Etsu Nupe visits Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari receives the chairman, Niger state council of traditional rulers and the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji (Dr) (Brig. Gen) Yahaya Abubakar.

PRESIDENT BUHARI RECEIVES ETSU NUPEPRESIDENT BUHARI RECEIVES ETSU NUPE

#OsunDecides - Don’t Tamper with Our Winning Results – Adeleke Campaign rganisation

Ademola Adeleke Campaign Organisation has warned against the manipulation of the results of the governorship polls,affirming that the will of the people must be respected.

As results are being collated across the state, we demand utmost fair play and transparency from the electoral body.We are watching and monitoring closely. Under no circumstance should the collation process be manipulated.

Our agents and leaders are on their toes armed with relevant results and forms.The will of the people must be respected.We task INEC and security agencies to obey the directive of President Muhammad Buhari who had ordered that the Osun electoral process should never be manipulated by federal or any related agencies.

We call on local and international observers to take note of the ongoing process and assist the people of Osun state to realise the supremacy of their electoral will.

Our people should also be ever vigilant to protect their votes and their aspirations for better life.

Signed
Olawale Rasheed ,
Director of Media & Publicity, Ademola Adeleke Campaign Organisation.

Njideka Akunyili Crosby: Dora Akunyili's daughter sells one artwork for N1.2 billion

Njideka Akunyili Crosby, one of the daughters of late Dora Akunyili, has sold one of her numerous artworks for N1.2 billion ($3.4 million).

In a report by Wall Street Journal, Njideka's highest selling artwork at the moment is a 2017 botanical piece named 'Bush Babies.'

According to the report, New York based art company dealer, Sotheby’s estimated that the "Bush Babies," would sell for up to $800,000 but ended up selling for $3.4 million.

The "Bush Babies" artwork was sold during an auction at the Christie's in London, United Kingdom.

The artist, who once sold artworks for  $3,000 apiece has joined the leagues of top-flight artist in United States of America and United Kingdom.

It was also reported that least 20 public museums are on a waiting list for works which Njideka hasn’t painted yet.

Njideka Akunyili Crosby's laurel list

At 35 years old, this artist from Eastern Nigeria, has since been awarded the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship.

The MacArthur Fellowship, also referred to as the Genius Grant, awards $625,000 to artists, writers, teachers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and people from all works of life who have shown exceptional creativity.

The grant is doled out in instalments, made over a period of five years.

Aside the grant, Njideka has also been decorated with honours for her artworks by the New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art and London’s Tate Modern have come calling.

Breaking: Anthony Joshua knocks out Povetkin

Champion Anthony Joshua: hands Povetkin his first knockout defeat in his career

British boxer, Anthony Joshua has beaten his mandatory challenger, Russia’s Alexander Povetkin by a knockout in the seventh round, to keep hold of the WBA, (Super) IBF, WBO and IBO belts.

Joshua born by Nigerian parents, beat the Russian at the Wembley Stadium on Saturday night, to hand the Russian, his first knockout defeat in his professional boxing career.

Joshua was very brutal punching Povetkin in the closing rounds, although Jovetkin too had gotten the better of him in the earlier rounds.Anthony Joshua is now the holder of 4 heavyweight belts

After two slower opening rounds, Joshua found his range in that fight. And it was a series of accurate combinations which did it in the seventh round, first with an overhand right and then some big lefts.

His win has improved his professional career to 22 fights unbeaten, 21 of the fights by knockout.

Joshua is expected to earn £20 million and Povetkin £6 million.

Watch the knockout punch:

AJ Dismantles Povetkin in the 7th Round 💥🥊 #JoshuaPovetkin 🇬🇧🇷🇺 pic.twitter.com/pdKFfNAa8Y

— BOXING CORNER 2️⃣4️⃣/7️⃣ (@boxingcorner247) September 22, 2018

On Joshua’s next opponent, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn said: “If it’s not Deontay Wilder it’ll be Dillian Whyte. Our sole focus is on AJ being the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.”

Nigerians voted Buhari but cabal is ruling them –Saraki

The presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party, Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday, said Nigerians who voted President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 had been shortchanged because instead of the President, a few people who constituted themselves as a cabal had been ruling them.

Saraki, who is also the Senate President, spoke while addressing PDP delegates in Oyo State during a meeting where he solicited their votes.

He argued that a few influential world Presidents who had visited Nigeria under the present administration did not stay beyond a few hours because they were convinced that their host did not understand their mission or contributed to the discussion as expected.

He also said that Nigeria lacked the progress it deserved because voting patterns were determined by religion, language and ethnicity instead of capacity and merit. Among those in his entourage were Senator Rafiu Ibrahim, Senator Abiodun Olujinmi, Captain Idris Wada, Dr Doyin Okupe and Muhammed Wakil.

Saraki said, “Over the years, we have made mistakes in electing people based on sentiment. Yes, it is time we corrected it. We will correct it because we are capable. Over the years, we have voted for people based on religion, the language they speak and where they came from in Nigeria. We need people who have the courage, capacity, ability and determination.

“I have shown over the years, particularly in the recent years that one has the opportunity of leadership, that I have the capacity to take Nigeria forward. The countries that have done well did so not by bringing leaders by chance but because they looked for capable leaders. It is time to pick such a leader.

“The President we have now does not understand leadership. We have endured him for more than three years but it is the same thing. Nigerians voted for him (Buhari) but a cabal is ruling the country. That is not what democracy means. This time, let us look for who can do it. In Nigeria today, we do not have unity. What we need in the present world is a digital President.

“When your president sits with world presidents, he should be able to understand what they are saying. That is why presidents who have visited the country did not stay more than a few hours. But when they know that their host understands them, they will stay longer and explore investment opportunities in Nigeria.”

Saraki said he considered Oyo State his home because his paternal grandmother was from Iseyin area of the state. He added that the state’s priorities would be protected if he became the President.

Similarly, Saraki stated that Nigerians must vote for a capable leader in 2019, stressing that this was critical to the development of the country.

He stated that the nation could not take the over 80 million Nigerians out of poverty without a President with drive, vision and focus.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday while presenting his development blueprint to the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, the senator admonished the people against voting for candidates on sentiments.

“The Asian tiger we talk about didn’t happen by chance, it didn’t happen by trial and error, it happened because they have visionary leaders, leaders that know where they want to take their countries to,” the Senate President said.

He blamed lack of inclusiveness in governance, impunity and insensitivity for the precarious state of the country, noting that the government lacked empathy.

Culled from punch ng

"I Will Beat and Strip You Naked" -Bobrisky Threatens #BBNaija's Nina

It's old news that Bobriksy is a trouble maker and never shies away from drama and chaos on social media. The Nigerian cross dresser, Bobrisky who few days ago called out Big Brother Naija star, Nina for reportedly being ungrateful, has threatened to beat up the reality show star.

The BBNaija Double Wahala edition was parked with a lot of drama and months after its conclusion, it is still keeping people entertained. During the show, Bobrisky was rooting for Nina and even campaigned for her.

It quickly changed to a different story when the ivory housemate left the house. Her relationship with one of Bobrisky's apparent enemies, Toyin Lawani, put the cross dresser off and drama began.

First, it started with his calling her ungrateful after he used his connections to get an iphone X and Nina boldly stated that she's willing to return the phone to his choice of location. That really hurt the male barbie who must have thought he bought her soul.

It escalated when he kept calling her names and insulting her on the gram. Trying to build her brand and stay out of trouble, Nina ignored. Just recently, Bobrisky showed just how pained of the whole thing he is. In an audio now circulating the internet, he can be heard threatening the beautypreneur.

Bob who proudly revealed he was raised in Mushin stated that he will beat up Nina and even strip her if she she ever says anything about him.

Nina is yet to respond to the threat which can do serious harm but many social media users are ready to blame Bob if anything bad happens to Nina.

Rihanna helps build a hospital in Malawi. PHOTOS

Photos going viral online sees singer Rihanna born Robyn Rihanna Fenty helping in building a hospital in Malawi.

In the photos, one can see the humble philanthropist in a working gear helping the laborers fetch sand and water.

Rihanna has achieved a great feat just yesterday as she was named “Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary” for her home country, Barbados.

The role involves promoting education, tourism and investment.

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley said she was honoured to confer the title.

“Rihanna has a deep love for this country and this is reflected in her philanthropy, especially in the areas of health and education. She also shows her patriotism in the way she gives back to this country and continues to treasure the island as her home,” the prime minister said in a statement.

“She has also demonstrated, beyond her success as a pop icon, significant creative acumen and shrewdness in business. It is therefore fitting that we engage and empower her to play a more definitive role as we work to transform Barbados.”

Rihanna is one of the best-selling singers of all time, with 250 million record sales globally. She has also enjoyed success as an actress and fashion designer, and launched a widely-praised makeup collection last year.

The singer was born in Saint Michael in Barbados, and grew up in the capital, Bridgetown.

She lived there until her teen years when she was discovered by an American record producer, who helped her break into the US charts.

Last year a street she used to live on was renamed Rihanna Drive in her honour.

In a statement accepting her new role, the singer (who is now described as Ambassador Fenty by the Barbados government) said she “couldn’t be more proud to take on such a prestigious title” in her home country.

“Every Barbadian is going to have to play their role in this current effort, and I’m ready and excited to take on the responsibility. I look forward to working with Prime Minister Mottley and her team to re-imagine Barbados.”

#OsunDecides2018: INEC warns against publication of false results

The Commission gave the warning on Saturday through its twitter handle @inecnigeria.

The Independent National Electoral has warned against announcing or publishing false election results as the collation of the Osun governorship election results has begun.
The Commission gave the warning on Saturday through its twitter handle @inecnigeria.
It said that the official results would be available as announced by the election Returning Officer.
It said: “Announcing or publishing a false election result is an offence.
“It is a criminal offence punishable by a term of imprisonment.
“The official #OsunDecides2018 results will be uploaded on our platforms as declared by the Returning Officer.”

FG, States, LGs share N714.81bn in August

Mrs Zainab Ahmed, acting Minister of Finance.

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has disbursed the sum of N714.81 billion to  Federal, States and Local Governments for the month of August, 2018.

The report from the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, revealed that the money was shared from the revenue generated in July 2018.

The amount disbursed comprised oN597.97bn from the Statutory Account, N79.81bn from Valued Added Tax (VAT), N12bn additional distribution funds from NNPC and N25.03bn FOREX distribution.

The Federal government received a total of N298.29bn from the N714.81bn.

States received a total of N183.77bn and Local governments received N138.96bn.

The sum of N49.78bn was shared among the oil producing states as 13% derivation fund while N25.00bn was transferred to Excess crude Account(ECA).

The report had it that revenue generating agencies such as Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) received N4.42bn, N9.32bn and N5.27bn respectively as cost of revenue collections.

Further breakdown of revenue allocation distribution to the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) revealed that the sum of N242.42bn was disbursed to the FGN consolidated revenue account; N5.44bn shared as share of derivation and ecology; N2.72bn as stabilization fund; N9.15bn for the development of natural resources; and N6.17bn to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.

[PHOTOS] #MBGN2018: Miss Imo, Anita Ukah Crowned Winner, Other Winners

Anita Ukah who graduated from Igbinedion University in 2016 has emerged MBGN 2018 winner. Anita who was Miss Imo during the pageant beat 36 other contestants to take home the crown at the event which held lat night in Bayelsa state.

With her emergence as winner, she will represent Nigeria at the Miss World 2018 Pageant holding in December 8 in Sanya, China.

Miss Lagos, Aramide Oluwatobi was the First Runner-up who will represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant while the second Runner-up was Miss Edo (Danielle Jatto) who also won the award for (Best Traditional Attire) and will represent Nigeria at the Miss Tourism Beauty Pageant.

See other winners below;

Third Runner-Up was Miss Sokoto (Valentina Ogbonaya) who will represent Nigeria in Miss ECOWAS Pageant.

Fourth Runner-up was Miss Ogun (Tolulope Mary Ayanfalu)

Fifth Runner-up was Miss Kwara (Damilola Adeshina)

Miss Amity: Miss Rivers (Betty Harry)

Miss Photogenic: Miss Benue (Anna Tenna)

Best Evening Wear: Miss Plateau (Meyaroghene Ariagbobe)

MBGN Model: Miss Nasarawa (Obianuju Ononuju)

Best Traditional Outfit: Miss Edo (Daniella Jatto)

Miss Charismatic: Miss Oyo (Chiamaka Okechukwu)

Face of Select Pro: Miss Adamawa (Sandra Chisom Ndigwe)

See their photos below:

APC leaders organized jobless youths to protest against me, Tallen says

The Former Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Dame Pauline Tallen, yesterday alleged that the youths, who protested against her in Shendam during her tour to advance the course of her senatorial ambition were sponsored by some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

She said those who sponsored the APC youths were later disappointed because instead of ridiculing her profile, the protest rather promoted her when a large number of delegates and stakeholders were on ground to welcome her. 

Tallen, who spoke through her Media Aide, Mr Shabul Mazadu, to journalists in Jos, said she observed that the youths, who engaged in the act were sponsored by some APC members who had the feelings that her senatorial ambition could jeopardise Governor Simon Lalong’s chances of second tenure having come from the same local government area.

He said: “The protest was sponsored by Lalong supporters from the inscription on the placard, Lalong may not be involved directly but through his foot soldiers. Tallen, who aspiring for APC Plateau Southern Zone,said both the President and the First Lady were in support of the United Nations declaration on ceding one-third of elective positions to women as well as the affirmative action following the Beijing Declaration in 2005 stating that in line with the above, every State ought to have at least a female Senator out of the three. She said: “At least in every State of the Federation, there should be one female Senator going by the Federal Government affirmation in support of the Beijing 2005 Conference and the UN declaration of ceding one-third of elective positions to women. 

Lady slaps male dancer in Edo for disrespecting and rough handling her (Video)

A Nigerian male dancer has been given the embarrassment of the year after he received hot slaps for disrespecting and rough handling a female passerby he begged to dance with him.

Apparently, the dancer was trying to put on a show on the street and to wow his audience, he needed a female volunteer to help – after compelling a female passerby to join, she eventually adhered to his request.

After putting up something sort of a Jamaican rugged dance move, the lady felt really disrespected and rough handled and so she slapped hum on the face while passersby looked on and some even laughed.

Watch video below,

Buhari’s minister, Shittu says he couldn’t afford N22.5m for APC forms, speaks on NYSC controversy

The Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu on Saturday declared that contrary to insinuation that he was rich as a Minister under President Muhammadu Buhari, he could not afford to pay the N22.5m All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial forms.

Shittu, who insisted that there was no way he could afford to pay the gubernatorial nomination and expression of interest forms of the ruling APC pegged at N22.5m, added that he could not purchase the forms until those who believed in him came to his aid to buy the forms.

The APC chieftain, who is a gubernatorial aspirant under APC in Oyo state, made these revelations while speaking with journalists in Ibadan, the state capital, on Saturday.

Shittu, while responding to a question on the exorbitant fees charged by the party, said he was a poor man and there was no way he could pay such a ‘huge money’.

Shittu who purchased the forms through two of his aides, Saheed Oladele, Head of Adebayo Shittu Strategy Committee and Malik Aderogba, Head of Special Tasks for Adebayo Shittu’s Campaign Organization penultimate Monday said that he can’t have such money to buy the forms.

He said, “It is inconceivable that I can have such money to buy the nomination form.

“Those very close to me knew this fact. That I cannot on my own put down N22.5million. As a minister under President Muhammadu Buhari, there was no way I could pay such money. This is not a PDP government and you cant have money like those under the PDP. I earn less than a million naira a month and there are people who depend on me for survival”.

The minister insisted that it was those people who believed in him that bought the forms for him.

He added, “It was those who believe that the best thing to happen to Oyo State is for Adebayo Shittu to become Governor that paid for the form. I thank God for the opportunities I have had in life and the greatest being the Minister.”

Shittu, while speaking on the next Saturday’s gubernatorial primary election in the state, declared that all registered members of the APC in the state would vote.

He insisted on the direct primary option and appealed to all the party members to prepare head on for it on Saturday.

He added that, “I never pretended I did service. For me, and undoubtedly too, serving in the Oyo State House of Assembly at the time was on a higher service to my fatherland. And the matter was taken to the court and it was thrown out. Late Chief Bola Ige was my counsel then.”

2019: Nuhu Ribadu Joins Adamawa Governorship Race

A former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Nuhu Ribadu, has joined the Adamawa State governorship race.

Mr Ribadu, who ran unsuccessfully for President in 2011, announced the decision in Yola, the Adamawa State capital on Saturday.

“I am overwhelmed and moved by the show of love and support I received from my people as I declared to run for the governorship of my state today in Yola. Nagode!!,” he tweeted afterward.

He plans to challenge incumbent Governor, Bindow Jibrilla, for the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

I am overwhelmed and moved by the show of love and support I received from my people as I declared to run for the governorship of my state today in Yola. Nagode!! pic.twitter.com/d41eVVJSFI

— Nuhu Ribadu (@NuhuRibadu) September 22, 2018

His decision to join the race comes five days after the former EFCC boss met with President Muhammadu Buhari.

President Muhammadu Buhari tonight, received former Chairman of the EFCC, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu at the Residence, State House, Abuja. pic.twitter.com/ZaLigDyL3q

— Government of Nigeria (@AsoRock) September 16, 2018

This is not the first time Ribadu will be in the race for Adamawa State’s top job.

In August 2014, he defected from the APC to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and ran for governor.

But he failed to achieve his ambition as the APC swept to victory.

PDP PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY: FORMER PRESIDENT JONATHAN RATES TURAKI HIGH

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has expressed utmost confidence in the ability of a frontline PDP presidential aspirant, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, to perform creditably if given the chance by Providence to be the country's president in 2019.

The former president was speaking in his office in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State this weekend when Turaki who was visiting his 36th state, led his campaign team to brief the former leader on his nationwide consultations with PDP governors, state working committees and other leaders as well as delegates ahead of the party's presidential primary.

Dr. Jonathan noted that he and other leaders have been consulting on how to ensure the emergence of a highly competent and credible presidential candidate based on crucial criteria including whether the person is sufficiently exposed; whether the person is a bigot or has an extremist tendency and whether the person has the capacity to manage Nigeria's complexities or its resources well.

"We are looking beyond education," he said, noting that "whenever your name (Turaki's) comes up, there had been no doubts created about you on any of the criteria unlike in some others."

In what could be termed as a testimonial on Turaki who served as Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs and also as Supervising Minister of Labour and Productivity under him, the former president said that the visit provided an opportunity to thank Turaki for supporting him with qualitative performance while in office.

Dr. Jonathan enjoined those seeking leadership positions to endeavour to make sacrifices for the wellbeing of future generations.

Governor Seriake Dickson had earlier at a meeting with the campaign team at the Government House council chambers did what he said he had never done by calling for a standing ovation for Turaki who, the governor described as "the foremost presidential aspirant, a good Nigerian and a great Bayelsan."

The governor said: "All have seen and heard you (referring to members of the state house of assembly and the cabinet in attendance)," adding: " there is no doubt in their minds as to your comparative suitability for the job (of president). 

"The country needs a leader with vision, competence, capacity and who is digital, detribalized and a bridge builder," the governor added.

He said further: "We are tired of a riotous Nigeria. We say NO to those who limit the Nigerian Dream by way of religion, ethnic, state or regional enclave."

Governor Dickson also pointed out that the the 2019 presidential election will be a referendum on restructuring.

Turaki who had enumerated his priority agenda as including the tackling of security challenges; revitalizing the economy and creating enabling environment for employment generation; fighting corruption and promoting the rule of law stressed that he will "ensure that Nigeria is restructured to enthrone justice, equity and fairness."

He stressed further that he has the vision, knowledge, capacity and competence to provide the critical and strategic thinking necessary for addressing Nigeria's multifarious problems. "I stand before you as the best of the best (of all the aspirants)," Turaki said.

During Turaki's interaction with the delegates, the chairman, Bayelsa State PDP, Hon. Moses Cleopas assured the aspirant that they were convinced about his promises.

"There is no shaking for you ... Among those we have interacted or interfaced with, I believe that you are the most brilliant," the chairman assured Turaki.

Skye Bank license revocation: Nigerians react

Skye Bank’s license revocation: Nigerians react

Financial experts and shareholders on Saturday expressed mixed reactions over the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to revoke the licence of Skye Bank.

The stakeholders expressed their views in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, while reacting to the revocation of the licence of Skye Bank by the apex bank.

Prof. Sheriffdeen Tella of the Economics department, Olabisi Onabanjo University Ago-Iwoye, Ogun commended the decision of the apex bank.

Tella said the CBN had helped Skye Bank shareholders by making the announcement at the close of banking hour for the week.

He said the announcement at the close of the week prevented an immediate run on the bank.

According to him, announcement of a buyer was also helpful and would prevent a run on the bank in the coming week.

“There is no time that can be regarded as good for this kind of action but action must be taken whenever it becomes inevitable.

“Such actions are capable of dousing tension that normally follows sudden closure of banks,” Tella said.

He said the shareholders had not really benefited from the bank because they had not received dividend on their investment for a long time.

The economist said in other climes where shareholders were active investors, they would have sold their shares to minimise losses.

“But in Nigeria, majority hold on to their shares even when it is apparent the business is sliding down,” Tella added.

He, however, said the impact on the economy and the banking sector in particular may not be serious, unless another bank ran into trouble within three to six months.

Malam Garba Kurfi, the Managing Director, APT Securities and Funds Ltd., the decision of the apex bank as a regulator could not be faulted.

Kurfi said the development should serve as a lesson to both the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to put their house in order.

He noted that SEC and NSE should be more active going forward by ensuring suspension of trading on the shares of any bank taken over by CBN to avoid making mockery of the capital market.

He said Skye Bank shares traded on the exchange on Sept. 21 and made some gains only for the licence to be revoked the same day.

“CBN has been demonstrating several times that it has no regards for shareholders but only depositors and as at today the only loser in the bank are the shareholders,” Kurfi said.

He said the shareholders should learn from past experience by exiting any bank taken over by the CBN to avoid regrets.

Mr Uche Nworah, the General Manager, Anambra Broadcasting Service, Awka, said the mandate of the apex bank and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) was to safeguard depositors.

Nworah said the CBN must have seen a lot of things in the bank before deciding to revoke the licence to protect investors and depositors.

He, however, faulted the apex bank’s approach in terms of information management.

Nworah said the bank’s customers and depositors were the ones that alerted the workers of what was going on in Awka, Anambra State.

Mr Moses Igbrude, Publicity Secretary, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, said the takeover of Skye Bank was a very sad and avoidable story.

Igbrude described the takeover as a total loss for all the bank’s minority shareholders.

He linked the bank’s failure to the acquisition of the former Afribank against the shareholders advice.

“The story started some few years ago when the former management decided to expand by acquiring former Afribank and later Mainstream Bank against the advice of some of us shareholders not to do so.

“They refused to listen to us when we told them that Mainstream Bank was cancerous and political exposed, that the intrigue that would follow the acquisition would consume the bank.

“While shareholders of Skye Bank have lost their investments, what happened to the management who took the decision and those professional consultants who did the due diligence reports that the management rely on to take decision?

“It is high time regulators address the issue fake consultants who parade themselves as professionals or else this will continue to happen,” Igbrude said.

Mr Boniface Okezie, National Coordinator, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, said the CBN needed to explain its actions to Nigerians for better understanding.

Okezie said the apex bank needed to find a lasting solution to the banking sector crisis which was becoming an embarrassment not only to government but to the investing public.

He said the CBN should be held responsible for the development in Skye Bank because it granted the bank the approval to acquire Afribank.

Okezie said the investors should not be allowed to suffer again for the misdeeds and mistakes of the regulations.

He called on the Federal Government to investigate the incessant fall of banks in the country.

Okezie added that the past management and board of Skye Bank must be made to account of what led to the the bank’s misfortune.

Kwankwaso storms Lagos says “PDP 1000 times better than APC”

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, on Friday said his party was 1000 times better than the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, expressed the view in Lagos while addressing party delegates at the PDP secretariat.

Kwankwaso said he was a strong advocate of restructuring, and would speed up the development of the country, if elected president.

“There have been agitations for restructuring in the South West and other parts of the country.

“Let me assure you that I am for anything that would promote the country’s progress.

“I am for anything that would deliver democratic dividends. I support restructuring and I am going to implement it if elected, ” he said.

The aspirant said the All Progressives Congress (APC) had failed in the delivery of its electoral promises to Nigerians.

He said the ruling party had not been able to address security and economic challenges, among other problems facing the country.

Kwankwaso said the PDP would provide the kind of impactful leadership needed to reposition the country, if elected.

He said he had the capacity, experience and passion to turn the country around.

On why he left the PDP in 2014 to join the APC, Kwankwaso said he did so because of the problems in PDP then.

He said he was back because of the new spirit in the PDP, and that it was the only party that could move the country forward.

“When we left the PDP, we thought it was the worst party due to the crisis then.

“Now, the party has been repositioned and we are back.

“We have since realised that PDP is 1000 times better than the APC.

“We are back in the PDP to join forces with our great party men to ensure we defeat the failed APC in 2019,” he said.

The aspirant expressed regret that PDP had never won Lagos despite the strategic importance of the state politically.

He promised to mobilise his supporters in the Kwankwasiya Movement and others to ensure that the party wins the 2019 governorship election in the state.

2019 presidency: Tambuwal has my blessings, says Babangida

Former military president, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has said that Sokoto governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has his blessings in his aspiration for the 2019 presidential election.

Babangida said this when he hosted Tambuwal and his team at his Hilltop residence in Minna on Saturday.

He said Tambuwal is a grounded politician who understands the challenges of the country and has the potentials to fix them.

The former leader lauded Tambuwal for promoting peace, rule of law and unity during his reign as Speaker of House of Representatives.

“I am very proud that you belong to the generation that want to keep Nigeria as one. You have a good team to keep that.

I have no doubt that Nigerians will give you the opportunity to put these good ideas for the good of the country..

You know the country, you understand the challenges of the country. I trust you will work base on your conviction for this country.

You have my blessings and I will keep monitoring to ensure you don’t deviate,” Babangida said.

Tambuwal said he was in Minna as part of his nationwide consultation to seek the blessings of the former leader.

He said IBB and others fought to keep Nigeria as one but that it is unfortunate that the country is now divided along ethnic and religious lines. He promised to serve as a bridge and a unifier when elected as the president.

“Mr President Sir , we are here also to drink from your fountain of knowledge and experience and to consult you on this all-important mission of not only securing the flag of our party the PDP in the 2019 Presidential election but also eventually by the grace of God getting elected as the president of this great country.

The former Speaker of House of Representatives vowed that he will assemble the best brains to turn around the economy of the country and restore the confidence of Nigerians in the government.

He also pledged to ensure devolution of powers to states, so that among other things, funds are available to states to carry out meaningful projects.

“I believe in the devolution of power to state. We will ensure states get more fundings for them to be able to carry out meaningful projects in their domain,” he said.

CBN Revokes Skye Bank’s Operating Licence

The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN has revoked the operating licence of Skye Bank.

This was made known by, Umar Ibrahim, chairman of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), today  Friday September 21st.

Umaru said the NDIC in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved that a bridge bank will be established.

The former Skye Bank which has been taken over by the Assets Management Corporations of Nigeria (AMCON) will now be known as Polaris Bank.

“Consequently, Polaris Bank Limited has been issued operating license by the CBN and shall commence banking business from today, Friday, 21st September,” Umaru said.

“The operating license of Skye Bank has been revoked by the governor of the Central Bank and the NDIC has commenced its liquidation. The capitalisation of Polaris Bank Limited is being done by the Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria through the injection of about N786 billion to return the bank to soundness and profitability so as to enable its subsequent sale to credible and financially sound third-party acquirers.”

Addressing journalists, Godwin Emefiele, CBN governor, said the bridge bank, Polaris Bank, will take on the assets and liabilities of Skye Bank.

The CBN had in July 2016, removed the former board and management of the bank.

"Anyone Who Mentions My Name Is Fooling You, I Don’t Have Any Anointed Candidate” – Tinubu Tells APC Members

APC National leader, Bola Tinubu, has informed the state party members that he does not have any anointed candidate that will become governor of the state come 2019.

The former Governor of Lagos State also said this when he spoke at a party meeting recently.

”Anyone who comes to me, kneeling down to be anointed is wasting his time. When I went to the Senate, it was the party members that voted for me in the Primaries, in 1999 when I wanted to be Governor, it was party members that voted for me to get the ticket. Anyone who mentions my name is fooling you, I don’t have any anointed candidate, vote for whoever you want” he said

#OsunDecides: Police arrests PDP chieftain over vote buying

Police have announced the arrest of one Mr Adeagbo Wasiu, a suspected Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) Chieftain at Ward 8 Unit 9 Fiwasaye Area of Osogbo.

According to the police, the suspect was apprehended in the act of votes buying and the sum of One Hundred and Sixteen Thousand (116,000) was recovered from him.

Police also noted that investigation is ongoing.

Nursing mom arrested for taking away teenage daughter’s iPhone

A Michigan mother was arrested for taking away her 15-year-old daughter’s iPhone as a form of discipline after she misbehaved at school. Jodie May was nursing her newborn baby when an officer cuffed her and hauled her off to jail.

May was stunned that she was arrested for disciplining her daughter in her home. She told WOOD-TV she took away her daughter’s iPhone after she got in trouble at school.

“I would like answers on why it got so far and how it got this far where this happened within my home. I’m disciplining my child, then I’m being the one handcuffed,” Jodie May told WOOD-TV.

May was nursing her 4-week old baby the day before Mother’s Day when a deputy entered her bedroom and told her she would be arrested on a misdemeanor charge for stealing her daughter’s iPhone.

“He had told me that he was going to arrest me, and I asked him if I could turn myself in on that Monday by myself, that I had a new baby. She wasn’t taking the bottle yet,” she said.

But the deputy declined her offer and hauled her off to jail. May was released on $200 bond two hours later.

Prosecutor Ron Frantz defended the deputy’s decision, saying May never told the arresting officer she was disciplining her daughter.

But May says she did tell the deputy up front.

May’s ex-husband pressed charges alleging she stole the iPhone he gifted his daughter for Christmas.

A few minutes into her court hearing, the assistant prosecutor dropped the charge, and May left the court a free woman.

“I believe the prosecutor knew the whole time. It was an easy question to have answered,” May said.

Facebook Launches Dating Service

Facebook has announced that a dating service it teased early this year is being rolled out in Colombia.

According to the social media giant, it chose the Latin American country as its test lab because Colombians are particularly avid fans of using social networks and websites to find partners.

The new feature, rolled out in Colombia this week, allows users to create a separate “dating” profile not visible to their network of friends, with potential matches recommended based on preferences and common interests.

The service is programmed not to link up people who are already connected as family or friends, and users of Facebook Dating will also be able to block people if they wish.

A basic chat service will be available, and the site will bar strangers from sending photos, videos or links.

Some 21 million people log in to Facebook every day in Colombia, a country of 50 million people, according to the company.

“We view this as an incredible opportunity to continue helping people build relationships in meaningful ways on Facebook,” said Facebook Dating product manager Nathan Sharp.

Facebook’s chief Mark Zuckerberg in May announced plans for the new dating feature at the world’s leading online social network — while vowing to make privacy protection its top priority in the wake of the Cambridge Analytica scandal.

Zuckerberg was emphatic that the focus would be on helping people find partners, not flings.

“This is going to be for building real, long-term relationships, not just hookups,” Zuckerberg said in presenting the new feature.

Benue now relatively secured, peaceful – Ortom

Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue State.

Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue said on Saturday that the state was now relatively peaceful since the deployment of troops in various operations to tackle the menace of armed banditry and suspected killer herdsmen.

Ortom, however, pleaded with the military not to leave in spite of the successes recorded.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Benson Abounu spoke at the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of over 300 housing units under the Nigerian Army post-service housing scheme at Otukpo.

He urged the Army not to demobilise its `Operation Whirl Stroke’ that has helped to bring about peace to the state.

On the housing project, Ortom commended the army for siting the project in Otukpo, the first of such scheme to be located outside any state capital.

The houses, expected to be delivered in 12 months, are being constructed under Public Private Partnership arrangement.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai had assured that the army in partnership with other security agencies would continue to tackle all security challenges in the state.

Buratai stressed that as the “food basket” of the nation, it was imperative that there should be security and peace in Benue.

He said the houses would be allocated to military personnel and civilians on 50-50 basis, unlike the previous arrangement of 70 to 30.

The army chief had earlier at the palace of Och’ Idoma, Dr Elias Obekpa, informed the monarch that the army was constructing a barrack in Otukpo as part of efforts to ensure security in the town and its environs.

He said under the Nigerian army “Order of Battle” 2016, President Muhammadu Buhari gave the approval for the establishment of the barrack.

The army chief noted that Idoma sons and daughters had contributed to the development of the military through their enlistment into the Armed Forces.

Responding, the Och’ Idoma, who was represented by Chief John Ochayi, Ad’ Ohimini, commended the army for the establishment of the barrack.

He said the formation, when completed, would help in addressing security challenges in the area, noting that there had been long cordial relationship between the army and Idoma people.

Tonto Dikeh decorates Dino Melaye as ‘outstanding lawmaker of the year’

Nollywood actress,Tonto Dikeh had the honour of decorating Kogi senator,Dino Melaye as Nigeria’s most outstanding lawmaker.

He was honoured at the Nigerian Goddwill Ambassador Awards 2018.

Caroline Danjuma accepts ownership of Rolls Royce

Actress and businesswoman,Caroline Danjuma responded in the affirmative when she was asked if she owned a Rolls Royce she rode in.

Last night, the mom of three who is estranged from her billionaire husband, shared a photo and videos of her cruising in a Rolls Royce.

A follower asked if it was hers and she said  ‘Yes I do’

2019: David Mark can unite Nigeria – Jonathan

Former president, Goodluck Jonathan has stated that only a man with the strength of character and clear conscience like Senator David Mark is needed to rebuild a fragmented and disunited Nigeria in 2019.

Playing host to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential hopeful in his Yenogoa home, Jonathan said Nigeria has never been so disunited than now, saying “we are only existing superficially and this is very dangerous.”

Beside the issue of dwindling economy and worsening insecurity, the former president stated that the major problem the next President would face is the challenge of uniting the country and giving every section a sense of belonging.

Jonathan stressed that every right-thinking Nigerian should crave for peace and unity “if we must continue to stay together”. He said staying together is what everyone desires “because the global community respects and value us because of our size and population.”

He recalled: “As President of Nigeria, I worked harmoniously with Mark as President of the Senate. He demonstrated patriotism and loyalty to his fatherland. His colleagues admitted that he is a detribalized leader. He is the kind of man the nation needs now.”

Jonathan expressed optimism that the PDP would get it right in the 2019 election.

The PDP presidential contender, Mark, in his remark, stated that Nigerians now know the difference between light and darkness, saying that he possesses the experience, knowledge and skills to bring the nation out of the social and economic malaise within two years if elected.

Earlier, Director-General of the David Mark Campaign Organization, Senator Zainab Kure, paid glowing tribute to Jonathan for his uncommon leadership quality and sacrifices made to keep the nation united.

Senator Kure pointed out that Nigerians would forever be grateful to the immediate past president.