Nigerian Eye

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPp6WjOl36tvaTtLzRDBwUtj-xqeILj-30ROTPsW0DZ5lCczkMpsdHB0ZiILfUbOHaVeCBGRLf8M2Y9cpnzsJxTflVhW1wbY64RKcMuNpzr0cQdw5oHrZ30nSFMTPn_q4noSX1-1pXqtU/s1600/alex-iwobi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPp6WjOl36tvaTtLzRDBwUtj-xqeILj-30ROTPsW0DZ5lCczkMpsdHB0ZiILfUbOHaVeCBGRLf8M2Y9cpnzsJxTflVhW1wbY64RKcMuNpzr0cQdw5oHrZ30nSFMTPn_q4noSX1-1pXqtU/s400/alex-iwobi1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Alex Iwobi alongside his Toffees teammates have been quarantined following reports that a player manifested symptoms consistent with coronavirus. 
 
The Merseysiders now become the third Premiership club to put its entire playing squad in quarantine. 
 
Arsenal and Chelsea announced similar measures on Thursday. 
 
Everton management say the club is in regular contact with the player in question and is monitoring the wellbeing of all players and staff. Its training complex has also been closed down along with its stadium, Goodison Park. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The coronavirus epidemic is currently gripping the whole of Europe, with sporting events and football leagues across the continent’s top five leagues now cancelled. 
 
The English Premier League became the latest league to join Ligue 1, La Liga and Bundesliga in following Serie A’s cue by suspending the league. 
 
With the likes of Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi and Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta testing positive, the UK government decided to suspend not only the EPL but, also the championship as they seek to contain the virus.

Latest-News Coronavirus: Everton quarantine Iwobi, teammates

Alex Iwobi alongside his Toffees teammates have been quarantined following reports that a player manifested symptoms consistent with coronavirus. The Merseysiders now become the third Premiership club to put its entire playing squad in quarantine. A…

Why I offered appointments to Sanusi – El-Rufai

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News Why I offered appointments to Sanusi – El-Rufai

…

No justice yet for 640 Boko Haram detainees ‘killed by soldiers’ -Amnesty International

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News No justice yet for 640 Boko Haram detainees ‘killed by soldiers’ -Amnesty International

…

FG consulting on reducing petrol pump price - Minister of Petroleum resources, Timipre Sylva

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News FG consulting on reducing petrol pump price - Minister of Petroleum resources, Timipre Sylva

…

King’s College reunion as Sanusi arrives Lagos

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News King’s College reunion as Sanusi arrives Lagos

…

VIDEO: Homosexuality is caused by Ogbanje —– Pete Edochie

09:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3FgvPQUCshw1uFG-ssBPlYfqz0XpjVO2BQssPnvgVGaKumwsh7PgVpo_tSMcCZMnZrG8OUWLxtUC9Ai7YlPiMHSx3_1AU4IqGDM0TN1u1BrC8CPFFwbS7VGHR0Pv8O1IzOi6udv6MS4/s1600/Pete-Edochie-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="665" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3FgvPQUCshw1uFG-ssBPlYfqz0XpjVO2BQssPnvgVGaKumwsh7PgVpo_tSMcCZMnZrG8OUWLxtUC9Ai7YlPiMHSx3_1AU4IqGDM0TN1u1BrC8CPFFwbS7VGHR0Pv8O1IzOi6udv6MS4/s400/Pete-Edochie-1-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Veteran actor, Pete Edochie has shared his opinion on homosexuality stating that it is caused by reincarnation, 
 
The bearded actor made this known in a short video circulating online. 
 
Edochie said that when a child is born and looks sickly, he or she is suspected to be an ‘Ogbanje’(spirit child) and a mark is put on the child’s hand. Edochie says that the child eventually dies and then if the child comes back to the world, the spirit of a different gender might still be inside of him. 
 
Back in February, recall that Edochie noted that it is wrong for a man to kneel before proposing to a lady. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
In his words: “Any young man who gets down on his knees to propose to a girl is not just an idiot, he is a bloody fool. The reason why I am saying this is simple, we try to copy white people .I believe I the core of our culture. The white man knees down to propose to a girl. You know what it means? The girl takes over the family. This is why whenever you disagree with your wife overseas, you are kicked out and your wife takes over the house. 
 
“I have lived with my wife for 51 years, nobody has come to say, please stop beating this woman. Is it hatred that united us? It means you are an idiot. 
 
“If you call that civilization, it is alright, kneel down before  your wife, I will sympathize with you when she takes over the home”.

Latest-News VIDEO: Homosexuality is caused by Ogbanje —– Pete Edochie

Veteran actor, Pete Edochie has shared his opinion on homosexuality stating that it is caused by reincarnation, The bearded actor made this known in a short video circulating online. Edochie said that when a child is born and looks sickly, he or she…

Canada shuts parliament over coronavirus

09:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_c7jFQ2FsMYWwYHwSC76-4-9-DfoyLmfLZqp2n0qHTwZ75FPb6wEJ6WKxXF5mVKvk3kl_pJmFgO5QzfVouI9u3XWzQzGXQzln2OsQ3qvItJRM-OnUv8gqE0W8ClfzMIYoPXT4oSewQM/s1600/Justin-Trudeau.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="252" data-original-width="448" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_c7jFQ2FsMYWwYHwSC76-4-9-DfoyLmfLZqp2n0qHTwZ75FPb6wEJ6WKxXF5mVKvk3kl_pJmFgO5QzfVouI9u3XWzQzGXQzln2OsQ3qvItJRM-OnUv8gqE0W8ClfzMIYoPXT4oSewQM/s400/Justin-Trudeau.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Canada’s House of Commons, in a rare display of unity, put aside partisan wrangling and voted unanimously on Friday to suspend its session until April 20. 
 
The suspension of session was in an effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
“It’s important to mention that we did this together and it’s the right thing to do,” Government House Leader Pablo Rodrigues told reporters in Ottawa at a joint news conference with opposition party leaders. 
 
In the course of a normal day, the 338 members of parliament shake thousands of hands while meeting with constituents and members of the public, and then congregate together on Parliament Hill, Rodrigues said. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“Now, we’re avoiding that. These are not normal times,’’ Rodrigues said. 
 
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May welcomed the unanimous motion, telling the House of Commons that history would not look kindly at Canadian legislators if it emerged that they had become vectors for the coronavirus spread. 
 
The vote in the House of Commons came hours after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that he was going into self-isolation after his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, tested positive for Covid-19 following a trip to London. 
 
Trudeau’s communications director, Cameron Ahmad, said Thursday evening she was feeling very well and only had mild symptoms. 
 
Trudeau was in good health with no symptoms and would not be tested on the advice of doctors,” but would remain in isolation for 14 days, Ahmad said. 
 
In a phone interview with French language public broadcaster Radio-Canada on Friday, Trudeau urged people to stay home if sick.

Latest-News Canada shuts parliament over coronavirus

Canada’s House of Commons, in a rare display of unity, put aside partisan wrangling and voted unanimously on Friday to suspend its session until April 20. The suspension of session was in an effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. “I…

Asamoah Gyan snubs Messi, Cristiano, reveals greatest player

09:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygZLDoz0khyphenhyphen4ava7wnY0dfWF5AoNQH9aBX8XUMFqtcb-xw-4KgxqFQ-WrqXLu8amKPrCoLvfVG_gVqUb1aOJagLpaj9OvaDGGKrT4PkrZMEV1i5yNmyMg2nOP2E2SZDTJ2XfIzVlX6YQ/s1600/gyan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygZLDoz0khyphenhyphen4ava7wnY0dfWF5AoNQH9aBX8XUMFqtcb-xw-4KgxqFQ-WrqXLu8amKPrCoLvfVG_gVqUb1aOJagLpaj9OvaDGGKrT4PkrZMEV1i5yNmyMg2nOP2E2SZDTJ2XfIzVlX6YQ/s400/gyan.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Former Ghanaian captain, Asamoah Gyan, has named former Brazil striker, Ronaldo, as the greatest player of all-time, ahead of Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and Juventus’ Cristiano Ronaldo. 
 
Gyan, who played against Ronaldo in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, in a game which ended 3-0 in favour of Brazil, said he has never seen any player like the former Real Madrid striker. 
 
According to the former Sunderland striker, he learnt a lot of skills from Ronaldo, including finishing and dribbling. 
 
“Ronaldo, the Brazilian, any time any day. For me, I have not seen any player like him. Although there have been a lot of players,” Gyan told Pulse Ghana. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“I don’t think I have seen any player like him because a striker who can do anything at any time, the strength, the speed, the dribbling abilities, the finishing, skills. It was amazing. 
 
“When I was in Senior Secondary School, I learned a skill from him that I was using it to do my stuff even in the Ghana Premier League that defenders couldn’t catch me. 
 
“I learned a lot of things from Ronaldo, tricks from him. For me, I think he is my best player of all-time.”

Latest-News Asamoah Gyan snubs Messi, Cristiano, reveals greatest player

Former Ghanaian captain, Asamoah Gyan, has named former Brazil striker, Ronaldo, as the greatest player of all-time, ahead of Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and Juventus’ Cristiano Ronaldo. Gyan, who played against Ronaldo in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, in a…

I am not ready for gospel album- Lynxxx declares

08:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk4FXaHCmAQ9ZAIAu-AIn9Ww_6Mw4MywO1AVhqEaVT_7vhzsjRzmoGrSpUjFVyCKBWjxskw0yp5macToqhyk9mGNg4GXqhm7zpwMCxhim4WNSXyKiaEXa51XG5FJxGafUy7aJ5UqrhNBw/s1600/lynxxxxxxxx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="780" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk4FXaHCmAQ9ZAIAu-AIn9Ww_6Mw4MywO1AVhqEaVT_7vhzsjRzmoGrSpUjFVyCKBWjxskw0yp5macToqhyk9mGNg4GXqhm7zpwMCxhim4WNSXyKiaEXa51XG5FJxGafUy7aJ5UqrhNBw/s400/lynxxxxxxxx.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Ever since Nigerian singer, Lynxxx stated that he had become a born-again Christian, many of his fans thought he was going to release a gospel album. However, the ‘Fine lady’ singer has stated that is he is not ready to release a gospel album. 
 
According to him: “It has been five years since I have been a born again Christian and I’ve never said I am doing gospel music. I am still Lynxxx and I still make good music. The only difference is that my lifestyle has changed. I am not releasing a gospel music or album anytime soon because I don’t feel like God has pointed me in that direction. However, expect new music from me, he said. 
 
Asked why he has been off the music radar, Lynxxx stated that he has been focusing on building businesses. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“For the past five years, I have been building businesses. To be realistic, I cannot bequeath a music career to my children but I can give them businesses I have built for them to inherit. I no longer think about myself alone. Now, I am concerned with building and leaving something for generations to come. If I have been able to sustain myself without making music for a certain period, it means I have been doing the right thing by thinking of more ways to generate income.”

Latest-News I am not ready for gospel album- Lynxxx declares

Ever since Nigerian singer, Lynxxx stated that he had become a born-again Christian, many of his fans thought he was going to release a gospel album. However, the ‘Fine lady’ singer has stated that is he is not ready to release a gospel album. Accor…

CAF postpones 2021 AFCON qualifiers

08:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYBiyHM87xLqa3MXB_cZ3k50OxIaoo_QNJRLwg3GSjw8BMuXcigUie1RpB9oBqIizuI-T6M-ngmlBO5V83t31jDboslDLxcuoaq64HqtICKFy6atSUECT-OKlFoTsDQ8uEzAPjIUAqy-E/s1600/Ahmad-Ahmad-CAF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="458" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYBiyHM87xLqa3MXB_cZ3k50OxIaoo_QNJRLwg3GSjw8BMuXcigUie1RpB9oBqIizuI-T6M-ngmlBO5V83t31jDboslDLxcuoaq64HqtICKFy6atSUECT-OKlFoTsDQ8uEzAPjIUAqy-E/s400/Ahmad-Ahmad-CAF.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Two rounds of 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers scheduled for March have been postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) said on Friday. 
 
Rounds three and four of the pool qualifiers were due to be played in the international window from March 25 to March 31. 
 
But the CAF emergency committee has postponed the games until further notice, without providing alternative dates. 
 
The Nations Cup finals in Cameroon have been moved forward to next January and February to avoid the rainy season, which means the qualifiers will have to be completed this year. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
That could see a delay to the start of the African qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup which were due to start in October. 
 
The Nations Cup qualifiers would have involved 48 countries. 
 
Many players would have been travelling from the major European leagues in Italy, France, England, Germany and Spain, where the coronavirus has disrupted domestic fixtures. 
 
CAF has also postponed qualifiers for the 2020 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for April and this month’s Women’s Under-20 World Cup preliminaries. 
 
“We would like to assure you that CAF is monitoring the situation closely and working with the competent authorities such as WHO (World Health Organisation) on the impact of the virus in the continent and CAF competitions,” a statement said. 
 
The African Nations Championship (CHAN), a national team competition for home-based players, is still on in Cameroon from April 4 to April 25. 
 
But this is dependent on the findings of the CAF medical committee who will visit the country this weekend to assess preventative measures taken by the Local Organising Committee. 
 
Morocco’s football federation has called a meeting for Monday to decide whether they will play in the tournament.

Latest-News CAF postpones 2021 AFCON qualifiers

Two rounds of 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers scheduled for March have been postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) said on Friday. Rounds three and four of the pool qualifiers were due to…

Osinbajo aborts trip, mourns police outrider

08:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRVA8a-qOaVH9d0nkQJXzHduB5AbbQ6ibHXnJhnRYGz81a2Qc0VtrVIpfwO2_qaV6DFk0fLLheYHLYTh0rylYK1cSIX32zz81vhlOKikpjuFfTcEkYkCMJpAclYVlToH8Sz966A57Kqec/s1600/Osinbajo-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRVA8a-qOaVH9d0nkQJXzHduB5AbbQ6ibHXnJhnRYGz81a2Qc0VtrVIpfwO2_qaV6DFk0fLLheYHLYTh0rylYK1cSIX32zz81vhlOKikpjuFfTcEkYkCMJpAclYVlToH8Sz966A57Kqec/s400/Osinbajo-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
The office of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has announced the death of one of the police escort riders in his convoy, Inspector Ali Gomina, aged 45. 
 
“Gomina was involved in a road accident while on official duty today”, Laolu Akande the SSA Media to Osinbajo said in a statement on Friday night. 
 
“The accident occurred on the road to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The Vice President, who is greatly saddened by this occurrence, has aborted the trip. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“The Vice President described Gomina as a diligent, hardworking and serious-minded officer who will be greatly missed by the team. He is survived by his wife, children and relatives.

Latest-News Osinbajo aborts trip, mourns police outrider

The office of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has announced the death of one of the police escort riders in his convoy, Inspector Ali Gomina, aged 45. “Gomina was involved in a road accident while on official duty today”, Laolu Akande the SSA Media to …

South-South APC leaders endorse Giadom as Oshiomhole’s replacement

11:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgXiY8348ydP5WMZ8ElsCibhUwvDgUkNYtmGNw1ye0dxyzz8e4B5Vwza7ZGrFBeAH515xiWuZWJnhpVqlmZhPUJQ5M45fX2BZofnKjmijvxZS5GfpKowTMsq-GW8bzeDj_-MOhqD5RiE/s1600/osho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="175" data-original-width="288" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgXiY8348ydP5WMZ8ElsCibhUwvDgUkNYtmGNw1ye0dxyzz8e4B5Vwza7ZGrFBeAH515xiWuZWJnhpVqlmZhPUJQ5M45fX2BZofnKjmijvxZS5GfpKowTMsq-GW8bzeDj_-MOhqD5RiE/s400/osho.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Leaders of the All Progressives Congress from the South-South zone of the country have insisted that the party’s National Executive Committee meeting scheduled for next Tuesday must hold. 
 
They have also asked all members of the party from the six states in the zone to attend the meeting. 
At a zonal caucus meeting, which ended on Thursday night in Abuja, the leaders endorsed the current Acting National Chairman of the party, Victor Giadom, as a replacement for the embattled National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole. 
 
Oshiomhole and the Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege and the APC National Vice-Chairman, South-South, Hilliard Eta, were absent at the meeting attended by four serving Ministers from the zone namely; Rotimi Amaechi (Transport), Osagie Ehanire (Health), Festus Keyamo (State, Labour) and Goddy Jeddy Agba (State, Power). 
 
Also present at the meeting were former Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba; former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Nguru Usani; and ex-NIMASA boss, Dakuku Peterside, amongst others. 
A communique released at the end of the meeting noted that the leaders recognised the NEC as the only organ to resolve the APC crisis. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The communique, which was sighted by the newsmen, was read on behalf of the leaders by the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki. 
 
The communique noted in part, “At the meeting, the leaders of the zone deliberated extensively on situation in the party and at the end of the meeting, they adopted the following resolutions: 
“That as a party, we commend our brother, the Acting Chairman of the APC,  Victor Giadom, for rising to the occasion by providing leadership for the party in this trying times. 
 
“That we fully support the convening of the National Executive Committee meeting on Tuesday, March 17th, as the NEC is the only recognised organ under the constitution of our party to resolve the APC crisis. 
 
“That we insist that the party should respect the current zoning arrangement by retaining the chairmanship of our great party in the South-South zone even in an acting capacity. 
 
“We resolved that the most senior officer of the party from the zone, being the National Acting Secretary, Chief Victor Giadom, should be confirmed  Acting National Chairman for the time being. 
 
“We urged all our brothers and sisters from the zone to fully embrace the NEC meeting and not boycott the emergency NEC meeting, which has been slated for Tuesday, March 17th. Because boycott in a democratic environment is always counterproductive.”

Latest-News South-South APC leaders endorse Giadom as Oshiomhole’s replacement

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress from the South-South zone of the country have insisted that the party’s National Executive Committee meeting scheduled for next Tuesday must hold. They have also asked all members of the party from the six st…

BREAKING: Court orders IGP, DSS to release Sanusi from confinement

10:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News BREAKING: Court orders IGP, DSS to release Sanusi from confinement

…

BREAKING: Second coronavirus patient in Nigeria tests negative

10:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News BREAKING: Second coronavirus patient in Nigeria tests negative

…

Prof. Soyinka to Ganduje: The man you think you humiliated is one of the greatest reformers

10:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News Prof. Soyinka to Ganduje: The man you think you humiliated is one of the greatest reformers

…

Like Catholic Church, Anglican Communion suspends handshakes during service over coronavirus

10:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News Like Catholic Church, Anglican Communion suspends handshakes during service over coronavirus

…

Amechi blasts South-East governors over regional security outfit

10:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News Amechi blasts South-East governors over regional security outfit

…

ASUU Strike: FG reaches agreement with lecturers on IPPIS

10:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_SUVmMMfIwTB_0AZGtrvhm2tapwnvKRLsxoDrGkxWlZYqRcQGB2f_ghuCctuDpaZOrOsqeMYI1ix7R05KzymIqSMicu7Jhdup9BsHWcFRtCeSFnKWX76Z5UBgQOpzIMH6mgAuuaARPT4/s1600/ASUU-logo-414x232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="232" data-original-width="414" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_SUVmMMfIwTB_0AZGtrvhm2tapwnvKRLsxoDrGkxWlZYqRcQGB2f_ghuCctuDpaZOrOsqeMYI1ix7R05KzymIqSMicu7Jhdup9BsHWcFRtCeSFnKWX76Z5UBgQOpzIMH6mgAuuaARPT4/s400/ASUU-logo-414x232.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
The Nigerian government has reached an interim agreement with striking university lecturers to integrate the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) into the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). 
 
The IPPIS is the government’s accountability software that has been made compulsory for all public institutions, mainly for personnel payroll. 
 
ASUU is opposed to the use of IPPIS for lecturers saying it does not consider some of the peculiar operations of universities. The lecturers’ union then developed its own UTAS which it wants the government to adopt for universities. 
 
The Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chris Ngige, announced the agreement after a four-hour meeting between both parties. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Mr Ngige said the two parties will reconvene on Monday after the ASUU delegation deliberates with its National Executive Council (NEC). 
 
Also speaking, the National President of ASUU, Biodun Ogunyemi, said the National Executive Committee of the union will review the conditions for the integration of UTAS into IPPIS. 
 
However, both parties did not reveal the conditions to the media. 
 
ASUU on Monday asked its members in federal universities across the country to begin two weeks warning strike in response to the government’s decision to stop the February salaries of lecturers who have not registered on the IPPIS platform. 
 
Thursday’s meeting is the first by both parties since the strike commenced.

Latest-News ASUU Strike: FG reaches agreement with lecturers on IPPIS

The Nigerian government has reached an interim agreement with striking university lecturers to integrate the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) into the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). The IPPIS i…

Celine Dion cancels concert after coronavirus test

10:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPOfuRMIfte1IYNNmpqWwGsvF5-ogFebla8ukSoKmvg8PWfl4mcPq6ZVAgs365QLCFRhhlCZeTL0MJpqdPGwNYekL-vCVcTIvPBrOC1EjYK_0Km-7AtVxutJtAmjzNHOyzqWLgb4F9cw/s1600/Celine-Dion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="600" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPOfuRMIfte1IYNNmpqWwGsvF5-ogFebla8ukSoKmvg8PWfl4mcPq6ZVAgs365QLCFRhhlCZeTL0MJpqdPGwNYekL-vCVcTIvPBrOC1EjYK_0Km-7AtVxutJtAmjzNHOyzqWLgb4F9cw/s400/Celine-Dion.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Sonorous singer, Celine Dion has postponed her concert billed to hold in Washington DC, despite testing negative for coronavirus. 
 
Unlike many other artists who have called off their shows due to concerns about COVID-19, the Grammy-award songwriter took to her social media platforms to inform fans that it was because of a more routine virus — a common cold. 
 
The ‘My heart will go on’ singer was scheduled to perform on Wednesday and Friday in DC and Pittsburgh respectively, amid her ongoing ‘Courage World Tour’. 
 
Dion, however, announced some changes, saying the show dates are being deferred to November. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“We regret to inform you that, due to a cold, Celine Dion will be postponing two performances of her scheduled this week in Washington, D.C and Pittsburgh,” the statement read. 
 
“The show dates are being rescheduled as follows: Wednesday, March 11 in Washington, D.C. at Capital One Arena has been rescheduled for Monday, November 16, 2020. 
 
“Friday, March 13 in Pittsburgh, PA at PPG Paints Arena has been rescheduled for Wednesday, November 18, 2020. 
 
“On Monday night, a day after completing a six-show run in the New York area, Celine began feeling the symptoms of a common cold. 
 
“The symptoms persisted into Tuesday, and her doctors instructed her to rest for the next 5-7 days. After testing her, the doctors concluded that her virus was not related to COVID-19. 
“Performances of her Courage World Tour are expected to resume on Tuesday, March 24 in Denver, CO at the Pepsi Center as initially scheduled.” 
 
In November 2019,  she released a new album entitled ‘Courage’.

Latest-News Celine Dion cancels concert after coronavirus test

Sonorous singer, Celine Dion has postponed her concert billed to hold in Washington DC, despite testing negative for coronavirus. Unlike many other artists who have called off their shows due to concerns about COVID-19, the Grammy-award songwriter t…

BREAKING: El-Rufai on his way to see Sanusi in Awe

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News BREAKING: El-Rufai on his way to see Sanusi in Awe

…

Wife of Canadian PM tests positive for coronavirus

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News Wife of Canadian PM tests positive for coronavirus

…

12 SAN's to represent Sanusi as he takes Kano state govt, FG to court

09:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPx3ggwnQEfgPJOFaybbEnyI1z-gb429338brmwIWyCVtDix5mRZ0ywRhjS5Zd3zEcoZHPGg7F4PB4i-RFdhuGlP2SouLykhkgpD16UGrDD_DyLw6KP8N0DTnducZTbP4lH4zeI2IJduzh/s1600/Emir-of-Kano-Alhaji-Muhammadu-Sanusi-II-504x290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="290" data-original-width="504" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPx3ggwnQEfgPJOFaybbEnyI1z-gb429338brmwIWyCVtDix5mRZ0ywRhjS5Zd3zEcoZHPGg7F4PB4i-RFdhuGlP2SouLykhkgpD16UGrDD_DyLw6KP8N0DTnducZTbP4lH4zeI2IJduzh/s320/Emir-of-Kano-Alhaji-Muhammadu-Sanusi-II-504x290.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
 
 
The deposed Emir of Kano Muhammad Sanusi II has challenged the restriction of his movement and banishment to Awe community in Nasarawa State. 
 
He wants the court to declare the restriction of his movement, in the guise of banishment or otherwise, as unlawful. 
 
The deposed Emir is praying the court to restore his right to dignity, personal liberty, freedom of association and movement. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The fundamental rights enforcement suit was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday by a team of about 30 lawyers, including 12 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) led by Prince Lateef Fagbemi. 
 
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kano State Attorney-General, the Department of State Services (DSS) Director-General and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) are the defendants. 
 
Sanusi said respondents were violating his constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of movement. 
 
He is praying the court to declare his banishment to Nasarawa as illegal and therefore null and void. 
 
The Kano State Government dethroned Sanusi on Monday for alleged insubordination. 
 
He was taken to Loko and subsequently to Awe both in Nasarawa State. 
 
Residents of the town, however, said Sanusi was welcome. 
 
A former Nasarawa Commissioner for Information, Abdullahi Mustapha, said: “We wish the circumstances of his visit and stay were different.”. 
 
A former special adviser, Mohammed Tafida, said residents were hopeful that something good would come out of Sanusi’s stay. 
 
Sanusi was absent at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Anambra State, where he was to be conferred with an honorary doctorate degree during it institution’s convocation. 
 
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Charles Esimone, said Sanusi, hopefully, would attend the next convocation. 
 
Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Walid Jibrin, believes Sanusi’s deposition could undermine the traditional institution. 
 
The Senator said in a statement: “It is very unfortunate that our current traditional rulers are only being used as tools to resolve conflicts. 
 
“As a traditional title holder, my primary aim of joining politics is to protect the integrity of the traditional institution. 
 
“In Nigeria, many governors involve traditional title holders to assist them in running their governments. 
 
“What happened in Kano recently where the governor, within two hours, dethroned a first-class Emir and banished him to far away Nasarawa State was very unfortunate.” 
 
Senator Jibrin called on the National Assembly to make the procedure for the removal of traditional rulers stringent and to give official roles to monarchs in the soon-to-be reviewed Constitution. 
 
“Emir Sanusi, a highly respected traditional ruler, should not have been treated like a rat that was being pursued. The people of Kano and the Sanusi family deserve an apology,” Jibrin said. 
 
Jibrin’s sentiment is shared by a former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, who said Sanusi’s dethronement “impacted more negatively on Nigeria than on the former Emir himself”. 
 
He added in a Facebook post: “A few weeks ago, while speaking to investors in London, their primary concern about investing in Nigeria was the unceasing lawlessness and insecurity issues in the country. 
 
“The recent reckless executive action in Kano further validates their fears. We must be better and act better if we seriously plan to play on the global stage.” 
 
Also on Thursday, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) said it has filed a complaint before the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention. 
 
The complaint is against the Federal Government and Kano over the Sanusi’s “arbitrary detention and degrading treatment”. 
 
SERAP wants an enquiry on “the legal basis for his arrest, detention, and degrading treatment, each of which is in violation of international law.” 
 
The complaint, contained in a March 11 letter, was signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare and addressed to Chairman/Rapporteur of the Working Group Mr José Guevara Bermúdez,. 
 
SERAP said: “The arrest and continued detention of Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi is an egregious violation of his human rights. 
 
“We urge the Working Group to request the Nigerian and Kano State authorities to investigate and hold accountable all persons responsible for the unlawful arrest, continued detention, and degrading treatment of Emir Sanusi.” 
 
SERAP also urged the Working Group “to request the Nigerian and Kano State authorities to award Emir Sanusi adequate compensation for the violations he has endured as a result of his unlawful arrest, arbitrary detention, and degrading treatment.”

Latest-News 12 SAN's to represent Sanusi as he takes Kano state govt, FG to court

The deposed Emir of Kano Muhammad Sanusi II has challenged the restriction of his movement and banishment to Awe community in Nasarawa State. He wants the court to declare the restriction of his movement, in the guise of banishment or otherwise, as …

Presidency reacts to ‘attack on Buhari’ in Kebbi (VIDEO)

09:22 Unknown 0

Latest-News Presidency reacts to ‘attack on Buhari’ in Kebbi (VIDEO)

…

Oshiomhole’s pictures, billboards yanked off at APC secretariat

09:22 Unknown 0

Latest-News Oshiomhole’s pictures, billboards yanked off at APC secretariat

…

Coronavirus: Minister warns Nigerians to avoid hugging, shaking hands

08:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrhQQlXAguKX3q4dSTFXhhsLcTKny1fJGSO3gbNMUmIiu9JS4vsC5SkIGIjoJ9Y4zAEUoplcy8Phyg78sp60rTFfP0PrPFWRGU8Fbu9cAGsVk5Oudy-ajnbcuBfXMtS3U09txVrq-N4s/s1600/aregbesola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrhQQlXAguKX3q4dSTFXhhsLcTKny1fJGSO3gbNMUmIiu9JS4vsC5SkIGIjoJ9Y4zAEUoplcy8Phyg78sp60rTFfP0PrPFWRGU8Fbu9cAGsVk5Oudy-ajnbcuBfXMtS3U09txVrq-N4s/s320/aregbesola.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
 
The Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola has cautioned Nigerians to reduce the culture of handshakes and hugs to avoid contracting COVID-19 (Coronavirus). 
 
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Aregbesola said this at the ground-breaking ceremony of a 3000-capacity custodial centre in Karshi, Abuja on Thursday. 
 
The minister urged the people to always stay three-feet away from one another and avoid crowded places. 
 
”Don’t shake hands again; don’t hug for now except your family members. Maintain three-foot distance between you and the next person,” he warned. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Aregbesola also advised Nigerians to greet by bowing and touching their chests. He said that coronavirus had become a global emergency and all hands must be on deck to ensure it did not become a serious problem in Nigeria. 
 
“We must be cautious of coronavirus and work towards preventing it. We owe it to ourselves, our family, and community to be very vigilant,” he said. 
 
Aregbesola urged the people not to panic and encouraged hygienic living to prevent the virus.

Latest-News Coronavirus: Minister warns Nigerians to avoid hugging, shaking hands

The Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola has cautioned Nigerians to reduce the culture of handshakes and hugs to avoid contracting COVID-19 (Coronavirus). According to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Aregbesola said this at the ground-breaking…

Coronavirus in Nigeria: FG gives update on imposing travel ban

08:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News Coronavirus in Nigeria: FG gives update on imposing travel ban

…

Market unfavourable for Naira devaluation- CBN

08:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyhVYv1wnf6GATyoBRGSnKGCiF_lPZ1aMLCUS24WEmj_smPoWmEy9VrGWCX5C2EpveYWNmNrUpy0kXt0lARbriO0Tm8IfvruWvfddoTMV-ewzOSkJDIwlTv9gZ57wZtMWpRV6gBnyhq8/s1600/CBN-Central-Bank-Nigeria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="650" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyhVYv1wnf6GATyoBRGSnKGCiF_lPZ1aMLCUS24WEmj_smPoWmEy9VrGWCX5C2EpveYWNmNrUpy0kXt0lARbriO0Tm8IfvruWvfddoTMV-ewzOSkJDIwlTv9gZ57wZtMWpRV6gBnyhq8/s400/CBN-Central-Bank-Nigeria.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has stated that market fundamentals do not support Naira devaluation this time around. The CBN made this known in a statement obtained by newsmen made by the bank’s director, Corporate Communications, Mr. Isaac Okorafor in Abuja on Friday. 
 
Okorafor expressed shock at speculative activities at the foreign exchange market from impressions that the CBN would devalue the Naira, thereby triggering fear in the Foreign Exchange Market. He said these rumours were false, unwarranted and calculated to serve dubious and selfish ends. 
 
“We, therefore, wish to state that we have begun a robust and coordinated investigation in collaboration with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and related agencies to uncover the unscrupulous persons and Foreign Exchange dealers who are creating this panic, and the full weight of our rules and regulations will be meted out to them. This including, but not limited to, being charged for economic sabotage. 
 
“For nearly four years, the CBN has successfully maintained relative stability in all segments of the foreign exchange market, which has enabled investors, households and other economic agents to plan and to conduct their genuine foreign exchange transactions with relative ease. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“The introduction of several foreign exchange management measures side-by-side with complementary interventions in food production and manufacturing has drastically reduced food importation, which hitherto constituted a large chunk of the pressure on the foreign exchange market. 
 
“Although the outbreak of the Coronavirus led to the global economic slowdown, fall in the price of crude oil, and less inflow of dollars into Nigeria, the associated public health concerns have also led to factory closures in China, substantial drop in imports, widespread travel restrictions around the world, and cancellation of many conferences, sporting events, business travels, and foreign exchange orders. 
 
“The size of Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves remains robust and comfortable, given the current realities of Nigeria’s genuine and legitimate Foreign Exchange demand. As such, the CBN remains able and willing to meet all genuine demand for foreign exchange for legitimate transactions,” he explained. 
 
The director added that the CBN was also working with the fiscal authorities to properly and accurately dimension the immediate and expected impacts of the Coronavirus in order to respond comprehensively and at the same time, ensure a sound and stable financial system conducive for job creation and inclusive growth. He said in light of current circumstances and macroeconomic fundamentals, the CBN has not devalued the Naira. 
 
According to him, the CBN will invoke the full weight of applicable sanctions on individuals involved in such disruptive and speculative market behaviour.

Latest-News Market unfavourable for Naira devaluation- CBN

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has stated that market fundamentals do not support Naira devaluation this time around. The CBN made this known in a statement obtained by newsmen made by the bank’s director, Corporate Communications, Mr. Isaac Okor…

Kemi Adetiba speaks on coronavirus fears

08:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQlkj_GjbdGs0enXARwUzahjaG5TjAdvEjJIwxBHIT8Vy4kwXMkh0oNa9qKVDIhamQpkJwXrB1F40jYKQt_cjnmoql86Z5S1bVIlGZqzRZk0KLav5tJqV6s1rW4OOy7k_ZnoFqmtb5GM/s1600/KEMI-ADETIBA-2-750x430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="750" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQlkj_GjbdGs0enXARwUzahjaG5TjAdvEjJIwxBHIT8Vy4kwXMkh0oNa9qKVDIhamQpkJwXrB1F40jYKQt_cjnmoql86Z5S1bVIlGZqzRZk0KLav5tJqV6s1rW4OOy7k_ZnoFqmtb5GM/s400/KEMI-ADETIBA-2-750x430.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Award winning filmmaker and cinematographer, Kemi Adetiba has shared her concerns about coronavirus. The movie director  took to her Twitter page on Thursday to speak on her fears — shortly after the coronavirus outbreak was declared pandemic. 
 
Adetiba said, unlike New York City that has become “a mess” in recent times due to the disease, Nigeria is currently ahead with respect to the fight against the spread of COVID-19. 
 
“Countries with better health care systems are struggling under the sheer weight and number of patients. Nigeria is ahead right now. Let’s do everything to stay that way,” she wrote. 
 
“Me that I’m in Lekki Phase 1, ain’t going nowhere… The bulk of my immediate family is in New York. NY is a mess right now. Folks displaying symptoms are unable to get tested unless critical. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“We can’t afford to have the virus come in, hoping we can contain if it does. It’s laughable to think that we will handle a pandemic better than the US or UK if an outbreak happens. Respect the virus. 
 
“If you have 9000 critical cases at once, what hospital will adequately take care of them? How many ventilators do we have in this country? Beds? Health care personnel?” 
 
It was gathered that ever since the coronavirus broke out in the Chinese city of Wuhan, more than 4000 lives have been lost globally to the disease with over 100,000 cases confirmed across over 100 countries. 
 
“In the past two weeks, the number of cases of COVID19 outside China has increased 13-fold & the number of affected countries has tripled,” said the World Health Organization (WHO).

Latest-News Kemi Adetiba speaks on coronavirus fears

Award winning filmmaker and cinematographer, Kemi Adetiba has shared her concerns about coronavirus. The movie director took to her Twitter page on Thursday to speak on her fears — shortly after the coronavirus outbreak was declared pandemic. Adeti…

Man arrested for rushing to ‘touch’ Buhari

08:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHiT0_nCPLc-lq094uMH2Oaj_gj1jtjR_2twl9gWCe13aIBsJ_nHHh3pfPFgCV-MUYQodi0e1QF2ERCUjf81ykN8rDJcqFZ_Qm3CQV2fJ_4SyxL_RkYzZ3sWXJuS8eImVVmwslhyRmIqm8/s1600/buhari+side.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="400" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHiT0_nCPLc-lq094uMH2Oaj_gj1jtjR_2twl9gWCe13aIBsJ_nHHh3pfPFgCV-MUYQodi0e1QF2ERCUjf81ykN8rDJcqFZ_Qm3CQV2fJ_4SyxL_RkYzZ3sWXJuS8eImVVmwslhyRmIqm8/s320/buhari+side.png" width="320" /></a></div>
 
There was a dramatic twist to the visit of the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), to Kebbi State on Thursday as a man attempted to jump at him. 
 
However, security operatives moved in quickly to stop him from reaching the President. 
 
A video trending online showed the unidentified man rushing at Buhari in a location where the President and other personalities appeared to be set to inspect some agricultural produce on display. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
But, his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr Garba Shehu, told journalists that the man was “unusually excited” on sighting Buhari and wanted to touch him. 
 
“I was told that somebody was trying to reach the President out of excitement. And he didn’t know the security implications of that approach. 
 
“People who where there, our photographers; that was what they told us,” Shehu stated when he was contacted last night. 
 
The spokesman added that he was not at the venue himself and could not give an eyewitness account. 
 
Buhari had visited Kebbi State on Thursday to attend the opening ceremonies of the Argungu Agricultural and Fishing Festival. 
 
The festival, usually held annually, had been suspended in the last 11 years, owing to security challenges in the North.

Latest-News Man arrested for rushing to ‘touch’ Buhari

There was a dramatic twist to the visit of the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), to Kebbi State on Thursday as a man attempted to jump at him. However, security operatives moved in quickly to stop him from reaching the President. A …

Man United can beat any team – Ighalo

08:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNu3J2CGqfur2lxalt6xKi40cUJQ9knezrF04_FDqw1WQyXCaR0GLnhunJp3IJ5bZq4tJeJBZrhdGMPA988uIAI1T5ulTaRlj0FIO0_0n9hS6kz9K_R6y11Q4IQIgA4eIsCxyhXTgqXl_/s1600/Ighalo+United3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="590" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNu3J2CGqfur2lxalt6xKi40cUJQ9knezrF04_FDqw1WQyXCaR0GLnhunJp3IJ5bZq4tJeJBZrhdGMPA988uIAI1T5ulTaRlj0FIO0_0n9hS6kz9K_R6y11Q4IQIgA4eIsCxyhXTgqXl_/s400/Ighalo+United3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Odion Ighalo is confident Manchester United can beat any team if they are at their best. 
 
Ighalo signed for his boyhood club (Manchester United) on loan until the end of the season from Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua in January. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Since then, he has scored three goals in eight appearances for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side, and enjoyed his first Manchester derby victory on Sunday. 
 
“We have what it takes to do even better,” Ighalo told the BBC. 
 
“We are capable of beating any team if we play to our standard and play very well. 
 
This form can be sustainable because it’s hard work, belief and determination. The group is together working towards one goal. 
 
“I’m not saying we’re not going to lose games – sometimes we will. But we are sticking together, fighting together, and our belief is there. I think we have what it takes to do even better than we are doing now. 
 
He also revealed the panic to make his move from China possible with the coronavirus scare. 
 
“When my agent told me about it, I was hoping and longing, but I was having doubts in my mind because I was in China. How was I going to fly to the UK? Am I going to beat this coronavirus to get in and United have another striker they are looking at? 
 
“I was happy my name was being mentioned but I did not put my mind on it 100% because I thought it was not going to happen because of the situation in China. 
 
He also reserved special praise for Bruno Fernandes who has also impressed at the club since his arrival at Old Trafford. 
 
“What Fernandes brings is unbelievable. It’s not my first time playing with Bruno. I played with him at Udinese back in 2010. 
 
“He’s a great player. He has vision. He’s the guy who wants the ball because he can do something fantastic with it if you give him space. He’s a good passer of the ball and he’s what this team needs to score goals. 
 
“You’re still going to see more and better from him because he is still getting used to the Premier League. When he’s finally settled Bruno Fernandes is going to do well in this team. 
 
“Before I came here I knew Manchester United were looking at him and I was hoping they would get him because he is a good player and I knew he was going to change the dynamic of the team. 
 
“He’s not going to have the best game every time but what he is going to bring to the team is going to be unbelievable.”

Latest-News Man United can beat any team – Ighalo

Odion Ighalo is confident Manchester United can beat any team if they are at their best. Ighalo signed for his boyhood club (Manchester United) on loan until the end of the season from Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua in January. Since then, he has sco…

Coronavirus hits English football, Chelsea striker Callum Hudson-Odoi, Arsenal boss infected

08:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="968" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVA7MP5Iw6RxXLejOrRlj-XGPg5tSZg2S_h4ZhVkhyphenhyphenphnU-gSuM09PGfHFQ6rzAUrmsT4vnTMnUCPw7E-tS_yCCsvGX7lhXAKfrI7yGlZ4tJnmALvwD_lzBof2nDljd2lAAaxl16t4yDmp/s400/odoi.jpg" width="400" /></div>
 
 
The Premier League was thrown into chaos on Thursday as Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi both contracted the new coronavirus, leaving at least one game postponed and other fixtures in doubt. 
 
Arsenal’s match at Brighton was put on hold after Arteta’s diagnosis sent the London club into lockdown, while Chelsea’s players and coaching staff were also ordered into isolation. 
 
Chelsea said they would discuss their upcoming games, starting with Sunday’s trip to Aston Villa, with Premier League officials. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The league will hold emergency talks on Friday “regarding future fixtures” in light of the pandemic, which has shut down football and other sports around the world. 
 
Hudson-Odoi, 19, is the first Premier League player confirmed to have the virus. He displayed cold symptoms on Monday morning and has stayed away from the club since then. 
 
“Chelsea personnel who had recent close contact with the player in the men’s team building will now self-isolate in line with government health guidelines,” a club statement said. 
 
“These will include initially the full men’s team squad, coaching staff and a number of backroom staff.” 
 
Arsenal’s training ground has been closed and their players and staff have gone into self-isolation following Arteta’s positive test. 
 
“This is really disappointing but I took the test after feeling poorly. I will be at work as soon as I’m allowed,” Arteta said. 
 
There are over 590 confirmed cases of the virus in Britain and 10 people have died from it so far. 
 
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had said the government was “considering the question of banning major public events such as sporting fixtures”, but was not ready to do so yet. 
 
 
 
But Arteta and Hudson-Odoi’s illnesses could force the Premier League’s hand and lead to the cancellation of matches this weekend and possibly into the future. 
 
– Leicester, Man City players isolated -Arsenal and Chelsea are not the only top-flight clubs affected by the virus. 
 
Leicester, scheduled to play at Watford on Saturday, said on Thursday that three of their players have shown symptoms and are self-isolating as a precaution. 
 
The Foxes said the unnamed trio had “presented with extremely mild illness” in recent days. 
 
“We’ve had a few players that have shown symptoms and signs,” Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers said. 
 
“We’ve followed procedure and they have been kept away at this moment from the rest of the squad and then we’ll see how that develops.” 
 
Manchester City said one unnamed member of their squad, reportedly France defender Benjamin Mendy, is in self-isolation after a family member suffered a respiratory illness. 
 
The relative is being treated in hospital and has undergone tests for the coronavirus, which can cause shortness of breath. 
 
It is a similar picture across the continent. In Italy, Europe’s worst-hit country, Serie A has suspended matches until at least April 3 and Juventus defender Daniele Rugani has been quarantined. 
 
City’s Champions League last 16 second leg meeting with Real Madrid, set for Tuesday, has been postponed after one of the Spanish club’s basketball players tested positive for the virus. 
 
All French Ligue 1 matches will be held behind closed doors until April 15, the next two La Liga match days have been suspended and this weekend’s Bundesliga fixtures will also go ahead without watching fans. 
 
UEFA, European football’s governing body, will consider whether to postpone the Champions League and Euro 2020 at a meeting next week. 
 
Arsenal’s league match at Manchester City last Wednesday was postponed and several Gunners players went into self-isolation after Olympiakos and Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis contracted the virus. 
 
Marinakis, 52, met Arsenal players and staff when the Gunners faced Olympiakos in a Europa League tie in February. 
 
If the Premier League does decide to play on, Liverpool could be crowned champions on Monday. 
 
If-second placed City lose to Burnley, then Liverpool will win the title for the first time in 30 years if they beat Everton in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. 
 
Fixtures (1500 GMT unless stated): 
 
Saturday 
 
Aston Villa v Chelsea (1730 GMT), Bournemouth v Crystal Palace, Brighton v Arsenal, Manchester City v Burnley Newcastle v Sheffield United, Norwich v Southampton, Watford v Leicester (1230 GMT) 
 
Sunday 
 
Tottenham v Manchester United (1630 GMT), West Ham v Wolves (1400 GMT) 
 
Monday 
 
Everton v Liverpool (2000 GMT) 
 
AFP

Latest-News Coronavirus hits English football, Chelsea striker Callum Hudson-Odoi, Arsenal boss infected

The Premier League was thrown into chaos on Thursday as Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi both contracted the new coronavirus, leaving at least one game postponed and other fixtures in doubt. Arsenal’s match at Brigh…

Ghana, Gabon record first cases of coronavirus

08:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrYj8z3xGxrQohFq_yFsWIYj4LeMOorn_afcn870KNGcV5cE-365s_WM4gf9NCUnFOLGI3PYxXCbsqGXBkjgnp0o0Witcd72aPPp8a8qFLmnJD4g3UGAHcR_-EnpMydmb5ZDFWQS80bdf/s1600/coronavirus-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="768" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrYj8z3xGxrQohFq_yFsWIYj4LeMOorn_afcn870KNGcV5cE-365s_WM4gf9NCUnFOLGI3PYxXCbsqGXBkjgnp0o0Witcd72aPPp8a8qFLmnJD4g3UGAHcR_-EnpMydmb5ZDFWQS80bdf/s640/coronavirus-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
Gabon and Ghana have confirmed their first cases of coronavirus. 
 
With the latest development, 10 countries have recorded positive cases in sub-Saharan Africa. 
 
Gabon being the ninth and Ghana, the tenth to record positive cases in Sub-Saharan Africa. 
 
Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon, Togo, South Africa, Burkina Faso and Democratic Republic of Congo have also recorded cases. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
In a statement, Gabon’s government said its case was a 27-year-old Gabonese man who had returned from France on March 8. 
 
Ghana’s health ministry said its two cases were people who had returned recently from Norway and Turkey. 
 
“These are imported cases of COVID-19. Both patients are currently being kept in isolation and are stable,” the Ghana ministry said in a statement.

Latest-News Ghana, Gabon record first cases of coronavirus

Gabon and Ghana have confirmed their first cases of coronavirus. With the latest development, 10 countries have recorded positive cases in sub-Saharan Africa. Gabon being the ninth and Ghana, the tenth to record positive cases in Sub-Saharan Africa.…

White House insists no need to test Trump for Coronavirus

08:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHAJccRODsCZB8OKfsu4uaGXBJNvKs7EOvwWdHV4pWy-siBp5SPqBF6MRJnmVZUnfkqfbRsDVnMU4XHc0JkOnhVvqfRID3ebJ6AR0ekJmQSHjKL2Q1C7Q7nshlPmshLQCkQ79r7wNmm8h/s1600/trump+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="1160" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHAJccRODsCZB8OKfsu4uaGXBJNvKs7EOvwWdHV4pWy-siBp5SPqBF6MRJnmVZUnfkqfbRsDVnMU4XHc0JkOnhVvqfRID3ebJ6AR0ekJmQSHjKL2Q1C7Q7nshlPmshLQCkQ79r7wNmm8h/s400/trump+smile.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
President Donald Trump does not need testing for coronavirus despite having met with an aide to Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro who was found afterwards to test positive, the White House said on Thursday. 
 
“The White House is aware of public reports that a member of the Brazilian delegation… tested positive for COVID-19,” Trump spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said in a statement. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Trump and Vice President Mike Pence “had almost no interactions with the individual” during Bolsonaro’s trip to a Trump golf club in Florida last weekend 
 
They “do not require being tested at this time,” she said. 
 
Grisham said that under government guidelines “there is currently no indication to test patients without symptoms, and only people with prolonged close exposure to confirmed positive cases should self-quarantine”. 
 
(AFP)

Latest-News White House insists no need to test Trump for Coronavirus

President Donald Trump does not need testing for coronavirus despite having met with an aide to Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro who was found afterwards to test positive, the White House said on Thursday. “The White House is aware of public repor…

Hunger killing more Nigerians than coronavirus - Sultan of Sokoto

00:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPJtmyRU2G-5M0QixAaSM1NGFdejeRMVb3ahf1PFMxandnmyJd_CQXJdCMt3nk7TyRjZao_1_5ZhTg1jHJpTNi_afJZQwJtYamD1Q3o11XFbd0-PTPJj0MNEjg37iCb70ImsM5gJQU2Rf/s400/sultan-of-sokoto.jpg" width="400" /></div>
 
The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar III, has lamented the hardship being faced by Nigerians, noting that hunger was killing the people more than the dreaded coronavirus. 
 
The monarch said this in Abuja on Thursday during the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council meeting attended by the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
 
 
Speaking on the theme of the parley, ‘Together, we can grow peace for the Nation,’ the Sultan warned that “no individual or religion would be spared should the country be torn apart.” 
 
He stated, “There is a very serious virus that is killing people much higher than coronavirus. That virus is hunger; there is hunger virus and it’s very serious. You need to go round the country into the villages, into the towns and see how people are really struggling to survive.” 
 
The Sultan, who is the Co-Chairman of NIREC, insisted that there was no such thing as persecution of Christians in Nigeria as alleged by the Christian Association of Nigeria and other Christian bodies, noting that Nigerian Muslims were equally being killed in large numbers by terrorists and bandits. 
 
Stating that every life was sacred, Abubakar, who is the President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, urged aggrieved parties denied rights to build mosques or churches in some locations as the case may be, to approach relevant authorities to solve the problem rather than attribute such actions to persecution. 
 
“For me, there is no persecution of anybody in this country because if you say there is persecution of Christians, there is also persecution of Muslims but that will not solve the problem.” 
 
Abubakar knocked the CAN leadership, stressing that there was unity and commitment to address the nation’s challenges when Cardinal John Onaiyekan was the President of the Christian body. 
 
The CAN President and Co-Chairman of NIREC, Rev Samson Ayokunle, stressed the need for Nigerians to retrace their steps back to God “if the issues bedevilling the country must be solved.” 
 
Represented by the President, Organisation of African Instituted Church, Napo Emuchay, he said, “The way out is for us to go back to contrition; we have to change from a life of sin to righteousness, so let’s come back to God in contrition. If we forsake wickedness in its entirety, our nation will be saved.” 
 
The SGF in his remarks cautioned religious leaders to “desist from propagating narratives capable of plunging the nation into a major crisis that would further tear the country apart.”

Latest-News Hunger killing more Nigerians than coronavirus - Sultan of Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar III, has lamented the hardship being faced by Nigerians, noting that hunger was killing the people more than the dreaded coronavirus. The monarch said this in Abuja on Thursday during the Nigeria Inter-Religio…

House of reps meets with ASUU over strike

10:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News House of reps meets with ASUU over strike

…

PHOTOS: Sanusi’s books ‘worth over N200m’ moved out of Kano palace

10:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News PHOTOS: Sanusi’s books ‘worth over N200m’ moved out of Kano palace

…

Nigeria will be out of business if crude oil price drops to $22 -NNPC MD, Mele Kyari

10:22 Unknown 0

Latest-News Nigeria will be out of business if crude oil price drops to $22 -NNPC MD, Mele Kyari

…

Lagos Assembly crisis: Tinubu’s political empire intact, says Obasa

09:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9MW_PPvkBy48eqaDS1lT7KQg5TEo3yjkTpW6XWqwk8b_ATPKMcfFffmC7MH4iNhdFubQieQT7UvN8ySgXn9Q1AG9YIS1k4q89EUM9KplONVvEc_KaD9xRyLP14jztL17_c0SU00D2co/s1600/obasa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="750" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9MW_PPvkBy48eqaDS1lT7KQg5TEo3yjkTpW6XWqwk8b_ATPKMcfFffmC7MH4iNhdFubQieQT7UvN8ySgXn9Q1AG9YIS1k4q89EUM9KplONVvEc_KaD9xRyLP14jztL17_c0SU00D2co/s400/obasa.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has said “the political empire” of the National Leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, in Lagos “is intact and strong.” 
 
Obasa spoke following the crisis rocking the Lagos Assembly, which saw four lawmakers suspended on Monday and their offices sealed. 
 
The Speaker was alleged to be fighting with Bayo Osinowo, aka Pepper, a former member of the House, who is also the current senator representing Lagos East at the National Assembly. 
 
The four affected lawmakers were said to be members of Pepper’s camp. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The Speaker, in a statement, said instilling discipline among members of the House of Assembly did not equate with friction in any form between him and members of the party. 
 
Obasa noted that Tinubu had gone through a lot building the APC in Lagos and Nigeria, adding that nobody in his right senses would do anything to be a clog in the wheel of the party’s progress. 
 
“Tinubu remains everything to the continued success of the party he built from the scratch and nurtured up to this moment. 
 
“It is unarguable that his resilience, love for democracy, passion to see his foot-soldiers grow and belief in discipline cannot be measured,” he added. 
 
Obasa maintained that the party in Lagos was united and that the removal of the two principal officers and the suspension of two others was a measure to ensure that the legislature remained strengthened. 
 
“The legislature must remain strong at all times, especially in relation to Nigeria’s democracy because it is often the hardest hit when issues in the democratic journey pop up,” he added. 
 
Obasa, while insisting that the House was united, said 33 members sat at plenary on Tuesday with the newly elected principal officers.

Latest-News Lagos Assembly crisis: Tinubu’s political empire intact, says Obasa

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has said “the political empire” of the National Leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, in Lagos “is intact and strong.” Obasa spoke following the crisis…

UNILAG lecturers protest, demand Babalakin’s removal

09:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitv1vWASDAqfu0ZupkXQ-kcVqyZrCKMW4YSzedyLbYf68xWWEIQj2i0B6AdubC8I2hgRQORk0IHg8NwUIUrXqegXndRnDsavqYu1pM89c_UkeO1EIVRvREiqGFUSw_JwxuLOkA-DlCCV8/s1600/unilag+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="400" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitv1vWASDAqfu0ZupkXQ-kcVqyZrCKMW4YSzedyLbYf68xWWEIQj2i0B6AdubC8I2hgRQORk0IHg8NwUIUrXqegXndRnDsavqYu1pM89c_UkeO1EIVRvREiqGFUSw_JwxuLOkA-DlCCV8/s400/unilag+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Tension mounted on Wednesday as lecturers at the University of Lagos, Akoka, protested against the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Wale Babalakin. 
 
The lecturers, who marched round the school, gathered under the aegis of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, UNILAG branch. 
 
The placard-carrying protesters, who chanted slogans against the pro-chancellor, called for his removal. 
 
The protest followed a week of renewed clash between the varsity management led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Toyin Ogundipe, and the governing council. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Ogundipe had announced that 13,489 graduating students would be conferred with degrees, diplomas and certificates from March 9 to 13. 
 
However, the National Universities Commission, in a memo, called for the suspension of the event. 
 
It was reported that the NUC halted the programme after Babalakin complained to the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, that the varsity council was sidelined from the convocation ceremonies. 
 
UNILAG ASUU Chairman, Dele Ashiru, said during the protest they had reviewed the circumstances that led to the postponement of the convocation. 
 
He claimed the reports obtained by the congress revealed Babalakin was dictatorial, hence they made a  resolution to declare him a persona non grata. 
 
Ashiru said, “After taking an analytical perspective of this unwarranted postponement, the congress noted the damaging activities of the pro-chancellor of this university. 
 
“Beginning from today (Wednesday), Dr Olawale Bolanle Babalakin has been declared a persona non grata in this university; he is not to be seen in the council chamber anymore.” 
 
He urged the lecturers to enforce the resolution, adding that any day Babalakin was seen at the institution, he should be thrown out. 
 
A senior official of the varsity, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed a loyalist of Babalakin was sent out of the ASUU congress. 
 
He said, “The congress held first before the protest. The (hall for the) congress was filled to capacity; everyone spoke with one voice, except one Daramola, who wanted to make excuses for him. He was chased out.  Babalakin wants to run UNILAG like his law chambers. 
 
“Contrary to the claim of the council, there is evidence that the convocation was discussed during their meeting. UNILAG is number one now in Nigeria and 13th in Africa, the pro-chancellor is supposed to capitalize on that to move the school forward, instead of all these issues.” 
 
Babalakin said to be outside the country did not take his calls when contacted by our correspondent for comments. 
 
However, he allegedly told a Premium Times reporter that the union did not have the power to declare him a persona non grata. 
 
While urging the protesters to direct their anger at the NUC which cancelled the convocation, he said his actions followed by the laws governing the university.

Latest-News UNILAG lecturers protest, demand Babalakin’s removal

Tension mounted on Wednesday as lecturers at the University of Lagos, Akoka, protested against the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Wale Babalakin. The lecturers, who marched round the school, gathered under the aegis of the …

‘You are insane’ – Fani-Kayode attacks Sen. Bima over bill seeking to stop, jail generator users in Nigeria

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News ‘You are insane’ – Fani-Kayode attacks Sen. Bima over bill seeking to stop, jail generator users in Nigeria

…

Court okays emergency NEC meeting that may remove Oshiomhole

09:52 Unknown 0

Latest-News Court okays emergency NEC meeting that may remove Oshiomhole

…

REVEALED: Sanusi ‘living like a prisoner’ as police, NSCDC deny visitors access

09:22 Unknown 0

Latest-News REVEALED: Sanusi ‘living like a prisoner’ as police, NSCDC deny visitors access

…

FEC approves N29.4bn for 9th Mile Enugu-Onitsha expressway

09:22 Unknown 0

Latest-News FEC approves N29.4bn for 9th Mile Enugu-Onitsha expressway

…

20 years after, Daddy Freeze dumps CoolFM

09:22 Unknown 0

Latest-News 20 years after, Daddy Freeze dumps CoolFM

…

Coronavirus: Italy records 196 fresh deaths — 827 killed so far

09:22 Unknown 0

Latest-News Coronavirus: Italy records 196 fresh deaths — 827 killed so far

…

Lassa Fever: Nigeria’s death toll reaches 144

09:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5s-fAST-dz5ucl8gI_MsNqlKx-TGOFb33xHqnCv4runvkJhXM9p1MBt3qnNlVn19bOGVlyWq6WLOIo7EjKbTjzWbEHApvGe9bRNHwFmqZB4hpCtU-5oDFWU1cNCmLwyxfDLlWkEjn78o/s1600/Lassa-fever-653x365+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="365" data-original-width="653" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5s-fAST-dz5ucl8gI_MsNqlKx-TGOFb33xHqnCv4runvkJhXM9p1MBt3qnNlVn19bOGVlyWq6WLOIo7EjKbTjzWbEHApvGe9bRNHwFmqZB4hpCtU-5oDFWU1cNCmLwyxfDLlWkEjn78o/s400/Lassa-fever-653x365+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Nigeria reported that the death toll from the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak ravaging the country rose to 144. 
 
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on Wednesday said since the onset of the 2020 outbreak, the country has recorded 855 confirmed cases and 144 deaths. 
 
As of last week, the number of deaths was 132, meaning 12 people died from the disease within the last week. 
 
Nigeria has only recorded two cases of coronavirus which has infected over 110,000 people globally, leading to over 4,000 deaths. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Lassa fever outbreaks have become endemic in Nigeria as the disease is now being diagnosed all year round. The outbreak peaks in the dry season from November to May. 
 
In the last few years, the number of suspected and confirmed cases, as well as deaths from the disease have been rising, leading to concerns from health experts. 
 
Meanwhile, the weekly situation reported that three states, Edo, Ondo and Ebonyi, have the highest number of cases from the outbreak. 
 
Of all confirmed cases, 74 per cent are from three states: Edo, 34 per cent; Ondo 33, per cent, and Ebonyi 7 per cent. 
 
The five states with the highest number of confirmed cases are: Edo with 288 confirmed cases and 32 deaths; Ondo, 279 confirmed cases and 38 deaths; Ebonyi with 59 cases and 13 deaths; Taraba with 47 cases and 17 deaths and Bauchi with 35 cases and nine deaths. 
 
For the reporting week, there was a slight decline in the number of new confirmed cases as it decreased from 85 cases in week nine to 81 cases. 
 
These cases were reported from 15 states – Edo, Ondo, Ebonyi, Bauchi, Taraba, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Enugu, Adamawa, Kaduna, Sokoto and Kebbi. 
 
In total for 2020, 27 states have so far recorded at least one confirmed case across 119 local government areas. 
 
Cumulatively from week 1 to week 10, 144 deaths have been reported with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 16.8 per cent. 
 
Also, there has been a significant increase in the figures when compared to the same period in 2019. 
 
According to the statistics, cumulatively between week one and 10, 2020, there were 3416 suspected cases, 855 confirmed, 11 probable and 144 deaths compared to same period in 2019 which had 1752 suspected cases, 472 confirmed, 15 probable and 110 death were reported. 
 
Also, the predominant age-group affected is 21-30 years and the male to female ratio for confirmed cases is 1:1.2.

Latest-News Lassa Fever: Nigeria’s death toll reaches 144

Nigeria reported that the death toll from the ongoing Lassa fever outbreak ravaging the country rose to 144. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on Wednesday said since the onset of the 2020 outbreak, the country has recorded 855 confirmed…

Bambam laments over pains of breastfeeding

09:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGNWSMd9gVLl7qZv1PAlqqELcTl0TmXVDG23rRiocmr1xcmqoOlMCCJdU7_bCCfiKVbCaWz61VZ-R5T_gbz26m5V6872AbV4nyqL_4a2uv_iGgyGMQi9iDS-1hESjbbiMnXEA7drwgfls/s1600/bamm-743x430.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="430" data-original-width="743" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGNWSMd9gVLl7qZv1PAlqqELcTl0TmXVDG23rRiocmr1xcmqoOlMCCJdU7_bCCfiKVbCaWz61VZ-R5T_gbz26m5V6872AbV4nyqL_4a2uv_iGgyGMQi9iDS-1hESjbbiMnXEA7drwgfls/s320/bamm-743x430.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Reality TV star and actress, Bambam who recently welcomed a baby girl alongside her husband, Teddy A has opened up on the pains of breastfeeding. 
 
A distraught Bambam took to her twitter page to reveal that her baby, Zendaya is giving her tough times as she is doing exclusive breastfeeding for her. 
 
Breast feeding hurts soooooo much I can’t lie!😭 but baby needs all of it. Prioritizing her needs above my pain is one tough school. And we have been doing soo well. #babyzen #exclusivebreastfeeding #motherhood 
 
We need to perfect the sleeping patterns. My small eyes are almost gone 😭😭😭😅#babyzen #motherhood #exclusivebreastfeeding 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“Breast feeding hurts so much I can’t lie! but baby needs all of it. Prioritizing her needs above my pain is one tough school. And we have been doing soo well. Exclusive breastfeeding,’ she wrote. 
 
Bambam as she is fondly called also added that her baby won’t let her get enough sleep which is affecting her eyes. 
 
“The way I look for moments to sneak into a nap before my eyes fall off is something else .I’m told, it’s for me to comply, coz that’s when I get to eat or pee or do a few things and just when I want to take that nap she’s up again…We need to perfect the sleeping patterns. My small eyes are almost gone”. 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">Breast feeding hurts soooooo much I can’t lie!😭 but baby needs all of it. Prioritizing her needs above my pain is one tough school. And we have been doing soo well. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/babyzen?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#babyzen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/exclusivebreastfeeding?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#exclusivebreastfeeding</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/motherhood?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#motherhood</a></div>
— Bambam👑 (@bammybestowed) <a href="https://twitter.com/bammybestowed/status/1237623353508274176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> Recall that back in November 2019, BBNaija couple, Teddy A and Bambam shut down the city of Dubai for their wedding and your favorite celebrities showed up in their best. 
 
The couple’s outfit was designed by Toyin Lawani of Tiannah’s Place Empire while Bam Bam’s dresses were styled by Medlin Boss.

Latest-News Bambam laments over pains of breastfeeding

Reality TV star and actress, Bambam who recently welcomed a baby girl alongside her husband, Teddy A has opened up on the pains of breastfeeding. A distraught Bambam took to her twitter page to reveal that her baby, Zendaya is giving her tough times…

Angry Nigerians blast lawmakers over proposed bill to ban generators in the country

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5CkyJgllASmuLS2YZ2oPF0-KSHZrI9nOwKF348LBRwvmKzLuxMcwnZXYK5X00t8CBKe5X5_lNjLWbTmgrKxRswmxmPHbCLzeyKILy3eWlt73TDYIMPRIXzp2KS-ibA9MVsPg7WzPEc9A/s1600/senate-11-1140x570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="1140" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5CkyJgllASmuLS2YZ2oPF0-KSHZrI9nOwKF348LBRwvmKzLuxMcwnZXYK5X00t8CBKe5X5_lNjLWbTmgrKxRswmxmPHbCLzeyKILy3eWlt73TDYIMPRIXzp2KS-ibA9MVsPg7WzPEc9A/s640/senate-11-1140x570.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
 
Nigerians have begun to call out their representatives at the National Assembly following the introduction of a bill to ban the sale and use of generators. 
 
The bill titled “a bill for an Act to prohibit/ban the importation of generating sets to curb the menace of environmental (air) pollution and to facilitate the development of the power sector” passed First Reading at the Senate on Wednesday. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Sen. Bima Enagi (APC – Niger South) sponsored the bill, which prescribes a 10-year jail term for anyone caught selling generators. 
 
According to the sponsor, the bill when passed will stop “the use of electricity generating sets which run on diesel/petrol/kerosene of all capacities with immediate effect, in the country.” 
 
It will also ban the “importation and use of generating sets (generators) in the country and to curb the menace of environmental pollution which leads to potential health hazards it poses to the whole nation”. 
 
However, the ban shall not include generator sets used for essential services such as medical purposes, airports, railway stations, elevators, escalators, research institutions, and facilities that require a 24-hour power supply. 
 
“Approval for exclusion shall, however, be obtained from the Minister in charge of Power, who shall brief the Federal Executive Council quarterly on approvals granted,” the supporting document read in part. 
 
However, many Nigerians who took to social media queried how a country with an unstable power supply would be able to sustain the ban on generators in residential areas, which the bill appears to target. 
 
Read some reactions below; 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">1. Social Media Bill 
2. Hate Speech Bill 
3. Boko Haram Rehabilitation Bill 
4. Protest Ban Bill 
5. Generator Ban Bill (New) 
 
ALL FROM NORTH! 
 
Dear Northerners, talk to your sad senators.</div>
— Comrade Oluwaseun Aladeogo (@crytoearth) <a href="https://twitter.com/crytoearth/status/1237990749188358144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">A Bill to ban generators nationwide in Nigeria must be the joke of the day 😂. In a country that cannot boast of 24 hours electricity supply. These people should just tell us their crack supplier, let us hail him/her because he/she is doing well ooin🤣</div>
— Set Awon Fine Girls 🥵 (@_Teewo) <a href="https://twitter.com/_Teewo/status/1237776851210289153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">A Bill seeking to ban generators is another frivolous bill that will never be passed. 
 
The sponsor of this bill is a moron, a daft and a waste of tax payers money. It's a shame Ahmed Lawan and his co-senators from the north have turned the Senate into a caricature</div>
— Emeka Nnadozie (@ChNnadozie) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChNnadozie/status/1237775370390310916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">Ban rice 
 
Ban Okada 
 
Ban Keke 
 
Ban Generators 
 
The next will be to ban trekking.</div>
— Malachy Odo II Esq. 🦁 (@MalachyOdo1) <a href="https://twitter.com/MalachyOdo1/status/1237776253677121536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">Social Media Bill-Sponsored By Niger East Senator 
 
Hate Speech Bill -Sponsored By Niger North Senator 
 
Generating Set (Prohibition\Ban) Bill-Sponsored By Niger South Senator 
....are you thinking what I'm thinking?🤔 <a href="https://twitter.com/MrFixNigeria?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MrFixNigeria</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/henryshield?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@henryshield</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AishaYesufu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AishaYesufu</a></div>
— Ifeyinwa Nwobi (@Ifeyinwanwobi2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ifeyinwanwobi2/status/1237765907298103297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">From SM bill, to a bill to create agency for repented Boko Haram members, now a bill seeking to ban generators in Ngeria has passed first reading at the Senate, in a country without stable electricity. 
We should create more awareness on mental health especially for NASS members.</div>
— Zaddy Ajala (@UNCLE_AJALA) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNCLE_AJALA/status/1237772902046543872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">The Rubber Stamp Senate is unarguably the worst Senate since 1960: 
 
From hiding the line items of the N125bn budget of NASS to N36bn for renovation of NASS. 
 
From $22.7 Billion loan approval to SocialMediaBill 
 
Now, a bill to ban importation of generators</div>
— IKECHUKWU (@iykimo) <a href="https://twitter.com/iykimo/status/1237760889283108870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">So many stupid bills getting introduced at our legislatures. 
 
Just heard about a bill to ban power generators from the country, a country with a struggling power sector. Smh</div>
— Johnny Drille (@Johnnydrille) <a href="https://twitter.com/Johnnydrille/status/1237766518315855872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">They want to ban generators??? Loool. This people will just wake up one morning and just look for ways to continue to make life difficult for Nigerians shaaa. This is just very sad.</div>
— Ada~beke💦🌺✨ (@blvck_Witch) <a href="https://twitter.com/blvck_Witch/status/1237734751785680898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">There are plans to phase out plastics in the UK by 2025, fossil fuel cars by 2030, net zero emissions by 2050 etc. In Nigeria, someone’s generator packs up, he goes to the NASS: bill for the banning of generator. No timeline. No overarching plan. Nothing. with Immediate effect!</div>
— JJ. Omojuwa (@Omojuwa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Omojuwa/status/1237781477045272576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script> 
 
 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
<div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">The Northern senators who came up with this generator ban bill comedy want to ensure you people have no power to charge your phones so you won’t troll them.</div>
— Uncle Sola (@solaadio) <a href="https://twitter.com/solaadio/status/1237991506012712961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async="async" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

Latest-News Angry Nigerians blast lawmakers over proposed bill to ban generators in the country

Nigerians have begun to call out their representatives at the National Assembly following the introduction of a bill to ban the sale and use of generators. The bill titled “a bill for an Act to prohibit/ban the importation of generating sets to curb…

Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote loses N240 Billion in five hours to Coronavirus

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="344" data-original-width="612" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNvYPH3e4rNy8Ri8aeYqhG4rXoK6H8SgCXTjzb1ypXlWPQ5dHuuckBmUhOwX6K-8H9hkJCePGzSpgKLgy66XMJvDc63APPBg44me_je7BSVDeKJ-axsSfJtPYUcM-eIjdiSol9NhzTm1b0/s400/dangote+d.jpg" width="400" /></div>
 
Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote on Wednesday lost more than N240 billion in five hours as the effect of the coronavirus bit harder on the Stock Exchange. 
 
The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday declared coronavirus a pandemic. 
 
A pandemic is a disease that is spreading in multiple countries around the world at the same time. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Some of Dangote’s firms under the parent-company, Dangote Group, suffered big losses at the market. 
 
Investors have suffered a total of N1.41 trillion loss in the last three days to the pandemic which is wreaking havoc across the world. 
 
Benchmark equities indices indicated an average decline of 3.4 per cent on Weednesday, which is equivalent to net capital depreciation of N426 billion. The equities lost N985 billion between Monday and Tuesday. 
 
Dangote Cement Plc, the flagship of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), led the decline with the maximum daily allowable drop of 10 per cent or N17, which is equivalent to net depreciation of N289.68 billion. Dangote Cement is Nigeria’s most capitalised quoted company and accounts for more than 20 per cent of the total market capitalisation. 
 
Two other members of the Dangote Group, Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR) Plc and NASCON Allied Industries Plc lost N1.8 billion and N3.05 billion. Dangote Cement’s share price dropped by N17 from N170 to close at N153. NASCON Allied Industries declined by N1.15 to close at N3.05 while DSR lost 15 kobo to close at N9.75 per share. 
 
Allaying public fears about development in the market, the Association of Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON) assured investors that the market would soon bounce back. 
 
It said the fundamentals of quoted companies remained strong. 
 
ASHON chairman Chief Oyinyechukwu Ezeagu explained that the stock market remained part of the global exchanges and as such any development in the world market would impact on its operations. 
 
Ezeagu said: “The effect of the coronavirus is gradually affecting trading all over the world and whatever happens elsewhere reflects in our market. 
 
“The centre of it all is China and being a major world power both in productive and consumption capacities, any ill wind affecting China would naturally cause a big sneezing to the rest of world. 
 
“Investors should not panic. The share prices will bounce back. The companies’ fundamentals remain strong. Many investors are taking advantage of the bearish run to beef up their portfolios.” 
 
Coronavirus first hit Wuhan in China in December 2019. Over 3000 people have died of the pandemic in the country. 
 
Since then, the pandemic has spread worldwide with countries in Europe mostly affected. About 125,000 cases have been reported worldwide with 4,605 dead. United States (U.S.) has 31 deaths and United Kingdom, eight. 
 
Italy is the worst hit country in Europe with 827 deaths. Over 16 million people have been quarantined there. 
 
France has suspended flights between it and Italy till April 3 because of the pandemic. 
 
In Nigeria, two persons, including an Italian, who is the index case, are in quarantine in Lagos. Six others comprising four children, their teacher and another person are in isolation, according to Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi. 
 
At the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the All Share Index (ASI) – the benchmark value index that tracks all share prices declined from its opening index 24,388.66 points to close at 23,572.75 points. 
 
The aggregate market value of all quoted equities at the NSE dropped from its opening value of N12.710 trillion to close at N12.284 trillion. Average year-to-date return crossed the double-digit -12.2 per cent. The ASI had opened Monday at 26,279.61 points while market capitalisation opened at N13.695 trillion. 
 
All sectoral indices closed negative with the exception of the NSE Insurance Index, which appreciated by 2.2 per cent. The NSE Consumer Goods Index declined by 4.7 per cent. The NSE Industrial Goods Index depreciated by 3.4 per cent. The NSE Banking Index dropped by 2.7 per cent while the NSE Oil and Gas Index dipped by 0.7 per cent. 
 
“We maintain a bearish outlook on the equities market in the next trading session,” Afrinvest Securities stated. 
 
Other top losers included: Nestle Nigeria, with a drop of N101.70 to close at N915.30; Conoil lost N1.60 to close at N14.60 and Zenith Bank dropped by N1 to close at N12.05 while Cadbury Nigeria declined by 65 kobo to close at N6 per share. 
 
On the positive side, Unilever Nigeria rose by N1.05 to close at N11.65. United Bank for Africa rose by 55 kobo to close at N6.20. Vitafoam Nigeria appreciated by 38 kobo to close at N4.45. UAC of Nigeria added 30 kobo to close at N7.50 while FCMB Group chalked up 15 kobo to close at N1.66 per share.

Latest-News Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote loses N240 Billion in five hours to Coronavirus

Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote on Wednesday lost more than N240 billion in five hours as the effect of the coronavirus bit harder on the Stock Exchange. The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday declared coronavirus a pandemic. A pandemic…

Coronavirus: US President Donald Trump bans all flights from Europe

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtDgAOKCK274wY_8nEmljoNRn54r07l7hoJuzqamho1B_oXGoxbHIFflwHnlD81MKNEieNleTGcdz8ii5MZBxOG1SyAQ8xxNG6S4G2zpxjV5siipxIjbBsSxrEy630Jqlwx1pzW_TQ7g4X/s1600/trump+e.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="393" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtDgAOKCK274wY_8nEmljoNRn54r07l7hoJuzqamho1B_oXGoxbHIFflwHnlD81MKNEieNleTGcdz8ii5MZBxOG1SyAQ8xxNG6S4G2zpxjV5siipxIjbBsSxrEy630Jqlwx1pzW_TQ7g4X/s320/trump+e.png" width="320" /></a></div>
 
US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday night that all flights from Europe to the United States will be temporarily halted for a period of 30 days, effective from Friday. 
 
It is the most significant measure yet taken to stem the spread of the lethal coronavirus. However, Trump exempted flights from the United Kingdom. 
 
Trump announcement came as the number of coronavirus cases in the US ballooned to 1,200, with at least 37 people succumbing to the deadly disease. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Forty two US States now have the virus, with Washington (366 cases), New York (216 cases), and California (133) being the hardest-hit. 
 
Worldwide, 4,291 have died from the virus, most of them in China’s Hubei province where the COVID-19 originated. 
 
“To keep new cases from entering our shores, we will be suspending all travel from Europe to the United States for the next 30 days,” Trump declared during a prime-time address to the nation from the Oval Office. 
 
The new rules will go into effect Friday at midnight, the president said, and will include exemptions for American who have undergone appropriate screenings. 
 
“We are marshaling the full power of the federal government and the private sector to protect the American people. This is the most aggressive and comprehensive effort to confront a foreign virus in modern history,” he said. 
 
Trump also called for sweeping economic stimulus action to prop up the American economy from the side effects of the virus. 
 
“To ensure that working Americans impacted by the virus can stay home without fear of financial hardship I will soon be taking emergency action, which is unprecedented, to provide financial relief,” the president said. 
 
He specifically ordered the Treasury Department to defer tax payments without interest or penalties for certain impacted individuals and businesses and called on Congress to provide “immediate” payroll tax relief, in addition to other measures. 
 
He also advised Americans to follow the coronavirus guidelines given by the CDC. 
 
“Wash your hands, clean often used surfaces, cover your face and mouth if you sneeze or cough. Most of all, if you’re sick or not feeling well, stay home,” Trump said

Latest-News Coronavirus: US President Donald Trump bans all flights from Europe

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday night that all flights from Europe to the United States will be temporarily halted for a period of 30 days, effective from Friday. It is the most significant measure yet taken to stem the spread of th…

Juventus defender Rugani infected with coronavirus

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="768" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpW08qBnFMhA3gMKbwV2vZ4s8h26S42b5h7oRCRi6U7m1LUHHIo57rtxK4oCoyQbZJhn1Mw5S1UvtgTQ1BI6gGNcHEs8EXZgWeqAvIMOBARQd0QZ4IXatWMpV_H8H9LO0n_Foq16esHD4n/s400/rugani.jpg" width="400" /></div>
 
Juventus have confirmed that defender Daniele Rugani has tested positive for coronavirus, becoming the first star from the Italian top flight to have contracted the virus. 
 
The Serie A club said they will implement the necessary isolation procedures for all 
individuals who had come into contact with the 25-year-old. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Juventus added that Rugani, who was an unused substitute during the 2-0 victory against Inter Milan last weekend, is ‘currently asymptomatic’. 
 
The impact of the news is likely to hold substantial consequences for both Serie A and the Champions League. According to reports, the Inter’s squad may also go into isolation. 
 
The Mail Online, quoting Football Italia reported that the club held a training session on Wednesday, and speculated that the squad and staff may have to also be placed into quarantine as well. 
 
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo is spending time in Madeira to avoid coronavirus after the suspension of the top division, with the talisman staying away from training at the club’s facilities in Turin to avoid any risk of infection.

Latest-News Juventus defender Rugani infected with coronavirus

Juventus have confirmed that defender Daniele Rugani has tested positive for coronavirus, becoming the first star from the Italian top flight to have contracted the virus. The Serie A club said they will implement the necessary isolation procedures …

Policeman, soldiers still using Okada will be arrested – Lagos govt

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXwKEqOXw7KnnFkvo0jzGfofOJPKwdtDFd05tR5LxRbP0kg8FNKABFHfEHCVU106luZ2-GdY3JWy83Til3hUCx7KU2i2jOYZTFeHJ69SFRzXLh6KK8mIqALliH0AdxvXH2Olu0J8b1qMp/s1600/sanwo-olu+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXwKEqOXw7KnnFkvo0jzGfofOJPKwdtDFd05tR5LxRbP0kg8FNKABFHfEHCVU106luZ2-GdY3JWy83Til3hUCx7KU2i2jOYZTFeHJ69SFRzXLh6KK8mIqALliH0AdxvXH2Olu0J8b1qMp/s400/sanwo-olu+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
The Lagos State Government has said alternatives to cushion the effect of the ban and restriction on motorcycles and tricycles in the state will be released in April. 
 
The state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, said the replacement would come in buses of different sizes and capacities. 
 
Omotosho spoke on Wednesday while briefing the press on the resolutions of a security meeting held at the State House in Marina. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
He noted that the meeting was chaired by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu with the commanders of all security formations in attendance. 
 
The commissioner said the enforcement of the restriction order would be executed with more force to completely keep okadas and tricycles away from restricted routes. 
 
Members of the security council, Omotosho said, frowned at a situation in which uniform men flouted the law, warning security operatives, especially police officers and military personnel, to stop taking passengers on their motorcycles on restricted routes. 
 
He said, “Only a uniform man who is fully kitted and who rides motorcycle as his own personal mode of transport is allowed. If any uniform man ventures into commercial motorcycle operation or keke, the action of such a person is illegal and such persons are going to be arrested if they are caught.” 
 
Omotoso said the state government would in April assuage the pain being felt by residents by injecting buses to serve as alternatives to okada and keke. 
 
“We are using this opportunity to inform Lagosians that the palliatives promised by the government will be coming very soon, most likely in April,” the commissioner said.

Latest-News Policeman, soldiers still using Okada will be arrested – Lagos govt

The Lagos State Government has said alternatives to cushion the effect of the ban and restriction on motorcycles and tricycles in the state will be released in April. The state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, said the …

Prosecutor accuses Maina of escape, assasination plot

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1RtdB0pXmkrp7t4PDofcEqsvul6ozjR2U25CpWcvmyETFPKtLCMSEJsM7iqReeNqNViKju7NQEahMy8nOfMa1YqAamsWF2BfEO_xZkjB7PzaKplDHvoTwx0H8FxPHJklAZ3ICI9HRUPu/s1600/maina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="583" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1RtdB0pXmkrp7t4PDofcEqsvul6ozjR2U25CpWcvmyETFPKtLCMSEJsM7iqReeNqNViKju7NQEahMy8nOfMa1YqAamsWF2BfEO_xZkjB7PzaKplDHvoTwx0H8FxPHJklAZ3ICI9HRUPu/s320/maina.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
 
The lawyer for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mohammed Abubakar on Wednesday, claimed Abdulrasheed Maina was plotting to kill him, prosecuting witnesses and prison officials and escape from prison. 
 
Maina, chairman of the now-defunct Pension Reform Task Team, who is being prosecuted for money laundering involving diversion of pension funds, has been remanded in custody since his arraignment in October last year. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
He has remained in prison, having not been able to meet the conditions of the bail granted him in November 2019. 
 
This is despite Justice Okon Abang’s decision to vary part of the bail conditions in a subsequent ruling delivered on January 28. 
 
The defendant has again applied to the court to further vary the bail conditions on the grounds that he had been unable to get a surety senator as demanded by the judge. 
 
But Abubakar filed an application seeking the revocation of the bail granted the defendant by the court. 
 
He claimed “the 1st defendant/respondent who was granted bail by the court since November 26, 2019 (though still in custody) has perfected plans to assassinate prosecution witnesses and counsel in this matter.” 
 
He added that Maina “perfected plans to escape from custody and abscond; and in the process assassinate Nigerian Correctional Service officials attached to him.” 
 
Responding to Maina’s request for further variation of the bail conditions, Abubakar said there was a “need to protect the witnesses, counsel and officers by keeping the 1st defendant/respondent in custody during the pendency of this criminal matter as well as provide additional/ maximum security around him while in custody pending conclusion of trial.”m 
 
He recalled Maina was arrested preparatory to his arraignment and that his son, Faisal, who was with him, was found to be in illegal possession of a firearm. 
 
But counsel for Maina, Joe-Kyari Gadzama (SAN), urged the court to adjourn the case to enable him to respond to the prosecution’s application. 
 
He urged the court to hear the two applications – the one by the prosecution asking for the revocation of the bail granted Maina, and the other by the defendant seeking further variation of the conditions attached to the bail. 
 
Although, Abubakar requested that his application be heard on Wednesday, the judge acceded to Gadzama’s request for the hearing of the two applications simultaneously. 
 
The judge adjourned till March 16.

Latest-News Prosecutor accuses Maina of escape, assasination plot

The lawyer for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mohammed Abubakar on Wednesday, claimed Abdulrasheed Maina was plotting to kill him, prosecuting witnesses and prison officials and escape from prison. Maina, chairman of the now-defunct P…

Coronavirus: Like Italy, Denmark now under lockdown

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAbeIf7Ip0M1n2cMaNyuePgSxDYCvTXwcrW8mSBREhYsIIRyFn_cNpSS-GPf1GcBwX4X6RMPvhFAwgYukOoGJ2c0Oi6Ccy7PKQ4p0QbNEyRViGH34TEAqLKvRt_kJjYjkMAmWT4tKuDLJL/s400/denmark+prime+minister+2020.jpg" width="400" /></div>
 
 
Denmark has followed Italy to take drastic measures to contain the spread of coronavirus, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announcing that the country will close all kindergartens, schools and universities for two weeks. 
 
At a press conference on Wednesday, Frederiksen said public sector employees who do not perform critical functions will be sent home on paid leave, while those in the private sector will be encouraged to work from home as much as possible. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Indoor events with 100 or more participants will also be been banned as part of the tough new measures. 
 
There have been no deaths from coronavirus in Denmark, but the number of cases is rising rapidly. 
 
Frederiksen said: ‘This will have huge consequences, but the alternative would be far worse. 
 
‘Under normal circumstances, a government would not present such far-reaching measures without having all the solutions ready for the many Danes concerned, but we are in an extraordinary situation.’ 
 
The dramatic decision comes after the Danish Patient Safety Authority reported 442 new cases of coronavirus on Wednesday evening, bringing the number of people in quarantine to 1,303. 
 
Director Søren Brostrøm said that he expected the number of cases to increase even more rapidly in the coming days and weeks.

Latest-News Coronavirus: Like Italy, Denmark now under lockdown

Denmark has followed Italy to take drastic measures to contain the spread of coronavirus, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announcing that the country will close all kindergartens, schools and universities for two weeks. At a press conference o…

Coronavirus: Four children, two others quarantined in Lagos

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="768" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcdhpnqxjYb_yWXxX8a14kgXX3TtP-Ck2Mdyusln0eKJE3YMy5hOBFciDcrHoXxHHbWEB0mQ61kHRja58m5ycoosCscBl_jY8700DmlUGh01QkTM3inPIQuEacUNPddWCkeLVdtGpgJZm/s400/coronavirus-4.jpg" width="400" /></div>
 
 
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has said four children of the same family and their teacher who arrived in the country from the United States have been quarantined for coronavirus fears by the state government at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba. 
 
Abayomi, who said this at a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday, added that a man who came from the United Kingdom had been quarantined. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
He also said they had established contact with the two people declared wanted after flying on the same Turkish Airlines plane with the Italian man that brought coronavirus to Nigeria. 
 
Abayomi said, “The three people announced to be in isolation on Monday have tested negative. There was someone from France, another from England and the third person from China. They are negative and have been discharged. 
 
“We have admitted a family of four children and their teacher. They travelled in from the United States; apparently, they have been in close proximity to someone who has coronavirus infection. So we’ve had them in isolation in the past two days. The first test was negative, we will repeat that in 48 hours and see what happens. 
 
“We also have another gentleman from the United Kingdom, we are going to run his test. But the situation at the moment remains the same; one index case, one positive as a result of contact with the index case.” 
 
According to the commissioner, the index case still secrets coronavirus and will continue to be placed under isolation till he overcomes the virus. 
 
He said, “The test shows that he is still secreting the virus, although the level is going down significantly. So if the virus secretion hits zero, we will test him one more time to be sure and he will be discharged from the hospital. 
 
“The second case is doing well. He hasn’t developed any major symptoms just some minor aches and pains and he seems to be doing well and we are satisfied. We will repeat his test tomorrow and we will determine what happens next based on his test result.” 
 
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control on its website said 11 people who had contact with the Italian were still missing. 
 
The body said, “The other development is that contact tracing and monitoring in respect of the coronavirus index case presently receiving treatment in Lagos, has been diligently and conscientiously pursued since February 27 when the case was first diagnosed. 
 
“A total of 217 contacts were linked to the index case. Of the 217, 45 travelled out of Nigeria and 172 are presently in Nigeria. Of the 172 contacts currently in Nigeria, 69 are in Lagos, 40 in Ogun and 52 in other states, with 11 in unknown locations.” 
 
Six new cases screened 
 
Meanwhile, the NCDC on Wednesday said it was awaiting the results of six new cases screened for coronavirus on Tuesday. 
 
The centre said 33 people had so far been screened in four states and the Federal Capital Territory, with 26 of them testing negative. 
 
Nigeria confirmed a second case of coronavirus on Monday with the Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, stating that the new case was that of a person in Ogun State who had contact with the index case. 
 
In the update published on its website on Wednesday, the NCDC said, “On March 10, no new confirmed case of COVID-19 recorded in Nigeria. Cumulatively, there are two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria. 
 
“A total of 33 people have been screened for COVID-19 (six new cases) in Edo, Lagos, Ogun, Kano states and the FCT, out of which 26 tested negative and have been ruled out, results are pending for six cases, while two cases were confirmed positive (index case and a contact of index case) with no death. 
 
“The two confirmed cases are clinically stable at the designated treatment facility for COVID-19 at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba, Lagos. 
 
“A multi-sectoral national emergency operations centre, activated at level three, continues to coordinate the national response activities.”

Latest-News Coronavirus: Four children, two others quarantined in Lagos

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has said four children of the same family and their teacher who arrived in the country from the United States have been quarantined for coronavirus fears by the state government at the Inf…

ASUU strike is illegal - FG

07:22 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="700" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKyy7Z1Nn6hXfBx6TPqLwHnhsmBVjfCTrvA-ustJpyl2Z3uRlPpgM2KdaslN5mI9QEPiR5Quws6ouR6n_lb_bfK03wP_fvx7TPstBdsBAmQ7YYro8db92meekR0mRW2mWoNqZWkG2Ei2C/s400/1.-Chris-Ngige.png" width="400" /></div>
 
The Federal Government has declared the current two-week warning strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities illegal. 
 
It accused ASUU of not following laid down procedures before embarking on the industrial action. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, gave the government’s position in Abuja after the Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday. 
 
He said ASUU did not give the government the “mandatory notice” required before a union could proceed on strike. 
 
Ngige noted that having failed to follow the laid down procedures, it amounted to corruption for the university teachers to go on strike. 
 
The minister said, “I am in shock. The strike is illegal because they did not give us the mandatory notice. 
 
“If you withdraw services and you still want to be paid, it is corruption. Is that not corruption?” 
 
Ngige, however, added that he had contacted the leadership of ASUU and invited it to a meeting on Thursday (today) to discuss the issues raised by the union. 
 
But he warned that the government would not succumb to threats by ASUU, arguing that “no employee should dictate to an employer.” 
 
ASUU, while declaring the warning strike, had stated that the government had yet to address issues raised in agreements it reached with the union from 2009 to 2019, including poor funding of the university system. 
 
An immediate issue is the union’s opposition to the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System of the government, which is designed to capture all Federal Government workers under one payment system. 
 
The government’s target is to eliminate ‘ghost workers.’ 
 
But, ASUU has consistently kicked against it on the grounds that it would not suit the university system. 
 
In place of the IPPIS, the union proposed the University Transparency and Accountability Solution, which it said would address the peculiar case of the universities. 
 
When asked for the government’s final stance on the IPPIS, Ngige replied that after the union visited the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), earlier in the year, the government stood its ground on the IPPIS. 
 
However, he stated that both sides agreed that the IPPIS and ASUU’s UTAS could be harmonised after all the grey areas had been sorted out. 
 
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has rescheduled its meeting with officials of the Federal Government and the leadership of ASUU. 
 
The House had on Tuesday resolved to intervene in the crisis over the government’s failure to implement the agreements it reached with the university lecturers in 2019. 
 
The leadership of the House had scheduled a meeting with the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu; Minister of Labour, Employment and Productivity, Chris Ngige; and President of ASUU, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, on Wednesday. 
 
The meeting, however, did not hold. 
 
The Special Adviser to the Speaker on Media and Publicity, Mr Lanre Lasisi, informed our correspondent that the meeting would now hold at 9am on Thursday (today).

Latest-News ASUU strike is illegal - FG

The Federal Government has declared the current two-week warning strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities illegal. It accused ASUU of not following laid down procedures before embarking on the industrial action. The Minister of Labour and …

Subscribe to: Posts ( Atom )

Trending News