The Federal Government has started the payment of N30,000 monthly stipends for beneficiaries of the N-Power scheme, the job creation programme of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration.
Laolu Akande, the senior special assistant, media and publicity, office of the vice-president, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday, December 30, stating that: “all successfully verified beneficiaries who have provided bank accounts are being processed for payment’’.
According to him “some beneficiaries will receive their first stipends on December 30.’’
Akande said the process of payment would continue after the New Year public holiday, urging beneficiaries of subsequent batch of the scheme to take their virtual training seriously.
He also encouraged states who had yet to conclude the physical verification process to do so, “as that would enable the N-Power beneficiaries in those states to draw from its benefits & empowerment offers.’’
The N-Power programme is designed to engage the massive numbers of unemployed Nigerian graduates from tertiary institutions across the country.
The unemployed graduates selected for the N-POWER programme are given assignments that will help to address issues in schools, hospitals and other areas in communities across the country.
A total of 150,000 out of the 200,000 selected in the first phase of the scheme would be deployed as support teachers to help address shortage of teachers in schools at the basic and secondary levels.
Another 30, 000 graduates would work as extension workers in various communities which will expectedly aid the government’s diversification agenda.
Meanwhile, the federal government has confirmed the release of N25billion funds for the payment of N5,000 monthly stipends to unemployed graduates.
The Minister of State for Budget and National Planning Zainab Ahmed said, the funds were for the social intervention programmes of the administration and she added that an additional N40billion would also soon be released to the initial N25billion.
https://www.naij.com/1080260-fg-start-payment-n30000-monthly-stipends-n-power-beneficiaries.html
Saturday 31 December 2016
Ambode Thanks Lagos Residents, Vows More Transformation In 2017
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Saturday thanked Lagosians for the massive support given to his administration in 2016.
Ambode, in his New Year message, promised to would work assiduously to ensure that the state is taken to the next pedestal in 2017, especially in the area of physical and social infrastructural development.
He assured the residents of the state that he remained totally committed to his promise to deliver a vibrant, non-discriminatory, clean, prosperous and safer Lagos.
“The state witnessed significant improvements in its performance indices due to the massive investment on its tripod of security, infrastructure and job opportunities in 2016.
“More emphasis will be placed on sustaining the growth in 2017 through people-oriented programmes and policies which cut across education, health, agriculture, housing, tourism, environment, among others.
“In 2017, we shall carry out fundamental reforms on all our modes of transportation – roads, water and the walkways.
“In this wise, an integrated transport management system is a priority.”
Ambode said his administration would embark on the urbanization of the Marina axis, waterways channelisation, establishment of more parks and gardens as well as community sports centres and stadia in different locations across the state.
He urged residents to continue to cooperate with his administration, especially in the area of prompt payment of taxes.
The governor also charged residents to continue to keep the peace, saying that it was only in an atmosphere of peace and stability that meaningful projects and programmes could be carried out.
He assured that the government would continue to judiciously distribute the state’s commonwealth and ensure that the ongoing social and infrastructural development got to every part of the metropolis.
Ambode said as the state prepares to celebrate the golden anniversary of its creation, all hands must be on deck to ensure that the prosperity of the past five decades is sustained.
“I promised Lagosians a government of inclusion; I do not intend to renege on that promise.
“We will continue to work 24 hours round the clock to deliver on our promise to ensure a Lagos that works for all.”
source : www.punchng.com
Ambode, in his New Year message, promised to would work assiduously to ensure that the state is taken to the next pedestal in 2017, especially in the area of physical and social infrastructural development.
He assured the residents of the state that he remained totally committed to his promise to deliver a vibrant, non-discriminatory, clean, prosperous and safer Lagos.
“The state witnessed significant improvements in its performance indices due to the massive investment on its tripod of security, infrastructure and job opportunities in 2016.
“More emphasis will be placed on sustaining the growth in 2017 through people-oriented programmes and policies which cut across education, health, agriculture, housing, tourism, environment, among others.
“In 2017, we shall carry out fundamental reforms on all our modes of transportation – roads, water and the walkways.
“In this wise, an integrated transport management system is a priority.”
Ambode said his administration would embark on the urbanization of the Marina axis, waterways channelisation, establishment of more parks and gardens as well as community sports centres and stadia in different locations across the state.
He urged residents to continue to cooperate with his administration, especially in the area of prompt payment of taxes.
The governor also charged residents to continue to keep the peace, saying that it was only in an atmosphere of peace and stability that meaningful projects and programmes could be carried out.
He assured that the government would continue to judiciously distribute the state’s commonwealth and ensure that the ongoing social and infrastructural development got to every part of the metropolis.
Ambode said as the state prepares to celebrate the golden anniversary of its creation, all hands must be on deck to ensure that the prosperity of the past five decades is sustained.
“I promised Lagosians a government of inclusion; I do not intend to renege on that promise.
“We will continue to work 24 hours round the clock to deliver on our promise to ensure a Lagos that works for all.”
source : www.punchng.com
Top Wanted Boko Haram Commander Arrested At Borno LG Chairman’s House
Nigerian Army of ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ in the north east on Friday night made a heavy breakthrough when it arrested a Caretaker Chairman of Mafa Local Government Area of Borno state, Alhaji Shettima Lawan Maina for hiding a top Boko Haram Commander (name withheld) in his house at 1000 housing estate along Maiduguri- Damaturu- Kano road. Sources have said.
The incident according to sources living at the same estate with the Chairman did not come to them as a surprise following the capture of Sambisa Forest, a stronghold of insurgents by troops that led to so many of the terrorists escaped to various places for safety.
Mafa Local Government is east and about 40 kilometres drive from Maiduguri the state capital which had witnessed series of deadly attacks by insurgents, before it was liberated by the military early last year.
A resident and neighbours of the LG boss said, the military and some security operatives stormed the house after getting an intelligence report that the top Boko Haram commander had sneaked into the house for safety.
Already the source said, both the top Boko Haram Commander and the Chairman have been detained in a military facility to enable thorough investigation as to how a wanted terrorist will sneak into the house of the Chairman, knowing fully well, that politicians of such caliber do not usually allow access to their house of abode.
When contacted for confirmation, the Police Public Relations Officer, Victor Isuku’s phone lines were not reachable, but a top security officer who is not authorized to talk to the press confirmed the incident, stating that “The arrest and capture of the Caretaker Chairman and the wanted boko haram commander took place on Friday night following a tip off”.
http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/top-wanted-boko-haram-commander-arrested-borno-lg-chairmans-house/
The incident according to sources living at the same estate with the Chairman did not come to them as a surprise following the capture of Sambisa Forest, a stronghold of insurgents by troops that led to so many of the terrorists escaped to various places for safety.
Mafa Local Government is east and about 40 kilometres drive from Maiduguri the state capital which had witnessed series of deadly attacks by insurgents, before it was liberated by the military early last year.
A resident and neighbours of the LG boss said, the military and some security operatives stormed the house after getting an intelligence report that the top Boko Haram commander had sneaked into the house for safety.
Already the source said, both the top Boko Haram Commander and the Chairman have been detained in a military facility to enable thorough investigation as to how a wanted terrorist will sneak into the house of the Chairman, knowing fully well, that politicians of such caliber do not usually allow access to their house of abode.
When contacted for confirmation, the Police Public Relations Officer, Victor Isuku’s phone lines were not reachable, but a top security officer who is not authorized to talk to the press confirmed the incident, stating that “The arrest and capture of the Caretaker Chairman and the wanted boko haram commander took place on Friday night following a tip off”.
http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/top-wanted-boko-haram-commander-arrested-borno-lg-chairmans-house/
President Buhari States Reason Why He Was Removed From Office In 1985
Contrarily to what people think and why Pres. Buhari was removed from office, the President yesterday in his speech said the reason he was removed from office in 1985 was because he refused to take an advice from the IMF and the World Bank to devalue the Naira and increase prices of fuel and flour.
He said this when he spoke at the Nigerian Army Guards Brigade Regimental Dinner.
"I refused and gave my reasons and the next thing I knew I was removed and detained for three and half years. As a civilian president I will do my best and I’m telling you all these because you are part of the leadership of this great country and God willing we will remain great” he said.
What are your assertions?
more @ http://www.exlinklodge.com/2016/12/president-buhari-state-reason-why-he.html
He said this when he spoke at the Nigerian Army Guards Brigade Regimental Dinner.
"I refused and gave my reasons and the next thing I knew I was removed and detained for three and half years. As a civilian president I will do my best and I’m telling you all these because you are part of the leadership of this great country and God willing we will remain great” he said.
What are your assertions?
more @ http://www.exlinklodge.com/2016/12/president-buhari-state-reason-why-he.html
Nigeria’s Kelechi Iheanacho Breaks World Record In Premier League History
Kelechi Iheanacho Breaks World Record Officially Now Has The Best Goals-Per-Minute Record In Premier League History
Kelechi Iheanacho has the best goals-to-minutes ratio of any player in Premier League history following his strike in Manchester City’s 3-0 win at Hull City on Boxing Day.
The 19-year-old striker doubled the lead for the City, tucking away a David Silva pass to give Pep Guardiola’s men a comfortable victory.
That effort means Iheanacho is now scoring a goal every 96 minutes in the Premier League – the best goal ratio for any player with 10 or more in the league’s history.
In comparison, fellow City striker Sergio Aguero has scored his 112 Premier League goals at a rate of one every 107 minutes and former Arsenal ace Thierry Henry scored his 175 Premier League goals at a rate of one per 122 minutes.
Iheanacho’s 12th goal for Man City came from just his 19th shot in 38 league appearances – and is all the more impressive considering the Nigerian only made his top-flight debut last season under Manuel Pellegrini.
Continue Reading: http://www.legit9ja.com/2016/12/kelechi-iheanacho-breaks-world-record-premier-league.html
Kelechi Iheanacho has the best goals-to-minutes ratio of any player in Premier League history following his strike in Manchester City’s 3-0 win at Hull City on Boxing Day.
The 19-year-old striker doubled the lead for the City, tucking away a David Silva pass to give Pep Guardiola’s men a comfortable victory.
That effort means Iheanacho is now scoring a goal every 96 minutes in the Premier League – the best goal ratio for any player with 10 or more in the league’s history.
In comparison, fellow City striker Sergio Aguero has scored his 112 Premier League goals at a rate of one every 107 minutes and former Arsenal ace Thierry Henry scored his 175 Premier League goals at a rate of one per 122 minutes.
Iheanacho’s 12th goal for Man City came from just his 19th shot in 38 league appearances – and is all the more impressive considering the Nigerian only made his top-flight debut last season under Manuel Pellegrini.
Continue Reading: http://www.legit9ja.com/2016/12/kelechi-iheanacho-breaks-world-record-premier-league.html
Assistant Commissioner Of Police Commits Suicide In Edo
Assistant Commissioner of Police, identified as one Christopher Osakue, has reportedly committed suicide in Benin, the Edo State capital.
It was gathered that the late Osakue allegedly shot himself in the head with his service pistol in his residence located on Upper Sokponba on Wednesday.
The deceased was said to have sent a woman and a little boy, said to be living with him, on an errand before taking away his life.
It was also learnt that he did not leave any suicide note behind.
The late police officer was said to been in charge of training and development at the state police command after his recent posting from Ondo State.
It was gathered that the ACP had earlier suffered a partial stroke few years ago and was gradually recovering from it before the incident occurred.
A source in the area disclosed that a gunshot from the residence of the deceased was heard at about 5pm on December 28.
The source said, “A neighbour said she heard a gunshot inside the ACP’s residence about 5pm that fateful Wednesday.
“She added that after the sound of the gun, a frightening silence engulfed the entire building.”
Security operatives from the Ugbekun police division were said to have later stormed his residence.
It was further learnt that the late Osakue had played host to some youths in his area last Christmas.
But his private residence was said to have been deserted since his demise, with Lexus jeep marked, NND-131HV, parked in front of it.
The Commissioner of Police, Haliru Gwandu, described the senior police death as a case of suicide.
Gwandu also explained that the pistol which he allegedly used to commit the act was signed for at the Ondo State Police command before he was posted to Edo.
http://punchng.com/assistant-commissioner-police-commits-suicide-edo/
Pic of The residence of the late police officer
President Buhari's New Year Message For 2017
My dear Compatriots,
I am happy to welcome you to the beginning of a New Year in our beloved country Nigeria.
I felicitate with you today at a time when our nation is witnessing a new and impressive turnaround in our security and socio-economic situation.
I know you will join me to, once again, congratulate the heroic and gallant efforts of our military and other security agencies on their remarkable successes to rid the nation of terrorism.
Following the successful capture of Sambisa Forest, spearheaded by troops of Operation Lafiya Dole, we have entered a new phase in our battle against our common enemy, Boko Haram.
When we see our beloved 21 Chibok girls reuniting with their families and community for Christmas, it gives us the hope that those who are still in captivity will one day return to the loving arms of family, friends and well-wishers.
I urge all Nigerians to be on the alert and watch out for strange figures settling in their communities, and report to the nearest security agencies, as our armed forces intensify the pursuit of fleeing terrorists from the captured Sambisa Forest.
Misguided elements who decided to take up arms against constituted authorities must be brought to face the full weight of the law.
The support of all Nigerians to security agencies to enable them successfully execute their mandate is crucial in our bid to effectively secure our country.
Seeing the joyful return of thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to Damasak town in Borno State, following the reopening of Maiduguri/Gubio/Damasak road in Northern Borno on December 25, 2016, reassured us that the voluntary return of IDPs in other parts of the country is imminent.
The Federal Government will spare no effort in seeing to the resettlement and rehabilitation of the unfortunate victims of terrorism and insurgency. I urge state governments, privileged Nigerians, donor agencies and countries to redouble their contributions towards this goal.
Government is aware of some mistakes and wrongdoings in handling the affairs of IDPs. We are taking measures to correct those mistakes and punish the culprits.
In this New Year, I want to reassure all Nigerians that our defence and security forces are more than ever before ready to perform their constitutional role of protecting lives and property in the country; and we will surely overcome all other forms of security challenges.
The lingering security issues in several states will be frontally addressed. These ugly crises cannot be allowed to fester as they strain the unifying bonds of brotherhood and neighbourliness. Some sections of the press and some politicians should avoid provocative and inflammatory statements, while the government is painstakingly trying to find solutions to our challenges.
I want to remind you on the first day of this New Year of an African proverb that says “it is easy to break a broomstick but not a bunch”. Nigeria is a bunch and is more than equal to troublemakers.
I have interacted with a broad spectrum of Nigerians, the old and the young, and they have told me unequivocally that they believe in the unity and stability of Nigeria.
The year 2017 provides an opportunity for us to build on those aspects of our national life that unite us. We are courageous, hardworking, hospitable, steadfast and resilient people, even in the face of difficulties.
These are the attributes that define us and have for years confounded the pessimists who do not believe in our continued existence as a united and indivisible nation. We are a remarkable nation that has succeeded in harnessing our multiple diversities for national development. We must continue to support and tolerate one another and live together as one.
We will continue to pursue peace initiatives in the Niger Delta as I again, call on our brothers in that region who have taken to violent disruptions of economic infrastructure to come to the negotiating table.
As for our brothers and sisters of the Shia Community, we urge them, too, to embrace peace. They must accept the laws of the country they live in. They cannot be islands by themselves. At the same time, the law enforcement agencies must treat them humanely and according to the rule of law.
On our part, in the past 20 months since our inauguration on May 29, 2015, we have focused our energies to turn around the economy, create jobs, fight corruption, and transform agriculture to replace oil and gas as a major revenue earner for the nation. I am encouraged that we are getting things right.
The agricultural revolution has begun. Farmers in different parts of the country are experiencing bumper harvests; states are getting into strategic partnership towards attaining self-sufficiency in rice, and the era of over-dependence on oil for foreign exchange revenues is gradually waning. I am optimistic that the CHANGE we all yearned for in voting this administration to power in 2015 will manifest more and be sustained in different sectors, particularly agriculture, in 2017.
As you may be aware, our economic recovery and growth plan in 2017 is anchored on optimizing the use of local content and empowering local businesses.
In pursuit of this administration’s philosophy, we will continue to appeal that we buy “Made In Nigeria” goods. Like I said during the 2017 Budget presentation to the National Assembly, farmers, small and medium-sized manufacturers, agro-allied businesses, dressmakers, entertainers and technology start-ups, will remain the true drivers of our economic future. They are the engine of our economic recovery and their needs underpin our Economic Recovery and Growth Plan.
On job creation, this administration will sustain existing programmes aimed at lifting a vast number of our youth out of poverty, while at the same time creating the opportunities for people to fend for themselves.
Our determination to wrestle corruption to the ground remains unshaken. This fight, which will be guided by respect for the rule of law and due process, will not spare anybody or organ of government. It is a collective undertaking and resolve that must be seen to its logical conclusion in spite of certain distractions. The fate of our country lies partly in the success of this campaign. It will be unthinkable on my part to allow the boat of this crucial campaign promise capsize mid-stream.
I thank you for the public support for our administration’s efforts to transform Nigeria. I assure you again that the current pains are temporary and will ease when the economic seeds in gestation begin to bloom to fruition. I urge you to continue to support this administration in its effort to transform Nigeria for the good of all.
I wish you a Happy New Year, 2017.
MUHAMMADU BUHARI
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
I am happy to welcome you to the beginning of a New Year in our beloved country Nigeria.
I felicitate with you today at a time when our nation is witnessing a new and impressive turnaround in our security and socio-economic situation.
I know you will join me to, once again, congratulate the heroic and gallant efforts of our military and other security agencies on their remarkable successes to rid the nation of terrorism.
Following the successful capture of Sambisa Forest, spearheaded by troops of Operation Lafiya Dole, we have entered a new phase in our battle against our common enemy, Boko Haram.
When we see our beloved 21 Chibok girls reuniting with their families and community for Christmas, it gives us the hope that those who are still in captivity will one day return to the loving arms of family, friends and well-wishers.
I urge all Nigerians to be on the alert and watch out for strange figures settling in their communities, and report to the nearest security agencies, as our armed forces intensify the pursuit of fleeing terrorists from the captured Sambisa Forest.
Misguided elements who decided to take up arms against constituted authorities must be brought to face the full weight of the law.
The support of all Nigerians to security agencies to enable them successfully execute their mandate is crucial in our bid to effectively secure our country.
Seeing the joyful return of thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to Damasak town in Borno State, following the reopening of Maiduguri/Gubio/Damasak road in Northern Borno on December 25, 2016, reassured us that the voluntary return of IDPs in other parts of the country is imminent.
The Federal Government will spare no effort in seeing to the resettlement and rehabilitation of the unfortunate victims of terrorism and insurgency. I urge state governments, privileged Nigerians, donor agencies and countries to redouble their contributions towards this goal.
Government is aware of some mistakes and wrongdoings in handling the affairs of IDPs. We are taking measures to correct those mistakes and punish the culprits.
In this New Year, I want to reassure all Nigerians that our defence and security forces are more than ever before ready to perform their constitutional role of protecting lives and property in the country; and we will surely overcome all other forms of security challenges.
The lingering security issues in several states will be frontally addressed. These ugly crises cannot be allowed to fester as they strain the unifying bonds of brotherhood and neighbourliness. Some sections of the press and some politicians should avoid provocative and inflammatory statements, while the government is painstakingly trying to find solutions to our challenges.
I want to remind you on the first day of this New Year of an African proverb that says “it is easy to break a broomstick but not a bunch”. Nigeria is a bunch and is more than equal to troublemakers.
I have interacted with a broad spectrum of Nigerians, the old and the young, and they have told me unequivocally that they believe in the unity and stability of Nigeria.
The year 2017 provides an opportunity for us to build on those aspects of our national life that unite us. We are courageous, hardworking, hospitable, steadfast and resilient people, even in the face of difficulties.
These are the attributes that define us and have for years confounded the pessimists who do not believe in our continued existence as a united and indivisible nation. We are a remarkable nation that has succeeded in harnessing our multiple diversities for national development. We must continue to support and tolerate one another and live together as one.
We will continue to pursue peace initiatives in the Niger Delta as I again, call on our brothers in that region who have taken to violent disruptions of economic infrastructure to come to the negotiating table.
As for our brothers and sisters of the Shia Community, we urge them, too, to embrace peace. They must accept the laws of the country they live in. They cannot be islands by themselves. At the same time, the law enforcement agencies must treat them humanely and according to the rule of law.
On our part, in the past 20 months since our inauguration on May 29, 2015, we have focused our energies to turn around the economy, create jobs, fight corruption, and transform agriculture to replace oil and gas as a major revenue earner for the nation. I am encouraged that we are getting things right.
The agricultural revolution has begun. Farmers in different parts of the country are experiencing bumper harvests; states are getting into strategic partnership towards attaining self-sufficiency in rice, and the era of over-dependence on oil for foreign exchange revenues is gradually waning. I am optimistic that the CHANGE we all yearned for in voting this administration to power in 2015 will manifest more and be sustained in different sectors, particularly agriculture, in 2017.
As you may be aware, our economic recovery and growth plan in 2017 is anchored on optimizing the use of local content and empowering local businesses.
In pursuit of this administration’s philosophy, we will continue to appeal that we buy “Made In Nigeria” goods. Like I said during the 2017 Budget presentation to the National Assembly, farmers, small and medium-sized manufacturers, agro-allied businesses, dressmakers, entertainers and technology start-ups, will remain the true drivers of our economic future. They are the engine of our economic recovery and their needs underpin our Economic Recovery and Growth Plan.
On job creation, this administration will sustain existing programmes aimed at lifting a vast number of our youth out of poverty, while at the same time creating the opportunities for people to fend for themselves.
Our determination to wrestle corruption to the ground remains unshaken. This fight, which will be guided by respect for the rule of law and due process, will not spare anybody or organ of government. It is a collective undertaking and resolve that must be seen to its logical conclusion in spite of certain distractions. The fate of our country lies partly in the success of this campaign. It will be unthinkable on my part to allow the boat of this crucial campaign promise capsize mid-stream.
I thank you for the public support for our administration’s efforts to transform Nigeria. I assure you again that the current pains are temporary and will ease when the economic seeds in gestation begin to bloom to fruition. I urge you to continue to support this administration in its effort to transform Nigeria for the good of all.
I wish you a Happy New Year, 2017.
MUHAMMADU BUHARI
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Husband Stabs Wife For Sleeping With His Sales Rep
A 37-year-old man, Victor Ojiaku, who allegedly stabbed his wife, a student, with a broken bottle in her private part, has been granted bail in the sum of N250,000 by the Ejigbo Magistrates’ Court.
Ojiaku, who sells automobile parts and resides at 22, Arike John Close, White Sand, Isheri-Osun in Lagos State, reportedly stabbed his wife whom he suspected of having a sexual relationship with his sales representative.
Magistrate Akeem Fashola, who gave the ruling, also ordered the accused to produce two sureties in like sum.
He said the sureties should be working in reputable organisations and also possess three-year tax clearance as well as the Lagos State resident identity card.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the case has been taken up by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team.
The Coordinator of DSVRT, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, narrated how the victim was kept indoors and punished severely by her husband.
“The victim, Mrs. Faith Ojiaku, 27, a student, was held hostage by her husband for two days, depriving her of calling any family member for help or receiving medical attention.
“She was subsequently rushed to the hospital for treatment after which she collapsed. She then pleaded with the doctor to make use of his phone to call her sister.
“It was her sister that informed DSVRT which advised her to report the case at the Police station on behalf of her wounded sister.
“He also injured the sales representative with a broken bottle and some dangerous weapons.
“We had an official meeting with the DPO who told us that the suspect was arrested on December 27 and he has promised to ensure that justice would be done in the case,” Vivour-Adeniyi told NAN.
The suspected assailant, a father of three, is facing a six-count charge bordering on grievous bodily harm, threat to life and assault.
No date has been fixed for the trial of the case. (NAN)
http://dailypost.ng/2016/12/30/jealous-husband-stabs-wife-sleeping-sales-rep/
Revealed: Seized 47 Suvs, 100 Motorcycles Bought For Jonathan’s Campaign
It was revealed yesterday that the 47 Sports Utility Vehicles and 100 motorcycles the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently recovered from a former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Power were bought for former President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaign in the 2015 general election.
The sum of N1.5 billion with which the vehicles were acquired was allegedly sourced from the diverted N27 billion insurance premium of deceased workers of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
All the vehicles were said to have been paid for by the former Permanent Secretary, Dr. Godknows Igali, to aid the campaign efforts of the Goodluck/Sambo Campaign Organisation in the build-up to the presidential election.
The EFCC was said to have intercepted the vehicles and motorcycles after an alarm was raised by an artisan.
An EFCC source said yesterday that there was “overwhelming evidence” against the former Perm Sec.
Another source, who spoke in confidence, said the 47 vehicles were seized from some secret locations where Igali had kept them.
More than 100 motorcycles parked at a facility in Mabushi Area of Abuja were also confiscated by the EFCC.
The confiscated items include SUVs, Toyota Coaster buses, Toyota Hilux trucks and 16-seater buses.
The source said: “Igali had allegedly secured the hefty heist in well-guarded premises in an upscale neighbourhood of Abuja.
“But luck ran out on him when an artisan called to fix a faulty utility vehicle became curious over the avalanche of the state of the art vehicles parked in the premises and tipped off the EFCC.
“The commission immediately commenced discreet investigation.
“In the course of investigation, it discovered that all the vehicles were supplied by Dilly Motors at the instance of Igali.”
The source claimed that about N1.5 billion paid for the vehicles was allegedly sourced from the diverted N27 billion insurance premium of deceased workers of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
The cash was allegedly laundered by Igali through Baseworth Insurance Brokers in order to cover his track.
The source added: “It was initially difficult to determine the source of the funds with which the vehicles were purchased as it did not come directly from Igali’s account.
“But a breakthrough came as the EFCC stumbled on evidence of a curious payment to Dilly Motors from the account of Baseworth Insurance Brokers Limited, a company that was under investigation in another case of alleged diversion of N27 billion insurance premium of deceased staff of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.
“In one of the transfers, N300 million was paid to Dilly Moors from the account of Baseworth Insurance Brokers.
“Operatives of the Commission were curious to determine the service which Dilly Motors rendered to Baseworth Insurance Brokers to warrant payment.
“Dilly Motors, on interrogation, allegedly admitted that the N300 million was part of the N1.5 billion paid by Igali for the purchase of vehicles for the Goodluck/Sambo Campaign Organisation to prosecute the 2015 general election.
“Igali was earlier this year arrested by the Commission and made a statement after which he was released on administrative bail.”
At press time, it was learnt that the EFCC was finalising plans to arraign Igali in court.
A top EFCC source said: “We have substantial evidence against Igali. He is going to face trial any moment from now.
“In profiling Igali, our detectives discovered that he is a kinsman of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and he assisted the Gooodluck/Sambo Campaign Organisation with vehicles by diverting public funds for such illegality.
“Actually, Igali had made useful statement and our detectives have spent the last five to six months to conduct diligent investigation.
“There is a prima facie case against him. It is left for the ex-Permanent Secretary to prove his innocence in court.”
The Nation had exclusively reported on October 10 that the EFCC had frozen N6,811,846,443.05 in the accounts of some companies belonging to a cousin to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd.
The frozen cash was part of the N27,188,232,208.20 benefits of the deceased employees of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), which were diverted.
Out of the amount, the sum of N951,637,223 only deducted FIRS VAT and WHY was paid through Diamond Bank and UBA Plc for direct credit to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
About N26,236,594,986 was looted by some top officials of the former Jonathan government, including the purchase of vehicles for the Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation.
These highlights were contained in the report of EFCC on the diversion of the benefits of dead PHCN workers.
The EFCC said in part: “Sometimes in 2014, above named (names withheld) conspired amongst themselves and used Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd to divert N27,188,232,208.20 from the Federal Government of Nigeria through the BPE.
“The said account was originally approved to be released to Great Nigeria Insurance Plc (GNIP) as Group Premium Insurance (death and accident) claim to the next of kin of ex-PHCN staff who died in service and those that suffered incapacitation from accidents.
“Both covert and overt investigation aimed at determining the veracity of the information was discretely carried out into the Insurance Brokers Ltd domiciled with Skye Bank, Unity Bank and Keystone Bank.
“Efforts were also made to locate, identify and profile the operation of the company at both their Kaduna and Lagos offices.
The totality of these efforts led to the following findings:
“That the FGN decided to privatise the PHCN through BPE. The proceeds from sales were remitted to the OAGF.
“That the Federal Ministry of Power and the Federal Ministry of Labour in a bid to resolve a dispute emanating from the staff of the PHCN over unpaid insurance claims diverted the matter to BPE who advised that the claim be paid from the proceeds of the privatised PHCN.”
The EFCC gave the details of how the fraud was perpetrated by convincing the National Council on Privatization (NCP) to approve the disbursement of the funds.
The report added: “That the National Council on Privatization (NCP) during its third meeting held on 4th August 2014, amongst others, recommended the release of N27,188,232,208.20 to Great Nigeria Insurance Plc as settlement of insurance claim which the President approved.
“Based on the above, on the 10th December 2014, the sum of N26,236,594,986 was released to Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd of J415 Ibadan Street, Kabba road, Kaduna .
“The principal proprietor of the company is yet to be arrested and the sum of N951,637,223 only deducted FIRS VAT and WHY was paid through Diamond Bank and UBA Plc for direct credit to FIRS.”
The EFCC said it has frozen about N6.8 billion in more than nine accounts and seized a N585 million property from a former Chief of Staff.
It said: “Bestworth Insurance Brokers Limited maintains a corporate standard current Ac No. 1771645118 with Skye Bank Plc; Ac No. 0025251085; 0025860162; 0025872242 with Unity Bank and Ac. No 1040199787, 10052599665, 05102001142, 107102000361; 10440359482 with Keystone Bank Plc. An order has been obtained from a court of competent jurisdiction to freeze these accounts to aid recovery.
“Further investigation disclosed that the insurance broker distributed these funds to various companies including a company controlled by a cousin to former President Goodluck Jonathan into whose account the sum of N2.5 billion was paid.
“This Commission has traced and frozen the sum of N2 billion in the accounts at S/No (f) above in a related case being investigated involving the company while the suspect was charged to court.
“Similarly, the sum of N1 billion paid in four instalments was traced to Kebna Studios and Communication Nigeria Ltd controlled by a former DG of BPE.
“The sum of N300 million was equally traced to Dilly Motors Ltd who produced documents that indicated delivery of vehicles to the Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation worth more than N1.5 billion and that part of these included the said money traced to the company.
“Investigation has established a direct link between the recovered vehicles and the N300 million paid to Dilly Motors Ltd.
“Meanwhile, a credit balance of N2,004,846,443.05 traced to Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd Skye Bank Acct No: 17711645118 has been frozen. Forfeiture proceedings shall be initiated for the purpose of full recovery.
“Other transfers made to accounts of Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd domiciled with Unity Bank Plc were also traced and the sum of N2,507,000,00 found in the accounts were frozen for possible recovery.
“The investigation is yet to be concluded.
“The development is however worrisome as persons entrusted with the keys to the nation’s treasury conspired amongst themselves to loot hapless citizens and the families of the deceased employees of PHCN of their much needed benefits.”
http://thenationonlineng.net/revealed-seized-47-suvs-100-motorcycles-bought-jonathans-campaign/
The sum of N1.5 billion with which the vehicles were acquired was allegedly sourced from the diverted N27 billion insurance premium of deceased workers of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
All the vehicles were said to have been paid for by the former Permanent Secretary, Dr. Godknows Igali, to aid the campaign efforts of the Goodluck/Sambo Campaign Organisation in the build-up to the presidential election.
The EFCC was said to have intercepted the vehicles and motorcycles after an alarm was raised by an artisan.
An EFCC source said yesterday that there was “overwhelming evidence” against the former Perm Sec.
Another source, who spoke in confidence, said the 47 vehicles were seized from some secret locations where Igali had kept them.
More than 100 motorcycles parked at a facility in Mabushi Area of Abuja were also confiscated by the EFCC.
The confiscated items include SUVs, Toyota Coaster buses, Toyota Hilux trucks and 16-seater buses.
The source said: “Igali had allegedly secured the hefty heist in well-guarded premises in an upscale neighbourhood of Abuja.
“But luck ran out on him when an artisan called to fix a faulty utility vehicle became curious over the avalanche of the state of the art vehicles parked in the premises and tipped off the EFCC.
“The commission immediately commenced discreet investigation.
“In the course of investigation, it discovered that all the vehicles were supplied by Dilly Motors at the instance of Igali.”
The source claimed that about N1.5 billion paid for the vehicles was allegedly sourced from the diverted N27 billion insurance premium of deceased workers of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
The cash was allegedly laundered by Igali through Baseworth Insurance Brokers in order to cover his track.
The source added: “It was initially difficult to determine the source of the funds with which the vehicles were purchased as it did not come directly from Igali’s account.
“But a breakthrough came as the EFCC stumbled on evidence of a curious payment to Dilly Motors from the account of Baseworth Insurance Brokers Limited, a company that was under investigation in another case of alleged diversion of N27 billion insurance premium of deceased staff of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.
“In one of the transfers, N300 million was paid to Dilly Moors from the account of Baseworth Insurance Brokers.
“Operatives of the Commission were curious to determine the service which Dilly Motors rendered to Baseworth Insurance Brokers to warrant payment.
“Dilly Motors, on interrogation, allegedly admitted that the N300 million was part of the N1.5 billion paid by Igali for the purchase of vehicles for the Goodluck/Sambo Campaign Organisation to prosecute the 2015 general election.
“Igali was earlier this year arrested by the Commission and made a statement after which he was released on administrative bail.”
At press time, it was learnt that the EFCC was finalising plans to arraign Igali in court.
A top EFCC source said: “We have substantial evidence against Igali. He is going to face trial any moment from now.
“In profiling Igali, our detectives discovered that he is a kinsman of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and he assisted the Gooodluck/Sambo Campaign Organisation with vehicles by diverting public funds for such illegality.
“Actually, Igali had made useful statement and our detectives have spent the last five to six months to conduct diligent investigation.
“There is a prima facie case against him. It is left for the ex-Permanent Secretary to prove his innocence in court.”
The Nation had exclusively reported on October 10 that the EFCC had frozen N6,811,846,443.05 in the accounts of some companies belonging to a cousin to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd.
The frozen cash was part of the N27,188,232,208.20 benefits of the deceased employees of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), which were diverted.
Out of the amount, the sum of N951,637,223 only deducted FIRS VAT and WHY was paid through Diamond Bank and UBA Plc for direct credit to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
About N26,236,594,986 was looted by some top officials of the former Jonathan government, including the purchase of vehicles for the Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation.
These highlights were contained in the report of EFCC on the diversion of the benefits of dead PHCN workers.
The EFCC said in part: “Sometimes in 2014, above named (names withheld) conspired amongst themselves and used Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd to divert N27,188,232,208.20 from the Federal Government of Nigeria through the BPE.
“The said account was originally approved to be released to Great Nigeria Insurance Plc (GNIP) as Group Premium Insurance (death and accident) claim to the next of kin of ex-PHCN staff who died in service and those that suffered incapacitation from accidents.
“Both covert and overt investigation aimed at determining the veracity of the information was discretely carried out into the Insurance Brokers Ltd domiciled with Skye Bank, Unity Bank and Keystone Bank.
“Efforts were also made to locate, identify and profile the operation of the company at both their Kaduna and Lagos offices.
The totality of these efforts led to the following findings:
“That the FGN decided to privatise the PHCN through BPE. The proceeds from sales were remitted to the OAGF.
“That the Federal Ministry of Power and the Federal Ministry of Labour in a bid to resolve a dispute emanating from the staff of the PHCN over unpaid insurance claims diverted the matter to BPE who advised that the claim be paid from the proceeds of the privatised PHCN.”
The EFCC gave the details of how the fraud was perpetrated by convincing the National Council on Privatization (NCP) to approve the disbursement of the funds.
The report added: “That the National Council on Privatization (NCP) during its third meeting held on 4th August 2014, amongst others, recommended the release of N27,188,232,208.20 to Great Nigeria Insurance Plc as settlement of insurance claim which the President approved.
“Based on the above, on the 10th December 2014, the sum of N26,236,594,986 was released to Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd of J415 Ibadan Street, Kabba road, Kaduna .
“The principal proprietor of the company is yet to be arrested and the sum of N951,637,223 only deducted FIRS VAT and WHY was paid through Diamond Bank and UBA Plc for direct credit to FIRS.”
The EFCC said it has frozen about N6.8 billion in more than nine accounts and seized a N585 million property from a former Chief of Staff.
It said: “Bestworth Insurance Brokers Limited maintains a corporate standard current Ac No. 1771645118 with Skye Bank Plc; Ac No. 0025251085; 0025860162; 0025872242 with Unity Bank and Ac. No 1040199787, 10052599665, 05102001142, 107102000361; 10440359482 with Keystone Bank Plc. An order has been obtained from a court of competent jurisdiction to freeze these accounts to aid recovery.
“Further investigation disclosed that the insurance broker distributed these funds to various companies including a company controlled by a cousin to former President Goodluck Jonathan into whose account the sum of N2.5 billion was paid.
“This Commission has traced and frozen the sum of N2 billion in the accounts at S/No (f) above in a related case being investigated involving the company while the suspect was charged to court.
“Similarly, the sum of N1 billion paid in four instalments was traced to Kebna Studios and Communication Nigeria Ltd controlled by a former DG of BPE.
“The sum of N300 million was equally traced to Dilly Motors Ltd who produced documents that indicated delivery of vehicles to the Goodluck Jonathan Campaign Organisation worth more than N1.5 billion and that part of these included the said money traced to the company.
“Investigation has established a direct link between the recovered vehicles and the N300 million paid to Dilly Motors Ltd.
“Meanwhile, a credit balance of N2,004,846,443.05 traced to Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd Skye Bank Acct No: 17711645118 has been frozen. Forfeiture proceedings shall be initiated for the purpose of full recovery.
“Other transfers made to accounts of Bestworth Insurance Brokers Ltd domiciled with Unity Bank Plc were also traced and the sum of N2,507,000,00 found in the accounts were frozen for possible recovery.
“The investigation is yet to be concluded.
“The development is however worrisome as persons entrusted with the keys to the nation’s treasury conspired amongst themselves to loot hapless citizens and the families of the deceased employees of PHCN of their much needed benefits.”
http://thenationonlineng.net/revealed-seized-47-suvs-100-motorcycles-bought-jonathans-campaign/
After Recapture Of Sambisa: Recession, Corruption Remain Out Challenges - Saraki
Senate President Bukola Saraki says after the recapture of the Sambisa Forest, other issues before the country are corruption, economic recession, unemployment and the Niger Delta crisis. The Senate president was yesterday addressing State House correspondents shortly after observing the juma’at prayer with President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House mosque.
Saraki described the capture of Sambisa Forest as great progress, saying: “If you look at where we were a-year-and-half ago; the challenges we had in that area, for us to recapture the place is a great feat. It shows what we can do as a country when we’ve the commitment, purpose and the leadership required to do that. As we’ve done that in the northeast.”
The Senate President said he believed the other issues before us are the fight against corruption, the economy, providing jobs, peace in the Niger Delta.
Saraki said the attention of the National Assembly would be on the economy in 2017 because “that is really a major issue for us as a country. We want to see some of the economic bills put forward passed to see that there is greater improvement in the process of the budget process in 2017 and to see that the government implements the budget early.”
He said: “Also, one of our pet projects is made-in-Nigeria products. We want to see that government continues to support Nigerians in this area so that we can begin to see the cushioning of the difficult times Nigerians are going through. So, next year is very important to us.”
The Senate president also assured that the legislature would continue to support the executive to ensure that the right things are done.
http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/corruption-recession-remain-our-challenges--saraki/178445.html
Court Orders Osun CP To Arrest Oluwo
A magistrate’s court sitting in Osogbo, Osun State has ordered the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Fimihan Adeoye, to arrest the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, and bring him to court on January 6, 2017.
The magistrate, Olusola Aluko, gave the fresh order on Friday when the case involving the monarch came up for hearing again.
He said he was surprised that the police commissioner had not arrested Oluwo since he first issued the bench warrant of arrest against the first class monarch. Aluko expressed dismay that the police commissioner had not effected the bench warrant of arrest he had issued against the monarch, which he said he had signed and handed over to an officer of the state police command.
He said, “I am baffled that the commissioner of police has not done his duty. I am also surprised by his claim that he was unaware of the bench warrant. That must be a joke of the century. I, therefore, order him to immediately arrest the respondent.
“I am not joking with my order. He (Akanbi) should be arrested and brought to this court on Friday, January 6, 2017. The sanctity of the judiciary must be protected.”
Aluko stated that the case instituted by the Oluwo Oke of Iwo Oke, Oba Kadiri Adeoye, against Akanbi before his court was not a chieftaincy case but a criminal one.
He said, “I will like to say that the matter before me was filed based on sections 35, 37 and 38 of the criminal procedures of Osun State.
“In a criminal case such as this, a defendant must appear in court. This court is not trying a chieftaincy matter. It is the law that once an order is made, to prevent anarchy, such an order must be obeyed.
“It is to be noted that an order was first made by my brother, Magistrate Omisade of Iwo jurisdiction before the case was transferred here by fiat and I had asked him (Akanbi) three times to appear before this court.”
It will be recalled that the magistrate had on December 2 threatened to issue a bench warrant against the Oluwo if he failed to appear before him on December 20, but the monarch failed to appear before the court.
The magistrate then issued a bench warrant against the monarch on December 20 but the monarch allegedly said he would not appear before the magistrate.
Aluko had also issued a fresh bench warrant against the monarch on Wednesday for contempt of court but the monarch still did not appear on Friday.
The Oluwo had earlier told our correspondent in an interview that he would not appear before the magistrate, but subsequent efforts to get his reaction to the fresh order of arrest were not successful as calls put across to his telephone did not connect.
The police commissioner, when contacted on the telephone by our correspondent after the fresh court order, said he was not aware of it.
http://punchng.com/court-orders-osun-cp-arrest-oluwo/
The magistrate, Olusola Aluko, gave the fresh order on Friday when the case involving the monarch came up for hearing again.
He said he was surprised that the police commissioner had not arrested Oluwo since he first issued the bench warrant of arrest against the first class monarch. Aluko expressed dismay that the police commissioner had not effected the bench warrant of arrest he had issued against the monarch, which he said he had signed and handed over to an officer of the state police command.
He said, “I am baffled that the commissioner of police has not done his duty. I am also surprised by his claim that he was unaware of the bench warrant. That must be a joke of the century. I, therefore, order him to immediately arrest the respondent.
“I am not joking with my order. He (Akanbi) should be arrested and brought to this court on Friday, January 6, 2017. The sanctity of the judiciary must be protected.”
Aluko stated that the case instituted by the Oluwo Oke of Iwo Oke, Oba Kadiri Adeoye, against Akanbi before his court was not a chieftaincy case but a criminal one.
He said, “I will like to say that the matter before me was filed based on sections 35, 37 and 38 of the criminal procedures of Osun State.
“In a criminal case such as this, a defendant must appear in court. This court is not trying a chieftaincy matter. It is the law that once an order is made, to prevent anarchy, such an order must be obeyed.
“It is to be noted that an order was first made by my brother, Magistrate Omisade of Iwo jurisdiction before the case was transferred here by fiat and I had asked him (Akanbi) three times to appear before this court.”
It will be recalled that the magistrate had on December 2 threatened to issue a bench warrant against the Oluwo if he failed to appear before him on December 20, but the monarch failed to appear before the court.
The magistrate then issued a bench warrant against the monarch on December 20 but the monarch allegedly said he would not appear before the magistrate.
Aluko had also issued a fresh bench warrant against the monarch on Wednesday for contempt of court but the monarch still did not appear on Friday.
The Oluwo had earlier told our correspondent in an interview that he would not appear before the magistrate, but subsequent efforts to get his reaction to the fresh order of arrest were not successful as calls put across to his telephone did not connect.
The police commissioner, when contacted on the telephone by our correspondent after the fresh court order, said he was not aware of it.
http://punchng.com/court-orders-osun-cp-arrest-oluwo/
Nigerian Nurse Threatens To Sue PUNCH NEWSPAPER Over Defamatory Publications.
A Nigerian nurse jude chiedu has threatend to sue the management of PUNCH NEWSPAPER over its consistent publications that have demeaned Nurses.
In an email to his solicitors at the Law House, titled "DEMAND FOR APOLOGY AND RETRACTION OF CONSISTENT DEFAMATORY PUBLICATIONS BY PUNCH NEWSPAPER AGAINST NIGERIAN NURSES", Jude chiedu of Nursingworld Nigeria explained that the title "NURSE" is protected by the legislative act establishing the nursing and midwifery council of Nigeria and as such only individuals registered and licensed to practice by the Nursing and Midwifery council of Nigeria are legally permissible to bear the title "Nurse"
According to Jude Chiedu, PUNCH NEWSPAPER has continually failed to acknowledge the fact that not every individual dressed in "white" uniform is a nurse. He added that these quacks whom the PUNCH NEWSPAPERS have consistently in their publications referred to as "NURSES" do not adhere to any laid down professional code of practice, ethic or conduct since there are no laws, standards or regulation that directs their practice.
Hear him "By always ascribing the title "NURSE" to these unscrupulous individuals, PUNCH NEWSPAPER has continued to demean professional nurses whom are legally authorized to represent themselves as nurses and to practice nursing.
PUNCH NEWSPAPER has by so doing, infringed on our legal rights to the "EXCLUSIVE" use of the title “NURSE” and the ensuing accountability and responsibilities assigned to 'US' who are entitled by law to bear it.
It is based on this premise that I seek your legal representation concerning these under listed defamatory publications in the PUNCH NEWSPAPERS as dated below:
1) NURSE dies allegedly performing ritual in Ondo published on August 17 2015
2) Police arrest NURSE for stealing baby published on August 10 2015
3) Police arrest NURSE for death of pregnant woman published on May 29 2015
4) Robbers rape NURSE in Lagos hospital published on June 2 2015,
These publications paint nurses in bad light and are being understood by any reasonable member of the society to mean that Nigerian nurses are ritualists, thieves, killers and incompetent.
By their persistent libelous and derogatory Headlines targeted at "Registered Nurses", PUNCH NEWSPAPER have brought Nigerian nurses to ridicule and damaged our professional image, reputation and integrity.
These publications wherein they have consistently failed to identify in their headlines and news contents “legally qualified nurses” from quacks have irrevocably damaged our integrity and standing in the eye of the Nigerian public.
It is on these grounds that I hereby instruct you to write to the management of PUNCH NEWSPAPER and demand in the strongest terms possible
1) An unreserved apology and
2) A retraction with immediate effect and with the widest possible coverage their most recent publication with the headline "NURSE dies allegedly performing ritual in ondo"
3) That they seize forthwith to publish articles without first clarifying the professional status of the individual as a Nurse or quack
Finally, I demand that if they fail to comply with the above within 14 days of your letter, you initiate legal steps against "PUNCH NEWSPAPER" and seek redress in a competent court of law.
We are yet to determine what the position of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANM) is on this issue.
source
www.nursingworldnigeria.com/2015/08/nigerian-nurse-threatens-to-sue-punch-newspaper-over-defamotry-publications-demands-apology
In an email to his solicitors at the Law House, titled "DEMAND FOR APOLOGY AND RETRACTION OF CONSISTENT DEFAMATORY PUBLICATIONS BY PUNCH NEWSPAPER AGAINST NIGERIAN NURSES", Jude chiedu of Nursingworld Nigeria explained that the title "NURSE" is protected by the legislative act establishing the nursing and midwifery council of Nigeria and as such only individuals registered and licensed to practice by the Nursing and Midwifery council of Nigeria are legally permissible to bear the title "Nurse"
According to Jude Chiedu, PUNCH NEWSPAPER has continually failed to acknowledge the fact that not every individual dressed in "white" uniform is a nurse. He added that these quacks whom the PUNCH NEWSPAPERS have consistently in their publications referred to as "NURSES" do not adhere to any laid down professional code of practice, ethic or conduct since there are no laws, standards or regulation that directs their practice.
Hear him "By always ascribing the title "NURSE" to these unscrupulous individuals, PUNCH NEWSPAPER has continued to demean professional nurses whom are legally authorized to represent themselves as nurses and to practice nursing.
PUNCH NEWSPAPER has by so doing, infringed on our legal rights to the "EXCLUSIVE" use of the title “NURSE” and the ensuing accountability and responsibilities assigned to 'US' who are entitled by law to bear it.
It is based on this premise that I seek your legal representation concerning these under listed defamatory publications in the PUNCH NEWSPAPERS as dated below:
1) NURSE dies allegedly performing ritual in Ondo published on August 17 2015
2) Police arrest NURSE for stealing baby published on August 10 2015
3) Police arrest NURSE for death of pregnant woman published on May 29 2015
4) Robbers rape NURSE in Lagos hospital published on June 2 2015,
These publications paint nurses in bad light and are being understood by any reasonable member of the society to mean that Nigerian nurses are ritualists, thieves, killers and incompetent.
By their persistent libelous and derogatory Headlines targeted at "Registered Nurses", PUNCH NEWSPAPER have brought Nigerian nurses to ridicule and damaged our professional image, reputation and integrity.
These publications wherein they have consistently failed to identify in their headlines and news contents “legally qualified nurses” from quacks have irrevocably damaged our integrity and standing in the eye of the Nigerian public.
It is on these grounds that I hereby instruct you to write to the management of PUNCH NEWSPAPER and demand in the strongest terms possible
1) An unreserved apology and
2) A retraction with immediate effect and with the widest possible coverage their most recent publication with the headline "NURSE dies allegedly performing ritual in ondo"
3) That they seize forthwith to publish articles without first clarifying the professional status of the individual as a Nurse or quack
Finally, I demand that if they fail to comply with the above within 14 days of your letter, you initiate legal steps against "PUNCH NEWSPAPER" and seek redress in a competent court of law.
We are yet to determine what the position of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANM) is on this issue.
source
www.nursingworldnigeria.com/2015/08/nigerian-nurse-threatens-to-sue-punch-newspaper-over-defamotry-publications-demands-apology
CBN Fails To Print Lesser Naira Denominations In One Year
The Central Bank of Nigeria has not printed small naira denominations for about a year now, causing the scarcity of the notes in the economy, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.
Sources at the CBN hinted that for a year now, the apex bank had not awarded contracts for the printing of the notes such as N5, N10, N20 and N50, which was usually done abroad.
NAN gathered that the recently printed notes in circulation, N200, N500 and N1,000, were produced by the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc.
The NSPM produces currency notes and coins for the CBN and a wide range of security documents for the federal, state and local government establishments, commercial banks and blue chip companies.
According to the NSPM website, the company has the ability to print over 40 million notes weekly.
However, the sources said the high cost of printing banknotes was the reason the apex bank did not give out contracts for their production.
“The cost of printing N50 is almost the same as N1,000. Printing small denominations costs more than the value, and with the present economic situation, it makes sense to print higher notes, which can be done locally by the NSPM,” one of the sources explained.
A worker at First Bank of Nigeria Limited told NAN that throughout the festive season, there were hardly smaller currency notes to give to customers.
The worker, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, “We usually request for cash from the CBN through our Cash Management Centre, but recently, we have not been able to get mints of N100 and below.
“We had N50 at one point but it wasn’t in the quantity we are used to getting. We have been telling our customers who call to request for mints that the smallest currencies they can get is N200.”
A political economist, Mr. Jude Ndukwe, said the implication of the situation was that prices of goods were likely to increase since there were no smaller currencies in circulation.
He said, “A bread seller is likely to increase the cost of bread from N350 to N400 simply because he does not want to deal with the difficult task of getting change.
“The same goes for a bus conductor and so forth. This act alone is enough to add to the hardship of the average Nigerians; N10 or N50 may not mean anything to some, but it means a whole lot to millions of Nigerians living in poverty. So the government should do something about this.”
But the Acting Director, Corporate Communications, CBN, Mr. Isaac Okorafor, denied the allegation that the apex bank had not contracted the printing of smaller denomination currencies since 2015.
He stated, “There is no scarcity of smaller denomination notes in the market. People are complaining because we did not make provision for mints to be supplied in smaller denominations during the festive season.
“You see, people are fond of abusing these denominations by spraying them to be stepped on during weddings and other ceremonies. The abuse is even worse during the festive season; so, we decided to make scarce the denominations. But it’s not that we have not been printing them.
“Yes, we haven’t printed abroad but we also print locally, which we have been doing.”
When asked the last time Nigeria actually had the smaller denominations printed, Okoroafor promised to get the details.
He reiterated that it was a crime to hawk or sell mint notes in the country, saying there was an enforcement committee comprising the CBN and the security agencies to check the menace and arrest culprits.
Okorafor said that the CBN was collaborating with the police to ensure that Nigerian currencies were not abused.
Copyright PUNCH.
http://punchng.com/cbn-fails-print-small-naira-notes-one-year/
Sources at the CBN hinted that for a year now, the apex bank had not awarded contracts for the printing of the notes such as N5, N10, N20 and N50, which was usually done abroad.
NAN gathered that the recently printed notes in circulation, N200, N500 and N1,000, were produced by the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc.
The NSPM produces currency notes and coins for the CBN and a wide range of security documents for the federal, state and local government establishments, commercial banks and blue chip companies.
According to the NSPM website, the company has the ability to print over 40 million notes weekly.
However, the sources said the high cost of printing banknotes was the reason the apex bank did not give out contracts for their production.
“The cost of printing N50 is almost the same as N1,000. Printing small denominations costs more than the value, and with the present economic situation, it makes sense to print higher notes, which can be done locally by the NSPM,” one of the sources explained.
A worker at First Bank of Nigeria Limited told NAN that throughout the festive season, there were hardly smaller currency notes to give to customers.
The worker, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, “We usually request for cash from the CBN through our Cash Management Centre, but recently, we have not been able to get mints of N100 and below.
“We had N50 at one point but it wasn’t in the quantity we are used to getting. We have been telling our customers who call to request for mints that the smallest currencies they can get is N200.”
A political economist, Mr. Jude Ndukwe, said the implication of the situation was that prices of goods were likely to increase since there were no smaller currencies in circulation.
He said, “A bread seller is likely to increase the cost of bread from N350 to N400 simply because he does not want to deal with the difficult task of getting change.
“The same goes for a bus conductor and so forth. This act alone is enough to add to the hardship of the average Nigerians; N10 or N50 may not mean anything to some, but it means a whole lot to millions of Nigerians living in poverty. So the government should do something about this.”
But the Acting Director, Corporate Communications, CBN, Mr. Isaac Okorafor, denied the allegation that the apex bank had not contracted the printing of smaller denomination currencies since 2015.
He stated, “There is no scarcity of smaller denomination notes in the market. People are complaining because we did not make provision for mints to be supplied in smaller denominations during the festive season.
“You see, people are fond of abusing these denominations by spraying them to be stepped on during weddings and other ceremonies. The abuse is even worse during the festive season; so, we decided to make scarce the denominations. But it’s not that we have not been printing them.
“Yes, we haven’t printed abroad but we also print locally, which we have been doing.”
When asked the last time Nigeria actually had the smaller denominations printed, Okoroafor promised to get the details.
He reiterated that it was a crime to hawk or sell mint notes in the country, saying there was an enforcement committee comprising the CBN and the security agencies to check the menace and arrest culprits.
Okorafor said that the CBN was collaborating with the police to ensure that Nigerian currencies were not abused.
Copyright PUNCH.
http://punchng.com/cbn-fails-print-small-naira-notes-one-year/
Abia Teachers Can’t Cash Cheques Issued By Govt For July Salary
Source:http://towncrieronline.net/2016/12/30/abia-teachers-cant-cash-cheques-issued-by-govt-for-july-salary/
Though Abia government says it has commenced the payment of July salaries to primary school teachers in the state, The Town Crier investigations reveal teachers cannot cash the cheques issued for payments.
The Town Crier learnt that the Local Government Education Authorities began to issue salary cheques to the teachers on Wednesday, Dec. 28.
According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports, a teacher in Umuahia North Local Government Area (LGA), on condition of anonymity, said that the cheques could not be cashed “because they had no cash backing”.
“We were paid last in June. I got my cheque on Wednesday, Dec. 28, while some got theirs on Friday– but it did not specify which month’s pay.
“But, we take it that the cheques represent the July salary,” the teacher said.
Another teacher who identified herself simply as Anthonia said she collected her cheque on Wednesday but had not been able to cash it.
The Town Crier leanrt teachers got credit alerts from their banks on Wednesday to show that their salary had been paid but the bank balance remained the old amount of money.
They were told by bank officials that the cash had not dropped and was advised to wait until it did.
A Local Government Education Authority Secretary in one of the LGAs confirmed the development on condition of anonymity, saying the banks would go to the clearing house before they would commence cash payment to the teachers.
The Chairman of Abia State Universal Basic Education, Kenechukwu Nwosu, declined to speak on the issue when contacted.
Though Abia government says it has commenced the payment of July salaries to primary school teachers in the state, The Town Crier investigations reveal teachers cannot cash the cheques issued for payments.
The Town Crier learnt that the Local Government Education Authorities began to issue salary cheques to the teachers on Wednesday, Dec. 28.
According to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports, a teacher in Umuahia North Local Government Area (LGA), on condition of anonymity, said that the cheques could not be cashed “because they had no cash backing”.
“We were paid last in June. I got my cheque on Wednesday, Dec. 28, while some got theirs on Friday– but it did not specify which month’s pay.
“But, we take it that the cheques represent the July salary,” the teacher said.
Another teacher who identified herself simply as Anthonia said she collected her cheque on Wednesday but had not been able to cash it.
The Town Crier leanrt teachers got credit alerts from their banks on Wednesday to show that their salary had been paid but the bank balance remained the old amount of money.
They were told by bank officials that the cash had not dropped and was advised to wait until it did.
A Local Government Education Authority Secretary in one of the LGAs confirmed the development on condition of anonymity, saying the banks would go to the clearing house before they would commence cash payment to the teachers.
The Chairman of Abia State Universal Basic Education, Kenechukwu Nwosu, declined to speak on the issue when contacted.
Buhari Removes Ibrahim Magu As EFCC Boss
The Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, may have finally been removed from office.
His redeployment back to Nigerian Police Force (NPF) was to pave way for a fresh person to be presented by President Muhammadu Buhari as the nominee to head the anti-graft agency before the Senate.
The Guardian gathered to make the situation look like a routine exercise, some senior Police officers would be re-deployed by the Police hierarchy to resume as conventional Police officers.
It was equally reliably gathered yesterday that the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has already issued a leter to Magu on the development and directed that he hands over to the Director of Operations in the Commission.
Magu’s nomination was recently rejected by the Senate following allegation of graft levelled against him by the Department of State Security Service (DSS).
http://t.guardian.ng/news/buhari-removes-magu-as-efcc-boss/
Greek Ambassador To Brazil, Amiridis, Murdered By Wife's Lover
Body found in burnt-out car in Rio 'believed to be Greek ambassador'
Kyriakos Amiridis last seen on Monday and licence plates on the car match his rental vehicle, according to reports
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/greek-ambassador-brazil-murdered-after-9536849
Kyriakos Amiridis last seen on Monday and licence plates on the car match his rental vehicle, according to reports
Kyriakos Amiridis vanished without a trace on Boxing Day, when he left the home of his wife's relatives in Rio de Janeiro and never returned
The Greek ambassador to Brazil whose body was found in a burnt-out car in Rio de Janeiro was murdered after finding his wife in bed with another man, police believe.
The charred remains of Kyriakos Amiridis, 59, were found on Wednesday underneath an overpass in the city, inside the car the diplomat had hired to spend Christmas and New Year with his wife's relatives.
His Brazilian wife Francoise Amiridis told police she was out shopping on Monday night when he phoned at 8pm her saying he was going out, and never returned home.
But today police investigating the case claimed they believe his death was a "crime of passion" after he had discovered that his wife was having an affair with another man.
Investigators reportedly found blood stains in the apartment, which belongs to his wife, where the couple had been staying in the Nova Iguacu district of the city.
Police believe he was murdered in the apartment some time between Tuesday and Wednesday before his body was dumped in the hire car and set on fire yesterday morning.
The man Ms Amiridis was believed to have been having an affair with is reportedly a military police officer who works at a police base situated a local slum.
Both he and Ms Amiridis were questioned earlier today at the homicide police station in the Baixada Fluminense region of metropolitan Rio de Janeiro.
Investigators told Brazil's Extra newspaper that they believe Ms Amiridis may have paid a contract killer to murder her husband after he found out about their relationship.
Ms Amiridis, who is not yet under arrest, denies any involvement with the ambassador's death, claiming he never returned home on Monday, and didn't know why there was blood on the sofa.
Police are reportedly analysing the sofa, as well as CCTV images from the area.
Mr Amridis, who took over the ambassador post in January this year, was Greek consul in Rio de Janeiro, where his wife also owns a home, for three years from 2001.
Before returning to Brazil, he was the Greek ambassdor in Libia for four years from 2012.
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/greek-ambassador-brazil-murdered-after-9536849
Dead Bodies Stick Out Of Imota Cemetery, Lagos
As shared by Aderibigbe Adeola Gentlesoul,a TV presenter at Galaxy Television.....
'On Friday, I have the privilege of being the first journalist to visit, Imota Cemetery of horror. Hope this picture can go viral and force government to find a solution before the breakout of an epidemic'
Source: http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2016/12/horror-as-dead-bodies-stick-out-of.html?m=1
'On Friday, I have the privilege of being the first journalist to visit, Imota Cemetery of horror. Hope this picture can go viral and force government to find a solution before the breakout of an epidemic'
Source: http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2016/12/horror-as-dead-bodies-stick-out-of.html?m=1
Man Stabs Housewife With Bottle For Fighting His Wife In Lagos
A 41-year-old welder, Lukmon Kolawole, was on Thursday brought before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for allegedly stabbing a married woman with bottle for fighting his wife.
Kolawole, a resident of Aresanolu St. Agege, Lagos, is being tried for breach of peace and assault.
According to the prosecutor, Insp. George Nwosu, the accused committed the offence on Dec. 19 at his residence.
He said that the accused assaulted one Mrs Joy Asekharme by beating and stabbing her on her head.
Nwosu said that the accused came home and met his wife in a physical fight with the complainant.
“He came home to meet his wife in a fight with his co-tenant, instead of him to separate the fight, he joined his wife in the fight by punching the complainant all over her body.
“The accused was not satisfied with the punches alone so, he rushed inside to pick a bottle, smashed it on the ground and stabbed the complainant on her head,” he said.
The offence contravened sections 166 and 171 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
Section 171 prescribes three years jail term for offenders.
The accused pleaded innocence of the offence and was granted bail a N50, 000 bail with two sureties in like sum.
The Magistrate, Mr A. A. Adesanya adjourned the case to Jan. 16, 2017, for mention.
https://newtelegraphonline.com/man-docked-stabbing-housewife-bottle-fighting-wife/
Kenyan Woman Burns Her Husband With Hot Oil On Christmas Day
A man from Likoni in Mombasa County, Kenya suffered serious burns after his wife threw hot cooking oil on him on Sunday, December 25.
According to eDaily, Evelyn Atieno had accused her husband Bruce Omondi of infidelity – and on the fateful day she bought two liters of cooking oil from a shop, boiled it and poured it on his head, chest, and private parts before escaping.
Confirming the incident, Likoni OCPD Willy Simba said police are looking for Atieno, who remains at large.
Simba says Atieno, 30, burned her husband Sunday morning while he was still asleep following a Saturday night disagreement over food and the man’s alleged philandering habits.
According to neighbours, the couple has been wrangling quite much recently.
Omondi said his wife has – for the past three years – been threatening him with unspecified action, adding that he has been a victim of domestic violence since getting married to Atieno.
Omondi was rushed to a local hospital in Likoni before being referred to Coast General Hospital for advanced treatment.
http://www.newseveryhour.com/2016/12/woman-burns-her-husband-with-hot-oil-on.html
According to eDaily, Evelyn Atieno had accused her husband Bruce Omondi of infidelity – and on the fateful day she bought two liters of cooking oil from a shop, boiled it and poured it on his head, chest, and private parts before escaping.
Confirming the incident, Likoni OCPD Willy Simba said police are looking for Atieno, who remains at large.
Simba says Atieno, 30, burned her husband Sunday morning while he was still asleep following a Saturday night disagreement over food and the man’s alleged philandering habits.
According to neighbours, the couple has been wrangling quite much recently.
Omondi said his wife has – for the past three years – been threatening him with unspecified action, adding that he has been a victim of domestic violence since getting married to Atieno.
Omondi was rushed to a local hospital in Likoni before being referred to Coast General Hospital for advanced treatment.
http://www.newseveryhour.com/2016/12/woman-burns-her-husband-with-hot-oil-on.html
Rivers Speaker, Adams Dabutorudima, Resigns
---- Former Speaker Reelected
Source: www.versatilereporters.com/2016/12/govwike-forces-rivers-speaker-to-resign.html?m=1
The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adams Dabutorudima has resigned from office.
The Speaker who announced his resignation today shortly after the swearing in of newly elected members of the assembly gave no concrete reason for his strange decision.
Versatile Reporters however gathered that the State Governor, Barr.Nyesom Wike must have forced the speaker into resigning from his exalted position.
The Speaker was favoured to replace his predecessor following the decisions of the courts that sacked nearly all the lawmakers from the state during the 2015 general elections due to widespread electoral malpractice, violence and bloodbath.
Similarly, the former Speaker, Rt.Hon.Ikuinyi Ibani-Awaji has been reelected to take over his previous position having won his rerun election and is among those sworn in today. Ibani hails from Andoni, same LGA with top PDP Chieftains like former State Deputy Governor, Engr.Tele Ikuru and Former Acting National Chairman of PDP, Uche Secondus.
Source: www.versatilereporters.com/2016/12/govwike-forces-rivers-speaker-to-resign.html?m=1
Fayose Blasts Buhari, APC And Magu On AIT Today
When you see my past, you can project my future. There can be no future without the past. What is happening in Nigeria now are the same as 1983.
#FayoseOnAIT
May be we should even return to that past because in that past, Dollar was N200 and one bag of rice was N8,000.
#FayoseOnAIT
If nothing was wrong with the Old Testament, there would not have been any need for the New Testament. They promised us a new testament, let it be a new testament indeed.
#FayoseOnAIT
Buhari is not fighting any corruption. He is fighting his political foes. They are just trying to make all Nigerians paupers so that when they share N1,000 at the polling units, it will be like N1m.
#FayoseOnAIT
Magu was indicted by their own DSS and they are still saying the AGF should investigate, is AGF the police?
#FayoseOnAIT
After Magu has been indicted by the DSS, what are they investigating again? Are they saying DSS report is no longer credible?
#FayoseOnAIT
God is a God of single-standard, not dounle-standard. This Buhari’s govt is a govt of dounle-standard.
#FayoseOnAIT
If your mother's man friend is stronger than your father, you will be forced to address him as daddy. No doubt, I'm their (APC) daddy.
#FayoseOnAIT
I'm a nation of Israel surrounded by the Philistines.
#FayoseOnAIT
Anyone on any seat of power looking for my downfall, either at the federal or state level will be removed in 2017
#FayoseOnAIT
Source: http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2016/12/fayose-ridicules-buhari-magu-on-ait.html?m=1
#FayoseOnAIT
May be we should even return to that past because in that past, Dollar was N200 and one bag of rice was N8,000.
#FayoseOnAIT
If nothing was wrong with the Old Testament, there would not have been any need for the New Testament. They promised us a new testament, let it be a new testament indeed.
#FayoseOnAIT
Buhari is not fighting any corruption. He is fighting his political foes. They are just trying to make all Nigerians paupers so that when they share N1,000 at the polling units, it will be like N1m.
#FayoseOnAIT
Magu was indicted by their own DSS and they are still saying the AGF should investigate, is AGF the police?
#FayoseOnAIT
After Magu has been indicted by the DSS, what are they investigating again? Are they saying DSS report is no longer credible?
#FayoseOnAIT
God is a God of single-standard, not dounle-standard. This Buhari’s govt is a govt of dounle-standard.
#FayoseOnAIT
If your mother's man friend is stronger than your father, you will be forced to address him as daddy. No doubt, I'm their (APC) daddy.
#FayoseOnAIT
I'm a nation of Israel surrounded by the Philistines.
#FayoseOnAIT
Anyone on any seat of power looking for my downfall, either at the federal or state level will be removed in 2017
#FayoseOnAIT
Source: http://www.trezzyhelm.com/2016/12/fayose-ridicules-buhari-magu-on-ait.html?m=1
Abia Speaker, Kennedy Njoku, Resigns
Newly Elected Abia Speaker, Kennedy Njoku Resigns
The political drama playing out in Abia State, South-East Nigeria, has taken another twist.
Minutes ago, Bishop Kennedy Njoku, who was yesterday elected Speaker of the 6th Abia State House of Assembly, announced his resignation “on personal grounds”.
http://skytrendnews.com/2016/12/30/new-abia-speaker-njoku-resigns/
The political drama playing out in Abia State, South-East Nigeria, has taken another twist.
Minutes ago, Bishop Kennedy Njoku, who was yesterday elected Speaker of the 6th Abia State House of Assembly, announced his resignation “on personal grounds”.
http://skytrendnews.com/2016/12/30/new-abia-speaker-njoku-resigns/
Rivers Assembly Passes N470b 2017 Budget Into Law
The Rivers State House of Assembly has passed into law the total sum of four hundred and seventy billion naira 2017 budget proposed by Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike.
The passage of the budget was announced by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Adams Dabotorudima after a careful consideration of report from the House Committee on Appropriation.
The Appropriation committee headed by the Leader, Martins Amaewhule made the recommendation that the Bill be passed without delay.
After a careful deliberation by the committee of the House on the Whole headed by the Speaker of the House, the 2017 Appropriation Bill was passed into Law by eighteen members of the state House of Assembl
http://dailypost.ng/2016/12/30/rivers-assembly-passes-n470b-2017-budget-law/
The passage of the budget was announced by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Adams Dabotorudima after a careful consideration of report from the House Committee on Appropriation.
The Appropriation committee headed by the Leader, Martins Amaewhule made the recommendation that the Bill be passed without delay.
After a careful deliberation by the committee of the House on the Whole headed by the Speaker of the House, the 2017 Appropriation Bill was passed into Law by eighteen members of the state House of Assembl
http://dailypost.ng/2016/12/30/rivers-assembly-passes-n470b-2017-budget-law/
NNPC Says Airlines Can’t Pay For Aviation Fuel
Okechukwu Nnodim, Abuja
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation on Thursday said the hardship in the aviation sector was not due to the scarcity of Jet-A1, but was partly because of the inability of the airlines to pay for the product.
The Group Managing Director, NNPC, Dr. Maikanti Baru, stated that the alleged scarcity of Aviation Turbine Kerosene was not responsible for the hardship being experienced in the aviation sector.
Baru, who spoke in Abuja, clarified that the corporation had taken steps to ensure adequate supply of the product with the importation of over 45 million litres.
He said the challenge had more to do with the inability of the airlines to pay for the product upon the introduction of a cash-and-carry policy by marketers as a result of the huge amounts being owed by the carriers.
Aviation fuel scarcity has been a challenge in the sector, as airlines often complain of the non-availability of the product.
A statement by the corporation quoted the GMD as also expressing the NNPC’s commitment to carry on with its twin gas projects of Brass LNG and Olokola LNG.
He said the two projects were high priority gas ventures, which promised to boost the Federal Government’s revenue.
Baru said monetisation of natural gas was a cardinal mandate of the corporation.
He said, “We are still committed, as the NNPC, to monetising our natural gas. We have the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas, which is at the moment monetising about four billion standard cubic feet of gas on a daily basis. We also have plans for the Olokola LNG as well as the Brass LNG.
“We have a little challenge with market windows for these projects, which we are reviewing on a monthly basis. Once the appropriate market window opens up, we will quickly get more shareholders to join us for the projects.”
Baru stated that a meeting of Brass LNG stakeholders had been scheduled for early next year to look for the way forward for the project.
The GMD added that apart from the LNG projects, the corporation was also working on gas monetisation through aggressive enhancement of domestic gas supply for power generation and industrial use.
punchng.com/nnpc-says-airlines-cant-pay-aviation-fuel/
Shiite Leaders Visit Femi Fani-Kayode
*Femi Fani-Kayode wrote:*
A delegation of Shiite Muslim leaders from the Sheik El Zakzaky group came to brief me two days ago on the situation in Kaduna and what they have been subjected to by the military and the Nigerian authorities over the last one year.
I was horrified by what I heard. These are very patriotic and courageus men whose colleagues have been through so much and whose leader is still in custody.
May God free El Zak Zaky at the soonest and may He deliver us all.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10207303265929350&id=1516216357
A delegation of Shiite Muslim leaders from the Sheik El Zakzaky group came to brief me two days ago on the situation in Kaduna and what they have been subjected to by the military and the Nigerian authorities over the last one year.
I was horrified by what I heard. These are very patriotic and courageus men whose colleagues have been through so much and whose leader is still in custody.
May God free El Zak Zaky at the soonest and may He deliver us all.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10207303265929350&id=1516216357
Friday 30 December 2016
Akure Monarch Replaces Eze Ndigbo With Asiwaju Igbo
Akure – ANOTHER round of trouble is brewing between the Igbo community and a paramount traditional ruler, the Deji of Akureland, Oba Aladetoyinbo over the alleged plan by him to install a rival Eze Ndigbo for them against their wishes.
The Igbos alleged that the Oba was planning to install an Asiwaju of Igbo and or Onyendu as against the interest of Igbos within Ondo State. They said they would resist the plan with the last drop of blood in their veins. They see the latest move by the Oba as a deft move to install his stooge as their leader to spite the original holder of the title of Eze Ndigbo who had a face off with him over a supremacy tussle last year.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/akure-monarch-schemes-replace-eze-ndigbo-asiwaju-igbo/
The Igbos alleged that the Oba was planning to install an Asiwaju of Igbo and or Onyendu as against the interest of Igbos within Ondo State. They said they would resist the plan with the last drop of blood in their veins. They see the latest move by the Oba as a deft move to install his stooge as their leader to spite the original holder of the title of Eze Ndigbo who had a face off with him over a supremacy tussle last year.
Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/akure-monarch-schemes-replace-eze-ndigbo-asiwaju-igbo/
Plane Bombing Allegation: Buhari Can’t Descend To Wike’s Level
Responding to Governor Wike’s allegation, Presidential spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, simply said: “The President will not descend to Wike’s level. He is the President of Nigeria.”
Similarly while the Police in the state said they were not aware of the plot, APC in the state said the governor was being hunted by his past.
According to the state Police spokesman, DSP Nnamdi Omoni, the allegation had not been brought to the attention of the command.
He is hunted by his past—APC
On its part, APC, through its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Chris Finebone, said the governor was merely frightened by his past, saying: “The APC believes that Governor Nyesom Wike’s utterances today, (yesterday) at his party’s event in Port Harcourt remains typically symptomatic of someone caught committing a heinous crime who has become confused and decides to pour dirt on anyone in sight. Governor Wike’s accusation that APC is planning to bomb his plane simply underscores the extent to which the governor has become hysterically frightened by his own shadow and his past iniquities.
“It is unfortunate that Governor Wike has become helpless in dealing with the outcome of his past actions but constantly suffering psychological relapses. However, it is unfortunate that for want of credible defence of the many serious accusations against him, Governor Wike is resorting to releasing wild accusations against the APC to mask his helplessness.
The APC simply takes pity on the condition of the governor and honestly prays he gets help very quickly before his situation gets out of hand.”
www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/plane-bombing-allegation-buhari-cant-descend-to-wikes-level-says-presidential-spokesman/
Similarly while the Police in the state said they were not aware of the plot, APC in the state said the governor was being hunted by his past.
According to the state Police spokesman, DSP Nnamdi Omoni, the allegation had not been brought to the attention of the command.
He is hunted by his past—APC
On its part, APC, through its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Chris Finebone, said the governor was merely frightened by his past, saying: “The APC believes that Governor Nyesom Wike’s utterances today, (yesterday) at his party’s event in Port Harcourt remains typically symptomatic of someone caught committing a heinous crime who has become confused and decides to pour dirt on anyone in sight. Governor Wike’s accusation that APC is planning to bomb his plane simply underscores the extent to which the governor has become hysterically frightened by his own shadow and his past iniquities.
“It is unfortunate that Governor Wike has become helpless in dealing with the outcome of his past actions but constantly suffering psychological relapses. However, it is unfortunate that for want of credible defence of the many serious accusations against him, Governor Wike is resorting to releasing wild accusations against the APC to mask his helplessness.
The APC simply takes pity on the condition of the governor and honestly prays he gets help very quickly before his situation gets out of hand.”
www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/plane-bombing-allegation-buhari-cant-descend-to-wikes-level-says-presidential-spokesman/
Wike Alleges Plot To Bomb His Plane
BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME PORT HARCOURT – GOVERNOR Nyesom Wike has raised alarm over alleged plot by his political enemies to bomb his plane, saying that the alleged evil plot will fail. The governor spoke Thursday in Port Harcourt at an end of year party by his Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the state. Continuing, he said the alleged plot to bomb his plane was part of desperation on the part of his detractors to eliminate him, stressing that no man can destroy whom God had lifted. Nyesom Wike He said his political opponents were unhappy with the successes recorded by his administration since he came on board, adding that he would continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to the state. Wike also spoke of effort by his government to guarantee security of lives and properties in the state, noting that those who wanted blood to flow freely in the state would not succeed with their evil dream. Governor Wike who said the state was peaceful recalled that on December 10 during the rerun elections leaders of the All Progressive Congress, APC allegedly invaded the state with security agencies who allegedly maimed and killed innocent voters with an intention to allegedly rig elections.
http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/breaking-wike-alleges-plot-bomb-plane/
http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/12/breaking-wike-alleges-plot-bomb-plane/
Burial Of Temidayo Adeleke, Lady Murdered By Her Cameroonian House Boy
Emotions ran high on Thursday as late Temidayo Adeleke, who was stabbed to death by her Cameroonian house help, was laid to rest at The Vaults and Gardens, Ikoyi, Lagos State.
Here's the beautiful picture her family chose for the celebration of her life, though a short one with the perfect caption:
"I have completed my race!''
Temidayo had been murdered after her houseboy Joel Ludguo approached the 32-year-old victim
around 10.30pm on Tuesday, December 20, 2016, and asked for advance payment of N15,000 out of his N27,000 salary.
Adeleke, whose marriage was slated for early 2017, was said to have pleaded with him to be patient,
saying she did not have naira notes on her.
Unfortunately, her plea fell on deaf ears as Ludguo left the boss’ living room in anger only to return a few minutes later with a knife and stabbed her in the chest.
According to the police, 22-year-old Joel Ludguo was desperate to send the money to his girlfriend in Cameroon. They have said that the suspect would be duly prosecuted.
A security guard at the Adelekes’ residence, who identified himself simply as Abbah, revealed that the suspect was employed about two months ago, adding that he was on drugs. He had told Punch in an interview:
“The boy is wicked and I have always warned him. He takes drugs. When policemen checked his clothes, they found tremor there. Madam bought him a new phone last month and she usually gave him money apart from his salary. She brought him home through her church member last month and they lived in her flat.
“It was the driver who lives in the adjoining flat that heard madam scream. By the time he got there, she was gasping with blood gushing out of her chest. The driver alerted me immediately to stop Joel at the gate and he was later arrested,” he had said.
Temidayo was described by everybody at her burial as a kind-hearted and passionate woman, who lived a virtuous life.
http://www.lailasblog.com/2016/12/i-have-completed-my-race-late-temidayo-adeleke-photo.html
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