The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has suspended its over five months old strike.
ASUU Chairman, University of Lagos Chapter, Dr. Karo Ogbinaka told Channels Television that the union decided to suspend the strike after a marathon meeting held in Minna, Niger State capital on Monday.
In attendance at the meeting, which ran till late in the evening, were all the ASUU branch chairmen and secretaries, the national executive members of the body, coordinators and past leaders, including 56 members from 52 universities.
Dr. Ogbinaka said that, in line with procedures, the different chapters of ASUU would hold congress meetings on Wednesday to inform members and managements of the institutions of the latest development.
“We expect the students to resume and expect their members to go back to class immediately after the congress meeting and we expect the government to keep to the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU),” Dr. Ogninaka stated.
He said that the union and the government would hold meetings in 2014 to look at gray areas that may arise and come to a common ground.
The Federal Government and ASUU had reached a compromise during a negotiation brokered by the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar on Wednesday, December 11, which led to the signing of the MoU.
Speaking to journalists after the agreement with the government on Wednesday, the National President of ASUU, Dr. Nasir Isa Fagge, said that the union would consult with its National Executive Council and would intimate Nigerians of its decision on the strike within one week, expressing optimism that the outcome of the consultation would be positive.
It was gathered that the MoU addressed all the resolutions that the leadership of the ASUU and the Federal Government agreed to in their 13-hour meeting with President Jonathan on November 4, as well as their widely criticised fresh demands.
ASUU’s demands include the upward review of the retirement age for professors from 65 to 70; adequate funding to revitalise the university system; progressive increase of budgetary allocations to the education sector by 26%; transfer of Federal Government property to universities; setting up of research and development units by the companies; and renegotiation of the signed agreement.
The fresh demands include a non-victimisation clause, provision and deposit of N200 billion infrastructure revitalisation funds in an account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) details of disbursement of the funds and payment of salary arrears which has accrued to the teachers during the strike.
The Wednesday agreement between the two which is reportedly due for renegotiation in 2014 was reached barely 24 hours after the Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe presented a proof of payment of N200 billion into an account with the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Nigeria’s university lecturers have been on strike since July 1, 2013 to demand full implementation of the 2009 agreement it reached with the Federal Government on conditions of service for university lecturers, and funding of infrastructural development in Nigerian universities
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Monday, December 16, 2013
WE HAVE LESS THAN 2MILLION NAIRA IN OUR ACCOUNT: EFCC
Mr Emmanuel Aremu, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's secretary has declared that EFCC, is broke and cannot pay salaries of staff and services of prosecutors to carry out operational functions.
Aremu disclosed this Monday, at a public hearing on A Bill for An Act to Establish the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Agency, NFIA, 2013, organised by the Senate Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Economic Crimes.
He said the financial challenges facing the activities of the anti–graft agency was as a result of what he called non-remittance of appropria-ted funds for the agency by the Federal Government over the months.
The EFCC Secretary said: “I could recollect when the committee paid us an oversight function visit.
“We did make our financial position known to the committee that EFCC does not have N2 million in its accounts.
“We have been complaining that no money has been released for us for operations.
“If we can afford to pay salary this month, that is all. That is the position under which we operate presently.”
He opposed the intention of the Bill in making Financial Intelligence Unit, FIU, currently a department in EFCC, an independent Intelligence Unit on its own, insisting that “FIU, in most climes of the world, is run as a secret operational centre at the background of a major body like EFCC as it is presently in Nigeria.
”FIU as intended by the Bill should not be exposed to the public as a separate body on its own.
“It should be kept at the background as it is in most climes of the world.”
However, the Central Bank of Nigeria, National Intelligence Agency and National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, all rose in support of the proposed bill.
Aremu disclosed this Monday, at a public hearing on A Bill for An Act to Establish the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Agency, NFIA, 2013, organised by the Senate Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Economic Crimes.
He said the financial challenges facing the activities of the anti–graft agency was as a result of what he called non-remittance of appropria-ted funds for the agency by the Federal Government over the months.
The EFCC Secretary said: “I could recollect when the committee paid us an oversight function visit.
“We did make our financial position known to the committee that EFCC does not have N2 million in its accounts.
“We have been complaining that no money has been released for us for operations.
“If we can afford to pay salary this month, that is all. That is the position under which we operate presently.”
He opposed the intention of the Bill in making Financial Intelligence Unit, FIU, currently a department in EFCC, an independent Intelligence Unit on its own, insisting that “FIU, in most climes of the world, is run as a secret operational centre at the background of a major body like EFCC as it is presently in Nigeria.
”FIU as intended by the Bill should not be exposed to the public as a separate body on its own.
“It should be kept at the background as it is in most climes of the world.”
However, the Central Bank of Nigeria, National Intelligence Agency and National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, all rose in support of the proposed bill.
DOCTORS STRIKE: DONT HOLD ME RESPONSIBLE FOR PLANNED STRIKE: HEALTH MINISTER
The Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, on Monday in Abuja declared that he was not responsible for the planned strike by the Nigerian Medical Association.
It would be recalled that NMA, the umbrella body of Nigerian doctors, directed its members to down tool as from Wednesday, following alleged breach of the agreement the body reached with the Federal Government.
The pact, among others, include far-reaching decisions on some challenges in the health sector, workplace conditions and the conditions of service of doctors.
The body had also called on Nigerians to hold the Minister responsible for whatever happens during the strike.
Reacting to the statement during the inauguration of the Boards of Management of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi; National Obstetric Fistula Centre, Abakaliki; and National Ear Care Centre, Kaduna, the Minister distanced himself from the position of the union.
He said, “Why would I be held responsible for the strike? Okay, I am now saying they should work so that nobody will say I asked them to go on strike. Actually, seriously speaking, there is no basis to hold me responsible, when I now imagine that each group feels I am not doing well for them.
“I know I am doing the right thing. It would have been absurd if only the non-doctors were accusing me; they would have said I am biased. If my colleagues are accusing me, this means I am for the truth. I don’t look at people’s face; what I want is in the interest of all Nigerians.”
“Of course, any of us can be a patient when strike commences. I am still pleading; we are still talking with them,” he said.
It would be recalled that NMA, the umbrella body of Nigerian doctors, directed its members to down tool as from Wednesday, following alleged breach of the agreement the body reached with the Federal Government.
The pact, among others, include far-reaching decisions on some challenges in the health sector, workplace conditions and the conditions of service of doctors.
The body had also called on Nigerians to hold the Minister responsible for whatever happens during the strike.
Reacting to the statement during the inauguration of the Boards of Management of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi; National Obstetric Fistula Centre, Abakaliki; and National Ear Care Centre, Kaduna, the Minister distanced himself from the position of the union.
He said, “Why would I be held responsible for the strike? Okay, I am now saying they should work so that nobody will say I asked them to go on strike. Actually, seriously speaking, there is no basis to hold me responsible, when I now imagine that each group feels I am not doing well for them.
“I know I am doing the right thing. It would have been absurd if only the non-doctors were accusing me; they would have said I am biased. If my colleagues are accusing me, this means I am for the truth. I don’t look at people’s face; what I want is in the interest of all Nigerians.”
“Of course, any of us can be a patient when strike commences. I am still pleading; we are still talking with them,” he said.
OSUN STATE GOVERNOR PRESENTS BILL TO CREATE ADDITIONAL STATES
Gov. Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State on Monday presented a bill for the creation of 27 additional local government development councils in the state to the state House of Assembly.
Presenting the bill, Aregbesola said the essence of the creation of more councils was to bring government closer to the people at the grassroots.
He said that the current councils in the state could not bring the desired results.
The governor said this was because they were too large to achieve what the administration intended to achieve through the councils.
He stressed that the only way to guarantee even development at the grassroots was to create new councils that would be precise, transparent and people-oriented.
“Sincerely, if this bill is eventually passed to law, the new development councils will not be a hindrance to the existing ones at all; it will just increase the quality of presentation at the grassroots.
“As law-abiding government, the creation was properly done in line with the stipulation of section 7 and 8 of the 1999 Constitution and it will co-exist with the existing ones mutually”, Aregbesola said.
The governor, however, enjoined the existing councils to be ready to make sacrifices as there would be a reduction in their emolument.
The Speaker of the house, Mr Najeem Salam, said the creation of the councils would improve the quality of governance.
He called on traditional rulers, community and religious leaders to point out any grey areas perceived in the structure of the councils to avert friction.
Reports says if the new councils are created, their number will increase to 57. (CULLED NAN)
Presenting the bill, Aregbesola said the essence of the creation of more councils was to bring government closer to the people at the grassroots.
He said that the current councils in the state could not bring the desired results.
The governor said this was because they were too large to achieve what the administration intended to achieve through the councils.
He stressed that the only way to guarantee even development at the grassroots was to create new councils that would be precise, transparent and people-oriented.
“Sincerely, if this bill is eventually passed to law, the new development councils will not be a hindrance to the existing ones at all; it will just increase the quality of presentation at the grassroots.
“As law-abiding government, the creation was properly done in line with the stipulation of section 7 and 8 of the 1999 Constitution and it will co-exist with the existing ones mutually”, Aregbesola said.
The governor, however, enjoined the existing councils to be ready to make sacrifices as there would be a reduction in their emolument.
The Speaker of the house, Mr Najeem Salam, said the creation of the councils would improve the quality of governance.
He called on traditional rulers, community and religious leaders to point out any grey areas perceived in the structure of the councils to avert friction.
Reports says if the new councils are created, their number will increase to 57. (CULLED NAN)
NO GENERAL ELECTIONS IN TROUBLED STATES COME 2015 SAYS INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that it would not be able to conduct the 2015 general elections in states placed under state of emergency rule by President Goodluck Jonathan last May.
The commission’s Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, disclosed this at a stakeholders’ forum on the preparation and challenges ahead of the 2015 general elections, organised by the Senate Committee on INEC.
Jega said that the decision by the commission was to avoid contravening the law.
It would be recalled that the Federal Government had in November extended the emergency rule in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states to six months.
Jega, however, said that the commission was hopeful that the security situation in the affected states would improve before the 2015 general elections"
“We are working very closely with security agencies and our hope is that the security challenges in these areas will be long addressed before the 2015 elections.
The commission’s Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, disclosed this at a stakeholders’ forum on the preparation and challenges ahead of the 2015 general elections, organised by the Senate Committee on INEC.
Jega said that the decision by the commission was to avoid contravening the law.
It would be recalled that the Federal Government had in November extended the emergency rule in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states to six months.
Jega, however, said that the commission was hopeful that the security situation in the affected states would improve before the 2015 general elections"
“We are working very closely with security agencies and our hope is that the security challenges in these areas will be long addressed before the 2015 elections.
OVER 1000 JOBS CREATED UNDER SURE-P
Deputy Chairman of the Subsidy Re-investment Programme, SURE-P Fund, Gen. Martin Agwai (Rtd) has said that the Federal Government has created 130, 000 new jobs under the programme since its inauguration in February 2012.
Speaking in Kaduna at a workshop organised by the National Planning Commisssion (NPC), with the theme “Developing Performance Management Plan for SURE-P Project Implementation Units,” Agwai, represented by the Fund’s Operations coordinator, Alhaji Ali Fatoma explained that 111, 000 jobs were created under the community service scheme and another 6, 000 under the maternal and child healthcare programme.
He added that 10,000 unskilled workers and 2,400 skilled workers were employed under the Public Works/FERMA programme, while 700 primary healthcare centres were rehabilitated across the country.
Agwai disclosed that the Sure-P fund was used to rehabilitate the western railway line linking Lagos-Kano route, and the 87 kilometre East-West road connecting Warri-Kaiama.
“Others that are ongoing include the 338 km Ahoada – Port Harcourt – Eket, terminating at Oron in Akwa Ibom, 296 km Benin-Shagamu road, 204 km Onitsha – Enugu, the 200 km Abuja – Lokoja and the 510 km Kano-Maiduguri road.”
He said the workshop was aimed at ensuring better performance in the utilisation of the SURE-P fund by the beneficiaries.
“Today’s gathering is just to monitor and evaluate what has been done so far.
“And with all this, a target has been set and deliverables are been identified and without monitoring and evaluation that cannot be achieved.”
According to him, no new road project had been awarded, stressing that the emphasis was on the completion of existing ongoing road projects.
“The money is constant, everybody knows, the contractor knows and the public knows what comes to SURE-P, money is now waiting for contractors, unlike before, when contractors will work and wait for money.
“So the challenge is for the contractors to perform and increase their capacity to really access the funds in order to deliver the roads.”
Agwai also spoke on the funds allegedly missing in running the programme.
“The 41 per cent, which comes to the federal government is managed by SURE-P committee.
“Our system is that every month, N15 billion comes to SURE-P, and in 12 months if you multiply that by N15 billion, is N180 billion.
“So since inception to date that is what we have been managing, we appropriate this, and manage the funds and also give out to the stakeholders and we have four or five ministries that we are dealing with,” he said.
Speaking in Kaduna at a workshop organised by the National Planning Commisssion (NPC), with the theme “Developing Performance Management Plan for SURE-P Project Implementation Units,” Agwai, represented by the Fund’s Operations coordinator, Alhaji Ali Fatoma explained that 111, 000 jobs were created under the community service scheme and another 6, 000 under the maternal and child healthcare programme.
He added that 10,000 unskilled workers and 2,400 skilled workers were employed under the Public Works/FERMA programme, while 700 primary healthcare centres were rehabilitated across the country.
Agwai disclosed that the Sure-P fund was used to rehabilitate the western railway line linking Lagos-Kano route, and the 87 kilometre East-West road connecting Warri-Kaiama.
“Others that are ongoing include the 338 km Ahoada – Port Harcourt – Eket, terminating at Oron in Akwa Ibom, 296 km Benin-Shagamu road, 204 km Onitsha – Enugu, the 200 km Abuja – Lokoja and the 510 km Kano-Maiduguri road.”
He said the workshop was aimed at ensuring better performance in the utilisation of the SURE-P fund by the beneficiaries.
“Today’s gathering is just to monitor and evaluate what has been done so far.
“And with all this, a target has been set and deliverables are been identified and without monitoring and evaluation that cannot be achieved.”
According to him, no new road project had been awarded, stressing that the emphasis was on the completion of existing ongoing road projects.
“The money is constant, everybody knows, the contractor knows and the public knows what comes to SURE-P, money is now waiting for contractors, unlike before, when contractors will work and wait for money.
“So the challenge is for the contractors to perform and increase their capacity to really access the funds in order to deliver the roads.”
Agwai also spoke on the funds allegedly missing in running the programme.
“The 41 per cent, which comes to the federal government is managed by SURE-P committee.
“Our system is that every month, N15 billion comes to SURE-P, and in 12 months if you multiply that by N15 billion, is N180 billion.
“So since inception to date that is what we have been managing, we appropriate this, and manage the funds and also give out to the stakeholders and we have four or five ministries that we are dealing with,” he said.
ASUU CHAIRMAN TO ANNOUNCE STRIKE SUSPENSION AT NOON.
There are strong indications that the strike embarked on by the Academic Staff Union of Universities since July 1, will be called off today.
Feelers from a meeting by the National Executive Council of ASUU held at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State on Monday indicated this.
Though no official of the union was ready to confirm this, a source, who attended the meeting, said members of the union’s negotiating team had agreed to call off the strike.
According to the source, the National President of the union, Dr. Nasir Fagge, will address members of the press today at noon where he is likely going to announce the suspension of the strike
But before then another source at the meeting had confided in one of our correspondents as of 10pm that the NEC members comprising all the branch chairmen of ASUU and zonal coordinators were still deliberating on the issue.
The source said, “The meeting is still ongoing. No decision has been reached, but an official position of the union would be issued by the President the moment we are through with the meeting.”
The leadership of the union had last week after a meeting with the Federal Government representatives in Abuja, promised to end the strike within a week.
This came after the Federal Government provided evidence that it had domiciled N200bn in the Central Bank of Nigeria for the provision of infrastructure in the nation’s public universities among other sundry issues.
Feelers from a meeting by the National Executive Council of ASUU held at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State on Monday indicated this.
Though no official of the union was ready to confirm this, a source, who attended the meeting, said members of the union’s negotiating team had agreed to call off the strike.
According to the source, the National President of the union, Dr. Nasir Fagge, will address members of the press today at noon where he is likely going to announce the suspension of the strike
But before then another source at the meeting had confided in one of our correspondents as of 10pm that the NEC members comprising all the branch chairmen of ASUU and zonal coordinators were still deliberating on the issue.
The source said, “The meeting is still ongoing. No decision has been reached, but an official position of the union would be issued by the President the moment we are through with the meeting.”
The leadership of the union had last week after a meeting with the Federal Government representatives in Abuja, promised to end the strike within a week.
This came after the Federal Government provided evidence that it had domiciled N200bn in the Central Bank of Nigeria for the provision of infrastructure in the nation’s public universities among other sundry issues.
DOCTORS TO BEGIN STRIKE TOMORROW
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), has directed all medical doctors to begin a nationwide strike on Wednesday, December 18.
According to the NMA president, Osahon Enabulele, the strike is in recognition of the extremely poor progress in the resolution of the demands of the association, as well as the expiration of the ultimatum issued to the Federal Government, which has expired on Saturday, December 14.
He said, “The association is constrained to declare an industrial action with effect from Wednesday, December 18, 2013. Accordingly, doctors in public health institutions shall withdraw their services with effect from 8 am on Wednesday, December 18, 2013″
This was made known in a communiqué issued by the NMA after a week-long 2013 December National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting (“Minna 2013”), Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM), as well as the 1st Senator (Dr) Dalyop Gyang Dantong Memorial Lecture.
According to the President of the association, for over five months now, the NMA has recurrently engaged the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Health, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, on issues bordering on some health sector challenges, workplace conditions and the conditions of service of doctors.
Enabulele said, “On September 2, 2013, the NMA issued a 21-day-ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria to address the issues tabled by the association. However, based on the understanding reached following the intervention of the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, the NMA decided to extend her ultimatum by four weeks at her emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on September 22, 2013.
“Following the expiration of the additional four weeks grace granted to the Federal Government, the NMA again magnanimously extended twice the ultimatum on account of the Government’s constitution of a Presidential Committee and promise to speedily resolve the issues contained in the requests of the NMA.
Sadly, since the report of the Presidential Committee was submitted to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, only the re-constitution and inauguration of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has been realised. The inauguration of MDCN which took place on November 25, 2013 was even after the Government reneged on an earlier signed agreement with NMA to reconstitute and inaugurate MDCN within 21 days (that is, by September 30, 2013).
“There has been no significant attention by the government to other issues bordering on workplace conditions and injustice meted out to doctors in their conditions of service and funding/ infrastructural and equipment upgrade of the health sector.”
Continuing, he said, “The Association noted her patriotic efforts to further engage the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Health (following the invitation of the Honourable Minister of Health to a meeting) even at the eleventh hour but which collapsed following the unserious attitude of the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Health who seem less bordered about the potential crisis that was bound to erupt from Saturday, December 14, 2013.”
However, Enabulele said, in recognition of the yuletide season and the appeals of well-meaning Nigerians and friends in the fourth estate of the realm, the withdrawal of services in this first instance shall be for a period of five days but shall recommence after the yuletide season.
Bemoaning the abysmal low percentage health coverage of Nigerians put at about six per cent, the NMA called on the government to urgently invest more in the health of Nigerians through a Universal Health Fund in recognition of the fact that achieving Universal Health Coverage was fundamental to ensuring adequate health care for Nigerians.
The NMA also restated the urgent need for government to sponsor a Hospital Development and Intervention Fund (HDIF) in the health industry to drive the development of modern and world class health infrastructure in the country and stem capital flight as a result of medical tourism.
According to the NMA president, Osahon Enabulele, the strike is in recognition of the extremely poor progress in the resolution of the demands of the association, as well as the expiration of the ultimatum issued to the Federal Government, which has expired on Saturday, December 14.
He said, “The association is constrained to declare an industrial action with effect from Wednesday, December 18, 2013. Accordingly, doctors in public health institutions shall withdraw their services with effect from 8 am on Wednesday, December 18, 2013″
This was made known in a communiqué issued by the NMA after a week-long 2013 December National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting (“Minna 2013”), Emergency Delegates Meeting (EDM), as well as the 1st Senator (Dr) Dalyop Gyang Dantong Memorial Lecture.
According to the President of the association, for over five months now, the NMA has recurrently engaged the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Health, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, on issues bordering on some health sector challenges, workplace conditions and the conditions of service of doctors.
Enabulele said, “On September 2, 2013, the NMA issued a 21-day-ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria to address the issues tabled by the association. However, based on the understanding reached following the intervention of the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, the NMA decided to extend her ultimatum by four weeks at her emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on September 22, 2013.
“Following the expiration of the additional four weeks grace granted to the Federal Government, the NMA again magnanimously extended twice the ultimatum on account of the Government’s constitution of a Presidential Committee and promise to speedily resolve the issues contained in the requests of the NMA.
Sadly, since the report of the Presidential Committee was submitted to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, only the re-constitution and inauguration of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has been realised. The inauguration of MDCN which took place on November 25, 2013 was even after the Government reneged on an earlier signed agreement with NMA to reconstitute and inaugurate MDCN within 21 days (that is, by September 30, 2013).
“There has been no significant attention by the government to other issues bordering on workplace conditions and injustice meted out to doctors in their conditions of service and funding/ infrastructural and equipment upgrade of the health sector.”
Continuing, he said, “The Association noted her patriotic efforts to further engage the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Health (following the invitation of the Honourable Minister of Health to a meeting) even at the eleventh hour but which collapsed following the unserious attitude of the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Health who seem less bordered about the potential crisis that was bound to erupt from Saturday, December 14, 2013.”
However, Enabulele said, in recognition of the yuletide season and the appeals of well-meaning Nigerians and friends in the fourth estate of the realm, the withdrawal of services in this first instance shall be for a period of five days but shall recommence after the yuletide season.
Bemoaning the abysmal low percentage health coverage of Nigerians put at about six per cent, the NMA called on the government to urgently invest more in the health of Nigerians through a Universal Health Fund in recognition of the fact that achieving Universal Health Coverage was fundamental to ensuring adequate health care for Nigerians.
The NMA also restated the urgent need for government to sponsor a Hospital Development and Intervention Fund (HDIF) in the health industry to drive the development of modern and world class health infrastructure in the country and stem capital flight as a result of medical tourism.
ASUU DENIES CALLING OFF STRIKE, ASSAULTS JOURNALIST FOR INTRUDING.
After waiting for over 9 hours last night, some members of the Union came out of the Senate building, the venue of the meeting to harass journalists who have been waiting endlessly.
One of the notable members of the Union that instructed security to ask the Journalists to leave was the Chairman, ASUU, FUT, Minna Dr. Abdulfatai Jimoh, Who assaulted the Daily Trust Correspondent Aliyu Hamagan.
Abdulfatai had earlier thought Hamagan was a member of the Union and invited him to come closer. He then asked, "who brought this stupid people inside? What are they doing here?"
Hamagan quickly responded by saying, "I am one of the people you are calling stupid. I will not have you insult us like that".
Abdulfatai on finding out that he was spaking with a journalist pushed Hamagan and asked him to leave the premises saying that, "you people are intruding, we did not invite you, get out of this place now".
The meeting which started at about 11:30am and holding in shrouded secrecy at the Senate building of the FUT, Minna is still on-going and the Journalists are still very much on ground waiting for the outcome of the meeting.
The scenario took another twist when members of ASUU NEC LOC came down to inform Journalists that some of them (ASUU) are not comfortable with the presence of d Press.
Abdulfatai who was at this time furious threatened the Media saying "anything wey una see, make una take am like that, because we didn't invite the media".
However, there was disagreement among the members over the presence of the media, some suggested the media should stay because they are doing their job, others persisted that "we did not invite them, when we need them, we will invite them."
The Vice Chancellor Federal university of Technology Minna, Prof. Musbau Akanji who got the news that ASUU assaulted Journalists quickly drove in and pleaded with Journalists saying, "although, I am not a part of the meeting but I am apologising on their behave because they are in my territory. This place (FUT, Minna) is a Federal Government institution, a public place for all."
One of the notable members of the Union that instructed security to ask the Journalists to leave was the Chairman, ASUU, FUT, Minna Dr. Abdulfatai Jimoh, Who assaulted the Daily Trust Correspondent Aliyu Hamagan.
Abdulfatai had earlier thought Hamagan was a member of the Union and invited him to come closer. He then asked, "who brought this stupid people inside? What are they doing here?"
Hamagan quickly responded by saying, "I am one of the people you are calling stupid. I will not have you insult us like that".
Abdulfatai on finding out that he was spaking with a journalist pushed Hamagan and asked him to leave the premises saying that, "you people are intruding, we did not invite you, get out of this place now".
The meeting which started at about 11:30am and holding in shrouded secrecy at the Senate building of the FUT, Minna is still on-going and the Journalists are still very much on ground waiting for the outcome of the meeting.
The scenario took another twist when members of ASUU NEC LOC came down to inform Journalists that some of them (ASUU) are not comfortable with the presence of d Press.
Abdulfatai who was at this time furious threatened the Media saying "anything wey una see, make una take am like that, because we didn't invite the media".
However, there was disagreement among the members over the presence of the media, some suggested the media should stay because they are doing their job, others persisted that "we did not invite them, when we need them, we will invite them."
The Vice Chancellor Federal university of Technology Minna, Prof. Musbau Akanji who got the news that ASUU assaulted Journalists quickly drove in and pleaded with Journalists saying, "although, I am not a part of the meeting but I am apologising on their behave because they are in my territory. This place (FUT, Minna) is a Federal Government institution, a public place for all."
NANS SETS UP COMMITTEE TO MINITOR ASUU'S 200 BILLION NAIRA DEAL WITH FG.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has set up an eighteen member committee to monitor the utilization of the N200 billion fund given to universities by the Federal Government as part of its deal with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
NANS president, Comrade Yinka Gbadebo said the committee was to ensure that there was transparency in the utilization of the Fund and to forestall further incidence of Industrial Action.
The task force is“to monitor the progress being made and to equally evaluate the extent of implementation of the felt needs of the education sector as identified by the Need Assessment Team, ASUU, Nigerian students and all other stakeholders.
“In this respect, we are inaugurating the NANS Task Force Committee on the assessment, monitoring and evaluation of the entire projects and programmes for which funds have been mapped out as enshrined in the fresh accord between the federal government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU),” the president stated.
He added, “the assignment is critical to the successful outcome of the upgrading plans adopted both the union and the government.”
NANS president, Comrade Yinka Gbadebo said the committee was to ensure that there was transparency in the utilization of the Fund and to forestall further incidence of Industrial Action.
The task force is“to monitor the progress being made and to equally evaluate the extent of implementation of the felt needs of the education sector as identified by the Need Assessment Team, ASUU, Nigerian students and all other stakeholders.
“In this respect, we are inaugurating the NANS Task Force Committee on the assessment, monitoring and evaluation of the entire projects and programmes for which funds have been mapped out as enshrined in the fresh accord between the federal government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU),” the president stated.
He added, “the assignment is critical to the successful outcome of the upgrading plans adopted both the union and the government.”
BREAKING:ASUU CALLS OFF STRIKE
Academic Staff Union of Universities,(ASUU), has suspend its five months-old strike.
The Union arrived at the latest decision to suspends its strike after a marathon meeting held at the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, Niger State on Monday.
After a protracted debate, the Federal Government and ASUU reached a compromise during a negotiation brokered by the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar few days ago.(culled NAN)
DETAILS SHORTLY
The Union arrived at the latest decision to suspends its strike after a marathon meeting held at the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, Niger State on Monday.
After a protracted debate, the Federal Government and ASUU reached a compromise during a negotiation brokered by the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar few days ago.(culled NAN)
DETAILS SHORTLY
Sunday, December 15, 2013
BON BANS OVER 100 NAIJA SONGS FROM AIR-PLAY
The Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, BON, in alignment with the Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria, IBAN, have suspended the music of popular Nigerian singers from airing on the country’s TV and radio stations with effect from today 15th December 2013.
The musicians whose works have been banned from airplay include 2Face Idibia, D’Banj, Iyanya, Olamide, Dr. Sid, Sammie Okposo, Banky W, Wizkid, MI, Ice Prince, Jesse Jagz, Olu Maintain, 9ice, Sunny Neji, Flavour, Chidinma, Rugged Man, Keffee, Midnite Crew, Eldee De Don, Azeezat, Jazzman Olofin, KC Presh, X Project, Asha, Konga and African China.
Among others are Majek Fashek, J. Martins, Omawunmi, Yinka Ayefele, Ebenezer Obey, Victor Uwaifo, Onyeka Onwenu, Owen Gee, Dekunle Fuji, Lord of Ajasa, Zoolezoo, Muma Gee, ID Cabassa, Klever J, Terry G, Nomoreloss, Mike Okri, Weird MC, Mode 9, Timaya, Sound Sultan, Waje, Mo’Cheddah, Slam, Djinee, Solid Star, Dan Maraya Jos, Stella Monye, Daniel Wilson, Alex Zitto, Sir Shina Peters, Ras Kimono, Wale Thompson, Kollington Ayinla, Adewale Ayuba, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal and Tim Godfrey.
Below is a statement to that effect:
“The Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN), in alignment with Broadcasters Organization of Nigeria (BON) hereby informs the General public that the music of the following Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) Registered Artistes/Members is hereby suspended from airing on our stations with immediate effect.”
“TuFace ldibia, D’ Banj, Iyanya, Olamide, Dr Sid, Sammie Okposo, Banky W, Wizkid, Olu Maintain, 9ice, Sunny Nneji, Flavour, Chidinma, Rugged Man, Keffee, Midnite Crew, Eldee De Don, M I, Azeezat, Jazzman Olofin, Ice Prince,” Jesse Jagz, KC Presh, X Project, Asha, Konga, African China, Owen Gee, Dekunle Fuji, Lord of Ajasa, Zoolezoo, Ekwe Original Stereoman, Danfo Drivers, Rhymzo, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Kofi, Jedee, Muma Gee, AY. Com, ID Cabassa, Klever J, ZidonPoperella, Eva, Terry G, Nomoreloss, Mike Okri, Weird MC, Mode 9, Timaya, Sound Sultan, Waje, Mo’Cheddah, Jay Martins, Slam, Djinee, Solid Star, Omawunmi, TWO, W4, Omotola JeladeEkehinde, YinkaAyefele, DJ Stramborella, Ebenezer Obey, Victor-Uwaifo, Onyeka Onwenu, Dan Maraya Jos, Tony Okoroji, Stella Monye, Floxxy Bee, Funmi Adams, MajekFashek, Daniel Wilson, Alex Zitto, Sir-Shina Peters, Ras Kimono, Wale Thompson, Kollington Ayinla, Adewale Ayuba, Wasiu;Ayinde Mashal, Chris Ajilo, Emminuel Ntia, Orlando Julius, Eddy Remedy, Mr. Kool, 2 Shotz, Baba Dee, Bouqui, Rooftop MCs, Kenny Saint Brown, Klever J, OJB Jezreel, Danny Young, Dipp, Frank D’ Nnero, Ojo, Tim Godfrey, Kween, Bankole Wellington (Banky W).”
“We are constrained to take this step principally as a result of COSON’s attitude of antagonism and harassment under the leadership of Tony Okoroji. No person or organisation, particularly a collection society such as COSON has a monopoly of authority over any other, especially at this time when all hands should be on deck in building a sustainable copyright system.
IBAN and BON have the utmost respect for Nigerian artistes in their individual and collective capacities and have indeed contributed more than any known institution to the promotion of Nigerian music and the development of the entertainment industry as a whole.”
“While we are well aware of the penchant for media sensationalism by Tony Okoroji and COSON in this and other related matters, IBAN & BON wish to reiterate that its members are ready and willing to pay royalties for works used but will not be railroaded into arbitrarily imposed and concocted fees which are not based on any agreeable and verifiable tariff & standards. In the circumstance, we are therefore taking steps in liaison with important stakeholders in the country to address and hopefully come to a fair and reasonable resolution of this COSON induced crises.”
“All artistes are hereby assured of our continued support.”
Sonny Adun Guy Murray-Bruce.
CHAIRMAN IBAN SECRETARY
The musicians whose works have been banned from airplay include 2Face Idibia, D’Banj, Iyanya, Olamide, Dr. Sid, Sammie Okposo, Banky W, Wizkid, MI, Ice Prince, Jesse Jagz, Olu Maintain, 9ice, Sunny Neji, Flavour, Chidinma, Rugged Man, Keffee, Midnite Crew, Eldee De Don, Azeezat, Jazzman Olofin, KC Presh, X Project, Asha, Konga and African China.
Among others are Majek Fashek, J. Martins, Omawunmi, Yinka Ayefele, Ebenezer Obey, Victor Uwaifo, Onyeka Onwenu, Owen Gee, Dekunle Fuji, Lord of Ajasa, Zoolezoo, Muma Gee, ID Cabassa, Klever J, Terry G, Nomoreloss, Mike Okri, Weird MC, Mode 9, Timaya, Sound Sultan, Waje, Mo’Cheddah, Slam, Djinee, Solid Star, Dan Maraya Jos, Stella Monye, Daniel Wilson, Alex Zitto, Sir Shina Peters, Ras Kimono, Wale Thompson, Kollington Ayinla, Adewale Ayuba, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal and Tim Godfrey.
Below is a statement to that effect:
“The Independent Broadcasting Association of Nigeria (IBAN), in alignment with Broadcasters Organization of Nigeria (BON) hereby informs the General public that the music of the following Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) Registered Artistes/Members is hereby suspended from airing on our stations with immediate effect.”
“TuFace ldibia, D’ Banj, Iyanya, Olamide, Dr Sid, Sammie Okposo, Banky W, Wizkid, Olu Maintain, 9ice, Sunny Nneji, Flavour, Chidinma, Rugged Man, Keffee, Midnite Crew, Eldee De Don, M I, Azeezat, Jazzman Olofin, Ice Prince,” Jesse Jagz, KC Presh, X Project, Asha, Konga, African China, Owen Gee, Dekunle Fuji, Lord of Ajasa, Zoolezoo, Ekwe Original Stereoman, Danfo Drivers, Rhymzo, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Kofi, Jedee, Muma Gee, AY. Com, ID Cabassa, Klever J, ZidonPoperella, Eva, Terry G, Nomoreloss, Mike Okri, Weird MC, Mode 9, Timaya, Sound Sultan, Waje, Mo’Cheddah, Jay Martins, Slam, Djinee, Solid Star, Omawunmi, TWO, W4, Omotola JeladeEkehinde, YinkaAyefele, DJ Stramborella, Ebenezer Obey, Victor-Uwaifo, Onyeka Onwenu, Dan Maraya Jos, Tony Okoroji, Stella Monye, Floxxy Bee, Funmi Adams, MajekFashek, Daniel Wilson, Alex Zitto, Sir-Shina Peters, Ras Kimono, Wale Thompson, Kollington Ayinla, Adewale Ayuba, Wasiu;Ayinde Mashal, Chris Ajilo, Emminuel Ntia, Orlando Julius, Eddy Remedy, Mr. Kool, 2 Shotz, Baba Dee, Bouqui, Rooftop MCs, Kenny Saint Brown, Klever J, OJB Jezreel, Danny Young, Dipp, Frank D’ Nnero, Ojo, Tim Godfrey, Kween, Bankole Wellington (Banky W).”
“We are constrained to take this step principally as a result of COSON’s attitude of antagonism and harassment under the leadership of Tony Okoroji. No person or organisation, particularly a collection society such as COSON has a monopoly of authority over any other, especially at this time when all hands should be on deck in building a sustainable copyright system.
IBAN and BON have the utmost respect for Nigerian artistes in their individual and collective capacities and have indeed contributed more than any known institution to the promotion of Nigerian music and the development of the entertainment industry as a whole.”
“While we are well aware of the penchant for media sensationalism by Tony Okoroji and COSON in this and other related matters, IBAN & BON wish to reiterate that its members are ready and willing to pay royalties for works used but will not be railroaded into arbitrarily imposed and concocted fees which are not based on any agreeable and verifiable tariff & standards. In the circumstance, we are therefore taking steps in liaison with important stakeholders in the country to address and hopefully come to a fair and reasonable resolution of this COSON induced crises.”
“All artistes are hereby assured of our continued support.”
Sonny Adun Guy Murray-Bruce.
CHAIRMAN IBAN SECRETARY
I HAD SCHIZOPHRENIA: MANDELA MEMORIAL INTERPRETER CRIES OUT.
The sign language translator at Nelson Mandela memorial service, who was accused by the SA Deaf Federation of making up his own signs during the ceremony, has responded to the accusation.
34 year old Thamsanqa Jantjie told Johannesburg Star newspaper that he had a schizophrenic attack during the ceremony hence his senseless signs. He said he started hearing voices & was hallucinating while on stage with world leaders.
"There was nothing I could do. I was alone in a very dangerous situation. I tried to control myself and not show the world what was going on. I am very sorry. It's the situation I found myself in," He told the paper. He said he was on medication for Schizophrenia and wondered why he still had the attack
He also spoke with a SA based radio station, where he was asked if he was satisfied with his performance, he replied "Absolutely, absolutely. I think that I've been a champion of sign language". ”
34 year old Thamsanqa Jantjie told Johannesburg Star newspaper that he had a schizophrenic attack during the ceremony hence his senseless signs. He said he started hearing voices & was hallucinating while on stage with world leaders.
"There was nothing I could do. I was alone in a very dangerous situation. I tried to control myself and not show the world what was going on. I am very sorry. It's the situation I found myself in," He told the paper. He said he was on medication for Schizophrenia and wondered why he still had the attack
He also spoke with a SA based radio station, where he was asked if he was satisfied with his performance, he replied "Absolutely, absolutely. I think that I've been a champion of sign language". ”
ONDO ASP LOSSES LIFE WHILE LAYING AMBUSH FOR ROBBERS
Armed robbers have shot dead the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) in Ijare, Ifedore council area of Ondo State, Iheme Wilfred, an assistant superintendent of police, ASP, after they finished robbing a bank outside the state.
The police officer was said to have met his unfortunate end when he led his men to lay an ambush for the robbers who operated at a commercial bank in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and wanted to escape through Ijare, as the fire power of the robbers dwarfed that of the officer and his men.
On getting to Ijare Road where the policemen had laid the ambuse, the robbers opened fire on them, and ASP Wilfred was killed in the process, according to reports.
A source however said that the deceased and his men engaged the robbers in a shoot out for about 20 minutes before they were overpowered by the robbers who brandished sophisticated weapons.
It was learnt that the policemen who accompanied the deceased officer dropped their weapons and fled into the bush immediately they noticed that he had died. The robbers allegedly carted away their arms and ammunition.
The robbers were said to have stolen an unspecified amount of money from a commercial bank in Ikere Ekiti.
Confirming the death of the DCO, the Ondo State Police Public Relations officer, Wole Ogodo, described the killing of the ASP as unfortunate.
He however said men of the State Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) were investigating the incident.
The police officer was said to have met his unfortunate end when he led his men to lay an ambush for the robbers who operated at a commercial bank in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, and wanted to escape through Ijare, as the fire power of the robbers dwarfed that of the officer and his men.
On getting to Ijare Road where the policemen had laid the ambuse, the robbers opened fire on them, and ASP Wilfred was killed in the process, according to reports.
A source however said that the deceased and his men engaged the robbers in a shoot out for about 20 minutes before they were overpowered by the robbers who brandished sophisticated weapons.
It was learnt that the policemen who accompanied the deceased officer dropped their weapons and fled into the bush immediately they noticed that he had died. The robbers allegedly carted away their arms and ammunition.
The robbers were said to have stolen an unspecified amount of money from a commercial bank in Ikere Ekiti.
Confirming the death of the DCO, the Ondo State Police Public Relations officer, Wole Ogodo, described the killing of the ASP as unfortunate.
He however said men of the State Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) were investigating the incident.
MANDELA GETS HEROIC FAREWELL
Nelson Mandela’s state funeral is under way at his ancestral home in Qunu, ending a week of commemorations for South Africa’s first black leader.
Report says some 4,500 people – including foreign dignitaries – are attending the service, which blends state ceremonial with traditional rituals.
Members of his family attended an overnight vigil, with a traditional praise singer believed to be chanting details of his long journey and life.
The coffin was taken on a gun carriage from Mr. Mandela’s house to a giant white marquee that had been specially erected.
Some guests sang and danced to celebrate Mr. Mandela’s life as the service began.
Inside the marquee, Mandela’s portrait had been placed behind 95 candles, representing one for each year of the late president’s life
Report says some 4,500 people – including foreign dignitaries – are attending the service, which blends state ceremonial with traditional rituals.
Members of his family attended an overnight vigil, with a traditional praise singer believed to be chanting details of his long journey and life.
The coffin was taken on a gun carriage from Mr. Mandela’s house to a giant white marquee that had been specially erected.
Some guests sang and danced to celebrate Mr. Mandela’s life as the service began.
Inside the marquee, Mandela’s portrait had been placed behind 95 candles, representing one for each year of the late president’s life
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
STRIKE MAY END SOON AS FG SIGNS MOU WITH ASUU
The lingering strike by university lecturers under the aegis of the Academic Staff Union of Universitiesn ASUU, seem certain to end very soon, as members of the union signed a Memorandum of Understanding with officials of the federal government of Nigeria.
The federal government rescinded its decision to sack lecturers who failed to resume by December 9, after the lecturers defied the government and stayed away from work beyond the deadline.
Speaking with newsmen, ASUU president Dr. Nasir Fagge said that the MoU signing took place at the Ministry of Education in Abuja. The Permanent Secretary at the ministry signed on behalf of the federal government while the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress Abdul Omar witnessed the event.
The ASUU president said the Nigerian government agreed to fulfill most of the obligations agreed upon during meetings with President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja a few weeks ago, including a non-victimization clause.
ASUU will now call a meeting of its National Executive Council to take a look at the MoU and decide on the next line of action within the next week.
The federal government, in a show of commitment, will set up a committee to fully implement the agreement with ASUU.
The federal government rescinded its decision to sack lecturers who failed to resume by December 9, after the lecturers defied the government and stayed away from work beyond the deadline.
Speaking with newsmen, ASUU president Dr. Nasir Fagge said that the MoU signing took place at the Ministry of Education in Abuja. The Permanent Secretary at the ministry signed on behalf of the federal government while the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress Abdul Omar witnessed the event.
The ASUU president said the Nigerian government agreed to fulfill most of the obligations agreed upon during meetings with President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja a few weeks ago, including a non-victimization clause.
ASUU will now call a meeting of its National Executive Council to take a look at the MoU and decide on the next line of action within the next week.
The federal government, in a show of commitment, will set up a committee to fully implement the agreement with ASUU.
FAKE INTERPRETER AT MANDELA'S MEMORIAL SERVICE
The National Director of the Deaf Federation of South Africa, Bruno Druchen, has said that the man who provided sign language interpretation on stage for Nelson Mandela’s memorial service, attended by scores of heads of state on tuesday was a fake.
Three sign language experts said the man was not signing in South African or American sign languages. South African sign language covers all of the country’s 11 official languages, according to the federation. It wasn’t immediately clear if the unidentified man was using a different method to communicate.
The unidentified man seen around the world on television next to leaders like U.S. President Barack Obama “was moving his hands around but there was no meaning in what he used his hands for”, said Druchen,
Nicole Du Toit, an official sign language interpreter who also watched the broadcast while speaking with newsmen said that the man on stage purporting to sign was an embarrassment.
“It was horrible, an absolute circus, really really bad,” she said. “Only him can understand those gestures.”
South African parliament member Wilma Newhoudt, a member of the ruling party who is deaf, also said the man communicated nothing with his hand and arm movements.
The South African authorities are yet to comment on the issue as it said it preparing a statement in respect of that.
Three sign language experts said the man was not signing in South African or American sign languages. South African sign language covers all of the country’s 11 official languages, according to the federation. It wasn’t immediately clear if the unidentified man was using a different method to communicate.
The unidentified man seen around the world on television next to leaders like U.S. President Barack Obama “was moving his hands around but there was no meaning in what he used his hands for”, said Druchen,
Nicole Du Toit, an official sign language interpreter who also watched the broadcast while speaking with newsmen said that the man on stage purporting to sign was an embarrassment.
“It was horrible, an absolute circus, really really bad,” she said. “Only him can understand those gestures.”
South African parliament member Wilma Newhoudt, a member of the ruling party who is deaf, also said the man communicated nothing with his hand and arm movements.
The South African authorities are yet to comment on the issue as it said it preparing a statement in respect of that.
WOMAN SUES KADUNA STATE GOVERNMENT OVER DEMOLITION OF PROPERTY
A woman, Mrs Bathsheba Halid, whose property was demolished by the Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KASUPDA), has gone to court challenging the existence of the agency under the law.
In a statement of claim filed at the state High Court II Kaduna, by her counsel, Mr Bamite Achimugu, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration by the court that KASUPDA was not established by law and therefore its operations and actions were illegal.
“A declaration that KASUPDA is not established by any of the Laws of Kaduna State and therefore has no statutory existence or powers for the control of the use and development of land in Kaduna State or to demolish the plaintiff’s property in the issue.”
She is also seeking for a declaration that the demolition of her property, valued at N17.73 million is “wrongful and illegal”, and contrary to the Nigeria Urban and Regional Planning Act of 2004.
It added that the demolition also violated the state Urban Planning and Environmental Protection Agency Edict No. 14 of 1991.
The statement seeks for “an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants by themselves, their servants, appointees or agents or whosoever otherwise, from further interfering with the plaintiff’s possession and development of her plot.
The plaintiff said that she had fulfilled all conditions for the development of the property and was never issued any “stop work” notice for contravention of any development law nor sued for any trespass on any person’s land before the demolition.
Justice Dogara Malam had slated the case for mention on Wednesday but had to shift it to Feb. 2, 2014, to enable him to attend a conference. (Culled-NAN)
In a statement of claim filed at the state High Court II Kaduna, by her counsel, Mr Bamite Achimugu, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration by the court that KASUPDA was not established by law and therefore its operations and actions were illegal.
“A declaration that KASUPDA is not established by any of the Laws of Kaduna State and therefore has no statutory existence or powers for the control of the use and development of land in Kaduna State or to demolish the plaintiff’s property in the issue.”
She is also seeking for a declaration that the demolition of her property, valued at N17.73 million is “wrongful and illegal”, and contrary to the Nigeria Urban and Regional Planning Act of 2004.
It added that the demolition also violated the state Urban Planning and Environmental Protection Agency Edict No. 14 of 1991.
The statement seeks for “an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants by themselves, their servants, appointees or agents or whosoever otherwise, from further interfering with the plaintiff’s possession and development of her plot.
The plaintiff said that she had fulfilled all conditions for the development of the property and was never issued any “stop work” notice for contravention of any development law nor sued for any trespass on any person’s land before the demolition.
Justice Dogara Malam had slated the case for mention on Wednesday but had to shift it to Feb. 2, 2014, to enable him to attend a conference. (Culled-NAN)
Monday, December 9, 2013
ASUU-FG: NLC INTERVENES AGAIN
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has began another move to intervene in the impasse between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government.
Acting General Secretary of the union, Chris Uyot told newsmen in Abuja that the union had written a letter to the Presidency. “The leadership of NLC has written a letter to the Presidency seeking leave to intervene in the crisis which is now in its sixth month.
“We have sent a letter to the presidency today, Dec. 9. We want to intervene in this matter. The turn of events is causing a lot of disaffection which can easily be resolved, that is if the government is willing to talk about it,”
Uyot said that NLC President Abdulwahed Omar met with the leadership of ASUU in Abuja as a preliminary step to articulate their position before meeting with the Presidency when invited.
NLC and the Trade Union Congress led the ASUU team to the Presidential Villa on Nov. 4 in a 13- hour closed-door meeting with the president.
Acting General Secretary of the union, Chris Uyot told newsmen in Abuja that the union had written a letter to the Presidency. “The leadership of NLC has written a letter to the Presidency seeking leave to intervene in the crisis which is now in its sixth month.
“We have sent a letter to the presidency today, Dec. 9. We want to intervene in this matter. The turn of events is causing a lot of disaffection which can easily be resolved, that is if the government is willing to talk about it,”
Uyot said that NLC President Abdulwahed Omar met with the leadership of ASUU in Abuja as a preliminary step to articulate their position before meeting with the Presidency when invited.
NLC and the Trade Union Congress led the ASUU team to the Presidential Villa on Nov. 4 in a 13- hour closed-door meeting with the president.
UN, CANADA DONATE OVER 6M DOLLARS MATERNAL HEALTH COMODITIES TO NIGERIS
The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and Canada have donated maternal health commodities and medical equipment worth about 6.2 million dollars to the Federal Government.
This is contained in a statement signed by Mrs Kori Habib, Press Officer, UNFPA , and made available in Abuja on Monday.
According to the statement, the items will be formally presented on Dec. 10 in Ikeja and will be handed over to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).
It stated that the health care agency would further distribute the commodities to other health service centres already benefiting from the Midwives Service Scheme and SURE-P in the six focal states.
The statement said the benefiting states were Lagos, Kebbi, Cross River, Kaduna, Adamawa and Ebonyi.
It said the UNFPA’s intervention was a demonstration of government and development partners’ commitment to scale up access to life-saving commodities that would reduce maternal mortality.
According to the statement, another area of concern which necessitated the donation is neo-natal mortality and child morbidity.
It said the UNFPA intended to reduce the rate, thereby attaining Millennium Development Goals four, five and six.
“This intervention is a demonstration of government and development partners’ commitment to scale up access to life-saving commodities that are necessary to accelerate reduction in maternal death.
In the statement, Ms Victoria Akyeampong, UNFPA Resident Representative, called on government and development partners to demonstrate political will and invest more resources in increased access to maternal health services.
“Government and development partners must continue to demonstrate the political will and invest more resources to increase access to maternal health services through evidence-based interventions.
“This is critical because the lives of our women and young girls depend on it.’’
The statement said the intervention should be done through evidence based methods, adding that it was critical because lives of women and young girls depended on the programmes.
In the statement, Akyeampong explained that the distribution of the commodities at the community level would contribute towards the eradication of preventable causes of death.
She said that the commodities to be presented included Magnesium Sulphate for managing Eclampsia in pregnancy (which is the cause of about 11 per cent of maternal deaths).
She also mentioned Oxytocin drugs for prevention of Postpartum Haemorrhage (which accounts for about 23 per cent of maternal deaths in Nigeria).
She said other essential medicines donated were contraceptives, antibiotics and medical equipment such as Resuscitation Tables, midwifery kit, Abdominal Retractors, Autoclaves for sterilisation of surgical equipment and surgical gowns.
According to her, the donations are in addition to UNFPA and Canadian Government’s investment in capacity building and training of health providers at over 4 million dollars in 2013.
She said that the UNFPA would continue to support the Midwives Service Scheme of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, to make reproductive health and rights a reality for Nigerian women and girls.
She added that this would be achieved through improved access to effective methods of contraception, maternal health medicines and quality maternal health services. (Culled-NAN)
This is contained in a statement signed by Mrs Kori Habib, Press Officer, UNFPA , and made available in Abuja on Monday.
According to the statement, the items will be formally presented on Dec. 10 in Ikeja and will be handed over to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).
It stated that the health care agency would further distribute the commodities to other health service centres already benefiting from the Midwives Service Scheme and SURE-P in the six focal states.
The statement said the benefiting states were Lagos, Kebbi, Cross River, Kaduna, Adamawa and Ebonyi.
It said the UNFPA’s intervention was a demonstration of government and development partners’ commitment to scale up access to life-saving commodities that would reduce maternal mortality.
According to the statement, another area of concern which necessitated the donation is neo-natal mortality and child morbidity.
It said the UNFPA intended to reduce the rate, thereby attaining Millennium Development Goals four, five and six.
“This intervention is a demonstration of government and development partners’ commitment to scale up access to life-saving commodities that are necessary to accelerate reduction in maternal death.
In the statement, Ms Victoria Akyeampong, UNFPA Resident Representative, called on government and development partners to demonstrate political will and invest more resources in increased access to maternal health services.
“Government and development partners must continue to demonstrate the political will and invest more resources to increase access to maternal health services through evidence-based interventions.
“This is critical because the lives of our women and young girls depend on it.’’
The statement said the intervention should be done through evidence based methods, adding that it was critical because lives of women and young girls depended on the programmes.
In the statement, Akyeampong explained that the distribution of the commodities at the community level would contribute towards the eradication of preventable causes of death.
She said that the commodities to be presented included Magnesium Sulphate for managing Eclampsia in pregnancy (which is the cause of about 11 per cent of maternal deaths).
She also mentioned Oxytocin drugs for prevention of Postpartum Haemorrhage (which accounts for about 23 per cent of maternal deaths in Nigeria).
She said other essential medicines donated were contraceptives, antibiotics and medical equipment such as Resuscitation Tables, midwifery kit, Abdominal Retractors, Autoclaves for sterilisation of surgical equipment and surgical gowns.
According to her, the donations are in addition to UNFPA and Canadian Government’s investment in capacity building and training of health providers at over 4 million dollars in 2013.
She said that the UNFPA would continue to support the Midwives Service Scheme of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, to make reproductive health and rights a reality for Nigerian women and girls.
She added that this would be achieved through improved access to effective methods of contraception, maternal health medicines and quality maternal health services. (Culled-NAN)
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)