Jul 30th 2009
From The Economist print edition
An Islamist insurgency in the north comes on top of another in the Delta
VIOLENCE has often disfigured religion in Nigeria. Usually, it has been a matter of bloody confrontation between Muslims and Christians in the middle of the country, where the largely Muslim north rubs up against the mainly Christian south. This week, however, Nigeria experienced its most serious outbreak of another kind of religious violence, provoked by Islamic fundamentalists who take their inspiration from the Taliban of Afghanistan. At least 180 people were killed in five days of clashes between militants and the police.
The fighting started on July 26th in Bauchi state after the police arrested several suspected leaders of an Islamist sect called Boko Haram, a local Hausa term that means “education is prohibited”. In particular, the group is against Western education and influence. It wants to impose a pure Muslim caliphate on Nigeria. In retaliation for the arrest of their leaders, militants went on the rampage in several northern states, attacking the police with anything that came to hand, from machetes to bows and poison arrows.
The police fought back, killing, so they claimed, 39 militants in Bauchi. Fierce fighting took place in Maiduguri, capital of Borno state, where the sect has its headquarters. On July 28th the army was called in to shell the compound where the sect’s leader, Muhammad Yusuf, has been based. As well as killing scores of Boko Haram fighters, the police arrested hundreds of suspected members of the group.
The “Black Taliban”, as such groups are dubbed in Nigeria’s northern states, have carried out isolated attacks for several years. This time the violence has been more widespread and prolonged. Muslim sharia law was introduced in 12 northern states after general elections in 1999, but the states’ Muslim rulers have usually been cautious in applying it. This has prompted the militants to demand a more extreme form of Islamist rule and for sharia to be extended to the whole of Nigeria.
Nigeria’s federal government, along with Western intelligence agencies, has long worried that extremist groups in the north may link up with Islamist terrorist groups elsewhere in Africa, in particular with al-Qaeda in the Maghreb. This outfit grew out of the blood-soaked struggle by Islamists to overthrow Algeria’s government in the 1990s. Such connections raise the spectre of a concerted Islamist threat against Nigeria, a close ally of America and a large oil exporter. But the links have not been proved and little is known about groups such as Boko Haram.
On this occasion Nigeria’s president, Umaru Yar’Adua, acted swiftly. But it was the exception to his presidential rule. Now halfway through his four-year term, the former governor of the northern state of Katsina has achieved little. His administration is beset by indecision and drift.
This week’s violence in the north comes on top of unceasing violence in the southern Niger Delta region, where an insurgency by militants demanding a bigger share of the country’s oil wealth continues to disrupt oil exports. By some estimates, Nigeria now exports only half of what it should: Angola has taken over as sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest producer.
Despite floating various well-meaning plans to pacify the Delta, the government has failed to stop the region’s unrest. The fall in tax revenues, as a result of illegal bunkering and the sabotage of pipelines, means that Mr Yar’Adua has even less chance of tackling his country’s other problems, such as a chronic lack of electricity. The insurgency in the Delta has thrived on the back of dire poverty and high unemployment in what should be a relatively wealthy region, were it not so poorly governed. Some fear the Islamist militants in the north may profit from the same lack of opportunities, which saps the morale of young Nigerians and makes so many of them prey to extremists.
Source:http://www.economist.com/world/mideast-africa/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14140810
Friday 31 July 2009
A taste of the Taliban
Jul 30th 2009
From The Economist print edition
An Islamist insurgency in the north comes on top of another in the Delta
VIOLENCE has often disfigured religion in Nigeria. Usually, it has been a matter of bloody confrontation between Muslims and Christians in the middle of the country, where the largely Muslim north rubs up against the mainly Christian south. This week, however, Nigeria experienced its most serious outbreak of another kind of religious violence, provoked by Islamic fundamentalists who take their inspiration from the Taliban of Afghanistan. At least 180 people were killed in five days of clashes between militants and the police.
The fighting started on July 26th in Bauchi state after the police arrested several suspected leaders of an Islamist sect called Boko Haram, a local Hausa term that means “education is prohibited”. In particular, the group is against Western education and influence. It wants to impose a pure Muslim caliphate on Nigeria. In retaliation for the arrest of their leaders, militants went on the rampage in several northern states, attacking the police with anything that came to hand, from machetes to bows and poison arrows.
The police fought back, killing, so they claimed, 39 militants in Bauchi. Fierce fighting took place in Maiduguri, capital of Borno state, where the sect has its headquarters. On July 28th the army was called in to shell the compound where the sect’s leader, Muhammad Yusuf, has been based. As well as killing scores of Boko Haram fighters, the police arrested hundreds of suspected members of the group.
The “Black Taliban”, as such groups are dubbed in Nigeria’s northern states, have carried out isolated attacks for several years. This time the violence has been more widespread and prolonged. Muslim sharia law was introduced in 12 northern states after general elections in 1999, but the states’ Muslim rulers have usually been cautious in applying it. This has prompted the militants to demand a more extreme form of Islamist rule and for sharia to be extended to the whole of Nigeria.
Nigeria’s federal government, along with Western intelligence agencies, has long worried that extremist groups in the north may link up with Islamist terrorist groups elsewhere in Africa, in particular with al-Qaeda in the Maghreb. This outfit grew out of the blood-soaked struggle by Islamists to overthrow Algeria’s government in the 1990s. Such connections raise the spectre of a concerted Islamist threat against Nigeria, a close ally of America and a large oil exporter. But the links have not been proved and little is known about groups such as Boko Haram.
On this occasion Nigeria’s president, Umaru Yar’Adua, acted swiftly. But it was the exception to his presidential rule. Now halfway through his four-year term, the former governor of the northern state of Katsina has achieved little. His administration is beset by indecision and drift.
This week’s violence in the north comes on top of unceasing violence in the southern Niger Delta region, where an insurgency by militants demanding a bigger share of the country’s oil wealth continues to disrupt oil exports. By some estimates, Nigeria now exports only half of what it should: Angola has taken over as sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest producer.
Despite floating various well-meaning plans to pacify the Delta, the government has failed to stop the region’s unrest. The fall in tax revenues, as a result of illegal bunkering and the sabotage of pipelines, means that Mr Yar’Adua has even less chance of tackling his country’s other problems, such as a chronic lack of electricity. The insurgency in the Delta has thrived on the back of dire poverty and high unemployment in what should be a relatively wealthy region, were it not so poorly governed. Some fear the Islamist militants in the north may profit from the same lack of opportunities, which saps the morale of young Nigerians and makes so many of them prey to extremists.
Source:http://www.economist.com/world/mideast-africa/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14140810
From The Economist print edition
An Islamist insurgency in the north comes on top of another in the Delta
VIOLENCE has often disfigured religion in Nigeria. Usually, it has been a matter of bloody confrontation between Muslims and Christians in the middle of the country, where the largely Muslim north rubs up against the mainly Christian south. This week, however, Nigeria experienced its most serious outbreak of another kind of religious violence, provoked by Islamic fundamentalists who take their inspiration from the Taliban of Afghanistan. At least 180 people were killed in five days of clashes between militants and the police.
The fighting started on July 26th in Bauchi state after the police arrested several suspected leaders of an Islamist sect called Boko Haram, a local Hausa term that means “education is prohibited”. In particular, the group is against Western education and influence. It wants to impose a pure Muslim caliphate on Nigeria. In retaliation for the arrest of their leaders, militants went on the rampage in several northern states, attacking the police with anything that came to hand, from machetes to bows and poison arrows.
The police fought back, killing, so they claimed, 39 militants in Bauchi. Fierce fighting took place in Maiduguri, capital of Borno state, where the sect has its headquarters. On July 28th the army was called in to shell the compound where the sect’s leader, Muhammad Yusuf, has been based. As well as killing scores of Boko Haram fighters, the police arrested hundreds of suspected members of the group.
The “Black Taliban”, as such groups are dubbed in Nigeria’s northern states, have carried out isolated attacks for several years. This time the violence has been more widespread and prolonged. Muslim sharia law was introduced in 12 northern states after general elections in 1999, but the states’ Muslim rulers have usually been cautious in applying it. This has prompted the militants to demand a more extreme form of Islamist rule and for sharia to be extended to the whole of Nigeria.
Nigeria’s federal government, along with Western intelligence agencies, has long worried that extremist groups in the north may link up with Islamist terrorist groups elsewhere in Africa, in particular with al-Qaeda in the Maghreb. This outfit grew out of the blood-soaked struggle by Islamists to overthrow Algeria’s government in the 1990s. Such connections raise the spectre of a concerted Islamist threat against Nigeria, a close ally of America and a large oil exporter. But the links have not been proved and little is known about groups such as Boko Haram.
On this occasion Nigeria’s president, Umaru Yar’Adua, acted swiftly. But it was the exception to his presidential rule. Now halfway through his four-year term, the former governor of the northern state of Katsina has achieved little. His administration is beset by indecision and drift.
This week’s violence in the north comes on top of unceasing violence in the southern Niger Delta region, where an insurgency by militants demanding a bigger share of the country’s oil wealth continues to disrupt oil exports. By some estimates, Nigeria now exports only half of what it should: Angola has taken over as sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest producer.
Despite floating various well-meaning plans to pacify the Delta, the government has failed to stop the region’s unrest. The fall in tax revenues, as a result of illegal bunkering and the sabotage of pipelines, means that Mr Yar’Adua has even less chance of tackling his country’s other problems, such as a chronic lack of electricity. The insurgency in the Delta has thrived on the back of dire poverty and high unemployment in what should be a relatively wealthy region, were it not so poorly governed. Some fear the Islamist militants in the north may profit from the same lack of opportunities, which saps the morale of young Nigerians and makes so many of them prey to extremists.
Source:http://www.economist.com/world/mideast-africa/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14140810
Bayelsa to lobby against Petroleum Industry Bill
NAN
July 29, 2009 11:31PMT
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Wednesday said it would embark on a campaign to lobby the five State Houses of Assembly in the Niger Delta region to reject the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill.
It will be recalled that Petroleum Minister Rilwanu Lukman had while speaking at the Senate public hearing on the bill in Abuja, said that the bill would ensure transparency in the oil and gas sector.
“The bill is in the best interest of Nigerians and the people living in the oil producing areas contrary to speculation in some quarters,” he said.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum (Upstream) Lee Maeba, said that the bill was coming at a time when obsolete laws in the sector should be repealed.
He noted that all memoranda received during the hearing would be treated equally and urged members of the public and other stakeholders who still had memoranda to present to the committee to do so.
But the Deputy Speaker, Nestor Binabo, who led other lawmakers in a debate after the House resumed from a two weeks recess, warned that the Bill was capable of “thwarting” the peace efforts in the region.
Most of the members agreed that the supporting roles of the various assemblies in the region would reduce the noticeable lukewarm attitude of Ministers and Senators from the region.
Contributing, Jonathan Obuebite, representing Nembe I Constituency, alleged that the Bill was a deliberate move to further marginalise the people of the Niger Delta. “It will be against the principles of fair play, equity and natural justice,” he said.
Other members called on elected and political office holders from the region to show signs of concern and support for issues affecting the people of the region rather than adopting a lukewarm attitude due to selfish political considerations.
Back
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While we value your feedback we have to moderate them, so your comments would appear in a maximum of thirty minutes. Please feel free to return and read through again after another user may have replied to what you have said.
Reader Comments (3)
Posted by asita asuei (onisokasuein@aol.com) on Jul 30 2009
pls i want you to pls make the copy of the bill to be available on this page thanks
Posted by SB Adamu on Jul 30 2009
I am of the same opinion with the first comment. We do not know the content of the bill, so we are blind to the raging arguments. Please avail us with the copy of the bill on line. Thanks.
Posted by ibrahim Dikko, Scotland. on Jul 30 2009
I need to say that the Americans could not continue with the debate on the Law on extractive and explorative industries (Of which the Oil and Gas industries are just a part) because of the lobby groups that became so powerful which each one protecting its interest. In the UK, the IAS, IFRS 6 (Accounting Standards for explorative and extrative industries), were amoung the most debated accounting reporting standards that by all standards of the formation of all IFRSs and IASs received the highest number of lobbyist. By this, i will not be surprise if the Petroluem Bill become a reason for the house various interest groups, the various community that are blessed by petroluem and those without, the explorative industry and extrative industry in this area form powerful lobby group to derail the passing of this bill. The government should form its own lobby group so that the bill can be passed as they want in a manner that they can defend. The bottomline should be if the general interest of its citizens are well cartered for. As for the call that Alhaji Lukman should vacate the Position of Minister of Petroluem, this call is long overdue. Time has pass and his generation should be in retirement. Please Lukman, do the honourable thing. Resign.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/5440270-147/Bayelsa_to_lobby_against_Petroleum_Industry.csp
July 29, 2009 11:31PMT
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Wednesday said it would embark on a campaign to lobby the five State Houses of Assembly in the Niger Delta region to reject the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill.
It will be recalled that Petroleum Minister Rilwanu Lukman had while speaking at the Senate public hearing on the bill in Abuja, said that the bill would ensure transparency in the oil and gas sector.
“The bill is in the best interest of Nigerians and the people living in the oil producing areas contrary to speculation in some quarters,” he said.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum (Upstream) Lee Maeba, said that the bill was coming at a time when obsolete laws in the sector should be repealed.
He noted that all memoranda received during the hearing would be treated equally and urged members of the public and other stakeholders who still had memoranda to present to the committee to do so.
But the Deputy Speaker, Nestor Binabo, who led other lawmakers in a debate after the House resumed from a two weeks recess, warned that the Bill was capable of “thwarting” the peace efforts in the region.
Most of the members agreed that the supporting roles of the various assemblies in the region would reduce the noticeable lukewarm attitude of Ministers and Senators from the region.
Contributing, Jonathan Obuebite, representing Nembe I Constituency, alleged that the Bill was a deliberate move to further marginalise the people of the Niger Delta. “It will be against the principles of fair play, equity and natural justice,” he said.
Other members called on elected and political office holders from the region to show signs of concern and support for issues affecting the people of the region rather than adopting a lukewarm attitude due to selfish political considerations.
Back
Dear reader.
While we value your feedback we have to moderate them, so your comments would appear in a maximum of thirty minutes. Please feel free to return and read through again after another user may have replied to what you have said.
Reader Comments (3)
Posted by asita asuei (onisokasuein@aol.com) on Jul 30 2009
pls i want you to pls make the copy of the bill to be available on this page thanks
Posted by SB Adamu on Jul 30 2009
I am of the same opinion with the first comment. We do not know the content of the bill, so we are blind to the raging arguments. Please avail us with the copy of the bill on line. Thanks.
Posted by ibrahim Dikko, Scotland. on Jul 30 2009
I need to say that the Americans could not continue with the debate on the Law on extractive and explorative industries (Of which the Oil and Gas industries are just a part) because of the lobby groups that became so powerful which each one protecting its interest. In the UK, the IAS, IFRS 6 (Accounting Standards for explorative and extrative industries), were amoung the most debated accounting reporting standards that by all standards of the formation of all IFRSs and IASs received the highest number of lobbyist. By this, i will not be surprise if the Petroluem Bill become a reason for the house various interest groups, the various community that are blessed by petroluem and those without, the explorative industry and extrative industry in this area form powerful lobby group to derail the passing of this bill. The government should form its own lobby group so that the bill can be passed as they want in a manner that they can defend. The bottomline should be if the general interest of its citizens are well cartered for. As for the call that Alhaji Lukman should vacate the Position of Minister of Petroluem, this call is long overdue. Time has pass and his generation should be in retirement. Please Lukman, do the honourable thing. Resign.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/5440270-147/Bayelsa_to_lobby_against_Petroleum_Industry.csp
Bayelsa to lobby against Petroleum Industry Bill
NAN
July 29, 2009 11:31PMT
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Wednesday said it would embark on a campaign to lobby the five State Houses of Assembly in the Niger Delta region to reject the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill.
It will be recalled that Petroleum Minister Rilwanu Lukman had while speaking at the Senate public hearing on the bill in Abuja, said that the bill would ensure transparency in the oil and gas sector.
“The bill is in the best interest of Nigerians and the people living in the oil producing areas contrary to speculation in some quarters,” he said.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum (Upstream) Lee Maeba, said that the bill was coming at a time when obsolete laws in the sector should be repealed.
He noted that all memoranda received during the hearing would be treated equally and urged members of the public and other stakeholders who still had memoranda to present to the committee to do so.
But the Deputy Speaker, Nestor Binabo, who led other lawmakers in a debate after the House resumed from a two weeks recess, warned that the Bill was capable of “thwarting” the peace efforts in the region.
Most of the members agreed that the supporting roles of the various assemblies in the region would reduce the noticeable lukewarm attitude of Ministers and Senators from the region.
Contributing, Jonathan Obuebite, representing Nembe I Constituency, alleged that the Bill was a deliberate move to further marginalise the people of the Niger Delta. “It will be against the principles of fair play, equity and natural justice,” he said.
Other members called on elected and political office holders from the region to show signs of concern and support for issues affecting the people of the region rather than adopting a lukewarm attitude due to selfish political considerations.
Back
Dear reader.
While we value your feedback we have to moderate them, so your comments would appear in a maximum of thirty minutes. Please feel free to return and read through again after another user may have replied to what you have said.
Reader Comments (3)
Posted by asita asuei (onisokasuein@aol.com) on Jul 30 2009
pls i want you to pls make the copy of the bill to be available on this page thanks
Posted by SB Adamu on Jul 30 2009
I am of the same opinion with the first comment. We do not know the content of the bill, so we are blind to the raging arguments. Please avail us with the copy of the bill on line. Thanks.
Posted by ibrahim Dikko, Scotland. on Jul 30 2009
I need to say that the Americans could not continue with the debate on the Law on extractive and explorative industries (Of which the Oil and Gas industries are just a part) because of the lobby groups that became so powerful which each one protecting its interest. In the UK, the IAS, IFRS 6 (Accounting Standards for explorative and extrative industries), were amoung the most debated accounting reporting standards that by all standards of the formation of all IFRSs and IASs received the highest number of lobbyist. By this, i will not be surprise if the Petroluem Bill become a reason for the house various interest groups, the various community that are blessed by petroluem and those without, the explorative industry and extrative industry in this area form powerful lobby group to derail the passing of this bill. The government should form its own lobby group so that the bill can be passed as they want in a manner that they can defend. The bottomline should be if the general interest of its citizens are well cartered for. As for the call that Alhaji Lukman should vacate the Position of Minister of Petroluem, this call is long overdue. Time has pass and his generation should be in retirement. Please Lukman, do the honourable thing. Resign.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/5440270-147/Bayelsa_to_lobby_against_Petroleum_Industry.csp
July 29, 2009 11:31PMT
The Bayelsa State House of Assembly on Wednesday said it would embark on a campaign to lobby the five State Houses of Assembly in the Niger Delta region to reject the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill.
It will be recalled that Petroleum Minister Rilwanu Lukman had while speaking at the Senate public hearing on the bill in Abuja, said that the bill would ensure transparency in the oil and gas sector.
“The bill is in the best interest of Nigerians and the people living in the oil producing areas contrary to speculation in some quarters,” he said.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum (Upstream) Lee Maeba, said that the bill was coming at a time when obsolete laws in the sector should be repealed.
He noted that all memoranda received during the hearing would be treated equally and urged members of the public and other stakeholders who still had memoranda to present to the committee to do so.
But the Deputy Speaker, Nestor Binabo, who led other lawmakers in a debate after the House resumed from a two weeks recess, warned that the Bill was capable of “thwarting” the peace efforts in the region.
Most of the members agreed that the supporting roles of the various assemblies in the region would reduce the noticeable lukewarm attitude of Ministers and Senators from the region.
Contributing, Jonathan Obuebite, representing Nembe I Constituency, alleged that the Bill was a deliberate move to further marginalise the people of the Niger Delta. “It will be against the principles of fair play, equity and natural justice,” he said.
Other members called on elected and political office holders from the region to show signs of concern and support for issues affecting the people of the region rather than adopting a lukewarm attitude due to selfish political considerations.
Back
Dear reader.
While we value your feedback we have to moderate them, so your comments would appear in a maximum of thirty minutes. Please feel free to return and read through again after another user may have replied to what you have said.
Reader Comments (3)
Posted by asita asuei (onisokasuein@aol.com) on Jul 30 2009
pls i want you to pls make the copy of the bill to be available on this page thanks
Posted by SB Adamu on Jul 30 2009
I am of the same opinion with the first comment. We do not know the content of the bill, so we are blind to the raging arguments. Please avail us with the copy of the bill on line. Thanks.
Posted by ibrahim Dikko, Scotland. on Jul 30 2009
I need to say that the Americans could not continue with the debate on the Law on extractive and explorative industries (Of which the Oil and Gas industries are just a part) because of the lobby groups that became so powerful which each one protecting its interest. In the UK, the IAS, IFRS 6 (Accounting Standards for explorative and extrative industries), were amoung the most debated accounting reporting standards that by all standards of the formation of all IFRSs and IASs received the highest number of lobbyist. By this, i will not be surprise if the Petroluem Bill become a reason for the house various interest groups, the various community that are blessed by petroluem and those without, the explorative industry and extrative industry in this area form powerful lobby group to derail the passing of this bill. The government should form its own lobby group so that the bill can be passed as they want in a manner that they can defend. The bottomline should be if the general interest of its citizens are well cartered for. As for the call that Alhaji Lukman should vacate the Position of Minister of Petroluem, this call is long overdue. Time has pass and his generation should be in retirement. Please Lukman, do the honourable thing. Resign.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/5440270-147/Bayelsa_to_lobby_against_Petroleum_Industry.csp
MEND condemns crisis in the North
July 30, 2009
The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has condemned the ongoing violence in parts of Northern Nigeria.
MEND said this on Wednesday in a press release signed by the group's spokesperson, Jomo Gbomo.
In the release, MEND described the attacks as senseless and criticized the efforts made by the federal government to bring the violence to an end.
Fighting had broken out on Sunday in Bauchi State of northern Nigeria when members of Boko Haram, which means "Western education is a sin" in Hausa language, torched a police station killing the policemen on duty to protest the arrest of their leader, a reprisal hit latter left about 39 dead.
The violence which originated from the state has since spread to Kano, Yobe and Maiduguri states where heavy fracas between government security force and the Islamic insurgence had resulted in hundreds of death as well as wanton destruction of government institutions.
MEND, in the release, said it was not a threat to Nigeria and denied claims that it had set up a team to negotiate with the government.
"We use this opportunity to deny the statements from certain groups who we have no affiliation with that claim a team has been chosen to negotiate with the government," Mr. Gbomo was referring to the recent amnesty offer by the federal government.
According to the release, MEND leader, Henry Okah, who was recently granted amnesty by the federal government, was holding consultations with ‘various camps' in order to set up a team to convey their demands to the government.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/Home/5440336-146/MEND_condemns_crisis_in_the_North.csp
The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) has condemned the ongoing violence in parts of Northern Nigeria.
MEND said this on Wednesday in a press release signed by the group's spokesperson, Jomo Gbomo.
In the release, MEND described the attacks as senseless and criticized the efforts made by the federal government to bring the violence to an end.
Fighting had broken out on Sunday in Bauchi State of northern Nigeria when members of Boko Haram, which means "Western education is a sin" in Hausa language, torched a police station killing the policemen on duty to protest the arrest of their leader, a reprisal hit latter left about 39 dead.
The violence which originated from the state has since spread to Kano, Yobe and Maiduguri states where heavy fracas between government security force and the Islamic insurgence had resulted in hundreds of death as well as wanton destruction of government institutions.
MEND, in the release, said it was not a threat to Nigeria and denied claims that it had set up a team to negotiate with the government.
"We use this opportunity to deny the statements from certain groups who we have no affiliation with that claim a team has been chosen to negotiate with the government," Mr. Gbomo was referring to the recent amnesty offer by the federal government.
According to the release, MEND leader, Henry Okah, who was recently granted amnesty by the federal government, was holding consultations with ‘various camps' in order to set up a team to convey their demands to the government.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/Home/5440336-146/MEND_condemns_crisis_in_the_North.csp
Thursday 30 July 2009
SOME PICTURES OF PARTICIPATING SCHHOLS
Some group pictures of participating schools taken during the Third week of the Project
Tuesday 28 July 2009
Lagos eases its environmental burden by planting trees
By Ben Ezeamalu
July 25, 2009 03:40PMT
Some Lagos residents, like James Elemamba are fast appreciating the value of a green environment. Mr. Elemamba, who resides at Obalende, along with his mother operates a flower and tree shop in Ikoyi.
On this day, as he tend the flowers, a look of contentment spreads across his face. Over the years, he has come to treat the plants as part and parcel of his family.
To ensure that the plants receive the best, he wakes up at 5am every day, except on Sundays to water them.
In the face of accelerating climate change, the Lagos state government is hoping that other Lagosians will become as passionate about tree planting as Mr. Elemamba is. Indeed, in the last couple of years, Lagos has been wearing a new look as government's green revolution takes shape.
It started with the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, when loops and open spaces along major routes were cleared and beautified, along with tree planting.
A substantial reduction in the planet's forest cover over the centuries has been a major contributor to climate change, according to Carbon Positive, a UK-based firm that develops sustainable agro-forestry and bio-energy ventures in non-industrialized countries.
The firm also stated that tree planting helps in bolstering carbon dioxide absorption and storage, which helps to offset the loss of native forests and fights global warming.
Trees are important
"Trees have been scientifically proven to be very useful as the first line of defence in the fight against global warming as they absorb the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and replenish the air with oxygen," said Muiz Banire, the Lagos State commissioner for the Environment, during the launch of the second edition of the state's tree planting campaign at Ajegunle, in the Ajeromi-Ifelodun local government area of the state.
On the occasion, the commissioner encouraged Lagos residents to join the crusade and complement the efforts of the state government in creating a healthy environment by planting trees at every given opportunity.
He listed the species of trees to be planted to include Terminalia montalis (Teak), Polyalthia iongifolia (Eucalyptus), and Pinus caribaea, Casuarina, Lagerstroemia species, Neem, Terbeboa, Yellow Phycus, Lypia, Flame of the forest, and Palm.
Economic trees
"Some of the trees listed are not indigenous African trees and may not adapt favourably in the tropics," said Olusola Adekanmbi, a lecturer at the Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Lagos.
"They should have picked trees that are already established in the tropics."
She said the Terminalia catappa (Tropical Almond or Umbrella Tree), a more tropical tree, would have been a better option than the ones chosen by the government. She also named other favourable species as Blighia sapida (Ackee) and Cassia spectabilis.
"It is not planting for beautification alone," the botany lecturer said. "Depending on the location, the trees should also be of economic value. Why can't we even plant mangoes or cashews? We should plant for food. Once there is enough food, you can then talk of beautification."
She also said that the government should involve, in the programme, researchers from educational institutions who could prescribe trees that would survive in the tropics and also be of economic value.
Replace cut down trees
The state government, in April, commissioned the reconstruction of Bourdillon, Alexander and Gerald roads, all in Ikoyi, Eti-Osa local government area. However, hundreds of trees flanking these roads had to give way for the project to come to fruition.
The state governor, Babatunde Fashola, said at times when it becomes unavoidable for trees to be felled, permission must be sought from the appropriate authorities while steps must be taken to replace the plants.
"Since it takes years for trees to mature, we insist that when a tree must, of necessity, be felled, ten trees should be planted in its place," Mr. Fashola said.
Reacting to the destruction, Mr. Elemamba said, "I don't really blame the government. If you want to expand a road, you will definitely have to remove any impediment."
But Mrs. Adekanmbi put the blame on poor urban planning. "If a road needs to be expanded in the future, then there may not be any need to plant trees near it," she said.
The state government has appealed to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and corporate bodies to make the culture of tree planting a daily affair.
Source:http://234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438214-147/Lagos_eases_its_environmental_burden_by.csp
July 25, 2009 03:40PMT
Some Lagos residents, like James Elemamba are fast appreciating the value of a green environment. Mr. Elemamba, who resides at Obalende, along with his mother operates a flower and tree shop in Ikoyi.
On this day, as he tend the flowers, a look of contentment spreads across his face. Over the years, he has come to treat the plants as part and parcel of his family.
To ensure that the plants receive the best, he wakes up at 5am every day, except on Sundays to water them.
In the face of accelerating climate change, the Lagos state government is hoping that other Lagosians will become as passionate about tree planting as Mr. Elemamba is. Indeed, in the last couple of years, Lagos has been wearing a new look as government's green revolution takes shape.
It started with the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, when loops and open spaces along major routes were cleared and beautified, along with tree planting.
A substantial reduction in the planet's forest cover over the centuries has been a major contributor to climate change, according to Carbon Positive, a UK-based firm that develops sustainable agro-forestry and bio-energy ventures in non-industrialized countries.
The firm also stated that tree planting helps in bolstering carbon dioxide absorption and storage, which helps to offset the loss of native forests and fights global warming.
Trees are important
"Trees have been scientifically proven to be very useful as the first line of defence in the fight against global warming as they absorb the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and replenish the air with oxygen," said Muiz Banire, the Lagos State commissioner for the Environment, during the launch of the second edition of the state's tree planting campaign at Ajegunle, in the Ajeromi-Ifelodun local government area of the state.
On the occasion, the commissioner encouraged Lagos residents to join the crusade and complement the efforts of the state government in creating a healthy environment by planting trees at every given opportunity.
He listed the species of trees to be planted to include Terminalia montalis (Teak), Polyalthia iongifolia (Eucalyptus), and Pinus caribaea, Casuarina, Lagerstroemia species, Neem, Terbeboa, Yellow Phycus, Lypia, Flame of the forest, and Palm.
Economic trees
"Some of the trees listed are not indigenous African trees and may not adapt favourably in the tropics," said Olusola Adekanmbi, a lecturer at the Department of Botany and Microbiology, University of Lagos.
"They should have picked trees that are already established in the tropics."
She said the Terminalia catappa (Tropical Almond or Umbrella Tree), a more tropical tree, would have been a better option than the ones chosen by the government. She also named other favourable species as Blighia sapida (Ackee) and Cassia spectabilis.
"It is not planting for beautification alone," the botany lecturer said. "Depending on the location, the trees should also be of economic value. Why can't we even plant mangoes or cashews? We should plant for food. Once there is enough food, you can then talk of beautification."
She also said that the government should involve, in the programme, researchers from educational institutions who could prescribe trees that would survive in the tropics and also be of economic value.
Replace cut down trees
The state government, in April, commissioned the reconstruction of Bourdillon, Alexander and Gerald roads, all in Ikoyi, Eti-Osa local government area. However, hundreds of trees flanking these roads had to give way for the project to come to fruition.
The state governor, Babatunde Fashola, said at times when it becomes unavoidable for trees to be felled, permission must be sought from the appropriate authorities while steps must be taken to replace the plants.
"Since it takes years for trees to mature, we insist that when a tree must, of necessity, be felled, ten trees should be planted in its place," Mr. Fashola said.
Reacting to the destruction, Mr. Elemamba said, "I don't really blame the government. If you want to expand a road, you will definitely have to remove any impediment."
But Mrs. Adekanmbi put the blame on poor urban planning. "If a road needs to be expanded in the future, then there may not be any need to plant trees near it," she said.
The state government has appealed to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and corporate bodies to make the culture of tree planting a daily affair.
Source:http://234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438214-147/Lagos_eases_its_environmental_burden_by.csp
39 dead, Bauchi declares curfew
Ayo Okulaja with Agency reports
July 27, 2009 09:58AMT
The Bauchi State government has imposed a 9pm to 6am curfew in the state capital. Addressing the press on Sunday in Bauchi, Isa Yuguda, the state's governor said that "the imposition of the curfew became necessary to avoid further havoc on innocent persons."
He said that the activities of the group known as Boko Haram, were a threat to the nation. "This is a threat. The emergence of a group that is trying to threaten the survival of our people," Mr. Yuguda said.
The group says it wants "to clean the Nigerian system which, they claim is polluted by western education and uphold Sharia all over the country." The curfew follows violence in the city, early on Sunday, in which an armed gang attacked a police station because of the arrest of their leaders.
About 32 people are reported by Reuters, to have lost their lives during the clash between security forces and the gang. According to Reuters news agency the spokesperson of the police in Bauchi state, Mohammed Barau, said "the situation is now under control as more members of the organization are being arrested". Witnesses say hundreds of people have been arrested since violence erupted.
Mr Yuguda added that "the arrest of the people is something that we should celebrate and it should be replicated in all the cities." "Bauchi in northeast Nigeria, is one of 12 states in the predominately Muslim north that started a stricter enforcement of Sharia in 2000 which has sparked bouts of sectarian violence that killed lots of people."
Source: http://234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5438913-146/Bauchi_State_government%20imposes_curfew_in_state.csp
July 27, 2009 09:58AMT
The Bauchi State government has imposed a 9pm to 6am curfew in the state capital. Addressing the press on Sunday in Bauchi, Isa Yuguda, the state's governor said that "the imposition of the curfew became necessary to avoid further havoc on innocent persons."
He said that the activities of the group known as Boko Haram, were a threat to the nation. "This is a threat. The emergence of a group that is trying to threaten the survival of our people," Mr. Yuguda said.
The group says it wants "to clean the Nigerian system which, they claim is polluted by western education and uphold Sharia all over the country." The curfew follows violence in the city, early on Sunday, in which an armed gang attacked a police station because of the arrest of their leaders.
About 32 people are reported by Reuters, to have lost their lives during the clash between security forces and the gang. According to Reuters news agency the spokesperson of the police in Bauchi state, Mohammed Barau, said "the situation is now under control as more members of the organization are being arrested". Witnesses say hundreds of people have been arrested since violence erupted.
Mr Yuguda added that "the arrest of the people is something that we should celebrate and it should be replicated in all the cities." "Bauchi in northeast Nigeria, is one of 12 states in the predominately Muslim north that started a stricter enforcement of Sharia in 2000 which has sparked bouts of sectarian violence that killed lots of people."
Source: http://234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5438913-146/Bauchi_State_government%20imposes_curfew_in_state.csp
SPORTS PROJECT ENTERS WEEK THREE
WORKSHOP TOPICS:
This week I (Ogaga Maxwell) facilitated Peace building skills and understanding conflict. The students were made to understand the necessary skills needed to be a peace builder in their schools and in the society and also there were made to understand that conflict will always be part of life. The manual used was the one provided by Generations for Peace (www.generationsforpeace.com), I attended their Peace training camp in Amman Jordan in 2008 November.
LOCAL CONFLICT ASSIGNMENT:
The students were asked to write out any conflict they have experienced in their schools and we now have a whole lot of practical school conflict situation that we hope to type out as the students do not have access to computers, so I would type out to constitute a local conflict diaries of the secondary school students..
PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED IN ATTENDANCE:
A physically challenged student is in attendance in the project, he helps us to give a rare perspective of what physically challenge people experience in terms of school conflicts. The participant is very active and glad about the project
SPORTS:
Gradually sports is been introduced into the capacity building session and this is aimed at using sports to teach peace building skills. This has been a great source of motivation for the students and they are eager to see how to implement the theoretical class of peace building using sports as a tool in the field of play, using that as practical.
OUTPUT /PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
A participant was very excited as he told the other participant of how he used last week workshop topic on mediation and conflict resolution to resolve a problem in his home between both parents. This led to other students sharing with us how they were putting to use the lessons learnt. It has been a very insightful project.
RIPPLE EFFECT OF OUTPUT
Due to the impact of the project in the local community, I was attending a workshop in Sapele when I talked about the project and the training I had gone through via Youth Action for Change e-course ‘communications and media” I was asked to present a paper on that. And I presented a paper on that using the lectures I got from the Youth Action for Change e-course to about 50 youths drawn from different regions of Sapele community, in the course of my paper presentation I also highlighted that fact that Youth Action for change e-course is the baseline where I drew my media experience from and talked a lot about blogging and its benefit, many resolved to start blogging from then.
Ogaga Maxwell
Sports skills 4 Peace Project
Warri-Nigeria
D2dyi@yahoo.com
This week I (Ogaga Maxwell) facilitated Peace building skills and understanding conflict. The students were made to understand the necessary skills needed to be a peace builder in their schools and in the society and also there were made to understand that conflict will always be part of life. The manual used was the one provided by Generations for Peace (www.generationsforpeace.com), I attended their Peace training camp in Amman Jordan in 2008 November.
LOCAL CONFLICT ASSIGNMENT:
The students were asked to write out any conflict they have experienced in their schools and we now have a whole lot of practical school conflict situation that we hope to type out as the students do not have access to computers, so I would type out to constitute a local conflict diaries of the secondary school students..
PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED IN ATTENDANCE:
A physically challenged student is in attendance in the project, he helps us to give a rare perspective of what physically challenge people experience in terms of school conflicts. The participant is very active and glad about the project
SPORTS:
Gradually sports is been introduced into the capacity building session and this is aimed at using sports to teach peace building skills. This has been a great source of motivation for the students and they are eager to see how to implement the theoretical class of peace building using sports as a tool in the field of play, using that as practical.
OUTPUT /PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
A participant was very excited as he told the other participant of how he used last week workshop topic on mediation and conflict resolution to resolve a problem in his home between both parents. This led to other students sharing with us how they were putting to use the lessons learnt. It has been a very insightful project.
RIPPLE EFFECT OF OUTPUT
Due to the impact of the project in the local community, I was attending a workshop in Sapele when I talked about the project and the training I had gone through via Youth Action for Change e-course ‘communications and media” I was asked to present a paper on that. And I presented a paper on that using the lectures I got from the Youth Action for Change e-course to about 50 youths drawn from different regions of Sapele community, in the course of my paper presentation I also highlighted that fact that Youth Action for change e-course is the baseline where I drew my media experience from and talked a lot about blogging and its benefit, many resolved to start blogging from then.
Ogaga Maxwell
Sports skills 4 Peace Project
Warri-Nigeria
D2dyi@yahoo.com
Friday 24 July 2009
ALF Hosts LIP Orientation Workshop
From July 20th -21st 2009, the African Leadership Forum with support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Nigeria organized an orientation workshop in Ota(Ogun State)for the participants selected for its Legislative Internship Programmes(LIP).
The LIP’s objectives is to provide opportunity for young leaders to sharpen their skills in participatory democratic governance; expose young Nigerians to the working of the parliament and encourage them to consider a parliamentary career either as future parliamentarians or parliamentary support staff. It’s a 3 phase programme with an Orientation/Briefing workshop, 21- day attachment with the legislative Assemblies and a de-briefing workshop.
The Orientation workshop featured training session on Building a Political Career, Active Citizenship, Public Policy Analysis and Advocacy, Legislative Processes and the role of Caucuses.
The resource persons that facilitated sessions were: Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR , Dr Abubakar Momoh, Hon. Farouk Aliyu (Former Member House of Reps.), Hon. Ade Adegbenjo (Former Member House of Reps.), Abiola Sanusi and Mr Kunle Somorin.
Esther Eshiet
LIP participant
Cross River State
S.A.A.C WORKSHOP HOLDS IN CALABAR
The Student Arise Against Conflict(S.A.A.C) project held its capacity building workshop on the 23rd of July 2009 at the Conference hall of the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN). The Workshop which had in attendance 34 participants from 6 schools featured training sessions on Peace Building, Conflict Management, Communication and Human Relationship Skills as well as Decision making skills which was facilitated by Esther Eshiet of the FD project as well as an interactive Session on Debate as Tool for conflict resolution and management by Franklin Ubi.
The workshop also featured the presentation of prizes to the winners of the S.A.A.C Essay competition in secondary Schools with the topic” How conflict affects our lives”.
The winners of the competition are Joseph Albert Effiong –Government Technical College, Mayne Avenue (1st Prize), Esther Acheri Ogbaji- West African people’s Institute ( 2nd Prize) and Achong Emmanuel Abuo- Army Day Secondary School, Ikot Ansa( 3rd Prize).
Participants were also treated to a film show on the movie “Bringing Down the Dictator” a documentary series on OTPOR-the student Resistance movement in Serbia, whose non-violent actions brought down the government of Slobadan Milosevic.
Esther Eshiet
Nigeria
The workshop also featured the presentation of prizes to the winners of the S.A.A.C Essay competition in secondary Schools with the topic” How conflict affects our lives”.
The winners of the competition are Joseph Albert Effiong –Government Technical College, Mayne Avenue (1st Prize), Esther Acheri Ogbaji- West African people’s Institute ( 2nd Prize) and Achong Emmanuel Abuo- Army Day Secondary School, Ikot Ansa( 3rd Prize).
Participants were also treated to a film show on the movie “Bringing Down the Dictator” a documentary series on OTPOR-the student Resistance movement in Serbia, whose non-violent actions brought down the government of Slobadan Milosevic.
Esther Eshiet
Nigeria
Lagos to curb traffic congestion
By Emmanuel Geoff-Iheanacho
July 23, 2009 12:29AMT
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) is conducting a survey that will help in curbing traffic congestion on Lagos roads.
When completed, the survey will ensure timely rehabilitation of roads in the metropolis and reduce the number of work hours wasted daily on Lagos roads due to traffic congestion.
The survey, which is on the traffic situation in the city and the income range of Lagosians is being handled by Advanced Engineering Consultants.
A top official in the authority who pleaded anonymity, said the survey will help the economy to grow and foster understanding among family members.
He said it will also position Lagos for megacity transportation.
"Yes what they (the firm) are doing is part of the efforts to position Lagos for the challenges ahead. A mega city deserves a mega transportation system," he said. "But I cannot discuss the survey with you until they submit the report and the authorities approve of it. You already know the impact of the man hours lost on traffic to the economy and the family relationship in Lagos."
According to the firm, the survey which is now conducted on weekends will help government in planning and designating the vehicles that will ply the various routes, and help in timely maintenance of roads.
"We have finished the weekday's survey and you will now see our agents during the weekends. The survey is not just for traffic control but for road maintenance," Peter Agunbiade, the CEO of the firm said. "You know that when you construct a road, you know the number of vehicles that you expect to pass through before rehabilitation, you will plan ahead if you expect 5,000 (vehicles), in five years, you will start rehabilitation process from the third year."
He said that most roads are dilapidated because authorities have failed to consider their life span.
One of the agents conducting the survey, Anthony Ugboadaga said the response from the public has been poor.
"Most people don't want to answer questions, especially the one concerning their income range. They are always in a hurry and will not spare just one minute for us to get the information," Mr. Ugboadaga said. "How can we get the survey right if we don't know where people are coming from, their means of transportation, the cost of transportation, and how they wish to get back to their homes or wherever they may be coming from?"
He said the public should know that it is in their best interest, as the data will help the government in providing adequate transportation for the people and maintain the road.
Source: http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438263-146/story.csp
July 23, 2009 12:29AMT
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) is conducting a survey that will help in curbing traffic congestion on Lagos roads.
When completed, the survey will ensure timely rehabilitation of roads in the metropolis and reduce the number of work hours wasted daily on Lagos roads due to traffic congestion.
The survey, which is on the traffic situation in the city and the income range of Lagosians is being handled by Advanced Engineering Consultants.
A top official in the authority who pleaded anonymity, said the survey will help the economy to grow and foster understanding among family members.
He said it will also position Lagos for megacity transportation.
"Yes what they (the firm) are doing is part of the efforts to position Lagos for the challenges ahead. A mega city deserves a mega transportation system," he said. "But I cannot discuss the survey with you until they submit the report and the authorities approve of it. You already know the impact of the man hours lost on traffic to the economy and the family relationship in Lagos."
According to the firm, the survey which is now conducted on weekends will help government in planning and designating the vehicles that will ply the various routes, and help in timely maintenance of roads.
"We have finished the weekday's survey and you will now see our agents during the weekends. The survey is not just for traffic control but for road maintenance," Peter Agunbiade, the CEO of the firm said. "You know that when you construct a road, you know the number of vehicles that you expect to pass through before rehabilitation, you will plan ahead if you expect 5,000 (vehicles), in five years, you will start rehabilitation process from the third year."
He said that most roads are dilapidated because authorities have failed to consider their life span.
One of the agents conducting the survey, Anthony Ugboadaga said the response from the public has been poor.
"Most people don't want to answer questions, especially the one concerning their income range. They are always in a hurry and will not spare just one minute for us to get the information," Mr. Ugboadaga said. "How can we get the survey right if we don't know where people are coming from, their means of transportation, the cost of transportation, and how they wish to get back to their homes or wherever they may be coming from?"
He said the public should know that it is in their best interest, as the data will help the government in providing adequate transportation for the people and maintain the road.
Source: http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438263-146/story.csp
Lagos to curb traffic congestion
By Emmanuel Geoff-Iheanacho
July 23, 2009 12:29AMT
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) is conducting a survey that will help in curbing traffic congestion on Lagos roads.
When completed, the survey will ensure timely rehabilitation of roads in the metropolis and reduce the number of work hours wasted daily on Lagos roads due to traffic congestion.
The survey, which is on the traffic situation in the city and the income range of Lagosians is being handled by Advanced Engineering Consultants.
A top official in the authority who pleaded anonymity, said the survey will help the economy to grow and foster understanding among family members.
He said it will also position Lagos for megacity transportation.
"Yes what they (the firm) are doing is part of the efforts to position Lagos for the challenges ahead. A mega city deserves a mega transportation system," he said. "But I cannot discuss the survey with you until they submit the report and the authorities approve of it. You already know the impact of the man hours lost on traffic to the economy and the family relationship in Lagos."
According to the firm, the survey which is now conducted on weekends will help government in planning and designating the vehicles that will ply the various routes, and help in timely maintenance of roads.
"We have finished the weekday's survey and you will now see our agents during the weekends. The survey is not just for traffic control but for road maintenance," Peter Agunbiade, the CEO of the firm said. "You know that when you construct a road, you know the number of vehicles that you expect to pass through before rehabilitation, you will plan ahead if you expect 5,000 (vehicles), in five years, you will start rehabilitation process from the third year."
He said that most roads are dilapidated because authorities have failed to consider their life span.
One of the agents conducting the survey, Anthony Ugboadaga said the response from the public has been poor.
"Most people don't want to answer questions, especially the one concerning their income range. They are always in a hurry and will not spare just one minute for us to get the information," Mr. Ugboadaga said. "How can we get the survey right if we don't know where people are coming from, their means of transportation, the cost of transportation, and how they wish to get back to their homes or wherever they may be coming from?"
He said the public should know that it is in their best interest, as the data will help the government in providing adequate transportation for the people and maintain the road.
Source: http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438263-146/story.csp
July 23, 2009 12:29AMT
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) is conducting a survey that will help in curbing traffic congestion on Lagos roads.
When completed, the survey will ensure timely rehabilitation of roads in the metropolis and reduce the number of work hours wasted daily on Lagos roads due to traffic congestion.
The survey, which is on the traffic situation in the city and the income range of Lagosians is being handled by Advanced Engineering Consultants.
A top official in the authority who pleaded anonymity, said the survey will help the economy to grow and foster understanding among family members.
He said it will also position Lagos for megacity transportation.
"Yes what they (the firm) are doing is part of the efforts to position Lagos for the challenges ahead. A mega city deserves a mega transportation system," he said. "But I cannot discuss the survey with you until they submit the report and the authorities approve of it. You already know the impact of the man hours lost on traffic to the economy and the family relationship in Lagos."
According to the firm, the survey which is now conducted on weekends will help government in planning and designating the vehicles that will ply the various routes, and help in timely maintenance of roads.
"We have finished the weekday's survey and you will now see our agents during the weekends. The survey is not just for traffic control but for road maintenance," Peter Agunbiade, the CEO of the firm said. "You know that when you construct a road, you know the number of vehicles that you expect to pass through before rehabilitation, you will plan ahead if you expect 5,000 (vehicles), in five years, you will start rehabilitation process from the third year."
He said that most roads are dilapidated because authorities have failed to consider their life span.
One of the agents conducting the survey, Anthony Ugboadaga said the response from the public has been poor.
"Most people don't want to answer questions, especially the one concerning their income range. They are always in a hurry and will not spare just one minute for us to get the information," Mr. Ugboadaga said. "How can we get the survey right if we don't know where people are coming from, their means of transportation, the cost of transportation, and how they wish to get back to their homes or wherever they may be coming from?"
He said the public should know that it is in their best interest, as the data will help the government in providing adequate transportation for the people and maintain the road.
Source: http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438263-146/story.csp
Spend more on education or strike continues, ASUU tells FG
By Gbenro Adeoye
July 23, 2009 12:29AMT
University lecturers have again called on the Federal Government to honour the agreement it reached with them. The call was made at a rally organised by the University of Lagos chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), at the main gate of the institution on Wednesday.
The Union insists the indefinite strike will continue until the government decides to sign and implement the agreement on funding education in the country.
Spend more on Education
The lecturers displaying placards said they rejected the 40 percent salary increment recently announced by the Federal Government.
According to them, the purpose of the rally was to inform the public that the Union's demands went beyond remuneration, and that the agreement included an increase in the funding of education and university autonomy. Samuel Jegede, a lecturer at the Department of Philosophy asked: "Will 40 percent increment to my own salary bring electricity and facility to the classrooms?"
He said that the classroom where he graduated 14 years ago with 34 other students is where he lectures about 500 students now.
Ayo Olowe, the chairman of ASUU, University of Lagos chapter, while speaking with journalists said, the fund allocated to education is too small for the country to make meaningful progress in the sector.
"In a situation whereby they (FG) are spending less than two percent of the national budget on education, as opposed to UNESCO's standard of 26 percent; the government is just not serious," said Mr. Olowe.
The Union chairman also condemned the Minister of Education, Sam Egwu, saying he had been insensitive to the issues currently surrounding education in the country.
He said: "While Nigerian universities are in crisis, the man (Sam Egwu) is spending so much money, lavishly on birthday parties. It makes him highly irresponsible as the Minister of Education."
On Industrial Arbitration Panel
On the directive by the Industrial Arbitration Panel that the Union should call off the ongoing strike after the dispute was taken to the panel by the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Mr. Olowe said the Union would disregard the directive.
"They (IAP) did not follow due process," he said. "We are in a democratic society. If somebody brings a case to you, you should hear from all parties. They did not; rather they just asked us to go back to work."
In his parting words, Mr. Olowe said, "Unless the government is ready to sign the agreement, the struggle continues."
A student's view
Ibukun Salami, a 200 level Systems Engineering student of the institution blames the Federal Government for the crisis.
She said: "Government should just listen to these people (lecturers) and answer them. What ASUU is saying is true; a lot of things have to be improved on in our universities. In my faculty, we need a lot of equipment and computers."
Source: http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438249-147/story.csp
July 23, 2009 12:29AMT
University lecturers have again called on the Federal Government to honour the agreement it reached with them. The call was made at a rally organised by the University of Lagos chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), at the main gate of the institution on Wednesday.
The Union insists the indefinite strike will continue until the government decides to sign and implement the agreement on funding education in the country.
Spend more on Education
The lecturers displaying placards said they rejected the 40 percent salary increment recently announced by the Federal Government.
According to them, the purpose of the rally was to inform the public that the Union's demands went beyond remuneration, and that the agreement included an increase in the funding of education and university autonomy. Samuel Jegede, a lecturer at the Department of Philosophy asked: "Will 40 percent increment to my own salary bring electricity and facility to the classrooms?"
He said that the classroom where he graduated 14 years ago with 34 other students is where he lectures about 500 students now.
Ayo Olowe, the chairman of ASUU, University of Lagos chapter, while speaking with journalists said, the fund allocated to education is too small for the country to make meaningful progress in the sector.
"In a situation whereby they (FG) are spending less than two percent of the national budget on education, as opposed to UNESCO's standard of 26 percent; the government is just not serious," said Mr. Olowe.
The Union chairman also condemned the Minister of Education, Sam Egwu, saying he had been insensitive to the issues currently surrounding education in the country.
He said: "While Nigerian universities are in crisis, the man (Sam Egwu) is spending so much money, lavishly on birthday parties. It makes him highly irresponsible as the Minister of Education."
On Industrial Arbitration Panel
On the directive by the Industrial Arbitration Panel that the Union should call off the ongoing strike after the dispute was taken to the panel by the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Mr. Olowe said the Union would disregard the directive.
"They (IAP) did not follow due process," he said. "We are in a democratic society. If somebody brings a case to you, you should hear from all parties. They did not; rather they just asked us to go back to work."
In his parting words, Mr. Olowe said, "Unless the government is ready to sign the agreement, the struggle continues."
A student's view
Ibukun Salami, a 200 level Systems Engineering student of the institution blames the Federal Government for the crisis.
She said: "Government should just listen to these people (lecturers) and answer them. What ASUU is saying is true; a lot of things have to be improved on in our universities. In my faculty, we need a lot of equipment and computers."
Source: http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/Metro/5438249-147/story.csp
Reps ask Yar’Adua to quit
By Festus Owete
July 23, 2009 09:12AMT
Still battling threats of impeachment over the poor implementation of the budget by the House of Representatives, President Umaru Yar’Adua was yesterday asked to resign by the House, if he can no longer provide security to Nigerians.
The House made the call while considering the motion of urgent national importance brought by Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi (PDP Enugu) on the worsening security situation in the South East, a development that he claimed has grown into a frightened dimension.
Minority Leader, Mohammed Ali Ndume who cited Sections 14, 33, and 34 of the 1999 Constitution, said it is the duty of the government to provide security for the people.
He therefore urged President Umaru Yar’Adua to resign from office if he can no longer provide security for Nigerians. “If the President cannot provide solution to security problem of Nigerians, he should quit,” he said.
The call follows on the heels of a resolution by the House of Representatives to summon the Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro, to brief it on the measures being taken to arrest the deteriorating security situation in the zone.
Mr. Okiro is to appear before the Joint Committee on Police and National Security of the lower legislative chamber.
The House also urged the governors of the states in the zone to design and implement a common security strategy in tackling the security situation in the zone.
Mr. Ozomgbachi, while leading the debate on the motion, said the security situation in Anambra State has become a subject matter of national and international concern.
He said that recently, there have been increasing cases of robbery, kidnapping and killings, some of which he said took place in broad daylight.
The lawmaker recalled that last week, there were robbery incidents in the state capital, Awka and some other towns during which many people were killed.
According to him, the robbers who raided banks operated for about four hours without any confrontation by the police. He said that after they operated in Anambra, they moved to a town in Enugu where they robbed other banks and burnt down a police station.
Mr. Ozomgbachi said that during one of the operations, a member of the House, Paulinus Igwe (PDP, Ebonyi) was shot and is now lying critically ill in the hospital. Four of his aides were killed.
He stated that banks are closing because the situation is dangerous.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, he noted that the House can no longer watch it without taking action, stressing: “It is our responsibility to provide security for the people. We should take a decisive action now.”
The lawmaker, therefore, prayed the House to mandate the Joint Committees on Police and National Security to invite Mr. Okiro to brief them on the measures being taken to tackle the situation.
Seconding the motion, Darlington Okeke (PDP, Ebonyi) said the poor security situation, cases of kidnapping, and killings are not limited to Anambra State pointing out that the entire South East zone is not safe. He recalled that a serving senator from Abia State was recently attacked.
He added that reports shows that there have been 512 cases of kidnapping in the country with Abia State accounting for 110, Imo 88, Delta 44, and Akwa Ibom 40.
Mr. Okeke said that because of the situation in the zone, lawmakers cannot go home but stay back in Abuja.
Uche Ekwunife (PDP, Anambra) said the situation in Anambra State is politically-motivated and that the governor, Peter Obi should look for “politically-motivated solution”.
She added: “Nobody is sleeping in Awka. We are living in bondage and the situation is beyond the police.” According to her, banks customers are attended to through the back door.
Nnenna Ukeje (PDP, Abia) said that the situation in Abia State has assumed “endemic proportions” adding that by 7pm the state is shut down.
Overah Joyce (PDP, Delta), Mayor Eze (PDP, Imo), and another member from Akwa Ibom gave a graphic account of the situations in their states.
Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi), who is also the House chairman of the Committee on Police Affairs said that Nigeria is under-policed because it has only about 368,000 policemen to police 150 million Nigerians while the police budget is low compared to those of other armed forces in the country.
Proliferation of arms
Mr. Ningi also said that the situation in the South East zone is worsening because of the proliferation of arms in the nearby Niger Delta region.
Tergu Tsegba, however, said that the security situation in Anambra State has become worse because the state has the highest number of motor parks in the country.
When it was put to vote by the Speaker, Dimeji Bankole, the motion was unanimously adopted.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5438379-146/Reps_ask_Yar’Adua_to_quit_.csp
July 23, 2009 09:12AMT
Still battling threats of impeachment over the poor implementation of the budget by the House of Representatives, President Umaru Yar’Adua was yesterday asked to resign by the House, if he can no longer provide security to Nigerians.
The House made the call while considering the motion of urgent national importance brought by Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi (PDP Enugu) on the worsening security situation in the South East, a development that he claimed has grown into a frightened dimension.
Minority Leader, Mohammed Ali Ndume who cited Sections 14, 33, and 34 of the 1999 Constitution, said it is the duty of the government to provide security for the people.
He therefore urged President Umaru Yar’Adua to resign from office if he can no longer provide security for Nigerians. “If the President cannot provide solution to security problem of Nigerians, he should quit,” he said.
The call follows on the heels of a resolution by the House of Representatives to summon the Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro, to brief it on the measures being taken to arrest the deteriorating security situation in the zone.
Mr. Okiro is to appear before the Joint Committee on Police and National Security of the lower legislative chamber.
The House also urged the governors of the states in the zone to design and implement a common security strategy in tackling the security situation in the zone.
Mr. Ozomgbachi, while leading the debate on the motion, said the security situation in Anambra State has become a subject matter of national and international concern.
He said that recently, there have been increasing cases of robbery, kidnapping and killings, some of which he said took place in broad daylight.
The lawmaker recalled that last week, there were robbery incidents in the state capital, Awka and some other towns during which many people were killed.
According to him, the robbers who raided banks operated for about four hours without any confrontation by the police. He said that after they operated in Anambra, they moved to a town in Enugu where they robbed other banks and burnt down a police station.
Mr. Ozomgbachi said that during one of the operations, a member of the House, Paulinus Igwe (PDP, Ebonyi) was shot and is now lying critically ill in the hospital. Four of his aides were killed.
He stated that banks are closing because the situation is dangerous.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, he noted that the House can no longer watch it without taking action, stressing: “It is our responsibility to provide security for the people. We should take a decisive action now.”
The lawmaker, therefore, prayed the House to mandate the Joint Committees on Police and National Security to invite Mr. Okiro to brief them on the measures being taken to tackle the situation.
Seconding the motion, Darlington Okeke (PDP, Ebonyi) said the poor security situation, cases of kidnapping, and killings are not limited to Anambra State pointing out that the entire South East zone is not safe. He recalled that a serving senator from Abia State was recently attacked.
He added that reports shows that there have been 512 cases of kidnapping in the country with Abia State accounting for 110, Imo 88, Delta 44, and Akwa Ibom 40.
Mr. Okeke said that because of the situation in the zone, lawmakers cannot go home but stay back in Abuja.
Uche Ekwunife (PDP, Anambra) said the situation in Anambra State is politically-motivated and that the governor, Peter Obi should look for “politically-motivated solution”.
She added: “Nobody is sleeping in Awka. We are living in bondage and the situation is beyond the police.” According to her, banks customers are attended to through the back door.
Nnenna Ukeje (PDP, Abia) said that the situation in Abia State has assumed “endemic proportions” adding that by 7pm the state is shut down.
Overah Joyce (PDP, Delta), Mayor Eze (PDP, Imo), and another member from Akwa Ibom gave a graphic account of the situations in their states.
Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi), who is also the House chairman of the Committee on Police Affairs said that Nigeria is under-policed because it has only about 368,000 policemen to police 150 million Nigerians while the police budget is low compared to those of other armed forces in the country.
Proliferation of arms
Mr. Ningi also said that the situation in the South East zone is worsening because of the proliferation of arms in the nearby Niger Delta region.
Tergu Tsegba, however, said that the security situation in Anambra State has become worse because the state has the highest number of motor parks in the country.
When it was put to vote by the Speaker, Dimeji Bankole, the motion was unanimously adopted.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5438379-146/Reps_ask_Yar’Adua_to_quit_.csp
Tuesday 21 July 2009
African Petroleum is bankrupt-Access Bank
By Esohe Iyamu
July 21, 2009 08:07AMT
"The company is insolvent and unable to pay its debts. In the circumstances, it is just and equitable that the company should be would up." Such is the conclusion Access Bank Plc. has reached about African Petroleum Plc. (AP) following AP's failure to repay the bank $35.1 million.
In a two-page statement carried in two national newspapers yesterday, Access Bank, through it's legal counsel, Olisa Agbakoba and Associates, published details about a case currently at the Federal High Court in Lagos.
The statement read, "The company (AP) is indebted to your petitioner (Access) in the sum of US $35,153,822.15 (approximately ₦5.2 billion), being the outstanding obligation on the Letter of Credit (LC) opened by the petitioner (Access) on 18th July 2008, on behalf of the respondent (AP) to facilitate the importation of petroleum products."
According to the statement, "the LC was established and booked on 18th of July 2008 and matured on December 1, 2008," but "upon maturity of the LC, the Company was unable to settle the LC obligation of $US35.1 which is still outstanding as at the presentation of this petition."
In the statement, Access Bank stated that it wrote several times to AP to settle its debt; on January 02, 2009, March 2, 2009, March 26, 2009 and May 25, 2009, but "despite the various correspondences above, calling on the company to settle its LC obligation, the company failed to act accordingly, by settling the amount due." The court case has been adjourned till Wednesday July 22, the same day as AP's annual general meeting.
Legal permission
The statement by Access Bank's lawyers, was preceded by two pages of court documents. On one page was a Federal High Court Lagos order giving Access Bank "leave to advertise the petition." On the second page was an "Affidavit verifying Access Bank Plc Petition," signed by Louis Enahoro, the company secretary of Access Bank and a legal practitioner.
The case is described as "In the Matter of Africa Petroleum Plc and in the matter of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap C.20 and in the Matter of an Application for winding up pursuant to sections 408, 409 and 410 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap. C.20" between Access Bank Plc (the Petitioner) and African Petroleum Plc (Respondent)."
According to section 408 of the Act, "a company may be wound up by the court" for several reasons, including "if the company is unable to pay its debts" and "if the court is of opinion that it is just and equitable that the company should be wound up."
Section 409 of the Act states that "a company shall be deemed to be unable to pay its debts if - a creditor, by assignment or otherwise, to whom the company is indebted in a sum exceeding 2,000 then due has served on the company, by leaving it at its registered office or head office, a demand under his hand requiring the company to pay the sum so due, and the company has for three weeks thereafter neglected to pay the sum or to secure or compound for it to the reasonable satisfaction of the creditor."
According to Section 410 of the Act, "an application to the court for the winding up of a company shall be by petition presented subject to the provisions of this section," by several parties including the company itself and "a creditor, including a contingent or prospective creditor of the company."
Central Bank pressure
On June 19, 2009, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sent a circular to all banks, demanding that they "submit to the Ag. Director of Banking Supervision, details of their total exposures to the companies in the Energy Sector, namely Up-Stream, Down-Stream and Oil Service companies, as at May 31, 2009."
Lamido Sanusi, the governor of the Central Bank, in his first official speech as governor on July 07, 2009 said, "the CBN surveillance activities will receive new impetus to ensure efficient management and good corporate governance"
In stating the central bank's view that the Nigerian banking sector does not face a systemic risk, he said, "our view is that there are stress points in banks' balance sheets (margin loans, proprietary positions, oil marketing names, unsecured large exposures) and these are being dimensioned."
The Access-AP court case has thrown up one such "stress point." Banking and industry observers await Wednesday July 22 - when the court will give its judgement and the same day as AP's Annual General Meeting.
Access Bank Plc is amongst the top 10 Nigerian banks by assets. It's headquarters is in Victoria Island, Lagos . Access Bank's group managing director/chief operating officer is Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede.
African Petroleum (AP) is a Nigerian major marketer of refined petroleum products, with it's head office in Marina, Lagos. AP's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is Femi Otedola. Mr Otedola is also the CEO of Zenon Petroleum & Gas Limited, a petroleum marketing and distribution company.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/Money/Finance/5437955-146/story.csp
July 21, 2009 08:07AMT
"The company is insolvent and unable to pay its debts. In the circumstances, it is just and equitable that the company should be would up." Such is the conclusion Access Bank Plc. has reached about African Petroleum Plc. (AP) following AP's failure to repay the bank $35.1 million.
In a two-page statement carried in two national newspapers yesterday, Access Bank, through it's legal counsel, Olisa Agbakoba and Associates, published details about a case currently at the Federal High Court in Lagos.
The statement read, "The company (AP) is indebted to your petitioner (Access) in the sum of US $35,153,822.15 (approximately ₦5.2 billion), being the outstanding obligation on the Letter of Credit (LC) opened by the petitioner (Access) on 18th July 2008, on behalf of the respondent (AP) to facilitate the importation of petroleum products."
According to the statement, "the LC was established and booked on 18th of July 2008 and matured on December 1, 2008," but "upon maturity of the LC, the Company was unable to settle the LC obligation of $US35.1 which is still outstanding as at the presentation of this petition."
In the statement, Access Bank stated that it wrote several times to AP to settle its debt; on January 02, 2009, March 2, 2009, March 26, 2009 and May 25, 2009, but "despite the various correspondences above, calling on the company to settle its LC obligation, the company failed to act accordingly, by settling the amount due." The court case has been adjourned till Wednesday July 22, the same day as AP's annual general meeting.
Legal permission
The statement by Access Bank's lawyers, was preceded by two pages of court documents. On one page was a Federal High Court Lagos order giving Access Bank "leave to advertise the petition." On the second page was an "Affidavit verifying Access Bank Plc Petition," signed by Louis Enahoro, the company secretary of Access Bank and a legal practitioner.
The case is described as "In the Matter of Africa Petroleum Plc and in the matter of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap C.20 and in the Matter of an Application for winding up pursuant to sections 408, 409 and 410 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap. C.20" between Access Bank Plc (the Petitioner) and African Petroleum Plc (Respondent)."
According to section 408 of the Act, "a company may be wound up by the court" for several reasons, including "if the company is unable to pay its debts" and "if the court is of opinion that it is just and equitable that the company should be wound up."
Section 409 of the Act states that "a company shall be deemed to be unable to pay its debts if - a creditor, by assignment or otherwise, to whom the company is indebted in a sum exceeding 2,000 then due has served on the company, by leaving it at its registered office or head office, a demand under his hand requiring the company to pay the sum so due, and the company has for three weeks thereafter neglected to pay the sum or to secure or compound for it to the reasonable satisfaction of the creditor."
According to Section 410 of the Act, "an application to the court for the winding up of a company shall be by petition presented subject to the provisions of this section," by several parties including the company itself and "a creditor, including a contingent or prospective creditor of the company."
Central Bank pressure
On June 19, 2009, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sent a circular to all banks, demanding that they "submit to the Ag. Director of Banking Supervision, details of their total exposures to the companies in the Energy Sector, namely Up-Stream, Down-Stream and Oil Service companies, as at May 31, 2009."
Lamido Sanusi, the governor of the Central Bank, in his first official speech as governor on July 07, 2009 said, "the CBN surveillance activities will receive new impetus to ensure efficient management and good corporate governance"
In stating the central bank's view that the Nigerian banking sector does not face a systemic risk, he said, "our view is that there are stress points in banks' balance sheets (margin loans, proprietary positions, oil marketing names, unsecured large exposures) and these are being dimensioned."
The Access-AP court case has thrown up one such "stress point." Banking and industry observers await Wednesday July 22 - when the court will give its judgement and the same day as AP's Annual General Meeting.
Access Bank Plc is amongst the top 10 Nigerian banks by assets. It's headquarters is in Victoria Island, Lagos . Access Bank's group managing director/chief operating officer is Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede.
African Petroleum (AP) is a Nigerian major marketer of refined petroleum products, with it's head office in Marina, Lagos. AP's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is Femi Otedola. Mr Otedola is also the CEO of Zenon Petroleum & Gas Limited, a petroleum marketing and distribution company.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/Money/Finance/5437955-146/story.csp
Nigerian government denies reports of British prison in Nigeria
By Ruona Agbroko
July 18, 2009 03:24PMT
The Federal Government and an official of the British Home Office have denied media reports that the UK government is to "build a £1 million jail" in Nigeria. Nigeria's former Minister of Interior, Godwin Abbe, and a spokesperson of the British Home Office, in telephone interviews with NEXT, said the reports were purely speculative.
"There is nothing like that! The British government is not building any special prison for Nigerians who are being transferred to this place," Mr. Abbe, who was moved to the Ministry of Defence on Tuesday, said. "When they come here, whatever conditions they find, they will take it. That is the standard of our country. Why are you going to give special privileges?
"They have offered to build and improve on the structures. But what they are doing is not anything like building a prison. And if the prisoners are brought to Nigeria, they will not dictate to us where the prisoners should be kept. As far as we are concerned, we want to make sure bilateral relations remain cordial, that's all. We, as a nation, will do our best and not play to the gallery."
Also speaking on telephone, a spokesperson for the Home Office, who identified himself as Mr. Polo, said, "It's not about building a prison; it's about helping and assisting. The U.K. government is working to help Nigeria with prison reforms. This will include work to equip and upgrade existing prison facilities and help with prison officer training."
Mr. Polo said the negotiations with Nigeria were in line with a 2006 U.K. policy.
"There are currently around 400 Nigerian nationals held in prisons in the U.K. who may be eligible for transfer, under a no-consent prison transfer agreement policy. The U.K. and Nigerian officials are still in the process of discussing the details. The U.K. position is to work towards freeing up spaces and saving taxpayers' money on enforced removals," he said.
The U.K. reportedly spends £30,000 per year to keep a prisoner in jail and has battled with chronic prisoner overcrowding crisis since 2005, when the number of foreign criminals soared past 11,000, the equivalent of more than one in every eight inmates.
James Slack, Home Affairs Editor of the Daily Mail told NEXT via email that the news emerged because Lin Homer, the U.K. Border Agency chief, was being questioned by members of the British parliament. "The scheme seems to be at an early stage; a similar proposal relating to Jamaica was scrapped," he said.
Rights of prisoners
Ms. Homer had told the Home Affairs Committee that the U.K. intends to help Nigeria in the area of prison reform. "We are in negotiations with Nigeria to help them establish better prison conditions in Nigeria. It's about helping them generate a structure that can cope with (the prisoners). We are prepared to invest if that would enable us to send people home," she said. "We haven't yet, we are in talks with Nigeria and it would be well worth the money to do so."
However, all sources interviewed have confirmed that a prisoner-transfer agreement is being discussed between both nations.
"Yes, there are talks going on between the U.K. and Nigeria on transfer of Nigerian prisoners from U.K. to Nigeria," Mr. Abbe said. "Nigeria is willing to accept Nigerians, whether they are free or in bondage. Nigeria is willing to accept all Nigerians back home.
"The only difference is that the Nigerians in British prisons have a right. Their consent must be sought by the British and Nigerian governments before these prisoners can be transferred. Anything short of that would be contravening the laws of Nigeria.
"We are in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to ensure that aspect of the law is revisited by the Ministry of Justice in Nigeria and the National assembly."
He added that the National Assembly has yet to visit that aspect of the law, "which provides that the consent of the prisoner should be sought."
"It is pending before them," he said.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5435582-147/story.csp
July 18, 2009 03:24PMT
The Federal Government and an official of the British Home Office have denied media reports that the UK government is to "build a £1 million jail" in Nigeria. Nigeria's former Minister of Interior, Godwin Abbe, and a spokesperson of the British Home Office, in telephone interviews with NEXT, said the reports were purely speculative.
"There is nothing like that! The British government is not building any special prison for Nigerians who are being transferred to this place," Mr. Abbe, who was moved to the Ministry of Defence on Tuesday, said. "When they come here, whatever conditions they find, they will take it. That is the standard of our country. Why are you going to give special privileges?
"They have offered to build and improve on the structures. But what they are doing is not anything like building a prison. And if the prisoners are brought to Nigeria, they will not dictate to us where the prisoners should be kept. As far as we are concerned, we want to make sure bilateral relations remain cordial, that's all. We, as a nation, will do our best and not play to the gallery."
Also speaking on telephone, a spokesperson for the Home Office, who identified himself as Mr. Polo, said, "It's not about building a prison; it's about helping and assisting. The U.K. government is working to help Nigeria with prison reforms. This will include work to equip and upgrade existing prison facilities and help with prison officer training."
Mr. Polo said the negotiations with Nigeria were in line with a 2006 U.K. policy.
"There are currently around 400 Nigerian nationals held in prisons in the U.K. who may be eligible for transfer, under a no-consent prison transfer agreement policy. The U.K. and Nigerian officials are still in the process of discussing the details. The U.K. position is to work towards freeing up spaces and saving taxpayers' money on enforced removals," he said.
The U.K. reportedly spends £30,000 per year to keep a prisoner in jail and has battled with chronic prisoner overcrowding crisis since 2005, when the number of foreign criminals soared past 11,000, the equivalent of more than one in every eight inmates.
James Slack, Home Affairs Editor of the Daily Mail told NEXT via email that the news emerged because Lin Homer, the U.K. Border Agency chief, was being questioned by members of the British parliament. "The scheme seems to be at an early stage; a similar proposal relating to Jamaica was scrapped," he said.
Rights of prisoners
Ms. Homer had told the Home Affairs Committee that the U.K. intends to help Nigeria in the area of prison reform. "We are in negotiations with Nigeria to help them establish better prison conditions in Nigeria. It's about helping them generate a structure that can cope with (the prisoners). We are prepared to invest if that would enable us to send people home," she said. "We haven't yet, we are in talks with Nigeria and it would be well worth the money to do so."
However, all sources interviewed have confirmed that a prisoner-transfer agreement is being discussed between both nations.
"Yes, there are talks going on between the U.K. and Nigeria on transfer of Nigerian prisoners from U.K. to Nigeria," Mr. Abbe said. "Nigeria is willing to accept Nigerians, whether they are free or in bondage. Nigeria is willing to accept all Nigerians back home.
"The only difference is that the Nigerians in British prisons have a right. Their consent must be sought by the British and Nigerian governments before these prisoners can be transferred. Anything short of that would be contravening the laws of Nigeria.
"We are in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to ensure that aspect of the law is revisited by the Ministry of Justice in Nigeria and the National assembly."
He added that the National Assembly has yet to visit that aspect of the law, "which provides that the consent of the prisoner should be sought."
"It is pending before them," he said.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5435582-147/story.csp
EFCC boss chides Rivers Governor for ‘childish' criticism
By Elizabeth Archibong
July 21, 2009 12:43PMT
The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Farida Waziri, on Monday in Abuja described last week's criticism of her agency by the Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as childish.
Mrs Waziri told journalists during a question and answer session at the Commission's head office that the statement credited to Mr. Amaechi last Friday was unbecoming of a state chief executive.
The Rivers State governor had, during a visit by the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association, criticised the anti-graft boss for allowing the investigation of officials of his state government by the Commission's operatives.
"We will not allow them (EFCC) into Rivers anytime, because there is a judgment and before they can come here, they have to vacate the judgment," Mr. Amaechi was quoted as saying.
No stepping back on cases
The anti-graft chairperson, however, said the threat will not work with her officers.
"No amount of attack from the governor or any of his officials will stop us from carrying out our statutory responsibilities anywhere, including Rivers," she said. "I believe the governor should talk more like a matured person occupying an exalted office. If he has nothing to hide, I don't see any reason why he is shielding his officials from investigation. We can understand his own case, that he currently enjoys immunity, but then he shouldn't jubilate too soon."
Mrs Waziri also said the commission was not going to hands off in the N5 billion fraud case against Nyesom Wike, the chief of staff to Mr. Ameachi, which was recently quashed by a high court.
Mrs Waziri said the anti-graft agency had not only taken steps to remove all intolerable orders hindering the effective discharge of its responsibilities, but will also take Mr. Wike's case to the appellate court.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5437653-146/story.csp
July 21, 2009 12:43PMT
The chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Farida Waziri, on Monday in Abuja described last week's criticism of her agency by the Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as childish.
Mrs Waziri told journalists during a question and answer session at the Commission's head office that the statement credited to Mr. Amaechi last Friday was unbecoming of a state chief executive.
The Rivers State governor had, during a visit by the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association, criticised the anti-graft boss for allowing the investigation of officials of his state government by the Commission's operatives.
"We will not allow them (EFCC) into Rivers anytime, because there is a judgment and before they can come here, they have to vacate the judgment," Mr. Amaechi was quoted as saying.
No stepping back on cases
The anti-graft chairperson, however, said the threat will not work with her officers.
"No amount of attack from the governor or any of his officials will stop us from carrying out our statutory responsibilities anywhere, including Rivers," she said. "I believe the governor should talk more like a matured person occupying an exalted office. If he has nothing to hide, I don't see any reason why he is shielding his officials from investigation. We can understand his own case, that he currently enjoys immunity, but then he shouldn't jubilate too soon."
Mrs Waziri also said the commission was not going to hands off in the N5 billion fraud case against Nyesom Wike, the chief of staff to Mr. Ameachi, which was recently quashed by a high court.
Mrs Waziri said the anti-graft agency had not only taken steps to remove all intolerable orders hindering the effective discharge of its responsibilities, but will also take Mr. Wike's case to the appellate court.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5437653-146/story.csp
Human Rights Watch alleges killings by Nigerian Security Forces
By Ayo okulaja
July 21, 2009 03:22AMT
A United States based Human Rights organisation, Human right Watch has accused the Nigerian security forces of killing civilians in the aftermath of the last violence in Plateau State.
In a statement titled: "Address Discrimination and Other Root Causes of November 2008 Violence in Jos" sent to the Plateau State Judicial Commission of Inquiry, the human rights body urged the Nigerian government to investigate and prosecute members of the security forces responsible for the alleged killing of more than 130 people in November 2008.
In a testimony before the commission set up to address the sectarian violence between Muslim and Christian mobs that left scores of people dead, a witness and HRW Nigerian researcher, Eric Guttschuss recounted scenes of policemen and soldiers killing civilians in their homes, and lining victims up on the ground for execution.
According to the statement released on Monday, the organisation conducted on-the-ground research in Jos after the violence and in February 2009.
"At least 130 men were killed by members of the very institutions charged with protecting them," said Corinne Dufka, senior West Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch.
The organisation found that while most of the deadly inter-communal clashes took place on November 28, 2008, majority of the killings by the police and the military occurred on November 29, the day that the state governor, Jonah Jang, issued a "shoot-on-sight" directive to the security forces.
The body said it documented about 118 cases of arbitrary killings by security forces that took place between 7am and 1pm on November 29 alone.
According to the release, majority of the killings as documented were allegedly committed by the Nigerian police.
In 15 separate incidents of arbitrary killings by the police, at least 74 men and boys, all but two of them Muslims, were killed.
Majority of the police killings were perpetrated by the anti-riot Police Mobile Force, commonly referred to as the mobile police or MOPOL.
The Human Rights agency also documented eight incidents, involving the alleged arbitrary killing of 59 men by the military.
According to witnesses, all of the victims were Muslim men, most were young, and nearly all were unarmed at the time they were killed.
Human Rights Watch believes the actual number of arbitrary killings by security forces may be substantially higher than these figures.
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry was set up by the Plateau State government to look into the causes of the Jos violence and to identify the individuals or groups responsible.
Nigeria's Federal Government has also established a Presidential Panel of Investigation, which is yet to hold hearings after repeated delays.
The body urged the Federal Government to address the causes of the violence. "The government should consider the sectarian killings in Jos as a wake-up call to address the long standing problems of discrimination and inequality that, in large part, underpin and contribute to this kind of violence," Mr. Dufka said.
The Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives have also convened ad hoc committees to determine the causes of the violence in Jos and the Human Rights Watch has submitted the report of their findings to the committees.
To view Human Rights Watch's submission to the Plateau State Judicial Commission of Inquiry and the other three investigative bodies on the November 2008 violence in Jos, please visit: http://www.hrw.org/node/84015.
To view a slideshow of the aftermath of the November 2008 violence in Jos, please visit: http://www.hrw.org/en/features/nigeria-arbitrary-killings-security-forces.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5437836-147/story.csp
July 21, 2009 03:22AMT
A United States based Human Rights organisation, Human right Watch has accused the Nigerian security forces of killing civilians in the aftermath of the last violence in Plateau State.
In a statement titled: "Address Discrimination and Other Root Causes of November 2008 Violence in Jos" sent to the Plateau State Judicial Commission of Inquiry, the human rights body urged the Nigerian government to investigate and prosecute members of the security forces responsible for the alleged killing of more than 130 people in November 2008.
In a testimony before the commission set up to address the sectarian violence between Muslim and Christian mobs that left scores of people dead, a witness and HRW Nigerian researcher, Eric Guttschuss recounted scenes of policemen and soldiers killing civilians in their homes, and lining victims up on the ground for execution.
According to the statement released on Monday, the organisation conducted on-the-ground research in Jos after the violence and in February 2009.
"At least 130 men were killed by members of the very institutions charged with protecting them," said Corinne Dufka, senior West Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch.
The organisation found that while most of the deadly inter-communal clashes took place on November 28, 2008, majority of the killings by the police and the military occurred on November 29, the day that the state governor, Jonah Jang, issued a "shoot-on-sight" directive to the security forces.
The body said it documented about 118 cases of arbitrary killings by security forces that took place between 7am and 1pm on November 29 alone.
According to the release, majority of the killings as documented were allegedly committed by the Nigerian police.
In 15 separate incidents of arbitrary killings by the police, at least 74 men and boys, all but two of them Muslims, were killed.
Majority of the police killings were perpetrated by the anti-riot Police Mobile Force, commonly referred to as the mobile police or MOPOL.
The Human Rights agency also documented eight incidents, involving the alleged arbitrary killing of 59 men by the military.
According to witnesses, all of the victims were Muslim men, most were young, and nearly all were unarmed at the time they were killed.
Human Rights Watch believes the actual number of arbitrary killings by security forces may be substantially higher than these figures.
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry was set up by the Plateau State government to look into the causes of the Jos violence and to identify the individuals or groups responsible.
Nigeria's Federal Government has also established a Presidential Panel of Investigation, which is yet to hold hearings after repeated delays.
The body urged the Federal Government to address the causes of the violence. "The government should consider the sectarian killings in Jos as a wake-up call to address the long standing problems of discrimination and inequality that, in large part, underpin and contribute to this kind of violence," Mr. Dufka said.
The Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives have also convened ad hoc committees to determine the causes of the violence in Jos and the Human Rights Watch has submitted the report of their findings to the committees.
To view Human Rights Watch's submission to the Plateau State Judicial Commission of Inquiry and the other three investigative bodies on the November 2008 violence in Jos, please visit: http://www.hrw.org/node/84015.
To view a slideshow of the aftermath of the November 2008 violence in Jos, please visit: http://www.hrw.org/en/features/nigeria-arbitrary-killings-security-forces.
Source:http://www.234next.com/csp/cms/sites/Next/News/National/5437836-147/story.csp
Should MEND become a Political Party
By Max Siollun
July 21, 2009 08:06AMT
Almost exactly a year ago (July 8, 2008) I wrote an article predicting that if a solution to the Niger Delta crisis was not quickly found, the militants would extend "their operations to non-riverine areas and major population centres like Lagos and Abuja."
Atlas Cove - The Turning Point
Sadly, last week my prediction came true as MEND attacked the Atlas Cove jetty in Lagos, killing up to ten people. MEND had previously restricted its activities to the Niger Delta. However the Lagos attack - in Nigeria's most populous and cosmopolitan city has brought the reality of the Niger Delta crisis home to Nigerians of many shades. With its multi-ethnic character and residents with origins from every far flung corner of Nigeria, Lagos is a microcosm of Nigeria. Since most Nigerians have a friend or relative in Lagos, it has shaken Nigerians out of their complacency.
While sympathising with the grievances of the militants, most non-Delta Nigerians have been ambivalent about the situation, and regarded it as something "going on down there" in the Delta. Many Nigerians regard the Delta as someone else's problem. Nigerians may now finally realise that wherever they live, the Niger Delta is their problem too.
Where Did Your City Come From?
A few statistics illustrate the inequity of the Nigerian oil industry: only 9 of Nigeria's 36 states produce oil, and that 75% of Nigeria's oil, and 50% of its earnings, come from only 3 of the 36 states (Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers).
Whether you live in Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Kaduna, Abuja, Ibadan, Jos or Kano, the oil and money from the Delta was, and continues to be used to build your city, the roads you walk and drive on, the schools and universities you and your family attend, and your hospital. It might even pay your salary too if you work for the government.
Modern Nigeria has been built on the blood, suffering and tears of the Delta. Nigeria moved its capital city several hundred miles from Lagos to Abuja and constructed a new modern capital city out of the bush, because it could finance it using Delta oil money. While you might live in a modern city, the people who live in the places where the oil comes from, live with polluted water supplies, dead crops, oil spills that will take centuries to clear, and poisonous gas in their lungs.
The Evolution of the Struggle
MEND's tactics have evolved and become increasingly violent. They started with kidnapping oil workers, then graduated to attacking oil installations in the Delta, and now to a spectacular attack in a far away city. What is the next escalation?
This is a critical juncture for both MEND and Nigerians. MEND has succeeded in bringing the Delta's grievances to the world's attention and has made it a major political issue within Nigeria. However, MEND has not succeeded at educating the Nigerian public about their demands.
A Turning Point
Although MEND succeeded in demonstrating its prowess and ability to attack targets far outside the Delta, the Atlas Cove attack may have been a political miscalculation. Public reaction to the attack has been unusually harsh and combative. Continued attacks in major cities may turn the public against MEND and make it difficult for the government to make concessions. Whether they realise it or not, the Nigerian public are their best friends. Only by winning the public's sympathy can the militants form a groundswell of public opinion sufficient to pressurise the government into finding a drastic solution.
Which Way Next?
The Niger Delta militants are not one organisation operating under a common leadership with unified ideology. There is no central chain of command or a clearly defined political ideal. Rather the militants are a loose eclectic mix of several aggrieved armed factions like MEND and the Niger Delta People's Volunteer Force. The multi-headed militant hydra is not easy for the public to understand.
Their shadowy nature is an asset and a hindrance. While their mystique makes their detection and suppression difficult for the Nigerian security forces, it also makes them faceless and has prevented them from making political progress.
Violence is the Means, Not the End
The militants must understand that violence is the means, not the end. If they rely on violence alone, they will provoke the federal government into a massive military crackdown. The government can sustain a low intensity conflict for several years without an existential threat to Nigeria or its control over the oil industry. The Delta violence even benefits the government in a financially perverse way. Attacks on oil installations disrupt the global oil market and increases prices. Higher oil prices equals more money for the federal government.
The militants cannot succeed through violence alone and at some point will have to engage the federal government in serious negotiations. Violence was used by the ANC, IRA and PLO to bring their opponents to the negotiating table. One day, the militants must make the transition from resistance movement to political organisation. If that day comes, can they negotiate?
The militants require a political wing and a skilled orator to articulate their struggle. The ANC had Nelson Mandela, the IRA had Gerry Adams, the PLO had Yasser Arafat. Who is their interlocutor?
If the militants rely on violence alone, we may end up with another Saro-Wiwa or Adaka Boro outcome.....
maxsiollun@yahoo.com
http://maxsiollun.wordpress.com/
July 21, 2009 08:06AMT
Almost exactly a year ago (July 8, 2008) I wrote an article predicting that if a solution to the Niger Delta crisis was not quickly found, the militants would extend "their operations to non-riverine areas and major population centres like Lagos and Abuja."
Atlas Cove - The Turning Point
Sadly, last week my prediction came true as MEND attacked the Atlas Cove jetty in Lagos, killing up to ten people. MEND had previously restricted its activities to the Niger Delta. However the Lagos attack - in Nigeria's most populous and cosmopolitan city has brought the reality of the Niger Delta crisis home to Nigerians of many shades. With its multi-ethnic character and residents with origins from every far flung corner of Nigeria, Lagos is a microcosm of Nigeria. Since most Nigerians have a friend or relative in Lagos, it has shaken Nigerians out of their complacency.
While sympathising with the grievances of the militants, most non-Delta Nigerians have been ambivalent about the situation, and regarded it as something "going on down there" in the Delta. Many Nigerians regard the Delta as someone else's problem. Nigerians may now finally realise that wherever they live, the Niger Delta is their problem too.
Where Did Your City Come From?
A few statistics illustrate the inequity of the Nigerian oil industry: only 9 of Nigeria's 36 states produce oil, and that 75% of Nigeria's oil, and 50% of its earnings, come from only 3 of the 36 states (Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers).
Whether you live in Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Kaduna, Abuja, Ibadan, Jos or Kano, the oil and money from the Delta was, and continues to be used to build your city, the roads you walk and drive on, the schools and universities you and your family attend, and your hospital. It might even pay your salary too if you work for the government.
Modern Nigeria has been built on the blood, suffering and tears of the Delta. Nigeria moved its capital city several hundred miles from Lagos to Abuja and constructed a new modern capital city out of the bush, because it could finance it using Delta oil money. While you might live in a modern city, the people who live in the places where the oil comes from, live with polluted water supplies, dead crops, oil spills that will take centuries to clear, and poisonous gas in their lungs.
The Evolution of the Struggle
MEND's tactics have evolved and become increasingly violent. They started with kidnapping oil workers, then graduated to attacking oil installations in the Delta, and now to a spectacular attack in a far away city. What is the next escalation?
This is a critical juncture for both MEND and Nigerians. MEND has succeeded in bringing the Delta's grievances to the world's attention and has made it a major political issue within Nigeria. However, MEND has not succeeded at educating the Nigerian public about their demands.
A Turning Point
Although MEND succeeded in demonstrating its prowess and ability to attack targets far outside the Delta, the Atlas Cove attack may have been a political miscalculation. Public reaction to the attack has been unusually harsh and combative. Continued attacks in major cities may turn the public against MEND and make it difficult for the government to make concessions. Whether they realise it or not, the Nigerian public are their best friends. Only by winning the public's sympathy can the militants form a groundswell of public opinion sufficient to pressurise the government into finding a drastic solution.
Which Way Next?
The Niger Delta militants are not one organisation operating under a common leadership with unified ideology. There is no central chain of command or a clearly defined political ideal. Rather the militants are a loose eclectic mix of several aggrieved armed factions like MEND and the Niger Delta People's Volunteer Force. The multi-headed militant hydra is not easy for the public to understand.
Their shadowy nature is an asset and a hindrance. While their mystique makes their detection and suppression difficult for the Nigerian security forces, it also makes them faceless and has prevented them from making political progress.
Violence is the Means, Not the End
The militants must understand that violence is the means, not the end. If they rely on violence alone, they will provoke the federal government into a massive military crackdown. The government can sustain a low intensity conflict for several years without an existential threat to Nigeria or its control over the oil industry. The Delta violence even benefits the government in a financially perverse way. Attacks on oil installations disrupt the global oil market and increases prices. Higher oil prices equals more money for the federal government.
The militants cannot succeed through violence alone and at some point will have to engage the federal government in serious negotiations. Violence was used by the ANC, IRA and PLO to bring their opponents to the negotiating table. One day, the militants must make the transition from resistance movement to political organisation. If that day comes, can they negotiate?
The militants require a political wing and a skilled orator to articulate their struggle. The ANC had Nelson Mandela, the IRA had Gerry Adams, the PLO had Yasser Arafat. Who is their interlocutor?
If the militants rely on violence alone, we may end up with another Saro-Wiwa or Adaka Boro outcome.....
maxsiollun@yahoo.com
http://maxsiollun.wordpress.com/
EXPERT FACILITATES MEDIATION SESSION
The expert in the project during our proposal an expert mediator Dr Brown Ogbeifun Member, conflict Mgt and Leadership Training Institute , Canada, Member, the Governing Council, Institute of Mediation and Conciliation (Nigeria), Member, Panel of Neutrals, High Court of the Federal Territory Abuja, (Nigeria), Member, Society for Human Resource Management, (USA),MTI Certified Professional in Managing workplace conflict (USA), Accredited Mediator, Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution-UK, Member , Institute if Chartered Mediators and conciliators; associate member Nigeria Institute of management chartered and also served as the 10th PENGASSAN President Nigeria was on ground to talk to the student s on MEDIATION AS A TOOL FOR RESOLUTION OF CONFLICTS IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS.
The lectures was interactive and profound, he introduced the students to the basic concepts of mediation and how they can be mediators in their various schools, these was a broad frame work of discussion that would later enhance further talks on conflict, understanding conflicts and mediation. The students were deeply touched by practical examples given in the lecture.
The lectures was interactive and profound, he introduced the students to the basic concepts of mediation and how they can be mediators in their various schools, these was a broad frame work of discussion that would later enhance further talks on conflict, understanding conflicts and mediation. The students were deeply touched by practical examples given in the lecture.
Ogaga Maxwell
FD Porjects
Warri-Nigeria
www.ogagamaxwell.org
Group Pictures
Group Pictures of 5 schools and local Youth Resource Center represented at the Sports Skills for Peace Project....Bringing Peace to the Niger Delta one student at a time
SPORTS SKILLS 4 PEACE PROJECT KICKS OFF WITH 33 STUDENTS
SCHOOL COUNSELORS IN ATTENDANCE:
Two School guidance and counselors were present at the venue of the capacity building workshop as they came with their students to observe the lectures and activities, one of them was interviewed and she sated that the project was timely and it was needed.
PARTICIPANTS:
33 participants were present to kick start the project from five schools ad the local Youth Center, the schools are Okpe Senior School, Urhlapele Secondary School, Okotie-Eboh Grammar School,Zik Grammar School, Ethiope Mixed Secondary School, amongst the participant is a physically challenged youth. There was gender balance in the representation. And the students participated actively in the sessions.
EXPERT FACILITATES MEDIATION SESSION
The first session kicked off with introduction of participant and asking them their knowledge of conflict and some of their experiences, more details in the report.
The expert in the project during our proposal an expert mediator Dr Brown Ogbeifun Member, conflict Mgt and Leadership Training Institute , Canada, Member, the Governing Council, Institute of Mediation and Conciliation (Nigeria), Member, Panel of Neutrals, High Court of the Federal Territory Abuja, (Nigeria), Member, Society for Human Resource Management, (USA),MTI Certified Professional in Managing workplace conflict (USA), Accredited Mediator, Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution-UK, Member , Institute if Chartered Mediators and conciliators; associate member Nigeria Institute of management chartered and also served as the 10th PENGASSAN President Nigeria was on ground to talk to the student s on MEDIATION AS A TOOL FOR RESOLUTION OF CONFLICTS IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS.
The lectures was interactive and profound, he introduced the students to the basic concepts of mediation and how they can be mediators in their various schools, these was a broad frame work of discussion that would later enhance further talks on conflict, understanding conflicts and mediation. The students were deeply touched by practical examples given in the lecture. a copy of the lecture would be sent immediately it is sent to me email he came with a hard copy.
INTRODUCTION TO EARTH CHARTER
As the founder of the Earth Charter Youth Group,Warri http://ecyg.wikispaces.com/Nigeria_Warri . I introduced the participant to the Earth Charter document (www.earthcharter.org) especially the Earth Charter pillar of Promoting a culture of tolerance, nonviolence, and peace. But more specifically” b. Implement comprehensive strategies to prevent violent conflict and use collaborative problem solving to manage and resolve environmental conflicts and other disputes.”. This was also to provide further boost to the Project as this would be reported in the Earth Charter websites , and it was clearly stated that the project was funded by Youth Action for change.
NB “The Earth Charter Initiative” is an extraordinarily diverse, global network of people, organizations, and institutions that participate in promoting and implementing the values and principles of the Earth Charter.
The Initiative is a broad-based, voluntary, civil society effort. Participants include leading international institutions, national governments and their agencies, university associations, non-government organizations and community-based groups, city governments, faith groups, schools and businesses – as well as thousands of individuals.
PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
When the school counselor of Okotie-Eboh grammar school was asked if the project was needed, she and the student said yes, it was learnt that just on Wednesday 15th a case of school violence took place in their school were a student was sustained injuries from a cutlass cut and was rushed to the hospital. The students narrated several conflicts and fights that have taken place in their schools over the last months, street boys coming into their classes to steal their phones and beat them up.
SCHOOL COUNSELORS IN ATTENDANCE:
Two School guidance and counselors were present at the venue of the capacity building workshop as they came with their students to observe the lectures and activities, one of them was interviewed and she sated that the project was timely and it was needed.
PARTICIPANTS:
33 participants were present to kick start the project from five schools ad the local Youth Center, the schools are Okpe Senior School, Urhlapele Secondary School, Okotie-Eboh Grammar School,Zik Grammar School, Ethiope Mixed Secondary School, amongst the participant is a physically challenged youth. There was gender balance in the representation. And the students participated actively in the sessions.
EXPERT FACILITATES MEDIATION SESSION
The first session kicked off with introduction of participant and asking them their knowledge of conflict and some of their experiences, more details in the report.
The expert in the project during our proposal an expert mediator Dr Brown Ogbeifun Member, conflict Mgt and Leadership Training Institute , Canada, Member, the Governing Council, Institute of Mediation and Conciliation (Nigeria), Member, Panel of Neutrals, High Court of the Federal Territory Abuja, (Nigeria), Member, Society for Human Resource Management, (USA),MTI Certified Professional in Managing workplace conflict (USA), Accredited Mediator, Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution-UK, Member , Institute if Chartered Mediators and conciliators; associate member Nigeria Institute of management chartered and also served as the 10th PENGASSAN President Nigeria was on ground to talk to the student s on MEDIATION AS A TOOL FOR RESOLUTION OF CONFLICTS IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS.
The lectures was interactive and profound, he introduced the students to the basic concepts of mediation and how they can be mediators in their various schools, these was a broad frame work of discussion that would later enhance further talks on conflict, understanding conflicts and mediation. The students were deeply touched by practical examples given in the lecture. a copy of the lecture would be sent immediately it is sent to me email he came with a hard copy.
INTRODUCTION TO EARTH CHARTER
As the founder of the Earth Charter Youth Group,Warri http://ecyg.wikispaces.com/Nigeria_Warri . I introduced the participant to the Earth Charter document (www.earthcharter.org) especially the Earth Charter pillar of Promoting a culture of tolerance, nonviolence, and peace. But more specifically” b. Implement comprehensive strategies to prevent violent conflict and use collaborative problem solving to manage and resolve environmental conflicts and other disputes.”. This was also to provide further boost to the Project as this would be reported in the Earth Charter websites , and it was clearly stated that the project was funded by Youth Action for change.
NB “The Earth Charter Initiative” is an extraordinarily diverse, global network of people, organizations, and institutions that participate in promoting and implementing the values and principles of the Earth Charter.
The Initiative is a broad-based, voluntary, civil society effort. Participants include leading international institutions, national governments and their agencies, university associations, non-government organizations and community-based groups, city governments, faith groups, schools and businesses – as well as thousands of individuals.
PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
When the school counselor of Okotie-Eboh grammar school was asked if the project was needed, she and the student said yes, it was learnt that just on Wednesday 15th a case of school violence took place in their school were a student was sustained injuries from a cutlass cut and was rushed to the hospital. The students narrated several conflicts and fights that have taken place in their schools over the last months, street boys coming into their classes to steal their phones and beat them up.
Monday 20 July 2009
Updates on Niger Delta
Atlas Cove Attack, an invitation to inter-tribal war – YCEFrom AKEEB ALARAPE, IbadanMonday, July 20, 2009
•Photo: The Sun Publishing
More Stories on This Section
The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has described last week’s attack on the Atlas Cove Oil Jetty in Lagos by the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) as an invitation to inter-tribal war.Speaking through its National President, Major-General Adeyinka Adebayo (retd), after an emergency meeting held in Ibadan at the weekend to review the ugly development, YCE disclosed that the elders’ body had scheduled a meeting with President Umaru Yar’Adua over the matter.According to Adebayo, the extension of violent attacks by Niger Delta militants to the South-West was an invitation to an inter-tribal conflict.The Elders’ Council also expressed its displeasure over the intractable crisis rocking Ogun State government, pointing out that the continued face-off between the executive and the legislative arms of government in the state was becoming an embarrassment to Yoruba nation.YCE expressed disappointment that neither the state governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel nor the Group of 15 lawmakers opposed to the governor had honoured the peace move brokered by President Umaru Yar’Adua recently.Adebayo also disclosed that a committee of the YCE, led by him, had earlier met behind close doors with all the factions in the crisis but all to no avail.His words: “This is the second time within two months that we would be releasing communiqué on the political crisis in Ogun State . All Yoruba sons and daughters must at all times strive to adopt the concept of Omoluabi.“There is no way for war or any form of battle in Yoruba land again. The race must be noted for political sophistication, economically viable and socially progressive”, he stated.At the meeting were the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Richard Akinjide; a former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Dr. Dejo Raimi; Secretary-General of the body, Professor Bayo Olateju, and Mrs Bolajoko Doherty, among others.
•Photo: The Sun Publishing
More Stories on This Section
The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has described last week’s attack on the Atlas Cove Oil Jetty in Lagos by the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) as an invitation to inter-tribal war.Speaking through its National President, Major-General Adeyinka Adebayo (retd), after an emergency meeting held in Ibadan at the weekend to review the ugly development, YCE disclosed that the elders’ body had scheduled a meeting with President Umaru Yar’Adua over the matter.According to Adebayo, the extension of violent attacks by Niger Delta militants to the South-West was an invitation to an inter-tribal conflict.The Elders’ Council also expressed its displeasure over the intractable crisis rocking Ogun State government, pointing out that the continued face-off between the executive and the legislative arms of government in the state was becoming an embarrassment to Yoruba nation.YCE expressed disappointment that neither the state governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel nor the Group of 15 lawmakers opposed to the governor had honoured the peace move brokered by President Umaru Yar’Adua recently.Adebayo also disclosed that a committee of the YCE, led by him, had earlier met behind close doors with all the factions in the crisis but all to no avail.His words: “This is the second time within two months that we would be releasing communiqué on the political crisis in Ogun State . All Yoruba sons and daughters must at all times strive to adopt the concept of Omoluabi.“There is no way for war or any form of battle in Yoruba land again. The race must be noted for political sophistication, economically viable and socially progressive”, he stated.At the meeting were the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Richard Akinjide; a former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Dr. Dejo Raimi; Secretary-General of the body, Professor Bayo Olateju, and Mrs Bolajoko Doherty, among others.
Updates on Niger Delta
Niger Delta: MEND sings new song
Donald Ojogo, Bureau Chief, South-South - 20.07.2009
ONE week after reciprocating the release of Henry Okah with a 60-day ceasefire, main militant group in the Niger Delta, Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), says the release of its leader, Okah, and the N50 billion amnesty package, are not indicators of a peaceful Niger Delta in the future.
MEND had declared a ceasefire for 60 days following Okah’s release and the discontinuation of his trial by the Federal Government; a development which came after a devastating attack on the Atlas Cove Jetty in Lagos, 20 hours before Okah’s release.
MEND said it carried out the attack, which led to the death of about seven persons, in two speed boats and by 18 well armed fighters. MEND’s spokesman, Jomo Gbomo, in an exclusive online response to an enquiry from our correspondent, however, asserted that only “justice“ will put an end to the crisis in the region.
Donald Ojogo, Bureau Chief, South-South - 20.07.2009
ONE week after reciprocating the release of Henry Okah with a 60-day ceasefire, main militant group in the Niger Delta, Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), says the release of its leader, Okah, and the N50 billion amnesty package, are not indicators of a peaceful Niger Delta in the future.
MEND had declared a ceasefire for 60 days following Okah’s release and the discontinuation of his trial by the Federal Government; a development which came after a devastating attack on the Atlas Cove Jetty in Lagos, 20 hours before Okah’s release.
MEND said it carried out the attack, which led to the death of about seven persons, in two speed boats and by 18 well armed fighters. MEND’s spokesman, Jomo Gbomo, in an exclusive online response to an enquiry from our correspondent, however, asserted that only “justice“ will put an end to the crisis in the region.
Wednesday 15 July 2009
Tuesday 14 July 2009
Update on the S.A.A.C Project
On the 26th of June 2009, the fliers for the S.A.A.C Essay Competitions was dispatched to the schools involved in the S.A.A.C project. The schools include; St Patrick’s College- Ikot Ansa, Government College-Ikot Ansa, Government Secondary School –Atu, Government Secondary- Henshaw Town, Edgerley Memorial Girls School, Army Day Secondary School, West African People’s Institute (WAPI), NYSC Model School, UNICAL international School and Government Technical College-Mayne Avenue.
The students were afforded 3 weeks to write an essay on the Topic” How Conflicts affect our lives” with a maximum of 1,500 words. The deadline for the essay is Friday, 17th of July 2009.
We are excited that the response we have so far is quite impressive, the writings are creative, and objective. Most of the essays we’ve gotten are very deserving of the prizes,but we have to hold on till the 17th to know “who the cap fits’
…Until then,we would keep you posted
Esther Eshiet
Calabar, Nigeria
The students were afforded 3 weeks to write an essay on the Topic” How Conflicts affect our lives” with a maximum of 1,500 words. The deadline for the essay is Friday, 17th of July 2009.
We are excited that the response we have so far is quite impressive, the writings are creative, and objective. Most of the essays we’ve gotten are very deserving of the prizes,but we have to hold on till the 17th to know “who the cap fits’
…Until then,we would keep you posted
Esther Eshiet
Calabar, Nigeria
The S.A.A.C Project
The Student Arise Against Conflict (S.A.A.C) project is targeted at students in 10 secondary Schools from Classes JSS 1-SSS 3. SAAC believes that conflicts arises from a break down in communication at the different levels in society be it the family, school, church and other social institutions. Therefore the preparation of young people as conflict mitigators is very necessary for the attainment of peace in our society.
The SAAC project is focused on the 2 local government areas in Cross River State (Calabar South and Calabar Municipality) in the Calabar metropolis. The reason for this spread is because of the social stratification existing in these local governments, this difference in economic power and social amenities provided to these areas do cause enemity between students residing in this area, there are also reported cases of inter-school fighting among students of various secondary schools.
The project objectives are:
• To increase the knowledge base of students in peace, conflicts resolution and management
• To examine the dimensions of conflicts facing students in their daily lives
• To explore management and preventive strategies to conflict issues amongst students
• To educate students on communication skills especially dialogue and tolerance as an effective way to addressing conflicts
• To reduce incidences of conflicts amongst students, school authority and interschool relations
• To publicize YAC FD project to students, teachers and other stake holders.
The S.A.A.C project would be Implemented using the following strategies:
• Publicize an essay competition for students in the Secondary Schools (Class Range-JSS 3-SS3) on the topic: “The effects of conflicts in our lives” -1500 words Maximum!
• Organize a SAAC Workshop for students from 8 secondary Schools(4 from Calabar South and 4 from Calabar Municipality-5 students per School)
• Present Prizes to Winning Essays at the SAAC Workshop
• Workshop Sessions would address the following areas, Peace Building, Conflict Management, Communication and Human Relationship Skills as well as Decision making skills.
• Inclusion of conflict management (linking that to MDGs Goal 8)to topics discussed by the MDGs clubs existing in these schools and the creation of such clubs in schools where there are non-existent.
The S.A.A.C project is supported by the Forgotten Diaries small grant programme.
Project Team Members
Esther Eshiet, Franklin Ubi, Donald Henshaw and Bernedette Assim-Ita.
The SAAC project is focused on the 2 local government areas in Cross River State (Calabar South and Calabar Municipality) in the Calabar metropolis. The reason for this spread is because of the social stratification existing in these local governments, this difference in economic power and social amenities provided to these areas do cause enemity between students residing in this area, there are also reported cases of inter-school fighting among students of various secondary schools.
The project objectives are:
• To increase the knowledge base of students in peace, conflicts resolution and management
• To examine the dimensions of conflicts facing students in their daily lives
• To explore management and preventive strategies to conflict issues amongst students
• To educate students on communication skills especially dialogue and tolerance as an effective way to addressing conflicts
• To reduce incidences of conflicts amongst students, school authority and interschool relations
• To publicize YAC FD project to students, teachers and other stake holders.
The S.A.A.C project would be Implemented using the following strategies:
• Publicize an essay competition for students in the Secondary Schools (Class Range-JSS 3-SS3) on the topic: “The effects of conflicts in our lives” -1500 words Maximum!
• Organize a SAAC Workshop for students from 8 secondary Schools(4 from Calabar South and 4 from Calabar Municipality-5 students per School)
• Present Prizes to Winning Essays at the SAAC Workshop
• Workshop Sessions would address the following areas, Peace Building, Conflict Management, Communication and Human Relationship Skills as well as Decision making skills.
• Inclusion of conflict management (linking that to MDGs Goal 8)to topics discussed by the MDGs clubs existing in these schools and the creation of such clubs in schools where there are non-existent.
The S.A.A.C project is supported by the Forgotten Diaries small grant programme.
Project Team Members
Esther Eshiet, Franklin Ubi, Donald Henshaw and Bernedette Assim-Ita.
Tuesday 7 July 2009
UPDATE ON PROJECT/CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Since last week and this week we have been doing a selection of those who would attend the training and as of today we have 30 young people who have been randomly selected from three schools, a youth resource center where youths are trained on skills acquisition and also a street youth.
We have also been able to arrange for a training venue and have contacted the resource persons that includes myself (Ogaga Maxwell), a physically challenged person Lucky, My Igho and the mediator expert Dr Brown Ogbeifun
The schedule for training has been outlined and the first training will commence on Thursday this week by Friday Saturday the first set of pictures will be posted and the first full report including the list of accepted students will be posted.
The football and stationeries have been purchased and also the project banner is been printed and the design will be posted online in the blog on Saturday also
Ogaga Maxwell
Sports Skills 4 Peace Project
www.ogagamaxwell.org
We have also been able to arrange for a training venue and have contacted the resource persons that includes myself (Ogaga Maxwell), a physically challenged person Lucky, My Igho and the mediator expert Dr Brown Ogbeifun
The schedule for training has been outlined and the first training will commence on Thursday this week by Friday Saturday the first set of pictures will be posted and the first full report including the list of accepted students will be posted.
The football and stationeries have been purchased and also the project banner is been printed and the design will be posted online in the blog on Saturday also
Ogaga Maxwell
Sports Skills 4 Peace Project
www.ogagamaxwell.org
Sports Skills 4 Peace Project
www.forgottendiaries.org
Your Project Overview
Project Name:
Sports skills 4 peace
Timeframe: 1st July-August 2009.
Project geographic focus:
The project would be in the Sapele area of the Niger Delta region , a semi-urban area there have been cases of inter-school fights and violence, where students from different schools fight each other and these has in some case escalated to families, streets and some times led to the closure of the said schools, we want to use these project as an intervention project using sports and mediation /peace education skills capacity building workshop to empower the student to act as agents of change and held instill peace in their schools. The increase in school violence has led to the formation of secondary school gangs (cults) a sense of belonging may decrease the vulnerability of young people to school gangs and militancy afterward, sports becomes a good method to increase dialogue, friendship and new identities, while at the same time they are acquiring new skills. The target audience is 40 (forty students) , 8 (eight) each from the four schools in Sapele that have been involved at one time or the other in fighting (violence), age bracket 13-20. and street kids
Objectives of the project
1. To enhance the capacity of young people in identifying conflicts and method of resolving conflicts.
2. To raise through the project 40 peace peer educators into the secondary schools.
3. To develop an understanding of the process of mediation.
4. through practical sports session learn tolerance, dialogue, team work, build relationships and bridges
5. To kick start the process of contributing towards sustainable peace and social cohesion for secondary schools.
6. To engage and redirect the energy of young people towards positive and meaningful activities
Activities planned 1. 3 Peace/ Mediation Capacity workshops
2. Practical Sports session/Practice
3. A peace match (Peace & Sports Day)
4. Printing/Distribution of stickers to schools (1,000) Peace stickers “I am a student, I stand for Peace”
5. Monitoring and Evaluation
Partner NGO Expert/Resource Person
U.K Certified Mediation
Dr Brown Ogbeifun
African Initiative for Transparency
Accountability and Leadership (AFRITAL)
No 12 Okumagba Avenue, Warri
Delta State, Nigeria
Project Supervision/Mentor
Global Youth Leader (World Economic Forum)
Youngstars Development Initiative
Project Partner (Execution)
Igho Irish
Dowell Foundation Sapele.
Monitoring & Evaluating 1. Monitoring progress during and after workshop through pre and post workshop test.
2. Observing tolerance and team work attitude before and after project especially during sports session.
3. Attendance to all sessions and final completion of project.
4. testing knowledge through post test
5. No of trainees that attended sessions and completed their assignments
oral interview and questionnaires
Timeline 1stt Week July –Call for Application
2nd week in July-Review of Application/ Confirmation of selected participant
3rd week July-1st Workshop
4th week July-2nd workshop
1stst weekAugust-3rd Workshop/peace sticker’s distribution
2nd week in August-Sports Team work skills/Peace Match/ Certificate presentation.
Additional Funding Please specify all additional sources of project funding (if any), including amounts.
. Football Jerseys provided y AFRITAL (Dr Brown Ogbeifun) and technical support
Your Data
Ogaga E. Maxwell
No 12 Okumagba Avenue
Warri, Delta State
+2348034801869
+2348050637252
ogagamaxwell@yahoo.com
d2dyi@yahoo.com
www.ogagamaxwell.org
www.d2dyi.org
Your Project Overview
Project Name:
Sports skills 4 peace
Timeframe: 1st July-August 2009.
Project geographic focus:
The project would be in the Sapele area of the Niger Delta region , a semi-urban area there have been cases of inter-school fights and violence, where students from different schools fight each other and these has in some case escalated to families, streets and some times led to the closure of the said schools, we want to use these project as an intervention project using sports and mediation /peace education skills capacity building workshop to empower the student to act as agents of change and held instill peace in their schools. The increase in school violence has led to the formation of secondary school gangs (cults) a sense of belonging may decrease the vulnerability of young people to school gangs and militancy afterward, sports becomes a good method to increase dialogue, friendship and new identities, while at the same time they are acquiring new skills. The target audience is 40 (forty students) , 8 (eight) each from the four schools in Sapele that have been involved at one time or the other in fighting (violence), age bracket 13-20. and street kids
Objectives of the project
1. To enhance the capacity of young people in identifying conflicts and method of resolving conflicts.
2. To raise through the project 40 peace peer educators into the secondary schools.
3. To develop an understanding of the process of mediation.
4. through practical sports session learn tolerance, dialogue, team work, build relationships and bridges
5. To kick start the process of contributing towards sustainable peace and social cohesion for secondary schools.
6. To engage and redirect the energy of young people towards positive and meaningful activities
Activities planned 1. 3 Peace/ Mediation Capacity workshops
2. Practical Sports session/Practice
3. A peace match (Peace & Sports Day)
4. Printing/Distribution of stickers to schools (1,000) Peace stickers “I am a student, I stand for Peace”
5. Monitoring and Evaluation
Partner NGO Expert/Resource Person
U.K Certified Mediation
Dr Brown Ogbeifun
African Initiative for Transparency
Accountability and Leadership (AFRITAL)
No 12 Okumagba Avenue, Warri
Delta State, Nigeria
Project Supervision/Mentor
Global Youth Leader (World Economic Forum)
Youngstars Development Initiative
Project Partner (Execution)
Igho Irish
Dowell Foundation Sapele.
Monitoring & Evaluating 1. Monitoring progress during and after workshop through pre and post workshop test.
2. Observing tolerance and team work attitude before and after project especially during sports session.
3. Attendance to all sessions and final completion of project.
4. testing knowledge through post test
5. No of trainees that attended sessions and completed their assignments
oral interview and questionnaires
Timeline 1stt Week July –Call for Application
2nd week in July-Review of Application/ Confirmation of selected participant
3rd week July-1st Workshop
4th week July-2nd workshop
1stst weekAugust-3rd Workshop/peace sticker’s distribution
2nd week in August-Sports Team work skills/Peace Match/ Certificate presentation.
Additional Funding Please specify all additional sources of project funding (if any), including amounts.
. Football Jerseys provided y AFRITAL (Dr Brown Ogbeifun) and technical support
Your Data
Ogaga E. Maxwell
No 12 Okumagba Avenue
Warri, Delta State
+2348034801869
+2348050637252
ogagamaxwell@yahoo.com
d2dyi@yahoo.com
www.ogagamaxwell.org
www.d2dyi.org
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