The Nation Newspaper

Tag: society

  • For a noise-free society

    For a noise-free society

    What is the negative impact of noise on human? This was the thrust of discussions at a conference organised by the Acoustical Society of Nigeria (ASON) at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). OLADELE OGE reports.

    Unnecessary noise has negative impact on human beings. Apart from disrupting free flow of intellectual engagements, it can also damage the ear. To reduce the effect, people must be sensitised on how to create a noise-free environment.

    This was the focus at a conference organised at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) by Acoustical Society of Nigeria (ASON), a non-governmental organisation affiliated to International Commission for Acoustics in the university.

    The conference with the theme: Sound and technology: Impact on health and environment attracted over 2,000 scholars and participants to find solution to the noise generated through human activities. It was the second in the series.

    At the opening, the Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof Benjamin Ozumba, represented by the Deputy VC (Administration), Prof Edwin Igbokwe, said the event was timely to address distractions in academic environment, which he said were caused by noise.

    He said: “If excessive noise can be reduced, then quality and accurate results of researches being conducted by our scholars can be assured. There is nothing meaningful that can be achieved in a noisy environment.”

    Addressing the participants, ASON National President, Dr Joy Uguru, highlighted the impacts the  conference’s recommendation would have on the country when  approved by the Federal Government. She spoke extensively on anatomy of the ear, saying the organ of hearing in human could only withstand sound within the frequencies of 3,000Hz and 4,000 Hz.

    Uguru, lamented that the government was yet to do something about reducing unnecessary sound  caused by people. She said letters had been written to the National Assembly to initiate laws on enlightenment of the people about a peaceful environment.

    Uguru said most cities, streets and towns in the country are unhealthy to live in because of noise from vehicles and generators. In the rural areas, Uguru said the noise by some domestic animals has negative impact on the dwellers. General sensitisation, she said, would begin when adequate support from government at all levels is achieved.

    The ASON president hailed Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola, for declaring a “horn free day” to let the residents thoroughly understand the negative impact noise has on their existence.

    She said: “Although, the Lagos State government’s directive seemed to be strange to many drivers, because they were not used to that type of driving without blaring the horn. This is what we want to encourage across the country.”

    Presenting a leading paper on the conference theme, Prof Francis Oyebade of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) listed effects of noise pollution, citing India’s case of psychiatric disorder and loss of memory due to excessive noise from sound system, aircraft, railway and other sources.

    He drew the participants’ attention to an audiologist’s report from Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital in Osogbo, the state Osun capital, where cases of noise-induced hearing impairment were on the increase. He said the cause of the impairment was linked to exposure to extreme sound from television and radio, which he said led to slight headaches occasioned vibration in the eardrum, which may eventually lead to hearing impairment.

    Prof Igbokwe said the inference from the papers delivered by the speakers showed excessive noise constitutes a nuisance to everyone. “We should heed the suggestions, discussions and findings made in speakers at this conference to achieve an acoustically serene environment,” he said.

    In an interview, Prof Oyebade said there was need to sustain the conference for people to know how harmful excessive noise could be in the environment they live in.

     

     

  • Certificate society

    SIR: Oh Nigeria! Can someone spare me the explanation? Yes, the general elections are here. Politicking at the peak and politicians jostling for the juicy package. Intense is the mode of the game and only the hard-hearted can survive the heat.  The PHD syndrome is not given any chance to rest. Every aspirant digging deep, searching for opponents’ past records, missive and flaws for a stronghold to campaign. All these define the political terrain of Nigeria.

    Even as Nigerians are wooed by candidates of the different political parties, one major topic remains: Buhari, Where is your certificate? The opposition are making no mistake in blowing to the heavens the absence of certificate for the presidential standard bearer of All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhammadu Buhari.

    Yes, he has spoken. Hear him: “ I assumed all along, all my records were in the custody of the Military Secretary of the Nigerian Army, a position I have been privileged to occupy myself, much to my surprise, we are now told that although, a record of the result is available, there are no copies of the certificate in my personal file.

    “This is why I formerly requested my old school—the Provincial Secondary School, Katsina, which is now known as Government College, Katsina, to make available the school copy of the result of the Cambridge West African School Certificate. This will be made available to the press the moment this is available.

    “However, let me say for the record that I attended Provincial Secondary School, Katsina. I graduated in 1961, with many prominent Nigerians, including Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, former Chief of Staff in the Supreme Headquarters; and Justice Umar Abdullahi, former President of the Court of Appeal. We sat for the University of Cambridge WASCE examination together in 1961, the year we graduated.

    “My examination number was 8200002 and I passed the examination in the Second Division, and although the ruling party may want to wish this away, the issue in this campaign may not be my certificate which I obtained 52 years ago.”

    Well said. He has put rest to this certificate brouhaha?  But for me, campaigns should ascend the era of petty situations. It ought to transcend certificate or no certificate, phone number or not and other kindergarten reasoning pattern.

    The country has had fair share of leaders. In our president lies a man with immense educational status attaining a Ph.D from a reputable institution. Yet, many promises are far from being fulfilled.  One begins to wonder the role of certificates in leadership.

    To me, I hope this issue is resolved quickly. I want to hear candidates debate issues. This kind of politicking endears me to the United States of America elections every four years. These persons argue on issues, tackle themselves intelligently and proffer their perceived super model solution  to several issues.

    If this is not done, we might yet have another four years of sentimental leaders grace the corridor of power.

     

    • Amakoh Kelechi,

    Kelechi.amakoh@gmail.com

  • High society loses Risikat Amole

    A few days after the death of Iyalode Aduni Bankole, the Lagos social circle has been hit with the passing of another socialite. The CEO of BIMS African Foods Limited, London, Mrs Risikat Bola Amole, died at her Ibadan home after a brief illness.

    Mrs. Amole was until her death a reputable business woman regarded as one of the wealthiest women in Ibadan with properties scattered around the city. With her entrepreneurial skills, she was able to grow BIMS African Food Limited from a small retail outlet to one of the biggest Africa stores in London.

    Besides being a renowned businesswoman, Amole was a politician who was aspiring to go to the House of Representatives on the platform of Accord Party. She was the chairperson of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) in Europe up till 2003 when she defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and later Accord Party.

    She was also a prominent member of the Labour Party in the United Kingdom. She was said to be in her 50s at the time she died.

  • I’m happy to give back to the society- Ejide

    I’m happy to give back to the society- Ejide

    Super Eagles’ shot-stopper, Austin Ejide has pointed out that the desire to ensure youths of Agulu, Anamocha LGA of Anambra State shun vices made him sponsor an annual competition named after. The competition  starts on December 27, 2014 and ends on January 3, 2015. The maiden edition of the competition christened Austin Ejide Unity Cup tournament for teams in Agulu, Anamocha LGA will see teams within and around the area vying for honours and supremacy as the race to win the top prize and others hot up. According to the Super Eagles and Hapoel Be’er Sheva of Israel goalkeeper, the tournament is aimed at giving back to the society and stimulating youth interest in the game as well as steering them away from nefarious activities.

    Overall winners will cart home the giant trophy as well as a cash prize of N500, 000.00 while the runners-up will make do with N300,000.00. Other side attractions include award for the Most Valuable Player, MVP, Highest Goal Scorer, Best Coach of the tournament amongst others.

    Four sets of jerseys have also been made available by the Nigeria international goalkeeper to the four semi finalists of the tournament. Chairman of the organising committee, Mr Sunny Boy, said the Ejide Unity Cup  tournament is the biggest ever to be played in the town.

    “We’re very happy to have one of our illustrious sons come out in full force to support us in youth development in this town. This is the biggest football tournament we’ve ever played here and we are very proud of him. Beside the huge financial reward for the winning teams and players as well as coaches, he has also given out four sets of jerseys to the four semi-finalists.

    “The tournament is to serve as a platform for youths from this community to horn their football careers and in this regard he has invited scouts from the Glo Premier League to scout for players at the tournament.

    “Honestly, we can’t thank him enough, ours is to continue to pray for God to continue to drive him in his career. We’re truly proud of him”, the organising committee boss said.

  • Towards a better society

    Towards a better society

    NewsDirect, a weekly newspaper, has held its fourth anniversary lecture and awards at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, reports AMIDU ARIJE.

    It was a special gathering where group met to discuss the way out of the prevailing economic challenges and insurgency. Venue was the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.

    Former Aviation Minister Mr Femi Fani-Kayode and Managing Director of the Peugeot Automobile of Nigeria (PAN) Alhaji Ibrahim Boyi spoke on the occasion.

    Boyi spoke on Dwindling oil revenue: Role of Infrastructure in fast-tracking economic growth and sustenance of democracy. Fani-Kayode handled The rise of Islamic fundamentalist and the quest for ISIL State.

    Guests were well dressed. They registered in the lobby before entering the hall.

    The hall was simply decorated in white and blue satin.

    The Nigeria Police Band supplied music.

    It was a twin event – the fourth anniversary lecture and award – organised by a weekly journal, NewsDirect.

    Its Editor-in-Chief, Dr Samuel Ibiyemi, was clad in black suit with a matching tie and a pair of shoes.

    The rendition of the national anthem and prayer by the duo of Pastor Olumuyiwa Samson and Head of Service of Kastina State, Alhaji Muhammed Aliu, who represented  Governor, Ibrahim Shema, kickstarted the programme.

    Mr Temiloluwa Aawonbiogbon compered the event.

    Mallam Spencer, a comedian, spiced up the occasion with jokes that left everyone laughing.

    The police band sang praises of guests as they were invited to the dance floor.

    Delivering his speech, Boyi stressed the need for diversification of economy as a way to rescue the Nigeria from collapse.

    He enjoined government to invest more in agriculture and non-oil sub sector.

    Fani-Kayode attributed the rise in insurgency to government’s negligence.

    Fani-Kayode rallied support for President Goodluck Jonathan to phase out the Boko Haram insurgency.

    “We need to support the president because I believe he needs support now more than ever. Let’s forget the notion that he ought to be impeached, we don’t impeach president in the middle of civil war. I reject the call for the removal of security chiefs as some have suggested; we should completely reject the assertion that President Jonathan is a modern day Nebuchadnezzar, I think it is most in appropriate and unwise for people to try to undermine the leadership,” he said.

    The award ceremony followed. There were different categories of the award.

    Governor Shema went home with the Governor of the year award.

    Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, represented by Mrs Remi Onansanya, got the Best Health Project of the Year.

    Mr Jim Obazee went home with the Chief Executive of Distinction. In the banking sector,  Access Bank won the Best Bank of the Year, while Keystone Bank won Most Friendly Bank of Year.

    The chairman, Mr Ken Etete, the chairman of Century Group, represented by Mr Whyte Karibe went home with the Newsdirect Outstanding Supporter of the Year.

    The Energy Company of the Year was won by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited.

    The Top Most entertainment group entertained guests on the occasion.  The conviviality increases as this last.

    A closing remark was made by the chief host, Dr Ibiyemi. He thanked all that were present at the occasion and prayed for their safe trips back home.

    He said the occasion was to bring together Nigerians and appreciate their good work and to also celebrate the newspaper.

  • ‘IVF babies are now accepted by society’

    A senior consultant at Medical Art Centre (MART), Dr Kemi Ailoje Adewusi, has said Nigerians no longer treat In-vitro Fertilisation (IVF)  babies as outcast.

    Dr  Adewusi spoke at a  ceremony organised by the centre to celebrate her and her colleague, Dr Chizara Okeke.

    They were awarded with Masters in Reproductive Medicine from University of South Wales, Australia and  promoted to consultant positions in the centre (MART).

    Dr Adewusi said:  “I think the acceptability and integration of children conceived by IVF is a lot better now from when we first started. The awareness is there now because before, there were a lot of myths associated with the procedure. People thought if you do IVF, there are structural or anatomical issues with you and they don’t see the need for an advanced form of medicine, which makes it difficult for them to access anything that is new. People thought that IVF babies were like robots or dummies and they believed it wasn’t possible to do things that you can do inside of the body, outside of it as well to achieve the same result. But as the year went by, people got pregnant, babies went to schools as intelligent and they look normal; played normally and talked normally and so, the acceptance became better.”

    She added that people can say now ‘this baby is an IVF baby…’ For instance, when we went for a conference, we met the first IVF baby from Australia who happens to be an Embryologist himself and this means that they also have longevity and they don’t have all the things that people think is related to the procedure.

    “The acceptance by the society is a lot better now and the awareness has grown much bigger than what it used to be,” she said.

    Chizara said  it was a huge privilege for them to work in that field of medicine, noting that, “for someone, such as Prof Ashiru to have the trust in you and reveal what happens in the room, which is supposed to be kept there as a guided art was a great privilege anyone can ask for.”

    She noted that it is a field which they have been operating on and as such, will not feel any pressure in their new positions.

    The Chief Medical Director, MART Centre, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru however congratulated the duo on their success and their fast learning of the practice within a short  time, noting that it is their show of excellence that earned them the elevation.

    Ashiru said Chizara joined Medical ART Centre of the MART Group of Health Services seven years ago. She came in as a novice in the field of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), but within a period of two years she had been introduced to this field, she started learning and started demonstrating her skills. And this was  crowned by her registering for a programme in University of New South Wales, Australia and over a  three years, she ended up getting masters in Reproductive Medicine which is the specific training for doctors who are practicing In-Vitro Fertilisation or ART.

    “We did evaluation of her work here where she can do all the whole areas of IVF from Ovarian Stimulation to Embryo Transfer and as such, she becomes an accomplished endocrinologist. And the management considered her to have merited the position of a consultant and have been so elevated.”

  • Curbing tobacco consumption in our society

    It is with great pleasure and concern for humanity that I write to bring to the knowledge of the entire populace the ugly trend  tobacco consumption has taken in recent times.

    Since  human existence, institutions have come up with diverseways to address critical issues , which are not only challenging to man, but also deprive of comfort and national endowments. There is, therefore, a pertinent need to look critically into the social, moral, economic, and medical effects of tobacco consumption in Nigeria.

    Tobacco is a green, leafy plant that is grown in warm climates. After it is picked, it is dried, ground up, and used in different ways. It can be smoked as cigarette, or cigar. It can be chewed (called smokeless tobacco or chewing tobacco) or sniffed through the nose (called snuff).

    Nicotine is one of the four thousand (4,000) chemicals in cigarette and its smoke. It is the chemical that makes tobacco addictive or habit-forming. Among these toxic chemical are over 50 others that are carcinogens (cancer causing agents).

    Prevalence of tobacco consumption is reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), which focuses on smoking (not smokeless chewing Tobacco) due to reported data limitations. Smoking has, therefore, been studied more extensively than any other form of consumption. In the developing world, tobacco consumption was rising by 3.4% as at 2002. The WHO, in 2004, projected 58.8 million deaths to occur globally, from which 5.4 million are tobacco-attributed and 4.9 million as of 2007. Presently, tobacco kills nearly 6 million people each year with approximately 70% of the deaths occurring in developing countries.

    The health effects of smoking are the circumstances, mechanisms, and factors of tobacco consumption in human health. Tobacco is the single greatest cause of preventable death globally.  Tobacco use leads most commonly to diseases affecting the heart, liver and lungs, with smoking being a major risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It also causes peripheral vascular disease and hypertension smoking tobacco has also been found to diminish taste and smell ability.

    Taking a look at its reproductive hazards on users, tobacco use is associated with miscarriages among pregnant women who smoke, and contributes to a number of other threats to the health of the foetus, such as premature births and low birth weight and increases by 1.4 to 3 times the chance for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). From the paternal perspective, incident of impotence is approximately 85 percent higher in male smokers compared to non-smoker, and is a key factor causing erectile dysfunction.

    Furthermore, tobacco consumption has the potential of causing severe and chronic emotional disorders. A clinical nuero-physiological analysis has shown how nicotine which makes tobacco a drug into the bloodstream, and stimulates nervous system, making one feel one has more energy. This physical mirage can really kill more than the nicotine toxicity, as the affected user often perceives life-threatening strenuous tasks as simple. The disgruntled victim is eventually left emotionally unstable and traumatised.

    In addition, there is a high rate of destitution arising from tobacco consumption, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries. Lastly, the picture or scenario created by the addiction of tobacco is pathetic – this emanates from the regression in the economic stratum of an addicted tobacco user, mostly found in low income earners. This of course, can induce the affected individuals, especially the youths into social menace like robbery and thefts.

    For the avoidance of doubt, the issue of addiction has been from Stone Age. I surmise the nearest future of political governance with credibility and proficiency in eradicating the improper and unhealthy use of tobacco in Nigeria. Addressing this indecorous trend or act, starts from checkmating the commercial travesties, imposed by the big large-scale manufacturers of tobacco. Some strategic measures to curbs this problem may bring about an economic downturn – a downside signal in tobacco marketing, or advertisement, but the incontrovertible truth remains that tobacco merchandising has more demerits than merits.

    Moreover, heavy tariffs and taxes should be imposed on the manufacturers and the sellers, as this will definitely affect the price tag system at the consumer level, thereby discouraging many users. Health education institutions should be adequately equipped with facilities to aid enlightenment campaign both in the public within institutions of learning – making the entire populace, and the users understand the health implications.

    Rehabilitation exercise will also help to a great extent to manage the colossal challenges faced by individuals who are addicted. In fact, nearly 35 million people make a serious attempt to quit each year. Unfortunately those who try to quit on their own relapse, often within a week. Also, clinical psychological assistance can help an addicted individual gradually cut down tobacco intake to minimal, and to zero level, without having any withdrawal syndrome. Public smoking, when banned, will tremendously help reduce the risk of diseases due to exposure or inhalation of secondhand smoke by non-smokers..

    Moreover, it is pertinent to establish a Nigerian Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Community Development Service (CDS) group on Anti-Tobacco, where youth corps members will be trained to educate the masses on the dangers inherent in Tobacco use. This CDS group, when established, we hope will give rise to the establishment of Anti-Tobacco clubs in senior secondary schools and tertiary institutions that harbour the target audience.

  • The effects of rape on our society

    Rape is a type of sexual assault usually involving having a carnal knowledge, which is initiated by one or more persons against another person without that person’s consent. The act may be carried out by physical force, coercion, abuse of authority or against a person who is incapable of valid consent, such as one who is unconscious, incapacitated, or below the legal age of consent. The term rape is, sometimes, used interchangeably with the term sexual assault.

    Internationally, the incidence of rape recorded by the police during 2008 varied between 0.1 in Egypt per 100,000 people and 91.6 per 100,000 people in Lesotho with 4.9 per 100,000 people in Lithuana as the median.

    According to the American Medical Association (1995), sexual violence, and rape in particular, is considered the most under reported violent crime. The rate of reporting, prosecution and convictions for rape varies considerably in different jurisdictions. The U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics (1999) estimated that 91percent of U.S. rape victims are female and nine per cent are male.

    Rape by strangers is usually less common than rape by persons the victim knows. Several studies argue that male-male and female-female prison rape are quite common and may be the least reported forms of rape.

    It is most terrifying to note that the frequency of rape incidents today all over the world has doubled or even tripled according to statistics. All over from India to South Africa, Syria and even to Nigeria, the incidences of rape are now so common and it could even be seen in public places.

    One begins to wonder how this generation has quickly lost its forms of moral and societal values despite the multiplicity of religious centres, schools and even breakthroughs recorded in technology and science.

    Rape against the female gender seems to be rampant today. There are reported cases of little children less than one year being raped as well as grandmothers of over 70, also being raped.

    Most petrifying is the fact that some of the rape victims have been killed by the rapists having been assaulted. Some victims have also killed themselves much later due to the pain and stigma associated with the act. It is indeed alarming how this level of wickedness has grown and expanded in our society.

    The advent of the social media has also not helped matters in this regard. On  July22, 2012, Cynthia Osokogwu, a post-graduate student of Nasarawa State University and a clothing retailer, was murdered in Lagos by friends she met on Facebook. The rapists lured her to a hotel in FESTAC Town, drugged and raped her before she was murdered.

    Also, the incident when five undergraduates believed to be students of Abia State University conspired and raped a young woman is as well detestable. Despite the pleadings of the young girl, the young men still took turns to satisfy their devilish lusts on her. The videos of that incident shook the nation as investigation was launched into the incident but nothing seems to have come out of it till date.

    In India, the Delhi gang rape and murder case that occurred on December 16, 2012 in Munrika, a neighbourhood located in the southern part of New Delhi, when a 23-year-old female physiotherapy intern was beaten and gang raped in a private bus in which she was travelling with a male friend. There were six others in the bus, including the driver, all of whom raped the woman. The woman died from her injuries 13 days later while undergoing emergency treatment in Singapore.

    The incident generated widespread national and international coverage and was widely condemned, both in India and abroad. Subsequently, public protests against the Government of India and the Government of Delhi for not providing adequate security for women took place in New Delhi, where thousands of protesters clashed with security forces. Similar protests took place in major cities throughout the country.

    These and a whole lot more sum up the level of decadence bedeviling our society. No one seems safe these days in the hands of rapists. It is up to all of us that make up the society to rise up and root out rape from our midst.

    As it is, everyone has a role to play in the eradication of this menace from our society. From homes to religious gatherings, schools to events, the gospel of anti-rape should be preached with all forms of seriousness and vehemence.

    Enough is enough of this monster that has developed into the biggest crime in our society. Stiffer laws should be created for offenders just like kidnappings and murder, because rape has helped to rob our society some of its best hands.

    From government quarters to private quarters, rape should be given a serious attention before we lose our female population to a group of persons who have lost all forms of dignity. The fight against rape should be total and there should be no sacred cows in the battle against it. All hands must be on deck to ensure that rape is finally expunged from our society.

    Everyone has a role to play in tackling this societal cancer. Lawmakers must create stiffer laws, the Judiciary must dispatch justice with speed to offenders and we all must also be our brothers’ keeper and also report any case of rape to the relevant authorities.

     

    Sam, graduating student of Curriculum and teaching, UNICAL

  • Society holds annual Maolid Nabiyy today

    The Ibadullahi Lil-ir-Shad Society of Nigeria, Ifo, Ogun State, will mark the annual Maulid Nabiyy today.

    The theme is: The Way to Peace and venue is the N.U.D Playing Ground, Olose, Ifo.

    The event will feature a special prayer for the peace of the community, state and Nigeria and a fund raising for the completion of its mosque.

    Imam Ibraheem Salmin Ajilogbaaso is the chief host while Sheikh Rasak Aduagba will be the guest speaker.

    Other guests expected include: Alhaji Tajudeen Bello as Father of the Day, Alhaja Suwebatu Adeshete, Mother of the Day, the Olu of Ifo, Oba Samuel Atanda Oladipupo and Alhaji Mubashiru Bisiriyu.

  • No civilised society can develop without an efficient Judiciary

    No civilised society can develop without an efficient Judiciary

    Mr. Victor Nwaugo is a former Legal Adviser to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and member of its National Executive Committee (NEC) since 2006. He speaks on the forthcoming National Conference, NBA elections, security of lives and property in the country and other sundry issues in this interview with Legal Editor, JOHN AUSTIN UNACHUKWU

    How do you react to Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)’s decision in opting out of the National Conference on basis of allocating a slot to the association at the confab?

    The President of the Bar is the spokesperson for the association. So, the decision to back out was taken by the President of the Bar and ratified by NEC in Ekiti State, which is in order. However, the Bar could have backed out from the so called conference on so many grounds. I read the content of the text of the President of the Bar threatening to back out of the conference on the basis of the number of allotment of representatives. To tell the truth, the Bar President was begging to be allotted more persons to represent NBA and expectedly, Dr Goodluck Jonathan ignored him. At the President’s media chat last month, President Jonathan took the shine off the NBA President when he said the association should have articulated its position for one or two of its members to present same during the conference. If Jonathan’s position is proper, why did he allow more than one representative for each state? Each state should have articulated their position for one  representative or two to present same before the conference. Yet, about 30 persons are representing the southeast, which is about six persons per state.

    The government considers  the present NBA leadership to be  weak; therefore, the Bar can not talk or work their talk. If it were in the golden years of Alao Aka-Bashorun; T. J. N. Okpoko (SAN); O.C.J. Okocha  (SAN); Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Prince Lanke Odigiyon; Olisa Agbakoba (SAN); Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and J.B Dandu (SAN) , NBA would have been begged to accept  five representatives. But now, the NBA is like an elephant, one can only tell the story from his or her own view point. We have lawyers in the media; lawyers in litigation; lawyers in the military; lawyers in the corporate world; Human Rights lawyers; lawyers for the Bench; young lawyers’ forum; female lawyers and none can properly present the view point of the other.

    What are your expectations from the Confab?

    My expectation from the National Conference is that money would be passed round. People will talk and all their articulations will be consigned on top of other heap of talks by past administrations to gather dust. I don’t think President Jonathan is sincere in his proposal for a national conference. I see it as wanting to play the North against the South, Christians against Muslims, Igbo against Hausa, minority against the majority, all for the purpose  of gaining advantage for his election in 2015. I hope Nigerians will see it from this angle and be cautious not to be fooled. Any president who really desires  to lay foundation for a true Nigeria will table all issues for discussion when he does not have ambition for a re-election. This National Conference is an after thought from a politician who is desperate to be re-elected.

    The relationship between the Aba branch of the NBA and Abia State government has not been cordial. What are your problems with the state government?

    Well, it appears that an understanding is trying to evolve, the General Secretary of NBA, Emeka Obegolu J.P,  has waded into the matter. You know, Obegolu is a humble and likable fellow. I hope both parties will give him the maximum support to settle the matter. We expect  the Governor and the  Attorney-General, Hon.  Umeh Kalu to let NBA Aba recover all the lost grounds in terms of the largesse the government gave to other branches of NBA in Abia State during the period of the  face off. I tell you, Aba Bar will battle against anyone, who unjustly goes against T.A Orji in future, whether he is still in government or not. Aba Bar fights injustices for all.

    This is an election year for the NBA, what type of president do you envisage?

    The Bar by virtue of Articles 7.3 and 10 (a) of the constitution of the NBA, as amended in 2009, shall in a delegate conference on July 2014 elect national officers for  a single  term of two years. In other words, there will be a delegate conference for the purpose of electing new officers to take over from the incumbent Okey Wali (SAN) led administration. First, I look forward to seeing our delegates resist an imposition of candidates by any person  or group of persons. I urge our delegates to vote for a person who is experienced in the running  and workings of NBA secretariat. A person who will see himself only as a senior prefect among his other elected officers and not an emperor on a kingdom.

    I look forward to seeing an NBA President who will stand to fight government’s bad policies.  The last democrat to govern NBA was Olisa Agbakoba (SAN). I expect a president who will use part of our practicing fees to invest in health insurance for lawyers, more especially now that the practising fees have been increased. I expect a president   who will connect with the owners of the association being her members. I expect a president whose words will remain his bond. I don’t want a ”I know it all” president. I am looking forward to a listening president, God help NBA.

    What is the way out of the security challenges facing the country, especially in the Northern parts of the country?

    The security challenges in Nigeria generally and Northeast in particular is worrisome. The government has not really given a well deserved attention to it. Government should, as a matter of necessity, stop using the security challenges to play politics. Let government, with all reports available to it, inform Nigerians that Boko Haram is a pure religious war and not politically motivated. Government should tell Nigerians the truth and not try to profit from the unfortunate situation to curry the favour of southern part of Nigeria as if it is a war by the North against Jonathan’s government.

    There is the need to properly educate Nigerians on evils of Boko Haram so that the ordinary person in the affected area will see members of the sect as criminals. It has to be a total condemnation by both Christians, Muslims, Southern and Northern Nigeria. It can only be condemned by all when the government properly informs the people and carry them along and not to make the Igbos feel that Boko Haram was established to fight Jonathan’s government. Nigerians should read 9/11 report headed by Henry Kessinger to understand the message of these criminals called Boko Haram sect.

    The 1999 constitution is continuously being amended by the National Assembly, which areas of the constitution would you like amended?

    Well, no matter how you amend the constitution, it needs proper and normal human beings to operate it.  For instance, when immunity clause was inserted to protect a governor from unnecessary distraction by way of litigations and frivolous criminal petitions did anybody know that a governor will hide under that to loot the treasury of the state? Sections 84 (2) (4) (7), 121 (3), 124 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution properly provided for fiscal autonomy of the third arm of government, yet those sections of the constitution are observed in the breach. Section 7 (1) guarantees democratically elected local government councils. Yet, only Enugu and Lagos States have respected that section by conducting local government election while the others find time to use caretaker committee to run the local government.

    Again, Section 162 (5) provided that amount standing to the credit of local government councils in the Federation Account shall be allocated to the states for the benefit of their local government council. Yet, the states latch unto the funds and deal with it to their benefit. In the face of the functions donated by constitution to the local governments in the fourth schedule to the constitution, the states still breach and usurp the functions through states agencies.

    On  March 3, this year, a High Court in Aba presided over by  Justice C.C.T Adiele stood firm to declare an obnoxious law in Abia State known as Abia State of Nigeria Physical Planning and Infrastructural Development Fund Law illegal and gave  restraining  orders against the Board, C.J, revenue court and the police from arresting, detaining or trying anybody on account of that law for non payment of the said Infrastructural Levy. The case is suit No. A/243/2012 Mrs. Pamela N. Nwaugo & 7ors vs. Board of Trustees of Physical Planning and Infrastructural Development Fund and 7 ors.  He has played his part in enthroning democracy; we are expected to play ours.

    What are you are trying to make?

    The major area in freeing Nigeria to be a democratic and republican state is through resource control and derivative principle. Let Enugu mine her coal, let Rivers refine her oil, let Lagos be in charge of their ports and pay royalty to the federal government. The headquarters of all ministries should not be concentrated in Abuja. Let Customs headquarters be sited in Owerri, let there be a dry port in Isiala Ngwa. That is the real amendment that will be meaningful.

    What suggestions would you give the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as it prepares  for the next year general elections?

    The Independent National Electorate Commission (INEC) owes Nigerians the duty to organise a clean, proper and acceptable election free from instructions from “ Oga at the top”. INEC must ensure that the right persons are recruited as ad-hoc staff. I propose Rev Fathers in Catholic areas; Anglican priests in some areas; lawyers with recommendation from their association; corps members for NYSC; Imams, Christians and Moslem clerics, and journalists from reputable independent media houses. The idea of using teachers should end because they are government paid workers. Again, INEC should plan for staggered elections. The election of the president and National Assembly should not be in a day. Even that of president should not be in a day.

    INEC can choose two states from each geo-political zone in a day to avoid band wagon effect where it starts with a particular zone so that presidential and gubernatorial elections will be announced in a day spanning over three weeks of voting. Because of inadequate security personnel, INEC should stagger the election.

    Politicians should not be allowed to influence choice of ad-hoc staff. This is one area INEC staff must stand against. I even advise INEC that it is possible to customise the ballot papers and result sheets that only a voter can validly use his/her  ballot paper by having his/her name inscribed on a ballot paper meant for that voter so that where another thumb prints another’s ballot paper, by bio-metrics finger  print system, it will be dictated. Please INEC, let the votes of Nigerians count. Never should the Anambra example come up again in our lives.

    How do we fast track administration of justice in the country?

    The slow pace of justice is a serious concern to every right thinking man because the mark in determining a people’s rank in civilisation is how fast justice is obtained. I don’t know of any civilised society without effective judiciary. Our judiciary is underfunded, in some climes, judges do not have assistants, they work under a leaking roof with no fan, air conditioner and operate analogue system in typing documents.  Judiciary should be directly funded from the Federation Account. Again, the constitution should be amended to create states judiciary structure up to  Supreme Court and certain items in the exclusive list removed and made to end at the states Supreme Court like issue of marriages.

    Why do you say this?

    Imagine a situation where all cases in this country from more than 20 Courts of Appeal are going to one Supreme Court made up of only 16 justices. I think this situation contributes to delay of justice delivery in this country. I am not saying that the state-courts’ structures should be funded by the state executive arm. No, they too should be independently funded from the Federation Account.

    How do you think the realignment of political forces  will affect the forthcoming elections and what role do you foresee for the opposition in the country in post 2015?

    On the realignment of political forces in the country, the likely consequences and the role of opposition in the post 2015,  I have always believed that Nigeria can take a leap into development the day an incumbent president loses election. For instance, the massive development going on in Imo State in educational section; health sector, where general hospitals are being built in all the 27 local governments of the state; massive road projects going on; civil servants and pensioners receiving their pay promptly; free education to the point where  students  receive stipends; books and uniforms. Go to the three zones of the states namely; Owerri, Orlu, Okigwe and see for yourself . While a  former governor from Okigwe zone only constructed one road in Ihitte/Uboma during his four-year term, in my ward Umuezegwu, Ihitte/Uboma in Okigwe zone, Rochas has embarked on three roads. One completed, two on-going. In the entire Ihitte/Uboma local government area, there are several roads projects and other projects going on and some completed. I believe that Rochas desires to perform as a person,  but I believe more that when he remembers that he defeated an incumbent to become the governor, he is pushed to do more in order not to disappoint the electorate who trusted him during the election.

    How does this apply to Nigeria?

    So, If Nigerians will rise to the  occasion to vote out the incumbent president,  I am sure the person in whom trust has been vested in will rise to the occasion. In the last election, Aba for instance, massively voted for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)  when Dr. Jonathan came to Aba and urged them to vote for him and T.A Orji and they did. Since then, he has not bothered to come to Aba to know how we are surviving. Today in Aba, Aba-Ikot Ekpene Road, a distance of fifteen minutes, has completely broken down to the extent that traders from that end now go through Umuahia to Onitsha-Port-Harcourt Road. A Federal Government road that runs through main Aba city is now a death trap. Port-Harcourt-Enugu Express Road, that passes  through Aba is bad, Igbos are importers of goods and are distributors of goods.

    While there are Federal Government intervention agencies for Northern farmers and  Niger Delta people, no Federal Government policy to favour trading, which is the mainstay of the Igbos. President  Obasanjo during his time approved Isiala Ngwa dry port, till date, our supposed man, Jonathan,  has refused to develop it. LNG project approved for Imo State was taken  away by Jonathan. Port-Harcourt-Owerri road project is now abandoned, where are Imo and Abia’s share of federal projects? I thank God, that today, PDP is now in the minority at the National Assembly. The re-alignment of political forces is quite interesting. The rumour that APC is a northern party has failed because people now know that Rochas Okorocha, Ngige and Ogbnnaya Onu, all governors of Igbo land are leaders of APC. So, how is APC a northern party? I thank these governors who saw the re-alignment of political forces and ensured that Igbos were part of the formation.

    For once, main stream west and north have formed an alignment. It would have spelt doom for the Igbos if our sons and daughters were not part of the re-alignment. We look forward to 2015 with high expectations. Let us now see how an Ijaw man has become an Igbo man. In Igbo land an Ijaw man is known as an Mba mmiri man not an Igbo man.