Nigerian Eye

Stunning Manchester United comeback keeps City waiting for title

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Manchester United produced an incredible second-half comeback to leave rivals Manchester City waiting for confirmation of the Premier League title after a thrilling game at the Etihad Stadium. 
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Pep Guardiola's side seemed to be cruising to the crown as they went in at the break with a 2-0 lead, but United produced a staggering response led by two-goal Paul Pogba. 
 
City produced the first threat with five minutes gone when Leroy Sane found David Silva, whose low cross seemed to hit the grounded Ashley Young on the hand only for penalty appeals to be waved away. 
 
The home side were controlling the opening stages but United offered some threat when Pogba was fouled on the left only for Alexis Sanchez to waste the free kick. 
 
Back came City and, after 21 minutes, David Silva got onto the end of a loose ball after good work from Raheem Sterling but sent his effort high and wide. 
 
That was a warning for an increasingly stretched United, whose keeper David De Gea soon had to make a good save to prevent Bernardo Silva from opening the scoring. 
 
But after 25 minutes City took what seemed to be their first step towards confirming the title when captain Vincent Kompany rose unmarked to thump home a header from Sane's corner. 
 
Five minutes later, it appeared to be all but in the bag as Pep Guardiola's men struck again in style, Sterling finding Ilkay Gundogan, who turned past Ander Herera and finished into the corner. 
 
Sterling twice fired over from good positions as City looked to put the outcome beyond doubt before half-time, Herrara going into the referee's book as United became increasingly ragged. 
 
Sane crossed low as Jose Mourinho's side again struggled to cope with City's passing, only for Sterling to scuff a shot into the hands of De Gea, while Gundogan headed at the keeper before Romelu Lukaku, working off scraps, was booked for a foul. 
 
Lukaku made a strong run into the City area in the opening moments of the second half only for his attempted cross to be cut out, the corner coming off Kompany and running across the area with nobody able to get a touch. 
 
United were on the front foot as they tried to find a route back into the game and Pogba tried his luck from just outside the box but Ederson saved. 
 
Back came City, and good work from Sterling engineered a shooting chance for Gundogan, who lifted his effort over the bar. 
 
But after 53 minutes United were back in the game with a high-quality goal, Sanchez picking out Herrera, who chested the ball down for Pogba to clip home -- and within two minutes they had made it 2-2. 
 
Again the goal was excellent and again Sanchez was involved, flighting a perfect cross for Pogba to send a fine header past Ederson and into the corner. 
 
The home side, who had seemed to be cruising to the title, had a chance to re-establish the lead when Fernandinho flighted a pass to Silva inside the area but, after bringing the ball down, he was unable to steer it beyond De Gea. 
 
Jesse Lingard fired wide from the edge of the area as City's first-half composure deserted them, but the home side came forward again and Gundogan whipped a 65th-minuyte free kick over the bar after Silva had been fouled on the edge of the area. 
 
Astonishingly, after 69 minutes United were in front and Sanchez was again the provider as his deep free kick from the left was met by Chris Smalling, who escaped his markers to thump an emphatic finish past Ederson. 
 
Guardiola reacted by ringing the changes, bringing on Kevin De Bruyne for Silva and Gabriel Jesus for Bernardo Silva in what had become a stunned atmosphere at the Etihad Stadium. 
 
A third change soon followed as Sergio Aguero entered the fray, coming on for Gundogan as the game entered its final 15 minutes. 
 
City were adamant that they should have had a penalty when Young made a clattering challenge on Aguero inside the area but referee Martin Atkinson waved away the appeals, Aguero booked for his reaction, before Fernandinho also received a yellow card for a foul on Lingard. 
 
The game was beginning to come to the boil, Pogba joining the list of those in the book, before Mourinho opted to make a change as he replaced Sanchez with Marcus Rashford. 
 
With five minutes of normal time remaining, Scott McTominay came on for Lingard as Mourinho looked to see the game out. 
 
Young made a crucial interception as Sterling looked to have got away down the right with time running out, and the De Gea made a confident claim as Fabian Delph swung in a cross from the left. 
 
And with 89 minutes gone, the United keeper made a superb stop to tip an Aguero header over the bar when the City substitute had seemed certain to make it 3-3. 
 
Sterling's touch to a header down cannoned off the post and was scrambled away as the home side came even closer to an equaliser -- but, with Danilo and Gabriel Jesus also going into the book - they were unable to find one. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit: ESPN</div>

Latest-News Stunning Manchester United comeback keeps City waiting for title

Manchester United produced an incredible second-half comeback to leave rivals Manchester City waiting for confirmation of the Premier League title after a thrilling game at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola's side seemed to be cruising to the crown …

Bayern Munich beat Augsburg to win sixth consecutive Bundesliga title

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Bayern Munich came from behind to wrap up their sixth consecutive Bundesliga title with a 4-1 win over Augsburg. 
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Jupp Heynckes' side picked up the Bavarian derby win they needed to become champions with five games to spare. 
 
They had trailed through Niklas Sule's own goal but Corentin Tolisso and James Rodriguez set them on their way towards a 28th German championship. 
 
Arjen Robben converted Rodriguez's cut-back and Sandro Wagner headed a fourth. 
 
Treble-chasing Bayern rested a host of players with Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg against Sevilla in mind. Robert Lewandowski, Thomas Muller, Thiago, Franck Ribery, Mats Hummels and Javi Martinez were all on the bench. 
 
They had looked in trouble when Sven Ulreich's parried save hit Sule and flew into their own net. But Tolisso headed in Joshua Kimmich's cross and Rodriguez then smashed home from close range. 
 
Robben's powerful third - his 95th Bundesliga goal - confirmed the victory - and Wagner completed the rout late on. 
 
Bayern Munich were five points behind Borussia Dortmund when they lured Heynckes out of retirement in October - for his fourth spell as manager - after sacking Carlo Ancelotti. 
 
Heynckes, now 72, had not worked since 2013 when he led Bayern to the treble of Bundesliga, Champions League and German Cup - and was then replaced by Pep Guardiola. 
 
Having wrapped up Heynckes' fourth title as Bayern boss, 29 years after the first, they are in contention for the treble once again. 
 
Bayern - who have won 28 out of 31 games since the legendary manager's return - face Sevilla in the Champions League quarter-final second leg on Wednesday, having won the away tie 2-1. 
 
The Bavarians face Bayer Leverkusen in the German Cup semi-finals on Tuesday, 17 April. 
 
"I'd like to send my best wishes to Carlo Ancelotti in Italy," said Heynckes. "This title is also for him. He is a fantastic coach." 
 
Bayern's wait for a home title goes on 
 
In a strange quirk, Bayern have not clinched a league title in a home game since the year 2000 - meaning they have never done it since moving to the Allianz Arena in 2005. 
 
They have sealed 11 of their 12 Bundesligas since then by winning or drawing away matches, with the 2014-15 championship secured on a day when they were not even playing. 
 
The victory in Augsburg was the second time in this run they have wrapped it up in Bavaria, following a 2-1 win at Ingolstadt in 2016. Three of those 12 titles were won in Wolfsburg, including last year's 6-0 thrashing. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit: BBC</div>

Latest-News Bayern Munich beat Augsburg to win sixth consecutive Bundesliga title

Bayern Munich came from behind to wrap up their sixth consecutive Bundesliga title with a 4-1 win over Augsburg. Jupp Heynckes' side picked up the Bavarian derby win they needed to become champions with five games to spare. They had trailed through …

Live Commentary: Manchester City vs Manchester United

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Welcome to Nigerianeye's live text coverage of the Premier League meeting between Manchester City and Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium. 
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The Citizens can win a fifth top-flight crown in record time this evening should they pick up all three points on home soil against their city neighbours. 
 
United are left battling for a second-placed finish, meanwhile, knowing that a point or more from this game will merely delay the inevitable of their closest rivals lifting a third title in seven seasons. 
 
Follow all of the action as it unfolds with our extensive updates below. 
 
OFFICIAL LINE-UPS 
 
MANCHESTER CITY: Ederson; Danilo, Kompany, Otamendi, Delph; Fernandinho, Gundogan, Bernardo; D.Silva, Sterling, Sane 
 
SUBS: Bravo, Laporte, Walker, Aguero, G Jesus, Yaya Toure, De Bruyne 
 
MANCHESTER UNITED: De Gea; Young, Bailly, Smalling, Valencia; Matic, Pogba, Herrera; Lingard, Lukaku, Sanchez 
 
SUBS: Pereira, Lindelof, Rojo, Mata, Martial, Rashford, McTominay 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 </div>

Latest-News Live Commentary: Manchester City vs Manchester United

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Two Benue State University students write exams in wedding gowns (PHOTOS)

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Two final-year Mass Communication students of the Benue State University were pictured writing their exam in their wedding gowns. 
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It was gathered that the exam, Com 402: Media Law and Ethics, was scheduled for Saturday and it clashed with their weddings. And since the exam couldn’t be shifted, the two brides stormed the hall in their gowns. 
 
 
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Latest-News Two Benue State University students write exams in wedding gowns (PHOTOS)

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Oyegun has done well – South-South leaders

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The prospect of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun retaining his job after June 14, 2018 is seen as having more resonance now. 
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South-South leaders on Friday threw their weight behind Oyegun for building APC, advancing progressive ideas, supporting the government and championing the rights of members. 
“We agreed to task Oyegun with the job of managing the All Progressives Congress (APC) till 2022” the leaders said. 
 
At a meeting to chalk out the position of the zone on the APC National Chairmanship Seat, the leaders praised Oyegun for keeping the ruling party in shape, treating everyone with fairness and strengthening the grassroots. 
 
“Oyegun is an asset to Nigeria. He is a few steps ahead of other leaders. The ruling party is growing stronger and increasing in number” the leaders said. 
 
Chairman South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry in a statement released in Yenagoa after the meeting said the South-South leaders decided that Oyegun should continue as chairman of the ruling party because of his sterling performance. 
 
The leaders termed the 2019 presidential election as very critical and one that will have far-reaching impact, citing Oyegun’s impeccable reputation, leadership skills and fairness. 
 
“The way forward for the ruling party is to retain Oyegun through consensus” the leaders said. 
 
Specifically, they praised Oyegun for promoting democracy, particularly protecting and broadening the rights of members to real political participation, contributing to the unity and growth of the ruling party. 
 
The leaders hailed Oyegun as a true leader of democracy. 
 
“Oyegun deserves credit for promoting democratic priorities, addressing challenging issues facing APC, protecting the interests of the Nigerian people and improving the standing of the ruling party. 
 
They commended President Muhammadu Buhari, Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, APC National Leader, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC governors, Chief Bisi Akande, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, party chairmen and others for supporting Oyegun. 
 
“We are on track. The process of retaining Oyegun till 2022 is expected to be a formality” the leaders said. 
 
They also contested the views of Isaac Kekemeke, Perekeme Kpodo and Timi Frank on the performance of Oyegun. 
 
“Oyegun has demonstrated how to overcome the challenges confronting the ruling party in the country.” 
 
The leaders emphasized those aspects of Oyegun’s contribution which laid stress on internal democracy, unity, expansion, fairness and respect. 
 
They also described the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a disaster. 
 
“What do you want Oyegun to learn from PDP”. The party’s fortunes have plummeted. The opposition party is in disarray. It cannot heal itself. The party is hated by Nigerians for entrenching poverty, unemployment, corruption, insecurity and deprivation. The party has been shown the way out of government at the national level and will never return to power again” the leaders said.</div>

Latest-News Oyegun has done well – South-South leaders

The prospect of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun retaining his job after June 14, 2018 is seen as having more resonance now. South-South leaders on Friday threw their weight behind Oyegun for building APC, advancing progressive ideas, supporting the governm…

Liverpool and Everton fail to find spark in drab draw

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Everton and Liverpool had to settle for a share of the spoils as the Merseyside derby ended in a goalless draw at Goodison Park. 
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The home side made the brighter start on a rainy afternoon at Goodison, Liverpool's Virgil Van Dijk having to head a promising early Seamus Coleman cross clear. 
 
Georginio Wijnaldum sent a long-range effort off target as Jurgen Klopp's side hit back, and when James Milner crossed soon afterwards Dominic Solanke headed wide from around 10 yards. 
 
Back came Everton and, when Cenc Tosun tried a first-time effort from 20 yards, it dipped too late and flew over the bar. 
 
But moments later the home side were indebted to goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who got in the way of a close-range Solanke strike after the ball had rebounded to the forward off a defender. 
 
At the other end, Ragnar Klavan miscued an Everton free kick narrowly wide of his own goal and then the home side wanted a penalty when Tosun went down under a challenge from Van Dijk but the appeals were waved away. 
 
Liverpool's Loris Karius produced a fine fingertip save when Yannick Bolasie fired in a curling strike from outside the area, with Dejan Lovren heading the resulting corner clear. 
 
Another fine save from Pickford followed on the half-hour as Milner cut in and saw his curling effort, heading for the far corner, tipped around the post before the Everton keeper held a long-ranger from Van Dijk. 
 
With half-time approaching, Bolasie was jeered by frustrated home fans when his misplaced pass gifted the ball to Danny Ings, but the Liverpool player was unable to make anything of it. 
 
And with the final action of a disappointing first period, Sadio Mane shot over from 25 yards. 
 
Phil Jagileka began the second half with a crunching challenge on Solanke to give Liverpool a free kick that came to nothing before Milner hooked in another dangerous cross that Everton scrambled away. 
 
Everton were continuing to sit deep as Liverpool dominated possession and manager Sam Allardyce prepared an early change as Solanke tried and failed to trick his way into space inside the area. 
 
With 57 minutes gone, Allardyce made his change, replacing Wayne Rooney with Idrissa Gueye -- a decision reacted to angrily by Rooney as he made his way to the bench. 
 
A second change soon followed as Yannick Bolasie was replaced by Dominic Calvert-Lewin, but Everton remained ragged in possession and Ings again stole possession for Liverpool before Jagielka stepped in. 
 
Klopp, with an eye on next week's Champions league quarterfinal second leg against Manchester City, took off Milner and replaced him with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. 
 
The substitute was quickly into the action, firing a 25-yard effort over the bar as Liverpool stepped up the tempo but there remained little sign of a break in the deadlock as the game reached its final quarter of an hour. 
 
Calvert-Lewin's deflected effort from an angle deflected away from his waiting colleagues inside the area and, with the final 10 minutes approaching, Allardyce made another change as Tom Davies was replaced by Beni Baningime. 
 
Theo Walcott slipped when it looked as though the ball might find its way to him when Tosun's strike was deflected inside the area. 
 
And with four minutes to go, Everton were within a whisker of snatching the three points as Tosun's header drifted well wide after Walcott had crossed, with Coleman unable to get to the loose ball, and then Calvert-Lewin fired wide after the ball had fallen to him. 
 
Liverpool replaced Ings with Trent Alexander-Arnold, but neither side could break through in three added minutes. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit: ESPN</div>

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APC not knowing how to govern has been functioning more as an opposition party - Reuben Abati

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Less than a year to the next general elections in Nigeria, the biggest deficit in the political process leading to that moment is the absence of a robust, virile and effective opposition. 
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The role of the opposition in a democracy is to question, criticize, challenge, and audit the governments of the day – local and national – and make them more transparent and accountable, and even if these twin-objectives may not be immediately achieved, the opposition exists nonetheless to put the people in power “on their toes” as it were in the people’s overall interest. 
 
This is the underlying principle of a parliamentary system of government, and even in other forms of government including a Presidential system, the opposition provides checks and balances, it is a kind of alternative government, a counterweight, providing such balance that could safeguard the integrity of the political process. But of course, what is at stake is “the conquest of power”: the opposition provides the people with a choice and ultimately seeks to wrestle power from or out of the hands of the incumbent and present a different vision of social and economic progress. 
 
In doing this, the opposition may be constructive – in this regard it could even work with the ruling party or government to promote the national interest. This was the case under Prime Minister Narasimha Rao of India who once sent opposition leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee to the United Nations Human Rights Commission in Geneva, as leader of the Indian delegation, to defend the government on its human rights record in response to allegations by Pakistan. 
 
Rao’s party members, who felt he had no business working with the opposition criticized him as loudly as they could, but the Prime Minister felt it was more important to be bi-partisan and project a picture of national unity. It is not a strategy that has endured in India’s divisive politics. But what is known is that in other jurisdictions, members of the opposition in parliament sometimes vote on a non-partisan basis on key issues before the parliament. This may occur when the rivalry among the political parties is peaceful and there is a broad consensus that the country is far more important than the boundaries imposed by partisan politics. 
 
For the most part however, opposition politics can be disruptive, and apropos, the strategy of the opposition is not to construct anything or offer any value but to “oppose, oppose, oppose” by any means possible to wear down and pull down the incumbent government. Physical violence, blackmail, abusive words, post-truth imagery and fake news are part of the arsenal of the disruptive opposition. 
 
In Nigeria at the moment, we neither have in my estimation a constructive or a disruptive opposition. Whatever we have that may look remotely as any form of opposition is weak, uncoordinated, and ineffective. Our political parties are internally polarized, politics has become evil, our political leaders do not know where to draw the line, the ruling government is having an upper hand, it is committed to an unrelenting, overzealous persecution of the opposition and progressive ideas. The last time we witnessed what looked like organized opposition, even if it was disruptive, was ironically through the All Progressives Congress (APC). In 2013, a number of political parties formed a synergy with civil society groups to become the All Progressives Congress, and adopting an “oppose, oppose, oppose” strategy, they managed by 2015 to get the ruling Peoples Democratic Party out of power. It was a major turning point in Nigerian politics since the return to civilian rule in 1999. 
 
But the PDP was not prepared for its new role as the leading opposition party, just as the new government led by the APC was equally unprepared for governance. This sudden reversal of roles caught Nigeria’s main political actors napping. The APC at the centre found it difficult to even appoint Ministers: it took six months to come up with a list. In one or two states, the Governors acted as sole administrators for up to a year. There are about 80 registered political parties in the country, but these are at best relatively unknown parties. 
 
The main political party, the PDP has been largely in disarray since it lost power. Most of its members have defected to the new ruling party, many of its founding fathers now prefer to be known and addressed as statesmen, and the party’s strong mouthpieces have all been cowed into silence by a ruling party that is wielding power like a whip. 
 
The PDP came out of power mired in a corrosive in-fighting and blame-sharing that robbed the party of its soul. It was later “kidnapped”, and then rescued, but it is not yet in strong enough shape to stand up to the ruling party, offer alternative views or organize itself properly. Who is even the national leader of the PDP? Close to the next general elections as we are, nobody is quite sure. What exactly does the PDP want to do? It is not so clear either. Is the PDP still interested in power? If it is, it is not showing the kind of determination that the APC projected in 2014. 
 
There are PDP members in the legislature at the Federal and State levels, but their voices have not been loud enough. Nigerian politics has not been ideology-driven for a while, that is one explanation, but it is also possible that the remaining PDP members are hedging their bets and secretly planning to join the APC. This is the case because the ruling APC is now in charge of state resources – and that is a major attraction for Nigerian politicians, besides, the APC not knowing how to govern has been functioning more as an opposition party. It has spent the last three years hounding PDP members and the Jonathan administration, and making it difficult for anyone to come up with progressive, opposition ideas. 
 
It had to take Microsoft’s Bill Gates to criticize the Economic Recovery and Growth Programme (ERGP) of the Federal Government before the PDP realized that such a document existed. The new PDP, failing in its role as an opposition party, cedes the initiative to the APC and merely reacts through statements that do not even make much impact. In the states across the Federation, opposition members often forget what their role in the legislature is supposed to be as they join the queue of lawmakers trooping to the Government House to collect favours from imperial Governors. At the Federal level, APC Senator Dino Melaye has functioned more as an opposition leader than any PDP Senator with his persistent interrogation of Executive policies and actions. One or two PDP Senators, along with some other APC members, in comparison, have since acquired a reputation for going to the Red Chamber to sleep during plenary sessions! There is no quality debate as such in our parliaments, more or less, and so the debate about Nigeria has shifted to morning shows on radio and television, oftentimes conducted by ill-equipped analysts and the hysterical crowd. 
 
It is the country that pays the cost when the opposition is asleep, and one political party is allowed to ride roughshod over everyone just because it is in power and office. When members of the APC claim that there is no alternative to President Muhammadu Buhari, I guess they are not saying there are no persons who are better qualified than the President; rather they are saying they cannot see any organized opposition that could pose a threat to the continued stay of the Buhari government in power beyond May 2019. And by conduct, they even make it clear that whoever challenges the APC should be prepared to face the consequences of doing so. The APC mastered bully tactics as an opposition party. It continues to rely on the same tactics as a ruling party. 
 
The gap that has been created by the absence of an effective opposition in Nigerian politics since 2015 is gradually now being filled by thought leaders. Sometime in 2016, I wrote a piece titled “Where are the public intellectuals? in which I challenged the Nigerian intelligentsia generally to rouse from its slumber. That slumber is perhaps understandable. The Nigerian intelligentsia bought into the APC project in 2014 and 2015, and wanted the PDP out of the way by all means. Not too long ago, confronted with the failings of the APC as a ruling party, this special class has since recanted. I dealt with that in “The season of recanting” (Jan.16) but since this other article, the political space has since become more interesting with the interventions of persons like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, General Ibrahim Babangida, General TY Danjuma, Professor Wole Soyinka and the emergence of groups like the Obasanjo-led Coalition for Nigeria, the Agbakoba-led Nigeria Intervention Movement (NIM), the Ezekwesili-led Red Card Movement, and the Concerned Nigerians Movement led by Charly Boy Oputa. The main battle-ground in recent times however has been the Nigerian social media where young Nigerians have been quite loud in expressing their dissatisfaction with the Buhari administration. The social media proved to be a strong weapon of mobilization in the hands of the APC before 2015, now it is its main nemesis. 
 
Useful as these interventions, this reawakening of the civil society, may seem, the value is limited except there is a formal opposition that is specifically organized for the “conquest of power” at the polls. There is a growing consensus among these groups that both the APC and the PDP are of no use, they have not yet identified an alternative political party that can engage the ruling party but I believe the point is not lost on the actors involved that elections are won or lost not on twitter but by political parties actively organized for political action. Opposition politics involves branding, strategy, organization and pro-active action. Nigerian Opposition parties seeking to dislodge the APC can work together to form a political coalition as the APC did in 2013, and even if they do not win in 2019, the country’s political process would be better enriched by a constructive and strong engagement from the opposition that any ruling government deserves. 
 
The current infidelity of the average Nigerian politician is the biggest obstacle that I see. Most Nigerian politicians do not necessarily go into politics because of what they can contribute, but because of what they intend to take out of it. The APC would continue to insist on its self-ascribed invincibility if the best that other political parties can offer is to apologize. The PDP Chairman recently apologized to Nigerians for whatever the PDP did while in power for 16 years. I don’t know whether that is meant to be a strategy or a confession but the meaninglessness of it has been exposed by the vicious responses from the APC and how the PDP has found itself having to struggle to put in a word. The Nigerian Opposition when eventually it awakens and seeks to engage the APC must realize that the APC has a tested opposition machinery, which found itself out of depths in the context of governance, but which in an election season could assume its emotional memory state, and with the resources now at its disposal, including power, prove to be deadly. 
 
Opposition politics is not rocket science and nobody has to travel to India, the UK or the United States to master it. In Nigeria’s First and Second Republics, whatever may have been the problems of that era, this country had a rich culture of opposition politics. Chief Obafemi Awolowo of the Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria, as an opposition leader, confronted the ruling government with hard facts and figures and an alternative vision of how Nigeria could be rescued. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Malam Aminu Kano and Alhaji Ibrahim Waziri – opposition figures at various times – also stood for something. Whoever wants to rule Nigeria or any part thereof should be prepared to tell us exactly what he or she wants to do and how and when. If we have not learnt any lesson, we should by now have realized that a politician wearing Nigerian clothes, taking fine photos, eating corn by the roadside, over-promising, pretending to respect women and children, distributing cash and food, claiming to be a democrat, dancing to impress, and sometimes projecting himself or herself as nationalistic may not be what we are made to see. Nigeria needs a different breed, new faces, new ideas, a new way of politics.</div>

Latest-News APC not knowing how to govern has been functioning more as an opposition party - Reuben Abati

Less than a year to the next general elections in Nigeria, the biggest deficit in the political process leading to that moment is the absence of a robust, virile and effective opposition. The role of the opposition in a democracy is to question, cri…

If you marry on facebook, you cannot tell what will come – Adeboye

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 The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has prayed for the immediate release of all the female students still in Boko Haram captivity. 
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This formed part of his sermon at the April 2018 Holy Ghost Service and Vigil of the Church at its prayer ground in Mowe, Ogun, on Kilometre 45 of Lagos – Ibadan Expressway, which ended on Saturday. 
 
The monthly programme was attended by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Dolapo, as well as thousands of Christian faithful. 
 
Pastor Adeboye expressed gladness for the return of no fewer than 105 students of the Federal Government Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe, abducted by the Boko Haram terrorists in February. 
 
“We thank God for the release of the girls and pray that all the girls yet to secure their freedom should be freed,’’ Adeboye prayed. 
 
He also offered special prayers for those afflicted by all sorts of strange ailments and problems, especially for the barren so that by this time next year, they should be attending the Holy Ghost Service with their children. 
 
The cleric said he had pity for the youth whose parents were involved in evil as such evil often affected their spiritual and physical development. 
 
Quoting Bible verses, especially Ezekiel chapter 16, verse 44, and John 8, verse 44, Adeboye reminded the faithful that God visits the crimes of the father on the children. 
 
According to him, if the children are to be blessed something should be done by their parents. 
 
“If the parents are of the Lord the Lord will continue to bless them and their children will not beg for food,’’ Adeboye stated 
 
He also warned those who got involved in marriage relationships via the social media without finding out the background of their would-be partners, recalling how in the past parents inquired about spouses before approving marriages for their children. 
 
He noted that our elders were uneducated but very rich in knowledge. 
 
“If you marry on facebook, you cannot tell what will come. </div>

Latest-News If you marry on facebook, you cannot tell what will come – Adeboye

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has prayed for the immediate release of all the female students still in Boko Haram captivity. This formed part of his sermon at the April 2018 Holy Ghost Service a…

I warned Babaginda that Abacha would overthrow Shonekan – Mbu

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Latest-News I warned Babaginda that Abacha would overthrow Shonekan – Mbu

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Buhari, Osinbajo, ministers get seven days to reveal their running costs

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Latest-News Buhari, Osinbajo, ministers get seven days to reveal their running costs

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"Police have no right to search phones, demand renewal of tint permit"

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Latest-News "Police have no right to search phones, demand renewal of tint permit"

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Super Falcons routed 8-0 by France in friendly

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The Super Falcons of Nigeria were hammered 8-0 by France senior women’s national team in an international friendly game played inside the MMArena in Le Mans, France on Friday. 
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The friendly is part of preparations for the Falcons ahead of the 2018 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations qualifiers. 
 
It was new Swedish coach Thomas Dennerby’s first game with the main team of the Super Falcons. 
 
The last time the Super Falcons faced France was in their first group stage game at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Germany which the French won 1-0. 
 
France had the first chance of the game in the 14th minute but Chiamaka Nnadozie made a good save to deny the hosts. 
 
The deadlock was eventually broken in the 19th minute through Eugenie Le Sommer. 
 
The French continued to create opportunities and were rewarded in the 36th minute as Valerie Gauvin made it 2-0. 
 
On the stroke of half-time, the Super Falcons conceded again as Gaetane Thiney stretched France’s lead to 3-0 going into the break. 
 
In the 54th minute Desire Oparanozie hit a well-struck shot but was denied by a good save by the French goalkeeper. 
 
The French recovered from the scare from Oparanozie as Aminata Diallo extended their lead in the 60th minute before Gauvin grabbed her brace in the 70th minute to give her side a 5-0 lead. 
 
With 12 minutes remaining, Gauvin completed her hat-trick to give the French a 6-0 lead. 
 
The French were not done as they bagged their seventh goal with five minutes left following an own goal by Faith Ikidi and in the 92nd minute, Marie-Charlotte Leger completed the rout. </div>

Latest-News Super Falcons routed 8-0 by France in friendly

The Super Falcons of Nigeria were hammered 8-0 by France senior women’s national team in an international friendly game played inside the MMArena in Le Mans, France on Friday. The friendly is part of preparations for the Falcons ahead of the 2018 Af…

Offa robbery: We have arrested seven suspects - Police

12:56 Unknown 0

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The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lawan Ado, on Saturday said  seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the robbery of banks in Offa, Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State. 
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Armed robbers had on Thursday robbed Union Bank, Ecobank, Guarantee Trust Bank, First Bank, Zenith Banks and Ibolo Micro Finance Bank. 
 
The CP during a media briefing in Ilorin, the Kwara State Capital said the number of injured victims had yet to be ascertained as they were receiving treatment in different hospitals. 
 
He stated that the Inspector General of Police, Mr Ibrahim Idris, has ordered a full scale investigation into the attacks. 
 
Ado said, “Seven suspects arrested; one at Igosun road and six others at different locations in Offa. They are helping us in our investigation. 
 
“Seven vehicles abandoned and recovered from the armed robbers. Some rifles were carted away by the robbers. 
 
“The Inspector General of Police has ordered a full investigation and has directed his Intelligence Response Team and others to assist in getting the hoodlums arrested. 
 
“The Command wishes to express its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims while also wishing the injured  quick recovery.”</div>

Latest-News Offa robbery: We have arrested seven suspects - Police

The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lawan Ado, on Saturday said seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the robbery of banks in Offa, Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State. Armed robbers had on Thursday robbed Union Bank, E…

Buhari felicitates with David Mark at 70

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday congratulated a former President of the Senate and Senator representing Zone C Constituency of Benue State, David Alechenu Mark, on his 70th birthday. 
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In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the President felicitated with the family, friends and political associates of the former military officer, who served the country variously as a governor, minister and Senate President. 
 
The statement read, “As Senator Mark turns a septuagenarian, the President commends the maturity, stability and focused legislation that he instituted in the upper chamber during the eight years he served as Senate President, and the dutifulness that culminated in the passing of many bills. 
 
“President Buhari believes the wealth of experience that Senator Mark had gathered over the years will be most useful for the development of the country, especially in sustaining peace across the country. 
 
“The President prays that the almighty God will grant the former Senate President longer life, good health and wisdom to continue serving his people and the country.”</div>

Latest-News Buhari felicitates with David Mark at 70

President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday congratulated a former President of the Senate and Senator representing Zone C Constituency of Benue State, David Alechenu Mark, on his 70th birthday. In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and…

Kwara governor offers N5m for information on Offa robbery suspects

12:41 Unknown 0

Latest-News Kwara governor offers N5m for information on Offa robbery suspects

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Presidency blasts Senator Goje for criticizing Buhari’s N-Power, N-Build, others

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Latest-News Presidency blasts Senator Goje for criticizing Buhari’s N-Power, N-Build, others

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Osinbajo backs restructuring, says states should control their resources

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Latest-News Osinbajo backs restructuring, says states should control their resources

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Boko Haram most lethal terror group in the world – US General

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Latest-News Boko Haram most lethal terror group in the world – US General

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A cabal in control of the old man – Dele Momodu laments Buhari govt

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Latest-News A cabal in control of the old man – Dele Momodu laments Buhari govt

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Leave INEC alone, focus on good governance to Rivers people, Group tells Wike

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A civil society group, Citizens Centre for Democratic Governance has urged the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesome Wike, to concentrate on good and credible governance of his state and allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) focus on its task of ensuring a free and credible 2019 elections. 
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The group expressed concern over what it described as persisting insistence by the Rivers State governor to cast aspersions on the credibility of the 2019 election. 
 
According to a statement by the National coordinator of the group, Anthony Osagbemi, the group said that the governor continues to raise unnecessary alarm about the 2019 election without necessary evidence to back his claims. 
 
The group said that the Rivers governor might be setting the stage for another round of violence, recalling that “it was this same tactics he deployed in the court ordered re-run election in Rivers State, which led to his orchestration of brutal violence that led to the death of an INEC ad-hoc staff and the maiming of another. 
 
According to Osagbemi, the quote by the INEC chairman that only votes will count in any election conducted by INEC under his watch continues to bear fruit, as evidence has indeed shown that elections are consistently getting better in all the states where they have so far been conducted. 
 
He said the era where politicians bribe INEC officials to rig elections is far gone, as the Commission under this current leadership is very determined to improve the electoral process. 
 
He said, “Governor Wike must understand now that his crude mannerism will not deter this INEC chairman from sustaining the ongoing reforms of the electoral process. Perhaps he is afraid that he might not be able to use the Resident Electoral Commissioner to his advantage as usual.”</div>

Latest-News Leave INEC alone, focus on good governance to Rivers people, Group tells Wike

A civil society group, Citizens Centre for Democratic Governance has urged the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesome Wike, to concentrate on good and credible governance of his state and allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) focu…

Man City vs Man Utd: Losing title on derby day not end of the world- Mourinho

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Losing the title to the blue side of Manchester on derby day is not “the end of the world”, Manchester United coach, Jose Mourinho has insisted. 
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Pep Guardiola’s league leaders need just a win to secure the title they last won in 2014 with six matches to spare, and ensure United finishes the season yet again without the title. 
 
“Look, I won the title at Chelsea against Manchester United,” he said. “We beat United 3-0 and we won the title at Stamford Bridge in 2005-06. But it was not the end of the world. Manchester United didn’t finish. It was just football”, Mourinho said. 
 
“The only thing I can say is that we want to win, we don’t want to offer them the game. We want to go there and want to compete and win the match if possible. That’s the only thing I can say. 
 
“It is normal that you want to delay the champions becoming champions. We would like to beat them, we would like Spurs to beat them next week, we would like them to be champions as late as possible. 
 
“I think Chelsea would feel the same because they would like to be [reigning] champions as long as possible, until late April or the beginning of May. That is normal in football, but in this case obviously they [City] are going to be champions because there is a very significant difference.” 
 
“The table is always a fair reflection,” said the United boss. “In the end, what matters is what happens in the reality of the points and City will be champions because they deserve to be champions. 
 
“I think they are going to beat Chelsea’s [record] total from 2004-05 [of 95 points] and that does not make it easy for the teams coming behind them and even for teams with positive seasons, with [a] positive number of points and with significant improvement on the previous season. 
 
“In our case, I think we have eight points more than last season, more goals scored, less goals conceded, but Manchester City made it impossible for the others. 
 
“So, what do you want me to say? Congratulations for the great Premier League season they are doing? And the moment they become champions, which will be sooner rather than later? I will react the same way that other people reacted when I won three titles in this country.”</div>

Latest-News Man City vs Man Utd: Losing title on derby day not end of the world- Mourinho

Losing the title to the blue side of Manchester on derby day is not “the end of the world”, Manchester United coach, Jose Mourinho has insisted. Pep Guardiola’s league leaders need just a win to secure the title they last won in 2014 with six matche…

BREAKING: Herdsmen slaughter father, son in Agatu, remove vital organs

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Latest-News BREAKING: Herdsmen slaughter father, son in Agatu, remove vital organs

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Kogi will decide your destiny, not Buhari – PDP reacts to Bello ‘jump into fire’ comment

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Latest-News Kogi will decide your destiny, not Buhari – PDP reacts to Bello ‘jump into fire’ comment

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Amnesty to Boko Haram shows FG knows something we don’t -Kukah

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Latest-News Amnesty to Boko Haram shows FG knows something we don’t -Kukah

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‘They embarked on an ungodly exercise’ — CAN disowns pastors who endorsed Buhari

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Latest-News ‘They embarked on an ungodly exercise’ — CAN disowns pastors who endorsed Buhari

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Bisi Akande charges at Oyegun, says tenure elongation is corruption, evil

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Latest-News Bisi Akande charges at Oyegun, says tenure elongation is corruption, evil

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Youths kill themselves for politicians who are friends in secret – Dele Momodu

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Latest-News Youths kill themselves for politicians who are friends in secret – Dele Momodu

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Leah Sharibu: Jonathan’s aide, Omokri condemns Arewa Pastors’ visit to Buhari

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Latest-News Leah Sharibu: Jonathan’s aide, Omokri condemns Arewa Pastors’ visit to Buhari

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Herdsmen/farmers’ clashes: Miyetti Allah agrees to biometric registration of members

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Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the state government will continue to intensify efforts to stem clashes between herdsmen and farmers in the state to ensure harmonious relationship among different groups in the state. 
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Obaseki disclosed this during a parley with the national leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and heads of security agencies in the state, at the Government House in Benin City, Edo State capital. 
 
He said though there might be challenges with identifying some herdsmen due to their itinerary nature, the state government was working to ensure that such issues are cleared to ensure smooth relations among the herdsmen and farming communities across the state. 
 
He said the meeting was organised as part of the measures to engage stakeholders and exchange ideas to ensure peace, noting, “As a member of the committee of the National Economic Council led by Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, to deal with the issue, I know how sensitive the issue is and how it has led to the loss of lives and property in many states across the country.” 
 
He said the state is fortunate to have recorded fewer incidents as efforts have been intensified to manage the situation. He said this was done by setting up the security committee in the 18 local government councils, noting “The committee was made up of council chairmen, two leaders of the Hausa/Fulani community, Directorate of State Security, Divisional Police officers and two native farmers. They will continue to meet monthly and report any incident in their areas to the committee at the state level.” 
 
Obaseki explained that in addition to the structures in place to address the situation, the state has resolved challenges by identifying herders and organising sensitisation programmes for them. He added, “With the structures in place, sensitisation programmes will be organised for the Hausa/Fulani herdsmen, farmers and other relevant stakeholders in different communities across the state. Through these, we hope to reduce the incidents of clashes between herders and farmers.” 
 
He maintained that the ban on night-grazing still stands, and approved a 40-day window request by the group to allow strangers in their midst to register with the state government. 
 
National President, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Muhammadu Kirowa, represented by the group’s National Secretary, Baba Othman Ngelzarma, commended the governor for the positive steps taken to ensure peaceful co-existence between Fulani herdsmen and farmers in the state. 
 
He said, “The stand against night-grazing shows the governor’s seriousness to maintain peace in the state. The setting up of the committee with representatives of local communities who are critical stakeholders, will go a long way to ensure a lasting peace.” 
 
Kirowa said it was worrisome that the clash between farmers and herdsmen, which is a national security problem, has assumed a new dimension with political, religious and ethnic colourations. 
 
“If the problem must be resolved, it must be approached holistically. We are ready to capture the data of our people through biometrics as it has become necessary for us to identify our members,” he said. 
 
“The sensitisation for relevant stakeholders is another important step that will contribute to peace in the state. We have tried this method in Ekiti state and it has worked effectively to reduce the clash between farmers and Fulani herdsmen,” Kirowa added.</div>

Latest-News Herdsmen/farmers’ clashes: Miyetti Allah agrees to biometric registration of members

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the state government will continue to intensify efforts to stem clashes between herdsmen and farmers in the state to ensure harmonious relationship among different groups in the state. Obaseki disc…

Obasanjo can’t stop Buhari from winning 2019 election, says Kalu

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A former Governor of Abia State, Orji Kalu, has expressed confidence that President Muhammadu Buhari will win the 2019 presidential election if he re-contests despite the series of attacks from former President Olusegun Obasanjo and others. 
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Kalu said this in an interview with journalists in Ile-Ife, Osun State, on Friday, after his peace and advocacy visit to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. 
 
The former governor said Obasanjo, who spent eight years in office, was the least person competent to attack Buhari’s integrity, adding that the former President did not allow anybody to criticise him while in office. 
 
He said, “Talking of integrity, Obasanjo is incompetent to criticise President Buhari. When I was the governor of Abia State, I wrote letters to President Obasanjo, criticising him and because of that, he swore to make life difficult for me. He is today writing letters every week, attacking Buhari. 
 
“I know Buhari very well. He is not corrupt. He does not own property anywhere. Some people should not just put the country in crisis. Whatever they may have in plan, Buhari will return in 2019.” 
 
The former governor said that Buhari had demonstrated that he loved the country more than Obasanjo and added that there was no way Nigerians would dump the President based on the series of letters written by Obasanjo to discredit him (Buhari). 
 
Kalu also said that the Igbo could realise the ambition of producing Buhari’s successor in 2023, stating, “We can’t do it alone. Late Chief MKO Abiola came to my mother’s house in Abia many years ago seeking political support. 
 
“While discussing with my mother, MKO said no one could clap with one hand. I will also adopt that adage. We Igbo can’t do it alone. The rest of the country should assist us to realise this ambition.” 
 
Earlier, the Ooni of Ife thanked Kalu for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. 
 
Meanwhile, Obasanjo has called on the newly elected President of Sierra Leone, Julius Bio, to sustain the country’s relationship with Nigeria, which was strengthened during the reign of the immediate past President, Ernest Bai Koroma. 
 
This call was contained in a congratulatory letter he sent to Bio on Thursday, a copy of which was made available to our correspondent by Obasanjo’s media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, on Friday in Abeokuta. 
 
Bio won the presidential run-off on Wednesday and clinched the exalted position. 
 
While he congratulated him, Obasanjo noted that the people of Sierra Leone had spoken. 
 
The letter read in part, “No doubt, the good people of Sierra Leone have spoken and have decided to repose their trust and confidence in your leadership. 
 
“By this clear victory, Sierra Leoneans have not only given you a mandate to lead with the sound policies that will bring much socioeconomic progress to the country but also to reassure you of their faith in your leadership, given your experience and background in government. 
 
“As Your Excellency is aware, Nigeria and Sierra Leone have enjoyed excellent relations, which have been further strengthened under the leadership of your predecessor, President Ernest Bai Koroma. 
 
“I hope that the profound traditional bond of friendship subsisting between Nigeria and Sierra Leone will grow from strength to strength during your administration and under your leadership.”</div>

Latest-News Obasanjo can’t stop Buhari from winning 2019 election, says Kalu

A former Governor of Abia State, Orji Kalu, has expressed confidence that President Muhammadu Buhari will win the 2019 presidential election if he re-contests despite the series of attacks from former President Olusegun Obasanjo and others. Kalu sai…

The nation’s democracy wobbling – Wike

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Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has called on labour leaders across Nigeria to raise their voices in defence of defence of democracy in the face of the atrocious system of governance being implemented by the APC Federal Government. 
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Addressing the 4th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) in Port Harcourt on Friday, Governor Wike said that the ship of state is now on a wrong direction, while the nation’s economy remains fragile and democracy, wobbly. 
 
“As I have always said, our ship of State is on a wrong direction. And just as our economy remains fragile so is the nation’s democracy wobbling. If things continue this way, then we may never experience true democracy and good governance in our lifetime”. 
 
He also said Nigerian Labour leaders can no longer stand aloof while the All Progressive Congress, APC, Federal Government destroys the fabric of governance. 
 
He said: “As patriots and concerned Nigerians, we must all break our silence and protest against the atrocious and brutal system of the Federal Government that daily undermines our rights to democracy, the rule of law and good governance. 
 
“Nigerians want you and I to stand up and raise our voices for unity, for security, for justice, for the rule of law, for democracy and for free and fair elections in 2019.”. 
 
On the theme of the conference, “Impact of Technology (Industry 4.0) on Industrial Relations in the Workplace,” Governor Wike said technology is vital for faster development of the oil and gas industry, but noted that employers and labour leaders must find the right balance. 
 
“The fact that the impact of technology may upset labour – employer relations makes the management of technological change in the workplace one of the most challenging problems in industrial relations. 
 
“The challenge before this conference is to find suitable solutions that can be adopted to safeguard industrial harmony and prevent the undue disruptions and dislocations in industrial relations that often result from the impact of technology in the workplace”, he said. 
 
Outgoing President of NUPENG, Comrade Igwe Achese said that technology remains critical to the development of the oil and gas industry. 
 
He, however, noted that NUPENG will be in the forefront in the protection of the rights of the workers. 
 
Comrade Igwe Achese decried the casualization of workers in the Oil and Gas industry, noting that steps must be taken to address the issue. 
 
He commended the Rivers State Governor for his outstanding developmental strides, saying that his projects have changed the landscape of the state. 
 
In a goodwill message, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, represented by the Member Representing Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency, Hon Kingsley Chinda assured that the House will consider the bill to end casualization in the oil and gas industry.</div>

Latest-News The nation’s democracy wobbling – Wike

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has called on labour leaders across Nigeria to raise their voices in defence of defence of democracy in the face of the atrocious system of governance being implemented by the APC Federal Government. Address…

2019: Nigeria in need of spiritual support – Presidency

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The Presidency on Friday said that Nigeria was in need of spiritual support from respectable men of God as she approaches election year. 
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The Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Chief Femi Adesina who stated this when he received pastors of the Gospel Faith Mission International led by the Deputy General Overseer of the Mission, Pastor Emmanuel Oluwayemi that paid him a courtesy call in his office, called on religious leaders in the country to continue to pray for the unity, peace and prosperity of Nigeria especially as we approach 2019 elections. 
 
A statement by Attah Esa, Deputy Director, Information at the State House said, “As we approach the election year, please continue to pray that all will be well with our country. People are getting desperate to ensure that their desires, often ill-motivated, are actualised. But by the prayers of spiritual fathers like you, it will be well with the country.” 
 
He added that God is the ultimate solution to all challenges and that no man has the solution to happenings around him. Mr Adesina expressed happiness that the Gospel Faith Mission International which is a highly respected organisation, known for its open and broad mindedness, had chosen to offer spiritual support to the government. He reiterated President Muhammadu’s assertion that he is not a religious bigot and can never be one. 
 
Pastor Emmanuel Oluwayemi had earlier told the Special Adviser that the church and the nation have a lot to do together especially at this time when there is tension in the land. 
 
He added that the role of the church is to advise and pray for leaders of the country as commanded by God in the scriptures. He acknowledged their role as co-builders in Nigeria to ensure that there is fairness and justice in the nation. 
 
The Deputy General Overseer assured that the Gospel Faith Mission International will continue to provide back-up support for the government rather than heat up the polity. 
 
He prayed that God’s hands will continue to be on President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and other elected people in the country.</div>

Latest-News 2019: Nigeria in need of spiritual support – Presidency

The Presidency on Friday said that Nigeria was in need of spiritual support from respectable men of God as she approaches election year. The Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Chief Femi Adesina who stated this whe…

Okonjo-Iweala makes revelations on Jonathan, Chibok girls, ‘violent’ Governor

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Looting still ongoing at national assembly, says Sagay

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A ghost has been hovering over the leadership of APC -Oyegun

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Nigerian singer, child ‘murdered by Italian husband’ in Lagos

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BBNaija: Bambam reacts to Cee-c referring to her as friend

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Don Jazzy’s ‘crocodile voice’ gives Neyo’s new song a Mo’Hits vibe

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$1bn funds for military: What about Nigeria Police – Shehu Sani

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Latest-News $1bn funds for military: What about Nigeria Police – Shehu Sani

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Buhari jets out of Abuja

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Latest-News Buhari jets out of Abuja

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INEC decries nonchallant attitude to PVC collection

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has decried the  nonchalant attitude of Nigerians in the collection of Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) saying the atittude was not in the best interest of the country for the 2019 election. 
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The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Imo, Prof. Francis Ezeonu, made this known at a sensitisation meeting with stakeholders in Owerri Municipal and Owerri West Local Government Areas of Imo. 
 
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 
Ezeonu said the attitude was more prevalent in the South East. 
 
He said that politics was a game of numbers which required citizens to arm themselves with their PVCs as ready tools to vote in credible candidates. 
 
He enjoined the people to go and collect their cards and take the election processes seriously. 
 
He cautioned politicians against collecting’ PVCs from voters and hoarding them only to bring them out during elections to cause confusion. 
 
Ezeonu said the tour of the 27 LGAs in Imo was to sensitise the general public on the need for PVCs collection, registration as well as intimate them on the electoral rules and processes. 
 
He allayed the fears expressed by the people saying the national office is doing all possible to handle all the challenges, assuring that hijacking of ballot boxes was now a thing of the past. 
 
Speaking, the Electoral Officer of Owerri Municipal Council , Mr Andrew Ereforokuma,said that the commission had always believe  there was the need to partner with the people inorder to have an acceptable election,. 
 
“As we continue in our preparation towards 2019 general elections, we shall have more opportunities as this to share information and build the necessary trust for a rancor free elections.” 
 
Ereferokuma said registration exercise has so far been successful in the LGA, adding that  as at the end of the first phase, data of 17,913 people (9,024 males and 8,889 females) have been captured. 
 
The Electoral Officer of Owerri West, Mrs Ebere Orji, said the town hall meeting provided stakeholders and the commission an avenue to create the needed synergy for achieving good result in 2019. 
 
“INEC cannot achieve a free, fair and credible election alone. It has to work in collaboration with other stakeholders for its mission to be actualised. 
 
Orji said communities in the LG are faced with bad roads, collapsed bridges and swampy areas, which had hindered timely delivery of materials during the registration exercise. 
 
She said the LG currently has 34, 229 uncollected PVCs. 
 
NAN reports that the meeting comprised traditional rulers, the clergy, security personnels and stakeholders in the communities. 
 
The stateholders had complained about registration centers being far from the people, alleged under-aged registration in some parts of the country as well as appealled for creation of more polling units and wards.</div>

Latest-News INEC decries nonchallant attitude to PVC collection

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has decried the nonchalant attitude of Nigerians in the collection of Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) saying the atittude was not in the best interest of the country for the 2019 election. The Resi…

Man City were offered Pogba in January – Guardiola

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The Catalan has hit back at the super-agent in remarkable fashion, claiming he was offered the midfielder's services during the winter transfer window. 
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Pep Guardiola has claimed that Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan were offered to Manchester City by Mino Raiola in January as the Catalan hit back at the super-agent in sensational fashion. 
 
Raiola had branded Guardiola a "dog" and a "coward" following Zlatan Ibrahimovic's move from Manchester United to LA Galaxy at the end of March, harking back to the Catalan's treatment of the Sweden striker during their time together at Barcelona. 
 
Ahead of Saturday's Manchester derby, Guardiola insisted that United boss Jose Mourinho is not his only rival: "I have many.....especially agents. I have a lot." 
 
When asked specifically about Raiola and his insults, the City boss took his opportunity to fire back. 
 
Pogba's relationship with Mourinho has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with claims that the Frenchman even wants to leave Old Trafford, and Guardiola now says he was offered the midfielder's services during the January transfer window, as well as those of Mkhitaryan, who eventually joined Arsenal. 
 
“I will answer another day, today before the game I will not," he said initially, before changing his mind. 
 
“I could answer him. I have a question, yeah, I will answer him, come on. Okay. 
 
“So I don’t understand why I am so… I agree with him. Finally, the people discover my secrets, I am a bad guy. I’m a coward. I don’t understand why I am such a bad guy. 
 
"I never speak with him, so I don’t know maybe Ibra explained many things about me. But, two months ago he offered me Mkhitaryan and Pogba to play with us. Why? 
 
“Why he offer? He was interested in Mkhitaryan and Pogba to play with us? So I’m like a guy, so he has to protect his players and he has to know so he cannot bring the players to a guy like me, like a dog. And comparing a dog is bad. It’s not good. He has to respect the dogs.” 
 
Asked about his response to Raiola's offer, Guardiola replied: "I said no. We don’t have the money enough to buy Pogba because he is so expensive." 
 
The City boss was then asked if he was surprised to be offered a high-profile Manchester United player. 
 
"I’m surprised because I am a dog," he replied. "So that’s why ... so like a dog, he comes to want his players to come to here. So, no. No way." 
 
He then added: "I am not a good guy. I am not a good guy. He deserves his players to play with better guys. But, he knows as well I am a top manager. Thank you." 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 </div>

Latest-News Man City were offered Pogba in January – Guardiola

The Catalan has hit back at the super-agent in remarkable fashion, claiming he was offered the midfielder's services during the winter transfer window. Pep Guardiola has claimed that Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan were offered to Manchester City …

Commonwealth Games: New Zealand beat D’Tigers 110-65

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The Nigerian national basketball team, D’Tigers, were defeated on Friday by New Zealand in their first men’s preliminary round match at the on-going Commonwealth Games holding in Gold Coast, Australia. 
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D’Tigers, who are in Pool A alongside hosts Australia, New Zealand and Canada, were dominated throughout the proceedings by the Tall Blacks, as the New Zealand basketball team are referred to. 
 
It was a shocking defeat on the part of D’Tigers, as New Zealand’s head coach Paul Henare was clearly wary of the Nigerian side before the match. 
 
Henara said about D’Tigers to reporters at his pre-match conference: “It has been a tough scout. They have gone into the depths of their talent pool with a few unknown guys here, but for us it is about focusing on ourselves and making sure we are at our best. 
 
“With the short preparation time we have to be at our best knowing that they will be athletic, physical and talented. We have to ensure we have done enough in our preparation to get past them.” 
 
However, the men from Down Under never looked back once they grabbed the lead in the first period, overpowering D’Tigers by 24-15 points. 
 
In the second period, D’Tigers put up a better show but fell short by 20-26 points. 
 
The third period saw the New Zealanders put up an overwhelming display, breezing pass D’Tigers 31-8 points, while the final period ended 22-29 in favour of the Tall Blacks. 
 
New Zealanders were without their major players playing top-flight basketball in the U.S and Europe. Tai and Corey Webster and Isaac Fotu, who are the Tall Blacks the biggest names, were missing since the recent FIBA World Cup qualifiers. 
 
It didn’t seem to affect the team as Thomas Abercrombie, Jordan Ngatai, Finn Delany and Robert Loe delivered top performance for New Zealand. 
 
Azuoma Dike was D’Tigers top performer with 15 points, six rebounds and one assist. 
 
Team captain Ike Diogu managed 12 points and 14 rebounds. 
 
New Zealand also ranked the lowest (38) in Pool A going into the Games. 
 
Australia are ranked 10th, while the other member of the group, Canada, are 23rd in FIBA ranking. Nigeria 32nd, six places ahead of the Tall Blacks. 
 
D’Tigers will look to put their disappointing start behind them as they take on Canada in their second Pool Game on Saturday at the Cairns Convention Centre at 5:00 am Nigerian time.</div>

Latest-News Commonwealth Games: New Zealand beat D’Tigers 110-65

The Nigerian national basketball team, D’Tigers, were defeated on Friday by New Zealand in their first men’s preliminary round match at the on-going Commonwealth Games holding in Gold Coast, Australia. D’Tigers, who are in Pool A alongside hosts Aus…

APC denies making entreaties to Reno Omokri

17:41 Unknown 0

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The All Progressives Congress APC has denied making entreaties to a former spokesperson of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri, saying the action was the handiwork of an individual, Philip Obin who owns a twitter handle, @APCNigeria. 
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The in a statement its Assistant Director, Publicity, Mr Edegbe Odemwingie said; “The attention of the All Progressives Congress APC has been drawn to false allegations by a Mr. Reno Omokri, which was contained in an April 5, 2018 report published on the website of Vanguard Newspapers, titled: ‘APC secretly reaching out to me for friendship – Reno’. 
 
“The report shows that Mr. Omokri’s allegation is based on interactions he had on twitter with one Philip Obin who manages a twitter handle, “@APCNigeria”. 
 
“Recall that the Party had on several occasions distanced itself from the now notorious twitter handle, “@APCNigeria” following unauthorized tweets and subsequent false reports credited to the Party on the outcome of the Benue South Senatorial rerun election (February 21, 2016) and an “Assessment Poll” on President Muhammadu Buhari Administration (May 31, 2017), among others. 
 
“Despite our rebuttals, Mr. Obin has continued to impersonate the Party through the twitter handle, “@APCNigeria”. For the avoidance of doubt, we wish to state that Philip Obin was one of the numerous youth volunteers for our party during the 2015 elections. He administered the Twitter handle at the time. But despite numerous appeals to him by various well meaning party representatives, to hand over the handle, Mr. Obin has refused and in defiance continues to use it to misrepresent the Party. 
 
“In essence, therefore, Obin’s interactions with Omokri are in his personal capacity and do not involve Party in any way. 
 
“Giving this latest incident, the Party is now left with no option than to take other lawful actions to restrain Obin from further embarrassing the Party. The general public is yet again reminded that the Twitter handle @APCNigeria is not a Twitter handle of the All Progressives Congress”.</div>

Latest-News APC denies making entreaties to Reno Omokri

The All Progressives Congress APC has denied making entreaties to a former spokesperson of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri, saying the action was the handiwork of an individual, Philip Obin who owns a twitter handle, @APCNigeria. The in …

US vs China: “We are not afraid of war” – Beijing fires back at Trump

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Latest-News US vs China: “We are not afraid of war” – Beijing fires back at Trump

…

Commonwealth Games: New Zealand beat D’Tigers 110-65

17:41 Unknown 0

Latest-News Commonwealth Games: New Zealand beat D’Tigers 110-65

Hollywood star John Boyega to invest in Nollywood

16:56 Unknown 0

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Hollywood actor, John Boyega has expressed willingness to invest in Nollywood to further boost the movie sector. 
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Boyega, 27, spoke with newsmen on Thursday night on the sideline of Glenfidich circle of maverick’s business meeting organised by PlayNetwork Nigeria in collaboration with Transcorp Hilton in Abuja. 
 
The British-Nigerian born actor said he intends to spend some time in Nigeria to produce a movie based on and inspired by Nigerian lifestyle and heritage. 
 
“I intend to tour most parts of Nigeria for seven months to sort out few things and get inspiration for the movie. 
 
I am yet to find a writer to depict my idea of the movie; I’ll be staying a bit longer to find a writer”. 
 
The actor also revealed he has enjoyed his first official visit to Nigeria so far, insinuating this official visit will be the beginning of more collaboration with the entertainment industry in Nigeria. 
 
“There is a lot of potential in the industry here in Nigeria; I will be working closely from now to promote the industry to greater heights. 
 
“It’s a chance to merge Hollywood with Nollywood, to bring the genuine and most important stories to light but captured in a professional way”. 
 
The star wars superstar also stated the planned budget for the movie saying, “we are deciding what makes sense budget-wise; we’re probably looking at a budget of $20-$25 million dollars.” 
 
Newsmen report that the “Whiskey Business Evening” with Boyega, witnessed a performance from a saxophonist as well as preparation of a Glenfidich infused chicken sauce made by chefs from Zuma grill. 
 
The actor is currently on a media tour to promote his latest Hollywood film, Pacific Rim Uprising. 
 
He spent last Christmas in Nigeria during an unofficial trip where he attended Wizkid’s concert that was held at Eko Hotel; Suites Lagos, and also took part in the Calabar Christmas carnival.</div>

Latest-News Hollywood star John Boyega to invest in Nollywood

Hollywood actor, John Boyega has expressed willingness to invest in Nollywood to further boost the movie sector. Boyega, 27, spoke with newsmen on Thursday night on the sideline of Glenfidich circle of maverick’s business meeting organised by PlayNe…

Garba Shehu takes on PDP Deputy National secretary in an argument over $1 billion

16:56 Unknown 0

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The presidential Media aide, Mr. Garba Shuhu and the Deputy National Secretary of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo on Friday argued over $1 billion approved by President Muhammadu Buhari for the procurement of security equipment in the country. 
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Dr. Agbo who alleged at the Channel Programme ‘Sunrise’ on Friday, that the approved $1 billion will be used by APC to fund the forthcoming 2019 election was faulted by Mr. Garba Shehu who argued that the money will be used judiciously to procure equipment for Nigeria security personnel’s to combat Boko Haram. 
 
Recall that Masur Dan-Ali, minister of defence, had said two days ago that President Muhammadu Buhari had approved the sum of $1 billion for the purchase of military equipments that will be used to fight Boko Haram and other terror associated groups in the country. 
 
Buhari’s decision however generated allot of criticisms from various media quarters. 
 
In view of this therefore, Nigerians however are left to draw conclusion from their various logical points. 
 
See their statements below: 
 
Dr. Emmanuel Agbo 
 
“PDP rejected the approved fund because this is a government that for the last three years has not exhausted their budgetary provisions interms of any of the department inclusive of defence. Not in 2015, 2016, 2017 and neither will they exhaust the budgetary provisions this year. 
 
“And so when you are talking about short medium and long term expenditure to gulf $1 billion in a country were food on the table of a common man is farfetched. 
 
“The entire thing is awash with deception because they are looking for money for elections. 2019 is by the corner and that is why we are asking Nigerians to No to it”, 
 
“Buhari’s approval of $1bn for arms fund an abuse of process”, he finally said. 
 
Reacting to his statement, Mr. Garba Shehu said, “The process has begun, it’s not concluded, therefore, everyone will be involved. Mr President will not breach the constitution of this country. Approval at that level is granted, there is nothing controversial. 
 
“The attorney-general will bring a draft bill to FEC, the president will approve and then say take it to the national assembly. The draft budget before it got to the national assembly, the FEC signed and approved it. 
 
“People will say when you’ve defeated Boko Haram why do you need funds but if you check around, all over the world, the countries do most spending in peace time. 
 
“There is police and there is also the military. It’s going to touch on every aspect of security in the country. We are not talking about buying footwear or uniforms which is routine. We’ll re-equip the military that has depleted much of its stock fighting criminality, insurgency and terrorism across the country. 
 
“We need this money to restock. The Nigerian army, the police, they ought to have arms that they can use in situations where they are needed. It’s not as if we have no idea of what to do with this money, it is also true there is still some finishing jobs to be done to Boko Haram.”</div>

Latest-News Garba Shehu takes on PDP Deputy National secretary in an argument over $1 billion

The presidential Media aide, Mr. Garba Shuhu and the Deputy National Secretary of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo on Friday argued over $1 billion approved by President Muhammadu Buhari for the procurement of security equipment in t…

Pandemonium as Custom officer’s stray bullet hits primary six pupil in Katsina

16:47 Unknown 0

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Pandemonium in Morawa village, Batagarawa local government area of Katsina State when stray bullet by custom officers allegedly hit a primary six pupil, Bello Salisu of Morawa Primary school, a government owned school. 
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The incident which occurred on Friday was said to have happened along Katsina – Kano road when the custom operatives were chasing smugglers conveying Rice and Second hand clothes in a J-5 and allegedly shooting sporadically. 
 
The pupil, little Bello Salisu was hit by the stray bullets and sustained injuries on his hand, around his shoulder and neck. 
 
Bello, who spoke to newsmen from his hospital bed in the Accident and Emergency area of General Hospital, Katsina said they were on break when they heard gunshots and ran to see what happened when he was hit by the bullets from the custom officers. 
 
An eyewitness, Abubakar Yusuf said the custom operatives were chasing smugglers when the incident happened. 
 
“The custom officers were chasing a J5 Bus which was carrying smuggled rice and second new clothes and in the process they shot at the smugglers which hit the student. And so we had to rush the boy down to the hospital as they drove away,” Yusuf said while also displaying the empty cover of the bullet allegedly shot by the custom officers. 
 
Another class teacher, Shawanatu Musa said the incident happened when the pupils were on break and suddenly they heard sound of gunshots and later were told that a pupil from the school was hit by the gunshot. 
 
“We were seated when we heard loud sound of gunshots. We were preventing our pupils from going to the roadside when someone came to inform us that one of our students was shot.” 
 
Parents of the victim, Salisu Yusuf (Father) and his mother could not talk as tears roll down their cheeks uncontrollably. 
 
It was gathered that Bello is the only male child in the family. 
 
Principal Personnel Officer, PPO of the Batagarawa Local Government Education Authority, LGEA, Aminu Bello expressed dismay over the incident which he said calls for urgent intervention by the government to avert future occurrence of such incidence. 
 
When our reporter visited the Katsina/Kaduna Command of the Nigeria Custom Service, NCS to get their own side of the story, the Custom Audit Officer, Ibrahim who is sitting in for the Commands Public Relations Officer, Theophilus Duniya said the Command is not aware of the incident. 
 
As at the time of filing in this report, information reaching our reporter has it that the little Bello was bleeding and vomiting blood just as he was said to be short of blood resulting from the injuries he sustained from the alleged gunshots.</div>

Latest-News Pandemonium as Custom officer’s stray bullet hits primary six pupil in Katsina

Pandemonium in Morawa village, Batagarawa local government area of Katsina State when stray bullet by custom officers allegedly hit a primary six pupil, Bello Salisu of Morawa Primary school, a government owned school. The incident which occurred on…

Charlyboy’s group storms INEC office, demands prosecution of Ibrahim Mantu

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Latest-News Charlyboy’s group storms INEC office, demands prosecution of Ibrahim Mantu

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‘Has Bill Gates become a looter?’ — Okogie taunts supporters of Buhari

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Latest-News ‘Has Bill Gates become a looter?’ — Okogie taunts supporters of Buhari

…

Saraki visits Buhari’s hometown, Daura

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Latest-News Saraki visits Buhari’s hometown, Daura

…

Nigeria Customs explains why it introduced new uniform

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Latest-News Nigeria Customs explains why it introduced new uniform

…

SGF urges EFCC to tackle corruption at conception stage

15:21 Unknown 0

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The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to devise ways of tackling institutional corruption at the conception stage. 
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Mr Lawrence Ojabo, Director Press, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja. 
 
Ojabo said the SGF made call the while receiving the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ibrahim Magu and the management team in his office. 
 
He quoted the SGF as urging the commission to use advocacy campaigns to change the mindset of some public servants who regarded corruption as a way of guaranteeing a secured post-service life. 
 
Mustapha expressed hope that the completion of the commission’s new head office in Abuja would ensure better management of its investigation, resources and personnel. 
 
He added that it would also provide a more enabling environment for the personnel to carry out their daunting and challenging responsibilities. 
 
The SGF, however, commended the officials for carrying out their duties with courage and patriotism even at great risk to their lives. 
 
“Corruption in the country has become a hydra-headed monster because it had become very pervasive and culturally entrenched. 
 
“Dealing with a problem that has become a culture requires a lot of resolve on the part of the officials of the economic and financial crimes commission. 
 
“I want to thank you, the officials, for wholeheartedly embracing President Muhammadu Buhari’s mandate to kill corruption before it kills the country. 
 
“I recall that dismantling corruption in the country was the repeated pledge of Mr. President during his electioneering campaign,” The SGF said. 
 
The Chairman of EFFC, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, had earlier briefed the SGF on the commission’s new headquarters now nearing completion, and invited him to visit the complex.</div>

Latest-News SGF urges EFCC to tackle corruption at conception stage

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to devise ways of tackling institutional corruption at the conception stage. Mr Lawrence Ojabo, Director Press, Office of…

Saraki decries Offa bank robbery, urges suspects’ arrest

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President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has described the coordinated bank robbery in Offa, Kwara State, which left several persons dead and injured as “a despicable act committed by cruel individuals.” 
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In a post on his Facebook page, Saraki said he and Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed discussed the matter on Thursday and they both agreed that those who carried out the attacks must be found and prosecuted. 
 
The Senate President said, “Yesterday’s savage attack on unsuspecting citizens and establishments in Offa Local Government Area, that led to significant loss of lives and injury, is a despicable act committed by cruel individuals. 
 
“Make no mistake, there will never be any valid grounds or rationale behind such violence, that has left many families without their loved ones, and one more community in grief and shock. 
 
“Last night, I spoke to Governor Ahmed to express my condolence over the lives that were lost in the attack, and we both agreed that no stone will be left unturned until the perpetrators of this heinous act are caught and brought to justice. 
 
“It is also important that we all work together to ensure that this does not re-occur. We all must co-operate at various levels to increase the security of our communities. 
 
“I pray that the souls of those that we lost yesterday are granted places amongst the righteous ones. 
 
“My prayers and support will continue to be extended to all the affected families, and we will remain relentless until everyone who planned or carried out this attack faces the full wrath of the law.”</div>

Latest-News Saraki decries Offa bank robbery, urges suspects’ arrest

President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has described the coordinated bank robbery in Offa, Kwara State, which left several persons dead and injured as “a despicable act committed by cruel individuals.” In a post on his Facebook page, Saraki said he…

Naomi Campbell applauds Nigerian-born singer boyfriend, Skepta, as he bags chieftaincy title

15:11 Unknown 0

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British supermodel, Naomi Campbell, has congratulated her British-Nigerian singer lover, Joseph Adenuga a.k.a Skepta, who has been honoured with a chieftaincy title in Ogun State. 
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Thirty-five-year-old Skepta, an award-winning English grime artiste who is in a relationship with 47-year-old Naomi Campbell, was born in Tottenham, United Kingdom, to Nigerian parents. 
 
His chieftaincy title is “Amuludun of Odo Aje” which means the “Chief Entertainer of Ode Aje.” 
 
Skepta thanked The Baale, the chiefs and the king of Ode Aje for honoring him with a chieftaincy title and also pledged to continue supporting Nigeria. 
 
“I am honored and will continue to put time and love into Nigeria,” he said. 
 
The artist also held a “homecoming” concert at the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos. 
 
Performers at the homecoming concert include Wizkid, Davido and their teams. 
 
Meanwhile, Campbell, who was also in Lagos for the Arise Fashion Week has congratulated her beau on her verified Twitter handle. She wrote: @NaomiCampbell Congratulations Chief Joseph Olaitan Adenuga! 
 
The model also joined Skepta on stage during the concert at the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos. 
 
While in Lagos, Skepta posted a picture of himself and British-Nigerian actor, John Boyega, on Instagram, hinting they could be working on a video together. 
 
Boyega, who is currently in Nigeria for his first official press trip, shares similar traits with Skepta as both were born in the United Kingdom to British-Nigerian parents.</div>

Latest-News Naomi Campbell applauds Nigerian-born singer boyfriend, Skepta, as he bags chieftaincy title

British supermodel, Naomi Campbell, has congratulated her British-Nigerian singer lover, Joseph Adenuga a.k.a Skepta, who has been honoured with a chieftaincy title in Ogun State. Thirty-five-year-old Skepta, an award-winning English grime artiste w…

Coalition storms INEC office, demands Mantu’s prosecution for alleged electoral malpractices

15:11 Unknown 0

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A coalition of civil society group, #OurMumuDonDo, on Friday stormed the Independent National Electoral Commission headquarters in Abuja, to demand for the prosecution of a former deputy senate president, Ibrahim Mantu, for alleged electoral malpractices. 
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The group, in a letter to the INEC chairman, said the former Peoples Democratic Party chieftain should be arraigned for allegedly “subverting the will of the people during several elections.” 
 
Mantu had, in an interview on Channels TV, confessed that he rigged several elections for his former party, PDP, by inducing electoral officers to falsify results and to violate the electoral laws. 
 
His admission had triggered reactions from the PDP, which refuted his claims and also disowned him. 
 
But the coalition in their letter demanded Mantu’s prosecution, noting that “this is a good opportunity for the electoral commission to demonstrate its resolve to prosecute electoral offenders as a deterrent to others.” 
 
It read, “As we have mentioned in our previous engagements with the INEC, the number of Nigerians going to the polling booths has been in a consistent decline since 2003 and the reason for this, among other disturbing factors, is the downright rigging of elections — a vile act which blatantly infringes on the right of the Nigerian people to freely exercise their franchise. 
 
“It is therefore imperative that the electoral umpire, the INEC, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the law enforcement agencies, rise to this clarion call to prosecute Senator Mantu and all his accomplices.” 
 
A member of the coalition, Adebayo Raphael, argued that Nigerians have lost trust in the electoral system, adding that only a proper overhaul of the system could restore public confidence in the system. 
 
“Nigerians have completely lost trust in the electoral system, so we are hoping that by this patriotic act by #Ourmumudondo, the INEC, the AGF and other law enforcement agencies would sanitise the system. 
 
“We submitted a letter to INEC and we are hoping to get a response from them,” he said.</div>

Latest-News Coalition storms INEC office, demands Mantu’s prosecution for alleged electoral malpractices

A coalition of civil society group, #OurMumuDonDo, on Friday stormed the Independent National Electoral Commission headquarters in Abuja, to demand for the prosecution of a former deputy senate president, Ibrahim Mantu, for alleged electoral malprac…

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