Tuesday 30 September 2014

Full Text Of President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2014 Independence Day Broadcast

President Goodluck Jonathan today addressed Nigerians to commemorate Nigeria’s 54th independence anniversary.


Jonathan harped on the need for Nigerians to support the efforts of the government in its fight against terrorism. He also spoke of the achievements of his administration and policies put in place to ensure the development of the country.


Here is the full text of his address:


Fellow Nigerians,


Today marks the 54th anniversary of our country’s independence as a sovereign nation. This is also the tenth month of our journey into a new century, having marked the centenary of our nation in January this year.


The first one hundred years were marked by triumphs and tribulations, benefits and burdens, opportunities and challenges. We made some far reaching advances in building a strong, united and prosperous nation. We also overcame the forces of disunity that culminated in a debilitating civil war. We have also renewed our faith in one another, and in our country. We have proven that we are truly a resilient nation.


In my address to the nation last year, I did emphasize that we were in a sober moment in our country. We are still in that mood in spite of the many accomplishments of our administration. Our sombreness has to do with the crises of nationhood occasioned by the activities of terrorist elements who have done the unimaginable to challenge our unity as a people.


On an occasion like this, it is important that we remember all the precious souls that have been lost in the unprecedented war of terror unleashed on some parts of our country by these individuals who want to compel us to live our lives their way. They will not succeed!


In their mission, they have maimed and defiled. They have killed men, women and children, rendering many children orphans and several women widows.


They have made violence their ideology and are bent on destroying our country. Dear countrymen and women, we will not allow them.


Night after night, day after day, our security forces continue to engage the terrorists in battle. My gratitude goes out to our armed forces whose will has been greatly challenged by this insurgency more than any other time, since the civil war.


Yet, they have remained undaunted and unwearied in the face of constant challenge and mortal danger. Driven by patriotic zeal, they are turning the tide by their prowess and determination. As Commander-in-Chief, I will continue to do all it takes to enable them to keep on inflicting devastating blows at the heart of terror. Fellow Nigerians, it is our collective duty as patriots to avail our men and women in uniform of all the support they need to fight and win this war.


This Administration is committed to making Nigeria safe for all Nigerians, irrespective of our places of birth, how we worship God and our political persuasion. To all those waging war against our country, I ask that you lay down your arms and embrace peace.


To those who have genuine grievances, I affirm that Nigeria will listen to you, if you bring your grievances to the table of dialogue. To the good people of Nigeria, let me restate that our task of building a better and greater country must not waver.


While we continue to deploy our resources in the fight against the terrorists, we do recognize the great toll the conflict is taking on our people.


This is why, to assist the afflicted, we have launched the Victims Support Fund, an independent multi-sectoral charity, which will aggressively solicit resources to augment Government’s statutory intervention, in bringing succour to the injured, the displaced and the bereaved.


In partnership with Nigerian business leaders and international partners, we have also introduced the Safe Schools Initiative which is aimed at promoting safe environments for education nationwide, starting with the North East region.


The Presidential Initiative for the North East, a comprehensive programme to fast-track the economic restoration of this region, which has been the epicentre of terrorist activity, has been set up.


Our overall objective is to do all we possibly can, to sustain in the North-East, the momentum of economic advancement, which is on-going in other parts of the country, despite the machinations of the terrorists and their sponsors.


It should now be clear to anyone who was ever in doubt that these terrorists do not mean well for anyone, of whatever religion or dispensation. Their persistent choice of the weakest and most vulnerable in society, for gruesome attack, provides an insight into their abnormal mind-set.


I urge every Nigerian to put aside political, sectional or other parochial considerations, and support whole-heartedly the efforts of the government and the military, in checking this evil.


We are grateful to the international community, and especially our neighbours who are working closely with us in confronting this challenge, for their increased partnership and solidarity. Our steady progress in weakening the insurgency has certainly justified our cooperation.


Fellow Nigerians, in my independence anniversary address last year, I informed you that we had taken cognizance of the suggestion over the years by well-meaning Nigerians on the need to focus attention on rebuilding and strengthening the ligaments of our union. It was in that regard that we announced the convening of a National Dialogue on the future of our beloved country.


We have successfully delivered on that promise as we established the 2014 National Conference headed by Justice Legbo Kutigi. After months of deliberations, which did not come without its challenges, the conference concluded its assignment and has handed its Report to me.


I have made a firm commitment that we would act on the recommendations of the conference. This, I have started by setting up the Ministerial Committee headed by the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation to work out the modalities for implementing the Report. Every promise I make, God willing, I will see to its fulfilment. I assure you, we shall implement the report.


One major lesson which the 2014 National Conference has taught us as a country is that, a multi-ethnic country like ours, must learn to embrace painstaking dialogue until consensus is established.


To me, the National Conference is the greatest centenary gift to our country that we must cherish and sustain.


Fellow Nigerians, our 54 year-journey as a nation has not been easy. There have been tough periods, but the Nigerian spirit and the unflagging resilience of our people have seen us through. We will continue to march forward to greater heights.


We have been able to sustain a big, strong and influential country with a robust economy. We are currently in our sixteenth year of uninterrupted democratic rule, daily improving on the consolidation of our democratic process.


Our Administration has made a commitment to ensure that we build and sustain a democratic infrastructure anchored on free and fair elections. International and local observers have attested to the positive evolution of electoral credibility and we cannot afford to relent.


We will continue to ensure that the will of the electorate prevails so that political leaders would be reminded at all times that there is a day of reckoning when they have to go back to the people at the polls. Election days must not be days of violence and death. We must remain vigilant to ensure that our electoral process is characterised by peace, security and transparency.


I enjoin the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), all security agencies, politicians and the electorate to work conscientiously and peacefully, together, to consolidate on the gains of the recent elections. Free and fair elections have come to stay; nothing else will be acceptable to our people.


My dear countrymen and women, occasions such as this present an opportunity to thank God for our country and to report to you, on our journey so far.


Our power sector reform is on course with the ultimate objective of generating enough electricity to power our homes, industries and businesses. We are making giant strides in the Agricultural Sector which we are re-positioning to diversify our economy. We will continue to upgrade our infrastructure to make life easier for all and create an enabling environment for enterprise to flourish.


Over the last four years, the implementation of the Nigerian Content Act in the Oil and Gas Sector has ensured major increase in the participation of indigenous Oil and Gas companies in the industry. Several critical infrastructure projects have been commissioned and commenced. The level of indigenous asset ownership has greatly increased and utilisation of Nigerian-owned and built assets such as marine vessels and rigs is being progressively enforced.


There has been maximised local value addition by encouraging the manufacture of equipment components and parts within the country. There has also been massive growth in indigenous participation in the provision of goods and services to the upstream sector from 10% to 60% within the last four years.


Today, following the rebasing of our economy, every international monitoring and ratings agency now acknowledges Nigeria as the largest economy in Africa, with a Gross Domestic Product of five hundred and ten billion dollars ($510 billion) which also places us as the 26th largest economy in the world. This is progress.


Earlier in the year, we launched the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) with the stated objective of fast tracking inclusive growth, job creation, enterprise development and industrialisation.


The success of these policies is already evident in the increased value addition in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors.


In line with our objective of encouraging the production of made-in-Nigeria vehicles and making Nigeria a regional hub for the automobile industry, a number of foreign auto manufacturers have established plants in Nigeria, complementing the laudable efforts of our local vehicle manufacturers who have also demonstrated great innovation and competitiveness.


We have also launched a special support programme for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises with an initial intervention fund of two hundred and twenty billion naira (N220 b). This is in addition to the Presidential Job Creation Board which I inaugurated recently with the charge to create three million jobs annually.


In demonstration of our Administration’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit, we have commenced the new mortgage re-finance programme with the establishment of the Nigerian Mortgage Re-finance Company. It is expected that, in addition to creating additional housing units across the country, this initiative also represents a huge job creation opportunity.


We have recorded notable success in the social sector. Nigeria has been globally acknowledged for reducing extreme hunger by more than half, with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) formally presenting the country with an award for achieving the Millennium Development Goal on Hunger three years ahead of the 2015 target date set for the Millennium Development Goals.


This progress is as a result of the deliberate policy of government to increase capacity in our agricultural sector of which the first step was to address and eliminate the graft in our fertilizer procurement system and ensure that the product gets directly to the farmer. We are expanding our irrigation infrastructure to ensure that our farmers have sufficient water supply for dry season farming.


A benefit of these combined actions is that our national food import bill has declined from 1.1 trillion naira (6.9 billion dollars) in 2009 to 684.7 billion naira (4.35 billion dollars) by December 2013, and continues to decline.


Modern hybrid schools are being provided for less privileged children across the country, resulting in significant increase in the national school enrolment figure.


In order to further enhance access to education at the tertiary level, fourteen new Federal Universities have been established; and, to encourage persons of exceptional abilities, our Administration has also introduced a Presidential Scholarship Scheme based strictly on excellence and merit.


On infrastructure, we are building roads, bridges, and new rail lines to make it easier to traverse Nigeria and increase the integration of our people and our ability to do business with each other. In this regard, we have commenced the process of building the Second Niger Bridge. The Loko-Oweto Bridge over River Benue in Nasarawa and Benue States, will significantly reduce travel time by road between Northern and Southern Nigeria. The on-going dredging of the River Niger up to Baro in Niger State is opening up large parts of the Nigerian hinterland to maritime activity.


The Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro-electric power projects are on course, and the Kashimbilla dam which we started a few years ago, is nearing completion. The successful privatisation of our power sector will in the long run enhance industrial growth. Policies such as this and others have raised Nigeria to the enviable status of being the number one recipient of Foreign Direct Investment in Africa in the past year.


The result of this infrastructure drive is that two and a half million jobs have been created over the past two years. This is a record, which we are committed to improve upon to continue to provide jobs for our youth.


An unprecedented number of Airports across the country, are not only being reconstructed at the same time, but being re-equipped and reassessed with emphasis on maintaining global standards.


Fellow Nigerians, the goals we set to achieve for our country involve expanding the frontiers of economic freedom. Let us therefore unite with one heart and one mind. All our people must have access to the good things of life. All our people must be empowered to pursue the gift of life with happiness. This is our country; we must build it for our common posterity.


As we move into an election year, desperate moves to overheat the polity are becoming a regular occurrence. Our political leaders in particular must know that the contest for power should not translate to the destruction of the polity.


The contest for the leadership of our country must yield good governance, and not ungovernable spaces. The love of country should rank higher than our individual ambitions.


We must remain committed to a united and indivisible Nigeria within democratic parameters. The protection of individual rights, liberty, equality before the law, freedom of thought, and a progressive pursuit of a sound economy must be our goal.


I cannot end this address without commenting on the deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) which was sadly brought into our country recently. My directives to the Federal Ministry of Health saw the ministry leading the charge in curtailing the spread of this deadly scourge and managing its impact. This is how it should be: swift, effective and comprehensive action in defence of citizens.


It must be pointed out that the Ebola battle is still raging elsewhere in our sub-region. I therefore enjoin all our citizens to continue to adhere strictly to all the guidelines that have been given by our health officials to keep Ebola out of our country.


I appreciate and welcome the spirit of collaboration, unity and partnership with which we confronted the threat of the Ebola Virus Disease. I thank all Nigerians for working together to prevent what could have become a major epidemic. I particularly thank the medical personnel, some of whom made the ultimate sacrifice.


This is the spirit which we must demonstrate at all times as we face up to our challenges as a nation: one people, united by a common resolve, in the pursuit of one common national interest.


As we look forward to another year in our national life, I am more than confident that our tomorrow will be better than our yesterday and today. Nigeria has got the human and material resources to excel and we shall lead the way in that journey to our manifest destiny.


Fellow countrymen, brothers and sisters, in all our plans, and in all our words and our actions, we must stand together in love and unity, as one people under God.


We are one people from the womb of one Nigeria. We are brothers and sisters. We are one family. We are Nigerians.


God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.




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2015: Imoke’s Chief of Staff, Five Others Resign

liyel imokeChief of Staff to Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross Rivers State, Dr. Alex Egbuna, alongside five others of the State Executive Council, on Tuesday, resigned their positions to pursue their political aspirations.


It was learnt that the five others that have turned in their resignation letters included the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mike Aniah; the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Patrick Ugbe, and the Commissioner for Works, Legor Idagbor.


Others are the Special Adviser on Investment Promotion; Gerald Adah and the Special Adviser on Budget, Peter Oti.


With the exception of Egbuna, who intends to vie for the Abi/Yakurr seat in the Federal House of Representatives, the others are looking to succeed Mr. Imoke, whose tenure comes to an end next May.




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2015: Tambuwal Urges Political Leaders To Avoid Acts That Heat Up The Polity

Aminu TambuwalSpeaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, on Tuesday asked political leaders to be mindful of comments that could unnecessarily heat up the polity.


He called on political office holders to play politics by the rules ahead of the 2015 general elections.


In a statement in Abuja to mark Nigeria’s 54th Independence Day anniversary, the speaker, through his Special Adviser, Media, Mr. Imam Imam, also advised Nigerians to fight for their democratic rights and ensure that good governance and democracy thrived.


“Tambuwal appealed to the political elite to moderate their utterances and be mindful of their responsibility to the country.


“He said with elections scheduled for early 2015, all leaders must avoid acts that heat up the polity”, part of the statement read.


Tambuwal assured Nigerians that the House of Representatives would work to uphold the unity of the country‎.




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It Will Not Take More Than Ten Years; You Will See Massive Changes In Nigeria – Jonathan

Nigeria will be massively transformed in a positive way within the next 10 years, President Goodluck Jonathan Tuesday assured Nigerians.


“…it would not take a lifetime for this country to change. It would not take more than 10 years. Within a space of 10 years, you would see major changes,” said Jonathan after he received a Primatial award conferred on him by the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, at the Presidential Villa.


He promised to continue working together with his Vice and other members of his cabinet to improve the quality of life of Nigerians.


“We have our transformation agenda, it is not something we can do overnight, even if you have all the money in the world. If you want to build a six-storey building, you must give yourself a period of time to complete that project.


“We have drawn our map and we have progressed. I believe we are progressing in the right direction,” Jonathan said.


He however asked for the support of Nigerians and prayers of spiritual fathers in the country.


“All what we require from you as spiritual fathers is to pray for us for God to give us the wisdom and mind to do what is right because it takes on God to lead.


“Without the fear of God, nobody can lead well. We are all humans. We are pushed into all kinds of situations. But if God is with you, no matter the challenges, no matter the circumstances you find yourself you will prevail,” Jonathan said.


The president noted that no one would have thought he would become president, but now that he is Nigeria’s leader, he is committed to leaving a mark.


“Most people know about it, but maybe when I leave office, that is when I will tell the full story of my journey. But I believe very clearly that it is God that made it possible to even be a deputy governor in the first place, not to talk about being a president. I promise I will do my best.”


“…I believe whatever is happening to Nigeria will be very temporary. We will go through the challenges. With your prayers, we will go through the challenges,” Jonathan said.




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Boko Haram: FG’s Plan To Borrow $1bn Another Debt Trap – TUC

TUC PRESIDENT, BOBOI KAIGAMA

TUC PRESIDENT, BOBOI KAIGAMA



The leadership of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria has expressed worry over the decision of the Federal Government to borrow $1bn to prosecute the ongoing war against insurgency in the North-East.


TUC President, Mr. Boboi Kaigama, said in his Independence Anniversary speech, made available to reporters on Tuesday, that it was disturbing for the country to engage in external borrowing to funds projects.


Kaigama said while the TUC condemned in strong terms the activities of the Boko Haram sect, it opposed the decision to borrow $1bn purportedly to fund the procurement of military hardware to stem the tide of the insurgency.


He said the $1bn foreign debt could lure the country to yet another debt trap not different from the ones in the past.


The labour leader said the tendency to go for foreign loan seemed to indicate that the country had forgotten the inimical impact of the burden of such debts on national development.


TUC said, “It is mind-boggling that we borrow to fund projects in this country. Evidently, we have quickly forgotten the huge external debt trap we were in until barely a decade ago, plus the adverse consequences it had on both social and infrastructural development in the country.


“Shall we now discard the relief that followed the negotiated exit of the country from the claws of the creditors?


“Much as we find Boko Haram and its activities totally reprehensible and look forward to the defeat of the group, the Congress is averse to the Federal Government’s plan to borrow $1 billion ostensibly to prosecute the anti-insurgency war, for that could well ultimately lead to the country’s ensnarement in another debt trap”.




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Military Interventions And Other Challenges Stalled Nigeria’s Development –Yuguda

Isa-YugudaGovernor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State on Tuesday said Nigeria could have fared better in its 54 years of independence but for military interventions and some other challenges.


He, however, pointed out that the nation was on the right track as the process for the country’s development had been set in motion.


Yuguda spoke with State House correspondents shortly after meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.


He said there was no way some of the challenges the nation had encountered, which had led to a lot of problems, could be dismissed with a wave of the hand.


He said, “We cannot discard some of the challenges we have had which have made the country to suffer a lot of problems which ordinarily would have made the country more developed.


“Politically, we have had a lot of military interventions in the last 54 years which had made it impossible to deepen our democracy but now we have 15 years of uninterrupted democracy and we are deepening democracy. Politically, you can see the effect of our journey towards being a democratic nation.


“For the other sectors, sadly we have also had some challenges. Economically, we have challenges when it comes to implementation of our development programmes and some of those interventions which made it impossible for us to implement development programmes.


“We certainly could have done better even when it comes to operating the structure that can fight corruption in the system, it is only as late as the year 2006, 2007 that some of these institutions that fight corruption were put in place. So even the infrastructure for fighting corruption has not been put in place for a very long time until only recently.


“You can see that some of the infrastructure that should be better managed that will lead us, improve from the agrarian status, the agricultural potentials of the country were destroyed at a point in time because so many river basins were all over the country but mismanagement of the part of the public service made it impossible for those infrastructure to survive, to drive the agricultural economy so that we would have been in a better state than we are today because all this issue of joblessness we are talking about today”.




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Oshiomhole Signs 2015 Budget Into Law

Adams OshiomholeGovernor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, on Tuesday, signed the 2015 Appropriation Bill as passed by the lawmakers into law.


Oshiomhole had last Tuesday presented a budget estimate of N156.551billion, but the lawmakers shored up the expenditure framework by almost N3billion and increased it to N159.3 billion.


The governor, who spoke after signing the budget, expressed confidence that his administration would do everything possible to ensure that the laudable objectives contained in the budget are realized.


Oshiomhole assured that he would ensure the electorates get value for money in line with the tradition of prudent management of resources and proper costing of projects.


He promised to sustain the tradition of blocking leakages as well as aggressive revenue collection drive in order to find the resources to implement the budget.


He, however, noted that the hope of getting the budget realized in full, would depend on how the Federal Government tackles the problem of oil theft.


His words, “It is also my hope that the effort the Federal Government has been making and its currently making with regards to improving security around oil installations and all of that will lead to substantial reduction if not putting an end to crude oil theft.


“Once we can attain that, then we hope that all the revenue accruing from our oil and gas sector will become available for distribution at the federation account. If that happens, then of course our hope of getting full implementation of this budget will be realized”.




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DSS To Appeal Court Judgment Asking It To Apologise, Pay El-Rufai N2m

el rufaiThe Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday said it would appeal the court judgment asking it to pay former FCT Minister, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, N2 million as damages, over alleged illegal detention.


A Federal High Court sitting in Akwa, Anambra, on Monday, had also asked the service to tender apologies to the ex-minister and to be published in two national dailies.


In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Marilyn Ogar, in Abuja, the DSS said that although it held the service, the Judiciary and its sanctity in high esteem, it would appeal the judgment.


“The Instrument setting up the Service and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended gives the Service statutory powers to detain and investigate any suspect for not more than 48 hours before recourse to a Court of Law.


“In this instance, the complainant was not confined or detained for more than two hours.


“If we cannot intercept, detain and investigate, then we will, with due respect, be operating like any ministry of the Federal Government.


“It is also pertinent to clarify that the Service never imposed a general restriction on movement during the elections as averred”, it said.




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Boko Haram: 2015 Elections May Be Postponed If Insurgency Continues Unabated, Elechi Says

Martin ElechiGovernor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State, on Tuesday said there is a possibility that the 2015 elections will be postponed if the present security challenges continue unabated.


He stated this in Abakaliki, the state capital, during a media chat, as part of activities marking the country’s 54th independence anniversary and 18th anniversary of the state’s creation.


Elechi, who was responding to a question on the choice of a successor, said the people of Ebonyi State will decide who becomes the next governor in 2015.


He said, “I don’t know why we are so unsettled about this matter, the time table is out and actors are going to make themselves available. You create the impression that I will singlehandedly say that this is my successor.


“It has to come by way of consensus and by election. So please, do not over heat the polity. What is important now is that we face our projects and programmes.


“What if the elections don’t come? You should pray more that we overcome the destabilizing factors that are shaking the entire nation with probability. I’m not saying that they will succeed, but with probability of stalling all elections.


“If the nation is at war and this is a constitutional provision, such that elections can’t be held, elections will be postponed.


“We should be more concerned with ensuring peace and tranquility in the country rather than who succeeds who.


“If I am alive till May 29, 2015, I will hand over to somebody”.




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$9.3m: BBOG Concludes Plan To Sue FG, CAN President, Oritsejafor

BBOGThe #BringBackOurGirls advocacy group, yesterday, said it has concluded plans to drag the President, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor and the federal government to court, over the $9.3 million cash found in the cleric’s private jet in South Africa, which was allegedly meant for the purchase of arms for the Nigerian government.


The group, which stated this in Abuja during its sit out, said there should be more public outcry on the issue.


BBOG also said they can confirm that the alleged Chibok girl, Susan Ishaya, who was found wandering in a town in Adamawa State, after she was abandoned by Boko Haram insurgents, is now in Abuja.


According to them, “We need more pressure than ever; this is tax payers money, we must speak up anytime an injustice is done especially when it’s about infiltration of arms because that is what brought us here. There is need for a louder cry about this because quietly people are forgetting about the $9.3 million, it will continue if we don’t do anything.


“By next week you will have something different, we are working with our lawyers to sue Ayo and the federal government.


Away from the $9.3 million scandal, the #BringBackOurGirls group expressed sadness that the true identity of the abandoned Chibok girl has not been confirmed.


The group expressed the hope that she would be re-united with her family soonest.


“The name they gave is not from Chibok. We have the list and the name is not there. What we have on the list is Susan Yakubu. Teachers should be able to know her. Her identity is still not confirmed; this is extremely sad”, the group said.




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Obama Pledges US Support On Terrorism Fight As He Congratulates Nigeria On 54th Independence Anniversary

The United States will support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism, President Barack Obama pledged while congratulating Nigeria on its 54th independence anniversary.


“Nigeria continues to play a key leadership role in Africa and at the UN in promoting regional peace and stability.


“At the heart of our enduring friendship is our shared commitment to democratic values, the rule of law and economic development.


“We look forward to strengthening our relationship and working closely in the coming year, especially in promoting good governance and combating terrorism.


US had recently been allegedly blocking Nigeria from getting arms needed to fight terrorism leading the authorities to doubt the country’s commitment to helping Nigeria. Over 1,000 members of the Nigerian security forces are currently in Russia for Special Forces training, with sources saying Russia was seen as a better partner in the country’s fight against terrorism due to the attitude of the West towards helping Nigeria.


Obama has however promised the US was ready to support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.


“As Nigerians observe this special day, we wish you a more peaceful and prosperous year,” the statement by Obama read.




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Champions League E-H: Totti, Xavi Make History as Chelsea Stun Sporting

There were lots of thrills in Champions League fixtures on Tuesday evening, with 20 goals scored in eight games across Europe.


Roma’s Francesco Totti became the oldest player to score a Champions League goal, scoring his 37 goal at the age of 38 plus 3 days against Manchester City.


The Roma captain, who celebrated his birthday on Saturday, found the net in the 23rd minute at the City of Manchester Stadium, surpassing Ryan Giggs’s record.


The former Manchester United FC midfielder was aged 37 years 290 days when he scored at SL Benfica on matchday one in 2011/12.


Francesco Totti Celebrates his Record-Breaking Strike. Image: AFP.

Francesco Totti Celebrates his Record-Breaking Strike. Image: AFP.



Barcelona captain Xavi Hernandez came on for Barcelona for the final 20 minutes of their 3-2 loss at Paris St- Germain to break the record for highest number of Champions League appearances.

Cavi now leads the likes of Raul (142), Ryan Giggs (141), Iker Casillas (140) and Clarence Seedorf (125) in the list for most appearance in Europe’s elite competition.


Group E


CSKA Moscow 0-1 Bayern Munich


Bayern Munich made it two wins from two after a narrow win at Russian Champions CSKA Moscow in the European Champions League on Tuesday.


Thomas Muller’s 21st-minute spot-kick separated both side at an empty Arena Khimki, following a Uefa sanction for crowd disturbance during the group game with Viktoria Plzen last season.


The win takes the German Bundesliga champions’ points tally to six after two rounds of matches. They could be joined at the top by AS Roma, who play at Premier League champions Manchester City later on Tuesday. CSKA are yet to record a point.


Manchester City 1-1 AS Roma


Premier League champions Manchester City have already endangered their chances of progressing to a second successive last-16 appearance, after failing to earn maximum point at home to Italian Serie A opponent Roma.


Former City defender Maicon pulled Sergio Aguero in the goal area to concede an early penalty. The Argentine striker stepped up to clinically slot the ball inside the net.


But Totti’s moment of history denied the hosts a first win of the present campaign, chipping over the head of Joe Hart after being played in by Radja Nainggolan.


City have a solitary point after two round of matches while Roma trail Bayern on 4 points in second place.


Group F


Apoel Nicosia 1-1 Ajax Amsterdam


Lucas Andersen opened scores for the visitors on 28 minutes but Gustavo Manducar leveled for the Cyprus hosts three minutes later from the penalty spot.


Gustavo Manducar in Delight After Leveling for Apoel.

Gustavo Manducar in Delight After Leveling for Apoel.



It is the Dutch champions’ successive draw in two matches following their opening day draw with PSG.

Paris St-Germain 3-2 Barcelona


Barcelona lost for the first time this season away after a high-octane 90 minutes in Paris.


Brazilian defender David Luiz poked home a free-kick in the 10th minute but Lionel Messi restored parity two minutes later with his 68th Champions League goal and the La Liga giants’ 500th.


David Luiz Races to the Edge of the Pitch to Celebrate Champions League Goal.

David Luiz Races to the Edge of the Pitch to Celebrate Champions League Goal.



The Argentine skipper and Andres Iniesta exchanged passes in the Catalans’ first attack after conceding and the latter prodded into the far corner.

Marco Verratti powered home a header from Thiago Motta’s corner to help the hosts regain the lead on 27 minutes.


Frenchman Blaise Matuidi doubled PSG’s lead nine minutes after the interval, sidefooting through the legs of keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen from a cross.


Neymar respond almost immediately again, smashing home from Dani Alves’s ball into the box.


The French Ligue 1 champions are now unbeaten in 30 European home games, dating back to November 2006.


Group G


Schalke 1-1 NK Maribor


Klaas-Jan Huntelaar’s strike rescued a draw for Schalke at home to Maribor following Damjan Bohar’s first-half opener.


Sporting Lisbon 0-1 Chelsea


Chelsea secured their first win of the two-week-old Champions League season far away in Portugal.


The Match Day 2 fixture marked Jose Mourinho’s return to the ground where his managerial journey all started and the 51-year-old left his home city with a deserved result.


Nemanja Matic Celebrates After Chelsea Win in Lisbon. Image: Getty.

Nemanja Matic Celebrates After Chelsea Win in Lisbon. Image: Getty.



Midfielder Nemanja Matic’s header in the 34th minute from a Cesc Fabregas free-kick ended Sporting’s 16 match unbeaten record in home European ties.

The win saw the Premier League leaders tighten their grasp on the group’s leadership with four points from a possible six.


Maribor and Schalke both have two points apiece, but the Slovenians are ranked higher on head-to-head basis.


Sporting Lisbon’s solitary point came from their 1-1 opening draw at Maribor


Chelsea skipper John Terry made his 100th Champions League appearance in this fixture.


Group H


Bate Borisov 2-1 Athletic Bilbao


Athletic Bilbao became the first visitor to lose at BATE’s new Borisov Arena on Tuesday evening.


Defender Dzyanis Polyakov finished emphatically at the far post on 19 minutes to get the hosts in the ascendancy on 19 minutes. Aleksandr Karnitski doubled the Basque club’s lead in the 41st minute.


Athletic’s Aritz Aduriz struck just before the break to reduce the Spanish outfits arrears.


Shakhter Donetsk 2-2 FC Porto


Shakhter were forced to host Porto in front of 33,217 fans at the Arena Lviv, over 1,000 kilometres away from their in Donetsk as conflict in Eastern Ukraine rages on.


But the circumstances surrounding the day’s fixture did not deter the hosts from claiming the lead on 51 minutes, courtesy of Alex Teixeira.


Luiz Adriano doubled Mircea Lucescu’s side’s lead in the 85th minute, but the visitors’ captain Jackson Martinez pulled one back 3 minutes later before leaving it all squared in the 4th minute of injury-time.




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Ancelotti- Real Not Taking Ludogorets for a Joke

Carlo Ancelotti says Real Madrid will approach Wednesday’s Uefa Champions League match at Ludogorets Razgrad with urgency.


The European champions opened their title defence in emphatic fashion a fortnight ago, discarding Swiss outfit Basel 5-1 at the Estadio Santiago Bernebeu to go top of of Group B.


A late Steven Gerrard penalty rocked visiting Ludogorets’ boat at Liverpool’s Anfield but the 2-1 outcome in the encounter was considered by many as a fair result for the Belgian A Group champions, who will be hoping to improve on their debut result in their first ever home match in the group stages of the Champions League.


Ancelotti, wary of the challenges presented by the trip to the 6,500 capacity Ludogorets Arena in Razgrad, has charged his wards to maintain focus.


Carlo Ancelotti Says Cristiano Ronaldo is the Best Player He has Ever Worked With. Image: Getty.

Carlo Ancelotti Says Cristiano Ronaldo is the Best Player He has Ever Worked With. Image: Getty.



“I don’t think there are any modest teams in this competition. We knew how difficult it is to play at Anfield and Ludogorets played a very good game there,” said Ancelotti. “Our objective is to win to put us in a good position in the group.”

Real will once again be counting on Cristiano Ronaldo to help ignite movement on the forward line. The Portuguese winger has scored 13 goals in nine appearances this season, including back-to-back hat-tricks in last week’s thrashing of Deportivo la Coruna and Elche.


Speaking ahead of the game at Ludogorets, the Italian coach described Ronaldo as the best player he has ever coached.


He said: “Without disrespecting anyone else, Cristiano is the best player I have coached. He fights for the shirt and he is a leader. Although he doesn’t talk a lot, he leads by example.”


On Gareth Bale, who has five goals to his credit, Ancelotti added: “There are moments in a game where you are not at 100 per cent, but he is having a great season, just like his teammates. He is working hard, scoring goals and I don’t have anything I have to explain to him. He knows very well what he has to do and I am satisfied with what he is doing.”




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2015: Buhari Warns Supporters Against Insulting Jonathan, Others

Former Head of State Gen. Muhammadu Buhari wants to run for presidency again in 2015, but he has Atiku Abubakar, Adams Oshiomole and President Goodluck Jonathan as some of the aspirants he needs to contend with.


With overzealous support usually known for attacking other aspirants in situations like this, Buhari has warned his supporters not to insult anyone on his behalf.


“I must warn all my supporters, volunteers and other well-wishers within the party or even out of it, not to insult or be rude to any other aspirant or party leader on my behalf,” said Buhari, who spoke to his 66 support groups, who gathered under the aegis of the Buhari Support Centre in Abuja.


“My supporters must not engage in any kind of behaviour or conduct that will tarnish the image of any leader or promote division and rancour within the ranks of the party.


“Whoever does that should know that he or she is working for the enemy,” he said.


He however advised his supporters to be vigilant during and after elections and should not resut to violence even when elections are rigged.


“In particular, you must learn to be vigilant especially just before, during and immediately after elections, whether elections are rigged or not,” Buhari said, noting that sponsored hoodlums must not be given a chance to perpetrate their evil acts.


“Not only must you not take the law into your hands no matter the level of provocation, you must be able to expose those planning to do so before the act,” he said.


Buhari also asked his supporters to put the interest of the party first, before personal interests as nothing makes it certain that he will become the flag bearer of the APC in the 2015 presidential election.


“You must at all times remember that the APC is a party with several qualified people for each and all the positions that will be contested, including that of the president.


“It is the primaries that will determine who will eventually represent the party and in which capacity.


“If I get the nomination, I will expect you to redouble your effort and commitment until we clinch the presidency.


“In the event that it happens to be one of the other aspirants who win, I will expect you, as good party men, to extend to him your total support.


“We are a united party and united we shall remain because our strength lies in our unity,” Buhari said.


Buhari is expected to declare his presidential ambition on October 8 at the Eagle Square, Abuja.




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Bayern Beat CSKA to Maintain Perfect Start in Europe

Bayern Munich made it two wins from two after a narrow win at Russian Champions CSKA Moscow in the European Champions League on Tuesday.


Thomas Muller’s 21st-minute spot-kick separated both side at an empty Arena Khimki, following a Uefa sanction for crowd disturbance during the group game with Viktoria Plzen last season.


The win takes the German Bundesliga champions’ points tally to six after two rounds of matches. They could be joined at the top by AS Roma, who play at Premier League champions Manchester City later on Tuesday. CSKA are yet to record a point.


Thomas Muller Celebrates Uefa Champions League Goal at CSKA Moscow. Image: Getty.

Thomas Muller Celebrates Uefa Champions League Goal at CSKA Moscow. Image: Getty.



Mario Gotze was brought down by Mario Fernandes in the the hosts goal area, allowing Muller to step up and bury the ball inside the net.

Nigerian forward Ahmed Musa threatened to pull back the arrears for ‘Red-Blues’ but goalkeeper Manuel Neuer dived low to block his shot on 36 minutes.


Musa later provided a pass for Zoran Tosic, but the Serbian excessively let fly his effort.


Russian-born Finland international Roman Eremenko’s well-taken shot also went over the bar. The 27-year-old then fired a shot from the edge of the area which clipped the stanchion with Neuer beaten few minutes to the break.




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NFF Elects Amaju Pinnick New President

Former Chairman Delta State Sports Commission, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, has been elected President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following Tuesday’s Elective Congress in Warri.


Pinnick won a run-off elections by 32 votes, defeating Benue States’ Dominic Iorfa (8 votes) and Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi of Osun State (4 votes).


Former NFF Vice President, Mike Umeh and former National Sports Commission officer, Abba Yola, had 0 votes


Amaju Pinnick is a Former Chairman Delta State Sports Commission.

Amaju Pinnick is a Former Chairman Delta State Sports Commission.



Shehu Dikko of Kaduna State, previously cleared to participate in the NFF Presidential polls, was the only absentee. A change in guidelines- as announced by Chairman of the Electoral Committee Samson Ebomhe- prior to the start of the voting ruled absent candidates invalid on the ballot and Dikko’s name was henceforth automatically withdrawn from the ballot.

Lagos State FA Chairman Seyi Akinwunmi was voted 1st Vice-President with 30 votes.


Musa Gusau went unopposed as Chairman of Chairmen. Christopher Green is re-elected from the South-South zone into the NFF Executive Committee.





As directed by world football’s governing body, Fifa, InformatioNigeria.com understands that ousted NFF chief Aminu Maigari oversaw the activities of the Elective Congress.


A motion for dissolution of the previous ExCo was immediately adopted and carried out before voting proper.


Electoral Committee Secretary Musa Amadu told delegates and participants that Fifa and Caf Obesrvers sent apologies for not been able to grace the occasion.


However, Chairmen House Committee on Sport, Godfrey Gaiya, and National Sports Commission (NSC), Gbenga Elegbeleye were among dignitaries at the event which took place at a rescheduled venue: Golden Tulip Hotel.


(Materials from Colinudoh.com was used in this report)




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Obasanjo Enrols For PhD At NOUN

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has enrolled for a Master of Arts (MA) and PhD degrees at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). He registered to study Christian Theology in the School of Arts and Social Sciences.


Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Vincent Tenebe stated that although admission and registration in universities were not usually announced or celebrated, but for a special case like this, it is allowed. Obasanjo however urged the management of the institution to treat him like any other student. Although he said he recognised the role of courtesy in his case, but he said he would be more comfortable being treated like an ordinary student.


The 77-year-old explained why he decided to register at NOUN when he first did years ago.


“Primary, to acquire knowledge, particularly in Christian Theology, not because I want to be a pastor but rather, to know God more and be able to serve Him better.


“Secondly, I wanted to make a statement that no matter one’s age or position, there should be no barrier to continuous learning.


“Thirdly, I wanted to showcase this university, knowing full well that this country will at no foreseeable future be able to provide adequate access to millions of Nigerians who are yearning for knowledge,” he said.


Obasanjo, who graduated with the first group of students in January 2009, therefore called on Nigerians seeking for knowledge to consider enrolling at NOUN. He said NOUN is by no means inferior to the conventional universities.


He also urged the alumni of the university to try their best to support the school.


Tenebe commended Obasanjo for resuscitating NOUN, as part of numerous efforts by his administration to develop education in Nigeria. He described Obasanjo as a leader to be emulated for his quest to see Nigeria develop through the use of new technology in education.


Obasanjo’s enrolment in NOUN, according to Tenebe has boosted student population; which had increased from 16,000 in 2010 to 308,000 in 2014 with over 150,000 active students.


Tenebe pleaded with the federal government to start allowing NOUN law graduates for study at the Nigerian Law School. He also asked that other graduates of the university be allowed to participate in the National Youth Service Corps scheme.




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2015: INEC To Take Action Against Illegal Campaigners

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has vowed to deal with individuals, groups and political parties, who breach the provisions of the constitution as regards public campaign and procession.


“The Commission shall henceforth take necessary action against such associations, corporate bodies, individuals, political parties, media or such communication agencies, social media, candidates/aspirants who contravene the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (As amended) and/or Electoral Act 2010 (As amended) on public campaign/rally and procession,” said Augusta Ogakwu, Secretary of the Commission in a warning issued on September 26 and published in an INEC bulletin released yesterday.


According to Ogakwu, the commission has noted that some groups and media outfits, among others, have been embarking on illegal campaigns, despite warnings against such.


Resounding the stipulations of the law, INEC stressed that Section 99 (1) of the Electoral Act 2010 (As Amended) prohibited broadcast and political campaign earlier than ninety (90) days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day. However, several campaigns/rallies have been held across the country outside the window offered for such by law.


“Relevant Extracts of the Electoral Act 2010 (As Amended) have since been reproduced and circulated by the Commission at public places, media outfits, Federal Ministry of Information, National Orientation Agency (NOA), National Communication Commission (NCC) and Headquarters of Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC), Headquarters of State, FCT, Local Government Area offices of INEC and the Federal Ministry of Environment for their information and proper guidance,” the statement said.




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Maku Set To Unseat APC In Nasarawa

Information Minister Labaran Maku says the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will end the reign of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2015 general elections.


He said this yesterday as a formal reception held in celebration of the national award, Commander of the order of the Niger (CON) bestowed on him by President Goodluck Jonathan.


“We will struggle to defeat APC in Nasarawa State in the next general elections. We will end tribalism and senseless killings in Nasarawa state. That is why I am in politics, to bring peace and development to the people of Nasarawa State. We shall work hard until we achieve success,” said Maku.


Maku also thanked President Jonathan for the award, saying it will drive him to work harder for Nasarawa State and Nigeria as a whole.


“I thank the President for the opportunity he gave me to serve Nigeria and for recognizing my effort all these years. My award is a grace of God and I promise to put in more effort to serve my country.”


“I will use the award to serve Nigeria, even better because Nigeria is the hope of Africa and without Nigeria the entire African continent will be in slavery,” Maku added.


He lamented that Nasarawa was developing too slowly, but noted however that the time for change has come.


Maku commended members of the party in the State House of Assembly who had remained with the PDP despite being ruled by an APC governor. He therefore urged them to cooperate with him to make PDP the party to beat in the forthcoming general elections.


“I … thank the Nasarawa State House of Assembly for keeping the flag flying and refusing to defect to the ruling party.”


The Minister attributed his political relevance today to PDP, and therefore vowed to remain committed to the party, a resolve he intends to show at the forthcoming elections in 2015.




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Mob Sets Two Ablaze Over Alleged Okada Theft In Nasarawa

MobA mob on Tuesday set ablaze two men over alleged attempted to steal a commercial motorcycle popularly known as okada at Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.


The State Police Public Relations Officer, Ismaila Numan, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria in Nasarawa.


Numan said the mob set the suspects ablaze after being caught allegedly trying to snatch an Okada in the area.


He said the policemen from the nearest divisional command, raced to the area after receiving a distress call.


“But before our men got to the scene of the incident, the two suspects were already set ablaze by the mob while the third suspect ran away”, he said.


Numan explained that before police could get to the scene, one of the two suspects set ablaze died while “our men were able to rescue the second one alive”.


He however said the rescued suspect died while he was being taken to the hospital.


Numan said the command had commenced investigation into the matter with a warning to members of the public to desist from taking the laws into their hands.




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Vet student stitched ‘I love you’ into a dog he was operating on

Woman has 55lb tumour removed from her back [Graphic Photos]

Capture


Yuan, 35, has tumours all over her body but by far the largest was one that covered her back and right leg down to her ankle.


Doctors have now performed a successful 10-hour surgery to remove this tumour, which weighed 55lbs.


When Yuan was born she was covered with brown marks all over the body but due to family poverty never saw a doctor.


The tumour which was removed from Yuans body weighed 55lbs


Ten years ago the tumour on her back and right hip started to grow extremely quickly, exerting pressure to her spine and finally distorting it.


In the recent months the tumour has grown to weigh even more than Yuan, making it hard for her to move.


Yuan never went to school and is an illiterate.


She earns her life by polishing shoes on the roadside and has become used to the way people react to her.


Mandatory Credit: Photo by XJZ/Quirky China News/REX (4134336e) Surgeons operate to remove the giant tumour Woman has enormous tumour removed from body, Changsha, Hunan Province, China - 23 Sep 2014 *Full story: http://ift.tt/1qRhgBc Surgeons have removed a giant tumour that hung from a woman's shoulder down to her ankle in Changsha, capital of southern China's Hunan Province. 35-year-old Yan has tumours all over her body but by far the largest was one that covered her back and right leg down to her ankle. Doctors have now performed a successful 10-hour surgery to remove this tumour, which weighed 25kg. When Yuan was born she was covered with brown marks all over the body but due to family poverty never saw a doctor. 10 years ago the tumor on her back and right hip started to grow extremely quickly, exerting pressure to her spine and finally distorting it. In the recent months the tumor has grown to weigh even more than Yan, making it hard for her to move. Yuan never went to school and is an illiterate. She earns her life by polishing shoes on the roadside and has become used to the way people react to her.




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Ebola: Fashola Challenges Iwu To Reopen Research On Bitter Kola Theory

Babatunde-Fashola-0214Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, (SAN) on Monday promised to provide funds for any research work on the Ebola Virus disease.


Fashola made the promise while disbursing grants to 31 beneficiaries whose research proposal had been approved by the Lagos State Research and Development Council.


The governor used the occasion to challenge a former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Maurice Iwu, to come up with a lucid proposal on his bitter kola theory for the cure of Ebola, saying the state government would be willing to provide funds for his research.


He explained that professors, Ph.D. holders and scholars are respected not because of their glittering titles but because of their intellect and what they have to offer the society.


The governor said, “I was curious about what was Prof. Maurice Iwu was doing with election if he was already doing research on how bitter kola can help cure some diseases. He should come back and do his work because really this is his core competence and if he is listening to me, I am challenging him that he will be able to reopen the frontiers of that research and present it to this organization.


“It is something that I am sure that we would be looking at. For me, our world is moving quickly and we must participate in it. We must be visible and active theatre of thinking and ideas”.


Fashola expressed regrets that when the country was faced with the problem of Ebola, none of the much talked about probable solutions came from Nigeria or Africa as a whole, noting that such a trying time presented opportunities for researchers and scholars to write their names in the good book of history.


“If you look at the last epidemic challenge that we faced, all the offers and solutions, ZMapp, Dan and all of the possible drugs were coming from the outside Africa where we have the problem itself and there are scientists here who carry all sorts of titles”, Fashola stated.




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Seized $9.3m: Falana Accuses Oritsejafor Of Breaching CAMA Law

femi-falanaLagos lawyer and human rights activist, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, on Monday faulted the attempt by the President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, to wash his hands off the controversy surrounding the use of his private jet to allegedly smuggling $9.3 million cash into South Africa, saying the cleric breached the law.


Although Oritsejafor has denounced the two Nigerians and an Israeli arrested in connection with the money and the purpose of their mission to South Africa, Falana insisted that the influential pastor cannot dismiss the scandal with a wave of the hand, adding, “in recent time, some of our pastors have been indicted in the United Kingdom for investing church funds in business in violation of the Charity Act”.


In a statement issued in Lagos, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria pointed out that the explanation by Oritsejafor that the jet was leased to another company is an admission of the breach of the law.


He said, “A jet registered for the facilitation of evangelism cannot be leased to another company for commercial purposes as churches are registered under part C of the Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) as non-profit making organizations.


“If Pastor Oritsejafor is lucky that he is not prosecuted for breaching the CAMA, he owes Nigerians a public apology. The CAN leadership cannot afford to engage in attacking its political opponents in a matter pertaining to the breach of the law”.


Falana, who also noted that the federal government is presently relying on diplomatic resolution of the money laundering case, stressed that such effort will not yield any result.


“Having not learnt any lesson from the disgraceful case of Chief James Ibori, the federal government is currently embroiled in an unnecessary controversy with South Africa over the arrest of two Nigerians and an Israeli for smuggling the sum of $9.3 million into that country.


“The three suspects are alleged to have contravened the provisions of Section 30 of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act NO 38 of 2001 of South Africa which stipulates that a person intending to convey an amount of cash in excess of the prescribed sum of $10,000.00 to or from South Africa must report the prescribed particulars concerning that conveyance to a person authorized by the minister for this purpose”.




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Photos: US rapper Jarule and singer Ashanti in Nigeria

Capture


Rapper Jarule and singer Ashanti are currently in Nigeria. They are pictured above on a private jet going to Warri for a show there tomorrow. Then they will return to Lagos to perform at Bovi’s show on Friday at Eko hotel.





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9ice shares pic of his new born daughter

Capture1


The artiste turned politician showed off his new-born daughter, Michelle Abolanle Akande, on his instagram page today. He welcomed the beautiful girl with his girlfriend, Sukanmi Ajala, last week.




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Jonathan Condoles Emir Sanusi II And People Of Kano On Death Of Galadiman Kano

Galadiman KanoPresident Goodluck Jonathan has commiserated with the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Mohammed Sanusi II and the people of Kano on the death of the Galadiman Kano, Alhaji Tijani Hashim.


Alhaji Hashim, who was considered one of the most powerful members of the Kano Emirate Council, died early hours of Monday in Abuja at the age of 79. He was also the oldest prince in the emirate.


In a statement yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Reuben Abati, the president joined people of the state in mourning Alhaji Tijani, who he said served his people admirably over many years as a regional minister in the first republic and very senior member of the Kano Emirate Council.


The statement reads in part: “The president believes the eminent Kano prince and highly revered community leader will always be remembered and honoured for his laudable contributions to peace, stability and progress in his community and country.


“President Jonathan prays that God Almighty will receive the late Galadima’s soul and grant him eternal rest”.


The president also prayed God Almighty to bless the good people of Kano with a worthy successor to the late prince.




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Nadal Makes Winning Return from Injury

World No. 3 Rafael Nadal impressed on his return from a right wrist injury by beating France’s Richard Gasquet 6-4 6-0 in the first round of the China Open.


The Spaniard, 28, has spent about 13 weeks on the sidelines since his fourth-round defeat by Australian Nick Kyrgios at this year’s Wimbledon. He sustained the injury while practising in Mallorca and was forced to pull out of the US Open.


The second seed dropped just four games as he sailed past Gasquet. The left-hander reiterated that his wrist is close to 100 per cent after the game.


Rafael Nadal Pumps Fist After Defeating Richard Gascuet in 2014 China Open. Image: Getty.

Rafael Nadal Pumps Fist After Defeating Richard Gascuet in 2014 China Open. Image: Getty.



“In general I have to be happy the way that I played,” said Nadal. “After three months without a match, winning against a good player like Richard is a very positive comeback for me.

“I think I played solid, non mistakes. I’m happy the way I played.”


World number one Novak Djokovic also progressed to the second round with a 6-2 6-1 win over Spain’s Guillermo Garcia Lopez.


The 27-year-old Serb will play Vasek Pospisil in the next round in Beijing after the Canadaian beat Lukas Rosol 6-4 6-3 on Monday.


Djokovic is aiming for his 5th title in China and is unbeaten in the tournament, with a 19-game winning streak that stretches back to his debut in 2009.


Third seed Tomas Berdych defeated Feliciano Lopez 6-1 6-2.


British number one Andy Murray will face Poland’s Jerzy Janowicz on the Lotus Court.


In the women’s competition, top seed and world number one Serena Williams takes on qualifier Tsvetana Pironkova in the second round.


Second seed Simona Halep beat Lin Zhu 7-5 6-4 in their second-round. Maria Sharapova beat Elina Svitolina 6-2 6-2.




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Fuji star, Saheed Osupa reportedly buys land for all his band members

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Fuji star, Saheed Osupa reportedly bought a large parcel of land which he gifted to each of his band members who have been with him throughout his sojourn in music. According to City People, the four acre of land which is located in Ota, Ogun state was shared among the members last month. That’s so nice of him!




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Crouch Praises Moses after Newcastle Win

Stoke City striker Peter Crouch has lauded on-loan forward Victor Moses for helping improve the ‘Potters” firepower this season.


Nigeria international Moses assisted the former England striker to score the only goal at the Britannia on Monday night, in the win over Newcastle.


Moses dribbled his way through the left flank and, after trading a one-two pass with midfielder Charlie Adam, found Crouch, who towered over Fabricio Coloccini before heading past Tim Krul.


“Victor’s been our main threat so far this year, and he’s going to get quality balls into the box,” he told Sky Sports. “It was a great delivery and I’m pleased with the goal.”


Moses joined Stoke on a season-long loan from Chelsea in the summer and has quickly found form after four league appearances so far this season.


The ex-Crystal palace forward struggled to get game time in his previous loan spell at Liverpool last season, but is undoubtedly a key member of Stokes squad at the moment.


Victor Moses Tripped in the Box by Yohan Gouffran. Image: Stoke City.

Victor Moses Tripped in the Box by Yohan Gouffran. Image: Stoke City.



“We’re delighted with this three points,” said Moses, who had a good shout for a penalty turned down when bundled over in the box by Yoan Gouffran in the first half.

“It was a crucial game for us and the big man here got the goal, so we’re very pleased.


“I’m surprised I didn’t get a penalty, but the referee didn’t give it – that’s football. Today was a major step up and hopefully we can start winning games as much as possible.”


Next up for Stoke is a trip to Sunderland on Saturday, when Newcastle travel to Swansea.




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It’s Confirmed! See Tiwa Savage’s New Manager! – Photos

mekabilzz

Sources claim family members are still trying to talk Tiwa out of walking out of their marriage but she has gone ahead to get herself a new manager. This strongly indicates that there was money problems between the couple.


Tiwa’s new manager is Emeka aka Mekka Millions.The new manager who now goes to most events with her is a protégé of TeeBillz.

He has been the one picking calls directed to Tiwa Savage’s lines and he also currently manages fast rising rapper, Olusegun Olowokere aka Iceberg Slim.

http://ift.tt/1uytciR


mekkaa




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Super Falcons: Coach Okon Names 21 for AWC

Coach Edwin Okon has named Nigeria 21-woman party for the 2014 African Women Championship (AWC) in Namibia.


Stella Mbachu, Perpetua Nkwocha and Precious Dede are the veterans included in the group. Asisat Oshoala, who was top scorer and Most Valuable Player at the Fifa Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Canada last month, will be making her debut appearance.


Both Oshoala, 20, and Mbachu, 36, are among 11 players from local side Rivers Angels shortlisted. Sweden-based Nkwocha- a four-time African women footballer of the year- headlines a list of 6 foreign-based professionals to fly Nigeria’s flag in Namibia.


The Super Falcons finished fourth in the last edition- their worst-ever finish. The last of their 6-time triumph came in 2010 in South Africa.


Nigeria have been placed in the same group as hosts Namibia, debutantes Zambia and Ivory Coast.


The tournament will hold between 11-25 October 2014 in two stadiums in Windhoek. It also serves as qualification for the Fifa Women’s World Cup, which comes up in Canada from June 6 to July 5, 2015.


Full squad:


Goalkeepers: Precious Dede (Ibom Queens), Ibubeleye White (Rivers Angels), Christy Ohieriaku (Oshogbo Queens)


Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Houston Dash, United States), Josephine Chukwunonye, Onome Ebi (FK Minsk, Belarus), Ngozi Ebere , Ugochi Njoku and Gloria Ofoegbu (all Rivers Angels)



Midfielders
: Evelyn Nwabuokn, Onyinyechi Ohadugha, Gloria Iroka, Cecilia Nku (all Rivers Angels), Ayinde Halimat, Ngozi Okobi (both Delta Queens)



Strikers
: Desire Oparanozie (En Avent Guingamp, France), Perpetua Nkwocha (Sunnanå SK, Sweden), Esther Sunday (FK Minsk, Belarus), Asisat Oshoala, Stella Mbachu (both Rivers Angels), Francisca Ordega (Pitea IFF, Sweden)




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Nicki Minaj’s Ex Manager Cries Out: ”Nicki Was A Groupie, I Created A New Image For Her”


After parting ways with her wig maker who made all her wigs when she came into limelight, someone else is saying Nicki was ungrateful to him.

In an interview with Breakfast club, Big Fendi reveals how he met Nicki and how he connected her to Lil Wayne………

“We don’t talk. We talk through lawyers now.Nicki tried to offer me a finder’s fee of $15,000. Yeah, I laughed at it. You can’t be serious.’Nicki’s a groupie. I mean, Nicki jumps from – Nicki started with me in ’06, ’07. I met her on MySpace – she had, like, a flyer page,’I switched it around. She was Nicki Maraj when I met her, I changed her name to Nicki Minaj.’How do you create an image, put it together, bring it to life. I put her with Young Money, I did everything. And she offered me $15,000,’ he bemoaned, adding: ‘They actually sent the $15,000, the money actually came. And she’s been ducking me ever since. That was in ’08.’




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Igbos Have Fared Better Under Jonathan’s Administration – Ohanaeze

GEJ3The President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos, Mr Fabian Onwugholu, on Monday, said that the Igbo nation has fared better under the Goodluck Jonathan administration than any other previous one.


Onwugholu spoke at the 2014 Igbo Day Cultural Celebration, which held at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.


According to him, this year’s celebration was unique in view of the fact that President Jonathan has addressed some imbalances, marginalisation and discrimination which Igbos suffered.


“We are aware of the significant changes in the lives of Igbos, most especially in the South-East Zone.


“He has done much in the deployment of Federal Government’s investments and infrastructure.


“He has also appointed our sons and daughters to key strategic positions in the military, paramilitary and other positions which eluded us after the civil war.


“Mr President has indeed touched the lives of Igbo people through his transformation agenda.


“There has been indeed an equitable distribution of Federal Government’s investment in the six geo-political zones”, he said.


Onwugholu appealed to Ndigbo not to be disenchanted as a result of some issues which had yet to favour them.


A Political Economist and founder of the Lagos Business School, Prof. Pat Utomi, expressed satisfaction with the achievements made by the Igbos through the Ohanaeze Ndigbo.


“We need to come together and sort out the affairs that affect us; only through this we can be that strong nation”, he said.




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2015: God Has Already Chosen Nigeria’s Next President – Sultan

FROM LEFT: SULTAN OF SOKOTO, ALHAJI SA'AD ABUBAKAR III; GOV. EMMANUEL UDUAGHAN OF DELTA AND BISHOP HASSAN KUKAH OF SOKOTO DIOCESE, DURING THE INAUGURATION OF HOLY MOTHER AND CHILD CLINIC IN SOKOTO ON MONDAY (29/9/14)

FROM LEFT: SULTAN OF SOKOTO, ALHAJI SA’AD ABUBAKAR III; GOV. EMMANUEL UDUAGHAN OF DELTA AND BISHOP HASSAN KUKAH OF SOKOTO DIOCESE, DURING THE INAUGURATION OF HOLY MOTHER AND CHILD CLINIC IN SOKOTO ON MONDAY (29/9/14)



The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, on Monday said that God had already chosen who would be leader of the country in 2015.


Abubakar was speaking at the inauguration of Holy Mother and Child Clinic, constructed by the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, to enhance health care delivery in the state.


He said that all that was expected of Nigerians was to live in peace with one another, to enable government to fashion out developmental programmes for the well-being of Nigerians.


He also called on leaders to always have the fear of God while discharging their constitutional duties, saying that “we are going to account for our deeds before God”.


He called for responsible politics in 2015 to ensure free, fair and credible elections and emergence of good democratic leaders that would develop the nation forward.


He said that God had blessed the country with human and mineral resources for the benefit of citizens.


He said that since sickness did not recognise religion, the need for all to unite and fight all illnesses was paramount.


“Mosquitoes do not know religion. They go to the mosques on Fridays and Churches on Sundays to bite people, regardless of their religion. We must unite to fight our common enemy”, he said.


Abubakar stressed that Nigerians needed to keep themselves as brothers, to make the country stronger.


“We can be strong in this country if only we keep ourselves as brothers”, he stressed.


Earlier Gov. Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta had commended the cordial relationship between the Muslims and Christian community in the state.


He said that was possible through the mutual understanding between the two major religions.


He called on Nigerian leaders to accord equal attention to human capital development infrastructure development.


He said that although leaders were assessed by the number of roads and other infrastructure provide, governments should pay similar attention to human capital development from pregnancy.


He challenged elected leaders to give more attention to pregnant women to ensure smooth delivery of expected young Nigerians.


He observed that most programmes of government were not aimed at considering the poor.


“We hardly consider the poor in our programmes. There is the need to have an improved pro-poor programmes instead of such that only consider the middle and upper class of the people”, he said.


Uduaghan donated a new ambulance to the clinic.


The Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, represented by Minister of State for Health, Haliru Alhassan, said that “maternal and child care were the cornerstone of health systems of all nations”.


He promised that the Federal Ministry of Health would collaborate with the Diocese for the success of its programmes.


Gov. Aliyu Wamakko commended Bishop Matthew Kukah for his efforts in bridging the gaps in development. (NAN)




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Jonathan Has Brought Unity And Development To Nigeria – PDP

jonathan-pdpThe Peoples Democratic Party’s leaders in Edo on Monday said that President Goodluck Jonathan’s credibility gave him party’s endorsement for the second term.


The Edo PDP Chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, in an interview in Benin, said “nobody is contesting President Jonathan’s second endorsement.


“PDP members have agreed on his performance and sincerity, no complains”.


Also Gen. Charles Airhiavbere said the president’s exceptional quality in area of grass-root development sold him to all PDP members and Nigeria at large.


“You agree with me that when a leader brings unity and development, irrespective of the terrain and party affiliation, you will want to trust and choose him for continuation”, Airhiavbere said


Mr. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, the former Edo NDDC Commissioner, said “President Jonathan is not just a leader, but one who has complemented the efforts of the past administrations in the area of infrastructure development”.


Iduoriyekemwen, however, said that PDP will start enlightenment campaigns across the communities in the country for further clarification.


On his part, Sen. Ehigie Uzamere said “PDP campaigned on quality of a leader, what to look at when making a choice and how to vote, for the vote to be valid.


“And Jonathan stands for quality; he has performed and still performing; we are just comfortable with him for the second time”.


He, however, warned against those selling their votes, adding that the choice of their leaders would determine the development in their communities.


“Do not vote for imported candidates who do not know the meaning of unity and development but somebody who knows and feels the pains of what you are in need of, or lacking like Jonathan”.


“Cast your vote according to your conscience not for sentiment; and by so doing, development will extend to your door steps”, he advised. (NAN)




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SCOAN Building Collapse: We’ll Not Rush Investigation, Says Fashola

BABATUNDE FASHOLA-TB-JOSHUAAmid speculations that the circumstances surrounding the September 12 building collapse at Synagogue Church of All Nations, Ikotun-Egbe in Lagos would be swept under the carpet, the state governor, Babatunde Fashola, SAN, on Monday assured that government would act methodically in investigating the issue.


He gave the assurance while receiving members of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners in Ikeja.


He said government would not succumb to pressure from some Nigerians, who he said wanted immediate action on the incident but would rather follow due process.


Fashola said most of the pronouncements made on the incident did not reflect what actually happened and called on people to stop making unfounded statements that could bring more confusion into the situation.


The governor said, “On this issue, we are going to act methodically. We are going to act in a civilised manner. This is what we discussed at the State Executive Council today.


“We are not going to, without evidence, say this person has done wrong. Investigations are always painstaking and are done through scientific processes.


“This is the way that every civilised society develops. And we must assume that all the necessary provisions of law will be complied with. That is our track record here and nothing less will happen in this case”.


Fashola described NITP as the state’s partner in progress and said his administration would continue to work with the association in ending the menace of building collapse in the state.


National President of NITP, Chief Steve Onu, commended Fashola for his many interventions, adding that the association would continue to partner with the state in the area of infrastructural planning and environmental development.


On the collapse of the building at SCOAN, which served as a guest house, Onu urged the state government to ensure that a thorough investigation was carried out to unearth the culprits of the disaster.


“This is a good opportunity at getting insight into the incidence of building collapse and know whether it happened by technical or natural occurrence”, he said.




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Edo Assembly Pass 2015 Budget

GOV. ADAMS OSHIOMHOLE PRESENTING THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR 2015 FISCAL YEAR TO THE SPEAKER, UYI IGBE LAST WEEK

GOV. ADAMS OSHIOMHOLE PRESENTING THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR 2015 FISCAL YEAR TO THE SPEAKER, UYI IGBE LAST WEEK



The Edo State House of Assembly on Monday passed the 2015 budget estimates of N159.3bn into law, slightly higher than the N156.551bn Governor Adams Oshiomhole presented to the lawmakers last Tuesday.


The budget was passed by the 15-member house, led by the Speaker, Uyi Igbe, after the lawmakers considered the 2015 appropriation bill clause by clause.


The Chairman of the Appropriation and Project Monitoring, representing Etsako East, under the All Progressives Congress, Peter Aliyu, said the budget proposal presented by the governor reflected the views of the people and meant to complete all ongoing projects.


The budget had the sum of N88. 6 billion allocated for capital expenditure, while N70. 7billion was allocated for recurrent expenditure.


This was in contrast to the sum of N87.56 billion or 55.77 per cent of the total budget presented by the governor as capital expenditure and N68.99 billion which represents 44.23 per cent of the total budget, as recurrent expenditure.


The speaker subsequently directed that the clean copies of the bill be sent to the office of the governor for his assent.




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Obasanjo Goes Gack To School For Ph.D

EX-PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO DURING HIS GRADUATION FROM NOUN IN 2009

EX-PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO DURING HIS GRADUATION FROM NOUN IN 2009



Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, is set to go back to school for a higher degree in Christian Theology.


The ex-president, whose official age is 76, will on Tuesday formally register as a graduate student at the headquarters of the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, in Lagos.


Mr. Obasanjo, who had obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in 2009 from NOUN, will now be working towards earning a doctorate degree, beginning first with a Masters degree.


Confirming his return to school to PREMIUM TIMES, Obasanjo said it was important for him to make some commitments towards achieving his aspirations in life.


“I’m going back to school because I have to have something to aspire to in every endeavour of life”, he said, adding that, “I always aspire to something new in my farm. I do that in my international activities. I do it in my writing. I do it in the improvement of my academic work which helps to sharpen my brain and strengthen my faith”.


When asked how he was going to cope with the rigors of combining his studies with his tight international commitments, the ex-president said he would take advantage of the flexibility of the National Open University’s system.


“Fortunately, the Open University is flexible enough and I will definitely be able to cope. I was able to cope when I did the Post Graduate. I was also busy during the period”, he said.


The National Open University, which is an Open and Distant Learning institution, was first established in 1983 but was suspended by the then military government in 1984. Mr. Obasanjo revived the university in 2001. At present, it has 54 study centres spread across the country and is Nigeria’s largest tertiary institution in terms of student numbers.


It would be recalled that in November 2006, a few months to the end of his eight-year tenure, the then president enrolled for a post graduate diploma in Christian Theology at the university.


He graduated in January 2009.




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Court Declares Agbakoba’s Appointment As Bi-Courtney Assets’ Receiver ‘Null And Void’

high courtJustice Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court, Lagos on Monday vacated an order appointing Mr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, as receiver over the assets of Bi-Courtney Limited, its chairman Chief Wale Babalakin (SAN) and three others.


The others are: Chartered Investment Limited, Resort International Limited and Roygate Properties Limited.


The Murtala Muhammad Airport 2 (MMA 2) is owned by Bi-Courtney pursuant to a concession agreement with the Federal Government.


Justice Buba said the order made by another judge, Justice Okon Abang, was in error.


Recall that Agbakoba had in a statement last week claimed that Justice Abang gave AMCON an interim order to take over the management of the companies and their bank accounts.


He had further stated that he had been appointed as the manager of the assets being the lawyer to AMCON.


But Bi-Courtney in a counter-statement, alleged that the said interim order was fraudulently and unlawfully obtained.


The company alleged that while seeking the order, AMCON had knowingly concealed the ruling of the Federal High Court, which restrained the corporation from interfering with the operations and finances of Bi-Courtney Limited and the others.


Supporting Bi-Courtney’s argument, Justice Buba held that the order should not have been made when there were related cases on the same issue before him.


He also affirmed that the whole facts were not presented before Justice Abang prior to the interim order he gave for the takeover of Bi-Courtney’s assets by AMCON.


Saying his “brother judge” was misled, Justice Buba declared Agbakoba’s appointment null and void and adjourned hearing on the substantive suit.




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It’s Nollywood Screen goddess, Joke Silva’s Birthday! Let’s Celebrate Her!


It’s award winning Nollywood actress, Joke Silva’s birthday! She is all of 52 years today.


Joke was born in Lagos, Nigeria, into a family of four children. She attended Holy Child College in Lagos, after which she studied English at the University of Lagos. She then relocated to England and studied drama at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London. She is happily married to actor, Olu Jacobs and they are blessed with two children.




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Faroukgate: We’re Still Awaiting Report On $620,000 ‘Bribe’ Allegation – Reps

d12nfihn4mbl66.cloudfront.net_wp-content_uploads_2013_01_farouk-lawan-emenaloOver two years after the report of the $620,000 bribery allegation against Hon. Farouk Lawan was forwarded to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges, the House of Representatives says it is still awaiting the final outcome.


Speaking at a media briefing at the weekend, the Chairman of the Committee on Rules and Business, Albert Sam-Sokwa, said the House was worried about the delay.


In June 2012, Farouk Lawan, who chaired the Ad hoc Committee on Fuel Subsidy Regime, was relieved of the position and also removed Chairman of the House Committee on Education, over an allegation by billionaire oil marketer, Femi Otedola, that the lawmaker received a $620,000 bribe from him.


The bribe was allegedly to fast-rack the removal of two of Otedola’s companies from the list of oil marketers, who had shortchanged the country through the fuel subsidy regime.


Following the uproar and Lawan’s denial, in spite of an audio and video clip to support the allegation that he collected the bribe, the matter was referred to the Ethics and Privileges Committee since 2012 and nothing had been heard of it since then.


Sam-Tsokwa, who spoke for the leadership of the House, while fielding questions from reporters, said: “Well, if you ask me why is it that the Ethics and Privileges Committee has not been doing its work or whatever? That would be understandable”.




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Stella Damasus: “Majid Michel is the best actor in Africa”

ste


Veteran Nollywood actress — Stella Damasus doesn’t really care what you think but she has nominated someone as the best actor in Africa.


The pretty Nollywood diva declared the handsome Ghanaian actor, Majid Michel as the best actor in Africa.


She wrote on her Instagram page: – @majidmichelmm is the best actor to ever come out of Africa as far as I am concerned. People may not understand why I say this yet, but soon we will all see’


Along with a picture of herself; controversial film director, Daniel Ademinokan and Michel at the birthday party held in his honour in Atlanta, US yesterday, Sunday, September 28, 2014.


Michel turned 34 exactly a week ago and received goodwill messages from his colleagues including John Dumelo, Yvonne Okoro as well as his fans world over.




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