ABACHA '98 THE COOL, SMOOTH CHOICE. Outline Newswatch MARCH 16,1998 ’S WEEKLY NEWSMAGAZINE VOL. 27 NO. 10

Nigeria: 15

Cover: Nigeria's drugs war fails to impress the United States administration for four For and Against consecutive years* Victims of the Abacha 1995 property demolition in Ajah community in State get new land allocation* Igala Women Should General Sani Association, IWA, raises fund for Abacha succeed himself uncompleted projects at the Iyale as president? Yes, say the Special School for handicapped youths, No says Pro­ children. democracy Coalition Film: 32

Political Update: 23 A new film released in the US captures the pain of slavery and Protests Galore the miraculous triumph of slaves aboard the Amistad. In UNCP Sports: Aspirants disqualified in Egyptian soccer coach gets more the Senatorial and House than he asked God in the African of Representatives election Cup of Nations Championship. primaries in UNCP accuse officers of manipulation 4. Cartoons

Business + 5. Editorial Economy: 27

Etete’s Second 26. Global Notes Coming

Dropped November 17, 34. Music Dan Etete beats the odds, returns to his petroleum 36. Dialogue resources ministry. What now?

Newswatch (ISSN 0189-8892) is published weekly by Newswatch Communications Umited, No. 3 Billings Way (off Secretariat Road), Oregun Industrial Estate, Oregun, P.M.B. 21499, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. Telephone; 4960950. Fax: 962887. Telex: 27874 NEWCOM NG. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part without permission, is forbidden. Printed in Nigeria by Academy Press Pic, Ilupeju. PUNCH------U------VANGUARD Newswatch, March 16,1998 4 VANGUARD------u------PUNCH ------U------VANGUARD T T IS THE TALE OF TWO CITIES. OR, r- ^ jL Abacha and the other to say no to him. Some more appropriately, the march in two | | || 1 l II W put the crowd at 1(H),000. The Lagos cities, Abuja and Lagos. General Sani crowd was considerably less - unless you JLm Abacha, head of state, was the subject El ^11 + Y téj I O III tp want to believepublications whose reporters of the two-day event that will remain, in the ^ ■ H have a fanciful idea about figures. But the difference between the two could and impassioned arguments. In Abuja, two not have been clearer even to a blind man. million youths who earnestly want Abacha Abuja was a carnival. Lagos was, well, not a to succeed himself, organised what they, tongue in the cheek, carnival. In Abuja, the police and security forces were there to called a carnival. And what a carnival! Nigerian musicians were, protect the youths; roads to the rally ground were blocked to to use the contemporary expression, fully mobilised. So were normal traffic; the parade ground itself was reconstructed with youths and a smattering of adul ts from every s ta te of the federa tion. state-of-the-art toilets and other facilities. It wasa carnival with a difference. It was a political carnival, the like The Lagos rally had none of the hi-tech facilities for saying no of which had never been seen in this country. Youth power at its loudly enough for everyone in the old federal capital to hear. No most powerful. The objective, and every letter in tha t word dripped special rallyground even,The police said the rally was illegal. And with the liquid gold of patriotism, was to pressure the head of state they turned up in full force to prevent it. Olisa Agbakoba, former to accept to become the next president by taking the ba ton from his president of CLO and one of the organisers of the Lagos march, own left hand with his own right hand in October. He was was arrested. He and 37 others were charged in court the next day. earnestly asked. Now, he was being earnestly pressurised with That makes the matter sub jiuUcc. Sounds lawyerly. songs, concert, drama, speeches and dancing, to accept to do what This week's cover story is the story of what happened in the the youths want him to do - hand over to himself through, to be two cities on March 3 and 4. Paul Akuh, assistant editor, joined sure, a democratic election. Critics say thecamival cost the taxpayers Wale Akin Aina, assistant editor and Abuja bureau chief, to cover some 8(K) million naira. My ad vice? Do not believe every figure you the two-day pro-A hacha rally. They were joined by Conrad Akwu, see until you hear from the patriots. deputy photo editor. Tobs Agbaegbu, assistant editor, covered the In Lagos, five million adults who are opposed to any plans by L nt acl anyone or a group of persons to persuade Abacha to succeed rally.f” Akinf Aina" and Yv himself organised their own march. In truth, none of the two Agbaegbu, jointly / groups marched. And in truth, none of them had the number of wrote this week s people they boasted would be mobilised, the one to say yes to cover story. Editor-In-Chief Newswatch The International Award-winning Magazine Founders: DELE GIWA (1947—1986), RAY EKPU, DAN AGBESE, YAKUBU MOHAMMED

Newswatch Communications Limited Senior Advertisement Executive: Magnus Aja Eze CEO: Ray Ekpu Advertisement Executives: Omolara Onatemowo. Adeyemi Adebari, Nsikan Essien, Dep. CEO: Yakubu Mohammed Olayiwola Cole. Agnes Musa Senior Special Projects Executive: Inemesit Ebu Newswatch Special Projects Executives:Mande Samaila, Ngozi Ubanna Editor-in-Chief: Dan Agbese Marketing Manager: Salufu Kanoba Dep. Editor-in-Chief: Soji Akinrinade Deputy Marketing Manager: Lionel Agbaji Assistant Marketing Managers: Ikechukwu C. Dike, Mfon Ukutt Editor: Mike Akpan Principal Marketing Supervisor: Nsidifiok Nsukaba General Editor: Joseph Ode Senior Marketing Supervisor: Abdullahi Sanusi Associate Editors: Jossy Nkwocha, Sam Olukoya Marketing Supervisors: Sunday Adejoh (), Pius Aji, Adolphus Sidi, Okhai Assistant Editors: Mercy Ette, Wale Akin Aina, Tobs Agbaegbu, Paul Akuh, Oghiadomhe, Nkeneke Efo Ibrahim Modibbo Senior Staff Writers: Janet Mba-Afolabi, Olu Ojewale.Obong Akpaekong, Salif Principal Executive Assistant: Patrick Obuzor Atojoko, Clarice Azuatalam Executive Assistants: Joan Ogbadu, Alex Tobore, Ojubanire R. Abiodun, Abiodun Staff Writers: Tunde Asaju (Abuja), Yemi Adebowale, Nicholas Odeh, Rasidal, Iboro Sunday Mudiaga Ofuoku, Dotun Oladipo, Stephen Ubanna, Emmanuel Ugwu Legal Officer: Victor Batta Reporter-Researchers: Fola Adekeye, Raphael Adeyanju, Guest Columnists: Ogoh Alubo, Eddie Iroh, Chuka Momah, Niyi Osundare Board of Directors: Ime Umanah (Chairman), Ray Ekpu, Dan Agbese, Yakubu Mohammed, Group Photo Editor: Matthew Faji Soji Akinrinade (Executive Directors), Mike Adenuga Jnr., Alex Akinyele, Deputy Photo Editor: Conrad Akwu , Abdulaziz Ude Assistant Photo Editor: Gbolahan Ajayi Bembe Photographer: Taiwo Idowu Head Office: Senior Reader: Gbenga Ajayi No. 3 Billings Way (off Secretariat Road), Oregun Industrial Estate, Oregun, Readers: Ogiri Ochonu, Rachel Achor, Fatosa Olukoya P.M.B. 21499, Ikeja. Lagos, Nigeria. Tel: 01-4960950, Fax: 4962887, Principal Artists: Kehinde Schulz, Taiwo Schulz Telex: 27874 Newcom NG. Artist: Obafemi Obayan Computer Operator: Frank Mfon Regional Offices: Lithographic Superintendent: Femi Akinlusi Newswatch Communications Limited Assistant Lithographic Supervisor: Musibau Olayiwola ZZ.4 Abubakar Kigo Road by Ahmadu Bello Way, Kaduna. Tel: (062) 213021 Lithographer: Bola Adebote 28 Edinburgh Road, Ogui New Layout. . Tel: (042) 256971 Chief Librarian: Eyo Nsah 63 Uselu-Lagos Road, . Tel: (052) 257419, Fax: (052) 248100 Librarians: Onyekachi Nwofor, Lekwa Okude 2 Araromi Street. Oke-Padre, . 41 Ikot Ekpene Road. Uyo. Tel: (085) 201200, 201221 Administrative Manager: Clement Okitikpi 7 Suzi Garden, Tafawa Balewa Street, Jos. Tel: (073) 56327 Administrative Officer: Mary Akpan Block 4, Flat 2 (J.S. Tarka Way), Area 3, Garki, Abuja. Tel: (09) 2341857, 2342069 Controller of Finance: Tony Awe 94 Mohammed Mustapha Way, Jimeta, Yola. Accountant: Jonathan Opeche 36 Nsukka Street, Mile 1. Diobu, . Tel: 084 - 334094. Assistant Accountant: Janet Bello Chief Internal Auditor: Nath Sunday AlHassan Overseas Correspondence: Advertisement Manager: Aniekan Umanah Nigerian Magazines Limited. P.O.Box 43. Feltham, Middlesex TW 13 4SU UK Principal Advertisement Executive: Emmanuel Emeje (Kaduna) Tel: 0181 - 867 - 0799, 0956 - 965 - 819 E-Mail: Raydasoyak @ aol. Com.

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 5 Photo by Conrad Akwu

Participants at the “2 million -man march in March,” Abuja For and Against Abacha

Should General succeed himself as president? Yes, say the youths! No says pro-democracy coalition

For Abacha You have the North, you have the East, you have the West and you have the South. They have spoken strongly in support of your continuation. They are unanimous in their resolve to back your transformation. —Daniel Kami, president, Youths Earnestly Ask Abacha, YEAA.

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 Photo by Talwo Idowu

By Wale Akin Aina & Tobs Agbaegbu million-man march took several months, visible preparations were noticed three weeks ago when Julius Berger, a giant he new abuja Nigeria, NACYAN, an umbrella construction company, moved there to parade ground loca­ organisation of 150 pro-Abacha handle construction work at the new ted in the central organisations, began March 3, and for 48 parade ground. Within hours, the two area of the federal hours provided a forum for one of the major express roads opposite sides of the capital city is hardly most intensive campaigns for a would- parade ground, Way and ever used for anything be presidential candidate and definitely Ahmadu Bello Way, were cordoned off. else than national day parades and the event of the year in Abuja. Planning Also sealed off were minor access roads military and para-military ceremonies for the event took several months. to the parade ground. suchT as the Armed Forces Remembrance According to Daniel Kami, executive Vacant plots around the parade Day. Bare, concrete and asphaltic and chairman of Youths Earnestly Ask ground were cleared by bulldozers. perpetually sun-kissed, the football pitch Abacha, YEAA '98 and deputy chairman Eleven towers of 25 speakers all with a sized parade ground is not the most of NACYAN, preparations started since combined power of 1.5 million watts were attractive site in Abuja though it is directly June last year when he tried to organise a erected at strategic points. Berger officials opposite the Federal Secretariat and is one-million-man march in Lagos to told Newswatch that sound from the about a kilometre from the Aso Rock villa coincide with the anniversary of the speakers would travel up to one kilometre and has within its vicinity some state annulled June 12, presidential elections. from the parade ground. New flood lights liaison residences and offices. Ibrahim Coomasie, the inspector-general were also installed. Also put up were That was until last week, when the of police, had then banned pro-and anti- toilet facilities and water tanks. By parade ground served as venue of the Abacha demonstrations and refused Monday night last week, everything "two-million-man march in March" to Kami and his group police permit. seemed in place for the march. Thirty-six persuade Sani Abacha, a general and head Following an altercation between musicians and artistes had arrived from of state to either transform into a civilian Kami and Coomasie, the youth leader Lagos and other parts of the country. president come October 1 this year, or was summoned to the force headquarters. Ten stages had been erected for the continue as military president after the The difference between both men was musicians to perform. Six towers for transition to civil rule programme. resolved after some officials of the Nigerian Television Authority, NT A, The Abuja rally, organised by the presidency intervened. cameras had also been erected for live National Council of Youth Association of Even though planning for the two- Against It is crystal clear that General Abacha is imposing liitnself on us. It is also clear that Nigeriatis don't want him to succeed himself. —Scgiui Adegoke, chairman, Publicity Committee of Afenifere, Ondo and Ekiti States.

Newswatch, March 16,1998 7 ■ COVER

broadcast of the event. About 1,000 police and Omololu Olunloyo, for the two days in Abuja. That woi men were drafted to the parade ground former governor of . Former cost each state N250 million. A1 and its vicinity to provide security. Scores heads of state and presidents also construction work at the parade groui of plain clothes security men were also expected to address the rally were General was put at between N7(X) million ai drafted to the parade ground and its , Shehu Shagari, General N800 million. vicinity. The plain clothes security men Mohammadu Buhari and Ernest However, when the rally kicked c were detailed to mingle with the crowd Shonekan. last Tuesday morning, not more the during the events. They did not show up at the rally. A 150,000 people were in attendant The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC; source told Newswatch that invitations to although at certain periods, the numb< deployed about 500 officers to Abuja and the former heads of state were sent late. appeared tohavegrown to about200,(XX its environs to direct traffic. There were Kanu told Newswatch that no such This included not only delegates but als also special forces. The police bomb arrangements were made. According to traders, hawkers, security personnel an disposal unit had its bus and equipment him, people who were not involved in journalists. The largest contingent at th on the east side of the parade ground. the organisation of the march pushed out rally came from in 45 buses There were fire brigade and members of misleading information to the press. He , for instance, hired 1( the Red Cross who even carried mobile also said that Abacha "was never billed buses at N60,000 each for its delegate fire extinguishers and first aid kits. There to address the rally contrary to reports." and cultural groups. The state were, however, no uniformed soldiers He said this was part of the misleading government was also said to have except for those who normally guard the information detractors were sending to approved four million naira for th* national cenotaph which is opposite the the public. upkeep of the delegates and officials. parade ground. Organisers of the march expected two Kanu told Newswatch last week, that Segun Adekeye, NACYAN's director million people. Adeleye had told the one billion naira which was estima ted of planning and logistics, told Newswatch Newsivatch on the eve of the march that to be the cost of the march was "far­ that 72 speakers were billed to address they were expecting even more than two fetched." According to him, the initial

I 1 W V. ÆjtJ J Abacha: Still consulting Kanu: Abacha campaign strategist

the rally. Among them, Maitnmn Sule, million people. Each of the 36 states was estimate was that the rally would cost Nigeria's former permanent expected to bring 50,OCX) people. That about N500 million. He said the actual representative to the United Nations. would add up to 1.8 million people. The cost of the march can't be known until , former information. shortfall was expected to be met by after the rally. He dismissed insinuations minister, Joseph Wayas, former senate delegates and non-delegates from the that the cost of the rally was borne by the president, John Fashanu, members of the federal capital territory. government. Super Eagles, the national football team, The financial outlay for the march He said the rally was financed from , former governor of Into seemed huge. "Each member of the state contributions by organisations, groups Stale, Segun Osoba, former governor of delegation receive N5,000 as allowances and individuals but admitted that

For Abacha If it is the will of God that Satti Abacha will continue as the president of this country as the youths have said, we concur. So let it be. Nobody can stop it if it is the wish of God. —Sam Mbakwe, former governor of Into State.

Nefas watch, March 16,1998 COVER

government provided part of the money. the setting up of the Petroleum Trust was crushed to death. He said that he had Newswatch learnt that those who Ftmd, PTF, sanitation of the banking prayed against such accidents. "Abacha promised monetary and material sector through the failed banks tribunals must tell us what to tell the loved ones contributions included Julius Berger Pic and the establishment of the Vision 2010 that these people left behind," he said. and Dantata and Sawoe, a construction project amongst others. Fie said Nigerian At 2.30 am. Thursday morning, company. Other companies included youths were convinced that Abacha was leaders of the five political parties, Chagouri and Chagouri, C&C and Bullet the only one who could lead the country Barnabas Gemade for the Congress for Construction. Arthur Eze, a businessman out of its economic and political woes. He National Consensus, CNC; Mogaji and pro-Abacha campaigner, Arisekola added: "Abacha should accept to lead us Abdulahi of the National Centre Party of Alao, also a businessman, Dan Kabo, and to the next millennium. Nigeria, NCPN, Gambo Lawan of the Ahmadu Chanchangi both airline Eze, one of the financiers of the march, Grassroots Democratic Movement, GDM, proprietors and M.O. Kanu, businessman said Abacha had laid down a solid and of the United and father of Daniel Kanu, also foundation for democracy and that Congress Party of Nigeria, UNCP, and contributed money for the rally. Abacha did not abandon the youths in Max Nduazube of the Democratic Party There was no official federal their hour of danger. Eze added: "We are of Nigeria, DPN, arrived the venue of the government or state government not going to leave here until Abacha tells rally. Speaking on behalf of the other four delegation at the rally when it opened at us where we are going." leaders, Gemade said that though no 9.30 am March 3. But some senior Alao told the rally that Abacha had invitation was sent to them to attend the government officials were seen at the taken justice and fairness to Olympian rally, they were directed by SuleHamma, new parade ground in their private heights. He praised Abacha's hard work political adviser to the head of state to capacity. and capacity and claimed that despite his attend the rally. They had watched with Iliya Ibrahim, chairman of NACYAN, exposure to power, Abacha remained a great interest the event of mass in his opening address, listed the simple man. mobilisation for Abacha and felt that achievements of Abacha which included Titi Ajanaku, a stalwart of the itcouldn't be ignored. He appealed to the _____ Democratic Party of Nigeria, youths that the call fof Abacha should DPN, said Abacha should accept not end with the rally. He urged the the request to contest since there youths to go back to their constituencies was no courageous presidential and mobilise people on behalf of the candidate in the transition political parties. He said this should be programme. She said since Aso their contribution to the success of the Rock cannot be left vacant, the transition to civil rule programme. only option was for Abacha to Strangely, the political parties, except continue his good work. UNCP and GDM, had wanted Abacha to Others who also spoke at the run as a consensus presidential candidate rally were Maitama Sule, Evans in August. En werem and Sa m Mbakwe, both Last week, Kanu said his organisation former governors of ; had nothing to do with intimidating Zainab Maina, president of the members of the five parties or the National Council of Women leadership into shying away from Societies, NCWS, Uche producing presidential candidates. He Chukwumerije, Kenneth Kobani, said that would-be presidential son of the slain Ogoni leader, and candidates are rather being intimidated Joy Emordi, a gubernatorial by the record of achievements of Abacha. aspirant for . Kanu said the political parties and those In his speech, Kanu called on who would like to contest for the Abacha to take a bold step and presidency are now aware that they heed the call of the youths. "You cannot meet up with the achievements of must give us a positive answer," Abacha.

he insisted. Speaking% to Kanu also said the YEAA campaign Ncivswatch earlier in the day, would continue after the rally until Kanu said eight lives were lost in Abacha agrees to run for the presidency. the build-up to the campaign. He He said: "From our assessment so far, the said one of the victims died in a rally has been a success, we have met our road accident wearing a YE A A target. I will not let the cat out of the bag, T-Shirt. A woman, he said, fell but changes are going to be made in Buhari: Absent at rally from a lorr^ in and future campaign."

Against It is sheer hypocrisy to allow pro-government rally to go on undisturbed at Abuja while disorganising people with opposing views in Lagos with 1 ' tear-gas,atid live bullets. y o * } • —, deputy chairman of NAD ÈCO.

Newswatch, March 16,199K 9 ■ COVER

Hamman was presented with resolutions of the youths at about 3. a.m., Thursday. He delivered a speech which he said represented Abacha's response. He said: "It is pleasing to note that this spontaneous and sincere outburst of affection, solidarity and support is, no doubt, indicative of appreciation of General Abacha's achievements." He also noted the speeches of all those who addressed the rally. According to Hamman, the momentum of the campaign would only get stronger and become capable of breaking down traditional barriers in the society and pave the way for a new Nigeria. He said he would present the resolution of the youths to Abacha last Friday morning, adding: " Abacha will spend the next three weeks consulting members of the family, close associates and his constituency." Hamman said the head of state would Anti-Abacha rally at Yaba respond to the resolutions and the call of the youths. He added: "I assure you, you rally for five million people at the Yab will not be disappointed." motor park. No sign posts or podium But while the organisers of, and were erected. The only visible evidenc participants at the Abuja rally were of the planned event were leaflets anc literally walking on red carpet and being hand bills pasted in adjoining street: given maximum security cover by announcing the event. government, those in the five-million- The Jibowu entrance into the main man-rally holding same day in Lagos park and the exit leading to Oyingbo were seeing red. were sealed up by stern-looking police The Lagos police were determined to men. Nothing happened in the morning stop the pro-democracy and anti-Abacha to show that the police would turn angry rally. By midnight of March 2, about 15 later. Traders were allowed to display clear hours ahead of the 3 p.m. March 3 their goods while pedestrians moved in kick-off time, the command had and out unmolested. positioned its men and officers at strategic Journalists covering the event found locations. Scores of units of Police Mobile time to chat and exchange experiences. Force, PMF, drawn from Keffi, Ikoyi and They formed a little isolated crowd. columns of police armoured personnel Trouble started at about 11.15 a.m. when carriers and Tata troops trucks were the curiosity of D. Akinyemi, an assistant stationed in suspected trouble-spots such superintendent of police, was aroused by as Ojuelegba, Mushin, Oshodi, Yaba, Mile the presence of the journalists. 2, Mile 12, Palm Groove, Ikeja and at the They were searched and 15 of them foot of Third Mainland bridge, were arrested and whisked away to Oworonshoki. Surulere police station where they were But the orgainsers of the rally refused released almost immediately by P.I. to be coWed. They took measures to avoid Lheha, a chief superintendent of police, pre-emptive arrests by going with apologies. underground. "Permit or no permit, the By the time Akinyemi and his team rally must go on", they said. returned to the park about 2.(X) pm, an Officials of the United Action for hour to the take-off of the rally, the Democracy, UAD, the coalition of 26 pro­ atmosphere was charged. Traders were democracy and human rights groups did Oidered out of the park as the police nothing to show that they were hosting a Agbakoba: Battered drafted more officers to maintain order.

For Abacha Goon Abacha, we want you to continue ruling us, we don't want mass destruction ofcitizens and property. Your tenure has seen to ethnic, cultural progress and mutual understanding. —Titi Ajanakn, prominent politician in Abeokuta.

10 Newswatch, March 16,1998 ■ COVER

A number of activists arrived the The police action was expected. When ; Binta Yar'Adua widow of venue before the 3.00 pm take-off time, the announcement of the proposed rally late Shehu Musa Yar'Adua; and Arthur accompanied by a crowd of people, was made the previous week, the police Nwankwo, publisher, Fourth Dimension, mostly youths. They were heralded by declared it illegal. Abubakar Tsav, the Enugu. the singing of the old national anthem police commissioner, told a Organisers of the rally provided no and other protest songs. "All we are press conference: "Anyone wishing to explanation for the poor attendance. saying is, leave MKO." Anti-Abacha hold any public procession or rally in the Neither has any of the invited speakers sentiments were also chorused: "Abacha state should apply to the police and this said why they kept away. must go;" "police de work, army de chop, will be considered purely on its merit, For students who were expected to Abacha de chop. " considering the security situation of the turn up en-masse, Newswatch learnt, the It was at this point that the police state. As at now, no person or group of authorities of most tertiary institutions fired tear gas and moved to arrest persons or organisations has applied for disallowed them. Jelili Omotola, vice- protesters, causing commotion in the such permit." chancellor, University of Lagos, process. Olisa Agbakoba, a human rights While warning that the police cannot reportedly invited members of Operation activist and chief convener of the rally, guarantee the safety of anyone who takes Sweep, the Lagos State special anti-crime was one of those arrested. He was part in any procession not duly approved squad, to help prevent the institution mercilessly beaten. His right eye was by the police, Tsav said his men were from being used by pro-democracy swollen. He and about 37 others arrested battle-ready to "deal ruthlessly with activists. Owoeye Deji Ovo, a student were pushed into waiting Peugeot station anyone who engages in any act or conduct activist expelled last year from the wagons and driven to an unknown likely to disturb the much cherished university, told Newswatch that the vice- destination. public peace." chancellor also gave names of students Fawehinmi who arrived later at 3.24 Like in the Abuja rally for which activists to Operation Sweep for arrest pm, went straight to inform the police he prominent personalities, notably Abacha should they show up at the rally. was invited to address the rally. The and the former heads of State, who were Another reason was that the leader of the police team told him there expected to address the participants did university was in session and students was no rally because the conveners did not show up, the one in Lagos also were occupied last Tuesday with class not obtain a permit to hold it. Fawehinmi witnessed the absence of invited speakers. work and lectures. Mohammed Adeleke, retorted: "The organisers did not need a They included Balarabe Musa, former president, UNILAG Students' Union, was police permit to hold a rally." He was governor of , and his said to have gone to class when Newswatch escorted to his waiting Peugeot405 Saloon State counterpart . Also called at his room in the university. He car by the police. The crowd was not in attendance were , was said to have agreed with the dispersed at about 4.00 pm. a retired colonel and former governor of authorities that "an anti-government rally

Police: Swept away demonstrators in Lagos

Against The Nigerian people have spoken. Abacha must go, political detainees must be released. Enough of military transition to despotism. —Bola Lanrewaju, présidait, Movemaitfor Genuine Democracy in Nigeria. ■ COVER

was most unnecessary now." Newswatch speak out." He vowed that the l met an Operation Sweep van with about was the beginning of a process to seven armed policemen at the Sports Nigerians fell free to speak out. Centre of the University on Tuesday. Another activist who considéré At Yaba College of Technology., rally a success was Segun Jegede, dir Newswatch learnt that students were of programmes, Committee foi made to attend classes, from 9 a.m. to 7 Defence of Human Rights, CDHb p.m. In some classes Newswatch learnt said: "It is not a bad outing consid< student attendance was taken to identify all the threats and given the fact tha those who were absent. Authorities of civil society is helpless in the institution, Newswatch further learnt, circumstances." He praised par tic ip were determined not to lose their at the rally for their ability to conv students. and hold the rally at 3 p.m. as schedi "By our silence, we are not endorsing even in the face of heavy police press Abacha's ambition to succeed himself UAD has filed a N1 billion suit aga come October, this year. The political the federal government for disrupt problems of this chequered country are their rally in Lagos. In two separate s Ajanaku: Abacha or else... beyond student rally. Our duties as filed at the federal high court fathers of these students here is to make Fawehinmi, the rally organisers them survive the Abacha regime," said a claiming damages for alleged physi lecturer who pleaded anonymity. assault. Although Adeleke failed to call a Although the anti-Abacha rally v Congress, February 27, to make the stand stopped, members of the opposition ; of the union known on the planned rally, using other avenues to explain w most student activists of the university Abacha should not succeed himst found their way to the venue. They were Jegede, in a recent interview in 7 received by Wole Badmus, former public Guardian, said: "Year in, year out, wh* relations officer of the National successive military governments tai Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, over, they always promise to hand ov and Ovo. Their efforts at staging another to a civilian democratic government. Th rally at Yaba was repressed by the police. But they succeeded somewhat remarkably at Ojuelegba motor-park. Badmus told Newswatçh that the Nigerian youths who attended the Lagos rally were the real victims of Abacha \s misrule. "We Mbakwe: New convert are out, we can no longer keep quiet because we are being worsted by the battered economy." A day after his arrest, Agbakoba and 37others were arraigned before an Ebute- Metta chief magistrate's court for allegedly holding a rally in Lagos w ithou t obtaining police permit. In a two-count charge filed before the court by the Lagos State commissioner of police, the accused persons were alleged to have organised themselves in a manner likely to cause a breach of public peace. They were released on bail. Agbakoba said he has no regretabout the rally which he considers a success. The success of the rally, he said, has " a great impact, showing that Nigerians, if properly mobilised, can make decisions" Okorie: Against persuasion adding: "it is possible to get Nigerians to

6 V y ' ' > For Attacha * o Youths are convinced bxj the ability of General Abacha. Abacha is the only one who can lead us out of our economic woes. Abacha should accept to lead us to the next millennium. — Ilya Ibrahim, president, National Council of Youth Associations of Nigeria, NACYAN.

12 Newswatch, March 16,1998 ■ COVER

has taken them almost 15 years. The incumbent head of state has all along been very close to the military dictatorship. He was the second-in- command to General for eight years; he was part of the Interim National Government contraption and

he has been head of state for almost five Photo by Talwo Idowu years now. What we should ask ourselves is, what has been the difference between 1983 and now?" The human rights activist said his assessment of Abacha's years in office is that Nigerians have been worse for it in terms of joblessness, homelessness and hopelessness. The schools, according to him, cannot be said to be the normal institutions they used to be. He said, the higher institutions have become a haven for banditry and cultism. The government, he said, has even imposed soldier administrators on them. Jegede Memories of protest at Yaba rally said the economy is comatose and forcing the naira to depreciate from N3 to the of people now exist in the country - the Thecreation of Petroleum TrustFund, dollar in 1983 to more than N80 now. rich and the poor, said the CDHR official. PTF, is seen by pro-democracy activists "There is nothing to show for it. Workers' The situation, according to him, has as an exercise in aberration. "We now salary is not reviewed, yet there is wiped off the middle class. He said social have a parallel government call PTF. It inflation day in, day out," he lamented. infrastructures have become decadent, has taken over all the parastatals of Nigeria's social fabric is also said to especially the supply of electricity and government. There is hardly any form of have been adversely affected. T wo classes telecommunications. government, even the state government, which does not go cap-in-hand begging for PTF's assistance," said Jegede. Abacha's failure to satisfactorily resolve the June 12 problem accounts for the opposition against him especially in the South West. , Second Republic governor of Oyo State, explained: "Until the issue of June 12, is satisfactorily resolved, there can be no settlement of the politics of Nigeria". Some Nigerians who are not opposed to Abacha as a candidate but the manner in which he is being drafted into the race. Chekwas Okorie, a frontline politician and national leader, Igboezue Cultural Association, belongs to this group. His grouse is that Abacha is being persuaded •* MMt (if AlliHù to become president. The practice, according to him, is wrong because in the luipi struggle for power acquisition, *

persuasion is not a common method. a "Nobody persuaded him to intervene on the November 17,1993, but he saw that Nigeria was in trouble and that there was

something he could do to salvage the ff. situation, so he intervened."

Against We condemn in totality the double standard of the Abacha regime. While using public fund to organise the shameful charade of dubious youths in Abuja with full police protection, peaceful protests at the Lagos rally were not only teargassed, but many were iudiscrimina tcly brutalised and shot at. / ______—United Action for Democracy.

Newswatch, March 16,1998 13 IV COVER

One implication of persuading people of "soft-landing". He said in an interview by human rights groups since the to hold on to power, according to Okorie, published in a weekly newsmagazine that execution of Ken Saro Wiwa, leader of "is that you would not have the moral the policy involves giving Abacha a safety the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni right to blame a leader if he takes power valve. It will involve making some People, MOSOP, and eight others, reluctantly and turns round to become a concessions to Abacha. Said he: "One November 10, 1995. The Abacha tyrant. It is even not a democratic way of may be to say, okay, stay, release Abiola government weathered the storm, even doing things". Okorie said Abacha and bring him into government at once. when it did not meet CMAG's ultimatum deserves to be given another chance to 1998, you are out, but you also agree that to restore respect for human rights and rule if he contests through any of the five your political parties are out. Abiola complete démocratisation in two years. registered political parties. stays, may be two years, then the The formation of UAD last year was Abubakar Umar, a retired colonel and conference." expected to harmonise the position of former governor of Kaduna State, said The need for reconciliation may have opposition on several issues. That the campaign to draft Abacha into the expectation has been misplaced. Right race amounts to committing treason. from day one, Fawehinmi disagreed According to him, it is even more with the new association's approach to treasonable than a coup plot because calls the actualisation of June 12. While UAD for Abacha's self-succession can favoured dialogue, Fawehinmi preferred destabilise this country. He asked: going to court. Ige and Musa disagree on "What is treason after all?" the need for a second all-politicians' His answer: "It is undermining your summit. Musa had wanted to use the country! What else can undermine this summit as a platform for frontline country or particularly the transition politicians to adopt a common stand on programme that Abacha has set up than issues of national importance. The to talk of the man who is making the rules campaign for Abacha to become president participating in the game? was expected to be discussed at the Opposition to Abacha's self­ summit with a view to offering opposition succession is not limited to Nigerians. to the campaigners. Last year, Walter Carrington, the US Ige disagreed saying politicians don't ambassador to Nigeria, said that in the need to come together merely for the Gambia and Niger where military rulers sake of meeting. "If our agenda isnotthe succeeded themselves as civilian same, what do we need to come together president, the US government refused to for? I, Bo la Ige, will never hold a meeting lift sanctions imposed on them. The with a politician who is a thief," he said American policy there was guided by the Umar: Against campaigns Agbakoba said the cause of the feeling that the elections were improperly divisions in the rank of pro-democracy organised. Carrington said: "We did not accounted for Agbakoba's tinkering with groups is their large number. The case believe that elections in that kind of the idea of soft-landing for Abacha. It is according to him, is like a man who has situation where the military ruler not clear what led to his seeming open too many wives. "There are too man) becomes president was, in our minds, a confrontation in last week's protest rally voices, so no one can tell who are the pro credible transition process." in Lagos. When he made his suggestion democracy people. The pro-democracy groups do not last year, campaigns for Abacha's Suleiman said the problem is î seem to agree on a common position transformation were not as loud as they reflection of the larger Nigerian problem beyond mere opposition to Abacha. are now. The Nigerian society, he said, is dividec Current debate among the various groups Some factors may have accounted for on tribal and economic basis. According has suddenly shifted from whether the change in tactics by anti-Abacha to him, the divisions also reflect in th< Abacha can, indeed, be forced to hand groups. First is the realisation that the effort of pro-democracy groups. "Som< over this year as he promised, to whether effect of sanctions from the international people tend to personalise the struggle he should be allowed a "soft landing." community has failed to bend him. Even They don't want to subject themselves tc Members of the National Democratic when drastic actions are expected from a common cause." he said. coalition, NADECO, insist that power abroad, as in the case of expulsion of As Newswatch reported last week, th« must be given to , Nigeria from the Commonwealth, no Abuja rally was to be the last step in i presumed winner of the 1993 annulled such hope eventually materialised. carefully designed series of public election who is currently in detention, or Last week, the Commonwealth activities meant to drum up support fo nobody else. Their rigid position is Ministerial Action Group, CMAG, Abacha's self-succession plan. Depen anchored on the argument that since meeting in London, ended without any dable sources say he will formally anno Abiola won the 1993 election, no other new sanctions on Nigeria. It only kept unce his decision to "accept the challenge leadership can be legitimate until Abiola Nigeria suspended from the group subject before the end of the month. is released from prison and made head of to improvement on the country's human Reported by Paul Akuh, Oli a national government. Beyond mere rights records and return to democratic Ojewale, Obong Akpaekong, Dotw rhetorics, there is no programme on rule. Oladipo, Stephen Ubanna, Emmanm ground on how to realise the objective. Outright expulsion of Nigeria from Ugwu, Fola Adekeye and Florenc Agbakoba has popularised the policy the Commonwealth has been canvassed Ofikw

14 Newswatch, March 16,199 NIGERIA Beyond Drugs War

Nigeria's hard drugs war fails to impress the United States adminis­ tration for four consecutive years

By Tunde Asaju in London/Belgium

he efforts of the receive aid for its drug-control Nigerian government programmes. in fighting the hard drugs For the Abacha administration, war have again failed to though, the decision is unlikely to be a impress the United States surprise, it would be another indication of America. Madeleine Albright, the US that the frosty relationship between secretaryT of state, announced February Nigeria and the US is far from thawing. 26 that Nigeria and seven other countries Adamu Mohammed, special adviser to Albright: 'Nigeria, yet to impress US' would remain decertified for its failure to "cooperate with the United States in the war against drugs/' This makes Nigeria and the other decertified countries ineligible for financial aid from the US for the next one year. The US is also iu a position to block any non-humanitarian aid to the countries during the same period. Like the years before, Nigeria will be in the company of Afghanistan, Burma, and Iran though it remains the only African country to be decertified. The four other countries, including Cambodia, Colombia, Pakistan and Paraguay were given "national interest waivers" by the United States. This means that they will not have aid and economic blockade because of their importance to US national security interests. Nigeria was first decertified in 1994. Experts say this, as well as the decision to certify Mexico, are practical demonstrations of the politicisation of the decertification process which is done yearly by the US government to convince its congress to approve huge sums of money it spends on drugs war outside its country and which countries qualify to Drugs: Big problem to Nigerian government

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 15 ■ NIGERIA

the head of state on drugs and financial culminated in the loss of an estimated The politicisation of the certificate crimes, has said several times that the 25,000 jobs in the comm unications sector. process has led to a clamour in som drugs war in Nigeria is not meant to Neics watch a Iso learnt that the decision quarters for a more just and human satisfy any foreign interests but to to close 40 car shops by the National stance towards the drugs issue. On th safeguard the security and future of its Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, other hand, there appears to be a stron citizens. was not unconnected wi th pressures from coalition of coca-producing nations sue) Nevertheless, the Abacha the United States. In addition, the US as Bolivia, Peru and Colombia who argu> administration is bound to feel frustrated. allegedly brought a long list of telephone that their sovereignty has been subsumec In the five years of its reign, it has done numbers and postal boxes of individuals to US interests in their countries. Thes< more in the area of drugs war than any it wanted blocked on suspicion of drug countries are working for the légalisatior previous regime. It has promulgated two trafficking. When the Nigerian of the cultivation of coca leaf which the) decrees on money laundering and government acceded to this request, it argue is of cultural and economic interes advance fee fraud, to fight hard drugs. In found out that at least two of the numbers to the peasants who grow them. They say spite of the US stance on certification, the belonged to the United States embassy. that coca has been part of their culture Abacha administration has co-operated Albright gave credence to the notion before traffickers refined it for cocaine with US in the drugs war. Three years that the certification process is politicised and that the benefit of cocaine does not ago, the head of state endorsed the deportation of four Nigerians to the US at the request of the Americans. This was done under a 1935 extradition treaty entered into between Nigeria and some foreign countries by the British colonial government. But such gestures have not always been reciprocated by the Americans. Newswatch learnt that a few months after this incident, its request for the extradition of a Nigerian wanted in respect of the collapse of one of the failed banks was rejected by the Americans on grounds that they cannot guarantee a fair trial for him in Nigeria. Several weeks later, the US government allegedly sent another list of eleven other Nigerians suspected of drug offences especially in Liberia. In retaliation, the Nigerian government repatriated the Nigerians back home but has refused to hand them over to the Americans. A top government official told Newswatch in Abuja that Abacha told the Americans that just as Bill Clinton, US president has the right to safeguard the security of Seized rugs being burnt by NDLEA staff Bamaiyi: Leads war against drugs Americans anywhere in the world, he is also responsible for the safety and when in an addendum to her report on profit the peasants. security of Nigerians at home and abroad. Iran she said that Iran has shown "vigour" A babel of voices is also sounding in But even that stance was taken a little too in its anti-drug efforts and that the US some European countries for the late, perhaps. "will respond appropriately to real legalisation of marijuana and some drugs The source confirmed that, that same improvement" in its future relationship seen as necessary for human existence. year, following reports from US Drug with Iran on this issue. This is regarded The legalisation issue, like abortion in the Enforcement Administration, DEA, as part of the American subtle moves to US, is dominating the Europe-wide officials that some Nigerians were using ease tension between it and the oil-rich debate currently going on in youth business centres to coordinate drugs Arab country whose crude oil is a parliaments. The parliaments were trafficking and perpetuate advance fee significant attraction to US business convened to discuss the issue and lobby fraud activities; government decided to interests in spite of a cold war between governments to adopt a softer approach close down all business centres. That the two notions. and press for a review of United Nations,

16 Newswatch, March 16, 1998 ■ NIGERIA

UN, conventions at the June meeting of Last week, Kofi Annan, the UN rich and poor nations. It also expressed the UN General Assembly Special Session Secretary-General, and Robert Kendall concern over the impotence of nations in on drugs, UNGAS, in New York. secretary-general of the International combating the resultant money­ The debate has already polarised non­ Police Organisation, Interpol, agreed that laundering associated with drugs governmental organisations, NGO's the world's economy has been polluted trafficking. Said the INCB: "No country; working on the drugs issue within and by drug money. Said Annan: "The illegal rich or poor; large or small, equipped outside the European Union. A coalition trade in narcotics has a captive market of with sophisticated machinery to fight of such NGOs under the umbrella of the about 190 million addicts and users money-laundering or not, can consider European NGO-Council on Drugs and worldwide and is estimated to be worth itself safe from money laundering Development, ENCOD, is promoting more than $400 billion a year. It is larger activities." debates and series of activities on the than the oil and gas trade, larger than For Nigerian embassies within the issue so as to be able to submit a working • chemicals and pharmaceuticals business European Union, the news of document to the UNGAS preparatory and twice as big as the motor vehicle decertification has compounded their committee scheduled to begin in March industry." other-wise tight schedule. Newswatch was 15. ENCOD says it is not for legalisation Kendall agreed. He said: "The told in Belgium that an inquest has been but it is leaving its doors open to agencies estimated $400 billion has the power to ordered into the activities of some wishing to argue for both sides of the corrupt almost everyone". These Nigerian-born drug lords who have been divide to collate their ideas for the comments were complemented by the using the country as base to carry out preparatory meeting. Joep Oomen, report of the Vienna-based International their nefarious activities. The order came coordinator of ENCOD in Brussels, told Narcotics Control Board, INCB, which a few weeks after the Paris-based Newswatch that most members believe said that profits from the global trade in Geopolitical Drug Despatch, OGD, that legalisation will produce a class drugs far outstrip the national wealth of published an article in its monthly, Drugs dimension to the drugs culture. Despatch, linking an unnamed ex- Said he: "We are most likely to have a Nigerian leader with drugs trafficking. high grade of cocaine for those who can The article alleged that the unnamed pay the price and a low grade of the stuff leader was using diplomatic pouches to for the poor people which will have send drugs to Europe through Belgium grievous consequences on health and while one of the couriers was using his other issues. But we are willing for all to profits to build a hotel in Abuja. It was come and discuss the issue so that we can learnt that the Belgians called the Nigerian present a widely global view for policy embassy officials to explain whether or makers to work on." not the story was true. On its part, the African Network for A similar problem is building up Information and Action Against Drugs, between Nigeria and South Africa where RAID, believes that legalisation of an estimated 50,(X)0 Nigerians are said to marijuana will not stop the pauperisation be living, most of them illegally; and of the farmers or growers. It also believes where one out of every five drug busts is that it will destroy the social fabrics of the linked to a Nigerian kingpin. Musa society since illegal drugs have been Bamaiyi, a major-general and head of the linked with the upsurge in the rise in NDLEA, was said to have been domestic and social crimes, especially confronted with a similar problem in within the member states of the Economic Russia during his visit to the country. His Community of West African States, advice to the Russians to tighten visa ECOWAS. control to keep out Nigerians was largely In its message to ENCOD and regarded in European circles as a UNGAS, RAID argues that the mining of diploma tic fa. : pas. petroleum resources in Nigeria has not On February 26, agency reports in helped in bridging the gap between the Europe quoted a Thai doctor as having rich and the poor and that from all found 15 heroin-filled capsules concealed available statistics, people v/ithin the oil- in the belly of a 34-year-old Nigerian who producing regions were worse off in terms died at the Ramatibodee Hospital in of environmental and economic Thailand. The Nigerian whose names degradation than other areas with no were given as Emmanuel Samson died petroleum resources. Said RAID: "We after one of the capsules of heroin which also take example from the cultivation of he had swallowed burst in his belly. He is tobacco, which is a licit crop. Our findings believed to have swallowed the drug in a have shown that while the tobacco bid to escape detection before attempting companies and merchants rip-off millions to travel out of the country. The report of dollars in profit, the growers of the also quoted Thai officials as saying that tobacco seed have not profited anything over 300 Africans currently in Thai jails to substantially raise their standards of for drug smuggling offences were of living." Annan: 'Drugs money pollutes' Nigerian descent.B

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 17 NIGERIA

--** ------>

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ff

Demolished buildings: Source of three-year-old land dispute in Ajah Land for Demolition Victims

Victims of the 1995 property demolition in Ajah community in Lagos State get new land allocation

By Fola Adekeye

ohammed buba , a colonel, in 1995. administrator's office. Marwa, a colonel A task force set up by the adminis­ Lanre Bajulaye, a spokesman for the and military trator in January this year to share out 80 task force, told Newswatch, February 23, administrator of hectares of land to the victims organised that the land being allocated is quite Lagos State, has under the umbrella of Ajah Land different from the one which both the 40 brought back smiles on the faces of those Developers’ Association, ALDA, has so Ajah land-holding families and ALDA who lost both land and property in the far allocated land to 317 victims. The task members had in mind. Following an out- demolitionM in Ajah. The exercise was force is headed by Remilekun Olanrewaju of-court resolution of the three-year-old carried out by the government of Sonoiki, a permanent secretary in the land dispute, government made available

18 Newswatch, March 16, 1998 ■ NIGERIA

120 hectares of land for allocation to 40- of honesty on their part definitely is not a as 1995, at that stage there could not be Ajah land holding families and 80 hectares problem because they explained quite possibility of a fraudster trying to scale to ALDA. Government said then that it clearly the conditions and criteria which through the rank of becoming a land excised the 200 hectares of land " to permit they have used to come up with the first owner. So government said these people present and future expansion of Ajah list and those conditions and criteria were should be put in the first phase of the village." approved by us," he said. allocation process. People whose names Newswatch learnt last week that both Ugochukwu are not in the first the families and members of the Unoli, a lawyer list will still be association had expected the government and key officer of considered in to allocate to them part of the large ALDA, subsequent expanse of land along Lagos-Epe road. explained the phases." "You see, unless you are a surveyor, you criteria used by Bajulaye said cannot interpret a survey plan. the task force. the task force Government never took anybody to Said he: "For QQ would also look anywhere. Some of these people thought those people into the cases of they could interpret a survey plan... they who went to people who have got everything wrong. Where court early in their names on government has given them now is a time and whose the lists for­ virgin land nobody has ever built on it," names were warded to it by Bajulaye told Newswatch. contained in an ALDA but have He said the 317 ALDA members that affidavit in sup­ never gone to have been allocated plots of land "were port of the mo­ court. This cate­ those who first went to court in 1995 to tion seeking to gory, according challenge government acquisition of their join the Baalc's to him, is made parcels of land and others with genuine suit, the gover­ up of people who cases. Adebayo Babalola, a lawyer and nment felt that have genuine ALDA chairman, told Newsivatch that the since these cases but have criteria being used by the task force was never identified people went to 0aju|ajye; Promises fairness approved by the association. "The issue court as far back 1 7 with ALDA because some of them are illiterate, all they know is that government has taken over their land." February 24, was set aside by the task force for collection of fresh applications from people who said their names were not on the list submitted to the task force by the Babalola-led association and those who have never identified with ALDA. Bajulaye said fresh applicants were asked to come forward with original copies of their lease agreement, survey plans and two passport-size photographs each. "These documents will enable us to allocate land to only people with genuine claims," he said. ALDA officials, however, said the composition of the task force contravened the terms of settlement endorsed by Musiliu Ope-Agbe, a judge of the Lagos High Court in March last year because it excluded ALDA members. The term of settlement provided that the allocation of the 80 hectares to ALDA members "shall be managed by an allotment committee whose constitution comprises the Baale in council, in conjunction with the representatives of the beneficiaries, represented by key officers of the ALD A." The key officers are Babalola; M.O. Oluwale; Nonye Nwagius; Nnoli and Tayo Onoseh .A. Representatives of the ministries of justice, lands and housing

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 19 ■ NIGERIA

and the New Town Development the association sought to be represented Authority are expected, by the terms of in the task force. He is right. Last week, settlement, to play "supervisory roles" in one John Foster was reported by a national the committee. daily to have identified himself as the Babalola was not pleased tha t the task chairman of ALDA. A lawyer, simply force excluded ALDA members. "They called Nat by a Newswatch source in Ajah asked for our approval for the criteria village, was also said to be parading but they now went ahead and did the himself as the chairman of ALDA. allotment on their own... Their job, Both Foster and Nat were said to have according to the terms of settlement is, submitted names for inclusion in the task supposed to be supervisory but they are force. "Some of them went ahead to now adopting a kind of administrative constitute new associations and wanted approach which is against the terms of their own members to be part and parcel the settlement." of the task force. Is it possible?" Bajulaye He said the main reason why ALDA asked, rhetorically. He said the has not challenged the composition of membership list of 1026 persons the task force was that "the military submitted to the task force by the administrator of this state has been more Babalola-led ALDA was being used in than perfunctory in his interest to put the allocation exercise. smiles on our faces and we are not going The division in ALDA was attributed to repay him with a recalcitrant attitude. last week to "a patent disagreement" over We would adopt, as much as possible, membership number. Babalola said they the attitude of co-operation to the extent are 1026. Foster reportedly said ALDA built on four plots of land to be given one that at the end of the exercise we would members are over 3,000. Nat, according plot now to build upon, certainly it will all smile together." to sources in Ajah, did not come up with not satisfy his purpose for buying four Bajulaye attributed the exclusion of any membership list but feltdisenchanted plots in the first place. So we are not ALDA members from the task force to with the leadership of Babalola, going to accept the formula. We believe the existence of different factions within Ncii'sicatch made a futile attempt to speak that there are enough lands in Lagos the association. He said every faction of with both Foster and Nat last week. State to go round all of us. If someone The remaining 120 hectares, according bought 10 plots, he should be given back to the terms of settlement are to be held in 10 plots. Somebody who bought 20 plots trust by Amida Adedeji Kareem, the Baalc to develop an estate should be given back of Ajah, for the benefit of all the 40 land- his 20 plots. People should not be denied holding families in the community. parts of what they have paid for." Bajulaye said the task force would soon He argued that the writ of land title in make the 120 hectares of land available to his case were not derived from the the families. Allocating the 80 hectares government. "Our writ of title is beyond among ALDA members is posing a the government, it came from the problem to the task force. Key members villagers, the community we paid for our of the association do not accept its sharing lands. So if I purchased four plots from formula of "one man, one plot." one of the Ajah land-holding families, the Nonye Nwagwu, lawyer and member government cannot come and give me of ALDA, told Newswatch, February 20 one plot," he said. that the formula was unacceptable. He Bajulaye was not categorical when said: "Government is saying one man, Newswatch asked for his reaction to the one plot, because they want to give 120 allocation formula. He said: "What government took from them was about r M hectares of land to Ajah landless families. - ■ We had bought the lands of these families 47 hectares of land. In it, no provision before government came and took them was made for road and social amenities. •i* away from us. These families were It was like a slum. Somebody that is §jjk enjoying the money they got from us claiming three plots, by the time you look when government came in and took the at his claims under the present land they sold to us. We are the real resettlement scheme the whole thing may victims in this case and I appeal to not be more than one plot." government to give back to each and The resettlement scheme, he said, every one of us the exact numbers of plot made provision for roads and social we bought from these families." amenities. "Government will not Nnoli shares Nwagwu's stand point. encourage emergence of a slum as some Said he: "Weare aware that many people's of these people would want the place purchased more than one plot, some even turned into. People should be built on more than four plots before the appreciative of government gesture Babalola: Commends Govt, action demolition exercise. For somebody who rather than complaining," he said.H

20 Newswatch, March 16, 1998 ■ NIGERIA

Members of IWA singing a song to herald the launching Adamu: Donated generously To their Rescue

Igala Women Association raises fund for uncompleted projects at the lyale Special School for handicapped children

By Salif Atojokô

he igala women Merchant Bank and Shehu Mohammed blindness, deafness to physical Association, IWA, Lagos of N1TEL. Akoji Agwuda, Isah Mom oh, disablement. branch, launched a Nil) Rosemary Shaibu, Stella Ocheja and Tijani Mohammed, a Lagos lawyer, million appeal fund for the others were also in attendance. praised the Igala Women for coming out lyale Special School for handicapped Mariam Okpanachi, president of publicly to identify with the plight of the children,T February 28, in Lagos. Owing IWA, said the money realised from the less privileged. Yusuf Amodu, an to lack of funds, the school is left with launching will be used to augment the assistant general manager, National uncompleted classroom and hostel existing resources at the lyale school for Theatre, Iganmu, venue of the launching, buildings, broken down generating set, handicapped children. Okpanachi said congratulated IWA on the scheme. He poor health care facilities, sparsely the project began with a visit to said that was the first time a group had furnished handicraft workshop and handicapped school November 18,1996. come out to feel the pulse of the inadequate water supply. "The principal of the school, David handicapped in the Igala community. "It Lawal Adamu, managing director of Matthew, a blind man himself, conducted is commendable," he said. Lampex Holdings Limited, kicked off the us round. From the tour, we observed IWA came into existence in February launching by pledging his monthly salary that a lot is needed to be done to improve 1985 as a gathering of friends resident in of N100,000 for the next 10 months. That the standard of life for these handicapped Lagos. By November of the same year, it translates to Nl,000,000. At least N2 children," she said. had transformed into a formal forum. million was realised. The lyale school for handicapped The association aims at bringing together Prominent Igala sons and daughters children was established in 1982 and has all Igala women by birth or marriage, made donations. Some of them are a population of 172 pupils made up of 50 educated or illiterate, rich or poor, Ibrahim Akoh, the Omi Igala of Lagos; females and 122 males. It is located on a resident in Lagos. It hopes to foster unity Daniel Akoh, who performed the hill in a building previously occupied by and love among Igala women both at traditional breaking of kolanut, Yakubu lyale Memorial Hospital. Sited in the heart home and abroad and to render assistance Mohammed, deputy chief executive of lyale town in Dekina local government to one another. The association was officer, Newswatch Communications area of Kogi State, the handicapped formally launched July 28,1990, and now Limited; Mike Achimugu of Rims condition of its pupils range from has a membership of over 100.B

Newswatch, March 16,1998 21 The Chairman,Board, Management and Staff of the Family Economic Advancement Programme, FEAP, rejoice with Her Excellency, Dr. (Mrs.) Maryam Sani Abacha on the occasion of her 51st Birthday, the 4th Anniversary of the Family Support Programme, FSP, and the 1 st Anniversary of FEAP.

Mother of the Nation, we salute you today and always for your courage, vision, absolute care and concern for the less privileged.

We, at FEAP, will continue to cherish your noble contributions to the total emancipation and economic rejuvenation of the Nigerian Family.

We and indeed the entire nation are proud of you.

FEAP! For the alleviation of poverty in Nigeria.

^ ------—------POLITICAL UPDATE Protests Galore in

Etiebet: His victory disputed who had 38,980 votes. UNCP But the joy of thousands of Bunu's supporters and party loyalists who danced all night to the rhythm of Kanuri drums and Algaita trumpets over the Disqualified aspirants in the Senatorial landslide victory was short-lived. He was disqualified barely 24 hours later. The and House of Representatives election disqualification, announced on NTA , sent the town into mourning primaries in the UNCP accuse national as people sat in groups to discuss the political tragedy. and state officers of manipulation Bunu told Neivsivatch, "I have met all the requirements for qualification to contest election into the senate and I have By Ibrahim Modibbo contributed more than most of the executives towards the development of HE NATIONAL HEAD- conduct of its senatorial primaries, the party in Bomo. I have kept the party quarters of the United February 24. One of the protests came running, and have mobilised many Nigeria Congress Party, from , an architect and supporters towards its success at the polls UNCP, has been inun­ aspirant in Borno Central who polled and as such I cannot see any reason why dated with protests on the 317,752 votes to beat his rival, Ali Sheriff, anybody can disqualify me after winning T the elections." Bunu who said he resisted all temptations to wash the party's dirty linen in public, urged members of the national executive to "re-examine themselves and recognise the differences between individuals with their claims and the society with their rights." This he said "is the only panacea to brazen, unethical and self-centered acts capable of destroying the basic fabrics of an evolving democracy." Sheriff, a former senator and multi-millionaire businessman, is believed to wield considerable influence as the immediate past national treasurer of the party. He is not worried by Bunu's protest. Similar petitions against Isa Mohammed, UNCP's national chairman, were fired by Abubakar Othman and Mohammed Tumola, of the University of Maiduguri to the party's national Bunu: Protested disqualification Sheriff: Accused of manipulation headquarters. They alleged that

23 Newswatch, March 16,1998 ■ POLITICAL UPDATE

Mohammed used his influence and Chris G yang and Para Mallum, former Bassey Ewa-Henshaw from position to manipulate the Bomo UNCP vice-chancellor of the University of Jos, senatorial zone has also protested the to pave the way forTiis newly wedded were in Abuja to lodge their protest alleged rigging of the primaries in favour wife to be selected as a candidate in Bomo against the hand-picking of Hanatu of Grace Eyo-Ita. B.O. Ikobi, a high chief North senatorial district. . Chollom as its senatorial flagbearer. and a reverend has also sent a six-page They said. "Fati Isa Mohammed who Gyang in his protest said: "There Was no petition to the national headquarters hitherto did not apply for nomination election at all and it was a great surprise challenging his defeat in the central was hurriedly shortlisted for the contest to us to learn that Chollom was declared senatorial district of . and was imposed on the people instead winner." If we go to primaries any time, Contrary to media reports that of the popular candidate Maaji Ma inn any day I know I will beat her hands Gamaliel Onosode, chairman of Dunlop Lawan". They said it was two months down" he said. Pic, lost his bid through disqualification, ago that she got married to the*national Umaru Gomwalk, a professor and Ncii’szvatch authoritatively gathered that chairman of the party. The petitioners former vice-chancellor of the Federal the management expert was returned by find it amazing that she never declared University of Technology, , was consensus to represent Delta central herself as a candidate like others, nor equally disqualified to clear the way for senatorial district. collected nomination forms on the Ibrahim Mantu, former national publicity In the Enugu east senatorial district, stipulated date or passed through secretary of the party in Plateau south , former minister of sports, screening like other candidates. Butbeing senatorial district. was disqualified to pave the way for , a millionaire businessman, believed to be one of the most influential founders and financiers of the party in the state. Reasons advanced for Nwobodo's disqualification have to do with his late membership and low financial contributions to the party. Nwobodo who joined the party after he was dropped as minister last November, sources said, did not meet the requirements of being a member for one year and has not adequately mobilised human and material resources to the party to warrant his candidature. As at last week, source close to his Enugu residence told Ncwsieatch that he had gone to Abuja to lodge a formal protest over his disqualification. The odds against Nwobodo's candidature might have also been factors i that militated against , former political adviser to Shehu Shagari, a : \ in the Anambra North Senatorial district. NwobodorDisqualified Awwal: People's choice Okadigbo who only decamped to the party in November from DPN, was the wife to the chairman, two days to the Protests also greeted the senatorial believed to have filed his protest to the primaries, she appeared from nowhere primaries of the party in Bauchi. national headquarters in Abuja. and had already been tipped to beat Mohammed Bashir Mustapha, a Third Okadigbo was said to be in Abuja when Lawan, a former civilian governor of Republic presidential aspirant, who vied Nciesivatch contacted his Lagos and Borno, in the senatorial district." for a seat in Bauchi North Senatorial Enugu residences last week. Pogu Bitrus, has also protested his district was also bitter over the mode of Isa Braimoh, a senatorial aspirant from disqualification to contest the Borno the electoral procedures. Mustapha, who also handed in his protest letter South senatorial primaries. He alleged decamped recen tly from NCPN to UNCP, to thenational headquarters of theUNCP. favouritism and manipulations by «the was said to have donated six vehicles to He is challenging his disqualification state executive in favour of Abbas Dawa the party while thousands of supporters during the primaries. Others who were Gaafa. He told Newswatch "the imposi­ came on board with him. Mustapha is similarly disqualified include Doyin tion of unqualified and unpopular protesting against the endorsement of Okupe, former national publicity candidate in Bomo will lead to a situation Mohammed Garba Giade, managing secretary of the defunct National where the state will be represented at the director, Zaki Flour Mills. Republican Convention, NRC; Lazarus national level by incompetent persons. Among those who protested to the Unoagu, former special duties minister Hence the state and its people will be national secretariat from the state are and Chekwas Okorie, leader of Igboezue marginalised in the policies and Ada mu Ambi, a senator in the Second Cultural Association. Okorie who had programmes of the federal government." Republic, and Yakubu Ibrahim, also a since been in Abuja with his protest letter In Plateau North senatorial district, senator in the Third Republic. told Ncioswatch: "My disqualification for

Newswatch, March 16,1998 24 ■ POLITICAL UPDATE

no justifiable reason raises fundamental, district, was erroneously reported to have that Edet Amana who was speculated to moral and constitutional issues about been disqualified. Results made available have been declared a consensus candidate UNCP's claim of working towards the to Newswatch showed that Okonkwo won actually went through an election in greatness of justice, peace and progress with 72,469 votes against Chimezie which he defeated Martins Udo-Inyang in Nigeria/' Ikeazor, a senior advocateof Nigeria who with 57,481 votes to 9,089. Amana He went on: "I was disqualified to polled 12,871 votes. In Anambra north represents Eket senatorial district. Uyo pave the way for , former senatorial district, Jessie U. Balonwu, a senatorial district elected John Udo special assistant to , lawyer was returned unopposed. Edehe. who just joined the party this year. While Resists from Akwa Ibom State shows Those elected as UNCP flagbearers in I contributed N250,000 during the fund­ the House of Representatives elections in raising ceremony of the party last year Akwa Ibom include Chris Abasi Eyo - with invaluable contributions in human Oron; Assam Assam - Eket; Joe Udobia - resources, Maduekwe cannot be said to Ikot Abasi: and Godson Akpabio - Uyo. have done such." Okorie said, Other are I ta Ewang forltu; AnietieEkong "Maduekwe is seen as a foreigner in the for Etinan/Nsiti Ibom; Gabriel Okoh for area since he worked against Igbo agenda Oruk Anam; Ikwo Minima for Ini; Ini at the last constitutional conference." Okopido for Ika; and Tony Esu for Ikot- Maduekwe's endorsement is believed Ekpene. to have gotten the blessing of those in the In , Dahiru Babbo, a corridors of power. Newswatch learnt that former registrar of the University of Okorie might be compensated with the Maiduguri, was declared winner in position of the secretary of the party at Adamawa central senatorial district. The the national level. He may replace victory brought to rest the speculated Gbazuagu Nweke Gbazuagu who will consensus candidature of Gambo Jimeta, vacate office to pursue his gubernatorial former minister of agriculture, who did ambition in . not contest at all. Hamidu Mahmud, a In the entire South East, those lawyer and former national legal adviser protesting their disqualification have of the party, won in Adamawa north pointed accusing fingers at Emmanuel senatorial district while Pascal Bafyau, a Iwuanyanwu and Gbazuagu. The two, former labour leader got his ticket as Newswatch learnt, allegedly acted in consensus candidate in Adamawa south alliance to ensure that people whom they senatorial district. perceived as political enemies never got Amana: Won by landslide Awwal Tukur, a millionaire the opportunity to win. The disquali­ businessman and heir-apparent to the fication, Newswatch was told, was a grand political machinery got strategy to eliminate any obstacle to the the ticket as a consensus candidate for personal ambitions of the two men. While Yola and Girei federal constituency. Gbazuagu is preparing for the Jonathan Zwingina, a former political ally governorship contest in Enugu. of Moshood Abiola, also won the House Iwuanyanwu is believed to be interested of Representatives seat under Shelleng/ in becoming a prime minister. Guyuk federal constituency. Another problem associated with the Some kingpins in the party did not go primaries in UNCP is the non-availability through the election primaries at all. of full details of election results. In almost Among them were Emmanuel all senatorial districts and states, no full Iwuanyanwu, publisher of Champion details of election results were made newspapers who picked up the consensus public and that gave rise to speculations ticket for Owerri senatorial district, and conflicting results. For instance, in Anthony Adefuye, former Lagos State Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, results chairman of the party; Anthony Okpere, first indicated that Ime Umanah, former aviation minister in the Babangida chairman of Newswatch administration. He got the ticket for Edo Communications Limited won a central, , former deputy landslide victory. But the joy of his national chairman was picked as the supporters was cut short by a declaration consensus candidate for Ondo east at the national headquarters that Don senatorial district. Etiebet, a former minister of petroleum Also Joseph Garba, a retired general resources and former national leader of and Nigeria's former permanent NCPN won the elections with 88,578 votes representative to the United Nations was to Umanah's 84,506. returned unopposed in Plateau south Annie Okonkwo, a successful senatorial district while Ayo Otegbola businessman and a party stalwart, who was also returned unopposed in Ogun contested for Anambra central senatorial Iwuanyanwu: Accused by victims west senatorial districts.® % Jerusalem^ The bulk of this violence which Israel amount will be began when the held in trust for authorities can­ An ultra orthodox her two child­ The Kenyan celled elections Jewish sect has ren - William government is which the Islamic started recruiting and Harry- to fully imple­ Salvation Front, new born baby boys until they are ment measures was set to win. to be raised in iso­ 25. agreed with the lation and purity in Other bene­ International Colombo, preparation for the ficiaries are Monetary Sri-Lanka rebuilding of the Diana' 17 god­ Compiled Fund, IMF, as a biblical temple in children who will [ By condition for Sri-Lankan editors Jerusalem. The be allowed to choo­ Clarice Azuatalam resumption of aid. have expressed exercise which is se a memento from The assurance was deep concern over restricted to only among Diana's pos­ necessitated by the the spate of recent members of the session. Paul Bur­ attacks on journa­ would rise up comments of an Jewish priestly rell, her former lists; They said the against any attack. IMF team which families will pre­ butler, will also has just concluded incidents indicate a vent the boys from receive £50,000. review of Kenya's drift towards a touching the dead; Her will which is economy. The team police state. The staying under the expected to be an had said it was too editors said this same roof with the instant best seller is wanton arrests Kenneth Kaunda, early to talk of dead or even be in sold at 75 pence a were stifling the the former presi­ resuming loans the hospital where copy to the public climate of free dent of Zambia, because the govern­ the dead are also or £2 by post. media. who is currently ment had failed to found. implement the ap­ Yosef Elboim, under house arrest propriate measu­ Islamabad, the rabbi handling defied a ban on res. Pakistan the job, said once political activity imposed under the boys turn 13, Charles Taylor, the A national popula­ emergency laws to they would be able president of Libe­ tion census has attack the economic to slaughter and ria, has accused begun in Pakistan. policies of Frede­ burn a sacred red dissident groups The census which rick Chiluba's gov­ The Algerian gov­ heifer, literally a based in neighbou­ is the first in 17 ernment. ernment has pled­ holy cow and sub­ ring Sierra Leone, of years is to ensure a Kaunda told his ged its determina­ sequently sprinkle plotting a rebellion fairer distribution supporters in a tion to defeat Isla­ its ashes on people against his govern­ of federal funds and court room where mic militants ope­ in a purification ment. He sa id secu­ parliamentary re­ he is facing charges rating in the coun­ ritual, last perfor­ rity reports showed presentation am­ of concealing try. Liamine Zer- med in biblical that the dissidents ong the country's knowledge of the oual, the president, times. were taking advan­ four provinces. coup plot of last made the pledge tage of the tense Troops have October, that the after inspecting a situation in Sierra been deployed to government bridge that had Leone to unleash an various areas to should quit. The ex­ been blown up unrest in his coun­ ensure the success president was ban­ twice by militants It has been disco­ try, using the of the exercise. Pre- ned from talking to in the country. vered that late Kamajor militias as vious attempts the media after his Thousands of Diana, the princess a back-up. failed due to wide­ arrest on Christmas Algerians have of Wales, left £21.5 Taylor warned spread rigging. B day last year. died in political million in her will. that his country j Newswatch, March 16, 1998 26 BUSINESS + ECONOMY

Etete: Promises functional refineries this time round Etete’s Second Coming

Dropped November 17, Dan Etete beats the odds, returns to his petroleum resources ministry. What now?

By Joseph Ode

AN ETETE, WHO WAS ensure the award of contract for the TAM This, no doubt, is a tough agenda. reappointed petroleum of the Port-Harcourt refinery shut down And Etete knows that. The epileptic resources minister last at the moment, causing fuel scarcity in performance of the refineries due to December 18, says his the eastern and northern parts of the inadequate maintenance predates Etete's priority is to put the country before October. By the end of first coming as petroleum minister in country's four refineries back inSeptember, form. the minister hopes, "we will March 1995. The bouts of fuel scarcity D"Before we leave office this year,"be ablehe told to achieve 91) percent of the which resulted gave way to crisis last Newswatch, "this issue of rehabilitation of required maintenance condition of the year when the country went through a our refineries will be addressed." Warri refinery." Within that time frame, severe and prolonged fuel shortage. Th€ Already, he said, he has directed the he said, spare parts for the refinery, for fuel supply relief being enjoyed since la si award of contract for the tum-around- which $20m was voted in this year's quarter of last year is at the expense ol maintenance, TAM, of the Kaduna budget, will be procured. The completion massive imports. refinery to Total. If the company is not of the pipelines and depots projects is At the height of the fuel crisis las already on site as directed/it is because, also on the minister's agenda. The contract year, Etete blamed the finance ministr) according to the minister, "they are trying for the rehabilitation and laying of for not releasing money to maintain anc to clear up some legal points." pipelines for the Atlas Cove has been repair the refineries. But Anthony An Etete said his minister of state, Umaru awarded. According to the minister, the the finance minister said the money wa: Dembo, is doing everything possible to contractors will soon start work. withheld because previous allocation;

27 Newswatch, March 16, 1991 ■ BUSINESS + ECONOMY

were not accounted for. Thus, the first hurdle Etete will need to jump to get the refineries working is funding. As at early 1996, the refineries, according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, estimates, required $843 million and N13 billion for overhauling and repairs. Last year, $230 million was budgeted for that purpose but as at the time of the fuel crisis in the third quarter of 1997, it was yet to be released. Newswatch could not ascertain if it has since been released. This year, funding does not appear to be a serious problem. "The funds are available for the rehabilitation, so there is no question of funding," Etete said in the context of the Kaduna refinery. Also, he said, $92 million has been made available for the T AM of the Port Harcourt refinery, which he said will be carried out in phases. "The $92 million is adequate for the first phase..." he said. The Kaduna refinery: Total won its maintenance contract Now, My Agenda

Dan Etete, minister of petroleum resources, talks to Wale Akin Aina, Abuja bureau chief, on his plans and legacies

Newswatch: This is your second time around as petroleum year this issue of rehabilitation of our refineries will be addressed. minister. Looking backward and looking forward, how has it Fortunately, I have directed the award of contract for the been and what are your projections for the future? Kaduna refinery to Total. I have also directed that they must Etete: First of all, you will appreciate that my ministry is a very mobilise and be on site before the 15th of this month (February). sensitive ministry. Problems are there and all I can say is that I I think they are trying to clear up some legal points and they will have a good working team in the ministry and in the industry. move to site after that. The funds are available for the I am talking of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation rehabilitation so there is no question of funding. In this year's staff, senior staff, management staff, middle cadre staff and the budget, $92 million was made available for the turn around unions. They have all been very supportive. You will see that maintenance of the Port Harcourt refinery. We are doing it in there has been relative calm in the industry in spite of the phases, putting into consideration the time frame as well as the difficulties we have encountered in the last year. financial constraints. The $92 million is, of course, given at the Since I came back, I have looked backward and have found request of the NNPC management team that sat and looked at out the areas to be addressed very quickly so that some of the the total maintenance scheme that is required for the Port problems in the industry can be resolved. Fortunately, the Harcourt refinery. So I think based on their request, the $92 budget has been announced and we have mapped out our million is adequate for the first phase of the Port-Harcourt strategies and as soon as funds are released, we will go ahead to refinery. Of course, my minister of state is responsible for this implement some of the projects. Bearing in mind also that this and he is doing everything within the time frame to ensure that is a very short year for us, because the head of state and the the contract will be awarded to a deserving international firm commander-in-chief of the armed forces is determined that the for the maintenance. life span of this administration will come to an end in October There is also $20 million allocated in the budget for the 1998, so every plan we have put in place, we have tried to put procurement of spare parts for the Warri refinery. That is also into consideration the shortness of the year and what we can being set in motion. Hopefully, these will be procured. Also achieve before we leave office. looking at the TAM for the refinery, I believe that by the end of September, we will be able to achieve 90 percent of the required Newswatch: You have mentioned areas that need to be maintenance condition of the refinery. So that will put us in addressed. What are these areas? What are your priorities? good condition and position at least for the in-coming Etete: My priority is to make sure that before we leave office this administration to take off.

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 28 ■ BUSINESS + ECONOMY

execution of other associated projects such And even if heeventually succeeds himself, positions reconfirmed without prejudice as the pipelines and depots, Etete said, will no current minister can be guaranteed to the incremental status of their personal also be phased "because we cannot take similar self succession. That leaves Etete emoluments. everything at the same time." with only seven months to execute his The petroleum and Natural Gas Senior From the budget allocation of $188 agenda. He has incorporated the time Staff Association of Nigeria, PENGASSAN, million, according to the minister, most of constraint into his calculations. "Every plan commended the minister for that exercise the projects will be substantially executed we have put in place", he said, "we have saying he was "determined to put the "Of course, we need additional funds and tried to put into considéra tion the shortness industry back on course and restore its wecan makea case to government and I am of the year and what we can achieve before dwindling glory." In a letter dated August sure government will listen and address we leave office." 1995 and signed by Dozie Irechukwu, the issues," Etete said. What legacies would he leave behind chairman, petroleum inspectorate branch, Even if the minister successfully puts after three years as petroleum resources the association noted: "For the first time in the problem of funding behind him, he has minister? The fuel shortage of last year will, seven years, an issue (on staff matters) that another to contend with : Time. The Abacha no doubt, be counted. But industry sources appeared beleaguering and intractable was administration has promised to hand over say Etete has a lot of concrete, more positive handled with such dispatch that surprised to a democratically elected government in legacies to his credit. One of them was the all pleasantly." October. The ministers are expected to leave reorganisation of NNPC, involving far- The association said: "From the office with him. Even if he transforms into reaching personnel changes and bottom of our hearts, we thank you for a civilian president in October, he will rationalisation. In the exercise which was dispensing, in less than 72 hours, with appoint a new set of ministers to be based on the recommendation of the the promotion issue that had lingered approved by the national assembly. Abisoyepanel thatprobed the corpora tion, for over 18 months." The improvement Abacha is yet to con fi mi the specula tion. all senior and management staff had their in workers' welfare under Etete is said

Apart from that, we are looking at the other associated Newswatch: The government increased the cash call for joint projects such as the pipelines and the depots. This will be venture projects. How is this going to affect participation in phased because we cannot take everything at the same time. But joint ventures? from the budget allocation of $188 million most of the projects Etete You know, last year, the joint venture partners were will be substantially addressed. Of course, we need additional jittery, were afraid that not enough money was being invested funds and we can make a case to government and I am sure in the sector by government and so on and so forth. We have government will listen and address the looked at this situation on a broad base. issues. We have awarded contract for the Government came to the conclusion that rehabilitation and laying of pipelines for there is need to invest more money in the Atlas Cove and the contractors will ventures so that we can increase our soon start work. production and also increase our reserves and the projection is that by the year 2000, Newswatch: In the international market, Nigeria should be able to produce about oil prices are falling, Kuwait recently cut three millions barrels per day. This will its price to 13 dollars per barrel. We are still give us a strong position in the international basing our budget on 17dollars per barrel. oil trade. Do you think our budget is realistic? The 1998 budget provides for $2.5 Etete: As you know, Nigeria is a member billion as government contribution to joint of the monitoring committee of OPEC and venture activities. Another $3(X) million we are actually involved in forecasting the By the year 2000, was estimated for the natural gas oil market situation sometimes six months development projects. Though these sums ahead. We also consult among ourselves Nigeria should be approved are lower than proposed cost, as OPEC members and we knew that this the industry is constantly ensuring lower situation was coming ahead of us. In our able to produce than average operating cost through case, we discussed it and I thing adequate application of new technologies for provisions were made. The only situation about 3 million exploration, drilling as well as completion. is that we should not allow this trend to It is expected that production this year will continue for too long, but so far I think we barrels per day average 2.4 million barrels per day are comfortable. But apart from that, OPEC including condensates. Several new oil and countries are consulting each other to see gas projects will be commissioned, what can be done to stabilise the market situation and see including the NNPC/Elf Ofon oil field and the Oso NLNG whether we can get back to the former market situation which production. The Ofon field which is located at OML102 has the all OPEC members enjoyed in the past. I do not want to be potential to produce 60,000 barrels per day. The commissioning categorical because of the fluid situation of the oil market, but of this $300 million projects has been scheduled for March 25 I can assure you that steps are being taken very soon to make this year. It is expected that the first shipment of the Oso NGL sure that the market stabilises and, if possible, improves. will take place in the second quarter of this year. In addition, government is committed to providing an enabling environment

29 Newswatch, March 16, 1998 ■ BUSINESS + ECONOMY

to be responsible for the good donated about N1.5 million to many reportedly gave the debtor-companies industrial atmosphere prevailing in the less privileged, handicapped and seven days to pay up or have their product oil sector. voluntary organisations in the oil supplies to them suspended. They Etete is also credited with restoring producing areas in 1995. complied and since then, according to relative peace in the oil producing The progress recorded in the sources, they no longer enjoy extra credit communities. He, for instance, got the implementation of the Nigerian facilities outside the normal 30-day credit National Petroleum Investment Liquefied Natural Gas, NLNG, project period. Management Services, NAPIMS, a is also credited to Etete. He got the The minister was also said to be subsidiary of NNPC, to participate in shareholders to sign the final investment instrumental to the signing of the the settlement of disputes between the decision which was a pre-requisite for agreement for the West African gas oil-producing companies and their host the commencement of the actual pipeline project in September 1995. The communities. Some of them included construction work on the project. He also signing of this agreement had been the long-standing dispute between had the gas supply agreements postponed several times, suggesting that Oyakama community in Port Harcourt negotiated, finalised and signed. the multi-million dollar project was stalled. and the Nigerian Agip Oil Company; Shortly after Etete's reappointment, But, perhaps, the most radical action the flowstation dispute between Shell Enel, the Italian state gas company which of Etete during his first term was the Petroleum Development Company, had withdrawn from the gas purchase introduction of the New Deal in .1996. It SPDC, and the Egbema community; agreement with NLNG was persuaded was a package of measures to plug lapses and the settlement of industrial dispute to re-enter the deal. and ensure that Nigeria derives maximum involving SPDC and SPDC contract Etete is also said to have helped reduce benefits from its investments in oil staff which affected operations at the staggering debts owed NNPC by exploration and production. He directed Forcados terminal. Also, NAPIMS major oil marketing companies. He that two types of escrow accounts be

to ensure the successful implementation of Mobil's independent The necessary development of gas resources is also reducing power plant project. This $375 million investment will add the volume of flared gas, while industries such as aluminium, about 15 percent to NEPA's current power supply capacity. steel and power generating are expanding the economic Already, discussions have progressed between Mobil and the opportunities in the country. concerned government agencies. So, we have been able to give our joint venture partners Newswatch: You set up two monitoring communities to monitor confidence that government is serious about the fund for the joint venture and the carrying the industry forward with natural gas projects. How have.these government's increased participation. committees fared? Etete: They are doing very well. Because Neivswatch: One can also see that the of the huge fund invested in the joint confidence of the joint venture partners ventures and the NLNG, government was will need to have to do with their concerned about its responsibility to relationship with the host communities. ensure transparency and accountability. What are you doing in this regard? It was necessary to have checks and Etete: The success of this year's oil industry balances. The oil companies themselves plan is linked with our ability to resolve the have complied and they have found the conflicts between host communities and usefulness of these committees. At first the operating companies. I have, therefore, they were against it. Now it is clear to embarked on a crusade to ensure substantial everybody in the business that partners progress is made this year. The strategy is Government is must take each other along. We have to develop a framework for quick resolution always insisted that we are contributing of conflict and disputes through continuing serious about 60 percent to the joint venture account, so dialogues and to create social harmony in we want to know how this money is being oil producing areas by instituting carrying the spent, we want to know how they prioritise community assistance projects. their projects. Does this bring ourselves Some oil companies have been industry forward and our partners together. There is encouraged to establish technical centres absolute confidence between us now. We where essential skills are to be imparted to know how much money our joint partners young school leavers. The objective is to provide a reservoir of are bringing in because the joint venture monitoring committee trained manpower to supply the industry and enable has succeeded in establishing a system which ensures that all beneficiaries of such training schemes to be self-employed. parties to the venture contribute their equity to specified The next step is to provide necessary resources for the domestic and foreign accounts which are properly controlled growth of local enterprises in the areas. Government concern in for fund disbursement. encouraging host/operating companies relations also touches So, we now know how much money is being spent. So we on the environment. This is reflected in the fact that substantial have achieved transparency and accountability. The other fund is invested in rehabilitating oil pipelines and ensuring the committee, of course, has done significantly well. We were able integrity of oil field facilities in order to minimise oil spillages. to re-negotiate the joint venture agreement between government

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 3 0 ■ BUSINESS + ECONOMY

opened by each of NNPC's joint venture marginal fields for allocation to those partners must take each other along." He partners into which cash-call contributions seriously interested in exploiting them. He said there is now absolute confidence will be lodged. One, for foreign exchange directed that no expatriates should be between the joint venture partners and component, would be opened with an employed by any joint venture operator government which owns 60 percent of the overseas bank and would be operated without the approval of NAPIMS and that ventures. He explains: "We know how through theCentral Bank. Theother would there must be clear evidence that efforts much money our joint pa rtners are bringing be the local currency account to be opened had been made to fill the vacancy with a in because the joint venture monitoring with local commercial banks. Nigerian to no avail. committee has succeeded in establishing a He also set up a monitoring unit in his Another measure in the New Deal was system which ensures that all parties to the office to vet all invoices and claims to be the requirement that oil services companies venture contribute their equity to specified credited to the cash-call accounts. Etete reapply for operating permits under a new domestic and foreign accounts which are said all contracts in the oil industry must guideline obtainable from the department properly controlled for funds be awarded to only Nigerian-registered of petroleum resources. In order to improve disbursement." companies. He said the engineering policy die environment and readiness to combat Most of Etete's actions have been which spelt out the "national interest oil spills, government directed the controversial. According to him, this is content" would be translated into law and producing companies to reactivate Clean because of the sensitive nature of the office enforced to the letter. This would enhance Nigeria Associates. and the failure of people to take pains to participation by Nigerian engineering Etete told Newswatch that the oil know the truth. "My consolation," he said, firms in the oil sector and enhance companies are now complying with the " is that the person that appointed me into technological transfer. According to Etete, measures contained in the New Deal. "At this office has every confidence in me and Abacha had promulgated a new law first, they were against it," he said. "Now, I will do everything possible to try and empowering government to recover all it is clear to everybody in the business that satisfy my country."■

and other shareholders of the NLNG. So the activities of these After all, the money the PTF is using today is from the NNPC. committees have resulted in greater local content in projects, reduction in unnecessary expatriate quota and encouragement Newswatch: We have been having this spate of kerosine of employment of qualified Nigerians. These efforts have explosions. considerably reduced the cost of doing business in the industry. Etete: We have investigated this matter very carefully with experts and we have discovered that some petrol stations took Newswatch: You intervened in the NNPC insurance. This advantage of the public and adulterated kerosine which was caused some furore. What success have you been able to achieve distributed to them and this was the cause of the explosions. It since then? is not that government put in to the market off-specs kerosine. Etete: Following my intervention, considerable reduction has I directed that the affected petrol stations should be closed progressively been made on the NNPC premium. In 19%, $45.4 down. It is unfortunate that Nigerians are not committed to the million would have been paid, but this was reduced to $32 country. For every little thing, they take advantage, they abuse million in 1997. The premium for 1998 is $17.1 million. If you it. Abuse the ignorance of the public. You can see that most parts compare this to the $45.4 million in 1996, you will agree that by of the country you don't have this incident. It is the area that the bringing competition into the business, we have had an overall culprits who adulterated the kerosine are that the explosions saving of $64.4 million over the past three years. are taking place. So if it were off-specs kerosine it would have been nation-wide. Newswatch: What is your relationship with the Petroleum Trust Fund? Newswatch: You have been one minister that has been Etete: The PTF is borne out of the fund accruable from petroleum surrounded by controversies about your person and your office. products, basically from our refineries. Last year, from What do you feel is the matter? documents, N90 billion went to the PTF. And they have tried to Etete: I know that my office is very sensitive one. It is an office judiciously use this hefty sum of money accruing from petroleum that many people would like to get into. My consolation is that products to execute projects across the country. Of course, as the person thatappointed me into this office has every confidence soon as the refineries are put in place, the fund receipts will be in me and I will do everything possible to try and satisfy my increased and their performance will also be increased. country. The unfortunate thing is that most of these outburst and allegations, people do not take pains to know the truth. Newswatch: There was a statement credited to Major-General They think that they could use the media to run down hard Mohammed Buhari, the executive chairman of the PTF that the working ministers. People want to use the media to settle scores refineries would have been repaired if the PTF had been called of their personal grudges with serving ministers. It is in but that the NNPC refused. unfortunate. As far as I am concerned I have accepted the Etete: This is an internal issue that I would not like to touch, but responsibility of serving this country and I will do my best. I the way I can put it is that if money is given to the NNPC to have a conscience and this will judge me. It is not what people maintain the refineries without strings attached, why not? But say or write about me and the ministry. The fact are there. If the NNPC hands are tied. It is not because the NNPC needs somebody spends all his life writing about a particular minister fund to repair the refineries but it is that they can go into and revolving without putting new issues, without proof, it ventures that could create problems for them in the future. The shows that there is nothing really to say. I won't be deterred by money will, of course, not be given to the NNPC free of charge. such attacks.®

31 News FILM Images of Yesterday

A new film released in the US captures the pain of slavery and the miraculous triumph of slaves aboard the Amistad

By Niyi Osundare, New Orleans, USA

HE TRANS-ATLANTIC slave market. Under the leadership of and moral—problems. The burgeoning slave trade and slavery Cinque, the captives killed the captain but vocal Abolitionist Group saw the have generated a and a few other crew, and ordered the Amistad issue as a test case and quickly remarkable number of remaining two to sail the ship back to formed the Amistad Committee. The case films, ranging from the Africa. The Spaniards sailed towards the soon went on trial in a court presided slight and melodramatic to the utterly rising sun in the day, but northeast at over by Justice Thomson and Judge serious and purposeful. Whatever their Judson, the African captives were quality and ideological intent, all these represented by a young, energetic, and films strive to present a slice of the intelligent attorney called Baldwin. The supremely grim reality that slavery was. two crucial questions before the court All of them distill a certain measure of were: could the African captives be tried fiction from that brutal fact of history. in a United States court for mutiny and Since that stupendously successful murder which took place on a Spanish screen adaptation of Alex Haley's Roots ship and on Spanish waters? Should the in the late seventies, celluloid technology Africans be considered part of the cargo has added an immeasurable palpability of the captured ship? and poignancy to a genre which has The court's answer to the first question survived largely through humble slave was a clear NO; the second was referred narratives and the astounding tenacity of to a district court, still in the State of communal memory. As in the case of the Connecticut. Jewish holocaust, the brutality of slavery At this point the politicisation of the and the slave trade is so deep-rooted and Amistad issue started heading for a phenomenal that their stories will go on climax. The incumbent US president, being told and re-told for a long time to Martin Van Buren, was under pressure come, not for the vengeful purpose of from Isabella, the pre-pubescent Queen whipping up negative responses, but as of Spain who would like the Amistad and a, means of stoking the fire of memory in its "cargo" returned to her domain. There order to remind humanity of the skulls was an even more intense lobby by pro­ which line its trodden path. slavery, groups at home who saw a The film, Amistad, is an intriguing re­ positive verdict for the Amistad captives Harley: Author of Roots telling of a well-known slice of the saga of as a wrong signal for the institution of slavery, based as it is on one of the most night until they reached the North slavery,especially in the southern states widely documented slave revolts in the American coast where the slave ship was where it constituted the bedrock of the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. seized by the USS Washington and taken economy. A vulnerable Van Buren with a In the summer of 1839, a Spanish ship to New London in Connecticut. second term at stake agreed to some kind named Le Amistad left Cuba with illegally The arrival of the A mistad precipitated of judicial gerrymandering: a young, imported Africans for a South American an outburst of constitutional, legal — ambitious judge, one who still had "his

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 32 ■ FILM

career before him" and was therefore Here again, the abolitionists had cause movie clings to our memory through its susceptible to official manipulation, was for worry: five of the justices were slave appropriate and effective lighting, appointed for the case. Naturally, this owners from the south. A big fish superior photography, and fitting music. gave the abolitionists a lot to worry about. demands a big net. Acutely aware of the Utterly remarkable is that middle passage However, an obviously uneasy but historic significance of the case before the scene with its heavy chains, sweltering conscientious judge heard out the case Supreme Court, the abolitionists sought naked bodies, and the wails from the and —surprisingly—ruled in favour of and got John Quincy Adams to join the hearts of jettisoned captives as they are the Africans. defence team. An eloquent, erudite man pushed into the greedy jaws of the ocean. This victory did not come easy. The already advanced in age Quincy Adams, A substantial portion of Amistad defence attorney had to prove that his former president and son of a former involves, courtroom drama and the clients were recent captives from Africa, president of the United States, put up an trading of legalese - speech types which and had not arrived in Cuba before 1817 • electrifying case in defence of self can easily degenerate into slumbrous when slave transport was outlawed. But emancipation. The Supreme Court ruled patter in the mouths of an inexperienced how does an attorney convincingly plead in favour of the Amistad Africans and cast. The film is spared this defect by the the case of clients separated from him by ordered their immediate release since superb performance of Anthony Hopkins a daunting language wall? Baldwin spoke they were not property but free (Quincy Adams), Matthew English and no Mende; the captives spoke individuals. The film ends with the freed McConaughey (Attorney Hawkins), and, Mende.and no English. However, by an Africans sailing back to Africa. of course, Djimon Hounsou, the Benin- ingenious speak-and-spot device, a Amistad is a powerful re-enactment born novice actor who played Cinque Mende-English bilingual was found, who of a well-known historical event, with a zest and intelligent aplomb so served as the vital link between the two complete with its own deviations and powerfully reminiscent of Root's Kinta parties. innovations. The Africans in this film are Kunte. Disappointed at the district court not the usual hapless victims waiting for However, Amistad leaves us with a judgment, Van Buren took the Amistad doomsday. On the contrary, they present measure of political and cultural unease. case right up to the US Supreme Court. the image of a strong, proud, and First is the issue of foregrounding. Not a organized group, few critics have argued that the movie baffled but not gives more prominence to the perfect intimidated by the running of the US. judicial system than to brutality of their the brutality of slavery itself. Next is the captors, the vagaries of role of the bible—the way it was snatched the US. legal by the African captives, and how swiftly procedures, and the it became an object of epiphany in curious logic of the captivity. One cannot help being amazed alien culture in which at the (miraculous?) speed with which they were trapped. the African captive discovered the story Cinque's sense of of Jesus Christ in a bible he could not leadership, his read, and the way he transformed that political and story into a consoling parable for his intellectual savvy, his colleagues. reourcefulness and Is the African so naturally, so readiness to take intuitively Christian? Why were the initiative, are captives not allowed to achieve that attributes not spiritual bonding and upliftment through frequently bestowed the invocation of their own indigenous on black characters in religious symbols? After all, one of the movies of this nature. salient points in the argument for their That meeting between freedom is that they a re au then tic Africans Cinque and Quincy not long enough in the New World to be Adams (in the latter's owned as property or acculturated in house) on the eve of Western ways. the Supreme Court All told, Amistad is a project in racial sitting, and the nature reconciliation in the United States. In the of the exchange end there is a passionate embrace between between the two men freed Africans and the benevolent whites portray a scene that who struggled single-mindedly on the hardly has a precedent side of freedom— and justice. The in Hollywood history. Africans did not only return to Africa Technically, with a smattering of English; they also Amistad excels under left a few words of their Mende language the unique fingerprint behind. Steven Spielberg and Debbie of Spielberg, the dean Allen have re-enacted an intriguing slice Kunta Kinte: Acted in Hoofs ! of special effects. The of history.

33 Newswatch, March 16, 1998 ■ MUSIC Sound of Music

French artistes bring a new, entertaining but surprise form of jazz to Africa

By Mudiaga Ofuoku

OR THE AUDIENCE AT THE times. His father, Ademola Denuloye, said : them play on the same beat," said Garcia. banquet hall of the Eko Hotel, "The concept is quite ingenious and His samples showed fine rhythmical Victoria Island, Lagos, it was a amusing. Mr Spirli is trying to show that imagination. difficult thing deciding whether you can bring sounds from a lotof things." Garcia's and Spirli's efforts were ably Alfred Spirli, 39, was a musician or a "It's music with other things—toys complemented that night by Jean-Paul comedian. Spirli, a conical-faced and instruments. You don't make music Autin, soprano saxophonist and bass drummer for L'EFFET VAPEUR, the with songs alone," Spirli told Neivswatch. clarinetist, and Jacques Veille' on French jazz ensemble that entertained at . But why the fascination with toys? trombone. Autin showed a remarkable the hotel February 5, rarely had time for "When I was a child I had no toys," Spirli flair on his bass clarinet like the legendary his drums. said. Eddie Daniels on that instrument. "The Instead, Spirli took to playing with Jazz has come a long way from the reason," said Alain Dorion, a French and all manner of objects on the stage. His swing of the 1930s through Charlie Au tin's classmate in secondary school at repertoire of instruments included pipes, Parker's bebop of the ea rly 1940s to Dewey Grenoble, France, "is that he has been bows, cellotapes, funnels, canes, reeds, Redman's avant-gardist genre which playing it since our school days. We kettle, bird calls, trays, toys, balloons, allowed for free-flowing sounds. New argued a lot on that instrument. Autin name it. The idea was to create a forms of jazz expression have continued felt it was his baby bottle." vaudeville of sound effects in a hilarious to emerge. It is correct to say that the Veille, 41, director of the concert, told fashion. Kids grinned and looked in L'EFFET VAPEUR idiom is a freer form Ncwsivatcli in his French-accented English excitement from the drummer to their of fusion jazz that accommodates just that playing the trombone was a difficult parents. The parents themselves, any sound or wordless singing for thing initially. "I only developed the enthralled, giggled and clapped colourful effect. technique with time," he said. endlessly. Xavier Garcia, 39, the group's pianist, Veille appears to have the most "The man is wonderful. He makes has in his piano memory a set of musical cosmopolitan jazz experience. He has people laugh a lot. I like him," Soji arrangements, from trumpet calls to played in New Orleans, the birthplace of Denuloye, a 10-year-old kid told wordless times which he has personally jazz. He has been to many international Ncwsimtcli after listening to "Locomotive", sampled and stored therein. "I also have festivals in Europe and jammed at many "Mobs" and "Ah, Slowly", three of their a lot of rhythm box in it. I try to make New York theatres and clubs.- His influences, according to him, have come from these places where he was exposed to classical jazz, traditional jazz, melting pot music and other varieties of the' music. The four jazzmen are knit together by several things. They're all based in Lyon, France, and belong to "Arfi", known in English as Association Looking for an Imaginary Folklore. But one striking linkage is their liking for Fela Anikulapo- Kuti, Nigeria's late afro-beat king. "He was a great musician. We like his political message and his clever way of making African music, which today we still have not understood," said Garcia. Besides Fela, however, Autin also likes Barre Phillips on double bass and Wynton Marsalis, the trumpet prodigy and one of America's 25 most influential L'EFFET VAPEUR team entertaining the audience people, according to Time's 1996 rating.

34 Newswatch, March 16, 1998 SPORTS Allah to His Rescue

Egyptian soccer coach gets more than he asked God for in the African Cup of Nations Championship

By Yemi Adebowale - \ ahmoud algo- Faso, and . The Nation's Cup the most valuable hary, coach of the dream of "Mighty" Zambia was shattered player of the Pharaohs of Egypt took by Desert Warriors of Egypt who beat championship. over the team about them 4-0 in the preliminaries. Zambia Ahmed Bahja three months ago. He was asked to re­ subsequently sacked Bukhard Ziese, its of Morocco, v.p IT * buildM the team after Farouk Gaafar was German coach. Esang Emeka of sacked forthe failure of the team to qualify Tunisia, one of the five countries that DRC and for France '98. will represent Africa in France '98 was A 1 h a s s a n Al-Gohary arrived Burkina Faso knocked out by host Burkina Faso in the Quatarra of Cote February 5, praying "at least to get to the quarter-finals. Indomitable Lions of d'Ivoire were the Troussier: Riding high quarter-finals" of the Nations Cup with Cameroon, also a France '98 other new stars his new team. He got more than what he representative were kicked out at the that dazzled football fans in Burkina Faso. prayed for. Egypt won the cup February quarter-finals by DRC. Bahja scored a beautiful goal in Morocco's 28 by defeating South Africa 2-0. Stallions of Burkina Faso was no doubt second round match with Zambia. The victory of the Pharaohs was one the team of the tournament. Prior to the Quatarra was outstanding in Cote 'd of the surprises of Burkina Faso ’98. The tournament, Burkina Faso was not a Ivoire's match with South Africa. three weeks of surprises saw the force to reckon vyith in African football. It But some stars failed to shine in humiliation of all the countries tipped to was one of the weakest national football Burkina Faso Jack Songo, the Spain-based win the cup. teams in Africa. During France '98 goalkeeper of Cameroon was removed The Egyptians overwhelmed the preliminaries, the Stallions lost all the after his team's second match, for South Africans and scored two goals in matches they played, both at home and conceding cheap goals. Abdelhafid the first half of the match. The victorious away. Tasfaout based in France, failed Algeria. Egyptians arrived to an heroic welcome Bu t Phi 11 ipe Troussier, their new coach He could not score goals as expected. in Cairo last week. The Egyptians changed all these. He overhauled the Spain-based Mousa Saib also performed government gave the team $3(X),000. team and turned it into a winning side. woefully for Algeria. Germany-based Egypt has become the second African The Stallions went as far as the semi­ Ossei Kuffour of Ghana was a total failure. country to win the Nationscup four times. final, defeating Tunisia, Algeria and His presence in the Ghanaian defence Ghana was the first country to have Guinea. It was the biggest football did not make any difference. Charles achieved the feat. Al-Gohary also became achievement ever by Burkina Faso. Akunnor, another Ghanaian star based the first man to win the nations cup both For Troussier, it was his best in Germany also contributed to Ghana's as a player and as a coach. He was a performance since arriving in Africa, failure through his selfish game. member of the Egyptian team that won eleven years ago. Said Troussier: "I feel But all these did not take anything the Nations Cup in 1957. proud playing in the Nations Cup semi­ away from the overall standard of football Other countries tipped to win the finals. Though we failed to win the bronze in Burkina Faso '98. Michel Platini, co­ Nations Cup did not even go as far as the medal, I am happy I have shown the president of France '98 World Cup, South Africans. Ghana was thrown out world, what I can do when given a free described the quality of matches played in the preliminaries by the Democratic hand." as "comparable to those in Europe." Republic of Congo, DRC. Ghana also lost Burkina Faso lost the bronze medal to Manfred Hoenner, a German and former 1-2 to Togo. The Ghanaian Football DRC on penalties. Troussier is expected Super Eagles coach said thatBurkina Faso Association, GFA, sacked Rinus Israel, to join the Bafana Bafana, this week as its '98 was miles ahead of South Africa '96. its Dutch coach. Abedi "Pele" Ayew, chief coach. He will lead the South But the championship ended on a veteran footballer and the Ghanaian Africans to France '98. sour note. Thieves stole all the gold, silver captain described Ghana's woeful New Stars emerged in Burkina Faso and bronze medals for the Egyptians, performance as a big setback for Ghanaian '98. Benedict McCarthy of South Africa South Africans and DRC players. As a football. who plays for Ajax of Holland emerged result, the usual presentation of medals Algeria, the 1990 Nations Cup joint top scorer in the championship with did not take place. The organisers have Champion was also knocked out in the Hossan Hassan of Egypt. They scored promised to recover the medals and send preliminaries, losing to Guinea, Burkina seven goals each. McCarthy was voted them to the tea ms. ■

35 Newswatch, March 16,1998 DIALOGUE Abia: So Far, So Good

Moses Fasanya, a colonel and military administrator of Abia State, speaks to Clarice Azuatalam, senior staff writer, on his achievements

Newswatch: How has it been generally,' governing Abia State? Moses: It has been interesting generally. We have been able to execute some projects. There are still some which have not been possible for us to execute but we are optimistic that as situation improves we will be able to do more than we have done. So far, so good.

Newswatch: What could you say are your major achievements in the last 15 months? Fasanya: When I came here, the problem of shortage of water was very acute. We have been able to improve the situation considerably. It is not as if water is flowing in every part of the state. But the situation has improved considerably. And we are not resting on our oars. In due course we are going to get another large consignment of water chemicals. So that As we will continue to move forward in improving the situation of water supply. situation We have also improved the situation on reactivating some of our industries that have improves been dormant for quite some time. We have In the education sector, we have signed been able to reactivate Abia Palms. We have agreement worth N4 million because when I zve will be been able to reactivate Ogbe Chicken Poultry. went round secondary schools some months We have also reactivated two rubber plantations back, I discovered that many of the students able to do in the state. Efforts are also on to reactivate the could tell what a test tube is like only in paper. ceramic industry and the metallurgical complex: And we saw it is not proper. So we've been able more than Oil the issue of roads, that is our toughest to purchase some of the laboratory and science hard nut to crack, maybe because of the capital equipment for the secondary schools. we have intensive nature of road construction. But we We have also been able to improve the have been able, as much as the given economic situation in the in terms done resources can permit, carried out remedial jobs of accommodation. The problems are not yet on many of the roads. And today, especially in over; but we've been able to make some impact Aba, the Ikonne-Ariara road that is the market in that institution. We are also in the last lap of road which was part of what the demonstrators getting the state college of education (technical) of July complained of, is now motorable. Arochukwu accredited; so that our people will The asphalt surfacing has been completed. have the opportunity of getting technical The issue of people complaining about that education. route is no longer the case. Apart from that many primary schools that

36 Newswatch, March 16, 1998 ■ DIALOGUE

have dilapidated buildings have been renovated. State. It will benefit our neighbouring states. And many primary schools have been built And it will also promote the economic growth within the same period. of the nation. When you look back going down We also have made efforts to go round the history lane, people have been coming to Aba schools on an enlightenment campaign because from different parts of the country for well over we know the importance of youths in the affairs four decades. What has been disturbing them is of our nation. As future leaders they need to be the nature of the roads. So I am confident and I As long as responsible. So the enlightenment campaign is have the assurance that there is no going back made on the security awareness and discipline. on that decision. you have The idea of joining cults and other ugly developments, we warned the students against Newswatch: Recently you took over some peace, your them. For commerce, we have been able to take markets in Aba. That made national news and part in all the international trade fairs so far. The generated some controversies. Why did your business opportunity again is for our local entrepreneurs government take over the markets? to prove their worth. And we are also preparing Fasanya: Okay, we didn't just wake up in the and for another international trade fair in Lagos. night to think of the markets. We had the On transportation, we have been able to unfortunate experience of violent occupation place order for six 42-sea ter buses and this is demonstrations of 2nd and 3rd July (last) year. meant to improve the mobility of our citizenry. Then we set up a panel of inquiry to look into the can thrive On the issue of fire disaster, we ha've also bought immediate and remote causes of such incident. three fire-fighting vehicles to control fire While some of the problems enumerated have incidents because we know the havoc this has been on for almost two decades, there is still no caused to lives and property. justification for people going into such rampage We also continue to intensify our appeals to that led to wanton destruction of life and the federal government on the issue of road property. We lost a soul but we thank God it was generally because that is our major problem quickly nipped in the bud, otherwise the here, especially in Aba which is the commercial situation would have escalated. centre of the state. We had two Eze's palaces burnt down. A We have been able to get some assistance police station also destroyed vehicles and other from the World Health Organisation in the property destroyed. Now the recommendation health scene. Through our payment of of the panel of inquiry is such that the state counterpart funds, we have taken some vehicles, government could not look on and allow things some drugs to do the execution. On our own to go haywire the second time. Hence the part, we have been able to establish many security aspect of it was considered. And primary health centres especially when we think government said there is need to look into some of the larger percentage of our people who live of the happenings in the market. It is a temporary in the rural areas of the state. measure. The state government doesn't have So, on the whole, I am happy to say that we any permanent intention to take over control of have been on the move. And like I told some the markets, no. But as soon as the situation in people many weeks ago, what we've not been the market stabilises, the various unions will able to achieve during this period is largely due continue their normal elections; because they to the economic situation in the country. Of had an election before. course you know that on the whole the federal In one of the markets, the Ngwa road market, government has been listening and giving us all some of the various associations that were voted the various forms of assistance. into office formerly were wielding some power. The reports we heard was that if the situation is Newswatch: Many people are complaining not quickly controlled we may have a repeat about the nature of Aba roads, because Aba is a performance of the Ariara market. So whatever commercial town. It is very important not only people may be talking about, saying oh, it is not to Aba people but to people from other states. government business to take over market, they The PTF you have mentioned has made a should also realise that it is under a peaceful promise. Is it just a mere promise? atmosphere that their businesses can thrive. So Fasanya: I am happy to let you know that there security consideration supersedes every other is no going back on this decision made by the considéra tion. Because as long a s you ha ve peace, Chairman of the Petroleum (special) Trust Fund, then no matter what, your businesses and that is in the person of General Muhammed occupation can thrive. So, it is a temporary Buhari. As you have rightly stated. I also measure. And as soon as we solve the problem informed him that to help the economy of then we can call them in again. Nigeria, if the roads in Aba are really reconstructed and made motorable it will Newswatch: When you took over the control of improve the economic well-being of this nation. those markets from the local government So it is not something that will benefit only Abia councils, were you able to prepare their minds

Newswatch, March 16, 1998 37 ■ DIALOGUE

to see the idea behind what you wanted to do? is not only in setting up an outfit of that nature. Fasanya: Okay, when the incident occurred 2nd It needs a tripartite action. and 3rd July, I do not think anybody was talking How do I mean? People have the erroneous of revenue that time. I went to Aba which is impression that security is the job of security actually within the normal way of doing things. outfit alone. No. Some landlords, some I knew I exposed myself to risk that time; but I landladies, not only in Abia State, I am talking am happy that I did dare go to Aba. It was a risk of the whole nation now, theoretically speaking and at the end of the day the situation subsided. you have these hoodlums as your tenants, you While the problem lasted they didn't feel there don't know their names or their means of was anything amiss. And when the panel of livelihood and nobody reports. And then we enquiry finished its assignment one would have keep complaining that these people are expected that people would have at least allowed terrorising. They don't live in space. This is peace to reign. While we were trying to solve what I told some people some days ago. The the problem in Ariara, in the Ngwa road market, outfit is there. You also need to contribute your people were still agitating that these people quota by carrying out a proper check. When had finished their tenure and if they don't want you notice a stranger or a strange vehicle, it is to hold another election, that there will be your responsibility to find out and report. problem. In essence, what one expected our Because each time people will just think that local government chairmen, especially that of somebody can just walk into the city and carry Aba North and South then was to have gone to out robbery. There are dwellers in the place. inquire. But instead their actions were a big And so the outfit thing is here and we intend disappointment to the state government. beefing up the number. We have some elements Because they are part and parcel of the from the navy, the army and the police because government. They are the third tier of we have now got to the stage where many government, the state and then the federal. undesirable elements are becoming Anyway we called them to explain things sophisticated. And the situation is such that the to them, they didn't turn up. Anyway, when government needs that assistance from the they didn't turn up, we felt there was no other public as well. way. Even finding them at their duty posts was a problem. Maybe they were afraid. Newswatch: When you talk of crime, Aba in So at last we have been able to resolve the particular is not really a town you can walk problem and we have assured them that we are about safely, even in day time. So how far has not interested in the revenue. We are interested this anti-crime outfit operated in Aba? in having a lasting solution to the incessant Fasanya: Okay, people look at Aba as if it is problem of breaching the peace. So that is anything extra-ordinary. If you get to Lagos, government's concern. That is why we arecalling you see what you see in Aba in Lagos. Now apart them again . We believe some of them must have from touts which we have in most of our cities, acted out of fear, out of ignorance and so on. So you also have in Lagos for example, the area it is the responsibility of government toenlighL n boys, depending on the name they give them. them and allow dialogue. The police for example have been working round the clock to get these people out. But then they Newswatch: Many states have this anti-crime cannot go beyond what the laws of the land squad. Abia State does not seem to have one, permits. Because all that the police can do is to why? effect arrest and when they arrest them, they We have Fasanya: No. You see, people have been asking have limited time within which to keep them. me as if we do not care about security, we do. I Then based on the legal advice from the director been think why people have that assumption is that of public prosecution these people are taken to we don't talk much about this outfit. Or may be court, so whatever takes place in the court is working wedidn'tgo into the air to talk we haveoperation what we have to abide by. And maybe some of round the this, operation that. We have been working them are fined and they go back. The police round the clock to ensure that lives and property cannot say we should jail this fellow. So that is clock to are secured. But of recent we have tp also give one way of looking at it. ours a name, that is what really makes the Another thing is the populace itself will ensure that difference. We have joint patrol and we don't have to ensure its assistance to the police. make noise about their routes and what they are Because whcii they talk of touts and all sorts of lives and doing. things, these touts are still in their midst and So, if it is the name people worry about, we some, even when the police go to effect arrest property have our own name too. And ours is called they will also block police from making arrests. are secured "Operation Bang" because all over the place And most times you see them becoming rowdy people have names to show that they are on and would want to get on the police. So it is not alert. We have not been silent in Abia State. I as if we are not aware but except maybe a strongly believe tha t the solution to this problem tribunal is set up to try such elements.*

38 Newswatch, March 16, 1998