Friday 31 May 2013
Don't just open your mouth and judge us- Special Adviser
Having read the ACN and Mr. Lai
Mohammed’s predictable statement
stating that Nigerians need no
marking scheme to score the current
administration as a failure, let me
say that in no way can the duo of the
Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and
the Congress for Progressive Change
19 govs not interested in Gov. Jang
Nineteen out of the nation's 36 governors
were absent when Plateau State Governor,
Jonah Jang-led faction of the Nigeria
Governors' Forum opened its secretariat
in Abuja on Thursday.
The secretariat is located at Nana Close,
Maitama.
Signs that things were not going to work
well started manifesting when words went
round that Vice President Namadi Sambo,
who was supposed to be the guest of
honour at the event, would not come and
did not send any representatives.
The acting Sole Administrator of the
faction's secretariat, Mr. Osaro Onaiwu,
had told our correspondent on Tuesday
that the vice president would inaugurate
the secretariat.
Aside Jang, governors that were at the
event, were those of Kogi, Taraba,
Kaduna, Cross River, Katisina, Abia,
Anambra, Delta and Ebonyi.
Others included Ondo, Benue (deputy),
Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Gombe (deputy) and
Bayelsa.
Others stayed away from the event.
While unveiling the secretariat, Jang
said two governors sent their apologies.
He, however, did not mention their names.
Flags of political parties that produced
governors were hung outside the premises
of the secretariat.
These are Peoples Democratic Party, the
Action Congress of Nigeria, the Congress
for Progressive Change, the Labour Party
and the All Nigeria Peoples Party.
Some aides of the governors were seen
discussing the refusal of majority of the
governors to be at the event.
They said the number of those who
attended might have confirmed the number
of votes Jang scored at the Governors'
forum, which was held in Abuja on Friday.
While Jang scored 16 votes, Governor of
Rivers State, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, scored
19.
But the Jang faction insisted that since
their candidate was endorsed by the
majority of the governors before voting,
then he should be considered the winner
of the election.
Speaking with journalists after a tour of
the secretariat in company with other
governors, Jang said he was impressed
with what he saw.
He also said he would embark on
reconciliation, adding that the opening
of the secretariat was a new beginning in
the Forum.
Jang said, "I want to thank you very
sincerely for honouring our invitation to
come for the opening of the secretariat
of the NGF today.
"We have not had any formal meeting
(today), we went round and saw what they
have in the secretariat.
"We want to take this opportunity to
congratulate Mr. President on the 14th
year if Nigeria's democracy and the
presentation of his mid-term report,
which he presented at the International
Conference Centre on Wednesday.
"We wish him good health, we wish him
everything and we support his
transformation agenda."
He disagreed with the notion that the
opening of the factional secretariat was
not a sign that the Forum was already
collapsing.
He said, "Who said so? When did we just
open the secretariat? You know we have
been meeting at individual's governor's
lodge before and we decided we should be
meeting on a new real ground so that we
are not under the influence of any
governor.
"Every governor would be coming here for
meeting and I wish to say that we are
working hard to reconcile each other. You
heard what I said in Jos and that we will
be doing our politics for the nation.
"We are appealing to our colleagues to
work together for the glory of the
country."
Also speaking at the occasion, the
Governor of Bayelsa State, Mr. Seriake
Dickson, said it was wrong to use the NGF
for personal ambition.
He said the Forum was also not to be used
to promote an agenda or an alternative
government.
The governor said, "It (the opening of
the factional office) is a new dawn in
NGF; this is what we ought to have done
in the first place.
"This Forum must not be used to promote
personal ambition; it should be used to
promote somebody's ego.
"This Forum is there to serve as a non-
partisan body for development and
responding for critical issues. That is
the new spirit here now.
"We are poised to make a new beginning
and to serve a message that this Forum
should not be used for personal
aggrandisement, this Forum does not exist
to be used to as a platform or a tool for
antagonising the President and people in
authority.
"This Forum is not to be used to promote
an agenda or promoting an alternative
government."
Asked about the poor attendance of the
event by the governors, Dickson said
there was nothing new about it, adding
that "the meeting in Kwara State where
Governor Amaechi was elected was attended
by seven governors and six deputies. That
makes it 13."
Majek on stage
A MILD drama ensued at the Oriental
hotel, Lekki, Lagos, venue of the just
concluded Song Award organised by the
Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON)
last Saturday night when Nigeria’s
reggae legend and guitarist, Majek
Fashek stormed the place to thrill his
fans once again after years of being
missing on stage.
Clad in rugged jersey and jacket with a
brown cap, Majek who has been
incapacitated for a long time now
arrived the venue some minutes to the
end of the event and hell was let loose.
Shouts of ‘the Rainmaker’ rented the
air as he moved from one end of the
expansive hall to another, greeting and
hugging some of his contemporaries whom
he has not seen for years.
Interestingly, Majek’s song, “Send Down
the Rain” won the best song of the 1980s
at the event.
Even though, his sight evoked sympathy,
some of the guests who were familiar
with Majek’s ordeal could not believe
their eyes as the Rainmaker was
virtually in high spirit. Still looking
shabby and frail, Majek bubbled with
life while the event lasted.
*Majek
Upon spotting highlife maestro, Victor
Uwaifo who was one of the dignitaries
that graced the awards night, Majek
immediately prostrated before him and
later, requested to perform on stage.
But the audience would not allow him to
do so as they wanted him to close the
event.
After Iyanya’s ‘erotic performance’,
Majek mounted the stage and took the
audience in a musical voyage. He reeled
out some of his evergreen songs to the
delight of the audience. When he sang ‘
Send Down the Rain’, everyone in the
hall took to the floor as they sang
along with him. His performance that
night reaffirmed his place as a reggae
legend.
Despite missing the stage for a long
time, Majek who waltzed his way into the
hearts of music fans in the late 80s
and early 90s with his debut album
“Prisoner of Conscience” containing the
hit track ‘Send Down The Rain’ released
in 1987, still retains his stagecraft,
vocal dexterity and followership.
Standing ovation however greeted his
‘unexpected’ performance even as he
hinted that his latest album is due to
be released soon.
Meanwhile, the event was organised to
honour musicians, songwriters and
composers who had written and sung great
songs from 1960s till date. Victor
Uwaifo’s “Joromi,” was chosen as the
best song of the 1960s while Prince Nico
Mbarga’s “Sweet Mother” won the 1970s
category.
While Femi Kuti’s “Wonder Wonder”
emerged the best song of the 1990s, for
the new millennium (2000), Kehinde
Akinbode’s “Olorioko” was awarded the
best contemporary Afro song. The
contemporary pop song was awarded to Tu
Face Idibia with “African Queen.”
Sunny Nneji won contemporary highlife
category with “Oruka.” Idibia won
contemporary afro with “Iheneme,” while
Psquare were honoured for their hit song
“Chop My Money” and the best song for
contemporary highlife of the new era was
awarded to Jude Okoye for “Baby Oku.”The
award ceremony was part of activities
marking the COSON week.
hotel, Lekki, Lagos, venue of the just
concluded Song Award organised by the
Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON)
last Saturday night when Nigeria’s
reggae legend and guitarist, Majek
Fashek stormed the place to thrill his
fans once again after years of being
missing on stage.
Clad in rugged jersey and jacket with a
brown cap, Majek who has been
incapacitated for a long time now
arrived the venue some minutes to the
end of the event and hell was let loose.
Shouts of ‘the Rainmaker’ rented the
air as he moved from one end of the
expansive hall to another, greeting and
hugging some of his contemporaries whom
he has not seen for years.
Interestingly, Majek’s song, “Send Down
the Rain” won the best song of the 1980s
at the event.
Even though, his sight evoked sympathy,
some of the guests who were familiar
with Majek’s ordeal could not believe
their eyes as the Rainmaker was
virtually in high spirit. Still looking
shabby and frail, Majek bubbled with
life while the event lasted.
*Majek
Upon spotting highlife maestro, Victor
Uwaifo who was one of the dignitaries
that graced the awards night, Majek
immediately prostrated before him and
later, requested to perform on stage.
But the audience would not allow him to
do so as they wanted him to close the
event.
After Iyanya’s ‘erotic performance’,
Majek mounted the stage and took the
audience in a musical voyage. He reeled
out some of his evergreen songs to the
delight of the audience. When he sang ‘
Send Down the Rain’, everyone in the
hall took to the floor as they sang
along with him. His performance that
night reaffirmed his place as a reggae
legend.
Despite missing the stage for a long
time, Majek who waltzed his way into the
hearts of music fans in the late 80s
and early 90s with his debut album
“Prisoner of Conscience” containing the
hit track ‘Send Down The Rain’ released
in 1987, still retains his stagecraft,
vocal dexterity and followership.
Standing ovation however greeted his
‘unexpected’ performance even as he
hinted that his latest album is due to
be released soon.
Meanwhile, the event was organised to
honour musicians, songwriters and
composers who had written and sung great
songs from 1960s till date. Victor
Uwaifo’s “Joromi,” was chosen as the
best song of the 1960s while Prince Nico
Mbarga’s “Sweet Mother” won the 1970s
category.
While Femi Kuti’s “Wonder Wonder”
emerged the best song of the 1990s, for
the new millennium (2000), Kehinde
Akinbode’s “Olorioko” was awarded the
best contemporary Afro song. The
contemporary pop song was awarded to Tu
Face Idibia with “African Queen.”
Sunny Nneji won contemporary highlife
category with “Oruka.” Idibia won
contemporary afro with “Iheneme,” while
Psquare were honoured for their hit song
“Chop My Money” and the best song for
contemporary highlife of the new era was
awarded to Jude Okoye for “Baby Oku.”The
award ceremony was part of activities
marking the COSON week.
Rivers plans to shut down shell
THE people of Kula
community in Rivers State, have
threatened to shut down Shell Petroleum
Development Company and Chevron Nigeria
Limited operations in the area over
alleged abandoned projects.
In a statement, Thursday, the
traditional ruler of the community, HRH
King Kroma Eleki, Sara XIV and his
chiefs, said Shell had not met its
financial obligation to the community
for sustainable development since 2007,
adding that the Group Memorandum of
Understanding, GMOU, they signed with
the oil company was aborted with the
death of some of its chiefs, who were
signatories to the account.
They said efforts to set up a new board
to run the GMOU had been frustrated by
some forces. The community said they
had, however, forwarded a list to the
Commissioner for Chieftaincy and
Community Affairs, noting that if the
renewed effort was frustrated, they
would have no option than to shut down
the operations of Shell in the area,
adding that the same thing applies to
Chevron.
Continuing, the community also
threatened to embark on a protest to
Niger Delta Development Commission,
NDDC, over a land reclamation shore
protection project awarded by the
interventionist agency since 2009 that
had been allegedly abandoned.
“In a unanimous decision, the community,
after considering what we contribute to
the national economy with four flow
stations, two gas injections and booster
plants, agreed that a peaceful protest
should be undertaken by the community to
NDDC and Rivers State Government and
letters of representations to be sent to
the Presidency and other government
agencies. If nothing positive comes out
of that protest the community will shut
down both Shell and Chevron operations
in our area,” the community said.
community in Rivers State, have
threatened to shut down Shell Petroleum
Development Company and Chevron Nigeria
Limited operations in the area over
alleged abandoned projects.
In a statement, Thursday, the
traditional ruler of the community, HRH
King Kroma Eleki, Sara XIV and his
chiefs, said Shell had not met its
financial obligation to the community
for sustainable development since 2007,
adding that the Group Memorandum of
Understanding, GMOU, they signed with
the oil company was aborted with the
death of some of its chiefs, who were
signatories to the account.
They said efforts to set up a new board
to run the GMOU had been frustrated by
some forces. The community said they
had, however, forwarded a list to the
Commissioner for Chieftaincy and
Community Affairs, noting that if the
renewed effort was frustrated, they
would have no option than to shut down
the operations of Shell in the area,
adding that the same thing applies to
Chevron.
Continuing, the community also
threatened to embark on a protest to
Niger Delta Development Commission,
NDDC, over a land reclamation shore
protection project awarded by the
interventionist agency since 2009 that
had been allegedly abandoned.
“In a unanimous decision, the community,
after considering what we contribute to
the national economy with four flow
stations, two gas injections and booster
plants, agreed that a peaceful protest
should be undertaken by the community to
NDDC and Rivers State Government and
letters of representations to be sent to
the Presidency and other government
agencies. If nothing positive comes out
of that protest the community will shut
down both Shell and Chevron operations
in our area,” the community said.
They wanted to kill the oba-CP
POLICE Commissioner in Ondo
State, Mr. Patrick Dukumor, yesterday,
said that timely intervention by the
police saved the traditional ruler of
the troubled Ile-Oluji, Oba Suulade
Adedugbe, from being killed by the
youths who were bent on sacking him from
the palace.
State, Mr. Patrick Dukumor, yesterday,
said that timely intervention by the
police saved the traditional ruler of
the troubled Ile-Oluji, Oba Suulade
Adedugbe, from being killed by the
youths who were bent on sacking him from
the palace.
Tension mounts as S-Court rules on Oni’s petition today
Tension mounts in Ado
Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, as the
people of the state await today’s
judgment of the Supreme Court over the
suit instituted by former governor of
the state, Mr. Segun Oni, urging the
apex court to set aside the Court of
Appeal’s judgement of October 15, 2010,
that removed him from office.
Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, as the
people of the state await today’s
judgment of the Supreme Court over the
suit instituted by former governor of
the state, Mr. Segun Oni, urging the
apex court to set aside the Court of
Appeal’s judgement of October 15, 2010,
that removed him from office.
Thursday 30 May 2013
14 years jail term for same sex marriage in Nigeria- Reps
The House of Representatives on
Thursday approved 14 years imprisonment
for persons who contracted same sex
marriage in the country.
This was sequel to a clause-by-clause
consideration of a Bill for an Act to
prohibit marriage or union entered
between persons of same sex, at the
Committee of the Whole.
“Marriage or civil union entered between
persons of same gender shall not be
solemnised in any place of worship,
either church or mosque or any place in
Nigeria,” it said.
Introducing the bill, Rep. Albert Sam-
Tsokwa ( PDP-Taraba) said that it sought
to achieve a far reaching objective by
outlawing same sex marriage and provide
punishment for offenders.
It also set out a 10-year sentence for
“any person who directly or indirectly
makes public show of same-sex amorous
relationships’’.
“Any persons or group of persons that
administers, witnesses, screen and
shields the solemnisation of same sex
marriage in Nigeria on conviction, will
be liable to 10 years imprisonment.’’
It would be recalled also that the
British Prime Minister, David Cameron,
had warned that his country would
consider withholding aid from countries
that did not recognise gay rights.
In Nov. 2011, the senate approved the
bill that would make same-sex marriages
punishable by up to 14 years for the
couple and 10 for anyone abetting such
unions.
The bill is expected to be sent to the
Senate for concurrence. (NAN)
Thursday approved 14 years imprisonment
for persons who contracted same sex
marriage in the country.
This was sequel to a clause-by-clause
consideration of a Bill for an Act to
prohibit marriage or union entered
between persons of same sex, at the
Committee of the Whole.
“Marriage or civil union entered between
persons of same gender shall not be
solemnised in any place of worship,
either church or mosque or any place in
Nigeria,” it said.
Introducing the bill, Rep. Albert Sam-
Tsokwa ( PDP-Taraba) said that it sought
to achieve a far reaching objective by
outlawing same sex marriage and provide
punishment for offenders.
It also set out a 10-year sentence for
“any person who directly or indirectly
makes public show of same-sex amorous
relationships’’.
“Any persons or group of persons that
administers, witnesses, screen and
shields the solemnisation of same sex
marriage in Nigeria on conviction, will
be liable to 10 years imprisonment.’’
It would be recalled also that the
British Prime Minister, David Cameron,
had warned that his country would
consider withholding aid from countries
that did not recognise gay rights.
In Nov. 2011, the senate approved the
bill that would make same-sex marriages
punishable by up to 14 years for the
couple and 10 for anyone abetting such
unions.
The bill is expected to be sent to the
Senate for concurrence. (NAN)
Nigeria economy getting stronger- Coordinating minister
The Coordinating Minister of the
Economy, Dr. (Mrs), Ngozi Okonjo-
Iweala, has said the nation’s economy
is on course and getting stronger.
In her mid-term report as part of the
Democracy Day celebration in Abuja on
Wednesday, Okonjo –Iweala who is also the
Minister of Finance said the Nigerian
economy is the fastest growing economy in
the world, stressing that Nigeria is also
now the preferred investment destination
by foreign investors.
She noted that over the last two years,
Nigeria has experienced exchange rate
stability and growing foreign reserves,
adding that the high cost of governance is
being addressed with the instrumentality
of budget.
“The Nigerian economy growing at 6.5 per
cent is the fastest in the world. The
exchange rate is now stable between N155
and N160. Inflation which was 12.4 per
cent in 2011 is now 9 per cent and also
the external reserve which was $32 billion
two years ago is now about $50 billion and
the cost of governance is also reducing,”
she said.
The minister also explained that the
government is doing all it takes to
control borrowing, especially domestic,
borrowing stating that over $75 billion
debt was paid off this year.
“We are now paying debts instead of
rolling over. As a matter of fact, we have
established sinking fund which will be
used to pay off debts,” she stated.
The minister also touched on various
initiatives by the ministry to cut down
cost of doing business, infrastructure,
pension fund, milestones in the banking
sector, SURE-P activities and blocking
leakages in the economy.
Economy, Dr. (Mrs), Ngozi Okonjo-
Iweala, has said the nation’s economy
is on course and getting stronger.
In her mid-term report as part of the
Democracy Day celebration in Abuja on
Wednesday, Okonjo –Iweala who is also the
Minister of Finance said the Nigerian
economy is the fastest growing economy in
the world, stressing that Nigeria is also
now the preferred investment destination
by foreign investors.
She noted that over the last two years,
Nigeria has experienced exchange rate
stability and growing foreign reserves,
adding that the high cost of governance is
being addressed with the instrumentality
of budget.
“The Nigerian economy growing at 6.5 per
cent is the fastest in the world. The
exchange rate is now stable between N155
and N160. Inflation which was 12.4 per
cent in 2011 is now 9 per cent and also
the external reserve which was $32 billion
two years ago is now about $50 billion and
the cost of governance is also reducing,”
she said.
The minister also explained that the
government is doing all it takes to
control borrowing, especially domestic,
borrowing stating that over $75 billion
debt was paid off this year.
“We are now paying debts instead of
rolling over. As a matter of fact, we have
established sinking fund which will be
used to pay off debts,” she stated.
The minister also touched on various
initiatives by the ministry to cut down
cost of doing business, infrastructure,
pension fund, milestones in the banking
sector, SURE-P activities and blocking
leakages in the economy.
Yoruba language is sick
Renowned playwright, actor, dramatist and
culture activist, Prof. Akinwunmi Isola,
has said Yoruba language is sick.
A Professor of Yoruba language, Isola
spoke during a dinner organised in honour
of traditional rulers that attended
Oodu'a Children's Day celebration in
Osogbo.
He said, "Language is culture, and if a
language is sick, then such culture is
sick. Yoruba language is currently sick.
"When we talk about a culture, language
is the key. It is the vehicle with which
culture is driven. Without language,
there is no culture.
"Yoruba has a very rich culture that we
can teach the whole world. We are the
custodian of 'virtue as a culture' and
one the world will benefit from."
The don charged traditional rulers, who
are the custodian of Yoruba culture and
heritage, to prevent Yoruba language from
going into extinction.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade,
and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi
Adeyemi, commended the developmental
strides of Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Both rulers noted that the governor had
achieved infrastructural development in
the state, despite meagre resources
accruable to the state.
culture activist, Prof. Akinwunmi Isola,
has said Yoruba language is sick.
A Professor of Yoruba language, Isola
spoke during a dinner organised in honour
of traditional rulers that attended
Oodu'a Children's Day celebration in
Osogbo.
He said, "Language is culture, and if a
language is sick, then such culture is
sick. Yoruba language is currently sick.
"When we talk about a culture, language
is the key. It is the vehicle with which
culture is driven. Without language,
there is no culture.
"Yoruba has a very rich culture that we
can teach the whole world. We are the
custodian of 'virtue as a culture' and
one the world will benefit from."
The don charged traditional rulers, who
are the custodian of Yoruba culture and
heritage, to prevent Yoruba language from
going into extinction.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade,
and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi
Adeyemi, commended the developmental
strides of Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Both rulers noted that the governor had
achieved infrastructural development in
the state, despite meagre resources
accruable to the state.
JTF arrests foreigners,uncovers missiles, grenades
Culled from punch
Four foreign nationals, suspected to have
hailed from Middle East, were arrested in
Kano by the Joint Task Force over a large
cache of arms and ammunition uncovered
in their mini-warehouse located in the
Bompai area of Kano on Wednesday.
Following the shock discovery, owner of
the complex, where the dangerous weapons
were impounded, simply identified as a
Lebanese national, was arrested by
military personnel.
As of the time of filing this report, the
building, located on Gaya road in Bompai
area of the metropolis, was under
surveillance by heavily armed, stern-
looking soldiers.
Security sources disclosed that items
recovered from the extensive operation
included 40 air-to-surface missiles, 50
cluster bombs, 200 rocket-propel
launchers, eight AK-47 rifles, 200
military hand grenades and some military
hardware capable of destroying Armoured
Personnel Carriers.
The "weapons of war" were said to have
been evacuated to the headquarters of the
3rd Motorised Brigade of the Nigerian
Army, Kano, alongside the foreign
nationals.
It was learnt that preliminary
investigation had begun while "three
countries have been indicted and the
military high command is working to
ascertain the culpability."
A resident of the area, said he counted
over "300 AK-47 riffles" during the
evacuation.
Spokesman for the JTF Captain Ikedichi
Iweha, promised to brief newsmen later on
the issue, even as he declined comment on
the incident, which occurred on Tuesday
night.
"You would get the details tomorrow
(Thursday) because of the Democracy Day
celebration. We have resolved to talk to
you after the break," he said.
According to him, as a result of the
Democracy Day celebration, security was
fortified in the commercial city of Kano,
with increased vehicular patrols by the
military, JTF operatives and the police,
as part of the measures to sustain
relative peace in the city.
Meanwhile, the JTF has arrested 50
terror suspects in Borno State with the
aid of special dogs, says the Director of
Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Chris
Olukolade.
Olukolade said in a statement on
Wednesday that the terror suspects were
arrested with the help of specially
trained dogs while trying to infiltrate
Maiduguri.
The Defence spokesman said 15 of those
arrested were caught with arms concealed
either in their bodies or their
properties.
He said various attempts by terror
suspects, who were dislodged from their
camps in the forest in Borno to enter the
cities and towns of the North-East, had
been thwarted with the aid of the dogs
Olukolade said, "Trained Military Police
dogs are participating in the cordon and
search phase of special operations
against terrorism in the country.
"The efforts of the specially trained
dogs have so far led to the arrest of
over 50 terrorists who were trying to
infiltrate Maiduguri."
Four foreign nationals, suspected to have
hailed from Middle East, were arrested in
Kano by the Joint Task Force over a large
cache of arms and ammunition uncovered
in their mini-warehouse located in the
Bompai area of Kano on Wednesday.
Following the shock discovery, owner of
the complex, where the dangerous weapons
were impounded, simply identified as a
Lebanese national, was arrested by
military personnel.
As of the time of filing this report, the
building, located on Gaya road in Bompai
area of the metropolis, was under
surveillance by heavily armed, stern-
looking soldiers.
Security sources disclosed that items
recovered from the extensive operation
included 40 air-to-surface missiles, 50
cluster bombs, 200 rocket-propel
launchers, eight AK-47 rifles, 200
military hand grenades and some military
hardware capable of destroying Armoured
Personnel Carriers.
The "weapons of war" were said to have
been evacuated to the headquarters of the
3rd Motorised Brigade of the Nigerian
Army, Kano, alongside the foreign
nationals.
It was learnt that preliminary
investigation had begun while "three
countries have been indicted and the
military high command is working to
ascertain the culpability."
A resident of the area, said he counted
over "300 AK-47 riffles" during the
evacuation.
Spokesman for the JTF Captain Ikedichi
Iweha, promised to brief newsmen later on
the issue, even as he declined comment on
the incident, which occurred on Tuesday
night.
"You would get the details tomorrow
(Thursday) because of the Democracy Day
celebration. We have resolved to talk to
you after the break," he said.
According to him, as a result of the
Democracy Day celebration, security was
fortified in the commercial city of Kano,
with increased vehicular patrols by the
military, JTF operatives and the police,
as part of the measures to sustain
relative peace in the city.
Meanwhile, the JTF has arrested 50
terror suspects in Borno State with the
aid of special dogs, says the Director of
Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Chris
Olukolade.
Olukolade said in a statement on
Wednesday that the terror suspects were
arrested with the help of specially
trained dogs while trying to infiltrate
Maiduguri.
The Defence spokesman said 15 of those
arrested were caught with arms concealed
either in their bodies or their
properties.
He said various attempts by terror
suspects, who were dislodged from their
camps in the forest in Borno to enter the
cities and towns of the North-East, had
been thwarted with the aid of the dogs
Olukolade said, "Trained Military Police
dogs are participating in the cordon and
search phase of special operations
against terrorism in the country.
"The efforts of the specially trained
dogs have so far led to the arrest of
over 50 terrorists who were trying to
infiltrate Maiduguri."
Emergency rule to end soon
Culled from vanguard
SENATE President David Mark said,
yesterday, that the State of emergency
proclamation in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe
states will soon come to an end because
the military personnel were living up to
the assignment given to them.
Senate President Mark who noted that the
state of emergency was a last resort to
tame the lingering menace of insecurity
as well as bring normalcy back to the
land, however, charged every Nigerian to
be a good apostle of peace to ensure
that Nigerians enjoy dividends of
democracy.
Speaking at a church service to mark the
2013 Democracy Day at St. Mulumba
Catholic Chaplaincy, Apo, Abuja, Mark
said, “the state of emergency
proclamation on three States was a last
resort to curtail the unabating
insurgency. And I know it is yielding
positive result. Very soon, it will be
over as our military formations are
living up to the task”.
Mark, however, reiterated that the
challenges, including security
militating against the nation were not
insurmountable, adding, “All we need is
a collective resolve to confront our
challenges and find a lasting solution
to them.”
Senate President who noted that the
nation was currently passing through
some difficulties, especially in the
areas of security and socio-economy
challenges, said, “we can collectively
resolve to say enough is enough. All our
efforts towards development would come
to naught if the crisis continues.
He thanked Nigerians for their
perseverance and cooperation in the
propagation and sustenance of democracy,
adding that democracy was a process
everyone should uphold to benefit from
its dividends.
He said: “It was by choice and design
that the nation chose democracy as best
form of government. Democracy promotes
rule of law, upholds human rights,
freedom of speech and indeed
participatory.
“Whichever faith or religion, I urge
Nigerians to continue to pray for peace,
unity and progress of the nation.
On the part of legislature, the Senate
President assured of continued and
responsive legislation that will carter
for the yearnings and aspirations of
Nigerians.
He added that: “We shall continue to
identify and prioritize key areas where
legislations would be required for the
rapid transformation of the economy and
polity. We shall be patriotic, honest,
fair and just in the discharge of our
duties and be guided by the Constitution
and fear of God”.
SENATE President David Mark said,
yesterday, that the State of emergency
proclamation in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe
states will soon come to an end because
the military personnel were living up to
the assignment given to them.
Senate President Mark who noted that the
state of emergency was a last resort to
tame the lingering menace of insecurity
as well as bring normalcy back to the
land, however, charged every Nigerian to
be a good apostle of peace to ensure
that Nigerians enjoy dividends of
democracy.
Speaking at a church service to mark the
2013 Democracy Day at St. Mulumba
Catholic Chaplaincy, Apo, Abuja, Mark
said, “the state of emergency
proclamation on three States was a last
resort to curtail the unabating
insurgency. And I know it is yielding
positive result. Very soon, it will be
over as our military formations are
living up to the task”.
Mark, however, reiterated that the
challenges, including security
militating against the nation were not
insurmountable, adding, “All we need is
a collective resolve to confront our
challenges and find a lasting solution
to them.”
Senate President who noted that the
nation was currently passing through
some difficulties, especially in the
areas of security and socio-economy
challenges, said, “we can collectively
resolve to say enough is enough. All our
efforts towards development would come
to naught if the crisis continues.
He thanked Nigerians for their
perseverance and cooperation in the
propagation and sustenance of democracy,
adding that democracy was a process
everyone should uphold to benefit from
its dividends.
He said: “It was by choice and design
that the nation chose democracy as best
form of government. Democracy promotes
rule of law, upholds human rights,
freedom of speech and indeed
participatory.
“Whichever faith or religion, I urge
Nigerians to continue to pray for peace,
unity and progress of the nation.
On the part of legislature, the Senate
President assured of continued and
responsive legislation that will carter
for the yearnings and aspirations of
Nigerians.
He added that: “We shall continue to
identify and prioritize key areas where
legislations would be required for the
rapid transformation of the economy and
polity. We shall be patriotic, honest,
fair and just in the discharge of our
duties and be guided by the Constitution
and fear of God”.
Father of 3 commits suicide
A father of three, who was
identified as Patrick Essien, was
reported have committed suicide,
yesterday, in Benin after he was
allegedly sacked from the transport
company where he worked.
His dangling body was found in the roof
of the toilet at the residence at
Imasabemwen Street, off Siluko Road.
Some co-tenants, who spoke to
journalists, said the deceased had
complained earlier that he had been
sacked, although they could not
volunteer the name of the company.
According to them, a co-tenant, who went
to the toilet to ease himself, peeped in
after knocking several times without
getting any response. That was when he
saw a body dangling from the roof.
They said the late driver had been
living at the residence for the past 14
years without any wife or children but
that he told them he had a wife and
three kids somewhere.
According to them, “we saw him this
morning. He said he was sacked and we
later found him dead in the toilet.”
His corpse was later taken away by the
police.
*As Fashola apologises for conduct ofgovernors*Mimiko challeges Amaechi over NGF video
Culled from vanguard
PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan is today
moving to check cracks in the ruling
Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, arising
from the suspension of Governor Rotimi
Amaechi of Rivers State from the party
at a dinner for senior officials and
members of the party.
PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan is today
moving to check cracks in the ruling
Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, arising
from the suspension of Governor Rotimi
Amaechi of Rivers State from the party
at a dinner for senior officials and
members of the party.
We are not contemplating on any new polytechnic- State govt to Ondo youths
EIGHT policemen deployed to
quell the uprising that erupted in Ile
Oluji area of the state over the
desperate plan by some youths to eject
the traditional ruler, Oba Suulade
Adedugbe from the palace who were
critically wounded have been referred to
the Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital in
Ile Ife for medical attention.
They were alleged to have been shot by
the violent youths who invaded the Oba’s
palace.
Meantime, 47 persons have been arrested
by the police over the crisis.
The Divisional Police Officer, DPO, of
Ile Oluji is also said to be
hospitalised following the injury he
sustained while trying to quell the
crisis.
This is coming as the state government
yesterday set up a judicial commission
of enquiry to probe the violence that
led to the death of three persons.
According to the Secretary to the State
Government, SSG, Dr. Rotimi Adelola, the
Judicial Commission of Inquiry is to
look into the recent disturbances and
crises in Ile Oluji/Oke Igbo Local
Government of Ondo State, especially the
disturbance of May 27 and 28, 2013 and
or any similar disturbance in Ile Oluji.
It has Justice Nelson Adeyanju as
Chairman, Mr. Ajose Kudehinbu, Chief
Olugbenga Ale as members and Mr.
Fredrick Oye as Secretary
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry is to
“ recommend appropriate sanction, take
stock of the losses or damages
occasioned during the crises, make
appropriate recommendations to
government on the subject of the terms
of references or any other matter
connected with the crises.”
The Commission of Inquiry which has 14
days to submit its findings is to be
inaugurated today, at the Cocoa
Conference Hall of the Governor’s
Office.
Also, the governor, Dr Mimiko yesterday,
at a Democracy Day lecture said the
crisis in Ile Oluji has some undertone
and has nothing to do with the citing of
a Federal institution in the area.
He confirmed that a policeman who was
shot by the youths was operated upon at
OAUTH in Ile Ife, yesterday.
Meantime, soldiers from the 323
Artillery Regiment in the state have
been deployed to the troubled town to
compliment the efforts of the policemen.
Also, the palace of the Oba was said to
have been vandalised by the irate
youths.
There was partial curfew in the town
yesterday as both commercial and social
activities were completely paralysed
following the violence in the town.
Police sources said that the youths
picked up have started fingering their
sponsors and are being detained at the
state SIIB in Akure.
Reports said that the Oba has returned
to the palace and he is under police
protective custody.
The Ondo State Government in a statement
on the crisis signed by the Chief Press
Secretary to the governor, Eni Akinsola,
said there was no truth about a
Polytechnic in Ile Oluji as rumoured by
some people in the community, a rumour
that resulted into a violent protest in
the week.
Akinsola said: “The state is not
contemplating a new polytechnic now as
it is busy repositioning its two
universities in Okitipupa and Akungba
and the polytechnic in Owo.
“ We have also found out that the
federal government has also not decided
on citing any higher institution in the
state now. We are therefore shocked to
hear that the crisis is linked to a
rumoured location of a polytechnic to
and away from the town.”
quell the uprising that erupted in Ile
Oluji area of the state over the
desperate plan by some youths to eject
the traditional ruler, Oba Suulade
Adedugbe from the palace who were
critically wounded have been referred to
the Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital in
Ile Ife for medical attention.
They were alleged to have been shot by
the violent youths who invaded the Oba’s
palace.
Meantime, 47 persons have been arrested
by the police over the crisis.
The Divisional Police Officer, DPO, of
Ile Oluji is also said to be
hospitalised following the injury he
sustained while trying to quell the
crisis.
This is coming as the state government
yesterday set up a judicial commission
of enquiry to probe the violence that
led to the death of three persons.
According to the Secretary to the State
Government, SSG, Dr. Rotimi Adelola, the
Judicial Commission of Inquiry is to
look into the recent disturbances and
crises in Ile Oluji/Oke Igbo Local
Government of Ondo State, especially the
disturbance of May 27 and 28, 2013 and
or any similar disturbance in Ile Oluji.
It has Justice Nelson Adeyanju as
Chairman, Mr. Ajose Kudehinbu, Chief
Olugbenga Ale as members and Mr.
Fredrick Oye as Secretary
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry is to
“ recommend appropriate sanction, take
stock of the losses or damages
occasioned during the crises, make
appropriate recommendations to
government on the subject of the terms
of references or any other matter
connected with the crises.”
The Commission of Inquiry which has 14
days to submit its findings is to be
inaugurated today, at the Cocoa
Conference Hall of the Governor’s
Office.
Also, the governor, Dr Mimiko yesterday,
at a Democracy Day lecture said the
crisis in Ile Oluji has some undertone
and has nothing to do with the citing of
a Federal institution in the area.
He confirmed that a policeman who was
shot by the youths was operated upon at
OAUTH in Ile Ife, yesterday.
Meantime, soldiers from the 323
Artillery Regiment in the state have
been deployed to the troubled town to
compliment the efforts of the policemen.
Also, the palace of the Oba was said to
have been vandalised by the irate
youths.
There was partial curfew in the town
yesterday as both commercial and social
activities were completely paralysed
following the violence in the town.
Police sources said that the youths
picked up have started fingering their
sponsors and are being detained at the
state SIIB in Akure.
Reports said that the Oba has returned
to the palace and he is under police
protective custody.
The Ondo State Government in a statement
on the crisis signed by the Chief Press
Secretary to the governor, Eni Akinsola,
said there was no truth about a
Polytechnic in Ile Oluji as rumoured by
some people in the community, a rumour
that resulted into a violent protest in
the week.
Akinsola said: “The state is not
contemplating a new polytechnic now as
it is busy repositioning its two
universities in Okitipupa and Akungba
and the polytechnic in Owo.
“ We have also found out that the
federal government has also not decided
on citing any higher institution in the
state now. We are therefore shocked to
hear that the crisis is linked to a
rumoured location of a polytechnic to
and away from the town.”
don't pay any ransom, we are going to kill Nigerians in Pakistan
Families of the five Pakistani
nationals on board an oil vessel, Mt
Matrix 1, abducted last Saturday at 40
nautical miles off the Bayelsa coast
have told the management of the company,
Matrix Energy, in Warri, Delta State,
not to pay any ransom to the abductors
to get them released, promising to take
revenge on Nigerians in their hundreds
in Pakistan, if any of the victims was
killed.
The abducted victims include the
Captain, Chief Officer, cook and two
others. They were conveying automated
gasoline oil, AGO, from Lagos to Eket,
when they were abducted at 9pm.
Sources said that relevant security
agencies in Bayelsa State and Warri in
Delta State, had been informed of the
incident.
The source added that the company had
begun negotiation with the abductors,
but details of negotiations with
the company on ransom were not
disclosed.
nationals on board an oil vessel, Mt
Matrix 1, abducted last Saturday at 40
nautical miles off the Bayelsa coast
have told the management of the company,
Matrix Energy, in Warri, Delta State,
not to pay any ransom to the abductors
to get them released, promising to take
revenge on Nigerians in their hundreds
in Pakistan, if any of the victims was
killed.
The abducted victims include the
Captain, Chief Officer, cook and two
others. They were conveying automated
gasoline oil, AGO, from Lagos to Eket,
when they were abducted at 9pm.
Sources said that relevant security
agencies in Bayelsa State and Warri in
Delta State, had been informed of the
incident.
The source added that the company had
begun negotiation with the abductors,
but details of negotiations with
the company on ransom were not
disclosed.
Amaechi for Vice-president posters litters Abuja
AS impeachment threat dangles before the embattled Rivers State Governor Hon. Chibuike Amaechi , posters bearing his photograph and Governor Sule Lamido for the 2015 presidential election now litters some parts of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
But the Governor has denied having any ambition to contest the 2015 election against President Goodluck Jonathan, saying that it might be the handiwork of his political detractors’ flooding some parts of FCT with his posters.
Governor Amaechi’s poster with the Peoples Democrtic Party, PDP, logo, pested along the highway and some bus stop especially, the Federal Housing Estate Kubwa, Dutse bus stop and some other bus stops were struggling spaces with Church Crusade posters and were posted early morning of the Democracy Day.
Commenting on the appearance of his posters in Abuja, Governor Amaechi who spoke through his Commissioner for Information, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari said that he neither has no political ambition for the 2015 presidential
election nor printed posters.
But the Governor has denied having any ambition to contest the 2015 election against President Goodluck Jonathan, saying that it might be the handiwork of his political detractors’ flooding some parts of FCT with his posters.
Governor Amaechi’s poster with the Peoples Democrtic Party, PDP, logo, pested along the highway and some bus stop especially, the Federal Housing Estate Kubwa, Dutse bus stop and some other bus stops were struggling spaces with Church Crusade posters and were posted early morning of the Democracy Day.
Commenting on the appearance of his posters in Abuja, Governor Amaechi who spoke through his Commissioner for Information, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari said that he neither has no political ambition for the 2015 presidential
election nor printed posters.
Nigeria has been stagnant for solong, it is time to change –Obasanjo
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Wednesday tasked political leaders to adopt practical measures to accelerate effective utilisation of human and natural resources for sustainable development in the country.
Obasanjo gave the challenge while speaking at the maiden Jigawa Economic and Investment Summit in Dutse.
The summit was organised by the state as part of the activities to mark the 2013 Democracy Day celebration.
The major highlight of the summit was to encourage investment on agriculture, information and communication technology (ICT), solid minerals and small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs).
Obasanjo said that Nigeria was endowed with abundant natural and human resources, which could be transformed to the social and economic benefit of the people.
“Nigeria is a land of opportunities and it is blessed with all it takes to develop, it has been stagnant for so long, it is about time to change these opportunities to actuality. “There is no reason why we should not do that, we must invest in education to
save the larger population of the country or else our population will become a liability,” he said. The former president said that for Nigeria to attain sustainable development, children must be trained, educated and be skilled in every sector to be self-reliant.
Obasanjo said it was necessary for the government at all levels to adopt proactive measures to translate the improvement recorded on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to the wellbeing of the people.
He explained that such improvement could be translated to provide employment opportunities, wealth creation and poverty reduction in the society.
According to him, a conducive and friendly business environment was necessary to attract investment opportunities.
October 1st is democracy day not may 29- COYA
A group, Coalition of Yoruba Autonomy, COYA, has faulted the celebration of Democracy day on May 29, advising that October 1, be adopted as Nigeria’s democracy day.
He also lauded President Jonathan for declaring a state of emergency in Borno,Yobe and Adamawa states.
Addressing newsmen yesterday in Lagos on what the group called “Negative spiritual significance of May 29 in Nigeria historical development”, President of the group, Ambassador Kunle Adeshokan, said “We, Coalition for Yoruba Autonomy, COYA, totally disagree with May 29 as Democracy Day in Nigeria.
We rather opt for the usual October 1 as our independence- cum-Democracy day. May 29 has no meaning whatsoever to Nigerians, neither is it an election day.
Endorsing the state of emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states,Adeshokan said, “in other climes, no responsible or responsive government will fold its arms and allow such carnage to go at the expense of economically and socially oppressed society that is already battling the ills on ground”. “Our coalition, therefore, implores the President that if a state of emergency should be declared, it must be seen to be total, rather than giving political consideration.
Jonathan for 2015- PDP youth
The youth leadership of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, South-South zone,Wednesday, threw its weight behind the resolution of the South-South leaders to back President Goodluck Jonathan for a second term if he decides to run in 2015.
Led by Mr. Izuagie Francis (Edo), Edodi
Ejekor (Cross River), Major Jack (Rivers), Emmanuel Bassey (Akwa Ibom),
Arthur Akpowowo (Delta), Vincent Akher (Edo) and Donald Daunemighan (Bayelsa), the South-South youth leaders of the party, who called on the chairman, Bayelsa State PDP, Col. Sam Inokoba (rtd), declared that the zone was not prepared to play second fiddle and,therefore, not interested in the position of Vice President come 2015.
The youth leaders insisted that the President Jonathan has done creditably well and deserves a second tenure. Francis said: “We have decided to take the bull by the horn and mobilise the youths within the South-South region. We are ready to ensure that other regions are convinced that the time to actualise the trust in the South-South is now. We are not ready to play second fiddle. We are not interested in the Vice Presidential position. We are not going to condone anyone working against our
plan.”
Earlier, Chairman of Bayelsa PDP, Col.
Inokoba (rtd), said the elders and the
governors of the party from the zone had
made their position known on Jonathan’s
re-election in 2015.
Wednesday 29 May 2013
Jonathan At Mid Term: The Promise And Performance
Culled: vanguard
A retrospective look at the last two
years of the Jonathan administration
with a match of his promises and his
performance in office.
A retrospective look at the last two
years of the Jonathan administration
with a match of his promises and his
performance in office.
Is serving our father's land a sin?. Corpers abducted
Rumuewhor community in
Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers
State, has tasked the Rivers State
Government and the Police to intensify
efforts to secure the release of
abducted two National Youth Service
Corps, NYSC, members by kidnappers in
the state.
It will be recalled that two NYSC
members were, two days ago, abducted
from Odegu Comprehensive High School,
Rumuewhor by gunmen, who invaded the
NYSC quarters in the community school.
Their whereabouts is still unknown, as
no contact had been established with
their abductors.
His Royal Highness, Oha Ikech Igbukwu,
Yeweali Rumuewhor, who spoke on the
development, said the community was
calling on state government and the
police to help free the corps members.
Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers
State, has tasked the Rivers State
Government and the Police to intensify
efforts to secure the release of
abducted two National Youth Service
Corps, NYSC, members by kidnappers in
the state.
It will be recalled that two NYSC
members were, two days ago, abducted
from Odegu Comprehensive High School,
Rumuewhor by gunmen, who invaded the
NYSC quarters in the community school.
Their whereabouts is still unknown, as
no contact had been established with
their abductors.
His Royal Highness, Oha Ikech Igbukwu,
Yeweali Rumuewhor, who spoke on the
development, said the community was
calling on state government and the
police to help free the corps members.
10.5m children out ofschool in Nigeria – UNICEF
UNICEF representative in the
country, Ms Jean Gough has said that 10.5
million children in Nigeria were out of
school, adding that the situation was
worsening with the insecurity situation
in the north.
country, Ms Jean Gough has said that 10.5
million children in Nigeria were out of
school, adding that the situation was
worsening with the insecurity situation
in the north.
Afghanistan will need your help- Boko Haram
Two weeks after troops were deployed to
flush out terrorists from Adamawa, Borno
and Yobe states following declaration of
state of emergency in the three states,
Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, in a
video published, Tuesday, called on
Islamists in Afghanistan, Pakistan and
Iraq to join the fight to create an
Islamic state in Nigeria.
“We call on our brethren in these
countries I mentioned. Oh! Our brethren,
come to us,” he said in the video, which
alternates between Arabic and Hausa
language.
However, earlier this month, Afghan
President, Hamid Karzai advised Boko
Haram insurgents to sheathe their
swords
flush out terrorists from Adamawa, Borno
and Yobe states following declaration of
state of emergency in the three states,
Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, in a
video published, Tuesday, called on
Islamists in Afghanistan, Pakistan and
Iraq to join the fight to create an
Islamic state in Nigeria.
“We call on our brethren in these
countries I mentioned. Oh! Our brethren,
come to us,” he said in the video, which
alternates between Arabic and Hausa
language.
However, earlier this month, Afghan
President, Hamid Karzai advised Boko
Haram insurgents to sheathe their
swords
Tuesday 28 May 2013
Jonathan's tenure as President a failure- CPC
Congress for Progressives Change ,CPC,on Sunday described the three years of Goodluck Jonathan’s Presidency as a dismal failure, lamenting that the President was more interested in being re-elected in 2015 than working for Nigerians.
In a statement in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Rotimi Fashakni, the party noted that the performance of Jonathan on the economy, security, education, youth employment, foreign relations and infrastructural development “is nothing to write home about.”
APC number one objective is chasing Jonathan out of Aso Rock come 2015- Fani
A former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has defected from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the yet-to-be-registered All Progressives Congress, APC.
In a post on his Facebook post, Mr. Fani-Kayode said he took the decision after he met with Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi earlier today.
Children to get free toll line from the FG against child abuse
As Nigeria joined the rest of the word on Monday to mark this year’s Children’s Day, the Federal Government, said it had completed arrangement to introduce a free toll line for children to enable them report cases of abuse against them.
It also warned that those found guilty of the act would be prosecuted.
Boko Haram to members" Don't give up"
As the war between the Boko Haram sect and the Nigerian troops deployed to wipe out the terrorist group from the volatile Adamawa, Borno and Yobe continues to rage, the troops have announced that they are in possession of messages by the leadership of Boko Haram, charging its members to fight on until victory is won.
According to the report, about 25 extremists were arrested. Three of them were killed, including one of their top kingpins who was identified as Abba.
Abba has been on the list of most wanted persons.
No one can push me out of PDP- Amaechi
Culled- Premium times
Embattled Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, on Monday said he has steeled himself enough to resist all the maneuverings by the presidency and the top hierarchy of the Peoples Democratic Party to push him out of the ruling party.
The National Working Committee of the party had after an emergency meeting on Monday announced the suspension of Mr. Amaechi for contravening “Articles 58 1 (b), (c )
Embattled Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, on Monday said he has steeled himself enough to resist all the maneuverings by the presidency and the top hierarchy of the Peoples Democratic Party to push him out of the ruling party.
The National Working Committee of the party had after an emergency meeting on Monday announced the suspension of Mr. Amaechi for contravening “Articles 58 1 (b), (c )
Getting justice in Nigeria is very expensive
Lagos lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has described the cost of justice in the country as outrageous, saying that such exorbitant fees had shut the poor out of the justice system.
Falana also described the development as unfortunate as according to him, the judiciary was no longer the last hope of the common man in Nigeria.
Falana, spoke weekend while delivering a lecture during the launch of the Annual Law Journal of the Law Students’ Society, University of Ilorin, Kwara State.
Falana also described the development as unfortunate as according to him, the judiciary was no longer the last hope of the common man in Nigeria.
Falana, spoke weekend while delivering a lecture during the launch of the Annual Law Journal of the Law Students’ Society, University of Ilorin, Kwara State.
Lagos state generating more power
The Lagos State Government said it has built a 10.4megawatt power plant Alausa, to replace the 14-MW diesel generator used within the state secretariat, which also houses the seat of government.
The State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Taofiq Tijani, at a press briefing to commemorate the 6th anniversary of Governor Babatunde Fashola’s administration in Lagos, said the Independent Power Plant, IPP, would be commissioned in August this year.
The commissioner explained that the power plant will be powered with natural gas, and would also serve the State Secretariat and its environs.
Tijani noted that the inauguration of the power plant would be the third in the series, as the state had previously opened the 12.15MW Akute Power Plant, and 10MW Island Power Plant serving the state water corporation’s needs and Lagos Island street lights, courts and hospitals respectively.
He further explained that the Lagos Island plant will be expanded to power more government facilities within the locality, which would soon be completed and will replace a 25MW of diesel generator being used in the area.
The State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Taofiq Tijani, at a press briefing to commemorate the 6th anniversary of Governor Babatunde Fashola’s administration in Lagos, said the Independent Power Plant, IPP, would be commissioned in August this year.
The commissioner explained that the power plant will be powered with natural gas, and would also serve the State Secretariat and its environs.
Tijani noted that the inauguration of the power plant would be the third in the series, as the state had previously opened the 12.15MW Akute Power Plant, and 10MW Island Power Plant serving the state water corporation’s needs and Lagos Island street lights, courts and hospitals respectively.
He further explained that the Lagos Island plant will be expanded to power more government facilities within the locality, which would soon be completed and will replace a 25MW of diesel generator being used in the area.
BA aircraft’s technical hitchraises tension at Lagos airport
Culled: Vanguard
Massive protests trailed the
arrival of a British Airways’ flight
from London at the Murtala Muhammed
International Airport, Lagos, last
night, as passengers aboard the flight
could not retrieve their luggage,
following the technical problem suffered
by the airliner on touchdown.
Vanguard gathered the luggage cabin of
the aircraft failed to open after the
plane landed at exactly 6:15pm.
Massive protests trailed the
arrival of a British Airways’ flight
from London at the Murtala Muhammed
International Airport, Lagos, last
night, as passengers aboard the flight
could not retrieve their luggage,
following the technical problem suffered
by the airliner on touchdown.
Vanguard gathered the luggage cabin of
the aircraft failed to open after the
plane landed at exactly 6:15pm.
Monday 27 May 2013
Pray for me, they are after my precious life- Amaechi
The Rivers State Governor and re-elected Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Chibuike Amaechi has spoken on his suspension by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, (PDP).
The Rivers State Governor and re-elected Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Chibuike Amaechi
Speaking on Monday evening at a youth interactive session, with the theme: “Consolidating on Rivers of our dreams” held at the banquet hall of government house in Port Harcourt with youth in the state, Governor Amaechi said the NWC issued a press statement to suspend him without any invitation and fair hearing from him.
The PDP had on Monday suspended Mr Amaechi, from its fold citing governor’s alleged role in the crisis rocking the Obio/Akpor local council as the bases for its decision.
They want to bring down Amaechi- Commissioner
The Rivers Commissioner of Information stated this on Monday.
The Rivers State Government has condemned the suspension of the State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, describing it as a “witch-hunt’
Mr. Amaechi was suspended by the party’s National Working Committee, NWC, on Monday after an emergency meeting.
Gov. Amaechi suspended- PDP
The Peoples Democratic Party has suspended the Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, from the party.
The PDP stated this after an emergency meeting of its National Working Committee on Monday.
Mr. Amaechi was recently reelected chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum against the wishes of the PDP and the presidency.
Find the communique below.
PDP to investigate Amaechi
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The committee is headed by a senior lawyer.
The Peoples Democratic Party has named an 11-man committee to investigate the allegations leveled against the Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi.
The committee is headed by Joe Gadzama, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
The party had earlier suspended Mr. Amaechi after an emergency meeting of itsNational Working Committee.
Boko Haram must be curbed
President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday said the excesses of the violent Islamic sect, Boko Haram, must be curbed, not minding what it would cost the government.
“The excesses of Boko Haram must stop. That is the decision of this present government now. It must stop, whatever it will cost the government, it must stop,” he said in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in an interview with journalists on the sideline of the 21st ordinary session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the Africa Union.
Release him and pay him 1.5 million- Court to SS
A Federal High Court in Ilorin, Kwara
State, on Friday ordered the State
Security Services to release a terror
suspect, Alhaji Abdullahi Berende, on
bail, pending an arraignment before a
court of competent jurisdiction.
The court, presided over by Justice
Olayinka Faji, also said the arrest and
detention of Berende without trial since
December 17, 2012, under unwholesome
condition, control and power of the SSS
was illegal, baseless and
unconstitutional.
State, on Friday ordered the State
Security Services to release a terror
suspect, Alhaji Abdullahi Berende, on
bail, pending an arraignment before a
court of competent jurisdiction.
The court, presided over by Justice
Olayinka Faji, also said the arrest and
detention of Berende without trial since
December 17, 2012, under unwholesome
condition, control and power of the SSS
was illegal, baseless and
unconstitutional.
We are not 'PDP'
A selected group of members of the Peoples
Democratic Party in Oyo State called the
Unity Forum, has asked Governor Abiola
Ajimobi, to give the account of the money
Democratic Party in Oyo State called the
Unity Forum, has asked Governor Abiola
Ajimobi, to give the account of the money
Nigeria and terrorism
By Ochereome Nnanna
ON Saturday, 18th November 2012, I
arrived at the JFK International
Airport, New York, on my way back to
Nigeria after covering the US
presidential elections. It was on this
day that I underwent the most
humiliating security browsing of my
person.
ON Saturday, 18th November 2012, I
arrived at the JFK International
Airport, New York, on my way back to
Nigeria after covering the US
presidential elections. It was on this
day that I underwent the most
humiliating security browsing of my
person.
Get raid of the theives in your government- Chief Edwin Clark
FORMER Federal Commissioner for
Information and elder statesman, Chief
Edwin Clark, has called on President
Goodluck Jonathan to, as a matter of
urgency, declare state of emergency on
corruption, saying he must put in place
more drastic measures to tackle it.
Speaking, yesterday, during the church
service held for him on his 86th
birthday at the St. James’ Anglican
Church, (Anglican Communion), Asokoro,
Abuja, the Ijaw leader noted that
corruption did not start with the
administration of President Jonathan,
adding that everyone must be involved in
the fight against corruption.
Chief Clark argued that the government
of Jonathan had made bold steps to
address the problem of corruption by
exposing those who were alleged to have
stolen the nation’s money, especially
the fuel subsidy funds.
Information and elder statesman, Chief
Edwin Clark, has called on President
Goodluck Jonathan to, as a matter of
urgency, declare state of emergency on
corruption, saying he must put in place
more drastic measures to tackle it.
Speaking, yesterday, during the church
service held for him on his 86th
birthday at the St. James’ Anglican
Church, (Anglican Communion), Asokoro,
Abuja, the Ijaw leader noted that
corruption did not start with the
administration of President Jonathan,
adding that everyone must be involved in
the fight against corruption.
Chief Clark argued that the government
of Jonathan had made bold steps to
address the problem of corruption by
exposing those who were alleged to have
stolen the nation’s money, especially
the fuel subsidy funds.
Mr. MUSTAPHA MINJIBIR wrote on the force rule
AS the nation forges ahead in its
strenuous struggle against Boko Haram
insurgency with the imposition of
emergency rule in Borno, Yobe and
Adamawa states, one can confidently say
that we are out of the state of seeming
indecision that characterized the
government’s response to the challenge
of insecurity.
strenuous struggle against Boko Haram
insurgency with the imposition of
emergency rule in Borno, Yobe and
Adamawa states, one can confidently say
that we are out of the state of seeming
indecision that characterized the
government’s response to the challenge
of insecurity.
Sunday 26 May 2013
I never wanted to be chairman of the NGF plus God supports rigging- Plateau State Governor
The governor of Plateau State, Jonah Jang, has described his “victory” over Gov. Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, whom he claims to have defeated to become the new “chairman” of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, as the will of God.
“I can assure you that my emergence as the chairman Nigerian Governors’ Forum was the will of God because I went to Abuja for the NGF election not with the intention to contest but northern governors and the PDP governors’ forum endorsed my candidature. When (Ibrahim) Shema of Kastina stepped down, both forums insisted I should contest; I contested and won. So, it’s the will of God.”
He said he had never wanted to be chairman of the NGF.
Mr. Jang told the church that the allegation that a faction of the NGF rigged the elections in his favour was not true. “God is a democrat, does not support rigging but if you rig and succeed, that means God approves of it.” Mr. Jang called on Nigerians to pray for their leaders to enable the present administration at all levels succeed.
I am the winner, so i don't need to talk- Amaechi
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If the NGF elections with 34 voters was rigged, what is the probability that one involving 100 million voters will be free and fair.
Condoms inside bus preacher's bible- Almost killed. LOL
A bus preacher was almost lynched on Saturday morning at Toyota Bus stop, in front of the popular Ladipo Spare parts market, when some condoms allegedly fell out of his bible as he preached the ‘Word of God’.
We want to reconstruct Nigeria- Tinubu
National leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, says leaders of opposition parties remained resolute in their desire to reconstruct Nigeria.
According to him, the opposition parties will create a chance of a bright and better future that will erase poverty, unemployment and insecurity.
Why award third class graduates with NYSC Presidential Award– Okojie
.jpg)
The Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, Prof. Julius Okojie, has called for a review of the NYSC Presidential Award scholarship scheme to include only the best graduates.
Speaking in London on Sunday at a reception organised by the Nigerian High Commission for the second batch of the presidential scholarship awardees, Okojie said that the scheme should be restricted to only first class, second class upper and lower division graduates.
Amaechi will feel me- Dokubo-Asari
AHEAD of the 2015 general elections, the leader of the Niger Delta Peoples Volunteer Force, Mujahid Dokubo-Asari, has described the Rivers State Governor as a “traitor.”
Dokubo-Asari, in a phone-in radio programme in Port Harcourt on Saturday, said Amaechi’s political ambition did not tally with the ambition of the people of the state.
The NDPVF leader explained that the NGF chairman would be “treated like a traitor” for allegedly confronting President Goodluck Jonathan on some government policies and the 2015 elections.
PDP rule Nigeria with a demonic system- Tinubu
No Jonathan, No Speech at the AU 50th anniversary
It was a disastrous outing for Nigeria yesterday at the ongoing Special Assembly of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to mark the organisation’s 50th anniversary: President Goodluck Jonathan missed the slot allotted to him to give his speech.
Reports from the summit claimed last night that two members of President Jonathan’s delegation who spoke from Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, said that there was confusion among delegates and an embarrassment on the part of Nigerian officials when the president failed to show up in the hall to deliver his speech.
Saturday 25 May 2013
Habib Habu on british killing
Nigeria ConsulG in NYC Habib Habu on Adeboloja: lunatic was born in UK never been to Nigeria...He commits barbaric act&suddenly is Nigerian?"
Okagbare feels good breaking 7m barrier
Nigeria’s track and field sensation, Blessing Okagbare revealed her excitement at breaking the 7.00 metre barrier for the first time at the first in the series of the Diamond league. Though the wind blew away what could have been a remarkable jump in Doha, Qatar, Okagbare is looking forward to repeating the 7.14m to put her name in the records book.
King of Europe- BAYERN
Emergency Rule: How Reps tinkered with proclamation
culled: Vanguard
Fresh facts have emerged on why President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration of a state of emergency in three north-eastern states got unanimous endorsement in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.
It was learnt that security reports concerning the situation in the states had become alarming.
A particular report indicated that Boko Haram militants had threatened that they would overrun Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, within seven days. The group’s planned invasion of the state capital was said to have created fear within Borno State government circles.
Jonathan Has Fulfilled Campaign Promises To Nigerians
The Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, on Friday declared that President Goodluck Jonathan had fulfilled his campaign promises to Nigerians.
He said the areas where the presidency had fulfilled its promises included the investment in the power sector, road construction, railways, job creation through Subsidy Reinvestment Programmes (SURE-P), among others.
Mr. Maku said this at the SURE-P sensitisation and appraisal visit of the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Emeka Wogu, in Asaba.
How Governor recorded NGF election to nail opponents
Shocking revelation emerged following the re-election of Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State as the chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum that after having sensed that the outcome may be contested by some aggrieved governors, requested one of them to secretly video the poll. The video record was organised by Amechi’s supporters as reported by Premium Times.
US drones stationed in Niger to monitor Boko Haram
In furtherance of the onslaught aimed at crushing the Boko Haram sect in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states, the United States Government has positioned drones stationed in Niamey, Niger Republic.
The Predator drones which also monitor neighbouring Chad and Cameroon are unarmed and could be equipped with Hellfire missiles if the need arises.
Jonathan not involved in NGF election – Presidency
The Presidency has denied any involvement by President Goodluck Jonathan in the Nigeria Governors Forum election held yesterday that returned Governor Rotimi Amaechi as its chairman.
Cultural Night organized by Lead City University Students
Boarding road side buses along Lagos-Ibadan
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There are designated motor parks in Lagos( If travelling from Lagos to Ibadan) and also (from Ibadan to Lagos). Please, let's stop boarding road side buses because of the danger in it. At every designated park, passenger's information is taken for any emergence or any other issues. Also, all buses at the designated parks are been checked by the authorities in charge of each park. A friend of mine was robbed at gun point along Lagos-Ibadan expressway last week. He boarded the bus along Berger road leaving the park behind because of the amount (difference of N200) in transportation fare.
He replaced N200 difference in transportation cost with BOLD 2, N4000 and LAPTOP(ACER).
Can N200 he refuse to pay at the designated park replace the stolen items?, i leave you to answer.
Letter to Afrocandy - You Have Brought Shame To Igbo Land
A letter by Uzor Ngoladi revealed 'his' anger at the Igbo-lady, who has allegedly brought shame to them. Below is the letter;
Wife of House of Reps member accused to torturing two women
Wife of a serving House of Representatives member was fingered yesterday in the torture, beating and alleged attempt to kidnap two ladies in Isale Eko area of Lagos.
Sources say that yesterday morning at about 7.15a.m, a Toyota Camry car which was used for the operation caused a stir in Bamgbose Street in Lagos Island at the heart of Lagos metropolis.
Like a bolt from the blue, six unidentified ladies, carrying canes came out of the unregistered grey coloured car and advanced towards No 101, Bamgbose Street.
The unmasked ladies met one Alhaja Basidat Ajadi Balogun, a business woman resident in the street and repeatedly flogged her as she wept. (The woman pictured above)Sources say that yesterday morning at about 7.15a.m, a Toyota Camry car which was used for the operation caused a stir in Bamgbose Street in Lagos Island at the heart of Lagos metropolis.
Like a bolt from the blue, six unidentified ladies, carrying canes came out of the unregistered grey coloured car and advanced towards No 101, Bamgbose Street.
Balogun, who was shouting at the top of her voice while the beating was going on, tried without success to find out from the rampaging ladies why she was being beaten.
I gave hoodlums N40,000 to escape being gang-raped –Resident
Florence, said she narrowly escaped being gang-raped
by about 15 men, who kicked down the door of her apartment.
Florence said, “I have no doubt that the
men moving about the street, robbing and attacking people were up to 70
because the ones who came into my room were up to 15. There were other
groups in other apartments at the same time.
Boko Haram: US renews plea to Nigeria on rights abuses
US Secretary of State John Kerry Saturday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,
renewed a plea to Nigerian authorities to ensure the military does not
carry out atrocities against civilians in its clampdown on Islamic
militants.
Nigeria declared a state of emergency in three northeastern states on May 14 as it launched a military offensive to end Boko Haram’s four-year insurgency.
“Boko Haram is a terrorist organisation and they have killed wantonly and upset the normal governance of Nigeria in fundamental ways that are unacceptable,” Kerry told reporters on the sidelines of an African Union summit.
“We defend the right completely of the government of Nigeria to defend itself and to fight back against terrorists. That said I have raised the issue of humans rights with the government,” he stressed.
Nigeria declared a state of emergency in three northeastern states on May 14 as it launched a military offensive to end Boko Haram’s four-year insurgency.
“Boko Haram is a terrorist organisation and they have killed wantonly and upset the normal governance of Nigeria in fundamental ways that are unacceptable,” Kerry told reporters on the sidelines of an African Union summit.
“We defend the right completely of the government of Nigeria to defend itself and to fight back against terrorists. That said I have raised the issue of humans rights with the government,” he stressed.
NGF election: Governors jubilate as Amaechi emerges winner
 |
| L-R: (Sitting) Director-General, Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Mr. Asishana Okauru; Governors Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers); Murtala Nyako (Adamawa); Sule Lamido (Jigawa); and (standing) Babatunde Fashola (Lagos), briefing journalists after the NGF election, in Abuja... on Friday |
Culled: Punch
Months of intrigues and political permutations among the 36 state governors ended on Friday with the election of Governor Rotimi Amaechi as the chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum for a second term.
Months of intrigues and political permutations among the 36 state governors ended on Friday with the election of Governor Rotimi Amaechi as the chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum for a second term.
The election, which was held at the Rivers State Governor’s Lodge, in Abuja was witnessed by 35 out of the 36 state governors.
Only the governor of Yobe, Ibrahim Geidam, was not at the venue of the election and was not represented.
Amaechi defeated his only rival, Mr. Jonah Jang, who is the governor of Plateau State.
While Amaechi got 19 votes, Jang had 16.
Also elected as the deputy chairman of the forum was the Governor of Zamfara State, Alhaji Abdulazees Yari, who was unopposed.
His rival for the position, Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State, had voluntarily withdrawn from the race.
Announcing the result of the election,
the Returning Officer for the election, who is also the Director-General
of the forum, Mr. Asishana Okauru, said the election was well
contested.
He said, “The governor of Yobe was not
present. We counted all the votes and the chairman, Chibuke Rotimi
Amaechi of Rivers State emerged winner with a total of 19 votes against
the governor of Plateau State, who secured a total of 16 votes.
NDLEA angry with Arik over ‘cocaine trafficker’ crew member
Culled- Premium times
One of the two arrested staff has been released.
The Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has said it would punish Nigeria’s largest independent airline, Arik Air, over the arrest of an Arik staff for cocaine trafficking in the U.K.
Two female aircrew members of Arik who flew in its plane were arrested on Tuesday in the U.K. for allegedly being in possession of hard drugs.
PREMIUM TIMES learnt that one of the two has been released after the substance found on her was found to be cigarettes. The other is still being detained in the U.K. for allegedly being in possession 6kg of cocaine.
Friday 24 May 2013
Please Nigerians learn the National Anthem
Arise, O compatriots, Nigeria's call obey
To serve our fatherland With love and strength and faith
The labor of our heroes past Shall never be in vain
To serve with heart and might One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.
To serve our fatherland With love and strength and faith
The labor of our heroes past Shall never be in vain
To serve with heart and might One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.
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