Emefiele: Banks Disbursed N2.32tn Loans with Moveable Collaterals CJN seeks speedy dispensation of justice in commercial transactions Alex Enumah, James Emejo credit facilities amounting to Enterprises (MSMEs) registered respect of movable assets in May 2016. The Chief Justice of Nigeria and Folalumi Alaran in Abuja N1.80 trillion, $1.36 (N515.7 under the National Collateral offered as collateral, comprised Emefiele spoke in Abuja at a (CJN), Justice Ibrahim billion) and €10.92 million Registry (NCR). 262,904 individuals; 1,421 large virtual workshop on "Secured Muhammad, at the occasion, The Governor of the Central (N5.394 billion ), totalling He said the figures, which firms; 4,260 medium firms; Transactions in Movable Asset promised that the judiciary will Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. N2.32 trillion to 273,435 large were generated from a total of 1,433 micro-businesses and and Credit Reporting Reforms ensure speedy dispensation Godwin Emefiele, yesterday companies, individuals and 113,153 financing statements 3,417 small businesses. in Nigeria," organised for said the banking sector gave Micro, Small and Medium registered on the registry in The NCR came into effect judicial officers. Continued on page 9

The Economist Endorses Okonjo-Iweala to Lead WTO... Page 8

Wednesday 28 October, 2020 Vol 25. No 9333. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com T RU N TH & REASO FG Insists on Regulating Social Media Udora Orizu in Abuja Despite public outcry, the federal government yesterday launched a fresh campaign to regulate social media, especially in the wake of the #EndSARS protests that were largely driven by digital campaigns. Leading the charge is Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Lai Mohammed, who said yesterday that the federal government feels compelled to regulate social IN SOLIDARITY... media to curb the spread of L-R: President of Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN), Mr Guy Murray-Bruce; Publisher, Guardian Newspaper, Mrs. Maiden Ibru; Chairman what he calls fake news. & Editor-in-Chief, THISDAY & Arise TV, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Publisher, Vanguard Newspaper, Mr. Sam Amuka-Pemu; Publisher, Source, Ms. Comfort Obi; The minister spoke in Abuja Provost, Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye; and President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr. Chris Isiguzo, during a solidarity visit to The while responding to questions Nation Newspaper, in Lagos…yesterday abiodun ajala Continued on page 9 Despite Sanwo-Olu’s Denial, Army Insists Lagos Govt Requested Troops Deployment Denies shooting civilians Gov never denied inviting soldiers, claims aide Police command count losses, say six personnel killed, 38 injured, 71 force vehicles, 62 exhibits destroyed 520 suspects arrested for arson, rioting South-west senators to lobby FG to compensate Lagos Chiemelie Ezeobi Nigerian Army yesterday Babajide Sanwo-Olu, that he imposed on the state to curb 81 Division Army Public that civilians were shot at. broke its silence on the knew nothing about troop the social unrest unleashed Relations, Major Osoba Sanwo-Olu, in his first A week after it triggered incident, denying that it fired deployment in Lekki Tollgate by hoodlums who had seized Olaniyi, which provided reaction after the shooting, a global outrage over its at the marchers. where soldiers were accused the #EndSARS protest. further clarification on the had blamed the shooting on alleged shooting of #EndSARS It also disputed the claim of shooting protesters for However, a statement by troop deployment during the protesters in Lagos, the by Lagos State Governor, Mr. allegedly flouting the curfew the Acting Deputy Director, protests, categorically denied Continued on page 9

In Historic Move, Buhari Nominates Yakubu for Second Term...Page 5 2 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 •THISDAY WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 • THISDAY 3 4 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 •THISDAY WEDNESDAY, 
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THISDAY 5

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 In Historic Move, Buhari Nominates Yakubu for Second Term Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Meanwhile, the Coalition credible, free and fair 2023 the Senate and opposition him to have the needed and adequate time to start of United Political Parties general election from him. lawmakers to confirm the neutrality to oversee the the cleansing process of the In a historic move, President (CUPP) has congratulated CUPP also called on appointment so as to allow upcoming bye- elections electoral process. Muhammadu Buhari Yakubu on his reappointment yesterday presented the for a second term of office. Chairman of the Independent In a statement issued by the National Electoral spokesman of the CUPP, Mr. Commission (INEC), Prof. Ikenga Ugochinyere, CUPP Mahmood Yakubu, for a said that they received the second term of office. news of the reappointment The Special Adviser to of Yakubu with caution. the President on Media and "We heartily congratulate Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, him on his reappointment for disclosed this in a statement. a fresh term of five years. He said: "In a letter to This is because we see this President of the Senate, Dr. opportunity given to him as Ahmad Lawan, the president the only chance he would said in accordance with the have to set our electoral provision of Section 154 (1) of processes on the right path." the Constitution of the Federal According to the CUPP, Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as "We, therefore, urge him amended), ‘I am pleased to to use this second term present for confirmation by appointment which is novel in the Senate, the nomination of the political history of Nigeria Prof. Mahmood Yakubu for to cleanse our electoral appointment as Chairman, process and consolidate on Independent National the gains of Edo and Ondo Electoral Commission (INEC) elections. for a second and final term.” "The shifted elections earlier Yakubu was first appointed scheduled for 31st October COUNTING LOSSES... by Buhari in November 2015. 2020 would be the first test of L-R: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District, Senator Oluremi He is the first chairman what this second term would of the commission to be be for Nigerians will expect Tinubu; and Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Folashade Jaji, during a condolence visit by South-west senators to the nominated twice. nothing less than a very governor in Lagos…yesterday Buratai Tasks Military on Transparency, Accountability Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja would afford army personnel the belief that every person of “As members of the Armed This, according to him, is in to be in place for public officers. the opportunity to fulfill their Nigerian army entrusted with Forces of Nigeria, strict consonance with his vision to He called on the Nigerian The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. obligations as public officers leadership responsibility must compliance with the provisions have a professionally responsive Army to put in place a Gen. Tukur Buratai, has tasked in line with the provisions understand the primacy of of the code of conduct is a Nigerian Army in the discharge management body to look at officers and men of the Nigerian of the fifth schedule of the asset declaration and code of constitutional responsibility of its constitutional roles. the ethical structure as well as Army to imbibe the culture of constitution. conduct for public officers and that must be respected,’’ he said. He urged the participants incentives for living in a high accountability, transparency and He said the army under his complying with all its provisions Buratai stated that he always to take advantage of the level of morality. probity in the management of leadership was desirous of and requirement. canvassed and pursued a system opportunity presented by Earlier, the Chief of Army financial resources. maintaining the high standard “This is so because that emphasised judicious the workshop to understand Standard and Evaluation, Maj. Buratai spoke yesterday of accountability in the conduct accountability is a prerequisite utilisation of scarce resources the requirements for asset Gen. Habila Vintenaba, said the in Abuja at the opening of a of its activities. for driving the fight against to optimise value for money. declaration and code of conduct CCB in carrying out its primary workshop on "Compliance with According to him, it is corruption which is one of He added that the Nigerian for public officers. function deemed it necessary assets declaration and code of consistent with the requirements the major focus of President Army has complied with the The Chairman of CCB, Prof. to acquaint army personnel conduct for officers and soldiers and behaviour of public officers, Muhammadu Buhari’s requirements of the Bureau for Muhammed Isah, represented with the nitty-gritty of assets of the Nigerian Army." which conforms to the high administration. Public Procurement (BPP), by a member of the Board, declaration and code of conduct. The workshop was organised standard of probity, public “It is gratifying to note that thus enhancing transparency Prof. Samuel Ogundare, said Vintenaba said the workshop by the Nigerian Army in morality, transparency and one of the main objectives of and prudence in financial the bureau was desirous to was a demonstration of Buratai’s collaboration with the Code accountability. this workshop is to educate and management. promoting ethical conducts unwavering commitment of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to “Accordingly, I have directed sensitise officers and men of The COAS also said that among public officers. to entrenching the culture sensitise the personnel on the that the same workshop be the Nigerian Army on asset efforts had been made to Isah said the workshop of responsiveness, probity, need to entrench accountability conducted in the six Nigerian declaration and code of conduct minimise waste and ensure was part of the efforts of CCB prudence and accountable in their work. Army divisions nationwide. for public officers as well as the judicious application of funds towards building an ethical responsibility in the Nigerian Buratai said the workshop “My directive is premised on consequences of non-compliance. by the army. structure as a modality expected Army. Gunshots, Air Patrols in Abuja as Hoodlums Raid NYSC Camp Three looters feared killed at Customs College Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja hoodlums who attempted to It was gathered that the Kuje town, the headquarters Maize Farmers Association of “What they took away breach the gate at the quarters miscreants stole textile materials, of the Kuje Area Council in Nigeria and made away with include tonnes of rice, beans, Gunshots rent the air yesterday during the morning raid. generating sets and computers Abuja, was also thrown into farm inputs. maize, sorghum and millets and as soldiers and policemen Calm was later restored when from the shops opposite the pandemonium as hoodlums, He said the hoodlums broke computers, tables, chairs, office made spirited efforts to ward the looters scampered for safety NYSC camp. armed with sticks and knives into another warehouse filled equipment, water dispenser and off hoodlums who invaded the when one person reportedly died The early raid prompted blocked roads and patrolled with fertilisers and carted away cash,’’ he said. National Youth Service Corps on the spot and some people the police and the Nigeria Air the streets in search of any bags and farm implements Umar-Daware said complaints (NYSC) Orientation Camp in injured when the officers fired Force to send helicopters to keep warehouse housing the arranged for distribution to were laid to some security Kubwa area of the Federal gunshots. Two victims were later surveillance over the area, while COVID-19 palliatives. farmers to commence the agencies but they did not Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, said to have died from gunshot a detachment of soldiers and planting season. respond. carting away mattresses, utensils, injuries. policemen were sent to the scene Hoodlums Cart away “They not only took tonnes “Based on our own findings, electronics and other items. The hoodlums were said to control the crowd. 110 tractors of produce, but they also made they have kept some of the Also, the Nigerian Air Force to have invaded the Customs The hoodlums, who were away with the farm inputs for tractors in some people’s garages (NAF) and the air wing of the quarters believing that COVID-19 armed with machetes, jack-knives Meanwhile, the Chairman the dry season farming and and when reports were made the Nigeria Police also embarked palliatives were kept on the and clubs, also attacked residents of North East Commodity the offices of Rice Farmers response was not favourable,’’ on aerial patrol with helicopters premises following an earlier of the area. Association (NECAS), Mr. Association, Maize Farmers he said. to scare the invaders. raid on the same Gwagwalada They blocked the road at about Sadiq Umar-Daware, has said Association of Nigeria (MFAN) Umar-Daware described the Three looters were also feared axis where they looted 9 am, turning back motorists hoodlums who took advantage and the NECAS were also looted act as extremely dangerous and dead, while many sustained palliatives belonging to the while the Kubwa village market of the EndSARS protests have and vandalised. inimical to the mechanisation various degrees of injuries when FCT Administration. was immediately shut by its carted away 110 new tractors and “Files for various programmes services to farmers and Custom officers fired gunshots to Scores of hoodlums looted authorities to avoid any invasion. implements from the association’s were destroyed and they made development agriculture aimed disperse a crowd which invaded shops and also stole foodstuffs, The crisis at the NYSC warehouse in Yola, Adamawa away with various documents,’’ at ensuring food security. the Nigeria Customs Quarters mattresses, electronics and other camp forced some parents State. he said. He, however, urged people in in Gwagwalada, Abuja, with items at the NYSC Orientation and guardians to evacuate their Umar-Daware, in an According to Umar-Daware, Adamawa and its environs to the intention to loot food aid Camp in Kubwa. children and wards from schools. interview with News Agency NECAS has many tractors be on the lookout for anybody that was allegedly hoarded in Some of the looted items The hoodlums also looted of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, because it was incorporated to in possession of the tractors and the premises. belonged to individuals quartered computers, generators, textile said the hoodlums also broke provide among other services, report to NECAS, RIFAN and THISDAY gathered that the at the NYSC camp as no corps materials in the shops directly into the main warehouses of tractor leasing and mechanisation MFAN officials for recovery and Customs officers resisted the member was in the camp. opposite the NYSC entrance gate. the Rice Farmers Association, service for farmers. necessary action. 6 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 •THISDAY WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 • THISDAY 7 8 WEDNESDAY, 
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THISDAY NEWS The Economist Endorses Okonjo-Iweala to Lead WTO Peter Uzoho with agency emphasised her experience Okonjo-Iweala’s success would unlikely to support Myung- “Members of the World In addition, it noted that fighting COVID-19 as her also say something about the hee. Brazil, a big exporter Trade Organisation (WTO) disagreements between An influential London-based strong suit. As head of geopolitics of trade. China of farm products, may be are not known for cooperating members also explains the magazine, The Economist, has Gavi, she understands the could reject Myung-hee if put off by South Korea’s with each other. So when in candidates’ rather limited expressed its preference for importance of open trade so that allows it to keep its membership of the G10 group June they began the process ambitions, saying that a bold Nigeria’s candidate, Dr. Ngozi that vital supplies can get to deputy-director-general spot. of countries, which staunchly of choosing a new director- agenda might include a grand Okonjo-Iweala, for the position where they are needed. But (Historically, jobs have been defends agricultural subsidies. general, many feared deadlock. bargain on agriculture that of director-general of the World this too is a thorny topic. divvied up among regions.) The agreement on the next But now, as the process draws lowers tariffs in poor countries Trade Organisation (WTO). “Rich countries are more “Japan’s nasty trade dispute director-general could be born to a close, officials are feeling and limits subsidies in rich In its latest editorial on the interested in lowering others’ with South Korea makes it from a host of disagreements. hopeful,” it added. ones. race for the leadership of the tariffs than limiting their global trade body, the media own right to apply export outfit highlighted the qualities controls. They also hate a of the former Nigeria finance recent proposal from India minister, saying her political and South Africa to suspend clout would be beneficial to Intellectual-property the WTO. protection for products that Jostling with Okonjo-Iweala could prevent, contain or for the WTO job is South treat the disease. So instead, Korea’s Minister of Trade, Okonjo-Iweala has spoken Yoo Myung-hee. A winner is only vaguely of exploring new due to be announced between trade rules and intellectual- today and November 7, but property and licensing rights support seems to be coalescing for drug-making,” around Okonjo-Iweala. It quoted Okonjo-Iweala to The report stated that the have promised to empower contest says more about the the WTO’s secretariat if she discord in the trading system wins. than the harmony. “That could be It stated: “The candidates controversial—some members themselves did a good job of will resist what they see as highlighting various divisions a threat to their power over in the course of the selection negotiations. But it could also process (while dutifully noting help poorer countries, some that only members have of which lack the capacity to the power to resolve them). draft proposals on their own, Between them, they identified making it hard to participate a long list of problems: jammed in talks. negotiations that have left the “Her political clout will be WTO’s rule book out of date; useful too. If the problems of the broken system of solving the global trading system were disputes; members’ lacklustre purely technical, they would commitment to transparency; have been solved long ago,” DEFENDING FIGURES... and a trade war between she was quoted to have told L-R: Minister of State, Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Tayo Alasoadura; the Minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio; and America and China. members in July. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Dr. Babayo Ardo, during the ministry’s 2021 budget defence “Okonjo-Iweala has The Economist added: “But before the Senate Committee on Niger Delta in Abuja…yesterday julius atoi Media Leaders Flay Attacks, Visit The Nation, TVC Segun James Director/Editor-in-Chief, commissioner for finance said find some people with guns because media is central to make a request on behalf of The Nigerian Xpress, Mr. he was happy that no life to shoot at journalists who are the survival of democracy. all of us, who live around Media leaders in the country Steve Nwosu; President, was lost to the attack. doing their jobs in the pursuit We believe that a responsible Lekki 1, Ikoyi and Osborne. yesterday condemned those Nigerian Union of Journalists Obaigbena, who described of truth; that can never be government must unmask That place is very important that vandalised, looted, and (NUJ), Mr. Chris Isiguzo; Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemu as accepted. No matter how those behind these dastardly to all of us. If the government torched media houses during Chairman, Lagos Council, the oldest serving journalist many guns you have, you acts because we can't continue as advised decided to close the #EndSARS protests. Dr. Qasim Akinreti; Channels in the country, said the team can never silence the pen.” to accept this silence.” it down or suspend it for a According to them, the Television Executive, Mr. was on a solidarity visit to The Founder and Chairman Chairman of Broadcasters while, it is going to cause a attack on the media was an Ambrose Okoh; Managing the Vintage Press Limited. of THISDAY Newspapers/ in Nigeria and Group lot of inconvenience for the attack on democracy and the Director, Radio Services, He said: “We are here in ARISE NEWS Channel President of the Silverbird people. Even those people country. DAAR Communications, Mr. solidarity with The Nation, implored The Nation staff Group, Mr. Guy Murray- coming from Ajah, Lekki The leaders, under the Ambrose Somide, Treasurer, in solidarity with journalism to continue to do their jobs, Bruce, described the attack third, fourth roundabouts will aegis of Nigeria Press NGE, Ms. Victoria Ibanga; an and in solidarity with pursue free speech and as an act of cowardice. suffer for it. They should try Organisation (NPO), artist, Mr. Patrick Doyle, and free speech. Without free continue to build a better “We sympathise with you, as much as possible to collate comprising Newspaper Managing Director, The Sun, speech, without freedom Nigeria. we don’t encourage this and all the pieces of evidence they Proprietors Association of Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, among of expression, there is no He lamented a situation we don’t believe that any need and fix their bridge.” Nigeria (NPAN), Nigeria others. democracy. So, whatever we whereby media were harassed media organisation should Ifijeh thanked the team Union of Journalists (NUJ) At The Nation newspapers, do, no matter the side of the by the regulators and the be attacked. We are here for for the visit. and Nigeria Guild of Editors the group was received by divide we are on, we must streets “but we will always solidarity visit and we are He said The Nation was (NGE) visited The Nation Chairman, Vintage Press always support free speech stand firm and will never all behind you 100 per cent,” delighted to have them and Newspapers and TVC Limited, Mr. Wale Edun; and as journalists, we will bow.” he said. their visit would uplift the yesterday and called on Managing Director/Editor-in- never bow like cowards; we NUJ’s president, Isiguzo, Ekpu reminisced an spirit of the staff. the federal government to Chief, Mr. Victor Ifijeh; Editor, must always pursue truth, said an attack on any medium occurrence during the late He said: “Our chairman quickly bring the perpetrators Mr. Adeniyi Adesina; and report facts, give sound is an attack on “all of us.” Gen. Sani Abacha era. referred to the resilient to book, warning that such Executive Director, Finance analysis and guide our nation “That's why we have not He said the media in spirit of the journalist that heinous acts were capable and Administration Mr. at this time. come as different groups, but Nigeria since then has been no matter what, they would of destabilising the country. Sunday Adeleke. “I am very well aware that we have come here together an endangered species either not be cowed; they would They were led by President Edun, who led them to the The Nation in an editorial to show you that we are all during the military or civilian continue to do their job. We of NPAN, Prince Nduka boardroom, said the attackers supported the expression by together in this struggle,” he rule. know of a newspaper house Obaigbena; Publisher of came with all manners of the protesters and the youth. said. He said: “And that is why whose office was burnt in Vanguard newspaper, Mr. deadly weapons. We still support them; we still According to him, some we must always be together Apapa many years ago, a Sam Amuka-Pemu; Publisher, Their mission, he said, support what they stand for; media were also attacked and and fight together. During newspaper house, whose The Guardian, Mrs. Maiden was to silence this voice we still support the reform looted in Akwa Ibom, Cross the military, it was the media printing premises in Abuja Alex-Ibru; and co-founder of (The Nation). of the police; we still support River, Taraba, Adamawa and that stood out there and was also burnt. Where is that Newswatch, Mr. Ray Ekpu. “The attack was an assault an orderly society and we Plateau States. received the bullet on the newspaper house today? Also in the team were on the press; an assault on will continue to support Isiguzo said: “So, it chest and fought them toe “It is standing firm, Acting Provost, Nigeria free speech, an assault on what the youth stand for in happened across the country to toe and throw them out stronger, resilient. We know of Institute of Journalism the media, and an assault bringing back a better Nigeria and is really unfortunate. of this country.” newspaper houses that were (NIJ), Mr. Gbenga Adefaye; on democracy. A few hours but we don't support those This is a clear attempt at Alex-Ibru, appealed to the shut during the Abacha time, Publisher of The Source before they came here, who seek to use violence to pigeonholing the media, Lagos State government not (she is referring to ourselves), Magazine, Mrs. Comfort Obi; Television Continental (TVC) settle political scores, clearly putting the media in a to close Lekki toll gate. those newspapers are still Chairman of Broadcasters in was burnt. the attack on The Nation was pigeon hole and anytime According to her, many standing, and many of such Nigeria and Group President, “Their coming on-air shows a premeditated act. they succeed in silencing people living in Lekki, Ikoyi papers affected are still Silverbird Group, Mr. Guy their determination,” he said. “Getting here was even the media, it simply means and Osborne will suffer for it. standing. That tells us about Murray-Bruce; Managing The one-time Lagos State difficult sometimes and to democracy has taken flight She said: “I will like to the spirit of journalism.” WEDNESDAY, 
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THISDAY 9 PAGE NINE DESPITE SANWO-OLU’S DENIAL, ARMY INSISTS LAGOS GOVT REQUESTED TROOPS DEPLOYMENT "forces beyond my control." in army camouflage shooting government invited it to degenerating into anarchy. It On whether the army didn’t Odumosu listed the six However, in his first major in the midst of protesters enforce the curfew and that it was at this point that LASG get the curfew extension policemen killed as ASP Yard interview after the shooting, at the tollgate, the army did not shoot any protesters. requested for the military to addendum, he responded: Edward, attached to Denton the governor who was on hierarchy had been silent The Nigerian Army intervene in order to restore “It was well posted.” Police Station; Inspector ARISE NEWS Channel, the on the incident. described allegations normalcy. Olayinka Erinfolami of the broadcast arm of THISDAY It, however, broke this bordering on massacre as “The intervention of the CP: Six Policemen defunct Anti-kidnapping Unit Newspapers, denied ordering earlier stance and issued the untrue and unfounded. military followed all laid (AKU); Inspector Adegbenro the army to the state, saying release last night, admitting The statement, titled: down procedures for internal Killed, 38 Injured Aderibigbe attached to Meiran such powers is beyond any troop’s deployment but ‘Alleged Massacre of security operations and all the in Lagos Division, Sergeant Abejide state governor. insisting that its soldiers did Protesters at Lekki Toll soldiers involved acted within Abiodun of Department of He said: “I don’t know how not shoot protesters. Plaza,’ read: “The attention the confines of the Rules Meanwhile, the Lagos State Operations (DOPs), State the officers got it all wrong This, some analysts said last of Headquarters 81 Division of Engagement (ROE) for Police Command yesterday Headquarters, and two others because the instruction was night, might be a reaction to a Nigerian Army has been internal security operations. said six policemen were killed, attached to Orile Division. that police won’t be out until statement recently attributed drawn to a viral video on “Finally, Headquarters while 38 others were injured He said 58 police vehicles 10-10:30 p.m. when all citizens to Sanwo-Olu, where he social media in which it was 81 Division, Nigerian with some still in critical were burnt, 13 vandalised, should have gotten to their admitted that the CCTV alleged that civilian protesters Army, reiterates that in the condition. while 62 vehicles belonging various homes. This is totally captured the military, adding were massacred by soldiers discharge of its constitutional The state Commissioner of to individuals and those against what we stand for. that the perpetrators would at Lekki Toll Plaza. responsibilities, it did not Police, Mr. Hakeem Odumosu, connected with some pending “The army does not report be held accountable. “This allegation is untrue, shoot at any civilian as there told reporters in Lagos that 29 cases (exhibits) were burnt. to me, I have reported The governor, on unfounded and aimed at are glaring and convincing formations, 71 police vehicles The hoodlums also vandalised the matter to the highest Monday, was, however, causing anarchy in the evidence to attest to this fact.” and 62 exhibit vehicles were nine other vehicles. command in the military. It’s more forthcoming on the country. At no time did The statement described the either burnt or vandalised by Odumosu added that 15 not something we are going involvement of the army in soldiers of the Nigerian Army allegation as the handiwork hoodlums who hijacked the motorcycles and tricycles were to gloss over. A judicial panel the shooting as he told the open fire on any civilian. of mischief makers who will peaceful #ENDSARS protests. torched and 65 vandalised will be set up to investigate CNN that the CCTV showed “From the onset of the stop at nothing to tarnish the Shocked by the massive at various locations across it. I have escalated it to the the presence of the military ENDSARS protest, there image of the Nigerian Army. destruction of lives and the state. highest level of the military.” at the scene. was no time personnel of It urged the public to property in the state, the After the widespread Also, when former Lagos During the interview, he 81 Division Nigerian Army discountenance the allegation South-west caucus of the violence, Odumosu said the State Governor, Senator Bola said: “From the footage Lagos were involved. as there is no iota of truth Senate said it would push police arrested a total of 520 Tinubu, visited the governor that we could see, it seems “However, the decision in it. a motion to urge the federal suspects for various offences last Saturday, he said he asked to be…there would be men to call in the military was However, the Senior Special government to assist in ranging from arson, robbery, Sanwo-Olu “if he didn’t order in military uniform, who taken by the Lagos State Assistant to the Governor rebuilding the state. murder, rioting, malicious the attack, who ordered the should be Nigerian Army Government (LASG) after a on New Media, Mr. Jubril Odumosu also paraded damage and unlawful attack? That’s all I needed or something.” 24-hour curfew was imposed. Gawat, while reacting to the 520 suspects arrested for possession of firearms. from him”. But when pressed further “This was as a result of the statement from the army, said their alleged involvement Among those arrested, He, however, didn't state by the CNN, the governor violence, which led to several the governor never denied in the wanton destruction Odumosu said, was one the response he got from the said: “Yes, they were there. police stations being burnt, calling in the army. and looting of both private Olamilekan Ibrahim, 19, governor. That’s what the footage policemen killed, suspects in He said: “Mr. Governor and public property. alleged to have been among Safe for a “fake news” tag shows.” police custody released and never denied this. They The police also recovered those who broke into a it placed on its Twitter handle But the army in yesterday's weapons carted away. were supposed to come after some of the stolen loot from on a viral video showing men statement said the state “The situation was fast curfew.” private businesses. Continued on page 10 EMEFIELE: BANKS DISBURSED N2.32TN LOANS WITH MOVEABLE COLLATERALS of justice in commercial or of the foreign currency- and it is our belief that lenders of the financial system. Expect Act 2017. securing transactions in movable business transactions, adding denominated loans represented will respond positively to the us to call on you more often He stated that the judiciary assets and credit reporting. that the financial sector and the the much-needed capital inflows yearnings of MSMEs for greater as we continue stakeholder must be strengthened to help "It is, therefore, our collective overall economy will benefit into the economy and attested access to finance, given the engagements leveraging all the financial sector protect credit duty to ensure that the potential from such timely adjudication. to the power of the registry as assurance that their legitimate available media. The benefits transactions. and prospects of credit delivery Emefiele stated that as well as the Secured Transactions interests will be protected under of all reforms initiated in the "As access to credit is are optimally realised. The at September 30, a total of in Movable Assets Act (STMA)- the enabling laws of the land. financial system must be necessary for the economic ongoing economic development 694 financial institutionscentric reforms by the apex "To this end, it is pertinent enjoyed by all Nigerians," he development of Nigeria, it strategy requires the joint efforts comprising 22 deposit money bank, to engender economic that we solicit and get the full stated. behoves the judiciary to protect of the central bank, the judiciary banks, four merchant banks, development. support of the judiciary and law In his remarks, the CJN, parties to a transaction and and all stakeholders to make five development finance Emefiele, represented by enforcement agencies towards who addressed participants ensure fair and ethical standards. giant strides," he stated. institutions, 580 microfinance CBN’s Director in charge providing a robust and resilient via web conference, stressed "The purpose of both laws World Bank Country Director banks, 37 non-bank financial of Development Finance financial infrastructure that will the importance of the judiciary is to facilitate and promote for Nigeria, Mr. Shubham institutions, 43 financeDepartment, Mr. Yila Yusuf, deepen credit delivery to our to the financial sector. access to credit and enhance Chaudhuri, said the banks companies, one Primary stressed the need to sensitise MSMEs." He explained that potential risk management in credit required confidence and Mortgage Banks (PMBs) and judicial officers as enablers in According to him, the investors often hinged their transactions. The protection of assurance of the judiciary to two non-interest financial the implementation of both the collaboration with the judiciary decisions to invest in the the rights of parties in a credit recover their assets. institutions had registered on STMA and Credit Reporting will help to de-risk lending to country on the enforceability transaction would promote He said the only way to the NCR portal. Act (CRA, 2017), with a view the MSMEs sub-sector. of their rights in any commercial responsibility in the market unlock finances for MSMEs was He described the registration to strengthening adjudication "Let me assure you that venture, adding that courts and encourage responsible for the CBN to accept movable as the first step towards buy-in over them. in general, we will pull out must be versed with credit borrowing," he said. assets as collateral for credit, to the registry’s operations. He said: "A lending all the stops to enhance the transactions principles, especially He added that the judiciary without which finance will be He said some components relationship is based on trust safety, soundness and resilience with the passage of the STMA has a crucial role to play in limited for small businesses. FG INSISTS ON REGULATING SOCIAL MEDIA when he appeared before the because it has come to stay. legislators: “In 2017, a very old person. These three things to always look at the negative work together with what is in House of Representatives’ He added that the country popular entertainer in Nigeria did a lot to sway the votes,” sides of the social media at all the space. We are not asking Committee on Information, should have a social media raised the false alarm that he said. times without mentioning the the government to stop social National Orientation, Ethics policy that regulates social students of the College of He said in June, there was good side. media. The most important and Values to defend the 2021 media and check fake news Education, Gidan Waya a riot in Ethiopia when a He said: ''Talking about the thing is that government budget proposal. and misinformation. in Kaduna State had been popular musician was killed, recent looting of COVID-19 should go and look for the He said the biggest challenge He said: ''The biggest murdered. There was an almost the government shut down items, in some places they technology to regulate so that facing the country is fake news challenge facing Nigeria reprisal only for him to find social media for two days to will be looting, but nobody you can equally be working and misinformation, warning today is fake news and out that it was not true. bring that riot under control, will know. The government within the space.'' that the next war that will be misinformation. Based on that, “In the same 2017, we found pointing out that this occurred will not know and the police fought in the country and we dedicated an entire National out that some of the videos around the time Ethiopia hosted will not know. But because of across the globe may be in Council on Information meeting being posted are things that the AU. social media, people will be social media. to that issue after which we happened in other parts of According to him, “But the posting as it is happening and Mohammed cited the recent launched a national campaign the world. When there was truth is that the only way to the government will be able to #EndSARS protests, saying that against fake news in July 2018. a problem between South Africa do it was to shut down social go there and save lives. it was fought on social media. We said then that the next war and Nigeria, they were posting media. We need technology “There was a time when He said: ''They mobilised will be fought without a shot videos of what happened and resources to dominate our some boys were digging the TOP GAINERS NGN NGN % using the social media. The being fired, but with the use in India and Tanzania to social media. We need a social road and because of social LINKASSURE 0.04 0.44 10 war today revolves around of fake news. We didn’t stop suggest that Nigerians were media policy to determine what media, this information came two things. Smart phones there. being roasted alive. That was can be seen and what cannot out and the situation was CONOIL 1.55 17.35 9.8 and data and these young men “We went on a tour of all what led to the reprisals in be seen. arrested. If there are no social NNFM 0.41 4.60 9.7 don’t even watch television media houses to solicit their the malls.” “You will be shocked that media, that will not happen.'' PORTPAINTS 0.20 2.25 9.7 or listen to the radio or read support in the fight against He said the government has when you start arguing with The lawmaker added that LIVESTOCKFEEDS 0.06 0.68 9.6 newspapers. We are sitting on fake news. We launched the continued to draw attention your children, they will be China is not a good example a time bomb on this issue of campaign to regulate social that this is a menace, pointing quoting social media. So, we because it is a communist TOP LOSERS NGN % fake news. media which was bitterly out, however, fake news is a need a social media policy country, while Nigeria has WEMABANK 0.01 0.57 1.7 “Unfortunately, we have contested by the stakeholders.” worldwide phenomenon. in Nigeria and we need to always been a free democratic NEM INSURE 0.03 2.03 1.4 no national policy on social He said if the social media “The University of Ohio empower the various agencies country. media, and we need one. When is not regulated, it will destroy conducted a research and and we need technology to be Chairman of the committee, - --- we went to China, we could the country, expressing the hope discovered that Hillary Clinton able to regulate social media. Hon. Odebunmi Olusegun, said - --- not get Google, Facebook and that social media and fake news lost the presidential election But a member of the the federal government should ---- Instagram. would not destroy Nigeria. to Trump because of fake committee, Hon. Emmanuel search for the technology to “You could not even use He said in 2017, there was news which was promoted Oghene, warned against any regulate the social media and HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦1,175.00 your email in China because a fake video of the herdsmen by Russia and they worked attempt to shut down the social be able to work with what is Volume: 385.598 million shares they made sure it is censored and farmers’ crisis, pointing on three issues. First was that media, saying the action will already available in cyberspace. and well regulated.'' out that it was a video of Trump had been endorsed by be counter-productive and will He said: ''I don’t want the Value: N2.914 billion The minister, however, what happened in Tanzania the Pope. The second was that lead the youths to believe that media to misquote us. Social Deals: 5,283 explained that the federal that was played in Nigeria as when she was secretary of state, there is an attempt to truncate media has come to stay. What government was not seeking if it was true. she authorised the sale of arms democracy. the government should do is As at yesterday 27/10/2020 to shut down the social media Mohammed told the and also that she was a very Oghene said it was wrong to look for technology that will See details on Page 39 10 WEDNESDAY, 
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THISDAY NEWS How SARS Tortured Me for 47 Days, Victim Tells Lagos Panel Sanwo-Olu reads riot act to miscreants Peter Uzoho to Ojo Police Station before panel. My property was not time to appear and respond to Sanwo-Olu Reads Riot "The security operatives are being transferred to FSARS given back to me. The only the allegations. Act to Miscreants here; they can hear everything. The Judicial Panel of Enquiry office at Ikeja. one I have got back is the The panel’s chair, Justice Doris We are using this opportunity to and Restitution for Victims of There, he was beaten, hung landed property document Okuwobi, adjourned till Friday. The governor also yesterday give notices to all the miscreants SARS-related abuses in Lagos, on a pole and paraded as a thief in 2017. Justice (Mobolanle) The panel was scheduled to warned miscreants to be law- in the neighbourhood and that commenced sitting yesterday in a market after he refused to Okikiolu-Ighile ordered the begin full sitting on Monday, but abiding and peaceful or face is why I am looking at you. with one of the petitioners confess to a bogus theft charge, release of my documents.” could not do so because three the full wrath of the law. "If you know that you are recounting his ordeal in the a day after his arrest. When asked what he wanted of its members, Rinu Oduala, Speaking during a visit to not doing any work and that hands of policemen. “They started beating me, of the panel, Abunike said: Temitope Majekodunmi and Fagba, in Ifako-Ijaiye Local you are one of the people that Mr. Okolieagu Abunike, a paraded me before Alaba “I want the panel to compel Lucas Koyejo, had not been Government Area of the state have caused this trouble, we father of five, told the panel Market. The beating was too the police to do what the sworn in. to assess the level of destruction are giving you the final notice that in 2012, Federal Special much. They broke my head. court has said. I am tired of Upon their arrival, Oduala of property caused by last because we are coming to clear Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS) Then they took me back to the suffering…feeding, school fees and Majekodunmi, both youth week's communal clash in this whole place." operatives detained and tortured station and called my boss. I is a problem.” representatives nominated by the area, Sanwo-Olu said the He also called on the him for 47 days at their Ikeja spent 47 days with SARS,” Justice Okuwobi promised an online poll took their oaths state government would deal miscreants to vacate Fagba. office, without trial. Abunike said. that the panel would make alongside Koyejo, the Zonal with miscreants who refused Sanwo-Olu said: "We are He spoke just as the Lagos He identified his tormentors its findings on Abunike’s Coordinator (South-west to embrace peace. coming to clear this whole place State Governor, Mr. Babajide as Inspector Sunday alias” Baba allegations public within seven Zone) – National Human Sanwo-Olu, who was and we will make sure that you Sanwo-Olu warned miscreants Ijapa” and ASP (Assistant working days. Rights Commission (NHRC). accompanied by his deputy, Dr. do not disturb or harass the in Lagos to be law-abiding and Superintended) Haruna. Three other petitioners were Meanwhile, many Nigerians Obafemi Hamzat; Secretary to peace-loving people that we peaceful or face the full wrath He said: “My family didn’t scheduled for hearing yesterday. on Twitter yesterday expressed the State Government (SSG), have in this neighbourhood. of the law. know where I was. When They are: a paraplegic on dissatisfaction over the oath Mrs. Folasade Jaji; Special We have Hausa community, Abunike told the commission my mother and wife finally a wheelchair, Mr Ndukwe of secrecy administered on Adviser to the Governor Igbo community and Yoruba that the operatives stole and came. They beat them up in Ekekwe; Olukoya Ogungbeje: members of the panel. on Education, Mr. Tokunbo community and they are living sold his vehicle, a Volkswagen my presence. They took over and Mr. Basil Chetal Ejiagwa. The oath of secrecy Wahab and Head of Service, well. bus, land, bags of cement, my house, sold my car, my But only Abunike testified in administered on panel Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, "You need to look for what inverter and carted away all inverter, phones and seized person. Ogungbeje, a lawyer, members reads in part, “I assured those affected by the to do; we will not allow you the possessions in his house. my land documents.” and Ejiagwa were absent but solemnly swear/affirm that I clashes that the Lagos State to come and tarnish the image He testified as the first The petitioner said he represented by their counsel. will not directly or indirectly Government would assist them. and the peace that we have petitioner since the Lagos State eventually got a judgment They prayed the court to communicate or reveal any He said: "The level of in Fagba and in Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo- against the police on February adopt their petitions as their matter to any person which destruction that I have seen as a whole. Olu, set up the nine-member 26, 2016, at the Federal High testimony. shall be brought under my here is colossal; it is unfortunate. "We will make sure that we panel on October 15, following Court in Lagos. The court granted their consideration or shall come to Enumeration would start also come and see what we the #EndSARS protests. Justice Ibrahim Buba ordered applications. my knowledge in the discharge immediately by the two local can do to help the youth. And Abunike told the panel that the police to pay him N10 The testimony of Ekekwe, of my official duties, except governments. The council once we do that, we are giving he was arrested after tendering million as exemplary damages, whose spine was broken as may be required for the chairmen and all the community you an opportunity to remain his resignation as manager of a but the police refused to pay. after allegedly being thrown discharge of my official duties leaders will come together and law-abiding and be peaceful. firm, following a false complaint He added: “No compensation from a two-storey building, or as may be officially permitted come up with a list of those If not, we will be hard and be of theft by his boss. has been made till date. That’s was adjourned to give the by the governor. So help me whose properties have been very decisive on all of you," He said he was first taken why I came forward to the Commissioner of Police in Lagos God/Allah.” destroyed. he added. FG to Float National Carrier in 2021, Says Sirika Unfolds plans for 10 new airports Deji Elumoye in Abuja According to him, the road Overhaul (MRO) facility, what is on the ground now, will added to the map, some of them Sirika also said airports map will be implemented development of agro-allied cargo be actualised next year through completed; some of them under such as that of Minna, Ilorin, The Minister of Aviation, Senator through the Public-Private infrastructure, the establishment the PPP arrangement,” he said. construction. Makurdi, whose facilities are Hadi Sirika, yesterday gave next Partnership (PPP). of Aviation Leasing Company, Sirika added that aviation is "There are airports coming up not in proper shape are being year as the date for the take-off He said: "In 2021, the sum of Search and Rescue Unit and the fastest-growing sector of the in Benue, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Lafia, attended to. of a new national carrier. N78.96 billion is being proposed establishment of Aerospace Nigerian economy despite the Damaturu, Anambra and so On the issues of dilapidated He also said 10 new airports for capital expenditure at the University with the support setback suffered in the wake forth. All of these show that equipment at some airports, were under construction headquarters in the aviation of International Civil Aviation of the COVID-19 pandemic. civil aviation is growing during Sirika said it is a work-in- nationwide just as the Senate ministry and the emphasis will Organisation ( ICAO). According to him, 10 new this administration. progress as the airports are lamented the deplorable state focus on the implementation On the national carrier, the airports are springing up in "So, we have about 10 new being attended to one after of Minna, Ilorin and Makurdi of the aviation road map by minister stated that all required states such as Benue, Ekiti, airports coming up; that is the other based on priorities. airports. Mr. President. agreements and arrangements Nasarawa and Yobe, among almost half the number of Chairman of the Committee, Sirika, who was at the Senate "The road map would be with other partners have been others, apart from other ones airports we used to have in Senator Smart Adeyemi, in to defend his ministry's budget implemented through Public- worked out. taken over by the federal Nigeria. So we are adding his comments, requested the for 2021 before the Senate Private Partnership (PPP), "This government right from government like Gombe, Kebbi, 50 per cent of the number of minister to ensure the upgrade Committee on Aviation, unveiled topmost of which will be the inception in 2015 has been Dutse and Zuru Airports. airports." of the Ajaokuta airstrip and the the federal government's road establishment of the national planning and strategising on He said: "From 2015 till now, He, however, said safety and establishment of Lokoja airport. map for the aviation sector in carrier." how to resuscitate the national we've seen a lot of growth in security are more of important According to him, Lokoja 2021, with the establishment Other projects to be executed carrier for Nigeria as far as the civil aviation, the number issues to them in the aviation deserves an airport because of a national carrier topping are the establishment of global air transportation is of airports is increasing. So far, sector than the establishment of its proximity to Abuja like its priority. Maintenance, Repair and concerned. The plan, going by about seven airports have been of new airports. Minna. DESPITE SANWO-OLU’S DENIAL, ARMY INSISTS LAGOS GOVT REQUESTED TROOPS DEPLOYMENT commercial bank and carted acknowledged that those Compensate Lagos (Senate South-west Caucus) be done by us expeditiously.” The state government had away cash and other valuables arrested were not peaceful are indeed very unhappy that regulated the opening of the in Lekki. #ENDSARS protesters stated The South-west caucus of at this stage in our history Sanwo-Olu Approves markets to curb the spread The police boss said he that it was a known fact that the Senate has said that it that this type of damage has of COVID-19 in the state. was arrested with N250, 000 armed hoodlums hijacked the will push a motion to urge been done to Lagos State. Full Reopening of The statement, made alleged to be his share of the protests and were responsible the federal government to “We pray that this type Markets available by the governor’s loot from the bank, as well for the series of killings, arson assist in rebuilding Lagos of thing will not happen Senior Special Assistant on as a locally-made pistol. and looting recorded. State in view of the massive again and we also hope that Sanwo-Olu has approved the New Media, Gawat Jubril, He said two suspects He said: "A thorough destruction of lives and those who are in governance full reopening of markets in said: “Mr. Governor took the identified as Ebere Reuben, investigation into the cases has property recorded during and those who are out of the state. decision to further enhance 29, and Samuel Oyediran, commenced. Members of the violence in the state. governance, we all have a The Commissioner for Local trade and commerce and 16, were also arrested by public should be rest assured Senator Boroffice Ajayi, role to play to ensure that Government and Community mitigate the hardship of RRS operatives for their that they will be updated as representing Ondo North, this country moves forward. Affairs, Dr. Wale Ahmed, in a recent times and ensure that involvement in the burning investigation progresses.” stated this yesterday on “We are aware of the role statement yesterday, said both Lagosians can recover fast. of BRT terminal at Berger However, most of the behalf of the 17-member the media can play, and we food markets and non-food “Mr. Governor also advised and TVC Station in the state. suspects denied involvement caucus during a courtesy call want to plead with you that markets can reopen every day the continued observance of They were allegedly in the violence, alleging that on Sanwo-Olu in Lagos to in the discharge of your duty, of the week. all safety protocols. caught with the leftover of they were picked up randomly commiserate with him on the you put Nigeria´s unity first. Before the announcement, “Traders and their some quantities of petroleum during raids. recent civil unrest in the state. “We are working with the food and non-food markets customers must adhere strictly products with which they set He told reporters after government to ensure that were allowed to operate three to the covid-19 protocols for the places ablaze. South-west Senators watching footages of some those demands that require days a week – Monday, their safety and the citizenry The police boss who to Lobby FG to damaged property that: “We constitutional approval will Wednesday and Friday. at large.” WEDNESDAY 0CT0BER 28, 2020 ˾
THISDAY 11 NEWS NEF Alleges Attacks on Northerners in the South Don’t inflame passion, Afenifere tells northern elders

Deji Elumoye and Adedayo reported killings, destruction and causing crisis in the country. Publicity and Advocacy, Dr. and earning legitimate livelihood living in fear. Akinwale in Abuja stealing of their assets and other Afenifere’s spokesman, Mr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, in a peacefully in many communities The Forum however drew the assaults which had been going Yinka Odumakin, told THISDAY statement issued yesterday, in the South, out of concern that attention of the country to the The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) on for many days. yesterday that “our friends in therefore, called on leaders doing so would further cause or existence of millions of Nigerians has raised the alarm of what it But in a swift reaction, the pan- NEF should please be more at all levels in the country to worsen a major national crisis. from the southern part of the described as deliberate targeting Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, careful about statements that work towards lowering tension, The NEF said it was aware that country living in peace in Northern of northerners in many parts of Afenifere, urged the NEF not can inflame passion. improving inter-community governors, security agencies and communities, adding that these the South in Nigeria, with alleged to make statements capable of “We make this appeal not relations and isolating elements communities in many states in the are Nigerians who are valued and out of fear but a deep sense that seek to plunge the country South are aware of the widespread whose rights are respected in the of responsibility and the into deeper crises. assaults on northerners, adding communities they live. Gunmen Abduct Village understanding of the place of The forum said it had resisted that many people in the north are The forum advised northerners elders. Our utterances should the pressure to raise the alarm understandably concerned by the living in the South to stay put Head’s Wife in Kano bring calm at this delicate period.” earlier at these ‘unacceptable acts plight of family members who and continue to pursue their However, NEF’s Director of of hostility’ against Nigerians living have lost lives and assets and are livelihood. Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano Friday morning and took away his wife, Aishatu Aliyu. The Karaye Emirate Council in According to him, the abductors Kano State has announced the shot severally into the air before kidnapping of the wife of the taking away their victim, and village head of Tsara in Rogo that led to many of the residents Local Government Area of the passing the night in the bush for state, Aishatu Aliyu, by unknown safety. gunmen. “The district head notified the The Information Officer of emir in a report that the people in Karaye Emirate, Mr Haruna Rogo district are presently living Gunduwawa, disclosed the in fear as kidnapping cases are on unfortunate incident to journalists the rise-that within two months, in Kano yesterday. four cases were recorded. Ganduwawa explained that ‘’The Emir of Karaye, has information made available to however, renewed his plea to the the Emir of Karaye, Alhaji Ibrahim security operatives to improve Abubakar II, by the District Head measures put in place to end the of Rogo, Wambai Karaye, Alhaji menace,’’ it added. Muhammadu Mahraz, said The police spokesman in Kano, unknown persons in a large Deputy Superintendent of Police number entered the house of (DSP) Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the village head of Tsara, Aliyu said the Police Command has not Muhammad, at 1.00 a.m. last been informed of the incident. WE STAND WITH YOU... L-R: Former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba; Chief Executive Officer of Television Continental (TVC), Mr. Andrew Hanlon; FG Begins Payment President of Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria/ Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, THISDAY and ARISE News, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena; and President of Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN), Mr. Guy Murray-Bruce; during a solidarity visit to of N30,000 to 333,000 TVC by the Nigerian Press Organisation in Lagos... yesterday ABIODUN AJALA Artisans Okowa Presents N378.48bn Budget for 2021 to Assembly Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The statement said, “In the first stream of payments starting today, Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba cent represented recurrent health, job and wealth creation and Water Sector, N1.83 billion. The President has revealed that beneficiaries are being drawn from expenditure, and explained that programmes as the principal- ``Job and Wealth Creation the payment of N30,000 one-time the FCT, Lagos, Ondo, Kaduna, Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi the allocations were consistent drivers of the Stronger Delta Bureau will gulp N1 Billion and grant to 333,000 artisans across Borno, Kano, Bauchi, Anambra, Okowa, yesterday presented the with his administration’s agenda agenda. Youth Development, N1.25 billion. the country is now in progress, Abia, Rivers, Plateau and Delta Appropriation Bill of N378.48 billion of spending more on projects According to him, N113 billion, These key sectors are very essential under Economic Sustainability states. They form the first batch for 2021 to the state’s House of and programmes that would representing 89.94 per cent of the in our 2021 budget,” Okowa said. Plan (ESP) programme. of applications for the scheme Assembly for consideration. impact directly on socio-economic capital budget is allocated to the He said that budget, which was The Senior Special Assistant to submitted between October 1 Christened ``Budget of Recovery,’’ wellbeing of Deltans. economic sector while N35 billion derived from the state’s 2021-2023 the Vice President on Media and and October 10.” the governor told the lawmakers The 2021 budget is N96.2 billion is allocated to the social sector; the FSP/MTEF, was anchored on Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, in a The presidency explained that that the Bill was made up of N207.52 or 34.05 per cent higher than the administration sector got 10.93 billion crude oil production benchmark of statement issued yesterday said, the MSMEs Survival Fund scheme billion for Capital Expenditure N282 billion revised approved and the regional sector, N42 billion. 1.86 mbpd, oil price of 40 dollars N2.3 trillion ESP consists of fiscal, is a component of the Nigerian and N171.32 billion for Recurrent budget of 2020. “In 2021, we propose to per barrel, exchange rate of N379 monetary and sectoral measures to Economic Sustainability Plan Expenditure. The governor said that the 2021 spend N66.66 billion on Road per dollar, National Real Gross enhance local production, support (NESP) which was developed He said that capital expenditure budget proposals reinforced the Infrastructure; N6.79 billion on Domestic Product (GDP) growth businesses, retain, create jobs and by an Economic Sustainability constituted 54.76 per cent of state government’s commitment Health; Education will gulp N23.55 of three per cent and 11.95 national provide succour to Nigerians, Committee established by President the Budget while 45.24 per to road infrastructure, education, billion; Agriculture, N2.04 billion inflation rate especially the most vulnerable. Muhammadu Buhari in March The Presidency added that 2020, and headed by Vice payments are being made to sets of President Yemi Osinbajo, Fayemi Proposes N109.6bn as 2021 Budget verified beneficiaries of the Artisan which produced and is Support Scheme, a track under overseeing the implementation Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti infrastructure and security, for N51,668,386,739.99 as capital was budgeted for that year, the MSMEs Survival Fund. of the plan. speedy economic recovery after expenditure. but was reviewed downward The Ekiti State Governor, Dr. the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated that the 2021 budget to N91.1 billion due to the Kayode Fayemi, yesterday The governor, who spoke estimate would be majorly COVID-19 pandemic that FG Declares Thursday Public Holiday presented the sum of N109.666, yesterday on the floor of the House financed through revenues dented a devastating blow on 376, 727.61 billion as the budgetary of Assembly while presenting the accruing to the state from the the global economy and caused Kuni Tyessi in Abuja quoted Aregbesola as saying that estimate for the 2021 fiscal 2021 appropriation bill for perusal Federation Account, internally a slump in the oil prices at the doing so would guarantee peace year before the state House of and ratification, said no efforts generated revenue (IGR), Value international market. The federal government has and security in the country. Assembly. would be spared to salvage the Added Tax (VAT), grants “This budget estimate is a declared Thursday (tomorrow) The minister admonished Fayemi said the budgetary people from poverty and hunger. and ‘brought-down’ from product of public consultations as public holiday to mark this Muslims to follow the teaching estimate christened ‘Budget of Giving the breakdown of the development partners. being interactions we held year’s Eidul-Mawlid celebration. of the Holy Quran in Chapter Recovery and Restoration’ would budget, Fayemi said it contains Having a retrospect of the 2020 with the people across the The holiday is in 4 Verse 59 which says: “O you focus on food security, social N57, 997, 989,982.62 billion budget, the governor disclosed three senatorial districts of commemoration of the birth of who believe! Obey God and investment, rural development, as recurrent expenditure and that the sum of N124.6 billion the state. the Holy Prophet Muhammad obey the Messenger, and those (Peace be upon him). from among you who are vested The Minister of Interior, Mr. with authority; and if you are to How I Resisted undue Pressure in SIP Implementation, Says Osinbajo Rauf Aregbesola, who made dispute among yourselves about the declaration on behalf of the anything, refer it to God and the Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja not trying to be a purist, he led by its Chairman, Hon. Karu was everybody wanted a slot. federal government, congratulated Messenger, if indeed you believe believed that if young people Elisha. I resisted it. Why? If I do that, Muslim faithful at home and in God and the Last Day. This Vice President Yemi Osinbajo can’t get the benefit except Osinbajo, in a statement we will destroy the programmes abroad for witnessing this year’s is the best (for you), and fairest has revealed that he resisted they know someone, then the issued yesterday by his Senior because majority of Nigerians occasion. in the end” pressure from public officials administration has failed the Special Assistant to the Vice don’t know people who will He enjoined them to imbibe Aregbesola enjoined and party chieftains in the young people President on Media and take the slots.” the spirit of love, patience and Nigerians, particularly implementation of Social The Vice President stated Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, “It was not that one was perseverance, which are the virtues Muslims, at this moment, to Investment Programmes (SIPs), this yesterday when he said the implementation of the being purist, but if young of the Holy Prophet. abhor violence, lawlessness, saying that he insisted that received, on a courtesy visit SIPs was done openly giving people can’t get the benefit A statement issued yesterday wantonness and daylight Nigerians who knew no one to the Presidential Villa, the everyone equal opportunity except they know someone by the Director of Press in the robbery as witnessed across could benefit. executive committee of the to benefit. then we have failed the young Ministry, Mr. Mohammed Manga, the country. He said while he was Young Parliamentarians Forum He stated: “The first problem people.” 12 WEDNESDAY 0CT0BER 28, 2020 ˾
THISDAY NEWS NNPC Blames Curfew for Long Fuel Queues in Abuja Says no dealings with intermediaries in crude oil lifting

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja does not deal with intermediaries as well as AA Rano Oil, Mobil, against panic buying, saying that of products. stressing that the situation will in the selection of contractors. Dan Oil Plc , NNPC Petrol Station, that the country has enough The NNPC spokesman be brought under control in a The Nigerian National Petroleum Long fuel queues yesterday Rain oil, among others along volume of petroleum in the depots noted that the disruptions and few days. Corporation (NNPC) has blamed returned to the streets of Abuja, Gwarimpa, Kubwa expressway, in the country to satisfy the needs curtailment of free flow of “The disruptions or curtailment the return of fuel queues in causing serious intractable gridlock were also observed to be dealing of Nigerians in the near future. vehicular movement occasioned by of free flow of vehicular Abuja on the curfew imposed in parts of the country’s federal with massive queues. Group General Manager, the protests, the attendant curfews, movement occasioned by the in some states, which disrupted capital as many filling stations The story was not different in Group Public Affairs Division, restrictions and vandalism affected EndSARS protests and the the distribution of petroleum were either not dispensing or the outskirts of the city , which NNPC, Dr. Kennie Obateru, the smooth supply of petroleum. attendant curfews and restrictions products, and cautioned against dealing with large crowds. were the most hit as black market attributed the queues to the Obateru assured that the and vandalism, particularly in panic buying. A number of the fuel stations fuel racketeers sold the product for curfew imposed in some states country currently has over two Lagos, must have affected NNPC also yesterday raised around the Central Business between N200 and N250 per litre. over the recent EndSARS protests, billion litres of the product in petroleum products the alarm over the invasion of its District (CBD), Abuja’s commercial But the NNPC has cautioned which disrupted the movement stock to last about two months, supply. bidding processes for crude oil heartbeat, including Conoil and traders by fraudsters, saying that it Total on Herbert Macaulay Way NSCDC Dismisses Officer for Looting Palliatives in Abuja Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja looting in Abuja’. It read in part, “The The Nigeria Security and Civil Commandant General Abdullahi Defence Corps (NSCDC) has Gana Muhammadu has approved dismissed a Corps Assistant, Illiya the recommendation of the Junior Ibrahim, from service for allegedly Staff Disciplinary Committee for looting COVID-19 palliatives the dismissal of Illiya Ibrahim discovered in a warehouse in of the Gwagwalada Division Gwagwalada, Abuja. for joining hoodlums in looting Ibrahim of the Gwagwalada COVID-19 palliatives discovered Division, Abuja, was seen in a viral in a warehouse in Gwagwalada, video with some food items while Abuja. wearing the NSCDC uniform “The recommendation was at the scene where hundreds given after the officer was charged of youths looted COVID-19 under the public service rule STRATEGISING AGAINST FUTURE VIOLENCE… palliatives in Abuja. which is related to unbecoming L-R: Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun (left), and Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of South-west states, Adeleye Ibrahim’s sacking was contained conduct of officers. Oyebade, during the stakeholders’ engagement on security in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital…yesterday in a press statement by the Media “This disciplinary measure was Assistant to the Commandant taken after series of investigations General of NSCDC, Ekunola and deliberations by the junior Gbenga, yesterday. disciplinary committee and Bello: Why Kogi Rejected World Bank’s N1.1bn Support Fund The statement was titled recommendations were made ‘NSCDC dismisses officer for to the management. Kogi State Governor, Mr. Yahaya Speaking yesterday on a has been disbursed, Kogi State to assist every state and we Bello, had disclosed that the state live TV programme, Bello did not receive and I refused cannot reject it.” government rejected N1.1 billion insisted that the COVID-19 to receive and I rejected it. Bello had expressed concern RCCG Declares 30-day support fund from the World pandemic has a political “I refused to sign because over the receipt of COVID-19 Bank because of his belief that undertone. it is a one-sided agreement.” materials by state governments Fasting, Prayer for Nigeria COVID-19 is a “glorified malaria”. “I rejected the World Bank On why he received the from COCAVID and other The governor also described fund because I do not believe COVID-19 fund from the organisations. The General Overseer of the November 1. the World Bank’s Memorandum in COVID-19. Even the five Federal Government and He said it was “ridiculing” Redeemed Christian Church of God “Marathon fasting will hold of Understanding (MoU) for the cases reported in Kogi State rejected that of World Bank, that “they bring three trucks (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has between November 1 and November fund as “a one-sided agreement”. is an NCDC creation. Bello said, “Even though we and still want to do pre and directed all members of the church to 14 for those who prefer that and However, he admitted that “Go and check records. Kogi did not have COVID-19 in Kogi post-audit.” commence a 30-day fast and prayer prayer guide shall be forwarded soon. the state government received State is the only state that State, we are equally affected; The governor said his for Nigeria. “Where possible, brethren should N1 billion from the federal refused to sign that document because our economy was government had been handing The RCCG Assistant General be encouraged to come together government to tackle the effects for N1.1bilion because I don’t equally affected and federal out palliatives to residents Overseer, Administration, and for prayers while ensuring that all of COVID-19 in his state. believe in COVID. N500million government released that fund before COVID-19. Personnel, Pastor Johnson Odesola, COVID-19 government regulations announced this in a statement and safety precautions are put in yesterday in Ibadan, Oyo State capital. place,’’ he said. According to Adeboye, the Adeboye urged the faithful to Makinde Approves Recruitment of 1,500 Amotekun Personnel programme tagged, “Fasting and inform and encourage other members Governor Seyi Makinde of motorcycle operators, and taxi November 2, assuring that various their grievances. Prayer for Nigeria’’ would start from to participate in this exercise. Oyo State yesterday disclosed drivers. pressure groups in the state will Agbeja, however, declared that he had signed a document The post-protest meeting was be represented as members of that none of the EndSARS for the immediate recruitment held within the State House of the panel. protesters was involved in Again, NHRC Condemns Attacks of 1,500 personnel to kick-start Assembly complex, Agodi, Ibadan. In her remarks, the youths the violence and looting the South-west Security Network, Makinde said the new intakes of leader in Oyo state, Mrs. Bobola witnessed recently in the on Policemen, Begins Probe codenamed, Amotekun, in Oyo the Amotekun outfit will undergo Agbeja, said her group will state. state. two weeks training, between continue agitating for She implored the Makinde- The National Human Rights and orderliness to reign in the Makinde made the disclosure November 1 and November 15. what is right, stressing led administration to do Commission (NHRC) expressed country”. in Ibadan, during the post-protest He also disclosed that the that the youths will not be more in looking at ways it concerns over reports of attacks Ojukwu noted in the statement meeting held with representatives State Panel of Enquiry on Police discouraged in engaging in could engage the youths on police stations and law that the commission was of youths, artisans, commercial brutality will be inaugurated on peaceful protests to express meaningfully. enforcement agents, including receiving petitions of attacks police officers in different parts on security personnel “for of the country. onward investigations and Court Frees 47 Alleged Homosexuals for Lack of Diligent Prosecution A statement issued yesterday subsequent recommendations by the NHRC’s Assistant Director to the appropriate government Davidson Iriekpen the umpteenth time, absent from at the instance of the prosecution prosecution’s attitude to this Public Affairs, Mrs. Fatimah agencies for compensations court and gave no reasonable in a criminal trial. case is not satisfactory. In my Mohammed, stated that the or prosecution of offenders in The Federal High Court in explanation. “This is ninth adjournment at view, this should not be. If the commission’s Executive Secretary, accordance with the law”. Lagos yesterday freed 47 alleged The defence counsel, Mr. Israel the instance of the prosecution prosecution has a cogent reason Mr. Tony Ojukwu, was reacting He recalled that the NHRC homosexuals arraigned by the Usman, had noted that it was in contravention of the statutory not to be in court, he should have to cases of “civil attacks on police had up an Independent police in November last year. the ninth time that Ebhoremen Act that regulates criminal justice communicated in writing to the personnel and wanton destruction Investigative Panel to Justice Rilwan Aikawa struck did not show up in court since system. We urge the court to court and copy the defence counsel. of property at some police stations probe complaints of rights out the charges against the the case started in 2019. dismiss the case and discharge “For whatever reason, the in some states of the federation”. violations and brutality defendants, citing lack of diligent Usman pointed the judge’s the defendants,” the defence prosecution is no more capable It stated that such “heinous of the disbanded Special prosecution by the police. attention to Section 356(5) of counsel said. or not willing to prosecute this crime has no place in modern Anti Robbery Squad but The judge noted that the the Administration of Criminal Ruling, Justice Aikawa case. Consequently, this case is history and therefore should maintained that “two wrongs prosecuting counsel for the Justice Act, 2015 which provided held, “I agree entirely with struck out due to lack of diligent be eschewed to allow peace cannot make a right”. police, JI Ebhoremen, was, for a maximum of five adjournments defendants’ counsel that the prosecution.” WEDNESDAY 0CT0BER 28, 2020 ˾
THISDAY 13 NEWS Abaribe Berates NBC over AIT, Channels, ARISE News Fine Says commission’s action against constitution

Deji Elumoye to hold opinions and to receive “This time, as precarious “It is not a time for this kind the Constitution gives the NBC the three broadcast stations and impart ideas and information as we know, calls for deep of illegal actions by the agencies powers to impose such sanctions,” to approach the court for the Senate Minority Leader, Senator without interference.” introspection and empathy for of government, as no law passed he said. enforcement of their fundamental Enyinnaya Abaribe, yesterday The minority leader insisted that victims and their families. by the National Assembly nor Senator Abaribe also advised rights in the circumstance. asked the National Broadcasting Section 39 (2) of the Constitution Commission (NBC) to stop also states without equivocation abridging the right of Nigerians that “Without prejudice to the to free speech and arbitrary generality of Subsection (1) of enforcement of laws it does not this Section, every person shall have. be entitled to own, establish and Abaribe in a statement by his operate any medium for the Media Adviser, Mr. Uchenna dissemination of information, Awom, in Abuja, in reaction to ideas and opinions”. the imposition of fines on the Senator Abaribe therefore asked African Independent Television the NBC to rescind the decision (AIT), Channels Television and to sanction the broadcast outfits ARISE NEWS Channel over their on the basis that they violated reportage of the Lekki Tollgate the broadcasting code during the shootings in Lagos by the NBC, #EndSARS protest, particularly said the commission, by that the alleged shooting of protesters unfortunate action, breached at the Lekki tollgate. Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution. “The sanction is illegal, Section 39 of the Constitution, provocative and clear case he pointed out, specifically made of willful abuse of power it clear that: “Every person and a deliberate assault on shall be entitled to freedom of the freedom of the press and expression, including freedom of free speech. SCRUTINISING THE NUMBERS... Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Enviroment, Senator Ibrahim Adeja (left), and Chairman of the Committee, Senator Ike Ekweremadu IPI Approves Adedoyin’s during the 2021 budget defence by the Ministry of Enviroment in Abuja... yesterday JULIUS ATOI Board Membership Media Lawyers Condemn NBC’s Fine on ARISE News, Others The Executive Board of the conveying the approval. International Press Institute A leading member of the Peter Uzoho amongst others, have criticised inappropriate at the moment. instance the #endsars protest was ( IPI), the global network of Nigeria Institute of Public the commission for trying to WAMELA also called for clearly news that was necessary editors, media executives, and Relations, Nigeria Union of The West Africa Media Lawyers suppress the constitutional rights of “a review of the Broadcasting for Nigerians to be informed communication experts devoted Journalists (NUJ) and the Nigerian Association (WAMELA) has the media stations by such illegal Code, which is the basis for the about.” to a free press, has unanimously Guild of Editors (NGE), Adedoyin condemned the N9million fine sanction. fine abinitio, because the very “It is unfortunate that the approved the nomination of IPI has devoted his energy to growing imposed on Arise News Channel, WAMELA in a statement interpretation of same is offensive Commission is more worried veteran, Mr. Raheem Adedoyin the IPI in Nigeria. Channels Television and Africa issued yesterday and signed to the notion of free speech about the government getting to the Board. Adedoyin, who headed the Independent Television (AIT) by its President, Mr. Noah Ajare, which is an essential ingredient embarrassed for a factual Adedoyin, a seasoned journalist institute’s Secretariat for the hugely by the National Broadcasting criticised NBC for imposing fines of participatory democracy that situation which was witnessed and longest serving Secretary of successful 2018 IPI World Congress Corporation (NBC) for covering on the media stations for covering Nigeria operates. live by a lot of Nigerians the IPI Nigerian Chapter, was and General Assembly in Abuja, the ENDSARS protest. an event that was of national WAMELA said: “This is our who were on the internet nominated unanimously early this Nigeria, is a regular delegate at The NBC has since its interest to the citizens and the stand as a coalition of media and who saw the @Nigerian month by the Nigerian chapter the world congresses and other announcement of the N3million West African sub-region. rights lawyers. The NBC should government murder its citizens to replace former Chairman of the IPI events. fine on each of the three television It also demanded the immediately reverse this order at #lekkitollgate than the fact News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), He was at the inaugural stations come under attack commission to immediately against Arise TV, AIT and that this was a real event which Mallam Wada Maida, who died meeting of IPI National as the likes of the Nigerian reverse the order imposing the Channels TV. It is obvious that should not have taken place in last August. Committees in Baku, Azerbaijan, Union of Journalists (NUJ), the fines on the three media houses, this is done in bad faith and the first place if the government The Board’s approval was in 2011, and has been involved in Socio-Economic Rights and as such an order has no place clearly to gag the press. had exercised restraint and conveyed to Adedoyin at the IPI Advocacy activities, including Accountability Project (SERAP) in a democratic society and on “The Nigerian Constitution ensured that the grievances of weekend by IPI Executive Director, an IPI Mission to Zambia in 2010. and the Senate Minority Leader, account of the fact that the penalty guarantees Nigerian’s rights these amazing peaceful protesters Barbara Triofri. Adedoyin, who produces the Senator Enyinnaya Abaibe, was at best, ill-thought out and to receive information. In this were completely met”. “Congratulations, Raheem! I am glossy, celebratory “The ICON very glad that you are a member Magazine, is also a member of the IPI Executive Board and of the Advisory Board of the look forward to working with London-based African Leadership Lekki Shooting: Lawyer Sues Buhari, Buratai, Lagos for N10bn you,” Barbara said in her email Magazine. A legal practitioner, Mr. Olukoya agents and persons directly or Attorney General of Lagos State; He contended that the shooting Ogungbeje, has urged the Federal indirectly involved in the shooting and the Attorney General of the was a violation of the protesters’ High Court sitting in Lagos to and killing of unarmed, defenceless Federation. constitutional “right to life, Danbatta Defends Deployment compel President Muhammadu and peaceful protesters/victims of Ogungbeje asked the court fair hearing, right to peaceful Buhari; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. the #ENDSARS peaceful protests.” to declare that “the brutal assembly and association of 5G Technology in Nigeria Gen. Tukur Buratai, and 10 others Others defendants in the suit shooting and killing and use guaranteed under sections to “immediately” pay N10billion to are the federal government, the of brute force against unarmed, 33, 36, 38, 39 and 40 of the The Executive Vice Chairman of our attention to the issue of 5G. A victims of the October 20 shootings Nigerian Army, Chief of Defence defenceless and peaceful protesters Constitution of the Federal the Nigerian Communications lot of falsehoods and misinformation at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos. Staff, Inspector-General of Police; engaging in the #ENDSARS Republic of Nigeria, 1999.” Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar have been peddled both on online Ogungbeje also asked the Nigeria Police Force; Department protest was illegal, unlawful, No date has been fixed for Garba Danbatta, yesterday defended and traditional media outlets about court to order “the immediate of State Services (DSS); Director- undemocratic, oppressive, wicked hearing of the suit. the deployment of 5G Technology in the health and safety implications of prosecution of all culpable security General; Lagos State Government; and unconstitutional.” Nigeria, asserting that misconceptions deploying 5G technology. and misinformation about it “As I stated in my speech during should not be allowed to derail the NITRA Innovative Tech Forum, its implementation. according to a recent landmark economy Jonathan Leads AU’s Observer Mission to Tanzania According to Danbatta a lot study conducted by Qualcomm, 5G of falsehoods on 5G Technology will affect the global economy and drive As Tanzania prepares to hold any acts of violence.” coordinating the activities of the towards democratic consolidation have found their way into the growth exponentially. its general election today, the He further urged the authorities AU team of expert observers, who and peace-building in Africa social media platforms and the “5G’s full economic effect will likely Chairperson of the African to ensure a conducive environment are already in Tanzania for the The letter said: “Given Your traditional media outfits with be realised across the globe by 2035, Union Commission, Moussa Faki to enable the citizens to cast their elections. Excellency’s vast experience potentials to derail the take-off of supporting a wide range of industries Mahamat, has called for peaceful, votes in a safe and peaceful It is the third time Jonathan and commitment in promoting the technology in Nigeria. and potentially enabling up to $13.2 inclusive and credible polls. manner. would be leading the AU election democracy and peace on the Danbatta made the remarks at trillion worth of goods and services. Former Nigerian President, Dr. The chairperson further recalled observation mission and the continent, I would like to invite the Digital Bridge Institute, Utako, This impact will be much greater Goodluck Jonathan, is leading the “the commendable journey that second consecutive time he will you to lead the Mission to the Abuja, while declaring open a two- than the current 4G network. African Union Elections Experts the United Republic of Tanzania be observing elections in Tanzania, United Republic of Tanzania.” day capacity building workshop “5G when fully deployed will Mission already deployed in has traversed thus far towards having led the Commonwealth Since leaving office in 2015, for members of Information and provide increased speed and Tanzania for today’s elections. building democratic governance Observer Group to the East African President Jonathan has been Communications Technology bandwidth as well as provide deeper In a statement issued yesterday, and sustaining peace, and that the country in last general election actively engaged in numerous Reporters, Abuja. coverage to reach people in rural or the chairperson of the commission October 28, 2020, general elections in 2015. international assignments, He was represented by the challenging locations. In addition, urged all stakeholders, political offer a renewed opportunity to In a letter of invitation signed including leading peace missions Director of Public Affairs of NCC, 5G will provide strong security for parties and their supporters “to deepen democracy and peace in by the Chairperson of the African and different Election Observer Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde. the various sectors of government participate in the voting process the country.” Union Commission, Mahamat, the Missions to various African Danbatta said: “Let me turn and private organizations. peacefully, and to refrain from President Jonathan is AU commended Jonathan’s efforts nations, including Tanzania, 14 THISDAY ˾
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Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] MAY THEY NOT DIE IN VAIN (1) Sonnie Ekwowusi contends that the deployment of soldiers to Lekki Tollgate was wrong irst, please join me in observing a few minutes young pro-Biafra protesters who were peacefully holding silence in honour of our fallen young heroes and prayers inside the football field of Ngwa High School, Aba heroines of the #EndIncompetenceinGovernance in Abia State. No justice for the victims of that barbaric protests (I won’t label it #EndSARS protests murder till date despite popular outcry. Then during the because the protests transcend police brutality: The Biafran Day celebration on May 30 2016, the Nigerian protests are responses to incompetence and corrup- soldiers were again dispatched to fire bullets that killed Ftion in governance in Nigeria) who were shot at and killed and injured over 30 unarmed civilians at Nkpor-Agu, Niger by the Nigerian soldiers at the Lekki Toll Gate Lagos and Bridge, Onitsha and Asaba respectively. I can go on and on. other places on Tuesday October 20. May their souls rest in So, you can see that using soldiers to kill or maim peace. Amen! May God grant their parents, relatives, friends unarmed protesters is the stock-in-trade of this government. and acquaintances the fortitude to bear the irreparable loses. As far as President Buhari is concerned, persons staging Amen! May they not die in vain. Amen! It is noteworthy a peaceful protest in Nigeria are enemies of the state and that the killing of unarmed protesting youths is a gravest should be treated as such. Sad. This probably explains why crime against humanity punishable at the International Mr. President was silent on the Lekki Toll Gate shooting in Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague, Netherlands. We look his nationwide address last week. Or, maybe Mr. President forward to seeing the trial and possible conviction of all the was silent on the incident because he knew that the govern- soldiers who shot and killed our protesting children includ- ment acted illegally. The truth of the matter is that section ing the civilians who were in pari delicto in committing 217(2)(c)(d) of the 1999 Constitution has in no unmistakable the same crimes. Any government that kills its young is terms spelt out the circumstances and conditions under accursed. which the military can be invited to intervene to maintain Think about it. Unarmed youths were peaceably seated peace in civil life in Nigeria. There are: (i) for the defence of at the Lekki Toll Gate, singing, eating and dancing in the Nigeria from external aggression. (ii) for the maintenance of course of their protest. Date was October 20, 2020. Time the territorial integrity and securing the borders of Nigeria was on or around 7 p.m. The youngsters weren’t violent. from violation on land, sea and air, (iii) for suppressing They were not destructive either. Their presence at the Toll insurrection and acting in aid of civil authorities to restore gate posed no danger to either national security or anybody order when called upon to do so by the President; subject at all. Then all of a sudden the Nigerian soldiers were to such conditions as may be prescribed by an Act of dispatched to shoot and kill and injure some of them amid the National Assembly. It is obvious that the aforesaid pitch darkness after the light was intentionally turned off constitutional provision was violated when soldiers were to hide the crime from the civilized world. If the reason for deployed to shoot and kill young protesters at Lekki Toll dispatching the soldiers was to protect lives and property Gate. Therefore the deployment of military troop to Lekki in the state, why have they not been dispatched to arrest Toll Gate was clearly unconstitutional, illegal, null and void. and prosecute the murderous Fulani herdsmen who have How will Nigeria wriggle out of the present impasse? been freely going about killing and maiming their victims in First, we must understand that the current uprising of different Nigerian communities? What a country. the Nigerian youths is a mere symptom of a deep-seated I have never seen a government committing so many faux problem - lack of true fiscal federalism: inequitable resource pas as this government. One blunder begets another blun- control, inequitable revenue sharing formula; overconcentra- der. One evil begets another. The massive social upheaval tion of the power at the centre to the detriment of the units, sweeping across the length and breadth of Nigeria was and so forth. Therefore instead of tackling mere symptom avoidable. If the soldiers had not shot and killed the youths or offering the people tokenism or palliatives, the Buhari at the Lekki Toll Gate, the massive social uprising would government should be sincere enough to tackle the deep- not have erupted. In fact, the Lekki Toll Gate killing was the seated problems ruining Nigeria. This is the only way the catalyst that triggered off the seemingly unending chains of current uprising can be stopped. burglary, killing, arson, brigandage, looting, thuggery, and A study of the nature and pattern of the current uprising gangsterism across Southern Nigeria last week. In other THE CURRENT UPRISING IS A MERE indicates that the Nigerian young are demanding for good words, if the shooting and killing of our children at the governance, social justice, equity and fair-play. That was Lekki Toll Gate had not occurred, no anarchy would have SYMPTOM OF A DEEP-SEATED PROBLEM why all manner of young people (I won’t call them hood- overtaken many parts of Nigeria as we witnessed last week. - LACK OF TRUE FISCAL FEDERALISM: lums because they were not all hoodlums) have unfortu- Mind you, this is not the first time Nigerian soldiers had nately been looting/setting ablaze the Courts of Appeal, been deployed to shoot and kill unarmed youths embarking INEQUITABLE RESOURCE CONTROL, High Courts, Police Stations, Nigerian Ports Authority, Oba on peaceful protests. We have been beseeching the Buhari Akiolu’s Palace, COVID-19 Warehouses and other places government to stop shooting and killing unarmed protest- INEQUITABLE REVENUE SHARING across the country. They believe that the aforesaid places ing youths but our supplications have gone unheeded. It are places where injustices are brewed up and meted out to seems as if killing unarmed protesters is in the DNA of FORMULA; OVERCONCENTRATION OF different persons in Nigeria. They also believe some corrupt this government. For instance, following the attack by the THE POWER AT THE CENTRE TO THE politicians have stolen our commonwealth and therefore army on the Shia Muslim community ostensibly to rescue should be brought to justice. This is why the angry youths the Chief of Army Staff from alleged assassination, about DETRIMENT OF THE UNITS are going from house to house in search of those corrupt 1,000 unarmed protesting civilians (most of whom were politicians in order to deal with them. In sum, the uprising young people) were shot at and killed in Zaria on or around of the youths is prompted by the oppression and feeling of 12th December 2015. Till date no justice for the victims of powerlessness and hopelessness that pervade the lives of the Zaria massacre. Then on February 9, 2016 the Nigerian many Nigerian young. The Nigerian youths crave for the soldiers were deployed to shoot and kill countless unarmed reign of social justice in Nigeria. WATER, SANITATION SYSTEMS AND ECONOMIES Investing in water and sanitation solutions yields healthy families and a clean environment, writes Catarina de Albuquerque ipes are conduits for water and a plea for charity, this is a wake-up call. a pandemic like COVID-19 can spread mobilize new sources of finance – whether sanitation. They run everywhere, The current global water and sanitation when people are not able to wash their from taxes, tariffs, transfers, or repayable make a complex system work ef- crisis is a story of colossal, rapidly increas- hands with water and soap. finance. fectively and, if you’re fortunate ing, unmet demand leading to colossal, Girls and women are relieved of time- Many countries are already implement- enough to have access, it can be rapidly increasing costs. Meeting Sustain- consuming, back-breaking water fetching ing some of these measurements and easy to take them for granted. able Development Goal six – water and and are protected from the indignity and seeing the immediate advantages. In PThey become almost invisible -, up until sanitation for all by 2030 – is not a burden; danger of going to the toilet in insecure 2014, Mali committed to move towards they stop working when their importance it is a massive opportunity. facilities or in the fields and streets. Water allocating at least 0.2% of GDP to hygiene becomes all too clear. To find concrete solutions to the and sanitation services in schools and and sanitation, and 5% of the national Beyond their role in providing essential financing gap, the partnership Sanitation workplaces ensure girls and women can budget for water and sanitation. Kenya functions such as drinking, cooking, and Water for All – a global platform manage personal hygiene and not miss out has had great results using shadow credit washing and going to the toilet, do people for achieving the water, sanitation and on education or income. ratings for utilities to attract domestic and think about the ripple effect of water, hygiene-related targets of the SDGs is Disease burden is reduced and epidemic international finance. Rwanda created sanitation and hygiene on other parts of organizing three Regional Finance Minis- risk from diseases such as the coronavirus, a public-private partnership to increase our lives? And from decision-makers, do ters’ Meeting in November and December. and fast-moving killers such as cholera are private sector participation in water and we witness a level of policy prioritization There we will focus on the fact that slowed. Water, sanitation and hand hygiene sanitation and front load investments to and investment commensurate with water expanding water and sanitation services by in healthcare facilities is essential for make sure services are available sooner. and sanitation’s critical importance? The strengthening the systems that deliver them protecting healthcare workers, patients and In the end, well-resourced, well-run answer, in far too many parts of the world, is the bedrock of economic growth and newborns against the spread of infections. water and sanitation systems are catalysts is a resounding no. As an international sustainable development. The workforce is more productive. for progress in every sector – from gender, community, we are too often blind to the Benefits include an overall estimated gain The bottom line is that economic growth food and education, to health, industry and huge costs in failing to serve so many of 1.5% of global gross domestic product rests on improving educational achieve- the environment. people with the most basic but crucial of and a $4.3 return for every dollar invested ment and public health — two things that By nature of their work, Finance services. in WASH services due to reduced health are impossible without water, sanitation Ministers must use evidence to make smart Today, there are still 2.2 billion people care costs and increased productivity – and hygiene. decisions that help their counties flour- without safe drinking water and 4.2 billion that’s a rate of return that any investor The role of finance decision-makers: ish. In the case of water, sanitation and without a safe place to go the toilet. would wish for. None of this is news. Since the early days hygiene, the evidence is clear: continuing to Reaching all of these people with sustain- We also take into consideration the of the industrial revolution, we have neglect these services will only continue to able services will take much more than impact of not investing. For instance, known the transformative economic and stunt the growth of our economies, popula- physical infrastructure. Even where this affordable, reliable, easily accessible water social benefits of access to water, sanitation tions and societies. Now is the time to infrastructure is already being improved, and sanitation services prevent thousands and hygiene, and the horrific consequences make the logical choice to invest in water the systems and resourcing to expand them of children dying every year from of inaction. and sanitation solutions that have the best to everyone and keep them running are preventable diseases such as diarrhea and If finance ministers fail to help prioritize return on investment – healthy families frequently insufficient. cholera. Healthier children absorb nutrients water and sanitation, the consequences and a clean environment. Investments need to grow — by three properly, develop stronger brains and could affect societies for generations. times, to an annual $114 billion, according bodies, get better school results and end up Financial decision-makers must create an Catarina de Albuquerque is Chief to the World Bank’s estimate — to meet the making a fuller contribution to society. And enabling environment through investing Executive Officer, Sanitation and Water scale of the challenge. However, this is not we have seen all too recently how quickly in institutions and people. And they must for All partnership THISDAY ˾
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ͰͮͰͮ 15 EDITORIAL WHO OWNS ZAMFARA’S GOLD? The government must address the issue urgently eputy Senate President, first instance, what beats the imagination is Ovie Omo-Agege, raised why any government would yield to locals a very fundamental issue the rights to mine the minerals which is now that surrounds Nigeria’s subsequently exchanged for arms contrary to flawed federal structure the logic that unfettered access to small arms recently when he ques- and light weapons is a catalyst for banditry, tioned the arrangement kidnapping and insurgency. that allowed Zamfara State, This is also fueling the armed conflict Bello Matawalle to keep the proceeds of the between the herdsmen and farmers that has Dsale of N5 billion worth of Gold bar to the Cen- disrupted communal harmony and led to the tral Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at a time when the killing of many innocent persons in many proceeds of oil in the Niger Delta Region are northern states. When criminal elements are shared by all the federating units. “The gold in possession of arms, they are often used to bar was presented for sale to the CBN. Our perpetrate a broad spectrum of crimes and (Niger Delta) people are beginning to wonder human rights abuses including mass killings, who owns this gold that is being sold to the forced displacements, gender-based violence CBN. They don’t sell oil in any of the Niger and attacks on peacemakers and humanitarian Delta states. We believe that whatever revenue workers. that ought to Besides, it is rather confounding that the ARE THERE TWO LAWS IN come from that federal government is dilly-dallying from tak- NIGERIA, ONE FOR NIGER transaction ing full ownership and control of all lands in DELTA AND ANOTHER FOR belongs to the which minerals have been found in commer- entire country cial quantities in accordance with the Land Use ZAMFARA? and not to the Act, which also demands government to give state govern- property in mineral resources to the person ment,” said Ovie-Agege. by whom the mineral resources are lawfully The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act owned, upon their recovery in accordance with 2007 was passed into law on 16th March 2007 provisions of the act. to repeal the Minerals and Mining Act, No. THISDAY Allowing unauthorised persons to wield EDITOR
 
  arms has far reaching implications for national 34 of 1999 for the purposes of regulating the DEPUTY EDITOR

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exploration and exploitation of solid materials MANAGING DIRECTOR   
  security. Recent experiences in Sierra Leone, in Nigeria. It vests the control of all properties DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR 
  Congo DRC and Central Africa Republic where CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD  
  and minerals in Nigeria in the state and pro- EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL 
  external forces supplied arms for rebel forces hibits unauthorised exploration or exploitation MANAGING EDITOR 
    against the central authorities in exchange for of the mineral deposits. The question now is mining rights led to killings and the atrocious about the arrangement that gives the govern- amputation of limbs of hundreds of civilians. ment of Zamfara custodian of revenues from THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED Therefore, as a priority and in the interest of EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN  
  the gold prospected in their states. As Omo- GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS   
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our national security, the federal government Agege asked, are there two laws in Nigeria, 
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 and its agencies should get a firm grip on this DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS  
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one for Niger Delta and another for Zamfara?  

situation. This can be enabled through mount- There is also the national security com- DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR  
 
 ing of increased security at all land borders ponent of the Zamfara gold that needs to be SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR  
 
used by the foreign elements for the circulation ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS  
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 urgently tackled. Only recently, Governor CONTROLLERS   
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 and trafficking of illicit small arms and light Matawalle said that foreigners were coming DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION   
   weapons to our country. But the issue of the to his state to trade in guns with locals for HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT   
 ̓  ownership of the gold in Zamfara must be mineral resources, particularly gold. In the TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] urgently addressed.

TO OUR READERS Letters to the Editor Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details [email protected] . We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to [email protected] along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer. DOES THE FCT HAVE A MINISTER? here is no government presence Kubwa, opposite NYSC Junction; a notable life and asked him to part with all he had road is yet to be completed after five years in the federal capital territory satellite town in the FCT, last Friday at the before he could be ‘’free’’. He capitulated to of the Buhari administration and of Bello as (FCT). Yes. In fact, there is no dead of night. Please underline ‘’kidnapped their will to save his neck -- broad daylight figurine minister of the FCT. such thing as leadership in from his home’’. This incident did not robbery in the heart of town. In February 2016, Mohammed Bello the FCT. If there was, I would happen on the road as customary; these There have been accounts of armed visited the Karshi-Apo project site where certainly know being a habitué gunmen went straight to the home of their violence in different parts of the FCT. In he made quotidian political promises. Four Tof the city. There are only vulgar structures victim. The face of terror in the FCT is August, bandits dominated the arterial years after his visit, the Karshi-Apo is not which are purely administrative habitations morphing; the freebooters are becoming Life Camp road, where some estates are even near completion, and in fact, it has of the federal government. Beyond the more emboldened and vicious. And this situated, discharging bullets on motorists. been abandoned. vast jungle of bricks and glass, the FCT is is largely because of the ineptitude of Really, from Lokogoma, Lugbe, Kuje, In July 2019, the Satellite Towns rudderless. Mohammed Bello and his co-driver. Kubwa, Wuse II, Gwarinpa, Apo to Karu Development Agency (STDA) under the There are many sore points in the It is unarguable that Abuja is becoming and Karshi, the entire FCT province is FCT administration said the 13-kilometre ungovernance of the FCT. But I will situate the Dunkirk of kidnapping. Residents of under the cumulus of pillagers. Apo-Karshi road would be completed in my concerns in only two. Security is in a Pegi in Kuje subsist with the nightmare of A large part of the city is a coven of October of that year. This is October 2020, parlous state and infrastructure is generally gun-toting kidnappers on the prowl. It has darkness at night – perilously unlit. Abuja nothing is cracking up! decrepit. Derring-do attacks by bandits become casual for citizens to be kidnapped which used to have a boisterous night-life is And with less than three years left for have become typical. As a matter of fact, in that area. now as desolate as the streets of Aleppo in this administration to check itself out, it is the attacks have been eviscerated of shock On October 10, 15 persons were Syria at night. The city has lost its unique a given that the very elemental Apo-Karshi -- and normalised. It appears we are all kidnapped in that axis. Among those character as the safest place in the country. road will not be inaugurated. No buts. It is just waiting for the next blitz and the next kidnapped was reportedly the vice chair- Infrastructure is in ruins; cavities dot the a funeral of losses for Nigerians. Failure on victim. man of Kuje area council, his aides, and roads -- like the giant bomb craters in the all sides. These brigands initially expropriated other members of the council. This attack city of Ramadi in Iraq. The entire place Really, the FCT has never had it this the fringes of Abuja as the delimitation of did not happen in the refuge of darkness. oozes of detritus, and in fact, – there is bad. Never! The consequence of nepotistic their blood trade. But owing to the effective It happened at about 6pm. Again, the nothing befitting of the much vaunted ‘’seat appointments. The rating of the Buhari abdication of responsibility by the FCT consignors of blood are becoming feistier. of power’’ under the figurine minister – administration will start from the FCT. A administration (which is only in name) led My friend, Dr Laz fell into the pugna- Mohammed Bello. government that has not effectively man- by Mohammed Bello and Ramatu Tijjani cious hands of the cousins of these bandits Traffic jams have become accustomed aged where it resides cannot manage the Aliyu, this noisome pestilence is inching on Monday afternoon, October 26, 2020. hardship citizens around Karu urban area federation. into the city and already ravaging sur- He was in his car at Banex in Wuse II and other places endure. The Karshi-Apo rounding areas. when three yobbos circled him, attempting road which commonsensically will ease the Fredrick Nwabufo is a writer and A man was kidnapped from his home at to snatch his car key. They threatened his daily chore of agony on the Abuja-Keffi journalist 16 WEDNESDAY 0CT0BER 28, 2020 ˾
THISDAY 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... Intersociety: SARS Killed 30,400 in Police Cells Since 2004 Police query group’s source of data Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja But the Nigerian Police queried research statistics, average of 10 thousands of Nigerians every year. In “This allowed police power to kill From our previous and updated the group’s source of data, insisting unprocessed and untried citizens other words, citizens arrested outside in the line of ‘exchange of gunfire’ research records, Nigeria had lost A human rights advocacy and that panels of inquiry had already were killed monthly in police the law and taken into secret custodies with violent criminal suspects is not less than 140,000 citizens outside research, group, the International been set up in different states and custodies in each state across Nigeria. are killed without the knowledge of hardly the case. Their torture the law in the past 21 years or Society for Civil Liberties and Rule would rather wait for the outcome It said this further translates to 370 their families and outside the confines and extrajudicial killings by NPF since June 1999. ‘Killings outside of Law (Intersociety), yesterday said of the inquisition. persons monthly and 4,440 yearly. of official records”. personnel particularly its SARS are the law’ are killings not permissible 30, 400 people were allegedly killed by A statement issued by the group “In other words, Nigeria as a According to the group in most cases fueled by trio of hate, in law or killings that ought not the disbanded Special Armed Robbery said using national projection whole is most likely to have lost “unprocessed detainees or detained corrupt and crude or unprofessional to have occurred, but occurred on Squad (SARS) across the country. through available independent in the past 16 years or since 2004 a citizens are those taken into custodies policing”. account of failure or conspiracy of total of 30,400 unprocessed citizens to and pre-judicially accused of breaking The statement jointly signed by relevant state organs and their security police extrajudicial killings mainly the law and tortured to death or shot Emeka Umeagbalasi, Amaka Onuoha, agencies or killings perpetrated by state perpetrated by SARS”, it said. dead after they have been taken into Chinwe Umeche, Obianuju Igboeli, through state terrorisation of the general Supreme Court Strikes out It said the Nigerian Police, custodies without undergoing full Ndidiamaka Bernard, and Sam or particular citizenry on account of particularly SARS had earned processes of arrest, investigation, Kamanyaoku, said 140, 000 Nigerian their religion or tribe; or such killings Bayelsa Suit against Rivers “notoriety in permanently prosecution, fair trial, conviction citizens were killed outside supervised by state using its allied on Soku Oilfield disappearing hundreds, if not and sentencing”. the law since 1999 (21 years). armed groups or mob actions. Davidson Iriekpen bypassing the Court of Appeal. Justice Ngwuta observed that The Supreme Court has struck out Bayelsa jumped the gun, insisting a suit filed by the Bayelsa State that the apex court could not make Government against Rivers State pronouncement on a judgment over the disputed Soku oilfield. that was given by a Federal High The court said Bayelsa was Court when the appellate court liable to abuse of court processes had not entertained the matter. by asking it to make judicial He explained the Supreme pronouncements on a matter Court lacks the jurisdiction to that the Court of Appeal had make orders on a matter directly yet to adjudicate on. coming from the High Court and Bayelsa State had approached asked to take its grievances to the Supreme Court after a Federal the Court of Appeal. High Court in Abuja ordered it to The Bayelsa State government refund the 13 per cent derivation through its lawyer, Kemsauode it had received over the years Wodu, applied for a formal from the disputed Soku oilfield withdrawal of the suit and it was to Rivers. struck out by the Supreme Court. The Special Assistant to Rivers Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Governor on Media, Mr. Kelvin Federal High Court, Abuja, had Ebiri, in a statement, said at the while delivering judgment in a suit resumed hearing of the matter filed by the Attorney-General of STANDING UP AGAINST PROTESTS… yesterday, Justice Ngwuta, who Rivers State against the National L-R: Enugu State Commissioner of Police (CP), Ahmad Abdurrahman; Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in-charge of ICT and led a panel of seven justices, Boundary Commission, had South-east states, Mr. Celestine Okoye; and Enugu State Governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, when the DIG visited the governor at the wondered why Bayelsa decided declared that the Soku oilfields Government House, Enugu…yesterday to file a suit at the apex court belonged to Rivers. Nasarawa Reopens Tertiary Agba: Nigeria Received $26bn Foreign Development Institutions Assistance in 6 Years Udora Orizu in Abuja House of Representatives million collected in 2017; $22.016 Government and China signed Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia of the institutions should ensure Committee on Civil Society billion gotten in 2018; $655.642 since 1972; Japan Activities in maximum compliance with the The Minister of State for and Development Partners on million received in 2019, and Nigeria via the Japan International Nasarawa State Governor, COVID-19 safety protocols within Budget and National Planning, Donor Funds Receipts, Transfers $5.639 million received in 2020. Cooperation Agency (JICA); Abdullahi Sule, has approved their respective campuses. Clement Agba, has disclosed that and Disbursement to Government The minister explained that Korean International Cooperation the re-opening of all tertiary “Accordingly, all returning Nigeria received $26.942 billion Agencies, Civil Society and Non- these donations came from the Agency (KOICA); Department institutions in the state, including students are to undergo development assistance funds from Governmental Organisations in European Development Fund for International Development state-owned and private, with temperature checks and protocols international donors between 2015 Nigeria. (EDF) and United Nations DFID; United States Agency for effect from October 26, 2020. before being allowed into the and 2020. The amount comprises $2.339 Development Systems (UNDS), international Development (USAID) The permission by the governor school compound.” Agba made the disclosure in billion received in 2015; $1.150 China, through the bilateral and the German International to re-open the institutions in the The statement stated further Abuja yesterday while briefing billion gotten in 2016; $774.933 agreement between the Nigerian Cooperation (GIZ). state was contained in a statement that for the avoidance of doubts, signed by the Permanent Secretary officials from the ministry will of the state Ministry of Education, embark on monitoring visits Cleric Urges Leaders to Have Pity on the Poor Science and Technology, Usman to ensure adherence by the Abu, for the Commissioner, and institutions. Peter Uzoho with reference to 2 Samuel 23:2, by being selfish and insensitive play our part we shall enjoy our was made available to journalists “In the light of this 3, Ifeacho said that leaders should to their needs, the children on country, Nigeria, to the fullest, in Lafia. development, institutions are The President of God’s Kingdom have the interest of the masses their part, should obey their godly by the grace of God. The statement read in part: hereby advised to commence Society (GKS), the Church of the at heart. parents in the Lord. “The old and the young must “In this regard, the Ministry of academic activities without Living God, Godwin Ifeacho, has In a statement by the Publicity He noted that while the youths work together for the good of Education, Science and Technology delay in view of lost time,” the enjoined those in leadership Secretary of GKS, Benedict Hart, of Nigeria have various complains the nation.” wishes to stress that the authorities statement added. positions in the country to have Ifeacho stressed that those who which they want redressed, they While appealing to youth pity on the poor. rule over men “must be just, should “approach the matters with to have regard for God by He also advised the youth to ruling in the fear of God”. sincerity of purpose and not take conducting themselves with US Consulate Opens Application heed the godly counsel of the The GKS president posited advantage of the essence of the decorum, discretion and regard elders to ensure peace and order that both elders and youths protests to perpetrate evil”. for law and order, Ifeacho noted for 2020 Academy for Women in the society. play complementary roles in According to him, “the that it was heartening that some Speaking yesterday at the the development of the country. Scriptures is for both the old and youths were busy cleaning up Entrepreneurs Freedom Day Divine Service He pointed out that while young. The old man should know the streets and even appealing held at the GKS Service Hall in the fathers are not expected to his duty; same thing applies to to their colleagues to join them Bennett Oghifo increased stability, security, and Salem City, Warri, Delta State, provoke their children to wrath the young ones. When we all in doing so. prosperity for all.” The United States Consulate- The statement further said: “For General in Lagos has called for the second annual AWE, we will Kwara Courts Remand 34 Suspected Mall Looters applications for the 2020 Academy select 120 female entrepreneurs for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), from across southern Nigeria Hammed Shittuin Ilorin were arraigned last Monday. charged with criminal conspiracy, defendants till next adjourned a US government initiative that to receive virtual and in-person Following a tip-off from brigandage, theft, belonging to date for further mention. supports women entrepreneurs training and mentoring. To Thirty four suspects have members of the public, men gang of thieves, and destruction Releasing any of them on around the world. support the comprehensive been remanded in Oke- Kura of NSCDC, according to its of public and private property. bail, he argued, was premature The Consulate-General said in rehabilitation and reintegration Correctional Centre, Kwara Commandant, Makinde Ayinla, Although the charges were in view of the tensed atmosphere a statement issued yesterday that of returned migrants, we will select State, by some Magistrate Courts swung into action and arrested read to the accused, their pleas in the country as well as the AWE, which first edition was held 20 female returnees to take part sitting in Ilorin over their alleged many culprits at various locations were not taken on the basis safety of the defendants in Lagos in September last year, “is in the programme.” involvement in the looting and in Ilorin with items looted from of Magistrate Courts lacking themselves. a component of the White House During the intensive destruction of Kwara Mall and the Kwara Mall and other stores. jurisdiction to entertain some The courts, in their separate Women’s Global Development programme scheduled to run from other stores last Friday. The 15 out of the 34 defendants of the charges. rulings, adjourned till November and Prosperity Initiative, designed November 2020 to March 2021, The suspects were arrested were arraigned before Magistrate The prosecutor, Inspector 9 and 16 for further mention, and to empower women worldwide successful applicants will receive by the Kwara State Command Ibrahim Mohammed while the Nasiru Yusuf, said the remanded all the defendants at to fulfill their economic potential, lessons on business management of Nigerian Security and Civil remain 19 were arraigned before investigation is ongoing, Oke-Kura Correctional Centre thereby creating conditions for and network with like-minded Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Magistrate Afusat Alege, and urging the courts to remand the in Ilorin. WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 • THISDAY 17 18 THISDAY ˾

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email [email protected] MIDWEEKPOLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY House Committee on Police Visits IGP, Seeks Justice Nseobong Okon-Ekong writes that the House of Representatives Committee on Police Affairs has initiated a dialogue with the Nigerian Police leadership to forestall future reoccurrence of the violence that attended the #EndSARS protests across the country

From left, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Mohammed Adamu, House Committee Chairman on Police Affairs, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, and other committee members, during the oversight visit of House Committee members to the Louis Edet Headquarters of the Nigerian Police, in Abuja

ursuant to its oversight func- the extent to which the police would say normalcy and prevent future occurrence. Other than that, “As democratically tions, the House Committee on the lack of personnel and equipment to Some of these efforts, the IGP said include elected representatives of the people, Police Affairs conferred with the control the violence, which included even strengthening the internal disciplinary among its many mandates, parliament Nigerian Police leadership at the the destruction of police assets, worsened mechanism of the Force, training of the is tasked with overseeing the state appara- weekend, reeling out imminent the problem, and how to improve the ca- newly formed Tactical Squad, debriefing tuses authorized to bear weapons for the Plegislative measures to forestall future pacity of the police to prevent or handle and psychological/medical examination protection of the state and its people, more reoccurrence of the violence that attended a future occurrence. for operatives of the defunct Special Anti- specifically the military, police, intelligence the #EndSARS protests across the country. It was also important to know the steps Robbery Squad and general improvement services, and militias. It is parliament’s Committee Chairman, Honourable taken to protect police assets, apprehend of police-citizen relationship. role to ensure that the security sector is Usman Bello Kumo revealed after the and sanction hoodlums that infiltrated The IGP reassured the committee and the effective and accountable” oversight consultation with the Inspector the protest, to serve as deterrence to oc- Nigerian people that the Force is more than The code of the parliament also envis- General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Adamu currences. ever before, committed to Police Reforms ages that “As the primary agency for law that the House will ensure a police opera- They asked finally: “Now that SARS is and ensuring a safe environment for all to enforcement, the police operates at close tional account to enable swift funding of disbanded, what are the concrete steps live and thrive devoid of any violation of proximity to the public and exerts signifi- emergencies in the imminent 2021 Budget, towards training and professionalizing their fundamental human rights. cant influence. While there is no ‘one size aside pushing for a review of relevant of SWAT, consistent with the planned The House visit is in line with best prac- fits all’ approach, good SSG is based on legislation to enable better policing of psychological evaluation of members, and tice belief expounded by Mario j. Aguja the idea that the security sector should be the country. the need to develop a standard operational and Hans Born, that “In a democratic held to the same high standards of public Kumo, in company of his colleagues, procedure, towards respecting citizens’ society, the police plays an important service delivery as any other public sector. additionally advised that an inventory of rights, while carrying out lawful activities, role in ensuring public order and safety. If the security sector is well governed, it lost lives, and an evaluation of the situ- and how soon can we see evidence of this?” Governed by the rule of law and guided by can be characterized as an effective and ation in the South East, in Zamfara and Responding, the IGP noted that the the principles of human rights, the police accountable sector capable of fulfilling its in Plateau need be done to allow a fuller Force has started comprehensive Internal is mandated to abide by and implement mandate to protect society against internal view of the disturbances. Review and Evaluation of circumstances the laws produced by the duly constituted and external threats while respecting the Other than this are an account of the that led to the ENDSARS protests and the authorities. On the other hand, an elected rule of law and human rights. list and experiences of citizens who are violence, fatalities and damage to critical parliament is another important feature “On the other hand, a poorly governed not just victims of the alleged brutality infrastructure that emanated therefrom. of a democratic polity. It has a mandate to security sector is characterized by multiple of SARS, but who suffered from the de- The police apprised the Committee of represent the people and dutifully pursue security and accountability deficits, includ- structions of the last few days, in line efforts made so far by the Force to restore matters of public interest” ing: over-inflated security establishments with the mandates of the ongoing judicial that are difficult to support financially, but commission of inquiry. frequently constitute a major political and He added: “We also need an account of economic force; lack of transparency and ac- the list and experiences of police officers The House visit is in line with best practice countability; inadequate defence planning, who either died or were brutalized in the poor management and budgeting capacity violence of the last few days, besides in- belief expounded by Mario j. Aguja and in both civilian and military institutions; stitutional assets damaged or destroyed” a long history of human-rights abuses by Kumo said it was necessary to provide Hans Born, that “In a democratic society, the security forces and a tendency for security compensation for victims, either on the side forces to act with impunity; corruption; an of the police and on the side of citizens, police plays an important role in ensuring insufficient number of civilians capable towards restitution, in addition to the of managing and providing oversight of broader view of evaluating violence and public order and safety. Governed by the security matters; and inadequate profes- disturbances to cover other endangered sional development. states and territories like Katsina and rule of law and guided by the principles of “Furthermore, political interference by Zamfara, amongst others. the security forces and politicization of Earlier on, the House committee had human rights, the police is mandated to security forces by civilian actors are two sought to know how an otherwise peaceful sides of the same coin, reflecting major protest turned violent, leading to deaths, abide by and implement the laws produced deficiencies in a security sector. Democratic and destructions, including burning of accountability can be achieved through police facilities across the nation, and why by the duly constituted authorities. On the a plurality of methods. Mechanisms of were the police, the lead security agency other hand, an elected parliament is another democratic control vary according to a in the enforcement of law and order, not number of factors, such as the country’s take charge of the Lekki Toll Gate, or take important feature of a democratic polity. It historical context, cultural traditions, charge of the curfew imposed in Lagos, form of government (i.e. monarchy, par- instead of their sister security agency-the has a mandate to represent the people and liamentary republic or presidential system), army. constitutional-legislative framework, and The committee also sought to know dutifully pursue matters of public interest socio-economic conditions” THISDAY ˾
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 19 POLITICS The Agony of #EndSARS Protests and the Pathway to a New Nigeria Sunday Okobi writes that the Convener of the Save Nigeria Group, Pastor Tunde Bakare espouses the birth of a new Nigeria built on the values of nationhood, equity, equality and dividends of democracy, as canvassed by the EndSARS campaigners n the last few weeks, economic and social revisiting the Nigerian Charter for National activities were crippled in some parts of Reconciliation and Integration (ii) which was Nigeria, especially in Lagos, Enugu, Abuja, unanimously passed by delegates to the 2014 among other cities due to the peaceful National Conference. Our conduct should at all #EndSARS protests to call for an end to times be moral, ethical and legal, moderated policeI brutality caused by the Special Anti-Robbery by the reality that there are no shortcuts in Squad (SARS). The protest was also for the nation-building. federal government to heed the call to reform From protests to progress, we must now pro- the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in order to play ceed to the next phase of citizen engagement. We its constitutional role in a civilized manner. The must organise ourselves like the nation-builders issue is one among the myriads of challenges who teamed up with Nehemiah to build the calling for not just policy reform in key sectors, wall of the city. With one hand they built the but also for the total restructuring of the country. wall, and with the other, they held a sword to The expected goal was that such remonstration defend themselves. (iii) In like manner, when would cause the birth of a new Nigeria built this battle is won, we must defend our gains. on the values of nationhood, equity, equality and dividends of democracy. Our National Structure Though the dreams and aspirations of the Upon the foundation of a New Nigerian Nigerian youths weren’t realised in practical culture, we must revisit conversations around terms, however, a statement has obviously been the structure of Nigeria. The #EndSARS pro- made. Many who lost their lives in the struggle tests have once again brought to the fore the for a new Nigeria will never be forgotten in the diversity of the challenges and aspirations of annals of Nigerian history. National Sovereign the Nigerian people across geopolitical zones. Conferences had been convoked in the past, but Let me at this juncture address those young none has been able to chart the way forward. people, particularly in the North, who have The peaceful protests were seemed to be the Pastor Tunde Bakare taken a different position and called for reforms, makeshift way to re-awake the struggle for rather than the outright disbandment of SARS. restructuring, but things seem not to be clear stressed the need to apologise to Nigerians on country you have grown up in. We salute your (iv) I am referring to those who argued that as to the direction the Nigerian government behalf of the ruling elites. According to him courage, and we applaud your resilience. We they need such tactical formations to combat wants to follow for total redemption. The in his address, “Before I proceed to unveil the hear you, we share your pain, we share your their peculiar security challenges in the North. government has appeared to briefly display building blocks of nationhood, permit me to story, we share your dreams for a better nation; First of all, I say to these young Nigerians, you sincerity of purpose in addressing these agita- address an issue that is heavy upon my heart, and, although you may not realise it, we did have the right to air your views, no matter tions; however, eminent Nigerians are coming for we cannot proceed with laying the building our best to fight for you.” how unpopular they may be. We hear you too, forward with concrete suggestions on the way blocks of a new nation without addressing the The clergyman cum politician suggested a because you are also Nigerians. forward. issue of how older generations of Nigerians pathway from the present state of the country to One of such Nigerians is the Convener of Save have failed our youths. By the older genera- the Nigeria dreams, which he said is paved with Our National Infrastructure Nigerian Group (SNG), Pastor Tunde Bakare, tions, I refer to the so-called ‘Independence transformational landmarks in four dimensions As ‘we the people’ begin to take responsi- who, while lamenting the degeneration of the Generation,’ those who were born before and namely: Culture, Structure, Infrastructure and bility to shape the new Nigerian culture, the peaceful #EndSARS protest to unprecedented immediately after the independence of Nigeria. Intra-Structure. government must facilitate the right kind of violence in the country where many lives were I refer to the parents and grandparents of the He said the dimensions are the four strong infrastructure that can channel that culture into needlessly lost, described it as ‘Stained banner millennial generation. pillars around which his church, the Citadel productive ventures. Our cities and communi- of our nationhood’. “One can understand why the younger Global Community Church (CGCC), is built ties must host affordable and decent housing He, however, still expressed the belief that generation would so heavily indict preceding as a governmental, authoritative, powerful units, functional education and health facilities, no individual or collective challenges in the generations. At independence, we inherited institution, generating solutions, influencing industrial facilities, sports and recreation facili- country can ever diminish the hope for a new a promising nation, but we are bequeathing policy, and providing clarity, adding that these ties, all linked by efficient multimodal trans- great Nigeria. a predatory nation to the young generation. are the four building blocks from which a new portation networks and broadband technology, Bakare bemoaned the events of the past week, We inherited a nation where a young graduate nation can be forged. protected by intelligent security architecture, saying: “We witnessed with great sorrow the was guaranteed immediate employment with and powered by sustainable energy solutions. desecration of our nationhood as Nigeria’s housing and a car loan, but we have bequeathed Our National Culture Such state-of-the-art infrastructure will facilitate armed forces stained the banner of our nation- a nation in which our youths are largely under- The first landmark in the journey from the the development of our young people, the hood, the Nigerian flag, with the blood of our employed, unemployed or Yahoo-employed. status quo to the Nigeria of our dreams is the incubation and growth of enterprise, and the children, the Nigerian youths, to whom our “We inherited a banner without stain, but birth of a New Nigerian culture. The cultural drastic reduction in crime rates. founding fathers charged us to handover a we have introduced a new colour to our green- dimension of nation-building is the value At this juncture, I reiterate my recommen- banner without stain. It is, therefore, with a white-green: blood red. This is why there has system or value superstructure upon which dation that the National Youth Service Corps heavy heart over the current state of our nation, been a definite generational spin to the protests. the nation must be built. It brings to focus what (NYSC) becomes an optional two-year pro- but with resilient hope in the possibilities of “To citizens of the young generation who I call the 4 ‘IDs’ of our nationhood, namely the gramme with the first year spent on military a New Nigeria.” are disappointed in the older generation; to Nigerian Identity, the Nigerian Idiosyncrasy, training for our young people and the second In his recent State of the Nation broadcast at those young freedom fighters who believe that the Nigerian Idiocy, and the Nigerian Ideal. year spent on agro-entrepreneurship. In ad- the Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC) the generation of their fathers and mothers To address the current issues plaguing our dition, I recommend that a minimum of an in Lagos, which was originally intended to cel- has failed them; to those young Nigerians nation and to make meaningful progress towards Ordinary National Diploma (OND) obtained ebrate Nigeria’s 60th Independence Anniversary who have stood up to oppression; permit me the Nigeria of our dreams, we must resolve from a recognised polytechnic, or two years in a titled: ‘The Building Blocks of Nationhood: A to stand in the gap to apologise on behalf of certain unanswered questions that border recognised university with a cumulative grade Blueprint for the New Nigeria’, the cleric still my generation and the older generation for on the Nigerian Identity. Who is a Nigerian? point average not lower than a second-class retains the hope for a great Nigeria “because the undesirable state of the nation you were What is the irreducible minimum standard of lower division, be among the prerequisites for this dark chapter of our history is not how born into. Permit me to apologise on behalf of decency below which no Nigerian must fall? admission into the Nigeria Police Academy. Nigeria’s story ends.” your parents and grandparents for the kind of To find answers to this question, I recommend This will compel an upgrade of the Nigeria He lauded what he described as the awaken- Police Academy to a degree-awarding tertiary ing by the ‘ordinary Nigeria’ across the country institution affiliated with a Nigerian university, to make their voice heard in the repositioning transform the Nigeria Police Force into a Nigeria of their beloved country, terming it ‘The Birth Police Service, and further build the bridge Pangs of Nationhood’ The clergyman cum politician suggested a between Nigerians and the Police. Bakare enthused that “there is a wave of pathway from the present state of the country to people movement. It is a wave of citizen engage- Our National Intra-Structure ment championed by the so-called ‘ordinary the Nigeria dreams, which he said is paved with The intra-structure question is what, for years, Nigerian’,” who he noted has proven in ex- has been referred to as the National Question. traordinary terms to be by no means ordinary. transformational landmarks in four dimensions It is the quest for how best to coexist as a nation According to him, “It began in Edo State with namely: Culture, Structure, Infrastructure and irrespective of our differences and diversities. an awakened and resolute electorate defying The intra-structure question has remained the political establishment to make their voices Intra-Structure. He said the dimensions are the unanswered since the era of our founding heard and their votes count. In the past couple fathers, and it explains the various conflicts of weeks, that wave has been transformed into a four strong pillars around which his church, the that define our nation, including inter-ethnic, tsunami of people movement led by our young interreligious, partisan, and, especially now, people who have had enough of the horren- Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC), is intergenerational conflicts. It explains the ethnic dous brutality of the now-disbanded SARS. I built as a governmental, authoritative, powerful colouration wrongly applied to the destruction believe that this wave of people movement is of lives and property in Lagos State, the South- the physical manifestation of the birth pangs institution, generating solutions, influencing west region, and other parts of the country by heralding the new Nigeria.” hoodlums who hijacked the #EndSARS protests. With the prospect that Nigerian leaders policy, and providing clarity, adding that these failed to measure up well to this generation are the four building blocks from which a new NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the in many facets, the Serving Overseer of The online edition on www.thisdaylive.com Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC) nation can be forged 20 THISDAY ˾


OCTOBER 21, 2020

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi FEATURES Email [email protected], 08038901925 Addressing Youth Restiveness in Nasarawa Igbawase Ukumba reports that to address youth restiveness and its attendant effect that might destabilise the nation, Governor Abdullahi Sule recently convened a critical stakeholders' meeting

L-R: Senators Al-Makura, Adamu and Governor Sule at the meeting Emir of Lafia, Retired Justice Bage (m), other dignitaries at the meeting

erhaps it is abundantly clear that 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in Nasarawa State is indeed very the next 10 years. peaceful as far as youth uprising Before concluding his address, the governor is concerned, except of course appreciated the efforts of traditional and for a handful of youths that religious leaders for supporting government's stagedP a peaceful protest to the Govern- commitment in calming the #EndSARS ment House, Lafia on October 20, 2020. situation. Similarly, he appreciated youth On their arrival, Governor Abdullahi leaders for their various roles in ensuring Sule directed the Secretary to the State that the youth did not take the law into their Government (SSG), Mohammed Ubandoma hands, hence he urged them to continue Aliyu, to receive the protesters on behalf to support government's efforts in that of the government. They were addressed direction for the benefit of the society. and pacified to allow government respond Rising from the meeting, the stakeholders to their demands accordingly. came out with a communique appreciating Thus the need to address youth restiveness the various efforts by the federal government was borne. Welcoming critical stakeholders to lift 100 million people out of poverty to the critical stakeholders' meeting convened through N-power, N-tech, N-agro, increase by the governor to brainstorm on the way in monthly NYSC allowance, Special Public to curtail youths restiveness in the state, Works Scheme, Nigeria Youths Investment the secretary to the state government said it Fund, Farmer-moni, Trader-moni, Market- was sequel to the nationwide protest against SSG, Mohammed Aliyu moni, funding of fashion and beauty sec- the activities of the Special Anti-robbery tor, among others targeted at economic Squad (SARS) of the Nigerian Police. pained by this unwholesome developments obligated, in view of the prime position empowerment of youths, women and the This he said led to the subsequent directive that has put our country in dire security our son - IGP Mohammed Adamu oc- most vulnerable in the society. of President Muhammadu Buhari to all the cum political threats. The action of the cupies, coupled with our proximity to The stakeholders commended President 36 states of the federation and the Federal hoodlums have put undue pressure on the FCT to ensure a conversation that tilt Buhari's respect for democratic right of Capital Territory (FCT) to dialogue with our law enforcement outfits. Accordingly, towards supporting the IGP to succeed #EndSARS protestors to demonstrate their their critical stakeholders, adding that the the president directed us to meet with in this challenging task of ensuring law grievances for the timely intervention of governor, in compliance with the direc- stakeholders from the public sector, the and order in the federation. It is therefore the federal government at a time when tive, convened the meeting with a view traditional institution, religious organisa- important to appeal to our youths not to the protest degenerated into avoidable of pacifying youth restiveness as well as tions, youth groups and civil society groups allow themselves to be used as pawn to violence, maime, destruction of national sensitise stakeholders and indeed the general to emphasise on the need to give peace cause further crises." assets, property, killings in a communique public on the commitment and genuine a chance and for the youths to embrace However, the minister was thankful which was read by Mamman Alakayi, a intention of government to restore peace dialogue as a means of redressing any that Nasarawa youths had shown great federal commissioner representing Nasarawa as a fall out of the #EndSARS protest. perceived grievances." understanding and restrain by refusing to State in the Federal Character Commission. While appreciating the concern of the The fundamental demands of the protest- be drawn into the endless protest. The communique read in part: "Stakehold- president, the SSG acknowledged that ers which include disbandment of SARS For Governor Sule, Nigeria was faced ers commend the government of Nasarawa Nasarawa State was indeed very peaceful and release of all arrested protestors, justice with security challenges occasioned by the State for its monumental strides and policies as far as youths uprising was concerned. for all deceased victims of police brutality, activities of the #EndSARS protesters against towards employment generation, wealth He said this was however in exception of setting out independent body to oversee the activities of the now disbanded SARS creation and poverty alleviation. We resolved a handful of youths that staged a peaceful the investigation and prosecution of all of the Nigeria Police. to give unflinching support to the Inspector protest in the Government House on October reports of police misconduct within 10 days, Arguing at the critical stakeholders' General of Police, Mohammmed Adamu, 20, 2020 when Governor Sule directed him psychological evaluation and retraining meeting, Sule posited that activities of the in his commitment to engender reform in to receive the protestors on behalf of the of the disbanded SARS before they can EndSARS have continued to pose security the Nigerian Police. government. be redeployed and increase police salary, threats with attendant consequences on "Stakeholders note that there is no one The Nasarawa State SSG said: "It will acccording to the minister of state, "have human lives and property, as well as the way approach in addressing security chal- interest you to further know that after a been accepted by the government and socio-economic development of the state lenges because of obvious peculiarities and thorough identification of the protesters, have put in motion necessary steps, in and the country at large. observe that F-SARS have been useful to we discovered that they were mostly non- collaboration with various state govern- He continued that the security threat was Nasarawa State in the control of crimes indigenes. It is all known that Governor ments, to implement its commitment to coming at a time when the president was and criminalities. Stakeholders were urged Sule is aligned to the onerous task of the #EndSARS protesters”. committed to record unprecedented progress to use their vintage position to educate maintaining peace in Nasarawa State. "Thereafter, the demands began to increase and development in all facets of human and engage their communities so as to This presidential directive, through the and became incomprehensible as to what endeavours. He therefore said the critical bridge the gap between the leaders and ministers, is not only apt but timely." the protestors want, coupled with absence stakeholders' meeting was to appraise the the led. Stakeholders enjoined people of Speaking on President Buhari's directive on of leadership with which government can present security challenge with a view to the state to take advantage of the Judicial continuing the engagement with the polity engage with became a challenge. The protest finding a lasting and sustainable peace, Commission of Enquiry by availing the to find a lasting peace in the country, the further degenerated into mayhem as genuine as well as fashion out modalities towards commission with issues bothering on police Minister of state for Science and Technology, protest by the #EndSARS protestors was addressing the Five-Point Demand raised brutalities and other excesses to ensure Mohammed Hassan Abdullahi, said that hijacked, innocent citizens were subjected by the #EndSARS protesters. reform of the Nigerian Police Force." recent event that occurred as a result of to untold hardships as their right to free "In an attempt to address the demands of The communique equally commended the the recent crises that engulfed the nation movement was severely infringed upon”. the protesters, government had in compliance youths of Nasarawa State for resisting the via #EndSARS protest. Nevertheless, it maybe on this backdrop with the presidential directive, constituted temptation to join the protest and resolve He lamented that as genuine as the protest that President Buhari might be encouraging Judicial Commission of Enquiry with a to remain patriotic and ensure violence was intended to press for reforms in the the dialogue to give peace a chance and clear mandate as reflected in their terms free Nasarawa State, hence they resolved operations of certain segments of the Nige- to implore youths to embrace dialogue of reference. to hold regular dialogue both at the state, rian Police, it was however, unfortunately, and have a shot at some programmes He further noted that the president’s local government and community level hijacked by some unscrupulous hoodlums rolled out by the government to support implemented programmes targets mostly aimed at reviewing topical issues that are whose interest was to cause confusion and not only the youths, but the vulnerable on youths and women, as well as the most capable of breeding distrust and suspicion disharmony amongst people. in the society. vulnerable groups in the society. This, among members of the diversed ethnic The minister said: "The president is He continued: "Nasarawa State is further Sule posited that it was an effort to lift nationalities of the state. THISDAY ˾



OCTOBER 21, 2020 21 FEATURES A Day at the Synagogue Call the name of Prophet Temitope B. Joshua or his church, the Synagogue Church Of All Nations, it is sure to elicit divergent response from people who either question his powers and miracles or believe he is indeed an anointed man of God. Segun James recently visited the man and his church to find out more or those who are propelled by ad- me know if there will be branches or not, venture, sport, faith and the belief the important thing is that we should focus that God is nature, this is the place on building the people and not the church." for you. An extraordinary place to When it was suggested to him that the experience the awesome power and Prayer Mountain is a tourist haven, Joshua Fglory of God amid nature. says he is more interested in the spiritual Imagine a wildlife refuge in the heart of aspect of the facility. He preferred that the Lagos. Imagine this in the heart of the most facility remains hidden until God's time to built-up area of Lagos where the urban jungle unveil it. is replicated every day; and the quest for "The people will soon get to know about wealth at all costs is the way of life is the it. We are just waiting for God’s time. There new deal? Welcome to the Prayer Mountain, are many things to be done in this place. Ikotun-Egbe in Alimosho area of Lagos. We are at about 70 per cent completion rate. Alimosho is not only the most built-up So if people should know about this place area of the sprawling mega city-state of now, we will not be able to complete this over 20 million people, over a quarter of job because it will cause distraction. When the state’s population lives in Alimosho. It we are at about 95 per cent completion level, is the melting point of the super rich and we will let people know. It is going to be by dead poor. grace. It is not something you pay money To most people in Nigeria, three widely for, you can come and see people moving known situation tend to dominate the ensu- and praying. So people will get to know, ing conversation about this part of Lagos. we are waiting for God’s time." First, Alimosho is one of the highest density About his family? Joshua has this to say: "I areas in the country; secondly, traffic here am very happy about this question. I have a is tasking and it is the main cause of noise wife and I have children, and even my first pollution, which is the hallmark of the area. daughter is doing her PhD and my second A 20 kilometres drive could take three hours daughter is doing her master’s degree in to complete. Oxford. In all, I have three daughters. The Thirdly, it is the home of the Synagogue The Synagogue last one is still in secondary school. I would Church of All Nation (SCOAN) and its founder, have loved my wife to be like me but I cannot Prophet T B Joshua. The man and the church make her what I am, it is God. are known for the miracles that are performed "I can't anoint her; God is the one that at every service. These extraordinary feats anoints people. So she can't sit here at the have attracted people from around the world, same time, this is not a biological issue, it including presidents, sportsmen, celebrities is an inheritance from the saints, it is being and top business leaders. a partaker from the saints. So, therefore, I I've known the private thrill of standing should not use anything in my biological where few people ever went; of experiencing life to stop my spiritual life. some wonders of the world in my many "As for my divine nature, I am a partaker travels. This now brings me to the question, of the inheritance of the saints, So, therefore, how many of us based in a city like Lagos it is so difficult for me, this is an apostolic have ever gone into the woods to hear the ministry, it is not a ministry you read the chirping of the birds as they sing? How about Bible, go to theology school, get your certificate the ducks as they quack or the monkeys as and you start preaching! No. It is purely they hoot in the wild? Or the shy giraffe as divine. So, it is so difficult for me to display it walks in its majesty unrestricted? my wife, she has to be ready for God. As Today there is a chance for the man in much as you are ready for God, God will Lagos to experience these natural wonders display her." simply by stepping outside; with a visit to Two things are striking about you. One, you the Prayer Mountain at Alimosho. love engaging in gigantic projects, another To the world, the Wright Brothers enabled thing is that you are so criticised by many man to fly with the birds, but here at the people, especially for your miracles, how Prayer Mountain in Ikotun, Prophet T B do you take such criticism when you hear Joshua has enabled Lagosians to visit the all these things, another asked. wilderness without stepping out of the city. "It is always good if at the beginning they Now there is no physical mountain anywhere don’t see what is good about you. If they in Lagos. This is just the name the Joshua don’t see your journey at the beginning, they chose to name the swampy woodland where will criticise you. It is good for you, in the he began his ministry in 1989. Prophet TB Joshua end. So if they praise you from the beginning Most of us may never get to see nature's it is not encouraging. If Nigerians have been greatest marvels in person. We won't ever other. And then, there are two forests. One hear the cocks’ crow. But outside of here, accepting me right from the beginning of my get a glimpse of the giraffe or the antelope which symbolises a complete wilderness with whatever they are doing, you can’t hear mission, I think that would have affected in their majesty or the ostrich with eyes as the trappings of modern living, the other because of the noise. So this place is very my mission to the world. big as a golf ball. The closest we will ever houses within it a library, internet facilities important to me, this is where I live, this is “I have gone all over the world; I am the get to experience such wonders is through and other good things of modern living even where I sleep and everything I do. If I want only minister of God that has organised a documentary programmes like NATGEO as chicken and other fowls provide the music to meet people outside of here, I go outside. crusade in Israel, and I also went to Nazareth Wild on television. as they stroll. "There is time for that, but because the where Jesus was born and organised a revival Note that the Synagogue Church building There are also other conveniences nearby Bible says that there is time to rest, time to there. I am the first man of God to do that is not only the tallest structure in Alimosho like the hostels, dining halls, a zoo, halls for work, time to rest is time to receive from and it was carried in newspapers all over and its environs, but the design and murals meetings and swimming pools to make the God and time to work is time to give what the world, Time Magazine and the rest. CNN around the building also make it to stand facility conducive for all visitors. you receive from God. And when you talk aired it. After the crusade, a certificate was out for miles. The 10,000 capacity edifice is But surprisingly, there is no medical centre of time to rest, this is the best place to rest, given to me by the State of Israel. That is a beauty to behold. here. It's like it is taken for granted that when not in the midst of technology or going to the greatest joy for any minister of God." I had the opportunity of visiting both the you are here nothing untoward can happen New York or travelling about but you rest On why there is so much controversy Synagogue and the Prayer Mountain which to you. This is a complete community on in the midst of nature." about the Israel crusade he said: “Because is barely a 10 minutes drive from each other. its own. We were told that it all started here for it happened to Jesus, I cannot be greater I and a select number of journalists had the What could have motivated such a vision you, how did it start given that this place than my master. A tenant cannot be greater opportunity of a two-hour discussion with to create a wilderness in an urban area? Why was a swamp? One of us dared to ask. than his landlord. If the landlord is criticised Pastor T. B Joshua at the mountain. It was in Ikotun when he could move to any choice "This swamp is the rejected stone, God who is a tenant? That is exactly what hap- an exhilarating experience. areas of Lagos, especially where the rich and spoke to me and brought me here, I have pened to Jesus. They said no, the Muslims At the Prayer Mountain, Joshua created a mighty could access the church? Why build been following God’s vision, mission. When I were on the streets protesting, the Christian, forest within the city where several animals such a magnificent library and Internet facility am out of God’s mission I am finished. That Catholics and all. But I let them know that from all parts of the world roam freely in a church? is why you cannot see me outside of here, God sent me to do the revival in Israel. And among people from several parts of the For Joshua, "this is where I started. And you cannot hear me. What I want to show top Israeli government functionaries came. world that have come to receive their miracle I must have a library and a place where I you now will leave you shocked. My brother Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also and encounter God. Although none of the can enjoy nature, not the air condition or saw it three days ago and was surprised. sent his representative.” animals in the forest are of the wild types fan, just nature as God created it. So hav- "God’s time is the best and I always follow Another surprising revelation from Joshua is like the lion or the crocodile, they certainly ing nature around you is very good. God God’s time. So that is why I only called key that he wants to set up a university. Although are rare to come into contact with in our is nature Himself and without nature, you people to show them this. So I have been he refused to name where it will be located, part of the world. cannot understand the Bible. Because the following God’s time, that is why you will he said that it will be a medical and science- At the Prayer Mountain is a lake where Bible is not history; when you are reading not see me preach every Sunday, or go on based institution. It will however house a fishes of all kind swim freely even as most the Bible you are reading the Holy Spirit. television to preach every day, I must hear theology school. visitors can take a boat ride on the waters. So if you don’t allow nature when you are from God before saying anything. Every "So we intend to build a university of In the middle of the lake is an island on reading, you will be reading history." time can be good for you and every time science which will be part of the ministry. which a helipad was built. More revelation came when he disclosed can be the best time for you, but for me, I Science, theology, medicine, these are the For those who want to have a quiet time that SCOAN has no branch anywhere in must have a corresponding grace or power, areas that interest us.” while praying, a stroll along the walkway the country or the world. All contact with because the Holy Spirit must suggest what As I left after two hours with the Prophet, that surrounds the lake is serene, giving him and the church takes place at Ikotun to do before I do them, if not I will not be it suddenly occurred to me that more in- atmosphere for people to commune with and on Emmanuel Television, his highly able to have God’s result. ternational visitors come to the Synagogue their maker physically and spiritually. For successful television ministry. This was a "So this is why you are not seeing me out than any other place in Nigeria. those who cannot manage stroll, they can ride surprise to me. He made it clear that he there; at weddings, social occasions, coming I also remember that I forgot to ask a bicycle. For the elderly and the physically has no intention, for now, to build branches, to your offices to grant interviews. This is him about the hotel facility owned by the infirm, there are motorised carts for them. except he is directed by God. the only church – the synagogue here in church that came down under mysterious Within this commune, you have the two This is still steeped in his love for everything Ikotun. There is no other branch anywhere circumstances two years ago, killing over huts where the mission began. While Joshua natural. "You need some places like this; where else in the world. But it touches everywhere 200 international visitors. It was a bad day was living in one, he was praying at the you leave everything outside and come and in the world. So I am waiting for God to let for the church. 22 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 •THISDAY THISDAY ˾

ͰͶ˜ 2020 23

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08152447875 



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ͰͮͰͮ MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OVERNIGHT 9.75 CALL 8 INDEX LEVEL 793.85% 1/4 TO DATE 18.06% N379/1US DOLLAR* OBB 9 1-MONTH 9 1-DAY 1.57% YEAR TO DATE 53.76% ̩


  3-MONTH 12 MONTH-TO-DATE 18.06% Quick Takes UNN Wins ARSO Essay Competition Three students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka have emerged national winners in the 2020 edition of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) annual essay competition in Nigeria. A statement from the office of the Director General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Mallam Farouk Salim, named the winners as James Ibe-Akunna who came top with 66.31per cent; Eze Harrison Ebuka, 65.50percent and Eze Samson Somtochukwu 65.47percent. Two other essays from Evan-Ibe Sobechi and Offor Christopher completed the five entries presented by Nigeria to ARSO for the continental competition. The theme for this year’s edition of the competition was: “The Role of Standardisation in Resolving and Addressing the Socio-Economic Issues for the Refugees, Returnees and Internally Displaced Persons and Creating Durable Solutions to Forced Displacement in Africa”. Salim congratulated the National winners of the essay competition and expressed the hope that some of the five entries from Nigeria would be among the final winners at the continental version of the competition. He enjoined all undergraduates in tertiary institutions in Nigeria to WELCOME ON BOARD participate in future editions of the competition to further spread Managing Director, IMF, Kristalina Georgieva (right), and Ambassadorvof Andorra Elisenda Vives Balmaña, during the signing ceremony to markvAndorra the gospel of standardisation and deepen the understanding of its joining the International Monetary Fund as the 190th member, in Washington, DC, …recently Cory Hancock potential for value addition to lives, the economy and the environment. The SON Chief Executive expressed appreciation to the inter-ministerial screening committee responsible for the collation, assessment and scoring of the essays. OPS Calls for Support for AXA Mansard Celebrates Customers AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, a member of the AXA Group and global player in insurance and asset management recently celebrated its Businesses Destroyed by Hoodlums workforce and customers who had demonstrated outstanding commitment to the company’s legacy of superior service. Dike Onwuamaeze He said NACCIMA was precedented levels of destruction, The company, said it did this to mark this year’s Customer Service Week. ECONOMY encouraged by the announcement plundering, arson, looting and Addressing the distinguished staff and customers, the Head of Members of the Organised Private by Access Bank to commence vandalisation that took place Customer Engagement at AXA Mansard, Emeka Muonaka, noted Sector (OPS) in the Nigerian to MSMEs affected by the civil the collection of applications and appealed that the federal that in line with this year’s theme: ‘The Dream Team,’ which it stated economy have commended the unrest. from customers to access its and LASG should collaborate reflects the importance of teamwork in providing outstanding service disposition of the Lagos State The Director General of NECA, N50 billion interest- free loan to provide support in the form to all customers, the company seized the opportunity to recognise Government (LASG) and some Mr. Timothy Olawale, said the and grants it has set aside for of grants to all the victims of some of its exceptional staff for the outstanding work they have commercial banks to provide support would ameliorate the The Micro, Small and Medium the unfortunate outcomes of the done within their teams and their exemplary service. financial support to businesses negative economic impact Enterprises (MSMEs). protest for the destruction their According to him, the staff distinguished themselves during the year that suffered losses due to the the losses would have on the “Thus if properly implemented properties and assets. in qualities that create good service experience, qualities such as civil unrest in some parts of country’s economy, especially the initiative by Access Bank Mabogunje also called on the empathy, adaptability, patience, self-control, consistency, hard work, the country in the wake of the SMEs that constitute about 80 and the LASG and hopefully federal government to, “come to relentlessness among other qualities. shooting of protesters at Lekki per cent of the entire businesses from other state governments the aid of the LASG to rebuild Muonaka, noted that the efforts of the staff and their teams is a last week. in the country. will provide support where the the large number of assets that symbol of the kind of company AXA Mansard is. They also said proper verifica- Speaking in the same vein, SMEs have been most hard hit were destroyed by the hoodlums “For us, customer satisfaction is everything. It is something we value tion should be carried out to get the Director General of the and serve as the most appropriate that hijacked the protest.” greatly and the only way to achieve it is through excellent service. reliable information on those that Nigerian Association of Chamber and practical move to help the She also called on the banks to “AXA Mansard is grateful to these staff members for their hard work were affected and the extent of of Commerce, Industry, Mines SMEs recover from the damages which some of the victims were and for placing such great level of importance on their jobs and on losses they have suffered, adding and Agriculture, Ambassador they have unfortunately suffered indebted to demonstrate uncom- giving service to their team. That is why we celebrate them.” that any intervention should be Ayo Olukanni, told THISDAY in the recent orgy of violence mon compassion towards them in form of business grants rather that the announcement to help and senseless looting across the in respect of their indebtedness. Chevron Bets on Middle East Gas than loan, in order to deliver the businesses recover from losses country and prevent them from “As corporate and individual After years of focusing on United States shale, Chevron Corp. is desired succor. occasioned by the aftermath sending their employees, many citizens, this is the time to demon- staking its natural gas future on the Middle East, a volatile and divided The Nigeria Employers’ of the hoodlum’ attack was of who are youth, to the streets,” strate our culture of compassion region where energy majors have long tread warily. Consultative Association (NECA), a welcome development and he said. in being our brother’s keeper by CEO, Michael Wirth’s pivot away from home is underpinned by a bet commended the LASG and should be vigorously pursued Similarly, the President of the supporting, in our various ways, that the Middle East is entering an era of reconciliation that will make commercial banks such as Access to fruition to enable them to rise Lagos Chamber of Commerce the victims of this unfortunate it ideal for tapping natural gas, as demand for the cheaper and cleaner Bank and the Stanbic IBTC Bank from the ashes of the inferno that and Industry (LCCI), Mrs. Toki fuel is forecast to outstrip oil. for providing financial assistance destroyed their businesses. Mabogunje, bemoaned the un- Continued on page 24 According to Reuters, the new strategy is seeing the company pitch new gas deals in Egypt, Israel, Qatar, while cutting spending on American shale exploration. The plan is anchored by Wirth’s $11.8 billion purchase this month of CAP, Portland Paints to Merge Businesses U.S.-based Noble Energy, which holds a stake of about 40 per cent in the aptly-named Leviathan gas field in the Mediterranean Sea, Goddy Egene CAPITAL MARKET product portfolio and a wider fer, CAP is offering shareholders off the coast of Israel. range of value options to meet of Portland Paints a choice to “Five years ago the Eastern Med wasn’t viewed as endowed from a The Boards of Directors of their needs. The combination of receive N2.90 cash every Portland resource standpoint as I think most people would say today. That’s Chemical and Allied Products Plc cretive to shareholders of both CAP and Portland Paints will Paints share held or one new a fundamental shift,” Wirth told Reuters in an interview. and Portland Paints and Products companies. create a formidable paints and ordinary share of CAP, credited Nigeria Plc have announced the According to them, the decision coatings company that will be as fully-paid up for every eight decision to merge their respective to pursue the merger is driven strategically positioned across Portland Paints shares held,” businesses in accordance with by the strategic objectives of the segments as a result of its they said. applicable laws. boards to drive growth and combined brand portfolio.” Commenting on the merger, In a notification to the Nigerian expansion within the Nigerian They explained that the Managing Director of CAP “The role we play is to Stock Exchange(NSE), both com- and African markets. merger will be executed by Plc, David Wright, said: “The panies explained that CAP Plc “CAP and Portland Paints way of a Scheme of Merger in decision to pursue the proposed enable businesses and would emerge as the resultant play in distinct segments, and accordance with Section 711 of the merger, is driven by the board’s create opportunities. entity at the end of the merger the enlarged CAP will have a Companies and Allied Matters strategic plan to aggressively process. broader portfolio covering the Act, 2020 and other applicable grow within the Nigerian and When DPR issues you The companies explained that top-end/premium decorative seg- laws, rules and regulations. African markets. We believe that a license, it enables you their respective boards strongly ment, the mid-market decorative It will involve the transfer of all the proposed merger presents believe that the proposed merger, segments as well as the industrial Portland Paints’ assets, liabilities a unique opportunity that will to invest” which provides a unique op- segment (in particular marine and business undertakings includ- benefit all stakeholders, from portunity to change the Nigerian and protective coatings). ing real property and intellectual shareholders to customers as paints and coatings landscape, “We believe that will provide property rights to CAP. Director of DPR Mr Sarki Auwalu will be attractive and value ac- our customers access to a broader “In consideration for the trans- Continued on page 24 24 THISDAY ˾

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OPS CALLS FOR SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES AfDB, Partners Announce New Initiative for Women DESTROYED BY Oluchi Chibuzor continent, and to empower a starts from a young age. Opportunities, Navigating in crises. For example, women HOODLUMS new generation of female leaders “There is a need to create a the era of COVID-19, webinar leaders are better managing the The Women in Ethics and in the field,” Ojiambo said. global awareness and education attendees told a panel that the current COVID-19 pandemic, incident,” she said. Compliance in Africa network, The webinar attendees to address the gender issue compliance issue is very timely. yielding more results built on The members of the OPS (WECA), a new initiative creat- discussed multiple challenges from a cultural perspective,” Some noted that women play ethical leadership and strong also suggested way to make the ing a membership group for women leaders face in Africa’s said Rhibetnan Yaktal. Global a significant role in the fight integrity,” said Lisa Miller, implementation of the current women executives and manage- male-dominated corporate Head of Compliance at Puma against the pandemic, which Integrity Compliance Officer intervention more effective. ment leading the fight against world. The WECA network Energy. To girls, her advice: has forced major changes in at the World Bank Group. Olawale said for effec- corruption and non-compliance founding members said they “Build yourself up. There is how businesses operate and Closing the webinar, Sorita tive implementation of the in business, made its debut at plan to address the lack of no glass ceiling. There is no interact. Other participants said Botha, Legal and Compliance intervention, bureaucracy and an online webinar co-hosted avenues and support for ethical limit.” COVID-19 cannot be an excuse Advisor at Distell, said, “I’m unwarranted delays should by the African Development leadership. The network also The online gathering also for businesses to ignore the ethi- so excited about the launch not be the order of the day Bank (AfDB) recently. aims to bridge the gap in hu- explored how the COVID-19 cal and integrity challenges faced of WECA, and I’m sure we in its implementation, adding Its organisers, leaders from man resources for ethics and pandemic has brought another in ensuring compliance systems will hear success stories from that the requirements to assess the AfDB, the Coalition for Ethi- compliance across the continent, dimension of challenges for are working and withstanding women in ethics and compliance these interventions should not be cal Operations (CEO) and the through mentoring and coaching ethical concerns for all leaders, new and emerging risks. in coming months and years. It made too cumbersome. He also United Nations Global Compact, young women professionals for especially women. Under the “Women are uniquely is the beginning of a new era demanded at least six months announced the formation of the career progression. Some WECA theme Women in Compliance well-positioned to deal with of women empowerment for moratorium on the repayment unique support organisation for network supporters said this in Africa: Challenges and difficulties, challenges, and critical roles in Africa.” of the assessed funds. female leaders and executives “We call on other financial working to curb unethical institutions, rising through the business practices in Africa. Bankers’ Committee as well “The formation of this as Central Bank of Nigeria network reiterates the Bank’s (CBN), in the interest of saving commitment to ensuring that the economy and stimulating sustainable development is growth, to mobilise in creating hinged on bridging the gender interest free funds for the affected gap, with emphasis on key areas businesses. such as ethics and compliance. “We are of the belief, that “We’re inviting women from mobilising scare resources for all across the private and public such course will benefit every sectors on the continent to join sector of the economy and in the in and help in achieving the long run, the entire economy,” objectives of this network,” he said. said the Bank’s Director for Gender, Women and Civil CAP, PORTLAND PAINTS TO Society, Vanessa Moungar. MERGE BUSINESSES According to a statement, the well as the broader economy. Director-General of UN Global I am excited by the prospect Compact, Sanda Ojiambo, of an enlarged company with told the virtual audience of a broader decorative paint experienced ethics and com- portfolio covering the premium, pliance professionals that her mid-market and affordable organisation supports WECA’s segments and the inclusion of mission. marine and protective coatings, “The UN Global Compact all of which will benefit our is very much aligned with customers and shareholders.” the objectives of the Women On his part, Managing in Ethics and Compliance in WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS Director of Portland Paints, Africa to advance coordinated L-R: Chief Operation Officer, Greenwich Merchant Bank, Tubosun Falowo; Non-Executive Director, Olutoyin Okeowo; Chairman, FBN Holdings, Oba Otudeko; Bolarin Okunowo, said: “In ethical business practices, anti- Non-Executive Director, Greenwich Merchant Bank, Tony Uponi, and Executive Director, Benson Ogundeji, at the official commencement of operations recent months, the board corruption measures across the Greenwich Merchant Bank held in Lagos... recently ETOP UKUTT and management of Portland Paints have evaluated various strategic options with a view to positioning our company Airtel Africa Records 36.5% Decline in Six-month Profit to capture emerging growth Goddy Egene fell 11 per cent to $280 million the below revenue growth in metrics such as the growth in non-operating Income of $70 opportunities. from $315.7 million in 2020. operating expenses (opex), which Data customer base (up 24.1 million recorded in H1 2020. “CAP’s business is comple- Telecommunications firm,The company recommended grew 9.2 per cent to $1.0 billion per cent to 39.6 million) and Excluding the one-off prior year’s mentary to ours, and both Airtel Africa Plc’s results for the an interim dividend of 15 in H1 2021 from $937 million in growth in overall customer base non-operating income, pre-tax companies will be better able half-year ended September 30, cents per share. Commenting H1 2020. The biggest driver of (up 12 per cent to 116.4 per profit would have edged higher to serve our respective customers 2020, showed that its profit after on the results, analysts at FSDH growth in opex were employee cent) reflected sustained growth by 13.8 per cent,” they said. by coming together. I believe tax fell 36.5 per cent to $144.6 Research said in line with their benefits (up 27.9 per cent), opportunities in the different According to them, despite the combination of Portland million, from the $227.7 million expectations, data and mobile network operating expenses regions the company operates the 11.4 per cent dip in pre-tax Paints and CAP will yield recorded in the corresponding money business segments were (up 11.1 per cent) and other which bodes well for revenue profit, income tax expense surged significant benefits for all of period of 2019. the key growth frontiers as expenses (up 14.5 per cent). growth prospects. higher by 54.5 per cent to $136 our stakeholders.” It, however recorded a revenue revenue from both businesses “The controlled growth in However, the analysts said million in H1 2021 from $88 of $1.815 billion in the period surged 26.4 per cent and 24.3 opex fed into decent growth in they remained concerned that million in H1 2020. under review, showing an per cent to $548 million and EBITDA and operating profit, prior year’s one-off derivative “This implies effective tax rate increase of 10.7 per cent from $181 million, respectively. Voice both of which grew 12.0 per gains and non-recurring income expanded 20.6ppts to 48.4 per $1.64 billion in the corresponding revenue grew marginally by 1.9 cent and 19.5 per cent to $800 dents overall business perfor- cent in H1 2021. As a result, period of 2019. per cent to $972 million after million and $472 million in H1 mance. “Pre-Tax profit declined net income for H1 2021 dipped

Net financing cost rose 29 per recording a decent recovery in 2021,” they said. 11.4 per cent to $281 million in faster, down 36.7 per cent to cent from $148 million to $191 Q2 2020 (up 6.8 per cent q/q). FSDH Research noted that H1 2021 from $317 million in $145 million from $229 million million, while profit before tax “We were also impressed by improvement in key operational H1 2020 largely due to one-off in H1 2020.

FG to Connect Chad to National Power Grid

Group Business Editor A few months ago, the distribute it as a result of poor lenges with power distribution now headed by Mr Sule Ab- ÌÓØØË
ÒÓ×Ë
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Chadian ambassador to Nigeria, transmission and distribution in Nigeria had made it difficult dulazeez, current Managing Abakar Chachaimi, had asked network, which has prompted it for consumers to enjoy stability Director of the TCN are: Benin, Capital Market Editor Goddy Egene Despite the shortage of power for his country to be connected to sell to neighbouring countries. in the power supply. Burkina Faso, Ghana, Guinea, Comms/e-Business Editor supply in the country, the federal to Nigeria’s electricity grid Other countries that get their The government had also Guinea Bissau, Ivory Coast, ××Ë
ÕÙØÔÓ government is in negotiations during a visit to the Minister supply from Nigeria include threatened to disconnect Togo, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senior Correspondent with the Republic of Chad in of Power, Mr. Sale Mamman the Republic of Benin, which Benin and Niger Republic fol- The Gambia, Togo, Senegal, ËÒÏÏ×
ÕÓØÑÌÙÖß
(Advertis- an agreement that could see it in Abuja. receives supplies of at least 80 lowing their failure to settle their and Sierra Leone. ing) begin the supply of electricity Chachaimi argued that per cent of the total quantum electricity bills No government official was Correspondents to the North-Central African connecting Chad to Nigeria’s of electricity consumed in Nigeria also spearheads willing to comment on the ÒÓØÏÎß
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(Maritime) country soon. electricity grid would further the country as well as Niger the West African Power Pool details of the meeting, but it was Ë×ÏÝ
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(Finance) THISDAY learnt that a meet- enhance the historical and Republic and Togo. (WAPP), which is a cooperation learnt that other things being ÌÏÜÏ
áÙÔÓ (Insurance) ing was recently between the economic collaborations between A former Managing Director of the national electricity com- equal, the power agreement ÒÓØÏ×Ï
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(Energy) Nigerian team and the Chad both countries. If the agreement of TCN, Usman Mohammed, panies in Western Africa under will be sealed before the end Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) Minister of Energy, Mrs Ramatou is eventually reached, Chad will had said the international the auspices of the Economic of the year. Reporters Houtouin, who flew into Abuja add to the number of countries customers enjoy stable electricity Community of West African Calls made to the Special ß×Ï
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(Money Market) in furtherance of the expected that depend partly on Nigeria because they have more reliable States (ECOWAS), which says it’s Adviser, on Media to the ÙÝË
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(ICT) Peter Uzoho (Energy) deal, while the Nigerian team for their electricity needs. distribution network. working to establish a reliable Minister of Power, Mr Aaron was led by top officials of the Much of Nigeria’s generated He said Nigeria supplies power grid for the region and a Artimas, to extract his comments Transmission Company of electricity remain unused be- almost all the power consumed common market for electricity. on the development were not Nigeria (TCN). cause the country is not able to in Cotonou, adding that the chal- Member countries of WAPP, picked up. THISDAY ˾

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   Defusing the Unemployment Time Bomb Obinna Chima writes on the need for government to tackle rising unemployment which has become a major problem bedeviling the lives of Nigerian youth and increasingly causing violent crimes

Buhari Osinbajo

ecent developments in the country frustrated by the way their countries were policies that will stimulate economic growth for youths in the country. have shown that Nigeria is sitting on governed. that would increase human capital development In his contribution, former Governor of the a keg of gun powder. From the civil “What is the likelihood that such revolution and productivity output.” Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Charles unrest in some parts of the country cannot be carried out by the teeming youth of the Soludo, urged the federal government to al- in the wake of the shooting of some country? In addition, we need to recall the role Tackling the Menace low the youth to be at the fore in making and Rprotesters at Lekki, Lagos State as well as the of the restive youth in the Niger/Delta region Some experts have advised the federal and implementing policies for the country. raiding of warehouses where Covid-19 palliatives before the declaration of amnesty by the federal state governments to implement policies that Soludo said this in an article he wrote regarding were kept in some states in the country, are all government. “These youths constituted a menace would address the unfortunate situation. the uprising by the youth against police brutality reflection of the high youth unemployment in in the society by terrorising and kidnapping To the Founder, Foundation for Economic and the call for better governance. the country. oil workers and foreigners to demand for huge Research and Training, Prof. Akpan Ekpo, the Soludo asked the federal government to “exploit Indeed, with unemployment rate in the ransoms. recent social unrest in Lagos State and some the opportunity inherent in the current seeming country as of the second quarter of 2020 at “Many lives and property were lost during the other parts of the country was fuelled by the national tragedy” by establishing a structure 27.1 per cent, according to the National Bureau period of their restiveness. Currently, kidnapping high level of youth unemployment. managed by the youth and one that would of Statistics (NBS), this meant that more than is the latest self-employment unemployed youth “I have been saying for years that our massive address their challenges. 22 million Nigerians are presently unemployed. are engaged in. youth unemployment is a ticking time bomb This structure, he suggested, could be “Com- This is even more worrying seeing that the “Several politicians, actors/actresses, young waiting to explode. When you have such a mission for the Future of Nigerian Youths”. NBS figures also showed that as of the second ones, aged etc. have been victims in the hand national crisis of unemployment, it is the “Let Nigeria lead Africa in this regard by quarter 2020, unemployment rate among young of kidnappers. Despite several arrests carried government that can address it and not the elevating the voice of the citizen to statecraft. We people (15-34years) was 34.9 per cent, higher out by the police, the business of kidnapping private sector. need their alternative blueprint for our future. than the 29.7 per cent it was as of the third keeps flourishing every day.” “But the government has over the years been If they want to suggest their own version of quarter of 2018. He noted further than many youth have turned paying lip service to it. Now, it has exploded. Nigerian constitution, let them do so. It is their Therefore, there is need for more attention themselves to “area boys” engaging in nefarious Destruction in one or two weeks can take more future and that of their children that is mostly to be given to the menace in order to save the activities and a ready evil instrument for the than a year to recover. It all goes to show bad at stake and so, let’s hear them. country from potential danger. politicians during political activities. governance,” Ekpo, who is a former Director “Let the Commission for the Future of Nigerian Clearly, the rising cases of social vices in the In addition, the rise of insurgent groups as General, West African Institute for Financial Youths produce the youths’ agenda for security, country would reduce significantly if a lot of the well as frequent cases of ethno-religious crisis and Economic Management (WAIFEM), said. jobs, poverty reduction and prosperity, as well able bodied young men in Lagos, Port Harcourt, was also attributed to high youth unemployment The former member of the Monetary Policy as the legal-institutional- governance structure Kano, Kaduna, Owerri, Ado-Ekiti, and other in the country. Committee noted that if such social unrest was to deliver them. What kind of education and cities in the country are able to get jobs or are “Nigeria is the second largest economy in prolonged, it could hurt the inflow of foreign value system will underpin these and how will engaged in various forms of vocational jobs. Africa yet the effect of unemployment tells on investment. they emerge, etc? Indeed, not being able to get job month after the economic growth. “If this continues, foreign investors would He also said the younger generation should month, year after year, destroys the self-worth “The youth that are supposed to be productive not take us serious and this may discourage be heard, adding that they “might give Nigeria of an individual. agents of the economy and be the greatest assets them from coming in. We carried on for days as the magic wand for the problems”. Some have also argued that for Nigeria, its in terms of human resources are still dependent if there is no leadership because the president Oluwaseun, also pointed out that entrepreneur- high rate of youth unemployment is a major on their parents, relatives or friends. of the country decided not to say anything,” ship education is not only a means to foster threat to its national security. “Hence, the high rate of youth unemploy- he said. self-employment among young Nigerians, but also ment renders economic security ineffective. On his part, a Senior Lecturer at the Department to equip them with the right skills, discipline and Effects on National Security The security implication of over 20 million of Economics, Pan-Atlantic University, Dr. Olalekan creativity, necessary to cope with the uncertain Afolabi Oluwaseun, in a scholarly paper unemployed youths is unimaginable. Aworinde, said the shooting of protesters was employment paths in today’s societies. titled: “The Rate of Youth Unemployment “Therefore, the government needs to devise not a good indicator for potential foreign direct To create or develop an enterprise culture, it is and Its Effects on National Security,” argued investors as well as foreign portfolio investors. crucial that young people have an, entrepreneurial that because of the level of unemployment, a According to him, nobody wants to invest mindset. lot of unemployed youth in the country have in an environment that is volatile. “There should be provision and access to become instrument of evil in the hands of the “This is about confidence. When people do not soft loans by government and private bodies politicians in perpetuating their hidden agenda I have been saying for have confidence in country, it goes a long way with little or no interest rate. before, during and after the election. He cited years that our massive to affect the level of investment and has negative “There should be eligibility criteria for giving an example with the 2011 presidential election, impact on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) out loans to unemployed youths such as having where over 500 lives were lost including nine youth unemployment of the country as time goes on,” Aworinde said. a business plan, demonstrating commitment youth corp members and thousands of lives is a ticking time bomb He advised the government to, “make use and responsibility, having reasonable equity and properties were displaced mostly in the waiting to explode. of expansionary fiscal and monetary policy to participation and demonstrating an ability to northern part of the country. address the rising unemployment.” repay the loan required. In addition, many ethno-religious crises were When you have such “Government should increase its expenditure. “Thus, government should implement policies perpetuated by the youth. Therefore, the high a national crisis of The expenditure we are talking about here is so as to bring about good governance in the level of crime rate weakens the national security not for white elephant projects, but expenditure country,” he added. of the country which poses threat to lives and unemployment, it is the to productive sectors and those that can bring Notably, there is need for the government properties, he noted. government that can about the desired returns.” to ensure that it achieves inclusive economic Oluwaseun, pointed out that the Arab Spring address it and Furthermore, he advised the government to growth so as not to run the risk of increased was carried out by restive youths who were not the private sector initiate capacity building and training programmes instability. 26 THISDAY ˾

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 Again, United Capital Beats the Odds United Capital Plc has recorded an increase of 26 per cent in its profit despite the headwinds that characterised the financial services industry where the company operates, writes Goddy Egene he earnings started season last road show and crafting an appropriate and week as quoted companies began compelling business case for the issuance.” to release their unaudited results “The Series 1 bonds, which have a tenor of for the nine months ended Septem- 5years,recorded a 124 per cent subscription, ber. Before now, there have been with commitments received from Pension apprehensionsT among stakeholders who Funds (comprising 64 per cent of the issue), are wondering what the results would look other financial institutions as well as high net like considering the challenging operating worth individuals. This very strong outcome environment since March 2020. further affirms buy-side investors’ confidence The COVID-19 pandemic that led to the in United Capital Plc, and a testament to lockdown of the economy by the federal the leading role the organization continues government to stop the spread of the virus, to play in the financial services space,” he is expected to have negative impact on added. companies. And as companies begin to There is no doubt that the COVID-19 release their results, it has been a bag. pandemic has greatly affected the operations Some of the results showed improved of many companies but United Capital was profits, while some posted lower profits and able to endure the challenges. others ended with losses. However, one early “Thanks to the well-articulated and diligent surprise performance is that recorded by implementation of our plans set out last year. United Capital Plc, which posted improved With our well-articulated plans, business revenue and profits despite the difficult continuity plan in economic crisis and solid operating environment. risk assessment framework,” he said. United Capital Plc is a leading financial He explained that the COVID-19 pandemic services group in Africa, focused on lever- has dealt a devastating blow to businesses and aging technology to empower businesses, economies globally including our domestic individuals and governments with excellent operating environment. financial services in investment banking, “But as a responsible organisation, our asset management, trusteeship, securities primary focus is on the safety of our staff trading, wealth management and consumer while helping our clients to navigate these finance. challenging times towards meeting their Despite the fact that the financial system, respective goals amid lockdown pronounce- where it operates, was equally impacted ments by the government. We commenced negatively by the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual operations without significant impact United Capital Plc ended the nine months on our service delivery to clients. Our digital with a revenue of N7.07 billion and profit platforms (InvestNow – mobile and web) after tax (PAT) of N3.46 billion. continued to serve our clients globally from An analysis of the results showed that the comfort of their homes. In addition, we total revenue rose 33 per cent from N5.32 increased client engagements across digital billion in 2019 to N7.07 billion in 2020. The platforms such as streaming investment clinics significant increase was on the back of a and other advisory services. All internal strong increase of 55 per cent in investment and external workplace interactions were income, 62 per cent increase in fees and seamless in a virtual environment due to commission income, and 61 per cent growth in our improved technology capabilities,” the net trading income. However, cost-to-income GCEO stated. ratio rose 3.1 per cent due to the sharp 270 Ashade While some firms saw the pandemic as per cent increase in impairment allowance. a setback, United Capital said it developed According to the company, the increased cost the increasing market confidence in our (parastatals, sovereign and sub-sovereigns) new competencies to exploit the opportunities complies with IFRS 9 that requires financial brand even in the wake of the most globally clients. created. assets be tested for impairment and using devastating pandemic of the last century. “The CP will enable us provide a wider “We developed new competencies in- the expected credit loss model. We know the operating environment is range of wholesale financing solutions to cluding propositions to exploit emerging Profit before tax (PBT) grew by 26 per cent turbulent, but we are committed to deliver our clients. It will also further complement opportunities identified while also creating to N4.1 billion, from N3.27 billion, while superior returns to our shareholders, as we our stable funding base and support the buffers such as income earnings on long PAT grew by same margin from N2.75 billion drive growth and profitability across all growth of our overall business. The Series term investments,” he said. to N3.46 billion. our businesses,” he said. 1 & 2 issuances, with tenors of 182 days According to Ashade, as a diversified In terms of profit margin, United Capital’s Ashade explained that in line with their and 270 days, were largely subscribed to group serving various client segments with PBT margin declined by 3.11 percentage initial strategy for the 2020 business year, they by individual and institutional investors, bespoke solutions that address respective points, due to the increase in operating shall continue to push further their market with interest significantly tilted towards the financial and investment needs, the company expenses arising from significant increase diversification and cost-optimisation initiatives 270-day offering,” Ashade had said. prepared very well for 2020. in impairment charges during the period as well as implement phased automation That CP issuance was followed in May by “In preparing for 2020, we began prospect- under review due to impact of COVID-19. of our business processes whilst upholding raising of N10 billion in its Series 1 Bond ing key market segments that will present Commenting on the results, Group Chief their commitment to ensuring a significant issuance under a-N30billion Medium-Term the greatest opportunities across all our Executive Officer of United Capital Plc, Mr. improvement in our value delivery to all Debt Programme. The bond issuance was businesses and devised action plans for Peter Ashade, said their operating environment our stakeholders. oversubscribed in investor commitments by exploiting those opportunities especially remained tough amid the lingering COVID-19 It is obvious that the one of the strategies 24 per cent, making United Capital the first in terms of growth strategies within the situation and negative macroeconomic impacts that worked very well for United Capital non-bank issuing house to issue a corporate domestic market. We also restructured our as seen in the continued depreciation of the was the issuance of a commercial paper(CP) bond in the history of the Nigerian capital business to be more responsive to our clients. exchange rate, consistent uptick in headline to provide innovative financing solutions to market. Therefore, our performance is as a result inflation rate among other macroeconomic its corporate, institutional and government According to the GCEO, “The bond of earnings growth across all our business indicators. issuance, which signifies the first by any lines and validates the effectiveness of the “As stated during the release of our half investment bank in the history of the Nigerian planning process and strengthened execution year (H1)-2020 results, our business has not capital market solidifies our performance capabilities across group. The operating been immune to these challenges. Notwith- track record as a formidable ally in the environment has quite been challenging but standing, the Group has remained nimble. investment banking industry. With an we have been focused on creating value We continued to implement our business oversubscription by 24 per cent investor for all our clients. Our focus is always on growth and continuity plans premised on a orders, we believe this milestone accentuates the customer,” he explained. solid risk assessment framework to ensure we the confidence in our Institution, and its He has assured stakeholders, saying “We remained focused on providing best-in-class ability to diversify our corporate funding are unwavering in our commitment to solutions to all client segments. sources, provide innovative financial solutions stakeholders and expect to remain profitable “These contributed to the impressive and our unwavering commitment to our and competitive in the near term. Going into growth across our businesses leading to But as a responsible esteemed clients.” the remaining part of the year, we remain 33 per cent growth in revenue and 26 per organisation, our primary Also commenting on bond issuance, Manag- assiduously committed to deliver greater cent increase in both PBT and PAT during ing Director, Investment Banking, United returns to our shareholders, by constantly the nine-month period,” he said. focus is on the safety Capital Plc, Babatunde Obaniyi, said:“The reviewing our strategy in the light of global According to him, in the second quarter of our staff while helping bond issuance adds to the impressive portfolio and domestic happenings, ensuring that we (Q2),the group successfully issued N10 our clients to navigate of innovative and landmark transactions we provide value to all our stakeholders from billion Series 1 bond under the N30 billion have structured, and once again highlights time to time.” Medium-Term Debt Programme, the first to these challenging our capabilities in the successful execution “We shall continue to push further our be issued by an investment banking firm in times towards meeting of novel debt capital market transactions. market diversification and cost-optimisation Nigeria and was oversubscribed by about As a joint issuing house/book runner on initiatives as well as implement phased 24 per cent. their respective goals the deal, United Capital advised on the automation of our business processes whilst “We have begun yielding the fruit of amid lockdown transaction structure, securing regulatory upholding our commitment to ensuring a that strategic decision. Going into the last pronouncements by the approvals and marketing strategy for the significant improvement in our value delivery quarter of the year, we are encouraged by government bonds including market timing, investor to all our stakeholders,” Ashade declared. THISDAY ˾

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  Saving the Economy from COVID-19 Ummi Kabir

The Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) took the world by storm in a manner that inflicted destruction, the like that can only be associated with hurricanes. This disease that first reared its ugly head in Wuhan China brought in its wake devastation of the worst kind. The so called developed countries, with all the scientific and technological advancement they usually boast of, had no answer to the harm the virus was and still wrecking on their socio-economic systems. Life as everyone knew it, came to a sudden halt. Healthcare facilities of even the most sophisticated societies were challenged and brought to their knees. The effect of the Great Depression of the 1930s fade in comparison to the negative impact of this disease on the economy of the world. The extent of job loss not to talk of loss of lives as a result of the pandemic is still being studied just as nations are re-engineering their economies to mitigate the horrors caused by COVID-19 across all sectors. In Nigeria, the story is the same in terms of a slow down on life of the people. But the interventions by the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele, prevented Nigeria, in a very significant way, from experiencing a larger contraction of the economy. Like a man who saw the future, his interven- tion in the agricultural sector, pre-COVID-19, through the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP), for instance, saved the nation from Emefiele the horror of starvation when, in response to the pandemic, borders were shut and billion credit facility directed at the affected With all these, the CBN Governor expects policy interventions in the economy imports all but fizzled out. But Emefiele’s households and small and medium enterprises that a recovery in the growth rate of the during this COVID-19 hard times, is the key interventions and measures which the through the NIRSAL Microfinance Bank he country by Q3, 2020 due to the following approval given by President Muhammadu CBN deployed to respond to disruptions not only gave them succour but also gave developments in the nation: a phased with- Buhari to the establishment of a CBN-led caused by COVID-19 were applied with the that sector a much needed kiss of life. drawal of the lockdown measures; resumption Infrastructure Company. This Infra-Corp, dexterity of a genius out to make a difference. One area of the nation’s life that received of travel by land and air; improvements in as it is known will, working in partner- And, indeed, he did. These policy measures a direct hit from the pandemic is, without crude oil prices from $19 in April 2020 to an ship with the African Finance Corporation include but are not limited to the extension doubt, the healthcare delivery sector. At the average of $44 in August 2020; and continued and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment by one year of the moratorium on principal best of times, that sector has its shortcom- implementation of the CBN interventions in Authority (NSIA), enable the use of private repayments for CBN intervention facilities ings. The pandemic exposed it in all its the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. and public capital to support infrastructure as well as the regulatory forbearance that ugliness necessitating an urgent measure In spite of the effect of the pandemic, investment that will have a multiplier effect on was granted to banks to restructure loans if the people were not to suffer even more the CBN is optimistic that there will be a growth across critical sectors of the economy. given to sectors that were severely affected from the disease that was killing in hundreds continued growth in the Nigerian banking It is pertinent to point out that Emefiele by the pandemic. and thousands. sector. has been able to keep the economy afloat The CBN Governor also put in place a Again, the CBN took up the challenge The CBN Governor highlighted the fact despite the very harsh environment brought policy that reduced the interest rate on apex and created a N100 billion intervention fund that the ultimate strength of the financial about by a disease that, as yet, has no bank’s intervention loans from 9 to 5 percent in loans to pharmaceutical companies and system will invariably rely on the following cure. He was able to achieve this by and also strengthened the Loan to Deposit healthcare practitioners intending to expand three key factors: ensuring that banks have thinking outside the box, by refusing to ratio (LDR) policy, which has resulted in a and strengthen the capacity of the healthcare adequate capital buffers to withstand similar be fixated to the traditional functions of significant rise in loans provided by financial institutions. Not done, the apex bank on pandemics; developing adequate internal the apex bank which mainly have to do institutions to banking customers. Loans given the watch of Emefiele further put in place controls that can identify potential risks and with initiating and managing monetary to the private sector, have risen by over 21 another N1 trillion facility in loans to boost putting in place measures to contain that policies as well as ensuring financial percent over the past year. local manufacturing and production across risk; being able to adapt business models system’s stability. Much as these have It is also important to note that within that critical sectors in addition to developing a to changes taking place in the business continued to remain effectively on the period, households and Small and Medium framework within which to provide financial environment. CBN’s turf, the Governor’s wise decision Enterprises (SMEs) were literally brought support in the fight against COVID-19 through As the task to cushion the Nigerian to get actively involved in building and to their knees as some were at the verge of a fund that is also aimed at encouraging economy from further harm as a result of developing the economy through a well liquidation. It was, on all fronts, a trying time research development in the country. the pandemic becomes all encompassing, thought out diversification policy that is for this sector of the economy which, by its “In order to encourage greater research Emefiele made it clear that it is not what beginning to harness the solid minerals’ very nature, had the capacity to create job and development in Nigeria of drugs and CBN alone can handle. It requires an input potentials of the country in addition to opportunities which this virus threatened. vaccines that would help prevent the spread from the banking and financial system the well-known economic power base that Emefiele and the CBN rose to the demands of the virus, the CBN is developing a frame- which is expected to support the growth agriculture is. This launch out by the of the time and salvaged what would have work under which grants and long-term of the economy by focusing on Agriculture, CBN has helped largely in literally snatching been a monumental disaster not just to those facilities will be provided to researchers, Information and Communication Technology the economy from the jaws of COVID-19. businesses and households but the economy science institutions and biotechnology firms and Infrastructure Financing. of the nation as a whole. By creating a N100 to develop the Nigerian vaccine,” he said. Another positive fallout of the Emefiele t,BCJS
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"CVKB DBN Holds Capacity Building Program The Development Bank of The capacity training pro- and basic promotional tools by to the statement. against SMEs from a holistic of the Nigerian economy with Nigeria Plc said it recently gram which held first in 2019 business experts with lectures While speaking on the perspective. “As a Develop- requisite management skills to held a capacity building had 100 participants drawn on accessing business oppor- importance of training for ment Financial Institution es- develop viable business plans, training workshop for 125 from the six geographical zones tunities and improving selling entrepreneurs, DBN Manag- tablished to bridge the financial access funds, and effectively entrepreneurs in Lagos and of the country who converged skills as well as presentation ing Director, Tony Okpanachi gap through our Participating manage their business growth. Abuja, respectively. This, it in Abuja and Lagos for the skills and development of a stated that, “While funding Financial Institutions, our Through this training, we will stated, was in furtherance training. business plan. is a major problem for strategic focus is providing enhance their entrepreneurial of its mandate of building According to a statement, To help small business MSMEs in Nigeria, there’s liquidity, credit guarantee, and and managerial competencies,” the capacity of the MSMEs this year, the number was owners with book-keeping also the need to equip our capacity building for MSMEs he said. and equipping them with increased to 125 participants to which is crucial to accessing entrepreneurs with critical to be more productive. “The Participants expressed the required skills needed to accommodate more participants loans, the DBN partnered with management skills required capacity building initiative is their appreciation to the DBN improve their competence in with the focus on impacting financial experts who lectured to ensure they are better an integral part of the bank’s especially in the area that developing and defending a Nigerian MSMEs with the participants with explanatory structured and able to mandate to drive economic touched on online marketing viable business plan, improve resilience needed for survival videos on Entrepreneurial effectively manage their growth by empowering MSMEs and business profiling. They their capacity to access fund- and sustenance especially, finance and accounting; how respective businesses.” with the skills required to expressed confidence in their ing, as well as imbibe in them in the wake of the Covid-19 to develop financial records; He further explained that improve their capacity and increased competence and as- the discipline required for global pandemic. The small financial analysis, and how to being a development finance productivity. So, our objec- sured that they will inculcate efficient utilisation of their business owners were lectured prepare a balance sheet of their institution, the DBN tends tive, in a nutshell, is to equip learnings earned on their funds. on digital marketing strategies business activities, according to view problems militating entrepreneurs across sectors various businesses. 28 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 •THISDAY WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 • THISDAY 29 30 THISDAY ˾


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L-R: Officer In-charge of Policy and Plans, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Vice Marshall Isiaka Amao; Permanent Secretary on Security, Cross River State, Dr Alfred Mboto; and Officer Commanding Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshall Ibukun Ojeyemi, during the inauguration of Airmen Transit Accommodation at the 305 Special A resident of Ogbaru is seen moving with a wooden fishing boat on the street as flood ravages Anambra North Mobility Group Command in Calabar...recently Senatorial District...recently

Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Sen. Godswill Akpabio (3rd left); Emir of Akko, Akko Emirate, His Royal Highness Umar MuhammaduAtiku (middle), and others dignitaries during the visit of the Traditional Rulers from Gombe State to the Minister’s Office in Abuja...recently

L-R;: State Coordinator of Military Widows Association (MIWA) in Niger, Mrs Helen Baba; National President of MIWA, Mrs Veronica Aloko; National Secretary, Mrs Helima Abel; Representative of the Minister of Defence, Maj.-Gen. Jidda Adamu and Managing Director, National Asset Personal Acquisition Scheme, Mr Eze Nnadi, during the presentation of relief items to members of MIWA by Nigeria Legion to mark Nigeria Legion Council’s Some hoodlums allegedly arrested at the scene of looting government properties by Operation Safe Haven, in Humanitarian Day in Abuja....recently Jos...recently

L-R: Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State; Goernor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Minister for Mine and Red Cross Officers evacuating one of the presumes victims at Phase 1 Complex, Federal Secretariat, Abuja, Steel, Mr Olamileka Adegbite; and Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, during the condolence visit by during their demonstration exercise to commemorate the 2020 International Day for Disaster Rick Reduction South-West Governors and Ministers to Gov. Sanwo-Olu on the mayhem resulting from #EndSARS protest, in Abuja...recently PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN at Lekki Toll Gate,Lagos....recently THISDAY ˾



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L-R: Executive Director, Legal Services/Company Secretary; SIFAX Group, Barrister Tunji Olusinde; Project Coordinator/Consultant to SIFAX Container Terminal;, Capt. Iheanacho Ebubeogu; Director, Maritime L-R: Senator representing Rivers South-East Senatorial District, Senator Barinadaa Mpigi; Rivers PDP Services, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Auwal Suleiman, and Capt. Ibraheem Olugbade, during the Chairman, Mr Desmond Akawor; and Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike; during a meeting with youth Federal Ministry of Transportation’s Ministerial Implementation Committee’s visit to SIFAX Group’s new leaders from the 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers and Community Development Committee, in Port container terminal located at Ijora Causeway, Lagos...recently Harcourt ...recently

Resident of Gwagwalada trooped out to have their own share of palliative as hoodlums broke into a wharehouse in Gwagwalada Abuja...recently Traffic on Airport Road during curfew hours in Lagos...recently

L-R: Wife of the Ekefa Balogun of Ibadanland, Mrs Adetokunbo Alabi; The Ekefa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye L-R: Chief of Policy and Plans, Nigerian Air Force, AVM, Oladayo Amao; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Lekan Alabi; and Gov.ernor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, during the presentation of Alabi’s biography to the Abubakar; newly winged Flying Officer, Shehu Ibrahim and Chief of Training and Operations, AVM Janes Gwani, Governor as part of activities marking the 70th birthday of the chief, in Ibadan...recently during the winging of the officer in Abuja...recently

L-R: Speaker of NIgeria’s House of representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, being shown some of the recovered goods looted by hoodlums during last week’s unrest by the Commander of Area C Police command, Tijani Fatai and the Divisional Police Officer of the Bode Thomas Police Station, Ibrahim Fasesan and L-R: Clerk, Public Account Committee, Mr. Ahmdu jatau; Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Oluwole Oke, and Adebowale Adeoya.... recently Deputy Chairman, Mr. Abdulkareem Saad, during an investigating public hearing in Abuja... recently 32 THISDAY ˾




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ͰͮͰͮ EDUCATION Investing in Functional Education to Curb Youth Restiveness In the wake of the EndSARS protest hijacked by hoodlums who caused chaos leading to wanton destruction and looting of property in the country, some stakeholders, who spoke to Funmi Ogundare, explained why it is imperative for the government to invest massively in functional education that will lead to the creation of jobs for the development of the economy and other life enhancing opportunities, as the move will go a long way in curbing youth restiveness hree weeks ago, protest against police brutality began after a video went viral on social media showing Speacial Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) officers abusing Ta victim in Delta State. For years, the unit has been accused of abuse of power and committing crimes such as killing of innocent youths, extortion and intimidation that they were meant to put a check on. There were promises and moves to reform the police by the Nigerian government, especially with the change of name from SARS to Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT), but protesters made up of youths said nothing had changed. Rather than back down, hundreds of youths took to the streets across the country to protest. Organised under the hashtag #EndSARS, they spoke with one voice and initially campaigned against the notorious police unit to be disbanded and officers pros- ecuted for extortion, rape and murder. Thereafter, the demonstrations quickly evolved into a broader movement against inequality, corruption and nepotism, exploding into the public consciousness through the social-media-driven campaign. In a calculated move aimed at dis- persing the protesters, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu had on October 20 imposed a curfew on the state. Unfortunately, the evening of the same day, witnessed the alleged mas- The youths must be gainfully employed to curb restiveness sacre of dozens of unarmed youths and many injured at the Lekki Toll plaza by available to THISDAY, regretted that in manners that bring lasting impact; in the country. security forces. the future of young people in Nigeria lest the genuine struggle of our youths He recalled the demands of the protest- The shootings further heightened is threatened as a result of the massive is hijacked by self-seeking opposition ing youths saying, “we accepted all the tensions which degenerated to wanton exploitation of the country’s common politicians and miscreants as already demands and proceeded immediately destruction of private and public property, wealth by the ruling class who do not happening,” the don stressed. to scrap SARS and started the process as well as massive lootings across the contribute to production. Ogunyemi therefore called for a series of addressing the other demands. country by hoodlums who were said to “Young people in Nigeria are living in of public programmes of economic and Unfortunately, the protesters refused have been created from a bad, uncaring conditions of hopelessness, disintegration social welfare as provided for in chapter to call off the protest and engage the and ungodly leadership in the country of families and despair about the present two of the 1999 Constitution (amended), government to address their grievances. to hijack the peaceful protest. and the future. So long as the prevalent which states the provision of state-funded Instead, they became emboldened and Some experts, who have been monitoring deprivations persist, lacking a hope for a qualitative, mass employment, as well as gradually turned violent.” the system, explained to THISDAY why better satisfying, it is expected that they other life enhancing opportunities that He pledged his administration’s readi- it is imperative for the government to will lose confidence in the present set up. characterise a welfare state. ness to continue to ensure that liberty invest massively in functional education He said the protest by the youths was While commiserating with the families and freedom, as well as the fundamental which can lead to creation of jobs for a challenge to those who hold political whose children and wards’ lives were cut rights of all citizens are protected the development of the real sectors of power to urgently and rightly address short, as well as those who are nursing In their response, the former heads of the economy and society, rather than the core issues of poverty, homelessness, various degrees of injuries in the course state were of the view that generation of neglect it to create helpless individuals unemployment, poor education and of the #EndSARS protest nationwide, employment and growing the economy who would go into crime. lack of access to social services such as the president stressed the need for including through direct foreign invest- In his submission, the Chairman, adequate healthcare, good roads, housing the ruling class to continue to engage ments are critical to checking youth Academic Staff Union of Universities and electricity for majority of Nigerians. with the citizenry especially the youth restiveness. (ASUU), University of Lagos (UNILAG) “The youths are carrying the burden population and the working class so They also called on youths to pursue branch, Dr. Dele Ashiru described the of resistance, a burden which they have as to deepen Nigeria’s democracy and peaceful means in seeking redress through EndSARS protest as a reaction to age-long taken on behalf of other classes of the guarantee lasting peace in the country. engagement with government and anger of political maladministration and Nigerian society. The labour movement, In an effort aimed at calming frayed encouraged further conversation with wanton corruption occasioned by the professional groups, peasant farmers, nerves, President Mohammadu Buhari the youths and other stakeholders in wickedness and recklessness of the ruling artisans and the intellectuals must defend had on October 23, held a virtual meeting the country. elites whose kleptomaniac inclination the rights of the people as guaranteed with former heads of state and Presidents One of the youths, Miss Catherine Udeh, has reached unimaginable proportion. by the constitution as the youths have of Nigeria, in Abuja, where he reiterated popularly called DJ Switch, who was at He regretted the total neglect of the done with the peaceful protest. It is a that the government will not fold its the forefront of the protest livestream- education system which has created a challenge to all those who want genuine arms and allow miscreants and criminals ing the activities on Instagram handle, group of helpless individuals who have change in Nigeria. We must intervene continue to perpetrate acts of hooliganism expressed displeasure about the hijack of no choice than result to crime. the protest by hoodlums to cause chaos According to him, “the people we resulting in arsons and destruction of now call hoodlums are the creation of property. the same unproductive, parasitic and “According to her, “I conderm any sort decadent ruling elites who use and dump The labour movement, professional of violence. I conderm the burning of them during election.” groups, peasant farmers, artisans and the buses or people’s livelihood. I know we He argued that government deliberately are very angry, but the most powerful neglected education because educated intellectuals must defend the rights of the weapon we have is peace. people are difficult to oppress as has “We must continue to move. If we stop, been demonstrated by the protesters. people as guaranteed by the constitution I swear it will probably be another 60 Ashiru said the only way to help the years before we talk about this again. We system is to deliver a more egalitarian as the youths have done with the peaceful must continue, but continue peacefully.” society where there is life more abundant She stressed the need for accountability for all citizens, including the hoodlums. protest. It is a challenge to all those who in the system, saying that people have The President of the union, Professor to be brought to book, else the injustice Biodun Ogunyemi in a statement made want genuine change in Nigeria will continue. THISDAY ˾



OCTOBER 28, 2020 33 EDUCATION Bayelsa Education Commissioner Gives Reasons for Schools’ Closure The Bayelsa State Commis- as such, all schools should Biseni Development Front paid “It is therefore unfortunate with Emelah who is the politi- draw the state government’s sioner for Education, Gentle strictly adhere to it. “The public him a courtesy visit in his office that not much has been done cal leader of the constituency. attention to the area which is a Emelah has explained why the should note that the closure in Yenagoa recently. to revamp the TTC which has He lauded Emelah’s leader- major contributor to the state’s state government ordered the of schools will not affect the He extolled the place of the gone moribund,” he added. ship qualities while he was economy. He said the famous closure of schools in the state. students taking the ongoing area in the development of The leader of the delegation, representing the constituency Zarama Market needs a facelift Emelah had in a public Basic Education Certificate the state, pointing out that it Mr. Freeman Ovuru said the at the state House of Assembly, and called for the establishment statement, announced what Examination (BECE) exercise hosted the defunct Teachers’ aim of the visit was to felicitate adding that the commissioner of another teachers’ training he called “emergency closure taking place in the state.” Training College (TTC) which with the commissioner as one achieved so much including institution at the site of the of schools” in the state with The earlier statement by the was a foremost institution that of their kinsmen, adding the building of Corpers’ Lodge defunct TTC. The site is free effect from October 19, 2020. ministry titled ‘Emergency trained a lot of Nigerians from that the visit was meant to and water projects. from the present flood rocking According to him, a yet Closure of Schools in the the 1950s till the late 1980s. strengthen working relationship Ovuru used the occasion to the state. to be ascertained number of State’ and signed by Emelah pupils were drowned in the read: “The government hereby flood that wreaked havoc in regrets every inconvenience the oil and gas rich state. that might come with this new “There is no doubt that development. We also use this this flood has wreaked a lot medium to sympathize with all of havoc in Bayelsa State. It flood victims across the state. has affected so many things. We are assuring them that as Animals, especially reptiles a people and as a government, are not left out. The natural we share in their pain and habitats of these reptiles have we will continue to do our been negatively affected. best to give them our support. They are therefore looking “It is sad that the closure for where to hide and it is is coming barely a month natural for them to get into after we returned from the houses and buildings in the COVID-19 pandemic break school premises. Many teachers and now we are faced with and pupils’ lives have been another natural disaster which endangered in the process. has forced us to close down “We cannot continue to our schools again.” endanger the lives of our The commissioner expressed people in the name of edu- dismay at what he called cation. Our people need to “highly regrettable and un- be alive before they can be fortunate” development just as educated. We do not want to he enjoined all stakeholders to L-R: UBEC Projects Director, Mr. Umar Iro; sQuid Nigeria Project Director, Mobolaji Usman; Foreign Secretary, Honorable lose more lives. It is a painful recognise that it was “a price Dominic Raab MP; sQuid Nigeria Managing Director, Umar Abdullahi; and Senator Abubakar Sadiq Yaradua, UBEC Board decision because it is not long we must pay as a people for representative, during the two-day EdTech forum held in London... recently we resumed academic activities our collective good.” in the schools because of the He sought the understand- COVID-19 pandemic. ing of the people on the “All schools in the state government’s decision to Greensprings Students Become Two-time Winners were closed as a result of the close the schools in what he pandemic but we have to do described as a “trying time” of Conrad Challenge Scholarship it to safeguard the lives of the in the state. pupils and their teachers in Meanwhile, Emelah has Uchechukwu Nnaike Conrad Challenge was a very my confidence and public Conrad Challenge scholar- addition to other non-academic stated that the people of enlightening experience for speaking skills. Without them, ship, but this year, we have staff.” Okordia/Zarama/Biseni play a After working on various in- me. My team came up with presenting our project idea in 20 students winning it. That’s He said the decision is in critical role in the development novative Science, Technology, the idea of a device named front of the judges wouldn’t a back-to-back success story order to safeguard the lives of the state. Engineering and Mathematics Electro-Decarbonator, which have been easy for me.” for the Greensprings School of the precious students all He stated this when a (STEM) projects, 20 students we designed to capture carbon Expressing delight at the community and we are through the flood season, delegation of Okordia Zarama of Greensprings School, Lekki dioxide from the fumes of gen- students’ feat for winning the extremely happy!” Campus have been presented erators. With this device, we scholarship back-to-back, the The Conrad Challenge is with $60,000 each for emerging wanted to tackle the problems Assistant Principal (Enhance- a yearly competition that finalists in the 2020 Conrad of air pollution and global ment), Mr. Afolabi Amusan brings together a dynamic Bridge Academies Task Challenge. warming by capturing carbon said: “The school focuses community of innovators The challenge is an initiative dioxide from generators and on investing in its students and entrepreneurs who work Parents on Mobile- of the Conrad Foundation, preventing it from escaping and creating an enabling together to develop extraor- USA, and this is the second into the atmosphere. environment for them to dinary and viable solutions consecutive year that students “I enjoyed the good rela- succeed. Therefore, I am glad that benefit the world in friendly Platform to Boost of the school made it to the tionship I had with my team that our students continue to the areas of Aerospace and final and received the scholar- members and participants from excel academically and perform Aviation, Cyber-Technology Children’s Learning ship attached to the challenge. other schools across Nigeria. outstandingly both in local and and Security, Energy and Explaining the project he My sincere appreciation goes to international competitions. Environment, Health and Funmi Ogundare without a physical classroom worked on, one of the scholars, all my teachers in Greensprings “Last year, it was five of Nutrition, and Smoke-free and the current little setback of Uwadiae Guobadia said: “The School for helping to develop our students that won the World. To mitigate the effect of schools school closure shouldn’t deter closure by the government as parents from encouraging their a result of the tension and children to continue to learn mayhem caused by hoodlums at home.” Forum Emphasises Digital Technology in that hijacked the #EndSARS Awopetu noted that education protests, Bridge International delivery should not only be Teaching, Learning Academies has appealed to comprehensive and sustainable, parents to utilise mobile-friendly but able to continuously evolve A representative of the board in learning through available system for a better future. real, proven solutions and are interactive quizzes available on and meet the challenges of the of the Universal Basic Educa- smartphone technologies, how The Managing Director, able to work with us to adapt WhatsApp or via SMS to help fast-changing and unpredictable tion Commission (UBEC) Sena- to think differently using Umar Abdullahi said the them to our needs. their children practice what they world, as has been seen with tor Abubakar Sadiq Yaradua technology to create excellence company is committed to “It is most appreciated to be have been taught in various closure as a result of the protests. and the UBEC Project Director, in teaching and learning. partnering key stakehold- able to spend two days being subjects. “Over the past months, the Mr. Umar Iro recently visited In his remarks, the Chief ers to improve education shown the new parameters of The spokesperson for unprecedented disruption the London headquarters of Executive Officer, sQuidcard and learning outcomes for education, with the uptake Bridge, Mr. Femi Awopetu in to children’s education and sQuidcard Limited, for a two- Limited, Mr. teeming school population of cutting-edge technologies a statement, said it would also challenges faced during the day EdTech forum, focused Adam Smith harped on its using the sQuid technology and sQuid’s ambition. Both help parents assess what their closure of schools in response on how digital technology can new project working with and platform. students and teachers, as well children have been learning. to the pandemic have shown enhance training, teaching and Nigerian schools, saying that it UBEC’s representative, as the whole community “Parents and guardians that relying only on traditional learning, to transform Nigeria’s will help build a better future Yaradua affirmed that Nigeria will benefit greatly thereby are encouraged to continue methods of teaching and learn- basic education. for thousands of children in is addressing the enormous creating a stronger and more to utilise the remote learning ing could constitute a setback The forum was hosted by over 100 communities. challenge of how to educate sustainable future for all.” programmes to keep their to equitable education for all. sQuid, which ground-breaking “Digital tools combined a fast-growing population. On his part, Iro noted that children productively engaged “After COVID, we are re- projects around the world with on-the-ground support “We recognise the need to the crisis in education caused at home and safe while schools imagining education systems, include pioneering education will increase engagement embrace proven technology by COVID-19 has shown the remain closed again.” and we must re-imagine them technology programmes and in education in often very solutions to deliver effective importance of ensuring that He expressed concern that so that they work within the large scale cashless payment difficult situations,” he said, education tools to help our schools can benefit from the when children do not go to challenges that face us; we must distribution helping margin- adding that the forum offered teachers and learners. sQuid’s most up-to-date technologies. school, some are at increased design programmes that give alised communities to improve an opportunity to share visions digital platform is proven and “Whether it’s an attendance risk of violence, abuse, early all children the same access children’s education and family on how UBEC’s mission can the team has pragmatic experi- register or teacher training or marriage and pregnancy, adding, to modern education systems livelihoods. benefit from technology and ence in Africa. We embrace payment systems, sQuid’s “children need to remain within whether they are at home or The stakeholders empha- how the government can and welcome partnerships EdTech will be of great benefit the education system, even not,” the spokesperson stressed. sised on future improvements strengthen Nigeria’s education with organisations that bring to thousands,” he said. 34 THISDAY ˾





OCTOBER 28, 2020 EDUCATION

KEHINDE OMORU www.kayomoru.com OF THE NIGERIAN MILLENNIALS CLAIMED IN ‘ENDSARS’ I join all Nigerian mothers to decry the loss of our children claimed by the gun shots in EndSARS. It is a national tragedy! Posterities aborted! Potential generations snuffed out forever! Killings - searing, severing, and sobering beyond all comfort! As a mother, I feel a heart wrenching maternal loss that only a woman who has experienced childbirth and early years nurturing of a child could feel. Lord, what sorrow those bereaved mothers would be in now. Heal O Lord! Bind their wounds! Where comforts fail, you alone can touch and make sorrows light! Importantly too, may the good lord cleanse our land that opened its mouth to drink the blood of its own children! As I have always been a teacher, nurturing in the many faces that teaching can wear, I grieve for our L-R: The Head, Business Development, SchoolsCompass, Nwanneka Cynthia; founder, SchoolsCompass, Yomi Ojo; Lagos children who’ve lost their lives or, are now maimed by the bursting effects of State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Folasade Adefisayo; and Support Lead, SchoolsCompass, Ojo Afolabi, during the bullets shot at them. These will now carry internal wounds that may never heal; presentation of a report, ‘Understanding the Stance of a Nigerian Parent in a Typical Post-COVID Learning Environment’ smashed bones that will incapacitate; gory nightmares that may never go! to the state government... recently Nonetheless I dare say - live Nigerian youths live! Thrive Nigerian youths thrive! A leadership course I completed recently at Said Business School of the Oxford University honed on the values of millennials. I did justice to the assignment attached to this module credits to having numerous opportunities in the past Innovative Technologies Will Support 10 years to work with the ever vivacious, ambidextrous millennials. I am proud of the opportunities to have myself taught this special set of today’s young adults at Corona Schools, Ikoyi and VI Lagos, as well as at St. Saviours School, VI Continuous Learning Post-COVID-19, Lagos in the 80s into the 21st century. Millennials are youths born between the year 1980 and 2000. They are a prized sector of any nation, only informed and educated people will seek them out to leverage their energy, dynamism, skills Experts Say and innovativeness on: corporate and private-sector processes, governance and economy; artisanship and formal education, religious processes and social Uchechukwu Nnaike many.” learners’ needs,” Nganga to-teach curriculum and services; etc. So it is a huge loss that anyone shot at these jewels of Nigeria As the pandemic spread said. teaching materials aligned during the #EndSARS protests. They could have been negotiated with and As economies around the throughout the continent “But what does this mean to industry-recognised reasoned with. They simply by their making bear all the qualities that make world begin to recover from and globe, governments, for all involved? Ideally, for Microsoft Fundamentals them amenable to intelligent discourse. Let me tell you about millennials so you the onset of the COVID-19 institutions and individu- students, they will become certifications. can appreciate the gravity of this national loss in the hands of their mindless pandemic, technologists have als began to band together, empowered to learn for “The Microsoft AI Busi- marksmen. Millennials are: Open and adaptive to change; they have passion stated that there would be navigating the “unsettled themselves in flexible, col- ness School is also a great for learning; they value meaningful motivation; they are confident, ambitious a shift to a learner-centered zone” where issues and laborative ways, both inside resource for students to and are achievement oriented; they are not afraid to question authority; free system that would marry questions involve getting and outside classrooms learn about applying AI thinking and creative; they place importance on tasks rather than time; they continuous learning with access to the right tech- at their own pace. They to industry, along with value social interactions. technology at all levels in nology, communication will also be able to follow considerations for sales, It is time for our old leaders to leave and take their place at the rear, not as ways never seen before. management and equity their own interests and be marketing, culture, and derelicts, but as the go-to place for wisdom. Sadly such go-to places are They said the pandemic i.e. access to devices and challenged as appropriate. responsible AI applica- dangerously fewer by the day. Currently many go-to places have blood in has brought to the fore fault connectivity – through to Teachers will have access tion across a multitude of their hands, callousness in their hearts, as well as no moral justifications to lines, particularly within the “learning zone”, where to individualised real-time industries. Furthermore, correct the young. Adieu all fallen millennials of the EndSARS protests May the education space that issues include enabling con- data on how well each of in an effort to support God rest your souls in His peace-filled, nurturing breasts, Amen. has required educators, tinuous learning, providing their students is progress- students in showcasing learners and parents to be support to students who ing- scholastically and their skills and building Omoru is a freelance writer, education, health and social care aware of the realities that lack independent skills, emotionally- enabling them their portfolio, Microsoft advocate existed across the spectrum and providing support to to devise new challenges and also provides institutions before its initial onset. parents of students. offer appropriate support for the opportunity to procure According to them, at “The global response each child to move ahead. Microsoft certification vouch- its very peak, research has we have seen within the Also, parents will be better ers at academic pricing on APWEN President shown that the pandemic left spheres of education at all connected to, and involved their existing volume license 1.6 billion students out of levels has demonstrated with their child’s education agreement – a great comple- Canvasses Capacity school and without access to how technology can help with certainty, detail, and ment to existing degree connectivity and resources. transform how we teach confidence.” studies or can serve as a Building of Girl-Child They said the abrupt change and learn. This powerful She stated that the com- stand-alone credential to meant that governments and shift to a learner-centered pany has continued to invest show proficiency in a specific Funmi Ogundare “The theme for this year’s educators need to rethink system will be amplified by in helping students at all technology.” public lecture is a subject that ways of bringing sustained technology and driven by level gain the skills to be “For providing students The President, Association is dear to the heart of today’s education to learners, taking education that is steeped successful in the future and with assistance in getting a of Professional Women in honoree, Nkechi Isigwe, who into account access to technol- in purpose and meaning. is committed to ensuring hands-on experience with Engineering (APWEN), passionately desires to see ogy and the various other While many institutions that educators are equipped technology, programmes like Mrs. Funmilola Ojelade, others, especially the younger circumstances that vastly still find themselves in with the tools and curricular Azure for Students, GitHub has stressed the need to ones, be the best they can separated students in the the two previous phases, resources to teach digital Student Developer Pack, enhance the capacity of be. That should tell you classroom in their home lives. some have started enter- skills and prepare students Visual Studio Code, and the girl-child, saying that something about APWEN’s Educators and institutions ing what is the ‘growth for in-demand jobs across programmes like Microsoft the move would impact educational programmes in also need to realise that the zone’ where it becomes cloud, data, artificial intel- Learn Student Ambassadors the immediate environment. encouraging the girl-child one-size-fits-all approach to clear that technology is a ligence, coding and even have been put in place. Ojelade, who said this to become engineers. we educating that existed for crucial part of the solution quantum computing. “Looking forward, recently at the third Nkechi are living the vision of our hundreds of years needs during the disruption and “One of these investments ‘rethinking’ will become Isigwe annual lecture with founding mothers, “she said. to go through an “unprec- beyond. What also emerges include creating a new a word synonymous with the theme ‘Capacity Build- In her remarks, Isigwe said edented shift” from a culture here is recognition that it experience on Microsoft how the rollout of education ing’, to commemorate the since Africa has the young- of teaching to a culture of is time to move beyond a Education and Microsoft is approached from start International Day of the est demography of people, learning, they said. blend of traditional teaching Learn for students and to finish. New data-based Girl-child, said the girl-child there is need to continue to According to the Educa- and online instruction to educators, providing cu- technologies have opened up must stand up against all champion efforts towards tion Lead, Middle East and something more. In other rated experiences including ways to transform practices, limitations on their way to creation of jobs. Africa Emerging Markets at words, moving to a hybrid learning paths focused on structures, and even cultures progress. “We need to develop the Microsoft, Angela Nganga, learning model -one that technology for social impact, in schools. Our commitment She said the lecture serves capacity of women to pay “the reality of it is that combines the best of in- popular university courses, to education remains at to honour one of its founding for their own children. If educators were and have school and remote learning and foundational developer the core of our mission members, who also served we are able to develop the also been placed into unfa- with digital engagement. It paths. In the same way, eli- and we will continue to as the second president of capacity of women, we will miliar territory where more is more than a quick fix. It gible educators and faculty push boundaries in this the association, as well as rule the world. The capacity societal and technological is a way to enhance and members at universities, space – ensuring learners, help fulfil its mandate as building is directed towards factors to easing learners accelerate learning by community colleges and parents and educators gain an educational organisation. job creation because we have into the new normal needed providing student-centered secondary schools can the most out of this process,” She said the association will lots of young people and we to be explored - a first for approaches to meet diverse access Microsoft ready- Nganga said. continue to sustain it. need to create jobs.” THISDAY ˾




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ͰͮͰͮ 35   Okorocha Suggests Best Skills Acqusition: NSE Spouses Forum Way to Tackle Almajiri Empowers Youths, Members Problem in Nigeria Funmi Ogundare annual general meeting, we used they can be self-reliant. “We are Another particiant, Mrs. to align with what the NSE is even pleading with the NSE Ayodolapo Bello said the Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi “I am calling on all Worried about the problems of going to do. So when they asked president to create a platform training was impactful, as and sundry, the rich and unemployment in the country, me what we are going to do to where they can produce what she learnt how to make hand A former Imo State Gover- government to see what the Nigerian Society of Engi- help our spouces, I told them they have learnt enmass and sanitiser and vaseline. nor, Rochas Okorocha, has they can do to help the neers (NSE) Spouses Forum, that I want to empower our exhibit it,” she said. “What we had been taught is stated that the best way to situation and to see how we Lagos Zone recently held a members and train them. This Some of the participants what we can easily do at home. tackle the almajiri problem can fight poverty together, skills acquisition programme, is an opportunity for them to expressed delight about what It will be more economical. You in the country particularly in and not blaming the children designed to empower members learn something. It is free.” they had learnt, saying that can be fully engaged by teaching the north is for everyone to and making them become and youths to become self- On her view about the high they are ready to hit the ground others what you have learnt see them as human beings. guilty of offences they didn’t reliant. rate of unemployment in the running by starting a business and even sell the products.” Okorocha, who was commit because they did The three-day programme country, especially this period, of their own. The Chairperson, Lagos Branch invited to Bauchi State not bring themselves to this saw participants being taught she said, “during the lockdown, A 200 level MBBS student of Spouses Forum, Mrs. Titilayo by Sheik Dhairu Usman world.” how to make pomade like Vase- people suffered a lot, there Unversity of Ilorin, Miss Kafayat Ogunnoiki said the training Bauchi, to celebrate his Okorocha added: “The best line, hand sanitiser, disinfectant, were loss of jobs and getting Sotoyinbo said rather than sit at was timely and effective as the yearly Mauloud, was also way to address the almajiri soap, starch, bleach, among something to eat was difficult. home waiting for ASUU to call new normal has taught people given an award for being issue is first of all, govern- others. Even some of my children’s off its strike, she would practice not to rely so much on salaries. an ambassador of the poor. ment must accept the fact The President of the forum, teachers were not paid where what she has learnt and even “People need something to In a chat with journalists, that these almajiris are our Mrs. Aisha Babagana said the they teach. This was also part commercialise it. augment their salaries and the he also advocated that the children and once we accept move was to align with the of what moved me to organise “Knowledge is power, no mat- programme is good as you will Arabic system of education that fact, then we have done NSE’s plans, adding that the the training.” ter what you are taught in class, have money at all time and you should be combined with the 50 per cent of the job and initiative was to ensure that the She expressed hope that you need to sit down and learn will never run dry. You will conventional school system. then we have to think about youths were fully engaged and at the end of the three-day and since it’s practical, I will always have capacity to sell, According to him, “I am in how to combine this school productive, especially during training, participants will go get my material and improve you can learn to make soap. Bauchi on the invitation of system, the Arabic schools, this COVID-19 period. home happy and put what on my skills and market my I am eager to put it into use,” Sheik Usman Dahiru Bauchi with conventional schools “Anytime we are having our they learnt into practice so that business.” she said. who invited me for this and empowerment. year’s Maulud. I was given “If they reach the age that an award as Sarkin Yakin they should go to farm there Talakawa by the Tijjaniniya must be something they can and also the Garkwuwan do because I don’t think that Almajairi (Ambassador of there is anybody created by Almajiris) and I think it has God that is useless. It is only to do with my passionate when there is no idea that appeal that the lives of the people look useless but there almajiris should be made is no useless person in this better in this country. world.” Cleric Urges FG to Show Commitment towards Promoting Education Amby Uneze in Owerri Peace Advocates (IAWPA) led by the president of the A religious leader, Most Rev. world body, His Excellency Daddy Hezekiah of the Living Per Stafsen from Denmark. From right: Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola; Pro-Chancellor, Osun State University, Mallam Yusuf Ali; and the Christ Mission (LCM), has Accordingly to him, “there is Vice-Chancellor, Professor Labode Popoola, during a courtesy visit to the governor by UNIOSUN Governing Council and expressed dissatisfaction with no meaningful development in its management, at the Government House, Osogbo... recently the administration of President the entire states of the south- Muhammadu Buhari for not east compared with the kind showing enough commitment of revenue and resources being towards the promotion of qual- generated from the area unlike Barca Academy Chairman Calls for Innovative ity education in the country. in the south-south, north and He described Nigeria as south-west regions. Approach in Education a failed nation for not being “The governors of south-east able to correct the ills which are mismanaging the resources Rebecca Ejifoma of the economy including Nigeria sited in world-class the children and schools. had bedeviled the country without commensurate patri- education,” he said, adding facilities in Lekki and Gbagada, “Some public and private since independence in 1960, otic inputs to the states and In preparation for the resump- that the development took the and Blaugrana Group Inter- schools may not be able to stating that a man of 60 years the populace. They must be tion of academic activities, sector unawares and a large national, the chairman said immediately embrace the set that still behaves like a child held responsible for under- the Chairman, Barca Acad- percentage of the sector was the project promoter in sub- health protocols as may be is not normal. development of the entire emy Group Nigeria, Leslie not prepared and still not Saharan Africa is a hi-tech and directed by the Presidential Hezekiah charged the region.” Oghomienor, has called for ready for what is ahead in innovative academic outfit that Taskforce and the Nigerian president to wake up and The cleric also revealed more innovative and scien- order to flow with the time engages seasoned professionals. Centre for Disease Control,” show interest to resolve the that he recently spent several tific approach for the overall that is completely new, tasking “However, the global he noted. lingering strike in the country’s millions of naira in providing interest of all stakeholders and and highly capital intensive pandemic has challenged us The Barca boss therefore university system involving palliatives for less privileged students, to address lapses in and skillful. to be more adaptable to the called for caution and patience the Academic Staff Union of members of the society as the education sector. After a crucial stakeholders’ trends. Thus, we innovate and for the wellbeing of the nation. Universities (ASUU), as well a result of the COVID-19 Oghomienor, in a press meeting in Lagos, Oghomienor advance ahead of the times for “This is the best time for all as improving security in the pandemic, lamenting that due release, said the innovative described the situation as the good of us all. Ours is a good men and women, NGOs, country. to the lockdown, he has been and scientific approach will highly underestimated, least people-oriented organisation.” government at all levels and The cleric also blamed the regrettably unable to attend put the minds of parents at expected and must be ap- Oghomienor commended the corporate entities to lend a south- east governors for the church activities for the past rest. proached more innovatively government for hesitating to sustainable helping hand to decay in infrastructure and eight months. “In Nigeria, to tame the and scientifically for the overall open the academic clime of the ensure things return to better transformation of the region He called for humility and spread of the COVID-19, interest of all stakeholders, economy until proper strategic normal in the education sector due to their administrations’ respect in the service of God, the federal government shut most importantly the students. plan and direction is certain being the bedrock of sound and alleged non-commitment insisting that Jesus Christ came down virtually every facet With Barca Academy Group especially for the interest of viable national development.” towards the provision of the into the world to justify the needed democratic dividends need for holiness, righteous- to the people of the geopolitical ness, services and salvation and zone unlike their counterparts not posterity, as some religious Kings Varsity VC Restates Commitment to Academic Excellence in other geopolitical regions. leaders are allegedly deceiving Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo Speaking with select jour- development programmes On the developmental efforts Hezekiah said this at the their congregations. nalists at the institution in such as technical education, of the institution, she stressed Administrative Cathedral of the Hezekiah, who graduated in The Vice-Chancellor of Kings Ode-omu, Osun State, Kuku entrepreneurial programmes, that strategic plans are on to church in Onitsha, Anambra 1979 in Industrial Chemistry University, Professor Adenike insisted that technical education agricultural and research increase enrollment as a young State, while interacting with from the University of Zambia, Kuku has stated that the intro- would boost entrepreneurial activities would help to boost university. journalists as part of activities Lusaka, further blamed some duction of technical education in opportunities on the part of the developmental efforts of She also promised to marking his birthday, 53rd an- church leaders for the woes the institution would boost the the students after graduation. the institution. ensure prompt expansion in niversary of being a sherpherd of some people looking down university’s vision of promoting She also expressed the The vice-chancellor, who was the institution to take care in God’s vineyard, quarterly on God and admonished his academic excellence. institution’s desire to promote optimistic about the develop- of physical infrastructure, as conference with his pastors, pastors against deceiving She said in the promotion academic excellence through ment of the institution, stressed well as to combat all forms the church’s annual convention their congregations with false of academic excellence, the agricultural project to generate that strategic partnership with of unnecessary invasions and and the award of International miracles and testimonies and institution has ensured that 75 funds for the development of organisations would also assist activities that will not augur Mayor of Peace by Interna- prayed for God’s grace upon per cent of the students are on the university. in the institution’s research and well for the development of tional Association of World them. schorlaship. According to her, capital activities. the institution at large. 36 THISDAY ˾





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͙͖͓͓͖͓͔͓͖͑͒ Making a Living from Passion David-Chyddy Eleke writes that Nancy Chidebe is one young lady who is making a living off her passion for making quality shoes for different social strata, which has earned her the sobriquets ‘Shoe Diva’ and ‘Minister of Leather Craft’

Nancy Ifeoma Chidebe, Principal Designer, Nancy Shoecraft and Leather Work, poses with her patron; Member representing Nnewi North Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Nonso Smart Okafor Chidebe with some of the shoes and belts she made

any young ladies would nickname I love to be addressed as. liaise with them, but importantly, we member representing Nnewi North State prefer a white collar After NYSC, I studied Leatherwork were determined to continue. We do Constituency is one of my patrons, and job to putting their Production and Craftsmanship at St not have all the equipment we need for he has also confirmed the quality of skills to work, but Davids Shoe Academy Lagos (www. smooth production, as such, some of the shoes I make." not Nancy Chidebe; stdavidsshoes.com). That was few days the things that machines could do for Hon Okafor who also spoke on the principal designer after my white wedding. I kind of did us, we use manual strength to do it. the quality of shoes made by Nancy Mat Nancy Shoecraft, a shoe making my honeymoon in a shoe factory. That’s “If we have the right sponsorship, we Shoecraft said, "What I am very happy industry located at Ekwulobia in Aguata how much I love crafts.” will get the kind of industrial machines about is that these shoes are made in Local Government Area of Anambra Speaking about the quality of her that will make our work more efficient, Nigeria, and not just Nigeria but made State. She does not only make shoes shoes, Chidebe said her company is and our products even better. Also, we here in Anambra. I patronise Nancy but belts, bags and other items that not unaware of the fact that they are cannot continue to use our home as Shoecraft, her products are good, af- could be made by playing with leather. people of various financial attainments a factory and showroom, we have to fordable and durable. This one I am According to her, she derives pleasure in the society, and that determines the get a place, and all these need money wearing (showing his shoes) was made designing and creating new things and kind of shoes they wear, which is the to be achieved." by Nancy Shoecraft, and I have been that’s what lead her into becoming a reason she makes shoes for all level wearing it for quite a long time. For craft woman. of people. Giving Back me, I think it is inferiority complex for The young graduate and mother of "I know that Nigeria is made up ”I started an initiative called NANCY’S one to believe that shoes made here in one on a first encounter is quick to of people of different categories, so GIRL CHILD CRAFT (NGCC). I am a Nigeria or Anambra can not be good introduce the source of her living to I make shoes for people of all levels. mother, and I have a girl-child. The enough. We should be proud of our anyone she meets without feeling shy, My dream is to get to a level where idea is to empower our young girls own and support local production the and usually refers to herself as the Shoe people of all background and level in with a craft. I believe if I had started best way we can." Diva. "I am the CEO and Principal the society will come into my showroom this my journey in craft since I was designer of NANCYSHOECRAFT and would find shoes fit for them, no a girl, I would have been doing more Juggling Responsibilities LEATHERWORKS, a shoe manufacturing matter the quality they prefer to wear." wonderfully and perfected in all aspects To cope with the problem of low company with its office at Ekwulobia of the leather craft,” she revealed. finance, Nancy has made a good job, in Anambra State, Nigeria. I am an Initial Funding, Equipment Chal- Nancy said she is happy today that managing her business, and family. She Associate Member of Chattered Institute lenge she does not only earn a living from is not just the producer of her products, of Entrepreneurs Nigeria," she said. Chidebe said she started her shoe her craft, but was now giving back to but also a marketer. To be able to juggle Even though she is an entrepreneur, making company about five years ago. society by training other teenage girls. the responsibilities perfectly, she has she is also a wife, mother and teen To be sure that her products met the She stated that she is not looked upon a part of her home made out as the coach who is determined to create an taste of the people, she first started as one who is the the wrong profession, factory, with diverse machines that aid impact in the society even with her by producing for family members and and that her confidence in her work production, while a part of her living Distinction in Office Technology and friends to try her products, and once has made some mothers to bring and room has been made into a showroom, Management from Federal Polytechnic they did and certified them fit and register their children with NGCC, with shelves and showcases where her Oko, Anambra State. durable, she went fully into commercial just to acquire the skills required in products are sampled. On how she ventured into shoe production. shoemaking. To ensure effective marketing of her making, she said, "From my child- "There are various materials for products, the mother of one also runs hood days, I have always had a flair production, and the durability de- Patronage www.nancyshoecraft.com, from where for creativity. Nothing gives me more pends on the materials used and their Though Nancy alluded to being she advertises her products and gets pleasure than designing, and after my cost too. We ensure we give people highly patronised by the society, she orders to deliver her products. She one year mandatory National Youth the best, and to do so, we require thinks that she has not reached the believes that before long, she would Service Corps, I told myself I could make finances. When I started five years level of patronage that she seeks. "I move to a bigger place that will accom- a living from making shoes, instead of ago, I didn't start big. We encountered have numerous customers, who cut modate her dream machines, and aid going around looking for job. financial challenges, and we had to across people from all walks of life. her to produce for a larger spectrum "Minister of Leathercraft - is a meet other existing manufacturers to Hon Nonso Smart Okafor who is the of patrons. THISDAY ˾



OCTOBER 28, 2020 37 CRIME&SECURITY Tackling the Dangers of Illicit Drugs Ibrahim Oyewale who examines the adverse effect Cannabis Sativa pose on youths and the worrisome development that has seen Kogi State change from a transit point to a cultivating state, writes that the state Commander, National Drug and Law Enforcement Agency is tackling the menace one farm at a time

espite the continuous effort by the federal government to wage war against the use of illicit drugs such as narcotic, cannabis sativa and psychotropic substances such as tramadol,D Tutolyn, and others, some unscrupulous elements have continued to engage themselves in illegal cultivation of cannabis sativa in large quantities for commercial purposes across the country. Cannabis Sativa, which is popularly known as hemp or marijuana is prohibited by law in Nigeria because of its adverse effect arising from the use and consumption on the socio-economic developnent of this great nation. The agency saddled with the herculean task, the National Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combact the menace of the illict drugs in country has not for once left any stone unturned to ensure a drug -free society Operative of NDLEA supervising the destruction of Cannabis Sativa Farm despite the complex nature of the fight against the drug dealers . However, research has shown that the use of cannabis sativa otherwise known as Marijuana has both long and short term effects on the users. While some school of thought believe that it has medicinal value, others strongly argue that the consumption or frequent use has damaging consequences on the users than any good. According to researchers, “it has been scientifi- cally proven that marijuana over activates parts of the brain that contain the highest number of the receptors, part of which causes the "high" that people feel. Other effects are altered senses just like seeing brighter colours, altered sense of time, changes in mood, impaired body movement, difficulty with thinking and problem-solving, also resulting to impaired memory, hallucinations , delusions and psychcosis risk when consumed in high doses with regular use of high potency marijuana. "Marijuana also affects brain development. When people begin using marijuana as teenagers, NDLEA Kogi State Commander, Alfred Adewunmi supervising the the drug may impair thinking, memory, and Uncovered Cannabis destruction of the cannabis farm learning functions and affect how the brain builds connections between the areas necessary Osun States in production capacity. cannabis, we will be able to proceed to say it sativa. I want to advice as much as possible for these functions. Researchers are still studying He said: ”I want to tell you that I am is medicinal in specific terms and this is what it that Kogi State government is supporting what how long marijuana's effects last and whether astounded, shocked and perplexed that does for society. But of course till then I believe NDLEA is doing in the state therefore there some changes may be permanent.” something as huge and as enormus as this can we should exercise caution“. will be no room for anyone to turn Kogi State Prior to 2010 when cannabis sativa farm was be discoveredd in Kogi State. Our assumption He however commended the Kogi State into Canabis Sativa Cultivation State. We will first discovered at remote forests in Isanlu and is that Kogi State, even though it is surrounded government for the support given to the agency not allow it.” Ife Olukotun , Yagba East Local Government by some states that are notorious for cannabis to make a follow up. “We were making this Adewunmi also advised the youths in the area of Kogi State, the state was seen as then sativa cultivation , was simply a transit point follow up and came to other discoveries as a area to desist from engaging themselves in a transit point based on its strategic location as because of the strategic location of Kogi State. consequence of the support the state government cultivation of marijuana, rather they dissipate a gateway to both the Northern and Southern “However, to discover that within Kogi has given to us.” their energies on rice, yam, cassava or garden parts of the country. State we can have plantation of this huge “Again, as you have seen, we will require to egg plantation. He noted that he saw how Beside that, Kogi State has also been proportion is something that has shocked me muster five times resources deployed today. We well the garden egg was thriving and saw surrounded by somes states notorious for the to the marrow. I will simply tell you it is very have nearly 80 people with us here to destroy also within the farm were cassava was planted, cultivation of Cannabis Sativa in quantities, enormus plantations of cannabis sativa and it is this plantation but even with these 80 persons, which was doing very well. hence, the inflow of the substance was very not just one single farm land. Of course, all of they would not be able to complete the job. So “What happened is that the priorities of easy. The tasks before the NDLEA then was you have been on my entourage and we have there is still going to be need to come back here these misguided individuals was set wrongly. limited to placing surveillance on the dealers walked within this farm for over two, three again and again for us to be able to completely They should do the right thing and cultivate and users, then arrest and seize the illict drugs, kilometres and we are still within the farm.“ destroy this farm. But as it is, I must commend great crops that will benefit humanity. They before counseling and prosecution of the drug Adewunmi stressed further that it might that without the state government, we would will be able live a life that is worthwhile. The addicts as the case may be. be actually that the entire community has not have accomplished this mission continuation of illicit planting of illegal cannabis During the period under review, the Kogi State been engaged in cultivating of cannabis sativa On total estimate pf the farm lands and sativa is not going to be a benefit for anyone.“ Command of NDLEA made several arrests, seized here. “It looks as if the whole community is expected turnover , the NDLEA boss pointed The 29-year-old suspect , Ameh Joseph, in thousands of cananabis sativa worth billions of involved because a situation where three to out that It is going to be really unsciencific for an interview with journalists said he was the Naira, secured many convictions through the four killometres of arable land are dedicated for him to just to say the exact number based on owner of a section of the farm, stressing that Federal High Court saddled with responsibilty cultivation of Cannabis Sativa, it has has become the large areas covered, noted that what the he ventured into cannabis sativa farming as a to entertain illict drugs and related matters. In a community of Cannabis Sativa cultivation”. operatives of NDLEA saw here is far in excess result of economic hardship. He further pointed addition to this, the national officers of NDLEA While opposing the earlier postulations that 10- hectare of the cannabi sativa we discovered out that he had once been employed as farm in collaboration with the state command and canabis sativa has medicinal value, the Kogi earlier on , in excess of 7.5-hectare of Cannabis manager in charge of cannabis Sativa at Ogbese state government equally destroyed several State Commander warned the general public to Sativa discovered. If you put all of these together in Ondo State in 1995 with yearly salary of millions of kilogrammes of weeds suspected be wary of the use of cannabis sativa anyhow, you will see we will talking over 35-hectare of between N85, 000 and N100,000. to cannabis sativa. noting that he had listened to the debate about Cannabis Sativa plantation. To begin to talk He noted that he returned and ventured into The recent arrest of a suspected farmer, Ameh the medicinal value of cannabis and " I have about the face value , "to be frank with you good business until recently when it nose-dived Joseph and subsequent discovery of over four always asked myself about those who are we are talking about N1.5 billion if successfully and he found alternative in the cultivation of kilometres stretch of cannabis sativa farm at making the propositions, are they aware of cultivated", he added. cannabis sativa business. The suspect who was Kara Forest in Agbokete Community , Akpanya the varieties of the species of cannabis we " I want to warn those who are into this full of regrets said he would never go back district of Igalamela/Odolu Local Government have? What type of cannabis do we have here business, that if you considered the distance we to the business again , warning other youths Area of Kogi State may have exposed the state in Nigeria ? Is it suitable? How much reaserch have to cover before we got here, the hidden not to be involved in such illegal business as as one of cultivating states with inherent danger has been done and what is the proportion that nature of this environment particularly in the it would backfire one day. looming on the teaming youths if not nipped has medicinal value? valley and the challenges we encountered in The father of two lamented that his wife and in the bud now. “Rather than to encourage a situation where the process of getting here, it would appear children deserted him when he was arrested With this startling discoveries, Kogi State people are advised to go into cannabis sativa that they have concealed their illict activitives and his aged mother have been left alone. “If NDLEA Commander, Mr. Alfred Adewunmi production believing it has medicinal value, I well enough for anybody to discover it, but I am out of this, I will return to a legitimate expressed worries over the sudden change in will rather suggest that our leaders encourage the reality is that we have found them out. business. After all, I know much about fast food the status of Kogi State from transit point to deep research into the properties of cannabis. “There is no hiding place for any criminal. packaging. I have gone to beg for forgiveness one of the cannabis sativa cultivation states, When we are able to come up with undisputable There is no hiding place for anyone who will a day after I was paraded and I will not go trailing behind Edo, Delta, Ondo, Ekiti and conclusion about values that are inherent in still involve in the illicit cultivation of cannabis back to illict drug business". 38 THISDAY ˾

ͰͶ˜ 2020

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE Purchasing Managers’ Index Contracts in October Obinna Chima metal, petroleum and coal prod- tions in the review month. ucts, paper products, fabricated “The manufacturing supplier The Manufacturing Purchasing metal products, furniture and delivery time index stood at Managers’ Index (PMI) stood related products, non-metallic 51.8 points in October 2020. at 49.4 index points in October, mineral products, plastics and This indicates that supplier indicating slowing contraction rubber products and food, delivery time is faster for the in the manufacturing sector beverage and tobacco products. sixth consecutive month. Six compared with the last five It also showed that at 50 of the 14 subsectors recorded months. points, the production level improved suppliers’ delivery According to the Central index in October 2020 for the time, five reported stationery Bank of Nigeria’s PMI report for manufacturing sector indicating level, while three recorded October obtained yesterday, of halting in contraction which slowing delivery time. the 14 sub-sectors surveyed, six commenced since May 2020. “The employment level index reported expansion (above 50% Of the 14 sub-sectors surveyed, for October 2020 stood at 46 threshold) in the review month seven recorded expansion in points, indicating contraction in in the following order: Electri- production level, one maintained employment level for the seventh cal equipment, transportation current level, while six sub-sectors consecutive month. Of the 14 equipment, printing and related recorded decline in production sub-sectors, three sub-sectors support activities, chemical and in October 2020. But the new recorded growth in employment pharmaceutical products, textile, orders index expanded at 51.2 level in the review month; two apparel, leather and footwear and points from contraction in the sub-sectors recorded stationary cement. previous month. Four subsectors level of employment, while However, the remaining eight reported expansion in new orders, the remaining nine sub-sectors sub-sectors reported contractions four were stationary, while the recorded lower employment levels in the following order: Primary remaining six recorded contrac- in the review month,” it stated. FRC, IASB Pledge to Strengthen Partnership MARKET INDICATORS The Financial Reporting conscience of regulatory assur- regulation which is expected to Council of Nigeria (FRC) has ance in financial reporting and provide increased transparency for MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) promised to sustain its partner- corporate governance in Nigeria. investors and other stakeholders, ship with the International The Council issued the National as well as enhance economic JULY 2020 Accounting Standards Board Code of Corporate Governance growth amongst other benefits,” Money Supply (M3) 36,822,751.47 (IASB) in order to ensure high (NCCG 2018) in the early part he told his audience. standards of financial reporting of 2019. Precisely, he said the training -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 3,476,121.25 in Nigeria. “The document apart from was to deepen knowledge on the Money Supply (M2) 33,346,630.22 Speaking during a stakehold- aligning with world best practices application and implementation ers’ interactive forum with the on corporate governance has also of IFRS 9, 16 & 17 in Financial -- Quasi Money 120,764,479.02 IASB, Deputy Director/Head been commended as a game Institutions in Nigeria. 12,582,151.19 Directorate of Accounting changer in corporate governance. On 28 May 2020, the IASB -- Narrow Money (M1) Standards Public Sector at FRC, In the same vein, the Council has issued amendment to IFRS ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,002,026.89 Dr. Iheanyi Anyahara, said the further simplified its registration 16, Covid-19 - Related Rent training enabled financial insti- processes which implies that you Concessions which is effective ---- Demand Deposits 10,580,124.31 tutions in obtaining first-hand can get your registration numbers for annual periods beginning on Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,637,137.23 information on International within 48 hours after completing or after 1 June 2020. Financial Reporting Standards your registration. “The Council is however Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 29,185,614.24 (IFRS) implementation challenges “More so, the Council ensures getting its constituent ready for -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 39,711,115.95 from the users. that all stakeholders are involved IFRS 17, Insurance Contracts He pointed out that the in the standard setting processes which will be effective for ---- Credit to Government (Net) 19,521,851.08 FRC is a regulatory agency of of international accounting and annual periods beginning on the federal government that auditing bodies through the or after January 1, 2023 after ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA 0.00 promotes trade and investment various technical committees the standard was amended ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00 in Nigeria by ensuring high amongst other initiatives,” on 25 June 2020 to defer its standards of financial report- Anyahara added. effective date. ---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) -130,189,264.87 ing and corporate governance; He disclosed that the council “The Council is aware that --Other Assets Net 3,472,017.70 maintains independent public recently begun assessment implementing IFRS 17 commands oversight of accounting, auditing, of IPSAS application and a radical departure from cur- Reserve Money (Base Money 13,421,827.07 financial reporting and corporate implementation of appropriate rent accounting standards and governance of public interest financial reporting framework produces complex operational --Currency in Circulation 2,395,917.03 entities by setting, monitoring in the public sector entities of challenges. That is why we are organising this programme and --Banks Reserves 11,025,910.04 ˾

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 and enforcement of compliance Nigeria, which is another critical --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 with related standards area of concern. many more in collaboration with “The Council has been very “Let me also inform you that IASB to guide the users of the resolute and committed in the Council is at the final stage standards both in application and Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) driving its vision of being the of issuing its long awaited Audit implementation. Month March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 US Consulate Announces Application for Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00

Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Treasury Bill Rate 11.84

The United States Consulate cal skills required to create and entrepreneurs to apply,” Acting Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 General in Lagos yesterday run successful and sustainable Public Affairs Officer Foltz said. announced a call for applica- businesses,” the statement added. Leading local business leaders 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 tions for the 2020 Academy for United States Consulate Acting will help facilitate the workshops. Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), Public Affairs Officer, Jennifer In addition, participants will 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 a US Government initiative that Foltz explained that the goal receive access to DreamBuilder, 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 supports women entrepreneurs of the Academy for Women a blended business-training around the world. Entrepreneurs was to teach course developed through a 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21 According to a statement, in the women around the world to partnership between Arizona second annual AWE, 120 female become successful entrepreneurs. State University’s Thunderbird Prime Lending rate 17.35 entrepreneurs from across According to her, in the midst School of Global Management Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 southern Nigeria would be of the COVID-19 pandemic and and global copper mining selected to receive virtual and its impact on the global economy, company Freeport-McMoRan. in-person training and mentoring. the US Consulate General aims to The U.S. Consulate General ˾
ÙØÏÞËÜã
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ͯͱϱ “To support the comprehensive work with the AWE participants has partnered with Ascend OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE 

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ͰͮͰͮ rehabilitation and reintegration to develop their businesses. Studios Foundation to ad- of returned migrants, we will “One of the US government’s minister this program. Chief The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $39.22 a barrel on Monday, select 20 female returnees to take goals is to promote entrepreneur- Executive Officer of Ascend compared with $41.05 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. part in the program. ship worldwide. Through the Studios Foundation, Ms. Inya The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend “During the intensive program Academy for Women Entrepre- Lawal, said “We are excited (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), scheduled to run from November neurs, we are doing just that by that the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos has partnered with us Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider 2020 to March 2021, successful giving ambitious businesswomen (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey applicants will receive lessons on the skills they need to take their for the second time to imple- business management, network ventures to the next level. For this ment this important program (Venezuela). with like-minded entrepreneurs year’s program, we encourage tailored for women’s economic SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna and mentors, and learn the practi- motivated and self-driven female empowerment. THISDAY ˾

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ͰͮͰͮ 39

 


Flour Mills of Nigeria Grows Six-month Profit by 68% to N10bn Goddy Egene billion in the corresponding previous year. It explained that business has once again group-wide cost optimisation, and agro-distribution and period of 2019. Financing cost the agro-allied segment saw shown its resilience, by fol- which will ensure sustainability aggregation structures. Flour Mills of Nigeria (FMN) stood at N9.951 billion, from very strong improvement in the lowing the path of sustainable in the current market climate, “In line with FMN’s growth Plc, one of the leading inte- N8.838 billion. edible oils and fats, protein and growth despite the prevailing while we continue to invest strategy, the edible oils and fats grated food business and agro- The firm ended the period fertilizer businesses following challenges in both the local ingrowing the business further.” value chain saw a significant allied group has announced with a profit before tax(PBT) the investments over the last and global economy. “In line He noted that despite pre- year-on-year increase of 32 per its unaudited results for the of N14.607 billion, indicating few years. with our vision to continue vailing economic headwinds, cent in volume turning in a 2020/21 half year-ended a jump of 69 per cent. Profit after tax (PAT) rose to grow value for our inves- the group continued to show profit when compared to the September 30, 2020. According to the company, 68 per cent from N5.9 billion tors, management will for the sustained growth in key seg- loss in H1 2019/20. Volumes The results showed sig- the increase in profit before to N9.9 billion. Commenting remaining part of the financial ments, with the agro-allied for the protein value chain nificant jump in performance tax was largely driven by the on the results, the Group year continue to concentrate segment taking the lead with also increased by 18 per cent indicators. For instance, its agro-allied segment, which Managing Director /CEO, on improving operational a strong performance in edible year-on-year, while the starch revenue rose 31 per cent to generated a profit of N6.3 FMN Plc, Paul Gbededo, effectiveness through oils and proteins supported value chain was up by 31 per N355.1 billion, from N270.8 billion compared to a loss the said: “With this result, our accelerated strategies for by agro-inputs (fertilizer) cent year-on-year.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 26/10/2020

MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 40  
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2020

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Thisday Afrinvest 40 Index Advances 64bps dŚĞ dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ /ŶĚĞdž ŐĂŝŶĞĚ ϲϰďƉƐ ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ Ăƚ THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX 1,316.08 points in yesterday͛ƐƚƌĂĚŝŶŐƐĞƐƐŝŽŶĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐƉƌŝĐĞ ĂĐĐƌĞƟŽŶŝŶGUARANTY (+2.0%), ZENITH (+1.4%) and AC- Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index CESS ;нϬ͘ϳйͿ͘dŚĞƐĞƐƚŽĐŬƐĐƵŵƵůĂƟǀĞůLJĂĐĐŽƵŶƚĨŽƌϮϬ͘ϭй Price Price Previous Current Current Change Change Divindend Earnings of the index. Ticker Price Weightin ROE ROA P/E P/BV Price YTD Index to Yield Yield Change g Date THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 1,316.08 0.64% -10.3% 31.6% 4.5x 0.6x 5.9% 14.8% 1 MTN Nigeria Communications PLC 140.00 0.0% 32.3% 33.3% 28.4% 163.8% 12.2% 14.5x 20.5x 5.0% 6.9% Local Bourse Sustains Gain... ASI Up 0.7% 2 Airtel Africa PLC 410.20 0.0% 17.5% 37.2% 37.2% 7.7% 2.8% 2.8% 3 Guaranty Trust Bank PLC 31.25 2.0% 10.4% 5.2% 7.0% 29.4% 4.7% 4.6x 1.3x 9.0% 21.8% dŚĞůŽĐĂůďŽƵƌƐĞĞdžƚĞŶĚĞĚŐĂŝŶƐĂƐĂƌĞƐƵůƚŽĨƉƌŝĐĞĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂͲ 4 Zenith Bank PLC 21.45 1.4% 6.7% 15.3% 14.7% 3.0x 0.7x 13.1% 33.2% ƟŽŶ ŝŶ GUARANTY (+2.0%), BUACEMENT (+1.2%) 5 Nestle Nigeria PLC 1,175.00 0.0% 3.6% -20.1% -20.1% 106.4% 23.1% 22.6x 29.4x 5.4% 4.4% 6 Dangote Cement PLC 152.00 0.0% 4.3% 7.0% 7.0% 26.9% 12.0% 12.4x 3.6x 10.5% 8.0% and UBN ;нϴ͘ϯйͿ͘ŽŶƐĞƋƵĞŶƚůLJ͕ƚŚĞE^ůů-^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž 7 Access Bank PLC 7.70 0.7% 3.0% -23.0% -23.8% 15.3% 1.3% 2.8x 0.4x 8.4% 36.3% 8 United Bank for Africa PLC 7.20 0.0% ;^/Ϳ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ϳϬďƉƐ ƚŽ Ϯϴ͕ϵϴϬ͘Ϯϵ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ŝŶǀĞƐͲ 2.6% 0.7% 0.0% 13.0% 1.2% 3.4x 0.4x 13.5% 29.8% 9 FBN Holdings Plc 6.15 0.8% 2.4% 0.0% -5.4% 14.2% 1.4% 3.0x 0.3x 6.2% 33.7% tors gained േ105.8bn as ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞĚ ƚŽ 10 Nigerian Brew eries PLC 52.00 0.0% 2.2% -11.9% -11.9% 5.1% 2.0% 49.6x 2.6x 3.9% 2.0% 11 Lafarge Africa PLC 18.00 0.0% േϭϱ͘ϭƚŶĂŶĚzdƌĞƚƵƌŶŝŵƉƌŽǀĞĚƚŽϴ͘Ϭй͘ĐƟǀŝƚLJůĞǀĞůǁĂƐ 3.0% 17.6% 30.4% 6.5% 4.6% 12.5x 0.8x 5.6% 8.0% 12 SEPLAT Petroleum Development C 420.00 0.0% 1.4% -36.2% -29.1% 2.5% 1.5% 20.2x 0.4x 8.9% 5.0% ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂƐ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƌŽƐĞ ϭϯ͘ϭй ƚŽ ϯϴϱ͘ϲŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ǁŚŝůĞ 13 Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC 44.50 1.1% 2.0% 8.5% 11.3% 5.7x 5.4% 17.5% 14 Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC 26.50 9.5% 1.2% 34.5% 34.5% 0.7x 5.3% ǀĂůƵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ 47.6% to േϮ͘ϵďŶ͘ dŚĞ ŵŽƐƚ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ 15 International Brew eries PLC 6.10 1.5% 0.6% -35.8% -35.8% -33.6% -8.6% 1.1x -44.3% ƐƚŽĐŬƐďLJǀŽůƵŵĞǁĞƌĞ FBNH ;ϴϭ͘ϴŵƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ ACCESS ;ϱϬ͘ϳŵ 16 Ecobank Transnational Inc 5.30 8.2% 0.7% -18.5% -19.1% 11.0% 0.7% 2.1x 0.2x 47.4% 17 Fidelity Bank PLC 2.18 5.8% 0.7% 6.3% 7.9% 10.9% 1.2% 2.5x 0.3x 9.3% 39.8% ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ĂŶĚ FIDELITY ;ϯϱ͘Ϯŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ 18 11 PLC 178.30 0.0% 0.7% 20.6% 20.6% 18.7% 8.5% 8.9x 1.5x 4.6% 11.2% ǁŚŝůĞ FBNH (േϱϬϱ͘ϱŵͿ͕ ZENITH (േϰϬϮ͘ϬŵͿ 19 Okomu Oil Palm PLC 80.00 0.0% 0.8% 43.9% 43.9% 23.5% 15.8% 10.9x 2.4x 2.4% 9.2% 20 Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC 13.80 0.7% 0.5% 1.5% -1.4% 21.2% 11.5% 7.2x 1.4x 8.0% 13.8% and ACCESS (േϯϵϭ͘ϮďŶͿůĞĚďLJǀĂůƵĞ͘ 21 Transnational Corp of Nigeria 0.62 1.6% 0.3% -37.4% -42.1% 0.4x 1.6% -5.2% 22 Unilever Nigeria PLC 13.15 0.0% 0.3% -40.2% -36.5% -9.8% -6.5% 1.2x -9.0% 23 Guinness Nigeria PLC 16.90 5.6% 0.2% -43.8% -43.8% -16.2% -8.4% 0.5x -35.2% 24 FCMB Group Plc 2.65 6.0% 0.5% 43.2% 45.6% 9.8% 1.1% 2.6x 0.2x 5.3% 37.8% Bullish Sector Performance 25 Sterling Bank PLC 1.48 2.1% 0.2% -25.6% -22.1% 8.7% 0.8% 4.1x 0.3x 2.0% 24.2% 26 UAC of Nigeria PLC 7.15 0.0% 0.2% -16.9% -19.7% -11.2% -5.5% 2.9x 0.4x 1.4% 34.6% WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞĂĐƌŽƐƐƐĞĐƚŽƌƐǁĂƐďƵůůŝƐŚĂƐĂůůƚŚĞŝŶĚŝĐĞƐƵŶͲ 27 Custodian and Allied Insurance 5.50 0.0% 0.2% -8.3% -8.3% 13.9% 4.9% 5.2x 0.7x 8.2% 19.1% ĚĞƌŽƵƌĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞĐůŽƐĞĚŶŽƌƚŚǁĂƌĚ͘dŚĞ/ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞĂŶĚĂŶŬͲ 28 Presco PLC 65.90 0.0% 0.3% 38.7% 38.7% 17.6% 7.6% 12.6x 2.0x 3.1% 7.9% 29 Union Bank of Nigeria PLC 5.25 8.2% 0.2% -12.5% -13.2% 7.7% 1.0% 6.6x 0.6x 4.8% 15.2% ŝŶŐŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚϮ͘ϳйĂŶĚϮ͘ϮйƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJĚƵĞƚŽŐĂŝŶƐ 30 Total Nigeria PLC 112.20 0.0% 0.2% 1.2% 1.2% 5.7% 1.1% 25.7x 1.5x 5.8% 3.9% 31 Oando PLC 2.45 6.1% in LINKASSURE (+10.0%), WAPIC (+2.7%), GUARANTY (+2.0% 0.1% -38.6% -38.6% 14.5% 2.6% 1.1x 0.1x 94.8% 32 NASCON Allied Industries PLC 13.10 0.0% 0.1% 1.2% 1.2% 16.7% 5.2% 8.5x 2.8x 3.1% 11.7% ) and UBN ;нϴ͘ϯйͿ͘^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ƚŚĞŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ'ŽŽĚƐĂŶĚKŝůΘ 33 Julius Berger Nigeria PLC 16.90 0.0% 0.1% 1.9% -15.1% 10.8% 1.2% 6.7x 0.7x 9.8% 14.9% 34 Wema Bank PLC 0.57 -1.7% 0.1% -23.0% -16.2% 8.3% 0.6% 3.0x 0.4x 7.0% 33.3% 'ĂƐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƌŽƐĞ Ϭ͘ϵй ĂŶĚ Ϭ͘ϴй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ 35 Ardova PLC 11.90 0.0% 0.1% -34.3% -33.9% -3.0% -1.0% 0.9x -3.4% gains in FLOURMILL ;нϵ͘ϱйͿ͕ GUINNESS (+5.6%), OANDO (+6 36 Continental Reinsurance PLC 0.0% 37 Beta Glass PLC 55.40 0.0% 0.1% 3.0% 3.0% 13.5% 9.1% 6.1x 0.8x 0.0x 16.5% .1%) and CONOIL ;нϵ͘ϴйͿ͘ WƌŝĐĞ ƵƉƟĐŬƐ 38 Notore Chemical Industries Ltd 62.50 0.0% 0.1% 0.0% 0.0% -13.1% -3.6% 1.6x -6.7% in BUACEMENT (+1.2%) and ETRANZAC (+7.7%) drove the 39 AXA Mansard Insurance PLC 2.00 8.7% 0.1% 1.0% 1.0% 17.6% 5.0% 4.4x 0.7x 22.5% 40 Transcorp Hotels Plc 4.00 0.0% 0.0% -18.4% -18.4% -6.4% -3.2% 0.6x 0.0x -11.7% /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ĂŶĚ &Z-/d ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ higher by 0.5% and

ϯďƉƐƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ͘ Top 10 Gainers Top 10 Trades by Volume

Ticker Price Price Chg % Ticker Volume Price Chg % LINKASSURE 0.44 10.0% FBNH 81.8 0.8%

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ^ƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶƐ CONOIL 17.35 9.8% ACCESS 50.7 0.7%

NNFM 4.60 9.8% FIDELITYBK 35.2 5.8%

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ PORTPAINT 2.25 9.8% ETI 24.1 8.2% ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞƌĂƟŽͿƐƵƌŐĞĚƚŽϮϯ͘ϬdžĨƌŽŵƚŚĞϭ͘ϴdžƌĞĐŽƌĚͲ LIVESTOCK 0.68 9.7% UBA 20.5 0.0% FLOURM ILL 26.50 9.5% LASACO 20.2 7.1% ĞĚ ƉƌĞǀŝŽƵƐůLJ ĂƐ ϰϲ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ŐĂŝŶĞĚ ĂŐĂŝŶƐƚ ƚŚĞ Ϯ ƚŚĂƚ ĚĞͲ UP L 1.28 9.4% ZENITHBANK 18.9 1.4% ĐůŝŶĞĚ͘ LINKASSURE (+10.0%), CONOIL ;нϵ͘ϴйͿ CADBURY 8.30 9.2% O A N D O 12 . 1 6 . 1% M A NSA RD 2.00 8.7% STERLNBANK 10.8 2.1% and NNFM ;нϵ͘ϴйͿ ǁĞƌĞ ƚŽƉ ŐĂŝŶĞƌƐ ǁŚŝůĞ WEMABANK (- ROYA LEX 0.25 8.7% FCM B 10.2 6.0% 1.7%) and NEM (-1.5%) ǁĞƌĞ ƚŚĞƵŶĚĞƌƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĞƌƐ͘tĞĞdžͲ Top 10 Losers Top 10 Trades by Value ƉĞĐƚƚŚĞƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞŽĨƚŚĞĞƋƵŝƟĞƐŵĂƌŬĞƚƚŽďĞĚŝĐƚĂƚĞĚ Ticker Price Price Chg % Ticker Value Price Chg % ďLJƚŚĞĞĂƌŶŝŶŐƐƌĞƐƵůƚ͘ WEMABANK 0.57 -1.7% FBNH 505.5 0.8%

NEM 2.03 -1.5% ZENITHBANK 402.0 1.4% ACCESS 391.2 0.7% GUARANTY 256.0 2.0% MTNN 213.8 0.0%

UBA 147.1 0.0%

ETI 121.2 8.2%

WAPCO 113.8 0.0%

FIDELITYBK 75.1 5.8%

DANGSUGAR 73.5 0.7%

Brokerage Asset Management Investment Research Afrinvest West Africa Limited Ayodeji Ebo | [email protected] Ola Belgore | [email protected] Abiodun Keripe | [email protected]

Adedoyin Allen | [email protected] Florence Warikam | [email protected] Adedayo Bakare | [email protected] WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2020 ˾
THISDAY 41 MARKET NEWS Airtel Africa Apponts Rosmarin as Non-Executive Director Goddy Egene Ms. Kelly Bayer Rosmarin as notification to the Nigerian Stock by nomination of the controlling dated 17 June 2019 between the majority shareholder and an a non-executive director with Exchange (NSE), the company shareholder pursuant to the company, Bharti Airtel, Airtel indirect subsidiary of Bharti Airtel Africa Plc has appointed effect from 27 October 2020. In a said, Rosmarin’s appointment is terms of relationship agreement AfricaMauritius Limited, the Airtel, and Bharti Telecom. A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an ETF are bought by investors. Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Bid Price: The price at which Investors Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that return an investor would have earned on An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. his investment. Money Market Funds report of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, Yield while others report Year- to-date Total bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: Return. etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 26- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Oct-2020, unless otherwise stated. assets held by a REIT on a specific date. DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD [email protected] Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 2.42% Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Vantage Balanced Fund 2.50 2.55 14.12% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 5.76% ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.98 1.00 9.07% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 152.69 153.50 6.54% ACAP Income Funds 0.85 0.85 11.08% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fi[email protected] AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 3.83% Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.26 1.28 12.18% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.61 3.73 47.31% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,128.43 1,128.43 8.60% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 1.08% Meristem Equity Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Equity Fund 114.36 114.76 10.87% Meristem Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.46 1.46 21.92% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.48 1.50 20.36% ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 16.23 16.72 5.93% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.77 11.86 4.74% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 369.87 381.02 7.08% ARM Ethical Fund 31.79 32.75 9.33% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 3.16% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.16 1.17 16.37% PACAM Equity Fund 1.32 1.33 ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.13 1.13 12.88% PACAM EuroBond Fund 108.87 111.18 ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.71% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 110.60 111.38 15.12% SCM Capital Frontier Fund 125.52 127.54 1.71% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.15% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 7.85% CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.28 2.28 23.33% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.11 2.15 38.62% Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,521.35 2,532.80 15.68% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 210.33 210.33 5.78% Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.88 0.89 12.78% Paramount Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 273.87 273.95 6.79% Women's Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 154.92 156.64 15.74% Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 2.78% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,674.15 7,756.30 7.10% Cordros Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.21 1.21 4.57% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 100.93 100.93 -3.15% Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Cordros Dollar Fund ($) N/A N/A Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 United Capital Balanced Fund 1.29 1.31 8.40% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Bond Fund 1.87 1.87 7.95% Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.46% United Capital Equity Fund 0.74 0.76 4.45% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.08 1.09 16.42% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.75 1.75 31.39% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.63% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] United Capital Eurobond Fund 115.46 115.46 5.66% Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.03 1.04 -1.98% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 2.76% Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 1.32% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,184.89 1,200.08 6.92% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Zenith Equity Fund 11.21 11.33 8.98% Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Zenith Ethical Fund 12.44 12.55 7.05% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Income Fund 24.59 24.59 8.24% FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,532.27 1,533.89 24.95% FBN Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.87% FBN Halal Fund 109.31 109.32 9.31% REITS FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 2.31% Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional N/A N/A N/A SFS Skye Shelter Fund 119.09 6.12% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail N/A N/A N/A FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 130.26 132.28 0.10% Union Homes REIT 53.51 2.80% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 9.54 9.64 14.09% Legacy Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A SIAML Pension ETF 40 102.06 102.06 6.89% Legacy Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 75.64 77.02 0.67% Legacy Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Legacy USD Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.60 3.64 5.42% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 4.81 4.89 -18.48% Coral Growth Fund 3,363.57 3,398.02 10.54% Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 13.54 13.64 11.35% Coral Income Fund 3,211.62 3,211.62 4.41% Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.56% FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 3.59% Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 12.29 12.49 18.10% GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 231.88 233.88 21.42% Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 108.03 15.02% The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only. 42 WEDNESDAY 0CT0BER 28, 2020 ˾
THISDAY 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... Ondo Police Lose Two Officers, Parade 18 Suspects James Sowole in Akure The state Commissioner for Police arrested in various parts of the road and was killed and burnt to policing you and the entire state connection with arson and looting , Mr. Bolaji Salami, disclosed this state and had made conventional along with his car. with the best of my ability and at the state secretariat of the All The Ondo State Police Command, yesterday, while speaking with statements, adding that they were The commissioner, who certainly with respect to human Progressives Congress (APC). yesterday said two of its officers journalists, during the parade of caught in the act. highlighted some of the criminal rights. Let us put behind us the Giving the breakdown of the were killed by hoodlums during 18 suspects arrested in connection The commissioner said the two activities of the hoodlums in the events of the past weeks and focus arrested suspects, Salami said the last week’s EndSARS protests, with destruction and other criminals police sergeants, were killed in state during the protest, said the on our ability to support the police three suspects were arrested which degenerated into violence, activities, during the protests. Ondo and Ore towns. carnage suffered by the Police as it was in the beginning.” at Owo, four in connection arson and looting. Salami said 18 suspects were He said the one killed at Ore, command in the state, cannot The commissioner commended with the APC Secretariat arson ran into the hoodlums, while be estimated. all sister security agencies for and looting, two in Ore, six in riding on his motorbike and Salami appealed to the people standing by the police in time connection with the attack on Insurgency: NAF Wings was lynched. of the state never to lose faith in of crises. Oda Police Division while Salami said the sergeant that the policing architecture of the Among the 18 suspects that three were arrested by men of another Pilot was killed in Ondo City, ran into state under his supervision. were paraded, two were females 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian the hoodlums around the palace He said: “I am fully committed that were arrested allegedly in Army, Akure. Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja In the same vein, the NAF was among the major winners of the Barely a month after a 2020 African Public Relations combined graduation of basic Association (APRA) Public flying course and tactical flying Sector/Government Category course, where four officers were Awards, which recognise Superior decorated with their basic pilot Achievement in Branding wings and two other officers Reputation and Engagement awarded limited combat rating (SABRE). certificates, the Nigerian Air The two awards were as a Force (NAF) yesterday winged result of NAF’s campaign through another combat helicopter pilot, the documentary, “Women of Flying Officer Shehu Ibrahim, War”, which highlights the after his basic and advanced NAF’s ongoing initiatives to helicopter flying training at the empower women in roles Indian Air Force Helicopter hitherto considered to be beyond Flying Training School, them due to certain cultural Hakimpat, India. misconceptions. This is coming as the A statement by NAF said Nigerian Air Force (NAF) the winging of the combat pilot for the second time won is yet another milestone the prestigious International in the NAF’s capacity Public Relations Association building initiative to meet (IPRA) Golden World Award emerging and contemporary (GWA) for Excellence in Crisis security challenges in the Communication Management. Country. STRENGTHENING REGIONAL TIES... Head of European Union (EU) in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Amb. Ketil Karlsen (left), and the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr Jean- Niger Police Arrest 17 Suspects Claude Brou, after a meeting to discuss EU-ECOWAS issues, at the ECOWAS Secretariat in Abuja ...yesterday for Inciting Fresh Violence Alleged N2bn Fraud: Ex-gov Aliyu, Aide to Face Fresh Trial Laleye Dipo in Minna peaceful and shun any act of Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Crimes Commission, (EFCC), in 19, 2020 ruling as well as an order counsel to Nasko, who was represented lawlessness. a statement, said it is prosecuting for the relisting of the charge. by Iloh Bekeme Asuelemeh, while The police authorities in Niger According to him, “the Justice A.B Aliyu of the Federal Aliyu and Nasko - first and second Abdalla supported the application speaking on behalf of the defence State have arrested 17 persons Command is prepared to provide High Court, Minna, Niger State defendants respectively - on three- with 21-paragraph affidavit, deposed team prayed the court to set aside for allegedly inciting youths in adequate security and peaceful yesterday relisted the alleged count amended charge of breach to by Samuel Chime, stating that, the application, noting that the the state to hold a protest. coexistence in the State.” N2billion fraud case involving the of trust and money laundering to “We rely on all the paragraphs; we defence had filed a 33-paragraph This followed the suspected The commissioner commended former Governor of Niger State, Dr. the tune of N2billion, which was also file a written address in support, counter-affidavit, deposed to plan by some persons to embark youths in the state “for displaying Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu and his struck out on June 19, 2020. we adopt the written address as by John Kyrian Etuk, and on a protest despite the ban on high level of responsibility, former Chief of Staff, Umar Gado Following the abrupt termination our oral submission and we pray documented as exhibit public demonstrations by the calmness, perseverance and Nasko, for retrial, thus setting the of the case, prosecution counsel, the court to grant our prayers in QJ1-QJ6, which he said had state government in the wake restraint in the face of threats stage for their fresh trial. Faruk Abdalla, on October, 13, 2020 the motion papers.” been adopted as the written of the violence that has trailed the and calls from different quarters The Economic and Financial filed a motion to set aside the June Mamman Mike Osman, (SAN), address of the defence. #EndSARS protest across Nigeria. with deliberate falsehood and The Commissioner of Police in misinformation through the the state, Adamu Usman disclosed social media in the face of the arrests yesterday in a statement unwarranted provocation from Police Arrest Alleged Mastermind of Calabar Conference signed by the Command’s Public other divisive elements, hiding Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun. under the umbrella of #EndSARS Centre Looting Usman said most of those protest in the country.” Bassey Inyang in Calabar Officer, Irene Ugbo said the in Calabar and has confessed names and we are going after arrested were not from the state. Others praised by the suspect was arrested at Esuk Otu to the crime. them. For now, we are going The suspects “are currently police chief included the The Cross River State Police community with various items “He made a confessional on a house-to-house search and under investigation while they state government, traditional Command has arrested one based on report gathered during statement on how some of his if we find anyone with any will be charged to court for institutions, communities and Johnson Richard Inem, an indigene the house- to-house search, which boys came and carried out this government property, any prosecution after investigation,” religious leaders, youth leaders of Akwa Ibom State for allegedly started on Sunday in the state as crime. So, most of these people personal individual property, the police boss said. and members of the press “for masterminding the recent looting ordered by the state Governor, that vandalised government we are going to arrest them,” Usman asked parents and their support and cooperation and vandalism of the Calabar Professor Ben Ayade. property are not from Cross she said. guardians to prevail on their with the police and other security International Conference Centre The Police spokesperson River State. Most of them are The suspect, however, denied wards and subjects to remain agencies in the state.” (CICC). explained that the suspect is from Akwa Ibom State. looting or vandalising the The state Police Public Relations an automobile mechanic based “He has given us some conference centre. 78 Arrested, Convicted for Buhari Pledges Improved Cooperation with Bangladesh Curfew Violation, Other Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja issued yesterday, said the President continue to expand on what have improved tremendously, stated this while receiving the you have achieved, operations with many Memoranda of Offences in Delta President Muhammadu Buhari outgoing High Commissioner of in agriculture, military cooperation Understanding signed, and others Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba security operatives, he said 58 has assured that Nigeria and Bangladesh, Shameen Ashan, in and in many other areas, will still in the works. persons charged for murder, Bangladesh will consolidate the a virtual farewell audience. continue.” “Over 60 delegates visited Seventy-eight people have been arson, and attempted arson mutually rewarding relationship The President congratulated the Ashan thanked Nigeria for Nigeria from my country for arrested and convicted in Delta while others were violators of between the two countries. envoy on the strides he attained the support he received in about different purposes during State for violating the curfew the curfew imposed by Governor The Special Adviser to the on the relationship between the two-and-a-half years he spent, my tenure. I and my wife imposed by the state government, Ifeanyi Okowa. President on Media and Publicity, two countries. noting that bilateral relations will miss beautiful Nigeria,” arson, attempted arson and other All the suspects, however, Mr. Femi Adesina, in a statement According to him, “we will between the two countries Ashan said. varying offences as during the have been tried and convicted endSARS protest, which turned with some of them getting an violent in the state. option of fine. Protests: PFN Urges Calm among Nigerian Youths The state Commissioner for The police boss also Police, Hafiz Inuwa disclosed commended the residents of Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City streets as their agitation has since genuine protesters had made the hoodlums, who have this yesterday while briefing the state for being law-abiding, reached the government. their points loud and clear hijacked the hitherto peaceful journalists at the State Police assuring them that they can go The National President of Omobude, who is also the enough for those in authority exercise, to continue with their Command Headquarters in about their normal businesses the Pentecostal Fellowship of General Superintendent of to hear them and do the condemnable acts of criminality, Asaba, the state capital. without fear of harassment Nigeria, Rev. Felix Omobude, has the Gospel Light International needful. which include vandalism, arson, While giving a breakdown form criminally minded charged the #EndSARS protesters Ministries, New Covenant “You should stop your street looting, killing and rape, among of number of arrests made by individuals. nationwide to withdraw from the Gospel Church, said the protest for now to prevent others,” he stated. WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 • THISDAY 43 44 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 •THISDAY ˜
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THISDAY 45

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] WEDNESDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY NFF Seeks Two International Friendlies for Super Falcons

Pinnick visits NWFL new secretariat, commends Aisha Falode

Olawale Ajimotokanin to us this edifice to make “I am still consulting the country. At the end best wether in the CAF assured the reporters Abuja this our home. That is all football stakeholders of it all, I can assure you executive committee or in without betraying what why I invited them to to know what is best for that Nigeria will get the the FIFA Council,” Pinnick is on his mind. The Nigeria Football come and give us their Federation (NFF) has blessings so that this disclosed that it is place will continue to working to organise two be the house of gold for international friendlies for women football and that the Super Falcons next the great achievements month. we have ahead of us The NFF President, will be catalyzed from Amaju Pinnick made the this building,” Falode said. disclosure yesterday during She appealed to the NFF to a working visit to the new support and enable Nigeria operational secretariat of participate in the maiden the Nigeria Women Football edition CAF Champions League (NWFL) at the League for women in 2021 old NFF’s Glass House and encourage teams in the in Abuja. NWFL to prepare for the Pinnick said the event by playing a full federation was in talks with season. the unnamed countries for On the plans going the matches, while the NFF forward for the league, also intends to utilise every Falode said NWFL will FIFA window to organise be meeting with the matches for the national premiership club managers female team. today on their obligations He also added that the and responsibility to the Glass House was in touch women league in view of with some Nigerian-born registration and need to players who have written conform to the COVID-19 and offered to shift safety protocols at match international allegiance venues. to the Super Falcons. In addition, she said that Pinnick lauded the there will be a seminar this Chairperson of the Women’s week where club managers L-R: Chairman, Benue F.A and Vice Chairperson of the NWFL, Hon. Margaret Icheen; NWFL Chairperson, Aisha Falode; NFF President, League, Aisha Falode as will be trained on the Amaju Pinnick and General Secretary, NFF, Dr. Sanusi Mohamed during Pinnick’s courtesy visit to the new NWFL secretariat in Abuja... a priceless asset with a Domestic Management yesterday lot of focus, creativity, System, while talks are ingenuity in rebuilding and on with clubs on insurance redirecting the women’s management of the game, game in Nigeria. welfare, players’ salaries. Raji, Tobechukwu Appointed as Media While responding, Falode She warned that if the said that the women’ clubs fail to meet these football in Africa was obligations, the female Officers for Eagles, Falcons footballers risk not being pioneered in Nigeria, The Nigeria Football Bachelor of Arts in English, he describing the female part of the league. popularly known as TobexSports, NFF’s Director of Media and While fielding questions Federation (NFF) has joined Radio Brila, Nigeria’s is an astute women football Communications, Ademola league as paramount to the announced the appointment of first all-sport radio station in advocate and a writer with Olajire, praised Mr Ibitoye growth of football in the from reporters on clearance given to him to contest any Mr. Babafemi Raji as the new 2008. passion for domestic women’s and Miss Nweze for excellent country and development Media Officer of the Senior He was a member of the league. services rendered while they of the national team. position in the forth coming CAF election in Morocco, Men National Team, Super 2010 FIFA World Cup Media A Federal Government were with the Super Eagles ‘’We are extremely and Eagles. He takes over from Mr. Committee set up by the scholar as the second best and the Super Falcons thoroughly grateful to the Pinnick insisted he was still consulting widely to Toyin Ibitoye who has been tournament sponsors, and is a graduating student in Mass respectively, and wished both NFF President and General in the post for five-and-half certified management consultant Communications at the of them good fortune in their Secretary for bequeathing know what is better for the country. years. and a fellow of the Institute of Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, future endeavours. Raji, presently the Group Management Consultants. she holds a master’s degree “Mr Ibitoye and Miss Nweze Manager, Programmes and Also on Tuesday, the NFF in the same discipline from were superb to work with. Contents in Brila Media Group, announced the appointment of the Lagos State University. They demonstrated excellent started sports journalism as Mrs Oluchi Tobe-Chukwu as She’s a former footballer people skills and acuity, and Barcelona President Resigns a freelancer with NTA Ile-Ife the Media Officer of the Senior herself, having played for were diligent, energetic and between 2003 – 2006 while Women National Team, Super clubs like Hamza Queens, knowledgeable. We wish to Avoid No Confidence Vote studying at the Obafemi Falcons. She takes over from Flamming Flamingos and them the very best in their resentment against Bartomeu Awolowo University, Ife. Miss Jane Onyinye Nweze. Ibom Angels before pursuing endeavours going forward,” Barcelona President has been growing in the On graduation with Oluchi Tobe-Chukwu, her education further. concludes Olajire.o Josep Maria Bartomeu past year due to worsening has resigned following finances and the team’s increasing fan pressure decline on the pitch, which and a public fall-out with saw them lift no major Akpeyi Back in Action as Kaizer Chiefs Lionel Messi. silverware last season. Bartomeu, who became president in 2014, was set to receive a vote of Snatch Away Win against Chippa Utd no confidencewith fans attempting to remove him. Super Eagles goalkeeper, Daniel passport. in challenging the post from goalkeeping by Mothwa who He fell out with forward Akpeyi, returned to action He come into the game close range. made a string of eye-catching Messi after the Argentina Tuesday night in the South to replace South Africa’s top The Amakhosi continued to saves to keep Chiefs from bulging striker handed in a African Premier Soccer League keeper Itumeleng Khune in knock on the proverbial door the back of the net. transfer request in August. (PSL) as Kaizer Chiefs edged goal. Akpeyi was among the and Lebogang Manyama’s Chiefs finally broke the His resignation comes out his former club Chippa five changes which were made powerful free-kick had the deadlock in the 77th minute, three days after Barca’s United 1-0 at the Nelson by head coach Gavin Hunt with beating of Veli Mothwa in the albeit via fortunate circumstances 3-1 home defeat to Real Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Njabulo Blom, Kearyn Baccus, Chilli Boys’ goal seven minutes as Damons inadvertently Madrid. Elizabeth. Siyabonga Ngezana and Philani later, but not the crossbar. deflected the ball across the line. Bartomeu is due to step Gregory Damons’ scored the Zulu making their return to Chiefs hit the woodwork A low cross from Manyama down in March, having own-goal in the 77th minute to the starting line-up. for a third time soon after as was scooped onto the underside served the maximum two give Amakhosi the maximum Chiefs set the early tone of a Mothwa pushed Khama Billiat’s of the crossbar and into the back terms as club president. points. side eager to bounce back from shot onto the post and away of the net by the Chilli Boys Messi said he felt The gangling Nigerian a heavy loss at the weekend from danger with the teams defender, who was unlucky to deceived by Bartomeu international missed Kaizer and came close to opening their duly deadlocked at 0-0 at the put the ball past Mothwa who following his failed Chiefs’ 3-0 home defeat to account in the 24th minute. half-time interval. had done so well to keep out summer move. Mamelodi Sundowns last A free-kick eventually fell The visitors continued to the Chiefs attackers. weekend because he travelled to Leonardo Castro but with dominate proceedings after the Kaizer Chiefs will host TS The forward agreed Josep Maria Bartomeu resigned to stay at the club but to Lagos to renew his travel the goal at his mercy, the break and were only denied a Galaxy in their next league last night as Barcelona President documents, the Nigerian Colombian could only succeed goal through some exceptional match. 46 ˜

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THISDAY WEDNESDAYSPORTS UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Kimmich’s Late Winner Earns Bayern Munich Victory in Moscow Champions League Cup holders of 40-5. equaliser as they finally final ball and finish was lacking. turning and volleying into the advantage at the top of Group Bayern Munich Tuesday night Lokomotiv, boosted by a few capitalised on the space in Bayern’s winner was a bottom corner, past the rooted A, with Atletico Madrid hosting extended their winning run in thousand home fans, started behind the Bayern defence, moment of real class as Guilherme Marinato, from 22 FC Red Bull Salzburg in the the competition to 13 games strongest and should have taken and had further opportunities Kimmich superbly controlled yards. other game in the group at as they edged past Lokomotiv the lead when the unchallenged to shock the holders but their a heavily weighted pass before Bayern have a five-point 20:00 GMT. Moscow 2-1. Fyodor Smolov headed straight Leon Goretzka gave Bayern at Manuel Neuer from six yards. the lead as he met Benjamin After Goretzka’s magnificent Pavard’s volleyed cross to head opener Bayern grew into the home powerfully from six yards. game and dominated the Lokomotiv equalised when remainder of the first half, with Anton Miranchuk cleverly Kingsley Coman coming closest opened his body to slot home to extend their advantage when Ze Luis’ cross. his volley from 10 yards hit Midfielder Joshua Kimmich the post. got the late winner when, on Robert Lewandowski, who the turn, he superbly volleyed was unusually quiet, was into the bottom corner. awarded a penalty midway Bayern have now won through the second half after 34 of their 36 games in all a brilliant run through three competitions in 2020 and players, but the decision was manager Hansi Flick has won overturned by VAR for a tight all 10 of his Champions League offside. games, by an aggregate score Lokomotiv got a deserved Ronaldo Doubtful for the Juventus, Barcelona Big Clash in Turin Bayern Munich’s victory in Moscow last night has extended their unbeaten run in the Champions League to 13 matches Cristiano Ronaldo remains However Ronaldo has 130 uncertain to take on Lionel Champions League goals to Messi’s Barcelona tonight as Messi’s 116. he recovers from coronavirus, “It’s clear that any team Man Utd’s Cavani, Rashford, Fernandes Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo would miss a player like said on the eve of the match Cristiano,” said Brazil defender in Turin. Danilo at the pre-match press Available to Take on RB Leipzig Ronaldo tested positive conference. for Covid-19 two weeks ago “But we have faith in every Manchester United will use that 10 points would get you Manchester City loanee Angelino Club Index, leaving PSG and while playing with Portugal, player on the team. We have “more or less the same squad” as through, so to get to 10 points scored both of their goals to open RB Leipzig theoretically battling and has been in self-isolation people who want to do well Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Chelsea as quickly as we can is our aim his team’s account in their third it out for second. For United since returning to Italy. and help us have a great for tonight’s UEFA Champions and our focus now is on getting season in the Champions League. to retain this favouritism they “Ronaldo had a test like match.” League visit of Leipzig, said boss three points tomorrow night.” Entertainment data company must avoid slipping up in this everyone else, this evening Messi has won 16 of their Ole Gunnar Solskjaer yesterday. Alex Telles, who made his Gracenote say Manchester week’s home match, against RB (Tuesday) we will have the 35 encounters to Ronaldo’s United host the German debut at left-back against PSG United have an 84% chance Leipzig.” definitive result,” Pirlo told a 10, with the remaining nine league leaders in Group H, after last week, and 22-year-old defender of progressing to the knockout press conference in Turin before ending in draws. defeating Paris St-Germain 2-1 Axel Tuanzebe could feature after stages of the Champions TODAY the Champions League Group The pair have only met five in their opener. impressive performances against League. Juventus v Barcelona G game. times in Champions League Strikers Edinson Cavani and the Ligue 1 leaders. Simon Gleave, head of sports Man Utd v RB Leipzig “For now it’s all on the games, most recently in the Marcus Rashford and midfielder Eric Bailly and Jesse Lingard are analysis at Nielsen’s Gracenote, Krasnodar v Chelsea* high seas, when the final semifinal in 2011. Bruno Fernandes are available. the only players who will definitely said: “Manchester United’s Istanbul Bas’ v PSG* result comes everything will Pirlo has defensive worries “There are a couple of doubts not feature for Solskjaer’s side due surprise win in Paris has made Sevilla v Rennes be clearer.” with captain Giorgio Chiellini, and knocks,” said Solskjaer. to injury. the Red Devils big favourites to B’Dortmund v Zenit According to UEFA rules and Matthijs De Ligt out but Cavani, who signed for United RB Leipzig, who also won their progress from Group H. Club Bruges v Lazio the 35-year-old Ronaldo will fellow centreback Leonardo on transfer deadline day, made first Group H match, beating “United’s chance of playing in Ferencvaros v Dynamo Kyiv need to test negative late on Bonucci’s thigh strain will his first appearance for Solskjaer’s Istanbul Basaksehir 2-0,have never the last 16 improved from 51% (All matches 9pm except * Tuesday, 24 hours before being be evaluated on Wednesday side against Chelsea, almost faced Manchester United before. to 84% according to the Euro 6.55pm) allowed to feature. morning. scoring with his first touch of “Wednesday (today) “These are the matches that the game. morning we will count the everyone would like to play. Anthony Martial, who scored number of players available,” We have this opportunity and an own goal in United’s first continued Pirlo. we can’t wait to test ourselves group match against PSG, could “Depending on the result, against Barcelona,” said Pirlo. return. we’ll see what we do. It’s not “It’s not a decisive game, RB Leipzig boss Julian easy to play an entire game but we still want to see what Nagelsmann, 33, guided his after 15 days of inactivity.” our value is.” team to a Champions League Ronaldo, who has no Argentina forward Paulo semi-final last season, where symptoms, has missed three Dybala remains “a bit tired” they lost to 2020-21 Group H games including his side’s after playing for 90 minutes rivals PSG. That 3-0 defeat 2-0 Champions League win in his first match in over three was their last loss in all at Dynamo Kiev last week. months last Sunday against competitions. The clash would be the first Verona. “We look at every single game between Ronaldo and Messi “It’s normal after the first as a chance to get three points,” since the Portugal forward left game as a starter. He’ll have said Solskjaer. “In the group stage we have L-R: Manchester United’s Paul Pogba, Edinson Cavani and Bruno Fernandes all set for Real Madrid for Juventus in time to recover and play the big game against RB Leipzig at Old Trafford...tonight 2018. tonight.” four teams and you would think “For 15 years, Messi and Ronaldo have done great things,” said former Italy and Juventus midfielder Pirlo. World 100m Champion, Coleman, Banned “For the first time, I’ll be taking on Messi as a coach, I’ll for Two Years treat him with the enormous respect that he deserves.” World 100m champion in Doha in 2019. his first missed test on 16 Athletics Integrity Unit’s Messi, 33, has featured in Christian Coleman has been The indoor 60m world January 2019 but disputed out-of-competition testing four victorious campaigns banned for two years after record holder has 30 days his filing failure on 26 April guidelines, athletes are for Barcelona, while Ronaldo missing three drugs tests. to file an appeal to the 2019 and whereabouts accountable for missed tests if has won the Champions The 24-year-old American, Court of Arbitration for failure on 9 December. they are not at their specified League five times, four with who is suspended from 14 Sport (Cas). The investigation into his location for the one-hour Real Madrid and once with May 2020, will miss the He was provisionally anti-doping rule violations period they have stated. Manchester United. postponed Tokyo Olympics suspended in June after said there was no suggestion If they are not at the Messi has six Ballon d’Or Cristiano Ronaldo...uncer- next summer. missing a third test in the athlete has ever taken location, the tester must titles with Ronaldo claiming Coleman won 100m gold December 2019. a prohibited substance. wait for the full 60 minutes five. tain for tonight clash with Barcelona in Turin at the World Championships Coleman did not contest According to the before leaving. WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 • THISDAY 47 T RU N Wednesday October 28, 2020TH & REASO Price: N250 MISSILE Army to Sanwo-Olu “From the onset of the ENDSARS protest, there was no time personnel of 81 Division Nigerian Army Lagos were involved. However, the decision to call in the military was taken by the Lagos State Government (LASG) after a 24-hour curfew was imposed” – Nigerian Army disputing Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s claim that he knew nothing about troop deployment in Lekki Tollgate where soldiers allegedly killed protesters. KAYODEKOMOLAFE THE HORIZON [email protected] 0805 500 1974 Prospects of Popular Democracy f last Thursday’s broadcast by the President affluence to float mindlessly in a sea of mass distributed as palliatives to cushion the effects failed to fully capture the mood of the poverty and misery. If any neo-liberal technocrat of the disruption caused by coronavirus, is nation, the outcome of the National thought this was a mere ideological ranting, another phenomenon. The crowds overwhelming Economic Council (NEC) of two days ago the laboratory to test the thesis has been amply warehouses containing rice, beans, indomie, seemed to be closer to a problem-solving provided in the streets in the last few days. vegetable oil etc. have become the public Iapproach. Significantly, the committee is also to look barometer of hunger. The noxious mixture It is, therefore, more constructive to read into the ways to enhance national unity. The of anger and hunger is flowing almost the NEC statement as a useful complement threats to national unity cannot be ignored by uncontrollably in the land. The rhetorical talk to the President’s speech. any government that is sincere about advancing about food insecurity is being dramatised in Apart from the conspicuous omission in progress and development of Nigeria. National the streets. Hunger is certainly one the most the broadcast of what happened at Lekki in development plans would be better executed poignant indices of gross inequality that defines Lagos State on that Black Tuesday, there was if the country is united on the basis of equity the Nigerian society. That’s the real message the gross disappointment caused those who and justice despite its complexity and diversity. of what is happening across the country. had expected a rousing speech imbued with It has been suggested from many quarters The security agencies are responding to sufficient empathy to appeal to the collective that the report of the 2014 Conference among the break down of law and order in parts humanity of the people. The addendum that others could be useful in finding solutions of the country within their limited capacity. came from the presidency days later stating that to this aspect of the problem. The conference Policemen and soldiers are among those killed the result of investigation into the incident was convened by President Goodluck Jonathan in the violence. being awaited could not be said to be timely. attracted the participation of eminent and It is appropriate that the federal and state Those calling on the President Muhammadu patriotic Nigerians. Its vast recommendations governments are simultaneously responding to Buhari to make a speech in the face of a festering on different departments of national life have the ferment by #ENDSARS at the policy level. social sore were not enamoured of the talks of Buhari been a matter of constant reference in the last That is the energetic pull of popular Trader Moni and similar stuffs in his policy are Vice President Yemi Osinbajo are Governors six years. So this committee may not need to democracy. catalogue. namely Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Prof. set up another committee for that purpose, as So, it may be apposite to ask in the The ferment for democratic expressions Babagana Zulum (Borno), Mr. Muhammed it is the political and administrative culture circumstance: what are the prospects of popular generated by the actions of the #ENDSARS Bello (Niger), Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) in Nigeria. democracy in Nigeria? movement was probably being officially misread. (Ondo), Chief Dave Umahi (Ebonyi) and Hon. It is noteworthy that the the attention of the The prospects of popular democracy in a This moment should be properly interpreted. Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto). Nigerian state in the last two weeks has been polity could be assessed by how a people make Specifically, a tinge of nostalgia for It is important that job-creation is topmost focussed on these primary socioeconomic and legitimate demands to widen the frontier of authoritarianism was apparent when the on the agenda of the committee. To put an end political issues by the action of an inchoate, human progress and expand the coast of justice. President said: “Sadly, the promptness with to the hopelessness of the millions of jobless but extremely heroic movement, #ENDSARS. In the Nigerian context, popular democracy which we have acted seemed to have been youths, the scourge of unemployment and Nothing in recent history has compelled the should be about the categorical expression misconstrued as a sign of weakness and twisted underemployment should be squarely tackled. Nigerian state to respect the voices from the of people’s will through direct action and by some for their selfish unpatriotic interests.” To paraphrase someone in another context , if streets like that of #ENDSARS. Maybe, that is unfettered debates. The popular-democratic Now, a government that is responsive to the the committee is to recommend three solutions why the tiger in the Buhari government had activities should seek to promote genuine popular demands of the people is far from being to the resolve the crisis, the three things should to proclaim its prowess: the one time military freedom, equity, free speech, civil rights, weak; to listen to the voices of the people is be grouped as jobs, jobs and jobs. dictator and now an elected President has had socio-economic justice, the dignity of the human rather a measure of democratic strength. And What this crisis has partly manifested is also cause to assert that his government is not weak. person etc. For instance, the #ENDSARS was that’s the real strength. that establishing “social safety nets” should go Interwoven in the crisis, which has tragically originally specific on stopping police brutality Upholding the people’s will would show beyond tokenism which politicians at all levels claimed scores of lives, are socio-economic and as its objective. that a government wants to be in good standing of government in Nigeria call “empowerment.” political questions. These questions are worth At this critical moment of the nation’s history, with the people as a proof of genuine strength. To empower the people sustainably, social pondering by the NEC committee that’s in search the choice should not be limited to the one To turn a deaf ear to popular demands in protection policy steps should be better structured of solutions to the problem. You may say the between anarchy or revolution. order to prove that government is strong would and, indeed, institutionalised. This is necessary solutions are out there in the public sphere as By all means, anarchy should be avoided. For only amount to arrogance of power with all for the vulnerable members of the society to articulated by public-spirited individuals and clarity, anarchy is not used here as a philosophical its untoward consequences. have access to the benefits of the somewhat organisations. There are reports of panels are category of the political condition promoted Talking about weakness or strength, the cumbersome schemes. Cash transfers could commissions. Visions have been enunciated. by political activists who reject the legitimacy of people’s power is ultimately superior as prove handy as transitional measures. But a Police brutality, especially the atrocities of any state power. Such a movement of anarchists demonstrated by the lessons of history. bank of the poor would be a more strategic some members of the defunct Special Anti- is not visible in Nigeria. The anarchy that is While the President’s speech was still being thing to think about in the context of the Robbery Squad of the Force (SARS), was the a threat here is the vulgar one that glorifies analysed from various perspectives, the NEC Nigerian condition. Social security should focus of the #ENDSARS campaigners. The social disorder with its bloody consequences. came up on Monday with some ideas to answer be taken more seriously at the policy level. protest was demonstrably peaceful. That’s It would benefit no one. What is happening the questions posed by the poor condition of The political economy approach of the NEC why no one in good conscience could hold is also not a revolution. Neither is there any the youth. Established by the constitution, the should be encouraged. The Nigerian crisis of the popular democratic campaigners responsible prospect of one. The objective situation on NEC, chaired by the Vice President, comprises underdevelopment is multi-dimensional; it is for the violence that sadly followed. the streets may appear revolutionary. But the the state governors and governor of the Central social, economic and political. It is remarkable But on Black Tuesday, October 20, soldiers subjective factors to push a revolution through Bank of Nigeria. It is the body that meets that the NEC has on its agenda the question fired shots at the assembly of protesters. The truth are lacking for now. periodically to have a panoramic view of the of insecurity and the threats to national unity. of what actually happened is yet to be officially Meanwhile, there is a third option of popular economy and the direction of development. If The last review of the nation’s defence policy told. Calls have been made for a coroner’s democracy. the council is well run, it could be a veritable drew an organic link between social security inquest into the incident. The morning after the The #ENDSARS movement has proved that instrument for economic management and and physical security. Lack of social security Lekki incident, violence erupted in Lagos and a fertile ground exists for popular democracy national planning. and the worsening of physical insecurity are other cities. The orgy of destruction of public in Nigeria. Given a philosophical articulation In continuation of the response of government bitter fruits of the poisoned tree of an unjust, and private property has hardly abated as and improved organisational capacity, popular at the federal and state levels to the momentum selfish and inhumane system. They are the curfews still subsist in some states. Calabar democratic struggles could be deepened. Efforts generated by the #ENDSARS movement, the features of a system that permits obscene was the epicentre of the massive destruction of movements, even with varying ideological economic council sought to address the “deeper at the weekend. Imagine that happening in contents, could coalesce to widen the political reasons behind the #ENDSARS protests and a city once reputed for serenity despite its landscape of freedom, social justice and a its fallouts.” The #ENDSARS fledgling economy. humane social order. A committee was set up to engage the As bodies are counted, material loses are The limitation of the Nigeria’s experiment youths, civil society organisations, religious movement has proved being estimated all over the country That’s with liberal democracy has become obvious. It bodies and traditional rulers. The focus of this why no one in good conscience could hold the is not serving the people and it is not inclusive. proposed engagement, which not a few have that a fertile ground popular democratic campaigners responsible While factions of the ruling class dominate advocated, would be “employment, social safety for the violence that sadly followed. the stunted liberal democratic institutions in net programmes, national unity among key exists for popular . a relay race for power, other social forces issues.” With Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as The storming of warehouses by people, should develop popular -democratic structures the chairman, other members of the committee democracy in Nigeria who are in search of foodstuffs meant to be to advance the people’s cause. Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . 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