University of Agric, Makurdi protest FG plan to scrap non-related courses

Students of the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi on Friday stormed out in their numbers to protest the recent policy of Federal Government to scrap non-related courses from specialized institution, University of Agriculture across the country.

Most of the protesting students are from college of management sciences who are affected from the new policy announced by minister of Education, Professor Adamu Adamu.

The minister had announced plan to scrap some courses not related to courses of specialized universities across the country.

The students trekked from North Bank to the campus, a distance of about five kilometres and barricaded the entrance of the institution which caused heavy traffic along the road.

Management staff and academic staff of College of Management studies also joined in the protest

Comrade David Pine, vice president, student union government appealed to federal government not to carry out her decision stating that college of management sciences was beneficial to the university in many ways.’

The student union leader described as untrue, the claim by the minister for education that other courses outside agriculture in the university would make the institution derail from its mandate.

He accused federal government of not paying attention or devising plan at to improving the university.

Also speaking, Mr Okpe Ikechukwu Accounting student described the decision by the Hon minister as worrisome and sad adding that it was the same federal government through National University Commission that gave approval for the university to have a college of management sciences

They all appealed to the government to allow the college stay in the interest of students and lecturers instead of throwing them back on the street.

The vice-chancellor of the university Prof. Emmanuel Kucha who addressed the protesting students and management staff of the affected college of management sciences appealed to them to remain calm as they were already making plans to meet with the federal government over the matter.

Prof Kucha who expressed dismay over the decision of the federal government noted that if the college of management sciences was scrapped so many lecturers would be affected as well as students.

The VC said he was in total support of the students saying no to the decision by the minister for education as there can’t be university of Agriculture without college of management sciences adding that no one can be successful in agriculture without good management background.

Our leaders are well protected, but we the citizens are not – Cardinal Okogie

Cardinal Okogie

Worried by the current face-off between the Executive and the Legislative arms of Federal Government, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, the Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, has urged the country’s leaders to put the interest of the citizenry above personal interests.

Okogie said the executive and legislative arms should come together and work for the development of the nation.
According to the cardinal, the leaders must assume the responsibility of governance by securing the land from those he called armed robbers, kidnappers and herdsmen.

“Our politicians are busy fighting one another, exchanging blows in the hallowed chambers of legislation, resorting to character assassination.

“Our law enforcement institutions have been turned into their arsenal in this battle of the sanctimonious; the executive accuses the legislature of corruption and vice versa.

“Both parties in the conflict pretend to be fighting for us, they are fighting to guard the “trophy” they won at the last election while preparing to retain the same trophy in the next election.

“They are so busy fighting that they have no time to work for our security. Their sterile conflict is, in fact, prejudicial to our security.

“Their negligence of duty, their tantrums, their failure to be transparent and accountable with very few exceptions, point to the fact that they are part of the equation of insecurity in our country,’’ Okogie said in a statement.

Okogie called on political leaders to provide infrastructure and adequate security for the citizens.

He noted:“Our leaders are well protected, but we the citizens are not. Political leaders who cannot provide security are a total failure.

“Almost six decades after independence, almost 70 years after the establishment of Nigeria’s premier University of Ibadan, we still have to rely on medical tourism.

“But how many poor Nigerians can afford to spend one day in a hospital overseas. How many can afford to be away from their work for three months.

“But Nigerians have the capacity to run good hospitals. All we just need is a leadership that enables, not one that disables.

“They receive the perks of office in a land where workers have gone unpaid for months, government does not serve Nigerians and the public servant does not serve the public.”

Okogie called on Nigerians to be responsible in the business of protecting and safeguarding their own lives and property.

“Does the life of the Nigerians have any value. If it does, can it be truly said that Nigerians appreciate the value of life. The questions are meant for all of us.

“We all have to take responsibility for the protection of lives and property of the citizens in this country. We live in clear and present danger.

“We are not safe when we are at home, neither are we safe away from home.

“Life runs the risk of being cut short by armed robbers, kidnappers, dangerous drivers driving on dangerous roads, driving cars that are dangerous for transportation.

“When we thought we were gaining the upper hand in the battle with Boko Haram, violent herdsmen stare at our helpless faces,” said the retired catholic archbishop.

While reminding leaders that one day they would give account of their stewardship to God, who made them leaders, Okogie pointed out: “One thing is clear: almost all our political leaders are either Christian or Muslim. The two religions teach that we shall one day account for our earthly stewardship.

“Every leader will stand before the “Just Judge” (God) and account for the way he or she got into positions of authority and used the authority.

“Propaganda in the print and electronic media will be of no assistance, lies told to get elected and falsehood peddled to remain in office will be of no value.” (NAN)

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo Embroiled in N10 Million Bribe Scandal

 

Professor Yemi Osinbajo

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has played down reports that he was involved in a stinking bribe scandal during his time as the attorney-general of Lagos State. 

The Presidency has denied the involvement of the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo in a N10m bribe as claimed by former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Ishaya Bamaiyi (rtd).

Bamaiyi, in his book, “The Vindication of A General” alleged that Osinbanjo was directed to convict him and others within six months during the time, he, Osinbajo was Lagos State Attorney- General.
The former Army claims that Osinbajo shielded the then trial judge, Justice Ade Alabi, whom he accused of demanding a N10 million bribe from him.
However, the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice-President on Media and Publicity, Laolu Akande, described Bamaiyi’s claims as blatant lies.

 

In a statement, Akande said Osinbajo was never called to Abuja or given any form of instruction on how to resolve the case.
According to Akande, “My attention has been drawn to claims made by General Bamaiyi in his book Vindication of a General, where he alleged that the then Attorney-General of Lagos State, Osinbajo, the trial judge, (in the criminal case of his “involvement” in the shooting of Alex Ibru) Justice Ade Alabi and the State Police Commissioner were called to Abuja and “directed to convict us at all costs within six months.”

“That Justice Ade Alabi asked for a N10m bribe through “one Mr. Martin” to facilitate his bail application in the case, and that the National Judicial Council panel composed to investigate the bribery allegation, protected the Judge.

“Specifically that Prof. Osinbajo “brought what he said was the panel report during one of the motions. Unfortunately, pages one through twenty-nine of the report were not produced.”While the Vice President, Osinbajo would take more comprehensive steps to address the evil insinuations made by the retired General, I have confirmed from him, i.e. Prof. Osinbajo, that he was never called to Abuja or at any time given any instructions on how to resolve the case. This blatant lie arose only from the fertile imagination of the author.

“Equally, the shifty recollections of the retired General about Prof. Osinbajo bringing a panel report with pages missing is as ludicrous as it is incongruous. For instance, is the author saying the then Lagos State Attorney-General was responsible for the NJC panel report? That would be incredible and clearly a mischievous proposition.”

 

Akande stated that Bamaiyi’s counsel, Mike Okoye, who argued the bail application for the former Army Chief had confessed in open court and in several newspaper public notices as ordered by Court that he lied against Justice Alabi.

“Okoye actually had to read his confession and apology in the open court in a case that involved such prominent lawyers like Chief F.R.A Williams, who in particular pressed that Okoye be held fully responsible for his wild accusations.

“It is incredible that after all of this, the author went on to mislead the public. What impudence!” the presidency stated,” 

Source: Daily Post

Tiv people in United Kingdom condemn killings by herdsmen,demand end to killings.

Tiv people resident in the United Kingdom, under the auspices of Mzough U Tiv UK (MUTUK) have called on the federal government to act now and bring an end to the killings of the people of Benue State by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

According to MUTUK, the failure of the federal government to protect the people of Benue as well as address the recurring attacks on the people of the state had resulted in widespread deaths, seizure of indigenous lands and destruction of farmlands and produce, alleging that in the last three years, 2,000 Tiv indigenes have been brutally killed and a further 750 seriously wounded or maimed.  “Approximately 100,000 men, women and children are made refugees as a result of incessant attack on Tiv people of Benue State,” a statement jointly signed by Martin Akiga, President; Kuram Gwakyaa, vice president and Salome Biam, social secretary, on behalf of MUTUK management committee read.

MUTUK lamented that things had degenerated in the agrarian state to a point where the people now spend each day in anxiety for the fear of becoming victims of this unprovoked cruelty of the Fulani herdsmen terrorism, just as many have watched their lives turned upside down, lost homes, lands and watched the murder of their loved ones.

The association also threw its weight behind the proposed Bill before the Benue State House of Assembly seeking to ban open grazing and called for immediate passage of the bill to facilitate the ejection of all herdsmen from the state, adding that once the Bill is enacted, the government must ensure that it is powerfully enforced with the full strength of the law.

“The Fulani Herdsmen should go back to their respective states and leave us to farm peacefully on our indigenous lands. They have no right to our lands and they have no right to violate our people and property. The people of Benue state are not obliged to accommodate these herdsmen with our ancestral lands for the purpose of grazing. We do not owe these murderers anything. Whilst we respect the right of freedom of movement within Nigeria, occupying indigenous private lands does not form part of that right. Our people are farmers and do not go to other states asking for ‘farming reserves’, our neighbouring states would never agree to this. Why should we create grazing reserves for these terrorists? MUTUK says a definitive NO to grazing reserves in Benue state!” the statement read.

MUTUK further called on all Tiv sons and daughters around the world to stand up against the evil and barbaric acts of the herdsmen.

Just in: EFCC discovers over N400m in an abandoned bureau de change in Lagos

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), just discovered over N400m in an abandoned bureau de change in Lagos. The officials of the commission are still counting the money they found in the abandoned building.


Here's what they wrote on their official Facebook Page:

"HAPPENING NOW...EFCC LAGOS ZONAL OFFICE DISCOVERS OVER 400 MILLION NAIRA & STILL COUNTING IN AN ABANDONED BUREAU THE CHANGE.


Here's the live video;

Source Lailas blog.

Cruise Ship Passenger On Honeymoon Jumps Overboard.

The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for a Decatur man who may have intentionally jumped off a Carnival cruise ship in the Bahamas early Friday.

32-year-old Reco Scott was newly married to his children’s mother and was on his honeymoon when he apparently jumped overboard.

A Carnival Cruise Line spokesperson said Scott “was observed jumping from a cabin balcony” on the ship’s 9th deck about 4:53 a.m. Friday.

The ship was about 10 miles northwest of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas when he jumped, spokeswoman Jennifer De La Cruz said in a statement obtained by the AJC.com.

The cruise ship’s crew launched a search boat and notified the Coast Guard, which sent a helicopter to help look for Scott’s body.

De La Cruz said the ship departed from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Fla. on Thursday for a 3-day cruise.

“The ship’s command immediately turned the vessel around and began search procedures,” she said.

The ship was due back in port on Sunday.

“We extend our thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” De La Cruz said.

Scott’s family asked for prayers on Facebook.com on Friday.

“Lord I get on [Facebook] only to find out my cousin Reco Scott is missing, Lord I ask prayer for “the family and his wife and children!!” wrote Christany Miller.

FG Declares Mondays And Wednesdays As Made-In-Nigeria Dress Day

The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the adoption of Mondays and Wednesdays every week, as Made-in-Nigeria Dress Days across the country.

The approval was contained in a letter from the Federal Ministry of Information & Culture, dated 4th April, 2017, and addressed to the Executive Secretary of National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Barclays Foubiri Ayakoroma.

The letter, signed by Umar Lamba for the Permanent Secretary, Ayotunde Adesugba, reads in part: “The Federal Executive Council (FEC), at its meeting of Wednesday, 1st February, 2017, has approved the adoption of Mondays and Wednesdays of every week as Made-in-Nigeria Dress Days as part of measures to uplift the nation’s culture and promote Made-in-Nigeria textile products”.

Government further directed that a presentation on the Made-in-Nigeria Campaign be made to the National Economic Council to secure the buy-in of State Governments.

As a result, the Minister of Information & Culture, Lai Mohammed, has directed the Management of NICO to provide a comprehensive proposal on how to effectively implement the policy in a manner that would encourage all Nigerians to conveniently observe the Made-in-Nigeria Dress Days.

Recall that the Management of NICO had, in 2010, submitted a memo at the National Council on Culture and Tourism (NCCT), seeking government’s approval to declare Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, as what the Institute called, “Dress Nigeria Days” to boost our identity as a people as well as revive our moribund textile industry.

Reacting to the Government’s approval for Made-in-Nigeria Dress Days, the Executive Secretary of NICO, Dr. Barclays Foubiri Ayakoroma, told NICO News that, for him, it is one major breakthrough so far recorded by his administration in the Institute.

http://tvcnews.tv

Release Kemi Olunloyo or I will release my statement of account where your name showed -Cossy tells Pastor Ibiyeomie

Nollywood Actress, Cossy Orijakor, has threatened to release the name her statement of account, where the name of  Popular Nigerian Pastor, David Ibiyeomie showed, should Kemi Olunloyo remain in Police Custody this Easter.

This is coming after a letter written by Kemi Olunloyo, where she thanked the actress and Cool FM OAP, Daddy Freeze for their support, was made public today.

Here's what she wrote;

"To whom it may concern..... this really got me....i have never met this annoying lady😂😁... Never spoke to her on phone . But here she is
thanking me for absolutely doing nothing😑........ Am seriously moved..i wish I can perfect her bail...

But why will I have to stress myself when I know you will do it... ..my case is similar but different to hers ... I can identify with her in this case .......just because I know things most people don't know.. . 😴 Things they won't believe...... Mr? You are a famous Nigerian Pastor.... It's almost Easter... And if this lady remain in prison this Easter I will boldly post my statement of account.... Where your name showed...

Thanks for the tithe money u sent to me... Besides your not the first man of god to give me such offerings.. .. I don't run an NGo...like the rest of your girls...am a big sinner.. So you obviously were not paying for my repentance.....HELP? Don't even say that... Because am a middle class lady and am 100% better than some of your church members..those are the ones that need help.. Anyway. . You did not buy the SUV as you promised, for all the pimping I did for you.. .

 So I don't have any obligation to keep your name secret anymore.... Release hnn....#freemadamkoo @hnnafrica ..please.....hopefully she will trend with care in her future stories..... Besides... My buddy have this account password and will continue where I stop. If harm come to me.... And if madam koo is freed I will never mention your name. Ever again....I SWEAR .... ..

Even in my little gossips .. I will forever keep calm. ... Thou my book will still come out. But it will focus less on you.. Thanks in anticipation. Your ex_pimp... Cossy"

 

Kemi Olunloyo cries out- ‘I am really suffering in prison’

The controversial Journalist, who is still languishing in a Port Harcourt prison over allegations of defaming Pastor David Ibiyeomie revealed in a note that she is really suffering in prison. See the note below

In the note she also thanked OAP freeze ,Bisi Almi and Cossy  for their support.

My apologies Mr. president, my comments were misconstrued -Jibrin

Abdumumin Jibrin

Abdulmumini Jibrin, the member representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal constituency in Kano state, has apologised to President Muhammadu Buhari over the recent comments he made on him.

Jibrin made the remarks while addressing his supporters at his residence shortly after conducting special prayer for the president in Kofa Juma’at Mosque, Bebeji local government area of the state on Friday.

“I apologise to President, APC, Gov.Abdullahi Ganduje and all APC supporters over what I said even though it was misinterpreted and misconstrued.

“To my party supporters, leaders, friends and all those who felt offended over my comments, I sincerely apologise.

“While I offered the advice and proffered solutions in good faith, some political detractors availed themselves of the opportunity to deliberately misconstrue and misjudge my remarks in order to put me on coalition course with my party and President,” he said.

Jibrin, who is currently on a suspension imposed on him by the House of Representatives over the 2016 budget padding scandal, said he would remain an ardent supporter of President Buhari and his anti-corruption crusade.

He said for long he had launched Muhammadu Buhari Special Empowerment programmes as part of his support for President Buhari.

“I was in the United Kingdom when the thing happened. What I did was to rush down home in the next available flight. I want to show them that I am still with my people and they support me at all times,”he said.

The chairman of APC Kofa ward, Alhaji Bala Shuaibu, described those who earlier participated in protest against the legislator  at the state party Secretariat in Kano as “mere rented crowd and opportunists”.

He assured Jibrin of the total support of the constituents adding what he said in his tweeter handle was not reported in details, which gave room for unnecessary misinterpretation.

Jibrin had on March 30, in a series of tweets, asked the president to resign an action which drew the ire of some members of his constituency who promised to initiate a recall process against him.

Senator Ita-Giwa finally dumps PDP for APC with her “huge Bakassi supporters”

A former presidential adviser, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa on Friday decamped to the All Progressives Congress (APC).Ita-Giwa, had disclosed on Thursday in Calabar, that she was moving from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join her contemporaries in the APC.

She said that she had been idle in her former party for over one year, adding that she was moving with her huge supporters from her Bakassi constituency to boost the fortunes of the APC in Cross River State.

She signed the APC register this afternoon in Bakassi, Cross River state.

Ita-Giwa was elected senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District under the platform of the All Peoples Party from May 1999 to May 2003.

After leaving the senate in 2003, she joined the PDP, and became former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters.

FFK: "How Sheriff, A Thug, Gangster, Walked Out On Jonathan & Insulted Governors"

Femi Fani-Kayode

What happened at the PDP meeting yesterday did not surprise me at all. I was there and witnessed the whole thing. Ali Modu Sheriff lived up to his reputation of being a disrespectful bullly and thug.

Walking out on your leader and a gentleman like President Goodluck Jonathan despite all his appeals for restraint, calm and peace is not the way forward.
And openly threatening and insulting the Governors, members of the PDP Board of Trustees, the PDP National Assembly caucus, the PDP former Ministers Forum, the PDP former Governors forum, the PDP Womens Caucus, the PDP Youth Caucus and 95 per per cent of the party leadership is not the way to prove your credentials as a leader.

Only barbarians behave in this way. To make matters worse after you walk out of the meeting you tell the world that you are now the leader of the party and that you will have nothing to do with Jonathan's peace initiatives anymore.

Clearly the man is governed and ruled by his ego and not by his brain. He had a great opportunity to settle this issue once and for all yesterday and he blew it simply because he insisted on being addressed as National Chairman by all and sundry at the meeting which no-one was prepared to do.

Sheriff is a sick man. He needs help. He is uneducated and he is primitive. He is closer to beast than man. Worse still he is working for the APC.

I said this from day one last year when they first went to the hole that he comes from in Chad and brought him to lead our party.

Nothing good can ever come from him. Nothing clean or wholesome can come from a gangster who is prepared to sell his soul to the devil and destroy his own political party in return for a few crumbs. May God judge him for his greed, cowardice and wickedness.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10155190609452210&id=62188827209

Bisi Alimi-‘I wish Nigerians can mobilize for political issues like they have for BB Naija’

The gay rights activist, is dissapointed with the manner is which money is being spent to buying data inorder to vote for their favourite BB Naija housemate.

He wishes Nigerians could mobilize like this for political issues .

See what he wrote below

 ‘I am sure there are still some Nigerians with a little bit of common sense left’

Apostle Suleman sues Stephanie Otobo, online medium N1b for defamation

Stephanie Otobo and Apostle Joshua Suleiman.

Apostle Johnson Suleman, President/ Founder of Omega Fire Ministry (OFM), has filed a one billion naira lawsuit for libel against, 23-year old Canada-based Nigerian stripper, Ms. Stephanie Otobo and an online medium(Not Vanguard) for defaming his character.

This is coming weeks after the police arrested Ms. Otobo on allegations of blackmail, threat to life, conspiracy, and intent to steal from the Apostle.

Instituting a lawsuit against Otobo and the online medium, Apostle Suleman’s lawyer,  Osa Director said the cleric is suing both defendants for the libelous statements made and published against him.

The case with suit no: ID/ADR/374/2017 was filed at the Ikeja High Court in Lagos.

Apart from the 1bn damages against each parties, Apostle Suleman is also seeking “an interlocutory injunction restraining the Defendants, their agents, servants, privies, representatives or any person, whosoever, acting or carrying out their individual and/or collective instructions from further publishing or causing to be published any defamatory publication touching on or relating to the person of the Claimant and the subject matter until after the determination of the substantive suit”.

According to his counsel, “Suleman decided to institute the action and put blackmailers out of business. Many Nigerians under similar circumstance will just allow the matter to slide into the inner recess of our memory, either due to ignorance, lack of resources or impatience with the judicial process”.

“But, Apostle Suleman is a dogged fighter and principled man of God who does not take kindly to anything that will tarnish his image. Therefore, he is ready to pursue the matter until justice is done”.

“To signpost his determination  to get justice, apart from Director, he has lined up four other lawyers, led by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Efe Akpofure, to prosecute the matter. The other lawyers in the team are Emmanuel Usoh, Victor Idiapho and Erhabor”

Recall that Otobo is also facing a criminal trial by the IGP for blackmail, threat to life and conspiracy to obtain money by false pretences.

Last month, Ms. Otobo, during a press conference, had accused Apostle Suleiman of adultery and ditching her after promising to marry her. She had also accused the cleric of threat to life and attempted murder.

She and her lawyers, Keyamo & Co. Chambers, had therefore, promised to sue Suleiman for ‘breach of promise of marriage’.

However, investigations have revealed that till date, the Festus Keyamo & Co. Chambers handling Otobo’s case are yet to file a law suit against Suleiman for breach of promise to marry.

Scott Disick Can Barely Squeeze His Massive Bulge Into These Jeans

Now we get why he's so cocky!

Scott Disick hit the studio with Kourtney Kardashian yesterday, he was spotted with his  Lord's junk barely squeezed into his tight jeans! This isn't the first time LD's package has made the Internet go crazy, and the K sisters are well aware of what he's working with.

Two Rappers Vie For Kylie's Attention After Her Split From Tyga

The suitors are already rolling in!

Rapper 21 Savage and his rival 22 Savage  are vying for Kylie Jenner's attention now that she's split from Tyga,TMZreports.

22 Savage is set to appear on a track by Iliana Eve titled "Kylie's Daddy," which is basically filled with pickup lines directed at the LipKit mogul. That's a problem, as 21 Savage already made it clear he has a crush on her when he told paparazzi outside Ace of Diamonds strip club when she was still dating T-Raww.

So why did the plastic surgery princess and the one hit wonder breakup in the first place? There's differing accounts, but the most believable one is that she called it off because he didn't put a ring on it!

"Kylie has been begging Tyga to propose to her for years now and she pulled the plug on this relationship because she was tired of waiting. She has been trying to force him into marrying her and seems to think that Tyga cannot live without her. But she’s wrong because he clearly can and does!” a source dished to Radar.

SUBSTITUTION OF CANDIDATE : Supreme Court removes House of Reps member.

The Supreme Court has removed Sopuluchukwu Ezeonwuka of the Peoples Democratic Party from representing Orumba North/South, Anambra Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun gave the ruling in an appeal filed against Ezeonwuka’s election by a member of the party, Chief Ben-Nwankwo, in Abuja on Friday.

Nwankwo’s name was wrongly substituted with the first respondent (Ezeonwuka) after he had obtained the nomination of the party to contest the National Assembly election.

Dissatisfied with the Feb. 20, 2015 judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja and the decision of the Court Appeal to uphold it, Nwankwo approached the apex court.

“Conclusion: having resolved the key issues in favour of the appellant, the appeal succeeds and it is hereby allowed.

“The judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on June 26, 2016, is hereby set aside for being a nullity having exceeded its jurisdiction by granting relief not sought by the parties before it.

“This follows that the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, delivered on Feb.20, 2015 was delivered without jurisdiction and it’s a nullity. It is equally set aside.

“The Originating Summons filed on Dec.15, 2014 in FHC/Abj/CS/1013/2014 is hereby struck out’’, she said.

Justice Kekere-Ekun further held that: “the consequence of the above order is that the parties shall revert to the status quo ante.

“The existing position before the first respondent (Ezeonwuka) filed a suit at the trial court was that not only was the appellant’s name submitted to INEC for the March 28, 2015, election, he won the election.

“It was at the point of being issued the Certificate of Return that he was confronted by a letter conveying the order of the trial court stopping that action.

“In the circumstances, it is hereby ordered that the appellant, Chief Ben Nwankwo, being the candidate duly sponsored by the PDP in that election is entitled to be issued with the certificate of return.

“The second respondent is hereby ordered to issue Chief Nwankwo a certificate of return in respect of the National Assembly election held March 28, 2015, forthwith,” she said.

The judge also further said: “the first respondent (Ezeonwuka) is hereby ordered to vacate the seat of the Orumba North/South Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the National Assembly forthwith’’.

“It is further ordered that Ezeonwuka shall refund to the National Assembly all monies collected by him by way of salaries and allowances since he took the seat within 90 days.

“And finally, a fine of N500, 000 is awarded in favour of the appellant against the first respondent,” the judge held.

The appellant had asked the court to decide whether the lower court had jurisdiction to deliver judgment dated June 26, 2015, without considering and determining pending motion on notice dated June 18, 2015.

The appellant had in that motion sought permission of the court to appeal against the judgment of the trial court as an interested party.

He also urged the court to decide whether the court below was entitled to determine who should be the sponsored candidate of the party.

(NAN)

Buhari approves new Governing Board for NNMA

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday approved the appointment of a new Governing Board for the Nigerian National Merit Award, NNMA.

This was part of a statement issued in Abuja and signed by the Director, Press, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation OSGF, Bolaji Adebiyi.

The board has Prof. Shekarau Yakubu Aku as Chairman.

Prof. Shiekh Ahmed Abdullah, Prof. Muhammad Hassa, Prof. Joseph J. Andy, Prof. Adele Jinadu, Prof Andrew Nok and Prof. Laz E. N. Ekwueme are members.

The statement concluded that “The appointments which take effect from March 27, 2017 is for a period of 3 years.”

JAMB suspends registration of UTME for 52 hours.

JAMB candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the suspension of registration for the 2017 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination for 52 hours beginning from Friday April 7^th to Monday April 10th.

The Registrar/Chief Executive of JAMB, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, who made the announcement at a press briefing in Abuja said the decision was aimed at preventing any disruption during the conduct of the UTME mock examinations scheduled for Saturday.

‎”Saturday April 8 , 2017 has been set aside for the Mock UTME. To seamlessly achieve this, the Board has suspended all activities relating to the registration exercise in any CBT centre from 8pm today, being Friday April 7 2017 and to resume on Monday April 10 2017.”

‎”There will be no sale of forms, registration and biometric capturing at the various centres in which the Mock Examinations are taking place. This however does not preclude any candidate from going to Banks, NIPOST, interswitch or Remita to procure pins for registration on Monday. This is to prevent any disruption of the process and conduct of the Mock Examination.”
The examination body, which put the suspension hour between 8:00pm on April 7 (Friday) and 12:00am on April 10 (Monday), said one million candidates have registered for the exam so far.

Professor Oloyede however said that interested candidates could also go to banks, NIPOST, Interswitch or Remita to procure PINs for registration on Monday.

According to him, there will be no sale of forms, registration and biometric capturing at the various centres in which the mock examinations would take place.

‎He said the mock examinations for interested candidates taking place on Saturday was intended to familiarise the candidates with the Computer-Based Test systems and generally forecast the challenges that may surface in order to proactively address them.

Oloyede reassured the candidates that there was no need for worry or anxiety; adding that in the next one week, eligible and interested applicants will be successfully registered, as, already, 1,000,000 applicants have successful registered.

“The Mock Examinations are intended to familiarize our candidates with the CBT systems and generally forecast the challenges that may be faced ahead in order to proactively address them. It is just a rehearsal for us and candidates who want to experience the situation to expect during the actual examinations.

“Therefore, the sale of forms, registration and biometrics at CBT centres are to be suspended from 8:00 p.m. today till Monday, April 10, 2017. This notice is for the strict adherence of our officers and partners throughout the federation.

While regretting all inconveniences that may arise as a result of the temporary closure of registration activities, the JAMB CEO assured everyone of the possibility of an extension of registration date‎ so that all applicants would be carried along.

‎”While wishing the candidates and officials participating in the examination a successful mock exercise, we once again re-assure the candidates that there is no need for worry or anxiety. In the next one week, we believe it will be sufficient to capture the remaining candidates as about 1,000,000 applicants have successful registered,” said Professor Oloyede.

He also said that, “No one will be left behind as the deadline may be extended if there are applicants who do not succeed at registering due to circumstances beyond their control.”

Imo North: Appeal Court reaffirms Senator Uwajumogu’s victory

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja, has affirmed the judgment of the Justice Kwajafa-led National Election Petition Tribunal for Imo north, which upheld the election of Senator Benjamin Uwajumogu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the July 22 and 28 2016, Okigwe Senate rerun elections.

The five-man Appeal Court panel dismissed all the 7 grounds of appeal sought by the petitioner, who challenged the earlier judgment of the tribunal.

In its ruling on Thursday, the Justice Aboki-led appeal panel, unanimously declared that, all grands of appeal against the election and return of Senator Uwajumogu as Senator representing Imo north, lacked merit.

According to the ruling, “it is in bad fate for the petitioner to say that supplementary elections in 22 polling units were void by the reason of non-compliance with the provisions of the electoral act, when all the parties involved in the election, including the petitioner, did not complain before the conduct of the supplementary elections.

“The petitioner was inconsistent. You cannot ask the court to grant relief on unsubstantiated matters as the court does not rely on hearsay to dispense justice.”

“You cannot blow hot and cold at the same time. The petition failed in its entirety and it is hereby dismissed”, the Judge said.

In his reaction, Senator Uwajumogu described the judgment as the total reaffirmation of the mandate given to him by the people of Okigwe zone during the last concluded Imo north senatorial re-run election.

While calling for true reconciliation to move the zone forward, he thanked the people of Imo North for their continued support and prayers to him throughout the legal tussle and pledged his total commitment to superlative legislative performance.

Alleged decay of FCT: Group makes 7 point demand from minister

Convener, Deji Adeyanju and other protesters

In line with the earlier alarm over the alleged decay of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and the demand made for accountability, pro-democracy and advocacy group, Concerned Nigerians, has urged the current FCT minister, Alhaji Mohammed M. Bello to give a detailed account of the various infrastructural development he claimed to have carried out for the past one year in the FCT.In a statement signed by both its Convener, Prince Deji Adeyanju and the Secretary, Mr. John Danfulani, the group who, during a peaceful protest in Abuja on the 7^th of April, 2017, made a seven-point demand which included the immediate release of a detailed breakdown of money spent on security and rapid response security, improvement of the refuse disposal system in Abuja and the detailed breakdown of contracts awarded for the supply, installation and maintenance of streetlights in the Abuja metropolis over the last 20 months among others.

The protesters

“#OccupyFCT: OUR DEMANDS”

“1. The immediate release of a detailed breakdown of contracts awarded for the supply, installation and maintenance of streetlights in the Abuja metropolis over the last 20 months and payments made in furtherance of such contracts.”

“2. The immediate release of a detailed breakdown of contracts awarded for the provision of refuse disposal services within Abuja for the year 2016, and any payments made in furtherance of those contracts for that year.”

Convener, Deji Adeyanju and other protesters

“3. The immediate release of a detailed breakdown of money spent on security and rapid response security services for the year 2016 and any payments made in furtherance of such contracts.”

“4. An immediate increase in the number of patrol vehicles and frequency of patrols in and around the Abuja metropolis.”

“5. The immediate removal of all beggars and street hawkers from the streets within the and outside the Abuja metropolis. This must include the removal of commercial motorcycles aka okada from all places in the city where they are currently being used.”

“6. The immediate execution of turn-around maintenance works on streetlights and traffic lights within the Abuja metropolis.”

“7. The immediate improvement of the refuse disposal system in Abuja.”

“We demand that these conditions be met within the next 7 days failing which we will be compelled to hold protests at night to highlight the decaying state of infrastructure within the city.”

Photo Of Yahoo Girl Arrested In Edo State For 132,000 Euro Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday 7th of April, 2017 arraigned one Suzan Vega Ochuko before Justice P.I. Ajoku of the Federal High Court sitting in Benin, Edo State on a three count charge bordering on conspiracy and obtaining money by false pretence..

Ochuko and one Tony Uyimwen aka Alex Ethan (now at large) allegedly operating with a pseudo name Alex Ethan contacted one Mrs. Beatrice AUF DER MAUR from St. Gallen, Switzerland via Facebook and defrauded her of One Hundred and Thirty-Two Thousand Euro.

Mrs Auf Der Maur was allegedly hoodwinked into a love relationship with the defendant who subsequently defrauded her of the said amount under the pretence of executing a non existing contract.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.

In view of her plea, the prosecution counsel M.T. Iko asked the court to fix a date for commencement of trial. The defence counsel, Ekhator Ogiegbaen told the court that he had filed an bail application for his client. He pleaded with the court to grant his client bail as she will not jump bail and that the defendant was a nursing mother.

Though the prosecution counsel opposed the bail, Justice Ajoku granted the defendant bail in the sum of One Million Naira with two sureties in like sum.

The sureties must be civil servant not below grade level 12 or two sureties with landed property within the jurisdiction of the court.

The sureties must deposit original title of their document with the court while the civil servant must produce an official letter from his superior from his office. The documents are to be verified by the prosecution.

The matter was adjourned to the 14th of June, 2017 for trial while the defendant is to be remanded in prison custody pending the perfection of her bail.

Dogara to Governors: Publish your security votes, LG funds

Yakubu Dogara, Speaker House of Representatives

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has challenged Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State to extend his campaign for transparency in the budget of the National Assembly to other arms of government, including how governors spend their security votes.

Speaking while closing a retreat for  management of the National Assembly in Kaduna on Friday, Dogara also  challenged the Governors to, in the spirit of accountability and transparency, publish how they utilise funds allocated to local governments.

The Speaker, while reacting to an earlier speech by Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai, who urged the legislature to make its budget public, disclosed that already, the bureaucracy  had been directed to publish the National Assembly budget beginning from 2017.

“I will like to challenge him (El-Rufai) to champion this cause for transparency in the budgetary process from the National Assembly to other arms of government. The Judiciary first. We want to see clearly how Chief Executives of States… how they are paid. What do they spend monthly as security votes, and if they can publish what happens to local government funds under their jurisdictions. That will help our discussion going forward,” he said.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by the management of the federal legislature,  Dogara stressed that the National Assembly was the most misunderstood institution and that no parliament in the world could win popularity contest and Nigeria’s National Assembly is not an exception.

“When, for instance, public discussions on funding of the legislature are being made, the entire bureaucracy is often completely discountenanced, neither is any consideration given to the fact that this is a special bureaucracy saddled with a multitude of ‘masters’ who must be equally served in addition to service to the nation,” he explained.

Dogara said the Nigeria Civil Service would begin to record progress when it breaks away from its usual tradition to new ways of carrying out its functions and administration. He said that for there to be productivity in the workforce, there must be innovation, which is borne out of motivation of staff through rewards such as promotions based on merit.

“As leaders, you must be prepared to motivate the workforce. Motivation is the key to innovation anywhere. For far too long, the bureaucracy in Nigeria has failed to innovate because it is locked in a tradition that defines boundaries that must not be crossed. A tradition that says we have always done it this way and apportions sanctions for those who dare doing it the other way even if the outcomes are better.

“These are chains that bind the bureaucracy in Nigeria from within. Although the most difficult chains to break are those within us, we must break them in order to free the bureaucracy and make it competitive and innovative. The key to achieving this is undoubtedly, training and retraining in an environment such as this.

“The necessity for every manager to fully understand the ecology of his organization is not negotiable. The legislature is a distinct organisation with several peculiarities, thereby making strategic management approach an imperative. The management of the National Assembly, whatever their managerial competencies, cannot provide efficient and effective services to the legislature except they fully understand and appreciate the organizational goals, objectives and the attendant challenges.

“I need not warn you of the bitter lesson of life, which is that it will never offer you more than who you are. But the good news is that you can become more. To become more, you must change your ideas and you will never change your ideas until you learn something new. New things learned are useless and cannot result in growth  until you put them to use. That is why you cannot over spend on training. Tell me the size of your organization’s budget for training and retraining and I’ll predict with absolute certainty, the future of your organization,” he said.

The Speaker commended the visionary leadership approach of the Clerk to the National Assembly, Mohammed Ataba Sani-Omolori, for the swift manner in which he was able to undertake a management needs assessment of the institution, which was the basis for the retreat.

Brothel owner killed by prostitutes in Ekiti over pension, savings

A brothel owner, Olayode Samuel, has been killed by some persons suspected to be prostitutes after dispossessing him of his pension.

The attack took place in Odo Owa community in Ijero local government area of Ekiti state.

An eye witness said the robbers tied the retired soldier to a steel bed and set him on fire in the attack.

But preliminary findings by the police indicated that the victim was attacked by the prostitutes who he gave out some of his rooms to for their business.

Speaking with Journalists on Friday, the Ekiti State Police Public Relations Officer, Alberto Adeyemi, said he was attacked by women of easy virtues that rented some rooms from him.

“The man just collected his pension and thrifts which the prostitutes became aware of.

“They dispossessed him of the money and tied him to a bed in the house. Neighbours were not aware of this until his body started decomposing.

“We are on the trail of the suspects and would ensure they are brought to justice”, he said.

Adeyemi advised residents to be their brothers keepers and report suspicious movement to the police for prompt action.

23 federal universities get new governing councils — FULL LIST OF CHAIRPERSONS

Pursuant to his powers under the laws establishing the federal universities in Nigeria, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the reconstitution of Governing Councils of 23 out of the 40 federal universities in the country for a period of four years in the first instance.

The institutions affected are those whose Governing Councils’ tenures have elapsed or would on 9th April, 2017.

In making these appointments, Mr. President had taken cognizance of the requirements for membership into governing councils, which include among others, a minimum of a university degree, high integrity, and commitment to educational development of the country.

In addition, consideration was also given to geo-political spread, in order to reflect federal character and foster sense of belonging.

The affected universities and their Chairmen are as follows:

1. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – AVM Muktar Mohammed
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka – Chief Mike Olorunfemi
3. University of Lagos – Dr. Wale Babalakin
4. Federal University of Technology, Owerr (FUTO) – Prof John Ofem
5. University of Calabar – Sen. Nkechi Justina Nworgu
6. University of Ibadan – Joshua Waklek, mni
7. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Uni (ATBU), Bauchi – Amb. Niniola Nimota Akanbi
8. Bayero University, Kano (BUK) – Prof. Ibrahim Gambari
9. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) – Se. J.K.N. Waku
10. Fed. Uni of Petroleum Res., Effurum (FUPRE) – Prof Shehu Abdullahi Zuru
11. Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna – Prof Femi Odekunle
12. Michael Okpara University of Agric, Umudike (MOUAU) – Engr. Bello Suleiman
13. Modibbo Adama University of Tech, Yola – M. Bukar Zarma
14. Nmandi Azikiwe University, Awka – Alhaji Aziz Bello
15. University of Abuja – Alhaji Sani Maikudi
16. Fed University of Agric, Abeokuta – Dr. Aboki Zhawa
17. Fed University of Agriculture, Makurdi – Prof Alkassum Abba
18. University of Benin – Alhaji Isah Ashiru
19. University of Ilorin – Dr. Jibril Oyekan
20. University of Jos – Prince Tony Momoh
21. University of Maiduguri – Prof. Biodun Adesanya
22. University of Uyo – Prof. A. C. Awujo
23. Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto – Rtd Hon. Justice Pearl Enajere

Those not affected by the reconstitution are the Governing Councils of the 12 new Federal Universities in Lokoja, Otueke, Gashua, Dutsin-Ma, Oye-Ekiti, Lafia, Gusau, Wukari, Kashere, Birnin-Kebbi, Dutse and Ndifu-Alike-Ikwo which were inaugurated in March, 2016 as well as those of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile-Ife and University of Port Harcourt, which were re-constituted in January this year (2017).

The tenure of the council of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) will elapse in January 2018.

The new Governing Councils are to be inaugurated at the auditorium of the National Universities Commission (NUC) on a date to be announced soon.

Mallam Adamu Adamu
Honourable Minister of Education
06 April, 2017

South African opposition, rights groups march against Zuma

 

Jacob Zuma

Thousands marched in major South African cities to protest against President Jacob Zuma on Friday, demanding he quit after a cabinet reshuffle triggered the latest crisis of his presidency.Zuma’s sacking of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan in the reshuffle last Thursday has outraged allies and opponents alike, undermined his authority and caused rifts in the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has governed South Africa since the end of white-minority rule in 1994.

In the country’s commercial hub, Johannesburg, several residents stood along the roads, waving placards demanding that Zuma step down.

Mmusi Maimane, leader of the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party, was due to lead a march in downtown Johannesburg, where thousands of marchers wearing blue DA T-shirts gathered to start the march, with many bussed in from other areas.

Some held placards saying “Fire Zuma”.

“This president is mishandling the presidency and he should leave office,” said Graham Fish, 62.

A “holding hands” picket was due to take place in Cape Town, where motorists hooted in support of the march holding up South African flags.

About 2,000 people were also marching in coastal city of Durban

Syriana Maesela, 65, a retiree was on her way by train to Pretoria to join the march carrying a South African flag.

She said: “I am marching to get the ANC to take us seriously and respect our wishes by letting the president go.

“We are unhappy about his leadership because he does not seem to care about the people.

“The irony is I did the same thing in 1976 when I was a student. I also marched then,” she said, referring protests against the apartheid regime.

Zuma welcomed one of the marches, by the civil society group Save South Africa (SaveSA) that was planned for outside the Union Buildings, the site of Zuma’s offices in the capital, Pretoria, saying it was the group’s legal right to do so.

SaveSA is made up of civil society groups, business leaders and prominent individuals.

Zuma, 74, has faced protests in the past.

The ANC on Wednesday rejected calls for Zuma to quit, and analysts doubted marches would shake the president.

And his supporters also gathered to support him.

About 300 camouflage-clad veterans of the ANC’s now-disbanded Umkhonto we Sizwe military wing ringed the party’s Luthuli House building in downtown Johannesburg, mounting mock parades and singing in support of Zuma.

Some clad in the yellow, green and gold colors of the ANC also danced, waving placards emblazoned with the words: “I’m prepared to die for my ANC” and “Hands off our President”.

The rand was steady against the dollar in early trade on Friday.

The currency has tumbled more than 11 percent since March 27, when Zuma ordered Gordhan to return home from overseas talks with investors, days before firing him.

“The rand has stabilised,” Rand Merchant Bank currency strategists John Cairns said.

“The marches and the looming weekend will keep the market cautious.”

Many killed as US strikes Syria with 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles

The Syrian army has said that six persons have been killed after the United State air strike on Syrian airbaseIn this image released by the US Navy, the guided-missile destroyer USS Porter conducts strike operations while in the Mediterranean Sea, April 7, 2017.

US President Donald Trump ordered a massive military strike on a Syrian air base on Thursday in retaliation for a “barbaric” chemical attack he blamed on President Bashar al-Assad. The missiles were fired from the USS Porter and the USS Ross, which belong to the US Navy’s Sixth Fleet and are located in the eastern Mediterranean. / AFP

Also the the governor of Homs province where the Shayrat base is located said that US military strike on a Syrian airbase has caused several deaths.

“There are martyrs, but we don’t yet know the number either of martyrs or of wounded,” Talal Barazi told AFP by telephone.

He said parts of the base were on fire and some of the wounded were suffering from burns.

“It will take some time to determine the extent of the damages,” he said.

“Of course we condemn this, all action targeting Syrian military bases is condemnable,” Barazi said.

He said the forces present at the base “provide important support” in the battle against the Islamic State group in the Palmyra region, home to a famed desert city that Syrian troops recaptured from jihadists last month.

Medical doctor knocked down while jogging in Lagos

The medical doctor

A medical doctor was yesterday knocked down while jogging by a private bus thereby sustaing varying degrees of injuries.

Three other passengers in the bus including the driver were also injured during the incident which occurred at Osapa area of Lekki/Ajah at about 7am.

The prompt intervention of law enforcement agents prevented the incident from degenerating as Lagos State Ambulance Services LASAMBUS, were mobilized to the scene and the victims were given First Aid treatment before they were taken to the hospital.

According to an eye witness’ account, the ill-fated bus, an Ash colour Sienna with number plate LSD 111 BC, journeyed from Ajah inward Victoria Island, with seven passengers on board but on reaching Osapa area, the vehicle suffered break failure and turned to the other side of the road where the medical doctor was jogging at that time and was knocked down.

Another eye witness, Madam Serifat Ajakaye said the medical doctor who was in Blue and black short, T shirt and a pair of canvass suffered multiple frastructures while the driver and two other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries.

Those injured include one Uche Chukwuemeka and another simply identified as Mr Segun.

South African opposition, rights groups march against Zuma

 

Jacob Zuma

Thousands marched in major South African cities to protest against President Jacob Zuma on Friday, demanding he quit after a cabinet reshuffle triggered the latest crisis of his presidency.Zuma’s sacking of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan in the reshuffle last Thursday has outraged allies and opponents alike, undermined his authority and caused rifts in the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has governed South Africa since the end of white-minority rule in 1994.

In the country’s commercial hub, Johannesburg, several residents stood along the roads, waving placards demanding that Zuma step down.

Mmusi Maimane, leader of the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party, was due to lead a march in downtown Johannesburg, where thousands of marchers wearing blue DA T-shirts gathered to start the march, with many bussed in from other areas.

Some held placards saying “Fire Zuma”.

“This president is mishandling the presidency and he should leave office,” said Graham Fish, 62.

A “holding hands” picket was due to take place in Cape Town, where motorists hooted in support of the march holding up South African flags.

About 2,000 people were also marching in coastal city of Durban

Syriana Maesela, 65, a retiree was on her way by train to Pretoria to join the march carrying a South African flag.

She said: “I am marching to get the ANC to take us seriously and respect our wishes by letting the president go.

“We are unhappy about his leadership because he does not seem to care about the people.

“The irony is I did the same thing in 1976 when I was a student. I also marched then,” she said, referring protests against the apartheid regime.

Zuma welcomed one of the marches, by the civil society group Save South Africa (SaveSA) that was planned for outside the Union Buildings, the site of Zuma’s offices in the capital, Pretoria, saying it was the group’s legal right to do so.

SaveSA is made up of civil society groups, business leaders and prominent individuals.

Zuma, 74, has faced protests in the past.

The ANC on Wednesday rejected calls for Zuma to quit, and analysts doubted marches would shake the president.

And his supporters also gathered to support him.

About 300 camouflage-clad veterans of the ANC’s now-disbanded Umkhonto we Sizwe military wing ringed the party’s Luthuli House building in downtown Johannesburg, mounting mock parades and singing in support of Zuma.

Some clad in the yellow, green and gold colors of the ANC also danced, waving placards emblazoned with the words: “I’m prepared to die for my ANC” and “Hands off our President”.

The rand was steady against the dollar in early trade on Friday.

The currency has tumbled more than 11 percent since March 27, when Zuma ordered Gordhan to return home from overseas talks with investors, days before firing him.

“The rand has stabilised,” Rand Merchant Bank currency strategists John Cairns said.

“The marches and the looming weekend will keep the market cautious.”

SWAN formally decorates ex-Gov. Daniel as National Patron

Gbenga Daniel

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) on Thursday in Sagamu formally decorated a former Governor of Ogun, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, as its National Patron.The investiture of Daniel coincided with his 61st birthday, and his formal inauguration was done by the SWAN National President, Honour Sirawoo, before hundreds of guests at Daniel’s Asoludero Court residence.

A statement by SWAN on Friday in Abuja said Sirawoo was accompanied by several national and state SWAN officials during the ceremony.

While speaking, Sirawoo who had in October pronounced Daniel a National Patron said his choice was on merit, as it was a unanimous decision of the Association’s National Executive Council (NEC)‎.

“The decision was reached after we considered his performances in the sports sector as the Governor of Ogun State between 2003 and 2011, with a great number of other laudable projects recorded by his administration.

“The recipient did not solicit for this award, but it was bestowed on him for other leaders to emulate.

“OGD has done so much for the state in job-creation, which includes the provision of sports facilities across the state to provide employment for the citizens, particularly the youths.

“It was the decision of the SWAN NEC to appreciate him, so that others would emulate him,’’ Sirawoo said.

He then used the opportunity to dismiss as untrue speculations that there was crisis within the Association, saying SWAN remains one united family.

In his remarks, Daniel pledged to give adequate support to the Association at all times and expressed appreciation at his being considered fit for the award.

“Let me thank you from the bottom of my heart on this award, and be rest assured that I will contribute positively to the growth of the Association,’’ he said.

Daniel added that he was proud to be associated with the sports writing body, and encouraged the members to be up and doing in promoting sports positively across the globe.

Daniel during his eight years in office as Ogun State Governor brought about unprecedented sports development.

He ensured that the state had world class sports facilities, including four FIFA standard stadiums, leading to the hosting of some of the 2009 FIFA Under-17 World Cup matches in Ijebu-Ode.

Daniel also ensured the state hosted the 2006 National Sports Festival successfully and as scheduled, leading to an unprecedented generation of profits from the Festival.

FG reconstitutes boards of agencies, parastatals in education ministry

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the reconstitution of the boards of 19 agencies and paratatals under the Federal Ministry of Education for a period of four years.

Mrs Chinenye Ihuoma, Director of Press in the ministry, made this known in a statement issued and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.

Ihuoma said the President took into cognizance provisions of the respective legislation with respect to composition, competence, credibility, integrity, federal character and geo-political spread.

She said those appointed are Prof. Ayo Banjo, National Universities Commission (NUC), Mr Emeka Nwajiuba, Tertiary Education Trust Fund( TETFund) and Dr Ekaete Okon, National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA).
Others are Dr Mahmud Mohammed, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Prof. Zainab Alkali, National Library of Nigeria and Dr Abubakar Saddiq, National Examination Council (NECO).

Also, Dr Gidado Akko, National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education (NMEC), Prof. Gidado Tahir, National Commission for Normadic Education (NCNE) and Prof. Leonard Karshima, National Business and Technical Education (NABTEB) made the list.

Prof. Adamu Baikie Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Maigari Dingyadi, National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) and Malam Kaka Yale, National Teachers’ Institute (NTI).

Prof. Buba Bajoga, National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Dr. Emmanuel Ndukwe Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and Chief N. N Nnabuchi National Institute of Nigerian Languages (NINLAN).

Mr Paul Unongo, Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) and Prof. Saliba Mukoro, Nigerian French Language Village (NFLV).

Others are Prof. Modupe Adelabu, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and Prof. O Oladusi Nigerian Arabic Language Village (NALV).

She said the Boards, consisting of the Chairmen and Members, would be inaugurated on a date to be announced soon.

N360m Bribery Saga: Why 23 INEC officials can’t be tried in Rivers, FG tells court

INEC staff members at courtThe Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, on Friday, fixed May 12 to determine whether it has the jurisdiction to try 23 officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, accused of collecting N360million bribe from Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State.

Trial Justice John Tsoho reserved ruling on the issue on a day the Federal Government adduced reasons why it decided to prosecute the defendants in Abuja instead of in Rivers State.

FG had in a seven-count criminal charge it filed before the high court on March 7, alleged that the indicted INEC officials, got the bribe money from Governor Wike during the December 10, 2016, legislative re-rerun election in Rivers state.

Those cited as defendants in suit marked FHC/ABJ/CR//42/2017, were Shittu Mohammed Lamido (Shettima), Henry Owokure, Peter Ewatade, Mrs. Mary Jummai, Tunkoyo Pennap, Gwatana Jibril, Ivase Stephen, Abdullahi Ogabo, Gayus Hassan, Hussaina Yahaya, James Ogwuche, Karimu Aminu and Adedokun Najeem Ayotunde.

Others include, Balogun Funmilayo, Adams Kadiri, Akinwande Adesoji, Lukeman Olabimpe, Tiamiyu Arowolo, Akinwoye Amodu, Nwoha Yusuf, Patrick Anuke, Iro Abali, Nwosu Oluchi and Arukwe Chinelo.

The defendants had on March 14, declined to enter their plea to the charge, insisting that the court in Abuja lacked the territorial jurisdiction to conduct their trial based on the alleged offence.

They challenged the legal propriety of FG trying them in Abuja over a crime they allegedly committed in Rivers State.

The defence lawyers led by Mr. Ahmed Raji, SAN, and U.O Ukairo, said they had on March 13, filed motions to challenge powers of the high court in Abuja to adjudicate on an offence that took place in Rivers State.

They dared FG to take them before the Port Harcourt Division of the high court, saying the court should in the alternative, strike out the charge for want of competence.

Nevertheless, in urging the court to dismiss the motions, government lawyer, Mr. Aliyu Alilu, maintained that Rivers State is “highly unsafe” to conduct such trial.

FG, in a counter-affidavit it filed before the court, cited an intelligence report by the police alleging that thugs loyal to the Wike-led administration, had threatened to rise violently against the trial of the perceived allies of their benefactor if the case was conducted in the state.

It told the court that “the safety of witnesses, prosecutors, court officials and other civilians cannot be guaranteed” if the trial is conducted in Rivers State.

“That lives of security agents and civilians are usually in serious danger each time perceived allies of the present state government are being investigated.

“That defendants in this case are being charged in respect of the gratification they received from the present Governor of Rivers State, Governor Nyesom Wike.

“That intelligence report reaching the Police Force Headquarters is that prosecuting the said defendants in the same Rivers State will constitute security risks to prosecutors, the court and witnesses and even innocent civilians as political thugs, loyal to the incumbent administration in the state, have vowed to rise violently in opposition to the prosecution of perceived allies of their benefactor.

“That it is in consideration of security of lives of prosecutors, witnesses, court officials and innocent civilians that this matter be heard before this division of the Federal High Court”, FG added.

Besides, FG narrated before the court, how a Deputy Superintendent of Police, Mohammed Alkali, and Sergeant Peter Uchi of the 48 Police Mobile Force were “gruesomely murdered and beheaded by thugs and cult gangs” on the day of the rerun elections, despite the deployment of law enforcement agencies ahead of the exercise.

It told the court that before the election, three other policemen and four operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were equally murdered in cold blood at Omoku and Ido Camp of Agip Oil Company, Obiafo community.

“That the late DSP Mohammed Alkali and Sergeant Peter Uchi were ambushed, gruesomely murdered and beheaded by political thugs and cult gangs in Rivers State.

“That shortly before the election three personnel of the Police Mobile Force, Squadron 19 and four personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were gruesomely murdered at Omoku and Ido Camp of Agip Oil Company, Obiafo community respectively.

“That all arrested cultists and political thugs during the elections confessed to have been sponsored by some politicians in the state.”

FG further stated that during investigation into the crimes committed during the rerun elections, many eyewitnesses and victims refused to give information to the police out of fear of being killed by cult groups.

“That the few individuals, who braved the odds to meet the team of investigators, expressed their concern that informants could alert cultists to go after them”, it added.

However, the defendants prayed the court to disregard FG’s counter-affidavit, saying they are civil servants who are mostly resident in Rivers State.

They maintained that they do not have the resources to constantly travel to Abuja to face trial over offence they allegedly committed in Rivers State.

FG had alleged that the N360million was proceeds of governor Wike’s criminal conduct which it said constituted economic and financial crimes.

It alleged that the accused persons had between December 7 and 10, 2016, converted, concealed and took possession of the sum of N360million bribe, in violation of various provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 and the Economic and Financial Crimes (Establishment, etc) Act, 2004.

FG alleged that action of the defendants contravened section 15(1)(a)(ii), 17(b) and 18(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011.

In Count-4 of the charge, FG, alleged that the defendants, being “electoral officers and staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission, between December 7 and 10, 2016, at Port Harcourt, Rivers State, did commit an offence to wit: possession of the sum of N360,000,000, being money you received from Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, knowing that the said money represented proceeds of bribery and corruption in connection with the Rivers State rerun election which took place on December 10, 2016.”

It alleged in count-5 that the defendants committed an offence to wit: “used the sum of N360,000,000 being money you received from Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, knowing that the said money represented proceeds of bribery and corruption in connection with the Rivers State rerun election which took place on December 10, 2016.”

Count 6 alleged that they committed an offence to wit: possession of the sum of N360,000,000 being money you received from Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, knowing that the said money represented proceeds of economic and financial crime to wit: bribery and corruption in connection with the Rivers State rerun election which took place on December 10, 2016.

In the last count, FG alleged that the defendants “did commit an offence to wit: used the sum of N360,000,000, being money you received from Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, knowing that the said money represented proceeds of economic and financial crime to wit: bribery and corruption in connection with the Rivers State rerun election which took place on December 10, 2016.”

FG earlier revealed that each of the electoral officers got N15million, while three senior electoral officers for the Senatorial Zones, received an extra N5million each, bringing the total bribe sum to N360million.

Already, it has lined up 14 witnesses, mostly policemen, to testify against the defendants.

Manchester United legend Andy Cole undergoes kidney transplant

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole has undergone a kidney transplant, the club have confirmed.

The operation, which was undertaken at Manchester Royal Infirmary, comes as part of his treatment for a condition called Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis.

United confirmed that Cole, 45, will, as a result, take some time out from his role as a club ambassador.

“During his recuperation, Andrew will be taking a break from his role as Manchester United Ambassador,” the club website said in a statement.

“Andrew and his family would like to thank the club and fans for their support. They also request that he can continue with his treatment in private, and ask that their privacy is respected.”

Cole suffered kidney failure in June 2014 as a result of contracting an airborne virus.

One of the side-effects of Cole's condition, which causes scarring of the kidney and impacts on levels of protein in the body, is weight gain.

Speaking in February of last year the former Newcastle forward reflected on the issues he now faced.

"Seeing the change in my body, that has been tough, it wreaks havoc with you. You get comments like, 'Andy Cole's let himself go, who ate all the pies?'," he said.

"I have to take it day by day. I am four months off a year and it has been tough going through this process."

Cole won 15 caps for England and made 275 appearances for Manchester United, where he scored 121 goals and won five league titles as well as the 1999 Champions League.

The striker started his career at Arsenal and also had spells at Bristol City, Blackburn, Fulham, Manchester City, Portsmouth, Birmingham, Sunderland, Burnley and Nottingham Forest before retiring in November 2008.

IN PICTURES: Osinbajo inspects rehabilitation of runway in Abuja airport

The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo is currently inspecting the ongoing rehabilitation work of the Nnamdi Azikiwe international airport Abuja.

Recall that the airport was temporarily closed from midnight of Tuesday, March 7, 2017, to enable the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, carry out major rehabilitation on the runway.

The airport is due to be reopened April 19.

See images below…

Corps member from Benue State dies of heart failure in Sokoto

A Corps member, Anthony Ochai, from Benue State, has died of heart failure in Sokoto, the State NYSC Coordinator, Alhaji Musa Abubakar, has said.

Abubakar made the disclosure in Sokoto on Friday, during the passing out ceremony of 1,411 corps members deployed to the state under the 2016 batch ”A”, Stream One.

He said:” The late corps member was serving at the Government Secondary School, Tsamaye, Sabon-Birni Local Government in the state. ”

The deceased was resting after a football match between the various batches of the scheme, suddenly he just collapsed and died. ” His remains were brought to the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto and it was confirmed that he died of heart failure.”

Abubakar further stated that the late corps member hailed from Ugbokolo village, in Ukopo local government of Benue state. The coordinator also said that the remains of the late Ochai would be buried on Friday in his home town, in Benue State.

Abubakar further disclosed that 10 corps members had their service year extended by between three months to one year, for abscondment. In the same vein, 10 corps members were given state merit awards, while four others received the Chairman’s commendation certificate.

He added that 85 other corps members were given commendation letters for outstanding performance.

Abubakar advised the outgoing corps members to continue to be good ambassadors of the service.

Indian PM sets protocol aside, receives Bangladesh PM Hasina at the airport.

Setting aside protocol, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today went to the IGI airport here to receive his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina.

The Prime Minister travelled through normal traffic without any route restrictions, official sources said.

The Bangladesh Prime Minister is on a four-day visit to India, which comes after a gap of seven years.

Hasina will hold wide-ranging talks with Modi tomorrow during which India is also set to announce a line of credit of USD 500 million to Bangladesh for military supplies. 

She will also call on President Pranab Mukherjee and meet opposition leader Sonia Gandhi. She will visit Ajmer on Sunday and will meet Indian business leaders on Monday. 

She will also join a function at Manekshaw Centre to honour Indian Armed Forces members who embraced martyrdom in Bangladesh's War of Liberation in 1971. 

Diplomatic quarters of both sides expect that the reciprocal visit of the Bangladesh premier would take the Dhaka-New Delhi "historic relations" to a new height, unveiling newer dimensions of cooperation in various sectors including trade and commerce, economy and connectivity.

State to partner World Bank, ADB on 500km road projects

Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State

The Ogun  government, in collaboration with the World Bank and the Africa Development Bank (ADB), has concluded arrangements to construct 500 kilometres of rural roads to enhance socio-economic activities in the state.

Gov.  Ibikunle Amosun  disclosed this on Thursday at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Oba’s  complex, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta.

According to the governor, the construction will be carried out under the third phase of the Ogun Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP).

Amosun explained that the roads would cut across all the 20  local government councils and the newly created 37  Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of  the state.

He noted that the project would enhance agricultural development by easing  movement  of agricultural produce across the state.

Amosun stated that the project would be handled  by local contractors in the affected areas so as to empower artisans and other sub-contractors in the state.

The World Bank consultant for RAMP,  Dr Emmanuel Adeyemo, said the roads involved were carefully selected based on certain “universal criteria” set by the donor agencies.

“The criteria for selecting the roads include linkage to either a local market, hospital or school or the combination of the three.

“In addition, such roads must link  a state or a federal road,” he said.

Adeyemo, who commended the state government for its cooperation, said the project would be executed in phases and in tune with international standard.

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Mr Wale Ogunyomade, said effective monitoring mechanism had been put in place to ensure quality job by contractors.

He further said that the government would ensure effective maintenance of the roads through collaboration  with  stakeholders in the affected communities.

The meeting was attended by traditional rulers, local chiefs, leaders of community development associations, local government officials and representatives of  various Non Governmental Organisations.

Bullion van driver crushes 2 to death while eating on steering in Lafia

A bullion van belonging to a commercial bank has crushed two persons to death and injured three prospective Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination candidates waiting for their PIN number at a Skye Bank branch in Lafia.

It was gathered that driver of the van said to be on high speed lost control and rammed into a commercial motorcycle rider conveying a candidate.

The van driver was said to be eating when the accident occurred.

Punch quoted an eyewitness as saying that, “The vehicle crushed the okada rider, his passenger and then knocked down three other persons standing along the road. The okada rider died on the spot while the JAMB candidate later died the same day at about 6pm at the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital where she was rushed to for treatment.”

One of the survivors, Mr. James Chima, said he was rescued from under the van after it knocked him down.

“I was standing by the roadside beside the Skye Bank premises when suddenly a police van rammed into me and I found myself under the vehicle,” he narrated.

The police spokesman in the state, DSP Idrisu Kennedy, confirmed the incident, but noted that the vehicle involved in the accident belonged to a bank and not the police.

He said, “The driver is an employee of the bank and most of the bullion vans are properties of the banks.”

Source DailyPost