OFFICIAL: Torino complete Hart signing

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for Torino Hart" height="426" src="https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/nintchdbpict000263007340.jpg?w=960" width="640" /></div> <br /> Torino have completed the signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart on loan.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> More to follow ...</div>

OFFICIAL: Torino complete Hart signing

Torino have completed the signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart on loan. More to follow ...

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Nigeria's inflation hits 17.1%, highest in 11 years

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SEfNJLENTYY/V8a7uIBR0nI/AAAAAAAAULE/ez_B7tJb0n0DP0GdL4gKMkdCU7T_3Qf7ACLcB/s1600/inflation.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SEfNJLENTYY/V8a7uIBR0nI/AAAAAAAAULE/ez_B7tJb0n0DP0GdL4gKMkdCU7T_3Qf7ACLcB/s320/inflation.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div> Nigerian inflation accelerated to the highest rate in almost 11 years in July, complicating the task of the central bank in an economy which is at risk of contracting this year.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The inflation rate in Africa’s largest economy increased to 17.1% in July from 16.5 percent in June and 15.6 in May, according to the National Bureau of Statistics second quarter report.<br /> <br /> The figure represented the highest rate since October 2005, according to data on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s website.

Nigeria's inflation hits 17.1%, highest in 11 years

Nigerian inflation accelerated to the highest rate in almost 11 years in July, complicating the task of the central bank in an economy whic...

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Security guard arrested for fingering employer’s 10-year-old daughter in Lagos

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3J6Quq9wcgM/V8a6bXA-p2I/AAAAAAAAUK4/vtSwwn-CakoUe5Mf4eKoeETUiANilgdvgCLcB/s1600/stupid-gaurd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="375" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3J6Quq9wcgM/V8a6bXA-p2I/AAAAAAAAUK4/vtSwwn-CakoUe5Mf4eKoeETUiANilgdvgCLcB/s400/stupid-gaurd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> A 24-year-old security guard who sexually molested his employer’s daughter has been arrested and detained by the Lagos State Police Command.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> The guard, Ossai Sylvester, assaulted the 10-year-old unnamed girl in the Victoria Island area of the state on Saturday.<br /> <br /> Sylvester had also inserted his finger into the private parts of the victim and was sucking her breast before his employer caught him and reported to the police.<br /> <br /> He was, however, arrested on Monday by the Victoria Island Police Division.<br /> <br /> Confirming the arrest to newsmen on Tuesday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Dolapo Badmos, said Sylvester was employed to guard a private apartment on Teslim Elias Close.<br /> <br /> “The incident happened at about 11.30pm on Saturday. The guard allegedly lured the girl to a secluded spot in the house and sucked her breast. He also dipped his left finger into her private parts.<br /> <br /> “The matter was reported and the suspect has been arrested. The victim has been taken for a medical examination.<br /> <br /> “He has confessed to the crime.<br /> <br /> “The Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, has directed that the case be transferred to the gender unit at the state command headquarters for further investigation.<br /> <br /> “He will face the law when investigations are completed,” the PPRO added.

Security guard arrested for fingering employer’s 10-year-old daughter in Lagos

A 24-year-old security guard who sexually molested his employer’s daughter has been arrested and detained by the Lagos State Police Command...

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Premier League transfer window spending smashes the £1bn mark

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for manchester united paul pogba" height="426" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/R4q1xipF7vcgFTpQA24Rh_wl5xA=/0x10:1024x693/1310x873/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50326009/CpYEkmVWgAAE2JT.0.0.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> Premier League clubs have finally smashed the £1billion spending barrier this summer.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Last year, the total amount the teams spent was £870m.<br /> <br /> 11 clubs – Manchester United, Liverpool, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Southampton, Swansea City, Bournemouth, Leicester City, West Bromwich Albion, Watford and Burnley – have all broken their transfer records, but it is Paul Pogba’s world-record £90m move to Old Trafford that stands out.<br /> <br /> United’s rivals, Manchester City, also paid £47.5m to Everton for John Stones and bought Leroy Sane for £37m.<br /> <br /> It was Arsenal’s £35m deal for Shkodran Mustafi, that pushed the spending officially past the £1billion mark.<br /> <br /> “This is the fourth summer in a row where we have seen record-breaking spending by Premier League clubs,” Dan Jones, partner and head of the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, said.<br /> <br /> “Buoyed by the prospect of increased revenue from the new broadcast deals, clubs’ gross spending has now passed last year’s record of £870m.”<br /> <br /> The clubs have been helped by the decision to release their TV income in July, rather than at the beginning of August.</div>

Premier League transfer window spending smashes the £1bn mark

Premier League clubs have finally smashed the £1billion spending barrier this summer. Last year, the total amount the teams spent was ...

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I Am Not The Problem! Sports Minister Reacts To Calls For His Sack

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1gHey8FEKc/V8a4Qbicw7I/AAAAAAAAIcE/U8iEWVKY8PE1ZFd7C895VSZDhVcj1CjqQCLcB/s1600/sda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1gHey8FEKc/V8a4Qbicw7I/AAAAAAAAIcE/U8iEWVKY8PE1ZFd7C895VSZDhVcj1CjqQCLcB/s400/sda.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> Nigeria's Sports Minister Mr. Solomon Dalung has answered calls for his sack following the nation’s poor outing at the 2016 Rio Olympics.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Speaking to newsmen on Tuesday after briefing President Muhammadu Buhari on the outcome of the Olympics, Dalung said poor performance in Nigerian sports pre-dated his appointment.<br /> <br /> “I am not the problem of Nigerian sports. Abysmal performance has been happening before me,” he said.<br /> <br /> He then blamed Team Nigeria’s poor outing at the Olympics to late release of funds and inability to develop home-grown talents.<br /> <br /> Dalung said it was time Nigeria returned to the grassroots and groom talents for future competitions.<br /> <br /> He also faulted the scrapping of the Nigerian Sports Commission, saying the commission was necessary.</div>

I Am Not The Problem! Sports Minister Reacts To Calls For His Sack

Nigeria's Sports Minister Mr. Solomon Dalung has answered calls for his sack following the nation’s poor outing at the 2016 Rio Olym...

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Why Police stopped BBOG from entering Presidential Villa – Police

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h8W4y4o_wzQ/V8a3rADgV8I/AAAAAAAAUKc/9cNNd46C1lAD_3gmxoYEHhS_90G2HMDRQCLcB/s1600/BBOG-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h8W4y4o_wzQ/V8a3rADgV8I/AAAAAAAAUKc/9cNNd46C1lAD_3gmxoYEHhS_90G2HMDRQCLcB/s400/BBOG-2.png" width="400" /></a></div> The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr Ibrahim Idris, says the Nigeria Police Force denied members of the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) group access to the Presidential Villa for security reasons.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The BBOG group had made several attempts to enter the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to press the Federal Government for the release of the over 200 Chibok girls who were abducted in April 2014.<br /> <br /> Idris spoke at an event jointly organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to mark the International Day of Missing Persons in Abuja.<br /> <br /> The National Technical Committee on the Establishment and Management of Database of missing persons in Nigeria was also present.<br /> <br /> Represented by Mr. Mohammed Labo, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, Idris said the BBOG protesters were stopped from having access to forestall a security breach at the villa.<br /> <br /> Idris explained that every Nigerian had a right to see the President, but that it was tidier for the group to send a delegation to see President Muhammadu Buhari rather than a large number of protesters.<br /> <br /> The NHRC Executive Secretary, Prof. Bem Angwe, said Aug. 30 was set aside to reflect on the fate of displaced persons across the globe.<br /> <br /> Angwe Said that the right of people to security and welfare was the primary responsibility of any government.<br /> <br /> “The issue of missing persons and the disappeared is at the heart of the mandate of the commission.<br /> <br /> “This is so because the rights of people to security and welfare, which is the primary responsibility of any government presupposes that everyone should live without any fear of abductio, kidnapping or displacement as a result of insecurity or natural disasters,” Angwe said.<br /> <br /> He expressed regrets at the lack of an accurate data for missing persons, adding that national efforts at addressing the issues surrounding missing persons were on the front burner.<br /> <br /> On his part, the Head of Delegation, ICRC in Nigeria, Mr Karl Mattli, said that his agency had collected 2,353 requests for tracing of missing persons, out of which 315 individuals had been located.<br /> <br /> Mattli added that 193, including one Ibrahim Aminu, who was at the event had been reunited with their families.<br /> <br /> Mrs Maryam Uwais, Chairperson,National Technical Committee on the Establishment of a Database of Missing Persons, said it was a day governments around the world were reminded of their responsibilities to missing persons.<br /> <br /> “This year’s International Day of the Disappeared is significant as it comes at a time when the Federal Government is working toward the establishment of a database for missing persons.<br /> <br /> “It will among other things be a platform for family members or friends of missing persons to engage with and document necessary information about their loved ones,” Uwais said.<br /> <br /> Uwais stressed the need for forensic testing and data collection capacity to be perfected, and enjoined all Nigerians to register and obtain their National Identity cards.<br /> <br /> She also called on all Nigerians to contribute in whatever way they could to ensure that persons unaccounted for where not forgotten.<br /> <br /> The International Day of the Disappeared is a day set aside to draw attention to the fate of individuals who are missing as a result different situations.<br /> <br /> Uwais’s committee is tasked with the responsibility of establishing the necessary components for the oversight, implementation and management of the database for missing persons in the country.

Why Police stopped BBOG from entering Presidential Villa – Police

The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr Ibrahim Idris, says the Nigeria Police Force denied members of the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) g...

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New Music: Iyanya ft Victoria Kimani - Yoga

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1n6h6NWfwGk/V8a2jsULKzI/AAAAAAAATSo/VF5sJ2WGbBoRMBDniTgJWuBcx3Kf5a57wCLcB/s1600/iyanya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1n6h6NWfwGk/V8a2jsULKzI/AAAAAAAATSo/VF5sJ2WGbBoRMBDniTgJWuBcx3Kf5a57wCLcB/s400/iyanya.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Kukere singer, Iyanya, is back on the airwaves after dropping a hot collaboration track titled 'Yoga', with Kenyan singer, Victoria Kimani.</div> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Now signed to Made Men Music Entertainment, this is his third solo project since he left former record label, Triple MG.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Download and enjoy!</div> <br /></div> <iframe frameborder="0" height="160px" scrolling="no" src="http://www.hulkshare.com/embed.php?fn=3qbmsxjrm0zk&enableCover=0" width="100%"></iframe></div>

New Music: Iyanya ft Victoria Kimani - Yoga

Kukere singer, Iyanya, is back on the airwaves after dropping a hot collaboration track titled 'Yoga', with Kenyan singer, Victor...

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Rio 2016 Olympics: Sports Ministry Begins Probe of NFF

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6pibceKX_Mc/V8a2aDGCiGI/AAAAAAAAIb4/H-UhqcR6ySoI67p5GN2gEqgvUIrIRXOUACLcB/s1600/nff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6pibceKX_Mc/V8a2aDGCiGI/AAAAAAAAIb4/H-UhqcR6ySoI67p5GN2gEqgvUIrIRXOUACLcB/s400/nff.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> The Ministry of Youth and Sports has begun probe into the expenditures of the Nigeria Football Federation at the just concluded Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <div><br /></div> <div> <div>Authoritative sources told journalists that the Minister, Solomon Dalung, on Monday ordered the General Secretary of the federation, Muhammed Sanusi, to present comprehensive accounting details of how the NFF spent all ‘monies’ collected from the ministry for the assignment.</div> <div><br /></div> <div>“The NFF will have to account for the money because of several incidents from Atlanta, USA to Brazil.</div> <div><br /></div> <div>“There is also the issue of people who were not supposed to be in the team handing around the U-23 team,” the source said. It was also learnt that the some topshots of the federation collected over 20 days estacode but only spent two days in Brazil.</div> <div><br /></div> <div>An official of the NFF who prefers anonymity however said there was no big deal in the move by the ministry to probe the federation.</div> <div><br /></div> <div>“Probe or no probe the federation will ordinarily render account of how money was spent at the games to the ministry since that is the norm here,” the source said. So far, it is not clear if the ministry will also extends the current probe to other federations that represented Nigeria at the games.</div> </div> </div>

Rio 2016 Olympics: Sports Ministry Begins Probe of NFF

The Ministry of Youth and Sports has begun probe into the expenditures of the Nigeria Football Federation at the just concluded Olympic ...

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I wanted to go back to Atletico Madrid - Costa

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for diego costa" height="425" src="http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article6984302.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Chelsea-v-FC-Porto.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> Chelsea striker, Diego Costa, has admitted that he was eager to move back to Atletico Madrid, after a difficult year with the Blues last season.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The 27-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge from Atletico for £32million in 2014 and enjoyed a fine debut campaign, when he won the Premier League under Jose Mourinho.<br /> <br /> However, he was reportedly unhappy at Chelsea at the end of last season and was considering a return to Spain.<br /> <br /> Costa admits that Atletico were ready to re-sign him and he was also happy to go back, but a deal could not be agreed.<br /> <br /> “We all knew the possibility existed for me to return to Atleti but it was not to be because of minor details,” Costa told AS.<br /> <br /> “I thank the Atleti fans and [coach Diego Simeone] for his trust.<br /> <br /> “Now I’m at Chelsea and I’m happy there. I already started the season with them. I wish Atleti a good season just like last and that they win titles. I was enthusiastic about returning, I cannot deny it.”<br /> <br /> Costa has scored 34 goals in 56 Premier League appearances for Chelsea.</div>

I wanted to go back to Atletico Madrid - Costa

Chelsea striker, Diego Costa, has admitted that he was eager to move back to Atletico Madrid, after a difficult year with the Blues last ...

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6 Important Highlights Every Nigerian Should Know About Ekiti State Anti-Grazing Law

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6wDNDzKkBbU/V8a1CcfUPDI/AAAAAAAAUKQ/amTdwZTLs-gVQ099IpivYPSquAL4IHr1wCLcB/s1600/fayose-guns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6wDNDzKkBbU/V8a1CcfUPDI/AAAAAAAAUKQ/amTdwZTLs-gVQ099IpivYPSquAL4IHr1wCLcB/s320/fayose-guns.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Governor Peter Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti on Monday signed an Anti- Grazing bill into law in a bid to curb the alleged inordinate activities of herdsmen in the state.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The bill was sponsored by the state chief executive after the killing of two persons by suspected herdsmen in Oke Ako community in Ikole Local Government Area of the state. Fayose also threatened to charge any cattle rearer found in the state carrying arms while grazing with terrorism.<br /> <br /> He said this while addressing stakeholders and leaders of communities across the 16 local government areas of the state in Ado Ekiti, the State’s capital. The Act was read to the Assembly of all traditional rulers, chiefs and legislators by the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Kola Oluwawole.<br /> <br /> Here are 6 important highlights of the new law:<br /> <br /> 1. Grazing activities must be from 7:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. local time daily.<br /> <br /> 2. Anyone caught grazing on portions of land or any farmland not allotted by government shall be apprehended and made to face the law.<br /> <br /> 3. Any herdsman caught with firearms and any weapons whatsoever during grazing shall be charged with terrorism.<br /> <br /> 4. Any cattle confiscated shall be taken to government cattle ranch at Erifun and Iworoko Ekiti community in the state.<br /> <br /> 5. Any farm crop destroyed by the activities of any apprehended herdsman shall be estimated by agricultural officers and the expenses of the estimate shall be borne by the culprit.<br /> <br /> 6. Any herdsman who violates any of these rules shall be imprisoned for six months without option of fine.

6 Important Highlights Every Nigerian Should Know About Ekiti State Anti-Grazing Law

Governor Peter Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti on Monday signed an Anti- Grazing bill into law in a bid to curb the alleged inordinate activities o...

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Chelsea make £30m bid for David Luiz

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for david luiz" height="418" src="http://www.sofoot.com/IMG/img-le-xi-de-david-luiz-1443022480_580_380_center_articles-196225.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> David Luiz could be set for a return to Chelsea, after the English club offered £30m plus add-ons to Paris Saint-Germain, according to reports.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The Brazilian left Stamford Bridge for Ligue 1 in 2014, in a £50m deal which was a world record fee for a defender.<br /> <br /> However, with the Blues keen to bring in a centre-back, they have reportedly opened talks with PSG for Luiz.<br /> <br /> New manager, Antonio Conte, has failed with bids for Alessio Romagnoli (AC Milan) and Kalidou Koulibaly (Napoli).<br /> <br /> During his three-year stay in West London, Luiz made 143 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions and scored 12 goals.</div>

Chelsea make £30m bid for David Luiz

David Luiz could be set for a return to Chelsea, after the English club offered £30m plus add-ons to Paris Saint-Germain, according to re...

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Rabiu Ibrahim signs for KAA Gent on 3-year deal

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for Rabiu Ibrahim" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vEMIQhR5Y48/V8ZJ8xv8PiI/AAAAAAAABHo/ujPUEO5LOfc7S8Gmk4tSE4gIubj5TWu0QCLcB/s640/rabiu.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> Nigerian midfielder, Rabiu Ibrahim has completed a move to Belgian club, KAA Gent, from Slovakian champions, AS Trencin on a three-year deal.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The 25-year-old creative midfielder who was seen by many as a perfect replacement for former national team skipper, Austin Okocha, joined The Buffalos on Tuesday after passing his medicals, and has already been described as “an elegant player” by the club.<br /> <br /> Supersport quoted the club in a statement on Tuesday stating that, “KAA Gent has today completed the transfer of the 25-year-old Nigerian central midfielder Rabiu Ibrahim. Rabiu comes from the Slovakian side AS Trencin.”<br /> <br /> Gent, who has another Nigerian midfielder, Moses Simon, also signed from AS Trencin in its pay roll, described the former PSV midfielder as a player “with great technical ability.”<br /> <br /> Ibrahim has played five times for the Nigerian senior team.<br /> <br /> The midfielder featured prominently for AS Trencin as the club won the Slovakian double last season.<br /> <br /> He played 61 games, scoring 11 goals and providing nine assists in his two-year spell at Trencin.</div>

Rabiu Ibrahim signs for KAA Gent on 3-year deal

Nigerian midfielder, Rabiu Ibrahim has completed a move to Belgian club, KAA Gent, from Slovakian champions, AS Trencin on a three-year ...

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Enyimba will not sack Paul Aigbogun - Anyansi-Agwu

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for Paul Aigbogun" height="263" src="http://footballlive.ng/footballnews/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Untitled32.png" width="400" /></div> <br /> Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, Enyimba, have passed a vote of confidence on head coach, Paul Aigbogun.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The Northern Irishman has come under serious pressure, following supporters’ frustration over what they feel has been a mediocre season.<br /> <br /> Enyimba failed to qualify from the group stage of this year’s CAF Champions League and are currently six points behind leaders Wikki Tourists in the league.<br /> <br /> Chairman, Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu, however, says there is no reason to doubt the capabilities of Aigbogun.<br /> <br /> “We (Enyimba) have not been given any reason to show dissatisfaction with the work of Aigbogun,” he told supersport.com.<br /> <br /> “He has been given a free hand to do his job to the best of his knowledge.<br /> <br /> “People are free to speculate that Aigbogun will be sacked but I don’t know where those stories are emanating from.<br /> <br /> “There is nothing from our end to suggest that Aigbogun will be sacked at the end of the season.<br /> <br /> “Aigbogun is doing a good job and he needs to be encouraged also.<br /> <br /> “Enyimba never presses the panic button and we will not start doing at at this stage.”</div>

Enyimba will not sack Paul Aigbogun - Anyansi-Agwu

Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, Enyimba, have passed a vote of confidence on head coach, Paul Aigbogun. The Nor...

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VP Osinbajo explains why Nigerian economy shrank by 2.1%

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8E-DOX81YY/V8axvr7VZZI/AAAAAAAAUJ4/_uA3Btg-P2AESG9G_iWkHwjNOv_VBDBxwCLcB/s1600/Osinbajo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8E-DOX81YY/V8axvr7VZZI/AAAAAAAAUJ4/_uA3Btg-P2AESG9G_iWkHwjNOv_VBDBxwCLcB/s400/Osinbajo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Nigeria's Vice president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has reacted to the just released GDP figures for the 2016 second quarter by the National Bureau of Statistics.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The vice president confirmed a temporary decline, saying it also indicated an hopeful expectation in the country's economic trajectory.<br /> <br /> A government statement released by Laolu Akande, Senior Special Assistant-Media & Publicity In the Office of the Vice President Besides said: “the growth recorded in the agriculture and solid mineral sectors, the Nigerian economy in response to the policies of the Buhari presidency is also doing better than what the IMF had estimated with clear indications that the second half of the year would be even much better.<br /> <br /> “The Buhari presidency will continue to work diligently on the economy and engage with all stakeholders to ensure that beneficial policy initiatives are actively pursued and the dividends delivered to the Nigerian people.<br /> <br /> "The just recently released data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed that Gross Domestic Product declined by -2.06% in the second quarter of 2016 on a year-on-year basis.<br /> <br /> A close look at the data shows that this outcome was mostly due to a sharp contraction in the oil sector due to huge losses of crude oil production as a result of vandalisation and sabotage.<br /> <br /> However, the rest of the Q2 data is beginning to tell a different story. There was growth in the agricultural and solid minerals sectors which are the areas in which the Federal Government has placed particular priority.

VP Osinbajo explains why Nigerian economy shrank by 2.1%

Nigeria's Vice president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has reacted to the just released GDP figures for the 2016 second quarter by the National ...

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Kelechi Iheanacho Overtakes Mikel As Highest Paid Nigerian Footballer

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fk7O4vfDR58/V8awloHYTdI/AAAAAAAAIbo/6DAhEbmZGXo4N_NPOoDJmFKQ1ix_2F0kwCLcB/s1600/kih.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fk7O4vfDR58/V8awloHYTdI/AAAAAAAAIbo/6DAhEbmZGXo4N_NPOoDJmFKQ1ix_2F0kwCLcB/s640/kih.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> Manchester City starlet, Kelechi Iheanacho, is now the highest-earning Nigerian player in the Premier League, after agreeing a £85,000-per-week deal with the club.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Iheanacho signed a new two-year contract extension to stay at the Etihad until 2021. He admitted his new deal will “change the lives of his family”.<br /> <br /> The 19-year-old now earns more than Super Eagles captain, Mikel John Obi, who picks up £70,000 a week at Chelsea.<br /> <br /> Victor Moses is paid £50,000 a week at Stamford Bridge.<br /> <br /> Iheanacho’s new agents negotiated this bumper deal, even though they are still locked in an ownership tussle with the player’s former representatives.</div>

Kelechi Iheanacho Overtakes Mikel As Highest Paid Nigerian Footballer

Manchester City starlet, Kelechi Iheanacho, is now the highest-earning Nigerian player in the Premier League, after agreeing a £85,000-p...

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Jay Jay Okocha's Sensational Goal Still Make Me Dizzy - Oliver Kahn

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for Okocha's goal against Oliver Kahn" height="426" src="http://s2.dmcdn.net/NEw4E.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> Former Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeping legend, Oliver Khan, has said that he is yet to recover from the wonder goal he conceded against former Nigeria international, Austin Jay Jay Okocha.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Coming on as a second-half substitute for Eintracht Frankfurt in a 1993 Bundesliga game against Karlsruhe, with the game at 1-1, Okocha provided the assist which led to Frankfurt taking a 2-1 lead.<br /> <br /> Then minutes later, Okocha scored his wonder goal, dribbling the entire back-line of Karlsruhe before slotting the ball past Khan to give Frankfurt a 3-1 win.<br /> <br /> The goal was voted as 1993 Goal of the Year by viewers of Sportschau (an ARD German TV sports programme).<br /> <br /> Reminiscing on the goal, Khan confessed that he is still dazed by the goal.<br /> <br /> "Exactly 23 years, sensational goal from Jay-Jay Okocha. Here today – and still dizzy…" Khan wrote on his Twitter handle<br /> <br /> <br /> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <div dir="ltr" lang="de" xml:lang="de">Exakt 23 Jahre ist das sensationelle Tor von Jay-Jay Okocha heute her - und mir ist immer noch schwindelig...</div> — Oliver Kahn (@OliverKahn) <a href="https://twitter.com/OliverKahn/status/770879498237648896">August 31, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"> </script> Watch the clip below.<br /> <br /> <br /></div> <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GUPiMFHbbFU" width="640"></iframe></div>

Jay Jay Okocha's Sensational Goal Still Make Me Dizzy - Oliver Kahn

Former Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeping legend, Oliver Khan, has said that he is yet to recover from the wonder goal he conceded ag...

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Nigeria experiencing worst economic recession in 30 years

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aAwNPOHZlkY/V8ao3DNOXCI/AAAAAAAAUJk/ZgmiV2-YgWkf_J3l58eebEnfjNVicn-qQCLcB/s1600/naija%2Bmap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aAwNPOHZlkY/V8ao3DNOXCI/AAAAAAAAUJk/ZgmiV2-YgWkf_J3l58eebEnfjNVicn-qQCLcB/s400/naija%2Bmap.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has confirmed that Nigeria is in its worst economic recession in 30 years.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <div>Nigeria experiencing worst economic recession in 30 years<br /> According to the NBS gross domestic product (GDP) report for the second quarter of 2016, Nigeria’s economy contracted by 2.06 percent to record its lowest growth rate in three decades.<br /> <br /> In the first quarter of 2016, the NBS said the economy shrank by 0.36 percent to hit its lowest point in 25 years.<br /> <br /> According to World Bank data, the last time Nigeria had this magnitude of economic decline was under the regime of Ibrahim Babangida, when the economy recorded consecutive decline of 0.51 percent and 0.82 percent in first and second quarters of 1987.<br /> <br /> “In the Second Quarter of 2016, the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) declined by -2.06% (year-onyear) in real terms,” the NBS revealed.<br /> <br /> “This was lower by 1.70% points from the growth rate of –0.36% recorded in the preceding quarter, and also lower by 4.41% points from the growth rate of 2.35% recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2015.<br /> <br /> “Quarter on quarter, real GDP increased by 0.82% During the quarter, nominal GDP was N23,483,954.78 million (in nominal terms) at basic prices. This was 2.73% higher than the Second Quarter 2015 value of N22,859,153.01 million. This growth was lower than the rate recorded in the Second Quarter of 2015 by 2.44% points.”<br /> <br /> OIL DOWN, AGRICULTURE UP<br /> <br /> The oil sector experience a decline of 17.48 percent, while the agricultural sector grew by 13.24 percent within the quarter.<br /> <br /> With the mining sector shrinking by 47.9 percent and manufacturing falling by 1.02 percent, the general non-oil sector declined by 0.38 percent.<br /> <br /> On the bright side, the “public administration sector grew by 8.21% in the Second Quarter of 2016, higher by 10.86% points from the corresponding quarter of 2015 and higher by 1.83% points relative to the First Quarter of 2016″.<br /> <br /> The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had initially predicted that the Nigerian economy will shrink by 1.8 percent in 2016.<br /> With the current results from the NBS, Nigeria is beating the IMF set bar at an aggregate GDP of 1.21 percent.<br /> Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the head of the nation’s economic team, has said there is no cause for alarm, as his office and the Buhari-led administration are working to make the second half of 2016 better for Nigeria.</div>

Nigeria experiencing worst economic recession in 30 years

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has confirmed that Nigeria is in its worst economic recession in 30 years. Nigeria experiencing ...

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UPDATE: Chris Brown Released on a $250,000 Bail

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CpbKh8CFxaU/V8ahmFSn9RI/AAAAAAAATP4/m6e3UWX7dPsoxKEaldk7UAh4JLMhgPY-gCLcB/s1600/cb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CpbKh8CFxaU/V8ahmFSn9RI/AAAAAAAATP4/m6e3UWX7dPsoxKEaldk7UAh4JLMhgPY-gCLcB/s400/cb2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Chris Brown has been released from police custody after being arrested Tuesday on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Brown's attorney, Mark Geragos, tweeted early Wednesday morning that the musician had been released, adding, "The allegations against him are demonstrably false."<br /> <br /> The arrest at Brown's Los Angeles home took place after a nearly 14-hour standoff, the Associated Press reported, and ended when police obtained a search warrant to enter the residence.<br /> <br /> A guest at Brown's home, Baylee Curran, said that he pointed a gun at her face after he became angry when she complimented another man's diamond necklace, the Los Angeles Times reported.<br /> <br /> Police did not confirm any of the details surrounding the alleged altercation.<br /> <br /> Police described Brown as being "cooperative," and did not confirm if they recovered any weapons from his home.<br /> <br /> Brown was released on $250,000 bail at 11:19 p.m. local time, according to jail records. His next court date is set for Sept. 20.<br /> <br /> LAPD arrived at the scene after receiving a call from a woman needing assistance at around 3 a.m. Tuesday morning.<br /> <br /> <i>(Credit: ABC)</i></div>

UPDATE: Chris Brown Released on a $250,000 Bail

Chris Brown has been released from police custody after being arrested Tuesday on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. Brown'...

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4.58million Nigerians became jobless under Buhari - Nigerian Bureau of Statistics

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAN3fHUdIvA/V8akgPvi-WI/AAAAAAAAUJE/dLxlCM_ghuwAqIQ2e822l56FXj6_CQZnQCLcB/s1600/Buhari-tired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAN3fHUdIvA/V8akgPvi-WI/AAAAAAAAUJE/dLxlCM_ghuwAqIQ2e822l56FXj6_CQZnQCLcB/s400/Buhari-tired.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Recent reports from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) claim the total number of Nigerians who became unemployed within the first and second quarter of 2016 now stands at 2.6 million.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> According to the bureau, about 1.46 million Nigerians became unemployed in the third quarter of 2015, while another 518,102 became unemployed in the fourth quarter of 2015.<br /> <br /> This brings the total freshly unemployed persons in the economy to a record high of 4,580,602, since President Muhammadu Buhari took office in May 2015.<br /> <br /> In its second quarter unemployment and underemployment report released on Wednesday, NBS said the country’s unemployment rate grew from 12.1 percent in the first quarter of 2016 to a record high of 13.3 percent in the second.<br /> <br /> “During the reference period, the number of unemployed in the labour force increased by 1,158,700 persons, resulting in an increase in the national unemployment rate to 13.3% in Q2 2016 from 12.1 in Q1 2016, 10.4% in Q4 2015 from 9.9% in Q3 2015 and from 8.2% in Q2 2015,” NBS said.<br /> <br /> “In view of this, there were a total of 26.06 million persons in the Nigerian labour force in Q2 2016, that were either unemployed or underemployed compared to compared to 24.5 million in Q1 2016 and 22.6 million in Q4 2015.”<br /> <br /> The economically active population or working age population (persons within ages 15- 64) increased from 106million in Q1 2016 to 106.69 million in Q2 2016, the report added.<br /> <br /> Underemployment in the economy was also on the rise, with 15.4 million Nigerians said to be underemployed.<br /> <br /> “The number of underemployed in the labour force (those working but doing menial jobs not commensurate with their qualifications or those not engaged in full-time work and merely working for few hours) increased by 392,390 or 2.61%, resulting in an increase in the underemployment rate to 19.3 % (15.4million persons) in Q2 2016 from 19.1% (15,02 million persons) in Q1 2016, 18.7% (14.42 million persons) in Q4 2015, from 17.4% (13.2 million persons) in Q3 2015 and 18.3% (13.5 million persons) in Q2 2015.”<br /> <br /> There were a total of 26.06 million persons in the Nigerian labour force in Q2 2016, that were either unemployed or underemployed compared to compared to 24.5 million in Q1 2016 and 22.6 million in Q4 2015.

4.58million Nigerians became jobless under Buhari - Nigerian Bureau of Statistics

Recent reports from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) claim the total number of Nigerians who became unemployed within the first and ...

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Aspirants fighting me because they are afraid of Tinubu – Ondo APC Chairman

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-un6I0g_89xo/V8ajiOqGltI/AAAAAAAAUI8/cRepJjfJwGAtdRBiOdT8pueiV0oOnVBpQCLcB/s1600/Tinubu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-un6I0g_89xo/V8ajiOqGltI/AAAAAAAAUI8/cRepJjfJwGAtdRBiOdT8pueiV0oOnVBpQCLcB/s400/Tinubu.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Hon. Isaac Kekemeke, chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC, in Ondo State, has described some aggrieved members of the party as desperate individuals.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Kekemeke said this while reacting to allegations that he was backing a particular aspirant ahead of Saturday’s primary.<br /> <br /> “What we have now are a few people who are becoming so desperate that they will stop at nothing to destabilise the party, debase it and give it a bad name.<br /> <br /> “They have become spoilers and embarrassment to the leadership and teaming members of the party. They have also gone ahead to desecrate the culture and tradition of Akureland in their desperate moves and desire to embarrass the party.<br /> <br /> “I also want to thank on behalf of the party, the Royal Majesty, Deji of Akureland Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi for reacting promptly that what they have done amount to desecration of the culture of Akure people and that everything will be done to make sure that they are brought to book.<br /> <br /> “I want party members to begin to see that this is no longer a joke. It is an attempt by a few individuals to weaken and demonize the party leadership, so that they can leave the party weakened. Unfortunately, I want to assure them all that our party remains strong and we will not be weakened.<br /> <br /> “I deliberately resisted making statements to enable us reconcile these differences immediately after elections. But the more I keep quiet, the more courage they get in their mischief making. They are fighting me for no reason because I am not the one to organise the party primaries.<br /> <br /> “As at today, the process has been taken over by the National Executive Council through the National Working Committee and this is what is done everywhere. They have set up the machinery, the Governor of Jigawa is the chairman of the organising committee and his advance team is here already meeting with appropriate security agencies and sorting out logistics.<br /> <br /> “So, where do I come in? The only thing they are doing now is to try to harass, intimidate and blackmail me to support them and I can never do that and as God liveth, they will never win.<br /> <br /> “Most of them that are fighting are people who have put aspirant tag on their heads. I am the only one who doesn’t have aspirant tag on my head. Their action is idiotic. It is Idiotic for anybody to say that somebody of Asiwaju’s status will be overwhelmed by my recommendation or will be dictated to by me.<br /> <br /> “I think they are afraid to fight Asiwaju because they know the consequences, so, they want to fight me. I have decided to hand them over to God to fight them”, he stated.

Aspirants fighting me because they are afraid of Tinubu – Ondo APC Chairman

Hon. Isaac Kekemeke, chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC, in Ondo State, has described some aggrieved members of the party as des...

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Oby Ezekwesili reacts to Mark Zuckerberg's visit, exhorts Nigerian youths

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KpIWCJnGc-M/V8ageC1U9vI/AAAAAAAAUIw/zlzyy62y9S87eTTwQ21YaLxELwY9hAKAwCLcB/s1600/oby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KpIWCJnGc-M/V8ageC1U9vI/AAAAAAAAUIw/zlzyy62y9S87eTTwQ21YaLxELwY9hAKAwCLcB/s320/oby.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili has sent a strong signal to Nigerian youths over the visit of the Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Ezekwesili said: “Mark Zuckerberg. Hopefully he left a strong message for our young friends that "the SUBSTANCE of a person's life is not defined by $$"”.<br /> <br /> "Mark Zuckerberg did not pay a Charity Visit to Nigeria. He can already SMELL where the NEXT BIG thing will emerge from in IT world-NIGERIA!<br /> <br /> “The visit by Mark Zuckerberg is HUGE. It is a stellar achievement of Nigeria's YOUNG who have given their intellect to growing IT knowledge.<br /> <br /> “While sectors that are harbingers of Nigeria's endemic corruption challenge are in DECLINE, note how the YOUNG redefine Nigeria thru IT”, she tweeted.<br /> <br /> The Facebook founder visited Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, on Tuesday, and interacted with Nigerian tech entrepreneurs at Yaba, regarded as the Silicon Valley of Nigeria.

Oby Ezekwesili reacts to Mark Zuckerberg's visit, exhorts Nigerian youths

Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili has sent a strong signal to Nigerian youths over the visit of the Facebook founder, Mark Zucke...

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Murray Bruce reacts to Mark Zuckerberg's visit to NIgeria

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0z_KIeqxXuE/V8aeu1VzKiI/AAAAAAAAUIk/0nKrzGHBhckS7WczoJwr9MTx2rrHIhf6gCLcB/s1600/Senator-Ben-Murray-Bruce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0z_KIeqxXuE/V8aeu1VzKiI/AAAAAAAAUIk/0nKrzGHBhckS7WczoJwr9MTx2rrHIhf6gCLcB/s400/Senator-Ben-Murray-Bruce.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Senator Ben Murray Bruce has reacted to the surprise visit of Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, to Nigeria.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Here's what he said:<br /> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">There are many Mark Zuckerberg's in Nigeria. The problem is they are looking at govt instead of looking inwards to their talents and skills!</div> — Ben Murray-Bruce (@benmurraybruce) <a href="https://twitter.com/benmurraybruce/status/770683059981082624">August 30, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"> </script><br /> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">Nigerian youths-accept each other as one! When you do, the old breed will have no choice but to grant you the empowerment that you desire.</div> — Ben Murray-Bruce (@benmurraybruce) <a href="https://twitter.com/benmurraybruce/status/770684990187147264">August 30, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"> </script>

Murray Bruce reacts to Mark Zuckerberg's visit to NIgeria

Senator Ben Murray Bruce has reacted to the surprise visit of Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, to Nigeria. Here's what he said: Ther...

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Chris Brown Arrested on the Grounds of Assault with a Gun

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OOOyKcTpqto/V8ad_xoIU-I/AAAAAAAATPg/Z9pPGCbNKfEcGI78So_IBab4_m7HsqQGACLcB/s1600/CB1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OOOyKcTpqto/V8ad_xoIU-I/AAAAAAAATPg/Z9pPGCbNKfEcGI78So_IBab4_m7HsqQGACLcB/s400/CB1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Pop star Chris Brown was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon on Tuesday after a daylong standoff at his Los Angeles home that began with a dawn 911 call from a woman, police said.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Brown, 27, denied any wrongdoing in posts on Instagram before he was taken into custody and said he had woken up to find police outside the property in the Tarzana neighborhood in Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley.<br /> <br /> Cops raced to Chris' home early Tuesday morning after a woman called 911 and claimed he pulled a gun on her.<br /> <br /> The woman, Baylee Curran, told The Times that Brown pointed a gun at her during a violent rage before she ran outside. Curran said she and a friend went to Brown’s home with a business associate, who was invited by the musician. She wanted to talk to Brown about future projects, she said.<br /> <br /> Inside the home, a few people were milling about and talking, she recounted. She eventually went to Brown’s backyard to get some fresh air. Her confrontation with the musician erupted soon after she walked back into the house, she said.<br /> <br /> Police have retrieved at least one gun, other weapons and drugs from Chris Brown's home, after Chris threw a duffel bag out the window of his home.<br /> <br /> <i>Police have been at the house since 3 AM and are in the process of getting a search warrant. Chris has not left the house, but multiple sources tell us he was defiant as he threw the duffel bag out the window, taunting cops and saying, "Come and get me."</i>  a source said<br /> <i><br /></i>Chris posted a video in which he referred to Black Lives Matter, saying <i>"f*** the police." </i>Two sources on scene tells us in addition to weapons there were drugs in the duffel bag.<br /> <br /> <br /> As for the woman who called 911 ... she's a beauty pageant title holder.</div> <blockquote class="twitter-video" data-lang="en"> <div dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">Singer Chris Brown posting videos from inside his home with police outside. Will they cut off his accounts? <a href="https://t.co/zYh9utEDwX">pic.twitter.com/zYh9utEDwX</a></div> — Justin Fenton (@justin_fenton) <a href="https://twitter.com/justin_fenton/status/770665895341481984">August 30, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"> </script> Watch the victim<br />     <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-9xj4hAWbuM" width="600"></iframe></div>

Chris Brown Arrested on the Grounds of Assault with a Gun

Pop star Chris Brown was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon on Tuesday after a daylong standoff at his Los Angeles ho...

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UK to return Nigeria’s stolen assets as soonas possible

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ClSv8KmZ-8/V8aWcT3lbZI/AAAAAAAAUIU/jxF1yEqbXE4SAVTh3OpXqTRiTM4NBR0jQCLcB/s1600/Malami%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ClSv8KmZ-8/V8aWcT3lbZI/AAAAAAAAUIU/jxF1yEqbXE4SAVTh3OpXqTRiTM4NBR0jQCLcB/s400/Malami%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Robert Goodwill, British minister of state for immigration, says there is no safe place for stolen assets in the UK, as his country is committed to returning all Nigerian stolen assets in its territory.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> Speaking after the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between both countries, Goodwill said the MoU provides the mechanism by which monies could be returned.<br /> <br /> The signing of the MoU is a follow-up to the agreement reached at the London anti-corruption summit in May.<br /> <br /> “Our ability to recover and return stolen assets should send a clear message to all who may seek to habour such assets that there is no safe haven in the UK,” he said.<br /> <br /> “We are keen to do this [return stolen assets] as soon as the necessary legal process allow.<br /> <br /> “As outlined at the summit, we will be taking steps to accelerate the procedures for identification and confiscation of illegally acquired assets.”<br /> <br /> Goodwill, who is also a member of the British parliament, said the UK is as committed as Nigeria in ensuring that beneficial ownership of assets is made available to relevant authorities so they know the identity of the real owners of assets held in the UK.<br /> <br /> “Forty jurisdictions, including British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies, announced that they will automatically share beneficial ownership information relating to companies, trusts, foundations, Shell companies and other relevant entities and legal arrangements,” he said.<br /> <br /> “It is important that everyone can see how returned assets are used to benefit Nigerians. We have therefore agreed in this MoU to be fully transparent about this.”<br /> <br /> Abubakar Malami, attorney-general of the federation, who signed on behalf of the federal government, said the MoU reflected the desire and willingness of both countries to continue cooperation and mutual support.<br /> <br /> He outlined the objectives of the MoU to include the fact that the processes of returning stolen assets was a partnership recognising the interest of both countries and based on mutual understanding, confidence and trust.<br /> <br /> “That both countries recognised that they have a mutual interest in ensuring that returned assets are not at risk of being misappropriated again,” he said.<br /> <br /> “And that both countries recognised they have obligations toward their own citizens for providing such assurances.<br /> <br /> “That both countries recognised the importance of ensuring that the highest possible standard of transparency and accountability are applied for the return of assets.”<br /> <br /> He assured the international community that all funds recovered would be judiciously utilised for projects that would benefit the Nigerian society.

UK to return Nigeria’s stolen assets as soonas possible

Robert Goodwill, British minister of state for immigration, says there is no safe place for stolen assets in the UK, as his country is comm...

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We’ll soon go on strike… that’s the only language government understands - ASUU

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yE3d87L-GLY/V8aVHPUDfUI/AAAAAAAAUII/YrB82GkyiT08SVtNcTBYifcjTHAGCKGZwCLcB/s1600/ASUU.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yE3d87L-GLY/V8aVHPUDfUI/AAAAAAAAUII/YrB82GkyiT08SVtNcTBYifcjTHAGCKGZwCLcB/s400/ASUU.png" width="400" /></a></div> The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened to embark on a nationwide strike to secure the implementation of its 2009 agreement with the federal government.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> Olusoji Sowande, coordinator of the union in Lagos, said this at a news conference on Tuesday.<br /> <br /> <br /> The union claimed that a strike action is the only language that the Nigerian government understands, as the latter has failed to keep its side of the agreement.

We’ll soon go on strike… that’s the only language government understands - ASUU

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened to embark on a nationwide strike to secure the implementation of its 2009 ag...

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NBA president to EFCC Boss: I refuse to be intimidated

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f2aknQcziw8/V8aRdkw_boI/AAAAAAAAUH8/GcHI-YecIksUXoMakurued7LHHOCuTxgwCLcB/s1600/Mahmoud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f2aknQcziw8/V8aRdkw_boI/AAAAAAAAUH8/GcHI-YecIksUXoMakurued7LHHOCuTxgwCLcB/s400/Mahmoud.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Abubakar Mahmoud, president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), says he will not allow Ibrahim Magu, chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to intimidate him.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Reacting to a statement issued by the agency in response to his inaugural address at the NBA conference in Port Harcourt, the lawyer said Magu fell short of the standards expected of a public office holder.<br /> <br /> He accused the anti-graft czar of using abusive language, and denied the allegation that he was a counsel to James Ibori, former Delta state governor, in one of his corruption cases.<br /> <br /> “The attention of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has been drawn to the statements issued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said to be in response to the inaugural address of the president of the NBA in Port -Harcourt, Rivers State on Friday 26th August, 2016,” read a statement, which the NBA issued on Mahmoud’s behalf.<br /> <br /> “It has become necessary to react to the statements given its unduly harsh and negative tone totally uncalled for when in the culture of any democratic society, debates about the nature, character and responsibilities of public institutions must always be encouraged.<br /> <br /> “In the one paragraph of the statement dealing with corrupt ion, the NBA president restated the commitment of the NBA in the fight against corruption. He commended the modest achievements of the EFCC but called for the reform of the agency to enhance its capabilities to deliver on its mandate on a ‘consistent and sustainable’ basis devoid of political interference and on the basis of well-established institutional safeguards that demand the proper regulation of the wide discretionary powers involved in the investigation and prosecution of criminal matters…<br /> <br /> “Neither he nor his firm has ever represented the EFCC or the attorney-general of the federation or been involved in any prosecution or defense of Mr. James Ibori in any criminal matter before any court in Nigeria or outside.<br /> <br /> “The NBA calls on the EFCC to also endeavour to get its facts correct before making statements or insinuations.”<br /> <br /> Mahmoud said he would not bow to intimidation, emphasising that he has the constitutional rights to make recommendations about public institutions.<br /> <br /> He added that in the past, he has expressed support for the anti-graft agency.<br /> <br /> “The NBA constitution demands that it promotes law reform and legal development. It therefore commits itself to promoting healthy public debate about our institutions and interrogating their capabilities and performance, including ALL criminal justice agencies such as the EFCC,” the statement read.<br /> <br /> “The NBA will not be intimidated or cowed in the discharge of this responsibility.<br /> <br /> “The NBA condemns in the strongest terms the use of abusive and uncivil language of ‘rogues and vultures’ and such strictures by a public authority. Name calling and use of abusive language is not expected of any public institution. It is unacceptable. The NBA demands unequivocal withdrawal of this statement and an unreserved apology from the EFCC.<br /> <br /> “The NBA President Mr. A.B. Mahmoud, SAN has over the years supported the work of the EFCC in many ways and acted as counsel in a number of matters on behalf of the organisation.”

NBA president to EFCC Boss: I refuse to be intimidated

Abubakar Mahmoud, president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), says he will not allow Ibrahim Magu, chairman of the Economic and Financ...

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Biafra cannot be renounced – MASSOB

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1e-vCbWYA8/V8Y2yqLNK8I/AAAAAAACoTQ/FXH2GbTk9Z8MxID-LN0pqrV4V36WKSpdQCLcB/s400/buhari%2Bbiafra.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> The leadership of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, yesterday, stated that Biafra is not negotiable and cannot be renounced as it is pivotal to the existence and future of the Igbo people.<br /> <br /> This came as the group condemned the inclusion of Comrade Uchenna Madu as one of the trusted persons to negotiate for Biafra on behalf of Re-IPOB with Federal Government.<br /> <br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a> In a statement issued by MASSOB in Abakaliki, National Director of Information of the group, Comrade Samuel Edeson warned the Re-IPOB to stop its unguided exhibitions in the name of Biafra, threatening that it would bring them (Re-IPOB) more harm than good in the course of the struggle.<br /> <br /> According to him, MASSOB can never allow her image, leadership or name to be dragged into a dirty mud of cheap propaganda and mesmerization after over 17 years of Biafra struggle.<br /> <br /> The statement read in part: “Though MASSOB acknowledged the regards and respect given to Comrade Uchenna Madu as a credible Igbo leader by Re-IPOB, we insist that Biafra is not negotiable and cannot be renounced. It’s not a personal or religious belief, faith or human establishment. Biafra is the very existence and future of our people.<br /> <br /> “MASSOB’s reaction is against the online news that included the name of Comrade Uchenna Madu (leader of MASSOB) as a member of trusted Igbo leaders to negotiate with FG on Biafra. “What is Re-IPOB negotiating, a group that comes up today and wants to negotiate Biafra immediately? Who is fooling who?<br /> <br />  What has Re-IPOB done for Biafra and for what reasons would FG negotiate with it? Biafra struggle is not a business venture and it is not negotiable.” “MASSOB reaction is not because of external or internal pressure but for our dignity, pride, integrity, trust and confidence the people of Biafra bestowed on MASSOB.<br /> <br /> “We also warn those delighted in creating confusion among Pro Biafra groups with falsehood and blackmailing to desist from it now or face the consequences and punishments of saboteurs. A stitch in time saves nine”.

Biafra cannot be renounced – MASSOB

The leadership of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, yesterday, stated that Biafra is not negot...

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Nigeria should focus on fighting Avengers first before fighting Boko Haram – Abdullahi

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--T4i2Ala7ds/V8Y2SNT2kxI/AAAAAAACoTM/hAhDeJN-8oYdEDOngYiLZ0fO-GB0Ksb7wCLcB/s400/Ango-Abdullahi%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <b><br /></b><b>Ex-Adviser on Food Security to President Olusegun Obasanjo, Prof Ango Abdullahi, yesterday, called on the Federal Government to fight the Niger Delta Avengers before taking on Boko Haram.</b><br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Abdullahi, who also blamed politicians for political instability in the country, said the greatest challenge to national security was activities of the Avengers. He made this known during a book launch, titled: “The life and times of Umaru Turakin Bauchi at 2015 and Boko Haram: The charade versus the reality at 2016” in Abuja.<br /> <br /> He said: “If we find truly that we cannot peacefully develop this country, the solution is to go our separate ways, why not?<br /> <br /> “Even now, we are not happy with the kind of standard of security that is being applied in the country. If you are not going to fight Avengers, you should stop fighting Boko Haram.”<br /> <br />  While blaming politicians for the country’s woes, Abdullahi said: “Any government that fails to ensure the well being of its people has the least legitimacy, it is not worth being a government. “Nigeria has not made the kind of progress that was expected of it since its independence after 56 years.<br /> <br />  We must take into account that we are responsible for these. “Nigeria has signed so many protocols that are injurious to her, there is need to review some of these protocols.” In her remarks, Dr. Hadiza Wada, who is the author of the books, said there was need for the Federal Government to do more research on Boko Haram crisis.<br /> <br />  “Our intelligence needs to concentrate on our neighboring countries, that is where our support should be coming from,” she said.

Nigeria should focus on fighting Avengers first before fighting Boko Haram – Abdullahi

Ex-Adviser on Food Security to President Olusegun Obasanjo, Prof Ango Abdullahi, yesterday, called on the Federal Government to fight the ...

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N2 Billion fraud: Orubebe hypertensive, lawyer tells court

<br /> <br /> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3T2-cKSYl8/V8YzN2HeBMI/AAAAAAACoSs/RYkUo7ZpzE8Yg7Q8-d08MnSfCbpscOpFACLcB/s1600/orubebe%2Bcct%2Bcorruption%2Btrial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3T2-cKSYl8/V8YzN2HeBMI/AAAAAAACoSs/RYkUo7ZpzE8Yg7Q8-d08MnSfCbpscOpFACLcB/s320/orubebe%2Bcct%2Bcorruption%2Btrial.jpg" width="320" /></a></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orubebe</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> A former Minister of Niger Delta, Godsday Orubebe, was on Tuesday absent from a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama, where he was scheduled to be arraigned alongside others on charges of diversion of about N2bn meant for the dualisation of Section IV of the East West Road.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Orubebe and others allegedly committed the offences between 2010 and 2010 while he was the Niger Delta Affair minister.<br /> <br /> Orubebe’s lawyer, Mr. F. Zimhuan, apologised to the trial judge, Justice Olukayode Adeniyi, for the absence of his client, whom he said suddenly took ill after a domestic accident and was rushed to the hospital.<br /> <br /> Zimhuan said the ex-minister’s health was complicated by his hypertensive condition.<br /> <br /> The lawyer said, “The first defendant is in the hospital. His absence in court today is not deliberate. He suddenly took ill. He had domestic accident affecting his ankle and wrist. He is hypertensive and the cumulative effect was that they had to rush him to the hospital.<br /> <br /> “We want to give the assurance that the first accused will be ready to face his trial anytime he is discharged from the hospital and we pray that it won’t be long from today.”<br /> <br /> The Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission had preferred five counts against Orubebe, alongside Oludare Alaba, Ephraim Zeri (Director of Contracts) and Gitto Costruzioni Generali Nigeria Limited.<br /> <br /> Alaba and Zeri were present in court while Orubebe was absent on Tuesday.<br /> <br /> But all the defendants including Orubebe were represented by their lawyers.<br /> <br /> Mr. K.B. Asunogie represented Alaba while Chief Kanu Agabi represented Zeri and Gitto Costruzioni Generali Nigeria Limited.<br /> <br /> Prosecuting counsel, Mr. Osuobeni Akponimisingha, faulted the medical report passed to the judge during the proceedings by Orubebe’s lawyer as proof of the ex-minister’s health status.<br /> <br /> Akponimisingha said the medical report was not believable, adding that it was a deliberate ploy to stall the trial.<br /> <br /> “It is a deliberate ploy to stall this trial. The medical report is nothing to believe in,” he said.<br /> <br /> He said since it was a case in which all the accused were jointly charged, it could not proceed in Orubebe’s absence.<br /> <br /> The judge fixed September 7 for arraignment.

N2 Billion fraud: Orubebe hypertensive, lawyer tells court

Orubebe A former Minister of Niger Delta, Godsday Orubebe, was on Tuesday absent from a High Court of the Federal Capital Territ...

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Ogun state government promises 100 roads in 100 days

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5frAK6a0i4g/V8YwsB_dlXI/AAAAAAACoSU/zqMmpZMAus0MT2TMvgMALQf92tIuZWfZACLcB/s640/Governor-Ibikunle-Amosun-504x289%2Bogun.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> The Ogun State Government has revealed plans to construct 100 roads in 100 rural communities in the state.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The government said before the end of the year, work would commence on construction of infrastructure in border communities such as Arepo, Ibafo, among others.<br /> <br /> The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Adedayo Adeneye stated yesterday.<br /> <br /> Adeneye was accompanied by some special advisers and information officers of the state government.<br /> <br /> He said, “The state government plans operation 100/100. We are doing 100 rural roads, hopefully in 100 days.<br /> <br /> “We also take cognisance of the cries of residents in our border towns. But the decline in oil prices has reduced government revenue. We are constrained by paucity of funds. But we want them to rest assured that they are next on our agenda. As soon as the rain subsides and we get the funds we are expecting, we will move contractors to site and the people will start seeing the effect of the operation 100/100.<br /> <br /> “I, however, wish to state that most houses in the border towns don’t have government approvals and it is only when they call on us (for infrastructure) that we know that they are there. It important that whenever you want to build, that you get government approvals so that there can be proper planning.”<br /> <br /> He said the state government was seeking ways to increase its Internal Generated Revenue and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.<br /> <br /> On the issue of transportation, the commissioner said the state Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, had already signed a N1.2bn Memorandum of Understanding with a Chinese company for the construction of a rail system.<br /> <br /> He added that plan was underway for the construction of an airport to enhance investments and support the “more than 400 industries” in the state.<br /> <br /> Adeneye thanked newsmen for its support for the Ogun State Government and its sustenance of core journalism values of fairness and balance.

Ogun state government promises 100 roads in 100 days

The Ogun State Government has revealed plans to construct 100 roads in 100 rural communities in the state. The government said before...

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Woman escapes from Delta kidnappers

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jGcCXZEsSVI/V8YvfHlN_YI/AAAAAAACoR8/zbjR3dnr99cm1r-z4IyY6K21-orSqBrTwCLcB/s1600/Delta_State%2Bmap.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jGcCXZEsSVI/V8YvfHlN_YI/AAAAAAACoR8/zbjR3dnr99cm1r-z4IyY6K21-orSqBrTwCLcB/s640/Delta_State%2Bmap.png" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> A mother of two has escaped from some suspected kidnappers, who had taken her captive in an uncompleted building in Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.<br /> <br /> It was learnt that the woman, simply known as Odafe, had boarded a commercial motorcycle, which was operated by a suspected kidnapper, who whisked her to an unknown destination.<br /> <br /> The housewife, while narrating her ordeal to newsmen on Tuesday, said as the motorcyclist approached the uncompleted building, a young man forcibly mounted the motorcycle, saying she lost consciousness after.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> She stated that after she regained consciousness in a forest, she did not see any of the abductors.<br /> <br /> “I discovered that the boys were not around and I managed to find my way back as I fled to safer ground until I arrived at a police checkpoint where I narrated what had happened,” she said.<br /> <br /> The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Celestina Kalu, said the culprits would be apprehended and prosecuted.<br /> <br /> Kalu explained that the command hand mounted surveillance in the area to check suspicious movements.

Woman escapes from Delta kidnappers

A mother of two has escaped from some suspected kidnappers, who had taken her captive in an uncompleted building in Oleh, Isoko South Loc...

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Power supply in Nigeria now 3,061Mw

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wc8jEYQSMRw/V8YtdIyTIII/AAAAAAACoRk/Ghei08mWJ3IDLcAypPJ_qx65bMKhK80gACLcB/s400/electricity21%2Bpower.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <br /> The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday sent out 3,061megawatts (Mw) of electricity generated by the electricity generation companies to the 11 distribution companies (DisCos).<br /> <br /> The Nigerian Electricity System Operator (SO) made this known on its website yesterday .<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> According to its operational report for August 30, the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), the power sector on August 29, hit a peak generation of 3,556.5MW and lowest peak generation of 2,423.8MW.<br /> <br /> The TCN on the same day wheeled 2,927Mw to the DisCos . NESI said the power sector recorded highest system frequency of 51.58Hz, lowest system frequency of 49.12Hz, highest voltage recorded was 372KV, while lowest voltage recorded on the same day was 300KV.<br /> <br /> The TCN had on August 28 sent 2,766MB to the distribution companies. The lowest energy generation on the day under review was 2,520MW, while highest generation was 3,502MW.

Power supply in Nigeria now 3,061Mw

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday sent out 3,061megawatts (Mw) of electricity generated by the electricity generation c...

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Price of cement shoots up to to N2,300/bag

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XIf79avUunI/V8YtHxSMFFI/AAAAAAACoRg/8u_1_jmOF5kLKmrDAvMavmeJocFTmqe-QCLcB/s640/cement.jpg" width="640" /></div> <br /> The price of cement yesterday rose to N2,300 in Lagos and other parts of the country.<br /> <br /> Before the hike, a bag of cement costs about N1, 600 marking over 35 per cent rise in the cost of the raw material used in the building and construction industry.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Reacting to the development, 2nd Vice President Vice President, Nigeria Institute of Building (NIOB), Mr. Kunle Awobodu said the increase may have been as a result of cost of production and the devaluation of the naira.<br /> <br /> He lamented that with the hike, the cost of construction will increase while the need for cost variation in all ongoing contracts and abandonment of projects may become inevitable, adding that it may also discourage people from embarking on new projects.<br /> <br /> He said: “Clients, contractors and quantity surveyors may have disagreements due to price variations. New price on old contracts in a competitive bidding may eventually lead to sub-standardisation in construction.”<br /> <br /> A cement distributor in Arepo, Ogun State said the new price came as a surprise, adding that it many have been occasioned by the current economic down-turn. Another distributor at Ajah area of Lagos, Mr. Kunle Salami said he has stopped his requests for more supplies as he is not sure of his customers reactions.<br /> <br /> He decried the increase and urged the government to intervene either in terms of policy for the manufacturing sector or the provision of constant electricity in order for them to thrive.

Price of cement shoots up to to N2,300/bag

The price of cement yesterday rose to N2,300 in Lagos and other parts of the country. Before the hike, a bag of cement costs about N1, ...

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Ondo Election: INEC disowns Jimoh Ibrahim as PDP flagbearer

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R43k1aV2w8g/V8YsCydCM4I/AAAAAAACoRY/YjA0PNQzSjAg7vDOnQh5YZ71h1AOGsKJACLcB/s1600/jimoh%2Bibrahim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R43k1aV2w8g/V8YsCydCM4I/AAAAAAACoRY/YjA0PNQzSjAg7vDOnQh5YZ71h1AOGsKJACLcB/s320/jimoh%2Bibrahim.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disowned the Ondo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary organised by the Ali Modu Sheriff’s faction.<br /> <br /> The primary was moved to Ibadan, Oyo State capital, following a court order, which restrained the Sheriff’s faction from conducting the primary.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> At the end of the primary, businessman Jimoh Ibrahim was declared as the faction’s governorship candidate for the November 26 election.<br /> <br /> The Igbotako-born politician’s nomination did not get the approval of the electoral body.<br /> <br /> INEC was absent at the primary, which, therefore, nullified the process.<br /> <br /> Confirming INEC’s absence, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, said the electoral body stands by the candidate produced by the Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led PDP National Caretaker Committee.<br /> <br /> Oyekanmi, in a telephone interview with The Nation, said INEC was not represented at the Ibadan primary.<br /> <br /> He cited the confusion thrown up by different court orders, saying at the end, the commission will take a decision in line with the rule of law.<br /> <br /> He said: “For the activity that Ali Modu Sheriff faction did yesterday, we did not monitor. I can also confirm that.<br /> <br /> “It is still the Makarfi candidate for now. As I said, I understand there is another court judgment today, and we are still waiting for details. But as I speak, the situation is still as before. But when we receive a superior court order, we will adjust.<br /> <br /> “If you are talking about the activity they had yesterday, we did not monitor that because of the subsisting court orders. So, of course, I understand that another court judgment took place today, but we were yet to be served.<br /> <br /> “So, I cannot give you any detail on that. We have been discussing with our legal team and they said we have not been served. I don’t also have the full information and we are also still waiting.<br /> <br /> “I just want you to note something that whatever action we take, we are not interested in A or B faction. We just want to follow the rule of law.<br /> <br /> “We have been getting contradictory orders and these things are a bit confusing.<br /> <br /> “When we get such order, our legal team looks at them and we take the most appropriate action that aligns us with the rule of law. It will be a mistake to say INEC is taking sides. We are not interested in either Makarfi or Sheriff. It is what the court tells us to do; the order we are given is what we will obey.”

Ondo Election: INEC disowns Jimoh Ibrahim as PDP flagbearer

THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disowned the Ondo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary orga...

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EFCC probes Ebonyi governor’s brother over N400m poll cash

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xHv4Xqben9Y/V8YrucBpL_I/AAAAAAACoRU/O27Hq1GoRzkqa36gvyVbJmhr5XxX044EQCLcB/s400/EFCC%2Blogo.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> Detectives are probing Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi’s brother, Austine Umahi, and two others over DN400million slush funds linked to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2015 presidential campaign.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The others are Chinyere Egwuche and Mabel Dikibo.<br /> <br /> Part of the cash has been traced to some companies in which the governor allegedly has interest.<br /> <br /> An Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) top source, who spoke in confidence, said the suspects were interrogated on Monday and released.<br /> <br /> The source said: “The suspects, who are all employees of Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Limited and Osborn La-Palm Royal Resort, were arrested, following their refusal to collect and honour an invitation by the EFCC for questioning in an ongoing investigation involving the companies.<br /> <br /> Austin Umahi doubles as the chairman of both companies. Chinyere Egwuche and Marbel Dikibo are signatories to the companies’ accounts.<br /> <br /> An EFCC source said: “Investigations by the Commission revealed that N400, 000, 000 was released by the Director of Finance, PDP Presidential Campaign Organization, Senator Nenadi Usman, to PDP Ebonyi State, for the 2015 presidential election, but the said fund was moved from Fidelity Bank Abakaliki on the 27th of March 2015, where it was initially deposited to an Access Bank Abakaliki account.<br /> <br /> “From Access Bank, Maxwell Umahi moved N100, 000,000 and N300, 000,000 into the accounts of Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Limited and Osborn La-Palm Royal Resort respectively.<br /> <br /> ”One of the suspects, Chinyere Egwuche, withdrew the N300 million paid into the account of Osborn La-Palm, which according to her was used to finance further construction of Osborn La-Palm Hotels in Abakaliki, Uburu and Port – Harcourt.<br /> <br /> The source, who pleaded not to be named so as not to jeopadise the investigation, confirmed that part of the funds was remitted into David Umahi Faith Foundation.<br /> <br /> The source added: “The N100 million paid into the account of Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Limited was transferred to a certain David Umahi Faith Foundation.<br /> <br /> “ Though investigation is still ongoing, the companies have been traced to the Ebonyi State Governor.<br /> <br /> “We are working on clues that the N400 million was diverted into personal use after it was received from the ex-Minister of Finance.”<br /> <br /> Responding to a question, the source added: “All the suspects have been detained pending the conclusion of preliminary investigation and administrative bail.”<br /> <br /> Umahi last night denied being arrested.<br /> <br /> Mr Umahi, the National Vice Chairman, South East of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a telephone conversation with our reporter, said no time was he arrested by the Commission.<br /> <br /> He described the reports as the handiwork of detractors.<br /> <br /> “I wasn’t arrested, there is nothing like that. Will I be arrested and I am picking my calls and talking to you. It is trash, nothing like that happened”.<br /> <br /> “What did they even say I did. I am just hearing it for the first time right now from you. I will advise that people should properly investigate before writing their reports,” he said.<br /> <br /> A top government official in his brother’s administration who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to react officially, said Mr Austin Umahi was in his Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area country home.<br /> <br /> “I saw him yesterday (Monday) in Uburu, so when did this arrest take place?” the source said.

EFCC probes Ebonyi governor’s brother over N400m poll cash

Detectives are probing Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi’s brother, Austine Umahi, and two others over DN400million slush funds linked to...

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Court refuses to stop Kashamu’s arrest

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LEI5eB7qAhs/V8YoLlhrX-I/AAAAAAACoQ4/m_kuJU0dnb8EAgbu28fm3EFP6zL4ZyO4wCLcB/s400/Buruji-Kashamu.png" width="400" /></div> <br /> <br /> A Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday declined to grant an order sought by Senator Buruji Kashamu to restrain the Department of State Service (DSS) and the Police from arresting him.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Kashamu, a senator representing Ogun East, had through his lawyer, Godswill Mrakpor, filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit and accompanied it with a motion ex-parte for injunction.<br /> <br /> He had sought to restrain the respondents from taking steps to arrest him pending the determination of the substantive suit.<br /> <br /> Yesterday, Justice Okon Abang declined to grant an ex-parte injunction.<br /> <br /> Instead, the judge ordered that the respondents be served with the motion and for them to attend court on the next adjourned date to show cause why Kashamu’s prayers, as contained in the ex-parte application, should not be granted.<br /> <br /> The senator, in a supporting affidavit, stated that the security agencies are acting based on a “politically motivated petition” authored by one Oladikupo Adebutu from Ogun State.<br /> <br /> Kashamu, in a statement, said: “This extant suit relates to a frivolous petition written against Senator Kashamu by a member of the House of Representatives from Ogun State, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, in which he made all manner of unfounded allegations and requested the security agencies to take certain steps that could inhibit the fundamental human rights of the senator.<br /> <br /> “It was in a bid to forestall an infringement on his rights to freedom of movement and association that Senator Kashamu filed the Fundamental Human Rights Enforcement suit in court.<br /> <br /> “When the matter came up today (Tuesday), the court granted Senator Kashamu’s application to be heard during vacation and to serve the processes on one of the defendants outside jurisdiction.”<br /> <br /> While the court refrained from making any preservatory order as canvassed by, the senator’s counsel, Mr. Godswill Mrakpor, it urged parties to observe the principle of lis pendens which enjoins parties not to take any steps in respect of a pending action in court. That could not in any way be rightly interpreted to mean refusal of an application to stop anyone’s extradition because there is no such application in the first place.”

Court refuses to stop Kashamu’s arrest

A Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday declined to grant an order sought by Senator Buruji Kashamu to restrain the Department of State S...

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Father of triplets begs Governor Ambode for support

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M-n7MWiuPls/V8Yn8fnLQ6I/AAAAAAACoQw/6rtT3l6_5OEVAkAtKd4Z8dTI__igdabBQCLcB/s1600/ambode%2Bsad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M-n7MWiuPls/V8Yn8fnLQ6I/AAAAAAACoQw/6rtT3l6_5OEVAkAtKd4Z8dTI__igdabBQCLcB/s320/ambode%2Bsad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> A barber, Mr Nurudeen Nofiu, whose wife, Sola was delivered of triplets in June has appealed to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Nigerians to come to his family’s aid.<br /> <br /> According to Nofiu, the triplets, all males, were delivered at the Lagos Island Maternity in Lagos on June 1.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> But what is supposed to be a source of joy for the family is turning into a nightmare for Nofiu because of financial constraints.<br /> <br /> Nofiu, who already has a male child before the triplets is finding it difficult to cope with the upkeep of the children.<br /> <br /> Speaking with some journalists at Alausa on Monday, Nofiu said: “I work as a barber and my wife is a petty trader. It is extremely difficult for us to take proper care of the triplet and their mother financially with what we earn from our businesses.<br /> <br /> “We wrote a letter to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in Alausa, Ikeja on June 22, soliciting for their assistance both morally and financially,” he said.<br /> <br /> Nofiu added that he got a call from the ministry towards the end of July requesting to know the occupation of his wife, saying that he told them that she works as a petty trader, and that he has not heard anything from the ministry since then.<br /> <br /> According to him, the triplet do not have access to basic things of life and his wife has been finding it difficult to care for them all alone because the family could not afford to pay extra hands to take care of the babies.<br /> <br /> He said: “I would be glad if the Governor Ambode and other well meaning residents of the state could come to our aid at this time of need.<br /> <br /> “My income is too meagre to sustain the family. All the efforts I have made have not paid off and we seriously need extra support so that the children would not die.”<br /> <br /> The parents of the child can be reached on 08023863014 or 08038274440. While donations can be paid into account number 0038122390, Access Bank.

Father of triplets begs Governor Ambode for support

A barber, Mr Nurudeen Nofiu, whose wife, Sola was delivered of triplets in June has appealed to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Nigerians t...

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25.3 million Nigerians out of school – FG

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sM89jvJzPyc/V8YnjCoHmSI/AAAAAAACoQs/GqtgwtxQOn4Zqt17PNFF_V_DLk2oHkFsQCLcB/s400/School-children%2Bnigerian%2Bkids.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> The Federal Government on Monday said about 25.3 million Nigerian children and youths are out of school across the country.<br /> <br /> To reduce this figure, the government said it plans to enrol about 2. 9 million pupils annually in four years to reduce the figure of out-of-school children in Nigeria.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Nigeria currently has the highest number of out-of-school children in the world with 11. 4 million out – of – school children out of the 20 million worldwide.<br /> <br /> Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, said 60 per cent of the 11.4 million out-of-school children in Nigeria are girls.<br /> <br /> Adamu, who said this at the presentation of “Education for change: a Ministerial Strategic Plan (2016-2019) to stakeholders in Abuja, said only 3.1 million or 17 per cent nomadic children of school-age had access to basic education despite decades of intervention.<br /> He therefore said government would urgently raise the national Net Enrolment Rate (NER) to ensure that are enrolled in basic education schools in the next four years.<br /> <br /> The Minister said: “About 25.3 million students at all levels of education are out- of- school in the country.<br /> <br /> “Nigeria has the highest number of out of school children in the world with 11. 4 million out- of-school children of the 20 million worldwide. These include the girl-child, Almajiri-child, children of nomadic pastoralists and migrant fishermen and more recently the children displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency.<br /> <br /> “60% of the 11.4 million out-of-school children in Nigeria are girls. Only a fraction (17%) of the 3.1 million nomadic children of school-age has access to basic education despite decades of intervention. Similarly, only a small proportion of the FME’s 20120 estimate of 9.5 million Almajiri children have access to any form of basic education.<br /> <br /> “An increasing number of displaced children (1 million) are being forced out of school in the insurgency-stricken states. These figures suggest that the educational process has given these groups of marginalized children very little access to education.<br /> <br /> “For the 11.4 million out-of-school children the most urgent concern is raising the national Net Enrolment Rate (NER) to ensure that all of them are enrolled in basic education schools in the next four years. To achieve this target, the government planes to enrol, 2, 875,000 pupils annually for the next four years.<br /> <br /> “The FME will come up with more effective strategies for engaging with states in addressing the problem of escalating numbers of out-of-school children including where necessary, the use of targeted funding that deliberately addresses the factors of exclusion.”<br /> <br /> Adamu said the government would renovate the schools destroyed by Boko Haram and construct additional 71, 875 classrooms annually for the next four years to accommodate the pupils.<br /> <br /> The minister also said the government would provide additional 71, 875 qualified teachers through the deployment of the 14 per cent of the new teachers to be recruited by the federal government annually to cater for the anticipated increase in pupils’ enrolment.<br /> <br /> “The government will renovate the schools destroyed by Boko Haram and construct additional 71, 875 classrooms annually for the next four years to accommodate the anticipated increase in enrollment of out-of-school children.<br /> <br /> “Provide additional 71, 875 qualified teachers through the deployment of the 14% of the new teachers to be recruited by the federal government annually to cater for the anticipated increase in pupils’ enrolment.<br /> <br /> “Raise the current enrolment of girls in the basic education schools by 1.5 million girls annually for the next four years if the 6 million girls currently out of school are to be provided with access to basic education as required by the UBE law.<br /> <br /> “Deploy 37, 500 qualified female teachers, (or 7.5% of the 500,000 new teachers to be recruited by the federal government annually), to serve as role models for female pupils/students; and determine the amount of resources in terms of the learning materials and other facilities, as specified in UBEC’s school norms and standards, required for training the Education For All (EFA) goals,” he added.<br /> <br /> Earlier, Minister of State for Education, Prof. Anthony Anwukah, said the education sector needed strengthening for Nigeria to meet goal four of the SDG.<br /> <br /> According to Anwukah, the efficient and effective implementation of the Strategic Plan when finalized by all levels of governments and stakeholders would offer Nigerians the means to optimize opportunities, create solutions and find new paths to a better future.<br /> <br /> He said: “For Nigeria to meet the targets of the SDG 4, the education sector needs strengthening, our dilapidated schools must be provided with befitting infrastructure to become learner-friendly for all learners, including girls, the vulnerable and those with special needs.<br /> <br /> “We must recruit and re-train existing teachers for quality delivery. Every child, girl or boy must not only enroll in school but must complete the full cycle of basic education and must be seen to learn. Our tertiary institutions must be citadels of learning that foster innovation to meet the needs of the workforce, strengthen research capacities and advance knowledge by increasing higher education opportunities for young people.<br /> <br /> “It is important also to say that education for change must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet the needs of their own times.”

25.3 million Nigerians out of school – FG

The Federal Government on Monday said about 25.3 million Nigerian children and youths are out of school across the country. To reduce t...

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Fulani herdsman arrested with AK-47 rifle, ammunition in Enugu

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vGpI_gOT1yo/V8YnM4ehDzI/AAAAAAACoQk/5Js2c-7QjoAM0G9Mviy7LJLbfiSnatm_ACLcB/s1600/police%2Blogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vGpI_gOT1yo/V8YnM4ehDzI/AAAAAAACoQk/5Js2c-7QjoAM0G9Mviy7LJLbfiSnatm_ACLcB/s1600/police%2Blogo.jpg" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old herdsman, Ibrahim Adamumale, for alleged possession of an AK-47 rifle.<br /> <br /> The suspect, who claimed to be an indigene of Nasarawa State, was also found with 24 rounds of live ammunition.<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> Police spokesman Ebere Amaraizu confirmed the arrest to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday.<br /> <br /> He said the suspect, who claimed to live at Hausa quarters in 9th-Mile area and had some cows at Affa-Udi bush, was arrested on Sunday.<br /> <br /> Amaraizu said: “The suspect was nabbed by the combine efforts of the police and the members of the public from Affa-Udi community acting on a tip-off.<br /> <br /> “The suspect before he was nabbed had expended about six shots on the air to evade being nabbed.<br /> <br /> “Before now, the police and members of the public have gathered information about the suspect’s antecedents in relation to bearing of sophisticated weapon within Affa-Udi axis in Udi council area and its environs.”<br /> <br /> The police spokesman said the suspect was helping the police in their investigation to determine how he got the rifle.<br /> <br /> He said Police Commissioner Emmanuel Ojukwu had expressed delight at the effort of his men and the community, which led to the arrest of the suspect.<br /> <br /> He said: “The commissioner has reassured that he will continue to partner relevant stakeholders and sister security agencies for a safe, secure and peaceful Enugu State.”

Fulani herdsman arrested with AK-47 rifle, ammunition in Enugu

The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old herdsman, Ibrahim Adamumale, for alleged possession of an AK-47 rifle. The su...

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APC urges large turnout as Buhari visits Osun

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4OBwHW0Nc-M/V8YmynPhJVI/AAAAAAACoQg/CutmwMYWpZQ94X5pkJ6tZEFXOWD-GkfXACLcB/s1600/APC-LOGO-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4OBwHW0Nc-M/V8YmynPhJVI/AAAAAAACoQg/CutmwMYWpZQ94X5pkJ6tZEFXOWD-GkfXACLcB/s400/APC-LOGO-17.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Osun State All Progressives Congress Chairman Prince Gboyega Famodun has urged residents to come out enmasse to welcome President Muhammadu Buhari, who will be visiting the state tomorrow.<br /> <br /> In a statement issued yesterday in Osogbo , the party chairman said the citizenry have a duty to support the President in his effort to clean up the country of corruption.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> He added that corruption is the cause of the economic collapse that has brought hardship to the majority of the citizenry.<br /> <br /> According to Famodun, Osun joined the rest of Nigerians to vote massively for change and the people’s hope that the President would effect change remain unshaken in spite of the difficult challenges that economic recession poses.<br /> <br /> “We in Osun are not in any doubt that a bright future lies ahead for the state under the Presidency of Muhammadu Buhari and his team, who are working tirelessly to reverse the economic downturn that has hit Nigeria so badly, especially Osun State.<br /> <br /> “Since the APC came to power, Osun has experienced revolutionary changes in human capital development, educational renewal, commercial expansion, agricultural invigoration, massive youth employment and empowerment, including environmental sanitation like no other time in Osun’s history,” the chairman asserted.<br /> <br /> He urged the President to see for himself the progress that has been made in Osun under the leadership of “our visionary governor, Rauf Aregbesola.<br /> <br /> Famodun called on the President to do all he can to help lighten the state’s burden, which, he said, “is among the worst hit by the country’s economic difficulties”.

APC urges large turnout as Buhari visits Osun

Osun State All Progressives Congress Chairman Prince Gboyega Famodun has urged residents to come out enmasse to welcome President Muhammad...

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'Boko Haram now ready for peace' - Mama Boko Haram says

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zMsXzSQ6ydU/V8YmDDXzZxI/AAAAAAACoQY/4P1zUD9OPXkf7R3ijKH2Iq5qlqyMzENggCLcB/s1600/Hajiya-Aisha-Wakil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zMsXzSQ6ydU/V8YmDDXzZxI/AAAAAAACoQY/4P1zUD9OPXkf7R3ijKH2Iq5qlqyMzENggCLcB/s320/Hajiya-Aisha-Wakil.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> Hajiya Aisha Wakil, who is believed to be close to the Boko Haram leadership, says the group is ready for talks with the Federal Government on the fate of the 219 missing Chibok girls.<br /> <br /> She said yesterday that she had been on the neck of the Boko Haram leaders, who according to her offered to honour her to dialogue with the government and release the girls and other captives.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The group’s leadership might soon make a pronouncement on their plan for the girls, she said.<br /> <br /> Hajiya Aisha, who spoke with our correspondent on the phone, said she expected the Boko Haram leaders to come out and discuss with the government.<br /> <br /> She said: “Since I came back, I have been on their neck. They have now agreed to come out and discuss with the government and bring back the girls.<br /> <br /> “I am for the Chibok girls and all the captives. They are ready for peace. This is what they told me.”<br /> <br /> Although Hajiya Aisha was not forthcoming on the imminent release of the girls, whose abduction has sparked a global outrage, she said: “I think they might post some information on YouTube within 24 hours.”<br /> <br /> The Army on August 14 declared Hajiya Aisha and two others wanted for interrogation in line with the Terrorism Prevention Act 2011 (as amended).<br /> <br /> The others are a journalist, Ahmed Salkida, and Amb. Ahmed Umar Bolori.<br /> <br /> But Aisha has maintained her innocence, claiming that she is not a shady personality.<br /> <br /> In a reaction to the Army’s statement, she had said: “I am Aisha Alkali Wakil. I understand that the military declared me, Ahmed Silkida and Ahmed Bolori wanted for having links with Boko Haram. It’s interesting; now they believe me?<br /> <br /> “I know the Boko Haram boys. I have been in front fighting for peace long before Chibok girls were kidnapped. Nigerian security knows me too well. I’m not shady. Why declaring me wanted?<br /> <br /> “I have had meetings with Chief of Army Staff and his people. I told them the way forward, to allow me come with some commanders of Boko Haram and discuss with them, present the release of CBGs but they chose to do things their own ways only and never gave considerations to any of my suggestions.<br /> <br /> “I want to inform the Nigerian people of my innocence and make them realise that I am in constant relation with the security personnel and they know where to find me but wonder why I had to be declared wanted on national news, even mentioning my husband’s name alongside.<br /> <br /> “This has put my immediate and extended family under a lot of pressure and I do not deserve this from the Nigerian government.<br /> <br /> “Though they may not appreciate all my efforts to proffer peaceful solutions to the menace of Boko Haram, my name should not be mudslinged nor my character defamed. Thank you.”<br /> <br /> President Muhammadu Buhari, in an interview with reporters on the sideline of the sixth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD VI) in Nairobi, Kenya last weekend, said the government was ready to dialogue with bonafide leaders of the group who know the whereabouts of the girls.<br /> <br /> A statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, quoted Buhari as saying: ‘‘I have made a couple of comments on the Chibok girls and it seems to me that much of it has been politicized.<br /> <br /> ‘‘What we said is that the government which I preside over is prepared to talk to bonafide leaders of Boko Haram.<br /> <br /> ‘‘If they do not want to talk to us directly, let them pick an internationally recognized Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), convince them that they are holding the girls and that they want Nigeria to release a number of Boko Haram leaders in detention, which they are supposed to know.<br /> <br /> ‘‘If they do it through the ‘modified leadership’ of Boko Haram and they talk with an internationally recognized NGO, then Nigeria will be prepared to discuss for their release.”

'Boko Haram now ready for peace' - Mama Boko Haram says

Hajiya Aisha Wakil, who is believed to be close to the Boko Haram leadership, says the group is ready for talks with the Federal Governme...

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Nigerians excited as Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg visits Lagos

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fenXz2AxXC0/V8YloCA0LUI/AAAAAAACoQU/ie9xu6wJ6EkqR3TTIpjhVzMcHjylLhyBgCLcB/s400/Zuckerberg-with-children-at-summer-camp-in-Yaba-yesterday.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> <br /> Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook – the largest social media network – yesterday paid his first visit to sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria, his destination, has the largest mobile and internet market on the continent.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The youthful American billionaire and Internet entrepreneur, who arrived in Lagos, is in the country to meet members of startup ecosystem – a large group of entrepreneurs and innovative young Nigerians. Zuckerberg announced the visit via his personal Facebook page, saying he was ready to interact with Nigerian innovators and learn about their business ideas.<br /> <br /> Zuckerberg wrote on his wall: “Next stop: Lagos! This is my first trip to sub-Saharan Africa. I’ll be meeting with developers and entrepreneurs, and learning about the startup ecosystem in Nigeria. The energy here is amazing and I’m excited to learn as much as I can.”<br /> <br /> Zuckerberg yesterday visited Co-creation Hub Nigeria (CcHUB), a multi- technological ecosystem based in Yaba, Lagos Mainland. He interacted with children on summer coding camp.<br /> <br /> He wrote: “Our first stop is the Co-creation Hub Nigeria (CcHUB) in Yaba. I got to talk to kids at a summer coding camp and entrepreneurs who come to CcHub to build and launch their apps. I’m looking forward to meeting more people here!”<br /> <br /> Zuckerberg’s visit generated online buzz and excitement among technology-savvy youths, who expressed views that the billionaire’s visit would give the nation’s youth entrepreneurship market a facelift.<br /> <br /> Last night, the Facebook founder met with Ms Rosemary Njoku, initiator of Facebook Express Wi-Fi stand in Lagos.<br /> <br /> Express Wi-Fi, Zuckerberg said, empowers entrepreneurs to build a business by providing their community with access to the internet. He said Facebook designed the technology, but local Internet providers provided the connectivity.<br /> <br /> In less than 30 minutes after Zuckerberg shared the post announcing his Nigeria’s visit, more than 60,000 youths made comments, liked and shared the post. This was an indication of excitement among the youth to learn of the Facebook founder’s visit.<br /> <br /> Before his visit, Zuckerberg had made positive comments about Nigeria’s entrepreneurs. He particularly mentioned founders of Jobberman, an online job market classified.<br /> <br /> CNN quoted Zuckerberg to have said: “I’m excited to see what Nigerians build next.”<br /> <br /> Facebook is in partnership with Airtel Africa to execute Internet.org, an initiative which will allow Nigerians access to news, health information and other services without having to pay for data on their mobile devices.

Nigerians excited as Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg visits Lagos

Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook – the largest social media network – yesterday paid his first visit to sub-Saharan Africa. Niger...

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Boko Haram: Kids battle malnutrition in IDPs camp

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4eCpovNFw3I/V8YkuF9vnxI/AAAAAAACoQM/K2HrruRvvtk5kvpRDF9uL6jpebvG1rM_QCLcB/s1600/hungry%2Bstrave%2Bafrican%2Bkids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4eCpovNFw3I/V8YkuF9vnxI/AAAAAAACoQM/K2HrruRvvtk5kvpRDF9uL6jpebvG1rM_QCLcB/s320/hungry%2Bstrave%2Bafrican%2Bkids.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br /> Children who escaped the terror of Boko Haram are now facing starvation in Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs) camps.<br /> <br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The youngsters, some of them only infants, are being treated in a feeding centre run by Doctors Without Borders in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, according to a report by The Mail of London.<br /> <br /> Up to one in four of the youngsters in the 110-bed centre are dying, Doctors Without Borders spokeswoman Shaista Aziz was quoted by the newspaper in a report published yesterday.<br /> <br /> Most of the children were brought from the IDPs camps, she added.<br /> <br /> Parents living in the camps complain that there is not enough food, and when it does arrive, it is insubstantial.<br /> <br /> Dr Natalie Roberts, deputy emergency desk manager for the medical aid group, said the feeding programme in Maiduguri “has quadrupled in size in the last weeks, but each time it expands it becomes rapidly full’.<br /> <br /> In one camp, Muna Garage, 20 children under the age of five died in a single week.<br /> <br /> At Farm Centre Camp, on Maiduguri’s outskirts, residents said they had received no food in more than one month.<br /> <br /> They and displaced persons at other camps said that when they do get meals, it consists only of rice and beans. They get one shovelful a day – literally delivered from a shovel – whether a household has six people or 12, they said.

Boko Haram: Kids battle malnutrition in IDPs camp

Children who escaped the terror of Boko Haram are now facing starvation in Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs) camps. The youngsters,...

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Treasury Looters: Nigeria, Britain join forces

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V1PqNRatM_4/V8Ykihl8xUI/AAAAAAACoQI/A-62ohtscPM5GnpHvaOvKFJuNVYGwZX1ACLcB/s400/nigeria%2Buk%2Bflags.jpg" width="400" /></div> <br /> Looters who plan to hide their illicit wealth in Britain will face a hostile host, with the signing yesterday of a pact by the two countries.<br /> <br /> Britain will facilitate the return of stolen assets on the condition that:<br /> <a name='more' id="more"></a><br /> <br /> The Federal Government will ensure that stolen assets recovered from both within and outside the country will be put to judicious uses; and that such assets will not be re-looted.<br /> <br /> Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami (SAN) signed for Nigeria. Minister of State for Immigration Robert Goodwill signed for Britain. The ceremony was held in Abuja.<br /> <br /> The memorandum of understanding is specifically on modalities for the return of stolen assets.<br /> <br /> Malami, who praised Britain for its willingness to cooperate with Nigeria in recovery and return of stolen assets, said the Federal Government will endeavour to prevent further looting of the nation’s wealth.<br /> <br /> The AGF, who frowned at alleged moves by some “individuals to use the process of asset recovery to create reputational damage for the government,” said all measures adopted since he assumed office in November last year have been aimed at “effective and efficient assets recovery.”<br /> <br /> He said: “Today, we are determined to change the narrative, regardless of who is involved. I want to assure the international community that all funds recovered within and outside Nigeria would be judiciously utilised for projects that will benefit the poorest segment of the Nigerian society as well as enable us support reform in the justice sector.<br /> <br /> “The position of the law in Nigeria today is that all funds recovered should be paid directly into the Consolidated Revenue Account. Unfortunately, that has not always been the case under the previous administration,” he said.<br /> <br /> The AGF said the Muhammadu Buhari administration was committed to enacting laws, including the Proceeds of Crime Bill, to strengthen existing anti-corruption institutions, prosecution authorities and law enforcement agencies.<br /> <br /> Leader of the UK delegation and UK’s Minister of State for Immigration, Robert Goodwill said the signing of the memorandum was in furtherance of his country’s promise, at the last Anti-Corruption summit held in London in May, to improve the process of the return of looted assets.<br /> <br /> He said by this gesture, his country’s government was sending a loud message to all that the UK was no longer a safe haven for stolen assets, including looted funds.<br /> <br /> Goodwill, who was silent on the worth of Nigeria’s looted assets currently in his country, said the UK government was “committed to return all funds looted from the Nigerian State and we are keen to do this as soon as the necessary procedures allow.”<br /> <br /> He said aside the UK, 40 other jurisdictions, including British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies are willing to automatically share beneficial ownership information relating to companies, trusts, foundations, she’ll companies and other relevant entities and legal arrangements.<br /> <br /> Goodwill, a Member of Parliament (MP), said: “This MoU provides the mechanism by which monies can be returned. Our ability to recover and return stolen assets should send a clear message to all, who may seek to harbour such assets overseas, that there is no safe haven in the UK.”<br /> <br /> The UK has been returning frozen Nigerian cash stashed away in their country.<br /> <br /> Money seized from former Bayelsa State Governor tehe late Diepreiye Alamieyeseigha and former Plateau State Governor Joshua Dariye and former Delta State Governor James Ibori, who is serving a jail term in Britain following money laundering conviction, has been released to the federal government.<br /> <br /> A former Minister of Petroleum Resources Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke is being investigated for money laundering in the UK.<br /> <br /> Britain has returned to Nigeria 250,000 pounds – the cash seized from the senator- during his arrest, when Acting British High Commissioner to Nigeria James Tansley, handed over two cheques totalling more than $250,000 (£126,000, 29.3m naira).<br /> <br /> A further $2.8m of his assets have been frozen by a court order and are awaiting repatriation to Nigeria.<br /> <br /> In all, Mr Dariye faces charges of stealing some $128m from Plateau State during his tenure as governor from 1999-2007.<br /> <br /> One cheque for $2m belonging to the late Alamieyeseigha has already been returned to Nigeria.

Treasury Looters: Nigeria, Britain join forces

Looters who plan to hide their illicit wealth in Britain will face a hostile host, with the signing yesterday of a pact by the two countr...

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