Board appointments: Appointment of deceased persons shows Buhari's incompetence – PDP

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="650" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBz4TtQLra7y5bx1hfE8vygLcKfgoDMKoHuz7XCiDw7k3WwhujiGs7wT5DpHyUS5XSj8q4wfziXMTra-OvCopZnl8CTcPb9kNShVTYIJ9eGYzVPd47lzz4QvS65CtYgp2YwEh2zZOjkiQ/s400/Muhammadu-buhari..2.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> The Peoples Democratic Party on Saturday described as an unpardonable national embarrassment, the appointment of deceased persons as members of various federal boards by President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress administration.<br /> <br /> National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, said in a statement in Abuja on Saturday, that the development had further confirmed PDP’s position that the APC “administration is completely confused, disorganised and grossly incompetent. “<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> He added that Nigerians can now see the level of recklessness and shoddiness inherent in the management of the nation under the APC.<br /> <br /> Ologbodiyan noted that the situation has further exposed why the nation’s economy which he said has been in shambles under the APC and wondered how a government which cannot tidy up a routine issue of board appointment for over two years can successfully take on complex issues of governance.<br /> <br /> He said, “Nigerians can now see why the nation’s economy has been in shambles in the last two years. When we say that this government is completely inept, some Nigerians did not know to which level, but now they do.<br /> <br /> “This inability to tidy up a simple issue of list of 209 appointees has completely exposed the extent the APC government is bereft of simple organisational skills to manage a country like Nigeria, which is in dire need of development.<br /> <br /> “How on earth can a government that cannot compile a common list handle intricate issues of national planning and budgeting; issues of health, education, aviation, agriculture, infrastructure and management of the huge civil service?<br /> <br /> “How can they possibly initiate and successfully implement national and international instruments for national development in today’s competitive world?”

Latest-News Board appointments: Appointment of deceased persons shows Buhari's incompetence – PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party on Saturday described as an unpardonable national embarrassment, the appointment of deceased persons as members of various federal boards by President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress administration. Nation…

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North Korea gives US condition to end nuclear tests

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="700" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbaUwj_A7YUe1wbchYHIXF7mnsNuEEon4fwLPY77sLvIPsonFU8M534WP4FFrndk90KpK4bDjm2497SEW-jIgntecoSgE_kE32QsV4a5P4Kpa7svJs1RuyOR87v2SSo_D-QkbI2WYw7mIL/s640/Trump-and-Pyong+north+korea+usa.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> <br /> <br /> North Korea has finally agreed to give up its nuclear programme but with a condition that the United States and its allies should stop blackmailing it.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> It also demanded that the U.S. suspend its war drills with its allies in the Korean Peninsula.<br /> <br /> The country’s official Korean Central News Agency took the oft-repeated stance on Saturday as it reviewed the country’s major nuclear weapons and missile tests this year.<br /> <br /> North Korea conducted its most powerful nuclear test to date in September and launched three different intercontinental ballistic missiles into the sea in July and November.<br /> <br /> These tests raised fears that the country is closer than ever to gaining a nuclear arsenal that could viably target the United States.<br /> <br /> KCNA said North Korea’s “entity as an invincible power can neither be undermined nor be stamped out.”<br /> <br /> Fox News

Latest-News North Korea gives US condition to end nuclear tests

North Korea has finally agreed to give up its nuclear programme but with a condition that the United States and its allies should stop blackmailing it. It also demanded that the U.S. suspend its war drills with its allies in the Korean Peninsula. Th…

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‘Stop deporting comfortable Nigerians in Libya’

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="640" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsGqeeNc20LMongHL5nk_3Y0WxV2aMWu2dLqRszv8GYgu_4_fHC8aLqMxdMXeeXXrRmvPPvACQI_1FcLqtZRUGqgQTdzr3Nk4TPlBgJ1UpKVNFmeIgCyodLFdElCoEG-KlSj1ztxNpcXoJ/s400/Nigerian-Returnees-from-Libya.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <br /> Some Nigerians who were recently deported from Libya have urged the federal government to focus on securing the release of Nigerians languishing in various prisons a rather than deporting Nigerians doing well in the country.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> They said it was wrong for Nigerians who owned their houses and doing well are deported when thousands of Nigerians are in prisons<br /> <br /> Matthew Ereyemwen, who spoke to newsmen in Benin City shortly after he was lodged in a hotel by the state government said it was better for the government to concentrate on how to evacuate Nigerians who are languishing in various prisons in Libya.<br /> <br /> He noted that the deportation of Nigerians living comfortably in their various houses has ruined the chances of those who are in dire need of coming back to Nigeria.<br /> <br /> According to him “I travelled to Libya and I knew what I passed through there. Our people are still suffering over there.<br /> <br /> “Those people who are living in their living houses which is their comfortable houses are oppressing us. They are living comfortably in Libya and are not in prisons.<br /> <br /> “Those who are living in their living homes are not part of us. Those people that came back from Libya with luggage. We that came from prisons we do not have luggage but only shirt.<br /> <br /> “This is the way we dress those of us in prisons. So anybody you see like this with unkempt hair are those who have been kept in prisons for a long time.<br /> <br /> ” It was not their intension to keep their hair unkempt but it was because they never had combs to comb their hair.<br /> <br /> “We do not have our bath and we eat once in a day but those who they have brought along with us who are living in their comfortable houses are not like that”<br /> <br /> Another returnee, James Itama appealed to the federal government to concentrate on how to evacuate Nigerians in Libya prisons before concentrating on those living in their comfortable houses in Libya.<br /> <br /> “Our people are suffering in Libya prisons. They are more than 2,000 of them in prisons and they are dying.<br /> <br /> Reacting to the allegation, the South-West Zonal Coordinator of National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Alhaji Suleiman Yakubu, said the federal government is working assiduously round the clock to ensure that all Nigerians living in Libya are brought back to their country whether in prisons or outside the prisons

Latest-News ‘Stop deporting comfortable Nigerians in Libya’

Some Nigerians who were recently deported from Libya have urged the federal government to focus on securing the release of Nigerians languishing in various prisons a rather than deporting Nigerians doing well in the country. They said it was wrong f…

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Expect robust, vibrant opposition from PDP – Secondus

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8sWs85KK8OCj4N61lJWP9Efy3einjOloLWkHCin0SgEx1IPbkC92S7flj9qq_9XVKfkbRhChs5xXyD9uY8jjH2lTKDCvMeUYgS8G4yg5t6DzX0RMMAnEC0qSJcNiZonyGVpxz6WffcvO/s1600/Secondus+w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="164" data-original-width="308" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8sWs85KK8OCj4N61lJWP9Efy3einjOloLWkHCin0SgEx1IPbkC92S7flj9qq_9XVKfkbRhChs5xXyD9uY8jjH2lTKDCvMeUYgS8G4yg5t6DzX0RMMAnEC0qSJcNiZonyGVpxz6WffcvO/s400/Secondus+w.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus, has assured Nigerians that the party will play a robust and vibrant opposition role in 2018.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Secondus said that the worst was over for the PDP and that the party was now ready and re-energised to play its statutory role in the polity to deepen the country’s democracy.<br /> <br /> The PDP boss chairman said in a New Year year message to Nigerians released in Abuja on Saturday, that what anti democratic forces planned against the PDP in 2017 failed because God and Nigerians still desire to have the party return to power.<br /> <br /> He said, “2017 was tough for us but the worst is over, we are now more than ever determined to take power back in Nigeria because the writing on the wall is clear that the ruling party cannot cope.<br /> <br /> “We sympathise with Nigerians for the hardship they have been going through in the hand of the All Progressives Congress-led administration but be assured that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”<br /> <br /> Secondus noted that in the out going year, the APC administration dragged the country almost to the point of disintegration because of its alleged parochial and exclusive approach to governance.<br /> <br /> He explained that having gone through the political furnace, the PDP had learnt its lesson and was now refined and focussed to return to power since APC has shown clearly that it could not translate its power grabbing conspiracy into governance.<br /> <br /> He appealed to all critical stakeholders in the nation’s democracy particularly the media and civil society groups to stand up to their responsibilities and hold APC administration accountable.<br /> <br /> Secondus said that he expects these stakeholders to be more responsive in the new year and ensure that APC’s alleged anti democratic behaviours as witnessed in 2017 like disregard to court orders and resolutions of the parliament be prevented in 2018.<br /> <br /> He said, “In the out going year, we all witnessed how APC government snubbed our courts as well as resolutions of the National Assembly, such things are dangerous and antithetical to good governance and democratic growth.<br /> <br /> “The new year 2018 is strategic and critical in the political life of the nation because activities in the year will determine the success or otherwise of 2019.”

Latest-News Expect robust, vibrant opposition from PDP – Secondus

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus, has assured Nigerians that the party will play a robust and vibrant opposition role in 2018. Secondus said that the worst was over for the PDP and that the party was now re…

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DPR seals eight petrol stations for selling at N220 per litre

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnf182KXn-EJ_rELpnRGmeikKzeypzh0zKbiLBJK4u-Hg_sBUKRILqCztG2CR44DFkB1GHXHZz7EW2hMBqLSnrw3srtyDmNyd5ESo7yQ-SF-nlMJ3lDgUnqj35z5mPudhBlstgI6P_AxY/s1600/Fuel-dispenser+auto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnf182KXn-EJ_rELpnRGmeikKzeypzh0zKbiLBJK4u-Hg_sBUKRILqCztG2CR44DFkB1GHXHZz7EW2hMBqLSnrw3srtyDmNyd5ESo7yQ-SF-nlMJ3lDgUnqj35z5mPudhBlstgI6P_AxY/s320/Fuel-dispenser+auto.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Eket field office has sealed 8 petrol filling stations for their refusal to revert to the government approved pump price of N145 per litre.<br /> <br /> The DPR Operations Controller in Eket, Mr Tamunoiminabo Kingsley-Sundaye disclosed this to newsmen after while leading the surveillance team of the department to petrol stations across the state yesterday.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> He said the eight filling stations were also sealed for various offences including diversion, and hoarding of the product.<br /> <br /> Kingsley-Sundaye said that the filling stations sealed were located in Eket and Uyo, Local Government Areas of the state.<br /> <br /> “The DPR surveillance team visited 25 filling stations in Eket, it was disheartening that one outlet who got product from NNPC station in Calabar, diverted the product.<br /> <br /> “We have sanctioned those who violated government regulations and they are few who later comply and ready to reverse to government approved pump price.<br /> “And others were selling above pump price of N220 per litre, it is unacceptable, those stations have been penalised and sealed.<br /> <br /> Kingsley-Sundaye said that the department had begun surveillance to ensure sanity until normalcy return to the country.<br /> He said that those filling stations sealed would be sanctioned and pay penalty to the Federal Government purse.<br /> <br /> The Operations Controller observed that major marketers in Uyo are trying while most Independent marketers were selling above government approved pump price of N145 per litre.<br /> Also read: Petrol pump price hits N250 per litre<br /> <br /> He said that those stations who agreed to reverse to N145 per litre were supervised to sell their product to large extent in the areas.<br /> Kingsley-Sundaye described the attitude of some of the marketers who refused to reverse their pump price as “impunity”.<br /> <br /> “Surprisingly some of them show the attitude of impunity and therefore those once were been shutdown and appropriate sanction will be prescribed by DPR regulation,” Kingsley-Sundaye said.<br /> He warned private depot owners and Independent marketers to sell their products at government regulated price, saying that there are rule and regulations guiding petroleum sector.<br /> “Any depot who flaunt the government laws would be dealt with, everybody must respect the laws of the land,” he said.<br /> <br /> Kingsley-Sundaye appealed to the public who buy fuel at the mega station to be orderly and behave themselves within the ambit of the law.<br /> <br /> He called on marketers to bring evidence of buying fuel above ex- depot price from the depots so that the department would dealt with private depot owners who flaunt government laws.

Latest-News DPR seals eight petrol stations for selling at N220 per litre

The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Eket field office has sealed 8 petrol filling stations for their refusal to revert to the government approved pump price of N145 per litre. The DPR Operations Controller in Eket, Mr Tamunoiminabo Kingsley…

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Mohamed Salah scores twice as Liverpool recover to beat Leicester

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGynL2zxAdXQSlvkNSC5PNcc49VT09nDNg-vtYQeFNg5bQXulzc4BgXnazJz7pp3g2WrdV-mssWz9Wy_v-ll3QY6W1UY-jz5xSeaRv32VqEx_sham-Bvg1Eq7CpFIbseLgmjXUPf1VVs/s1600/liv+2-1+lc.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGynL2zxAdXQSlvkNSC5PNcc49VT09nDNg-vtYQeFNg5bQXulzc4BgXnazJz7pp3g2WrdV-mssWz9Wy_v-ll3QY6W1UY-jz5xSeaRv32VqEx_sham-Bvg1Eq7CpFIbseLgmjXUPf1VVs/s400/liv+2-1+lc.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Mohamed Salah scored twice to equal Roger Hunt's club record for goals scored before the turn of the year as Liverpool came from behind to beat Leicester 2-1.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The Egypt international took his tally to 23 for the campaign, with 17 in the league, with a second-half double to reach the same mark set by Hunt in 1961-62.<br /> <br /> Liverpool had been trailing to an early goal for Jamie Vardy, who set a Leicester record of his own by becoming the first Foxes player to score in five successive matches against the Reds.<br /> <br /> Vardy has long been a thorn in the side of the Merseysiders and he took his tally to seven in eight appearances against them, but Jurgen Klopp's side have someone in even better form and they needed him to finally overcome another nemesis in Claude Puel.<br /> <br /> The former Lyon and Southampton manager was six matches unbeaten - including four clean sheets as Saints boss last season - heading into the game and looked to be working his magic again as early as the third minute.<br /> <br /> With soon-to-be new signing Virgil van Dijk watching from the directors' box, the auditions began for who should partner the world's most expensive defender when the B£75million man completes his move from Southampton on Tuesday.<br /> <br /> Joel Matip was first to fluff his lines when his misplaced pass was picked up in midfield by Vicente Iborra, who slid a ball inside Reds left-back Andrew Robertson.<br /> <br /> Riyad Mahrez, with a couple of yards head start, had plenty of time to square for Vardy to fire into an empty net.<br /> <br /> Since August 2014 no one has scored as many goals as Vardy's 22 in 41 appearances against the Premier League's top six.<br /> <br /> The television cameras immediately switched to a capture a straight-faced Van Dijk in the Main Stand, as if anyone needed reminding how great the expectation on his shoulders is.<br /> Van Dijk's arrival is intended to shore up a side who score goals for fun but Salah, Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane struggled for a breakthrough.<br /> <br /> Salah had four decent chances, Coutinho and Firmino had long-range efforts saved by Kasper Schmeichel, Mane a goal correctly ruled out for offside with Joe Gomez's drive from distance just dipping over.<br /> <br /> When Schmeichel did fumble the ball once at a corner Matip was slow to react and his shot was blocked. Robertson also had optimistic claims for a penalty turned down.<br /> <br /> Eight minutes into the second half Liverpool were level when Mane's clever back-heel picked out Salah, who held off Christian Fuchs and Daniel Amartey to pick his spot beyond Schmeichel, who soon after was beaten by the Egyptian's lob only to be saved by the roof of the net.<br /> <br /> Wilfred Ndidi shot just wide but it was a rare chance for the visitors, who surprisingly replaced both Vardy and Mahrez with 17 minutes to go.<br /> <br /> Almost immediately Liverpool took the lead with another back-heel, this time from James Milner, allowing Salah to hold off and then turn Harry Maguire before beating Schmeichel inside his near post for his 17th goal in his last 17 appearances.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Credit: ESPN</div>

Latest-News Mohamed Salah scores twice as Liverpool recover to beat Leicester

Mohamed Salah scored twice to equal Roger Hunt's club record for goals scored before the turn of the year as Liverpool came from behind to beat Leicester 2-1. The Egypt international took his tally to 23 for the campaign, with 17 in the league, with…

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Chelsea hit five against sorry Stoke

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZWu0tOCwhrHrHncUPxZPzcSt-naWm-QZ7AtJo61-L9R7llIoPjSViw3E_3AB4T9XREUHCfLHXUqkBCDmbWmwmBzr6ftK8n_FAAJRLC5C0GTQl8IHsV2Eq7D0QY4Tve-wNZ3mbbSDKTw/s1600/che+5-0+stk.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZWu0tOCwhrHrHncUPxZPzcSt-naWm-QZ7AtJo61-L9R7llIoPjSViw3E_3AB4T9XREUHCfLHXUqkBCDmbWmwmBzr6ftK8n_FAAJRLC5C0GTQl8IHsV2Eq7D0QY4Tve-wNZ3mbbSDKTw/s400/che+5-0+stk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Willian scored one and set up two more as Chelsea cranked up the pressure on Mark Hughes with a thumping 5-0 win over Stoke.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Chelsea were three up at half-time as a sensational Danny Drinkwater volley came between goals from Antonio Rudiger and Pedro, both laid on by the brilliant Willian.<br /> Willian then turned scorer in the second half by earning a penalty and then converting it before substitute Davide Zappacosta added a fifth late on.<br /> <br /> Victory means Chelsea reduce the gap behind Manchester City to 13 points, with City facing Crystal Palace on Sunday, while Stoke stay two points above the relegation zone.<br /> <br /> Stoke's win over West Brom last week eased the scrutiny building up on Hughes but his side have now won only twice in 11 matches. Their game at home to Newcastle on Monday now looks all the more important.<br /> <br /> Their afternoon here might have been even more punishing had Eden Hazard not been rested, the Belgian left on the bench presumably with next week's trip to Arsenal in mind.<br /> <br /> But still, Chelsea were ahead within three minutes and in the simplest of fashions. Willian whipped a free-kick from to the back post where Rudiger rose high to nod home his fourth goal of the season.<br /> <br /> Hughes had barely finished shaking his head before Chelsea doubled their lead as Pedro's cross spilled out to Drinkwater on the edge of the box, where the midfielder took one touch before sending a dipping volley into the top right-hand corner.<br /> <br /> Chelsea were rampant and Alvaro Morata should have made it three when he was freed by the busy Willian but Jack Butland did well to save one-on-one.<br /> <br /> Morata's miss seemed to matter little given the frequency of Chelsea's chances and so it proved in the 23rd minute as Willian, again involved, supplied Pedro, who cushioned the ball on his back foot to avoid Josh Tymon before whipping it past Butland and into the bottom corner.<br /> <br /> Mame Biram Diouf had the ball in the net for Stoke but he was adjudged to have controlled with his arm while Morata spurned another chance in behind, despite being generously deemed onside.<br /> <br /> Stoke improved at the start of the second half and Saido Berahino could have ended his 22-month goal drought after nipping in behind Gary Cahill, but he shot straight at Thibaut Courtois.<br /> <br /> The match drifted as Chelsea dictated possession without needing to over-exert but with 17 minutes left Willian finally got the goal he deserved. The Brazilian was chasing in the box and after winning the ball back was scythed down by Geoff Cameron. Willian slotted the penalty down the middle.<br /> <br /> There was still time for Zappacosta, on off the bench, to add a fifth with a drive from distance. He capitalised on a poor Tymon header to round off an emphatic win.<br /> <div><br /></div> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Credit: ESPN</div>

Latest-News Chelsea hit five against sorry Stoke

Willian scored one and set up two more as Chelsea cranked up the pressure on Mark Hughes with a thumping 5-0 win over Stoke. Chelsea were three up at half-time as a sensational Danny Drinkwater volley came between goals from Antonio Rudiger and Pedr…

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Gov. Bindow condoles with President Buhari family over son's accident

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsFMKZoehaohQEQtZdfMMRdcmdDc95TpwLTxnOCUbk-EzRhCf4fBsPATtVsdTYkvqdiiO2x6oEcI1R6IjKYLUF80C-H9JwtNiffvwLvIjxSZERitebAmR9zbCTyWG2VrkYNsYzc8TAAI/s1600/yusuf-buhari.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjsFMKZoehaohQEQtZdfMMRdcmdDc95TpwLTxnOCUbk-EzRhCf4fBsPATtVsdTYkvqdiiO2x6oEcI1R6IjKYLUF80C-H9JwtNiffvwLvIjxSZERitebAmR9zbCTyWG2VrkYNsYzc8TAAI/s320/yusuf-buhari.jpg" width="246" /></a></div> Gov. Muhammadu Bindow of Adamawa, has condoled with President Muhammadu Buhari and his family on the motorbike accident involving Yusuf Buhari.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Bindow in a statement he signed on Saturday in Yola, said his family and the people of Adamawa received the news of the accident involving the president’s son with shock.<br /> <br /> “We are indeed touched by this unfortunate incident because as a people, Adamawa State is related with your family; anything that touches the family of Mr President touches our dear hearts.<br /> <br /> “We, therefore, wish to express our heartfelt sympathy on this unfortunate incident and may God Almighty grant him speedy recovery,” Bindow said.</div>

Latest-News Gov. Bindow condoles with President Buhari family over son's accident

Gov. Muhammadu Bindow of Adamawa, has condoled with President Muhammadu Buhari and his family on the motorbike accident involving Yusuf Buhari. Bindow in a statement he signed on Saturday in Yola, said his family and the people of Adamawa received t…

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PDP congratulates Weah, Liberian President-elect

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHRCcXecChLn2PyCxO8FoS6NTeIl5eLCMLdrnXd_AUwuT9IzG83Pi2q04hEW3vjVnrcWhmgFvIEcDEBmdSIrHlD3QRaZr_gQyrVb60XPMOdXdvBkuW0ui5y2huCEcCOOSCGYAewrI0kk/s1600/pdp-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHRCcXecChLn2PyCxO8FoS6NTeIl5eLCMLdrnXd_AUwuT9IzG83Pi2q04hEW3vjVnrcWhmgFvIEcDEBmdSIrHlD3QRaZr_gQyrVb60XPMOdXdvBkuW0ui5y2huCEcCOOSCGYAewrI0kk/s320/pdp-logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated the Liberian President-elect and ex-World Footballer of the Year, George Opong Weah on his victory in a keenly contested Presidential election re-run.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The party in a statement by its spokesman, Kola Ologbodiyan also congratulated all Liberians for the peaceful and successful political transition saying the development “Is a firm and loud statement that democracy has taken firm roots not only in Liberia but also in the entire African continent.<br /> <br /> “Equally commendable is the commitment of the Liberian National Electoral Commission for its internal reforms that paved the way for a credible election which outcome is in consonance with the wishes and aspirations of the citizens.<br /> <br /> “As a leader in the West African Sub-region, Nigeria, especially under the PDP played key roles in ensuring the political stability in Liberia and must continue to show direction by ensuring the consolidation of democratic practice and culture both at home and in other countries in the sub-region.<br /> <br /> The party further charged “The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Mahmood Yakubu to ensure a credible 2019 general election by insulating the commission from external interferences, particularly from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as well as weed out all compromised officials, who could be used by undemocratic forces to try to subvert the will of the people.”</div>

Latest-News PDP congratulates Weah, Liberian President-elect

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated the Liberian President-elect and ex-World Footballer of the Year, George Opong Weah on his victory in a keenly contested Presidential election re-run. The party in a statement by its spokesman, Ko…

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Bishop, MASSOB disagree over Buhari

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKKwkSqqv0TAdpT5ZBSrsM_OyybBxNW_G39nGyyMgQOzmC9mc0L5I3AhUWGLZUIiHCQQrHhBqj9YSEPxx0vN83iNBmwx4bZfOvhMOrcESIbvmL1un7HAQd8r-VIVLYmHYqr1spJxD5aA/s1600/Massob2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdKKwkSqqv0TAdpT5ZBSrsM_OyybBxNW_G39nGyyMgQOzmC9mc0L5I3AhUWGLZUIiHCQQrHhBqj9YSEPxx0vN83iNBmwx4bZfOvhMOrcESIbvmL1un7HAQd8r-VIVLYmHYqr1spJxD5aA/s320/Massob2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The Anglican Bishop of Awka diocese, Anambra State, Most Rev Alexander Ibezim, on Saturday asked Nigerians to stop blaming President Muhammadu Buhari over the travails of the country.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The Bishop, who at a press conference in Awka, the Anambra State capital, said the trouble with Nigeria was beyond one single individual.<br /> <br /> “But what we see is that all of us will intend to blame one single individual for the country’s woes.<br /> <br /> “This is wrong. I tell you if individuals, families, Christians, Moslems, and so on should do their bits well, governance will be easy; governance will be simple,” the bishop stated.<br /> <br /> He called on Nigerians to continue to pray for President Buhari to lead Nigeria aright.<br /> The bishop called for concerted efforts in repositioning the country.<br /> <br /> He described youth unemployment in the country as a “cancerous concern”, stressing that something must be done urgently to save the present generation of Nigerian youths from being a wasted crop of individuals.<br /> <br /> He noted that the growing agitations in the country was a product of economic difficulties, adding that the Federal Government should conduct a research to find out why Nigerians that were hitherto living peacefully together had suddenly turned against themselves.<br /> <br /> He said,”We were living together with cattle herders, but today it’s no longer so. The Federal Government should commission professionals to conduct a research to know what are the causes of this disunity.”<br /> <br /> But the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra in a statement by its leader, Uchenna Madu in Awka said Buhari should be blamed for the woes of the country.<br /> <br /> The group lambasted the Buhari-led APC Federal Government for its insensitivity to Nigerians.<br /> <br /> It said Buhari lacked the finesse that would sustain the social stability, infrastructural development and health care of the citizenry.</div>

Latest-News Bishop, MASSOB disagree over Buhari

The Anglican Bishop of Awka diocese, Anambra State, Most Rev Alexander Ibezim, on Saturday asked Nigerians to stop blaming President Muhammadu Buhari over the travails of the country. The Bishop, who at a press conference in Awka, the Anambra State …

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Expect robust, vibrant opposition from PDP – Secondus

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVoI-m4idxP82wISxSNnZn6wSSDyttkmScK70_g7NojOYPiEy2QunFAn6VaGZsdxettKA8VPXQZLSdQSP_ra7ljv4ns4_GAhprOBdKSJ1nXS-7YEHPfXuou8J4tnJZTF93oS9hoeX3agM/s1600/Uche+Secondus.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVoI-m4idxP82wISxSNnZn6wSSDyttkmScK70_g7NojOYPiEy2QunFAn6VaGZsdxettKA8VPXQZLSdQSP_ra7ljv4ns4_GAhprOBdKSJ1nXS-7YEHPfXuou8J4tnJZTF93oS9hoeX3agM/s400/Uche+Secondus.jpg" /></a></div> The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus, has assured Nigerians that the party will play a robust and vibrant opposition role in 2018.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Secondus said that the worst was over for the PDP and that the party was now ready and re-energised to play its statutory role in the polity to deepen the country’s democracy.<br /> <br /> The PDP boss chairman said in a New Year year message to Nigerians released in Abuja on Saturday, that what anti-democratic forces planned against the PDP in 2017 failed because God and Nigerians still desire to have the party return to power.<br /> <br /> He said, “2017 was tough for us but the worst is over, we are now more than ever determined to take power back in Nigeria because the writing on the wall is clear that the ruling party cannot cope.<br /> <br /> “We sympathise with Nigerians for the hardship they have been going through in the hand of the All Progressives Congress-led administration but be assured that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”<br /> <br /> Secondus noted that in the outgoing year, the APC administration dragged the country almost to the point of disintegration because of its alleged parochial and exclusive approach to governance.<br /> <br /> He explained that having gone through the political furnace, the PDP had learnt its lesson and was now refined and focussed to return to power since APC has shown clearly that it could not translate its power-grabbing conspiracy into governance.<br /> <br /> He appealed to all critical stakeholders in the nation’s democracy particularly the media and civil society groups to stand up to their responsibilities and hold APC administration accountable.<br /> <br /> Secondus said that he expects these stakeholders to be more responsive in the new year and ensure that APC’s alleged anti democratic behaviours as witnessed in 2017 like disregard to court orders and resolutions of the parliament be prevented in 2018.<br /> <br /> He said, “In the out going year, we all witnessed how APC government snubbed our courts as well as resolutions of the National Assembly, such things are dangerous and antithetical to good governance and democratic growth.<br /> <br /> “The new year 2018 is strategic and critical in the political life of the nation because activities in the year will determine the success or otherwise of 2019.”</div>

Latest-News Expect robust, vibrant opposition from PDP – Secondus

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus, has assured Nigerians that the party will play a robust and vibrant opposition role in 2018. Secondus said that the worst was over for the PDP and that the party was now re…

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WAEC to be 100 per cent technology driven in 2018, says head national office

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3jLmdh4nnrrE1U77hjWcxtPACDUJTgU8Cu70pZQFWv6titRJOU2-pD-KppgRETpw8KRkLGo06z4i-frzLB2E0FTtznAn6J1ir6Yf-6rbIu8EcrQ-DJ4i3-_kfDgr5tglnKnZDvyGlnA/s1600/waec.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3jLmdh4nnrrE1U77hjWcxtPACDUJTgU8Cu70pZQFWv6titRJOU2-pD-KppgRETpw8KRkLGo06z4i-frzLB2E0FTtznAn6J1ir6Yf-6rbIu8EcrQ-DJ4i3-_kfDgr5tglnKnZDvyGlnA/s320/waec.png" width="320" /></a></div> The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) says it will sensitise and train its workforce on key areas of technology deployment in order to improve its operations in 2018.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The council’s Head, National Office (HNO), Mr Olu Adenipekun disclosed this in an interview on Saturday in Lagos.<br /> <br /> According to him, the council has organised series of retreats for both management staff and the workforce in preparatory to deploy technology in its operations.<br /> <br /> “We have worked hard in sensitising the workforce of the council and prepare their minds because it is one thing for one to strive to do something<br /> <br /> “But if the people who drives the system are not attuned psychologically, to doing that all such efforts will be fruitless.<br /> <br /> “So, we want to prepare our psyche on the need to sharpen our tools in preparation to move over to a 100 per cent technologically driven WAEC and of course we have done that and we are going full blast,’’ he said.<br /> <br /> The HNO noted that already, the council’s budget for 2018 had been fully designed to support the introduction of technology into the various aspects of its operation in Nigeria.<br /> <br /> He explained that the move would put WAEC at the level it was expected to be in the comity of examination bodies worldwide.<br /> <br /> “Members of staff of the council must be able to go beyond being a staff of the ICT Department. Even if one is a messenger, one should be able to ask how he can deploy technology to carry out his duties and this applies to all other operational components of council.<br /> <br /> “So, this is an era where we are looking at 2018 as a year where we will be deploying technology in all facets of our operations, not just in conducting examination, processing of results and printing of certificates but in all areas of our operations,’’ the HNO said.<br /> <br /> On the possibility of introducing Computer Based Test (CBT) platform for its examination, Adenipekun said that the CBT was not an examination mode that was limited to any particular examination body.<br /> <br /> According to him, WAEC also has a section called the Aptitude Test department that can equally use the CBT platform in conducting examination for candidates.<br /> <br /> He, however, said that the main point was that the mandate of WAEC makes it difficult to go the whole hug as it was different from that of other examination bodies like JAMB.<br /> <br /> “It will interest you to know that WAEC conducts achievement tests to ascertain the level of achievement of a candidate or student after attending secondary school for a six-year period.<br /> <br /> “So, if you want to test knowledge for English Language for instance, we do so without bringing about any complications.<br /> <br /> “We are aware of the operational environment. WAEC examination is not a selection test, it is an achievement test and so in doing that, we will have to deploy all facilities available to ensure that we help that particular candidate to prove himself or herself,’’ he said.<br /> <br /> The WAEC boss explained that if in a school, a candidate or student had not been exposed to the use of a computer in any form for the six years he had been attending school, it would be unfair to subject such candidate to the CBT platform in an examination.<br /> <br /> “So what we are then doing as an organisation and as part of our step forward is to come out and encourage state governors, school owners, communities, individuals and of course the generality of education stakeholders on the need to see how we can encourage secondary schools.<br /> <br /> “This, we should do starting from Junior Secondary 1, to see how students can deploy computers in writing their internal examination.<br /> <br /> “Once we are able to identify schools that are favourably disposed to this and we are convinced that they can meet our terms, we will start looking in the direction of introducing them to some aspects of our examinations which is the objective questions, which can be done on the CBT platform to start with.<br /> <br /> “We have some papers that have three components and others two. Those with two components, objective and essay and for schools that are ready for CBT, we should be able within the next two years to encourage them to present their candidates,’’ Adenipekun said. </div>

Latest-News WAEC to be 100 per cent technology driven in 2018, says head national office

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) says it will sensitise and train its workforce on key areas of technology deployment in order to improve its operations in 2018. The council’s Head, National Office (HNO), Mr Olu Adenipekun disclosed this…

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"NASS will ensure full implementation of 2018 budget"

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XyryX6UgEa9bhA_MxVIqXhmNs5zJr-JgCUGhvKiDAegc-KLF2KQOSteEEPVbwQ4z0yhOcioZQYrQTPhpbFlnBtiIhp5mhRm5q3tpN-jDeTyS9YUFUStIGutKGkkOMo3of7lTsCtGyuI/s1600/National+Assembly.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XyryX6UgEa9bhA_MxVIqXhmNs5zJr-JgCUGhvKiDAegc-KLF2KQOSteEEPVbwQ4z0yhOcioZQYrQTPhpbFlnBtiIhp5mhRm5q3tpN-jDeTyS9YUFUStIGutKGkkOMo3of7lTsCtGyuI/s320/National+Assembly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Hon. Sunday Adepoju (APC-Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency) on Saturday gave an assurance that  the National Assembly would ensure  full implementation of the 2018 budget.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Adepoju told newsmen in Eruwa, headquarters of Ibarapa East Local Government of Oyo State, that the federal lawmakers would also strive to ensure prompt passage of the fiscal proposal.<br /> <br /> He said, “Budget is an estimation of expected expenditure from expected revenue. If expected revenue is not met, then the expected expenditure would not be met.<br /> <br /> “Though it is rare to see any country implementing  the budget 100 percent but we will ensure it is implemented fully to bring rapid economic recovery.<br /> <br /> “As a member of  the National Assembly, we are going to pass the budget quickly and will ensure that it is  fully implemented.<br /> <br /> “ If it is poorly implemented, it will affect every Nigerian,  including us,’’ he said.<br /> <br /> He expressed optimism that the nation would witness more economic development in 2018 than that experienced in the outgoing year.<br /> <br /> The two-term lawmaker stated that the present National Assembly had  improved rapidly in the discharge of its statutory functions.<br /> <br /> “Our relationship with the executive is very cordial as against the insinuations in the public domain.  We have only made the executive know that we are not rubber stamp.<br /> <br /> “We have only ensured that the principle of separation of powers is respected. With this, I can tell you that Nigeria’s democracy is taking shape,’’ he said.<br /> <br /> Adepoju also said that the anti-corruption crusade of President Muhammadu Buhari had drastically reduced the scourge.<br /> <br /> “I can’t say because APC is my party, everything is rosy. The president is trying, that I can proudly say.<br /> <br /> “ I think the president has slowed down due to his health challenges and judicial process.<br /> <br /> “In Nigeria, we have lawyers who are ready to paint white as black in the public. It is left for Nigerians and the media to expose them,’’ he added.<br /> <br /> The lawmaker, who  dismissed  insinuations of  a cold relationship between the president  and a  leader of the APC,  Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, said  that the party would win convincingly in the 2019 general elections.<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News "NASS will ensure full implementation of 2018 budget"

Hon. Sunday Adepoju (APC-Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency) on Saturday gave an assurance that  the National Assembly would ensure  full implementation of the 2018 budget. Adepoju told newsmen in Eruwa, headquarters of Ibarapa East Local Governm…

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Expect major facelift in power, rail, roads, presidency tells Nigerians

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaxckCT1-iIFtlg1tWX4P2Vezq7jz-okPoYpwqIyHXj9dn_sh4D4IrW0GRQ4DHKXr9a0R0pj25Ys3BV8T3qMwJzR3iVSBw7c5Mcx7t7DVnuhm8SA84g-8uebt4Adfq8y4V9ZX2vEUthBI/s1600/President+Muhammadu+Buhari.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaxckCT1-iIFtlg1tWX4P2Vezq7jz-okPoYpwqIyHXj9dn_sh4D4IrW0GRQ4DHKXr9a0R0pj25Ys3BV8T3qMwJzR3iVSBw7c5Mcx7t7DVnuhm8SA84g-8uebt4Adfq8y4V9ZX2vEUthBI/s320/President+Muhammadu+Buhari.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The Presidency on Saturday told Nigerians to expect major facelift in power, rail and roads in 2018 based on the present administration’s investment in infrastructure.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said this in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja.<br /> <br /> Adesina listed some of the achievements of the present administration in the outgoing year and concluded that President Muhammadu Buhari has done well.<br /> <br /> “President Buhari’s investment in infrastructure will see major facelifts across the country in power, rail and roads, which have been scheduled to come on stream in 2018,” Adesina said.<br /> <br /> The Presidential spokesman said it was appropriate to, at the twilight of 2017 and at the threshold of a New Year, recount some key achievements of the administration in the outgoing year.<br /> <br /> He said despite global economic challenges and initial outlook of slow, or unlikely, recovery, the Nigerian economy trumped predictions and witnessed some remarkable changes in 2017.<br /> <br /> He listed the changes to include Nigeria’s exit from what he called the worst recession in decades and a gradual stabilisation of the naira.<br /> <br /> “In our review of the economy based on facts and figures from the National Bureau of Statistics, we are pleased to note that the economy has been on the path of steady growth since the second quarter, after contracting for five consecutive quarters.<br /> <br /> “President Muhammadu Buhari is hopeful that the exit from recession, stabilisation of the naira and robust harvest in the agricultural sector will continue to impact on the livelihood of Nigerians,” he said.<br /> <br /> Adesina noted that multilateral institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund have already projected higher growth for the economy in 2018.<br /> <br /> He said the government was hopeful that the gains of 2017 in agriculture would be further improved.<br /> <br /> He added, “The agricultural sector posted consistent growth levels throughout the recession, leading other sectors into positive growth rates.<br /> <br /> “Accordingly, Nigeria saw bumper food harvests, especially in rice, whose local production continues to rise significantly with states like Ebonyi, Kebbi and Kano leading the pack, while Ogun joined the loop by the end of 2017.<br /> <br /> “The price of a 50kg bag of rice – a staple in our country – has fallen by about 30 per cent since the beginning of 2017, as local production continues to rise. The price will keep falling, as production remains consistent and rises.<br /> <br /> “The Food and Agriculture Organisation said the number of Nigerians facing food insecurity in the northeast dropped by half this year.”<br /> <br /> Adesina said against all odds, 2017 has turned out the year of Nigeria’s agriculture revolution, embodied by the successes of the Presidential Fertiliser Initiative and the Anchor Borrowers Programme.<br /> <br /> He said more than a dozen moribund fertilizer blending plants were revived under the PFI in 2017.<br /> <br /> He added that inflation rate fell for 10 consecutive months in 2017, February to November, with the Central Bank of Nigeria projecting that it is likely going to drop to single digit by 2018.<br /> <br /> The presidential spokesman added, “The Federal Government’s Social Investment Programme rolled out across the states and currently 5.2 million primary school children in 28,249 schools in 19 states are being fed daily, while 200,000 unemployed graduates were enlisted into the N-power Job Scheme.<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News Expect major facelift in power, rail, roads, presidency tells Nigerians

The Presidency on Saturday told Nigerians to expect major facelift in power, rail and roads in 2018 based on the present administration’s investment in infrastructure. The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, sa…

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Fayose’s muscling Ekiti people, he has become pharaoh – Adeyeye

Latest-News Fayose’s muscling Ekiti people, he has become pharaoh – Adeyeye

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Lagos permanent secretary dies months after Ambode reinstated him

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No big deal about 'controversial' list of board appointments- Presidency

Latest-News No big deal about 'controversial' list of board appointments- Presidency

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‘Rivers State’s budget can never be a secret document’

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidjJmLHSDXvxB1shqKbqXKr7WtukH7KDI1v4L8xSgbsdIz_mlUCgVJpQXSY0hs4LHln9WsfxVgdcWvaZ3VzcoskUE_PG6pDKCfqiZMV8Wysppt20wOhL_8_lTx7kZgihCSlVRvmgURr_Q/s1600/Nyesom+Wike.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidjJmLHSDXvxB1shqKbqXKr7WtukH7KDI1v4L8xSgbsdIz_mlUCgVJpQXSY0hs4LHln9WsfxVgdcWvaZ3VzcoskUE_PG6pDKCfqiZMV8Wysppt20wOhL_8_lTx7kZgihCSlVRvmgURr_Q/s320/Nyesom+Wike.png" width="320" /></a></div> Rivers State Government has declared that the 2017 State budget is in the public domain and is accessible to all members of the public.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Speaking during an appearance on Rhythm FM Port Harcourt’s Viewpoint Programme on Saturday, Rivers State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Isaac Kamalu said that several civil society organisations and interested members of the public have been accessing the budget through his ministry.<br /> The Commissioner also presented copies of the 2017 Rivers State Budget to the presenter of the programme, Mr Segun Owolabi. The presenter randomly read through the pages of the document for the benefit of his listeners.<br /> <br /> He stated that the claim by the Former Executive Director of Integrity Group that the budget is a secret document is baseless.<br /> <br /> Kamalu, a Former Member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, stated that the sacked Executive Director of Integrity Group, Livingstone Wechie is out for mischief and not to access the budget.<br /> <br /> He noted that Wechie submitted a letter to the Ministry by 4pm requesting the budget, only to appear on Channels Television by 7pm claiming he was denied access to the budget.<br /> <br /> The Rivers State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning noted that the processes for the passage and assent of the state’s budget are such that the budget can never be a secret document.<br /> <br /> He said: “Right from the executive, the public was involved in the budget process. We had pre-budget workshops which involved civil society organisations, market women and professional groups.<br /> <br /> “After the presentation of the budget to the State House of Assembly by the governor, the Assembly held public hearings with different committees involved. Following the governor’s assent, the Ministry printed the budget and we have always made it available for the public.<br /> <br /> “We have a library at the Ministry where those who want to research on the budget can access it. However, if you need a copy, you write formally and it will be given to you after due process is followed. Several groups and individuals have visited the Ministry to access the budget”.<br /> <br /> The Rivers State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning stated that the 2015 Supplementary Budget, the 2016 Budget and the 2017 budget are available for the members of the public to access and use.<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News ‘Rivers State’s budget can never be a secret document’

Rivers State Government has declared that the 2017 State budget is in the public domain and is accessible to all members of the public. Speaking during an appearance on Rhythm FM Port Harcourt’s Viewpoint Programme on Saturday, Rivers State Commissi…

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Ajimobi urges Nigerians to pray for Yusuf Buhari’s quick recovery

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZEhn2y8wGO8Dz6sggS1gKCzVdfy6VHxDW0AKle1Dm6H6nljxFd0wCRgGhxPdyFji7zVg_YteYsWUzbWt5AnQF4av_B6Kh9xUZzzxrSi_MWMRfe0fV_mUdIBSZundAFdB-Lx_1IDAM1I/s1600/Abiola+Ajumobi.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZEhn2y8wGO8Dz6sggS1gKCzVdfy6VHxDW0AKle1Dm6H6nljxFd0wCRgGhxPdyFji7zVg_YteYsWUzbWt5AnQF4av_B6Kh9xUZzzxrSi_MWMRfe0fV_mUdIBSZundAFdB-Lx_1IDAM1I/s320/Abiola+Ajumobi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Gov. Abiola Ajimobi has urged Nigerians to pray fervently for the first family, particularly for the quick recovery of President Buhari’s son, Yusuf.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> This appeal was made in a statement by his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka, made available to newsmen in Ibadan.<br /> <br /> Yusuf was on Tuesday involved in a bike accident around Gwarimpa in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.<br /> <br /> Ajimobi described the accident as unfortunate and depressing, praying that God Almighty would grant the president’s son quick recovery.<br /> <br /> “The abiding grace of God that allowed the ebullient young man to survive the crash will see to his quick and complete recovery.<br /> <br /> “It is indeed heartwarming to hear that he is in a stable condition now and responding well to treatment.<br /> <br /> “In the African culture of being our brother’s keepers, I urge Nigerians to continue to remember the first family in their prayers and thoughts in this difficult period,’’ he said.<br /> <br /> The governor, on behalf of the government and people of Oyo State, prayed that Yusuf would soon be back on his feet.<br /> <br /> According to him, “the incident is a temporary setback and one of the vicissitudes of life. Yusuf will come out of it stronger and will live long to fulfill his destiny.’’</div>

Latest-News Ajimobi urges Nigerians to pray for Yusuf Buhari’s quick recovery

Gov. Abiola Ajimobi has urged Nigerians to pray fervently for the first family, particularly for the quick recovery of President Buhari’s son, Yusuf. This appeal was made in a statement by his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi …

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Overwhelming crowd, faulty sound-system stop Weah’s victory speech

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqpX9Yt8VvyOJ3HrlYgr8-ZpFkgCShnoX2w1Xn_6hjaVrHPlcefIH44kgUMaru520koOs06MgVG_0m3RhUYwo63YFPw8N2nSNKdxck6H7kjcMGjmjSzhg6mlZPUU-j50tL1Smbqzw20c/s1600/George+Weah.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVqpX9Yt8VvyOJ3HrlYgr8-ZpFkgCShnoX2w1Xn_6hjaVrHPlcefIH44kgUMaru520koOs06MgVG_0m3RhUYwo63YFPw8N2nSNKdxck6H7kjcMGjmjSzhg6mlZPUU-j50tL1Smbqzw20c/s320/George+Weah.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> An overwhelming crowd of supporters and sound-system malfunctioning forced President-elect, of Liberia, George Weah, to postpone his victory speech on Friday night.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Weah was billed to formally accept his election at his Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) headquarters in Monrovia at 6.30 p.m., an hour after his declaration as President-elect.<br /> Immediately after the National Elections Commission (NEC) announced the final results of the presidential runoff polls and pronounced him elected, the city erupted in jubilation again.<br /> <br /> Thousands of young people poured out from different parts of Monrovia and adjoining towns, and headed to the CDC headquarters located on the only road linking the capital.<br /> <br /> Soon, a mammoth crowd of ecstatic supporters filled the expansive premises where they sang and danced to music supplied by a disc jockey.<br /> <br /> It was a carnival of sort outside as an overspill of supporters sang and danced along the road, resulting in a heavy gridlock on both sides.<br /> <br /> Similar scenes played out in other parts of the city. Monrovia, was literally on standstill for Weah, a man of the people.<br /> <br /> When the president-elect finally arrived at 8.42 p.m. in company with his wife, Clar, and the Vice President-elect, Jewel Howard-Taylor, the crowd went out of control.<br /> <br /> Efforts by the CDC youth leader, Jefferson Koijee, and security men to manage the situation proved abortive as the sea of heads pressed towards the stage where the dignitaries sat.<br /> <br /> Two women fainted due to suffocation, and were lifted on to the stage where they later got revived.<br /> <br /> “We are thirsty, we want water,’’ a section of the crowd chorused, interrupting the National Chairman of CDC Campaign, Mr Toga McIntosh, who was delivering his speech.<br /> <br /> The sound system was not helping matters either, as it kept malfunctioning probably due to suffocation too.<br /> <br /> When the president-elect rose from his seat to calm the situation, the crowd went wilder in euphoria, chanting “George Weah, George Weah’’.<br /> <br /> At this stage, Weah made a hand gesture to announce the postponement of the event till Saturday.<br /> <br /> “What you are witnessing here today is a demonstration of the love and hope that the long-suffering people of Liberia have in Ambassador Weah.<br /> <br /> “We can’t help celebrating like this,’’ said Peter Konty, a supporter, who returned home on foot like this reporter following the gridlock.<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News Overwhelming crowd, faulty sound-system stop Weah’s victory speech

An overwhelming crowd of supporters and sound-system malfunctioning forced President-elect, of Liberia, George Weah, to postpone his victory speech on Friday night. Weah was billed to formally accept his election at his Coalition for Democratic Chan…

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Governor’s Forum approval of $1bn insurgency fund illegal – Wike

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpKLTaI9wPpS_azU92RY0om1Zhx_Po7UnXuFGOwjC2StSVqWTvsD_WyWfpXO8nVK8vfpGXs8sJ8qGaHZO3Rj5qqSlFY3311vghqd81lYaGFyt5QhCh3_hCWIKgWDSXjtGSiZ2uDOK-II/s1600/Nyesom+Wike.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkpKLTaI9wPpS_azU92RY0om1Zhx_Po7UnXuFGOwjC2StSVqWTvsD_WyWfpXO8nVK8vfpGXs8sJ8qGaHZO3Rj5qqSlFY3311vghqd81lYaGFyt5QhCh3_hCWIKgWDSXjtGSiZ2uDOK-II/s320/Nyesom+Wike.png" width="320" /></a></div> Demands same approval to tackle environmental challenges in Niger Delta.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Governor Nyesom Woke of Rivers State, Friday described as illegal the approval of $1 billion from Excess Crude account by Nigeria Governors’ Forum.<br /> <br /> Governor Wike who spoke with the State House correspondents after meeting President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja also proposed that same amount be withdrawn to tackle environmental challenges in the Niger Delta.<br /> <br /> Giving reasons why he was at the State House, the governor said he came to update the President on security development in Rivers.<br /> <br /> Reacting to the approval given by the NGF for the withdrawal of $1billion from the ECA for the fight against insurgency, he said while he had given his supports the fight against insurgency, the approval by the Governor’s Forum is illegal.<br /> <br /> According to him, “For me it is illegal, however, we are talking about fighting insurgence and no right thinking individual will say that he will not support the government to fight insurgency.<br /> <br /> “But on the other hand, I believe that we have been talking about the environmental issues in the Niger Delta particularly in Ogoni land, I believe that we can also take the same money from the excess crude account to fund the problem in Ogoni land and other Niger Delta areas. That is my position.”<br /> <br /> He described his relationship with the president as cordial and that their discussion also bordered on other developmental issues in the state.<br /> <br /> He said, “I’m happy with the discussion and I believe that something has to be done about (security) it. Nothing political just security issue that affects the state and things that may lead to the breakdown of law and order.<br /> <br /> “We talked on security challenges and he received me very well. We don’t have any bad relationship, I come here when he asked me to come.”<br /> <br /> On the allegation that he manipulated Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congress to install his candidate as chairman of the party, Wike said it was impossible for an individual to install a party chairman in the country.<br /> <br /> He said, “It is impossible for one person to own a party. The only thing is that people are vibrating and the ruling party is jittering about it”.<br /> <br /> The Rivers helmsman enthused that the PDP, will continue to win elections in the state.<br /> <br /> He said: “Take example of my state, we are sure that PDP will win elections any day, anytime.<br /> <br /> “There is no amount of blackmail; there is no amount of intimidation that will stop us from winning the state.<br /> <br /> “So I believe that other people working hard in their states should be able to deliver them to PDP in future elections.”<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News Governor’s Forum approval of $1bn insurgency fund illegal – Wike

Demands same approval to tackle environmental challenges in Niger Delta. Governor Nyesom Woke of Rivers State, Friday described as illegal the approval of $1 billion from Excess Crude account by Nigeria Governors’ Forum. Governor Wike who spoke with…

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BREAKING: Badoo kills couple, infant in Ibeshe, Ikorodu

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr4EH1-jTBzMwlS90-nq7FBr1c-rhTmVl8Rfay5dIPzJjnSJ86b-ehXwUsWCofkPwi1YDN9_AzV-6LFbEXZqKZJXhLdVk_JUqmY3q2RrHp518Hxce8w8wCholmM-tOgu12X8tisENWYo/s1600/Badoo+onlookers.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr4EH1-jTBzMwlS90-nq7FBr1c-rhTmVl8Rfay5dIPzJjnSJ86b-ehXwUsWCofkPwi1YDN9_AzV-6LFbEXZqKZJXhLdVk_JUqmY3q2RrHp518Hxce8w8wCholmM-tOgu12X8tisENWYo/s320/Badoo+onlookers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Assailants suspected to be members of the Badoo cult group have killed a couple and an infant in Ibeshe in Ikorodu area of Lagos today.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> <br /> More details soon...</div>

Latest-News BREAKING: Badoo kills couple, infant in Ibeshe, Ikorodu

Assailants suspected to be members of the Badoo cult group have killed a couple and an infant in Ibeshe in Ikorodu area of Lagos today. More details soon... …

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UN body reacts to Israel’s withdrawal over resolution on Jerusalem

Latest-News UN body reacts to Israel’s withdrawal over resolution on Jerusalem

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Messi is world’s best...just don’t tell Ronaldo - Totti

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzklUAhE6KjBC3qQKphPMeBhMm2afGSLfJBkLVi08apAO7mNICeQvVGyr3CF1XWZpmuBCRNd5TnLrwJbC9KjG9_z84wZ6K7fQiI3YmyaqGzYwdREuyrsBUJSQw9zCUO2ZzvFE4gp49Ic0/s1600/Lionel+Messi+2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzklUAhE6KjBC3qQKphPMeBhMm2afGSLfJBkLVi08apAO7mNICeQvVGyr3CF1XWZpmuBCRNd5TnLrwJbC9KjG9_z84wZ6K7fQiI3YmyaqGzYwdREuyrsBUJSQw9zCUO2ZzvFE4gp49Ic0/s320/Lionel+Messi+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The Roma legend believes football has lost some of its romanticism due to large transfer fees, but he is still smitten with the Barcelona star.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Francesco Totti believes Lionel Messi is the best player in the world despite Cristiano Ronaldo pulling level on five Ballons d’Or apiece earlier this month.<br /> <br /> Real Madrid’s dual La Liga and Champions League triumphs last season set Ronaldo up to claim world football’s premier individual prize but Messi has also blazed a familiarly impressive trail.<br /> <br /> The mercurial Argentinian inspired a 3-0 win for Barca at the Santiago Bernabeu last Saturday, with Ronaldo a largely becalmed presence in the latest edition of the Clasico.<br /> <br /> Totti was a similarly adored figure during a superb playing career at Roma that spanned three decades.<br /> <br /> Although he now sees events such as Neymar’s world-record move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain as an example of football breaking distastefully with its past, the former Italy forward is happy to marvel at the two greats of this generation.<br /> <br /> “I really preferred the football of a long time ago. Today it is just crazy,” he said at the Dubai International Sports Conference.<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News Messi is world’s best...just don’t tell Ronaldo - Totti

The Roma legend believes football has lost some of its romanticism due to large transfer fees, but he is still smitten with the Barcelona star. Francesco Totti believes Lionel Messi is the best player in the world despite Cristiano Ronaldo pulling l…

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VIDEO: Governor Fayose storms drinking joint in Ado-Ekiti to celebrate the yuletide with indigenes

Latest-News VIDEO: Governor Fayose storms drinking joint in Ado-Ekiti to celebrate the yuletide with indigenes

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APC National leader, Bola Tinubu’s first daughter, Shade, welcomes her first child through surrogacy

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"I was not paid to perform with Donjazzy, Mo'hits crew" - D'banj

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George Weah: Atiku, Secondus react to victory

Latest-News George Weah: Atiku, Secondus react to victory

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Fuel scarcity: Drop Petroleum Minister portfolio now – NANS warns Buhari

Latest-News Fuel scarcity: Drop Petroleum Minister portfolio now – NANS warns Buhari

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Liberia: Weah postpones victory speech

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OXO7cjcSxRjP8IbxjIiRZPqYNHp0bZ09FtvoGezk2bcbHkBYVJRTfffTwyw5m2avHUsDH_qnHoSuQTDm7ibIA1ojDsVrL84BCwpoawK6XJa3og8h6Pgkn6vwC255siYMIb32xcrWt-4/s1600/George+Weah.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OXO7cjcSxRjP8IbxjIiRZPqYNHp0bZ09FtvoGezk2bcbHkBYVJRTfffTwyw5m2avHUsDH_qnHoSuQTDm7ibIA1ojDsVrL84BCwpoawK6XJa3og8h6Pgkn6vwC255siYMIb32xcrWt-4/s320/George+Weah.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> An overwhelming crowd of supporters and sound-system malfunctioning forced Liberia’s President-elect, George Weah, to postpone his victory speech on Friday night.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Weah was billed to formally accept his election at his Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) headquarters in Monrovia at 6.30 p.m., an hour after his declaration as President-elect.<br /> <br /> Immediately after the National Elections Commission announced the final results of the presidential run-off polls and pronounced him elected, the city erupted in jubilation again.<br /> <br /> Thousands of young people poured out from different parts of Monrovia and adjoining towns, and headed to the CDC headquarters located on the only road linking the capital.<br /> <br /> Read also: 10 things you didn’t know about George Weah<br /> <br /> Soon, a mammoth crowd of ecstatic supporters filled the expansive premises where they sang and danced to music supplied by a disc jockey.<br /> <br /> It was a carnival of sort outside as an overspill of supporters sang and danced along the road, resulting in a heavy gridlock on both sides.<br /> <br /> Similar scenes played out in other parts of the city. Monrovia, was literally on a standstill for Weah, a man of the people.<br /> <br /> When the president-elect finally arrived at 8.42 p.m. in company with his wife, Clar, and the Vice President-elect, Jewel Howard-Taylor, the crowd went out of control.<br /> <br /> Efforts by the CDC youth leader, Jefferson Koijee, and security men to manage the situation proved abortive as the sea of heads pressed towards the stage where the dignitaries sat.<br /> <br /> Two women fainted due to suffocation, and were lifted on to the stage where they later got revived.<br /> <br /> “We are thirsty, we want water,’’ a section of the crowd chorused, interrupting the National Chairman of CDC Campaign, Mr Toga McIntosh, who was delivering his speech.<br /> <br /> The sound system was not helping matters either, as it kept malfunctioning probably due to suffocation too.<br /> <br /> When the president-elect rose from his seat to calm the situation, the crowd went wilder in euphoria, chanting “George Weah, George Weah’’.<br /> <br /> At this stage, Weah made a hand gesture to announce the postponement of the event till Saturday.<br /> <br /> “What you are witnessing here today is a demonstration of the love and hope that the long-suffering people of Liberia have in Ambassador Weah.<br /> <br /> “We can’t help celebrating like this,’’ said Peter Konty, a supporter, who returned home on foot like this reporter following the gridlock.<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News Liberia: Weah postpones victory speech

An overwhelming crowd of supporters and sound-system malfunctioning forced Liberia’s President-elect, George Weah, to postpone his victory speech on Friday night. Weah was billed to formally accept his election at his Coalition for Democratic Change…

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Weah’s election a big lesson for Nigeria — Odegbami

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1LDVSB0Wz52BX10iiU_D8nsssPoETlC1z25rRKGjVNpVD8fVcVD1YB7f-0eQn3Ic2iM6eDSfamz0Ol9zJqj5vlov3yekz6jv1tYsfNktYJwmzkLVoNYERR8P7eSOXIgPKNnQZNy5_bI/s1600/Segun-Odegbami-1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1LDVSB0Wz52BX10iiU_D8nsssPoETlC1z25rRKGjVNpVD8fVcVD1YB7f-0eQn3Ic2iM6eDSfamz0Ol9zJqj5vlov3yekz6jv1tYsfNktYJwmzkLVoNYERR8P7eSOXIgPKNnQZNy5_bI/s320/Segun-Odegbami-1.jpg" width="237" /></a></div> The election of football icon, George Opong Weah as President of Liberia in a run-off poll conducted December 26 has a “very serious implication” for Africans all over the world, former Nigeria international, Chief Segun Odegbami has said.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Reacting to the result of the poll, Thursday, Odegbami enthused, “Weah’s election is of very serious implication for the world and Nigeria, in particular where sports is ranked very low – indeed, below 40 in our priority list.”<br /> <br /> He said, George Weah played football and won everything conceivable. But as a man   concerned about the poor condition of his people, he decided to assume the leadership of his country, and the people accorded him that recognition by giving him their mandate. He is a shining example of how sports has the power to change the world.”<br /> <br /> Odegbami said developments in Liberia could influence a lot of change in the way Africans are perceived by the outside world.<br /> <br /> “Our young men and women, through their music, movies, arts and sports are redefining the global cultural landscape. America once dominated the world in all these areas but not now that our entertainment industry is developing a culture for the world to emulate.<br /> <br /> “Let us lay emphasis on the arts because of the breakthrough our youths have attained in that area. Now more of our youths are interested in the arts and technology.<br /> <br /> “Mandela once said, ‘the day Nigeria becomes liberated, the whole of Africa will be liberated’. It is time we brought that statement to reality.”<br /> <br /> He said most importantly, “Weah’s election also shows that footballers or sportsmen and women cannot be taken for granted. “Here in Nigeria, my attempt to become “ordinary FIFA Presdent” was met with a lot of scepticism, as some even asked, “who is Odegbami to contest for FIFA presidency? Even to become the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, ex-footballers are not considered good enough.”<br /> <br /> The former Nigeria captain expressed confidence in the President-elect, George Weah’s ability to steer the affairs of Liberia because of his personal feelings for the people and the level of investment he had put into developing himself.<br /> <br /> Odegbami recalled, “after the last Presidential election which he contested against Sirleaf Johnson, President Obasanjo invited both candidates to Nigeria. He told Weah to suspend his ambition of becoming president albeit, temporarily so that he could go back to school. The Nigerian leader told him that if he(Weah) heeded his advice he would personally ensure he becomes the next President of Liberia. Weah indeed, listened to Obasanjo, took his advice and went back to America to read.<br /> <br /> “We met in South Africa in 2010 and we talked about it. Today Weah holds a Masters Degree  and is very prepared for leadership.<br /> <br /> “He will succeed and I am sure he  will get a lot of support from Nigeria.</div>

Latest-News Weah’s election a big lesson for Nigeria — Odegbami

The election of football icon, George Opong Weah as President of Liberia in a run-off poll conducted December 26 has a “very serious implication” for Africans all over the world, former Nigeria international, Chief Segun Odegbami has said. Reacting …

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Boko Haram: Saraki lauds US over sale of fighter jets to Nigeria

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnGwAdSw8SA4e8oNTYP6O26kzg3jUrtN-0M5jQc0xq3zVJ5UzfO0hkUIghpziigltAi66UK8xAuHP9jy0dh7lO01MO8BlHZhCcU41cA958FxSN8IrJuxYoUVPKn5z0SgRj9s06TJZ1zQ/s1600/bs3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmnGwAdSw8SA4e8oNTYP6O26kzg3jUrtN-0M5jQc0xq3zVJ5UzfO0hkUIghpziigltAi66UK8xAuHP9jy0dh7lO01MO8BlHZhCcU41cA958FxSN8IrJuxYoUVPKn5z0SgRj9s06TJZ1zQ/s400/bs3.jpg" /></a></div> President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has commended the United States government for its support on Nigeria’s bid to defeat the Boko Haram insurgents in the North-east zone through the approval of the sale of A29 Super Tucano fighter jets to the Nigerian Air Force.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Saraki was responding to Wednesday announcement by the Nigeria Air Force that the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Stuart Symington had presented Letters of Offer and Acceptance which represents the official American government’s offer to sell defence articles and services to Nigeria during a visit to Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sidique  Abubakar.<br /> <br /> The President of the Senate said the development was a positive indication that the Americans are genuinely desirous of helping to enthrone peace in Nigeria and ending the insurgency in the North-eastern part of the country.<br /> <br /> While promising that the Senate would support the plan by the Buhari administration to purchase high powered security equipment in order to strengthen the armed forces, Saraki recalled that on August 28 when he received an eight-man US Congressional delegation headed by Senator  Christopher Coons of Delaware, the issue of the need to lift embargo on sale of weapons to Nigeria by the United States was a major point of discussion.<br /> <br /> “My gratitude and that of my colleagues goes to Senator Coons and other members of his delegation for giving Congressional backing to this arms sales arrangement. They have kept their words and back it up with action. During that visit, they promised they would help to ensure the arms sales embargo against Nigeria was lifted.</div>

Latest-News Boko Haram: Saraki lauds US over sale of fighter jets to Nigeria

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has commended the United States government for its support on Nigeria’s bid to defeat the Boko Haram insurgents in the North-east zone through the approval of the sale of A29 Super Tucano fighter …

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Sultan family asks Buhari to free Sambo Dasuki 2 years after incarceration

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7duPHK_Y1bvokUJ0r390rr9mcVsBXtZ3WmwuQYr0irHL5OvnoMRUCtLxnKb6mzCotH1rzDPYAD3u9erSl0yIc2kxTLAnYJybWTyiS5IlZxwVHfLH46GEirHx7s0WOm-L3gzPcd47Zdg/s1600/Sambo+Dasuki.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk7duPHK_Y1bvokUJ0r390rr9mcVsBXtZ3WmwuQYr0irHL5OvnoMRUCtLxnKb6mzCotH1rzDPYAD3u9erSl0yIc2kxTLAnYJybWTyiS5IlZxwVHfLH46GEirHx7s0WOm-L3gzPcd47Zdg/s320/Sambo+Dasuki.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The family of detained former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki, yesterday, took up issues with the Buhari administration, formally asking it to free their son from captivity and give him the privileges being enjoyed by similar ex-security chiefs in the country.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> At the a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the spokesman for the family, Comrade Kabir T. Auwal, noted with dismay, the inhuman treatment meted out to Dasuki by the Buhari government despite extant laws granting immunity from prosecution to security heads like Dasuki.<br /> <br /> Auwal, who is the Secretary General of the Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki Progressive Association in Sokoto State, wondered why the same treatment recently given to the former DSS DG, Ita Ekpenyong and the former NIA DG, Ayo Oke, who were shielded from arrest and prosecution by the EFCC was not given to Dasuki.<br /> <br /> “The Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki Progressive Association (SIDPA), for and on behalf of the entire members of Sultan Dasuki family, wish to request the Federal Government, under the leadership of Muhammadu Buhari, to respect the rule of law in the case of our son, brother and cousin and the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) to release him from detention<br /> <br /> “Today is two years since the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki was arrested and re-arrested in December 2015 after securing his bail condition but ignored by the Federal Government.<br /> <br /> “Since his incarceration, Dasuki has been arraigned before four federal courts which granted him bail, while the ECOWAS court, a sub-regional court not only ordered that the FG release him immediately but also order his compensation to the tune of N15 million. The agents of the Federal Government, especially Department of State Service (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have refused to obey any of the court orders.<br /> <br /> “Meanwhile, just recently the DSS had prevented the EFCC from arresting or interrogating the former DG of DSS Ita Ekpeyong by relying on the provision of a proclamation approved by General Abubakar Abdulsalam in 1999.<br /> <br /> “The edict, titled Instrument No 1 of 1999, shields Security agencies from external audit and investigation of their financial dealings, making them subject to only presidential review. Why is this not applied to Sambo Dasuki’s who supervised and coordinated activities of the intelligence services when the instrument has not been nullified or replaced by a National Assembly-enacted Act.<br /> <br /> “In addition, just recently too, while receiving a report on National Intelligence Agency (NIA) over Osborne Tower Scandal from Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, President Buhari in a statement by his Spokesperson Femi Adesina said the scandal “must be understood that this (investigation) cannot be done in a manner that jeopardises national security or exposes the operations of any intelligence Agency, which must, by nature be conducted in secrecy.” Why is this not applicable to Sambo Dasuki who supervised those agencies during his tenure.<br /> <br /> “We and other right-thinking members of his family have deliberately remained silent on his ordeals and persecution, hoping in a democratic government, rule of law would be adhered to. But surprisingly in over two years that Sambo Dasuki has been unlawfully and illegally detained without any court order or warrant, he has been subjected to media trial, scandalized, criminalized, insulted and humiliated not through any court of justice but from the propaganda of the current administration through media trials of falsehood.<br /> <br /> “It is on record that Sambo Dasuki served this nation meritoriously in various capacities before his appointment as the National Security Adviser by the previous administration. It is public knowledge that Dasuki had served the previous administration of General Muhammadu Buhari and General Ibrahim Babangida but was against dictatorial regime of General Sani Abacha, before he sought asylum outside the country where he teamed up with other Nigerians in the Diaspora to campaign against that military dictatorship and entrenchment of democracy.<br /> <br /> “On the return to democracy, he remained abroad until the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo invited to serve as Managing Director of Nigeria Security Printing and Minting Company.<br /> <br /> “He disengaged honourably after serving meritoriously to continue his business abroad before he was invited by President Goodluck Jonathan to serve as the National Security Adviser (NSA). Dasuki was appointed as NSA when Boko Haram was at its peak.<br /> <br /> “It is on record that he recovered more than 24 towns from Boko Haram before the coming of the current administration and ensured that security strategies put in place facilitated the conduct of peaceful elections in 2015 across the country, including in the Northeast states without disruption by Boko Haram terrorism. In one of his official statement he had provided lists and proof of huge military equipment bought to prosecute the war on terror and how they engaged Nigeria’s neigbours to join in the efforts. Yet, the current government doesn’t want the truth to be told.<br /> <br /> “In spite of Dasuki’s contribution in taming insecurity in the country, he has been the most maligned public officer through naked falsehood and mischievous information leakages that tend to portray him as a corrupt person. Suffice to say that Dasuki has served the nation with best of intentions yet he remains the only public officer that has remained in detention in the last two years; the only officer that has been granted bail by four courts.<br /> <br /> “The FG’s sheer disregard for the rule of law in the last two years, especially as it affects Sambo Dasuki’s incarceration has become worrisome to Dasuki family even when we lost our Father Sultan Dasuki. No nation develops in the absence of rule of law, in which case her extant laws and judicial structures are respected ‎devoid of sentimentality and grudging impunity.<br /> <br /> “We are all living witnesses to the fact that some suspects on grievous charges of treasonable offence were released by this same government after clamour and outburst by their people. In Dasuki’s case whose offences are all bailable and granted by the court, he was not allowed to enjoy his bail. The disregard by the government agencies of these orders could not be without the express approval of President Buhari which is most painful and to his inlaw. The judiciary should be encouraged to have the courage to exercise its powers without undue interference by the executive arm.<br /> <br /> “Since we are not in a military junta but a democracy, Nigeria’s constitution should not be turned to Military decrees with which rights of citizens are trampled upon without question. We strongly call on the ‎Federal Government to respect rule of law and allow Sambo Dasuki to enjoy his bails, except if the intention of government is to kill him in detention.<br /> <br /> “We therefore call on the Federal Government to release Dasuki on bail in compliance with the rulings of our competent courts while it continues with the cases in open court rather than in secret or media trial,” the association demanded.</div>

Latest-News Sultan family asks Buhari to free Sambo Dasuki 2 years after incarceration

The family of detained former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki, yesterday, took up issues with the Buhari administration, formally asking it to free their son from captivity and give him the privileges being enjoyed by similar ex-securit…

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People were kidnapped, killed during your tenure – Wike’s commissioner, Okah replies Amaechi

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WhatsApp to stop working on some devices from January 1

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Make Ibe Kachikwu substantive Minister of Petroleum Resources, NANS tells Buhari

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjquhhXU3ulZxQUp2MXfrWF9BOGlgUMcnnW7C7qjoDEQ2LPeSrY6l4aITBBJSKXTmdvpxc6aeWXgjdnZ-4Q7DZ1q3Cq5zxaRRwqizZM_MTPf1MU6wiahJ8xCXC4HeGh9ZXCBQO9xcEEp2o/s1600/Ibe+Kachikwu.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjquhhXU3ulZxQUp2MXfrWF9BOGlgUMcnnW7C7qjoDEQ2LPeSrY6l4aITBBJSKXTmdvpxc6aeWXgjdnZ-4Q7DZ1q3Cq5zxaRRwqizZM_MTPf1MU6wiahJ8xCXC4HeGh9ZXCBQO9xcEEp2o/s320/Ibe+Kachikwu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Zone B, has told President Muhammadu Buhari to disengage himself from the Ministry of Petroleum Resources as Minister and make Ibe Kachikwu substantive Minister following the lingering fuel scarcity in the country.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> NANS held that “Buhari’s pseudo heading of the Petroleum Ministry has presented an uncertainty in the petroleum industry, and we therefore call for a substantive Petroleum Minister.”<br /> <br /> The zone, in a statement by its Coordinator, Comrade Pedro Obi, said: “Nigerians have been made to pass through untold hardship for a fault of not theirs, with conflicting and counter directives emanating from the top hierarchy of the petroleum industry.<br /> <br /> “Blaming filling stations/petroleum marketers is way being ignorant of realities, as our team of petroleum monitoring task force, has found out that Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, is being sold at high rate in depot and you can never expect somebody to sell less than his/her cost price.<br /> <br /> “Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR sealing of filling stations is sheer hypocrisy, as to us, if they are serious about controlling the price of the product, they should go to the petroleum depots where these private filling station owners lift product.<br /> <br /> “Nigerians have been deceived, stolen dry and the various promises of reform in the industry have turned into a mirage as a result of nepotism occasioned by an incompetent manning of the industry.<br /> <br /> “The Minister of State for Petroleum Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has not been given free hand to carry out his laudable plans for the sector. It is on this note, we call for the upgrade of Dr. Ibe Kachikwu as the substantive Minister of Petroleum Resources.<br /> <br /> “At this point of our nationhood, if truly Buhari means well for the suffering Nigerian masses, this is surely the irreducible minimum demand, President Buhari can give to Nigerians, if he actually means well for us.”</div>

Latest-News Make Ibe Kachikwu substantive Minister of Petroleum Resources, NANS tells Buhari

National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Zone B, has told President Muhammadu Buhari to disengage himself from the Ministry of Petroleum Resources as Minister and make Ibe Kachikwu substantive Minister following the lingering fuel scarcity i…

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US congratulates Liberia, Weah

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BEMJEcl663x6vyhyyLJ3whl4opARiYS-Nhvxm7O-VBqLl_FZfO2hlv0STxDx4sGOVJHAWO0IfOWARTE0fgsa81j-OulVs1IKJyk-Lq0OR4SPse3xmeR1jIX-p93fBX00T3k-S_MRkXM/s1600/George+Weah.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BEMJEcl663x6vyhyyLJ3whl4opARiYS-Nhvxm7O-VBqLl_FZfO2hlv0STxDx4sGOVJHAWO0IfOWARTE0fgsa81j-OulVs1IKJyk-Lq0OR4SPse3xmeR1jIX-p93fBX00T3k-S_MRkXM/s320/George+Weah.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The U.S. has congratulated the people of Liberia on the successful conclusion of the presidential run-off election, and President-elect George Weah on his victory.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The White House, in a statement by the Press Secretary, described the election as representing “a major milestone for Liberia’s democracy”.<br /> <br /> This is Liberia’s first peaceful transfer of power from one democratically elected head of state to another in more than 70 years.<br /> <br /> “The United States commends the National Elections Commission for administering an orderly election process.<br /> <br /> “We also recognise the important role Liberia’s Supreme Court, political parties, security forces, and civil society organisations played in holding a peaceful and transparent contest.”<br /> <br /> The U.S. welcomed the statements by international and domestic observer missions affirming the conduct of the election.<br /> <br /> “We also thank Vice President Joseph Boakai for his positive campaign and years of honourable service to Liberia.”<br /> <br /> The U.S. said it “is deeply committed to our longstanding relationship with Liberia and its people”.<br /> <br /> “We will continue to support the success of this historic democratic transition and the peace and prosperity of Liberia,” the statement read.<br /> <br /> Outgoing Preaident Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf would step down in January after two terms in office and would handover to Weah.<br /> <br /> Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who is a member of the UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Advisory Board on Mediation, was expected in the capital, Monrovia, from Thursday to Saturday.<br /> <br /> UN Secretary-General António Guterres requested Obasanjo to travel to Liberia as part of the UN’s continued good offices engagement.</div>

Latest-News US congratulates Liberia, Weah

The U.S. has congratulated the people of Liberia on the successful conclusion of the presidential run-off election, and President-elect George Weah on his victory. The White House, in a statement by the Press Secretary, described the election as rep…

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Ex-governor Adebayo, Keyamo, Arise, others get board appointments

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXrsH2gdRdPTMMd4aFr3Ji9qC49TBcBUnCwtXMPRwcpo_zieY9Xc0tD67HD4B82RdE8u2zCibXrdjY1IqRtzwUEkvl7bTdrJkX5DKrs5no-yv_t4uqimj6Sd-i__MavxfBe2NSMRUnv8/s1600/Festus-Keyamo.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaXrsH2gdRdPTMMd4aFr3Ji9qC49TBcBUnCwtXMPRwcpo_zieY9Xc0tD67HD4B82RdE8u2zCibXrdjY1IqRtzwUEkvl7bTdrJkX5DKrs5no-yv_t4uqimj6Sd-i__MavxfBe2NSMRUnv8/s320/Festus-Keyamo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday approved the constitution of the Governing Boards of agencies and parastatals, under some ministries.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> According to a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the President also appointed some Nigerians to fill the board positions, including 209 chairmen and 1,258 members.<br /> <br /> The statement read, “Mr. President considered the approval for the constitution of the boards as well as the appointments, very necessary, so as to provide a proper governance and oversight structure for government agencies and parastatals.<br /> <br /> “The constitution of the boards with the appointments, is a demonstration of this government’s efforts aimed at building strong institutions of governance, and by extension, improving the quality of policy formulation and supervision.<br /> <br /> “While these appointments represent a substantial number of hitherto pending board appointments, some more appointments are still being processed and will be released in due course.<br /> <br /> “The appointments take immediate effect and honourable ministers are advised to inaugurate the boards after letters of appointment have been issued.”<br /> <br /> Prominent among the appointees is a former Ekiti State Governor, Niyi Adebayo, who will be serving on the board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria alongside Akingbesote Akinyeye, Suleiman Mohammed and Bello Babura.<br /> <br /> Chief Bode Mustapha and Mr. Festus Keyamo will also be serving on the board of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation alongside Alhaji Garba Buba, Bello Garba, Gen. J.O.J. Okoloagu, Mudashiru Mustapha and Adewole Adeleke.<br /> <br /> On the board of Sheda Science and Technology Complex are Senator Ayo Arise, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, Kevin Njideaka, Rotimi Erogbogbo, Bala Abdullahi, Shuaibu Bukkuyum, Mohammed Us, Kolawole Yusuf, Inuwa Mangoron and Gale Idriss.<br /> <br /> The General Overseer of Foundation of Truth Ministry, Lagos State, Revd. Yomi Kasali, was appointed on the board of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission alongside Emmanuel Ebomuche, Ezekiel Agazu, Israel Akanji, Anthony Fasipe, Jidda Musa, Yusuf Biniyat and forgiven Amachree.<br /> <br /> Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and others are on the board of the National Boundary Commission while Gen. John Shagaya and others made the list of the National Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies.<br /> <br /> Osinbajo is also chairing the Border Communities Development Agency, the National Planning Commission and the National Space Research and Development Agency<br /> <br /> The President himself is chairing the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure and the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority.<br /> <br /> Other agencies that have their boards reconstituted are the National Commission for Refugees, Federal Road Safety Commission, National Lottery Trust Fund, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Federal Institute for Industrial Research, Oshodi and Project Development Institute.<br /> <br /> Others are the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology, Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research, National Space Research and Development Agency, National Biotechnology Development Agency, National Board for Technology Incubation,  Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, Nigerian Leather Science Technology, National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion  and Nigeria Airspace Management Agency.<br /> <br /> They also include Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria; Nigerian Meteorological Agency; Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority; Nigerian Geological Survey Agency; National Steel Raw Materials Exploration Agency; National Metallurgical Development Centre, Jos; Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists; National Iron Ore Mining Company, Itakpe; Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun; Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority; Petroleum Equalisation Fund; Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board; and Nigeria Customs Service.<br /> <br /></div>

Latest-News Ex-governor Adebayo, Keyamo, Arise, others get board appointments

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday approved the constitution of the Governing Boards of agencies and parastatals, under some ministries. According to a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the President a…

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FG redeploys nine perm secs

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNUrHFc-5HEiT78m8F8UdTELHpCKZpjVCx5JSsaBPRPfEEfFS_z_7vgjWTbwlLbMfLyeGoWVEuBWGtwlpeY5_P8oPODpKl-dsZuXzrhEE6B8NEF4tz4fRygb4G5PGcj0XixQPtsk6VIU/s1600/Federal+government+of+Nigeria.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivNUrHFc-5HEiT78m8F8UdTELHpCKZpjVCx5JSsaBPRPfEEfFS_z_7vgjWTbwlLbMfLyeGoWVEuBWGtwlpeY5_P8oPODpKl-dsZuXzrhEE6B8NEF4tz4fRygb4G5PGcj0XixQPtsk6VIU/s400/Federal+government+of+Nigeria.png" /></a></div> The Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita, has approved the deployment of nine permanent secretaries to various Ministries, Departments and Agencies.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> This is contained in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Abuja.<br /> <br /> The deployment is as follows: Mr Aminu Bisalla – Niger Delta Affairs; Aliboh Leon Lawrence – Special Duties Office (OHCSF); Odewale Samson Olajide – Budget and National Planning; Dr Umar Mohammed Bello – Special Services Office (OSGF), and Sulaiman Mustapha Lawal – Career Management Office (OHCSF).<br /> <br /> Others are Adekunle Olusegun Adeyemi – General Services Office (OSGF); Ekaro Comfort Chukwumuebodo – Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC); Dr Abdulkadir Mu’azu – Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, and Osuji Ndubuisi Marcellinus – Service Policy and Strategies Office (OHCSF).<br /> <br /> The head of service directed that the processes for handing and taking over should be completed on or before Jan. 8, 2018.</div>

Latest-News FG redeploys nine perm secs

The Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita, has approved the deployment of nine permanent secretaries to various Ministries, Departments and Agencies. This is contained in a statement made available to the News Agency o…

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Buhari suffering from dementia – Fani-Kayode

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Three dead people included in Buhari’s board appointments

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Hoodlums hijack rice sent to Kogi workers by National Assembly

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7NmRECER1t2UOJDXfqMkqXzTGabLa2qM8Fhny_EDhCBPcP3i90sMbS6EQzgYYeRpIFr61abNALjvJPAoWjnMK4ddeBLiws5yUB6OSvl_Fj2roszK7bAiHMG91WkK_w-k2RlSef3R398/s1600/house-of-representative.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7NmRECER1t2UOJDXfqMkqXzTGabLa2qM8Fhny_EDhCBPcP3i90sMbS6EQzgYYeRpIFr61abNALjvJPAoWjnMK4ddeBLiws5yUB6OSvl_Fj2roszK7bAiHMG91WkK_w-k2RlSef3R398/s320/house-of-representative.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Hoodlums yet to be identified have vandalised the first consignment of 220 bags of rice sent to Kogi State by members of the National Assembly for workers.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> A statement signed Vice Chairman of Nigerian Labour Congress, Kogi State Chapter, Comrade Meliga Obaka, made available to newsmen in  Lokoja on Friday (yesterday) condemned in totality the attitude of the hoodlums that vandalised the consignment.<br /> <br /> The union also debunked claims that Union leaders were part of the agreement for the payment of percentage salaries to the state and local government workers.<br /> <br /> Obaka said,  “The first consignment of 220 bags of rice was still in the truck that brought it to Lokoja at the old market when hoodlums invaded the area and looted the rice.”<br /> <br /> He described the occurrence as very unfortunate and called on the law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice.</div>

Latest-News Hoodlums hijack rice sent to Kogi workers by National Assembly

Hoodlums yet to be identified have vandalised the first consignment of 220 bags of rice sent to Kogi State by members of the National Assembly for workers. A statement signed Vice Chairman of Nigerian Labour Congress, Kogi State Chapter, Comrade Mel…

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"Buhari is a ‘big disappointment’ to Nigeria"

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Prophet Ayodele reveals what God told him about Nigeria, Buhari, Tinubu, 2019

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Fuel scarcity: Senate begs Nigerians, speaks on inviting Petroleum Minister, Buhari

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Governor Ajimobi reacts to Yusuf Buhari’s accident

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Reno Omokri reacts to Buhari’s 17 achievements in 2017

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Wike reveals what he discussed with Buhari during closed-door meeting on Friday

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FULL LIST: Nigerian Army effects major shake-up, redeploys generals

Latest-News FULL LIST: Nigerian Army effects major shake-up, redeploys generals

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REVEALED: The ‘Nigerian Prince’ Who Defrauded Hundreds Of Americans

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="504" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQ6-bDv8QEML_YpGzpCYLuQhTcb5DUXcblTE35jSBxvADFUmMmfQ4ZyyEOb2CSih5N4qan8VkwkoEF2LMslkr0q9CDOUo_jZLddYu3QTNb6SRnnr3eBZ1jXE3tMU9ILWbU6a6myYcueCd/s640/BEE-504x283.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> <br /> The police in Louisiana has arrested an American advance fee fraudster posing as a Nigerian prince.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The police in a facebook post said the fake Nigerian prince has duped hundreds of people across America using emails.<br /> <br /> According to The Sacramento Bee anyone with an email address has likely gotten a message from the so-called Nigerian prince or two offering hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars in secret inheritances or, in some cases, payment for assistance laundering ill-gotten gains from mining conglomerates or royal treasuries.<br /> <br /> Police in Slidell, Louisiana, say they finally caught up with one of the people behind some of those emails. He’s not exactly Nigerian royalty, either, police wrote in a Facebook post.<br /> <br /> Michael Neu, 67, of Slidell, Louisiana, faces 269 counts of wire fraud and money laundering following an 18-month investigation, police wrote. They say Neu took part in hundreds of financial transactions involving phone and online scams to con money from people across the United States.<br /> <br /> In these scams, the supposed Nigerian prince (or other official) asks for the person’s personal banking information in order to speed the transfer of the purported inheritance or temporarily hold the allegedly pilfered funds. The information can then be used to withdraw funds from the victim’s accounts.<br /> <br /> While Neu might lack a royal title, at least some of the money obtained in his scams did go to co-conspirators in Nigeria, police wrote. Investigators are continuing to untangle Neu’s web of scams, but many other leads also connect to people outside the U.S., the post says.<br /> <br /> Police noted that while these kinds of emails are laughable to many people, authorities report millions of dollars in losses to such scams each year.<br /> <br /> “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” said Police Chief Randy Fandal in the Facebook post. “Never give out personal information over the phone, through e-mail, cash checks for other individuals, or wire large amounts of money to someone you don’t know. 99.9 percent of the time, it’s a scam.”<br /> <br /> Law enforcement agencies across the nation also are warning people of calls from scammers purporting to be police or court officials demanding payment via phone of bogus fines or warrants. Another version involves scammers claiming to be jailed relatives pleading for bail money, often targeting older people.

Latest-News REVEALED: The ‘Nigerian Prince’ Who Defrauded Hundreds Of Americans

The police in Louisiana has arrested an American advance fee fraudster posing as a Nigerian prince. The police in a facebook post said the fake Nigerian prince has duped hundreds of people across America using emails. According to The Sacramento Bee…

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Calabar trader attempts suicide over confiscated N5,000 goods

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSnbIPL8zFGUIfuRWHFjFzZkT96jD52O3yjO5zFZ9rZa_7Tu1GMBry9UIZXX14MOA_T4vsgVK1fDz5aAMrwkId5BZ_702eVJrkjNxPS0t5KqxZGwnM_GMEOFiAGuwZZak-jYu6Fzrt34M2/s1600/suicide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="345" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSnbIPL8zFGUIfuRWHFjFzZkT96jD52O3yjO5zFZ9rZa_7Tu1GMBry9UIZXX14MOA_T4vsgVK1fDz5aAMrwkId5BZ_702eVJrkjNxPS0t5KqxZGwnM_GMEOFiAGuwZZak-jYu6Fzrt34M2/s400/suicide.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> An unidentified middle-aged trader on Friday attempted to commit suicide by lying in front of the rare tyre of a truck to prevent authorities of the Cross River State Ministry of Environment from confiscating her goods worth N5, 000.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> It was learnt that the incident, which happened in front of Oando Filling Station, opposite the back wing of the U.J Esuene Stadium in Calabar, attracted passers-by.<br /> <br /> A member of the task force in the ministry had threatened the petty trader over alleged violation of a new trading policy, which barred traders from displaying or erecting shops in opens spaces along major roads.<br /> <br /> But the trader, it was learnt, pulled the stunt when her source of livelihood was about to be taken away.<br /> <br /> The trader had publicly lamented that she preferred being crushed to death by the truck, than to allow the task force to take her means of livelihood.<br /> <br /> Items on the woman’s wares were items like biscuits and drinks.<br /> <br /> The State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Mike Eraye, had in the last few weeks warned hawkers and roadside traders to desist from displaying their wares along major roads.<br /> <br /> The commissioner had specifically cautioned petty traders to relocate or face the consequences.<br /> <br /> However, the woman jumped under the parked truck, which was used by the task force to confiscate goods of erring traders, and started crying.

Latest-News Calabar trader attempts suicide over confiscated N5,000 goods

An unidentified middle-aged trader on Friday attempted to commit suicide by lying in front of the rare tyre of a truck to prevent authorities of the Cross River State Ministry of Environment from confiscating her goods worth N5, 000. It was learnt t…

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Fuel scarcity: FG seals over 62 petrol stations

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkPw6Ebf1kaD_tqRXHTfS5aYdZ6XcwwlrdhR6sIcYhrQbNcGuFsijSycG2jPdZuSTz2x6d53HTsZF9CNZwaUfbYhMKtPRMNQ9E7zrodCF7IGbRMd1QCltoO5T203EJDGmC5tF_sRY_2By/s1600/fuel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="175" data-original-width="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmkPw6Ebf1kaD_tqRXHTfS5aYdZ6XcwwlrdhR6sIcYhrQbNcGuFsijSycG2jPdZuSTz2x6d53HTsZF9CNZwaUfbYhMKtPRMNQ9E7zrodCF7IGbRMd1QCltoO5T203EJDGmC5tF_sRY_2By/s1600/fuel.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> The Federal Government, through the Department of Petroleum Resources, has sealed over 62 petrol stations across the country.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The petrol stations were shut down due to varying acts of malpractices, including selling the Premium Motor Spirit, otherwise known as petrol, far above the N145 official price.<br /> <br /> Since fuel scarcity started nationwide some days before Christmas, several filling stations had started selling fuel as high as N300 per litre.<br /> <br /> Speaking to one of our correspondents, the Head of Operations, DPR, Kwara State, Mr. Oyedele Ibitayo, said the agency had sealed no fewer than 10 petrol stations in the state for varying acts of malpractices and infractions since the fuel crisis started.<br /> <br /> Ibitayo listed the petrol stations that allegedly flouted regulations to include Korrect Petroleum at Agbabiaka Road, Ilorin; Alhaji M. Oyetunji Petrol Station at Ajase; Golden Mother Petrol Station at Agbabiaka; Haflum Petrol Station at Babaoko; and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation retail outlet at Okoolowo.<br /> <br /> He stated that their offences ranged from under-delivery, over-pricing and product diversion. He added that one of the stations sold petrol as high as N250 per litre.<br /> <br /> Ibitayo said punishments meted out to the defaulters varied depending on their offence.<br /> <br /> He said while some were shut down for between two and six months, some were asked to pay a fine of N200,000 and sign an undertaking that they would not be involved in such sharp practices again.<br /> <br /> In Edo State, the DPR said it had sealed 23 petrol stations for indulging in sharp practices.<br /> <br /> This is just as the state Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Mr. Makinde Ayinla, said that the agency was collaborating with the DPR to check malpractices among the oil marketers.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Three of the stations were sealed on Friday for dispensing fuel above the official price.<br /> <br /> One of the alleged erring stations, FU Alohan, located on Sapele Road in Benin, was shut down for selling a litre of petrol at N260.<br /> <br /> The state Operations Controller, DPR, Mr. Maynard Oriaifo, said that officials of the agency had been going round the state to ensure all filling stations sold petrol at N145.<br /> <br /> In Osun State, the Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Mr. Babawale Afolabi, told newsmen that so far, three filling stations had been sealed in the state.<br /> <br /> He added that marketers involved in hoarding fuel had been forced to sell the product to motorists and other consumers at the official price of N145.<br /> <br /> Likewise, in Katsina State, the Area Operations Manager, DPR, Mr. Yusuf Shehu, said the agency had sealed nine filing stations for alleged product diversion and selling fuel above N145.<br /> <br /> He said that the seal order on the affected filling stations would not be lifted until they served all the penalties meted to them, which he did not disclose.<br /> <br /> But, a DPR official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said some of the errant filling stations were asked to pay a fine of at least N200,000.<br /> <br /> In Enugu State, the DPR said it had sealed three petrol stations and arrested seven operators for sharp practices during the period of fuel scarcity.<br /> <br /> In Enugu, the DPR sealed three filling stations, and arrested seven operators, for hoarding fuel and selling above the official pump price.<br /> <br /> The Head, Health, Safety and Environment Unit, DPR, Mr. Unyime Akpan, named the errant stations as Pipeline West Africa, Abakpa Nike; Raino Oil and Gas, Enugu-Onitsha Expressway; and NACO, Presidential Road, Independence Layout.<br /> <br /> He said that the stations had been forced to selling fuel at the official price.<br /> <br /> The DPR has also sealed six filing stations in Sokoto and Kebbi states, according to the agency’s Acting Controller, Sokoto Zone, Alhaji Nura Kamba.<br /> <br /> He said that while four were sealed in Sokoto State, two were in Kebbi State, adding that the errant stations had been asked to pay a fine of N100,000 per pump.<br /> <br /> It was a similar scenario in Kaduna State, where the DPR sealed three filing stations for hoarding over 17,000 litres of petrol. Speaking to journalists, the Executive Director, Services, Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company, Mallam Abdullahi Idris, and the Kaduna State Commander, NSCDC, said the erring stations had been forced to dispense fuel at the official price.<br /> <br /> The Comptroller, DPR, Bauchi State, Alhaji Garba Salihu, told newsmen that four filling stations had been sealed off in the state for selling petrol above the government-approved price of N145.<br /> <br /> “The stations were selling at N167; we have sealed them off,” he said, warning that the agency would stop at nothing to punish the errant oil marketers.<br /> <br /> In Plateau State, the Operations Manager of the DPR, Mr. Jeremiah Mashat, said the agency had only sealed off one filling station, which had been fined N200,000 for selling fuel above N145.

Latest-News Fuel scarcity: FG seals over 62 petrol stations

The Federal Government, through the Department of Petroleum Resources, has sealed over 62 petrol stations across the country. The petrol stations were shut down due to varying acts of malpractices, including selling the Premium Motor Spirit, otherwi…

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Angry Med-View passengers attack airline officials in London

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjxfAdtyf4H9c_4twpBaFYKoi20Z0JPOrd4qDz0qd7cXgWj39hhdMIYD130Grt2U-Zo-Lh79dxdGjNea0aYaZymhoUH3cVU4Bnk3VhoNwe90dQfgMYylOrWCU8dcg6F5IoQ4oYn0YAJex/s1600/medview-airline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPjxfAdtyf4H9c_4twpBaFYKoi20Z0JPOrd4qDz0qd7cXgWj39hhdMIYD130Grt2U-Zo-Lh79dxdGjNea0aYaZymhoUH3cVU4Bnk3VhoNwe90dQfgMYylOrWCU8dcg6F5IoQ4oYn0YAJex/s640/medview-airline.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> Med-View Airline passengers in London, on Friday, attacked the carrier’s members of staff at the Gatwick Airport after several Lagos-bound flights were cancelled, leaving them stranded for days.<br /> <br /> According to persecondnews.com, up to 800 passengers had been stranded at the Gatwick Airport for five days with dozens of them sleeping on the floor.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Some of the passengers were said to have accused the airline of abandoning them.<br /> <br /> Eyewitnesses said police were later called to the south terminal of the airport to maintain peace amid angry scenes as passengers took on airline officials.<br /> <br /> The airline’s Dubai- and London-bound passengers had on Thursday disrupted activities at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos following days of waiting to be airlifted to their destinations.<br /> <br /> Some of the passengers said they had been stranded for several days due to flight delays and cancellation.<br /> <br /> The aggrieved passengers were said to have gone to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s Consumer Protection Department desk to complain, alleging that the airline did not send any update through emails or text messages despite delaying some of them from travelling to London since December 24th.<br /> <br /> In a statement signed by its Accountable Manager, Mr. Michael Ajigbotosho, on Thursday, the airline said delayed flight operations out of Gatwick Airport, London on December 22, caused the problem as it created a backlog of passengers.<br /> <br /> He said the flight, VL 2101, London to Lagos on Friday, December 22, which had about 300 passengers on board, returned back to Gatwick after departure as a precautionary measure taken by the pilot in line with Aviation Standard and Recommended Practices.<br /> <br /> He added, “This led to cancellation of the flight as the aircraft was declared AOG (Aircraft On Ground). The passengers were catered for, they were lodged in a hotel and those who decided to go back home were also taken care of.<br /> <br /> “After the aircraft was declared AOG, we had to wait for a maintenance report. The aircraft had to remain on ground until a certified expert carries out the necessary checks and certify that the aircraft is airworthy.<br /> <br /> “So, the holiday compounded the problem. In line with that confirmation, we decided to seek for a relief flight and tried as much as possible go get the approval from both the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the CAA of United Kingdom in Gatwick. We attest to their full cooperation and we appreciate them.”<br /> <br /> He said the airline announced to operate three flights feeling the concern of all its passengers and on Wednesday, December 27, positioned three aircraft after securing the approval of the CAA.<br /> <br /> According to him, the three aeroplanes would have evacuated 700 passengers which would have normalised the situation.<br /> <br /> “But the passengers neither understood nor knew the challenges ahead, which resorted to having a delayed operation and the crew rested and we ended up operating two flights out of three,” he said.<br /> <br /> Ajigbotosho, while appealing for more understanding from passengers, had stated that normal flights would resume on Friday for the airline’s London, Dubai and Jeddah passengers.

Latest-News Angry Med-View passengers attack airline officials in London

Med-View Airline passengers in London, on Friday, attacked the carrier’s members of staff at the Gatwick Airport after several Lagos-bound flights were cancelled, leaving them stranded for days. According to persecondnews.com, up to 800 passengers h…

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