Nigerian Gossip

Okorocha congratulates Oyegun, others for tenure extension

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Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo has described extension of the tenure for the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Mr John Oyegun as a `welcome development’ for the party. 
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Okorocha, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Sam Onwuemeodo, also congratulated state and local government chairmen of the party whose tenure were extended alongside Oyegun. 
 
He said that the action would not have been possible without the able leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, APC governors and other critical stakeholders. 
 
He said that Oyegun and his team had been challenged by the extension arrangement to do more work and ensure everybody was carried along. 
 
Okorocha also debunked the speculations that he was against the tenure extension. 
 
According to him, I Gov. Rochas Okorocha has received the news making the round that I am against the tenure extension. 
 
“I want to say emphatically that I was never against tenure extension and it would not have been achieved without the support of governors and other stakeholders,” he said. 
 
Okorocha added that the speculations of his being in opposition to the extension were being sponsored by those against his government and urged them to refrain from such evil attitude.</div>

Okorocha congratulates Oyegun, others for tenure extension

Gov. Rochas Okorocha of Imo has described extension of the tenure for the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Mr John Oyegu...

$2bn needed to revive Lagos-Kano rail line - Osinbajo

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Nigeria’s Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo on Wednesday said at least $2billion would be required to revive the Lagos-Kano Rail Line as part of efforts to boost local and international trade along the Northern and Southern zones. 
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Osinbajo, who spoke at the opening of the inaugural edition of the Lagos-Kano Economic and Investment Summit held at the Jubilee Chalets in Epe, Lagos, said the Federal Government in partnership with a private firm, General Electric (GE) is already proposing to invest in the project to enhance the movement of cargo from Apapa ports to Kano via the rail line. 
 
Commending the Lagos and Kano State Governors for creating a platform to collaborate for economic growth, Osinbajo expressed optimism that such initiatives would open up the investment opportunities that abound in both States to would-be investors both locally and internationally. 
 
“I believe that Lagos and Kano States have by this collaboration underscored the cornerstone of the Federal Government’s economic recovery and growth plan, namely the leveraging of synergies among States and between government and the private sector. 
 
“The strategic role of the federal government is of course to create an enabling environment for commerce beginning with the provision of infrastructure. 
 
“For us, what this meant especially in the context of Lagos and Kano collaboration is the refurbishing of the narrow gauge Lagos to Kano Rail with a concession to General Electric who are proposing to invest almost $2billion to ensure that the rail route is effective for movement of cargo from Apapa port to Kano. 
 
“Similarly, we are investing in the Lagos to Kano standard gauge line, the Lagos Ibadan portion of that is expected to be ready by the end of this year. Also, we have budgeted N80billion for the development of special economic zones in the six geo-political zones of the country,” Osinbajo said. 
 
While reeling out plans by the Federal Government on power, the Vice President said arrangements have been firmed up to establish independent power projects to specifically service printers in Somolu area and traders in Sura Market. 
 
He said the Federal Government would keep a close tap on the decisions reached at the Summit and would use it direct its engagement with State Governments going forward. 
 
“Let me again commend Governors Ganduje and Ambode for this Summit. I want to commend Governor Ganduje for making the long journey to Lagos. I must also say that Governor Ambode deserves special mention for his foresightedness in establishing this collaboration, working with Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi on the famous LAKE Rice and even leasing land from Ogun State to grow rice which I think is another act of collaboration,” Osinbajo said. 
 
In his address, State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode said the decision of the State Government to join the Oodua Investment Group triggered what has evolved over the last two years to become a signpost for effective partnerships between Lagos and other States. 
 
He said with the current economic challenges facing the nation, there was no better time for States to begin to look beyond an oil driven economy and take advantage of their comparative advantages to engender economic growth. 
 
“We urge other States and Regions to begin to leverage on their respective areas of comparative advantage by establishing partnerships towards establishing an inter-state or inter-regional commodity value chain. 
 
“The idea of an intra and inter-regional trade and cooperation is not new to Lagos State. Over the past years, our State has collaborated with Kebbi and other states from within the western region to drive economic growth and development,” Governor Ambode said. 
 
He said the immediate aim of the strategic partnership with Kano is to produce about 80 per cent of Nigeria’s agro-allied inputs such as wheat, groundnut, onions, maize, millet, sorghum, sugar cane and beef, adding that a Memorandum of Understanding would be signed by both States at the end of the Summit to demonstrate commitment to the sustainability of the partnership. 
 
Also speaking, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje said his administration entered into the partnership with Lagos with a strong belief that it would create a veritable platform to drive home grown investments in the face of volatile global oil prices. 
 
“We need to redefine our investment climate and find alternative sources of financing critical sectors and projects as well as improve public service delivery,” he said. 
 
He said the State was looking towards effective partnership in Infrastructure, Agricultural Value Chain, Solid Minerals, ICT, Commence and Industry, medium and Small Scale Enterprises, Tourism, Governance and Institutions. 
 
On his part, president of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote commended the partnership between both States, just as he said that Lagos has clearly demonstrated its readiness for serious investments. 
 
“Lagos is more than ready for business. Our refinery, petrochemical, fertilizer and gas projects will generate N8trillion per annum for Nigeria when fully on stream.” he said.</div>

$2bn needed to revive Lagos-Kano rail line - Osinbajo

Nigeria’s Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo on Wednesday said at least $2billion would be required to revive the Lagos-Kano Rail Lin...

N3bn loot: Court grants Ex-NNPC boss, Yakubu medical leave abroad

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The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, on Wednesday, granted the former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Mr. Andrew Yakubu, leave to travel abroad for medical treatment. 
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Yakubu, who was GMD of the NNPC between 2012 and 2014, was accused of stashing over N3billion at his guest house in Kaduna State. 
 
He is answering to a six-count charge the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, preferred against him. 
 
At the resumed hearing, trial Justice Ahmed Mohammed granted an application dated February 26, wherein the defendant, through his lawyer, Mr. Ahmed Raji, SAN, begged the court to permit him to travel outside the country to undertake a routine medical check-up. 
 
EFCC’s lawyer, Mr. Ben Ikani told the court that he was not opposed the application. 
 
Consequently, further hearing on the case was adjourned till May 10, even we the court gave EFCC the nod to call more witnesses against the defendant. 
 
It will be recalled that the former NNPC boss was undergoing medical treatment in the United Kingdom when the EFCC, acting on a tip-off, raided his guest house situated at Sabon Tasha, Kaduna State, and recovered the alleged loot which was in foreign currencies. 
 
The anti-agency said it discovered the sum of $9.7million and £74,000 that Yakubu hid in a fireproof safe inside the house. 
 
The defendant who was granted N300million bail with two sureties in the like sum, earlier asked the high court to order EFCC to return the seized money to him, insisting that it was part of monetary gifts he received on various occasions. 
 
A Federal High Court in Kano had on February 13, 2017, granted interim order forfeiting the recovered monies to the federal government. 
 
FG had in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/ CR/ 43/ 2017, alleged that Yakubu failed to declare the money in the assets form he filed at the EFCC on August 18, 2015, and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 27(3) (a) of the EFCC (Establishment) Act 2004 and punishable under section 27(3) (c) of the same Act. 
 
In count three and four of the charge dated March 9, FG, alleged that Yakubu had between 2012 and 2014, without going through a financial institution, received cash payments of $9, 772, 800 and £74, 000, and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 1 of Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2012 and punishable under section 16(2) of the Act. 
 
In count five and six, FG alleged that Yakubu had with intent to avoid a lawful transaction under the law, transferred at various times in Kaduna, aggregate sums of $9,772, 800 and £74, 000, when he reasonably ought to know that the said funds formed part of the proceed of some form of unlawful activity and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 7(4) (b) (ii) of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006.</div>

N3bn loot: Court grants Ex-NNPC boss, Yakubu medical leave abroad

The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, on Wednesday, granted the former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum ...

PDP: APC woes, sign of Buhari’s failure

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 The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has chided the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, saying the outcome of the meeting showed that the APC is not a credible platform for Nigerians to aspire to elective offices. 
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The PDP also noted that the confusion, impunity and lawlessness in the APC has further exposed the failure of the Buhari-led Presidency, adding that as a result, Nigerians will vote in a new party in 2019. 
 
In a statement issued on Wednesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, said the APC has blown its chances having “Lost its soul and can no longer be reckoned with as a political party.” 
 
The party also alleged that a cabal in the Presidency has overthrown the APC constitution, suppressed dissenting voices and is now set to impose a dictatorial regime within its ranks, reminiscent of a military coup. 
 
“It is now certain that the APC is no longer a credible platform but an appropriated one, where only those anointed by the Presidency cabal can have the opportunity to aspire for any position within its ranks. The APC has been seized and is irredeemably damaged ahead of the 2019 general elections. 
 
“From the outcome of the Tuesday’s APC NEC meeting, it is clear that the party has finally collapsed, lost all democratic credentials and can no longer provide level playing ground for its members or even other Nigerians to freely aspire for any position of their choice, particularly, the Presidency, Governorship and National Assembly positions in the 2019 general elections. 
 
“Nigerians watched with rude shock as President Muhammadu Buhari, the African Union anti-corruption champion, directly superintended over the worst kind of corruption in a political party by overthrowing its constitution and democratic processes, all in the bid to shut out other contenders in the Presidential race; a development which further confirms that the President has lost popularity even in his own party. 
 
“We invite all to note that whereas the APC constitution provides for a four year tenure for officials of its organs and enshrined a re-election or reappointment at the expiration of the said tenure, the Buhari Presidency muzzled the APC NEC and imposed an illegal one year tenure extension for the Chief John Odigie-Oyegun-led National Working Committee, a fiat that is not provided for in the party’s constitution,” the statement read in part. 
 
According to publicity scribe, the lack of a functional Board of Trustees (BoT) largely accounts for the inability of the APC-led administration to act in delivering services to the people. 
 
“The APC is so dysfunctional that under the grip of the Presidency cabal, the party in contravention of its own constitution does not have a BOT which explains the reason it lacks conscience and failed completely in delivering good governance to the nation. 
 
“The confusion and lawlessness that were the hallmarks of the outcome of the APC caucus and NEC meeting signpost the failures inherent in the incompetent, blundering and corrupt Buhari-led administration which has brought so much hardship and violence to our dear nation,” the PDP further noted.</div>

PDP: APC woes, sign of Buhari’s failure

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has chided the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over its National Executive Committee (NEC) meet...

Ministers, FG officials frustrating 2018 budget - Senate

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The Senate has told Nigerians to blame members of President Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet and the ministries, departments and agencies under their portfolios for the delay in the passage of the 2018 Appropriation Bill by the National Assembly. 
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At the plenary on Wednesday, the upper chamber of the National Assembly decried that ministers and heads of Federal Government departments and agencies were allegedly frustrating legislative work on the budget proposal with their foreign trips and non-cooperation with the lawmakers. 
 
The Senate had on February 14, 2018, asked 63 agencies and parastatals under the Federal Government to submit details of their proposed 2018 budgets within one week or risk sanctions. 
 
Members of the chamber had decried that while President Muhammadu Buhari had complied with the law by laying the 2018 Appropriation Bill along with details of estimates before the lawmakers, agencies of the government had disregarded the law. 
 
On Wednesday, President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, asked the Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Appropriations of what was happening to the 2018 budget. 
 
Responding, Ogbuoji said, “Since January, the Appropriations Committee’s doors have been opened to receiving reports from the sub-committees but most of the sub-committees have a huge challenge with the MDAS because majority of the MDAS are not coming forward to interface with them. Some of the ministers will tell you that they are going outside the country and because of that, the MDAs are not fully ready. So, we don’t have the reports yet. 
 
“We believe that it is when the MDAs come forward that our colleagues will be able to finish with their work. Some of the committees are unable to do their work. When they (committees) screen what they (MDAs’) have brought, they will ask them to go back and work on them budgets and come back. But they don’t come back, and that is delaying the work on majority of the MDAs. That is why up till today, we don’t have completed report.” 
 
Reacting, Saraki said it was the intention of the lawmakers to complete the process as soon as possible. He asked the Majority Leader, Senator Ahmad Lawan, to communicate to the Executive “so that these MDAs and these ministers and heads of agencies can be told to play their part and ensure that this exercise can be completed.”</div>

Ministers, FG officials frustrating 2018 budget - Senate

The Senate has told Nigerians to blame members of President Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet and the ministries, departments and agencies under ...

Minister of Interior directs IGP, NSCDC boss to relocate to North East

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The Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, has directed the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris; and the Commandant-General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Abdullahi Muhammadu, to relocate to the North East. 
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The Presidency disclosed this on Wednesday in a series of messages posted on its Twitter handle, @NGRPresident. 
 
According to the message, the two security chiefs were asked to liaise with the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole as well as governors of the affected states to ensure deployment of personnel to all schools in liberated areas in Yobe, Borno and Adamawa States. 
 
“The Min of Interior has directed the IG of Police and the Commandant General of NSCDC to relocate to the northeast and liaise with the theatre commander of #OpLafiyaDole and Govs of Yobe, Borno & Adamawa to ensure deployment of personnel to all schools in liberated areas in the states,” one of the messages read. 
 
“The minister said that the directive has become necessary to forestall a re-occurrence of the attack on innocent school children,” another message read.</div>

Minister of Interior directs IGP, NSCDC boss to relocate to North East

The Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, has directed the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris; and the Commandant-General of...

Dapchi: Fayose indicts Buhari’s govt, says Boko Haram war now business

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Dapchi: Fayose indicts Buhari’s govt, says Boko Haram war now business

Senate to probe Yahaya Bello’s ‘double registration’

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Senate to probe Yahaya Bello’s ‘double registration’

Lolu and C-Cee in heated fight, risk disqualification

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The Big Brother Naija house was on fire today as Lolu and and the very controversial C-Cee engaged in a very heated fight, they also risked disqualification despite the fact that both of them are on two strikes each. 
 
Other housemates like Bam Bam, Cleo, Teddy A and others tried to intervene in the matter

Lolu and C-Cee in heated fight, risk disqualification

The Big Brother Naija house was on fire today as Lolu and and the very controversial C-Cee engaged in a very heated fight, they also ri...

Senate exposes those delaying passage of 2018 budget

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Senate exposes those delaying passage of 2018 budget

INEC chairman: I have passed the stage where I can be intimidated

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INEC chairman: I have passed the stage where I can be intimidated

2019: Oyegun’s tenure will affect APC, Buhari – Party chieftain, Timi Frank

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2019: Oyegun’s tenure will affect APC, Buhari – Party chieftain, Timi Frank

BBNaija: Bambam's parents furious after her toilet escapade, want her back home - Family friend

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BBNaija: Bambam's parents furious after her toilet escapade, want her back home - Family friend

Court orders final forfeiture of penthouses linked to Allison-Madueke

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A Federal High Court on Wednesday in Lagos ordered final forfeiture of two penthouses linked to a former Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke. 
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On December 5, 2017, Justice Mojisola Olatoregun ordered an interim forfeiture of the properties after an ex parte (without notice) application was argued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. 
 
EFCC’s application, marked FHC/L/CS/1793c/17, has as respondents Alison-Madueke, Donald Amagbo, Schillenburg LLC and Sequoyah Properties Ltd. 
 
The court had, on December 5, 2017, ordered an interim forfeiture of the following properties: “Penthouse 21, Building 5, Block C, 11 floor, Bella Vista, Banana Island, Ikoyi and Penthouse 22, Block B (Admiralty Estate) also in Ikoyi, be forfeited to the Federal Government, pending the conclusion of investigation.” 
 
When the case was called up on Wednesday, Mr. ABC Ozioko announced appearance for the EFCC, while Mr. Emmanuel Bassey appeared for the second, third, and fourth respondents. 
 
Addressing the court, Ozioko informed the court that he had a motion on notice brought pursuant to the provisions of the EFCC Act, the 1999 Constitution as well as under the inherent jurisdiction of the court. 
 
He urged the court to order a final forfeiture of the properties listed in the schedule. 
 
Relying on the depositions in the affidavit deposed to by one Abdulrasheed Bawa, Ozioko argued that it was now pertinent for a final forfeiture order to be made, following the interim orders made on December 5, 2017. 
 
He informed court that in compliance with the earlier orders of the court, the interim orders were advertised in The Nation newspaper of December 20, 2017. 
 
He urged the court to cause the said properties to be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government and an order prohibiting any disposal mortgage or sale of the said properties mentioned in the application. 
 
Besides, Ozioko also urged the court to authorise the EFCC to appoint a competent person or firm to manage the properties. 
 
In response, counsel to the respondents, Bassey, informed the court that he had filed a counter-affidavit before the court and was not opposed to the application for final forfeiture. 
 
In a short ruling, Olatoregun granted the orders as prayed, and ordered a final forfeiture of same. 
 
“I have observed the facts and exhibits attached and I am also mindful that the second, third and fourth respondents have no objections to the application. 
 
“I, therefore, have no hesitation in ordering a final forfeiture of the properties to the Federal Government,” she ruled. 
 
In its affidavit, the commission stated that during investigations into the ownership of YF Construction Development and Real Estate Ltd., one Fadi Basbous volunteered extra-judicial statement. 
 
He said that Basbous stated that the two properties which were sold at $3.6m and $1.2m respectively, were owned by Sequoyah Properties Ltd. and Schillenburg LLC. 
 
The deponent also stated that payments for the penthouses were made by one Angela Jide-Jones and Atlantic Energy Drilling Concept Ltd., respectively. 
 
The deponent further stated that Angela Jide-Jones is the wife of Jide Omokore, while Atlantic Energy Drilling Concept Ltd., was registered in the name of Jide Omokore. 
 
The deponent also stated that Jide Omokore paid for the properties through his wife and one of his companies and directed its developers to sign the agreements with Schillenburg LLC and Sequoyah Properties Ltd, which were linked to Alison-Madueke. 
 
He said that Schillenburg LLC was registered in Hongkong and transferred to Donald Chidi Amamgbo as sole owner. 
 
According to the deponent, Sequoyah Properties Ltd., was registered in Nigeria on October 11, 2011 with fictitious names as shareholders and directors.</div>

Court orders final forfeiture of penthouses linked to Allison-Madueke

A Federal High Court on Wednesday in Lagos ordered final forfeiture of two penthouses linked to a former Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Diez...

BREAKING: INEC Announces General Elections Dates For Next 36 Years

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The Independent National Electoral Commission on Wednesday announced dates for general elections in the country for the next 36 years, starting from 2019 to 2055. 
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Chairman of the commission, Prof. Mamood Yakubu, made the announcement at a consultative meeting with leaders of political parties in Abuja. 
 
“In 2019, the dates are February 16 and March 2; in 2023, the dates are February 18 and March 4. 
 
“In 2027, the dates are February 20 and March 6; in 2031, it is February 15 and March 1. 
 
“In 2035, it is February 17 and March 3; in 2039, it is February 19 and March 5 and in 2043, it will hold on February 21 and March 7. 
 
“In 2047, it is February 15 and March 2; in 2051, it is February 18 and March 1; in 2055, it is February 20 and March 6,” Yakubu said. 
 
He pointed out that in other democracies of the world, periods of elections are generally known and are not topics for speculation. 
 
Yakubu explained that the aim was to engender certainty in the election calendar and also to allow for long-term planning by the commission and all stakeholders. 
 
He said that certainty in election calendar was necessary to match Nigeria’s democratic system with global best practices. 
 
The chairman said that in the last one week, INEC had received 108 applications from associations seeking to be registered as political parties. 
 
He said that 66 of the applications did not meet the initial requirements, while 33 passed and had proceeded to the next stage. 
 
He said that nine others were at the final stage of registration. 
 
The INEC boss commended political parties for the roles they played in the governorship and National Assembly by-elections in Anambra, which ensured that the exercises were crisis-free. 
 
He urged all existing political parties yet to comply with all relevant sections of the constitutional requirements necessary for their existence, to do so. 
 
He advised the parties to ensure rancour-free conventions and congresses ahead of 2019 and the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections later in the year. 
 
“Internal party democracy is critical to the overall success of the elections and it helps to eliminate some protracted litigations. 
 
“Less than a year to the 2019 general elections, there are still cases in courts challenging the nomination of candidates in the 2015 elections,’’ he said. 
 
Yakubu urged the parties to support the commission in its quest to sanitise the voter register by drawing the attention of the umpire to any irregularity. 
 
In his remarks, the Chairman, Inter Party Advisory Council, Mohammed Nalado, commended INEC for recognising political parties as partners. 
 
He said with little or no financial support, political parties have been at the forefront of voter sensitisation to the need to conduct themselves responsibly at polling units. 
 
Nalado commended the commission for creating an enabling environment for free and fair elections by rolling out election calendar in good time. 
 
He added that the political parties were happy with the position of INEC on the sequence of elections, saying the commission acted on the existing law. 
 
He welcomed the newly-registered political parties to IPAC and urged INEC to support the council’s plan to amend its code of conduct. 
 
According to Nalado, the amendment will address issues of internal democracy and conflict resolution system, among other issues affecting political parties in the country.</div>

BREAKING: INEC Announces General Elections Dates For Next 36 Years

The Independent National Electoral Commission on Wednesday announced dates for general elections in the country for the next 36 years, sta...

‘Unveiling of cabinet in 48 hours, gender parity in political appointments’ — Moghalu outlines plans for presidency

15:12 Unknown 0

‘Unveiling of cabinet in 48 hours, gender parity in political appointments’ — Moghalu outlines plans for presidency

Peace Corps: IGP must appear before us – Reps

15:12 Unknown 0

Peace Corps: IGP must appear before us – Reps

Saraki asks state assemblies to block pension of ex-govs

15:12 Unknown 0

Saraki asks state assemblies to block pension of ex-govs

BREAKING: IOC lifts doping ban on Russia

13:57 Unknown 0

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has lifted its suspension on the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), which was imposed prior to the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic Games. 
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“We received a letter from the IOC, regarding the reinstatement of the ROC. As you know, the IOC Executive Board convened on February 25. In the meeting, important decisions were made with regard to the reinstatement of the ROC’s status," ROC president Alexander Zhukov told journalists Wednesday. 
 
"This corresponded with the final doping test [of an Olympic athlete of Russia] at the PyeongChang 2018 Olympics. The letter confirmed the remaining doping probe results were negative. As such, the ROC has been reinstated.” 
 
The Olympic governing body had voted to uphold the ban on Russia, citing two positive doping tests from Olympic Athletes from Russia (OAR) - bobsledder Nadezhda Sergeeva and curler Alexander Krushelnitsky - during the Games. 
 
The pair have since been disqualified and stripped of their results. In Krushelnitsky's case, he was forced to hand back a bronze medal. 
 
Following its refusal to reinstate the ROC, the Olympic governing body recommended lifting the disqualification on the condition the remainder of the doping probes of Russian athletes came out clean. 
 
The IOC also stated that Russian anti-doping rules violations (ADRV) during PyeongChang did not reflect any pattern and were committed individually. 
 
In December, the IOC ruled to suspend the ROC and banned more than 50 Russian team members from competing at PyeongChang. In addition, some leading Russian athletes in several sports were not invited to the Games, despite never having been involved in doping. 
 
Those who approved for the PyeongChang Games were obliged to perform under a neutral banner and without their national flag and anthem.</div>

BREAKING: IOC lifts doping ban on Russia

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has lifted its suspension on the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), which was imposed prior to the...

Senate to investigate Yahaya Bello’s alleged double voter registration

13:47 Unknown 0

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The Senate on Wednesday mandated its Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate alleged double voter registration by Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi. 
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The resolution followed the unanimous adoption of a Point of Order raised by Sen. Mohammed Hassan at plenary by the assembly. 
 
Hassan said there was a need to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged double registration by the governor with a view to ensuring that the country’s electoral process was credible. 
 
He said there was a need to investigate the process that allowed the governor access to multiple registrations. 
 
“The governor of Kogi was involved in double voter registration and weeks after INEC confirmed that by sacking three of its staff. 
 
“It was reported that he was issued another Temporary Voter Card (TVC) at his Okene ward. 
 
“We are concerned about this and I think it is very important that the Senate Committee on INEC investigates and gets to the root of the matter. 
 
“It is reported everywhere that he cannot be prosecuted because he has immunity but for the purpose of getting the picture right, I think the Senate Committee on INEC should investigate and get this matter right,’’ he said. 
 
The President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, said that credible electoral process was crucial in protecting the country’s democracy. 
 
“The issue you are talking about is one that is important because the stability of our democracy depends on the credibility of our electoral process. 
 
“And as such we must ensure that the process is one we must always be proud of, especially now that countries are looking at our electoral process. 
 
“It is something the INEC committee should look into and report back to the Senate,’’ Saraki said.</div>

Senate to investigate Yahaya Bello’s alleged double voter registration

The Senate on Wednesday mandated its Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate alleged double voter reg...

2019 Imo guber: I will stand against Araraume’s ambition – Okorocha

13:47 Unknown 0

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Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha, Wednesday, swore to stop Senator Ifeanyi Araraume, from realizing his gubernatorial ambition in the state, adding that he did not oppose tenure extension of the All Progressives Congress, APC, National Executive. 
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Okorocha made this known to newsmen in Owerri through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sam Onwuemeodo. 
 
This was coming days after, Okorocha, declared to run for Imo West Senatorial District, saying that his son-in-law, Mr. Uche Nwosu, will be the next Governor, while his Deputy, Prince Eze Madumere, will vie for the Imo East Senatorial District. 
 
He said: “But I want to say this for the sake of emphasis. Senator Ifeanyi Araraume cannot win the ticket of APC for the 2019 guber in the State and can never govern the State. So people should not allow themselves to be deceived. 
 
Some of the reasons as outlined by Okorocha was that, “In 2007, he won the ticket of PDP and failed the main election. In 2011, he also had the ticket of ACN and came fourth in the election. In 2015, he also failed the PDP Primary. So, what magic would he perform in 2019? 
 
“You may ask, where were these elements when the PDP foot soldiers were invading Imo and South-East in general with Soldiers and other Security agents.” 
 
While defending himself that he did not support, Oyegun’s tenure extension, said: “They have sponsored lies against the governor over the outcome of the APC NEC meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, February 27, 2018 in which the tenure of the National Chairman Chief John Oyegun and others were extended.” 
 
In the release, Okorocha bragged, “I am the strongest pillar of APC in the South-East and one of the pillars in the Country. 
 
“And I remain supportive in all ramifications to the John Oyegun-led National Exco of the Party. And there is no reason anybody should begin to create the impression that Governor Okorocha was against the extension of Chief Oyegun’s tenure.” 
 </div>

2019 Imo guber: I will stand against Araraume’s ambition – Okorocha

Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha, Wednesday, swore to stop Senator Ifeanyi Araraume, from realizing his gubernatorial ambition in the s...

NSA joins search for Dapchi schoolgirls

13:32 Unknown 0

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The National Security Adviser, (NSA) Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd) accompanied by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar and the Theater Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, Maj.-Gen. Nicholas Rogers and other senior military officers, on Tuesday joined the search team for the Dapchi schoolgirls 
<a name='more' id="more"></a>. 
 
Newsmen report that the NSA-led search team for the missing schoolgirls moved to areas around the Nigeria-Niger border before returning to Damaturu, the Yobe State capital for a courtesy visit to Governor Ibrahim Gaidam. 
 
At the Government House, Damaturu, Gen. Monguno said the Federal Government would not relent in its efforts until the schoolgirls are found and reunited with their families. 
 
Giving an update on ongoing efforts to locate and rescue the abducted schoolgirls, the NSA said the Nigerian Air Force has deployed 20 aircraft to the region to support efforts to rescue the girls. 
 
According to him, “in spite of the harsh weather, the Nigerian Air Force has so far conducted 20 sorties and a total of 200 hours of flying time, in search of the schoolgirls.” 
 
“The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) is directly relating with security agencies and cooperating with other contacts across the border, while the situation room has been expanded to intensify the search for the girls,” the NSA added. 
 
Gov. Gaidam, in his response, thanked the Federal Government for its swiftness in searching for the whereabouts of the schoolgirls and urged government to deploy more security personnel to schools in the area since it remains one of the frontline states in the fight against insurgency. 
 
He said there should be no complacency in the efforts to decimate Boko Haram insurgents from their strongholds in the northeast and in any other location in Nigeria. 
 
Also during his visit to the northeast, the NSA commissioned an office complex and residential accommodation built for officers and airmen at the newly established 171 Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Detachment in Monguno town, Borno State. 
 
Gen. Monguno said the new NAF unit would add value to the overall fight against insurgency especially in the northern part of Borno. 
 
According to him, “the completion of these projects is a milestone in NAF’s continuous expansion drive to project airpower in all the nook and crannies of the country and to provide Nigeria with additional military options in conducting aerial surveillance of the country’s border with Niger Republic to curb terrorist activities and other criminal groups.” 
 
On his part, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, said the NAF detachment is meant to enhance the endurance limitations of airpower in the military’s counter-insurgency operations in the northeast and especially in northern Borno. 
 
According to him, “the establishment of this unit will expand as well as increase the reach of NAF platforms in operations around border areas.” 
 
The projects commissioned by the NSA include an office complex, a block of 11 flats for airmen, a block of flats for Officers and a newly constructed helipad.</div>

NSA joins search for Dapchi schoolgirls

The National Security Adviser, (NSA) Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd) accompanied by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar ...

Bill to honour national heroes passes 2nd reading

13:32 Unknown 0

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A Bill for an Act to repeal Nigerian National Heroes Register 2004 and for the enactment of Nigerian National Heroes Act, passed second reading at the House of Representatives on Wednesday. 
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Leading debate on the Bill, Rep. Abubakar Amuda-Kannike (Kwara-APC), said when passed, it would ensure the recognition of heroes who were not only honoured but provide some form of mentoring to younger generation. 
 
He said that heroes should be admired and acknowledged for courage, outstanding achievements and noble qualities. 
 
Amuda-Kannike said that honour should be given to individuals with positive contributions to the growth and development of the society. 
 
According to him, Nigerians, living or dead, deserve a place of honour in the country’s national history. 
 
He listed some of them to include late Chief Alvan Ikoku, late Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, late Mr Herbert Macaulay and late Gen. Murtala Mohammed. 
 
“In recognition of the importance of heroes in our society, whether they are entertainers, athletes, politicians or public figures, the Bill provides various categories of Nigerians, dead and alive, that could be designated as heroes. 
 
“The Bill specifies principles guiding the designation of National Heroes to include patriotism, national unity, sharing and devolution of power, rule of law, democracy and participation of the people. 
 
“Human dignity, equity, social justice, inclusiveness, equality, human rights, non-discrimination, protection of the marginalized, good governance, integrity, transparency and accountability, enhancement of sustainable development are others. 
 
“The proposed legislation seeks to ascribe certain privileges to living heroes and ensures that heroes are henceforth designated at state ceremonies,” he said. 
 
In his contribution, Rep. Edward Pwajok (Plateau-APC) said that families and wards of past heroes should be adequately compensated by the government. 
 
“Many of our past heroes’ families and wards are living in misery which is not right; as a nation, we ought to recognise them,” he said. 
 
Another lawmaker, Rep. Ayo Omidiran (Osun-APC), supported the motion and said that the country was currently in dire need of heroes; therefore, past heroes should be appreciated. 
 
Rep. Nicholas Ossai (Delta-PDP) stated that if passed, the Bill would add value to generations to come. 
 
“Our children will devise means to bring unity in our country through this bill; generations to come will take a cue from this which is highly commendable,” he added. 
 
The bill was unanimously adopted when it was put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Mr Yakubu Dogara, who consequently referred it to the Committee on Inter-Governmental Affairs.</div>

Bill to honour national heroes passes 2nd reading

A Bill for an Act to repeal Nigerian National Heroes Register 2004 and for the enactment of Nigerian National Heroes Act, passed second re...

Drama as Gunmen kill Adamawa PDP Publicity Secretary

13:32 Unknown 0

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The Adamawa Chapter of People’s Democratic Party has confirmed the killing of its spokesman, Mr Sam Zadock, by gunmen in the latest sectarian violence in the state. 
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The State Secretary of the PDP, Alhaji Abdullahi Prambe, told newsmen on Wednesday in Yola that the incident was a “big shock’’ to the party. 
 
“We were expecting him for a meeting yesterday but he didn’t show up; he called me but the network wasn’t good only for us to hear that he was killed in an attack,” Prambe said. 
 
He condemned the incident and called on government to do something about the recent killings in the state. 
 
Speaking on the incident, a youth leader in the area, Mr Paul Turaki, said Zadock was killed with four others traveling in the same car in an ambush around Barre village in Demsa Local Government Area. 
 
An army spokesman in the area, Brig. Gen. Texas Chukwu, said in a statement that 10 suspected gunmen involved in the attack were killed while six others were arrested.</div>

Drama as Gunmen kill Adamawa PDP Publicity Secretary

The Adamawa Chapter of People’s Democratic Party has confirmed the killing of its spokesman, Mr Sam Zadock, by gunmen in the latest sectar...

Senate, AGF at war over NHRC nominee’s assumption of office

13:32 Unknown 0

Senate, AGF at war over NHRC nominee’s assumption of office

Law School hijab issue: Court restrains House of Reps from holding public hearing

13:22 Unknown 0

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The Federal High Court, Abuja, has restrained the House of Representatives from conducting a planned public hearing on the hijab controversy between the Nigerian Law School and Ms Firdrusa Abdulsalam. 
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Justice Anwuli Chikere gave the order on Wednesday in her ruling on an application filed by a coalition of legal practitioners seeking to stop the public hearing. 
 
The judge ordered that the public hearing be put on hold, pending the determination of the substantive suit. 
 
Chikere, in her ruling, said the plaintiffs, who are legal practitioners, have a right to bring the action since the decision of the House of Representatives would affect them. 
 
She adjourned the matter until April 24 for hearing of the substantive suit. 
 
It will be recalled that Abdulsalam, a law graduate, was on December 13, 2017 not called to the Nigerian Bar on the grounds that she wore a hijab to the Call to Bar ceremony. 
 
The matter was taken to the House of Representatives and a public hearing was fixed in respect of the matter on February 6. 
 
The lawyers, under the aegis of Coalition of Lawyers for the Preservation of Legal Practitioners’ Ethics, then filed a suit asking the court to stop the House of Representatives from conducting the hearing. 
 
Their counsel, Mr. Sunday Akanni, told the court that the lawyers had even undertaken that they would pay damages to the House of Representatives in case their application was found to be frivolous. 
 
He said they were seeking the interpretation of sections 33 to 45 of the 1999 Constitution as well as that of Section 88. 
 
“We brought the House of Representatives to court because of the public hearing they scheduled to hold February 6. 
 
“Our contention is very simple, the public hearing notice they sent is in respect of a lady called Abdulsalam Firdrusa, who was not called to the bar on December 13, 2017, because she was wearing Hijab. 
 
“They say the public hearing is pursuant to Section 45 of the Constitution, but we are saying it has to do with violation of rights and it is the court that can look into such matters. 
 
“It is not for the House of Representatives to conduct a public hearing. Sections 88 and 89 give power to the House of Representatives to conduct public hearing, but sections 33 to 45 is what we call fundamental rights. 
 
“If that right is breached, where are you supposed to go, public hearing or court?”</div>

Law School hijab issue: Court restrains House of Reps from holding public hearing

The Federal High Court, Abuja, has restrained the House of Representatives from conducting a planned public hearing on the hijab controver...

BREAKING: Military employs fishermen, farmers to search for missing Dapchi schoolgirls

13:22 Unknown 0

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The military has employed the services of local fishermen and farmers in the search for the abducted Dapchi schoolgirls, the head of counter-insurgency operation in the North East (Operation Lafiya Dole), Maj. Gen. Rogers Nicholas, has said. 
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Speaking at the inauguration of helipad, office complex and residential quarters for officers and airmen at the newly established 171 Nigerian Air Force Detachment in Monguno town by the National Security Adviser, Maj-Gen. Babagana Monguno on Tuesday evening, Nicholas said over 200 hours have been spent by crafts combing the Theatre for the schoolgirls. 
 
Nicholas said the National Security Adviser and Chief of Air Staff came down to add value to the ongoing search for the missing Dapchi schoolgirls. 
 
He said both the NSA and CAS have been flying round the Theatre to contribute to the ongoing search for the girls. 
 
He said: “What this means is that nobody is sitting down, sleeping over it. It means that the government is serious in rescuing these abducted girls. Primarily, that is why the NSA is here to see things for himself and add value to what we are doing. 
 
“Having said that, the NSA has also introduced us to some locals — fishermen and farmers — who have very good knowledge of this terrain to work with us in terms of intelligence to contribute to the search efforts we are making. 
 
“The Nigerian Air Force has been airborne since the last three days and we will also declare additional platforms to do this exercise. As I speak, many areas have been covered, over 200 hours have been spent flying, combing the whole Theatre in search of the girls. 
 
“Additionally the ground force are there in various places searching in various places identified.”</div>

BREAKING: Military employs fishermen, farmers to search for missing Dapchi schoolgirls

The military has employed the services of local fishermen and farmers in the search for the abducted Dapchi schoolgirls, the head of count...

Nigerian govt can’t tackle trafficking cartel let alone Boko Haram – CNN reporter

13:17 Unknown 0

Nigerian govt can’t tackle trafficking cartel let alone Boko Haram – CNN reporter

Again, Rivers APC Chieftain, Ojukaye Flag-Amachree avoids murder trial

13:02 Unknown 0

Again, Rivers APC Chieftain, Ojukaye Flag-Amachree avoids murder trial

Tinubu’s loyalists form faction as APC in Lagos splits

12:47 Unknown 0

Tinubu’s loyalists form faction as APC in Lagos splits

Mysterious fish swallows N52 million SEEDC Fund in Abia

12:17 Unknown 0

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 A mysterious fish has just swallowed the sum of 52 million naira meant for the South East Entrepreneurship Development Center (SEEDC) contract job and renovation of Women Development Center in Abia state 
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NE gathered that the contract was given to Phrenemos Intl Ltd and was to be supervised by the current Abia State SSG, Dr. Eme Okoro who is very close to governor Okezie Ikpeazu. 
 
Before now there has been news of the SSG mismanagement of financial transactions and requests for kickbacks from contractors, but this shocking revelation came as a rude shock after a mysterious fish was alleged to have swallowed the whole money meant for the job. 
 
The investigations reveal that the SSG who was instructed by Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu to oversee the job told the MD of Phrenemos Intl Ltd to open a UBA account with one Glory Emucha in the pretense that UBA is the Bank Abia State government is dealing with, not knowing the reason is for easy access into his account. 
 
After several weeks, the MD of Phrenemos Intl Ltd, Engr Emma Uche Adimoha approached UBA to know the status of his account in respect of the contract payment and discovered that a ‘mysterious fish’ has swallowed the whole money. 
 
He acknowledged the fact that two million naira was paid into his account but was also swallowed by the mysterious fish without his knowledge, meanwhile he had been spending his private funds facilitating the project alone. 
 
He subsequently discovered that a financial project report was sent to the governor detailing that over N15million released has been used in the advancing the project. 
 
This simply means that the government actually released over N15m for the project and N2m was paid into Phrenemos Intl Ltd.’s account which was withdrawn without his consent and the remaining diverted.

Mysterious fish swallows N52 million SEEDC Fund in Abia

A mysterious fish has just swallowed the sum of 52 million naira meant for the South East Entrepreneurship Development Center (SEEDC) contr...

Peace Corps commandant: Buhari listened to the advice of our opponents

12:02 Unknown 0

Peace Corps commandant: Buhari listened to the advice of our opponents

2019 presidency: Pastor Chris Okotie bombards Nigerians with compelling grammar in support of Buhari

11:32 Unknown 0

2019 presidency: Pastor Chris Okotie bombards Nigerians with compelling grammar in support of Buhari

Kwara Assembly passes bill halting payment of pensions to former governors, deputies, others

11:32 Unknown 0

Kwara Assembly passes bill halting payment of pensions to former governors, deputies, others

Niger Delta militants react to South African court verdict on Henry Okah

11:32 Unknown 0

Niger Delta militants react to South African court verdict on Henry Okah

"Buhari’s technocrats returning Nigerians to slaves"

11:22 Unknown 0

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AS the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, marks its 40th anniversary, the pioneer President of the labour movement, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, has taken a swipe at the ministers and special advisers of President Muhammadu Buhari, alleged that they were bereft of ideas and innovation. 
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The labour veteran said what President Buhari has as technocrats and advisers were people he described as mere Buharists who lacked the technical know how to move the country. 
 
He therefore called on the NLC and other civil society organisations across Nigeria to fight those people who he said want to stagnate Nigeria and turn its citizens to starved slaves. 
 
According to him, “Some of the so-called technocrats in the present government and advisers of Buhari are mere Buharist, they cannot move Nigeria forward. 
 
” So NLC and other civil society organisations across Nigeria must fight those people who want to dwarf Nigeria and turn its citizens to starved slaves.” 
 
Comrade Sumonu who was Speaking a discussant at the two day event to mark the NLC 40th anniversary in Abuja, on the topic: ‘The Future of the World of Work’, lamented that most of the socio-economic cum security problems facing Nigeria were as a result of unemployment, alleging that government’s reactive nature instead of being proactive was evidently Nigeria’s problem. 
 
His words, “Education, health, housing and industries are core to socio-economic development of any country. And these are areas that can generate millions of jobs for Nigerians. 
 
“Most of the socio-economic and security problems facing Nigeria is as a result of unemployment and this is because of poor or reactive socio-economic policies of both the present government and the past ones. 
 
“We cannot prepare for the future of the world of work if we don’t massively invest in new technology through research for a viable industrial development. 
 
“Look at Ajaokuta Steel. No country can 
industrialise without a viable steel industry. We have been told that Ajaokuta Steel has been built up to 90% and then they want to put some money there and sell it to their friends. In the name of privatising our national asset. 
 
“NLC, Nigeria Civil Society organisations and every Nigerian should oppose any attempt by anybody or any government to privatize Ajaokuta Steel and other industries in the country. We should resist it because it is unpatriotic, unpardonable, unreasonable and unforgivable. 
 
“Look at the number of tens of thousands of jobs that should be available for Nigerians if that industry is viable. Since they privatized our electricity industry, what have we gotten? Instead of constant light, we are paying more for darkness. 
 
“In electricity, are we investing in research and technology for solar energy, wind energy which are the future of electricity across the world? Are we preparing and training youths for electric engine motor cars? Because in another decades, petrol might not be the source of running cars.” 
 
He also stated that, “We have to revamp our education structure from kindergarten to primary, high school and university level. Over 60 million Nigerians are said to be uneducated. So it means that those 60 million Nigerians are not effectively contributing to the economy of Nigeria because of illiteracy. So if we decide to train teachers for the purpose of eradicating illiteracy in Nigeria within the next two to three years, are we not going to generate massive jobs? 
 
“On the other hand, if the socio-economic policy of the government is directed to providing decent housing for the majority of Nigerians, would that not create millions of jobs? 
 
“So far, even with the so much job creation promise they made to Nigerians every now and then, they are only focusing on pocket economic policy agenda. Being what IMF and World Bank direct them to do. Because what they can actually do to provide jobs for Nigerians is so obvious. 
 
“Though I commend the federal government for now seeing that agriculture is among the ways to provide for our country and so create jobs. However, Nigeria government must invest in research and development.” 
 
Also speaking, Comrade Ali Chiroma, the second president of NLC, charged NLC to wake up and go back to the basis in order through action and commitments win the heart of Nigerians as it once did.</div>

"Buhari’s technocrats returning Nigerians to slaves"

AS the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, marks its 40th anniversary, the pioneer President of the labour movement, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, has...

Buhari re-appoints Awolowo as NEPC boss

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President Muhammadu Buhari has re-appointed Mr. Olusegun Awolowo as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council for another four-year term. 
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The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday. 
 
Adesina said the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, has since written a letter to that effect to Awolowo who was first appointed to the position in 2013. 
 
The statement read, “President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the re-appointment of Mr. Olusegun Awolowo as Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council. 
 
“According to a letter signed by Mr. Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the appointment lasts for four years. 
 
“Mr. Awolowo, a lawyer and scion of the Obafemi Awolowo family, was first appointed to the NEPC position in 2013.”</div>

Buhari re-appoints Awolowo as NEPC boss

President Muhammadu Buhari has re-appointed Mr. Olusegun Awolowo as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Export ...

Dapchi abduction: UN calls for release of missing girls

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The United Nations has expressed outrage over the abduction of 110 schoolgirls of Government Girls Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe, by suspected Boko Haram terrorists. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The Secretary-General, Mr. Antonio Guterres, in a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Mr. Stephane Dujarric, “strongly condemns the abduction and attack”. 
 
Guterres said he was gravely concerned over the situation of the missing girls abducted during an attack on their school in Dapch, Yobe state, on February 19. 
 
The Secretary-General called for the immediate and unconditional release of all missing girls and their safe return to their families. 
 
The UN chief urged the Nigerian authorities to swiftly bring those responsible for this dastardly act to justice. 
 
Guterres reiterated the solidarity and support of the UN to Nigerian Government and other affected countries in the region in their fight against terrorism and violent extremism. 
 
The UN had earlier described the abduction as “another horrific incident where young women and girls are targeted by terror groups”. 
 
“And we very much hope that the perpetrators will be brought to justice, and just as importantly, that the girls will be found and returned to safety. 
 
“I think the fact that these young women were abducted in an educational setting, where they should feel safe, just adds to the horror of the story.”</div>

Dapchi abduction: UN calls for release of missing girls

The United Nations has expressed outrage over the abduction of 110 schoolgirls of Government Girls Technical College, Dapchi, Yobe, by sus...

CCT fixes March 8 for Saraki, FG to adopt final addresses

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The Code of Conduct Tribunal on Tuesday adjourned until March 8 for the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, and the Federal Government to adopt their final written addresses in respect of Saraki’s trial on three charges of false assets declaration. 
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 Although, the Danladi Umar-led CCT had earlier on February 6, 2018, fixed Tuesday for the parties to adopt their addresses, at the resumed hearing of the case on Tuesday, Saraki’s defence team sought an adjournment to enable them to file a reply to the Federal Government’s written address. 
 
 Saraki’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), said he was only served with the prosecution’s final written address after the close of work on Monday. 
 
 Responding, the lead prosecuting counsel, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), said his late filing and service of his address on the defence was due to the fact that the defence team had filed and served theirs on him after the expiration of the seven days given to them by the tribunal. 
 
The tribunal chairman subsequently adjourned the matter till March 8, by the time which the defence is expected to have filed their response to the prosecution’s address. 
 
The CCT is expected to fix a date for judgment immediately after the parties adopt their final addresses on March 8. 
 
Saraki had on February 6, 2018 opened and closed his defence with only one witness. 
 
 This followed the December 12, 2017 judgment of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which restored three out of the entire 18 counts earlier dismissed by the CCT.</div>

CCT fixes March 8 for Saraki, FG to adopt final addresses

The Code of Conduct Tribunal on Tuesday adjourned until March 8 for the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, and the Federal Government to...

Junaid Mohammed identifies head of cabals in Buhari’s government

11:07 Unknown 0

Junaid Mohammed identifies head of cabals in Buhari’s government

Nigerian govt laments teachers’ performance, hints on major reform

11:07 Unknown 0

Nigerian govt laments teachers’ performance, hints on major reform

Dapchi schoolgirls: FG reacts to claim parents were not invited to stakeholders’ meeting

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Dapchi schoolgirls: FG reacts to claim parents were not invited to stakeholders’ meeting

VIDEO: I will kill the snake that swallowed 36 million - ATIKU

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VIDEO: I will kill the snake that swallowed 36 million - ATIKU

I will kill the snake that ate 36 million - ATIKU Video Credits - Oviation

BBNaija 2018: Jonathan’s ex-aide, Omokri reacts to Bambam, Teddy A’s sex in toilet

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BBNaija 2018: Jonathan’s ex-aide, Omokri reacts to Bambam, Teddy A’s sex in toilet

‘The kidnappers came in military uniform’ — lucky Dapchi schoolgirls recount ordeal

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‘The kidnappers came in military uniform’ — lucky Dapchi schoolgirls recount ordeal

Dapchi attack: Yobe state governor, Gaidam insists withdrawal of military aided abduction

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Dapchi attack: Yobe state governor, Gaidam insists withdrawal of military aided abduction

Messi should be banned from 2018 World Cup - Iran coach

09:37 Unknown 0

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Coach of Iran national team, Carlos Queiroz, has called on FIFA to ban Argentina captain, Lionel Messi, from playing at the 2018 World Cup until it is confirmed he is human. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Queiroz is preparing to lead Iran to their second World Cup finals this year in Russia. 
 
They will face Spain, Portugal and Morocco in Group B, while Nigeria will face Messi’s Argentina, Croatia and Iceland. 
 
“I’ve always said that Messi is an extraordinary player. He’s out of this world. If he were human, he wouldn’t have had that magical moment in that match (Argentina beat Iran in the group phase with a late Messi goal),” Queiroz told FIFA.com referring to Iran’s 1-0 loss to Argentina at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. 
 
“I don’t usually like losing, but I didn’t come away from that defeat with a negative feeling. 
 
“It’s when something magical like that happens that you know that football is alive and kicking, and that’s why it’s one of the best sports in the world to watch. 
 
“And it’s even more of a special moment when it comes from a player who shouldn’t be allowed to play by FIFA until it’s proven that he’s actually human.”</div>

Messi should be banned from 2018 World Cup - Iran coach

Coach of Iran national team, Carlos Queiroz, has called on FIFA to ban Argentina captain, Lionel Messi, from playing at the 2018 World Cup...

Dapchi parents in pains but Buhari feasting in Abuja -PDP

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Dapchi parents in pains but Buhari feasting in Abuja -PDP

Peace Corps: Reps Dare Buhari, Vow To Override Assent

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Peace Corps: Reps Dare Buhari, Vow To Override Assent

US imposes sanction on Boko Haram leader ‘fingered in Dapchi abduction’

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US imposes sanction on Boko Haram leader ‘fingered in Dapchi abduction’

Buhari will not save you – Melaye tells Bello

09:12 Unknown 0

Buhari will not save you – Melaye tells Bello

Boko Haram: Terrorists ambush soldiers, kill 2 in Borno

09:12 Unknown 0

Boko Haram: Terrorists ambush soldiers, kill 2 in Borno

Customs Intercepts 177 Vehicles, Other Items From Smugglers

09:12 Unknown 0

Customs Intercepts 177 Vehicles, Other Items From Smugglers

Dapchi attack: Only prayers can bring back missing school girls – Aregbesola, Osinbajo

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Dapchi attack: Only prayers can bring back missing school girls – Aregbesola, Osinbajo

Popular Imo State footballer killed, buried in shallow grave

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The remains of a 20-year-old Imo State local footballer, Chidubem Ezeagu, have been found in a shallow grave in a bush. 
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It was gathered that the deceased was a celebrated footballer who recently captained his club to win two major trophies in the state. 
 
The tragedy, which happened at Umuelele Irete, in the Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, devastated residents and the deceased’s family members. 
 
The body was discovered one week after he was declared missing by his family. 
 
The victim’s elder brother, Timothy, told newsmen that Chidubem left home around 8.30pm last week Sunday. 
 
He said the family declared him missing on Tuesday when attempts to find him failed. 
 
“Chidubem left the house last week Sunday and never returned. We called his telephone number all through Monday, but he did not pick it. On Tuesday, his telephone number became unreachable and that was when we sensed danger. 
 
“We reported a case of missing person at the Ogbaku Police Station. We equally reported it to the youth leader of the village. A search was conducted throughout the village. 
 
“It was in the cause of the search that one man told us that some Hausa buried a corpse in a shallow grave. 
 
“He said a man had called the Hausa people to identify a corpse on the ground. When they couldn’t identify the body, they buried it in a shallow grave to avert breakout of an epidemic,” Timothy said. 
 
However, the state Commissioner of Police, Chris Ezike, said he had directed the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department to take over the case. 
 
The CP, who said the killing appeared cult-related, said the command was committed to providing adequate security. 
 
Ezike said, “I can confirm that the matter was reported to Ogbaku Police Station as a case of missing person until on Saturday when his remains were found buried in a shallow grave. The SCIID has been directed to take over investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the death, which appear cult-related.”</div>

Popular Imo State footballer killed, buried in shallow grave

The remains of a 20-year-old Imo State local footballer, Chidubem Ezeagu, have been found in a shallow grave in a bush. It was gathered...

Pensioners beg CBN governor for upward review of benefits

08:42 Unknown 0

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Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, pensioners have petitioned Governor of CBN, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, pleading with him to expedite action on payment of their benefits, as contained in the two-point agreement reached on March 1, 2017 between management and pensioners. 
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In the petition copied among others, President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice- President Yemi Osinbajo and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, the former CBN workers contended that non-implementation of the agreement had caused discomfort as many of them were no longer able to take care of their basic needs including medical, leading to death. 
 
The two-point agreement borders on enhancement of benefits and medical care. 
 
On the aegis of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Pensioners’ Welfare Association, CPWA, the pensioners recalled that the agreement was arrived at following a meeting between CBN and the pensioners’ body. 
 
According to the petition, a high-powered CBN management team of five Departmental Directors led by the then Director of Human Resources Department, now newly appointed as a CBN Deputy Governor, Mr. Edward Adamu,  nominated by the Governor, was mandated to negotiate with the CBN Pensioners and pensioners’ parent body; the CBN Pensioners’ Club led the president, Chief Charles M.E. Katchy, a retired CBN Director. 
 
The pensioners found it unbelievable that close to a year after the agreement was reached between the parties, the CBN is yet to implement the content. 
 
Following the protracted delay, the pensioners said after a meeting of representatives of the 15 branches of the body of the pensioners in Lagos, resolved among others, according to a statement by Bayo Ademola and Felix Obi, Chairman and General Secretary, CPWA, respectively, to “Write an SOS message to the CBN Governor as we are now doing, embarking on hunger strike,  street demonstrations/protests to draw the attention of the Federal Government and the general public to our plight, and taking our matter to the court as the last option.” 
 
The statement explained that members agreed “we should carry out those activities in phases thus: (i) write this SOS appeal message first, that will be copied to President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, among other dignitaries, for possible intervention. 
 
If, however, nothing positive is done on at least one of the two issues agreed upon by 31st March  2018, we shall embark on the second phase of the struggle; going on a hunger strike with effect from Tuesday, April 3, 2018. If after four weeks of the hunger strike nothing positive happens, we shall embark on street protests/demonstrations backed with an aggressive media campaign. If all the above failed, we would not hesitate to go to court as the last option. 
 
“Our prayer is that you should not allow any of the above to happen through your expediting action on the implementation of that agreement thus ameliorating the hardship being currently faced by CBN pensioners. Even if, for the upward review of pensions, you would want to wait for the National Minimum Wage Committee to determine the percent increase in pension, in the interim, nothing prevents you from significantly enhancing the Medical Allowance immediately as a palliative succour for the pensioners. It may interest you to know that the pensioners, as an already aged and aging group of people, this will enable us take good care of our health matters while we continue to wait for the Federal Government Circular on pension increase.” 
 
The pensioners lamented that the “last upward review of pensions in the CBN was done with effect from 1st July, 2010 – almost eight years now.</div>

Pensioners beg CBN governor for upward review of benefits

Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, pensioners have petitioned Governor of CBN, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, pleading with him to expedite action on pay...

Over 17m Nigerian children malnourished — UNICEF

08:42 Unknown 0

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The United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, yesterday raised alarm that 17million Nigerian children are stunted due to malnutrition. 
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UNICEF’s Nutrition Specialist of its Akure Office, Mrs Ada Ezeogu, said this yesterday at the opening of a 2-day ‘Media dialogue on child nutrition in South West Nigeria’, in Ibadan, Oyo State. 
 
Ezeogu noted that statistics “showed that 37 per cent of children representing over six million are malnourished, 43.6 per cent of estimated 40 million Nigerian children under age of 5yrs (from estimated population of 197 million) are stunted, while 19.4 per cent of children in the South West suffer same deficiency.” 
 
“This is worse than the South East and South South but better than the North. And we must do more as agenda setters to keep this issue on national discourse and help reverse the ugly trend”, she added. 
 
Noting that stunting is a life sentence, Ezeogu estimated that the “total number of stunted under-5 children in the country stands at 17, 217, 743 and 1, 514, 111 in the South West region while Ogun State has the highest incidence with 26.1 per cent and 277, 462 children. 
 
“The downward slide in the bid to reduce its prevalence some decades ago which was pegged at 50.3 per cent in 1990, drastically reduced overtime, but now increased significantly to 43.6 per cent according to a 2017 statistics report. 
 
The UNICEF Communication Officer, Lagos, Mrs Blessing Ejiofor, said that the media dialogue which is in collaboration with Ogun State Ministry of Information and Strategy, is a proactive partnership with journalists to sensitize the general public on causes and solutions to the menace. 
 
Ejiofor said: “As agenda setters, we must do more to keep child nutrition conversations on the priority list of those that can act to reverse this ugly trend. UNICEF believes that journalists can help set the agenda for action against all forms of child malnutrition: be it severe acute malnutrition or stunting.” 
 
Information and Strategy commissioner in Ogun state, Dayo Adeneye lamented that “the overview of National Nutritional Level shows that 80 per cent of the world’s stunted children, live in 14 countries and Nigeria is the second largest contributor after India.</div>

Over 17m Nigerian children malnourished — UNICEF

The United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, yesterday raised alarm that 17million Nigerian children are stunted due to malnutrition. UN...

2019: INEC asks population commission for record of dead persons

08:32 Unknown 0

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The Independent National Electoral Commission has asked the National Population Commission for the details of dead persons so that it (INEC) can remove their names from the voter register ahead of the 2019 elections. 
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The Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made the request when he visited the population commission in Abuja on Tuesday. 
 
Yakubu said, “The National Population Commission is the registrar of births and deaths nationwide and INEC is responsible for voter registration as well as the cleaning up of the voter register by removing the names of dead persons from the same register. 
 
“We would like to partner the population commission to make available to INEC all records of deaths of citizens since 2015 so that INEC can take the necessary steps to remove them from the voter register. 
 
“We are confident that you will oblige us so that we can further clean up our voter register ahead of the 2019 general elections.” 
 
When asked if INEC would be seeking the commission’s help in purging the voter register of underage persons, Yakubu said he was not sure if it was the duty of the population commission to do so. 
 
Responding, the NPC Chairman, Mr. Eze Duruiheoma (SAN), said his commission would assist INEC in its task ahead of the 2019 elections. 
 
“On the removal of dead persons from the register, I believe that is a wonderful vision. In the past this was overlooked and it ended up embarrassing everybody. We will attend to that request and give it the needed attention,” Duruiheoma said. 
 
When asked if the commission had the statistics of births and deaths from 2015 till date, the senior advocate admitted that the agency did not have it. 
 
He, however, said the 40 or 50 per cent statistics available would be made available to the electoral body. 
 
Duruiheoma said, “Yes, we don’t pretend to have registered every death. In the same way we don’t pretend to have captured every birth. But there must be a starting point. Assuming in the last one year, we have registered 20,000 deaths. The 20,000 should be expunged from the register as a starting point. 
 
“You must count one before counting two. So, that’s the collaboration between NpopC and INEC. We don’t have 100 per cent coverage on the registration of deaths in the same way we don’t have 100 per cent coverage of births. But at least the 45 or 50 per cent coverage we have is what we can give to INEC because it is what you have that you can give.”</div>

2019: INEC asks population commission for record of dead persons

The Independent National Electoral Commission has asked the National Population Commission for the details of dead persons so that it (INE...

Herdsmen raze Adamawa village, army kills 10 fleeing attackers

08:32 Unknown 0

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Gun-wielding herdsmen on Tuesday attacked Gwamba community in the Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State, razing houses and leaving many residents injured and displaced. 
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The Nigerian Army, which confirmed the invasion, said that despite the deployment of troops in the community, the “notorious herdsmen set the village ablaze and fled.” 
 
The Director, Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Texas Chukwu, added that the troops trailed the herdsmen and arrested six of them, while 10 others were shot dead, after “showing resistance.” 
 
Our correspondent learnt that the herdsmen razed many houses, forcing residents of the community to flee from their homes into the bush. 
 
Our correspondent gathered that the troops were deployed from 101 Special Forces Battalion who were on the ongoing army exercise, Ayem Akpatuma, (Cat Race). 
 
According to the army, items recovered from the herdsmen included one AK-47 rifle, 41 rounds of 7.62mm special, one locally made rifle with 25 cartridges, one cutlass, looted clothes and one motorcycle. 
 
The army spokesperson said the herdsmen resisted the troops, who were forced to kill 10 of them. 
 
He said, “Troops deployed in the Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State swiftly responded to a distress call and supported troops at Gwamba village, which was under attack by herdsmen on Tuesday. Despite the swift reaction to rescue the village from destruction, the notorious herdsmen set the village ablaze before troops could get to the community. 
 
“The troops trailed the herdsmen and arrested six of them at Garigiji village while trying to escape. During the process of the arrest, the herdsmen showed resistance, which made the alerted troops to engage them and kill 10 of them. 
 
“Items recovered from the herdsmen are; one AK 47 rifle, 41 rounds of 7.62mm special, one locally-made rifle with 25 cartridges, one cutlass, looted clothes and one motorcycle.” 
 
Meanwhile, the Theatre Command of Operation Lafiya Dole in the North-East, has said troops killed 35 Boko Haram terrorists in a joint operation with the defence forces from Cameroon. 
 
It was learnt that in the operation which took place at villages along the Nigeria-Cameroon border, the troops rescued 603 civilians held hostage and conveyed them to Bama and Pulka towns. 
 
According to the army, troops also cleared another two villages – Miyanti and Wudila – where three men, 121 women and 209 children held captive by the insurgents were freed. 
 
The Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, and Theatre Command’s spokesperson, Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, said the troops recovered a large cache of ammunition. 
 
Nwachukwu said, “Troops of Operation Lafiya Dole in the ongoing Operation Deep Punch II along with the Cameroon Defence Forces on Monday cleared the Boko Haram hideouts in Kusha-Kucha, Surdewala, Alkanerik, Magdewerne and Mayen villages, all along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.</div>

Herdsmen raze Adamawa village, army kills 10 fleeing attackers

Gun-wielding herdsmen on Tuesday attacked Gwamba community in the Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State, razing houses and leaving ...

FG sets up panel to probe 110 Dapchi girls abduction; Chief of Air Staff relocates to Yobe

08:32 Unknown 0

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The Federal Government has set up a 12-member committee to unravel the circumstances surrounding the abduction of 110 pupils of the Government Girls Science and Technical College in Dapchi, Yobe State, on February 19. 
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The committee was convened by the National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (retd.), according to a statement on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed. 
 
The statement said the  committee, which would be chaired by a military officer of the rank of Major General, would comprise one senior Provost each from the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force; representatives of the National Intelligence Agency; Defence Intelligence Agency; Nigeria Police Force; Department of State Services; Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps; two representatives of the Yobe State Government and a representative of the Office of the National Security Adviser. 
 
“The terms of reference of the committee include ascertaining the circumstances surrounding the abduction of the girls; confirming the presence, composition, scale and disposition of security in place in Dapchi, as well as in the GGSTC before the incident and suggesting measures that can lead to the location and rescue of the girls,” the statement read in part. 
 
The panel, which is expected to submit its report by March 15, 2018, is also saddled with recommending measures to prevent future occurrence. 
 
The statement said the committee would be inaugurated on Wednesday (today). 
 
The announcement of the setting up of the committee came a day after the main opposition political party, the Peoples Democratic Party, asked the National Assembly to probe the incident. 
 
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, on Tuesday relocated to Yobe State to supervise the search for the 110 Dapchi schoolgirls. 
 
The presidency disclosed this in a message posted on one of its verifiable Twitter handles, @NGRPresident. 
 
“Today (Tuesday), Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal @CAS_AMSadique relocated to Yobe State to personally superintend the search for the missing Dapchi girls. 
 
“The @NigAirForce had earlier deployed more platforms to the N/East, as security agencies ramp up efforts to locate and rescue the girls,” the message read. 
 
“As of 6pm on Monday, February 26, 2018, the @NigAirForce had flown a total of 200 hours conducting searches for the missing Dapchi girls,” another message posted on the platform read. 
 
Information minister, Mohammed, also confirmed that the Chief of Air Staff had relocated to Yobe State to superintend the search for the girls. 
 
He said the Nigerian Air Force “had earlier deployed more platforms to the North-East for the search, as the security agencies ramp up their efforts to locate and rescue the girls.” 
 
“As of 6 pm on Monday, the NAF had flown a total of 200 hours while conducting the search,” Mohammed added. 
 
Obasanjo’s coalition condemns abduction 
 
The Coalition for Nigeria Movement, led by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has condemned the abduction of Dapchi schoolgirls. 
 
In a statement by one Omoruyi Edoigiawerie for the National Steering Committee, the coalition called on the Federal Government and security agencies to do everything possible to ensure that the girls were rescued. 
 
The CNM said terrorists must not be allowed to stop or hinder the girl-child education. 
 
The statement read in part, “While we empathise with the parents of our dear daughters, we call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to intensify its fight against terrorism and all forms of extremism and criminality.  This cannot become the norm. 
 
“Our resolve to push for a Nigeria that typifies socio-economic development, social justice, equity, equality of opportunity, human security, human rights, good governance and the general wellbeing of all its citizens and inhabitants remains unshaken.”</div>

FG sets up panel to probe 110 Dapchi girls abduction; Chief of Air Staff relocates to Yobe

The Federal Government has set up a 12-member committee to unravel the circumstances surrounding the abduction of 110 pupils of the Govern...

Full text of Buhari’s letter to NASS rejecting Peace Corps

08:27 Unknown 0

Full text of Buhari’s letter to NASS rejecting Peace Corps

Drama as PDP senators call APC ‘All Progressives Crisis’

08:27 Unknown 0

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There was a mild drama at the Senate on Tuesday over the National Executive Council meeting of the All Progressives Congress held in Abuja. 
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Members of the minority Peoples Democratic Party mocked the APC over the current crises in the ruling party at the national level and in some states. 
 
The Majority Leader, Senator Ahmad Lawan, had moved that the plenary be adjourned for the APC NEC meeting. 
 
Lawan said, “Today, the All Progressives Congress, the ruling party, the APC, is holding its NEC meeting and it has already started. As a very time-conscious party, our colleague senators on this side (majority) are representatives of the chamber, and because of this I want to plead with all our colleagues here across party lines to show the understanding just as we had shown understanding when the minority party, the PDP senators have to go for congresses or whatever. 
 
“Based on this, Mr. President, very distinguished colleagues, I move that we stand down all the items on the Order Paper to another legislative day, to enable our colleagues to attend the NEC meeting of the ruling party, I so move.” 
 
While saying this, the PDP senators chorused, ‘All Progressives Crisis,’ forcing Lawan to pause and called for ‘protection’ from the Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the plenary. 
 
Seconding the motion, the Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Bwacha, said, “Before I second the motion, I want to join my colleagues from the other side sincerely and wish them safe landing. The number of policemen we have is short because of the crises. I don’t how many we will dispatch there to supervise (the meeting). So, Mr. President, having advised as such, I pray that there will be a safe landing.”</div>

Drama as PDP senators call APC ‘All Progressives Crisis’

There was a mild drama at the Senate on Tuesday over the National Executive Council meeting of the All Progressives Congress held in Abuja...

Nigerian Air Force deploys 100 jets in search of 110 Dapchi schoolgirls

06:22 Unknown 0

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The Air Force has deployed 100 fighter jets in the search for the 110 schoolgirls abducted on February 19, the Federal Government said yesterday. 
 
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The students of the Government Girls Science and Technical College (GGSTC), Dapchi, Yobe State were abducted from their hostels by terrorists. 
 
Twenty of the jets have flown 200 hours as at Monday evening, according to a fact sheet on the search released by Minister of Information, Culture and National Orientation Lai Mohammed. 
 
Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar relocated yesterday to Yobe State “to personally superintend the search for the girls”, the minister said. 
 
He also released the details of the missing girls. Eight are in JSS1, 17 in JSS2, 12 in JSS3, 40 in SS1, 19 in SS2 and 14 in SS3. The girls’ ages range from 11 to 19 years. 
 
“The list, which also contains the contact address and phone number of each missing girl, was verified by a 26-member Screening Committee that include the Executive Secretary, State Teaching Service Board, Musa Abdulsalam; Director, Schools’ Management, Ministry of Education, Shuaibu Bulama; Principal of GGSTC, Adama Abdulkarim; the two Vice Principals, Ali Musa Mabu and Abdullahi Sule Lampo; Admission Officer Bashir Ali Yerima, and the Form Masters for all the classes,” Mohammed said. 
 
National Security Adviser (NSA) Babagana Monguno, who constituted a 12-member committee “to unravel the circumstances surrounding the abduction”, gave the committee March 15 deadline to submit a report. 
 
Gen. Munguno, who visited Governor Ibrahim Gaidam in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, yesterday announced that 80 other planes would join the search for the girls. 
 
He told the governor: “The Nigerian Air Force has deployed 20 aircraft in Maiduguri and 80 others on their way. So far, 200 hours have been utilised in flying sorties looking for these girls. 
 
“We have also been made aware of the fact that the Nigerian Air Force will step up its operation regardless of the very hard and severe weather condition.” 
 
 
 
Giving further details of the security measures in place as well as efforts to get the girls back, Munguno said: “Back in Abuja, we have set up our own machinery in dealing with this situation. All the security agencies have been working together. The situation room has been expanded – the one in the office of the