

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for equity in funding and troops contributions to peacekeeping operations. The statement said: “The deployment is in fulfillment of Nigeria’s pledge and commitment to assist ECOWAS in restoring rule of law and general orderliness in Guinea Bissau and the ECOWAS sub-region.” The deployment of troops has come as Angola began withdrawing its troops and military equipment from Guinea Bissau, thereby ending a year-

long mission in the West African country that witnessed a military coup in April. Sources said the deployment of Police men to Guinea Bissau brings to nine the number of countries where Nigerian police officers are serving in international peacekeeping operations. Other countries are Liberia, Haiti, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, East Timor, Cote D’Ivoire and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

tant monuments such as the National Stadium in Abuja, and declaring June 12 as democracy day.” Also speaking with Vanguard, Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Senator Boluwaju Kunlere, LP, Ondo South, who urged the Federal Government to name a main building in the Presidential Villa after late Chief Abiola, said: “Eagle Square or the main building of Aso Rock should be named after late Abiola so that any President coming in and going out of the Aso Rock Villa will see the name of Abiola as a man whose blood was shed for our democracy. “It should have been appropriate to name Eagle Square, where the President takes the oath of office or the National Stadium, after him. Abiola was known as a politician because of June 12 and his love for sports.” Supporting President Jonathan’s move in renam-

ing the UNILAG after Abiola, Chairman, Senate Committee on Special Duties, Senator Ikirikpo Claver, PDP, Bayelsa East, said: “President Goodluck Jonathan’s renaming of University of Lagos after Abiola is a good one. My problem with the people of Nigeria is that people who are not in power do not appreciate what those in power are doing. “What Nigerians should know is the issue of maintaining our educational system. Many renowned institutions have been renamed, like the famous University of Ife. They are moving on fine. “We should help our leaders to do better by encouraging them and not by crucifying them.” When asked to comment on the bill and the renaming of UNILAG, Chairman, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, PDP, Taraba South, simply said: “I am in agreement.”

16—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Travel agents mourn Dana victims ATIONAL Association of Nigerian Travel Agents, NANTA, has commiserated with the families who lost loved ones in the Dana plane crash. A statement by the association’s Publicity Secretary said: “We welcome the news of the discovery of the black box and hope the root of the monumental tragedy will be discovered very soon. “It is our prayer that

the Nigerian aviation regulators see in this tragedy an opportunity to build new capabilities in the management of our airspace to give confidence to air travellers in Nigeria.” The association also urged government to take steps that will guarantee the safety of all air travellers and ensure that the country does not witness such avoidable tragedy again.

Plateau moves to enforce Okada ban BY TAYE OBATERU OS—PLATEAU State Government has said that it is ready to enforce the ban on the operation of commercial motorcycles in the state capital in the face of current security challenges after previous attempts to enforce the ban failed. The law banning their operations was passed by the state House of Assembly and assented to by Governor Jonah Jang several months ago, but previous attempts to enforce the law were resisted by those who move as targeted at a particular group. Announcing the new resolve of government to enforcethelawatjointpressconference with security agencies and other stakeholders yesterday, Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Yiljap Abraham, said the ban would take effect from today. He said about 120 buses, 300 taxis and tricycles had been released by the state government to cushion the effect of the prohibition,

adding that more would be released in due course. The taxis, buses and tricycles were given to operators on loan. They are expected to start paying back after six months. He said the ban was being enforced after due consultation with various stakeholders and towards actualising the Greater Jos/ Bukuru Master Plan. Also speaking, the state Police Commissioner, Mr. Emmanuel Ayeni urged residents to cooperate on the ban and not to attach unnecessary sentiments to the exercise as it was capable of generating bad blood. Critics had accused the state government of wanting to implement the law without providing alternative, saying this would bring untold hardship on the people. State Commissioner for Works, Mr. Chris Hassan who was present at the briefing, appealed to beneficiaries to be faithful in the payment of their loans to enable government replough it to buy more for other operators.

Gunmen kill 27, injure 8 in Zamfara BY SAMINU IBRAHIM

USAU—NO fewer than 27 people, including a policeman, were, yesterday, feared dead while eight others were injured during a reprisal attack by gunmen who had unleashed mayhem in Dangulbi town, a district of Dansadau Emirate in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Vanguard gathered that the reprisal attack on the area followed the killing of some gunmen by both the vigilante and Police in Dansadau axis of the state. The suspected gunmen reportedly sneaked into the town, posing as traders on the market day in Dangulbi. But they stayed back after the market had closed.

Eyewitness account An eyewitness said the killing started at 1am, yesterday, when the villages were fast asleep with sporadic gunshots renting the air. The gunmen allegedly went from house to house killing the occupants of the buildings in cold blood. The district head of Dangulbi, Alhaji Shehu Umar was among the people who narrowly escaped death. The assailants, whose number could not be ascertained, reportedly came on motorcycles and left about 18 dead bodies after the operation. Nine others were killed along their route, while they were fleeing the town. The gunmen were also said to have abandoned some of the motorcycles with which

they came to Dangulbi.

Survivor's story A resident, Alhaji Lawali Dangulbi, who spoke to Vanguard at the Federal Medical Centre, FMC, Gusau, said the gunmen killed 18 persons in Dangulbi; adding that others were killed along the routes leading to the towns like Biya, Guru and Sabon Kasuwa villages. He said eight people, who sustained various degrees of injuries, were

on admission at the FMC. He said the gunmen first attacked the police, killed one and injured others, which led to the police fleeing the area before they started killing people in their houses. Dangulbi said: “They are not armed robbers because nobody has reported that they took away his belongings.” Zamfara State Deputy Governor, Mallam Ibrahim Wakala, visited Dangulbi town, about 100 kilometres away from the state capital, where the bodies of those killed

Police react

State Police Command Spokesman, ASP Sanusi Amiru, confirmed the incident, saying the Police Commissioner, Akila Gwary was on an assessment visit to the areas where the killings reportedly took place. Dansadau axis of the state had been witnessing killings by unknown gunmen, with about 160 people, including five policemen, reportedly losing their lives in Lingyado, Dansadau, and Tungar Baushe since crises erupted in the area in 2011.

... as youths kill 5 in Plateau reprisal attack F IVE persons were killed, yesterday, in Jos, Plateau State, by irate youths protesting the suicide bombing attack that killed several people at Lord’s Chosen Assembly Church in Jos, Sunday morning. Meanwhile, Jama’atu Alus Sunna Lidaawati Wal Jihad, popularly known as Boko Haram, has claimed responsibility for the suicide attacks in Jos, and another

attack targeted at EYN Church in Tabra- Biu, Borno State. The sect said it did it to prove that Nigerian security agencies cannot stop its attacks and operations in the North. Spokesperson of Special Task Force, STF, Captain Markus Mdahyelya, who confirmed the killing of five persons in Jos by angry youths, said those killed were primarily commercial

bike riders. He warned residents of Jos to stop taking laws into their hands. He said: “The general public is warned not to take the laws into their hands as any act of crime would not be tolerated by the security agencies.” About six persons have been arrested, yesterday, in connection with the killings, according to the police.

Bomb scare cripples Plateau Poly BY TAYE OBATEU OS—THE Jos campus of Plateau State Polytechnic was thrown into panic yesterday following a bomb scare. Staff and students were said to have noticed some strange openings in the ceiling of one of the lecture blocks creating fears that someone might have opened it to planted a bomb

since nothing was found missing to suggest burglary. Staff and students were said to have evacuated and the Police Anti-Bomb Unit invited to comb the building. They found nothing after a thorough search. News of the possible discovery of a bomb coming a day after Sunday’s suicide attack on another church spread rapidly to neigh-

bouring areas, creating panic and making some people to hurriedly close their shops. Lectures were suspended in the school, while the commotion lasted though things later normalised after the anti-bomb officers certified the building free of any explosive. Rector of the institution, Mr. Dauda Gyemang, confirmed the bomb scare.

By Bartholomew Madukwe

PEOPLE SPEAK

08102479985

were buried yesterday.

(nwamad@yahoo.com)

On Dana aircraft crash

T was Sosoliso, next was Belleview. And now we have Dana on our hands. I really do not know what is happening in this country. The management of Dana airplane should be punished and the airline stopped from operating.—Alhaja Salami Afusat, Housewife.

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HE managers of Dana airline should be arrested and charged with manslaughter. I think we need to start sending some people to jail. Until we do that, these airplane operators will not take their job seriously.—Mr. Chucks Nwachukwu, Lawyer.

T was another unfortunate incident which revealed, once again, the corruption in our regulatory bodies. Why should aircraft that are supposed to be grounded fly? May God help us with our leaders and decision makers.— Mr. Akinotan Oluwasegun, Systems Engineer.

see gross carelessness on the part of the government and it is only here in Nigeria that human lives are used for experiment. I believe unworthy aircraft should not be allowed to fly again in this country. Otherwise we will have more crashes.—Mr. Nelson Azubike, Cleric.

HE situation is terrible. I am pleading that regulators should ensure that any airplane flying in this country be properly checked. The crash was because the aircraft was not properly checked by the appropriate authority.—Mr. Nwachukwu Chima, Driver.

HIS would have been averted if the airplane operators were maintaining their aircraft. I think the government should look into the issue of maintenance and think of what the masses want. Except if no one cares for the masses anymore.—Ms. Olaegbe Abimbola, Student.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012â€”17

Black clothes all year round

eath seems to be stalking Nigeria. If we were to wear mourning clothes for every tragedy, we would be wearing black cloths all year round; if we were to fly our flag at half mast at every disaster, our flag would be perpetually at half mast. Look at it this way: you say to avoid dying you won't fly and you take to the road, but you are roasted on the road. You say you won't go anywhere at all, and you stay at home, but a plane comes crashing

Airlines and security issues

Another flying coffin drops from the sky through your roof or the building collapses and kills you! You say, okay, you go and pray to God to avert these tragedies, and terrorists bomb the church and kill you! So where then is safe in this country? The lesson is that if we can so peremptorily lose our life, then nothing else in this life is so important that we cannot lose it. Before the crash, the nation was convulsed by a querulous cry over the University of Lagos name change for the quaint reason that people refused to part with the romantic name UNILAG! It was as if the name UNILAG was the most important thing to lose in life. Then all of a sudden, something more important than brand name was lost and the nation flipped a page over the noise. The Dana crash even took the shine off the 153rd anniversary of our beloved CMS Grammar School! A crisis like this often spawns a polyglot

"I boarded a Dana Airline on my way back from Abuja. First, the flight was delayed for about two hours. Passengers were frustrated. Thank God I had my laptop with me to do some work whilst waiting at the stuffy departure room. When eventually we boarded I discovered to my great surprise that the plane was a very old one. Time was 8.40 p.m. Some of the aircraft's toilet seats had broken. The air-conditioner was not cooling properly. As the plane was taking off some strange noises were heard underneath the aircraft". HE above quote was taken from an article titled: Averting Another Plane Disaster, written by Mr. Sonnie Ekwowusi (a former Patito Gangster) and published on page 16 of Thisday newspaper on Wednesday 30 May 2012, just four days before the Dana Air crash in Lagos on Sunday 3 June 2012. On Monday 4 June while waiting for our flights to Abuja, my friend RearAdmiral Frank Akpan and I were discussing how prophetic the article was. Frank kept insisting that those in charge of our affairs do not read; the same point my late friend, Salihijo Ahmad used to make. Okay, if our leaders do not read, can it be said that it is only the troublesome opinion writers who experience these visible signs that things are going wrong? On 27 March 2012, in an article titled, Hard to Survive, Easy to Die published in this column, I lamented: "Today in Nigeria, living is a tough task. Living conditions are very hard for the people. But to die has become very easy". Just look at that very fateful weekend; multiple crash, the second in a week, on the Lagos Ibadan Expressway took over 25 lives; Terrorist attack in Bauchi claimed 20 lives, another in Maiduguri took another 16 lives; Yoruba-Hausa clash in Lagos claimed 13 lives; collapsed buildings in Awka claimed 5 lives; and the Dana plane crash took 153 on board and yet unknown number of lives at destroyed homes at the crash site.

The ill-fated flight the more ridiculous went viral as usual in the internet. Such unfounded and embarrassing claims disseminated as truth only confuse matters the more. Air crash is a serious national tragedy that usually spreads bereavement

Flying, we must realise, is the most abnormal way to travel because we were not created to fly.You are travelling at an abnormal speed (the Concord travelled above the speed of sound!), you are carrying a highly combustible fuel in a plane made of fibre glass. And once up, there is no parking to investigate the cause of an unusual noise!

of pseudo-experts. And ever before an investigation, all manner of reasons were adduced why the plane crashed. Some of

nationwide and did not need ridiculous outbursts from people ill-informed on the matter.

Today is June 12, the authentic Democracy Day! XACTLY 19 years ago, Nigerians united as one to break ranks with the politicians who used all manner of primordial tendencies to hold us down. Nigerians from all parts of this country saw through the lies of the military junta reluctant to relinquish power and liberated themselves from the shackles of ethnicity and religion. They voted overwhelmingly for Chief MKO Abiola as president on 12 June 1993 in an election still adjudged as the freest and the fairest in the history of this country. The only other time Nigerians voted so massively for a presidential candidate was during the 2011 election of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. But what made Abiola's election historically remarkable was that Nigerians defied all odds and voted for a MuslimMuslim presidential ticket of Abiola and Babagana Kingibe in a country where politicians exploited religion. Unfortunately, a military junta that did not know that time had run out on it decided to annul the election. On 23 June 1993, we were checking out of Carlton

Hotel in Sandton area of Johannesburg, South Africa, on our way to Cape Town and Durban when news reached us that the military had ordered a halt to the announcement of the election results. The white South African lady checking us out said to us: "Your country helped us so much to get democracy but now the military says you can't have democracy. It's a pity!" It was then that the irony of the development back home dawned on me.

e can only speculate that perhaps, had Abiola become president the trajectory of the country would have been different from what it is today. Abiola did not chicken out as many would have done confronted by armed soldiers. But he claimed his mandate by taking his oath of office at Epetedo area of Lagos Island, flanked by late Bobo Nwosisi and Chief Ralph Obioha. Many thought that what happened at Epetedo was a fluke. But I believe Gen Abacha was eminently

aware that there were two claimants to the presidency, one in detention and the other with arms! Many dignitaries-controversial African American Islamic cleric, Louis Farrakhan, UN Secretary General, Koffi Annan, Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Obas and Emirs-were sent to talk Abiola out of his mandate but he stood firm. When Abiola was detained, many people mocked him, that when he began to miss the material comfort and company of beautiful women provided him by his billions, he would quickly recant. What such people did not know was that the Abiola they knew as a sybarite was different from the Abiola in detention! The Abiola in detention was only known to those of us in the Council of Unity and Understanding, CUU and National Democratic Coalition, NADECO! His wife Kudirat was assassinated yet he did not renounce his mandate. He was eventually killed in detention. He remains the true hero of our democracy and 12 June the authentic Democracy Day!

he tragedy once more highlighted how perfunctory organisations in Nigeria can be. It is a trauma for the bereaved relations of the crash victims. It is no less a trauma for the living and their family when names of living relations are added to those of the crash victims. Miss Obianuju Erokwu was saved from the illfated plane by internet glitch. She wanted to buy ticket online but could not complete the process. Maj-Gen Tahir Umar bought ticket but changed his plans and did not travel. This means that the two would-be passengers were never checked into that flight. How then, did their names appear in the flight manifest? Or did the airline simply print out the names of all those who bought tickets for that flight? Who was responsible for this grave error? What action is being taken against the culprit? Many may regard this error as "small matter" and we move on. But if we cannot be accurate about who boards a flight in these days of terrorism, what other security matter can we entrust on the airline? The issue of demanding photo identity before boarding passengers is still perfunctorily done. Access to restricted areas of the airport, especially where the planes are parked is much easier than entering a motor park! Screening of luggage in many airports is still manual giving the shameless FAAN officials opportunity to beg for some of your under wears! Flying, we must realise, is the most abnormal way to travel because we were not created to fly. However science and technology has given us wings to fly. Unfortunately, we take too much for granted. In the United States, whenever a plane touches down the cabin erupts into loud cheers by passengers. Some even pop sparkling wine. The reason is that they know that it was NOT guaranteed that flight would land safely despite all the rigorous precautions they take out there. You are travelling at an abnormal speed (the Concord travelled above the speed of sound!), you are carrying a highly combustible fuel in a plane made of fibre glass. And once up, there is no parking to investigate the cause of an unusual noise! With all these in mind, there is a compelling need for airline operators and passengers to observe to the last letter all the rules and instructions necessary for a safe flight. Unfortunately, Nigerians still take as an inconvenience the instruction to switch off all electronic devices and stow their hand luggage properly during flights. Senator Babajide Omoworare, representing Osun East in the National Assembly last week called on the Federal Government to "find a lasting solution to plane crashes" (Daily Sun 7 June 2012, page 10). Unfortunately, we can only reduce the occurrence of air crashes to minimum, but there is no guaranteed "lasting solution" to accidents. All that we can do is to see to it that operators in the sector do not compromise safety by cutting corners. This idea of some airlines flying to all and every airport has a tendency to overstretch an airline. That is when cutting corners begin. Aviation no doubt is capital intensive and has no place for ego trip. This is the time to consider consolidation in the aviation industry. President Jonathan has vowed to punish those found culpable in this tragedy. He must ensure that this is not yet one of such many emotional statements usually made on the spur of the moment when indeed government did not know what else to say. He should back his words with action and enforce the laws of the land. That was the point I was making here last week!

18 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012 JUNE 12 may be a fading political memory, but the thousands who converted it to a political cheque, which they are still cashing, ironically oppose it most stridently. Most Nigerians younger than 30 years do not have firm memories of the election, 19 years ago, which Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola won but the military annulled. The annulment of the election adjudged free and fair, set off a series of unsettling political actions that pushed the country to aimless directions for six years. Strikes, an interim government and General Sani Abacha’s coup were among moves to resolve the impasse. None worked. On the first anniversary of June 12, Abiola, in a bid to claim his electoral victory, declared himself president in Epe-tedo, on Lagos Island. Abacha arrested him. More strikes and disruptions followed until Abiola’s death, in detention, on 8 July 1998, after meeting a US delegation. Abacha had died a month earlier and General Abdulsalami Abubakar who succeeded him fast tracked the one-year transition programme to civilian governance. Controver-

Standing On June 12 sies over June 12 have since become routine. President Olusegun Obasanjo, throughout his eight years in office, shunned attempts to make a landmark of the date or Abiola’s struggles. June marked another tragedy for Abiola. Gunmen allegedly acting for the government, on 4 June 1996 killed his wife Kudirat, an ardent supporter of his claim to the presidency and a rallying point for the mounting opposition against Abacha. Public holidays in Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo States will today honour Abiola’s contributions to the current phase of democracy. There is no national holiday, but just as President Goodluck Jonathan has been

criticised for re-naming the University of Lagos after Abiola, opposition to remembering Abiola comes from various groups who feel that according June 12 its historical place would hurt their political fortune. It is the major challenge June 12 encounters even among its beneficiaries. Elsewhere June 12 has its place in history: Russian Day, to mark the 1990 declaration of sovereignty of Russia from the crumbling Union of Soviet Socialist Republic, USSR but today, more than 79,000 security forces are on alert as Russians plan rallies to protest President Vladimir Putin’s third term. It is also the 114th Independence Day anniversary of the Philippines. Famous June 12 birthdays include George Herbert Walker Bush, US Vice President (1981-89) and President (1989-93), 88. The dilemma with June 12 is deciding what to do with the result of the presidential election held on that day. Will the result be recognised and Abiola post-humously named President of Nigeria? Resolution of the June 12 imbroglio would be controversial. However, ignoring it would remain a more controversial option.

OPINION BY MARTHA USEIN

HE current security challenges facing the country, especially in the North remind Nigerians, most especially Ndigbo of the predicament and frustrations faced by their people at the peak of kidnapping in the South East zone. Worst hit by the menace then was Abia State with its commercial city, Aba, overtaken by the dare devil kidnappers. Residents of the city fled en masse and the once bubbling and ever-busy city became deserted. While other states in the zone battled with the menace, that of Abia State was the most celebrated and publicized for reasons best known to the sponsors of the crime in the State. Some cynics of the government even called for Governor Theodore Orji’s resignation for his failure to secure the state. But if not for their amnesia, how would they have forgotten so soon that before the upsurge in kidnapping in the state, there was a failed attempt to assassinate Governor Orji when his convoy was attacked by hoodlums within the boundary between Abia State and Imo State. That was in late 2007 on his way to Umuahia from the Owerri airport. But for God and the courage of his security team, the attack may have ended tragically and those behind it would have their way by swearing-in his then deputy, Comrade Chris Akomas, who was later impeached. The state was yet to recover from the shock of that attack on the Governor, when armed bandits took over the cities of Umuahia and Aba, forcing banks and other private and public commercial operators to close shop. Government efforts to curb them initially proved futile as the robbers often over-empowered and outsmarted the security agents with their sophisticated weapons and tactics. The situation took a turn for the worse when kidnapping crept into the state. Many saw the development as politically-motivated, considering the changes in the

National insecurity and the Abia solution tide of political equation in the state that did not go down well with some people, most aggrieved politicians. Just like the Boko Haram sect, the kidnappers at a time became very tactful, desperate and sophisticated in operations, outsmarting security agents at will. Some cynics called for the Governor’s resignation, just like some people who are not comfortable with the President Jonathan government are calling for his resignation in the face of daunting security challenges that are novel, suicidal and can overwhelm any government. Realising the enormity of the security challenges and its crippling effects on the economy of the state, with Aba becoming a haven for the kidnappers, Governor Orji took courageous and bold steps to tackle it. A bill was passed by the State House of Assembly making kidnapping a capital offence. It provided that whoever was caught in the act shall forfeit all he had acquired to the state government, as it is believed that such proceeds were from kidnapping. It was only after signing the bill into law that Governor Orji dangled stick and carrot before the kidnappers, granting them amnesty which few of them accepted, but other diehards led by the notorious Osisikankwo and their sponsors rebuffed it.

t a time policemen in the state were accused of conniving with the kidnappers to destabilise the state, especially when it became obvious that despite the state government’s support to them, which included the provision of more than 250 patrol vehicles, increased allowances and other incentives, kidnappers were having a field day. But in the face of all these, Governor Orji

remained undaunted in funding security agents to combat crimes. The state government, for instance, released billions of naira in providing necessary logistics to the Joint Military Task Force that battled the kidnappers to submission while operating from camps at Ngwa High School Aba, Community High School in Ukwa-West and Goodluck Jonathan Barracks at Ohafia. The then GOC of 82 Armoured Divison Enugu relocated to Ukwa-West and took the lead for the hunting of the kidnappers. With the needed arsenal at their disposal, the Military Task Force eventually overran the kidnappers and killed their ring leader, Osisikankwu, during a gun duel. The demise of Osisikankwu marked the end of kidnapping in the state, but not without a price, as many believe that billions of naira spent by the state government in achieving peace would have been used for the provision of basic amenities for the people. That might be right and logical in a way, but we all know that a secured society is a developed one and it is the constitutional responsibility of the government to secure the state at all cost. Besides, despite achieving a secured atmosphere in the state, the government has not relented in providing basic amenities for the people as being evidenced with the ongoing massive infrastructural development across the state. This would not have happened in the past when contractors abandoned sites for the fear of being kidnapped. So nothing was more deserving than the award of National Ambassador for Peace that was conferred on Governor Orji in Umuahia recently by the Former Minister of FCT and Chairman, National Council for Peace and Unity, Muhammed Abba Gana. *Mrs. Usein, a security expert, wrote from Lagos.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012— 19

, HE problem in the Concept of Peer Review is the notion of Peer. Once who is a peer is understood, then the process of peer review can be evaluated. Peer Review is the notion that governments, be they global, regional, national or local are peers of one another and their conduct can be reviewed by mechanism set up for such purpose. From this notion is derived the policy, that the government which scores the highest in the virtues that are upheld as the ideal becomes the standard that governments which score less are to emulate. Three procedural issues in the above rendition of the concept of peer review are to be noted, namely: *Who sets up the standard and the scale for measuring relative adherence to the standard? Who determines the score for full compliance, adequate compliance, and inadequate compliance by government? *Who constitute the auditors of

governments’ conduct? *How are audit reports utilized by government? Are these reports enforceable by an agency? Are they recommendations to governments, recommendation that they are obliged to take notice of or that they are at liberty to reject in part or in their entirety? All these three issues describe what is inherent in the concept of peer review and in the mechanism developed to effect it. These concerns are noted as a reaction to the Vanguard Comment of Tuesday, May 22, 2012 on Anambara’s Peer Review. The Vanguard notes the relevance of the procedure of peer review in the following remarks: “The State Peer Review Mechanism, modeled after the African Peer Review Mechanism that rates countries against each other in terms of efficiencies in governance, is an important study in how government should work. Its application Africa wide, has

not elicited the type of changes intended particularly in governments opening themselves up for scrutiny by the people. Yet, it remains an important step in African governments assessing each other and learning from each other. Countries with favourable peer reviews have better opportunities of attracting investors, since the review encompasses key components that address transparency in the administration of a country’s resources”.

rom the above we can create a medical scenario. There is a plague ravaging a community and inflicting severe hardships on the people and for the mitigation of which a cure has been discovered, tested and offered to the leaders of the afflicted community. They test this cure and find it experimentally effective- but the leaders refuse to make the cure available. They treat the cure as mere suggestion and are prepared to live with the plague. Certain conclusions are unavoidable in the light of this imagined scenario. The conduct

Balyesa's state of emergency on education BY STELLA PEREMOBOERE

N February 14, 2012 the governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson exhibiting his love, zeal and passion for effective and functional education delivery pronounced a policy of free education for all, and went further to declare a state of emergency in the sector. Ordinarily, governments pronounce a state of emergency for security reasons such as quelling riots and conflicts, while it is the people that usually agitate for change when a government is unproductive. A revolutionary policy declaration to revamp a vast and critical sector like education with huge financial burden is indeed visionary and a show of commitment to salvage the people from under-development. It is a responsible and people-oriented government that will take the pains to impose on itself this enormous developmental task in the face of competing interests for limited resources. This gesture demonstrates the Governor’s extreme concern and awareness for the need for functional education and the fact that for too long, teaching and learning has been in a moribund or comatose state, leading to high levels of un-productivity and under-development. For instance, even within the underdeveloped education context in Nigeria, Bayelsa State is further categorised as one of the educationally disadvantaged states. Moreover, it is occupying a geographic enclave considered difficult for any meaningful development, while its land is suffering from severe oil exploitation leading to high levels of poverty. Therefore, this move by the Governor underscores his recognition of the urgency to use education as a springboard to facilitate long term development of the

State. This was what Professor Babs Fafunwa, a leading educationist and one time Minister of Education, proposed. According to him, educational development is imperative and urgent and must be treated as a national emergency, second only to war and must move with the momentum of a revolution, with special attention to primary education which is the foundation for good secondary and tertiary education. Without this, neither the economy nor its people will progress as poverty, ignorance and disease will be their constant companion. The Governor is motivated on the understanding that the daunting developmental strides of the world in the scientific, technological, information, creative and artistic fields that have stunned the human race in the past few centuries are credited to good education delivery. He knows that in today’s globalised world and knowledge-driven economy, any society desiring to develop must have a proper and well articulated education system that is implemented vigorously in a committed manner or else it will continue to decline and possibly face gradual extinction. The Governor has strong and repulsive distaste for this situation and so cannot allow it to happen to his homeland. As a home grown country-man committed to restoring the Ezon-ebe glory, he is conscious of and ready to satisfy the wishes and desires of Bayelsans that their State and people also develop and enjoy modernisation ideals typified by freedom from poverty, illiteracy, disease, ignorance and injustice. His target is to use functional education as a tool to overcome these challenges that so glaringly threaten our common existence and have stalled our progress for long. The Governor’s heartbeat and eventual

Review of the concept of peer review mechanism

Peer Review is the notion that governments are peers of one another and their conduct can be reviewed by mechanism set up for such purpose

of the leaders suggest that (i): The cure of the plague comes with collateral costs that the leaders are unwilling to accept; (ii) that the plague can be eliminated by different but less costly and invasive process; (iii) that time will take care of the plague and that the Malthusian implications of such a choice is morally acceptable. Thinking in this way, the leaders downgrade the importance of the cure. Vanguard in its comments suggest that the above rendition of governments to Peer Review is plausible. This is so because external incentives to encourage governments to adopt and support the use of the peer review process have proved insufficient and ineffective. Vanguard provides the testimony of the Mo Foundation. “The Mo Foundation, which sponsors the review in Africa and awards an annual leadership prize to past African leaders, whose administrations laid foundations that sustain the ideals of the review, has gone for two years without finding a leader to reward. It says a lot about the quality of African leadership, though some argue that the Mo standards are too high. Either way, the extension to Nigerian states has met the same setback that Mo faces. State governments were meant to submit their administration to a review by other states for a comparison of their performance along agreed indices. With the great achievements of governors all over the country, they are unwilling to submit themselves to peer review and benefit from it. What are they hiding?” This question jumps the gun. Why? Because of the assumptions that lead to the

The governor knows that in today’s globalised world and knowledge-driven economy, any society desiring to develop must have a proper and well articulated education system

declaration is not founded on fantasy but on sound policy and theoretical basis at both international and national levels. It is a truism that all over the world nations striving to develop have adopted human capital development as the key.

he World Bank (1999), in declaring that the capital of the poor man is himself, asserted that the stakes of providing functional education are high and the choices developing nations make will lead to divergent outcomes. Countries that respond astutely would experience progress while others risk stagnation and even slipping backwards, thus widening the already existing socio-economic gaps, and sowing the seeds of unrest. Similarly, the World Development Report (2007) said labour is the main asset of the poor, therefore efforts at building a stronger base of human capital and making it more productive are the best ways to reduce poverty. In the same vein, human capital economists such as Harbison (1973) postulated that human resources constitute the ultimate bases for the wealth of nations, not capital, nor income, nor material resources as these are passive factors of production, but it is human beings that are

asking of this question needs to be examined. The assumption that the Mo indices applied in the mechanism address the issues of politics and the course of conflicts generated by political differences is not sustainable. The political process has three aspects- the input aspects address the raw politics of demands, interests of groups, parties, economic players, domestic and foreignsome demands will “knock” the political engine; some demands are opposed to other demands; some demands are made by proprietors of the political process; other demands are made by parties seeking the reform of the process; and yet some other demands are for the scrapping of the entire process and for creating a new process to replace that which they condemn. Mo indices do not address the politics of demands of support of the process and hostilities to the process. The Mo indices deal with the governance process, the policy and implementation process. It simplifies the monitoring process by banishing “demandpolitics” from its scheme, it is simply the auditing process of reducing politics into administration. The result is a neatness of process which has no resemblance to the actualities and practice of politics of which administration is a partisan aspect, and never a technocratic non-political instrumentalist system or subsystem of party politics. The political players know that they cannot get passing grade if their politics of power, reward and punishment are submitted to review in toto.

the active agents that carry forward national development. To this end, astute educationists such as Professor J. A. Aghenta have said that in order to develop, a country must have a considerable proportion of trained educated citizens, not only to act as doctors, engineers, teachers, agriculturists, scientists, etc, but must create a new class of educated citizenry that is sufficiently large and strong to establish its own values, justice and selection on merit. Hence the National Policy on Education (2004) states that education in Nigeria is an instrument “par excellence” for effecting individual and national development. Despite the hope placed on education as the overriding factor to heal all the pathologies of human existence, it has been in doldrums as functionality has eluded the system in Nigeria and Bayelsa State in particular. For instance, Professor Mon Nwadiani bemoaned that the educational system in Nigeria has collapsed as children are not learning and teachers are not teaching, while all the inputs to facilitate the system are scarce. Governor Dickson’s inspiration is hinged on the understanding that the education system like any other production industry requires serious commitment to succeed because it exists in a complex mix of contextual analysis leading to the provision of inputs; processes that are targeted at delineating and implementing the education programme; outputs in terms of product quality; and the obvious recycling of decisions. This makes the operational modalities of the system not only complex and dynamic in the input- process mix but intertwined in the management and decision process to ensure an efficient input-output ratio with accountability in mind. The implication is that when the educational process is not given enough commitment in terms of funding and management, the resultant effect is wastage of scarce resources and low product quality. Continues tomorrow on page 18 *Mrs. Peremoboere is SSA to Governor Dickson of Bayelsa State.

20—Vanguard , TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

EROSION: Anibeze community cries out for help “W

E are really helpless. I almost lost my life trying to rescue my canoe and fishing nets one early morning when a large section of the land caved into the river,” lamented Lucky Opuana, chairman, Anibeze Community Development Committee, an Isoko community in the Sagbama local government area of Bayelsa State which is also the home town of renowned historian, Prof Obaro Ikime. For the people of this riverside settlement whose very existence like several others in the predominantly riverine state is now hanging in the balance on account of the devastating erosion caused by the tempestuous River Forcados, a tributary of the magnificent River Niger, this certainly is not the best of times. As the people go through the motions of daily life, the troubled look in many eyes betray layers of unspoken fears and uncertainty. Nobody is sure whose house would be the next to be swallowed in this predominantly farming and fishing settlement by the river. Sadly, the people no longer have enough land to farm due to the devastating coastal erosion which has eroded about 70 per cent of its landmass. Also fishing which the people could have relied on for survival has suffered tremendous neglect due to the precarious situation in the community where families are constantly relocating due to the erosion menace which has swept away several buildings. Though the plight of the people of the community had been in the media lately, nothing tangible had been done to mitigate the erosion menace. This may have informed the visit of the Bayelsa State Coordinator of the environmental advocacy group, Environmental Right Action and Friends of Earth, ERA/FoEN), Comrade Alagoa Morris and his crew to the troubled community penultimate week for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. But a visibly disturbed Morris who had toured virtually all the communities in the state in the course of the discharge of his duty as ERA coordinator in Bayelsa saw more than he bargained for at Anibeze where the people are living on borrowed time. He aptly captured the scenario thus: “The situation was really frightening and better imagined than being a member of the community facing such ecological trauma. The

hope of the people that help would eventually come their way has really ebbed, considering their efforts in the past to seek the attention of the State and Federal Government agencies as what the community is facing is beyond their means. “The community folks are very apprehensive about their fate. For, losing their houses, roads, church and school buildings has become an annual ritual as they helplessly watch these valuable personal and communal properties and land go into the Forcados River,” he said. In his submission to the visiting ERA team, the Chairman of Anibeze Community Development Committee, Mr. Lucky Opuana, said though he was young to know the time the erosion problem started in the community: “However, I have lived in this community and witnessed most of the land and buildings being washed into the river ”. He did not stop there. “It is very pathetic and we don’t know what to do to pro-

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA, YENAGOA

*ENDANGERED: A section of Anibeze community on the verge of being washed away by flood. INSET: Chief Samuel Akeni has also gone into the river; see (pointing) what is left of it. Even my uncle’s own is almost gone; as you can see it is less than

It is very pathetic and we don’t know what to do to protect our land and buildings; we hope the authorities will hear our cries and come quickly to our assistance; we have lost over 250 houses to this erosion menace

tect our land and buildings now. By your visit, we hope the authorities will hear our cries and come quickly to our assistance. We have lost two big generators given to the community by the administration of Chief Melford Okilo in the old Rivers State. Two of our major roads within the community and electric polls and wires have all been swallowed by the rivers. We have lost over 250 houses to this erosion menace. And this is besides Church and school buildings, farms, farmlands and economic trees. “The first primary school the community had that was built in 1922 with teacher’s quarters is now in the middle of the river. Churches affected include the Christ Apostolic Church, Deeper Life Bible Church, Jehovah’s Witness Church, African Church, St. John’s Anglican Church and Idibo Oghene. This house I am staying now is my uncle’s building. My father’s building

one metre to the slope. This is how people in this community have been packing from one house to the other. This has given us serious accommodation problem too. “My father’s death in 2004 was also related to this ecological threat we are facing. He came out one morning and, standing in front of his house and looking at the nearness to the river encroachment, he said to himself: ‘Is this what my eyes will see?’ And he suffered stroke immediately. That led to his early demise,” he said. Continuing, he said: “Our community leaders have tried in the past to draw the attention of government to our plight. Apart from writing letters to state and Federal Government agencies, they made efforts to meet with officials of those agencies; all with a view to finding solution to our plight. We wrote to the former Oil Mineral Producing Areas Development Commission, OMPADEC. A letter was also

written to the Director, Federal Environmental Protection Agency, FEPA, dated October 21, 1993. As we were in Rivers State then, another letter was written to the state government, dated September 19, 1993. The Sole Administrator of Sagbama local government was also sent a letter dated January 9, 1990. Another letter dated September 30, 2008 was sent to the Niger Delta Technical Committee. We are really in need of help. As you can see, this is not what we can handle by ourselves; it is beyond us. We need the government to come and assist us protect this land. We are not happy at all; living in constant fear as we cannot relocate and become strangers elsewhere. This has been our ancestral home”. Also lamenting the plight of his people, Chief Samuel Akeni, a two-time Chairman of the Anibeze Community Development Committee said: “This ecological problem we are facing started long ago, even before I was born. I am now 78 years old and I know where our land extended to when I was a youth in this community. Our land extended beyond the middle of what the river now is… “Like I said, the ecological menace was here before I left and I returned to meet it. Sadly I came and met an apprehensive and helpless community folks. We have really lost valuables individually and collectively some of which include graves, sacred lands, churches, schools, electric lines and generators, buildings and farmlands. At a certain time we resorted to prayers; the church-

es prayed and prayed. But we discovered that this is not a matter of prayers. We keep on relocating when our houses go into the river. This house I am staying is the fourth house I am now living, though this one is made of mud. “We wrote to State and Federal Government agencies. Some visited and left with promises. Journalists have also visited and reported our plight. But all went in vain as even those who promised assistance failed to fulfill their promises”. Continuing, he said: “When Albert Horsfall was in charge of OMPADEC we sent delegations to meet with officials of OMPADEC and FEPA, besides letters written to them. In one occasion, we prepared to receive officials of OMPADEC, but they didn’t come after promising to visit. So, in my view, the government cannot feign ignorance of our plight. When we heard of the dredging of the River Niger and how coastal communities would be assisted with shoreline protection, our hopes were rekindled. But since then we have continued to hear only the billions of naira voted for the project; nothing else since the time of President Obasanjo to late President Yar’Adua and now, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. “It is very sad that government has not taken steps to protect people and communities suffering such grave ecological disaster. Still, we can only cry to government; there is nothing we can do. It is obvious that the situation is overwhelming and beyond our efforts to salvage”.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012 — 21

Former finance minister condemns CBN’s usurpation of fiscal, monetary policies BY PROVIDENCE OBUH ORMER Minister of Finance Chief Anthony Ani has condemned the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, for usurping issues on fiscal and monetary policies, stating that there are clear differences on both policies. Ani who spoke at a public lecture organized by Business Hallmark, titled “How autonomous should the CBN be?, said, “There are three arms of government, the Legislature, Executive and the Judiciary, and the CBN is part of the Executive and must be seen as such. Let the CBN hands off from all matters relating to fiscal policies, these are the duties of the Minister of Finance.” His words, “In most countries, the CBN only deals with monetary policies, that is: inflation, interest rate, exchange rate, job creation etc. while fiscal policies are taken care of by another body entirely different from the CBN. “I have never seen a country where the CBN takes over the functions of the minister of finance. The minister is the authority that advices government on all financial matters.” “The Governor of the CBN can not be the beginning and the end of everything that happens at the CBN, there must be some directions some where. We must try to unload the CBN, they are chewing much more than they can swallow. The CBN alone can not cope with regulatory and supervisory role of the financial industry, let the National Assembly come out to do more by splitting the supervisory function of the CBN. Speaking further, the former minister said that the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) is a useless venture, pointing out that the bad debts they claimed to be buying are debts that cannot be re-

155.20

-1.45

2,205.00

-21.00

19.98

+0.22

99.76

-0.17

84.35

-0.47

CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL SELLING CFA 0.2716 KRONER 25.8642 EURO 192.2616 POUNDS 237.4942 RIYAL 41.2745 SDR 239.8471 FRANC 159.9835 DOLLAR 154.8 YEN 1.9783 RENMINBI 24.3081

0.2816 25.9478 192.8826 238.2613 41.4078 240.6218 160.5002 155.3 1.9847 24.3871

0.2916 26.0313 193.5036 239.0284 41.5411 241.3965 161.0169 155.8 1.9911 24.4661

CBN Exchange rate as at 11/06/2012 C M Y K

covered. “Those debts arose because the owners of those banks were those who actually incur those debts and they could not pay, so you are bailing them, you are not bailing anybody out. The question is who gave him that money, who authorized him, where is the N4 trillion coming from? Some banks are dead already, instead of you to liquidate them you merge them, they will all die,” he yelled. Recalling his days as the Minister

of Finance he stated, “When I was the Minister of Finance, I had no economist in my ministry, my permanent secretary did history, the next person did library studies, when that one was replaced, the next person that came did religion, this was in the ministry of finance. My Director of budget did history, so I had no economist except me. “But I had people, I had to go to Nigerian Economic Society (NES) and made my Ministry to be a member of

the NES, all my policies were sent for simulation by NES and by the time those policies came out no body can query them. NES gave me an economist whom I elected as into my financial advisory committee. He was permanently with me and when ever economic issues came, I hand it over to them. “In CBN I don’t know how they have done it, but it appears we do not have the right people at the right place.

From right: Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State; Executive Director, Enterprise Bank Limited, Mrs. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe and Mr. Boniface Nwade, the bank’s Regional Head, observing a minute silence in honour of the Dana Air crash victims at the Government House, Enugu shortly before their meeting.

Umuchinemere MFB disburses N176m micro-credit to 1,563 persons NUGU-BASED Umuchinemere Pro-credit Micro Finance Bank (UPMFB) disbursed a total of N176million micro credit funds to 1,563 people in Enugu state within the first quarter of 2012, in pursuit of its poverty alleviation goal. This was contained in a press release from the bank, signed by its Public/Media Relations Officer, Sir Abuchi Anueyiagu. A gender beneficiary picture of the disbursement of the credit facilities indicates that there were a total of 825 female beneficiaries of the facilities and 738 male beneficiaries. While the 825 women received a total of N92,690,000 micro credit funds, their opposite sex beneficiaries got a total of N83,310,000, within the first quarter of the current year under review. Umuchinemere bank’s Head of Credit, Mr. Ikechukwu Ngene, disclosed that one good thing about the performance of the funds so far dis-

bursed was that they were doing well and would rightly be said to be encouraging at 95 percent performance. In another development, an external audit report of the bank prepared by its external auditor, Ralph Anyama and company, but now awaiting Central Bank of Nigeria’s approval, indicates that UPMFB recorded a net profit after taxation figure of approximately N43.9million for year 2011, as good performance indicator for the year, in contrast to its record of N27,441,303 net profit after tax of 2010. Both the Chairman of the bank, Rev. Prof. Obiora Ike, and the Managing Director, Mrs. Nnenna Ekete, expressed happiness that the bank against all odds performed better in 2011 than in the previous year. According to the report, the bank’s shareholders’ fund rose from a total of N392,514,854 in 2010 to a total of N464,304,279 in 2011, while the to-

tal assets base increased from approximately N1.5 billion to N1.8 billion within the period comparatively under review. Apart from offering micro credit funds to the poor people in the society, Umuchinemere Pro-credit Micro Finance Bank engages in micro leasing and microfinance related hire purchase business, for poverty alleviation. The bank, presently operating six branches and many customer meeting points, especially in the rural areas within the Enugu diocese of the Roman Catholic church, which established it in July 19995, has over 80 permanent staff and over 30 ancillary workforce. UPMFB’s goal is to support the poor and the orphans, promote integral human development, and improve the dignity of man through hard work, honesty and self reliance, among others.

22 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Q1: Fuel subsidy crisis erodes NSE ASI by 0.38% By CHINEDU IBEABUCHI HE crisis generated by the Federal Government’s policy on fuel subsidy adversely affected trading on the Nigeria Stock Exchange, NSE in the first quarter of 2012, leading to an u n i m p r e s s i v e

performance in the capital market, says a report by the Securities Exchange Commission, SEC. Specifically, according to SEC’s capital market report for the first quarter of 2012, the market indicator, the All-Share Index on the NSE recorded a marginal decline of 0.38

per cent to close the quarter at 20,652.47 points from 20,730.63 points which it ended the year 2011. According to SEC, although the level of transaction on the Exchange showed progress between January and March 2012, the level of demand for equities was

unimpressive. “As a result, Equity prices and market indices showed decline and volatility. The market was most likely affected by the mood of the nation on the attempt to remove the cap on fuel subsidy by government in January. This resulted in over a week -long strike action,

From left: Metro Taxi Pilots: Mr. Olumide Salako; Mr. Ogundipe Segun; Mr. Peter Olaniyi; Chief Executive Officer, Metro Taxi, Mr. Niyi Oguntoyinbo; Metro Taxi Pilots: Mr Edeani Chidi and Dayo Adeneye, during the presentation of certificate of Enterprise Development Centre of the Lagos Business School and long service awards to Metro Taxi 'Class A' Pilots in Lagos.

Nosak Group laments non payment of EEG ... Gets SON ISO 9001: 2008 BY PETER EGWUATU REPARATORY to its plans to list on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Nosak Group has decried the non payment of Export Expansion Grant (EEG) by the federal government. The Group’s subsidiary, Nosak Distilleries Limited, last weekend in Lagos, received the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON)’s certification award. Speaking at the presentation ceremony for the award of NIS 1SO 9001: 2008 certificate, Nosak Group’s Chairman, Mr. Toni Ogunbor said, “ The award of the 1SO 9001: 2008 certificate to the company is not an easy task and is a testimony of the importance we attach to quality. I also

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dedicate this achievement to dedicated staff, suppliers, customers and our bankers that have been with the company since inception.” However, he indicted the government for not encouraging the local manufacturing saying, “Since 5 years ago that we started exportation of our products to other neighbouring African countries the company has not received the EEG from the federal government. How can we be encouraged to produce further when the operating environment in Nigeria is turf? We virtually provide all infrastructure needed to boost the business. If the government had regularly reimbursed the EEG, this would have enabled us to boost our

business and as well generate more foreign exchange earnings for the country rather than relying on oil as the only source to generate foreign exchange.” Continuing, he said, “We construct road leading to our factory in Amuwo Odofin Industrial Estate, provide electricity, and water that we use in the factory. If all this infrastructure were provided by the government, the millions of naira spent would have been used to build new factory that would have provided employment for people unemployed.” To this extent, Osunbor, called on the government to come to the aid of local manufacturers by helping to provide electricity as well as give concessions like the

EEG, saying, “Local manufacturers should not be discriminated against the foreign counterparts. How can the foreign manufacturers get regular EEG? No body else can develop Nigeria other than Nigerians. So we should encourage ourselves.” The Director General, SON, Dr. Joseph Odumodu, in his speech commended Nosak Group for its achievement, while advising other companies yet to get SON certification to try and work towards it. Dr. Justin Nikaf, Deputy Director, Management System Service, SON, who represented the Director General, said, “Nosak has made a remarkable achievement for getting NIS 1SO 9001: 2008.

which stalled economic activities,” it said. The report showed that a comparison of trading statistics in the corresponding first quarters of 2011 and 2012 showed decreases of 24.66 per cent and 32.38 per cent in volume and value of securities traded respectively. While about 19.64 billion securities worth N145.08 billion exchange hands in the first quarter of 2012, about 26.07 billion securities valued at N214.55 billion were traded during the first quarter of 2011. Transactions were lowest in January due to the meagre volume of trading recording in the nine days strike action on the removal of fuel subsidy. The report showed that from 250 in December 2011, the number of listed securities increased to 259 in March 2012 as the market witnessed the listing of more debt securities. Hence, market capitalization closed in the first quarter of 2012 at N11.969 trillion recording a gain of 16.49 per cent, when compared to the N10.275 trillion it closed at in the first

quarter of 2011. Union Bank Plc recorded the highest share price loss in first quarter 2012, crashing by 74.43 per cent to close at N2.71 from N10.60 as at December, 2011. This was followed by Vitafoam Nigeria Plc shedding 39.53 per cent to close at N3.06 from N5.06 and Prestige Assurance Plc with price decline of 39.36 per cent to close at N0.57 from N0.94. Three blue chip companies in the Oil & Gas sector, Mrs Oil Nigeria Plc, Total Nigeria Plc and Conoil Plc, were among the top ten losers. In terms of percentage gains, Paints And Coatings Manufactures Plc, topped the gainers list with 63.36 per cent appreciation in its share value followed by Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc which gained 62.65%. The third was NCR (Nigeria) Plc which recorded price appreciation of 47.05 per cent. Two Banks, Diamond Bank Plc and Access Bank Plc also made the top 10 with price appreciations of 23.96% and 22.92% respectively to occupy the 6th and 8th position on the table.

Skye Bank targets N99.7bn third quarter revenue BY NKIRUKA NNOROM KYE Bank has said that it expects it gross earning for the third quarter ended 30th September, 2010 to grow to N99.710 billion. This was contained in the bank’s unaudited result submitted to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) for vetting. A copy of the result obtained by Vanguard shows that the bank is also projecting profit after tax of N13.93 billion and profit before tax of N16.39 billion in the review period. The bank also expects its loans and advances, deposit liabilities and shareholders’ fund to increase to N572.377 billion, N887.363 billion and N133.814 billion in that order. The Group Managing Director, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti, had recently assured that the bank will continue to sustain its drive to ensure

increased earnings and return on investment. He also assured that the bank will scale up its human capacity development, saying that it will enable the bank achieve its goals in both the short and long term. He noted that the bank would focus on investment in indigenous companies particularly in the oil and gas sector, stressing that cautious investment in the other sectors of the economy would enable the bank maintain its position among the top five lenders in the industry. “The Bank will focus more on certain business segments in which it has had good track records, in addition to new segments where it exploited business opportunities. The major growth areas included oil and gas, commercial banking, retail banking, treasury, corporate and investment banking,” he said.

Vanguard,TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012 — 23

BRIEF UBA AfriCard comes with enhanced benefits to customers PURRED by the success of its card products and the desire to provide convenience banking, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has continued to broaden the spectrum of card services available to customers. Consequently, customers of the bank can now leverage on the growing global presence of UBA in the continent and globally, to ease the stress associated with business transactions and payments by roaming their money around the world with the UBA AfriCard; a Visa Prepaid debit card variant. AfriCard is a naira denominated card that is prefunded and re-loadable and is internationally accepted in all VISA acceptance points. According to Divisional Head, e-Banking, UBA Plc, Dr. Yinka Adedeji, AfriCard allows customers to spend from their naira accounts in other currencies anywhere in the world. “UBA AfriCard comes with a significant cost savings to the customer as it provides lower charges while card holders can spend up to $40,000 or equivalent per year outside Nigeria. The pre-paid card can be loaded via U-Direct for all UBA customers. It also enables card-to-card transfer,” he said.

Spain bank rescue rally falters ELIEF about a rescue package worth up to $125 billion for Spanish banks started to wear off on Monday and the rally in financial markets faltered as investors worried about the details of the deal. Stocks, including those of Spanish banks, were still in demand but the debt markets reversed earlier gains and the cost of insuring Spain’s debt rose. Investors were worried about how the bailout, struck by euro zone finance ministers over the weekend, would be financed and were also looking ahead to Greek elections on Sunday that could put Athens on a path to leaving the currency bloc. That would then renew the market pressure on Spain and Italy, which is also facing scrutiny of its public finances. “The EU is selling this as a ‘great victory’, but when you look at the details, this is a loan, and we don’t know yet where the money will be coming from. At the end of the day, it will increase Spain’s debt-to-GDP ratio no matter what they say,” said Steen Jakobsen, chief economist at Saxo Bank, in Copenhagen.

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From right: Governor Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna State; Director of Jaiz Bank Plc, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga and MD/CEO of Jaiz Bank Plc, Alhaji Mohammed Mustapha Bintube during a courtesy visit to the governor by the bank's Board of Directors.

Impact of cashlite still minimal — Rewane ...ACAMB appeals to merchants BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE HE impact of the cashlite policy is still minimal, two months after policy effectively took-off in Lagos, says Bismarck Rewane of Financial Derivatives Company Meanwhile, the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) has urged merchants, traders, supermarket operators, and filling station owners to hurry to their banks and collect Point of Sale (PoS) Terminals to facilitate e-payments

nationwide. Speaking last week at the monthly Economic News and Views at Lagos Business School. Executive Breakfast meeting, Rewane said that the impact of the cashlite policy is still minimal. He observed that 97 per cent of transactions are still cash based, twp per cent are credit card purchases and one per cent are cheque payment. He said the policy is yet to make impact due to challenges of POS terminals and consumer resistance to change. Meanwhile, the Association

of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) in a press statement issued at the end of a one day retreat held in Lagos last weekend, has urged merchants, traders, supermarket operators, and filling station owners to hurry to their banks and collect Point of Sale (PoS) Terminals to facilitate e-payments nationwide. “The Association has also begun its Cashless-Lagos education campaign starting from religious institutions such as churches and mosques. The body of corporate communications professionals

said that Nigerian banks have acquired sufficient capacity in the areas of infrastructure and manpower to run a seamless cashless economy. It assured bank customers and other related parties to avail themselves of the friendly environment Nigerian banks have provided to promote businesses and personal banking experience. “Banks operating in Nigeria have invested billions of Naira to acquire hundreds of thousands of PoS and allied facilities and technology to service customers better in the new cashless economy era. The new cashless policy is expected to promote ease in payment transactions, eliminate risks associated with carrying cash and reduce high cost of cash processing borne by all entities across the value chain. “ACAMB joined the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Bankers’ Committee and the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) to drive the cashless policy initiative by taking the enlightenment campaign to the rural areas, the informal sector and the grassroots. These initiatives centre around promotion of banks’ investment in infrastructure and ensuring adequate availability of alternative platforms across geographical locations, stakeholder management and education through special sessions/town hall meetings, road shows and market storms, education programmes on radio - talk shows, consistent announcements in different languages, creation of awareness through the use of outdoor media and destination points (clubs, hotels, airports etc), Below-The-Line campaign (use of posters, handbills, stickers etc), Social Media campaign, and press campaign.

Replenishing reserves is a must do for Nigeria — CBN Governor BY EMMANUEL ELEBEKE HE Governor of Central Bank, Lamido Sanusi. Has said that Nigeria must focus on rebuilding its reserves and stabilising the exchange rate to protect against further fall-out from global economic uncertainty. Sanusi who was speaking global publishing, research and consultancy firm, Oxford Business Group (OBG) acknowledged that a drive to replenish the country’s Excess Crude Account, which remains depleted following the 2009 drop in oil prices, would require strong and political will. He also told the global research and consultancy firm that the country ’s economic development would benefit from greater private sector

involvement. “The global economic outlook is still uncertain, and it is vital that we resume our savings so that we are prepared for the worst in case the situation deteriorates. “Doing so will depend on an agreement among all political stakeholders involved. Structural adjustment is also of key concern. We need to get to a point where we have an infrastructure whereby the balance sheet of the government is not the major driver of investment,” ,” he said. Sanusi was confident that steps taken to recapitalise Nigeria’s banks and put their balance sheets in order meant they were now well placed to play their part in boosting lending. “The question now lies with

the counter parties.” “Vital elements, like infrastructure, energy and agricultural transformation are what will bring about bankable companies and projects. The ball now lies in the government’s court,” he explained. He added that the ‘Cashlite’ programme, which forms a key component in Nigeria’s efforts to reduce the volume of cash in circulation, was scheduled to be rolled out across the country at the beginning of 2013 following its introduction this year in the capital city. “The roll-out over 2012 has been focused on Lagos as, given its proximity to the landing points of fibre-optic cables, it is ideally positioned for technological adoption. Instant electronic transfers

have been enabled, interconnectivity between ATMs is ensured and mobile banking licences have been issued,” said the Central bank governor. He said that Nigeria’s move towards a cashless society, together with other developments already under way in the banking sector, such as the outsourcing of cash management and transit, shared data centres, should lead to cheaper lending. “Aside from the immediate financial gains this entails, human capital is being made available for revenuegenerating services, such as debt recovery and client acquisition. We estimate that a successful implementation of these measures will reduce the cost of lending by at least 30%,” he added.

24 — Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

DUFIL infuses 100% local content to seasoning production company to encourage more local and foreign investors alike to invest in the manufacturing sector by creating a policy that will ensure a reduction in the price of manufacturing tools by reducing the import tariffs on such tools. While conducting Newsmen round the facility, the Production Manager, Mr. Adewale Oretuga noted that the

STORIES BY PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU S part of its back ward integration programme, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, makers of Indomie Instant Noodles has adopted local sourcingly for raw materials for its seasoning production towards achieving a 100 percent local content production of the brand in Nigeria. Speaking during the tour of the facility, Mr. Puneet Beniwal, Factory Manager, Indomie Seasoning Plant, disclosed that continued investments in production capacity and innovations has helped the company remain afloat despite the stiff competition in Nigeria’s Noodles Market, adding that the company was committed to expanding its capacity to 100 percent local production of the noodles.

Minister calls for meaningful contribution for economic devt From left: International Sales Manager, KIS Photo-Me Group, Mr. Pierre Buendia; Managing Director, Skysat Technologies Limited, Mr. Izzat Debs and Managing Director, Tecruc Digital Place, Mr. Charles Oghuvwu during the product demo of the new DKS-4 printing machine at Skysat’s office in Lagos. “With this ultra-modern Seasoning Plant which was officially commissioned in 2008, Indomie has stopped importation of the Seasoning as raw materials are now sourced and pro-

duced locally as well as the noodles in our Indomie Factory. The only raw material imported is Premix and this is because the material is not available in Nigeria. With this, we are able to

create more jobs for Nigerians and cost of production is reduced by at least 30 percent”, he stated. Beniwal urged government to continue to support efforts of the

IFC, Standard Chartered launch bond for private sector devt to achieve its full ecoNTERNATIONAL Fi nance Corporation (IFC) , a member of the World Bank Group, and Standard Chartered have launched a bond-issuance program that will increase the availability of local-currency financing for local capital markets and private sector development in Africa. The IFC Pan-African Debt Medium-Term Note Programme will initially focus on Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, and Zambia. Over the next several months, IFC will work with the respective authorities in these countries to obtain their consent to be part of the program. Standard Chartered is appointed as the sole arranger for the program. Standard Chartered will also be the lead manager for many of the inaugural bond transactions under the program. Other financial institutions may co-lead individual bond issues. Bonds issued through the program will raise funds that IFC will use to provide long-term, local-currency finance for

company invested in the world class facility to sustain the quality and healthiness of the food, which is the heart of its business. He added that anyone coming into the factory passes through a decontamination chamber fitted with an air shower to ensure that bacteria from the human body do not escape into the factory or produce.

African businesses, protecting them from foreign-exchange risks. ?“A vibrant, local-currency capital market is essential for any country

nomic potential,” said IFC Executive Vice President and CEO Lars Thunell. “Ensuring the development of such markets is a cornerstone

of IFC’s strategy. By expanding long-term currency finance, we help businesses mitigate currency risks when they borrow capital to grow and create jobs.”

INISTER of Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga has enjoined corporate organization to toe the line of Etisalat Nigeria in making meaningful contribution towards the development of the National economy. Aganga who made this call at the Market Access Nigeria, a platform for small and growing businesses to interact with big and more established businesses, thereby fostering business opportunities for smaller businesses organized by Etisalat Nigeria in collaboration with the Enterprise Development Center (EDC) of Pan African University

LG Cinema 3D game festival hits Nigeria …gamers to slug it out with various 3D games BY ITORO UDOFIA HE LG Electronics Electronics brand has taken a lead to set off the first ever Cinema 3D Game Festival in Nigeria. To demonstrate to the public the potential of its 3D products in the gaming environment, the company mirrored its energy from over 200 combatants which was the first phase of the competition which took place at in Lagos . The 3D Games Festival tagged “LG 3D Wars” had participants from all over the country take part in the contest which would single out the LG 3D War Champion at the end of the competition. The grand winner goes home with an LG

55”inch Cinema Screen 3D TV. “A Similar event which took place in Korea some months back

recorded a huge success and because the Nigerian market is very important to us, we decided to make Nigeria the next

point of call” Said Mr. Dave Shin, General Manager, Home Entertainment division LG Electronics.

Thompson & Grace introduces new Sebamed products HOMPSON and Grace Pharmaceuticals Limited has introduced new range of Sebamed products into the market. The products, Sebamed Anti-Stretch Mark Cream and Sebamed Anti-Aging Cream according to Mr. Isaac Thompson Amos, the Managing Director of Thompson and Grace Pharmaceuticals Limited, are specifically formulated to meet the various needs of consumers across the globe. Sebamed range of

products is produced by Sebapharma, a leading pharmaceutical company based in Germany and Thompson while Grace Pharmaceuticals is the exclusive distributor in Nigeria and West Africa. Mr. Amos said that Sebamed range of products are family-based as babies, women and adults now have the opportunity of boosting the healthiness of their skins through such products as Sebamed Baby Cream, Sebamed Cleansing Bar, Sebamed

Anti-Stretch Mark Cream and Sebamed Anti-Ageing Cream. In his words: “All Sebamed products reflect quality through their careful scientifically developed formulations and their adjustment to the physiological PH Value of healthy skin to guarantee the highest skin tolerability” adding “Sebamed offers a broad and modern system of medicinal cleansing and care products fine tuned to the requirement of the skin of any normal human being”.

urged corporate organizations to emulate Etisalat in making meaningful contributions towards the development of the National economy. Further said that since Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) drive economy in the developed world, Nigerians thus have a big task ahead to collaborate with the Government to develop the sector. Furtherance to this, Mr. Steven Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, observed that Small and medium scale businesses are important in all economies globally, especially in developing economies such as Nigeria. Evans who was represented at the event by the Chief Commercial Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Wael Ammar said, Etisalat in its avowed commitment to contribute positively to the development of the Nigerian economy, has identified SMEs as a backbone and major catalyst hence its collaboration with EDC to assist growing businesses through networking platforms such as the Market Access Nigeria, a quarterly networking event. “SMEs remain the backbone of the development of most economies around the world. They create job opportunities at relatively low capital cost, thereby reducing the high level of unemployment. They also contribute to the economy in terms of output of goods and services for export, whilst attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—25

Nigeria saves N1.4bn from transformer repairs STORIES BY KUNLE KALEJAYE BOUT N1.4 billion has been saved from repairing damaged transformers in the country, the Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji has said. The minister made this assertion while inaugurating the GTA Engineering Nigeria Power Transformer Repair Facility in Lagos. “When the big transformers broke down in the past, we had to ship them to Indian or South Africa for repair. But now with this kind of facility in place, it has become possible for us not to do that kind of shipment because it is costing us money and time; it is now possible for the repairs to be done here,” he said. Highlighting the benefits of setting up a transformer repair centre, the Minister said that local employment will be created by employing Nigerians in the technical field and other kind of skilled personnel needed to repair transformers in the country and within the GTA facility. According to him, “This initiative is in line with power sector reform that President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration is currently executing in the country,” adding that the President want quick improvement of

power supply in the country and also to indigenise the production of equipment that will support the power sector. Speaking at the inauguration, the India High Commissioner of to Nigeria, Mr. Mahesh Sachdev, said

Indian has committed $100million line of credit to support Nigeria’s Power sector, which he hoped will be signed shortly. “We have also been engaged in supporting Nigeria’s power sector through professional capacity building in India

under ITEC training programme,” he said. With this kind of facility, Nnaji said that the power industry will grow and become bigger which is the only way to satisfy the market and create employment in the process.

From right: Etiosa Uyigue, Executive Director, Community Research and Development Centre (CREDC); Marcel Hochet, Country President, Schneider Electric Nigeria and Okuo Isaac (representing Louis Odion, Edo State Commissioner for Information & Orientation) during a one-day Appraisal of Access to Electricity in Odighi Community of Edo State Using Photovoltaic organised by CREDC.

Gas shortages: 1,025MW power stranded BY CLARA NWACHUKWU IGER Delta Power Holding Company Limited, NDPHC, owners of the National Integrated Power Project, NIPP, has raised an alarms that about 1,025megawatts, MW, o f electricity are stranded in three NIPP plants due to gas shortages. This was contained in a statement issued by t h e D e p u t y G e n e r a l M a a n a g e r, Communications & Public Relations, Mr. Yaku b u Lawal, which was made available to Vanguard. According the Statement, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the company, Mr. James Abiodun Olotu, disclosed this last week in Abuja, when the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Adenrele Shinaba paid him a courtesy call.

“As we speak, we have five units at our Olorunsogo Phase II Power station ready to deliver 650MW, a n d i n Sapele about 250MW,while in Omotosho we have 125MW of electricity ready for the national grid,” Olotu said. The NDPHC boss, however, pointed out that the delivery of this 1,025MW to the national grid is dependent on the availability of gas, adding that the gas suppliers – the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Nigerian National P e t r o l e u m Corporation, NNPC, International Oil Companies, IOCs, and the Nigeria Gas Company, NGC, are beefing up efforts to bridge the gap. When this happens, Olotu promised that the year will be a harvest for power generation, adding that the Alaoji Power Station, the largest among the 10 NIPPs, will also make a significant power delivery to the national

grid before year end. “This year in NIPP is a year of harvest. Last week, we were in Lagos to commission 10 distribution injection substations that will boost the quality of electricity that will go to consumers. Similar, projects were commissioned in Kaduna, and more projects will be commissioned every month till the end of the year,” he stated.

e noted that NIPP projects cut across generation, transmission and distribution of electricity across the country, a n d argued that the magnitude of these infrastructure make it imperative for the organisation to consistently seek the cooperation and support of the Police,and other law enforcement agencies in protecting the facilities and creating the enabling environment for contractors to work. The Managing Director

thanked the Police chief and his team, and urged him to continue to support the organisation to bring the visionof President Goodluck Jonathan to light up Nigeria to reality. In his remarks, Shinaba explained that the visit was part of his strategy to acquaint himself with the operations of all establishments under his command. He commended the effort of the federal government through NDPHC to address the challenges in the power sector to ensure adequate and steady electricity supply to the people of Nigeria. He assured the management of NDPHC that his command will do everything possible to provide security assistance whenever the need arose, noting that the responsibility bestowed on NDPHC in boosting power infrastructure in the country is enormous.

BRIEF

Gas flaring to stop year end O

IL firms in the country are expected to stop gas flaring by the end of this year according to the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB which is now close to being fanalised. Nigeria, has long pledged but failed to end flaring, thus remaining as the world’s second biggest burner of gas associated with crude oil production after Russia. “Natural gas shall not be flared or vented after 31st December, 2012, in any oil and gas production operation, block or field, onshore or offshore, or gas facility,” except under exceptional and temporary circumstances, says Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). “Any licensee who flares or vents gas without the permission of the Minister in (special) circumstances ... shall be liable to pay a fine which shall not be less than the value of gas.” Nigeria flared some 30 billion standard cubic feet of gas in January, according to the latest figures from the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC. That is equivalent to a third of the annual consumption of an industrialised country like the United Kingdom. Of that, ExxonMobil topped the list, flaring 9.85 billion cubic feet out of 38.64 billion produced, while Chevron flared 8.25 billion cubic feet out of 19.23 billion. Leading operator Shell, which runs Nigeria’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant, flared 5.44 billion cubic feet, a relatively small part of the 76.4 billion it produced. All have been criticised by environmental groups, but the oil majors retort that they would be happy to trap all of the gas if the government provided them with a market for it.

Gas flaring

26—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

BRIEF

BY DOTUN IBIWOYE FFORTS to boost electricity supply in Umuahia and its environs recently received a boost with the establishment of a N3.4billion substation in the Abia State capital. The installation of the 2 x 4 0 M VA, 132/33kV DC Transmission Substation in Umuahia brings to an end a 10 year hard work to tackle the problem of electricity in the state capital and its environs. The Federal Executive Council in 2001, awarded the contract for the construction of Umuahia 2 x 40 MVA, 132/ 33kV Transmission Substation to Messrs Valenz Holdings Limited, a fully indigenous company at the cost of N500.30million ($7.06m) One of the advantages of the Umuahia Transmission Substation is that on completion, it would serve as the backbone for four other 40MVA, 132/33kV substations at Okigwe, Mbaino, Ohafia and Arochukwu, all of them targeted at improving power supply in Abia State and the South-East geopolitical region. Federal and state collaboration At the inauguration of the substation, the Minister of Power, Prof. Bart Nnaji, noted that there were several processes involved in thedistribution of power, which he said was not solely a federal government’s affair, adding that the building of a substation also requiredthe involvement of the state government for several reasons. The minister also said that the completion of the substation was a good demonstration of how a state government can work with the f e d e r a l government to achieve great results. According to him, “We want to notify Nigerians that the states and the federal government can embark on a project like the substation and achieve a good result. The state government provided the land for us to build this substation which will definitely boost socioeconomic activities in the state. The line is only able to deliver about five megawatts of power allocation, out of which two megawatts are lost during transmission.” He noted that the completion of the p r o j e c t m e a n t little unless power is transmitted to the people, adding that the government spent over N3.4billion on the project. Nnaji sid the streaming of the substation would save residents of Umuahia and its

Siemens to honour Science and Technology journalist

BY KUNLE KALEJAYE

•From left: Engr. Pat Ibe, Director, Valenz Holdings Ltd; Engr. Sola Akinniranye, CEO TCN, Prof. Barth Nnaji, Minister of Power; Gov. Theodore Orji of Abia State, at the inauguaration of Substation in Umuahia built by Valenz.

Umuahia gets N3.4bn substation

he contract awarded to Messrs Valenz Holdings for the construction of the substation covered the design, manufacture, supply,delivery to site, erection and commissioning of all materials/ equipment needed for the installation of the Substation. The initial cost of the project was $4.59 plus N151.81m, but was however, reviewed due to additional work, which pushed the value to$7.06m plus N500. 300m. The 132k V double circuit transmission line from Alaoji 330/132k V s u b s t a t i o n to Umuahia was awarded at a cost of $4.06 + N737.32ms, but was later reduced to $3.3m + N677.54m. During the process of design, the consultants observed that the rehabilitation of Alaoji 132kV switchyard was essential

for operational flexibility and stable supply to stations connected to it i.e. Umuahia 132kV substation and the four downstream 132kV stations that would feed from it. The rehabilitation work was, however, not included in the original scope of the project. Also, it became imperative to change the design of the Umuahia substation from a single bus bar to a ring-bus arrangement, to ensure operational flexibility, reliability and future extension

environs the problem of erratic power supply, and the Geometric Power Plant, a private initiative at Osisioma, near Aba, would begin to provide power to the area by the end of 2012. The Executive Governor of Abia State, Chief Theodore Orji, argued that the state’s economy has been revitalized; adding that this would also impact some parts Imo State that are connected to the substation. He gave the assurance that his administration would check the dangers posed by the activities of miners of kaolin, which is capable of leading to the collapse and failure of the substation structures and equipment. Scope of contract

project, which stalled the project. After completion of the substation, there is a transformer capacity of 80MVA, two 132kVlines and 6 x 33kV out-going feeders. Before now, power supply to Umuahia and neighboring communities had been through a very long 33kV line from Aba with about 5MWs of power allocation. Due to losses along the line, only about 3MW and 25kV would be available for

Before now, power supply to Umuahia and neighboring communities had been through a very long 33kV line from Aba with about 5MWs of power allocation

economically, which led to the first revaluation of the contract. The Chief Executive o f Valenz Holdings, Mr. Bonny Odiri, noted that “The surface was not wide enough; the earth was cut more thanfour meters down to get it to desired width, before construction could start. Furthermore, the soil sample test revealed soft clay soil with low bearing capacity, bringing forth the challenge of further cutting, backfilling and compacting before getting a workable space. “Another major challenge was inadequate funding for the budget appropriation in the early years of the

distribution. The result was poor electricity supply to a very large consumer population. For the Chief Executive Officer, Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, Mr. Olusola Akinniranye, completing the project was very challenging particularly with regard to the construction of the transmission substation and the complementary transmission line from Aba to Umuahia. He also said decried the activities of Kaolin miners, saying, “We have situations like this in other parts of the country where people virtually dig laterite right under the tower, thus disturbing the foundation.”

IEMENS, a major player in Nigeria’s energy sector is set to honour journalists who excel in the field of science and technology reporting in the a n n u a l P a n African competition. The primary objective of the Pan-African competition t a g g e d , ‘Profile Awards’ competition is to recognise and reward writers and broadcasters who effectively report Science and Technology in the continent. Siemens in a statement made available t o Vanguard, said with the growth in science and technology, it is important for all to stay up-to-date with the latest developments. “Advancements in science and technology can help to create safer and healthier societies, a cleaner environment and prosperous knowledge-driven economies across Africa. “The media plays a vital role in sharing these stories and demystifying the important subjects that are driving change and creating a more sustainable future,” the company said. The Profile Awards competition sponsored by Siemens, and supported by the South African Department of Science and Technology,will recognise journalists who focus on Science and Technology topics. According to Siemens, the recognition will go a long way in encouraging excellence in reporting as well as ensuring that Science and Technology journalism moves from the periphery of the news agenda into the mainstream, where it belongs. Categories for entries include Energy efficiency, Sustainable cities, Industrial productivity, Healthcare, and Student journalism award The closing date is the 17th of August 2012. The awards ceremony will be held on October 26, 2012, as part of the Sustain Our Africa Change Agent Awards in Cape Town, South Africa.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—27

Energia/Oando JV, sustaining peace in N-Delta STORIES BY KUNLE KALEJAYE

NERGIA/Oando Joint Venture, Operators of Obodeti Marginal Fields (Oil Mining Leases 56) have taken a giant stride to sustaine peace in troubled oil rich Niger Delta region by empowering the youths of its Host/Impacted communities through formal education and skill acquisition program. Engergia/Oando JV which was awarded OML 56 by the Federal Government in 2003 have currently embarked on a youth capacity training program in Warri where 31 youths from Emu Ebendo and Obodugwa-Ogume are being trained for the future. According to the Managing Director of Energia Limited, Felix Amieyeofori said the company has collaborated with various skills acquisition centers for entrepreneurship programs for selected youths from the host communities. “There are two groups slated for the training program. One is the Educational group while the second is the Entrepreneurship group. “The educational group are those that we will send to school while the entrepreneur group will acquire skills from skill centers. Some will be for one year while others will be for six months and the plan is that by the time they are coming out we will set them up.” He stressed that the aim of the program is to transform the lives of the youths in the communities positively so that

... touching lives of host communities people can see that oil is not a course but a blessing if it is handle well. Director of Mind Foundation, one of the Skills Acquisition Center working with Energia/Oando, Mrs. Onere Irebe said the companies’ wants to impact positive things in the lives of people living in the communities where they have their operations and the youths constitute a large portion of their communities. “This program is actually aimed at the youths who are unemployed or under- employ or who don’t have skills; they are not able to participate meaningfully in their communities. The program is therefore design to build their skills and also make them

employable, self-employed or wage employed. Like any other Niger Delta Oil and Gas Campany, Amieyeofori said Energia/ Oando JV have had their own share of communities’ issues. “But as a way of correcting some of the ills in the industry, the Joint Venture entered into a Global Memorandum of Understanding, GMOU with its host and impacted communities with the Delta State Government as a witness in 2009. “The GMOU provided for the setting up of a TRUST to manage the crude proceeds accruable to these communities,” he said. However in 2010, the MD noted that a Global Trust was registered out of which two

Trust Boards-the Energia Host Community Trust Board (EHCTB) and Energia Impacted Communities Trust Board were Inaugurated. Vanguard gathered that in all a total of six communities are involved in the TRUST which include: Emu-Ebendo, the host community, ObodugwaOgume, Umusadege, Isumpe, Umusan and Ogbeani as the impacted communities. Speaking at the commissioning of the Trust Fund Projects in Emu EbendoNdukwa West Local Government Area of Delta State, Felix Amieyeofori said the TRUST has disbursed over of $2.9 million to all communities which is coming from the JV present production level.

From left: Chairman, Energia Host Community Trust Board (EHCTB), Ken Mozia; Managing Director, Energia Nigeria Limited, Mr. Felix Amieyeofori and Director Energia, Mr. Pedro Egbe commissioning the new Isumpe Community town hall in Ndokwa West L.G.A of Delta State.

Renewable Energy: Schneider unveils solar technology … Vows to boost rural access to electricity

N an effort to boost rural access to electricity in the country through Renewable energy, Schneider Electrics recently unveiled its vilasol solar energy system in Benin, Edo State. Vilasol solution is a solarpower micro off-grid facility for decentralised rural electrification, which consists of a photovoltaic panel; a battery bank and a battery charging station that enable a communal recharge system. The facility supplies domestic, entrepreneurial and community needs such as schools, health center, water supply, public lighting for up to 100 households without connection to the national grid. Speaking at the unveiling of system at a one day Appraisal Workshop organised by the Community Research and Development Center,CREDC, in Benin Country President of

BRIEF

Schneider Electric, Mr. Marcel Hochet, said vilasol is the solution to the electricity problem in the c o u n t r y, e s p e c i a l l y for the rural dwellers that are not connected to the grid. “It is not an expensive solution to alternative sources of electricity especially if it is sponsored by NGO, Local and State governments. We are also coming to partner with the State government, Local governments and NGOs, to train local people to maintain the system as well as to manage it,” he said. With an estimated 1.4 billion people that are not connected to the national grid, Hochet said, Schneider Electric is willing to corporate with local communities in order to provide clean, safe and renewable energy for them. He said the initiative is to ensure that people in the rural areas have access to electricity,

thereby reducing rural urban migration. “Schneider Electric is concerned about people in rural communities across Nigeria, who do not have access to power. We understand this massive challenge and we are ready to bring our technology and solutions to support the initiatives aimed at extending power to the rural areas, he said.” He commended the CREDC for organising the event, saying that the successful deployment of the solar system in-Diya in Odighi community is a further proof of the reliability and efficiency of the solution. H e m a i n t a i n e d that Schneider is ready to partner with other agencies who share similar a vision, and is willing to meet with stakeholders to explore opportunities of developing and strengthening

relationships. Just at it will sustain its partnership with CREDC to extend power to other communities in Edo State. Also speaking, the Executive Director of CREDC, Mr. EtiosaUyigue, said the workshop was aimed at reviewing the deployment of In-Diya in Odighi, a project financed by the GEF small grants fund under the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP. He said that between 200 and 400 people in Odighi are currently enjoying power even as the group has deployed the solution in about 40 homes in the community. Uyigue thanked Schneider and UNDP for their support, adding that in view of the success recorded in Odighi, CREDC has developed plans to implement similar projects in other communities of the state.

Local content: Nigerians gets 85% oil contracts — Nwapa

HE Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCMB, has revealed that the proportion of contracts awarded to Nigeriancompanies in the Oil and Gas industry has risen to between 70 and 85 per cent, the Executive Secretary, M r. Ernest Nwapa has said. Delivering a keynote address at the Nigeria-UK Oil and Gas Supply Chain programme in Lagos recently, Nwapa who applauded the increase, however, described it as a partial percentage value of the content achieved by the industry. He explained that although there has been a marked increase in contracts awarded to Nigerian companies, the industry still had a long way to go towards recording substantial percentage of real Nigerian content. The NCDMB boss maintained that real Nigerian Content value is based on the proportion of contract sums spent within the Nigerian economy especially on Nigerian made goods and services rendered with Nigerian owned assets and equipment. According to him, “The real Nigerian Content value hovers between 12 per cent and 18 per cent at this point, up from three to fivepercent recorded two years ago.” He identified the lull in manufacturing activities as a major weakness of the local supply chain in Nigeria, adding that for such a mature industry, a supply chain without local manufacturing is like a house without a solid foundation. “The predominant message captured in the Nigerian Content Act is the development of local capacity, and Nigerians must be determined to pursue this goal in their quest for p a r t n e r s h i p s , ” Nwapa argued. He stressed that without d e v e l o p i n g t h e local manufacturing of components used by the industry, there would be no further Nigerian Content growth and creation of employment opportunities would be stunted.

28—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Pollution: Reps advises shutting of Warri Refinery THE House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum, Downstream, has advised the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to shut down the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company, WRPC, due to the dangerous e m i s s i o n of carbon black soot on the environment. The Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum, Downstream, Hon. Dakuku Peterside, made the call in a statement after a meeting with stakeholders over the lingering crisis between the refinery and the Ekpan community. The call followed a petition written to the committee, entitled, “A Save Our Soul Appeal” written by Ajomata/Awhakpor Landlords Association of Ekpan, dated May 24. In the petition to the committee were urged to sanction NNPC over the life-threatening carbon black soot being emitted into their environment. According to the landlords, “This appeal was necessitated by the reckless emissions of dangerous carbon black soot/ chemicals into our environment on a daily basis without due care and keeping to international best practices. “Our continuous appeals in writing and physical visitation to the management of the said company and their supervising Ministry of Petroleum over the years have been ignored, as they have never replied any of our letters nor stopped the life-threatening

nuisance that their emissions have become.” The landlords alleged that whenever the carbon black soot is released, within a few minutes, all persons, water, air, land, clothes and even pets and domestic animals i n t h e A j o m a t a / Awhakpor area would be soaked in carbon black soot. According to them, people could hardly stay outside their homes for 10 minutes without getting their clothes soaked with carbon black soot. T h e y a l s o claimed their children were

the most affected as they are always in and out of hospital for sundry ailments such as respiratory infections, heart diseases and asthma attacks. They recalled that in 2006, fishes in the pond of one Sir E l i j a h Atomatofa all died from pollution from the carbon black soot, adding that many of the indigenes were forced to relocate from the locality thereafter. After a comprehensive meeting with all the relevant stakeholders which included the people of Ajomata/ A w h a k p o r

community; NNPC; the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR; Ministry of the Environment; National Environmental Standards and Regulatory Enforcement Agency, NESREA; the Environmental Rights Action, E R A , a n d t h e committee leaders, the lawmakers called for the suspension of operations at the plant. Speaking on behalf of members, Peterside, called on the NNPC to shut down the plant as a matter of urgency. According to him, WRPC will further be endangering human life if it continues any form of production. Peterside also condemned the obvious lack of cooperation among government agencies, which played out in the course of the meeting, and warned that nobody including NNPC is above the law.

Group President, Skipper Energy, Mr. Jitender Sachdeva (left), Minister of Power, Prof. Bart Nnaji and Indian High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr. Mahesh Sachdev, at the commissioning of state-of-the-art Power Transformer Repairing Plant by GTE Engineering (Nigeria) Limited, at Ikorodu, Lagos.

Oando acquires 40% stake in Qua Iboe ANDO Exploration and Production Limited, OEPL, a subsidiary of Oando Plc, has acquired 40 per cent participating interest in the Qua Iboe field locted in Oil Mining Lease, OML 13, subject to approval by the regulatory authorities. The development followed the recent signing of a farm-in agreement between Oando and Network Exploration & Production Nigeria Limited, NEPN. A statement from Oando’s spokesman, Mr. Meka Olowola, said upon the approval by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Oando would also be designated as “the Financial and Technical Services Partner, delegated to perform some of the technical and projectmanagement duties and obligations of the operator in the development of the Qua Iboe field.” The field, which was formerly a Shell Petroleum Development Company of

Nigeria, SPDC asset was awarded to NEPN during the2003 Marginal Field Round. Located onshore near the mouth of the Qua Iboe River in Akwa Ibom State, the acreage is about two kilometers from Mobil Producing Nigeria, MPN’s Qua Iboe Terminal. Commenting on the acquisition, the Chief Executive Officer, O E P L , M r. Pade Durotoye, said, “This asset is estimated to contain about11.3 million barrels, mmbbl of 2P reserve, which immediately increases our reserve base by about 50 percent. “We are excited that the post-drilling mapping along with new seismic interpretation supports technical and economic producibility of the asset. Our selection as the technical partner further underscores our world class asset development and project delivery capabilities.”

The Group Chief Executive, Oando Plc, Mr Wale Tinubu, on his part said, “This strategic acquisition is consistent with our aspiration to expand our E&P portfolio with a balanced mix of producing or near term assets and organic growth. “The Qua Iboe field will be the third Marginal Field with preexisting proven undeveloped reserves in Oando’s portfolio. Subject to all regulatory approvals, our immediate objective is to fast-track the development programme towards achieving early production thereby enhancing stakeholder value.” OEPL and NEPN signed all agreements relating to the transaction on the February 2, 2012, and have subsequently filed an application with the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, for the consent of the minister.

BRIEF Steel firm adds HSS to its line of products

igeria Gas and Steel Limited, a manufacturer of welded steel pipes since 1976, and based in Ikeja, Lagos have gone the extra mile to add to its steel products the Hollow Structural Sections (HSS); a type of steel tube that have greater strength-to-weight ratios than wide flange beams. “HSS also have excellent compression characteristics and exceptional torsional resistance” said Chief Hasib Moukarim, the Managing Director of the company who spoke to Vanguard in an interviewed. The company according to him, formerly known as Mouka Pipe is an experts in the manufacturing of steel tubes and pipes of various sizes for the furniture and construction industries. The company introduced in the mid 2011 their newest product, HSS to the Nigerian market, which is a structural element in buildings, other structures and variety of manufactured products. The Managing Director mentioned to us some examples of the uses of the HSS, he said it is used in constructing warehouses, terminals, billboards, buildings’ fascia, pedestrian bridges, shopping malls, towers, garages and fabricating agricultural tools. It is also used in casing boreholes and for piling, added Moukarim. The Steel Tube Institute of North America described the HSS as The Design Material of the 21 st Century, and explained further to the interested parties that HSS provides a uniformity of size, shape, strength and tolerances that makes its use totally predictable, while it is also competitive in cost with other structural materials. And, with improved connecting and fasting methods, it can often enjoy a cost advantage. Moukarim commented, “if you are an architect, structural engineer, fabricator, contractor or consultant, your customer will be very happy when you specify HSS. He gets the cost saving; you get the credit,” and quoted what Mr. William A. Wolfe, Executive Director, the Steel Tube Institute of North America said in his blog, “there is a misconception in the market place about steel Hollow Structural Sections (HSS) Some stake holders believe that HSS costs more than steel structure and other materials.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—29

Enforce law prohibiting erection of tall buildings, masts near airports — Experts BY JUDE NJOKU IGERIANS were thrown into mourning penultimate Sunday when a Dana airplane which took off from the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport Abuja, crashed into a three-storey building at Iju-Ishaga, about 11 nautical miles from the Murtala Mohammed Local Airport, Ikeja, Lagos. Ever since the ugly incident occurred, the Nigerian electronic and print media have been awash which stories of what probably caused the crash. But many have failed to look at the disregard of town planning regulations which resulted into the development of tall buildings and masts very close to Nigerian airports. Virgin lands which should have served as buffers to these airports have been built upon in contravention of internationally accepted planning regulations governing the the development of airports. Abroad, planning regulations relating to building near airports are strictly observed. For instance, when an airport is built, there is something called the airport/runway clearing zone. A clearing zone is an area that would most likely experience a plane crash as the plane lands and takes off. In the clearing zone, you have what is called a buffer which consists of trees and bushes. The airport buffer is made up of acres and lands surrounding the airport so that if a plane crashes, it will not kill people in their homes. It will only affect the people on the plane. Restriction of certain buildings in a clearing zone In an airport clearing zone/

runway protection zone, certain uses and certain heights of buildings are restricted. The erection of tall buildings and masts are restricted in such zones. But in Lagos and other airport towns in Nigeria, it is commonplace to see tall buildings even adjacent the airports. The development of high and medium rise hotels has become a recent occurrence that is fast gaining prominence around the Murtala Mohammed International Airport. Apart from the restriction of tall buildings, certain uses are also restricted or prohibited in an airport zone. Schools and other recreational centres are prohibited. This is because such facilities attract large number of people which can be dangerous if a plane were to crash and burn after takeoff. The distance between the runway and residential areas should also be far enough to prevent an aircraft that overshoots the runway, crashing into people’s homes. But are these regulations observed in Nigeria?

former chairman of the La gos State branch of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, NITP, Mr. Moses Ogunleye faulted the construction of tall buildings near the airport (local or international). According to him, the town planning law stipulates that only bungalows or a maximum or one-storey buildings should be erected close to the airport. That was why places like Mangoro, Cement, Shasha, all in Lagos, do not have tall buildings. Mr Ogunleye who is the managing director of Beachland Resources Limited, explained

A property at Airport Road in Lagos that the global planning regulation outlaws building high-rise structures or erecting telephone masts near the airports. He stated that the Ikeja Model City Plan which came into force a few years ago, took this into consideration. Areas covered by the Ikeja model City plan include Ogba, Alausa, Ojota, Oba Akran, Bank Anthony, Maryland and Opebi-Allen. He noted that technically speaking, Iju-Ishaja in the Ifako Ijaiye Local Government Area where the Dana operated plane crashed, does not fall into an airport area because it is more than 10 kilometres from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport. The Agege Model City Plan which is still in the works, should take

Hazard How to secure your home unassisted Keep track of your keys Be sure that all copies of your house key are accounted for, and are not stored anywhere near the entrances to your home. Though it may be tempting to hide a house key under a flowerpot or doormat, remember, criminals are aware of these hiding spots too. If you want to have an accessible extra key, leave it with a trusted family member or neighbor for safekeeping. Turn on the lights It’s a statistical fact that burglars are much less likely to target a home that is well-lit. To a burglar, a house with lights on is a house where there is potentially someone home. Since the motivation of thieves is to steal withC M Y K

out getting caught, they will usually avoid burglarising a house that is well-lit. Leave a few lights on when you leave home for a few hours, in order to help protect your home. If you’re worried about the electrical expense, switch to fluorescent light bulbs, which do not require as much electricity. Secure your windows A significant percentage of burglars are able to enter a home through an unlocked first-floor window. Remembering to lock your windows isn’t simply a precaution – it’s a necessity. Get into the habit of checking all of your windows before you leave the house, just as you would check that all of your doors are locked.

Try to encourage other family members to follow this behavior as well. Get a guard dog Ensuring the safety of your family and home can be guaranteed with the intelligence of a guard dog. If you’re thinking about purchasing a family dog, you may also want to consider choosing a breed that can also make an effective guard dog. If you’re only looking for a dog that will alert you by barking at intruders, there are many breeds that make good “watchdogs” as well. When choosing a dog that will be good with other family members, you do need to exercise a bit of caution.

HIGH POINTS •Buildings in the airport clearing zone should not exceed two-floors •Virgin lands that should serve as airport buffer have been built upon in contravention of planning regulations •Safety and decency of the airport environment should occupy the front burner • High-rise hotels springing up near the airports is an unwelcome development •FG should collaborate with state governments to enforce planning laws prohibiting certain developments near the airports. care of Iju-Ishaga and environs. The Association of Consulting Town Planners boss wants the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority NCAA, to liaise with the government to link up the popular plane routes in the master plan.

gunleye said it is an ab erration to develop highrise hotels near the airport. Noting that some approvals to erect such buildings are given by the Federal Government under the guise that they have the right to do whatever they like on Federal lands. He called for collaboration between the two tiers of government to stem such planning abuses. “It depends on the location of the building within the airport area. You may have one or two of such buildings but having up to five or more is totally unacceptable,” he said. Money making mentality Also speaking in the same, the immediate past president of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers , NIESV, Mr Bode Adediji said: “It is important to ensure that the

regulation prohibiting the erection of tall buildings along airports anywhere in the world should be strictly enforced in Nigeria. One of the unfortunate developments you find you find now which has either been probably abandoned or postponed is the erection of a hotel directly facing the international airport. Why would a country like Nigeria be emphasizing money, money money in everything we do? Where is decency? Where is safety? Where is compatibility with international framework? If from day one, there has been an integrated hotel airport plan, it is understandable. If you go to Miami, Orlando or places like that, right inside the airport, you can have an integral hotel but positioning a hotel face to face with where everybody sees or something like that, to me, it is an error abinitio. Those regulatory authorities and town planners must ensure that our airways are free of any obstructions either by way of high-rise buildings or

30—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Building materials watch

Lagos luxury housing receives boost as Heliconia Court debuts BY KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE ESSRS Briscoe Properties Limited, a subsidiary of R.T.Briscoe (Nigeria) Plc last week, unveiled its latest housing estate, an 18-unit service apartment known as Heliconia Court. The gated estate is located along Connal Road, Off Herbert Macaulay Way, Yaba. Heliconia Court which consists of terrace houses with a gym and swimming pool, was created using two designs of terrace units on two and three levels, which is repeated in various configurations on three blocks. The Type A terrace which is built on three levels has three en-suite bedrooms and a study, two living rooms and an ensuite maids room with a master bedroom while the Type B is constructed on two levels.

They have three en-suite bedrooms and two living rooms. The European fitted kitchens installed in the apartments come with floor and wall mounted cabinets, extractor hood, oven and hob. Speaking at the unveiling, the Chairman of the company, Mr. Oluseyi Onajide said that Heliconia Court is the second estate to be delivered by the company. The company has the mission to constantly deliver quality houses without compromise, he informed. The first estate built by the company was Aloe Vera Court located in Maryland, Lagos while plans are afoot to begin work on its third residential estate. The managing director of the company, Mrs Folasade Huhes, an architect said Heliconia Court is a fully serviced estate with dedicated transformer, borehole, water treatment plant and generator

Cement Dangote cement per bag of 50kg ---N1,800.00 Burham Cement per bag of 50kg ---N1,800.00 Elephant cement per bag of 50kg ---N1,800.00 Sandcrete Blocks 6 inches vibrated per block--N130 9 inches vibrated per block--N150 6 inches hand mould per block---N80 9 inches hand mould per block---N90

Heliconia Court, Yaba. as well as ample parking spaces with landscaped areas. ‘’Yaba still remains an unbeatable Lagos location, superbly positioned within easy reach of schools, shopping, entertainment, business district and transportation hub. This makes Heliconia Court, Yaba the perfect choice for 21st century Lagos living’’, she said.

She stated that the company is committed to improving the quality of inner city dwelling, ‘’BPL strives to create enviable urban living environments designed to accommodate the needs of today, offering exceptional levels of comfort and modern convenience,” she said.

Estate surveyors in fresh membership drive BY JUDE NJOKU HE Estate Surveyors and Va l u e r s Registration Board of Nigeria, ESVARBON and the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Va l u e r s , N I E S V, h a v e begun fresh moves to increase the number of registered estate surveyors and valuers in the country, currently put at 2,888. ESVARB ON Chair man, M r. Ay o d e l e G b a d e b o Sangosanya who disclosed this in Lagos at the induction of 97 newly registered estate surveyors and valuers, explained that 2,888 surveyors is very

inadequate when compared with a national population of over 160 million.. Although Sangosanya did not disclose the modalities for effecting the increase, he assured that standards would not be lowered by the exercise. The E S VA R B O N chairman who told the inductees that the stamps, seals and certificates awarded to them are properties of the Board, warned that it (Board) would not hesitate to “ withdraw these items at any time, if abused”. “The rules and regulations of the Board

should guide any estate surveyor and valuer and their violation will not be tolerated. Therefore, the ethics and ethos of the profession should be carefully guarded by all a n d s u n d r y, ” h e s a i d , adding that integrity is the hallmark of professional success. Delivering the charge to the inductees, a former chairman of the Board, M r. Tu n d e Adegbemile told them to make a difference in the profession, noting that estate surveying is much more than estate agency, a field that is invaded by all

From left: Mr. Adegbemile, Bode Adediji and Ayo Sangosanya at the event

comers and quacks. But Adegbemile’s charge that the young estate surveyors should not practise as limited liability companies or use pseudo names varied with the submission of NIESV P r e s i d e n t , M r. E m e k a Eleh. Eleh told the inductees to jettison the idea of establishing one-man firms because they have become outdated. He enjoined them to come together and form mega firms which is the thing in vogue all over the world. The NIESV President said the constitution of NIESV has been amended to pave way for people to operate as limited liability companies and under pseudo names. He cited the case of Knight Frank which has existed for years and is still waxing strong as an example of a megapractice firm. Mr. Eleh enjoined the inductees to identify with the ten faculties established by the institution. According to him, such membership will help them to acquire the relevant knowledge in the various aspects of the profession as well as boost their professional competencies. He used the occasion to renew the call for a reform of the country land tenure system.

Sand Soft per tipper load ---N13,000 Sharp double tipper load--N23,000 Gravel double tipper load--N25,000 Gravel single tipper load--N18,000 Granite per tipper load---N120,000 Reinforcement 8 mm (153) pieces per ton --N125,000 10 mm (153) pieces per ton--N136,000 12 mm (93) pieces per ton--N161,000 16 mm (93) pieces per ton--N172,000 20 mm (53) pieces per ton--N122,000 Woods Timber (hard) 1x1x12--N1,000 Timber (hard) 2x2x12---N800 Timber (hard) 2x4x12---N700 Softwood 2x2x12---N260 2x3x12---N300 Plywood 3x3x8---N3,500 2x4x8---N2,400 Roofing Sheets Corrugated iron sheets per bundle---N10,000 Asbestos (Super) 4x8 per piece--N1,600 Asbestos (Solo) 4x6 per piece--N1,500 Wall tiles (ceramic) 6 x 6 per square metre-------------------------------------N1,200 20 x 20 (China) per square metre-------------------------N1,100 20 x 25 (China) per square metre-------------------------N1,400 Floor tiles (ceramic) 14 x 14 (Spain) per square metre-------------------------N1,800 14 x 14 (Brazil) per square metre------------------------N1,420 13 x 13 (Spain) per square metre------------------------N1, 550 45 x 45 (Spain) per square metre------------------------N1,900 40 x 40 (Marble Spain) per square metre--------------N3,800 30 x 30 (Marble Spain) per square metre--------------N2,000 Plumbing Materials Galvanised conduit pipes per length 20 mm diameter -----------------------------------------N170 25 mm diameter------------------------------------------N170 PVC conduit pipes 20 mm diameter per length ----------------------------N120 25 mm diameter per length-----------------------------N130 Source-----------Cement tiles and building materials market along Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—31

BY JUDE NJOKU

he transformation agenda of the Senator Ibikunle Amosun-led administration in Ogun State appears to be yielding fruits going by the harvest of completed and ongoing projects in various parts of the state. Some of the projects include the expansion of the 2.4 Kilometre Ita-Eko/ Sokori/Totoro road into dual lane at a cost of N1.3bn and the 600-metre Ibara GRA/ Onikolobo road to serve as a detour to the Panseke/ Onikolobo road. Both projects have been completed. The government has also awarded the contract for the construction of the 32km Sango/Ijoko-Agbado/OkeAro/Akute/Ojodu Abiodun road to Messrs Prado E. Mercedos, a Brazilian construction firm. The bypass according to the Commissioner for Works and infrastructure, Mr. Olamilekan Adegbite, will relieve motorists going to the GRA and nearby areas of the traffic bottlenecks they go through especially around the Panseke area of the state capital. Adegbite disclosed that the thrust of the thrust of Gov. Ibikunle Amosun’s infrastructural provision agenda is a zero tolerance to potholes on roads, upgrade

Ogun awards 32km Sango-Ijoko Agbado road to Brazilian firm

Ita-Eko/Sokori/Totoro road commissioned last week of the existing roads through constant maintenance and reconstruction of such roads as well as opening up new roads where necessary. he commissioner told newsmen who inspected some of the projects last week that the decision of the government to expand the Ita-Eko/ Sokori/Totoro road from a single lane to a dual carriageway so as to relieve the Abeokuta city centre of traffic gridlock and enhance

the value of properties along the road. The government, he said, has embarked upon the second phase of the road project, which involves the construction of a flyover for the use of motorists going to the Ibara area, while those going to Omida, Panseke, Onikolobo and Quarry Road can use the regular road. To pave way for the expansion, some residential

and commercial buildings were pulled down but the government said it has paid c o m m e n s u r a t e compensations to the owners of the affected properties. Adegbite said six new houses had been built for those who preferred that arrangement, while those who wanted money had been paid. The newly completed road has pedestrian side-walks

on either side, opened and covered drains, in addition to bold markings. Street lights will be incorporated into the second phase. Similarly, a green park to beautify the area and serve as recreation centre is being developed at the point where the Ita-Eko and Sokori roads met.

ov. Amosun had at the road’s commissioning ceremony, explained that the urban

Climate Watch

renewal programme of his administration was hinged on road construction and rehabilitation, which was vital to the development of the state. “Road construction and rehabilitation will open up not only the Abeokuta metropolis to commercial and industrial development, but also to provide easy access to the other parts of the state and engender total development,” he said. The governor promised that 10 standard roads like the Ita-Eko/Sokori/Totoro road would be constructed in different parts of the state within the next one year. Adegbite said the government had also concluded plans to award contracts for the construction of the 5.6km Somorin/Ajebo road in Abeokuta; 20km Obalende/ Lagos Garage/ Oke Owa/ Ilese road in Ijebu-Ode; 60km Ilara/Ijoun/Eggua/Oja-Odan road and the seven-kilometre Sagamu- Benin Expressway junction/Remo Secondary School roundabout/Isale Oko/Akarigbo Road in Sagamu. The commissioner said, “Apart from the state capital, other places where the ministry is working are in all divisions of the state, especially in the maintenance of roads and flood control projects where drains, culverts and bridges were constructed.

Despite over 500 internationally agreed goals, World still unsustainable—UNEP HE world continues to speed down an unsustainable path despite over 500 internationally agreed goals and objectives to support the sustainable management of the environment and improve human wellbeing, according to a new and wide-ranging assessment coordinated by the United Nations E n v i r o n m e n t

Programme, UNEP. The fifth edition of the Global Environmental Outlook GEO-5, launched on the eve of the Rio+20 summit, assessed 90 of the mostimportant environmental goals and objectives and found that significant progress had only been made in four. These are eliminating the production and use of substances that deplete

the ozone layer, removal of lead from fuel, increasing access to improved water supplies and boosting research to reduce pollution of the marine environment.. Some progress was shown in 40 goals, including the expansion of protected areas such as National Parks and efforts to reduce deforestation. Little or no progress was detected for

24 - including climate change, fish stocks, and desertification and drought. Further deterioration was posted for eight goals including the state of the world’s coral reefs while no assessment was made of 14 other goals due to a lack of data. The report cautions that if humanity does not urgently change its ways, several critical

thresholds may be exceeded, beyond which abrupt and generally irreversible changes to the life-support functions of the planet could occur. “If current trends continue, if current patterns of production and consumption of natural resources prevail and cannot be reversed and ‘decoupled’, then governments will preside over

Take smoky automobiles off Lagos roads —Jibunoh BY KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

N order to reduce emissions from automobiles and generating sets in Lagos, an environmentalist Dr Newton Jibunoh has called on the State government expand the operations of Bus Rapid Transport BRT, saying this would assist in ridding the city of of the menace of smoky vehicles which constitute the major

cause of pollution and degradation in the mega-city.. Dr Jibunoh who is the founder of the Fight against desert encroachment FADE Africa made the call last week at a debate organised by Foundation For Better Environment FABE in conjunction with Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency LASEPA to mark this year ’s World Environment Day, WED. Students of the Moshood Abiola Univer-

sity, formerly University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, Yaba College of Technology, Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education and Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka debated on the topic “Green Economy: Does It Include You?’’. Jibunoh noted that until something is done to check the menace of Okada riders and generating sets, Lagosians will be taking 10 steps backward and five steps

forward. The FADE boss who advised Nigerians to imbibe the culture of walking, cited Kenya as a country where people take to long walks as fitness exercise. ‘’In Kenya, you see people trekking distance between say Ebute Metta and Lagos Island. Many Kenyans take part in this long trek and that is why they excel in long distance races. But here in Nigeria, we prefer to use vehicles to cover the

slightest distance and this is not helping the individual”, he said. Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Titi Anibaba said that the debate was the first step in the efforts to involve students of tertiary institutions in the bottom-up approach to environmental management in the state.

unprecedented levels of damage and degradation,” said UN Under-Secretary General and UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner. But it’s not all bad news. The report says meeting an ambitious set of sustainability targets by the middle of the century is possible if current policies and strategies are changed and strengthened, and gives many examples of successful policy initiatives, including public investment, green accounting, sustainable trade, the establishment of new markets, technological innovation and capacity building. GEO-5 also points out that where international treaties and agreements have tackled goals with specific, measurable targets-such as the bans on ozone-depleting substances and lead in petrol-they have d e m o n s t r a t e d considerable success.

32—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

UK property: Reforms could hamper social mobility —Report T

HE coalition government’s spending cuts and welfare reforms risk hindering housing providers’ attempts to boost social mobility, according to a new report. Social mobility and social housing will be published tomorrow at the Chartered Institute of Housing’s annual conference in Manchester by Inside Housing and the CIH with support from Gentoo. It finds many social landlords provide a range of activities which can help social mobility, including apprenticeships, youth activities and help with financial inclusion. But it warns that cuts to grant funding, the economic landscape and welfare reforms could leave associations struggling to maintain these activities. The report says: ‘Savings and surpluses

which social housing providers have been able to redirect from their mainstream business to their community investment programmes may now be under pressure.’ The report follows an inquiry by politicians chaired by Lord Richard Best, which collected evidence from housing providers and academics. Lord Best said: ‘Social landlords are actually doing a lot more than people appreciate and realise and all of this is clearly making a significant difference in getting people into jobs.’

owever, he cau tioned that these activities might be cut back as finances get tight. The study finds it would be a mistake for landlords to neglect the provision of affordable homes in pursuit of am-

NVIRONMENT Minister, Mrs. Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafia has assured German investors of Nigeria’s willingness to partner with them in the establishment waste recycling facilities in the country. Receiving a delegation led by Mr. Michael Struve, an engineer in Abuja last week, Mrs. Mailafia said ‘’the government is determined to scale up investment in green infrastructure, including energy, transport, agriculture and other development activities through publicprivate partnership with reputable national and international entities which will include you.” The Minister stated that opportunities for public-private partnership and investment existed in the areas of resource recycling for paper, glass and metal scraps, recovering of materials such as compost as well as recovery of energy through biological or thermal processes. “We require the establishment of adequate facilities for hazardous waste management, medical waste, elec-

tronic waste, persistent organic pollutants POPS, investment in clean energy and low carbon t e c h n o l o g i e s , remediation of oil impacted areas, management of end of life vehicles. What we want is delivery of a system that is not complicated for us to manage, and a system that will create jobs for our people,” she said. The Minister recalled various efforts of the Federal Government towards sustainable Waste Man-

Council Flat bitious initiatives to tackle social mobility. Ken Perry, chief executive of housing association Plus Dane, which contributed to the SMASH report, said landlords should work together to maintain schemes to promote social mobility despite funding constraints. The report also finds there is no evidence to

suggest social housing causes social problems or leads to disadvantage, although it warns about the risk of stigmatisation. Grainia Long, chief executive of the CIH, said: ‘The communities social landlords work in can really benefit from efforts to create employment opportunities, mix incomes and support education.’

agement in the country including the enhancement of regulatory frameworks, through the establishment of enforcement agencies like NESREA and NOSDRA. According to her, the country’s position as the most populous nation in Africa posed immense environmental challenges, with the monumental generation of wastes, whether solid or otherwise. Responding, Mr. Michael Struve la-

mented the damage which inadequate and improper use of the environment had visited on the nation. He promised to assist the country with a very powerful German company, if the Ministry of Environment signed a Memorandum of Understanding MOU, with them. He said they would deploy modern technology to address the issue of waste management in an environmentally friendly way.

Streamline roles of emergency agencies —EPAN BY LAJA THOMAS

he three tiers of gov ernment have been called upon to streamline the roles of fire and rescue and emergency agencies, to ensure discipline, orderliness and professionalism during emergency as experienced in Sunday’s Dana plane crash at Iju, Lagos. The agencies include the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, State Emergency Management Agencies, SEMA, as well the Police, Civil Defence Corps, First Aid ambulance

NYCAN lauds Reps for passage of climate change commission bill HE Nigeria Youth Climate Action Network, NYCAN has lauded the House of Representatives for the passage of a Bill for the establishment of the National Climate Change Commission. This is the second time the House is passing the Bill after the harmonised version that was sent to the President was not assented to before the expiration of the last assembly. The NGO in a statement commend the determination of the House, saying “this singular act has again demonstrated its commitment in setting up a strong institution to coordinate the multifaceted nature of climate change governance. It also reveals the desire of the House to protect the future of the younger generations because the youth are going to bear the greater brunt of the effects of climate change if not adequately addressed”. The Bill National Climate Change Commission seeks to give the commission the responsibility to regulate and coordinate policies and actions on climate change in Nigeria. The group said it welcomes this development coming at a time that Nigeria will be joining the rest of the world in Brazil to discuss strategies of promoting green economy and sustainable

Waste recycling plants: Nigeria to collaborate with German investors BY KINGSLEY ADEGBOYE

PROPERTY BRIEFS

Services and Federal Roads Safety Corps FRSC. The call was made by the Fire Protection Association of Nigeria, FPAN, while reviewing the status of emergency preparedness by responders, as shown at the scene of Dana plane crash. Briefing newsmen last week in Lagos, the Vice Chairman of the Association, Mr Dominic Aigbogun said: “As far back as 1998 when terrorism was alien to Nigeria, Fire Protection Association of Nigeria

has been advocating for fire service restructuring and capacity building for handling of emergency. The advocacy was carried to Senate during the attempt to amend the 1999 Constitution in the National Assembly, and to the Political reform Committee set up in 2005 by President Olusegun Obasanjo. It is encouraging to note that our submission was given impetus by that committee”. The association decried what it described as neglect of the fire service sector by government.

NCF, IUCN mourn Prof Obot HE Nigerian Conservation Foundation, NCF, has described the death of its Executive Director, Professor Emmanuel Asuquo Obot in the ill-fated Dana Airline Crash last Sunday in Lagos as a tragedy and a monumental disaster to the cause of environmental conservation in Nigeria and the world. “The loss of this committed environmentalist is a big loss for the struggle to have biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in Nigeria especially at this period when his technical expertise and experience would be most needed to drive the efforts to tackle the huge environmental challenges facing Nigeria. The only tribute that can be paid to the memory of this fallen hero is to remain resolute and committed in the struggle for nature conservation and sustainable development,” the NGO said. A renowned Professor of Botany, Professor Emmanuel Obot contributed immensely to environmental issues and sustainable development in Africa in general and Nigeria in particular.

Reconstruction of Ozumba-Mbadiwe road AGOS State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Femi Hamzat has commended commuters plying the Ozumba Mbadiwe axis where there is ongoing construction for adhering to the diversion notice by the State Government. The Commissioner, who visited the road to inspect the level of compliance with the diversion and also witness the take off of the construction, noted that “though there was an initial heavy traffic on the first day of the diversion, which is to be expected, but commuters had easily adjusted and had used alternative routes as announced”. He reiterated government’s commitment to improving the quality of infrastructure, saying “ultimately the construction will improve the travel time and impact on business and the quality of life of citizens who are able to get to work quickly with less hassle”. While stating that the on-going development will complete the reconstruction already undertaken from Ajah to Falomo Bridge, Hamzat said in spite of the initial discomfort occasioned by the diversion, the sacrifices are not in vain as the people are the ultimate beneficiary.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

C M Y K

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34—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

19 years after June 12

*Abiola: Victory is certain

Jonathan’s jumpsuit to revival?

ABIOLA:

ITH its popularity on a nosedive it looked like a masterstroke for the Goodluck Jonathan administration to anchor its revival on the name of Moshood Abiola. That was the name which eighteen years ago defied ethnic and religious biases in what has remained the freest and fairest presidential election that was ironically annulled by the ruling military junta. Faced with popular revolt over its seemingly rudderless response to the insecurity situation in the country, a listless war against corruption and the bad blood flowing from last January’s removal of the alleged subsidy in petrol prices, it could have been a politically sagacious gambit.

C M Y K

A DECISION by the administration to honour the martyr of the June 12, 1993 election rekindles debate on MKO Abiola’s place in history. That perhaps may have dictated the decision of the administration to rename the University of Lagos after the martyr of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. However, as with many policies of the administration, its good intentions have been so badly conveyed and have now turned into a disastrous public relations nightmare for the government. As President Goodluck Jonathan tailed off his May 29 Democracy Day speech two weeks ago many Nigerians were yet looking for something to go away with that Tuesday. As he rounded up his 5,636 worded speech

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, POLITICAL EDITOR

..as with many policies of the administration, its good intentions have been so badly conveyed and have now turned into a disastrous public relations nightmare for the government

the president crossed the line that even his more adventurous predecessors had so much ignored. President Olusegun Obasanjo who was the immediate beneficiary of

Abiola’s martyrdom perhaps for childhood rivalry reasons or some other unfathomable considerations, did not contemplate any honour for Obasanjo. Indeed for his eight years in office, the name Abiola was not mentioned in

public by Obasanjo. President Umaru Yar‘Adua who succeeded him in 2007 may have been more forthcoming but illness did not allow him to fully manifest. So it may have seemed logical for the Jonathan presidency to pick on where angels dared to dread for a bounce in public goodwill with its decision to honour Abiola. President Jonathan’s path to rediscover the goodwill that shadowed his emergence is now bogged with the decision to rename UNILAG after the deceased politician and international businessman who died in incarceration in 1998 following his insistence on assuming the mandate he won in the 1993 election. The reaction to the decision has been largely flayed for its lack of consultation. It also betrayed ignorance of the law establishing the university. Though a bill has now been submitted to the National Assembly for that purpose, the question in some lips is what if the National Assembly rejects the presidential bill. W hile stakeholders of UNILAG muse that the decision would diminish or distract from the university brand, others grumble about a coyness on the part of the administration in relocating Abiola’s national brand to a Southwest brand by naming a Southwest institution after him. Suggestions by some democracy stakeholders including Prof. Omo Omoruyi, who was director general of the Ibrahim Babangida era democracy training institution, Centre for Democratic Studies, CDS have tilted towards honouring Abiola with a national public holiday. That suggestion is in the mould of the celebration of the Martin Luther federal holiday in the United States which started as a public holiday in some states in the US. Remarkably, all the states in Abiola’s base in the Southwest have declared today, June 12 as a public holiday. Suggestive of the mark of distinction Abiola deserves for his sacrifice, President Jonathan in his May 29 address had said: “He deserves recognition for his martyrdom, and publicspiritedness and for being the man of history that he was.” But eighteen years after the landmark untainted election that united Nigerians across religious and ethnic strands, the issue of placing Abiola among the heroes of the fatherland remains an issue. Jonathan almost got it.

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—35

19 years after June 12 RENAMING UNILAG:

Will the NASS give Jonathan its nod on Abiola? BY OKEY NDIRIBE

C M Y K

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s May 29th broadcast immortalising Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola by naming the University of Lagos (UNILAG) after him has raised fresh hopes in some quarters that perhaps sometime in future June 12 would also be declared a national public holiday in honour of the popular politician. President Jonathan’s decision to give his democracy day’s pronouncement on Abiola a legal backing may also attract popular endorsement at the National Assembly. Infact, there are indications that the bill will likely sail through at the House of Representatives but not without a storm. Several members of the House of Representatives who spoke to Vanguard on the proposed law have commended the President for the move. In a telephone interview Rep William Samuel representing Abeokuta South Federal Constituency in Ogun State said it was a good move on the part of President Jonathan. According to him:” It is a good thing that President Jonathan has yielded to wise counsel for the purpose of giving legal teeth to his decision on the renaming of University of Lagos to Moshood Abiola University. This is because that university was created by an existing Act of Parliament which gave it that name. It is now he has decided to put the horse before the cart. When he made his announcement, what he did was tantamount to putting the cart before the horse.” He said even though the bill had been received by the House, it was yet to be deliberated upon by members of the lower legislative house. Hon. Samuel also believes more consultations ought to have been made by the President before he announced his decision. Said he: “The President Should have engaged in wider consultations with bodies like the Governing Council of the University and others before announcing his decision. It is a good thing to immortalize Abiola but the contentious issue is which institution should have been chosen. All the same the bill that was sent to the House of Representatives has to go through first and second readings. If at the end of the day majority of members of the House support it, the bill would then

the institution also has the right to do what it did”. Commenting to the bill, Hon. Usman Shehu Bawa representing Kaduna North said he expected Abiola to have been immortalized with a sporting facility like a stadium because of his enormous contribution to sports in the country. Said he:”Abiola did more for sports in the country than he did for education. Although the decision is a good one because Abiola also fought for democracy. What the students of that university did was also right because you cannot just wake up one day and rename such an old university.” He maintained that President Jonathan should have a rethink about his decision since his approach was wrong. Said he: “There are many people who attended that institution because of the name. If the people don’t want something, there is no reason why the President shouldn’t change his decision on it.”

consensus that Abiola should be immortalized but people had differed on how it should be done. Said she: “Some have suggested that Democracy Day should have been renamed Abiola Day because UNILAG pigeon-holes Abiola even though he was a national figure. Others have also said a stadium should have been named after him since he also contributed so much to the sports sector” She further stated that in her own view, the location of the institution named after Abiola didn’t matter so long as the location is still within the country. “I believe the President’s action would be appreciated by the Abiola family especially when you consider the fact that the late politician and his wife were killed during the struggle for the restoration of democratic rule in the country” she said. However, not all the lawmakers endorsed the President’s decision. Rt. Hon. Olisa Imegwu representing Ndokwa East/Ndokwa West/Ukwuani

The President Should have engaged in wider consultations with bodies like the Governing Council of the University and others before announcing his decision

*Abiola: Died in the struggle become a law”. In his own remarks Hon. Yusuf Lasun representing Irepodun/ Olorunda/Osogbo/Orolu Federal Constituency hailed President Jonathan for his action. Said he: “For the first time since he became President, Goodluck Jonathan has done the right thing.” He tongue-lashed students of the University of Lagos who embarked on street protests to indicate their rejection of the name change. Said he: “Don’t mind students of that university who embarked on street protest over the President’s decision.They have no business with the name of the institution. The issues they should be preoccupied with are the quality of the education they are receiving and the environment in which they are staying” He further stated that former University of Ife was renamed Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-ife the day he graduated from the institution, but the students of the institution at the time didn’t embark on any protest because they knew what the late Awolowo stood for when he was alive. He continued:” I will like to identify with what Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State said about the UNILAG students protest. He maintained that the students couldn’t appreciate the importance of the posthumous

honour that had been bestowed on the late Abiola perhaps because they were too young to know the role played by the late politician in the struggle to restore democracy in Nigeria.” He added it was a good way to immortalize Abiola. In his own contribution to the debate, Hon.Oluwadara Dauda representing Akoko North-East/ West Federal Constituency said the Federal Government had the right to rename the university since the institution belonged to the Government. Said he: “ I don’t have anything against it but those who are opposed to it must have their reasons and that is the beauty of democracy. The Federal Government which took the decision to change the name of

Speaking to Vanguard on the issue Hon Eucharia Azodo welcomed President Jonathan’s pronouncement adding that so many universities in the country had been renamed in the past. aid she: “For instance, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (NAU) was formerly Anambra State University. It is a good idea to immortalize Abiola. Those that are opposed to the idea may not have known about the late politician and his contribution to the nation’s democracy. Those UNILAG students were probably too young to appreciate what Abiola went through in his struggle for the restoration of democratic rule in the country” Expressing her own view on the matter Hon. Nkoyo Toyo representing Calabar Municipal/ Odukpani Federal Constituency said there was a general

Federal Constituency in his own remarks said: “UNILAG as an institution doesn’t deserve to be named after somebody whose name is tainted. Yes, Abiola died for democracy but remember he was pressurized to return home to lay claim to his mandate before he was arrested. This was a proven sign of cowardice. How about reports that he fraternized with the military regimes of Gen. Babangida and Abacha and allegedly sponsored some of the coup d’etats they organized? Have we bothered to find out the circumstances surrounding his ownership of ITT? With these issues unresolved, renaming UNILAG would taint the institution. Such an important institution shouldn’t be aligned with a stigma but should be spotless”.

Pro-democracy activists speak BY DAPO AKINREFON

Without June 12, there won’t be May 29 — Ayo Adebanjo, former NADECO chieftain I agree with what the public opinion says, it is to get a Federal Government institution named after him and the consensus of opinion

seems to be the National Stadium at Abuja or in Lagos. We would not want him to be remembered by a monument that is controversial. I want us to acknowledge the good intentions of the president, but I also want the president to take note of the objection raised by responsible citizens in the country. It is worthwhile, we commend him (Jonathan) for remembering to immortalize

him (Abiola); his predecessors did not pay attention to it. If a Yoruba man, who was in office for eight years, did not want to mention him, he (Jonathan) should be commended. But I wish he (Jonathan) consider the opinion of those who are objecting to renaming the University of Lagos after him. I don’t support the condemnation Continues on page 36

36—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

19 years after June 12

Omoruyi, Ihonvbere, Obadan proffer solution

*Abiola: Stakeholders demand national holiday for him BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

ORMER Director General of the Center for Democratic Studies (CDS), Prof.Omo Omoruyi, second Republic Senator, Senator Francis Okpozo, former Deputy Governor of Edo State,Rev Peter Obadan and

former Presidential Adviser on Project Monitoring,Prof,Julius Ihonvbere, weekend, said the best way to immortalize the acclaimed winner of the June 12 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola is to declare June 12 a public holiday or to rename the International Airport in Lagos after him. Omoruyi who also is a

political scientist, noted that the renaming of the University of Lagos after Abiola is “one thing but I won’t say that is the best. A public holiday for him is ideal, like we have in America Martin Lurther King Day. It is a day to be set aside when we all learn democracy, one person one vote. "MKO Abiola Day should be set aside and allowed to be adopted in all the states. It is like when they made Martin Luther King Day a public holiday, some states in America did not adopt it until later. So the same thing can be done here because the university is too local for him, it is too restricted”. On his part, Senator Okpozo asserted that “If Abiola merits a national honour, that honour must be political in nature because his own idea was to change the political system from military to civilian administration. And any title given to him should not be localized. Renaming UNILAG after him is not commensurate to the political impact he made in this country. That does not mean that I do not appreciate the effort Mr President made." "Abiola did well in the political emancipation of this country. Because he was the one who confronted the military

and brought us to civilian rule after the demise of the first and second republic which were truncated by the military. "I suggest that Lagos International Airport should be named after Abiola. And Mr President should consider it because Abiola’s victory was hailed both in Nigeria and outside. That is better than putting him as the Head Master of a school. I therefore urge Mr President to amend that bill to reflect my suggestion to name the Lagos International Airport to MKO Abiola Airport as it was done to Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport. This will ease the tension being created by the unions connected to UNILAG”. n his part, Ihonvbere said that Abiola won a national election which he was denied of and he paid the supreme sacrifice for the nation. And it was the recognition of the price that he paid that an Obasanjo became possible from the South West." "There are many monuments in Abuja that could have been named after him. People have always been calling that the National Stadium should be named after him because of the role he played in sports development in this country. "I believe that the University of Lagos was not the wisest and

best decision to take especially now that we all know that sufficient consultation was not done. Again, I believe that June 12 should have been made a public holiday, even if it is a working holiday. "So for me, there are two ways you can honour him, declare June 12 a public holiday or you have the National Stadium named after him or you go to his state and name the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta to Moshood Abiola University of Agriculture if it is a university you are looking for. What is particular about university of Lagos, so for me personally I don’t like the choice of UNILAG it should have been else where”. Obadan noted that “what the President did is good but we would have preferred a pronouncement that Abiola won the June 12 1993 election, therefore he should henceforth be addressed as President with all the benefits accrued to a President. While I appreciate the good intension of the President which ought to have been done after due consultation, those of us in NADECO would have been happier if he had been declared President. That would have ended all the bickering connected to June 12”.

Pro-democracy activists speak Continues on page 35 that is attached to it, but we must acknowledge his good intentions and make suggestions as to how best he could be remembered without any controversy. Keeping the legacy of June 12, is to declare that day as a public holiday. We should declare that day as democracy day instead of May 29. Without June 12, there would not be May 29. May 29 is the creation of the military, if we did not fight for it, there would not have been a day known as democracy day.

National Stadium should be nmed after him —Olu Falae

In his lifetime, Abiola loved to be known as the African pillar of sports. That is the title he was given and which he enjoyed using. My humble opinion is that, since he won a national mandate to become the President of Nigeria, the way to immortalize him, is to look for national monuments or landmarks to commemorate him, I will recommend that the National Stadium in Abuja to be named MKO Abiola stadium. That is something he would very much cherish. Secondly, if we really want to immortalize him, June 12 should be named democracy day and not May 29. May 29 has no significance for Nigeria. I understand May 29 was the day that Usman Dan Fodio conquered the Hausa

*Fasoranti: Jonathan's intention good but.. states in the north. Whoever chose May 29, is provoking Nigerians.

*Falae: Demands June 12 national holiday

We don't need name changes for him — Dr Fredrick

Faseun, OPC founder I don’t think we need all Continues on page 37

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—37

BY SAMINU IBRAHIM

INETEEN years after annulment of June 12th election, any relevance? Well the annulment of June 12 elections in 1993 which was believed to be overwhelmingly won by late Chief Moshood Abiola under the platform of Social Democratic Party SDP, cannot be swept away, especially to all democrats and people who want the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria. MKO Abiola struggled to uphold the aspiration and will of Nigerians to transform military rule to democratic rule, but was unfortunately aborted by the then military junta. Nigerians up till now believe the June 12 election is the most credible, freest and fairest election ever conducted in the history of Nigeria politics. But the junta was not comfortable with the way and manner the winner of the election was declared. Some people in this country looked at the election as inconclusive, but in reality the election was concluded; because as at that time, the chairman of National Electoral Commission , NEC Professor Humphrey Nwosu resigned his position in protest. A lot of democrats were also arrested and detained by IBB who was the head of the country. June 12 is very controversial and very disturbing in the history of Nigeria politics. We need to celebrate this day, June 12 and we also need to remember this day, because it is a great day to all democrats. We need to remember MKO Abiola and also remember the annulment. It was meant to terminate military rule but was aborted. June 12 led to exit of IBB. Is there any lesson the

19 years after June 12

UNILAG, too small for MKO — Shinkafi, APGA scribe THE national secretary of the All Progressives Grand Alliance APGA, Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi opines that Nigerians would resist any attempt to annul future elections in the country on account of the sacrifice of Moshood Abiola adding that President Goodluck Jonathan as a beneficiary of Abiola’s sacrifice should immortalise him with a great national monument. Excerpts: nation could derive from June 12? What we have learnt is first of all Nigerians will not take it any more from any government- whether military or civilian to wake up over night and cancel elections believed to be won by the candidate of any political party. And we are going to resist any attempt to annul any election in this country again. Going by the 1999 constitution as amended it is only the election petition tribunal, or court of appeal tribunal or Supreme Court that can cancel any election. No President or Governor has power as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution to annul elections. We have learnt a lot if not because of the June 12 annulment, Nigeria would have by now been celebrating 19 years of democratic rule. But now we are just 13 years in democratic rule. The military has taken us backward. Attempt to immortalise MKO Abiola has generated protest, what is the way out? The Federal Government has not done justice to late Chief MKO Abiola by

*Shinkafi renaming of University of Lagos after the man. Abiola is a great nationalist who fought

for democracy in Nigeria. The Federal Government should name an edifice that would

Pro-democracy activists speak

federal government should mark it as a holiday because it is the real freedom day.

Continues on page 36 these name changes. We can build a monument in any of the universities; we can build a big hall in the University of Lagos and name it MKO hall or rename the Abuja stadium after him because he was known as the pillar of sports in Africa. There are many things the Federal Government can do without the change of any name. If we must change the name, then, we must resort to the law. We can keep the legacy of June 12 by going to a national conference to restructure the country and reform the country.

FG should mark it as holiday — Reuben

have national reflection, not restricted alone to western part of the country. MKO was a nationalist, a great democrat, philanthropist; somebody who fought for the survival of democracy. I mean somebody who forced the military back to the barracks. President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is a beneficiary of the Abiola struggle. So tell me how can he (Jonathan) name UNILAG after the great nationalist? Why can’t he name National Stadium after Abiola. The man apart from being a great politician contributed immensely to sports development in our country. Why can’t he name a very important national place after MKO? To me UNILAG is too small for Abiola. Let Jonathan look for a big national monument and not restrict Abiola to university of Lagos. However I call on students of University of Lagos to remain very calm and embrace peace. The President of Federal Republic of Nigeria has forwarded the bill to National Assembly for consideration. Let the students wait for debate on the bill renaming the university at the National Assembly. If the bill is unpopular it will be thrown out, but if majority of our legislators say yes and uphold the request of Mr. President, then the students will have nothing to do but to embrace the rule of law.

Recognize June 12 as democracy day— Yinka Odumakin, SNG spokesman

*Faseun, Odumakin, Adebanjo: All three activists demand national holiday for Abiola

Fasoranti, National leaders, Afenifere I think the best way to go about it is to name one monument, which is not

controversial, after him and what comes to my mind is the National Stadium. It is not as controversial as the University of Lagos; more so that he was

a keen supporter and promoter of sports. That is the way I look at it. June 12 is a landmark in the history of this country; the

Tuesday politics JUNE 10

The best way to immortalize Abiola is to recognize June 12 as democracy day because that was what Abiola died for and that was the day that Nigeria got a template for her to solve all its problems. The best way we can immortalize him is to recognize June 12 as Democracy Day and declare Abiola post humously as a former president of Nigeria; any other thing is an addition. The main thing is to place June 12 in the history of this country.

38—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Tenant’s tales: ‘My landlord killed my wife’ (3) him I would like to sell everything off to him. But since I know that he could not afford to pay, I will give his daughter two sewing machines and dispose of the rest. I could see he was not very happy but he thanked me and left. Later that night, baba came back again to in-

i,the problems associated with landlord versus tenant relationship are innumerable. From indiscriminate hikes in rent to molestations over how occupants manage the premises. In extreme cases, landlords and tenants have had to trade punches or taken their grieviances to the courts of law. Almost every tenant has a story or another to tell about their landlords, from the bizzare to the hillarious. Stories of greed, jealousy and hatred and of course, kindness and love. Our first respondent, Amune,(42), Manager with an oil firm, shares a peculiar story. He claims his wife was murdered by his landlord. Why? Follow us as he continues his story below. Happy reading! When I told him I would have to think over it and discuss with Carol’s family members as some of them might have interest in the machines as well, baba landlord asked if I was not the person who bought the machines. I affirmed that I was and he then told me I should not allow anyone to use sentiments on me.That as Carol’s husband and the one who bought the machines for her, I had the final say on whatever I wanted to do with them. When I asked Carol’s sister all the same, she told me to dispose of the things as I pleased since none of their family members was interested in the business. A few weeks later, baba came to ask me what my decision was and I told

using the shop. Otherwise, I could calculate the money and deduct it from the house rent. I told him it would not be necessary to do that and the matter ended there. However before baba left, he made a comment that sent me off my balance.

He concluded that since Carol was now dead, I should not close my mind to the possibility of a relationship with his daughter and that I will have his blessings to do anything with her

form me that he was going to borrow some money from his co-operative society to enable him pay for the embroidery machine and the rent on the shop, so that his daughter could continue to use the place. He asked me to give him some time to make the arrangements. To cut the story short, baba took over two sewing machines, an embroidery machine and the shop. We only had three months payment left at the shop because we paid annually. The other things were disposed of and baba only paid N20,000 out of the 75,000 I’d demanded from him. The night baba came to give me the money, he’d pleaded in his usual gentle manner that the loan had not come through and that he’d had to borrow the money from his wife’s petty business. He promised that they will start paying as soon as his daughter starts

He’d asked how I was coping without Carol and the children, if they were ever coming back to live with me. It was not an usual thing to ask, so I just answered him. Then he asked after my social life, especially my sex life. He told me it was not a wise thing for a man to remain single for too long after his wife dies. He said the spirit of the dead woman will start haunting him and will not allow him remarry. Besides, he said, a young man who has experienced what marriage is about should not be left to his own devise for too long. As if joking, he told me that he has a daughter who he was sure will make me a good wife and knows she really likes me too. He said he thought I liked her when I first moved into their house and that we even had something going on between us. He was surprised when he started seeing Carol and was forced to ask his

daughter if we had quarrelled, only to discover that we were just friends and I was even treating her like a younger sister. He said he was sure Carol was not destined to be my wife and must have charmed me, as I eventually married her. Her behaviour towards everyone was also a confirmation of her bad upbringing. He concluded that since Carol was now dead, I should not close my mind to the possibility of a relationship with his daughter and that I will have his blessings to do anything with her. She is young and teachable, he concluded. I was shocked. Immediately, my brain started doing a review of everything and I started piecing all the bits together. Indeed, baba had dropped several hints in that line over the years and I never gave it a serious thought. He used to even call the girl my second wife and I thought nothing about it. I finally came to the conclusion that I could not be far from the truth. Baba’s likeness for me was more than the ordinary. Why had he never increased my own rent even when he did for all the other tenants? Why had he always treated me different even when he would talk to others with annoyance? Everyone called me his son, but I assumed it was just a joke. For all his care, it was not as if baba was the only one making sacrifices, he benefited from me too in several ways. I did not have any soft spot for the girl, at least in an intimate manner and I was sure that the girl did not like me that way too, so why was the man bent on forcing us together? Why was he so desperte for a relationship between us? Finally, I had no choice but to report my fears to my mother, who kept crying and asking over and over, why I had not mentioned anything to anyone before now. She said it was the practice in baba’s part of the country to give their daughters out to whoever they chose.

while the daughter would have no say in the matter, adding that despite the modern technology.

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BY ONOZURE DANIA

Handling difficult sisters-in-law BY ONOZURE DANIA

O you know that as a lady, when you get married to your spouse, you are invariably married to his family? You may not have realized that you were marrying the rest of his family too. If your spouse has sisters, those sisters were in his life long before you came along. Just like you, they love him but they may not exhibit that same love and respect when dealing with their brother’s wife. If you are attempting to handle difficult sisters-inlaw, do not allow negative behaviours to influence your response. Ask your husband for support and work together to make the best of this relationship with your extended family members. Control your response, decide in advance how you will handle your sisters-in-law when they behave inappropriately toward you. Stick to your plan, you cannot dictate the behaviour of your sistersin-law, but you can control your own response. If you need to walk out of the room, please do so, because some sisters-inlaw, can be very difficult to the extent that you might be wondering what is going on, especially if your spouse is not helping matters. If a verbal response is warranted, keep your temper under control. Speak calmly and choose your words carefully. Set boundaries. Talk to your spouse about the issue with your sistersin-law and agree on boundaries. For instance, if a sisterin-law insists on feeding your child unlimited amounts of sweets and ice cream despite your feelings on the matter, make it clear in a nice, but firm way that you have a reason for this parenting decision and that you expect it to be

honoured by the entire family. Ask your husband to intercede in the problems you are having with his sisters and then you put your marriage first and ask your spouse to do the same by backing you up when it comes to issues with your sisters-in-law. Do not ask your spouse to choose between you and his family members but to honour your marriage vows and support you. Talk face to face, ask your sisters-inlaw individually, not as a group, to join you for lunch and talk things out. Behave in a polite, loving manner, treating each as you wish to be treated. Explain that you all love your spouse and you want to get along as a family. Agree to disagree on certain issues but always remain civil and respectful of each other. Set time limits. Agree with your spouse on time limits if your sisters-in-law are constantly at your home or you are in social settings together. Do not feel compelled to spend every minute of every holiday with extended family members. Work out a plan to divide time between relatives. Do not refuse to attend gatherings with the sisters-inlaw but have an exit plan in place and agreed upon with your spouse in advance if an argument or inappropriate behaviour ensues. Let it roll off your back. Do not take every negative incident with your sisters-in-law personally. Choose to let the little things remain little and just move on. Resentment will only hurt you and possibly your relationship with your spouse. If a sister-in-law is behaving in a rude or inappropriate manner, smile, remove yourself from the situation, talk to someone else in the room and remember it is not worth it to lose your cool.

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Vanguard,

GEMINI; Many people are not in the mood to take thing lightly probably because of tension generated by the Moon and Saturn. Thus you’ll need to be prepared to take responsibility of whatever you do and/or say. CANCER; Unnecessary argument can not help your cause today, no matter how logical you think you are. Take domestic issues more seriously than before. LEO; good results, your mood looks less buoyant. Whatever this is the wrong time to gamble with matters of the heart.

—39

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139

TAURUS; It’s important to differentiate between enterprise, gambling and adventure, because you may not go free by unnecessary mistake. Take love very seriously.

TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

LEISURE

YOUR LUCK TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

The sin of laziness VERYONE of us has talent(s) given to us by God, our maker. And God expects us to apply the talent He gave us. He wants us to trade with it and make profit. He expects us to bless humanity with what He

has blessed us with. When we refuse to use the talent given us by God, we are not better than that child that refused the employment given him after all the investment on him by his father.

TERROR MUDA

Remember the parable of the talent? One of the lessons of that parable is that God abhors laziness. And that is why He took the only talent he gave one for refusing to trade with his one

in “Never say goodbye”

talent and added it to that of five. Laziness is a sin. Come to think of it: what could be more sinful than someone refusing to bless humanity with God’s blessing on him? Think about it!

By Kola Fayemi

VIRGO; Since you cant run away from your shadow it is better you face challenges coming your way both at home and in the office. Eventual success’ll be yours very soon. LIBRA; Although, partnership related issues are becoming seriously, today you will need to rely on your creative mind to get the desired results. SCORPIO; Similar to yesterday as money continues to dominate issues. This is the wrong time to rely too heavily on friends either for assistance or advice. SAGITTARIUS; You’ll continue to be relevant in the scheme of things, although you’ll be made to operate under pressure through career/business related affairs but great success indicated for you today. Be stable. CAPRICORN; It’s your day when good luck’ll crown your efforts. The more secretive you are the better for your cause. Avoid unnecessary argument.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

“Princess Shii’

By Andy Akman

AQUARIUS; Reliable associates of yours may unconsciously disappoint you .Nursing false hope may force emotion to run very high. Be patient please. PISCES; If you like to cut-corners you’ll need to prepare for unpleasant surprise as those you least expect’ll disappoint you. Prepare to protect your image. ARIES; Relying on the element of luck today may fail to give you the desired results. Then it’ll be wrong of you to disrespect the law and/or it’s enforcement agents.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send your date and place of birth to the Astrological Counselling, P.M.B 1007, Apapa, Lagos

Who am I?

VIRGINIA

dadadekola@yahoo.com

Dear Joshua, Kindly analyse my star and tell me the type of person I am. Because not only other people do misunderstand me I do not sometimes know myself. Please tell me the truth. Bello, Benin, Dear Bello, As you were born when both career-oriented-Saturn and loving Venus were prominent in the heaven, you are giving to both ambition and love related issues. And with Venus having more powers than Saturn, PEACE, LOVE and harmony will always have final influence whenever you are to take important final decision. As loving, gentle, caring and good hearted as you are, with your final-dispositor (Venus) at 90th degree apart to rebellious Uranus in Kingly Leo, FREEDOM and JUSTICE must come to play before the said love and peace will get your final approval. Naturally Cancer makes it’s natives to appear timid and cool headed but another vigorous aspect in your chart is conjunction formed by aggressive Mars and manipulative Pluto when you were born; thus your will-power is very strong, making it difficult for people to manipulate you at will. To crown it all the Moon (an indicator of sub-conscious-self ) was placed in genius related Aquarius. Therefore will power strengthened by educated mind will always want to have FREEDOM. With your natal Sun (basic selfhood) and Moon placed in Cancer and Aquarius respectively, you are mainly a Cancer born person and partly Aquarian; meaning that basic characteristics of the two said Star sings (Cancer and Aquarius) are highly pronounced in your inner-self.

Commen3

by Lawrence Akapa

40—Vanguard , TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 20125

Edo guber poll: NLC tasks INEC

Ogun PDP raises alarm over plans to blackmail judiciary

BY VICTOR AHIUMAYOUNG IGERIA Labour Con gress, NLC, weekend, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to be extra vigilant and careful in handling the July 14, 2012 election in Edo State and must not allow anyone, including its staff or commissioners to compromise his credibility. NLC in a statement by its Acting President, Mr. Kiri Mohammed, said every registered voter must not only be allowed to freely vote without intimidation and the votes must count, INEC must also not submit to the pressure coming from unscrupulous politicians that federal civil servants should be used as adhoc staff for the election instead of members of the National Youth Service Corps. The statement argued that while the federal civil servants had a role to play in electoral administration, the corps members had proven their capacity for neutrality and willingness to work for free and fair elections as was underscored in the last general elections in the country.

Mrs Notoma, 90, for burial HE death has occurred of Mrs Onovughobe Morherhe Notoma (nee Okpe), aged 90 years of Ekrureren Quarters, Ukplovwin Town, Udu Local Council of Delta State. According to a statement by Scott Notoma and George Notoma, there will be a lying-in-state at her family compound on Saturday, June 16, followed by interment and entertainment of guests. A thanksgiving holds on Sunday, June 17 at God’s Grace Ministry, Ogbe Udu, Delta State.

Late Mrs Notoma C M Y K

BEOKUTA—OGUN State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, yesterday raised the alarm over alleged attempt to blackmail the judiciary. In a statement by its Director of Organisation, Mr. Segun Showunmi, the party said it has uncovered plots by some “desperate and unscrupulous politicians to blackmail the judiciary and judicial officers through petitions.” ROTARY—Mr. Kennedy Ejakpomewhe, former District Governor, Rotary International District 9110 Nigeria (left), frivolous handing over the mantle of leadership to Dr. Kamoru Omotosho (3rd right) as the new District Governor for 2012/ The party wondered why 13 at the Rotary District Conference in Abeokuta, Ogun State, weekend. With them (from right) are Mrs. Susan those who have earned Omotosho, Mrs Nike Maiyaki and Mr. Faroun, all past Presidents of Rotary Club of Ikoyi. “unrivalled reputation for disobeying court orders and judgments will turn round to seek protection from the same institution that they derided through frivolous petitions against fearless and upright judicial officers who are merely doing their jobs based on the evidence before them.” BY EMMA AMAIZE It said the resort to petiernment killed Boko Har- pectation of NDLF that of the former Boko Haram tion writing is a less-thanam leader. leader because he was their former leader, John ARRI—NIGER“If the Federal Govern- Togo, should be compen- killed extra-judicially and clever way to avoid facing DELTA Liberation ment deemed it expedient sated. in same manner, I am not the consequences of their Force, NDLF, a militant to pay compensation to “The matter is a straight- opposed to the compensa- actions and urged the Nagroup based in Delta State, Boko Haram for extra-judi- forward one, I am not option of NDLF because it is tional Judicial Council, yesterday, received support cial murder of its former posed to the payment of the same way its leader was NJC, particularly, the Chief from two Niger-Delta activJustice of Nigeria, CJN, to leader, it is the rightful ex- compensation to the family killed,” she added. ists, Mr Joseph Evah and be wary of such petitions Annkio Briggs, on their and not to act on them “just demand for N1billion from on the face value. Afterall, the Federal Government it is said that he who must over alleged extra-judicial come to equity must come killing of their leader, “Genwith clean hands”. eral” John Togo by Joint BY FESTUS AHON their back on us, which is lowed us to see him, but Task Force, JTF, on the Nicontrary to what their pred- rather harassed us with seGHELLI—MOVE ecessors did. ger-Delta, in 2010. curity men, even though we MENT for Niger DelEvah, National Coordina“Since our new represent- congratulated and paid tor of Ijaw Monitoring ta Peaceful Coexistence, ative came on board, he him solidarity visit when he Group, IMG, and Briggs, has appealed to the Feder- ignored us and never al- was appointed". spokesperson of Ijaw Re- al Government, Izon tradipublican Assembly, IRA, tional rulers and political told Vanguard in separate leaders to intervene in the interviews, that if the Fed- impasse between it and eral Government paid com- Niger Delta Development ...begins sale of forms pensation to the family of Commission, NDDC. The group in a statement KURE—LAND specu shut out of the area. the former Boko Haram lators inhibiting the “The activities of land leader, Mohammed Yusuf alleged that their repreBY MONSOOR OLOWfor extra-judicial murder, sentative in the commis- progress of work at the on- speculators in the state, esOOPEJO there was nothing wrong in sion, Mr. Konboye Ejoko, going mechanized abattoir pecially at the Cattle mardoing same for NDLF lead- who is Director Finance and in Ondo State capital, ket on Ado Ekiti road had AGOS—TO ensure a er, John Togo, also killed Administration, was not car- Akure may have incurred been brought to the notice hitch-free 2012 pilgrimrying them along, despite the wrath of government, as of the government. Illegal age, Lagos State Muslim extra-judicially. illegal structures at the structures of different sizes Pilgrims Welfare Board, will Evah said, “with the com- all entreaties. The statement signed by project site have been or- and shape continue to today began the sale of the pensation paid to Boko Harspring up on the govern- Lesser Hajj Umrah form. am, we also want compen- Mr Crusade Ayowei and dered demolished. Activities of the land spec- ment’s property, where a sation for John Togo of Mr Ken Mezeh respecThe measure is to make NDLF, there is no reason tively, said “we were ini- ulators, the state govern- modern mechanised abat- this year Umrah less tedithe NDLF should not ask tially carried along because ment said had hampered toir is being built as a re- ous and facilitate the for compensation. Since the our objectives is to restore, the progress of work at the sult of activities of these prompt processing of the government has admitted maintain and preach peace Cattle Market and the men and this is slowing travelling documents for all that it paid compensation as stakeholders, which we Mechanised Abattoir being down the pace of work at intending pilgrims from the to Boko Haram leaders, have been doing and put in place on the Ado-Eki- the site. state. A statement by the “Despite repeated warn- Secretary of the board, Althen Togo, who was killed NDDC in recognition of ti road, project site. State Commissioner for ings, the speculators have haji Kamal Sanusi, directin the same way as Mo- our role empowered and hammed Yusuf should be encouraged our group Information, Mr Kayode refused to stop their activi- ed all interested intending through provision of petty Akinmade in a statement, ties on the property,” add- Umrah pilgrims to purcompensated too.” Briggs said, “If they jobs and community-based expressed government’s ing that the state governor, chase their application (NDLF) are making such contracts to keep the or- dissatisfaction at the activi- Dr Olusegun Mimiko, was forms at the Board’s Secties of speculators in the disturbed about the slow retariat, in Ikeja. The board demand, there is nothing ganisation going. “Things however turned Cattle Market area, noting pace of work at the site and promised that more measwrong because their leader was also killed by Fed- sour when the new execu- that government’s resolve had instituted a panel to ures would be put in place eral Government soldiers tive came on board as our to move against them and look into the reasons for the to ensure a hitch-free lessjust the same way the gov- representative and turned ensure that the men are slow pace of work. er Hajj this year.

John Togo: Evah, Briggs okay demand for N1bn compensation W

....As Ijaw group accuses NDDC rep of neglect, wants FG to intervene

Ondo govt warns land speculators

Umrah: Lagos assures pilgrims of hitch-free exercise

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—41

Study explains why black women are more likely to die of cervical cancer BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

LACK women have more persistent infections with human papillomavirus (HPV), which may explain their greater likelihood of dying from cervical cancer, according to a new study conducted at the University of South Carolina-Columbia, in the United States of America. Researchers who observed 326 white and 113 black students who all received Pap and HPV tests every six months, found stark differences in infection lengths. During checkups, blacks were 1.5 times more prone to test positive for an HPV strain linked to cancer, according to the research. Ten percent of blacks had abnormal Pap tests, compared to 6 percent of whites. Two years subsequent to init ial infection detection, 56 percent of blacks remained infected, compared to 24 percent of whites. In an explanation, it was disclosed that the AfricanAmerican women weren't clearing the virus as fast and were actually holding onto it about six months longer, for 18 months versus 12 months. The findings, presented in Chicago at a conference of the American Association for Cancer Research, are said to be "provocative," but need validation through a study focused on more than one region. Pap screenings received according to US guidelines are credited with the nation's dramatic decline in cervical cancer. However, 12,000 new cases and 4,200 deaths from cervical cancer occur annually, mostly in unscreened or infrequently screened women. The vaccines Gardasil and Cervarix target the HPV strains that cause most cases of the cancer. Further research by the Certain strains of HPV World Health cause cervical cancer; Organisation, WHO, shows however, brief infections that at every 6.5 seconds someone dies from tobacco are routine in young use. It also suggests that women and usually clear people who start smoking on their own within one in their teens and continues year. Longer infections for two decades or more will pose the cancer risk. The die 20-25 years earlier than National Institute on those who never light up,” Minority Health and Health Disparities study, she noted.

• President Goodluck Jonathan (left) and Coordinator, Port Harcourt Cancer Centre, PHCC, Rev. Canon Kin JEgwuonwu after addressing the congregation at the Aso Villa Chapel, State House, Abuja, at a special church service to mark the 2012 World Cancer Day. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida.

Jonathan tasked on Tobacco Bill BYCHIOMA OBINNA

XPERTS have urged Nigerians to cultivate a healthy habit of no smoking as part of efforts to reduce the incidence of preventable diseases caused by tobacco consumption in the country even as they called on President Goodluck Jonathan to immediately sign the National Tobacco Bill into law. Speaking on this year’s World No Tobacco Day with the theme” Tobacco Industry Interference”, Chairman of the Nigerian Heart Foundation, NHF, 2012 World No Tobacco Day organising Committee, Dr. Bolaji Adebiyi, reminded the President about a statement credited to him about his mother’s warning on the dangers inherent in tobacco smoking. “Mr President said at a function he attended that his mother warned him against tobacco smoking saying that if he smoked, he would die young,” said NHF’s Director, on Tobacco Related issues, Dr. Dapo Rotifa, who represented Adebiyi at the event.

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Rotifa who urged the President to go back to his mother’s warning and take action on the much needed Bill to save Nigerians from avoidable deaths, said most countries of the world were working towards eradicating smoking and that tobacco was a major cause of noncommunicable diseases. He opined that enabling patients to stop smoking and avoid exposure to second hand smoke improved their cardiovascular health. NHF Director stated: “The growing threat posed by Tobacco on NCD and the conditions in low and middle income countries which now bear 80 percent of the burden of NCDs, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory disease. “It is also worthy to note that the damage done by second hand smoke where more than 400,000 adult deaths a year is almost cardiovascular with 87 percent of these deaths recorded in low and middle income countries like Nigeria

“These deaths are prevalent and devastating especially among the poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged in the population, “he said Speaking on the prevalence of tobacco related deaths, the Communications and Marketing Manager, NHF, Mrs Joy Unegbu

said “In 2006 alone, a survey by the Lagos State government in 11 hospitals revealed that two persons die every day of tobacco related diseases” She however identified the dearth of adequate medical statistics as a major problem in tackling health related issues in the country.

Counterfeiting drug: Experts seek enhanced public awareness BY CHIOMA OBINNA

CALL has been made for an increase in public awareness about the dangers of counterfeit drugs with a view to saving more lives in Nigeria. The call which came in Lagos during a workshop organised by the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, and the Association of Nigerian Representatives of Overseas Pharmaceutical Manufacturers, NIROPHARM in collaboration with Health

Writers Association of Nigeria, HEWAN, were of the view that counterfeiting had become a global problem. At the event to mark the 2012 World AntiCounterfeiting Day in Lagos, participants advocated for increase in consumer awareness of the risks and cost of buying fake drugs. Speaking, the Director General of NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii, who advised Nigerians to shun buying and selling of fake drugs noted that the agency is doing its best to ensure that Nigerians are protected

against fake drugs. Orhii said the Agency has introduced various machinery to ensure that drugs and wholesome products are regulated. His words: “The war against fake and counterfeit medicines is one that the agency has fought for years and there is no doubt that the agency has been proactive in ensuring that Nigerians have access to safe and effective medications.” In his speech, the President of NIROPHARM, Mr. Lekan Asuni, stressed the need to encourage the

public to take the problem seriously in order to reduce complications and deaths caused by the intake of fake medicine. Asuni said that the WHO statistics indicates that 10 percent of global pharmaceutical commerce was in fake drugs while over 50 percent of all sold drugs in Africa were fake. He said that the negative impact of drug counterfeiting on consumers was great as it exposed them to dangerous and ineffective products. Continues on Page 44

42—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

‘For toddlers, good oral health care is no child’s play’ BY SOLA OGUNDIPE

HE importance of regular tooth brushing as one of the most valuable skills a child can learn early in life cannot be overstressed, at least from the medical viewpoint. The basic rules of tooth brushing are easy to remember, and they should become part of every child’s everyday routine to ensure a lifetime of pearly whites! For instance, it is quite well acknowledged that tooth decay (dental caries) affects children a lot more than any other chronic infectious disease. Also, untreated tooth decay causes pain and infections that may lead to problems; such as eating, speaking, playing, and learning. However, the good news is that tooth decay and other oral diseases that can affect children are preventable. The combination of good oral hygiene and fluoride is known to have potential to minimise tooth decay in toddlers and young children. But when and how should the toddlers and infants brush their teeth? How can they learn to brush properly at such tender age? There are so many brushing basics and tips children need to be taught in order to ensure they establish a healthy tooth brushing routine as early as possible. This was the whole idea behind free dental screening programme tagged “Macleans Milk Teeth” organised by GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria, recently for children aged 1-6 to mark the 2012 Children's Day in Lagos. Hundreds of toddlers, infants and other young children accompanied by their parents, participated in the activity held at the expansive exhibition halls of the Shoprite Mall, Ikeja. The 3-Day activity was intended to create

• The dental screening process designed to manage children’s dental requirements. public awareness about proper oral care for growing children as a way of promoting healthy dental hygiene within the society. Macleans Milk Teeth, which is the latest addition to the Macleans Toothpaste family, is endorsed by the Nigerian Dental Association. In a chat, Mr. Emeka Uchenna, the Senior Brand Manager, Macleans Milk Teeth, deliberated on how regular and correct brushing of teeth by growing children helps protect them from common oral and dental problems. He pointed out that children require supervision and monitoring all the time including when brushing their teeth. The screening programme was conducted by dentists specially trained to manage children’s dental requirements.

“The Milk Teeth premium toothpaste brand which is specially formulated for children aged 1-6 years, has the right child-safe amount of all active ingredients including fluoride,” he stated. “It is safe and protects against problems such as dental caries, dental fluorosis caused by too much fluoride in the system, and gum disease among others.” Uchenna, who observed that the special children’s toothpaste is the effective toothpaste solution for strengthening a child’s first teeth's enamel and prevent formation of cavities, tasked parents to endeavour to help their children learn good dental care habit right from the start. “Parents need to make tooth brushing fun and enjoyable,” he acknowledged. “Sing! Singing a little tune while you brush your

child’s teeth will make it feel like a game. Get your the child to carry out simple tasks, such as putting toothpaste on his brush, and give him plenty of praise!” Experts agree that the best time for children to start brushing is when the first tooth (teeth) begins to show. Normally, baby teeth usually appear at around six months, and all baby teeth should be visible by two years of age. A child’s first adult teeth appear behind the baby teeth at about six, and the first baby teeth will start to fall around the same time. To begin brushing, use soft-bristled children’s brush with a pea sized smear of toothpaste and brush gently but thoroughly, ensuring all teeth are covered. “It is much better if children brush their own teeth, but brush again after they’ve finished making sure the back teeth is cleaned. A good tip is to cradle the child’s head and brush the teeth from behind – it may help to reach the top and bottom rows. “For best results, children should brush their teeth twice a day. The morning brush can be before or after breakfast, but tooth brushing should always be the last thing a child does before bed. This also helps them develop a routine – brushing teeth becomes associated with bedtime. “Useful tips abound for helping children learn to brush their teeth. Start off by giving clear, repeated warnings when it is nearly bed and brushing time. Don’t ask, tell. “I want you to brush your teeth now, please,” or “Teeth please” is a better reminder than a question, which always invites “No” or “I don’t want to”. Another good trick is to buy colourful, fun-looking brushes. Most first children’s toothbrushes are characterthemed, but from about age 4, they can start to use fancy toothbrushes. Note that the recommended brushing time for children is one minute.

Isheri-Olofin residents get touch of care, healing BY CHIOMA OBINNA

SHERI-OLOFIN, a suburb in Ogun State, recently witnessed an unprecedented crowd at the monthly Feed the Poor programme organised by Paincare Outreach. The residents who comprised a mixed bag headed for the RCCG Holiness Parish, Isale Oro Street, where they were informed of a free distribution of spiritual and physical food, drugs and a rare opportunity to access free medical treatment by high profile medical personnel. Some of them left their homes in curiosity. But to the amazement of all, the distribution was true. Then came the struggle for its reach, with the male folks displaying strength to the disadvantage of the children and aged. But some of the women put up strict resistance, managing to outwit some of the men folk. But their benefactor, the Coordinator, Paincare Outreach, Mr. Peter Nwosu was on hand to maintain decorum that there was enough food, drugs, medical doctors, pharmacists and a handful of nurses to attend to everyone. That announcement brought the needed relief to hundreds of helpless ones Nigerians. Hosted by the Redeemed Christian Church, of God, RCCG, in the area, the people benefitted from spiritual healing. Medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists and counselors from Olabisi Onabanjo Teaching Hospital, OOUTH, Osun state; Lagos General Hospital and others were on ground. The monthly programme which has been

particular day, my mother fell sick and it was difficult treating her because we could not afford medical bills in any hospital at all. Thereafter, I made a vow that any time God blesses me, I will do everything in my own little way to help the people and that is exactly what am doing today,” he said. “I vowed that when God blesses me I must touch lives because I have been there. Today, I am the Managing Director of Green life Pharmaceuticals. I bless God and I have decided to fulfill my vow through these programmes, the weekly feed the poor and the monthly outreach.” Nwosu who said he is not always happy to see that whatever they take out is never enough for the people added that during every outing they prepare for over 2000 people.

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• A cross section of residents during the free health exercise.

running in the last four years was targeted at the less privileged Nigerians in the hard to reach areas. Just last month the train of the outreach was in Igando area of Lagos to feed the poor both spiritually and physically. The satisfaction for the founder of the outreach, Mr. Peter Nwosu is that, what he was unable to get while growing up, he is has been capable of making available to others now. Recounting how he was motivated into establishing the outreach, he said, “Growing up, there were so many things I could not afford. I

lost my father quite early and my upbringing was tough because my mother had a lot to cope with. Most times we couldn’t go to the hospital even when we were very sick because we could not afford the cost,” he narrated. “Seeing people scramble for food makes me feel so sad and each time I see that I cry because of my background. “One

Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012 —43

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012—43

Polio eradication:

My dreams of a proud Nigeria — KANU BY NWANKWO KANU

S a proud Nigerian footballer, I have scored many goals for my country. But there's one goal I still need to score—I want to help Nigeria kick polio out forever. Growing up in Owerri, I practiced every day from sunrise to sunset in the hope of one day playing for my country. Through years of hard work and dedication, I have been able to fulfill

my dream. But some of our children will never have the same opportunities I did— children who fall victim to polio, a devastating disease that continues to threaten our communities. Many polio victims will never walk again, let alone compete on the football field. Today, our country has a tremendous opportunity to show the world that we are committed to protecting Nigerian children – and children around the world – from this crippling disease. We cannot let this opportunity slip away. Last month, Nigerian leaders joined the international community to declare polio eradication a global public health emergency and recommit to ending this disease once and for all. As one of only three countries where polio has never been stopped, Nigeria has a responsibility to help create a polio-free world. Over the years, our country has made immense progress against polio, reporting fewer than 100 cases in 2010 and 2011. Globally, cases are at an all-time low. We are now more than 99 percent of the way to ending polio forever.

• Nwankwo Kanu: We are this close to eradicating polio from Nigeria.

et, our hard-won gains are at risk of unraveling. The number of children with polio in Nigeria has tripled since this time last year, and the disease is spreading to parts of our country that were previously polio-free. We have a unique window of opportunity to correct course and eradicate this disease. We're at the end of the game and victory is within our reach. Winning the fight against polio would be a historic achievement for our country and a source of pride for every Nigerian. But in order to beat this disease, our country must put forth its very best effort at every opportunity. We need 100 percent

Sensodyne, NDA take oral health education to corporate coys BY CHIOMA OBINNA O promote oral health care among Nigerians, GlaxoSmithKline, GSK, makers of Sensodyne toothpaste in collaboration with the Nigerian Dental Association, NDA, have taken oral healthcare awareness campaign to corporate bodies. The campaign was flagged off at the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR in Lagos. Project Coordinator, GSK, Dr. Ogechukwu Nwankwo, said “Sensodyne as a health brand understands the important role that oral wellbeing plays in the total health of a nation. It recognises also the need to educate the workforce which is like the engine house of a nation about this. This is why we are excited to partner with NDA on this initiative aimed at educating the Nigerian workforce on oral hygiene.

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“There will be free chill test and free oral tests to determine those who have sensitive teeth. The entire workforce will get a lot of information on how to manage their oral health and why it is important to do so, but more importantly those diagnosed to have sensitive teeth will get further information on how to manage the condition with Sensodyne." President, NDA, Dr. Olufemi Orebanjo, remarked that “The mouth is the gateway to the body and is also the mirror to one’s total health. A lot of things that are going on in the body reflect in the mouth and mere opening of the mouth to the dentist tells the story. Dentists can pick a lot of signs from the conditions of the mouth.” He said "Tooth decay is the major disease that affects the teeth or the mouth and when the disease condition progresses further it affects the gums which is

the sensitive part of the teeth. Dentine hypersensitivity, also called teeth sensitivity, occurs as a result of either loss of tooth enamel or gingival recession i.e. when the smear layer that covers the dentine is removed resulting in the exposure of the tubule openings. Dentine hypersensitivity causes short, sharp pain as a result of stimuli or stimulus, one out of three adults suffer from it." It was further emphasised that dental disease is a noncommunicable disease that results mainly from lifestyle. Have the right attitude to life, learn to eat right and run away from carbon based foods and take a lot of fruits and vegetables. It is important the teeth are brushed in the morning and last thing at night before sleep. Visit your dentist twice a year as a routine check up and for cleaning and polishing of the teeth.” Orebanjo advised.

commitment to achieve our goal. Doing our absolute best means strengthening Nigeria’s vaccination campaigns

to protect the most vulnerable children, particularly migrant families and those who live in hard-to-reach areas. It also means improving management and oversight of eradication activities at every level. Donor countries must also do their part and help fund eradication efforts. With these commitments in place, success can be achieved, even in the most challenging circumstances.

e are already stepping up our game. Traditional leaders and immunization teams are working hard, going door-to-door encouraging parents to vaccinate their children. Satellite technologies are helping to locate communities routinely missed during campaigns. Thousands of additional workers are being put in place to improve planning, training and reporting. International partners like Rotary International and UNICEF are working tirelessly with communities to educate families on the importance of vaccination. This important work is not only helping Nigeria beat polio; it is improving the health of children in the poorest and most inaccessible areas of our country. Polio vaccination campaigns are helping to deliver other lifesaving health interventions like Vitamin A supplements. Eradicating polio will also free up resources to invest in other health challenges, allowing us to save even more lives. Most importantly, ending polio will allow every child the opportunity to grow up free from this disease. Kicking polio out of Nigeria will be challenging – but great achievements are never easily won. I know this first-hand, having overcome many obstacles to get where I am today. After we won the gold medal at the 1996 Olympics—and made history by becoming the first African team to do so— my football career nearly ended when doctors discovered I had a heart defect. I had to undergo surgery and many thought my footballing days were over. But I refused to accept that my goal of returning to the football field was out of reach. I dedicated myself to a strong recovery and went on to play for more than another decade. Like my journey back to the football field, ending polio will require commitment and determination. These principles are the foundation of our country and have helped us become the strong nation we are today. I call on every Nigerian to help us conquer this disease once and for all.

LASUTH nurses hold first baby show INE months old Master Ifeoluwa Bankole has emerged the winner, of the first Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH nurses’ baby show which was recently held at the hospital premises. Presenting the baby, Mrs. Modupe Shode, the Apex Chief Nursing Officer expressed that the objective of the baby show is to highlight the importance of keeping healthy babies and also to commemorate the international children’s day. She said “this first baby show is a dream come true and also a way of contributing our own quota to the effort of the Lagos State Government to curb infant mortality rate. The Chief Medical Director, Prof. Wale Oke commended the babies at the show and encouraged mothers to keep at breast feeding their babies from birth till they clock two years. The 36 healthy babies paraded at the show were judged on certain criteria which include; skin tone, response to stimuli, physical appearance, compliance to immunization, feeding habits, compatibility of age and weight of the baby and growth rate. The mothers were not left out as the best dressed, most punctual and best dancer were awarded. Ten month old Miss Asarelah Ohiomba and six month old Miss Utulu Onyinye emerged as second runners up. LASUTH nurses’ baby show will be held on a yearly basis.

44—Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Rotary targets 40,000 Nigerians on World Family Health Day BY SOLA OGUNDIPE O less than 40,000 residents of Lagos and Ogun States were targeted to benefit from free health services organised recently by the Rotarians For Fighting AIDS, RFFA, to mark the World Family Health Day. at the Rotary Centre, Ikeja, Lagos. The free health services which wrapped up weekend included HIV testing and counselling, tuberculosis screening, eye

cataract test and treatment, diabetes and blood pressure testing, cervical cancer screening, and dental checks among others. At least 40 of the 79 Rotary Clubs in Nigeria participated in the activity of conducting the free tests and counselling for citizens of the community in 55 sites across Lagos and Ogun states. The Rotary Family Health Day, a community-based initiative implemented in several

countries with funding support by The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation, helps to build sustainable communities tackling infectious disorders such as HIV through provision of free health testing services. The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation aims to reduce the impact of HIV/AIDS by enabling humanitarian organizations like the RFFA implement initiatives that promote prevention, awareness and counselling

services for communities. The Foundation invests in social projects to help create sustainable communities by improving the quality of life and increasing the opportunities for Africans. In a chat, Rotarian Kennedy Ejakpomewhe, District Governor of Rotary District 9110, described the RFFA as an action group of the Rotary International aiming to provide essential health services to the less privileged and help satisfy a basic human need for quality health care for many who cannot afford it. Rotarian Olugbemiga Olowu, the District Governor nominee of Rotary District 9110, said 40 of the 79 Rotary Clubs in Nigeria participated in the Family Health Programme while 55 sites across

Lagos and Ogun carried out the free tests and counselling for citizens of the community. His words: “Communities are made up of families and healthy families make healthy communities which is why we tagged the programme Rotary Family Health Day. Although, our core focus is on HIV/AIDS testing we have included other health tests to encourage large number of people to participate and know their health status. If families come out en-masse to check their health status, we will be on the right path to building healthy communities and fulfilling the fundamental objective of our organisation which is serving humanity with projects that address their needs.”

Experts seek enhanced public awareness

• Nutricima MD Mr. Glentzes Melitis discussing with Lagos State Dep Gov Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire whth PZ Cussons Communications Director Mrs Yomi Ifaturoti during a visit to mark World Milk Day in Lagos recently.

Continues from page 41 He noted that it also created an enormous drain on economies by depriving governments of revenue for vital public services. Asuni who decried weak enforcement of laws governing drug counterfeiting said the chaotic distribution system of drugs created an avenue for counterfeiters to have field days in the illicit trade. “They cause major damage to some categories of drugs, especially anti-malarials and antibiotics, because they are attractive targets for them. “Counterfeiters are a big cause

of recurrent illnesses, sometimes even fatalities. Simply put, they are merchants of death,” he said. He urged more pharmaceutical companies to tap into the Mobile Authentication Service, MAS which some companies were already using to authenticate drugs to safeguard public health. “This kind of technology will go a long way in restoring the confidence of Nigerians in the pharmaceutical industry and its products. “Counterfeit medicine has done incalculable damage to the health and economy of Nigeria and we have to continue to fight back.” he said.

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worn by a man for intercourse. It is erect and realistic like a real penis and comes in sizes of six inches, eight inches and ten inches. Some of them also vibrate for added female pleasure- Uche I lost my husband last year. We have three children and it has not been easy taking care of them all by myself. And I also feel really lonely. When is it acceptable for me to start dating again – Sarah Dear Sarah, I am sorry for your loss. Please accept our condolences. Where I come from, a man or woman is expected to mourn for one year out of respect for the dead. I don’t know if this is a general rule for all tribes but in Igbo land, that is the way it is done. Perhaps you can ask around and find out how it is done in your tribe. I think it is best that way. Take care and good luck – Uche I have heard so much about organ enlargement pills. I am interested but are they safe? Martins Dear Martins, there are millions of organ enlargers out there. Of course not all of them are safe but I know a few that are safe such as Max Size, Big Bam Boo and Extenze Plus. These are all natural supplements that are body friendly and provided you are not hypertensive or diabetic, you will be able to use any of them. But if you have hypertension or diabetes, then you should use an enlargement cream instead such as Mega Me Enlargement Cream or Maximus Enlargement Cream – Uche That’s it for today. The names of the people featured here have been changed for their privacy. Adults in need of these treatments/novelties can call 08027901621 or 08051924159 or any other number here to order or they can order online at www.zeevirtualmedia.com. Zee Virtual Media delivers to you wherever you are in Nigeria. For enquiries, send your emails to custserv@zeevirtualmedia.com - Uche Edochie, MD, Zee Virtual Media.

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Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012 — 45

Range Rover Sport gets more luxurious, sportier

BY THEODORE OPARA

AND Rover is stopping at nothing in making its flagship Sports Utility Vehicle, the Range Rover models, the car to beat in its segment. The British car maker has continued to improve the Range Rover Sport model with array of changes and amenities aimed at retaining its reputation as the leading Sports Utility Vehicle in the world. According to Nigel Clarke, Land Rover Operations Director, Sub Sahara Africa, who hosted selected members of the press from the region recently in Sabi-Sabi game resort in South Africa, “the enhancements on the 2012 Range Rover Sport will ensure this car retains its position as one of the most economical and dynamic high performance sport utility vehicles on the market today with exciting new features.” The Range Rover Sport comes in four distinct

models, including the HSE SDV6, HSE luxury, HSE Super charged and HSE Autobiography. Also three engine variants are available in the Range Rover Sport line up including the 3.0 litre V6 diesel, the 5.0 V8 petrol (naturally aspirated) and the top of the range 5.0 litre V8 Supercharged petrol. These engines have been fine-tuned to deliver class-leading performances in their different segments. For instance the 3.0 V6 180Kw diesel powerplant accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 9.3 second while the V8 petrol (naturally aspirated) hits the same speed in just 7.6 seconds. The top-of-the-range engine version, the 5.0 litre V8 Supercharged petrol version which is the most powerful engine, does the same in mere 6.2 seconds. The Supercharged version develops 375kw and 625Nm of torque while the naturally aspirated version develops 276km

and 510Nm of torque. All the Range Rover engines are matched with sixspeed automatic transmission.

he Range Rover Sports owes its off road and on-road prowess to its full time four-wheel drive with Std locking centre differential and terrain response. Optional locking rear axle differential is also available. The air sprung independent double wishbone at the front and rear adds to the superb ride of the Range Rover Sport models, with slight modifications on the different models. Without changing the iconic design of the Range Rover Sport, Land Rover effected some changes both internally and externally on the car, aimed at enhancing its looks and comfort. Externally, the Range Rover Sport looks more aggressive than before. The changes starts from the tailgate graphic which has created new look and a gloss black treatment to

the headlight inner and grille surround. The SE derivative now sports a dark atlas grille while the HSE takes on the light atlas. The Supercharged model can now be fitted with a new 20'’ alloy wheel option finished in sparkle silver with high gloss lacquer and adopts the atlas grille surround. However, the interior colour ways on the top of the range, the Autobiography Sport has been refreshed further for the year with heading option of ebony Morzine joining the interior lineup while subtly revised colour schemes to the grille and fender vents, bonnet badges and twoeye, as well as body colour door handles, have been made across the range.

lso, added to the 2012 Range are two additional features to enhance its off road capability. The Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control stand the Range Rover Sports out.

For instance the Hill Start Assist retains the initial driver-generated brake pressure, long enough for the foot to move from brake to pedal to throttle without the car rolling backwards. The brake is released after sufficient time has elapsed or when the engine is supplying enough torque to move the car up the hill. The gradient acceleration control however is designed to provide safety cover on severe gradients when the driver does not have hill decent control engaged. The two new features were quite exciting that Land Rover Vehicle Engineering Manager, Nick Veale said. “These new features enhance the outstanding ability of the Range Rover Sport off-road while continuing to deliver an intoxicating driving experience on road. They also deliver an added Layer of safety and support to drivers who want to discover what their vehicle is really capable of.

Inside the Range Rover Sport, Land Rover raised the equipment to the next level. For the first time the next generation seveninch touch-screen comes with optional dual view technology, allowing the driver to view the navigation display while the passenger watches a DVD. Also the rear seat entertainment package has been enhanced with the availability of white fire wireless technology. Significant specification and performance improvement have been made to the Hi-ICE and premium audio systems which have been upgraded to the most Gen 2.1 electrical architecture, offering a staggering 825Kw of power through 17 speakers on premium Harmon Kardon Logic 7. The new “say what you see” voice command on premium systems helps the driver learn commands with useful step-by-step screen prompts and allows the use of spoken short codes too.

46 â€” Vanguard, TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012

Porsche holds 1st test drive, warns against grey imports P

ORSCHE Centre Lagos, authorized Porsche dealership in Nigeria, last weekend, presented the Porsche range to the Nigerian Motoring Press. The official presentation which was preceded by a test-drive of the 2012 Porsche Panamera and Cayenne SUV from Porsche Centre, Victoria Island through Chevron Estate, Lekki to Banana Island and back to Porsche Centre, saw the journalists thumbing up for the Porsche models for their built-quality, roadhandling, comfort level and overall performance. Briefing the journalists before the take off of the test drive, Mr. Michael Wagner, Brand Manager, Porsche Centre described the Porsche brand as unique range of vehicles especially with their sporty character. He, however, cautioned automobile enthusiast against buying Porsche vehicles meant for other markets, saying that such vehicles could be problematic due to the quality of fuel available in the country. He explained that evidences have shown vehicles designed to Euro 5 specifications (latest European Standard) rarely perform optimally in the tropics due to the lower grade of fuel and inadequate octane level as well as exceptionally harsh environment of the tropical region. He therefore advised customers to place their Porsche orders form local dealership, adding that imports from USA and Europe are designed to Euro 5 specifications, which restrict such

models from performing optimally and invariably causing engine management problems that could lead to permanent engine damage. According to him, only Porsche automobiles built to Euro 4 specifications with corresponding emission levels are imported and sold in Nigeria to cater for the lower octane level and quality of fuel that is available in the country. Describing Porsche as a cautiously designed automobile with untarnished reputation, Mr. Wagner said: the Lagos Porsche Centre was established to usher the Porsche experience to the door steps of customers in Sub Saharan Africa with the aim of helping automobile enthusiasts discover

Porsche's razor-sharp handling and power aplenty. He warned patrons to desist from buying grey Porsche models, which are perceived as affordable yet laden with numerous inadequacies, ranging from overheating to improper air-conditioning, among others.

Porsche Nigeria, he reiterated, offers complete range of Porsche models with attractive finance schemes that could make owning the German engineered automobile a handsome relief. Mr. Wagner said: "With 20 percent deposit and an average monthly payments as from N398,000 evenly spread

up to 60 months, an automobile enthusiasts could become a proud owner of a Porsche car. He said customers could tailor their finance schemes to meet individual needs while also scheduling test-drive prior to purchasing choice Porsche model. This, according to him would allow the customer to

ABC Transport Smart Coaches hit the road L EADING coach operator in the country, ABC Transport Plc has finally launched a new coach option tagged 'Smart Coaches', aimed at meeting the demand of its customers. According to the company, the 'Smart Coach', is a Navigomodel 27-seat luxury

coach designed to offer passengers an alternative between a coach and a mini bus. It is powered by Cummings engine which is known for reliability and durability. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the Managing Director, Frank Nneji explained that the decision was informed by

the need to offer safe and comfortable transport service for its customers. He explained that, 10 units of the Smart Coach have already been procured and deployed on different routes, adding that there were plans to procure more. The ABC boss noted that the fatality rate of

Ologun crowned Ford Ranger Challenge winner M

R. Opeyemi Ologun, a Lagos-based switch engineer has been crowned winner of the Ford Ranger Challenge competition held recently in the country. The switch engineer was rewarded with a brand new Ford Ranger 3.2XLT double cabin by the organisers Ford Motors who said it was a way of giving back to its customers for their loyalty and also prior knowledge of the vehicles. Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Senior Marketing Manager, Ford C M Y K

Corporation, SubSaharan Africa, Mr. Eugene Prinsloo said that the Nigerian market is very important to Ford hence the campaign to create a formidable market share for the brand. He explained that Nigeria is the only market beside South Africa where the Ford Challenge has taken place across the region, adding that Ford with its dealership in Nigeria, are committed to gaining more market share in the country in the nearest future.

experience the ingenuity of Porsche engineering. The dealership also allows customers who buy their Porsche from the centre to trade them in whenever they wish to upgrade to a newer version. And like every other Porsche dealership worldwide, Porsche Nigeria stocks full range of Porsche models, offering customers complete tropicalized model range with efficient air-conditioning cooling system and sturdier suspensions to cater for the challenging driving conditions in Nigeria. The Porsche range comes with standard two year unconditional factory warranty with an option to extend the warranty annually for up to nine years or 200,000 km, whichever comes first. However, two years/60, 000Km service plan is also available for all models. In addition, a wellheeled after sales and back-up facilities have been provided at the Gbagada-Lagos and Abuja workshops coupled with a quick service centre to be built at the Victoria Island Lagos Showroom.

According to the organisers, the Ford Challenge involved contestants putting the all-new Ford Ranger to stick test in their every day life. The tasks and challenging terrain were described on the contests web page with the public invited to read all about the challenge and vote for their favourite contestant. According to the organisers, the winner showed how tough and resilient a Ford Ranger could be when it conquered the obstacles in the forest using the

Ranger which is due for launch in Nigeria next month. In Ranger vs. Omo Forest Reserve, Ologun traveled more than two hours in the all-new truck to Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, then traveled the rough, rocky and steep path from the reserve gate to Erin. Situated in the southwest province, the Omo Forest has one of the most difficult trails in the country. A wooden bridge along the trail has prompted many professional truck drivers to abandon their efforts to attempt the incline. However with the

Ranger's 4x4 capability, Ologun was able to meet the challenge it presented, prompting voters to decide he had put the Ranger to the ultimate test. "I was advised not to drive across the bridge," he said, "but I knew if I could maintain a steady speed I could count on Ranger to do the rest, and I was right." The contest has been running in select markets around the world. It was announced in Thailand, began in Australia and has been making its way across the globe to Nigeria and beyond.

passengers in mini buses operating long hauls was usually high, adding that, "as a matter of safety policy, the management of ABC Transport Plc has never favoured the use of mini buses for long distance travels, hence the Smart Coach is being introduced. According to him, "the ABC Smart Coach combines the advantages of coach and mini bus; coach features and the sleekness of a small bus, which imbues it with easy maneuverability on difficult roads." Nneji further explained the Smart Coach would meet the needs of customers who did not want to travel with a luxury bus due to the poor conditions of the roads in some parts of the country. In his remark, the Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Jude Nneji, explained that the Smart Coach would go a long way in meeting the demand of the customer which he describe as very important to their business.

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Obama says economy not doing well RESIDENT Barack Obama stressed the U.S. economy is “not doing fine,” seeking to clarify his earlier comments about the private sector and accusing his Republican rivals of lacking ideas about how to stoke growth and create jobs. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Obama said that while corporate profits are strong and companies have been adding jobs, small businesses are having a tough time getting financing and other pockets of the economy need more attention. He repeated his view, expressed earlier on Friday in a press conference, that budgetpinched state and local governments need help to avoid teacher and police layoffs, and that Congress should help buoy struggling homeowners and con-

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struction workers who remain out of work several years after the financial crisis. “It is absolutely clear that the economy is not doing fine, that’s the reason I had a press conference,” the Democratic president said, seated next to Filipino President Benigno Aquino. Republicans in Congress had pounced on his Friday morning comments that the private sector was “doing fine,” and Mitt Romney, who is running against Obama for the presidency on

lacking ideas of how to help the U.S. economy fully recover. “What steps are they willing to take right now that are going to make

Brown accuses Murdoch of misleading probe

ORMER Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has fallen into a “full coma,” nine days after being sentenced to life in prison for failing to contain the outbreaks of violence last year when the military seized power, leading

ORMER British Prime Minister Gordon Brown accused media tycoon Rupert Murdoch on Monday of misleading a government-sponsored inquiry into press ethics with incorrect testimony alleging Brown had threatened war against Murdoch’s company. “This conversation never took place. I am shocked and surprised that it should be suggested,” Brown told the Leveson inquiry. “This call did not happen. The threat was not made.” “I find it shocking,” Brown said. “This did not happen. There is no evi-

F •US President, Barack Obama November 6, called that statement “an extraordinary miscalculation.”

Obama, asked about Romney’s response, accused Republicans of

Mubarak’s family demands better medicare

an actual difference? So far, all we have heard are additional tax cuts for the folks who are doing well,” he said.

to the deaths of over 850 people. His family, however, is hoping he will be taken out of a prison hospital to receive better medical assistance. Mubarak, who was on a hospital bed when his sentence was read, has

been in deteriorating health, and had been slipping in out of consciousness, suffering from a sharp rise in blood pressure and shortness of breath. On Monday, the for mer leader seemed to have entered a critical state.

dence that it happened other than Mr Murdoch’s, but it didn’t happen.” Murdoch had told the inquiry under oath that Brown phoned him in September 2009 after the Sun newspaper started supporting the Conservative Party. Brown vowed to wage war on Murdoch’s company in revenge, he testified. “We were talking more quietly than you or I are now - he said, ‘Well, your company has declared war on my government and we have no alternative but to make war on your company,’” Murdoch told the inquiry in April.

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Nadal books his place in history Wrestling organiser AFAEL Nadal be came the first man to win seven French Open titles as he defeated Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 in their rain-delayed final at Roland Garros. The Spaniard, who has surpassed Bjorn Borg, had trailed 2-1 in the fourth set when they resumed on Monday afternoon following Sunday night’s suspension but he immediately retrieved the break and clinched victory when Djokovic doublefaulted. Djokovic, the world No1, had been attempting to become the first man since Rod Laver in 1969 to hold all four grand slam trophies at once, after three successive victories over Nadal in major finals, but the king of clay turned the tables. “This tournament is, for me, the most special tournament of the world,” Nadal said.

GREAT SCOTT ••• Joleon Lescott (r)runs away in delight after heading England into the lead

Amavubi storm Nigeria with 40-man delegation HE Federation Rwandaise Football Association notified the NFF that its delegation for Saturday’s battle will be composed of 40 persons and will arrive in Lagos on Wednesday

aboard Rwanda Air. NFF General Secretary, Barrister Musa Amadu has confirmed that the Rwandan delegation will be accommodated in Lagos on Wednesday night before being flown to the Canaan

Obodo Continues from BP The news of the kidnap of theUdineseofItalyplayerlast Saturday spread to many countriesandadisgustedand angry Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, swung into action, directing security agencies to ensure the Nigerian player was released unhurt. Uduaghanwassaidtohave worked in close liaison with security agencies and yesterdayObodosaid“Idon’t knowwhatthesituationcould havebeenlikeiftheGovernor didnotintervene.Idon’tknow how to thank him and the security men who ensured I regained my freedom. I’m grateful.” Obdo spoke on phone. He waswiththechairmanofDelta State sports commission, Amaju Pinnick who said that “Obodo will be presented to thegovernortomorrow(today) where he will thank him for his concern and effort.” Obodo said the following about the abductors and his eventual escape: “About five people holding guns seized me as I was steppingoutofmycarinfront ofmychurchinEffurun.They immediatelycoveredmyface and drove off. I didn’t know where we were. They drove quitesomelongdistanceand we ended up somewhere I didn’t know. All I knew was that we were in a forest. But they did not hurt me. They gavemegoodfoodandinthe night they brought mosquito net. They were also killing somemosquitoesperchingon the net. They told me that somebodyIhadbeenhelping, somebody close to me told

themaboutmeandsetmeup. IwaswiththemfromSaturday tillSundaynight.Atatimethey removed the blindfold material and I noticed that I had been left with one person with a gun. Later, he ordered that we walk out and we started walking in the bush tryingtocometotheroad.We got to a path and he warned me that if a car was coming weshoulddashintothebush. It was already dark. We walkedsomedistanceandgot toaplacewherewemetafew of their men and I sensed that there was confusion. I think security men had been tracking them and some, I later understood, had been arrested. It was apparently because of this that one person said that they should shoot me. But the guy with the gun had hidden it in a bagwhenwestartedtrekking out of the bush. At a time I was allowed to escape and I just started running. I didn’t know where I was. I saw some people in that village and I told them who I was and they started shouting Obodo, Obodo. Some recognized me and started hailing my name, telling me that the story of my kidnap has been on radio, television and the newspapers. I was told I was in Isoko. Security men later traced me and rescued me. I thank God that I’m alive. I heard about all the efforts to rescue me during those hours of trauma. I thank Governor Uduahgan and the security men. Warri has been a home to me and will continue to be my home. God is merciful”, added Obodo.

City on Thursday morning. The Confederation of African Football has appointed Ivorian Noumandiez Doue to be Centre Referee for the crucial match. He will be assisted by compatriots Songuifolo Yeo (Assistant Referee 1), Moussa Bayere (Assistant Referee 2) and Bienvenu Sinko (Reserve Referee). The Match Commissioner if Abdoulaye Lawandji Mahamat from Chad.

honours Oshiomhole ORE feathers are being added to the cap of Edo State G o v e r n o r, Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole. Today in Benin City, the State Capital, the Comrade Governor will be presented with Peace and Good Governance Award by the organizers of the 1 st Adams Oshiomhole International Wrestling Championship. The initiator of the award, Prince Hammed Mohammed, said the Award is in recognition of Oshiomhole’s administrative acumen as well as his pursuit of peace in the state for the past four years. “Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has served the people of

Edo State like no other.” The massive d e v e l o p m e n t witnessed since he came to power has been unprecedented. He has also been able to foster peaceful coexistence among the diverse people of the state. “ We the organizers o f t h e 1 st Adams O s h i o m h o l e International Wrestling Championship are proud of his achievements and decided to reward him accordingly,” Prince Mohammed added. Also to receive Good Leadership Award is one time Minister of Information and Action Congress of Nigeria ( ACN) bigwig, Tom Ikimi.

Enyeama’s blunder shameful — Keshi BY JOHN EGBOKHAN OACH Stephen Keshi has described as ‘shameful’,the blunder of goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama in last weekend’s 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Malawi The match ended 1-1, with the Super Eagles taking the lead with a

minute left in regulation time at the Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, only to allow the Malawians equalise in added time. “The equaliser was a shame. I thought we had the three points, but a lack of concentration gave them away,” Keshi told the BBC. He said that the players had done a

Three Lions Continues from BP scoring for England on the half hour, heading in a perfectly weighted Steven Gerrard free-kick from the right touch-line after Patrice Evra had bundled into James Milner. Lescott’s clubmate Sami Nasri, though, got the French back on terms nine minutes later, hitting a well-placed, right-foot shot through a crowd of players from the edge of the penalty area low to Joe Hart’s right. Hart, who also plays for the Premier League champions, had minutes earlier kept out a bullet header from Marseille’s Alou Diarra with a superb reflex save — one of a handful to keep the French at bay and England in the game. The draw means France are now unbeaten in 22

games but England are likely to come away happier with the point, after a build-up hit by injuries to key players like Frank Lampard and suspension to Wayne Rooney. “All in all we’re satisfied with the point,” said Liverpool’s Gerrard. Co-hosts Ukraine take on Sweden in the second Group D match at 1845 GMT, with Oleg Blokhin’s side eager to impress in their first game in front of home fans in the capital Kiev. Blokhin has said he is unsure how his players will react when they walk out in the Olympic Stadium, after disappointing pretournament results and a stomach bug that struck his squad.

fantastic job against the hosts before the equaliser came in injury time. “The kids have fought very hard but that’s football.” Keshi said that his vision to build a very strong team was on course. “I am very happy because the boys are developing, they are

progressing, but it is going to take a while”, said Keshi, who plans to give other players an opportunity to prove themselves in subsequent matches. “I still have some other players who are not here that I’m going to give an opportunity for them to come in and play - and try to build a very strong team for Nigeria.”

Amike lauds First Bank, Okagbare RESIDENT of the N i g e r i a O l y m p i a n s Association,Prince Henry Amike has described as laudable Firstbank’s policy on sports development and youth empowerment. Amike,a former Nigeria track and field international and reigning national 400m hurdles record holder at 48.50 seconds is particularly pleased with the bank’s decision to name Blessing Okagbare,the 2008 Olympics long jump bronze medal winner as its brand ambassador to the 30th Olympic Games starting next month in London.

FirstBank is bringing Okagbare,the reigning national 100m queen to Nigeria as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility policy on sports development and youth empowerment. The 2011 Daegu IAAF World Championships 100m finalist will serve as inspiration to youths who are looking for direction on the next big step to take in their respective careers.She will address about 300 youths in Lagos on Saturday and narrate how she rose from a humble beginning to hop,step and jump into national reckoning when she set the then Nigeria record of 14.13m in the triple jump in 2007.

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SWEET SUCCESS ... Rafa Nadal enjoys his victory

I was to be shot •Obodo tells his kidnap story •Thanks Gov. Uduaghan, security men for his rescue BY ONOCHIE ANIBEZE

OURS after Christian Ogbodo regained his freedom

from his abductors, he was facilitated by a friend confirmed Vanguard’s he was yet to identify. story that his abduction CContinues on Page 52

IN GOD I TRUST•••Christian Obodo was full of thanks to the Most High God after he regained his freedom from his abductors on Sunday.