₦airaland Forum

@Kross; The concluded business study of the port by belgium professionals and facilitated by the world bank, declared the port as very viable. As the port is performing some special services to importers who can't wait for the port to be concessioned.I can tell you that we are going to have a long list of intrested biders for the port. The Oguta port is also nearing completion and is expected to have a beehive of activities once it is completed.

I hope they concessioned the port fast, as i want to see a beehive of activities going on in both Onitsha and Oguta Port.

FG Begins Concessioning Of Onitsha Ports In 2 Weeks


• N2.7b Oguta Project To Be Completed Next Year

FOUR months after commissioning the project, the Federal Government, through the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), is to begin the process of concessioning the Onitsha River Port to a private individual in the next two weeks.

The N2.7billion Inland River Port in Oguta, Imo State will also be completed by March 2014.

The project, which was awarded to Scott Amede Engineering and Power Supply Ltd in partnership with Zhunhai Minghong Group Company Ltd in 2009, was originally scheduled for completion in March this year.

It was gathered at the weekend that, of the N2.7 billion value of the contract, the sum of N1.8bilion had been paid to the contractor.

Speaking when the National Good Governance Tour Team visited the port Complex in Onitsha, General Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Mike Dike, said contract for the rehabilitation of the port and supply/installation of Cargo handling equipment was awarded to Inter-Bau Construction Ltd in 2009 at the cost of N4.7billion, adding that the project was completed in March 2012 and commissioned by the President in September.

He observed that the President gave a directive that the port be concessioned. According to him, the concessioning process is in line with a “business study” that was sponsored by the World Bank. He noted that the satisfactory study was completed and submitted last month, saying that advertisement for the concessioning process would be due in two weeks time.

In his response, Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, said the first attempt to open up the nation’s waterways started in 1953 but was implemented under the late President Umar Yar’adua in 2009 with the dredging of the
Lower Niger, which has been completed.

The Minister noted that government has awarded the contract for consultancy services for the dredging of River Benue and is awaiting the report.

He observed that construction of the ports would open up economic activities in host communities as well as reduce pressure on the roads.

...To Revamp Lower Anambra Irrigation Project To Boost Rice Production

The Federal Government is to complete the rehabilitation of the deteriorated Lower Anambra irrigation project, which was established in 1981.

Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, who stated this at the weekend when he led the National Good Governance Team on a visit to the project site in Omor, Ayamelum Local Government Area of the State, said it had become necessary for government to revamp the project and hand it over to the private sector.

Maku observed that the Federal Government had created synergy with the private sector to achieve self sufficiency in rice production by 2015, which gave rise to the renewed momentum to harness the full potential of the Lower Anambra Irrigation Project.

He said, “”What the government is doing now is to prepare this project site for investment. I am sure that Anambra State alone can give Nigeria sufficient rice for domestic consumption and export,” he stated.

The Minister sadly noted that the irrigation project, which was established in 1981, was run down due to lack of maintenance, a situation he attributed to government’s characteristic inefficiency in handling such projects. According to him, under the new Agriculture policy, the private sector would take the lead in production to guarantee food security. He noted that the project, if handled by government agencies, would not achieve its desired goals.

“If we revive this agricultural project now and hand it over to the government to run, I can be very sure that, in another five years, we would come back and find the same problem,” he said.

He admitted that successive governments were unable to deliver on agriculture because they were based on the ideology that government should run agriculture to produce rice and sell in the market, the same reason many government agencies failed.

“If it was private farmers that had this opportunity, I am sure that the project would never have failed. It has not failed in other countries, but it failed here because of our attitude, in the public service particularly. This is the same reason the railway system failed, NITEL failed, Nigeria Airways and several other agencies… because government and public service was unable to run them…,” he said.

Managing Director of the project, Mr. Onu Eletuk, said that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Water Resources in 2005 commenced the rehabilitation of the project, but that work has not been completed due to inadequate release of funds.

According to him, the irrigation project, which was taking 20 cubic metres of water per minute from the Anambra River, suffered setback due to lack of maintenance from successive governments. This led to total collapse of the project.

“From the time it was established to the later 1990’s, a lot of facilities had broken down and production of rice from the project had reduced drastically.”

http://www.ngrguardiannews.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=111587:fg-begins-concessioning-of-onitsha-ports-in-2-weeks&catid=31:business&Itemid=562

IT APPEARS SOME IGNORANT BIGOTS INTEND TO SPREAD LIES AGAINST IHEJIRIKA FOR THEIR OWN SELFISH INTEREST.

IGBONISATION OF THE ARMY; AN OUTRIGHT LIE LACKING IN FACTS AND LOGIC BY DISGRUNTLED ELEMENTS AND CONFUSSED ETHNIC BIGOTS MEANT TO BRAINWASH THE GULLIBLE

It has come to our notice that there is a campaign by some unscrupulous and unpatriotic elements whose intentions appear to be bent on destabilizing the Nigerian military and nation at large. This campaign is being propagated in the form of a spurious article being circulated that alleges that the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Onyeabor Azubuike Ihejirika is on some sort of sinister and clandestine operation to “Igbonise” the Nigerian Army. The COAS has been accused of selectively promoting only Igbos at the expense of others. Well, nothing can be further from the truth, and this will be demonstrated in a very clear and dispassionate analysis in rebuttal to the openly biased and ethnically tinged attempt by some disgruntled elements.

What this hatchet job of an article has done is to selectively focus on the promotion of four officers, and then proceed to make bold claims that these promotions were ethnically motivated because the said officers were of Igbo origin, and then conjure up a justification of why their promotions were ethnically motivated by employing a lot of hyperbole and incredulous reach in drawing conclusions from far-fetched inferences. The elements behind this very dishonest article have done this while ignoring the holistic picture of all promotions within the different cadres of the army. They focused on the promotions of Brigadiers Ugwu of the Ordinance Corps, Nwaogbo of the armored corps, Agha Okoro of the Supply and Transport Corps, and Chioba of the Corp of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers only. How can this be a complete picture when 43 Brigadiers where promoted Major Generals in 2011 and 22 promoted in 2012?

Now let’s examine the promotion exercise of 2011 based on available information:
On November 10 2011 the Vanguard published the following story on Army promotions:

The Nigerian Army Council has approved the promotion of 25 major- generals and 43 brigadier-generals, the largest number ever promoted at a go.
Following the recommendation of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Azubuike Ihejirika, those elevated from Brigadier Generals (one star) to Major-Generals (two stars) are Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General R.I.D Isa; Director of Military Intelligence, Brigadier-General A.T. Jibrin; Director of Operations at Army HQ, Brigadier General G.A. Wahab and Defence Adviser, New York, Brigadier General G. Audu.
Others promoted Major Generals are Brig-Gen. K.C. Osuji, Brig-Gen. F.S. Owonibi, Brig-Gen. Agha-Okoro, Brig-Gen. D.D. Kitchner, Brig-Gen. B.T. Oginni, Brig-Gen. E.R. Chioba, Brig-Gen. J.M. Ogidi, Brig-Gen. S.U. Labaran, Brig-Gen. A.A. Martins, Brig-Gen. A. Chukwu, Brig-Gen. M. Idris, Brig-Gen. L.N.K. Banjiran, Brig-Gen. S.U. Audu and Brig-Gen. E.F. Abejirin.
Also promoted two star-generals are Brig-Gen. T.O. Umar, Brig-Gen. H.G. Aminu, Brig-Gen. I. Sani, Brig-Gen. A.G. Ewanshia-Oloni and Brig-Gen. P.K. Ikumonein.
A statement confirming the promotions was signed by the Chief of Staff, Army Public Relations Department, Col. Usman Abdul.
Among the Colonels promoted to the rank of Brigadier-Generals are Colonel Leo Erabor, PSO to the Chief of Army Staff, Col. O.O. Adeleke, Col. J. Alexander, Col. T.K. Golau, Col. M.M. Dan-Ali, Col. L.O. Adeosun, Col. E.A. Ransome-Kuti, Col. J.T. Abubakar and Col. S.E.U. Ekanem.
A statement confirming the promotions was signed by the Chief of Staff, Army Public Relations Department, Col. Usman Abdul.

Now we can begin to see the falsehood being peddled in the allegation that Ihejirika’s promotions were ethnically motivated to favour the Igbos as the list provided shows no such trend. Let’s take a count of Brigadiers and Major Generals promoted against their ethnicities since this is where the focus of the disgruntled elements seems to lie. Below is a list of 23 Brigadier Generals promoted to the rank of Major Generals in 2011. It will be instructive to compare the number Igbo officers promoted to the number of officers of other ethnic groups promoted:
1. Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier-General R.I.D Isa - North
2. Director of Military Intelligence, Brigadier-General A.T. Jibrin - North
3. Director of Operations at Army HQ, Brigadier General G.A. Wahab - North
4. Defence Adviser, New York, Brigadier General G. Audu.- North
5. Brig-Gen. K.C. Osuji---------- SE
6. Brig-Gen. F.S. Owonibi------ SW
7. Brig-Gen. Agha-Okoro------- SE
8. Brig-Gen. D.D. Kitchner- (Unverified)
9. Brig-Gen. B.T. Oginni------- SW
10. Brig-Gen. E.R. Chioba------ SE
11. Brig-Gen. J.M. Ogidi----- (Unverified)
12. Brig-Gen. S.U. Labaran--- North
13. Brig-Gen. A.A. Martins---- SW
14. Brig-Gen. A. Chukwu------ SE
15. Brig-Gen. M. Idris--------- North
16. Brig-Gen. L.N.K. Banjiran---- (Unverified)
17. Brig-Gen. S.U. Audu----- North
18. Brig-Gen. E.F. Abejirin---- SW
19. Brig-Gen. T.O. Umar----- North
20. Brig-Gen. H.G. Aminu---- North
21. Brig-Gen. I. Sani--------- North
22. Brig-Gen. A.G. Ewanshia-Oloni----SS
23. Brig-Gen. P.K. Ikumonein----------SS

Out of 23 names only four (4) appear to be Igbo names; Osuji, Agha-Okoro, Chioba and Chukwu; now that is only 17% of the number of Brigadiers promoted to Major Generals in 2011 as published by the Vanguard in November of 2011. The SE is one of 6 geopolitical zones in the country, and simple math tells us that if geopolitical zones were taken into account during promotions of officers, as it should in such a polarized and tribalised country as Nigeria, that is exactly 17% of promotions per cadre per geographical zone, given there are personnel from each zone available to be promoted. So what is the source of this contrived brouhaha? Is this not much ado about nothing? Who could be behind this, but those bent on destabilizing Nigeria for whatever selfish and nefarious ends they may have?

For good measure, below is a summary of the 2012 promotion details as published in National Mirror on December 20 2012:

Director, Army Public Relations Department, Brigadier General Bola Koleoso, who was promoted to the rank of Major General, in a statement, listed those promoted to the substantive rank of Major General to include:
1. Brigadier General NO Ojiji of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC);
2. Brigadier General HA Salihu; Commandant, Depot Nigerian Army,
3. Brigadier General SZ Uba of the Defence Headquarters
4. Brigadier General ET Nienge of the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport.
Brigadier General David Enetie of Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre,
5. Brigadier General Mashudy O. Adekanye of the Nigerian Army Ordinance School, Commander of 23 Brigade Nigerian Army
6. Brigadier General John N. Nwaoga and Brigadier General Patrick G. Ogah of Army Headquarters Directorate of Training and Operations.
Brigadier General Donald MN Oji of Nigerian Army Signals School
7. Brigadier General Tanko Y. Gaiya of the AFCSC
8. Brigadier General Bamidele O. Ologundudu of the Nigerian Defence College (NDC)
9. Brigadier General Abbas O. Adekanye of the Central Workshop; Commander 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Tamunomieibi I. Dibi; Commander 2 Brigade
10. Brigadier General Tukur Y. Buratai; Commander 4 Brigade
11. Brigadier General Obi A. Umahi
12. Brigadier General Chuckwudi BB Odunukwe of the Directorate of Data Processing; Defence Attache to China
13. Brigadier General Sulaiman D. Aliyu
14. Brigadier General Junaid S. Bindawa of the Nigerian Army Armoured School (NAAS)
15. Brigadier General Obidah T. Ethan serving in the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL)
16. Brigadier General Obasina A. Ogunbiyi of the Nigerian Army Medical Corps
17. Brigadier General Friday M. Airende of the Special Vehicle Plant

New GOCs and Head Quarters:

- GOC of 1 Division(Kadunawink, Maj Gen.Wahab ---Northerner
- GOC of 2 Division(Ibadan, Oyowink, Maj-Gen. Ahmed ---Northerner
- GOCs of 3 Division(Jos, Plateau), Maj-Gen. Ebiobowei Awala----SS
- GOC of 81 Division(Victoria Island, Lagos) is Maj-Gen. Obi Umahi---SE
- GOC of 82 Division(Enugu), Maj-Gen Ashimiyu Olaniyi -------SW

Again here there is no sign of inequity in the promotions favouring any particular ethnic group as alleged. In fact two officers who were alleged not to have been promoted – Nienge and Adekanye are on this list, and this is not even an exhaustive list of all promoted! So what is the game here? Obviously it is not one that bodes well for the stability of the country.

The article is fraught with hateful language and innuendo; several officers promoted who happen to be Igbo are referred to as “the Igbo boy” . There is so much warped logic and impossible extrapolations and conclusions drawn from inconclusive analysis that will make one dizzy, for example, one Col Soloye is alleged not to have been promoted because of his “outstanding personal and professional records”.

How preposterous!

They continue this incredulous reach by further stating that “The plan here, just as in the case of Oyekan, is to slow down this rising star who might get in the way of Igbo officers “destined” by General Ihejirika to rise above him”.
Again, how preposterous! What is the source or proof of this bold conclusion? Unless this article was produced by superhuman mind readers this is pure baseless conjecture of the highest order. It is important to note at this juncture that none of the officers’ records who have been described as “outstanding” and being overlooked for promotion have been independently vetted. These are just claims by faceless disgruntled elements. Until independently vetted, they remain just claims. Another example of this superhuman mind-reading faculty demonstrated in this article is the case of one Col. Jidda, who for whatever reason was not promoted at a certain time, but the mind readers have gone ahead to explain that “the idea is for Jidda to wait for the Igbo boy to graduate from NIPPS so they can be presented next year with other officers from NDC course 21. Most likely, some Igbo officers would then edge out Jidda who will then suffer the faith of Col Oyekan and Col Soleye”.

Incredible!

Normally these types of baseless claims will not see the light of day in a civilized society, but we are talking of Nigeria afterall, where such poisonous and unfounded allegations have the capability of creating instability and unwarranted bloodshed as has been numerously demonstrated in the short history of the country. That is why it is important to set the record straight now before agents of destruction hijack the fragile peace of the country.

The article mentions cases of several officers who for one reason or another are believed to have been bypassed for promotion. This may or may not be true, but this section of the article does not talk about the Igbo officers who were also bypassed. In any promotional exercise there are bound to be those who will be disappointed as top positions are limited, and the Nigerian Army is no exception. One comes off reading this article thinking only Igbos get promoted in the Nigerian Army, while all others get bypassed. How incredulous! Suffice it to say that Ihejirika is not responsible for all promotions within the army. Most officers are promoted based on a recommendation from their supervisors and superiors, based on merit, as in any other professional organization. There is no way Ihejirika can be personally involved in the promotion of every officer within the Nigerian Army, and so some of these grudges IF legitimate need to be taken up with the supervisors of the concerned officers and not the COAS.

The biggest joke of the article is the insinuation of the entrenchment of nepotism and mediocrity against the COAS by citing the promotion of Brigadier Onoeveta, the former ADC to late President Umaru Yar’adua. First, Onoeveta is not Igbo, nor is he related to the COAS in any way, so how do they get off alleging nepotism? They ask the question “what explains the retention and preferential treatment being given to Brigadier Onoeveta, who is notorious for mediocrity.” (sic) and go on to provide the answer, “One possible explanation for this elevation of mediocrity is that it is a calculated attempt to achieve certain sinister or diabolical objective perhaps known only to General Ihejirika and the dark forces behind his actions”.

What a caricature!

There are also patent falsehoods and outright lies, for example the article claims that Brigadiers Oginni and Martins, were passed over for their junior Igbo counterpart, but this has been verified false as both were among those who were promoted in 2011. Brigadiers Nienge and Adekanye were also alleged to have been passed up for promotion but show up on the list of those promoted in 2012. Why this and why now? Could there be some elements in the Army or in the country at large who are looking for a repeat of 1966, where false and unfounded rumours in the Nigerian Army set the Northern NCOs and junior officers against their Igbo colleagues and officers in a bloody Fun of bloodletting that left over 300 Igbo army corpses in its wake and culminated in the Nigerian Civil War?
The false propaganda continues with the allegation that Ihejirika is somehow trying to repeat a non-existent 1966 agenda “according to which all non-Igbo senior officers were eliminated and replaced, as shown below, by Igbo officers appointed by General Ironsi, on 17th January 1966?”

The following names were then given as Ironsi’s Igbo appointments:

Serial Name Command Ethnic group

1 Lt Col George Kurubo Chief of Staff Nigeria Airforce Ibo, East
2 Lt Col Njoku Commanding Officer 2nd Brigade Ibo
3 Major H. Igboba Commanding Officer 2nd Battalion Ibo, East
4 Major. G. Okonweze Commanding Officer, Abeokuta Garrison Ibo, Mid West
5 Major Nzefili Commanding Officer 4 Battalion Ibo, Mid West
6 Major Ochei Commanding Officer Federal Guards Ibo, Mid West
7 Major D. Ogunewe Commanding Officer1Bn Ibo, East
8 Lt Col Bassey Commanding Officer 1 Brigade East Non Ibo
9 Major Okoro Commanding Officer,3 Battalion Igbo, East
10 Major F Akagha Commanding Officer Depot. Igbo, East

Aside from the obvious falsehood of Kurubo not being Igbo, it will be shown below how data has been selectively edited and manipulated to portray a false image and give a false message. Below is the true composition of Ironsi’s Military postings and Federal appointments:

A-Ironsi’s Military Postings:

Major General Johnson Aguiyi Ironsi----Head of State-------East
Lt. Col. Hassan U. Katsina----Military Gov. of Northern Region----North
Lt. Col. Francis A. Fajuyi-----Military Gov. of Western Region-----West
Lt. Col. C. O. Ojukwu-----Military Gov. of Eastern Region-----East
Lt. Col. David A. Ejoor----Military Gov. of Mid-Western Region--Mid-West
Brigadier B. Ogundipe---Chief of Staff, Supreme HQ. (SHQ) ---West
Lt. Col. Yakubu Gowon--Chief of Staff, Army------------North
Lt Col George T. Kurubo--Chief of Staff, Airforce ------East
Commodore J.E.A Wey-----Chief of Staff, Navy--------West
Alhaji Kam Selem-------Inspector General of Police------North
Major M.i Johnson---Administrator, Lagos Capital Territory-----West
Mr. S.O. Wey---Secretary to the Supreme Military Council------West
Lt. Col H. Njoku----Commanding Officer 2nd Infantry Brigade, Apapa-----East
Lt Col W. U. Bassey---Acting Commanding Officer 1st Brigade, Kaduna---East
Lt. Col. Philip Efiong------SHQ-------------------East
Major Ibrahim Haruna------Chief Ordnance Officer--------North
Major David S. Ogunewe---Commanding Officer 1st Battalion, Enugu-----East
Major Israel Okoro--Commanding Officer 3rd Battalion, Kaduna---East
Major Festus Akagha---------Commandant NRTC, Zaria----------East
Major Eyo Ekpo---------Military Secretary, SHQ-------------------East
Major Joe Akahan------Commander 4th Battalion, Ibadan------North
Lt. Col. M. Okwechime--Chairman Sports Council & Inspector of Engrs.---Mid-West
Lt. Col. Macaulay Nzefili---Military General Manager, Railways--Mid-West

Summary
Northerners -------------5
Mid Westerners---------3
Westerners---------------5
Easterners----------------10

A couple of important facts need to be noted here:
1. Not all officers of Eastern origin are Igbo, for example Kurubo is Kalabari, Effiong is Efik, Ekpo is Efik etc.
2. The East had the most number of officers (~70%) in the officer corps during this time. (Luckham)
3. Entrance examination cut off points had been drastically lowered in an engineered bid to allow Northerners who couldn’t score high enough to make the passing grades to be enrolled en masse into the Army to catch up with other regions as a result of a push by the then Sardauna of Sokoto and Minister of Defence both from the North. (Luckham)
4. A lot of junior northern officers like Gowon, Haruna, M. Muhammed were rapidly promoted to positions way above their ranks by Ironsi to make up for some of the losses of the North in the January coup. (Efiong )
5. Ironsi went way out of his way to appease the North with promotions, appointments, and reassurances to no avail. He was murdered on July 29 1966 by mutinous Northern officers citing a laundry list of paranoid claims and allegations about a grand Igbo plot to take over the country that have been proven to be false by all credible historians.

B-Ironsi’s Federal Appointments:

Secretary to the Federal Military Government----Westerner
Agriculture and Natural resources------------------Westerner
Communication----------------------------------------Westerner
Justice-------------------------------------------------Westerner
Works and Housing----------------------------------Westerner
Defence-----------------------------------------------Northerner
Education---------------------------------------------Northerner
External Affairs--------------------------------------Northerner
Finance-----------------------------------------------Northerner
Internal Affairs (two) ------------------------------Northerner
Northerner
Trade-------------------------------------------------Northerner
Economic Development----------------------------Mid-Westerner
Industry---------------------------------------------Mid-Westerner
Information-----------------------------------------Mid-Westerner
Labour-----------------------------------------------Mid-Westerner
Mines and Power-----------------------------------Mid-Westerner
Transport-------------------------------------------Mid-Westerner
Establishment---------------------------------------Easterner
Health-----------------------------------------------Easterner
Others (three) -------------------------------------Easterner
Northerner
Mid Westerner
Summary:
Northerners -------------8
Mid Westerners---------7
Westerners---------------5
Easterners----------------3

C- General Managers, Chairmen, Directors and Secretaries of Federal boards and Corporations
Electricity Corporation of Nigeria--General Manager----Expatriate
Secretary----------Northerner
Railways------------------------------General Manager----Easterner
Secretary----------Northerner
Ports Authority General Manager---General Manager--Westerner
Secretary-----------Westerner
Shipping Line--------------------------General Manager---Westerner
Secretary-----------Mid-Westerner
Coal Corporation---------------------General Manager---Easterner
Secretary-----------Northerner
Board of Customs and Excise-------Chairman-----------Westerner
Secretary---------Westerner
Airways-------------------------------General Manager--Expatriate
Secretary----------Easterner
Industrial Development Bank------General Manager----Northerner
Secretary------------Westerner
Nigerian External Communication----General Manager---Expatriate
Secretary-------------Westerner
Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation---Director-------------Westerner
Secretary-------------Westerner
Board of Inland Revenue------------Chairman---------Westerner
Secretary----------Westerner
Nigerin Produce Marketing Company Ltd------Chairman--Westerner
Managing Director----Northerner
Secretary--------------Westerner
Central Bank--------------------------Governor--------------Northerner

Summary:
Northerners -------------6
Mid Westerners---------1
Westerners---------------12
Easterners----------------3
Expatriates---------------3

It is now becoming clear that this is a campaign of calumny and evil propaganda of epic proportions aimed at destabilizing the peace of this nation. If this is not treason then what is? The evil elements behind this campaign have to be fished out and brought to book. Nigeria’s stability is too fragile for these types of expensive political games that have gone on for too long from certain elements who do not want progress for this country. When other nations have moved ahead with industrialization and technological development we are still bogged down by tribal/religious and ethnic conflicts in 2013. Are we cursed? Nigeria is now a laughing stock of smaller African nations who used to look up to us as Africa’s potential super power, and yet we are not able to pause for a second to get our heads out of the sand to self-examine and self-correct after 50 years of rudderless existence as an independent nation. How long can we continue this way? This is definitely not the path forward to a vibrant and prosperous nation. Some things have got to give. Nigerians need to rise up and claim their country from those bent on keeping us behind.

SIGNED,
Bashorun Adewale Bello; President Movement Against Corruption in Nigeria and PRO Concerned Citizens of Nigeria

THE NORTH GET SPECIAL ATTENTION FROM THE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HEALTH BECAUSE OF THE RE-OCCURRING CASES OF DISEASE OUTBREAKS IN ADDITION TO THE LOFTY ALLOCATIONS YET THEIR PEOPLE WALLOW IN ABJECT POVERTY AND DISEASE. THE NORTH LEADERS SHOULD REMOVE THE CAP OF CORRUPTION AND EVIL POLITICS AND BEGIN TO WORK FOR THEIR PEOPLE.

IT IS FUNNY THAT ETHNIC BIGOTS FROM THE CORE CHOOSE TO POKE THE UGLY NOSES ON ISSUES CONCERNING THE SOUTH AND MIDDLE BELT WHILE THEIR STATES ARE IN A MESS AND ABANDONED. IT'S A PITY.

Sokoto State Records 68 Leprosy Cases In 3 Months
Leadership Editors's picture

Alhaji Shehu Tureta, the Sokoto State Coordinator of the Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, said that 68 cases of leprosy were recorded in the state between January and March.

Tureta disclosed this in Sokoto on Monday at a one-day training workshop for journalists organised by the Leprosy Mission Nigeria in collaboration with the Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme in the state.

He said that the figure had, however, dropped significantly from 19,548 cases in 1992 to 68 this year .

He attributed the drop to the introduction of the use of the multiple drugs therapy deployed in 1993.

Tureta said that the media also played a key role in the reduction of the stigmatisation of the people affected by leprosy.

He said, ``No health intervention will be successful without the media and this is why we are forming this budding partnership.

``The state government is strongly committed to reducing the prevalence of the disease and even eradicating it.''

The Socioeconomic Development Officer of the Leprosy Mission, Nigeria , Mr Stephen Okpanachi, said that the workshop was aimed at empowering the journalists to effectively play the role of ensuring the success of the programme .

According to Okpanachi, it is also aimed at creating awareness to reduce the stigmatisation and discrimination of the persons affected by leprosy to a minimum.

The state Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Nasiru Bako, said the state government was committed to providing the health care needs of the people .

Bako, who was represented by Alhaji Abubakar Junaidu , Deputy Director of Information, also stressed the need for sustained partnership between the media and the programme. (NAN)

http://leadership.ng/nga/articles/24633/2012/05/14/sokoto_state_records_68_leprosy_cases_3_months.html

@ Dede my brother i have an excellent memory. 1 thing is sure, as long as Rochas keeps performing, haters like u would not be considered. All Imolites who travelled home this last Christmas are testifying to the beautiful transformation in Imo state. As for the Shell gas project the EIA started before the project was annouced, the feasibility study is ongoing. Obviously your hatred for Rochas has blinded you to his good works which are vivid. The onus lay on Rochas to completes his ongoing projects and emback on better ones to keep blind critics like u in check. I have no issues with you, we need critics like u to keep the governor on his toes but a little appreciation would be a encouragement on his own path.

@Asha that is why Imolites should pray all the ongoing projects are completed.

@Asha those projects are captured in the 2013 budget, you can read up the Imo 2013 budget. I must emphasize that the SERIOUS CONSTRUCTION WORK IS ONGOING AT THE HUGE NSU FACTORY, STANDARD SHOE FACTORY OWERRI, BY THE ITALIAN INVESTORS, AND 500HECTARES RICE MILL IDEATO BY TAILAND INVESTORS. OGUTA BLUE LAKE TOURIST RESORT IS ALMOST COMPLETED, THE Environmental Impact Assessment for the Shell-Chevron $3.5billion giant gas plant has been completed. DESIGN OF THE INTERNATIONAL AUTO, ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC MARKET NAZE IS ALMOST COMPLETE. The investors for the Imo Rubber Limited has been reached. Funds have been set aside for these projects in this year budget.

@DEDE AM NOT A MISCREANT OR NITWIT. YOU CAN CONTINUE YOUR SHOW OF SHAME. YOUR STATE IS A JUNK YARD. You can green with envy all i want you to know that who ever God has blessed no man can curse.

@ Dede you are confused village man, you have continue to spread your lies without showing any fact. I appeal to all to ignore the disruptive tantrums of this fellow. The PDP minister admitted to the fast transformation of new owerri and indeed Imo state into paradise yet this fellow out of envy comes here to spew trash. DO ASK THOSE THAT TRAVELLED HOME IF THEY WERE NOT HAPPY AND SHOCKED BY THE FAST DEVELOPMENT OF IMO STATE. FROM THEIR ANSWERS DRAW YOUR CONCLUSIONS. Imolite can't be deceived by the already failed fallacious propaganda being executed by PDP agents. IMO NO N'AKA CHUKWU.

MILESTONES OF ROCHAS OKOROCHA

While the citizens were still basking in the euphoria of these historic measures, the Governor started the implementation and execution of many lofty but people-oriented policies and projects and these include, public utilities rehabilitation of water schemes in Imo State, namely: (1) Otamiri Head-works (2) Egbu Water Schemes (3) Orji Water Schemes (4) Umuoba Water Scheme (5) Ubachima Water Scheme (6) Mgbidi Water Scheme (7) Umuona Water scheme ( Osuama Water Scheme (9) Nsu Water Scheme etc.

Bringing his private sector initiative, he went into public private sector partnership (ppp) in the execution of some projects which include. International Electrical Electronics and Auto-parts Market, Naze, Central Market for general goods, New Owerri Imo free Trade Zone, Ngor Okpala, International Trade Fair Complex Exhibition Center, New Owerri, Owerri Shoe Industry, Nsu Tiles and Ceramics Industry, Mbano, Establishment of Imo College of Advanced professional Studies Declaration of free and compulsory primary and Secondary Education, construction of Multi-purpose Hall Oguta Motel, Completion Nekede exclusive Garden Housing Estate, Area H, Okporo Housing Estate, Okporo Orlu,

In Agriculture, the Governor has ensured the restructuring and revitalization of the Assets of Imo State Government owned- companies that have been moribund e.g, Imo Palm plantation Limited (Adapalm Ltd, Ohaji), Imo modern Poultry, Obowo, Imo Rubber Estate limited, etc.

In the area of security, he has through the equipment and motivation of security agencies nipped the activities of criminals who wanted to disrupt the peace of Imolites in the bud

In the field of education where he is a master visionary and strategist, he is ensuring that the future of Imo State is secured through education. Through the introduction of scholarship for Imo undergraduates in IMSU and Imo Poly, he has challenged Imolites to excellence.

Also IMSU/IMSUTH that did not graduate medical students for 2 years have continued to graduate many sets of doctors in the last one year.

Indeed, analyzing the giant strides of Owelle Rochas Okorocha in the last one year in Imo State is like embarking on a tedious voyage which requires enormous time, space and energy, because Owelle represents vision, excellence and success, and the celebration of his fiftieth birthday marks the closure and opening of an intimidating and historic chapter in the life of a caring but courageous character.

To the man with the mida’s touch, the celebrated strategist, the visionary victor, and the Golden Age Guru, it’s congratulations and happy birthday.

http://www.peoplestimesng.com/1/?p=164

A quote from the governors address to the people of Imo state last year.
Once again am happy for Imo state, the government should keep up the good works.

REHABILITATION OF ABANDONED INDUSTRIES

When this administration came into office, we identified the need to rehabilitate some ailing industrial concerns which were abandoned by previous administrations. Again, this was in the pursuit of the goal of industrializing the State and enhancing the level of economic activities with the concomitant objective of enhancing the overall prosperity and living conditions of our people.

To this end, we have concluded plans to rehabilitate the Standard Shoe Company in Owerri and the construction of a modern tile factory at Nsu, Ehime Mbano LGA. At the Standard Shoe Company, we met a company that so badly mismanaged that it had a non-performing debt portfolio in excess of N400 million and had ceased operations. Under the rehabilitation programme for the Company, government shall be divesting a significant part of its interest in a restructuring programme that would see the Italian Technical Partners become the majority shareholders in the Company. It is our view that the previous ownership structure was an impediment to the operations of the company as a commercial entity. To encourage the process of reengineering and repositioning the company and accelerate the process of rehabilitation, Imo State Government has awarded the Standard Shoe Company the contract for the supply of school shoes to pupils in the State’s school system in furtherance of our goal of providing free, qualitative education. We hope that the contract valued at N440 million will provide a lifeline to the company to enable it return to commercial operations.

In the case of Nsu Tiles (now Imo Tiles) we saw a laudable project commenced during the glorious years of the Mbakwe administration totally abandoned with over twenty (20) containers of various equipment now obsolete found within the premises. Unfortunately, these equipment are of no use and are being removed from the site to make way for a new ultramodern factory to be constructed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) deal with an Italian Company Fratelli Lerose. This project which is expected to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the region of sum of about 130m Euros would lead to the creation of over 2,000 jobs and other ancillary businesses. It is estimated that the factory shall produce 15000 square metres of tile per day when completed in two years time. May we, appeal to the youths of this area to co-operate with the new investors and not engage in any act capable of causing disorder and disrupting this noble plan for their area.

Brief overview of Oguta blue lake tourist resort rehabilitated and rejuvinated after many years of neglect

Oguta Lake Resort: Delightsome Tourist Attraction!
Saturday, 29 December 2012 00:00 Editor Saturday Magazine - Love & Life
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PRESENT day Oguta settled during the 18TH Century as a nomadic tribe of Beni Stock who lived with the Obeagwa, Amaozua and Obuta people. They were basically farmers but also engaged in the lucrative palm oil trade and eventually attracted the Royal Niger Company (RNC) in the area.

Oguta observes three traditional festivals: Agugu Achina, Owu Achina, Omerife festivals as well as Easter, Christmas and New Year. The societies are based on age group having its own dances and masquerades.

Tradition says that Mammy water (Water goddess) exists in the Oguta Lake and most of the people believe in the existence and effectiveness of such spirit. There are two cult shrines owned by the Oguta People.

One of the standing traditions of Oguta people is that old women of the town who are over 60, may ferry people across the Lake.

Oguta is made up of Oguta 1, the traditional centre of the town, situated at the East Bank of the lake. Oguta II, on the South Bank of the lake, Housing the UAC, SCOA and other European Trading firms as well as Aro Quarters, Kalabari beach etc.

While Oguta III is on the North bank Of the Lake and is separated from Oguta1 by the Okposha Inlet, Oguta III offers a pleasing view of Oguta Blue Lake, as it is called or Ogbuide. It is the second largest fresh water in Nigeria after Lake Chad. No brine, no smarting in the eyes and no harmful creatures. It is surrounded with evergreen environs of the poetic beauty and can be regarded as the Premiere Tourist Attraction of the state.

In 1973, permission was granted by the East Central State to Messrs Ibru and Vaughan-Richard, architects and planners for the Oguta Lake Resort Project.

Oguta Lake and Golf Resort was established about 40 years ago by the colonial rulers as their exclusive getaway spot. During the Nigeria-Biafra civil war of 1967-1970, the Biafrans built a bunker with a tunnel that runs under the lake connecting both banks of the lake. This is preserved today as it’s an important part of Oguta Lake’s history and still attracts a lot of visitors.

Presently, the Resort has a holiday complex, which includes a golf course with 18 standard international holes, relic of war (mini bunker) constructed by the defunct Biafran Navy during the civil war, natural confluence of Oguta Lake and Urashi River, cruise boat services, Golf Club Bar House/Oguta Lake Motel for refreshment, lodging and feeding as well as mini-children’s recreation park.

The Imo State Government has decided to transform and reinvent the Oguta Lake and Golf Resort to reflect the goals and objectives of the New Face of Imo.

The resort shall be redesigned and developed into a World Class Edutainment Center to be known as the Imo Wonder Lake Resort and Conference Center, Oguta, or simply as Wonder Lake Resort, Nigeria.

http://www.ngrguardiannews.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=108915:oguta-lake-resort-delightsome-tourist-attraction&catid=184:love-a-life&Itemid=711

@Dede please leave this thread, there are many threads on Imo state where you and your likes have said the abominable against the good people of Imo state even though the are pure lies born out of envy. The Enugu thread was not polluted by our Imo brothers and you complained when some "ignorant confused supremacist" tried to spoil it, so don't bring your confusion to this thread. I campaigned for you during the last Eze Igbo election pls don't spoil your reputation as a promoter of Igbo unity by following the path of disgrace. Thanks.

Follow this link to see beautiful pictures of Imo Palm Plantation reactivated by Rochas after 25 years of abandonment.
http://fmi.gov.ng/media-center/galleria/photo-galleria/?file=National+Good+Governance+Tour%2FNGGT+IMO+STATE%2FIMO+PALM+PLANTATION+OHAJI%2F&lg_offset=0

Please post the pictures if you can.

Keep Improving on your performance Innoson. Nice one.

The Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku has said that if emerging indigenous car manufacturers are going to remain in business there is then the need to ban the importation of fairly used vehicles, commonly known as ‘Tokunbo’ into the country.

Speaking in Nnewi, Anambra State when he led members of the National Good Governance Tour on an inspection of the INNOSON Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) Co. Ltd, the Minister said if 30 percent of the vehicles in Nigeria are sourced from the company, it would be able to expand and meet the demand in the country.

The Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku alighting from one of the buses manufactured at INNOSON Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) Co. Ltd, Nnewi, Anambra State
The Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku alighting from one of the buses manufactured at INNOSON Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) Co. Ltd, Nnewi, Anambra State

Mr. Maku further urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government to begin to implement the resolution of the Federal Government to patronize the company. “There is need to encourage him (Innoson Group Chairman, Chief Innocent Chukwuma) because for a long time many Nigerians attempted to achieve what he has done by setting up assembling plants and seeking technical transfer such as Peugeot and Volks Wagon. This is not an assembling plant, it is a manufacturing plant”, the Minister emphasised.

The Minister also used the occasion to point out that the President’s power supply programme was already working quoting the INNOSON Group Chairman, Chief Innocent Chukwuma who said that the company was now sourcing 80 percent of its power needs from public supply, which Mr. Maku noted was as a result of the increase in power generation in the country.

It would be recalled that at the commissioning of the factory by President Goodluck Jonathan during his maiden official visit to Anambra State, Chukwuma had prayed the President to quicken the process of fulfilling the promise of boosting electricity in Nnewi, adding that efficient power supply would energize the hundreds of industries that have made Nnewi the Taiwan of Africa.

Guiding the team on a tour of the factory, the INNOSON Group Chairman, Chief Chukwuma said he rolls out 300 vehicles monthly from his factory. He also said that over 7,000 workers are under his employment across his 4 factories including those for waste bin and plastic production.

According to Chukwuma, exporting of the IVM vehicles has already commenced. Ghana, he said for instance, has ordered 200 units of his vehicles and here in the country, the Chief of Army Staff recently ordered 20 units.

Cross section of 14 seater buses manufactured at INNOSON Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) Co. Ltd, Nnewi, Anambra State
Cross section of 14 seater buses manufactured at INNOSON Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) Co. Ltd, Nnewi, Anambra State

Apart from their durability and the availability of spare parts, the INNOSON Chairman said the vehicles can be purchased for as low as 1.7million naira. He also informed that the company has certification from the National Automotive Council (NAC), the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON).

While appreciating the Peter Obi Administration for his support as well as the Bank of Industry (BOI) for the loan facility given to him to kick start the factory he said that the Anambra State Government was presently the company’s largest client. The company has been enjoying BOI’s support to access cheap loans since 2004 when it had only 500 staff. Also, the company was able to access National Automotive Council fund to expand its vehicle plant.

He therefore urged MDAs and government at all levels to encourage made in Nigeria Goods. He lamented that though he had approached the Federal Capital Development Agency (FCDA) to patronize his waste disposal bins, the Agency still imports them from Germany. According to Chukwuma he had even provided the Agency with a truck load of complimentary waste bins for a trial.

Some of the vehicles manufactured at the plant include 14, 26 and 35 seater- buses, double cabin pick up vans and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs).

http://fmi.gov.ng/maku-calls-for-ban-on-tokunbo-as-nggt-team-visits-first-indigenous-auto-manufacturing-plant/

Click to View More Pictures
http://fmi.gov.ng/media-center/galleria/photo-galleria/?file=National+Good+Governance+Tour%2FNGGT+ANAMBRA+STATE%2FINNOSON+VEHICLES+MANUFACTURING+COMPANY+LIMITED+NNEWI%2F&lg_offset=48

@Asha Owelle Rochas estate is one of the legacy projects being built by Gov Rochas it is expected to contain 1000 housing units targeted at the middle class. The standard shoe factory have been handed over to an Italian investor which has developed the factory to an advanced stage with plans by the Imo state govt to sell its shares to the investor in order to make them majority shareholder. The contract for the supply of the free shoes and uniform to primary and secondary schools was awarded to the company as an incentive. Also land for the establishment of Imo waste recycling plant has been acquired at Mbaitoli LGA. LG Electronics recently openned a big show room at Okigwe road Owerri. Before the end of this year the new dualised roads in Okigwe and Orlu would be filled with streetlight, the poles have been fixed already. Look there are many projects going on in Imo state that i can't state all of them. Simply ask those that went to Imo state recently for more info.

Let me also add that the imo palm ltd, imo printing press, and the imo standard shoe factory are doing well. Also, construction of new estates like Nekede Exclusive Garden phase 2, Orlu road estate, Owelle Rochas Estate, Egbu layout and other new layouts in New Owerri are progressing speedily thanks to Gov Rochas. Lets not talk of the developments going on in Imo European University and the Loyola Jesuit University attracted to the state by the Imo state govt. Imolites are really blessed, the state is one of the fastest developing cities in Africa. Ask those who visited Imo last Christmas they would confirm what am saying. Its simply awesome and amazing.

@Asha the rural roads are progressing steadily, Owerri is wearing a new look, New Owerri is da bomb tanx to Rochas. You would also be surprised at the way he has transformed Okigwe and Orlu towns. Oguta port is almost completed, the contractor said if not for irregular funding from the Fed govt they would have long finished the project. Follow the link in the article to see some pics.

@Asha go to the sites and see massive construction going on

@Chino are u sure.

The level of infrastructural and human developments in Imo state is awesome. The multiplier effects of this power plant coupled with the gigantic 3.5 billion dollars Shell-Chevron gas plant Assa, Oguta port, Imo industrial park Ngor Okpala, 500 million dollars 12 floors heartland shopping mall Owerri, the big 25000 tonnes per day Nsu tiles, 500 units European design and American built Duplexes (Diaspora Village) Ogbaku, and others i can't remember; is not just breath taking but also huge. The government of Imo state is really doing well. Congrats to Ndi Imo State.

NIPP LOT 2 OVER 90% COMPLETED EGBEMA POWER PLANT TO COMMENCE FULL COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS 4TH QUARTER,2013
The NIPP Lot 2- Egbema Power Plant in Egbema, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State

Officials of the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) have been charged to ensure full monitoring and timely completion of all ongoing power projects in the country by the stipulated completion dates to meet the yearnings of Nigerians for steady power supply.

Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku gave the charge on Tuesday 22nd January, 2013 during an inspection of NIPP Lot 2- Egbema Simple Cycle Power Plant during the National Good Governance Tour of Imo State.

“As the representatives of the Federal Government at all power project sites, you need to be up and doing. Nigerians are waiting for these projects to be delivered to them”, the Minister stated.

Briefing the NGGT team, the Project Manager, Engr. Basil Ozoh stated that the NIPP Lot 2- Egbema Power Plant Project was conceived as a simple cycle power plant with 3 Gas Turbines having the generating capacity of 112.8 Mega Watts of electricity and a combined generating capacity of 338MW of electricity into the national grid.

Engr. Ozoh further informed the team that the project has provision for future extension. According to him, future plant configurations include 6units of Gas Turbine Generators and 3 units of Steam Turbine Generators.

Speaking further on the status of the power plant, the Project Manager said for Gas Turbines 1 – 3, the turbines and generators have been erected and the First Fire Commissioning and Commercial Operation has been scheduled for the 4th quarter of 2013.

He however disclosed that the progress achieved so far did not come without challenges. Some of the challenges he said included delay in release of advance payment to the EPC contractor 6months after signing of the contract as well as delay in payment of outstanding invoices certified for work done from 2008 – 2009.

Other challenges are militancy in the Niger Delta region and high rate of Kidnapping from 2008 – 2010. He also said that the unprecedented flood levels of River Niger and as a result the Orashi River in the months of September and November 2012 had caused further delays in delivering the project.

The NIPP Lot 2- Simple Cycle Power Plant Project located in Egbema in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State is being constructed by ROCKSON Engineering Company Ltd. for the Niger Delta Power Holding Company and executed by the NIPP.

As at 21st January, 2013, the status of progress on the job is as follows: Engineering – 95 percent complete; Procurement – 93 percent completion; Construction/Field Erection – 83 percent; while overall percentage of completion is 90 percent.

http://fmi.gov.ng/nggt-imo-maku-tasks-nipp-on-monitoring-completion-of-power-projects/

Click to View More Pictures

Any news concerning the disputed oil well?

@ MAJEOFFICI.AL YOU ARE DOING A GOOD JOB, KEEP IT UP. FROM THE REHABILITATION AND REJUVINATION OF AVUTU POULTRY, IMO TILES LTD, STANDARD SHOE FACTORY, IMO RICE ETC AND NOW IMO PALM. IMO STATE IS ON THE ROAD TO INDUSTRIALISATION. KUDOS TO GOV ROCHAS OKOROCHA.

THERE ARE NO DEVELOPMENT,FACTORIES, BIG BUSINESSES, SOCIAL LIFE IN THE NORTH BECAUSE OF THEIR RELIGIOUS FANATICISM, BIGOTRY AND TERRORIST TENDENCIES. THEIR ROADS SHOULD BE BETTER BECAUSE THEY HAVE LESS TRAFFIC AND STRUCTURES UNLIKE SOUTHERN CITIES, I SERVED IN THE NORTH SO I KNOW WHAT AM SAYING. IN NOT SO DISTANT PAST THEIR WAS RELIGIOUS VIOLENCE IN SOKOTO, SOKOTO EXPERIENCED THE POST ELECTION RIOT, ONE OF THE LEADERS OF BOKO HARAM KABIRU SOKOTO WHO EXECUTED THE SULEJA CHRISTMAS BLAST IS FROM SOKOTO, SOKOTO HAS SOME CASES OF TERRORIST ATTACKS IN 2012 AND IT IS STILL ON THE SECURITY WATCH LIST. @INNO I HOPE YOUR FAMILY HAVE A MODERN HOME IN NNEWI OR PLANNING TO DO SO FOR YOUR THIER OWN GOOD. DO YOUR BUSINESS THEIR BUT DONT FORGET ITS NOT YOUR HOME ASK THOSE FROM MAIDUGURI, YOBE, BAUCHI THEIR EXPERIENCES. I WISH YOU LUCK.

ALL THOSE SAYING IGBOS DIDNT TRAVEL SHOULD SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. I POST LINKS OF CHANNELS NEWS AND PUNCH NEWS SHOWING HEAVY TRAFFIC ON ASABA ONITSHA ROAD DUE TO THE HUGE NUMBER PEOPLE VISITING HOME ON PAGES 2 & 3. Most Igbos in my work place in Lagos have gone on leave. Call anybody in the north and they would tell u that north looks deserted if u want to travel next day u have to book today. You need to check the number of flights going to the east. The eastern airports of Imo, Enugu, Asaba and Port Harcourts are a beehive of activities better-still visit Mazamaza or Jibowu and see the crowd at the various bus terminals. DONT BE DECEIVED BY THE FALSEHOOD SPREAD BY ETHNIC BIGOTS WHO ARE VERY ENVIOUS OF IGBOS. Their economies have been affected hence they dont want the world to relate it with the movement of Ndi Igbo to the East.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION YOROBOALAND SOUTHWEST NIGERIA IS ONE OF THE MOST BIGOT AND FANATICS FILLED PARTS OF AFRICA. YOU HAVE TO BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN DEALING WITH THEM. TO ADD TO THE HIGH INSECURITY RATE AND OTHER SECURITY CHALLENGES IN YORIBALAND IS THE RAPANT CASES OF RAP.E.
HERE IS ONE OF THE NUMEROUS CASES OF RAP.E. TO ALL THE BIGOTS BACK TO SENDER, YOUR ABUSES CAN,T COME TO PASS.

RAPIS.T TAKEOVER YORUBALAND
Rapists target minors in Ibadan
April 7, 2012 by Akinwale Aboluwade, Ibadan
Rape

There is an indication that rapists are on the rampage in Ibadan, capital of Oyo State. However, most of their victims are young girls below the age of 14.

As a result, many parents and guardians, as well as other residents of the city and neighbouring communities, are gripped with fear and anxious about the safety of their children and wards.

Recently, a middle-aged man, known simply as Peter, allegedly rap.ed an 11-year- old girl called Jennifer (surname withheld) at Apata in Ido Local Government Area of the state.

CRIME DIGEST investigations showed that on March 29, 2012, Peter met Jennifer on her way to get some drugs for her aunt, lured her to a hotel nearby and had carnal knowledge of her.

Jennifer’s aunt, Ms. Blessing Happiness, said the girl left home at about 8.30 pm. She was so worried that she had to report her disappearance to the police.

A search party then set out to find Jennifer. Their efforts were in vain. Eventually, the young girl returned at midnight at a time other members of the community had gone to bed. When she was questioned for coming home that late, she said she had gone to buy the drugs in Apata, since they were not available at the drug store near her home.

But Happiness observed that the girl could not walk as well as she used to do. Then, under pressure, Jennifer confessed that she had sex with Peter. The latter was arrested and upon interrogation, he confessed to the act.

CRIME DIGEST learnt that the case had since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

In another development, three teenagers, namely Mary John, Folake Adegboyega and Kafayat Folorunsho, were attacked separately and raped in different parts of the city.

John, who is an employee of one Mrs. Ronke Opabunmi of Plot 31, Opeyemi Street in Akuru area, Oluyole Extension, was allegedly assaulted by an artisan named Dayo Ogunlade on March 2, 2012.

In her statement to the police, Opabunmi said Ogunlade came to carry out some repairs in her residence when he rap.ed the girl.

Ogunlade was said to have dragged the unsuspecting young girl to a corner of the house and violated her. He was arrested after the incident and the victim was taken to the hospital for medical examination. However, the result of the test carried out on John was not disclosed to our correspondent.

On her part, Folorunsho accused one Ojelade Jelili of defiling her. Narrating her ordeal, she claimed that Ojelade lured her into the bush, tied her to a cocoa tree, and tied her mouth to prevent her from raising the alarm before forcing himself on her.

Our correspondent learnt that detectives from the Eruwa Police Station have since visited the scene of the crime and taken the victim to the General Hospital, Eruwa for medical examination and treatment. The suspect has since been arrested and detained.

Adegboyega, whose hearing and speech are said to be impaired, was allegedly raped by two men. One of the assailants, Wasiu Aminu, lives in the Monatan area of Ibadan, while his accomplice, Damilola (surname not known), is currently at large.

Also on March 7, a commercial motorcyclist named Sabital rap.ed 11 year old Sabitu in the forest near Onimo village on the outskirts of Ibadan.

In her reaction to the development, the president of the Women’s Rights Action Group, Mrs. Deborah Salami, expressed shock at the current surge in the number of rape cases involving underage victims in the city. The trend, according to her, is a reflection of the level of rot and moral decadence in the society.

Salami said, “The development is unfortunate as much as it is shocking. The reason for the prevalence of rap.e is not far-fetched. The law on rap.e is very weak and the government is closing its eyes on the vice, as if there is nothing really wrong about it. The punishment prescribed for rape in the Penal Code is so mild that you begin to imagine if the offence is not a serious one.”

Rape and its consequence, Salami notes, are devastating. She says, “Imagine the stigma, the psychological effect, and the health risk of rape. A victim of rap.e might suffer emotional trauma for the rest of her life if not properly rehabilitated.

“She could be stigmatised, infected with sexually-transmitted diseases like Human Immuno Virus. And come to think of it, the rape of an underage could cost damage to vital organs, especially the reproductive organs of the victim.”

She adds that rap.e of underage girls is weird and could be associated with some fetish beliefs. For instance, she said that it could be for ritual purposes. She said that some men engaged in it for rituals purpose “while others hold the assumption that having sex with virgins could cure HIV/AIDS infected persons. Such belief is unfounded. It is mere make-belief as such a thing never holds.”

A lawyer based in Ibadan, Mr. Abiola Olagunju, said that rape is a capital offence that attracts life imprisonment in Nigeria. He says, “The issue of prevalence of rape is not because of mild punishment. In fact, penalty for rape is very high. If you are charged with rape and you are to be sentenced, the offence attracts life imprisonment. Attempted rape attracts 14 years imprisonment. That, to my mind, is not mild.

“For me, the issue of rape goes beyond the ordinary. A rapist can be said to suffer some disorder or madness. It is a societal problem that does not have to be blamed on the mildness or otherwise of the penalty. In spite of the capital punishment attached to robbery, we still have robberies on a daily basis and so also is rape. That is why I described it as a social problem.”

Olagunju continues, “According to Section 357 of the Criminal Code, rape is committed when any person has unlawful carnal knowledge of a woman or girl without her consent, or with her consent, if the consent is obtained by force or by means of threats or intimidation of any kind or any fear of harm or by means of false and fraudulent representation as to the nature of the act.

“Any person who commits rape is liable to imprisonment for life, with or without whipping. Any person who attempts to commit the offence of rape is guilty of a felony, and is liable to imprisonment for 14 years, with or without whipping.

“The law has provided enough punishment for the offence of rape and other incidental offences. However, because of societal stigma on the victim of rape, it has always been difficult to convict most offenders. The victim rarely comes forward to testify against them.”

A medical doctor, Dr. Adeboa Oyewole, describes rape as a condition that could be aided by psychiatric disorder. She says, “If not addressed on time as required, it can degenerate. Psychiatric disorders can lead to rape. The effect of it can be psychological, it can lead to infection like HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Also, it can lead to pregnancy and disvirginity. We have cases degenerating into rape if the disorder is not promptly addressed.”

Also, Rev. Gboyega Abifarin of the Cornerstone Baptist Church, Gbopa, Ibadan describes rape as sin against God. He says, “It is against the will of God. It is also an act of wickedness to humanity and an anti-social behaviour punishable under the biblical injunctions.”

http://www.punchng.com/feature/crime-digest/rapists-target-minors-in-ibadan/[img][/img]