You have to tolerate criticisms, CAN counsels Presidency

Reacting to the recent comment credited to the Spokesman to President Muhammadu Buhari Femi Adesina, saying that Christians form the majority of those criticising the government, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) have called on the Presidency to always tolerate criticism.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Special Assistant (Media and Communications) to the CAN President, Pastor Adebayo Oladeji.

The Christian Apex body however said in all occasions, they have been praying for the success of this administration.

The statement reads “our attention has been drawn to a story attributed to a spokesman to President Muhammadu Buhari, Femi Adesina, where he was reported to have said that Christians form the majority of those criticising the President.

“Adesina made this known in Lagos recently at a meeting organised by the Christian Press Association of Nigeria (CPAN) where he called on Christians to pray for those in government instead of criticizing them.

“We would have dismissed the story as one of those numerous attacks on the leadership of CAN for standing on the side of the truth but for posterity sake. However, CAN wishes to restate that there was never a time we did not pray for the government at all levels and still continue to pray, especially for President Buhari and his government because it is in his right actions that all of us in the nation would prosper.

“That notwithstanding, however, praying for those in power is not the only responsibility of the Church; we are also expected to speak truth to those in power if they erred. The Bible has several passages to back this up. When David erred as the ruler of Israel, it was one of the temple prophets, Nathan, that God sent to rebuke him. (2Samuel 12: 1-14). The attitude of David, the ruler of the nation of Israel in verse 13 was remorse and penitence. He said, ‘I have sinned against the Lord.’ It was not anger and counter accusation. Note that Samuel the prophet similarly criticised and rebuked Saul, the first king and ruler of Israel. Unfortunately, Saul rejected the criticism and thereby provoked God who installs rulers and removes them. His kingdom was torn apart and he equally became mad later. That was quite unfortunate! (1Samuel 13: 5-14).

“This government should never claim perfection in all they do but be open to godly admonitions from the Church in Nigeria. Through these godly admonitions if positively received, the government will serve the people better. We are essential stakeholders as those in government in the building of a vibrant  Nigeria. Take criticisms with a huge sense of thanksgiving and appreciation instead of anger”.

CAN, therefore said “to set the records straight, we want to say it loud and clear that, CAN as a body has been engaging in commending the Federal Government whenever the need arises. For instance, we commended the government over the release of some Chibok girls but condemned government’s failure to get the remaining Chibok Girls and the only Christian Girl among the Dapchi school girls, Leah Sharibu, released on the basis of her Christian faith.

“We are alarmed and disappointed that it is the few Christians in this government that find pleasure in abusing, insulting and condemning our efforts to make sure government adheres strictly to the letter of the Constitution and good governance. There were times when one of the aides of the President, Lauretta  Onochie spared no words in abusing and insulting the leadership of the Church in the country. That was quite shameful.

“We are amazed that President Buhari spoke on the appointments of the security chiefs which he said was based on merit. We still continue to ask the question, is merit limited to one section of the country or one religious group? Should an inclusive government in a multi-ethnic and religious nation not be more circumspect in order to give all sense of belonging

“Did we go wrong or lied when we said the Fulani herdsmen were attacking the Christian communities in the North-Central geo-political zone as the Boko Haram terrorists invaded Christian communities in the North East? Today, the invasion  spares no one anymore, whether Christian or Muslim? This is quite unfortunate in a civilised world!

“Did we go wrong or lied when we observed that Christians were removed and replaced with Muslims as we witnessed in so many instances, such as the Director General, SSS and other instances?

“Did we miss it when we cried aloud about the economic hardship and unemployment in the land and called on the government to address them?

“Did we miss it when we called on the government at all levels to pay salary,  pension and gratuity as and when due?

“Did we miss it when we counselled the government to beef up surveillance and intelligence gathering in the Northeast so that Boko Haram might not be able to continue to waste the lives of people (including soldiers) the way they are doing?”

“We need to counsel those in the government to give room for criticism. Criticism doesn’t make one the enemy of the government. If we are practising democracy, let those in the position of authorities be sensitive and responsive to the yearnings of the people.

“Recalled that we called for national prayer on the 10th of January, 2019,  published it in the newspaper and equally invited those in government, how many of them came there, even the so-called Christians?

“We need to reiterate that we are not only going to pray but we shall watch also because the injunction of the Bible to us is to ‘watch and pray'”, CAN added

Rapper Bow Wow Arrested, Accused of Assaulting Woman – Who Was Also Arrested.

Shad Moss, aka Bow Wow, became the first celebrity casualty of the star-studded Super Bowl weekend in Atlanta. The 31-year-old rapper was arrested early Saturday in Atlanta, Channel 2 Action News confirms.

The troubled rapper is accused of assaulting a woman at 205 12th Street around 4:15 a.m., according to a police report obtained by WSB-TV. The woman was also taken into custody, since they both displayed signs of injury.

Atlanta police say "they were unable to determine the primary aggressor of the altercation, so both parties were charged with battery."

The woman was not identified, but Bow Wow recently reunited with his on-again, off-again girlfriend Kiyomi Leslie (pictured).

A day before the altercation, Bow Wow promoted a pop-up shop for his mother, Teresa Caldwell, at Salon Morae.

"Ladies in town for the Super Bowl don't forget... My mother is having her @shoptasteonline "SIP & SHOP" today!!! 1pm-7pm Fri & Sat. #shopping #food #drinks," he tweeted on Friday.

Bow Wow, who is a native of Ohio, is a full-time resident of Atlanta.

He is best known as child rapper "Li'l Bow Wow" - a stage name bestowed upon him by his idol Snoop Dogg.

Bow Wow was the protege of rap producer Jermaine Dupri, who crafted hit songs for the youngster, including"Bounce with Me" off his debut album Beware of Dog.

In 2016, Bow Wow announced he was retiring from rap. He currently stars as himself in the Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta reality TV show.

Photos by Hollywood To You / BACKGRID, Prince Williams/ATLPics.net

Abdulsalam to chair Jonathan’s foundation conference on peaceful elections

•Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, retd

Ahead of the nation’s scheduled general election beginning from February 16, the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation is bringing together stakeholders from all over Africa for a one-day conference to discuss ways of preventing election-related violence on the continent.

The conference which theme is ‘Peaceful Elections and National Development’ will be chaired by Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, former head of state and chairman of the National Peace Committee. It is scheduled to take place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja on Thursday February 7, 2019.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the Acting Director-General of the Foundation Mr. David Akuta explained that the programme is in line with GJF’s mission of striving to consolidate democracy and peaceful political transitions in Africa. According to him, participants would be discussing the measures that would bring about peaceful conduct of 2019 elections in Nigeria and other African countries.

He noted that eminent personalities like Bishop Hassan Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese and Convener National Peace Committee of Nigeria, Professor Al-Hassan Conteh, Liberia Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Nigeria as well as Mr. Fidele Sarassoro, Chief of Staff to the President of Cote d’Ivoire will serve as the key speakers at the event.

Mr. Akuta stressed that the conference is necessary because many African countries are due for general and legislative elections in 2019, adding it would seek to proffer useful propositions in the effort to find solutions to the crisis that often characterize political transitions in Africa.

He said further: “Consistent with the mandate of the Foundation and building on the political philosophy of its Founder, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, participants are expected to bring forth ideas on how to ensure peaceful conduct of 2019 elections and resolution of disputes/conflicts that may threaten peace, security and stability of the nation, thus leading to peaceful transition outcomes.

“Participants are drawn from a cross-section of relevant stakeholders, which include former Heads of State and Government, crisis management experts, diplomatic corps, international development partners, political parties, traditional institutions, security agencies, civil society organisations, academia, Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), youth and women groups, trade unions and the media.”

Osinbajo: ‘Watch your back’ – Reno Omokri tells Vice President after helicopter crash

Reno Omokri, ex-aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan, has reacted to the helicopter crash that almost claimed the life of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and members of his chopper crew in Kabba Kogi State on Saturday.

Writing on his Twitter handle on Saturday, Omokri, who advised the VP to watch his back, said the non-fatal helicopter crash was beyond mere coincidence.

According to him, the crash was the second near-death experience the Vice-President would be having via helicopter within the past 12 months.

He claimed that some politicians, who perceived Osinbajo as an obstacle to their ambition of clinching the presidency in 2023 might actually be plotting his ‘elimination’.

Omokri tweeted; “This is the 2nd near death experience via a helicopter crash that OSinbajo has had.

“Once Is an accident. Twice is not a coincidence. It is a pattern.

“Osinbajo better watch his back! I know that some see him as an obstacle to becoming President in 2023 #OsinbajoWatchYourBack”

1,000 interfaith clerics to hold rally for Buhari’s reelection

The National Inter-faith and Religious Organizations for Peace (NIFROP) is set to hold a grand rally of 1,000 clerics and faithfuls for the reelection of President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 general elections. This was contained in a statement issued by the group in Jos recently.

It stated that since the completion of a forty days’ inter-faith fasting and prayers as part of preparations for the commencement of the 2019 general elections it was revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari is God’s choice to lead the country for the next four years.

“Recall that at the end of this forty days of fasting and prayers, God emphatically revealed the choice was for the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari. It was revealed to people of faith that President Buhari is the choice of God because of the specific assignment that was given to him. His is the assignment to end the years of locust that had made Nigeria a laughing stock among nations before his ordained first term.”

“Our faith teaches us to back prayers with good deeds and actions. What has been revealed to us after prayers about the re-elections of President Buhari must now be backed up by actions. We have resolved to between now and the election speak truth to power in a manner that is more vocal than we have ever done in the past.”

The group averred that it would scale up activities to ensure that that which has been said about President Buhari’s election will come to pass. “As the first step, we shall be holding a Grand Rally for President Buhari’s re-election, is the choice of God for the land. We are doing this to ensure that Nigerians do not sin against God by ignorantly voting against the choice ordained to take the country to a higher level.”

The statement further stated that the Grand Rally would take place in Abuja on 7 February 2019 as divinely revealed during the forty days’ prayers and fasting.

“Eight is perfection. It symbolizes material abundance and economic success. Others might have misused such opportunity to do good things for Nigeria before, but one truly ordained by God shall make the initial four years of plowing and sowing to yield great harvests in the latter years.”

“Those with an evil intention for Nigeria have seen the glory that is soon to descend on the country once President Buhari has been re-elected. They have resorted to lies, intimidation, and violence to confuse the electorate from doing God’s will, which is to vote for President Buhari. Their intention for doing this is not just because they want to win and gain power at all cost. They are trying to turn Nigerians against President Buhari so that God will be displeased with the country and visit wrath upon us.”

NIFROP also stated that the essence of the Grand Rally is to enlighten voters to this uncommon combination of danger and opportunity.

“We are in danger if we contravene God’s order to re-elect President Buhari while we have a great opportunity to be blessed and thrive as a people when we do God’s will and re-elect him as our leader. This is the message we are taking to Nigerians on the streets during the Grand Rally. Those who cannot make it to Abuja to be part of the rally can hold mini-versions in their respective cities and towns.”

It would be recalled that NIPFROP assembled over 1000 clerics from various faiths to a forty days’ prayers and fasting for President Muhammadu Buhari and the general wellbeing of the country at large.

Helicopter crash: Even though we are in different parties, we are happy Osinbajo is safe – Fayose, Ben Bruce

Immediate past governor of Ekiti state, Ayodele Fayose and lawmaker representing Bayelsa East, Ben Murray Bruce have thanked God for the life of vice president Yemi Osinbajo after he escaped unhurt in a helicopter crash on Saturday.

Both speaking via their Twitter handles on Saturday, they expressed their happiness about the safety of the vice president and his crew members, noting that humanity comes before political different differences.

Fayose wrote:

I rejoice with VP Yemi Osinbajo and thank God for keeping him alive today. I wish him quick recovery from whatever minor injuries he could have sustained in the crash.
For me, sanctity of life goes beyond politics and I pray that God will continue to safeguard his life.

I rejoice with VP Yemi Osinbajo and thank God for keeping him alive today. I wish him quick recovery from whatever minor injuries he could have sustained in the crash.
For me, sanctity of life goes beyond politics and I pray that God will continue to safeguard his life.

— Peter Ayodele Fayose (@GovAyoFayose) February 2, 2019

Ben Bruce wrote:

So glad VP Yemi @ProfOsinbajo is safe. I wish him well and want him to stay alive so we can all work together as patriots to get this nation on the road to greatness. We may be in different parties and support different candidates, but he is first and foremost a human being.

So glad VP Yemi @ProfOsinbajo is safe. I wish him well and want him to stay alive so we can all work together as patriots to get this nation on the road to greatness. We may be in different parties and support different candidates, but he is first and foremost a human being.

— Ben Murray-Bruce (@benmurraybruce) February 2, 2019

What Atiku Said After Osinbajo’s Helicopter Crash Landed Would Make You Proud As A Nigerian

Former vice president and Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) presidential candidate in the forthcoming election, Atiku Abubakar, has reacted to the news that vice president Yemi Osinbajo was involved in a helicopter accident today.

Atiku took to his twitter handle to react by revealing how happy he is to hear that there was no casualty of any sort.

What he said:

Dear Vice President @ProfOsinbajo, I just received news of the crash of your helicopter in Kabba, Kogi State. I am happy to note however that all is well with you and your delegation. -AAhttps://t.co/N7mMjRbigq

— Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) February 2, 2019

Unusual weather condition ‘led to’ crash of Osinbajo’s chopper

The helicopter which conveyed Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo from Abuja to Kabba in Kogi state, crash-landed as a result of unusual weather condition.

Caverton Helicopters, owners of the aircraft, said this in a statement issued on Saturday.

Osinbajo was on a campaign trip to Kogi when the chopper crash-landed in Kabba. There were no injuries recorded during the incident.

The vice-president came out unhurt and immediately continued his business in the state, receiving a warm welcome from residents as he was driven through the town.

Josiah Choms, Caverton managing director, said investigation into the incident has commenced.

“An Augusta AW139 Helicopter, under management by Caverton Helicopters was involved in a mishap on landing in Kabba, Kogi State around 3pm today (2nd February 2019) as a result of unusual weather conditions,” he said.

“There were no injuries to the passengers or crew on board and they were all quickly and safely evacuated.

“The relevant authorities have been duly informed and an investigation into the incident has commenced. We will, of course, support the authorities as required.:

In a statement, the media team of the vice-president also confirmed that investigation was underway.

Lalolu Akande, media aide of the vice-president, said Stephen Ocheni, minister of state for labour, senior presidential aides, security officials and the crew were on board the ill-fated aircraft.

“We are grateful to God for His protection and safety, and we thank the crew and security personnel for their prompt response and service. We are also grateful for the tremendous expressions of concern and affection, as well as prayers from all,” he said in a statement.

“As is procedural, a full investigation into the causes of the incident would be conducted by aviation authorities.”

The crash was the second the vice-president was involved in within eight months.

Thugs attack APC rally in Sagbama, one person dies

Upturned chairs at the campaign rally of APC in Sagbama, Bayelsa.

One person died while two others were injured when thugs attacked members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at a rally in Sagbama area of Bayelsa.

A resident in Sagbama Local Government Area who witnessed the incident said about 15 thugs used dangerous weapons to disperse people at the event.

The intervention of the police prevented the situation from degenerating further, witnesses said.

“The governor of Bayelsa who is leader of rival PDP hails from Sagbama and the place is considered a base of PDP and it is the rivalry that played out and went sour,” one witness said.

DSP Asinim Butswat, Spokesman of Bayelsa Police Command, said one of the suspected thugs was arrested, according to a statement.

”On Saturday evening, thugs disrupted APC campaign rally at Tungbabiri, Sagbama Local Government Area, Bayelsa.

“The thugs numbering about 15 disrupted and attacked APC party faithful at a Political rally at Tungbabiri.

“ In the ensuing melee, one Braye Embikorobiri of Tungbabiri Community sustained critical injuries and later died.

“Two other victims, names yet unknown were critically injured and are responding to treatment in the hospital.

“One suspect,Mr Isaac Abrowei, 42, from Bolou-Orua, but resident at Tungbabiri has been arrested.

“The thugs who masterminded the act and their alleged sponsor have been identified and the Police have launched a manhunt to arrest them,” Butswat said

The Spokesman assured that the Bayelsa Police command has mobilized officers to restore normalcy in the community and efforts have been intensified to arrest the fleeing suspects.

Jonathan Amos and Doifie Buokoribo, State Chairman and spokesman of the APC were unreachable on their mobile phones.

Urhobo people solidly behind Okowa till 2023 – Ibori

Chief James Ibori and Governor Ifeanyi OKowa during a rally

Former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori has said that the people of Urhobo respect the zoning formular operational in the state and are solidly behind Gov. Ifeanyi OKowa till 2023.

Ibori who spoke at a rally in Owa-Oyibu, Ika North-East local government area, called for all Delta people to embrace peace and good governance by supporting Okowa in his second term bid.

According to the political leader, Okowa had done well and as such deserved a second term.

“We will continue to say it, this is the turn of Anioma, we will support him (Governor Okowa) to complete two terms.

“All our brothers and sisters in Delta Central should, please, give peace a chance, they should tarry a while for the next four years and support Governor Okowa to complete two terms.”

“Mr Governor, the Urhobos are solidly behind your second term, you have done very well,” Ibori said.

Okowa Ibori and other PDP leaders in Delta state addressing supporters during a rally

Speaking earlier, Gov. Okowa expressed gratitude to Deltans for coming out in their large numbers for the rallies, observing that the rotational principle has cemented the bond of unity in the state.

The governor who predominantly in Ika language, was quoted as saying: “I am happy with the crowd that I am seeing here today; God bless Ika nation, God bless Deltans for this show of solidarity; in our state, no one is talking about any other political party, it is all about the PDP.

“I thank our leaders for the support, in every part of Delta State, we have no fear because, we have agreed on turn-by-turn, zoning has made us to be more patient, happier, more united and living in peace.

“We have agreed as a people that we have done very well in the area of road construction, we have empowered our youths, assisted our women and now, I am more experienced, we have more money and the next four years will be better.

“We shall triple what we have done; cast your votes for all the candidates of the PDP and protect your votes because, it is democratic to do so.”

Deputy Governor Otuaro thanked Deltans for resolving to zone political offices, assuring that Governor Okowa will do better in the next four years.

The rally was part of the tour of the 25 Local Government Areas of the state and was attended by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Deputy Governor Burutu Otuaro, former Governor James Ibori, elder statesman, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, among others.

Others who spoke at the rally include former Minister of Information who is the Chairman of the PDP Campaign Council, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, Director-General of the Campaign Council, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Prince Sam Obi, and the Chairman of the party in the state, Barr. Kingsley Esiso.

They all observed that Governor Okowa had done very well to earn second term in office and based on the rotation principles of the PDP, Deltans will massively vote for the candidates of the party.

Parish Priest rolls out dress code for parishioners .

The parish priest of St Augustine's Parish Demekpe Makurdi Benue State Rev Fr Solomon Mfa  has rolled out its dress code for members of the church

Here’s what the statement says:

Very Important Notice

"We have RENOVATED THE CHURCH BUILDING now we have to "RENOVATE" the way we dress in the RENOVATED CHURCH!

Niger Republic governors at Kano rally: APC did not violate the law – INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that the presence of 2 Niger Republic governors at APC Kano rally has not violated any electoral law.
Two governors from the country, Issa Moussa of Zinder and Zakiri Umar of Maradi states, both in Niger Republic, were part of those who received the president in Kano state during the presidential rally.

This was greeted with widespread condemnation with the PDP leading the pack of  those that condemned the APC for allowing governors from other countries attend a campaign rally.

The chairman of PDP, Uche Secondus, had even called on the electoral body to immediately disqualify President Buhari from the presidential race.

“They came with monies and mercenaries to influence elections in Nigeria,” Secondus alleged on Thursday.

However in an interview with The Cable, the INEC director of Voter Education and Publicity, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, said as far as he is concerned, the governors’ presence in Kano does not violate the INEC laws.

“They are not allowed to participate as either candidates or voters. But they can only observe the process. As far as I am concerned, their presence does not violate the constitution.” he said

Osaze-Uzzi added that only the courts has the powers to disqualify a candidate.

“INEC has no power to disqualify any candidate,” he said

Osinbajo Helicopter Crash: Bukola Saraki reacts

The Senate President Bukola Saraki has reacted to the news of the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo surviving a helicopter crash in Kabba, Kogi State, earlier today.

The Vice President is in the state to continue on the campaign train of President Muhammadu Buhari, which has seen them visiting several states across the country in the past few days.

The helicopter belonging to the Nigerian Airforce was about landing when it crash-landed.

In his reaction, Saraki wrote:

I join all Nigerians in thanking Almighty God for sparing the life of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who survived a helicopter crash over Kabba, Kogi State today.

I join all Nigerians in thanking Almighty God for sparing the life of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who survived a helicopter crash over Kabba, Kogi State today. https://t.co/bSLo0ahTKQ

— Abubakar Bukola Saraki (@bukolasaraki) February 2, 2019

Atiku will win Presidential election - The Economist

The Economist Intelligence Unit Africa said on Friday that the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar will win the February 16 election.

It said the margin of victory was getting narrower as the election approaches, but Atiku and his political party will win the historic election.

“#NigeriaDecides2019 : Less than 2 weeks before #Nigeria‘s presidential election. Abubakar has floated idea of corruption amnesty. It is arguably an impolitic time for such a delicate proposal,” EIU Africa tweeted.

“Abubakar is hard-pressed to convince voters that he is a clean politician, having been on the receiving end of numerous graft allegations in the past.

“We retain our forecast for #Abubakar to win, but expected margin of victory is narrowing as the poll approaches.”

Recall that in 2015, the magazine also predicted victory for Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress over the then-incumbent, Goodluck Jonathan.

It added then that Buhari was “the least awful choice,” which would be chosen “with a heavy heart”.

“Voters have ample cause to send Mr Jonathan packing. In a country where power has often changed through the barrel of a gun, the opposition All Progressives Congress has a real chance of winning through the ballot box,” The Economist said in 2015.

PDP pledges to end joint account in Zamfara

The Zamfara governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Alhaji Bello Matawalle says he will end Local Government Joint Account with the state if elected.

Matawalle made the pledge during a campaign rally in Bakura town, the headquarters of Bakura Local Government Area on Friday.

Matawalle said the decision to abolish the joint account was to give free hand to the councils to handle their finances.

He said that joint account was detrimental to the provisions of infrastructure at the grassroots.
“Our concern is to have accelerated development at grassroots, we, therefore, ought to allow local government officials to handle their finances,” he said

According to him, local government secretariats are virtually empty as a result of the joint account.

” It is worrisome that the elected council officials and workers are deserting their offices as there is no money to operate because of the joint account,” he said
Matawalle expressed concerns that provision of health care, water supply and other essential services rendered by local government had ceased.

” We all know the reason behind the creation of local government areas was to take government closer to the people at grassroots, but the joint account has crippled their operations,” he said
He appealed to the electorates to stand firmly to vote for PDP to get the desired change in governance.
(NAN)

Ethiopian, Sintayehu Legese wins Lagos City Marathon

Ethiopia’s Sinatatehu Leggese has won the fourth edition of the 2019 Access Bank Lagos city marathon 42km race.

The Ethiopia born who was a cynosure of eye among the 4000 participants from 58 countries breasted the tape 2:17:28 to emerge the winner on Saturday, smiling away with the grand prize of $50,000.
Closer to Leggese were Kenyan duo of Kipkorir Joshua and Williams Yegon who finished 2:18:16 and 2:19:04 respectively carting away $40,000 and $30000 as second and third prizes.

Also, Ethiopia’s Maleka Maseret Dinke won the female category.
Nigerian born athletic Goyet Gideon finished on the 14th position with 2:30:21 smiling home with N3m and the second Mwnata Pam Iliya who finished on the 16 position with 2:32:34 went home with N2M.

Disrupted APC rally: Ortom denies involvement, sue for peace

Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has denied any involvement in the All Progressives Congress (APC) disrupted rally at his Gbajimgba home town in Guma local government area of the state
Ortom who reacted to the Friday incident through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Tahav Agerzua, also reiterated his commitment to peaceful elections in the state as he called on all stakeholders to eschew violence and conduct that could trigger a breakdown of law and order.
He urged his supporters in particular to exercise restraint even in the face of extreme provocation and to report any person or group who breaches the peace to law enforcement agents.
The governor said that it became necessary to reiterate his position following accusations that he stopped the rally of an opposition party in Gbajimba.
Ortom recalled that no one hindered the opposition from using the IBB Square in Makurdi nor disrupted their campaign flag off in Makurdi which is the state capital, stressing that attempts to link him with a failed campaign effort in his home local government area in order to smear his name was therefore baseless and unfounded.

He therefore stated categorically that he did not instruct or direct any person to disrupt or stop any rally.

The governor further condemned the destruction of his campaign materials in Gbajimba and Daudu in Guma as well as several other places including Wannune in Tarka and Lessel in Ushongo local government areas as he called on the police and other security agents to arrest and prosecute those found culpable.

Ortom added that he does not have any antecedent of violence in his close to 40 years in politics and has never resorted to violence and the use of thugs to prosecute his campaigns or win elections.

2019 elections: Akwa Ibom has no reason to be in opposition —Osinbajo

The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, on Friday urged the people of Akwa Ibom State to be ready to vote the All Progressives Congress in all the forthcoming elections, saying the state has no reason to be in the opposition party.
Osinbajo who was in the state to disburse Trader Moni, said this while addressing thousands of the All Progressives Congress supporters at a rally held at Nsit-Atai local Government area of the state.
He said “Akwa Ibom should not be in opposition. There is every reason for you to join so that you become part of the next level.
“All of the young people who are here, the government of President Buhari is determined to make sure that not only do you have jobs, but to have quality jobs. That is one of the most important things we are doing. That is why you must support APC.

He disclosed that the federal government has discovered palm oil as a replacement for crude and that Nsit-Atai, a leading Local Government in palm produce would be the first in the country in palm oil production adding that everything was being done to harness palm for the good of all.
8
“We have found here palm oil which will be a replacement for crude oil,  so you are going to be number one in this Local Government. That is one of the reasons that you must join the Federal government under the APC.
He said the N-Power programme of the federal government is only the beginning of greater things to come adding that the federal government has concluded plans to establish Entrepreneur bank for the beneficiaries of the N-Power program.
“N-Power is only the beginning; we are starting something called the Entrepreneur Bank. That bank is for the disbursement of loans to men and women like these in N-Power who have a plan for the future. The loans will be given to them at a very little interest rate so that they can start their own businesses, so that they can make progress.
“When we said in 2015 that we will start N-Power, they said it is impossible, how can you employ 5 million people but we have done it. When said we are going to do Home Grown School Feeding, today we are feeding 9.2million children all over Nigeria. They say it is impossible but Home Grown School Feeding is here. Home Grown School Feeding used 6.8million eggs in one week, and we are expanding it.
Earlier, the APC governorship candidate, Nsima Ekere, promised to run an all-inclusive government that would bring smiles to all and sundry and improve on the economic well being of the people of Akwa Ibom State.

How Police averted APC, PDP clash in Benue.

The Police in Benue State said its men averted what would have been a clash between supporters of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and that of the People Democratic Party (PDP) at Gbajimba in Guma Local Government Area of the state on Friday.

State Commissioner of Police, Omololu Bishi in a statement released through his spokesman, explained that the issue started at about 1:00pm when PDP supporters protested that the APC was playing provocative music/songs at the Government Secondary School in Gbajimba venue of the APC campaign rally.

“This resulted in the hurling of stones and other objects and the destruction of campaign posters by supporters of both parties. No gunshot was fired by anyone and no casualty was recorded.
“It, however, took the prompt intervention of the officers and men of the command led by the Area Commander of Makurdi Area Command to disperse the crowd which was almost becoming riotous,” Bishi stated.
The commissioner, however, expressed disappointment that such incidence would happen at this time despite the peace pact signed by the various political party aspirants.
He vowed to bring those behind the incident to book and appealed to the residents to remain law-abiding and eschew violence in their day to day activities.

Obasanjo meets parties, security chiefs, warns against violence in Ogun

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on Saturday met leaders of top political parties and security chiefs in Ogun State over violence which has characterised campaigns in the state ahead of general elections.

Daily Trust on Sunday recalls that no fewer than 10 supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) were injured and many campaign vehicles shattered when both parties clashed on Thursday in Abeokuta.

Obasanjo, however, met the political parties’ leaders behind closed doors for more two hours at Owu Hall inside Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta on Saturday.

Briefing newsmen shortly after the meeting, the State Chairman of Action Democratic Party (ADP), Chief Wale Egunleti said Obasanjo warned them to maintain peaceful campaign in the interest of all.

Egunleti said “Our father (Obasanjo) has called the political parties for a meeting to shun any act of thuggery, fighting, and any form of violence during and after election.

“We want to serve the people and we must lead by example. Therefore, we have been warned and advised to keep peace in Ogun for the benefit of all.

“Also, we should maintain peace and ensure that we inform authorities about our plans and movement for security reasons.”
He added that there would be subsequent meetings for review and monitor of compliance.

Buhari pledges to sell recovered loot if he wins 2019 polls

President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged to trace and return all stolen funds and assets stashed outside the country by looters if he is re-elected as president in the February elections.

Speaking during his presidential re-election campaign on Saturday in Gombe, Buhari pledged that all the stolen funds and assets seized from looters would be sold and the money would be invested in Nigeria.
Buhari, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), added that if return as president his administration would ensure that there would be no wastage and squandering of government resources.

He told mammoth that gathered at the Pantami Township Stadium, Gombe that he was thankful to Allah who enables him to contribute to the peace being enjoyed in the north-east which was affected by the insurgency.

Earlier, during a courtesy call to the Emir of Gombe, Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, Buhari promised to continue to improve on Agricultural sector for socio-economic development of the country if voted for the second term.
He said the exploration of Oil and Gas which he earlier flagged off at the border of Gombe and Bauchi states if completed, would contribute to the development of the state and the country.

The National Chairman of the APC, Adams Aliyu Oshiomole, said the social investments programmes brought by their administration have brought positive development to the populace.

2019 election: Stop insulting Kaduna Christians – CAN warns El-Rufai

The new-elected Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna State, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has said that his leadership would no longer tolerate Kaduna State government’s excesses of insulting Christians and given Christianity bad names for cheap political gains.

The new chairman, who made the assertion in a statement in Kaduna Saturday, said he would not stop telling the governor of the state the truth if it means going to prison.

According to him, Christians in Kaduna state voted massively for El-Rufai during the 2015 elections, contrary to his recent statement that some people, Christians in a particular area or zone did not vote him.

According to him, “the Government of President Muhammadu Buhari has also subjected Nigerians to sufferings and poverty and that Nigerians deserve the right to vote the right and credible leadership for the country in 2019.”

“I will champion our members not to vote for a wicked leader. What I know about this country, no one can come and lie to me anymore and no one can intimidate me any more.”

“In CAN, we all belong to different political parties. But, we must be allowed to vote for good leaders instead of wicked leaders who would want to destroy our country. If your candidate is wrong, we will tell you.”

“CAN will remind government and its agencies that the principles of equity and fairness are not negotiable for the people of a just society, particularly in this Kaduna State, CAN needs understanding of all Christians to vote for credible leader,” he said.

“Time has come in this state that we must tell leaders that we are not ignorant. We were able to sustain peace in Kaduna for 9 years. From November 22, 2002, we never had crisis again, until November 2011 because of post election violence, so we were able to sustain it. And someone came out to say that even when we were working together that there was no peace. That person is a liar.”

“We will tell them the truth. I’ll not even mind going to jail if we would tell them that they have insulted and assaulted our own. I want them to know that they never came to power in 2015 on their own, we voted them to power.

“And if the Governor says we Christians never voted for him, he is a lair. Christians voted this government to power. Christians made him governor and because he is an ingrate or because there is no fear of God in him, and I have told him that face to face that we voted for him”.

His words: “I have always used Jama’a local government area as an example where total vote in 2015 was 82,000 votes, the party in power then got 39,000. No one should come out and start feeding people with lies, some of us know the truth.

“I can tell you people in power that at the time people are suffering in Nigeria, instead of winning people you are dividing people. Instigating Christians against Moslems. I know that I have a lot of Moslems in Kaduna State and they are not in support of this nonsense. People who are using divisive methods are doing it for themselves and not for Moslems,” he added.

PHOTOS: Buhari Inaugurates Oil Exploration In Bauchi

President Muhammadu Buhari has flagged off the Spud-In of Kolamani River II in Gongola Basin of the upper Benue Trough in Bauchi State.

The flag off comes after President Buhari had in 2016 given directives for the resumption of oil exploration in the northern part of the country.

See Photos Below: 

VP Osinbajo ecsapes death in Helicopter Crash in Kabba, Kogi State. Photos.

 Vice president Yemi Osinbajo’s chopper, Saturday crashed in Kabba, Kogi State.

Disclosing this via his tweeter handle, Mr Laolu Akande, senior special assistant to the vice-president on media and publicity, opined that Osinbajo and his crew are safe.

“VP Osinbajo’s Chopper crash lands in Kabba, but he and the entire crew safe. He is continuing  with his engagements and plans for the day in Kogi State,” Akande said via Twitter.

Lilian Afegbai launches lingerie line.

Nigerian actress, Lilian Afegbai just launched her lingerie line and it is fire! The BBA superstar has been working on the line for quite some time and dropped this badass photos from the shoot.

Lilly’s Secret is a lingerie line for women of all sizes. Check this photo from the shoot below.

 

Macron aides jealous of Brigitte's influence on the President, new book claims.

Brigitte Macron’s political role in her husband Emmanuel’s presidency is far greater than previously thought and her influence has sparked a power struggle with his “jealous” inner circle of aides, a new book alleges.

Madame La Présidente, published on Thursday, goes as far as to allege that France’s First Lady helps pick her husband’s cabinet ministers.

It cites an “extremely close friend” of the presidential couple as saying Mr Macron’s circle of male devotees at the Elysée are so fed up with her influence over the French president that they “dream about her dying”.

Mrs Macron’s part in her husband’s rise has already been documented - she was filmed editing and coaching his campaign speeches. But the fresh claims underline the allegedly almost sect-like devotion of his aides, who other politicians in the Macron camp are said to nickname “the Mormons”, and the scale of her influence.

“He owes her everything. If he's president, it's thanks to her,” another “friend” is quoted as saying. “She is the Right side of his brain,” write authors Ava Djamashidi and Nathalie Shuck, both political journalists at Le Parisien.  “He consults her once the doors of the Elysée are closed.”

The Macrons visit the Coptic Church headquarters in Cairo on January 29thCredit: AFP

It has already been reported that Mrs Macron lets her husband know what she thinks of his faux pas. This summer, palatial staff cited by Le Parisien alleged that she made the Elysée walls “shake” in rage at her husband’s dismal handling of the Alexandre Benalla security guard scandal.

But the book alleges she even has a hand in choosing the cabinet, such as education minister Michel Blanquer and recently convinced her husband not to receive star environment minister Nicolas Hulot when he resigned, slamming his departure as ”pathetic“.

Macron's three-day visit to Egypt included a trip to the temple of Abu Simbel Credit: AFP

“This kind of mistrust is because Brigitte Macron is seen as a rival in the Elysée by aides not used to competition from a woman,“ say the authors who claim: ”They get him to make a decision in the daytime, but come evening she says I don’t agree and the next day he changes his mind.“

The pair met Mrs Macron three times in the Elysée for informal meetings and were allowed to ask questions but rarely quote her directly. 

Gérard Collomb, the former interior minister, is cited in the book as calling her the president’s “advanced scout” as she is able to test the waters with people on the ground over what the country thinks of her husband.

However the “scout” can get it woefully wrong, such as when she opened the doors to the presidential palace to Le Monde newspaper to unveil €600,000 in renovation works at the Elysée just three days before the first violent “yellow vest” protest against high taxes and low wages - adding fuel to claims she is France’s latest “Marie Antoinette”.

The authors said that while she does her best to “avoid being a modern Marie Antoinette” by meeting the people and reading 200 letters per day, she is the “product of France’s upper middle class”, who doesn’t know this world and is from a family with a chocolate empire who had staff at home. “She has lots of intuition but sometimes commits huge mistakes due to that upbringing.”

Mrs Macron also told the authors that the hardest thing for her to cope with was the misogyny and ageist abuse she receives not just from the French public, but from its political class.

OMG ! CBeebies to have Will Young read children bedtime story about gay adoption as he says inclusivity must start at youngest age possible.

Will Young is due to read a story about same-sex parents on CBeebies, the BBC's children's channel, explaining that "inclusivity must start at youngest age possible"

The singer is due to appear on the channel's popular Bedtime Stories show, broadcast at 6.50pm every night, in order to mark LGBT history month.

Famous faces who have appeared on the show include Tom Hardy, Jessica Ennis-Hill and Tim Peake. 

He has chosen the book Two Dads for his bedtime story, which is the tale of a boy who has been adopted and finds himself happily raised by two fathers.

He said: "Children's books are one of the first ways we learn about the world around us so I'm overjoyed to be reading a story to mark LGBT History Month.

"More so than ever, families in all forms should be recognised and celebrated - whether that's two dads, two mums, families with a mum and a dad, those with a single parent, adoptive families and so on.

"I've never been more sure that inclusivity starts from the youngest possible age. I hope these stories will be used for years to come."

Will Young recently made headlines by threatening to report Jeremy Clarkson's Amazon car show, The Grand Tour, to Ofcom after accusing the presenters of homophobic remarks.

He said at the time: "How dare they stereotype gay men. I DON’T drive a Wrangler Jeep. I DON’T wear pink shirts . I DON’T wear a---less chaps.

"You can be honest and funny without this ridiculous ‘lad’ ooh being gay and let’s laugh about it mentality. It’s repulsive and how DARE you do it and put it out."

He is continuing his LGBT activism on his podcast, Homo Sapiens, the third series of which is out now.

Two Dads is written by Carolyn Robertson, and illustrated by Sophie Humphreys. Young can be watched reading from the book on February 9.

The BBC has started to feature more LGBT stories on the show in order to promote inclusivity, with JB Gill reading Families, Families, Families last year, which is a book about diverse families.

 Sharon D Clarke is scheduled to read another same-sex parent book, All Kinds of Families!, later this year.

Mariah Carey is slammed by human rights organization for performing at Saudi Arabia gala concert

A leading human rights organization has hit out at Mariah Carey after the singer took part in a gala concert in Saudi Arabia  telling DailyMailTV her decision to perform in the country is 'outrageous'.

Carey, 48, jetted into Saudi capital Riyadh on Thursday ahead of the gig, which took place in King Abdullah Economic City a showpiece development perched on the shores of the Red Sea.

The concert, which was staged in front of members of the ruling regime, was held to celebrate the country's first international golf tournament.

Local activists decried the singer's decision to take part and accused her of 'whitewashing' the Saudi regime's brutal treatment of critics, among them murdered reporter Jamal Khashoggi.

Now the US-based Human Rights Foundation has added to the chorus of criticism, with research associate Prachi Vidwans describing the singer's decision to perform as 'outrageous' in an interview with DailyMailTV.

A leading human rights organization has hit out at Mariah Carey after the singer took part in a gala concert in Saudi Arabia – telling DailyMailTV her decision to perform in the country is 'outrageous'

Now the US-based Human Rights Foundation has added to the chorus of criticism, with research associate Prachi Vidwans describing the singer's decision to perform as 'outrageous' in an interview with DailyMailTV

'Today in Saudi prisons, women are being beaten, tortured, and sexually harassed for opposing laws that violate their basic human rights and force them to be second class citizens in their own country,' Vidwans said.

'It is outrageous that an iconic figure like Mariah Carey -- who herself claims to be an advocate for women's rights -- would perform for Mohammed Bin Salman's brutal regime.

'By performing for him, she will be contributing to his PR campaign by helping him appear modern and progressive.'

Vidwans said the Human Rights Foundation also sent letters to the managers of both Tiesto and Carey ahead of the gig, calling on them to pull out.

In the letter sent to Carey, seen by DailyMail.com, the organization accused the singer of being 'complicit' in the regime's multiple human rights violations by taking part and pointed to its activities in Yemen, as well as its treatment of women.

The missive also contrasted Carey's oft stated support of women's rights with the reality for women living in Saudi Arabia who must ask for permission from a male relative to do everything from work to travel.

Writing in the letter, HRF chairman Garry Kasparov also noted that many of the activists responsible for overturning the country's notorious driving ban have now been thrown in jail where they are allegedly being tortured.

The concert, staged for the ruling regime, including Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (pictured), celebrated the country's first international golf tournament

He continued: 'Ms. Carey has been an outspoken advocate for women's rights and has publicly campaigned against gender discrimination.

'Saudi Arabia is by far one of the most patriarchal societies in the world and systematically violates women's rights. Because of the regime's male guardianship system, women cannot work, travel, get married, or exit prison without permission from a male relative.

'Legally, women are second class citizens. Ms. Carey's decision to perform in Saudi Arabia severely undermines her own views on gender equality and her advocacy efforts in support of women's rights.

'Despite her alleged commitment to human rights and humanitarian causes, Ms. Carey has decided to perform for a murderous regime.

'If Ms. Carey moves forward with this performance, she will be complicit in the Saudi regime's attempt to detract attention away from the country's disastrous human rights situation.'

Vidwans said the Human Rights Foundation also sent letters to the managers of both Tiesto and Carey ahead of the gig, calling on them to pull out. Pictured: Carey performing on Thursday

Carey's representatives have yet to respond to a request for comment from DailyMail.com but told the Associated Press earlier this week that she regards the concert as 'a positive step towards the dissolution of gender segregation'.

The rep added in a statement: 'As the first female international artist to perform in Saudi Arabia, Mariah recognizes the cultural significance of this event and will continue to support global efforts towards equality for all.'

The Saudi Arabian ruling dynasty has long attracted the ire of human rights campaigners but criticism of the regime has intensified in recent years, due to its ongoing war with Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman – who is known by his initials 'MBS' – had initially appeared to be a modernizer; overturning the ban on women driving and relaxing some of the country's more draconian religious laws.

But in October, he was found to have ordered the murder of Washington Post journalist Khashoggi, who was strangled and dismembered inside the Saudi Embassy in Ankara, Turkey.

MBS also oversaw a purge of fellow princes that saw hundreds locked up inside the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh until they handed over billions of dollars in cash and assets to the regime. 

Source DailyMailUk